Floor Statements

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

Today, we have before us the Social Security Protection Act. This legislation was developed over several years in conjunction with the Social Security Administration, its Inspector General, beneficiary representatives and others. The bill reflects a preconference agreement negotiated with the other body on a bipartisan basis and is supported by the Consortium for Seniors With Disabilities, the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill, the Association of Administrative Law Judges, the National Organization of Social Security Claimants' Representatives and others.

I would like to take a few moments to highlight several items in this bill. The first deals with representative payees. Nearly 8 million Social Security and SSI beneficiaries who are unable to manage their own benefits have representative payees, including children, the mentally impaired and the very frail elderly. Most payees work hard to ensure that the benefits are spent to meet the beneficiary's needs. However, in some instances SSA's screening process for determining who should serve as a payee has failed to prevent the misuse of these benefits. This legislation gives SSA the tools it needs to reissue benefits that are misused. It provides for penalties for those who would take advantage of some of our most vulnerable citizens. It also strengthens Social Security's oversight of these payees.

Second, the bill helps individuals with disabilities gain greater access to legal representation when filing for benefits. Social Security disability insurance beneficiaries already have this access, and the bill extends it to SSI claimants, as well, so they can get the needed help and ensure that their applications are fully considered.

Finally, and very importantly, the bill prohibits paying Social Security benefits to fugitive felons and to those who have violated probation or parole. It is my strong belief that we should not be supporting fugitives who are fleeing the law, and this bill will help bring them to justice.

Now, I would like to mention one provision in the bill that has generated some controversy. This is the provision that would modify an exemption to the government pension offset, or known as GPO, that is being used by some workers but is not available to all. My colleagues from Texas have discussed this specific provision in more detail during the debate on the rule and will discuss it further on this bill, but the larger issue here itself is the GPO. Across the country, people who have worked hard all their lives are unexpectedly faced with the loss of Social Security benefits that they had been counting on because of the GPO. The GPO, which was created in the 1970s and phased in during the 1980s, was designed to provide roughly equal treatment between people who work under Social Security and pay into the system and those who do not. It was designed to end a disparity between couples where in one couple, both members paid into the Social Security system and in another when one spouse paid into the system and the other spouse paid into a State retirement system. Unfortunately, we now know that the GPO often produces unfair results. It is a rough tool that clearly needs adjustments.

Let me illustrate my point. Research shows that a widow needs 80 percent of the income needed to support a couple. Because of the GPO, the couple's income from Social Security can drop to zero when the husband dies. On average, the reduction caused by the GPO is $421 per month, which cuts the average widow's benefit in half, jeopardizing her ability to keep up with fixed costs of housing, health care and others that still exist after the death of her spouse.

We tried to address some of these problems with the GPO during the committee markup last year, but we were rejected on party-line votes. We were also denied the opportunity to address the larger GPO problem in the Rules Committee when the bill came before the House last April. Finally today, my good friend from Texas (Mr. Frost) attempted to bring forward for debate a bill that would fully repeal the GPO, and he was denied that opportunity.

The will to solve the problem with the GPO is clearly an issue of priorities. My Democratic colleagues and I have been prevented from bringing this issue before the Congress over and over again, while my friends on the other side of the aisle have continued to push policies that benefit the wealthy at the expense of this important issue.

For example, the GPO affects 400,000 hardworking Americans every year and eliminating it would cost $31 billion over 10 years. Not $800 billion, not $1 trillion, but it would cost $31 billion over 10 years. In contrast, the 200,000 households that make more than $1 million each year will see $90 billion in tax cuts over that same period. That is half as many people being benefited at three times the cost. There are other examples of misplaced priorities. Congress could and should close corporate tax shelters and prevent companies from incorporating offshore. That would save $30 billion over a 10-year period and that amount would actually take care of dealing with the 10-year period of eliminating the GPO completely.

This is an issue that should not go unaddressed any longer, and I hope that the Congress will make it a priority for consideration this year. While I am disappointed that we are not addressing this important issue today, there are many other provisions in this bill that I mentioned that will strengthen the Social Security system, and I intend to support this bill; but it is my hope that we do address the issue of the government pension offset because it is creating a great deal of consternation and damage to many people who obviously lose their spouse. I support the legislation, but I just hope that we can take some action on the GPO in the future.

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

Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Hinojosa).

Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the distinguished gentleman from the State of Texas (Mr. Green).

Mr. Speaker, I yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the distinguished gentleman from the State of Maryland (Mr. Cardin), member of the Committee on Ways and Means.

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

Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the distinguished gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Jackson-Lee).

Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Jackson-Lee).

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

Mr. Speaker, I would just like to make an observation. I would not have so many problems with this were it not for the fact that there are many other loopholes that have actually been passed through this House over the last few years.

For example, if a corporation in the U.S. goes to Bermuda to avoid U.S. taxes, we tried time and time again to close that loophole. But the other side of the aisle, in fact the gentleman who just spoke, denies the ability for us to even bring such a bill to the floor.

I guess that is where the frustration lies, is when we close loopholes, we pick on the people that are firefighters and teachers; but we let large corporations who avoid U.S. taxes go from that.

Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the distinguished gentleman from the State of Texas (Mr. Lampson).

Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Green).

Mr. Speaker, may I inquire as to how much time I have remaining.

Mr. Speaker, I yield the balance of my time to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Turner), the ranking member of the Committee on Homeland Security.

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

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor a couple with a truly outstanding history of community service and philanthropy. From their modest upbringing to the present day, Sy and Estelle Opper have always been generous with their time and resources and giving with their heart. Sy and Estelle have come to embody the best qualities of community service and citizenship. As their friends, family and many admirers gather for the Shalom School Lighting the Way Gala in honor of their wonderful contributions to the Jewish community, I ask all my colleagues to join me in saluting one of Sacramento's most respected couples, Sy and Estelle Opper.

Sy and Estelle Opper are lifelong Sacramento residents who were raised with great family support and strong family values. Sy and Estelle were both encouraged by their loved ones to lend a helping hand to those who are in need. In the years after, Sy and Estelle have worked hard to transform this valuable lesson from childhood into a lifelong commitment to improve the lives of those who are less fortunate. Perhaps, more importantly, Sy and Estelle have passed the important values that they learned from their respective families to their four children and seven grandchildren. The people of the Capital Region should take great comfort in knowing that the Oppers' trademark spirit of philanthropy and sense of humanity will continue to bless us for generations to come.

In 1946, Sy Opper opened five plumbing stores, Harold's Plumbing Supply. The last of this successful chain of plumbing stores would remain open until 2000. In spite of the considerable time commitment that is required to run a successful business, the Oppers never allowed their busy schedules to interfere with their resolute dedication to community service.

Throughout the years, Estelle Opper has been active in a number of Jewish organizations including: Hadassah, TDX, Sisterhood, Jewish Family Service and the Grandparents Club at Shalom School. In addition, Estelle has also lent her name and efforts to help fundraise for Cancer research, the Breast Cancer fund of San Francisco and the River Oaks Center for Children, a multi-service behavioral healthcare agency for abused children and their families.

As for Sy Opper, he has served as president of the board for many Jewish organizations such as the Jewish Federation and B'nei Israel Congregation. Much like Estelle, Sy has also been active in a number of fundraising efforts. Sy played an instrumental role in the construction of the Washington Neighborhood Center of Sacramento, a place that provides after school programs such as free tutoring, computer workshops, dance classes and fine arts programs for at risk children and teens. Currently, Sy serves as on the board of The Trust Fund for Jewish Elderly and on the Jewish Family Service Board.

Together, Sy and Estelle Opper have supported a number of important causes. Locally, Sy and Estelle have long been strong supporters of the regional theaters. Sy and Estelle were major donors and participants in the purchase of the property and building for the Jewish Foundation, where the area's only Jewish Day School, Shalom School, is located. On a national level, in addition to being long time members of AIPAC, the Oppers have been closely involved with the fundraising efforts for City of Hope National Medical Center, a place that provides essential help to millions of people facing life-threatening diseases. The goodwill of the Oppers extends well beyond the boundaries of the United States. Over the years, Sy and Estelle Opper have participated in a number of missions to Israel.

Mr. Speaker, as Sy and Estelle Opper's friends and family gather to celebrate and pay tribute to their wonderful legacy of community service I am honored to pay tribute to two of Sacramento's most honorable citizens. The Oppers continuous philanthropy is a true testament to the spirit of giving and helping those who are in need. I ask all of my colleagues to join with me in wishing Sy and Estelle Opper continued happiness and success in all their future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor a woman with a long and impressive list of contributions to the County of Sacramento. To say that Muriel Johnson is an important and treasured member of our community would only begin to skim the surface of the extraordinary service that she has given our communities over her 41 years as a Sacramento resident. Muriel, who is currently in the last year of a successful 12-year stint as a Sacramento County Supervisor, has deservedly been acknowledged by the Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce as the recipient of the 2003 Sacramentan of the Year Award. As her friends, family, and colleagues gather to celebrate Muriel's illustrious career, I ask all my colleagues to join me in saluting one of the Capital Region's most accomplished and widely respected leaders.

Muriel Johnson grew up in Nebraska and earned a bachelor of music degree from the University of Nebraska. Before beginning her formal career in public service, Muriel contributed to the betterment of her community by serving as a high school English and music teacher. In addition, Muriel also taught ``Management by Objectives'' during her teaching career.

Even before she was elected to the Sacramento Board of Supervisors, Muriel was an active and instrumental member of the local volunteer community. Muriel played a vital role in raising more than $10 million dollars for a number of community service projects, the arts, and local charity. Muriel served as President of the Crocker Art Museum Board, the

Sacramento Junior League, the Sacramento/El Dorado Medical Association Alliance, the History Museum, and the Sacramento Symphony League. She also chaired the Advisory Board for California State Historic Park, and was a Mayor's appointee on the Downtown District Study. Muriel's close involvement with the diversity of community organizations is a testament to her unyielding commitment to bring about positive changes to her community and improve the quality of life of her fellow citizens.

In 1992, Muriel Johnson was first elected to the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors. Muriel represents approximately 250,000 people living in the County's Third District. The Third District includes the communities of Arden/Arcade, Carmichael, Campus Commons, East Sacramento, College Glen, College Greens, East foothills Farms and a portion of North Highlands. During her tenure, Muriel has served as the Chair of the Board of Supervisors in 1995 and 1999.

In addition to her duties as County Supervisor, Muriel has also served admirably as the Chair, President and Board Member of the following organizations since first being elected as supervisor: Sacramento Area Council of Governments, Sacramento Public Library Authority, California State Association of Counties, Sacramento Area Flood Control Agency, Cable Commission, Sacramento Regional Sanitation District, Sacramento Regional Transit, Sacramento Air Quality Management District, and California's Elected Women's Association of Education and Research.

In recognition of her dedication to public service, Muriel is the rightful recipient of a number of community service awards including: the California Medical Association Alliance 1999 Member of the Year, the National Philanthropy Day Award for Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser, the first E.A. Combatalade Community Service Award, Soroptimist Woman of the Year, the 1993 Business Volunteers for the Arts Award for Individual Service, the Women's Transportation Seminar 2002 Woman of the Year Award, the 2003 Shots for Tots Immunization Registry, and the 2003 American Society for Public Administration's Excellence in Public Arts Award.

Throughout her term as County Supervisor, Muriel Johnson has remained a steadfast supporter of neighborhood preservation, more efficient transportation, better air quality, health and welfare issues, sound economic development, better schools for our children and flood control. There is no doubt that every one of Muriel's constituents has benefited in one way or another as a result of her hard work, dedication, and vision.

Mr. Speaker, as Muriel's friends, family, and colleagues gather to celebrate her great career and acknowledgement as Sacramentan of the Year, I am honored to pay tribute to one of Sacramento's most respected leaders. Muriel's continuous leadership is a true testament to public service. Although her career in public service may soon be over, her involvement in community service is, fortunate for us, far from over. I ask all of my colleagues to join with me in wishing Muriel Johnson continued success in all her future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor a woman with a long and fruitful career in California state government. Teresa Fontenette is set to retire from a remarkable career that has spanned five decades. As her friends, family, and colleagues gather to celebrate Teresa's, affectionately known as Terri to those who know and love her, illustrious career, I ask all of my colleagues to join me in saluting this outstanding citizen of Sacramento.

After completing high school with the inaugural graduating class of St. Francis School for Girls in Sacramento, Terri made her first foray into California state government by serving as a Junior Clerk Typist with the California State Personnel Board. Shortly thereafter, Terri became the Junior Stenographer with the Department of Motor Vehicles and General Services. In 1967, Terri was promoted to Stenographer II at the Department of Health Services.

In 1971, Terri joined the Department of Finance. Through hard work and dedication, Terri became the Secretary to the Personnel Office. During her tenure with the Department of Finance, Terri enjoyed great access to some of the most influential policy makers in California. Terri still fondly recalls sharing her peanuts and candy with several Governors of California during her time in the State Capitol.

Terri's desire to maximize her considerable talents led her to quit state service and enroll at Sacramento City College. Terri's leadership qualities were evident to those as Sacramento City College as she became the President Of the Black Student Union. Terri would eventually receive the prestigious President's Scholarship to attend California State University, Sacramento.

Terri would rejoin the Department of Finance part-time Student Assistant. After graduating with a degree in Social Work/Psychology in 1979, Terri was promoted Administrative Assistant II in 1981.

In the next four years, Terri's outstanding work continued to earn her a number of promotions; as Terri went from being an Associate Governmental Program Analyst to the Assistant Public Information Officer for the Governor's Exempt Program.

In 1985, Terri was asked to be part of the start-up team for the California Lottery. Terri would begin her service to California State Lottery as the Staff Services Manager I and Minority Affairs/Contract Compliance Manager. In the next eighteen years, Terri would serve with great distinction as a valued member of the Senior Staff. Terri offered her considerable knowledge to the Marketing Division as she was the primary liaison to the advertising agency developing African-American consumer marketing strategies.

Terri's outstanding professional accomplishments have rightfully earned her a number of awards in recognition of her excellence. Terri was named the Corporate Individual of the Year by Black Business Listings & Black Expo in 1996. The year after, Terri was appointed to the Corporate Advisory Council by the Asian Business Association. In 2000, Terri was acknowledged by the California Department of General Services for her contributions in furthering small business and disabled veteran business participation in state contracting.

Mr. Speaker, as Terri's friends, family, and colleagues gather to celebrate her great career; I am honored to pay tribute to a dedicated and successful public servant. Terri's career is a true testament to the value of public service. Although her career with the California state government may be over, her commitment to make a positive impact in the community, fortunate for us, is far from over. I ask all of my colleagues to join with me in wishing Terri Fontenette continued success in all her future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in tribute to The Shiloh Baptist Church and The Reverend James B. Rodgers. On December 21, Reverend Rodgers will officially be installed as the twenty-seventh Pastor of the Shiloh Baptist Church, the oldest African-American church west of the Mississippi River and the first Baptist Church organized by African-Americans in Sacramento. I ask all my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Shiloh Baptist Church family and Dr. James B. Rodgers, Pastor, on this momentous occasion.

The Shiloh Baptist Church, located in the Fifth Congressional District of the State of California, was established in 1856 as the oldest African American Baptist Church West of the Mississippi River and the second oldest African American church in the City of Sacramento. Since the church had no facilities upon its establishment in which to hold religious services, it forged a strong relationship with the Chinese Americans in the area, which resulted in an offer being extended for Shiloh to hold religious services at the Chinese Chapel, located at historic Sixth and H Streets in Sacramento.

Shiloh has overcome many obstacles to its missionary services, including bank foreclosure in the 1860s; significant reductions in its membership because of relocations; destruction of the church facility by fire in 1861 and 1905; and the inability to secure building loans on several occasions. However, today Shiloh stands firm as a testament to the strong faith, perseverance, determination, character and courage of its founders and early congregations.

Since its establishment, Shiloh has provided dedicated service to the citizens of the Capital Region, much of which was accomplished during 26 plus years of outstanding leadership by Pastor Emeritus Willie P. Cooke. Shiloh has provided many services through its many ministries and has participated in numerous community based programs, including but not limited to, establishment of an Elderly Appreciation Day; the participation in the annual Sacramento Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration; host church for the Sacramento Children Summer Food Program; organized a prison ministry for youth incarcerated in the California Youth Authority and the Sacramento County Probation Department; and instituted a Care-giver's Program to provide services to sick and residence-bound citizens.

In recognition and appreciation of these community services, Shiloh has received numerous Presidential, Congressional, Gubernatorial, and State Legislative commendations dating back more than 40 years.

For the past 18 months, Shiloh has continued its mission under the direction of Pastor Emeritus William P. Cooke. However, Shiloh recently called on Dr. Rodgers to serve as its 27th pastoral leader and to add to the rich religious and community history it has developed over the past 147 years.

The Reverend James B. Rodgers has served faithfully in the ministry, preaching and teaching the gospel for over 32 years. In preparation for his calling to the ministry and in continuation of his ministerial duties, Dr. Rodgers commenced his academic studies with the United States Naval Academy and has earned an Associate of Arts Degree in Business; a Bachelor of Arts in Theology; a Masters of Theology; a Doctorate of Theology; and a Masters in Education Administration.

Dr. Rodgers' official installation as pastor will occur during a three-day ceremony at Shiloh Baptist Church commencing with a community night on Friday, December 19, 2003, and concluding with the installation on Sunday, December 21, 2003. These services are designed to introduce Dr. Rodgers to the Shiloh family and to the Greater Sacramento community.

Mr. Speaker, I am honored to thank and congratulate the Shiloh Baptist Church for nearly 150 years of invaluable service to the City of Sacramento. I would like to especially welcome Dr. James B. Rodgers to our community and to the Shiloh Baptist Church. I ask all my colleagues to join me in wishing the Shiloh Baptist Church and Dr. Rodgers continued success in all their future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in tribute to Pastor Ephraim and Mrs. Carrie Sue Williams as they celebrate a personal milestone. On November 22, 2003, Pastor Williams and his beloved wife will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. As their friends and family gather to commemorate this momentous occasion, I ask all my colleagues to join me in wishing one of Sacramento's most revered couples a happy anniversary and continued happiness in the future.

For the past 32 years, Mr. and Mrs. Williams have served with great class, dignity, and distinction as the Pastor and First Lady of the St. Paul Baptist Church in Sacramento California. As Pastor, Mr. Williams has played an instrumental role in directing and coordinating all aspects of the St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church. Pastor Williams made vital decisions related to staffing, church organization structure, finances, and the modification of facilities. Pastor Williams was the driving force behind the construction of a seventy-nine square foot edifice, which includes an administration wing, sanctuary, fellowship hall and classroom wing. Pastor Williams spearheaded a 7-year effort that liquidated a $4 million debt for the church so that it could cover the $7.7 million that was required for the construction project. Pastor Williams is currently leading the church in the building of a multi million-dollar Family Life Center that will include a gymnasium, classrooms, computer lab, dance rooms, nursery, office space, library, weight room and conference room. Pastor Williams' commitment to improve the church is great proof of his willingness to work hard to improve the lives of other people.

Mrs. Carrie Sue Williams is a former business owner and she has brought her trademark grace and dignity to her role as the First Lady of St. Paul Baptist Church. As the First Lady, Mrs. Williams regularly visits the sick and the confined. She also counsels women and couples. Mrs. Williams helped to design

the St. Paul Children and Youth Reading Ministry, a program that is designed to motivate and reward children for their reading efforts.

Pastor Williams is undoubtedly one of the strongest civic leaders in the Capital Region. Pastor Williams' leadership capacities have included: President of United Pastors of Sacramento, Vice President of the National Baptist Convention, U.S.A., Inc, President of the California State Baptist Convention and President of the Northern District Baptist Association. Pastor Williams is the current President of the Oak Park and St. Paul Community Outreach Program.

Pastor and First Lady Williams are the proud parents of Gwen and Ephraim Jr., although he has since passed on. They also enjoy the love and companionship of their four grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Mr. Speaker, I am honored to congratulate Pastor Williams and First Lady Williams on their 50th wedding anniversary. As the family and friends of the Williams family gather to celebrate this terrific milestone, I would like to especially thank Pastor Williams and First Lady Williams for all their great service to their community. I ask all my colleagues to join with me in wishing Pastor Ephraim Williams and First Lady Carrie Sue Williams continued success in all their future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to express my strong opposition to the Medicare conference report before us today. It shortchanges seniors who have waited far too long for a comprehensive, affordable prescription drug benefit and it undermines the Medicare coverage they have counted on for almost four decades.

First, the drug benefit in this bill is woefully inadequate. Seniors will have to pay a $250 deductible before they receive any benefit, and there is a significant gap in coverage, or ``donut hole'', where seniors will continue to pay monthly premiums but receive no assistance towards the cost of their drugs. In fact, a senior with $5,100 in annual drug costs would pay $4,020 of that cost out of their own pocket.

The fact that seniors have to pay 80 percent of their first $5,100 in drug costs is appalling. But, it doesn't stop there. This bill does nothing to lower drug prices. To the contrary, it explicitly prohibits the government from using the collective purchasing power of more than 40 million seniors to negotiate lower drug prices. So, not only does this bill make seniors pay 80 percent of their first $5,100 in drug costs, it prevents the use of reasonable tools to bring those costs down.

Now, let me address for a moment the 12 million retirees who already have health insurance from their former employers. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that this bill will cause 2.7 million of them to lose their existing coverage. This happens because the bill excludes employer contributions from counting towards the prescription drug catastrophic cap. This will incentivize employers to reduce their coverage to the level in this bill or drop it altogether to avoid having to pay the cost of prescription drugs in the donut hole.

Finally, this bill undermines the fundamental commitment of Medicare to seniors. Beginning in 2010, Medicare will be forced to compete with private companies for the provision of all Medicare and prescription drug benefits. Often referred to as ``premium support'' or ``privatization'', this provision shifts Medicare from the guaranteed, defined-benefit program it currently is to a defined contribution plan. Under this legislation, privatization is aided by almost $20 billion in subsidies to insurance companies and HMO's, creating a competitive advantage that allows them to attract healthier seniors, leaving sicker or chronically ill seniors in Medicare. The result will be a Medicare program that is unaffordable for the seniors who need it the most.

Mr. Speaker, as we consider the merits of this legislation, it is critical to look at the history of health coverage for seniors in this country. Medicare was created in 1965 because seniors were unable to find health insurance in the private marketplace. The bill before the Congress today would return us to that very same scenario and I urge my colleagues to vote against it.

Mr. Speaker, yesterday's Congressional Record reflects my vote as ``yea'' on rollcall Vote 624, Representative Obey's motion to instruct conferees on the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2004. I would like to state for the Record that my vote should have been ``nay.''

I have long opposed the reimportation of prescription drugs because it creates a significant safety risk for consumers. A recent examination of several mail facilities by FDA and U.S. Customs reinforces these concerns. After six days in four cities, these examinations found drugs being reimported that have never been approved by the FDA, without labeling or instructions for safe use, and even some that the FDA has withdrawn from the U.S. market for safety reasons. In addition, expanding the importation of prescription drugs increases the likelihood that seniors will receive counterfeit drugs, a potentially very serious health hazard.

Finally, liberalizing the importation of prescription drugs does not address the underlying problem of high prescription drug costs. There are other legislative remedies that can decrease prescription drug costs without undermining consumer safety. For these reasons, I oppose the Obey motion to instruct conferees on the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2004.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Conference Report on H.R. 2754, the Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act for fiscal year 2004. As this Congress is well aware, my district of Sacramento, CA, is the most at-risk river city in the Nation. Situated at the confluence of the American and Sacramento Rivers, Sacramento has narrowly escaped certain disaster twice over the last two decades. My number one priority as a Member of this body has always been to put an end to this grave public safety risk and to provide my constituents with the flood protection they both need and deserve. I am happy to say this bill will do just that. In fact, in the eyes of Sacramento, the passage of this bill is an historic moment.

A major flood along the American River would cripple this economy, causing between $7 and $16 billion in direct property damages and likely result in significant loss of life. The Sacramento floodplain is home to half-a-million people, 5,000 businesses providing 200,000 jobs, 160,000 homes, 1,300 government facilities including the State Capital, over 100 schools, six major hospitals, 26 nursing homes, three major freeways systems, and a regional economy that supports over one million people.

For almost as long as Sacramento has been at risk of a catastrophic flood, there has been a dispute over how to resolve the issue. Earlier this year, my colleague John Doolittle and I reached an agreement that moves forward the two most pressing issues for Northern California: flood control and water supply. This bill contains that agreement and successfully addresses both of those issues for the indefinite future.

I would like to take a moment and recognize the tremendous efforts that have made this possible. Without the leadership of Chairman Hobson and Ranking Member Visclosky of the Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee and Chairman Young and Ranking Member Oberstar of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Sacramento would still be fighting for incremental flood control projects. Their recognition of Sacramento's dire flood control situation advanced this solution. On behalf of my constituents, thank you.

More specifically, this bill provides for the construction of the Folsom Dam Mini-Raise. This is the crowning project in a series of vital flood control improvements and surpasses the region's long held goal of reaching 200-year level protection. By raising the existing Folsom Dam seven feet, Sacramento's flood control system will be able to weather a storm 50 percent larger than anything in the recorded history of the watershed. In addition, the project provides a new permanent bridge to replace the Folsom Dam Road, which was closed in February due to security concerns, and for ecosystem restoration on the lower American River. Congressional approval of the Mini-Raise benefits the entire Sacramento region, by addressing not only the area's flood control needs, but also ecosystem restoration, transportation issues and Homeland Security needs.

I am grateful for the continued Federal assistance that Sacramento has received throughout the years to bring us to this moment. That commitment is evident in this bill and will ensure that those living and working in the region will be kept out of harm's way.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate William Austin on being honored with the National Caring Award for his efforts to help hearing-impaired children around the world. Through his tireless work at the Starkey Hearing Foundation, William has helped provide over 80,000 hearing aids to children in 70 countries since 2000.

William has worked constantly on innovative ways to improve hearing technology and serves many high profile celebrities and athletes. But his true calling lies in helping children around the world who suffer from hearing impairment. By donating hearing aids, batteries and other hearing products to countless needy children, he has given them the ultimate gift--the gift of hearing. Where there was once silence, thousands of children can now hear their mother's voice, the falling rain, and the sweet sound of music.

The Caring Institute, who honored William with the award, seeks to promote the values of caring, integrity and public service. Those selected to receive the National Caring Award, including William, represent the best of these qualities.

Again, I congratulate William. And thank you for all your work for hearing impaired children around the world.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the late Dr. Paul F. Hom, a man who made numerous invaluable contributions to the Sacramento Community. Due to strong public support, the Sacramento County Health and Human Services will memorialize Dr. Hom's important service to the community by naming the new County Primary Care Building after him. As his friends, family, and admirers gather to pay tribute to Dr. Hom's remarkable life

and celebrate the opening of the Paul Hom Primary Care Building, I ask all my colleagues to join me in saluting this great humanitarian.

To say that Dr. Hom was a man of great intellect would only begin to skim the surface of his scholarly prowess. Dr. Hom graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, with a degree in History. In 1966, Dr. Hom completed his law degree from Hastings College of Law, University of California. During his brief, yet meaningful legal career, Dr. Hom exhibited his trademark commitment to social justice by serving as a VISTA volunteer in Texas and Mississippi in 1966 and 1967. In 1969, Dr. Hom volunteered for Attorney-Neighborhood Legal Services in Compton, California. Driven by a realization that the poor cared more about medical issues than voting and civil rights, Dr. Hom enrolled in medical school and earned his medical degree from the University of California, Davis in 1973. In 1978, Dr. Hom received a degree in Epidemiology from the University of California, Berkeley. Dr. Hom's impressive academic achievements are a testament to his intelligence and work ethic.

During his second year in medical school, Dr. Hom and Dr. Garrett Lee held a series of meetings with a group of concerned undergraduate students to discuss improving health care for Sacramento's elderly Asian residents. The students concluded that many of the elderly Asians as well as the newly arrived immigrant families were having difficulty in obtaining adequate health care due to socioeconomic and language barriers and decided to start a free clinic to target this problem.

In 1972, the Asian Clinic was established to become an elective course for medical and undergraduate students. Since 1972, the Asian Clinic continues to serve the Asian community in downtown Sacramento every Saturday. Today, the posthumously named Paul Hom Asian Clinic is the oldest existing Asian clinic in the United States and a vivid reminder of the positive vision and powerful legacy of Dr. Hom.

The many functions of the Paul F. Hom Primary Care Center will serve as the proper embodiment of the vision of its namesake. The Center, designed to handle 100 patient-visits a day for primary care and 150 walk-ins, provides a full range of services including a Chest clinic, Pharmacy, Public Health Laboratory, Radiology Department, Healthcare for the Homeless program and Refugee Health Clinic. It also serves the medically indigent of Sacramento County who are in need of medical assistance and ultimately improves access to care for residents of Sacramento County. All in all, the Paul F. Hom Primary Care Center will enhance the access to quality and effective health care for people without health care. In addition, the center will also enable health administrators to carry out their important responsibilities in a more efficient method.

Mr. Speaker, as Dr. Hom's friends, family, and colleagues gather to celebrate the opening of the Paul Hom Primary Care Building, I am honored to pay tribute to one of Sacramento's most giving and cherished citizens. Dr. Hom's legacy is a true testament to community service. If a template for leadership could be made, it would surely bear the resemblance of Dr. Paul Hom. Although he is no longer with us, his legacy of compassion and care for the disadvantaged will continue to live on. I ask all of my colleagues to join with me in thanking Dr. Paul F. Hom for his numerous contributions to the Sacramento community.

Mr. Chairman, in October 2002, I voted against the war in Iraq because there were other viable options the Bush Administration should have pursued before sending our troops into harm's way. The Administration then moved too hastily in invading Iraq without a clear vision for how to bring our troops home. We were prepared to win the war, but we were not prepared to keep the peace.

In April of this year, we approved $60 billion the Administration requested for the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Now, just five months later, the President is asking for an additional $87 billion without accounting for how the original funds were spent.

I cannot in good conscience vote for this request. The Bush Administration has not presented a coherent, credible plan to the American people to address any of the challenges facing our soldiers in Iraq.

I supported an alternative plan offered by Representative David Obey (D-WI), which was voted on yesterday. His proposal gives our troops the equipment they need to conduct their mission in Iraq, requires the Administration to account for how they are spending the supplemental funds, and ensures international funding and cooperation.

The Obey proposal requires the Administration to account for the funds from the previous war supplemental and for how additional funding will be used to support both the military and reconstruction efforts. Congress should not agree to provide the Administration additional funds without knowing how they will be spent.

In addition, by internationalizing reconstruction efforts in Iraq, the Obey proposal ensures American taxpayers do not shoulder this burden alone.

We have all heard about the deplorable conditions our soldiers are operating in as they carry out their important mission in Iraq. Our troops lack even the most basic equipment, such as bullet-proof Kevlar vests, to keep themselves safe. The drinking water is impure at nine out of the ten American bases in Iraq, because the Bush Administration did not provide needed water purification equipment. When they are given much-needed leave for a visit back to the United States, they have to buy their own tickets from their point of entry to their homes, creating a significant financial burden on the troops and their families.

This is how the Bush Administration treats our soldiers in combat and their $87 billion proposal does nothing to fix this. Our troops deserve better.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from the State of California (Mr. Lantos) for his kind comments. Obviously, I want to thank the gentleman from New York (Mr. Engel) for his sponsorship of this and the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Ros-Lehtinen) for her wonderful sponsorship and lead on this in terms of the subcommittee Chair.

This act is one that has been overdue. I am very, very pleased that the President has not opposed this and has given us the liberty now to bring this before the floor.

This is a piece of legislation that should have been passed 25 years ago when we had the original State Department list on state-sponsored terrorism. Syria has been on this list now for 25 years. For 25 years they have been on this list as a state-sponsored terrorist country. They have had Hezbollah. They have had Hamas. They have had a number of terrorist groups that have had offices in Syria. They have had training bases in Syria, and they also have weapons of mass destruction that could get in the hands of these terrorists.

In addition, even recently Syria has allowed visas to be given to terrorist individuals who have gone into Iraq for the sole purpose of doing damage to the infrastructure in putting the lives of American men and women in jeopardy. This act would merely give the President the authority to take two actions out of a menu of about 15. They would be simple things like preventing many of the diplomats from going 25 miles outside of the U.N.

Let me conclude, if I may. It would perhaps impose trade sanctions on the Syrian Government. It is very, very simple kinds of sanctions for the kinds of terrorist activities the Syrian Government has been responsible for. I urge the adoption of this legislation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in tribute to Jack Murphy, one of Sacramento's most respected citizen leaders. Jack was regarded as a well-respected and important figure in the Capitol Region. I ask all my colleagues to join with me in remembering one of Sacramento's most beloved citizens, and my dear friend, Jack Murphy.

John Joseph Murphy was born to David and Catherine Murphy on March 28, 1914 in Boston, Massachusetts. Jack earned a bachelor's degree from Boston College in 1935, where he excelled in debate and speech. Jack worked in the insurance industry in Boston until the start of World War II. Like many other young men of his generation, Jack embraced the opportunity to serve his nation in a time of need. Jack met and married his first wife, Bettejo Kitt, while stationed in Stockton, California in 1941. Three years later in 1944, Jack would become the commander of a company that followed the initial charge onto Omaha Beach, Normandy.

Jack began his nearly 60 years of association to Sacramento when he returned to civilian life in the fall of 1945. Jack began working for Traveler's Insurance Company that shared space with Pickett-Rothholz Company. Impressed with his great work ethic and tremendous intellect, the Pickett-Rothholz Company, an insurance company, lured Jack to join them. Jack would eventually own and operate the company with his son, David, until his retirement in 1985.

In his personal life, Jack was an active and important member in the political and civic circles in Sacramento. To many, Jack was simply known as ``Mr. Democrat'' for his close associations with prominent candidates and elected officials. In addition to being my trusted confidant, Jack played important roles in the campaigns for President John F. Kennedy, Governor Pat Brown, and Congressman John Moss. Jack was also frequently asked to be the marshal of parades and the master of ceremonies at various functions. In 1956, Jack introduced Adlai Stevenson when he campaigned in Sacramento for the presidency.

Jack served in a number of leadership positions during his illustrious career of community service. Jack served as commander of Post 61 American Legion, president of the Rotary Club of Sacramento in 1965, and trustee of Sutter Hospitals Foundation. Jack was the recipient of the Silver Beaver Award and Scouting Man of the Year 1991 by the Golden Empire council of the Boy Scouts of America. In 1973, Pope Paul VI bestowed Jack with the rank of Knight of St. Gregory the Great after his work as chairman of the Board of Catholic Charities.

Preceded in death by his first wife Bettejo Murphy, Jack is survived by his wife, Jean Runyon; four children, David Murphy, Patricia Murphy Yoldi, Kathy Tscheu, and Bettejo Davidson; two stepchildren, Elizabeth Mulligan and Stephen Mulligan; 15 grandchildren; six great- grandchildren.

Mr. Speaker, as Jack Murphy's family members and friends gather to honor his legacy and many contributions, I am honored to pay tribute to one of my closest friends. His successes are unparalleled. I ask all my colleagues to join with me in paying my respect and acknowledging the deeds and life of an extraordinary man.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in tribute to The Sacramento Observer. On October 11, 2003, the Observer will celebrate its 40th Anniversary with an evening of festivities and fellowship at the Sacramento Convention Center. As the people of Sacramento gather to celebrate this momentous occasion, I ask all my colleagues to join me in wishing one of America's leading newspapers a happy birthday and continued success in the future.

With the help of a few committed people, The Sacramento Observer came into existence on November 22, 1962 in a small building on the corner of 21st and X streets in Sacramento with the publishing of a four-page edition. Driven by the visionary leadership of Dr. William Hanford Lee, the publisher and founder of The Observer Newspapers, and an unyielding dedication to provide the highest quality publications and media services to African American audiences in Sacramento, The Sacramento Observer has not only become a local institution, but also the most honored black newspaper in America.

Today, The Sacramento Observer has grown from its inaugural four-page issue to an average-size weekly publication of approximately 80 pages. Only a few of the nation's Black newspapers can match The Observer's record of publishing a publication the size of 300 ages or larger. The Observer's trademark supplements help inform the community on important historical, cultural, and contemporary issues.

The weekly Observer newspapers, as well as many of The Observer's special editions, are recognized as the most stylish and educational publications published anywhere. The Observer, recognized as ``The Most Honored Black Newspaper in America,'' has received the coveted John B. Russwurm Trophy, the highest award in Black journalism, six times--more than any other Black newspaper in the nation. It is no wonder why The Observer is widely regarded as the most important black newspaper in America.

Playing major roles in the family-owned Observer's tremendous success in its first 40 years as a modern-day Black newspaper has been Dr. Lee's immediate family. Mrs. Kathryn Lee, and sons, Larry, Billy and Roderick (deceased), all have served in dedicated leadership roles at The Observer. In addition, there have been the hardworking staff members who have been instrumental in the growth of the newspaper. People like Joe Stinson, director of advertising sales; Observer co- founder John Cole, a retired Sacramento businessman; former editors and senior writers Wilbur Miller, Dr. Joe Dear, Rick Warren, Bill Davis, Shaw Ortiz, Mel Assagi, Larry Hicks, Kevan Carter, Mardeio Cannon, Curtis Haynes, Staci Bush, have all lent their considerable talents and ideas into making The Observer what it is today.

Mr. Speaker, I am honored to congratulate The Sacramento Observer on its first 40 years of unqualified success. As the friends and fans of The Observer gather to celebrate its achievements, I would like to especially thank the Lee family and all the people, who through their commitment and hard work have given the Sacramento African American a clear and powerful voice in our community. I ask all my colleagues to join with me in wishing The Sacramento Observer continued success in all its future endeavors.