Tammy Baldwin

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. I thank the gentleman for yielding time. Madam Speaker, the bill before us today is entitled the Farm Dust Regulation Prevention Act of 2011. I want to make something very clear. If we were here today voting on a bill that actually stopped farm dust from being regulated by the EPA, I would support it. Agriculture is hugely important to my home State of Wisconsin, and the thought of regulating farm dust on a Federal level is simply ridiculous. However, there is no attempt by the EPA to regulate farm dust. Administrator Lisa Jackson said that the EPA has no intention of regulating farm dust. The Republican Senate sponsor of this bill, former Secretary of Agriculture Mike Johanns, states that the EPA has provided ``unequivocal assurance that it won't attempt to regulate farm dust.'' This legislation is not about farm dust. Instead, this bill creates a new category of pollution called ``nuisance dust'' and exempts it from the Clean Air Act entirely. To be clear, ``nuisance dust'' is a made-up term that has no basis in established science. Under this legislation, particulate pollution from open-pit mines, mine processing plants, sand mines, lead smelters, and cement kilns would be exempt from the Clean Air Act. These facilities emit coarse and fine particulates--arsenic, lead, mercury, and other toxic substances. Now, I don't know about you, Madam Speaker, but this doesn't sound like ``farm dust'' to me. I agree with my colleague Congressman John Dingell, who said, ``This is a solution in search of a problem.'' During the Energy and Commerce Committee markup, the majority showed us that this bill isn't about farm dust at all; it's about hacking another hole in the Clean Air Act and about stoking the fears of rural Americans and farmers for cheap political points. Americans are so sick of these political games. They want jobs, not fear mongering and baseless accusations. We shouldn't be wasting our time and theirs dealing with myths. We have real problems that need real solutions. We should be extending the payroll tax relief for hardworking American families. We should be passing a transportation bill that puts Americans back to work rebuilding our crumbling roads and bridges. We should be extending unemployment insurance to millions of Americans who are still out, pounding the pavement day in and day out, trying to find work. Republicans need to stop stoking the fears of farmers and rural Americans and get back to fixing the real crisis facing our country-- the jobs crisis.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the Pandemic and All- Hazards Preparedness Reauthorization Act, H.R. 2405, a measure that will improve our nation's medical preparedness and response capabilities. I am especially pleased to see that this bill takes important steps to ensure that our medical response systems are prepared to care for the critically ill and injured in the aftermath of a public health emergency. As you can imagine, when we face a health emergency such as a flu pandemic, the critical care delivery system is an integral component of our nation's medical response. Yet, up to this point, critical care medicine has been largely under-contemplated in our national health policy. Earlier this year, I introduced the bipartisan Critical Care Assessment Act, H.R. 971, with my colleague from Minnesota, Erik Paulsen. This measure seeks to identify gaps in the current critical care delivery model and bolster our capabilities to meet future demands. I am pleased that the measure before us today includes two important provisions from my bill to improve federal disaster preparedness efforts to care for the critically ill and injured. Notably, the reauthorization bill adds critical care to the priorities within the nation's medical preparedness goals. When a natural disaster strikes or a pandemic sweeps the nation, the demands on critical care increase exponentially, and I am pleased to see this language that recognizes the importance of treating the critically ill and injured in a public health emergency. Additionally, the reauthorization bill improves efforts to ensure that the systems we have in place to address surge capacity will work effectively and efficiently during an emergency. Specifically, the bill includes language to provide for periodic evaluation and testing of the databases intended to ensure medical surge capacity. As we learned during Hurricane Katrina and the 2009 H1N1 pandemic, having a system in place for the effective deployment of needed medical personnel and supplies is vital for the care of the critically ill and injured. I would like to thank Chairman Upton, Chairman Pitts, and my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for working with me to recognize the importance of critical care preparedness by including these important provisions. I look forward to continuing to work to ensure we have a robust critical care infrastructure.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in celebration of the 125th anniversary of the YMCA of Dane County and to honor all those who make this institution such an influential part of our community. As a component of the greater YMCA system, the Dane County Y exemplifies the values of the national organization. The YMCA of Dane County is committed to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. These three areas of focus fuel the numerous programs and services the Y delivers to our community. In 2010, the YMCA of Dane County graciously spent more than $572,000 in programs that benefit the public. The YMCA is a place where more than 19,800 youth members cultivate skills and gain the self-confidence necessary to become successful and positive members of society. Programs like Fill the Gap help youth grow by targeting at-risk teens and engaging them in challenging and fun activities in safe environments. Furthermore, thirty licensed before and after school sites throughout the county care for 1,200 children each day. These sites provide the necessary environment to keep children learning, engaged, and safe. Additionally, the Y's Healthy Living initiative is fighting the country's obesity epidemic by encouraging a more active lifestyle. Each year, the YMCA reaches over 60,000 people through their wellness programs and provides a safe and clean environment for exercise. Furthermore, various exercise classes and access to pools and gymnasiums help encourage our community to stay fit and healthy. The YMCA of Dane County also works towards producing hard-working members of society with its social responsibility programs. The YMCA's mission strives to ensure that every person has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive, regardless of socio-economic status. One of the many ways the Dane County Y fulfills this mission is by providing support, educational, and training services to unemployed citizens, which are desperately needed in the tough economic times we face today. This clear and determined dedication to improving the lives of community members not only physically, but also emotionally, highlights the importance of the YMCA of Dane County. The Lussier Family East, Northeast, and Lussier Family West branches of the YMCA of Dane County work in conjunction to better our community and provide valuable resources and support. Along with the three branches, the four youth centers and numerous child care locations create a strong network dedicated to improving the lives of the members of our community. I admire the mission and efforts of the YMCA of Dane County and look forward to many more years of service to our community. I proudly join those across Dane County, the entire state of Wisconsin, and our great nation in celebrating the 125th anniversary of the YMCA of Dane County and in thanking the members, employees, volunteers, and donors for their exemplary service to our community.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Notably absent from the Republican agenda this year are the issues that the American people really care about--creating jobs and growing our economy. Just when we should be pulling together to work on these issues, instead, Republicans have put forth divisive and extreme legislation that takes away women's ability to make their own important life decisions about their reproductive health. This extremist legislation is an unprecedented display of lack of respect for American women and our safety. The effect of this bill would be to cut off millions of women from the private care they already have and limit the ability of a woman to get the care she needs, even if the result is a serious permanent health condition that could shorten her life. So we now know the Republicans' real agenda: to roll back women's health and rights. They have shown their true colors by trying to weaken the rape and incest exceptions for abortions. It's hard to believe, but a majority of the Republican House Members cosponsored legislation to give insurance companies new authority to decide if a woman had been raped and to deny care to incest victims. Thanks to the American women who spoke out, this dangerous provision was dropped. But I think it raises an important question: If Republicans are willing to redefine what constitutes rape and incest, what are they going to try next? Enough is enough. It is time for the Republican majority to respect women's important life decisions, and it is time that they start to stand and start to refocus on the priorities of this country right now--jobs and growing the economy. I urge my colleagues to oppose this extreme and intrusive legislation.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in opposition to this free trade agreement with Panama and to the two others that we are considering this week with South Korea and Colombia. Trade agreements should be in the best interests of our Nation and its people, but sadly this has not been the case with the past free trade agreements. Have some of our wealthiest corporations profited from them? Indeed. But the rest of America, especially the middle class, has struggled with job loss, closed factories, and economic and emotional anguish across the country. I hear from Wisconsin families every day that are struggling mightily, struggling to pay the mortgage, put food on the table, and send their kids to college, especially during these uncertain economic times. The solution is to put our people back to work and preserve American jobs. When done right, trade agreements can help bolster our manufacturing and high-skilled technology industries and create jobs as they increase exports and help our economy recover. Done wrong, trade agreements send these same jobs offshore, leaving Americans out of work. Unfortunately, I believe these trade agreements with South Korea, Panama, and Colombia will exacerbate the U.S. trade deficit and further erode our manufacturing base.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in celebration of the 100th anniversary of Madison Area Technical College and to honor the education and enrichment this institution brings to the people of Wisconsin. Madison College was founded in 1912 and quickly gained the reputation of a prestigious technical and community college. The technical school offers associate degrees, professional certificates, and specialized vocational training that reaches far beyond the walls of its main campus in Madison. The ability to receive specific training in 140 pertinent and growing career fields from a technical college is essential to the success of our community, especially in the tough economic times we find ourselves in today. Madison College's vision is to transform lives, one at a time. This vision holds true from the Madison campuses all the way to each of the regional campuses in Fort Atkinson, Portage, Reedsburg, and Watertown. The skills students gain while attending the institution provide them with the tools to be successful in their future endeavors. The class size of only 20 students allows students and dedicated instructors to form a close bond, enhancing the educational experience. The mission of the institution is to provide ``accessible, high- quality learning experiences that serve the community.'' Madison College's affordable tuition, financial aid, and scholarship opportunities ensure students from all backgrounds can receive the education they deserve. Further, the Transfer U program allows students to gain the first two years of general education requirements and continue on for a bachelor's degree at another college or university, including the University of Wisconsin-Madison. This program saves the student an average of $11,000 in tuition each year. The technical college is also recognized as a state leader in delivering specialized training for future employees and nearly 90 percent of graduates find employment within 6 months of matriculation. Not only does Madison College deliver a high-quality education to its students, but it also provides a fun and well-rounded college atmosphere. There are many student activities, campus events, and athletics that students can participate in to enrich their experience. Through its educational and community programs, Madison College serves approximately 42,000 people each year. Madison College has effectively promoted its values of excellence, respect, and integrity over the past 100 years and will undoubtedly continue to do so in the future. I proudly join those across South Central Wisconsin, the entire state of Wisconsin, and this great Nation in celebrating the 100th anniversary of Madison Area Technical College and in thanking the many instructors, administrators, and students that make this institution such an outstanding place.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 40th anniversary of Community Shares of Wisconsin and to recognize the commitment of its participants to serving their communities. In 1971, amidst a deep societal divide over civil rights issues and the Vietnam War, a number of area volunteers created the Madison Sustaining Fund, America's first social action fund. Today, the fund now known as Community Shares of Wisconsin (CSW) partners with donors and non-profit member groups to address social, economic, and environmental challenges through grassroots activities, advocacy, research, and public education. CSW continues to effect change in all aspects of our society by supporting the work of its non-profit member groups. The sixty-three non-profit member groups currently supported by Community Shares of Wisconsin are groups independently involved in tackling social and environmental issues both locally and nationwide. By working with CSW, each member non-profit group gains access to a larger network of supporters and more abundant resources with which to advance its mission. For 40 years, CSW has utilized this pooled resource model to devise innovative solutions and ideas that generate lasting changes in social justice across the United States. It is due to the hard work of CSW member organizations like the Fair Housing Center of Greater Madison that more Wisconsinites can live in affordable housing complexes that offer permanent shelter and community safety. Other members of the CSW, like the Wisconsin Women's Network, are committed to the betterment of women's health, safety, and workplace protections. Although these are just a few examples, it is without a doubt that the civil rights and liberties of our family, friends, and neighbors stand better protected today thanks to the dedication and commitment of CSW member groups. In addition to advancing social justice, the pursuit for environmental preservation is one of CSW's highest priorities. By supporting non-profit groups such as Clean Wisconsin, Friends of Wisconsin State Parks, and the River Alliance of Wisconsin, CSW works to improve the condition of Wisconsin's waters and its air quality. The great State of Wisconsin now thrives as a haven for residents and tourists who take pleasure in the outdoors and depend on the State's natural resources on a daily basis. Today, CSW continues to bring together thousands of donors to benefit a multiplicity of causes through its non-profit member groups. I extend my sincerest congratulations to Community Shares of Wisconsin on its 40 years of forward thinking and its steadfast pursuit of justice and environmental protection for our community, both here in Wisconsin and across this great Nation.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in celebration of the 25th anniversary of Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin and to honor all those who worked to make this exceptional food bank successful over the last quarter century. In the summer of 1984, the dream of a food bank in Dane County became a reality when the Southern Wisconsin Regional Foodbank, Inc., eventually renamed Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin, was created. It wasn't until 1986 that the first warehouse was established in Madison, but by the end of the year nearly three million pounds of food had been donated to 85 partner organizations. Over the next two decades, the food bank saw an explosion of increased services and growth, including countless new partnerships and programs, awards, and food distribution topping 6.8 million pounds by 2009. Today, Second Harvest works hard to address the issue of hunger in our community. They handle 20,000 pounds of food per day, distributing over 8 million pounds through 350 partner agencies in sixteen Wisconsin counties annually. Second Harvest also operates services like the Kids Cafe and the BackPack programs, which provide food, nourishment, and health education to children. These programs are essential because statistics show that over 43% of those who do not have access to adequate amounts and types of healthy foods are children. Furthermore, the food bank operates thirty Mobile Pantry Program sites and has a long-standing partnership with the local NBC affiliate for their annual holiday food drive, providing an additional 1.5 million meals for families facing hunger. Over the years, numerous people helped to make Second Harvest Foodbank an ongoing success. Today, a dedicated board of directors and admirable staff work to assist over 141,000 people in southwestern Wisconsin who continue to lack proper nutrition. It is without a doubt, however, that the impact that Second Harvest makes on our community would not be possible without the ongoing generosity of volunteers. These inspirational and essential workers average over 5,000 hours of monthly service, equaling the work of 30 full-time employees. Further, each hour of donated time equals 63 meals, and with over 62,000 hours donated volunteers have helped share more that 3.9 million meals. It is hard to overstate the positive impact that Second Harvest has had and will continue to have on our community. For the fifth year in a row, Charity Navigator rated Second Harvest with four stars, highlighting its commitment to returning 94 cents of every dollar donated back to support the charity. Last year, with the help of so many donations, the food bank shared over 8.1 million pounds of food and each of their five different programs saw great success and growth. In the words of Second Harvest's President and CEO, Dan Stein, ``It is possible to end hunger.'' From Juneau to Green County, Crawford to Jefferson County and everywhere in between, Second Harvest has been a beacon of hope for our community and a model for charitable organizations. I proudly join those across Southern Wisconsin, the entire state, and the nation in celebrating the 25th anniversary of Second Harvest Foodbank and in thanking the employees, volunteers, and donors for their exemplary service to our community.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the enshrinement of Coach Barry Alvarez into the College Football Hall of Fame. Offering more then just winning strategy, our Coach has come to epitomize Badger athletics. In the four seasons prior to the Coach's arrival in 1990, our football team was 9-36 and struggled to fill historic Camp Randall Stadium with fans. However, Coach Alvarez's innovative coaching techniques breathed new life into Wisconsin's football program and quickly reignited our community's passion for the team. As Head Football Coach for sixteen seasons from 1990 to 2005, Coach Alvarez distinguished himself as the winningest coach in school history. In 2004, Coach Alvarez also became the University's Director of Athletics, a position he continues to hold since retiring as Head Football Coach in 2005. Enshrinement in the College Football Hall of Fame is no easy feat. Nominated coaches have won at least 60 percent of games over a minimum ten year and 100 game head coaching career, an accomplishment very few ever achieve. Coach Alvarez's resume also boasts an overall record of 118-73-4, three Big Ten Conference Championships and three Rose Bowl victories. Furthermore, he has the highest bowl game winning percentage for a coach with at least 11 bowl appearances and is the only coach in Big Ten history with back-to-back Rose Bowl wins. In 2009, he was inducted into both the Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame and the Rose Bowl Hall of Fame and finally, on May 27, 2010, Coach Alvarez was unanimously selected by his peers to join the 2010 class of the College Football Hall of Fame. While Coach Alvarez achieved exceptional success on the football field, we must also acknowledge his wider contributions to the University and the people of Wisconsin. His commitment to the education of student-athletes during his tenure is inspirational. During his first year as Director of Athletics in 1996, Badger student-athletes registered the highest cumulative grade-point average on record. In 2000, Coach Alvarez and his wife, Cindy, created a $250,000 endowment scholarship at the University of Wisconsin helping to ensure that student-athletes are better prepared to become fully participating adults in our democracy. Coach Alvarez remains committed to the advancement of Badger student- athletes, the Athletic Department and the entire University of Wisconsin. He selflessly dedicates his time, talents and resources to improving the lives of those around him. With Coach Alvarez's influence, athletics will continue to hold a prominent place at the University of Wisconsin. The contributions of such a legendary figure ensure that Badger fans in our community, across the state of Wisconsin and nationwide can stand proudly and cheer, ``On Wisconsin!''

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Devil's Lake State Park and the people of Wisconsin's commitment to the maintenance of our most visited state park. Since 1911, Devil's Lake State Park has provided diverse recreation for countless spirited adventurers. From the dancing waters of the 374- acre lake filled with brown trout and northern pike to historic and sacred Effigy Mounds that are over 1,000 years old to the famed Devil's Doorway and Balanced Rock formations, this picturesque park encompasses nearly 10,000 acres. Those who trek to its highest points are treated to a breathtaking view of the valleys and bluffs that flank the park. For over a century, campers, hikers, bikers, swimmers, anglers, boaters, and many more have flocked to this pristine destination. It is no wonder why Devil's Lake State Park attracts so many visitors each year; to put it simply--to visit the park is to fall in love with it. Although Devil's Lake State Park is celebrating its centennial this year, it has been a source of recreation and tourism for far longer. Beginning in the mid-1800s, the Devil's Lake area was surrounded by several hotels and resorts and even hosted Mrs. Mary Todd Lincoln and General Ulysses S. Grant during their visit. These establishments were serviced by a railroad that transported visitors often numbering in the thousands. As times changed and the automobile was introduced, the hotels faded into history and the park became more accessible as a day- trip destination. Finally, in 1911, the state designated the park as the third official Wisconsin State Park. Of course, Devil's Lake State Park would not be what it is today without the dedication of many over the years. In the days of the Great Depression, it was the hardworking individuals of the Civilian Conservation Corps who built trails, removed invasive species, built a reservoir, acted as fireguards, and built various structures. Today, it is the tireless efforts of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, The Friends of Devil's Lake State Park, and the myriad of other volunteers and supporters who ensure that the park is protected and preserved for centuries to come. In 1919, official attendance records indicate that there were 100,000 visitors. Today, Devil's Lake State Park entertains approximately 1.8 million visitors per year and continues to serve as a recreational haven. As we look to the future, we see the possible addition of more campsites and land to the west and north and a unique opportunity to add some 4,000 acres from the decommissioned Badger Army Ammunition Plant (BAAP) to the south. Today, I join visitors from South Central Wisconsin, across our great nation, and across the world in celebrating the 100th anniversary of Devil's Lake State Park.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. I yield myself 3\1/2\ minutes. Madam Chair, I rise to urge adoption of the Baldwin-Sensenbrenner amendment that strikes section 5 in the America Invents Act. Section 5 expands the prior-user rights defense from its present narrow scope to broadly apply to all patents with minimal exceptions. As we work to rebuild our economy, Congress should be doing all that it can to foster small business innovation and investment. I believe that section 5 will do just the opposite. Expanding prior-user rights will be disastrous for small American innovators, as well as university researchers, and ultimately slow job creation. Despite current challenges, the U.S. patent system remains the envy of the world. Since the founding of our Nation, inventions have been awarded exclusive rights in exchange for public disclosure. This system also creates incentives for investing in new ideas, fostering new ways of thinking, and encouraging further advancement and disclosures. It promotes progress. If proponents of expanding prior-user rights have their way with this legislation, they will give new rights to those who have previously developed and used the same process or product even if they never publicly divulged their innovation and never even applied for a patent. It will transform our patent system from one that values transparency to one that rewards secrecy. To understand why expanding prior-user rights runs counter to the public interest, it is important to reiterate how critical exclusive rights are for inventions to gain marketplace value and acquire capital. For start-ups and small businesses, raising necessary capital is vital and challenging. The expansion of prior-user rights would only make that task all the more difficult. Under the system proposed in the American Invents Act, investors would have no way of determining whether anyone had previously developed and used the process or product that they were seeking to patent. In such a scenario, a patent might be valuable or relatively worthless; and the inventor and potential investors would have no means of determining which was true. Madam Chairwoman, I would like to boast for a moment if I could about Stratatech, a fiercely innovative small business in Madison run by a top researcher at the University of Wisconsin who, through her research there, developed a human living skin substitute. This living skin is a groundbreaking treatment method that we hope will ultimately save the lives of American troops who have suffered burns while serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. The company was recently awarded nearly $4 million to continue clinical trials for their tissue product. And what can save lives in a desert combat setting abroad will assuredly transform the way doctors save lives of burn victims in hospitals around our country and around the world. Now, I wonder if Stratatech would have been able to drive this phenomenal innovation and life-saving technology as far as they have with a patent that provides only conditional exclusivity. Would investors have felt as secure advancing this technology in a system shrouded in secrecy? What if Stratatech's patent was subject to the claims of an unlimited number of people or companies who could later claim ``prior use''?

Ms. BALDWIN. I yield myself 15 additional seconds. If we let section 5 stand, it is unclear to me whether a similar company would ever secure the funding that they need to grow. I urge my colleagues to adopt the Baldwin-Sensenbrenner amendment. I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. BALDWIN. I yield the balance of my time to the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Sensenbrenner).

Ms. BALDWIN. Madam Chair, I have an amendment at the desk.

Ms. BALDWIN. Madam Chair, I demand a recorded vote.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the career and achievements of Ms. Connie Ferris Bailey, Executive Director of Operation Fresh Start, OFS, as she retires from her esteemed position after 34 years of service. OFS was founded in 1970 and provides young offenders and high school dropouts with opportunities to learn basic work skills, prepare for high school equivalency exams, and secure employment. Furthermore, OFS stresses the importance of giving back to the community by renovating housing into safe, energy-efficient, affordable homes for low-income families. Over the past forty years OFS has built over 215 quality homes. It is undoubtedly because of Connie's tireless leadership and energy that OFS is what it is today. In 1979, three years after joining OFS, Connie assumed the role of Executive Director. Under her tutelage OFS expanded annual enrollment to over 150 youth and focused on helping participants achieve self-sufficiency and become contributing citizens of the community. Connie's dedication to building a sustainable future and continuing Wisconsin's proud environmental legacy led OFS to begin providing conservation and stewardship services in and around Dane County in 1980. Additionally, since 2005, OFS builds new homes to meet or exceed Wisconsin Energy Star standards. Connie transformed lives of at-risk youth in Madison, Dane County, and across Wisconsin. To date, OFS has served over 7,000 people. Eighty-five percent of participants are between the ages of 16-24 and 80 percent complete the goals of the program. Studies show that an astounding 60-65 percent of graduates remain self-sufficient. These numbers only begin to explain why the OFS model that Connie helped shape is so successful. It is not surprising that, in 1998, then Governor Tommy Thompson was eager to work with Connie to establish Wisconsin Fresh Start, WFS, a network of non-profit agencies operating under the OFS model that provide services aimed at increasing self- esteem and self-sufficiency of troubled youth. Today, WFS includes 9 agencies in 12 communities around the state and OFS continues to provide technical assistance to WFS. Over the years, Connie held every employment title within OFS, highlighting how vital each position is to the program's overall success. It is an understatement to say that Connie has been and forever will be an invaluable asset to OFS and our community as a whole. Her emphasis on the value of hard work, respect, and self-worth and her recognition of potential in each and every person makes her an inspirational role model. Thankfully, although Connie is retiring, she will continue to provide essential technical assistance to new Youthbuild USA programs throughout the Midwest. People like Connie and programs like Operation Fresh Start are yet another reason I am so proud to represent the Second Congressional District of Wisconsin. I join those across Wisconsin, the Midwest, and our great Nation in thanking Ms. Connie Ferris Bailey for her lifetime of service.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Chairman, my amendment is simple. It would prohibit funds from being used to design, develop or procure Coast Guard Offshore Patrol Cutters unless the main diesel engines are manufactured in the United States and made by American workers. To address any concerns that this could be a single-source contract, this provision may be waived to ensure competition and best value to the American taxpayer. The Coast Guard plans to build and procure 25 or more Offshore Patrol Cutters in the coming years. And I fully support this acquisition program. However, I believe that the Coast Guard should be required to purchase engines manufactured in the United States made by American workers. For some reason, though, the Coast Guard has a history of buying ship engines from foreign manufacturers. We also know that the Coast Guard has a history of designing ship platforms which give preference to overseas manufacturers, resulting in major contracts going to foreign manufacturers. This practice is driving American manufacturers out of business. Although Congress required that vessels for the Coast Guard be manufactured in the United States starting back in 1993, in recent years, the Coast Guard has continued to procure vessel engines from foreign manufacturers. Mr. Chairman, this is just plain wrong. The Offshore Patrol Cutter is a 25-ship class, one of the Coast Guard's largest cutter classes. Making these ships here in America would generate a lot of U.S. manufacturing jobs for many years to come. But absent some direction from this Congress, I believe that the Coast Guard will continue to send American manufacturing jobs overseas. With unemployment at 9 percent, Mr. Chairman, we can no longer tolerate this situation. Let's bring these jobs back home. Let U.S. manufacturers compete for taxpayer dollars. I want to offer at least one specific example of the Coast Guard's current shortsighted procurement policy--the contract that they gave to MTU, a German manufacturer, for the May propulsion diesel engine of the first National Security Cutter. This vessel, the US CGC Bertholf, suffered a catastrophic failure, including an explosion and destruction of the piston and connecting rod that had to be replaced. Now, in its solicitation for this replacement, the Coast Guard noted that ``a number of the critical parts are only currently available from the MTU factory in Germany, where these engines are manufactured. These critical parts must be specifically manufactured and have a lead time of 6 to 8 weeks from receipt of order. In addition, these parts must pass through U.S. Customs, which may entail additional delays.'' The Coast Guard purchased these repairs on a sole-source basis from Germany at an estimated cost to the taxpayer of $265,000. U.S. manufacturers never had a chance to compete for these engines and any repair work necessary down the road. Again, Mr. Chairman, this is just plain wrong. Getting Americans back to work is my number one priority, and I believe my colleagues would agree with me on this. I know full well these are challenging economic times in my home State of Wisconsin and across the Nation. Recently, I visited a manufacturing plant located in my district. Workers there are confused. They don't understand why any branch of the Federal Government, much less a branch of homeland defense, would choose to give a major contract to a foreign competitor. The workers I spoke with share the worries of working families across the country: Will they be able to support their families? Will their children have the same opportunities they had, or will they see their jobs shipped overseas? At the end of the day, this is about doing what is right by our fellow Americans. Mr. Chairman, isn't keeping capable, hardworking Americans working the essence of homeland security? In matters of national security in particular, I believe we should ensure that American workers build what we need to keep America safe. My amendment is a small, but very needed change to the current Coast Guard procurement process. It will strengthen the U.S. diesel manufacturing base and create many well- paying American jobs. Mr. Chairman and my fellow colleagues, we have a choice. We can continue funneling good-paying jobs overseas, or we can allow my amendment to move forward, putting the best interests of America's working families and our national security first. I yield back the balance of my time. Point of Order

Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Chairman, I have an amendment at the desk.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise in support of National Critical Care Awareness and Recognition Month and applaud the work of the nation's critical care medical professionals, including the doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists and pharmacists, among others, who provide care to the nearly five million Americans admitted into traditional, surgical, pediatric or neo-natal intensive care units each year. These patients require a specialized level of care that is technology-intensive, requires continuous monitoring, and involves a high use of tests, medications and procedures. Critical care medicine consumes a significant proportion of our health care expenditures, representing 13 percent of all hospital costs, with the total costs of critical care services in the U.S. exceeding $80 billion annually. Despite the significant role critical care medicine plays in providing high quality health care and its impact on health care costs, it is often not understood as a distinct specialty posing intense challenges in the health care system--from workforce shortages, poorly coordinated outcomes research and challenges in providing appropriate care at the end of a patient's life. If we are to reduce costs and improve the quality of medical care, it is also important to consider and assess the unique demands of critical care medicine. That is why I have introduced the Critical Care Assessment and Improvement Act of 2011, which would ensure our critically ill and injured patients continue to receive the highest quality care by identifying gaps in the current critical care delivery model and bolstering capabilities to meet future demands. I urge my colleagues to join me in paying special tribute to the dedicated professionals who care for the sickest patients and their families, and commemorate Critical Care Awareness and Recognition Month by cosponsoring the Critical Care Assessment and Improvement Act.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mt. Zion Baptist Church of the City of Madison, Wisconsin, on the historic occasion of its 100th anniversary. Since 1911, Mt. Zion Baptist Church has been a vital organization in the Madison community.The Madison area is truly fortunate to have such a wonderful church continually working to better the community. Over the past 100 years, Mt. Zion has not only offered spiritual guidance, but also opened its doors to the community, expanding and evolving its services to meet the needs of those it serves. In its first 100 years, Mt. Zion Baptist Church has provided a legacy of pastoral leadership. Reverend Joseph Washington, pastor from 1927 to 1965 and Reverend Joe Dawson, pastor from 1955 to 1985, did much to shape both the church and the community. That dedication to both congregation and community was further exemplified by the leadership of Reverend James Wright, who served Mt. Zion as associate minister from 1960 to 1984 and as senior pastor from 1990 to 1995. He also served the entire Madison community as Director of the Madison Equal Opportunities Commission. That rich tradition continues today under the leadership of Reverend Richard L. Jones, Sr. Beyond offering a tradition of strong and inspirational pastoral guidance, Mt. Zion Baptist Church works tirelessly to give back to the community. Today, Reverend Richard Jones ensures that Mt. Zion does all it can to feed the hungry and clothe the poor, and work to better our community through scholarships, tutors, and many other forms of charity work. Mt. Zion is always extending a helping hand to its neighbors and all those in need. The motto of Mt. Zion Baptist Church is ``Building up Reaching out,'' and this ideal is personified by the congregation at Mt. Zion. Every day since 1911, Madison area residents have enjoyed the service and guidance provided by the Church. Today, I am humbled to join the congregation of Mt. Zion Baptist Church, the residents of the City of Madison, the people of the State of Wisconsin, and all citizens of the United States in recognizing, honoring, and sincerely thanking Mt. Zion Baptist Church and its faithful followers for their selfless works and tireless commitment for the past 100 years.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. I thank the gentleman. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to this Republican proposal because it will not create jobs, it will not stimulate our struggling economy, and it will not put the middle class back to work. Instead, the bill that we are considering today would take away funding for States to offer new affordable insurance options for their citizens. And this bill would lead to job loss, hindering our fragile economic recovery. Bait and switch--that is what it is called when you say one thing and do another, when you run for office promising to create jobs and bolster the economy and get elected and start doing something entirely different. Last election was about jobs and the economy, and Congress should be at the forefront. But instead of leading and putting Americans back to work, we are considering a bill to repeal funding that will create jobs and provide families and small businesses with access to affordable health care options. Forty-eight States, including my home State of Wisconsin, have already received up to $1 million each to get health insurance exchanges up and running, including hiring key staff for implementation. In other words, this funding is creating jobs. This Republican bill raises a very important question: Are we going to ask cash-strapped States to return the money they have already been awarded? Are we going to prevent these States from receiving further funding that will create jobs? I fail to see how rescinding these dollars that will be used to create jobs is the right thing to do to get our economy back on track, and I urge my colleagues to stand up for Americans looking for work and looking for affordable health care and vote against this bill.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Children's Mental Health Awareness Day, which occurs each year during National Children's Mental Health Awareness Week. In 2004, the National Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health began designating the first full week of May as Children's Mental Health Awareness Week to promote the positive development of our youth. Additionally, since 2006, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's Center for Mental Health Services has declared one day during the week National Children's Mental Health Awareness Day. On this special day, a distinguished coalition is gathering in Wisconsin. Groups like Wisconsin Family Ties, the Wisconsin Alliance for Infant Mental Health, Wisconsin United for Mental Health, the Supporting Families Together Association, and Wisconsin Public Broadcasting are joining with affected youth, their families, and others in our community. They stand together at the Madison Children's Museum to focus our attention on this important public health issue. In Wisconsin the statistics paint a startling picture. One out of every five children who appear healthy is, in fact, suffering from mental health problems. Children with mental illness and disabilities have a far greater likelihood of being suspended or expelled from school, abusing drugs or alcohol, or ending up in the juvenile justice system. In 2008, only 11 percent of Wisconsin children living with serious mental health disorders received any public mental health services, less than one third the rate for adults. However, not all hope is lost. At the federal level, the passage of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act includes numerous provisions that will help diagnose, treat, and support children with mental illness and their families. For example, the law immediately eliminates pre-existing condition clauses for children. This will help ensure that more families can afford to seek treatment for their child and may do so without fear of losing their coverage. We must continue to pursue a course of action that works to not only identify and diagnose mental illness as early as possible, but also provide comprehensive treatment to those affected. The better we are able to serve the needs of our youth who suffer from mental illness, the sooner we can reduce long term costs associated with dropout rates, substance abuse, homelessness, and the justice system. We know that children with mental illness can live full and productive lives as long as we provide them with the support they need. In the 1800s, the color green was used to identify people who were labeled ``insane.'' Since then, the color has taken on a very different meaning, one that now signifies new life, new growth, and new beginnings. Today, I join with children, families, and supporters both in south central Wisconsin and across the nation in wearing the color green to show our support. Above all, I salute all those who are working to raise awareness of this crucial issue and hope today serves as a reminder that each one of us can and must do better to address children's mental health issues.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the University of Wisconsin-Madison women's hockey team for completing an outstanding season and winning the NCAA Division I National Championship. The victory marks the Badgers' fourth national title in six years. Under the tutelage of Coach Mark Johnson, UW-Madison achieved tremendous success this season with an overall record of 37 wins, 2 ties, and 2 losses. Their mark of 37 wins is a new NCAA women's hockey record, besting the mark of 36 wins previously set by the Badgers in 2006. and 2007, and their last win capped an unbelievable 27 game win streak. The Badgers secured both the WCHA regular season and tournament titles, and on March 20, 2011, they iced the National Championship with a 4-1 victory over Boston University in the 2011 NCAA Women's Frozen Four National Championship game at Tullio Arena in Erie, Pennsylvania. The merit of this team is reflected in the many accolades earned by its members. Coach Johnson, a former gold medal Olympian, was awarded the 2011 American Hockey Coaches Association Division I Coach of the Year, making him a four-time recipient of the award. Additionally, senior forward Meghan Duggan was awarded the Patty Kazmaier Award, which recognizes the Division I female hockey player who displays the highest standards of personal and team excellence during the season. Meghan's three point performance in the semifinal game against Boston College, which included an assist on Brianna Decker's goal with just 48 seconds left, helped the Badgers skate into the finals. The puck does not stop with athletic achievement. UW-Madison Chancellor Biddy Martin, Athletic Director Barry Alvarez, and Coach Mark Johnson are dedicated to creating an environment of academic excellence. Every year, the Elite 88 award is presented to the student- athlete with the highest cumulative grade point average participating in the finals for each of the NCAA's 88 championships. This year, sophomore goalie Rebecca Ruegsegger, who also was named to the All-WCHA Academic team and is a WCHA Scholar Athlete, was the women's hockey recipient for this prestigious award for her 4.0 grade point average. The loyal support of Badger fans clad in cardinal and white across the state helped raise the women's hockey team to the apex of their sport. I join others in south central Wisconsin in proudly recognizing the achievements of the players, coaches, students, alumni, and staffers who were vital in helping the UW-Madison women's hockey team win yet another NCAA title.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. I thank the gentlewoman. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to this bill which prohibits Federal funding of National Public Radio and the use of Federal funds to acquire radio content. I am incredibly disappointed in my Republican colleagues for this needless attempt to cripple NPR and threaten thousands of jobs in the public broadcasting community. Without so much as a single hearing on this subject, this bill dissolves a vital public radio system depended upon by millions of Americans across the country. Twenty-seven million Americans listen to NPR each week, and back home in Wisconsin nearly 450,000 people listen to Wisconsin Public Radio weekly over three statewide networks. In addition, 2.3 million visitors visited the Wisconsin Public Radio Web site in 2010. Those who listen to Wisconsin Public Radio know how much there is to love. Wisconsin Public Radio provides over 9 hours each weekday of interactive radio programming, engaging Wisconsin residents and experts from around the world in public policy, culture, arts, and educational discussions. And because Wisconsin is largely a rural State, our citizens rely on over-the-air broadcasting more than almost any other State. This means that Wisconsin audiences significantly rely on public radio. Not only would this horrible bill, rushed before us today, cripple local radio stations and programming that we enjoy in Wisconsin; it severely harms listeners' access to national shows, like ``Morning Edition,'' ``All Things Considered,'' ``This American Life,'' ``A Prairie Home Companion,'' and one of my personal favorites, ``Whad'ya Know,'' among many others. Mr. Speaker, the Republican majority is clearly not interested in creating jobs or dealing seriously with this deficit. Despite all of the talk, we are here today considering legislation that attacks public radio. I strongly oppose this bill, and I strongly urge all of my colleagues to do so, too.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, March 10 marked the 52nd anniversary of the Tibetan uprising against the People's Republic of China, during which His Holiness the Dalai Lama fled into exile. On that day, there was a small commemoration on Library Mall in Madison with Wisconsin's Tibetan-American community, which my staff was honored to attend. While the commemoration serves as a painful but important reminder of China's prolonged efforts to outlaw dissent, restrict free expression, and violently occupy Tibet, it also serves as a symbol of our sustained vigilance, continued determination, and enduring hope that Tibetans everywhere will soon be free to live in peace with their land and culture intact. On this anniversary, I offer support and conviction to the thousands of Tibetans living in exile and the thousands more who have chosen to stand beside them in the struggle. for freedom. I support the Middle- Way Approach proposed by His Holiness the Dalai Lama to honor the dignity of both Tibetan and Chinese people and to promote a respectful solution. I strongly believe that the United States has a responsibility to stand up for human rights and the rule of law, and I support efforts to address the plight of Tibetans. The Dalai Lama issued a statement on March 10, as he does every year, which represents a ``state of the union'' speech for Tibetans. This year's statement was newsworthy, in that the Dalai Lama announced that he intends to hand over the last vestiges of his governmental responsibilities to the elected leadership of the Tibetan Government in exile, while remaining a committed advocate for the Tibet cause. At a time when despots around the world cling to power as their people yearn for democracy, the Dalai Lama's willful ceding of power is a tribute to his vision to fulfill the aspirations of the Tibetan people and should inspire others around the world. I insert the Dalai Lama's March 10, 2011, statement into the Record. Statement of His Holiness the Dalai Lama on the 52nd Anniversary of the Tibetan National Uprising Day, March 9, 2011 Today marks the 52nd anniversary of the Tibetan people's peaceful uprising of 1959 against Communist China's repression in the Tibetan capital Lhasa, and the third anniversary of the non-violent demonstrations that took place across Tibet in 2008. On this occasion, I would like to pay tribute to and pray for those brave men and women who sacrificed their lives for the just cause of Tibet. I express my solidarity with those who continue to suffer repression and pray for the well-being of all sentient beings. For more than sixty years, Tibetans, despite being deprived of freedom and living in fear and insecurity, have been able to maintain their unique Tibetan identity and cultural values, More consequentially, successive new generations, who have no experience of free Tibet, have courageously taken responsibility in advancing the cause of Tibet. This is admirable, for they exemplify the strength of Tibetan resilience. This Earth belongs to humanity and the People's Republic of China (PRC) belongs to its 1.3 billion citizens, who have the right to know the truth about the state of affairs in their country and the world at large. If citizens are fully informed, they have the ability to distinguish right from wrong. Censorship and the restriction of information violate basic human decency. For instance, China's leaders consider the communist ideology and its policies to be correct. If this were so, these policies should be made public with confidence and open to scrutiny. China, with the world's largest population, is an emerging world power and I admire the economic development it has made. It also has huge potential to contribute to human progress and world peace. But to do that, China must earn the international community's respect and trust. In order to earn such respect China's leaders must develop greater transparency, their actions corresponding to their words. To ensure this, freedom of expression and freedom of the press are essential. Similarly, transparency in governance can help check corruption. In recent years, China has seen an increasing number of intellectuals calling for political reform and greater openness. Premier Wen Jiabao has also expressed support for these concerns. These are significant indications and I welcome them. The PRC is a country comprising many nationalities, enriched by a diversity of languages and cultures. Protection of the language and culture of each nationality is a policy of the PRC, which is clearly spelt out in its constitution. Tibetan is the only language to preserve the entire range of the Buddha's teachings, including the texts on logic and theories of knowledge (epistemology), which we inherited from India's Nalanda University. This is a system of knowledge governed by reason and logic that has the potential to contribute to the peace and happiness of all beings. Therefore, the policy of undermining such a culture, instead of protecting and developing it, will in the long run amount to the destruction of humanity's common heritage. The Chinese government frequently states that stability and development in Tibet is the foundation for its long-term well-being. However, the authorities still station large numbers of troops all across Tibet, increasing restrictions on the Tibetan people. Tibetans live in constant fear and anxiety. More recently, many Tibetan intellectuals, public figures and environmentalists have been punished for articulating the Tibetan people's basic aspirations. They have been imprisoned allegedly for ``subverting state power'' when actually they have been giving voice to the Tibetan identity and cultural heritage. Such repressive measures undermine unity and stability. Likewise, in China, lawyers defending people's rights, independent writers and human rights activists have been arrested. I strongly urge the Chinese leaders to review these developments and release these prisoners of conscience forthwith. The Chinese government claims there is no problem in Tibet other than the personal privileges and status of the Dalai Lama. The reality is that the ongoing oppression of the Tibetan people has provoked widespread, deep resentment against current official policies. People from all walks of life frequently express their discontentment. That there is a problem in Tibet is reflected in the Chinese authorities' failure to trust Tibetans or win their loyalty. Instead, the Tibetan people live under constant suspicion and surveillance. Chinese and foreign visitors to Tibet corroborate this grim reality. Therefore, just as we were able to send fact-finding delegations to Tibet in the late 1970s and early 1980s from among Tibetans in exile, we propose similar visits again. At the same time we would encourage the sending of representatives of independent international bodies, including parliamentarians. If they were to find that Tibetans in Tibet are happy, we would readily accept it. The spirit of realism that prevailed under Mao's leadership in the early 1950s led China to sign the 17-point agreement with Tibet. A similar spirit of realism prevailed once more during Hu Yaobang's time in the early 1980s. If there had been a continuation of such realism the Tibetan issue, as well as several other problems, could easily have been solved. Unfortunately, conservative views derailed these policies. The result is that after, more than six decades, the problem has become more intractable. The Tibetan Plateau is the source of the major rivers of Asia. Because it has the largest concentration of glaciers apart from the two Poles, it is considered to be the Third Pole. Environmental degradation in Tibet will have a detrimental impact on large parts of Asia, particularly on China and the Indian subcontinent. Both the central and local governments, as well as the Chinese public, should realise the degradation of the Tibetan environment and develop sustainable measures to safeguard it. I appeal to China to take into account the survival of people affected by what happens environmentally on the Tibetan Plateau. In our efforts to solve the issue of Tibet, we have consistently pursued the mutually beneficial Middle-Way Approach, which seeks genuine autonomy for the Tibetan people within the PRC. In our talks with officials of the Chinese government's United Front Work Department we have clearly explained in detail the Tibetan people's hopes and aspirations. The lack of any positive response to our reasonable proposals makes us wonder whether these were fully and accurately conveyed to the higher authorities. Since ancient times, Tibetan and Chinese peoples have lived as neighbours. It would be a mistake if our unresolved differences were to affect this age-old friendship. Special efforts are being made to promote good relations between Tibetans and Chinese living abroad and I am happy that this has contributed to better understanding and friendship between us. Tibetans inside Tibet should also cultivate good relations with our Chinese brothers and sisters. In recent weeks we have witnessed remarkable non-violent struggles for freedom and democracy in various parts of North Africa and elsewhere. I am a firm believer in non-violence and people-power and these events have shown once again that determined non-violent action can indeed bring about positive change. We must all hope that these inspiring changes lead to genuine freedom, happiness and prosperity for the peoples in these countries. One of the aspirations I have cherished since childhood is the reform of Tibet's political and social structure, and in the few years when I held effective power in Tibet, I managed to make some fundamental changes. Although I was unable to take this further in Tibet, I have made every effort to do so since we came into exile. Today, within the framework of the Charter for Tibetans in Exile, the Kalon Tripa, the political leadership, and the people's representatives are directly elected by the people. We have been able to implement democracy in exile that is in keep with the standards of an open society. As early as the 1960s, I have repeatedly stressed that Tibetans need a leader, elected freely by the Tibetan people, to whom I can devolve power. Now, we have clearly reached the time to put this into effect. During the forthcoming eleventh session of the fourteenth Tibetan Parliament in Exile, which begins on 14th March, I will formally propose that the necessary amendments be made to the Charter for Tibetans in Exile, reflecting my decision to devolve my formal authority to the elected leader. Since I made my intention clear I have received repeated and earnest requests both from within Tibet and outside, to continue to provide political leadership. My desire to devolve authority has nothing to do with a wish to shirk responsibility. It is to benefit Tibetans in the long run. It is not because I feel disheartened. Tibetans have placed such faith and trust in me that as one among them I am committed to playing my part in the just cause of Tibet. I trust that gradually people will come to understand my intention, will support my decision and accordingly let it take effect. I would like to take this opportunity to remember the kindness of the leaders of various nations that cherish justice, members of parliaments, intellectuals and Tibet Support Groups, who have been steadfast in their support for the Tibetan people. In particular, we will always remember the kindness and consistent support of the people and Government of India and State Governments for generously helping Tibetans preserve and promote their religion and culture and ensuring the welfare of Tibetans in exile. To all of them I offer my heartfelt gratitude. With my prayers for the welfare and happiness of all sentient beings. 10 March 2011 Dharamsala