Corrine Brown

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks and include any extraneous materials on House Resolution 1463.

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. My dear friend, I am so happy that you support the railroad retirement system. And I can tell you that some people have not always been supportive of Social Security. I remember when Social Security passed, it passed without any Republican vote. And constantly, year after year, Bush and the Republicans tried to privatize it, and the American people said ``no'' and the Democrats said ``no'' and I say ``no, no.'' Now, I support the railroad retirement, and I'm glad that we stand together for the railroad workers. I hope we can get that same kind of support for the Social Security benefits. Madam Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Perriello).

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, I strongly support House Resolution 1463, supporting the goals and ideas of Railroad Retirement Day, and encourage all of my colleagues to support this important legislation. This resolution recognizes Railroad Retirement Day and the 75-year anniversary of the Railroad Retirement Act. The railroad industry established the first formal industrial pension plan in North America in the year 1874. The Railroad Retirement Act came because the Great Depression wiped out the private system before the Social Security program could meet the needs of railroad retirees. Additionally, the State-based unemployment insurance system had failed to serve those whose work took them across the country. Under the Railroad Retirement and Railroad Unemployment Insurance Acts, railroad workers and employees fund retirement, survivors, unemployment, and sickness benefits programs for the Nation's railroad workers and their families. During the past 75 years, more than 2 million retired workers, 1.1 million spouses, and 2.4 million survivors have received benefits through the Railroad Retirement Board. Finally, the program fosters a close relationship between railroad employees and employers. The change in the system over the years has been the result of cooperation between management and labor, and stands as an example of how government, labor, and businesses can work together to serve the Nation's needs. Clearly, the railroad retirement programs serve a valid need in a very efficient manner, and is worthy of our recognition. I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. I wasn't here in 1935 but I certainly was here in 1995, and I do know where the Republicans stood as far as not only privatizing Social Security but gambling with Social Security and where would they be with the crash in Wall Street. I would like to yield such time as he may consume to the chairman of our committee, the gentleman from Minnesota (Mr. Oberstar), who's the guru and has all of the figures and the statistics on the history of Social Security and those who support it and those who have never supported it.

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. Madam Speaker, let me just say that we, on our committee, always stand ready to work in a bipartisan manner, and we would certainly be interested in ideas that don't include privatizing Social Security. But for Members to come on this floor and act as if Social Security is the reason why we have the deficit--for several years, I know there is no institutional memory, we had what we call reverse Robin Hood, robbing from the poor and working people to give tax breaks to the rich. That's what got us in this hole. Now I am glad we all can support the bill that is before us today, but as far as I am concerned it's the Ways and Means that handled this particular issue, and I am prepared to debate and discuss and work with my colleagues to come up with solutions as to how we can tweak the program.

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. Madam Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution (H. Res. 1463) supporting the goals and ideals of Railroad Retirement Day.

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. Madam Speaker, let me just say that I welcome a debate on how we can reform Social Security any time, but I can truly say, having been here during the 1990s, one way that you shore it up is not to privatize it. Coming from Florida, I mentioned earlier that I come from the State where Claude Pepper served in this body and the other body for over 32 years. He was one of the strongest advocates for Social Security. Clearly, we can see what happened on Wall Street and what has happened with other programs and pension funds. Social Security is a safety net. Being in this body, let me say you stand for something or you fall for everything, and one of the things we are going to stand up for on this side is for Social Security. We are very happy that we are having before us today the railroad retirement that we all can support. I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise in memory of a great Floridian, Claude Pepper, who served this body and the other body for over 32 years. He was one of the greatest advocates for senior citizens in the history of this body, and I rise today in his memory to talk about the importance of Social Security to maintain the safety net for all Americans as we celebrate 75 years of Social Security being that safety net for seniors. And I have some breaking news for everyone. Social Security is not the cause of the deficit. Let me repeat, Social Security is not the cause of the deficit. And the Republican plan to privatize Social Security is going to be dead on arrival.

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to urge my colleagues to support H.R. 5266, the National Commission on Children and Disasters Reauthorization Act. I would like to thank Chairman Oberstar and subcommittee Chairwoman Norton for their hard work and assistance in bringing this bill forward. I would also like to thank Mark Shriver, the commission chair, for his work and dedication to children. You all have provided crucial support in the creation of the National Commission on Children and Disasters and continue to do so in advancing this important bill to allow the commission to continue its important work. The passage of H.R. 5266, the National Commission on Children and Disasters Reauthorization Act of 2010, is of extreme importance to our Nation's efforts in protecting our Nation's children before, during, and following a disaster. In the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, I authored the KIDS WiSH Act to improve Federal, State, tribal, and local disaster preparedness, response and recovery efforts for children who make up nearly 25 percent of our population but whose needs are often overlooked in disasters. Children are not little adults, and their needs are unique and cannot be easily inferred from disaster plans prepared only for adults. The commission delivered its interim report in October 2009, which identified numerous gaps and made recommendations related to disaster management and recovery, child physical and mental health, education, child care, child welfare, juvenile justice, emergency sheltering, housing, evacuation, and family reunification. As President Obama's administration has taken shape, the commission has played a vital role in fostering communication and coordination among Federal agencies and their partners in implementing the recommendations. While there are encouraging signs that the unique needs of children are receiving greater attention, there is still a great deal of important work ahead for the commission beyond the current fiscal year. Just recently, in fact, in its interim report issued 8 months ago, the commission released a report which tracks the progress toward the implementation of the recommendations. Although the commission found that Federal agencies have taken some initial positive steps, many crucial recommendations remain substantially unad- dressed, leaving children needlessly vulnerable in disasters. Therefore, I wholeheartedly believe that more work is needed to be done to bring about sweeping and permanent changes in the Nation's disaster planning and management, which still heavily favor able-bodied adults. I encourage all of my colleagues to support our Nation's children and to vote ``yes'' on this bill.

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise on this 4th of July Independence Day Weekend to congratulate and thank Congressmen Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. and Charles B. Rangel for joining me last year in convening a powerful national dialogue at the 21st Anniversary of the Congressional Black Caucus Veterans Braintrust during the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's 39th Annual Legislative Conference (ALC) held in Washington, DC. Our September 25, 2009 forum titled: Coming Home: Transitioning from Military Service to Civilian Life, brought together members of the Obama administration, federal agencies, distinguished scholars and professionals, and two of today's highest ranking black military officers to discuss the important challenges and obstacles facing thousands of returning soldiers and veterans who struggle to negotiate family life, jobs, education and health care after honorable discharge from the U.S. military. As is our tradition, the morning session began with Dr. Zachery Tims, Jr., Senior Pastor, New Destiny Christian Center (NDCC) giving the invocation to bless the occasion, and inspiring international singer Brenda Jackson singing our national anthem, and a stirring rendition of `Lift Every Voice and Sing,' the Negro National Anthem by Paul Lawrence Dunbar before a standing-room-only crowd of 400 people. Rep. Charles B. Rangel provided the framework for the forum using his own experience as a Korean War soldier who had experienced the difficulty of transitioning to the real world after a tour of combat. He opened the morning saying, ``I went from being a respected and decorated Army staff sergeant to being viewed as nothing more than a high school drop-out.'' He was able to navigate his way using the GI Bill from underemployed in the garment district of New York City to obtaining his undergraduate and law degrees. But not everyone is as fortunate. ``Although we have a very effective Department of Veterans Affairs, thousands of today's veterans are falling through the cracks. Most of those who flounder are simply not aware of the assistance available from the VA and other service organizations,'' Rangel said. ``Our vision was that any veteran who walked into this session lost or disillusioned about the future--after hearing our speakers--would walk out feeling that the VA was there for him or her.'' Our keynote speaker was Secretary Eric K. Shinseki, of the Department of Veterans Affairs, the first Asian American Four Star General in American military history, a real `Soldier's Soldier.' He was joined by two other distinguished military officers, Rear Admiral Michelle Howard, the first female graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy to command a U.S. naval vessel, and Four Star General William ``Kip'' Ward. Adm. Howard made history as the commander of the USS Rushmore that led the successful rescue effort of Captain Richard Phillips and his crew of the Mearsk Alabama captured by Somali pirates during April 2009. Gen. Ward is a Morgan State University graduate and the highest ranking African American in the U.S. military. He spoke eloquently about his military career. He serves as the first-ever commander of the newly formed U.S. AFRICOM, one of six geographical commands within the Department of Defense, tasked with training African soldiers and delivering aid and resources to the continent's residents. Also in attendance were retired Generals Julius Becton, George Price, and Robert Cocroft. Other federal agency representatives and distinguished scholars included Assistant Secretary Ray Jefferson of the Department of Labor's Veterans Employment and Training Services (VETS), Deputy Assistant Secretary Mark Johnston of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Corporate Liaison Officer Chuck Southern, Center for Veterans Enterprise, Department of Veterans Affairs, Chairman James Bombard, Veterans Advisory Committee on Education, Department of Veterans Affairs, and Drs. Shirley Marks, Chief, Mental Health Service, West Texas VA Health Care System, and Kristen Lester, Clinical Psychologist and VA Researcher, Women's Health Sciences Division, National Center for PTSD. Thus, the forum sought to present the latest up-to-date and vital information to take home to veterans, their families and communities, particularly communities of color across the Nation. Secretary Shinseki's remarks focused on three specific areas: access to services and benefits, the VA disability backlog, and homelessness. He also described the VA footprint and new community health care delivery services such as telehealth, as well as a list of issues confronting the VA: homelessness (approximately 50 percent African American), depression, suicide, joblessness, substance abuse, PTSD, and TBI stigma. Secretary Shinseki, as well as others also graciously acknowledged FY 2010 funding levels as a congressionally enhanced budget, but more importantly, a special `debt of honor.' He continued, ``we intend to end homelessness among veterans as opposed to witnessing their downward spiral into hopelessness through education, jobs, mental health and housing as an investment in America's future.'' Coupled with announcing new VA initiatives such as increasing SBA to 15 percent, $500 million going toward homeless veterans programs, along with 20,000 HUD VASH vouchers for housing support--the Obama administration and he will transform the VA into a 21st century organization. Lastly, he promised that 40 years after Vietnam, and 20 years after the first Gulf war, he will seek satisfactory answers to two nagging issues: (1) Agent Orange and its host of illnesses, and (2) Gulf War illness. The afternoon session consisted of the Veterans Stakeholders Roundtable Discussion, Part II. The roundtable was moderated by Mr. Leonard Dunston, MSW, President Emeritus of the National Association of Black Social Workers (NABSW) and featured the following subject matter experts as discussants: Dr. William Lawson, MD, Ph.D., Chairman, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Health, Howard University, Dr. Jay Chunn, Director, National Center for Health Behavioral Change, Urban Medical Institute, Morgan State University; Dr. Cedric Bright, MD, VA Staff Physician, Dr. Reginald Wilson, Ph.D., Tuskegee Airman & Senior Scholar Emeritus, American Council on Education (ACE), Dr. Jerome Brandon, Ph.D., Professor of Exercise Physiology, Department of Kinesiology & Health, Georgia State University, Dr. Vincent Patton, Ill, Ed.D., Director of Community Outreach for Military.com, Dr. Donna Holland Barnes, Ph.D., Suicidologist, Howard University, Dr. Kristen Lester, Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist, Women's Health Sciences Division of the National Center for PTSD & member, American Psychological Association and commentary by Dr. Tom Berger, Ph.D., Senior Advisor at Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), Peter Dougherty, Director of VA Homeless Programs, Fredette West, former Chief of Staff for the Hon. Louis Stokes (D-OH), Retired, and Dr. James Woodard, Ed.D., JD, former Senior Staff Member for the late Hon. Joseph Moakley (D-MA), and original Braintrust member. The mission of the roundtable discussion was to complement the morning session with greater details and re-analyses related to veterans transitional difficulties involving behavioral health, PTSD, TBI, suicide, depression and other mental illnesses with both a professional service provider and an interdisciplinary perspective-- emphasizing that no one comes home from war unchanged, and unfortunately many emotionally and psychologically wounded troops fall through the cracks. For example, veterans make up only 13 percent of the population, but account for 20 percent of the suicides. Dr. Barnes indicated veterans with PTSD are more than 3X as likely to die by suicide as their civilian counterpart. White college educated veterans living in rural areas are at the highest risk. Yet, African Americans may be the second highest especially those between the age 18-44. This concurring with Dr. Mark's earlier presentation, that veterans in the general US population are at an increased risk of suicide, with a projected rise in the incidence of functional impairment and psychiatric morbidity among veterans of the conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq. Consequently, more clinical and community interventions that are directed towards veterans in both VA and non-VA healthcare facilities are needed. Dr. Chunn spoke about physical assault and attempted murder rates being more than 3X higher among Iraq and Afghanistan returnees, alluding to a direct correlation between homicide and suicide echoed by a number of mental health professionals. Even more so, that the VA is seeing only 40 percent of the behavioral health problems as opposed to the 60 percent in the general population. Dr. Berger pointed out that of the eight VA recommendations concerning suicide, there are no action plans, despite the National Vietnam Veterans Readjustment Study (NVVRS) and the RAND Study of 2008. Correspondingly, risk factors such as multiple deployments, military sexual trauma, TBI linked to PTSD all appear to be disconnected. This is compounded by the fact that close to 50 percent of the National Guard troops come from rural areas of the country, strongly suggesting that the VA and military health systems are not working, because there is no connectivity! VA researcher Dr. Lester responded that the VA is not a perfect system by any means. Additionally, that there are not a lot of studies comparing ethnic minorities and white PTSD treatment; other research problems stemming from too small sample sizes, and the need for more research targeting issues of relevance to OEF/OIF women service members. Furthermore, she indicated that women's exposure to combat results in increased dual risk, decreased social support, increased parental stress, unsupportive homecoming reception and barriers to health care. Therefore the need for evidence-based treatment and training is essential. Dr. Brandon added a systems reevaluation perspective, more specifically aimed at VA moving from a sick care system to a health care system which includes more individual responsibility and healthy thinking, or healthy lifestyle choices. He also refocused us on the triangulation of expectations such as knowledge, practices and programs, and outcomes. Lastly, with respect to practices, he questioned effectiveness. Moreover, Dr. Lawson, reiterated, the VA is not culturally competent so mental disorders and traumatic brain injury are not recognized by professionals, nor appreciated as stigmatizing for veterans. Furthermore, the complexities of mental health issues are such that veterans are simply non- responsive to treatment, because they do not get state of the art treatment. With respect to trauma, he said, we know about self- medication and incarceration (the majority of which are non-violent drug abusers) and the revolving door cycle. For depression, he recommended, early screening, culturally relevant education and referral. Like other African Americans, he said, veterans have less access to services, poor recognition of mental disorder, and lack access to state-of-the-art care. Although better than civilians still there exist disparities in services and care! In terms of the new GI Bill Dr. Wilson stated, today 30 percent of the modern military is black, versus high rates of unemployment plaguing black communities across the nation. Consequently, blacks are more inclined to reenlist, more are married, and have a couple of kids, thus ruling out college! Further, since the new GI Bill has only been in effect for a few months there are no statistics available. However, a recent higher education review reveals: 57 percent of higher education institutions have some kind of program, or service for veterans; 46 percent of private colleges have no program, or service; 22 percent provide special enrollment, and 75 percent provide credit for military occupational training. Yet, focus groups reveal that there is little provision for veterans with families and children, and online education is not recognized. Also raised was the issue of the impact of non-veterans on veterans in the clinical setting, such as whether or not the peer to peer approach is best (i.e. comfort levels). However, no data currently exist to answer this question. VA staff physician Dr. Bright, a non- veteran talked about the importance of listening and stressed the need for Blacks to participate in clinical research and be informed, while encouraging community-based participatory research to tailor products to local needs, and stressed health equity. Tincie Lynch, a member of the new VA Community Advocates Program based in South Carolina, Alabama and Georgia commented on serving as a life coach to get veterans to the next level, and the start of a new Georgia Veterans Treatment Court. Still others insisted that domestic violence is related to PTSD, but suggested we are not looking at emergency room (ER) data. At the Howard University Hospital PTSD Symposium presenters pointed out that domestic violence is not necessarily included in the national dialogue about returning soldiers, or veterans, families and PTSD. Also widespread usage of new technology such as websites, cell phones, twitter, facebook, etc. by family members raised the issue of how do we capitalize on the worldwide phenomenon known as social networking to better serve veterans. Equally important, Dr. Lawson emphasized `electronic medical records must be able to talk to one another.' There also seemed to be consensus about quality time with VA physicians and that 15 minute interactions are problematic. Consequently, unanimous agreement was voiced for `changing reimbursement for primary care providers.' Other comments consistently reinforced `we have a broken system,' and `can't just anyone engage no veteran!' Furthermore, Ms. West, Mr. Dougherty and Dr. Woodard's commentaries provided a well-rounded critique of veterans' substantive issues, along with accurate assessment and reasonable recommendations through the prism of their own policy experience. West's critique highlighted that the military tradition runs in the family; also, families have PTSD. Thus, we need to look at a minority health bill now, and health care reform must include military, veterans and family coverage. Dougherty's commentary indicated 20 percent of people who called the VA suicide prevention hotline are homeless. He also emphasized that coordination of services and benefits are crucial, along with building relationships and new partnerships with others. Moreover, the VA is moving to a proactive stance in terms of criminal justice and justice outreach, court diversion, the GI Bill, expedited VA claims and planning, as well as plan redesign. Dr. Woodard's commentary, on the other hand, posed a more difficult set of questions: `what is the nexus of sick care to health care transition, individual responsibility (vs. governmental obligation) and VA access and treatment issues?' All told, the outcomes of the Congressional Black Caucus Veterans Braintrust `Coming Home' forum (including the Howard University PTSD Symposium) can be measured in terms of: (1) three summary reports (a) Resulting Trauma: Identifying the Signs, Symptoms & Impact of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in African Americans; (b) Coming Home: Transitioning from Military Service to Civilian Life & Veterans Stakeholders Roundtable Discussion, Part II; and (c) Affirming Life: Suicide Prevention & Intervention in Communities of Color; (2) potential enhancements for Representative Charles Rangel's legislation (H.R. 1963) and recommendations for CBC Chairwoman Barbara Lee's (D- CA), Task Force on Veterans; (3) an outline of questions for future GAO research in the following three critical areas: (a) veterans' homelessness, (b) women veterans, particularly those single parents with children, and (c) mental health, especially PTSD, TBI, depression, suicide, and mental illness stigma; (4) the successful launching of a new round of issues education outreach workshops based on content and information from September 25th's Veterans Braintrust (2010 New Abstracts: Meeting the Needs of African American Homeless Veterans; U.S. Military Personnel: Women & Veterans of African Descent; & The Veterans Braintrust as a Strategic Intervention); (5) uncovered or identified at least four clearly relevant, but essentially unanswered questions with implications for veterans policy in the future: (a) why are Iraq and Afghanistan combat returnees not using the system, or VA services?, (b) why are African American veterans disproportionately represented among the homeless?, (c) why are only one-third of the entire veterans population enrolled in the VA?, and (d) what is the most effective method for advocating the VA system's needed 21st century transformation, especially, with respect to cultural competence and cultural diversity, or racial, ethnic, and gender differences based on veteran's health equity? Last, but not least, several recommendations for legislative consideration or action in the future. The evening's gala reception, ``Saluting Veterans & Their Support Organizations'' and ``African Americans in Transportation,'' featuring special musical guest Chuck Brown, the `Godfather of Go-Go', was sponsored by the Association of American Railroads and the A. Philip Randolph Institute and recognized me for my work as Chairwoman of the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines and Hazardous Materials. The U.S. Army's Freedom Team Salute awardees included Lt. Col. William Calbert, USA, Ret., William Dabney, Herculano Dias, Sgt. Maj. Yolanda Glover, USA, Ret., Col Kathaleen Harris, USA, Ret., Stanley Murphy, Capt., USA, Vietnam, MSgt. Edwards Posey, USA, Ret., Dovey Johnson Roundtree, USA, WWII, Horace Taylor, USA, WWII, and Dr. James Woodard, Ed.D., JD, Capt., USA, Vietnam. Emile Milne, Legislative Director for the Hon. Charles Rangel (D-NY) was presented the Citizens Beneficiary Award by the Mike Handy Foundation & Fund for his unique contribution to our Nation's veterans, along with 2009 Veterans Braintrust awardees, including: Dr. E. Curtis Alexander, Leroy Archible, Lt. Gen. Julius Becton, Jr., USA, Ret., Aseneth (Mays) Blackwell, Maj. Gen. Joseph Carter, Dr. Darlene Collins, Roy Foster, C.R. Gibbs, Brig. Gen. Stayce Harris, Wanda Ruth Lee, BGen. Allyson Solomon, Barbara Ward, Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Enoch Williams, Joe Wilson, Jr., Eddie Beard Veterans Home, 9th Ordinance Training Battalion Alumni Association, The Units K-West & B- East (US) Reunion Booster Club, The Friends of Charlton Gardens, Sister Soldiers Project, African American Veterans Project of Lancaster County, Dayton African American Legacy Institute, The Legacy Museum of African American History--Much in Demand Exhibit, Tangipahoa African American Heritage Museum & Black Veterans Archives. Furthermore, in trying to capture the mood of the moment during the festive 2009 awards ceremony honoring veterans, their families, and friends the word that best describes the long, rich legacy of African American military contributions is ``Service'', not money. They admirably and nobly performed service to God and country despite the challenges of race and discrimination. And, no less important, their ``Service'' to family and friends constituted the essential building block of community. Finally, as a member of the Veterans Braintrust leadership I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to speakers, panelists, authors, and attendees, but particularly Dr. Frank Smith, Jr., Dr. William Lawson, Dr. Donna Holland Barnes, Guileine Kraft, Jason Young, Jean Davis, Constance Burns, Dr. Clarence Willie, Edna Wells Handy, Dr. Diane Elmore, Lucretia McClenney, Ralph Cooper, Robert Blackwell, Ervin Russell and T. Michael Sullivan, as well as congressional staff members Roshan Hodge, Lee Footer, Emile Milne, Robin Peguero, Kristen Rice- Jones, Holly Biglow, and Jonathan Halpern for what can only be described as, the best ever Veterans Braintrust.' I want to once again thank the presenters at the forums and awardees for their long, rich legacy of service, both in the military abroad and in the fight for equal rights at home.

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak about H.R. 4173, the Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. Credit unions have been good stewards of our money. I say our money, because while they have not been eligible for any of the TARP funds, they have not been involved in the subprime loan situation many have blamed as causing this economic crisis. When the stimulus went into effect, Credit Unions were the only ones trying to lend money. I have been hearing a lot from the credit unions and community banks in my district regarding the debit interchange provision. I am very concerned that the interchange provision may have the unintended consequence of adversely affecting these small financial institutions. I know they are intended to be carved-out of this provision and I hope that my colleagues will join me in encouraging the Federal Reserve and the card payment networks to make sure that the carve-out envisioned under this provision is meaningful and effective. I was pleased to read the statement from Chairman Frank restating his views of the interchange amendment included in the conference report. I urge him to work with the Credit Union National Association as it works with the Fed to ensure that credit unions with under $10 billion in assets were held exempt from the Fed interchange changes. Chairman Frank's statement gives the Fed strong guidance to follow when this bill becomes law. In conclusion, the Interchange language exempts all community banks and credit unions with under $10 billion in assets. To achieve this, we: included language that explicitly prohibits intra-brand discrimination. Thus, if a merchant takes a Visa debit card, it must take all Visa debit cards. Also exempted credit cards. As Chairman Frank has noted, ``for good measure . . . merchants and retailers cannot discriminate against small banks for the credit cards they issue.'' Furthermore, when the Federal Reserve issues rules regulating interchange fees, it is directed, in Chairman Frank's words, ``to ensure that community banks and credit unions remain exempt from the requirements and are able to continue to issue their debit cards without any market penalty.'' This exempts all but three credit unions nationwide. Beyond this, here are additional measures in the Interchange amendment that more broadly benefit working families: fixed states' concerns by removing government-administered pay programs from interchange fee regulation. Fixed concerns of pre-paid folks who offer services to the under-banked by removing them from interchange fee regulation. With respect to this, we also added pro-consumer language that Sander Levin has in a bill to prohibit overdraft fees and fees on the first monthly ATM withdrawal using one of these cards. Ensured that USDA's SNAP, food stamp, program is not affected. I look forward to passage of this bill and the fair treatment of Credit Unions by the Federal Reserve.

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise at this time to honor the life of Charles Legrand Lewis. He was the father of a former Military Fellow in my office and current Army Lieutenant Colonel, Patrick Lewis. His father, Charles Legrand Lewis, at age 69, of Oceanside, California, died peacefully, Sunday, May 2, 2010, at Tri- City Medical Center, Oceanside, California, surrounded by his family. He was born in Elizabethtown, North Carolina, on March 9, 1941, to the late Charlie Roundtree and Ada Mervell Lewis. Also preceding him in death was his brother, Harold Lewis. Legrand, as he was known, graduated from Frederick Douglass High School in Baltimore, Maryland class of 1959, where he was an avid trumpet player in the school band. After graduation he attended a printing apprenticeship program at Westinghouse in Baltimore, where he began his 45-year commercial photographer career in the printing industry. Legrand's career lead him to New York where he met his wife of over 40 years Bernice Lewis, of Wilson, North Carolina. They later moved to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and then Willingboro, New Jersey, where they raised two children until they moved to Oceanside, California, where they prepared for retirement. After retirement Legrand enjoyed wearing baseball caps and driving his convertible top down, no matter how cold or hot it was. He enjoyed his family and friends and was affectionately known as ``Pop Pop'' by his grandchildren. He also enjoyed meeting and sharing life stories with everyone he met. He always told a good story and was a kind and gentle man. He will be missed greatly by his family and everyone who knew him. Legrand is survived by his wife, Bernice Lewis; brother, Frank Lewis, Baltimore, MD; sister Candy Woingust, Baltimore, MD; four children (two children from previous marriage), son, Andre Whitt, Los Angeles, CA; daughter, Lavern Whitt, Los Angeles, CA; son Patrick Lewis, Lorton, VA; daughter Stephanie Lewis, Philadelphia, PA; seven grandchildren; Jasmine Lewis, Dominque Lewis, Jade Lewis, Taj Whitt, Tyler Whitt, Freedom Lewis, Victorie Lewis; one great grandchild, J'leigh Lewis, and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of my dear, lifelong. friend, Dr. Edna Saffy. We were students at the University of Florida in the 1970s and we worked together for 16 years at Florida Community College of Jacksonville. Everyone knew her as one of the great women leaders of our generation and she often led merely by example. For instance, she was one of the first women I know who did not take her husband's last name. Dr. Saffy was a human rights activist, college professor and founder of NOW chapters in Jacksonville and Gainesville. Her public service to the Third District included mayoral appointments to the Duval County Hospital Authority, Jacksonville Human Rights Commission, advisory committee on LaVilla Cultural Heritage District and the Jacksonville Area Planning Board. She was active with numerous groups including Planned Parenthood, Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Society, Hubbard House, Karpeles Manuscript Museum and the American Association of University Women. Dr. Saffy's influence spread far beyond Jacksonville, however. She was appointed by President Clinton to the Advisory Committee on the Arts of the John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts from 1995-2001, and by President Gerald Ford in 1976 as a delegate to the International Women's Conference. Active in Mideast peace groups and a member of the American Arab Institute, President Clinton invited her to witness the signing of the Mid-East Peace Accord in 1993. Finally, she worked hard for the Democratic Party. Dr. Saffy was a member of the Duval County Democratic Executive Committee for 35 years, was a Florida State delegate to all the Democratic National Conventions from 2000 and served as president of the Florida Women's Political Caucus. Like the Apostle Paul, she fought the good fight, she finished the course, and she kept the faith. Now, it us up to us to carry on her work. My thoughts and prayers are with her husband of 41 years, Grady E. Johnson Jr.. God has blessed us by allowing us to have Dr. Saffy in our lives.

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. Madam Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution (H. Res. 1301) supporting the goals and ideals of National Train Day, as amended.

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. Madam Speaker, I ask that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks on H. Res. 1301.

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of this resolution, and I yield myself such time as I may consume. Rail in America is experiencing a renaissance we haven't seen in 50 years. All forms of passenger rail, including Amtrak, are seeing increased ridership numbers. In fact, in 2009 Amtrak welcomed aboard over 27.1 million passengers, the second-largest annual total in Amtrak's history, an average of more than 74,000 passenger rides and more than 300 Amtrak trains per day. For me, as chair of the Rail Subcommittee, the eventual goal is to have high-speed intercity passenger, and commuter rail lines connecting nationwide to serve as an enhancement to our current systems of transportation. Moreover, if a nationwide high-speed and intercity passenger rail system is realized, it will not only serve as a tremendous benefit to our Nation's transportation needs but will also be a superb asset toward getting people back to work by creating quality jobs in our economy's manufacturing sector. In some areas, like where the Sunset Limited used to operate, it is a homeland security issue. If the United States was hit by a natural or manmade disaster, we need a functional system that will move citizens out of harm's way. There is no doubt that increasing the use of passenger and freight rail is the best way for our Nation to address the environmental and energy-related challenges we face today. Freight railroads, for example, have made major gains in fuel efficiency through training and improved locomotive technology. Indeed, a single intermodal train can take up to 280 trucks off of our highways. And one gallon of diesel fuel can move a ton of freight an average of 414 miles, a 76-percent improvement since 1980, while General Electric has recently unveiled the world's first hybrid locomotive. In addition, passenger rail's ability to reduce congestion is well- known, and their ridership numbers are increasing steadily each year. One full passenger train in fact can take 250 to 300 cars off the road. Passenger rail also consumes much less energy than automobiles and commercial airlines. As we have seen with the horrible oil spills on our Gulf Coast, with estimates of 5,000 barrels floating into the sea every day, it is clear we need a new way of doing things in the transportation arena. Our committee has hit the rails, having a national dialogue with America about the future of the U.S. transportation system. Just two weeks ago, I led a Whistle Stop Rail Tour to promote high-speed and intercity passenger rail in the United States. We started in Washington, traveled to upstate New York, and ended up in Chicago where we conducted a major hearing on rail issues. We are planning additional events in Texas, California, Oregon, and throughout the United States. All along the way, we saw stimulus dollars going toward improving our transportation infrastructure and creating jobs for the local workforce. In that particular region in upstate New York, rail manufacturing could very well replace the good jobs in those towns that were sent overseas. Just Saturday, I rode with Amtrak as they tested the current Florida East Coast Railroad line from Jacksonville to Miami for passenger service. And on Monday, we held the latest in a series of high-speed rail hearings in Miami, Florida. Everywhere we have gone, we have gotten very strong support for Amtrak service and high-speed rail. The only complaint I have heard is that there wasn't enough money and it wasn't coming fast enough. Over the past 50 years, the Federal Government has invested nearly $1.3 trillion in our Nation's highways and more than $484 billion in aviation. Unfortunately, since 1970 when Congress created Amtrak, we have just invested $67 billion in intercity passenger rail, including Amtrak. Now, I have always assured everyone that the $8 billion in the Recovery Act was just a down payment and there would be more planning and construction dollars coming in the near future. But we need to get serious about funding high-speed rail. With just $1 billion budgeted for fiscal year 2011, we need to find a dedicated revenue source so that States, operators, stakeholders, and manufacturers aren't afraid to make investments in infrastructure and manpower. In fact, I feel so passionate about it that I spearheaded a letter that over 100 Members signed to President Obama requesting that he include a dedicated source of revenue for high-speed rail in the transportation reauthorization policy objective that the administration is developing. We still have a lot of work to do before the first passengers board high-speed trains in the United States, but we are off to a great start with the investment made in the Recovery Act. I encourage all of my colleagues to show their support for this resolution and the new age of rail in America. This is a giant step in the right direction. Let's roll, baby, roll. Toot toot. That's it. I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. 247) authorizing the use of the Capitol Grounds for the Greater Washington Soap Box Derby.

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. I yield as much time as the leader may consume.

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I want to point out that the Soap Box Derby, of which Mr. Hoyer has been the sponsor for a number of years, is an event that has been put on for a number of years, and the purpose is to prepare young people from age 8 to 17. Mr. Speaker, may I inquire as to how much time we have remaining?

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I am delighted to support House Concurrent Resolution 247, which authorizes the use of the Capitol Grounds for the Greater Washington Soap Box Derby. I would like to acknowledge the efforts of Mr. Hoyer, who has been such a great and consistent champion for his constituents for this event. Consistent with all events using the Capitol Grounds, this event is open to the public and free of charge. The organizers will work with the Capitol Police and the Architect of the Capitol. I support Concurrent Resolution 247 and urge passage of the resolution. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks and to include additional material on House Concurrent Resolution 247.

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. 263) authorizing the use of the Capitol Grounds for the District of Columbia Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run.

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks and to include additional material on House Concurrent Resolution 263.