Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Res. 289, which celebrates June as Caribbean American Heritage Month and recognizes the significant contributions of Caribbean Americans that have made strengthened our country and made it better.

This month also marks the 50th anniversaries of independence for the Caribbean nations of Jamaica and of Trinidad and Tobago. Although a half century has passed since they gained their independence, the struggle they waged to win their freedom still stands as a testament to the ideals of our own great nation.

I am privileged to represent a large segment of Los Angeles County, which is home to the second largest foreign-born population of any major metropolitan area. There are an estimated 500,000 Americans of Caribbean heritage living, working, and enriching the quality of life in Southern California.

Mr. Speaker, Americans of Caribbean heritage have made a positive impact on virtually every aspect of American life, including the arts, science, business, education, athletics, military, and government. For example, in the area of government and public affairs America has benefitted from the contributions of Colin Powell, a former Secretary of State and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; U.N. Ambassador Susan Rice; former Members of Congress Mervyn Dymally of California, and Shirley Chisholm of New York, and current Congresswoman Yvette Clarke of New York; Kamala Harris, the Attorney General of California; and Maryland Lieutenant Governor Anthony Brown.

American art and culture has been enriched by the legendary performances of Sidney Poitier, Harry Belafonte, Cicely Tyson, and Sheryl Lee Ralph; the writings of authors W.E.B. DuBois and Malcolm Gladwell; the music of Grace Jones, Gil Scott-Heron, and Christopher Wallace, ``The Notorious B.I.G.''; and the prowess of great athletes like Carl Lewis, Tim Duncan, Patrick Ewing, Sandra Richards-Ross, Dwight Freeney, and Ndamukong Suh.

Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased that on June 29 the Caribbean Heritage Organization will be holding the 2012 Caribbean Heritage Salute to Hollywood and the Stars gala in Los Angeles honoring industry stalwarts Sheryl Lee Ralph, Antonio Fargas, Lorraine Toussaint, and Rob Edwards.

I also wish to recognize the leadership of the Institute of Caribbean Studies. The ICS has been very effective in advocating on behalf of the Caribbean American community and each year it hosts a Legislative Conference Week as part of the month long celebration. The conference focuses the attention of policy makers and experts on issues of particular concern to the Caribbean American community such as trade, job creation and economic empowerment, Haitian disaster relief and economic reconstruction. I congratulate the ICS, the Caribbean Heritage Organization in my home county of Los Angeles, and the many community organizations and volunteers across the nation for their efforts in making Caribbean American Heritage Month the success that it is.

During this month I hope all Americans will join with me in celebrating the remarkable history, culture, and contributions of Caribbean Americans to our nation's past and future.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 1842, The DREAM Act. I call up the House Republican leadership to bring this important legislation, which reflects fundamental American values of opportunity, responsibility, and community to the floor. The DREAM Act provides an opportunity for certain young men and women who demonstrate the responsible behavior necessary to earn the chance to become a naturalized citizen.

The DREAM Act recognizes that there are a limited number of young people who, through no fault of their own, have been living in the United States illegally since childhood. For the vast majority of these young men and women, the United States is the only country they have ever known and is the one to which they have always pledged allegiance.

By providing those who have demonstrated good moral character the ability to integrate fully into American society through military service or a college education, The DREAM Act rewards responsible and productive behavior while at the same time invests in the future prosperity of our great Nation.

Passing The DREAM Act makes our country stronger, fairer, more just. And it will also make our Nation more prosperous in the long term by providing incentives and opportunities for higher education for thousands of students who each year are unable to attend college because of their immigration status.

The Congressional Budget Office estimates that The DREAM Act will reduce the deficit by $1.4 billion over the next 10 years through increased tax revenue. Similarly, a study conducted by UCLA also estimates that DREAM Act beneficiaries have the potential to generate from $1.4 trillion to $3.6 trillion in income throughout their working lives.

Each year, approximately 65,000 students graduate high school without the possibility of continuing their education due to their immigration status and less than 10 percent of these students will go on to pursue college. Not only do these talented, law-abiding young individuals lose out on their extraordinary potential, but as a Nation we also run the risk of losing out on a tremendous amount of economic growth.

Mr. Speaker, The DREAM Act gives these students the opportunity to continue their academic pursuits, be officially recognized by the country in which they have spent most of their lives, and realize everything the American Dream has to offer. Young, undocumented immigrants who have just graduated from high school deserve the opportunity to follow their dreams and should not have a ceiling placed on their future because of decisions made by others and circumstances entirely beyond their control.

During my visits to schools in my district, one of the most ethnically diverse in the Nation, I have had the opportunity to meet many students who will benefit greatly from the passage of this legislation. These students have grown up attending schools in the United States and are intimately woven into our Nation's fabric. It is time that we recognize these students' achievements and allow them to step out of the shadow that prevents them from pursuing their dreams.

The Washington Post recently published an article on a young woman named Heydi Mejia, whose story exemplifies the type of situation we can hope to avoid by passing The DREAM Act. Young Heydi has lived in America from the age of 4, graduated in the top 10 percent of her class and had plans to attend college to become a nurse and return to serve her community. Her life was turned upside down when nine immigration officials showed up at her house this past December ordering her back to Guatemala, a country she barely knows, and to which she never pledged allegiance.

I was delighted to hear yesterday that Heydi and her mother have been granted a 1-year reprieve from deportation by the DHS, but this situation should not have arisen in the first place. It should not take a front page article in The Washington Post to keep a hardworking and successful young woman from being deported.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to support The DREAM Act. We are a nation of immigrants, built on the backs of those who risked everything for the dream of a country that accepts all those who are willing to work hard and make something of themselves. I believe America is still that country, and it is our fundamental duty to provide a better life to those willing to work for it.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to mark the occasion of ``Juneteenth,'' the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. From its Galveston, Texas origin in 1865, the observance of June 19 as the African American Emancipation Day has spread from coast to coast in the United States and beyond.

Today Juneteenth commemorates African-American freedom. This special day emphasizes education and achievement. It is a day, a week, and in some areas, a month marked with celebrations, guest speakers, picnics and family gatherings.

Juneteenth is a time for reflection and rejoicing. It is a time for assessment, self-improvement and for planning the future. Its growing popularity signifies a level of maturity and dignity in America long overdue. In cities across the country, people of all races, nationalities and religions are joining hands to truthfully acknowledge a period in our history that shaped and continues to influence our society today. Sensitized to the conditions and experiences of others, only then can we make significant and lasting improvements in our society.

The Civil Rights Movement of the 50's and 60's yielded both positive and negative results for the Juneteenth celebrations. While it pulled many of the African American youth away and into the struggle for racial equality, many linked these struggles to the historical struggles of their ancestors. This was evidenced by student demonstrators involved in the Atlanta civil rights campaign in the early 1960's, whom wore Juneteenth freedom buttons.

Again in 1968, Juneteenth received another strong resurgence through Poor Peoples March to Washington D.C. Rev. Ralph Abernathy's call for people all races, creeds, economic levels and professions to come to Washington to show support for the poor. Many of these attendees returned home and initiated Juneteenth celebrations in areas previously absent of such activity.

On January 1, 1980, Juneteenth became an official state holiday through the efforts of Al Edwards, an African American state legislator. The successful passage of this bill marked Juneteenth as the first emancipation celebration granted official state recognition. Representative Edwards has ever since actively sought to spread the observance of Juneteenth all across America.

Juneteenth today, celebrates African American freedom while encouraging self-development and respect for all cultures. As I look proudly upon the 37th District of California--one of the most ethnically and culturally diverse districts in the nation--the future of Juneteenth looks bright.

Throughout the year, but especially during this celebration, the communities of Southern California have come together to recognize one another's heritages and histories. From commemorating Black History Month in February to celebrating the Cambodian New Year this April, we are seizing every opportunity to educate ourselves about the experiences of others in true Juneteenth spirit.

And yet, we remain mindful that the struggle continues.

Unfortunately, laws aimed at voter suppression have been recently introduced in several states across the country and disproportionately reduce the turnout of minority voters. Some laws require specific forms of government-issued photo identification that as many as one in ten voters do not have. Nine states have introduced bills to reduce early voting periods, a system that is most utilized by minorities and seniors.

Given the lack of evidence of current voter fraud, I fear that these bills instead stem from a political agenda to dampen voter turnout. These unnecessary and discriminatory regulations are a dangerous step backward in time. We should be promoting civic participation, not limiting it and disenfranchising millions of Americans.

Mr. Speaker, freedom is not to be taken for granted. It is promised to every citizen, but that promise is only upheld by constant vigilance and hard work. To mark Juneteenth this year, I ask my colleagues to join me in ensuring that the freedom secured through emancipation is a reality for all citizens almost 150 years later.

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to address the House for one minute and revise and extend my remarks.

I was unavoidably detained on Tuesday, June 5th and for the early afternoon of Wednesday, June 6th. Therefore was not present to be recorded on rollcall votes No. 315 to 324. I ask the Record to reflect that had I been present I would have voted as follows:

1. On rollcall No. 315 (McClintock Amendment #3), I would have voted ``no'' (June 5)

(Reduces the Nuclear Energy account by $514,391,000, and applies the savings to the spending reduction account.)

2. On rollcall No. 316 (Hirono Amendment), I would have voted ``aye'' (June 5)

(Reduces the Fossil Energy Research and Development account by $133,400,000, and increases funds for the Advanced Research Project Agency--Energy (ARPA E) account by the same amount.)

3. On rollcall No. 317 (McClintock Amendment #5), I would have voted ``no'' (June 5)

(Zeroes out the Fossil Energy Research and Development account (a cut of $554 million) and applies the savings to the spending reduction account.)

4. On rollcall No. 318 (Matheson Amendment), I would have voted ``aye'' (June 5)

(Increases the Non-Defense Environmental Cleanup account by $9,600,000, and reduces the National Nuclear Security Administration construction and expansion account by the same amount.)

5. On rollcall No. 319 (Rohrabacher Amendment), I would have voted ``no'' (June 6)

(Prohibits the use of funds to be used for the U.S. China Clean Energy Research Center.)

6. On rollcall No. 320 (First Stearns Amendment), I would have voted ``no'' (June 6)

(Prohibits the use of funds to be used by the Department of Energy to subordinate any loan obligation to other financing in violation of section 1702 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (the loan guarantee provisions) or to subordinate any Guaranteed Obligation to any loan or other debt obligations in violation of section 609.10 of title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations.)

7. On rollcall No. 321 (Shimkus Amendment), I would have voted ``no'' (June 6)

(Reduces the Department of Energy salary and expenses account by $10 million and increases the Nuclear Regulatory Commission salaries and expenses account by the same amount to support review of the Yucca Mountain nuclear waste repository license.)

8. On rollcall No. 322 (Tipton Amendment), I would have voted ``aye'' (June 6)

(Prohibits agencies funded under the bill from conducting surveys in which money is included or provided for the benefit of the survey responder.)

9. On rollcall No. 323 (Second Luetkemeyer Amendment), I would have voted ``no'' (June 6)

(Prohibits the use of funds to be used for the study of the Missouri River Projects authorized in section 108 of the FY 2009 Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act.)

10. On rollcall No. 324 (Fourth Jackson Lee Amendment), I would have voted ``aye'' (June 6)

(Reduces the amount made available for the ``Atomic Energy Defense Activities--National Nuclear Security Administration--Weapons Activities'' Account by $10 million and increases the amount made available for the ``Corps of Engineers--Civil--Department of the Army-- Construction'' Account by the same amount.)

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Leader Nancy Pelosi's outstanding achievements during her 25 years of service as a Member of Congress. It has been a great privilege to serve alongside and learn from such a strong and effective leader.

One of the proudest moments of my career was when I was sworn into the House of Representatives by Ms. Pelosi. She has been a mentor to me, and I am continually inspired by her unwavering commitment to social and economic justice. She skillfully balances her desire for bipartisanship cooperation with faithfulness to her core beliefs, a rare talent in politics today.

Speaker Pelosi made history when she was selected as the first female Democratic Leader

of the House of Representatives in 2002 and the first female Speaker of the House in 2007. She demonstrated great skill and political savvy during her tenure as Speaker, transforming the 111th Congress into one of the most productive sessions in American history. With unmatched party unity in voting, the House of Representatives passed more landmark legislation than any Congress since the Johnson administration, addressing issues as diverse as food safety, nuclear arms treaties, and the repeal of the discriminatory ``Don't Ask, Don't Tell'' policy in the military.

Her successful stewardship of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act has provided healthcare to 32 million uninsured Americans and reformed a broken system. She backed Wall Street Reform as well as President Obama's stimulus package to protect working Americans from job loss and prevent economic collapse. Her handling of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act and the increase of minimum wage have also demonstrated her dedication to supporting pay equity in our labor force.

I would also like to take a moment to acknowledge Ms. Pelosi's many contributions to people living with HIV/AIDS. This issue has been a top priority for Ms. Pelosi since she first took her oath of office, and her work has led to significant advances over the past 25 years. By publicizing this issue, she has helped to reduce discrimination and social stigmas associated with the disease. She has also doubled the level of U.S. funding for global health initiatives during her time as Speaker. Ms. Pelosi is responsible for U.S. leadership on this issue, which has saved the lives of millions of the world's most vulnerable.

Mr. Speaker, this long list of accomplishments is a testament to Ms. Pelosi's determination, and her quarter century of service has left an indelible mark on this great institution. I am honored to serve under her leadership, and I look forward to her future accolades.

Mr. Chair, I rise today in reluctant opposition to H.R. 5855, Homeland Security Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2013. H.R. 5855 provides $39.1 billion in discretionary funding for Department of Homeland Security (DHS), a decrease of $484 million below last year's level and a decrease of $393 million below the President's request.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) appropriations bill includes funding for all components and functions of DHS, including Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Coast Guard (USCG); Secret Service (USSS), the National Protection and Programs Directorate (NPPD), which includes Infrastructure Protection and Information Security (IPIS) and the Federal Protective Service (FPS), the Office of Health Affairs (OHA); the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC), the Science and Technology directorate (S&T), the Domestic Nuclear Detection Office (DNDO), departmental management, Analysis and Operations (A&O), and the Office of the Inspector General (OIG).

Mr. Chair, I would like to thank my friends Chairman Robert B. Aderholt and Ranking Member David E. Price on their hard work on the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act. Although this bill provides adequate funding for some programs that I support, they are far outweighed by some unexplainable provisions in the bill.

This bill underfunds the Federal Air Marshals program by $50 million which will reduce coverage on high-risk flights. The Administration has echoed my sentiment in a recent statement on administration policy. I also have reservations about extending a civilian pay freeze through fiscal year 2013. This is neither sustainable nor desirable.

As a Member of the House Homeland Security Committee, I cannot support this bill. We as Members of Congress have a responsibility to protect our communities from any possible danger. For this reason, there is no higher priority than to adequately fund our homeland security, particularly our first responders such as firefighters.

Firefighters are often the first responders to any and every emergency. As we saw on 9/11 firefighters are dedicated to saving lives and we must provide them with the resources to maintain their morale and readiness. Stringent budget cuts on the local level have left fire departments understaffed, unprepared, and unequipped to perform their duties to highest level.

Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant programs attempt to ameliorate this deficiency. In this bill both grant programs are once again underfunded. This legislation only funds up to 25 percent of the necessary funds required to effectively support local fire departments with hiring fire-fighters, providing modern safety gear, modern fire trucks, and other vital tools to our first responders.

It makes no sense to weaken our Homeland Security program by cutting their resources in a time when terrorist threats continue to put our Nation at risk. We as Members of Congress must unite and assist our brave first responders in their efforts to help contain any threats by providing them with all necessary resources, rather than turn our backs and leave them without sufficient funding.

Mr. Chair, DHS is charged with safeguarding America against diverse and relentless adversaries. Charged with this difficult but important task, providing DHS with the necessary provisions is a no brainer. But this bill has come short of providing those provisions. I urge my colleagues to oppose H.R. 5855 so we have that opportunity to provide our first responders with those provisions.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise in strong opposition to the Motion to Instruct Conferees on H.R. 4348 offered by the gentleman from Georgia, Mr. Broun. The draconian cuts directed by this motion would cripple the Nation's infrastructure and leave hundreds of thousands of people unemployed.

The language of the gentleman's motion is confusing at best. The exact amount suggested to be cut differs due to interpretation of the word ``funding.'' By limiting the Highway Trust Fund's expenditures in FY 2013 to $37.5 billion, the gentleman's motion would essentially bankrupt the Fund because $37.5 billion is less than the amount needed to reimburse State and public transit agencies for obligations incurred in prior fiscal years.

The Federal Government already owes $38.8 billion for projects that were implemented in the previous fiscal year, or are currently under construction. If we do not authorize the funds necessary to pay these debts, the government will be in default.

Spending cuts of this magnitude would cut more than 1.6 million jobs in a field with more than 2.2 million people already out of work. At the beginning of the spring and summer construction season the unemployment rate in the industry was at 14.2%, and in May alone jobs fell by 28,000. It would be foolish to vote for a motion that will have the effect of putting more Americans out of work. That would be the result if the Broun Motion were adopted.

The motion by the gentleman from Georgia ignores the long-term underinvestment in our nation's surface transportation. Investments in transportation support economic growth, increase productivity and enhance America's competitiveness in the global economy.

A strong national infrastructure is what will bring this country back from the recession we are currently fighting through. The Highway Transit Fund is essential for not only providing a safe transportation network, but creating millions of jobs for hardworking Americans.

Mr. Speaker, I understand that my colleagues and I are working during a time of economic constraints, and I understand that we must make spending cuts across the board in order to control the debt we have accumulated.

However, this motion is an irresponsible move, and if implemented would have disastrous consequences. The Highway Trust Fund would no longer have the ability to carry out highway, highway safety and public transit projects or activities. This would have long lasting negative effects on our nation's infrastructure and economy.

Mr. Speaker, this motion is bordering on absurd. I cannot believe that a member of congress means to drive our nation into default, and cripple our infrastructure in the process. I stand before you today to ask my colleagues, regardless of their political ideology, to ignore the motion put before you. This is what is best for our nation, and our economy.

Mr. Chair, I rise today in reluctant opposition to H.R. 5325, the Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. This bill provides $32.1 billion, an $88 million increase from Fiscal Year 2012 levels but $965 million below the President's Fiscal Year 2013 request.

The purpose of the annual energy and water spending bill is to provide the funding necessary to ensure that the nation's energy and water resources are sufficient to address the nation's needs. This year's spending bill, H.R. 5325, provides funding for critical national priorities such as Army Corps of Engineers, Department of the Energy, Department of the Interior, and independent agencies that provide research and development of future energy industries, job training, and health care.

Mr. Chair, I thank Chairman Frelinghuysen and Ranking Member Peter J. Visclosky for shepherding this bill to the floor. I appreciate the way they worked together and with my office to accommodate several of my legislative priorities regarding energy and water development programs.

Although this bill provides adequate funding for some programs that I support, it also includes numerous other provisions that are unacceptable. On balance, these unpalatable provisions outweigh the positive aspects of the bill.

This bill substantially underfunds key priorities like science and innovation which are critical to the recovery of our economy and rebuilding our waterways and ports. The bill only provides $1.45 billion for energy efficiency and renewable energy research programs, which is $374 million below Fiscal Year 2012 and $886 million below the President's request.

The bill only provides $200 million for the Advanced Research Projects Agency--Energy (ARPA E), which is $75 million below Fiscal Year 2012 levels and $150 million below the President's request. ARPA E supports breakthrough of domestic clean energy innovations.

Mr. Chair, the bill before us dramatically cuts funding for energy efficiency and renewable energy research programs by 39 percent and reduces funding for several other energy innovation programs:

Solar energy research funding is cut by nearly 50 percent from Fiscal Year 2012;

Wind energy development research is underfunded at only $70 million, $24 million below the Fiscal Year 2012 and $25 million below the President's request;

Building technologies research funding is cut by more than 50 percent from fiscal year 2012 and $185 million below the President's request. These funds are used to research energy-efficient technologies in buildings, which account for roughly 40 percent of all U.S. energy use.

This bill does not stop there. It also contains provisions that weaken energy reduction targets in new and renovated federal buildings. Buildings account for almost 40 percent of U.S. energy consumption, and as the largest consumer of energy in the U.S., the federal government should lead the way in designing and building facilities that use less energy to spur the development of new materials and technologies and to show that these reductions are practical, achievable, and cost- effective.

Section 110 of the bill would stop an Administration effort to provide clarity on which water bodies are covered by Clean Water Act (CWA). The existing regulations were the subject of two Supreme Court cases in 2001 and 2006, in which the Court indicated the need for greater regulatory clarity on the scope of CA jurisdiction.

Mr. Chair, for many of these same reasons the President has put the Congress on notice that he will ``veto'' H.R. 5325 if it is presented to him for signature in its present form. It make no sense to pass a bad bill that has no chance of becoming law. We should instead be working together across the aisle to craft a bill that can win and be worthy of bipartisan and bicameral support. The bill before us does not meet this standard.

For these reasons, I will vote no on H.R. 5325 on final passage. I urge my colleagues to join me.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition to H.R. 436, the ``Protect Medical Innovation Act.'' This bill would repeal a 2.3 percent tax on the sale of medical devices that was scheduled to take effect in 2013 as a part of the healthcare reform legislation. The Joint Committee on Taxation, however, has said that this tax elimination would cost the government $29.1 billion in lost revenue through fiscal year 2022.

This decrease in revenue would be offset by the elimination of the cap on repayments of advance premium tax credits. This provision had been introduced to aid low- and moderate-income families whose economic circumstances changed dramatically during the year. The current repayment cap on tax credits is important to millions of American families facing economic uncertainty because it offers a guarantee that they will not be hit with unexpected tax bills at the end of the year. H.R. 436 brings the threat of uncapped expenses and will effectively serve as a deterrent for families considering purchasing healthcare coverage.

The Joint Committee on Taxation has estimated that the loss of revenue will therefore increase the number of uninsured Americans by 350,000, and I fear that the 37th Congressional District of California will be particularly impacted. In the city of Los Angeles, it was reported this month that unemployment had risen to 8.2 percent, or 13.6 percent for African Americans and 11 percent for Latinos. In construction alone, 28,000 jobs were cut, along with 13,000 in government. As we debate the repayment cap, we must keep in mind these thousands of hardworking citizens and their families who might otherwise feel the security of affordable healthcare coverage in uncertain times.

Mr. Speaker, healthcare reform legislation does not unfairly target the medical device industry, as many are claiming today. In the spring of 2009, representatives from various healthcare sectors, including medical device companies, pledged in a letter to work with President Obama to accomplish the goal of a more affordable and efficient healthcare system. This tax serves as the industry's contribution to the cost of reform. It is not an unreasonable sum, especially when the industry stands to benefit from an additional 30 million insured customers. Of those, roughly 10 million will fall between the ages of 50 and 64,

an age group with a high proportion of people needing medical devices.

The passage of this bill would send a dangerous message to other healthcare sectors who are contributing to the cost of comprehensive healthcare reform. Pharmaceutical companies, health insurance companies, skilled nursing facilities, laboratories, and home health providers have all taken on additional costs and taxes. We should be wary of setting a precedent that exempts one industry from its promised contributions, should other sectors then push for a similar repeal.

Supporters of this bill have also aligned themselves with small businesses; however, any tax relief would be siphoned off to large corporations. Industry analysts predict that the ten largest companies manufacturing medical devices, who in 2011 had net profits of $48 billion, will pay 86 percent of this tax. The medical device industry is already very profitable, and the benefit of ten million new customers will outweigh the cost of the tax.

I would like to take an additional moment to address the Republicans' claims that this bill will stop job loss and decelerated innovation. There is currently no incentive for medical device companies to shift jobs overseas because the tax does not apply to devices sold to other nations. Moreover, devices imported into the United States are subject to the same 2.3 percent tax. This means that there will be no unfavorable advantage for foreign-manufactured devices in domestic markets, and there will be no added cost to selling American devices in the international market.

Mr. Speaker, I was an original supporter of President Obama's plan for healthcare reform, and I believe that H.R. 436 would only be a step backwards. I will vote against this legislation, and I urge my colleagues to do the same.

Mr. Speaker, today is World Environment Day. Established by the United Nations and now in its 40th year, World Environment Day draws the attention of the international community to the urgent and continuing need to address environmental issues.

A ``green'' economy is one whose growth in income and employment is driven by public and private investments that reduce carbon emissions and pollution, enhance energy and resource efficiency, and prevent the loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services. These investments need to be incentivized and supported by targeted public-private partnerships, policy reforms, and regulation changes.

One of the main engines for economic growth is a higher rate of employment, which both reduces the burden on the economy and gives consumers the purchasing power to sustain a middle-class standard of living through supporting industries. And ``greening the economy'' creates good-paying jobs.

The theme of this year's celebration is ``Green Economy: Does it Include You?''

On behalf of the 7,000,000 residents of the 37th Congressional District of California whom I represent, I am proud to answer this question in the affirmative. The people, businesses, and institutions of the 37th Congressional District of California have taken groundbreaking steps to strengthen and advance America's green economy. For example, the Port of Long Beach's Clean Trucks Program has reduced air pollution from harbor trucks by 90 percent. The City of Long Beach has implemented several initiatives aimed at `greening' its economy, including the Green Business Recognition Program, the Environmental Purchasing Policy, and the foundation of the Green Job Center.

As a member of the Sustainable Energy and Environment Caucus and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, I have worked to advance environmentally sustainable policies that will position our country to compete and win in the global economy of the 21st century. In the 111th Congress, I introduced the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act, DERA, of 2010, which extended a national and State-level grant, rebate and loan program that created jobs and improved the Nation's air quality. This legislation also provides economic incentives to decrease emissions and protect the environment, which will result in significant health benefits for communities across the country. DERA was signed into law by the President on January 4, 2011.

I am also proud to have voted to pass such other important `green' legislation as the American Clean Energy and Security Act, the Home Star Jobs Act, and Renewable Energy Credits and Other Business and Individual Credits Act.

Mr. Speaker, since its inception in 1972 World Environment Day has grown to become one of the main vehicles to focus attention and encourage action by the international community in support of the environment. World Environment Day is a day for people from all walks of life to come together to ensure a cleaner, greener and brighter outlook for themselves and future generations.

Everyone counts in this initiative and everyone can help make a difference. Whether by organizing a neighborhood clean-up, stop using plastic bags and get your community to do the same, planting a tree, walking to work, starting a recycling drive, everyone can contribute to making our communities safer, healthier, and cleaner.

So on World Environment Day, I commend all those individuals and organizations across the Nation and around the world for the contributions they are making and urge all Americans to join them in the worthwhile effort.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize June as National LGBT Pride Month. Our greatest strength is its promise of equality for every citizen, and we have made significant progress in ensuring that promise is kept regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

As a proud member of the Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus, I am committed to extending full rights to all Americans, repealing discriminatory laws, and eliminating hateful violence.

This past year has brought many changes in law and policy, and there have been noticeable changes in public discourse as well. Last year, the military repealed its discriminatory ``Don't Ask, Don't Tell'' policy, and a federal circuit court ruled last week that the Defense of Marriage Act is unconstitutional. President Obama's historic endorsement of same-sex marriage has also moved this country into a new era of progressive thinking and equal rights for all.

The 37th District of California has seen incredible movement toward equality and acceptance. I am proud to represent the significant population of gay, lesbian and transgender constituents in my district. This is a community that has become integral to the Long Beach area and continues to give back to the city in many ways.

Long Beach Lesbian & Gay Pride, Inc. is one of the larger philanthropic organizations in the city, and they developed the Long Beach Lesbian and Gay Pride Parade in 1984. They have also granted nearly one million dollars to local non-profit organizations, and organized a toy drive for disabled and disadvantaged children in conjunction with catholic charities.

The Long Beach Lesbian and Gay Pride Parade continues to be the main project for the organization. When it first began its organizers faced death threats and fierce opposition. Today, the parade is the nation's third-largest pride parade and attracts over 75,000 participants annually. It is heralded as one of the district's most popular attractions, and its organizers have helped to foster greater understanding and respect in the community.

During my time in Congress I have supported many different areas of LGBT legislation. I am an original co-sponsor of multiple bills including: the Employment Non-Discrimination Act to prohibit discrimination in the work place; the Equal Access to COBRA Act which guarantees the continuation of health coverage to any qualified beneficiary under an employer's health insurance; and the Reuniting Families Act which supports the core value of keeping all families together regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity together.

I voted to repeal the Don't Ask Don't Tell policy, and signed the amicus brief declaring the Defense of Marriage Act unconstitutional, and I am proud the Obama Administration will no longer defend section 3 of DOMA. These actions make our country stronger not weaker; they bring our national policies closer to our national ideals; and they affirm that in America it is the content of our character that counts, not immutable characteristics of birth.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues and American citizens to join me in celebrating the accomplishments of the LGBT community across the United States. However, there is still so much more work to be done. Every citizen of this country deserves the same opportunities regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Recent events have made momentous gains towards that goal, but let us not forget we still have a long fight ahead of us.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 5651, The Bipartisan Food and Drug Administration Act of 2012, which modifies the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) policies and procedures to enhance Americans' access to effective healthcare. This bill improves the safety, development, and distribution of medications and medical devices to patients and medical providers.

This bill reauthorizes the FDA's user fee program for prescription drugs and medical devices through fiscal year 2017. Further, it introduces a new user fee program for generic medications. These fees, collected from drug and medical device companies, will give the FDA the funding it requires to grant patients rapid access to the treatments they need. This will improve the accessibility of vital medicines to patients throughout the U.S.

Mr. Speaker, this bill permanently reauthorizes two beneficial pediatric drug programs. The first, the Best Pharmaceuticals for Children Act, enhances the safety and availability

of prescription drugs for children. It does this by providing mechanisms through which drug companies can test their products for use in pediatrics, and offering a six month patent extension as an incentive to companies who do so.

The second pediatric drug program that is permanently reauthorized is the Pediatric Research Equity Act. This act increases the safety of prescription drugs for children by requiring pediatric testing of certain medications intended for adults in order to fully understand their effects. This will ensure that physicians have a clearer grasp of the effects these medications have before prescribing small dosages to children.

This bill also provides for a vital update of the FDA's global drug supply chain authority, requiring drug importers to register with the FDA, and disallowing the import of medicines from organizations that have limited or denied inspections.

Most importantly, the bill expands the jurisdiction of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. This allows for the FDA to prosecute foreign violators of the act, and thus discourages such violations in the future. These updates will improve the safety of the prescription drugs that are provided to American patients.

Finally, Mr. Speaker, this bill will implement new FDA requirements that will help to prevent drug shortages. The bill does this by updating the FDA's reporting policies for manufacturers, and ensuring that the agency maintains a drug shortage list that is made available to healthcare providers. Additionally, should a shortage still occur, this bill outlines steps to be taken to mitigate the problem. If enacted, these new policies will help protect the country's prescription drug supply, ensuring that Americans always have access to the medication they need.

Mr. Speaker, it is for these reasons that I support H.R. 5651.

Madam Chair, I rise today in support of H.R. 5854, the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2013, which supports our military and their families and provides the benefits and medical care that our veterans have earned for their service.

H.R, 5854 provides the facilities and infrastructure needed to house, train, and equip our military personnel to defend this Nation, both in the United States and abroad, provides the housing and military community infrastructure that supports a good quality of life for them and their families, and allows the military to maintain an efficient and effective base structure. The bill also funds programs to ensure that all veterans receive the benefits and medical care that they have earned as a result of their sacrifices in the service to our Nation.

This bill builds on the progress of Democratically-led Congresses from 2007 through 2010 for veterans. Just as our military pledges to leave no one behind on the battlefield, Democrats in Congress have pledged to leave no veteran behind when they come home. This bill provides $71.7 billion in discretionary spending for Fiscal Year 2013, equal to last year's level.

For VA programs, the bill provides $60.7 billion in discretionary funding, $2.2 billion above the FY 2012 enacted level. The bill also assumes $74.6 billion in mandatory funding. With this funding, the VA will be able to provide quality medical care to more than 6.3 million patients in 2013, including 610,000 veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan.

Madam Chair, let me note my strong opposition to a number of provisions in this bill. This bill enacts a pay freeze on federal workers and rejects the President's proposed 0.5 percent pay raise.

I also oppose the language banning the implementation of the executive order encouraging government agencies to require contractors for large-scale Federal construction projects to negotiate or participate in labor agreements with unions. Republicans are trying to use this critical measure for our military and veterans to advance their controversial anti-worker agenda of no project labor agreements in Federal contracting.

I would like to take a moment to express my strong support for the Grimm amendment. Last year, I worked with Congressman LaTourette on defeating anti-Project Labor Agreements (PLAs) language in the MilCon/ VA Appropriations bill and this year I rise in support of the Grimm amendment.

Section 517 of H.R. 5854 prohibits agencies from being able to use all available methods to ensure that Federal contracts are cost- efficient. Section 517 of this legislation increases the risk of project cost overruns, delays, and fails to protect our workers.

The Grimm amendment ensures that funds for large-scale construction projects utilize the most cost-effective and efficient process for the awarding of Federal contracts and simply saves taxpayers money!

Madam Chair, however one feels about Project Labor Agreements, the MilCon/VA bill is not the appropriate vehicle to have this debate. The MilCon/VA bill is intended to reflect our commitment to our veterans and our service members in uniform and should be limited to that purpose.

The Grimm amendment simply allows Federal agencies to use all tools at their disposal in awarding large-scale contracts that ensure taxpayer funds are used efficiently and that projects are completed on time and on budget.

All of us in Congress are looking at ways to rein in our deficit. This amendment protects workers and taxpayer funds. I urge my colleagues to support the Grimm amendment.

Madam Chair, in my remaining time let me discuss an additional reason why I support this legislation. This bill includes $169 million for the ongoing effort to create an integrated electronic health record system that transitions from an individual's active service in the military to the VA and requires the VA and Defense Department to provide Congress with an execution and spending plan for FY 2013 and outline a road map for completing the project.

The bill also includes the requested levels of $1.4 billion for VA homeless assistance programs and $4.8 billion for homeless veterans' treatment costs. The bill provides the requested $250 million to improve access and quality care for the more than three million veterans residing in rural areas and $6.5 billion for mental health programs including $443 million for post-traumatic stress disorder and $76 million for suicide prevention.

This is not a perfect bill but this piece of legislation addresses the most critical needs of our service members, military families, and veterans. The positive provisions outweigh the negative ones and I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 5854.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the 2012 graduates of Charles Drew University in Los Angeles. This unique school is a true national treasure. Formally established in 1966 as a postgraduate medical school, CDU is a private, non-profit, minority-serving medical and health science institution. But it is much more than that; it is one of only four historically black graduate institutions in this country, and the only one located west of the Mississippi.

The men and women who graduate from this institution go on to have remarkable careers. Since 1971, when the first student matriculated, CDU has graduated over 550 physicians, 1,200 physician assistants, 2,800 physician specialists and numerous other healthcare professionals from diverse backgrounds, most of whom dedicated their careers working in underserved communities.

In Los Angeles County nearly one in every three minority doctors were trained at CDU, and graduates of the College of Medicine are two to three times more likely to practice in diverse and medically underserved communities than physicians trained in other medical schools. The school is simply indispensable to the minority communities in LA County.

African Americans, who account for only 13 percent of the U.S. population, account for more than 50 percent of all new HIV/AIDS diagnoses. African Americans die from diabetes at twice the rate of white Americans, and die from cancer at a rate 25.4% higher than white Americans.

Mr. Speaker, these statistics are grim, and there are many more shocking health disparities that exist between racial groups in our country. This is why health research institutions, like CDU, that are focused on eradicating these disparities are of vital importance.

With so many patients to serve, it is critical that we have enough trained health care professionals to adequately serve all communities, especially those that are economically disadvantaged like the area surrounding CDU. The graduates that emerge from this institution are fundamental in fulfilling that role.

As the Member of Congress for the 37th District of California in which the Charles Drew University is located, I am personally familiar with CDU's accomplished record of service. Each member of the graduating class has chosen a career path that will not only be exciting and rewarding, but will make a true difference in the lives of so many people.

Mr. Speaker, today I honor this exceptional University, and the 2012 graduates who will be moving on to provide health care with excellence and compassion. I know that it will be men and women like them that will transform the health of underserved communities.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the outstanding accomplishments of the women who were presented with the Medal of Freedom yesterday by the President Barack Obama at the White House. These women come from a variety of backgrounds, but they are all leaders, and inspirations for

young women across the country to become strong and powerful, compassionate and wise themselves.

Those honored have helped women's rights evolve over the last century. Starting with Juliette Gordon Low, who in 1912 registered 18 girls to create the first troop of American Girl Guides, who later became the Girl Scouts.

The Girl Scout movement brought girls into the out-of-doors, and helped to develop their self-reliance and resourcefulness. Today it is still going strong, and continues to be an organization that is accepting of people from all backgrounds, with a membership that has grown to 3.7 million girls. Although she passed away in 1927, Ms. Low's efforts are still being felt today, and her memory will continue in the lives of the remarkable Girl Scouts who serve their communities.

Madeline Albright was born in Prague, Czechoslovakia, in the years right before World War II. Her family was forced to flee with the rise of Hitler, and after a number of years spent in Europe, Ms. Albright found her way to America. While raising a family she was able to earn her Ph.D. and eventually work her way up to the position of U.S. Ambassador of the United Nations.

In 1997 she was sworn in as the first female Secretary of State, and therefore became the highest ranking woman in America's history. Ms. Albright broke into a male dominated world and rose to the top. She has inspired many young women to do the same, and truer words were never spoken when she said, ``Only in America can a refugee become the Secretary of State.''

Toni Morrison's first novel was The Bluest Eye. This controversial book brought about a frank conversation on ideas of beauty in relation to race and class. These kind of issues made people uncomfortable, and it was placed on multiple banned book lists. However, Ms. Morrison understood the necessity of speaking openly about these issues in order move forwards from them. She went on to win the Nobel Prize in Literature and continues to bring important issues to the table through her writings.

Pat Summitt has won more championships than any other coach in NCAA history. Even with a recent diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease she is still coaching, claiming that the players are her ``best medicine.'' Outside of her tremendous athletic accomplishments, every single one of her players has either graduated, or is currently on her way to a degree. She is a true teacher and inspiration to all women and those suffering from dementia alike.

Mr. Speaker, we should all be proud to be fellow citizens of these women. I would also like to recognize the great Delores Huerta, co- founder of the Farm Workers Union who also received the Medal of Freedom. I will describe her contributions and achievements later today.

The significant contributions of these extraordinary women have influenced people across the world. They have shown us that it is okay to be strong and commanding, and that a woman has as much right as a man to hold a position of power. These women have influenced generations of people with their words and actions, and they truly deserve this honor.