Tammy Baldwin

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 525, the Veterinary Public Health Amendments Act. Although we may not know it, our health depends, in part, on a small army of veterinarians working in public health. Their role was never clearer than during the H1N1 virus outbreak. We now see that diseases can travel from animals to humans seemingly overnight. Public health veterinarians are our frontline of defense against another outbreak. They inspect our slaughterhouses, prevent a foot-and- mouth disease outbreak from devastating our economy and our agriculture industry, and protect our citizens against the threat of bioterrorism. Unfortunately, our current workforce cannot meet these public health challenges. In the next 20 years, experts predict a shortage of 15,000 veterinarians; and between 2006 and 2016, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the demand for veterinary services will increase by 35 percent. Something must be done to protect our national health by preventing and controlling infectious diseases, ensuring the safety and security of the Nation's food supply, promoting healthy environments, and providing health care for animals. H.R. 525 will help to ensure that we have a more robust veterinary public health workforce. The bill has two main components: loan repayment for veterinarians who commit to teaching or to working in public health and a new fellowship program for public health veterinarians. I want to thank the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges and the American Veterinary Medical Association for their tireless work on behalf of public health veterinarians. I would also like to thank Chairman Pitts and Ranking Member Pallone for their support on this important legislation. This bill is identical to the Veterinary Public Health Amendments Act that passed the House by voice vote in the last Congress. This bill also passed the Energy and Commerce Committee unanimously. I urge my colleagues to support this critical bill to ensure that our veterinary workforce is prepared to meet our public health needs.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to this amendment and in opposition to the underlying bill. I fail to see how Republican efforts to eliminate all funds for health reform will create jobs or help our fragile economy recover. Instead, defunding health reform would leave behind thousands of whom I represent in Wisconsin, thousands of Wisconsin families who have already begun to experience the benefits of health care reform. Should the Republican efforts succeed, tens of thousands of young adults in Wisconsin would stand to lose their insurance coverage through their parents. Once again, children would be refused insurance, discriminated against because of preexisting conditions. And nearly 50,000 Wisconsin seniors would face higher prescription drug costs. What's more, the efforts to defund the health care reform law come on top of extreme cuts to community health care centers and family planning clinics. While I agree with my Republican colleagues that we must reduce the deficit and bring the budget into balance, we must be smart about it. And this amendment is not smart about it. This unwise bill jeopardizes our Nation's health, our Nation's recovery, and our Nation's future. And it's particularly troublesome to me this week because it falls on top of efforts by Wisconsin's governor to cut health, education, and public safety services, and to take away the rights of public servants to provide them. Mr. Chairman, today I stand in solidarity with my fellow Wisconsinites as I fight for a better future for all Wisconsinites and all Americans. I urge my colleagues to oppose Republican efforts to defund the health care reform law and to oppose the underlying bill.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. I thank the gentleman. I yield back the balance of my time. Point of Order

Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of my amendment and in opposition to H.R. 1, the Republican bill to slash services to the American people--a measure that I believe threatens jobs and our fragile economic recovery. I agree with my Republican colleagues that we must reduce the deficit and bring our budget into balance, but we must be smart about it. This bill harms the people who tend to our health, those who educate our children, and those who patrol our neighborhoods and protect our safety. This bill frustrates our economic recovery by making job training and career training unattainable for many Americans. Meanwhile, it does little to restrain excessive military spending or eliminate government handouts to Big Oil or eliminate tax breaks for multimillionaires. Today, we spend millions of dollars each day in Afghanistan and Iraq, spending that is protected in the bill that is before us. At the same time, this Republican bill to slash services cuts Community Health Centers to the core. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the work of Community Health Centers, they provide essential health services to children and families who lack insurance and have extremely limited incomes. Community Health Centers provide a big bang for the buck. They tend to the health care needs of more than 17 million uninsured or underinsured men, women, and children in America each year. The cut in the Republican bill before us is so deep that it will result in the elimination of services to more than half of the current capacity of Community Health Centers today to serve our neighbors. An estimated 127 new health centers in underserved areas will close across the United States. In some communities, patients with diabetes, heart disease, HIV and AIDS, pregnant women, and sick children will have nowhere to turn except perhaps emergency rooms ill-suited to their needs. Thousands of health care workers in rural and urban underserved communities will lose their jobs. I've already heard from the Director of Community Health Centers in both Beloit and Janesville, Wisconsin. He let me know about the serious impact this slash of funding will have on thousands in just one Wisconsin county. Mr. Chairman, my amendment restores Community Health Center funding, but I pay for it with a commensurate cut in wasteful defense spending. I said at the outset we need to be smart if we are to cut spending without compromising our jobs, our economic recovery, and our future. I agree with our President when he said, if we are to ``win the future,'' we must out-educate, out-innovate, and out-build the rest of the world. But we can't do that by cutting Pell Grants for students and slashing the research budgets of the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation, and the Department of Energy. This unwise bill jeopardizes our Nation's recovery and future. And it's particularly troublesome to me this week because it falls on top of efforts by Wisconsin's Governor to cut health, education, and public safety services and to diminish the rights of the public servants who provide them. Mr. Chairman, I stand here today in solidarity with my fellow Wisconsinites as I fight for a better future for all Wisconsinites and all Americans. I urge an ``aye'' vote on my amendment and a ``no'' vote on H.R. 1.

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

Ms. BALDWIN. The underlying House rules specifically permit an amendment such as the one I've offered and earlier debated in front of this body because it allows us to cut spending in one area in order to restore services or programs of greater priority in another. In other words, it aids us in our job to pay as we go.

Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Chairman, I do rise to be heard on the point of order. Mr. Chairman, here are the rules of the House for the 112th Congress. Accompanying it, we also have something called H. Res. 92. Oftentimes when we get to the floor, we talk in inside-the-Beltway language that's really hard, I think, for the American public to follow. But I just want to make clear that H. Res. 92 is a document drafted by the Republicans to govern debate on this bill, and this bill only. But our House rules specifically allow an amendment such as the one that I have presented to this body and was just debating a moment ago on the House floor. And I think it's a wise rule because it really helps us pay as we go.

Ms. BALDWIN. Under the rules of this House, my amendment would be fine. In the House Resolution 92, to which the gentleman referred, which governs simply the debate that we're engaged in this evening, it waives the rule of the House. It waives the rule of the House, the people's House. So I just want to make it clear--I think I know how the Chairman will end up ruling--but that this is the Republicans' will that I cannot advance this amendment and not because of the underlying rules of this House.

Ms. BALDWIN. I yield to the gentleman from Washington.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of hundreds of thousands of Wisconsin families who have already begun to benefit from health care reform. I am mindful of the children, young adults, and seniors who would lose access to affordable health care coverage should the measure Republicans are pushing today to repeal our recently passed health care law come to pass. Over the years, I have heard thousands of stories from constituents about their struggles to find access to affordable health coverage. This year, my constituents' calls and letters have changed. They have transformed into stories of thanks and gratitude. I think of Kate of Fitchburg, Wisconsin, whose family has already seen the benefits of this law in the short time its provisions have been in effect. Kate recently shared with me how her 16-year-old daughter, Maggie, had been unable to receive affordable health care coverage because she was born prematurely with a genetic anomaly that requires frequent doctors' visits. However, as a result of health care reform, Maggie is no longer denied health coverage because of her preexisting condition. Kate also has the peace of mind knowing that once her daughter becomes an adult, she can remain on Kate's health insurance until she turns 26. Additionally, Kate's parents are both on Medicare and have fallen into the prescription drug doughnut hole. As a result of our recently passed health care law, they have already received additional help to pay for their medications. Unfortunately, Kate's family would no longer enjoy these benefits should this measure we are considering today to repeal the health care reform law succeed. And Kate's family isn't alone. Under repeal, 147,000 young adults in Wisconsin would stand to lose their insurance coverage through their parents' health care plans. And once again, people would be discriminated against because of preexisting conditions. And 46,000 Wisconsin seniors would face higher prescription drug costs. I urge my colleagues to oppose this measure.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. I hope we seize this moment to come together as a Congress and ask, How can we bring renewed civility to consequential debate and create a new environment in which people can differ without demonizing others? People reach different conclusions about the important topics of our time, but each of us, like Gabby, seeks office because we want to make life better for the people we represent. We want a better America. Gabby, keep fighting the good fight. We need you and America needs you.

Ms. BALDWIN. I thank the gentleman for yielding. Madam Speaker, I rise to express my thoughts and offer my prayers and those of my constituents for my friend and colleague, Gabby Giffords, who lies critically wounded; and for her staffer, Gabe Zimmerman; for the precious patriot, Christina Taylor Green; for Dorothy Morris, Judge John Roll, Phyllis Schneck and Dorwan Stoddard, who lost their lives in this senseless tragedy; and to their families. Our thoughts and prayers, too, go out to the other innocent victims of this tragedy, including congressional staffers Ron Barber and Pamela Simon and their families, and our heartfelt gratitude to all those brave souls who responded valiantly and quickly, preventing even more death and injury. And to the people of Arizona, who love their State and our democracy, to you we express our solidarity. Gabby, as we all know, is one of the nicest, most decent, dedicated, concerned, and compassionate Representatives in this body. The fact that she and her staff were gunned down while doing their jobs, doing exactly what is required in a democracy, makes this tragedy even more unfathomable. And so I am concerned about the impact of this tragedy on our democracy. We cannot have a well-functioning democracy without ample interaction and discourse between members of the public and their elected officials. Directly or indirectly, this tragedy invites us to examine the way we conduct business on all levels. There is no question that political discourse has become toxic at times, and I hope that out of this tragedy comes a renewed commitment to civility. I applaud Speaker Boehner and Leader Pelosi for setting the right tone. We have a moment now to look prospectively at how we debate issues of great import.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater football team for completing an undefeated season and winning the NCAA Division III National Championship. The victory marks the Warhawks' third national title in the last four years. UW-Whitewater has achieved tremendous success on the football field-- winning six straight Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC) championships and earning six consecutive NCAA Division III playoff berths. During a remarkable run under Coach Lance Leipold, the team has amassed a record of 57 and 3 and won 30 consecutive games. On December 18, 2010, the Warhawks defeated the University of Mount Union Purple Raiders in the 2010 Amos Alonzo Stagg Bowl to win their second consecutive national title. UW-Whitewater Chancellor Richard Telfer and Athletic Director Paul Plinske have fostered a culture of excellence that extends into the classroom. Over the years, 80 Warhawk student-athletes have been named WIAC Scholar Athlete of the Year for their sport. In addition, UW- Whitewater student-athletes have achieved a higher grade point average than the student body at large. The Warhawks could not have reached the zenith of Division III college football without a steadfast fan base. Students, alumni, faculty, staff, and local supporters flood Perkins Stadium wearing the purple and white to cheer on their team. Many loyal fans even traveled to Salem, Virginia to watch the Warhawks win the 2010 Stagg Bowl. I join others in south central Wisconsin in recognizing the achievements of the players, coaches, students, alumni, and staff who were vital in helping the UW-Whitewater Warhawks win another national football championship.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Res. 1767, a resolution commending the Wisconsin Badger football team for an outstanding season and for their 2011 Rose Bowl bid. The Wisconsin Badgers completed a terrific regular season and won the Big Ten title. They finished their season 11-1. They are the least penalized team in the country. The Badger offense ranks in the top 20 nationally in scoring, rushing, and total offense. Twenty-two Badger players were selected to the Academic All-Big Ten Team. And even more exciting, our Wisconsin Badgers earned a well-deserved bid to the Rose Bowl on January 1, 2011. It has been a pleasure for me to watch our Badger football team excel this season. I know I am joined by fans at home in Wisconsin and, indeed, alumni and fans around the country in feeling great pride in the University of Wisconsin-Madison and this stellar accomplishment. It is true that our football team enjoys very loyal and fervent support from fans and alumni. Badger fans sold out Camp Randall Stadium for the entire season. And what a season it was. My colleagues may remember a warm night in October when the Badgers defeated the number one-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes 31-18. It was really an incredible game. I'll never forget the opening kickoff return by David Gilreath for a touchdown. And after the game, fans rushed to the field in a sea of red. What a game. The following week, the Badgers barnstormed into Iowa and beat a strong Hawkeyes team in an inspiring comeback. The Badger defense cemented the 1-point win with a key defensive stand. The Badgers' success on the field is guided by strong guidance from University of Wisconsin leaders. I would like to acknowledge a few key folks who have contributed to this outstanding season. University of Wisconsin-Madison Chancellor Biddy Martin has exhibited incredibly strong leadership for the University of Wisconsin. Chancellor Martin displays an unyielding commitment to academic excellence for Wisconsin's student athletes and is assuredly a big reason behind this great season. I also want to acknowledge Athletic Director Barry Alvarez, a three- time Rose Bowl-winning coach, who had a strong hand in helping lead the Badgers back to Pasadena, California. And, of course, we are grateful to the strong leadership of Head Coach Bret Bielema, who showed tremendous resolve in guiding the Badgers to an outstanding 11-1 season. Indeed, the Badgers have achieved a stellar 49-15 record overall during Coach Bielema's tenure. In addition to his prowess on the field, Coach Bielema is a leader in his community. He does tremendous work to promote breast cancer awareness and survival. In addition, our Badger defensive coordinator, Paul Chryst, is a finalist for the Broyles Award as the Nation's top assistant coach. Football fans watch the game because of the skill and talent of the players. At Wisconsin, we're lucky enough to have the privilege of watching players on the field who also show exceptional leadership off the field. Senior quarterback Scott Tolzien, the most accurate passer in college football, won the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award for his on-field performance as well as his character. Senior defensive end J.J. Watt is an academic All-Big Ten Team selection and winner of the Lott IMPACT Trophy, awarded nationally to a defensive player, for his athletic, academic, and community achievements. And senior offensive lineman Gabe Carimi won the Outland Trophy, an honor given to the best interior lineman in college football, in addition to being selected to the Academic All-Big Ten Team as a civil engineering major. As my colleagues know, the annual Rose Bowl game is the oldest college bowl game and its history and prestige have earned it the title of ``The Granddaddy of Them All.'' This 2011 Rose Bowl bid is exciting for the Wisconsin Badgers as well as TCU, Texas Christian University, who we will meet in Pasadena. Wisconsin looks forward to ``badgering'' the Horned Frogs on New Year's Day. I urge my colleagues to support H. Res. 1767, which recognizes the achievements of the players, coaches, students, alumni, and staff who were instrumental in helping the Wisconsin Badgers make it to Pasadena, California. Regardless of your political affiliation or football allegiance, there's always an open invitation from the Wisconsin Badgers to ``teach you how to Bucky.'' We'll see you in Pasadena. On Wisconsin!

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. I rise to urge my colleagues to do the right thing and act to repeal Don't Ask, Don't Tell. After 17 years of this policy, we know that it is unjust, discriminatory, and, in my opinion, un- American. Integrity, after all, is a hallmark of military service. Yet we have, in statute, a policy that requires some in our military to conceal, deceive, or to lie. Mr. Speaker, since the House voted in May to repeal Don't Ask, Don't Tell, the Department of Defense released its comprehensive review of the impact of repealing this unjust law. The report confirms that our military personnel are ready to serve alongside American soldiers who are openly gay and lesbian. The time has come to repeal Don't Ask, Don't Tell and move further down the path to LGBT equality for all Americans. In this land of the free and home of the brave, it is long past time for Congress to end this policy.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the career and achievements of Mr. David Newby, President of the Wisconsin State AFL- CIO, as he retires from his esteemed position. David served as president for sixteen years, but his roots in fighting for social equality run much deeper. He began his dedicated fight against injustice during his time as a teacher at the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama. From 1965 to 1968, he faced off with racial discrimination in the South, organizing and participating in protests and sit-ins to counter the actions of the local chapter of the Ku Klux Klan. In 1968, David began work on a Ph.D. at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He quickly became involved in the union movement. As Steward of the Teaching Assistants Association, David was able to gain recognition from the administration through union strikes and other actions. In 1982, David first stepped into a labor leadership role when he was elected President of the Madison Labor Council. He possessed the ability to motivate local members to come together on issues and express their views as one voice to the national AFL-CIO. A supremely principled man, David had no qualms about speaking out against union- backed candidates or policies. In 1986, he won a tough election for Secretary-Treasurer. He continued to ruffle feathers as he expressed his distaste for America's military actions abroad, never backed down from striking against plant closings, and continually pushed to attract new and more committed union members. Finally, in 1994, David easily won the presidency of the Wisconsin State AFL-CIO. Over the past sixteen years as president, David has only increased his effort to fight for what he believes is right. As the representative of the Midwest on the national AFL-CIO Executive Council, he helped lead the federation's opposition to the Iraq War. He continued to work tirelessly to build stronger connections between local labor leaders, community leaders, workers, and organizations to support students' rights, civil rights, women's rights, and countless other causes. In a time when so many are suffering because of the economy, David has fought to keep jobs from going abroad and to ensure competitive wages and benefits for union workers. In a piece reflecting on the election of President Obama, David wrote, ``But no gains are freely given. We have to seize the moment, focus our energies, and assure that the victory will indeed be ours.'' These bold words embody the essence of the American spirit, and it is clear that over the past fifty years, David has come to epitomize this spirit. Although colleagues may disagree with his beliefs or fiery spirit, they always come away with nothing but the utmost respect for David. May his stalwart dedication, vision, and lifelong commitment to the highest ethical standards continue to serve as an inspiration for us. I join the greater Madison community, the entire state of Wisconsin, and those who continue to fight for their beliefs throughout our great nation in honoring Mr. David Newby's achievements and thanking him for his lifetime of service.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the 75th anniversary of Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin. Since 1935, Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin has provided access to quality reproductive healthcare for women and men across the state. Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin plays an essential role in providing both reproductive healthcare for all and comprehensive sexual education. Additionally, they advocate tirelessly for women's reproductive rights statewide. In 1935, the first birth control health center in Milwaukee and the state of Wisconsin, the Maternal Health Center, opened its doors. For the first time, women, men and families statewide had access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive healthcare. Nearly 15 years later, the Maternal Health Center affiliated with the Planned Parenthood Federation of America, defining their role as one of the lead reproductive healthcare providers in the state of Wisconsin. In 1964, Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin opened its first of many new neighborhood health centers, and in 1971 the organization officially became a statewide affiliate with 17 clinics opening throughout Wisconsin in the 1970s. By the mid-1980s, Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin had 30 health centers open statewide. Presently, there are 27 health centers, which provide care to over 70,000 patients, and education staff, which provide educational programming to over 14,000 patrons. Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin's mission is to empower all individuals to manage their sexual and reproductive health through patient services, education and advocacy. For 75 years, Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin staff, donors and volunteers have helped to provide reproductive healthcare for all who need it, including those who cannot afford care. Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin continues to be at the forefront of sexual education and equips women, men and teens across the state with the knowledge they need to promote healthier, safer lifestyles. For exceptional service to communities across the state, I would like to thank and honor Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin and congratulate them on celebrating their 75th anniversary.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend Diverse and Resilient, Inc. on their 15 years of success and their critical contributions to the health and well-being of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender, LGBT, organizations, citizens, and their allies. Diverse and Resilient is a nonprofit public benefit organization that has been vital to the development of public health leadership on behalf of LGBT people in Wisconsin communities for 15 years. Diverse and Resilient has been a pioneer in the development of community health workers who promote participation in healthy activities, dissuade health risk behaviors, and engage all sectors within the LGBT communities across Wisconsin. Further, Diverse and Resilient projects and activities are dedicated to building capacity of LGBT individuals, organizations, and their allies to meet the public health needs of Wisconsin's LGBT communities in Madison, Milwaukee, Eau Claire, Appleton, and La Crosse. I am particularly grateful to Diverse and Resilient for bringing to light the alarming health disparities that exist for LGBT youth and adults through its tireless advocacy to include important demographic questions in national and State health surveys. This organization has taken leadership in national, State, and local public health planning and fostered partnerships in public health, secondary and post-secondary education, communities of color, healthcare, and advocacy. I honor the commitment, leadership, and zestfulness of the founding director, Dr. Gary Hollander, the board of directors, the dedicated staff, youth advisors, and community health workers of Diverse and Resilient as they celebrate 15 years of vital contributions to our community.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Madam Speaker, I regret that I missed a vote on final passage of H.R. 4785, the Rural Energy Savings Program Act. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye'' in support of the bill. Stated against:

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of increasing Medicaid funding for States that is contained in this legislation. I have been leading the effort on this issue, and I am determined to see it through. During this economic crisis, our States have suffered, which means our citizens have suffered. States are facing severe budget shortfalls, and without Federal help will have to take extreme action. Who would this hurt? It would hurt our most vulnerable: our children, our elders, our sick, and our frail. People who rely on Medicaid benefits would see them slashed. States would be forced to make cuts where we can least afford it. Not only does Medicaid funding protect citizens, it also promotes them. The Congressional Budget Office found that increased Medicaid assistance creates jobs and increases demand in the economy. The recovery is underway, but it is slow. Families in Wisconsin and across the Nation are struggling to make ends meet and find good jobs. We in the House have time and again passed legislation to try to address this through additional Medicaid funding and dedicated dollars for teachers in our schools. Finally, today we have the opportunity to send this bill to the President. In Wisconsin alone, passing this measure will prevent between 2,000 and 3,000 teachers from being laid off, and it will prevent $650 million in Medicaid cuts. I have heard from students, doctors, and State employees who have known for months what Congress was too slow in realizing, these cuts would be catastrophic and we must prevent them. I want to thank Chairman Waxman for his steadfast commitment to creating jobs and supporting American families. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this legislation.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the 100th anniversary of the Cross Plains Fire Department. Since 1910, the Cross Plains area has been under the responsive and watchful eye of the Cross Plains Fire Department. Fire departments play an essential role in any community, and the Cross Plains Fire Department is no exception. Their steadfast vigilance of the area is a reflection of the tight-knit community which they safeguard and the outstanding bravery of the men and women of the Cross Plains Fire Department over the last 100 years is praiseworthy. The establishment of the Cross Plains Fire Department in 1910 actually predates the incorporation of the Village of Cross Plains. Today, Fire Chief Dale Lochner and his staff operate out of a single fire station, protecting over 41 square miles and almost 4,000 residents. In addition to providing service to the Village of Cross Plains, the station also serves the Townships of Cross Plains and Berry. Whether it is fighting fires, search and rescue, or saving lives as first responders, firefighters are essential to our communities. Volunteer firefighters risk their lives everyday for the people of their communities and the livelihood of our great Nation. These true heroes provide every citizen with a feeling of security and safety, something that cannot be taken for granted. Every year, in towns all across Wisconsin and the United States, volunteer firefighters like those of the Cross Plains Fire Department provide a vital public service without requiring a single dime in compensation. Their selflessness and willingness to give back to the community is inspirational. The motto of the Village of Cross Plains is, ``Famous for Friendliness,'' and this ideal is personified by the volunteer staff at the Cross Plains Fire Department. Every day since 1910, the residents of the Cross Plains area have enjoyed the service and protection provided by the department. Today, I join the residents of the Village of Cross Plains and the towns of Cross Plains and Berry, the residents of Wisconsin, and all citizens of the United States in recognizing, honoring, and sincerely thanking the Cross Plains Fire Department for their tireless work and commitment for the past 100 years.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the career and achievements of Mr. Steven Morrison, Executive Director of the Jewish Federation of Madison, as he retires from his esteemed position after 27 years of service. From an early age, Steve displayed a passion for service in the Jewish community. Shortly after joining the B'nai B'rith Youth Organization in his hometown of Elgin, Illinois in 1959, he was elected AZA Grand Aleph Godol--International President. This position was only the beginning of a long career dedicated to improving the world and giving back to his community. When Steve arrived in Madison in 1984, he immediately began working to strengthen Madison's Jewish community and weave it into the larger fabric of this great city. Under his leadership, Camp Shalom grew from a program serving 150 youngsters to one which now serves almost a thousand children of diverse racial, ethnic, and social backgrounds and abilities every summer. Steve helped enrollment in the Hilde L. Mosse Gan HaYeled Preschool and Midrasha Hebrew High School reach record levels. He also assisted in the development of the recreational facilities and programs offered at the Goodman Campus, which are now enjoyed by families throughout the region. Furthermore, as Executive Director of Madison's Jewish Social Services, Steve expanded the agency's outreach to immigrants and refugees in need of support as they adapted to a new home and way of life. Steve's commitment to the larger Madison community is rooted in the Judaic teachings of education and justice. With humor, tact, keen intellect, compassion, and chutzpah, he brings people to the table and helps guide them toward mutual understanding and growth. Steve is a fierce defender of minority rights, whether speaking against hate crimes or in support of same-sex marriage. As Chair of the Madison Public Schools Human Relations Council for more than two decades, Steve helped teachers and administrators better understand the needs of students who come from a variety of backgrounds. Among the countless awards and honors that Steve received over the years are the Mandelkorn Distinguished Service Award given by the Association of Jewish Community Organization Professionals and Ally of the Year given by OutReach, Madison's LGBT Community Center. Tikkun olam, or the obligation to repair the world, is a basic tenet of Judaism. Broadly, it is interpreted to suggest that we all have a role to play in giving back and enhancing the world in which we live. There is nobody, in my mind, who personifies this better than Steve. I have no doubt that the impact of his work will continue to benefit individuals in communities here in Wisconsin, across the United States, and far beyond the borders of our great nation. May his unwavering dedication, vision, and lifelong commitment to the highest ethical standards continue to serve as an inspiration for us. I join both the Jewish and greater Madison communities in honoring Mr. Steven Morrison's achievements and thanking him for his lifetime of service.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Thank you, Chairman Scott, for yielding the time. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 3040, the Senior Financial Empowerment Act of 2009. My own experience as the primary caregiver for my grandmother opened my eyes to some troubling exploitative tactics targeted at America's seniors. Growing up in Wisconsin, I was raised by my maternal grandparents. Though I went east for college, I returned to my hometown, Madison, after graduation to be there for my grandmother, who by then was widowed and who had sacrificed so much of her own time and energy to raise me. Eventually, I became my grandmother's primary caregiver. Around the time that my grandmother turned 90 years old, she asked me to help her sort through her mail and balance her checkbook. Now, first, I was struck by the sheer volume of solicitations she was getting. I was also shocked by how many were fly-by-night organizations or ``look alike'' charities that were writing her on a monthly basis. Their pleas for donations looked and sounded legitimate, but I had my suspicions, so I started digging a little bit deeper. I was also disturbed by the amount of money my grandmother had been giving to some of these entities. She believed that those who were able to do so ought to be as generous as possible to those in need, but she had no way of determining the legitimacy of the entities that were contacting her and soliciting her so regularly. That experience opened my eyes to the very real exploitation of seniors, like my grandmother, through the mail, telephone, and Internet. Millions of Americans become victims of similar financial exploitation each year, but it is not just the isolated and lonely who may fall prey to these scams. One only need read one's local newspaper in order to hear how widespread this really is. In my home district in Wisconsin, over the years, we have seen all sorts of scams. One reads of ongoing reports about ``notch baby'' schemes in which Social Security beneficiaries born between the years 1917 and 1921 are asked to send money to organizations that promise to change the Federal laws to increase their benefits. These organizations go so far as to ask these seniors whether they would like their Federal money in a lump sum or in monthly payments. Earlier this year, The Capital Times newspaper in Madison, Wisconsin, reported that an 84-year-old Madison woman was duped out of nearly $3,000 after a phone scammer convinced her that her ``granddaughter's boyfriend'' was in a Canadian jail and needed bail money. Madison police reported that she received a phone call from the man, who called her ``Grandma,'' and he told her he was in a Canadian jail after being picked up for drunk driving. To convince the elderly woman, ``Officer Jacob Harris'' came on the line and convinced her of the need for bail money for her ``granddaughter's boyfriend.'' This elderly woman wired the money, and fell victim to a disturbingly common scam. I also read that, not days after President Obama signed the historic health care reform bill into law, fraudsters were figuring out how to scam seniors. A cable TV advertisement exhorted viewers to call an 800 number so that they wouldn't miss a limited enrollment period to obtain coverage. We all know that there was no limited enrollment period for any coverage in the health care legislation that we passed. Though we all have read and heard these anecdotal stories, it is difficult to estimate the prevalence of financial exploitation cases due to severe underreporting. According to a 2009 report by Met Life Mature Market Institute, for every case of abuse reported, there are an estimated four or more that go unreported. We do know some facts, though. This same study found that the annual financial loss by victims of senior financial abuse is estimated to be at least $2.6 billion. In my home State of Wisconsin, the Coalition of Wisconsin Aging Groups estimates that 35,000 seniors in Wisconsin alone were the victims of financial exploitation last year. The Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions reports that half of their cases now being investigated include older victims. On a national level, postal inspectors investigated almost 3,000 mail fraud cases in the U.S., and they arrested more than 1,200 mail fraud suspects in 2007 alone. Further, the FBI has confirmed that criminals are modifying their targeting techniques to include online scams, such as phishing and email spamming. Given the prevalence of financial fraud targeting seniors, Congressman Howard Coble and I introduced the Senior Financial Empowerment Act with a very specific goal in mind--to empower seniors and to end the abuse, neglect, and exploitation of America's elders. The bill builds on the good work already being done by the Federal Trade Commission and by the U.S. Department of Justice, and it seeks to empower these agencies to support local and State efforts to combat financial fraud and to empower our seniors. I would like to extend a special thanks to my colleague Howard Coble from North Carolina for his leadership on this issue. It has been a pleasure working with him to advance this legislation. I also want to thank Chairman Scott, Chairman Conyers, and Ranking Members Gohmert and Smith for their longstanding commitment to America's seniors. Mr. Speaker, when I saw my grandmother go through the last years of her life, and what she went through with these solicitations, I made a pledge to make sure that all older Americans have the tools that they need to protect themselves against financial crimes and fraud. I urge support for the Senior Financial Empowerment Act.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to join my colleagues in paying tribute to a great man much beloved around the country, including in my home state of Wisconsin: I speak of Ron Gettelfinger. Anyone who has ever needed a friend knows the difference between the fair-weather friend and the friend who stands by you in your time of need. Ron Gettelfinger has stood by his UAW brothers and sisters in their time of need. When my constituents talk about Ron, they talk about him as a fighter for working men and women. Over the past 8 years, while he served as the president of the United Auto Workers, Ron saw the auto industry challenged as never before. He saw its workers beaten down. Hundreds of my constituents lost their jobs when the GM plant in Janesville, Wisconsin closed down. Ron and the UAW stood by those workers, providing them with support, assistance and advocacy to bridge the gap to new employment. But Ron didn't just stand by the workers without jobs--he knew something needed to be done to stop the bleeding and help save the auto industry. So he did the unpopular thing, and helped renegotiate General Motors contract with the auto workers. It was such a difficult decision in a difficult time--but we are beginning to see the positive results from it now. The auto industry seems to be turning around. As president of the UAW, Ron has been a champion for all American workers. He has worked tirelessly for labor protections in fair trade agreements, accessible and affordable health care for all, and protection of American jobs through investments in advance technology vehicles. So my gratitude and my admiration go to Ron, on behalf of the thousands of Wisconsinites he represented so bravely and ably for the past 8 years.

Ms. BALDWIN

Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to bring the voices of my constituents in Jefferson County, Wisconsin, to the floor of the people's House. In 2008, homes along the northern shore of Lake Koshkonong and within the surrounding community were absolutely devastated by a record- setting flood. This was a 500-year flood event. It is the same one that ravaged much of the upper Midwest and, in particular, Wisconsin and Iowa. During that storm, I knew that the damage was going to be devastating and that many of the houses in our community would be beyond repair. What I didn't know was that, almost 2 years after the floods, the agency upon which they relied would be leaving these hardworking Americans behind. You see, in February of this year, FEMA instituted what it calls ``immediate needs funding.'' Basically, they are freezing already approved funds to folks in Wisconsin and in other disaster areas across the country. A couple of weekends ago, I had the chance to visit with property owners from my district, of whom I have the privilege of representing, who have been affected. They are survivors of the 2008 floods. I wanted to hear their stories. Many brought photos and letters. They brought their own unique stories. They brought their anger and their frustrations. I met with Gene and Marie Harris at their home on Lamp Road, one of the most extensively damaged neighborhoods in this flood. The damage was so extensive that their house was absolutely uninhabitable and has been since the flood. They showed me photos of before, during, and after, and we talked about the tangle of bureaucratic red tape that they waded through in order to get approved for the FEMA dollars. They were approved for the FEMA money, but they haven't received a penny because of the funding freeze. When I asked Marie to recall what they had gone through back in June of 2008, not surprisingly, she welled up with tears. Mr. Speaker, our hearts go out to the victims of the recent floods and of natural disasters. Yet I fear we suffer from that old adage, ``Out of sight, out of mind.'' Once the cameras are packed away and the news crews leave for the next breaking story, what happens to the victims and survivors of these natural disasters? Will the families in Tennessee or in Arkansas suffer the same fate as Wisconsinites and Iowans? Will they see their funding from FEMA freeze even after it has been approved? One would hope that the system of emergency response would keep on plugging away, assisting the families in need across this country, but we have seen that system completely break down. This is unacceptable. It has been 2 years since their homes were devastated, and my neighbors are still living in temporary housing, and they are enduring financial chaos. One man is homeless. Another family is on the verge of bankruptcy because of the situation that FEMA has left them in. I know this is wrong. My constituents know this is wrong. The Federal Government has to do better.