Mary Bono Mack

Mrs. BONO

Mrs. BONO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 5 and the physicians that work tirelessly to care for the sick and injured. I have witnessed first-hand the crux of the issue about which we debate today. My father worked as an ENT surgeon for 19 years in Southern California, both before and after California's MICRA law was enacted. He has also helped me to better understand the issues that those in private practice face and we both have an appreciation for the problems our doctors face. Living in Southern California my entire life has also allowed me to witness the changes that have taken place with regard to medical liability reform. Numerous doctors from Southern California have contacted me about the benefit that they have seen from the liability laws that exist in our state and realize how much it has affected their ability to treat more patients effectively. Still, other states are witnessing a serious reduction in care, particularly in vital specialities including those that affect expectant mothers. We face a vote today on an issue that centers on the ability of our doctors to practice the science that saves lives daily in our country. Currently physicians in many states face the reality of not being able to keep their practice running. Our problems cannot be solved by the trend of defensive medicine, as they can only lead to higher costs to the patient, the insurer, and the doctor. The ultimate price is paid when a defensive procedure costs not only money but the life of a patient. It is unfortunate that many frame this debate in terms of political ideology. How can we continue to demoralize our doctors from working in the field that they love and providing care for those who are suffering? H.R. 5 is about tempering skyrocketing insurance premiums across the country. H.R. 5 is about providing real access to care and the continued ability for our health care system to run effectively in times of state and national budget deficits. But, most importantly, Mr. Speaker, H.R. 5 is about allowing our doctors to help millions of people every year in the practice that they know better than any trial lawyer or bureaucrat in Washington, DC. Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to support H.R. 5.

Mrs. BONO

Mrs. BONO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding achievements of Tom Levy, who is retiring as the General Manager and Chief Engineer of the Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD). Mr. Levy has served the public for thirty years at CVWD, and has served as General Manager for sixteen years. Under his tenure as General Manager, the District's domestic water service more than doubled, from less than 42,000 meters in 1986 to more than 86,000 today. He was instrumental in numerous water conservation projects, including the Whitewater River Spreading Area facilities and the development of an Urban Water Management Plan. He also worked feverishly for the last six years to bring about an agreement on the apportionment of Colorado River water for Southern California that would be satisfactory to CVWD, Imperial Irrigation District, Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, the State Department of Water Resources and the Department of the Interior. He was appointed to California's Advisory Drought Planning Panel by Governor Gray Davis, and has also served two terms as Chairman of the State Water Contractors, which oversees the State Water Project. For his leadership in California water issues, he was honored as a recipient of an Excellence in Water Leadership Award in 2000. Even in retirement, Mr. Levy hopes to stay active in the water field, and will continue to provide whatever support the Coachella Valley Water District may need. It is my honor to acknowledge a man who deserves the recognition of our Nation and this Congress.

Mrs. BONO

Mrs. BONO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to clarify that had I not been unavoidably detained yesterday, October 9, 2002, I would have voted ``aye'' on the following rollcall votes: rollcall No. 448, rollcall No. 449, rollcall No. 450, and rollcall No. 451.

Mrs. BONO

Mrs. BONO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in remembrance of Timothy White, a man whose legacy will remain strong both here on Capitol Hill and in the music industry. Tragically, Tim passed away recently at an age and time of life when he was at the height of his abilities and influence. In his years as Editor in Chief of Billboard Magazine, Tim's innovative work greatly impacted the arena of music media. His passion for music and artists was evident in his writing for Billboard, but it was not enough for Tim to express his boundless passion through written words alone. Tim demonstrated his unparalleled commitment to the music world by championing the rights of musicians on Capitol Hill. I consider myself fortunate to have known Tim; he deeply impressed me with his tireless spirit and concern for the protection of artists' rights. Tim's commitment to the First Amendment freedom of speech, and intellectual property copyright protection for artists was absolute. He skillfully and passionately advocated on behalf of his fellow artists, even if it was at the expense of his own career opportunities. John Mellencamp said it well when he remarked, ``With the passing of Timothy White, rock'n'roll no longer has a conscience.'' We will remember Tim for his dedication to his cause, and for the integrity of his advocacy. The recording artist Sting has accurately described Tim as being ``known, loved, and admired for his conscience, his courage, and his loyalty,'' and this sentiment is shared by all that were touched by his work. Timothy White will be missed, but the memory of his strong integrity and passion continue to inspire.

Mrs. BONO

Mrs. BONO. Mr. Chairman, I offer Amendment No. 11.

Mrs. BONO. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. The reality today is that food is a global product. Whether it is Mexican cantaloupe or Coachella Valley table grapes, the need for country of origin labeling is a consumer information and safety issue that affects millions of Americans. With this in mind, I, along with the gentlewoman from Oregon (Ms. Hooley) am offering legislation, H.R. 1605, The Produce Consumers Right to Know Act, as an amendment to the pending legislation before this House. For the past 69 years, goods imported into the United States have been required to be labeled with their products country of origin so that the consumer will ultimately know where the product was produced. Your shirt, your coffee mug, your chair and your pen probably all have country of origin labels, yet there is no law that mandates that fresh fruit and produce be labeled with its country of origin. When the last comprehensive labeling Act was passed by Congress nearly 70 years ago, there were there very few fruit and vegetable imports into the United States so the requirement was unnecessary. However, in the 21st century, with free trade agreements, produce is now widely imported to every city and every State of this country. It is important to note that U.S. law already encourages the labeling of fresh fruits and vegetables. Currently most of the boxes that contain produce are shipped over to the United States labeled with their country of origin. However, those boxes are usually left in the back room along with their labels. As a result, the consumer sees the produce but not the shipping box or label. Therefore, while valuable country of origin labeling is usually attached to the produce when it enters the store, this label never ends up making it to the mom or dad who are shopping for the family so that they can make an informed decision. While the United States does not have a country of origin law for fruits and vegetables, the State of Florida passed the Produce Labeling Act of 1979. At the retail level, Florida's country of origin labeling program is successful and inexpensive. Florida's Produce Labeling Act requires simply two staff hours per store per week. In an era of free trade with our many trading partners around the world, it is imperative that fair trade is an element in any of our trading agreements. The GAO says that 13 of our Nation's 28 biggest trading partners require country of origin labeling for fresh produce. Mexico is a source for more than half of our Nation's produce imports, and ironically, it requires origin labeling on imported produce sold there. Other countries such as the U.K., France, Japan and Canada have labeling laws as well. The truth is that everyone wants to know where their food comes from. In the 21st century, with our local supermarkets carrying everything from Brazilian bananas to Chilean table grapes, virtually everything bears its place of origin except for produce. I believe consumers want this to change. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mrs. BONO. Mr. Chairman, I yield 5 minutes to the gentlewoman from Oregon (Ms. Hooley).

Mrs. BONO. Mr. Chairman, I yield 2\1/2\ minutes to the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Ros-Lehtinen).

Mrs. BONO. Mr. Chairman, I yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the gentleman from Oregon (Mr. Wu).

Mrs. BONO. Mr. Chairman, I demand a recorded vote.

Mrs. BONO

Mrs. BONO. I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time. Mr. Speaker, I rise in very strong support of this resolution. As sons and daughters of what has been called the ``Greatest Generation,'' many of us grew up in awe of those giants of the 20th century, common citizens who performed uncommon deeds of valor and gallantry that secured our Nation and the world's freedom. We thought bravery of this kind was found only in our history books and in the memories of our veterans. This week, our generation confronts our own challenge, and it is a challenge of enormous consequence. Now our generation will be given the chance to rise to the occasion and make the ``Greatest Generation'' proud. We confront an enemy that is a threat to the civilized people of our times. Once our Nation rose to stave off tyranny. Now we must employ all our resources to stave off terror and fanaticism. We will answer this duty, and we will not go quietly and softly into the good night.

Mrs. BONO

Mrs. BONO. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from New Jersey for yielding me the time. Mr. Speaker, the entire world watched as this tragedy struck. Like most Americans, I was transfixed by the horrible drama unfolding on my television screen when, without any warning, the foundation of my building was rocked by the blast of the Pentagon only blocks away. Yesterday's events shook the very heart and soul of our Nation, regardless of whether you were close enough to feel the impact or watching thousands of miles and a continent away. The rage and frustration Americans shared gave way to a clear understanding that our Nation was now at war, and this is a war like no other. Our enemy is invisible and consumed with hate, and the acts perpetrated against America are an assault on all civilized people. Yesterday, the people of California's 44th district lost one of our own. A gentle lady parishioner from Palm Springs, who gave selflessly to help others, lost her life at the hands of cowardly and despicable fiends. My prayers and thoughts are with her family and with the families and loved ones of all of the victims of these heinous acts. Before yesterday, our national security seemed a remote concern. National polls routinely registered very little concern for national security. Indeed, few outside of Washington paid much attention to terrorist acts that were quietly averted nor was there much support outside of Congress for increased funding for intelligence or national security programs. That must, and will, change. Now, there can be no doubt that our first priority must be the security of our people. Today, though shaken and mournful over the loss of so many of our fellow Americans cut down by senseless acts of violence, our will is strengthened and our purpose is very clear. We will hunt down and destroy these agents of evil and bring swift and terrible retribution to those who shelter them. Our Nation is built upon the hopes and dreams of those yearning to live free. From the smoldering ashes of this devastation, a steely resolve has been forged. The bonds that bind these United States will not be broken and we will never ever forget. God bless America.

Mrs. BONO

Mrs. BONO. Mr. Chairman, I yield 30 seconds to the gentleman from California (Mr. Dreier).

Mrs. BONO. Mr. Chairman, I yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from Wyoming (Mrs. Cubin).

Mrs. BONO. Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment.

Mrs. BONO. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I would first like to commend the gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Tauzin) and the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Dingell), along with the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Barton) and the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Boucher) for their hard work in putting together the part of H.R. 4 provided by the Committee on Energy and Commerce. After years of neglecting to formulate a national energy policy, I am thankful that this administration and Congress have turned their attention towards this vital issue. A critical part of the diverse energy mix is renewable and alternative energy. This bill provides for more use of renewable energy by the Federal Government, alternative fuel vehicles, and a very aggressive program of research and development for renewables and alternative energy sources. But we can do more. California's 44th congressional district has been a leader in the development of green power. Solar, wind, distributed energy, and other developing technologies help protect the environment and save money on consumer energy bills. This amendment would promote these promising technologies through a government-industry partnership project sponsored by the EPA and the DOE. This initiative would be called the ``Energy Sun'' partnership program. It is modeled on the highly successful EPA-DOE program of a similar name, the Energy Star program, which focuses on promoting energy-efficient products. For the private sector, the Energy Sun program, like Energy Star, would be purely voluntary. It would promote renewable and alternative energy through consumer education and market forces, not mandates. EPA and DOE would recognize only the best products, those that promise substantial environmental and energy security benefits. It would also recognize companies that use those products, creating a marketing incentive for companies to use environmentally friendly, renewable and alternative energy. If adopted, I look forward to working on this program, not only with the Committee on Energy and Commerce, but also with the gentleman from New York (Mr. Boehlert) and the Committee on Science, who have also done a lot of work to promote the alternative forms of energy. I believe this program would help promote our Nation's energy security, reduce pollution, and make a clean, diverse energy supply more affordable for all Americans. I ask my colleagues to vote for this amendment. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mrs. BONO. Mr. Chairman, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from New Hampshire (Mr. Bass).

Mrs. BONO. Mr. Chairman, I also yield 30 seconds to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Fossella).

Mrs. BONO. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman for yielding time. Mr. Chairman, I am concerned that unrealistic CAFE standards will result in more highway deaths. In 1999, a USA Today article reported on a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and insurance safety study which found that in the years since CAFE standards were mandated under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975, about 46,000 people have died in crashes that they would have survived if they had been traveling in heavier cars. We increased fuel efficiency standards for SUVs in this bill, but we did it in a responsible manner which balances the needs of the environment with the critical need to maintain high safety standards. As a mother of two children, I value these safety concerns and cannot support a measure which would compromise the safety of our kids.

Mrs. BONO

Mrs. BONO. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to remove my name as a cosponsor of H.R. 2180.

Mrs. BONO

Mrs. BONO. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word. I rise today in support of the DeFazio amendment. For centuries, our forests have remained free and open to the public. So when Congress decided to start charging families for the right to park their car on the side of the road in order just to walk their dog or catch a sunset, it did not seem right. When I am told that the fee is not much, I cannot help but think of the families struggling to make it by month to month. Our public lands are a way they can share valued time off without the worries of being able to afford it. Mr. Chairman, I am a great supporter of the national forest system and its personnel. The U.S. Forest Service staff are dedicated individuals for whom I have the utmost amount of respect, and I realize they do not operate with enough resources. However, I believe that the forests are for the entire Nation and should be supported through the traditional funding processes like most all other Federal Government programs. This amendment seeks to extend the Adventure Pass program for only a year, because that would give Congress an opportunity to review the GAO report on this issue due out this fall. The more facts we have about this program, the better we are able to address it. Let us give ourselves a chance to learn more and maybe even improve on this program without making our constituents pay for it. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to support the DeFazio amendment.

Mrs. BONO

Mrs. BONO. Mrs. BONO. Mr. Speaker, I was necessarily absent for all legislative business during the week of February 12, 2001 through February 16, 2001, due to a medical condition. As a result, I missed the following votes: On Tuesday, February 13, 2001--question ``On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Agree, as Amended'' (Roll No. 12) for issue H. Res. 7--Congratulating the Prime Minister-elect of Israel, Airel Sharon, calling for an end to violence in the Middle East, reaffirming the friendship between the Governments of the United States and Israel--question ``On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as Amended'' (Roll No. 13) for issue H.R. 2--Social Security and Medicare Lock-Box Act. On Wednesday, February 14, 2001--question ``On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass'' (Roll No. 14) for issue H.R. 524-- Electronic Commerce Enhancement Act--question ``On Passage'' (Roll No. 15) for issue H.R. 554--Rail Passenger Disaster Family Assistance Act. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' for question ``On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as Amended'' for issue H. Res. 34 (Roll No. 12), ``yea'' for question ``On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as Amended'' for issue H.R. 2 (Roll No. 13), ``yea'' for question ``On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass'' for issue H.R. 524 (Roll No. 14), ``yea'' for question ``On Passage'' for issue H.R. 554.

Mrs. BONO

Mrs. BONO. Mr. Speaker, I was necessarily absent for all legislative business during the week of February 5, 2001 through February 10, 2001, due to a medical condition. As a result, I missed the following votes: On Tuesday, February 6, 2001--question ``On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass'' (roll No. 9) for issue H.J. Res. 7--Recognizing the 90th birthday of Ronald Reagan--question ``On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Agree'' (roll No. 10) for issue H. Res. 28--Honoring the contributions of Catholic schools. On Wednesday, February 7, 2001-- question ``On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass'' (roll No. 11) for issue H.R. 132--To designate the Goro Hokama Post Office Building in Lanai City, Hawaii. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' for question ``On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass'' for issue H.J. Res. 7 (roll No. 9), ``yea'' for question ``On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Agree'' for issue H. Res. 28 (roll No. 10), and ``yea'' for question ``On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass'' for issue H.R. 132 (roll No. 11).

Mrs. BONO

Mrs. BONO. Mr. Speaker, I was necessarily absent for all legislative business during the week of January 29, 2001 through February 2, 2001, due to a medical condition. As a result, I missed the following votes: On Tuesday, January 30, 2001--question ``On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as Amended'' (Roll No. 5) for issue H.R. 93--Federal Firefighters Retirement Age Fairness Act. On Wednesday, January 31, 2001--question ``On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Agree'' (Roll No. 6) for issue H. Con. Res. 14--Permitting the Use of the Rotunda of the Capitol for a Ceremony as part of the Commemoration of the Days of Remembrance of Victims of the Holocaust, question ``On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Agree'' (Roll No. 7) for issue H. Con. Res. 15-- Expressing Sympathy for the Victims of the Devastating Earthquake that Struck India, and question ``On Approving the Journal'' (Roll No. 8) for issue Journal. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' for the question ``On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as Amended'' for the issue H.R. 93 (Roll No. 5), ``yea'' for the question ``On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Agree'' for the issue H. Con. Res. 14 (Roll No. 6), ``yea'' for the question ``On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Agree'' for the issue H. Con. Res. 15 (Roll No. 7), and ``yea'' for the question ``On Approving the Journal'' (Roll No. 8) for the issue Journal.

Mrs. BONO

Mrs. BONO. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on S. 893.