Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I encourage Turkey to honor their commitments and implement important economic, regional, and political advancements in order to gain membership in the European Union (EU).

Today, December 6, 2006, marks an important deadline in the pursuit of international partnership and cooperation. Turkey must begin to demonstrate to the EU and the international community that it is willing to implement changes in its policy prior to the Ascension Summit, where it will be decided whether Turkey may continue toward EU membership. The significance of this deadline is undeniable; Turkey must decide: do they continue to pursue a policy which alienates and impedes other nations? Or, do they adopt policy changes to join an important international cooperative body.

It is a well-known fact the regional policies of Turkey cause strain in the South Caucasus region and unfairly harms the welfare of their neighbor country, Armenia. The European Union has repeatedly called for the cessation of the Turkish Blockade of Armenia as well as normalization of relations between the countries. However, these two pre-conditions to entering the EU have been blatantly ignored by Turkey. The blockade, now in its thirteenth year, is the only blockade of a fellow Council of Europe state. This is simply unacceptable, and I implore the EU to stand firm in their recommendations to Turkey in order to ensure these iniquitous economic practices are eliminated.

Mr. Speaker, Armenia is a friend of the United States; and too many countries throughout the world. Yet, Turkey refuses to see the benefits Armenia brings to the South Caucasus region. This refusal has led to fierce tension within the region, as well as unfair economic outcomes that only harm Armenia. Before Turkey can become a member of the European Union, they must first acknowledge their mistakes, foster cooperation in the South Caucasus region, and respect their neighbor, Armenia.

I encourage the European Parliament to consider the ramifications of Turkey's actions before granting them membership to the EU. The purpose of the EU is to create economic, political and most importantly regional cooperation between nations with similar interests. Turkey, with a history of bullying their neighbor, does not deserve membership until they change their ways.

Mr. Speaker, on December 5, 2006, I was unavoidably absent and missed rollcall vote 524. For the record, had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. Speaker, earlier this week the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1245, known as ``Johanna's Law,'' which will increase the awareness and knowledge of gynecologic cancers. This legislation authorizes a national campaign to increase awareness of gynecologic cancers--including the creation of written information to distribute to the public.

This legislation was named after a constituent of mine, Johanna, who was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 1997. Johanna was a healthy and active 54-year-old woman who had retired from teaching from Southfield Lathrup High School when she was diagnosed. It was a shock to Johanna and her family when they received the devastating news. Sadly, the cancer was not caught in time and she passed away on August 29, 2000.

Each year, more than 80,000 women are diagnosed with a gynecologic cancer. One-third--or 28,000--of these women will die from the disease. Survival rates drop 50 percent or less if the cancer is not diagnosed early.

Early detection is critical to successfully treat gynecologic cancers. Many symptoms of this type of cancer often resemble non- threatening illnesses. Furthermore, many gynecologic cancers do not have a reliable screening test for the general public to utilize.

It is important that we educate the American public on early detection and prevention of gynecologic cancers. Public awareness is crucial to curbing this deadly disease, and Johanna's Law will help spread knowledge that can save the lives of women that may die needlessly each year. I thank my colleagues for supporting the passage of ``Johanna's Law.''

Mr. Speaker, I want to pay tribute today to one town's effort to remember all of its veterans from the Civil War to the current War on Terror. Remembering the brave men and women of our military is something we should all strive to do in some fashion.

Humboldt and Humboldt Township is a small community in north-central Illinois. Thirty-five miles south of Champagne and nine miles north of Mattoon, Humboldt and Humboldt Township revolve around agriculture and farming. The 1,300 people of Humboldt Township, including the 500 that live in the town of Humboldt, define the essence of hard-working Americans.

The citizens of Humboldt Township are embarking on a remarkable memorial to honor the men and women of our Armed Forces. Next month the ``Wall of Honor'' will be on display at the Humboldt Township building. This tribute will honor veterans from the Humboldt area dating back to the Civil War and continuing to the present day. There will be hundreds of pictures mounted on the walls and articles of interest will be displayed on tables.

While Humboldt may not be large, their contribution to the U.S. military has been great. Humboldt residents have served during times of peace and times of war. When needed, they have heeded the call of duty and traveled far from home to defend the United States. They have triumphed at Vicksburg during the Civil War, flown bombing missions over the Pacific in World War II, rescued fellow soldiers as the U.S. engaged in the Korean War, courageously served in Vietnam, liberated a country held hostage during the Gulf War, and fought in the War on Terror and Iraq.

Mr. Speaker, during this time when the military is so important to the United States, it is gratifying to see local communities make efforts to remember those that have dedicated their lives to protecting this nation. I congratulate the citizens of Humboldt and wish them the best.

Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize the Manresa Jesuit Retreat House as it celebrates its eightieth year of service to Oakland County.

Founded by a group of laymen in 1926, the Manresa Jesuit Retreat House has grown and evolved over the years to become a center for thousands of people to get away to a quiet place for meetings, seminars, workshops, and worship.

In its beginnings, the Manresa Jesuit Retreat House struggled to secure the funds to fully provide food service and other amenities to its guests, However, through perseverance and strong leadership, Manresa has become a fixture in the community, providing thousands of people with a place to worship, reflect, learn, and work in a nurturing atmosphere. Its board of directors has guided the Manresa Jesuit Retreat House's ministry to the community, including the establishment of the Internship in Ignatian Spirituality which trains both laymen and ordained people of many denominations for ministry in their communities.

September 23, 2006 will mark the eightieth anniversary of the first retreat ever held at the Manresa Jesuit Retreat House, located on the thirty-nine acre ``Deepdale Estate'' on the corner of Woodward and Quarton Road in Bloomfield Hills. At the time of its establishment as the Manresa Jesuit Retreat House, this area was part of the expanding metro Detroit area. As the area grew, so did Manresa with a series of additions and renovations that have enlarged the original capacity of retreat guests from 23 to its current capacity of 78.

The Manresa Jesuit Retreat House has provided a foundation upon which thousands of metro Detroiters have grown, both personally and spiritually. I am proud to recognize its importance in forging the character of the community as we celebrate the eightieth anniversary of Manresa's inaugural retreat.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 15th anniversary of the Republic of Armenia's declaration of independence from the Soviet Union.

On September 21, 1991, one of the world's oldest and most historically significant civilizations was able to re-establish their place among the autonomous nations of the world by declaring its independence following the collapse of the Soviet Union. The founding of the Republic of Armenia was an historic event that exemplifies the strength and perseverance of a people in pursuit of freedom and self- determination through democracy.

Armenia's road to independence was not easy. Enduring centuries of foreign domination, the genocide against its people in the early 20th century, and suffering through seven decades of totalitarian dictatorship did not discourage the Armenian people. In the face of oppression, the Armenian people never wavered in their pursuit to secure freedom and a democratic nation of their own.

Since its independence, Armenia has emerged as a viable, vibrant society and has played an important role in stabilizing the South Caucasus region. Armenia continues to be a trusted partner of the United States in a strategically important area of the world, a regional leader in political and economic reform, and a nation committed to the principles of democracy and the rule of law.

Mr. Speaker, today, on the 15th anniversary of Armenia's independence, I rise to celebrate the determination of a people who refused to relent in their quest for freedom.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to express my strong support for H.R. 2491, the International Solid Waste Importation and Management Act of 2005.

For many years, Canada has shipped significant amounts of solid waste into the United States each year, with a large percentage of it going to the State of Michigan. In 2004, Canadian trash imports represented 18 percent of all the trash disposed of in Michigan. The State of Michigan receives approximately 350 truck loads of trash every day--or over 12,000 truck loads a year--from Ontario.

Despite heightened border security that has been imposed following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, which include stricter inspections of all truck shipments passing through international borders, the importation of substantial amounts of solid waste into the United States each year from Canada poses a serious security threat to the State of Michigan and other border States which accept imported trash. Moreover, it poses environmental and health risks to these States.

States must have the ability to address these matters as they deem fit. H.R. 2491 is necessary in order to provide States with the power to address these issues, as the U.S. Supreme Court and other Federal courts have consistently ruled that, pursuant to the Interstate Commerce Clause of the U.S. Constitution, States cannot restrict out- of-State trash from their landfills.

Previous agreements regarding the import of trash from Canada have had no legal standing and were not enforceable. This legislation will finally allow the U.S. and the State of Michigan to set for themselves legal, enforceable boundaries for the importation of municipal solid waste.

I urge all of my colleagues to support the passage of H.R. 2491.

Mr. Speaker, earlier this month the White House Office of Management and Budget handed down good news in its mid-year budget update--the Republican fiscal policy is working. This year's budget deficit is now forecasted at $296 billion, which is 30 percent lower than the February projections.

We have made great progress in eliminating the budget deficit through fiscal responsibility and through increased tax revenues brought on by lower taxes.

Since the President's tax cuts were fully implemented in 2003, we have seen consistent and substantial growth in tax revenue. This reaffirms our knowledge that when we ease the tax burden on the American people, we become more productive. As we face future budget challenges it is important to keep that fact in mind.

We must do what is best for Americans. As we all can see by the new forecasts . . . cutting spending and reducing taxes produces real results.

Mr. Speaker, the United States and our ally Israel stand at an important and historic juncture.

Iran's continued efforts to establish a nuclear weapons program and their continued efforts to assist Hezbollah, an internationally recognized terrorist organization, is in defiance of their obligations to a free and stable world.

Today I stand united with my friends in Israel, who face a constant threat by Iranian-sponsored Hezbollah terrorists.

The House has acted by passing H.R. 282, the Iran Freedom Support Act. If this bill is passed, a strong set of economic sanctions will begin to hold Iran responsible for their actions in the Middle East. It is critical that the Senate act on this companion legislation that is pending before them.

Congress must confront Iran's continued belligerence by halting that country's nuclear aspirations and work to prevent their further sponsorship of terrorists.

Mr. Chairman, I support the legislation before the House of Representatives today, H.R. 5682, the United States and India Nuclear Cooperation Promotion Act of 2006. A civil nuclear cooperation agreement will make citizens of America and India more safe and secure, while providing increased stability around the world.

Since coming to Congress, I have felt that it is appropriate for the United States and India to have a close relationship. Last year, when President Bush and Indian Prime Minister Singh announced that the two countries would seek cooperation on its civil nuclear programs, I was immediately encouraged and supportive of their efforts. The improved relations stemming from this agreement will lead to untold benefits for the American and Indian people and enhance our mutual interests.

The U.S.-India relationship is strong and growing stronger because of our shared principles and goals. We remain the two largest democracies in the world, committed to political freedom protected by a representative government, and we share a commitment to free-market principles. These principles--bolstered by one of the world's largest consumer markets and a growing skilled labor force--have helped India in its development into a global economic power.

However, that growing economy depends on energy. Nuclear energy, unlike other energy sources, is truly a ``green'' energy source. It does not emit any carbon dioxide emissions or greenhouse gases. It also requires less geographic area to produce energy than other energy sources. Nuclear power is under-utilized and we should promote, not hamper, its growth.

Since the establishment of the Indian nuclear program in 1974, there has been no international oversight of India's nuclear program. A civilian nuclear cooperation agreement will provide India with much of the energy it needs while also bringing their civilian nuclear program under international review. With this agreement, the majority of India's civilian program will be under supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency.

We always must be mindful of nuclear proliferation and nuclear materials falling into the

wrong hands. The Indian government remains committed to peace and stability in the region and the world and they realize the danger of allowing the proliferation of nuclear technology and material.

Sadly, this danger is all too real to the people of India because-- like the U.S.--India has not been immune to terror attacks. The train bombing earlier this month and the attack on their parliament 5 years ago remains a constant reminder of terror and has forced them to reevaluate their civilian nuclear program and their status in the international community.

Mr. Chairman, H.R. 5682 will strengthen the U.S.-India relationship, promote a clean energy source, and make global nuclear materials more secure. For all these reasons, I strongly support the bill and encourage my colleagues to do so as well.

Mr. Speaker, today the House is considering H.R. 5068, legislation that will reauthorize the Export-Import Bank for the next 5 years. I support this legislation.

Since it was created over 60 years ago, the Export-Import Bank has provided crucial support for American exporting businesses--especially small businesses. Because small businesses provide the majority of jobs here in the U.S., the work of the Bank translates into real jobs for American workers.

I am particularly pleased this bill includes a provision that prohibits assistance from the Export-Import Bank for a proposed new railroad that would connect Turkey, Georgia, and

Azerbaijan, but would intentionally circumvent Armenia. This provision is extremely similar to H.R. 3361, the South Caucasus Integration and Open Railroads Act, legislation I introduced to ensure U.S. taxpayer funds are not used to promote a proposal or program that directly undermines the United States goal of fostering integration and cooperation among the countries in the South Caucasus.

Open and integrated transportation routes among Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkey are necessary to promote cooperation, support economic growth, and help resolve regional conflicts. Unfortunately, this policy is being undermined in an effort to push Armenia further into isolation.

The design for the new rail line defies logistical and geographical logic, and intends to prevent future economic development from reaching Armenia. The proposed rail link would cost between $400 million and $800 million and would take years to construct, even though a perfectly workable rail link that goes through the city of Gyumri, Armenia already exists and would be fully operational with a few minor repairs.

Mr. Speaker, I commend my colleagues on the House Financial Services Committee that included this provision into this bill and I urge support for passage of H.R. 5068.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 921, a resolution expressing support for the security of the State of Israel.

Over the last few days, it has been hard to turn on the television without seeing disturbing images of the current conflict in the Middle East.

Many of us share serious concerns about future of the Middle East. It seems unfair that this area--which has suffered so much conflict already--now is confronted with yet another period of escalating violence.

The long simmering tension in this region has finally come to a boiling point. The capturing of Israeli soldiers and the attacks on innocent civilians by the terrorist organization Hezbollah is absolutely unacceptable.

The President was correct when he stated that Israel has a right to defend itself against the aggressions by Hezbollah. The U.S. must stand side by side with our friends in the Middle East--especially Israel--as they fight terrorism in and around their borders. Israel must have our support and prayers as they continue to fight against those who murder innocent civilians just to advance their political agenda.

The loss of innocent life in this region over the last few days is heartbreaking. The people of Israel and Lebanon deserve to live in freedom and peace, safe from violence and terror.

Madam Speaker, the source of this current conflict does not lie within Israel or Lebanon. To put it plainly, the violence in the region is rooted in Iran. The support of Hezbollah by Iran in countries like Lebanon only serves to encourage violence, unfairly damage the region's fragile democracies, and undermine the rights of citizens in that region to fair and uncorrupted government.

Iran has created and supported terrorism and continues to funnel money and weapons to Hezbollah and Hamas. In fact, missiles that have targeted Israeli forces over the last few days have been traced to manufacturers in Iran.

It is clear that a nuclear Iran puts the Middle East and all countries around the world in grave peril. Iran has repeatedly defied the international community and has progressed in its development of nuclear capabilities. If Iran continues with its rogue nuclear programs, it will not be long before these weapons fall into

the hands of terrorist organizations such as Hezbollah and Hamas.

If we want to address the future security and stability of the Middle East, the U.S. must work to curb extremism and violent political activism nurtured by the Iranian government. The U.S. and the international community must come together behind a united front and stand with unwavering strength against the Iran's state-sponsored terrorist organizations and activities.

Here at home, it is now more important than ever that we realize that our own safety and security depends on the destruction of terrorism in the Middle East. This isn't just a Middle East problem--the attacks in London, Madrid, Bali, and now India show us that this is world terror. And, as we saw first hand on 9/11, America is not immune to terrorists who seek to destroy freedom and democracy.

Although the conflict in the Middle East can seem distant and unrelated to our daily lives, it is vitally important that we remember our past, present and future is intrinsically linked with this region. As the situation continues to unfold over the next days and weeks, let our thoughts and prayers be for a true and lasting peace in the Middle East.

Madam Speaker, I urge support for H. Res. 921 to show solidarity with Israel in their quest for security and peace, and to show our commitment to defeating terrorism around the globe.

Mr. Speaker, I want to extend my appreciation to Edward Deeb and the Michigan Food and Beverage Association for facilitating the yearly Metro Detroit Youth Day event. Due to the leadership of Mr. Deeb and the Michigan Food and Beverage Association, families from throughout southeast Michigan have been able to participate in a free day of fun for children for the past 24 years.

Metro Detroit Youth Day, established in 1981, has been an annual event through which families throughout the metro Detroit area have been able to come together and share a day filled with exciting activities and games. Nearly 30,000 young people are expected to take part in the 24th annual Metro Detroit Youth Day, being held on July 12, 2006, on Belle Isle.

During the long months of summer, parents often find the need to find physically and mentally stimulating activities for their children while they enjoy their summer vacations. In Metro Detroit Youth Day, students are able to enjoy a day filled with wholesome activities that help fill a need for physical education and emphasizes leadership and fair play. Additionally, children are encouraged to stay in school, say no to drugs, and learn how to treat one another with respect and dignity.

The generosity of the entire community is evident in Metro Detroit Youth Day, with thousands of metro Detroiters contributing to this event each year. More than 190 community organizations have come together to sponsor Metro Detroit Youth Day with the help of donations from dozens of corporate sponsors that make this day possible. Additionally, more than 900 adult volunteers from throughout the community offer their services in many capacities throughout the event.

The enthusiasm and dedication of Edward Deeb and the Michigan Food and Beverage Association have combined with organizations from all over Michigan to continually give back to countless families throughout the southeast Michigan community. I am pleased to offer my appreciation to all involved in Metro Detroit Youth Day for making it an annual success.

Mr. Speaker, today I am introducing a very important piece of legislation that will provide additional relief for families as they plan for the financial cost of their children's education.

Over the past ten years, tuition at public and private four-year institutions of higher learning has increased by 38 percent. Furthermore, over the past twenty-two years the cost of a four-year degree at a public college has increased by more than 202 percent. The expense is staggering, but the financial burden of college should not prevent individuals from seeking and receiving an advanced education.

That is why I am introducing the Student Financial Readiness Act of 2006, which will increase the amount of the annual tax-free contribution a family or individual may contribute to a student's elementary, secondary, or college expenses.

Coverdell Education Savings Accounts allow families to make a yearly tax-free contribution of $2,000 per child to assist with educational costs. The money can be spent on both K-12 education, and college. By allowing families to make tax-free contributions to education savings accounts, we promote ownership of education and help ease the financial burden of education expenses.

However, the current $2,000 annual limit currently in place on Coverdell accounts needs to be adjusted to keep pace with increasing tuition rates. My bill, the Student Financial Readiness Act of 2006, would permit a contribution level of $5,000 annually and index the contribution amount by the cost-of-living adjustment.

We must give families the option of providing the very best education possible for their children. Our nation's future depends on the next generation. They must be given every opportunity to receive the highest education and the ability to be competitive in our changing job market.

Mr. Speaker, thank you for the time to speak on behalf of my bill, the Student Financial Readiness Act of 2006. I respectfully request the support of my colleagues for this important piece of legislation to help ensure the future success of our nation's children and the financial stability of American families.

Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize the extraordinary and diverse career and accomplishments of Dr. Charles M. Chambers. I extend my congratulations on his recent appointment as chancellor of Lawrence Technological University, and I recognize his dedication to education throughout Michigan and the world.

Dr. Chambers has already left an indelible mark on Lawrence Tech through his thirteen years as President, a trend that will certainly continue under his direction as chancellor of the University. Under his leadership, Lawrence Tech has set a number of records and has achieved national recognition as an institution dedicated to innovative and effective methods of education, often setting the standard to which other universities strive. Among the many accomplishments Lawrence Tech has made under Dr. Chambers' Presidency is its status as Michigan's first wireless laptop campus, contributing to Lawrence Tech's recognition as one of the top fifty unwired campuses in the country.

Throughout his service to Lawrence Tech, Dr. Chambers has demonstrated his dedication to the enhancement and expansion of education through the dramatic transformation of Lawrence Tech's campus, the enormous increase in student scholarships and community outreach, and the expansion of academic programs offered at Lawrence Tech, including its first doctoral programs. Additionally, Dr. Chambers has overseen the creation of learning centers and higher education partnerships worldwide.

Dr. Charles M. Chambers has served Lawrence Technological University and the State of Michigan with honor and pride throughout the duration of his career with the University. I congratulate him on his recent appointment, which is a direct result of his continued dedication to education and to the success of Lawrence Technological University.