Joe Baca

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to emphasize the need to revitalize the telecommunications industry. In February, the FCC voted by a three to two margin to allow state regulators to decide how much competitors should pay for leasing networks. Is this fair? Should long-distance companies be allowed to piggyback on the hard work and investments of other companies? How will this ruling affect consumers? Phone companies will not have any additional incentive to invest in new networks. This ruling will stifle technological change and hurt an industry that already suffered an 11 percent decrease in capital spending last year. When the FCC issued new regulations in mid February to promote competition, it failed miserably. It missed an opportunity to create jobs in the struggling telecommunications industry. The FCC also missed an opportunity set a national policy to promote facilities-based competition that would have encouraged investment. As evidence of the weak policy adopted by the FCC, on that day when the FCC issued its decision, the telecommunications industry lost $15 billion in worth. The move to shift decision-making to the States regarding Unbundled Network Elements will only create a quagmire of regulations that will not encourage investment and the creation of jobs. The people who will suffer the most are the hardworking men and women who depend on this industry. As the Communications Workers of America state, there needs to be a Federal telecommunications policy that will boost the telecommunications industry and national economy. The FCC missed their opportunity. I hope my colleagues in Congress will revisit this issue in the future. Thank you Mr. Speaker, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to have my name removed as a cosponsor of H.R. 660.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of my colleague, Mr. Rodriguez, and his amendment to the supplemental appropriations bill for FY03. The Department of Veterans Affairs has enormous responsibility resting on its shoulders. Not only is the VA responsible for providing veterans with medical services once they return home from war, but during wartime, the VA backs up the DOD, activates their critical care nurses, and provides training and preparation in case unforeseen emergencies arise. After 9/11, the biomedical expertise of the VA was tapped, and the VA was designated to begin operating four bio-terrorism centers. This responsibility was granted to the VA by unanimous consent. However, this responsibility was delegated to the VA without the critical funding necessary to operate these facilities. Two years ago, it would be a luxury for the Federal Government to enable the VA to provided training, equipment, and research for medical centers in case of a biological or chemical attack. Two years ago it would be an added bonus to provide the VA with additional funds to research the effects of war on veterans' health. Today, we are post 9/ 11 and fighting overseas, and enhancing our security is not a luxury but a necessity. We have learned that there is no price tag for the safety and security of our Nation. The VA is shouldering an increasingly heavy burden. Let's provide them with the $90 million in funds that it needs to carry out its responsibilities during this time of war in Iraq and time of war on global terrorism.

Mr. BACA. Mr. Chairman, I rise today to adamantly oppose the Flake Amendment. This amendment would eliminate $2.0 billion dollars in desperately needed funding for struggling US airlines. It is unconscionable to consider doing this while our economy suffers, and it is even more unconscionable to do so during wartime. We are witnessing the collapse of the airline industry as we know it? US Air and United have already been forced into bankruptcy, and other major airlines are contemplating the same option. Northwest Airlines alone has lost $1.2 billion over the past two years. Air travel is falling at a rapid rate and will continue to fall until this war is over, the economy improves, and passengers are assured that they are safe in the friendly skies. This month alone, the air travel is down 11% and it is speculated that if another terrorism attack occurs, it will fall an additional 25 percent domestically 43 percent internationally. Since September 11, 2001, we have placed many needed safety requirements on the airline industry. Eliminating the funding for compliance puts an unnecessary burden on an already frazzled industry and does little to promote flying. Passengers will not fly if they don't feel safe. The airline industry is paramount to the economic vitality of this nation. It is critical to virtually every industry around the globe. Tourism, goods movement, and business travel affect virtually every locality in this nation. We must guarantee that goods continue to move in an expedited and inexpensive manner and that air travel does not suffer more than it already has. We must also take into consideration that the airline industry employs a sizable workforce globally. United, which employs thousands in the state of California alone, employs 85,000 worldwide! If we do not help the airlines during these uncertain times, many jobs will be lost and the economy as a whole will be further compromised. I oppose the Flake Amendment and stand behind the fact that we must do all that we can to keep the industry flying.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Waters) for taking the leadership on behalf of veterans. As a veteran who has served in the 101st and 82nd Airborne Division in 1966 to 1968, I am outraged, I am outraged regarding the 2004 budget adopted by this House committee, $28.8 billion cuts in veterans programs over 10 years; $14.6 million in veterans benefits cut in mandatory veterans program; $14.2 billion cuts in discretionary veterans health care. I speak on behalf of the 2.3 million disabled veterans including more than 1.2 million members of Disabled Veterans of America. Is there no honor left in the halls of government? Is there no honor left in the halls of government that you would choose to dishonor the sacrifice of our Nation's heroes and rob them of their programs, health care and disability compensation? During this time of war it is crucial to let our soldiers know that they will be taken care of once they return home. I state once they return home that they will be taken care of. Unfortunately, I am ashamed by what the Republican Congress and President Bush have done to our veterans lately. Since the troops have been deployed to the Persian Gulf, veterans benefits have been shipped away. Shame on you. Shame on you. They are fighting and dying for us. They are fighting and dying for us. And what are we doing? We are pulling the rug out from underneath them. The Republican budget resolution that passed last week cuts $449 million from veterans health care programs. What kind of message does it send to the hundreds and thousands of American men and women in uniform currently risking their lives overseas? Is this the kind of message that we want to send to our young soldiers fighting for freedom and democracy? Remember that we enjoy today the freedoms because of the sacrifices that many of our veterans made who have served this country, our country before. Is this the best way that we can do for the families of those who have died for this country? Just recently, Corporal Jorge Gonzalez, a U.S. Marine from my district in Rialto that I happened to visit the parents this week was killed in Iraq. His heroism is found in the battle field and at home. This occurs daily through this land and the homes of families of American men and women who are serving us, like those of my legislative field representative's husband who is now serving in Iraq. Our men and women in uniform should not have to come back and learn that the government they fought for refused to take care of them, and I state, refused to take care of them. During the time of war, we all say to our troops, we support you, our thoughts and prayers are with you. And we do, and we do. We display the American flag on our cars, in our homes, and clothing with pride. While this display of patriotism is important, I say we have to do more than that. We have a moral obligation to provide veterans with benefits and services that they have earned, and I state that they have earned through their honorable service to this country. We have a moral obligation to provide them with prescription drugs and access to care. Is that too much to ask? I ask, is that too much to ask? I am here to tell the administration and my fellow Members of Congress not to forget those men and women who have served this country. Remember, the freedoms we have today are because the men and women were willing to step up and fight for those freedoms, the freedoms we enjoy every day. Let us not forget them. Let us not forget them. Let us restore the benefits to our veterans. Let them know we will take care of them today and tomorrow, and I state today and tomorrow. I say God bless America. Let us restore our veterans. God bless our veterans.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Madam Speaker, Cesar Chavez was a champion for the poor and underserved people in America. He did not care about politics, money, or votes; he cared about people and their children. He sacrificed so they may have a better life. Cesar gave Latinos in this country a voice. He touched the lives of millions with nonviolent struggle for justice, education, equality, and hope. His life is a testament to the notion that victory can be won without violent confrontation. He used boycotts, pickets, strikes, and fasts to achieve this goal. But he never raised his hand or encouraged his followers to raise their hands in anger or hate or violence. This is a lesson that the world should be reminded of right now. Cesar was committed so that he would be willing to sacrifice his own life so that violence was not used. He fasted many times. He proved that his commitment through his persistence, hard work, faith, and willingness to sacrifice for La Causa. The terrible suffering of the farm workers and their children by crushing farm workers' rights, the dangers of pesticides, the denial of fair and Federal elections, Cesar's fast was a heartfelt prayer for purification and strength for all of those who worked beside him in this movement. His words will always be true in our lives that say: Si, se puede. Yesterday was Cesar Chavez's birthday. This would be a great day to honor him in the Nation every year. I urge my colleagues to cosponsor H. Res. 112 calling for a National Cesar Chavez holiday.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I come to the floor today to voice my opposition to any efforts to change Title IX. For over 30 years, Title IX has been a successful program that has helped open doors for women in education and employment. I don't understand how people can argue with success and try to change such an important piece of legislation. Times have changed in this nation for competitive sports, and it is all because of Title IX. Title IX has helped change assumptions and attitudes about sexual stereotypes. It is hard to comprehend that less than 30 years ago people believed women were physically incapable of running the marathon. It was believed that female body composition made it impossible for them to run long distances! It wasn't until women began defying this irrational and unfounded notion by competing anyway that the world took notice and a crippling stereotype died. It is a myth that women are not interested in sports or competition. It is a myth that women would rather be cheering on the sidelines than competing on the field, the court, the green, track, or the diamond. Any effort to repeal a program that allows access to sports and education for women reincarnates myths and stereotypes that should have been put to rest decades ago. Title IX has helped knock down the senseless barriers that have prevented women from engaging in competition by requiring that equal funding be contributed to women's sports throughout all levels of education. Girls have an equal right with boys to receive at a minimum a basic education and to compete for scholarships--whether they are academic or athletic. Since 1972, the number of women playing collegiate sports has quadrupled! And the number of girls playing high school sports has increased to 3 million in the 30 years that Title IX has been on the books. Before Title IX was enacted, only 300,000 high school girls competed. The principle of equality requires that women be provided equal access and equal opportunity for education and sports. My 16-year-old daughter Jennifer plays on her high school golf team. Before Title IX, a girl's golf team in most schools would never have existed. Before Title IX many women weren't even allowed to step foot on a green! I want my daughter and the daughters of every family in the nation to have the right and the opportunity to compete and receive scholarships if their heart desires. It is a myth that the requirements of Title IX take away funding for male sports teams! The overwhelming majority of funding available goes to support college football and college basketball. Furthermore, in 30 years we have seen the number of college baseball teams increase exponentially! If it were true that Title IX robs funding from male sports teams then why is it that for every dollar spent on women's collegiate sports, two dollars are spent for the male teams? We need to stop the myths about Title IX and allow the program to remain intact. No longer do young girls need to hide their hair in a cap and pretend to be boys if they want to play ball. No longer do we harbor under the misconception that women can't and don't want to play. Title IX was a bold step toward equality and it was a necessary element toward achieving fairness. Sports teach us how to win with integrity and how to lose with grace. They teach us healthy competition and how to strategize for success. They help promote healthy exercise and lifestyles. Women need to be offered the opportunity to enrich their lives by playing sports. We need to keep Title IX in play.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, as a veteran I stand behind our troops, and I ask everyone to get together in the form of solidarity. Mr. Speaker, several months ago, when we voted on the President's Iraq resolution, we all hoped war could be avoided, even though most of us believed deep down that it was a forgone conclusion. It was just a matter of when. Well, the day we all knew would come upon us. As we speak the U.S. Army 7th Calvary has engaged the enemy inside Iraq. This is a difficult dilemma. We hope and pray that Saddam does not have any weapons of mass destruction to use against our troops. My faith teaches me that only those who are without sin should cast the first stone in conflict. We have cast the stone, and we'll just have to wait and see what the effects will be. However, Mr. Speaker, none of that is important anymore. The most important issue we face as any war begins is how we are going to support our brave men and women in uniform. No matter how we feel about the prospect of waging war at this time, we must stand solidly behind our troops. Hundreds of soldiers from my district have already deployed. Thousands more from the Inland Empire and across California are heading to the Persian Gulf region. Even more Californians are serving our Nation in the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines all over the World. It saddens me to think that some of these men and women will not return home to their mothers and fathers, to their sons and daughters, to their husbands and wives. We can support our troops by keeping the promises we have made to our veterans, and by providing them with the benefits and healthcare that they have earned through their services to our Nation. Mr. Speaker, as I think about the lives that may be lost in the coming days and weeks, I ask myself one question. Could this situation have been avoided? Although I cannot answer this question with 100 percent certainty, I have always believed that there was a diplomatic solution to the Iraq crisis. I believed that when I voted for a resolution in October authorizing the President to use our armed forces in support of any U.N. resolution mandating the disarmament of Saddam Hussein. Mr. Speaker, I still believe that now. Unfortunately, the diplomatic window is closed. Diplomacy no longer seems to be an option. But I want my colleagues to hear me when I say this. Now is not the time to debate misguided or unsuccessful policies. Now is the time to come together and support our brave men and women in uniform. We must let them and their families know that we appreciate their sacrifice. Let us rally around our troops and show the world that our Nation stands united. I hope the unity that Members on both sides of the aisle are showing tonight sends a strong signal to our troops. We are thinking of you and praying for you. Mr. Speaker, I do have one request. I ask my constituents, and every American, to light a candle and pray for our troops and pray for all the innocent victims of this war.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Chairman, if Republicans are trying to send a message with this budget, the bright neon lights spell ``working families don't count.'' This is a budget of missed opportunities, misguided plans and misplaced priorities. This budget does not even account for the war, and reduces or eliminates benefits to the same brave soldiers that are waging that war as we speak. This budget is missing any serious recognition of the devastating economic downturn our Nation has suffered during this administration or of the severe budget crisis facing the states. The budget fails to invest in what matters most to American working families: It does nothing to rebuild or modernize our schools. It does nothing to improve our nation's aging transportation system. It does nothing to patch the holes in our homeland security framework. It does nothing to stem the relentless loss of jobs in our nation's manufacturing and industrial base. It does nothing to create new jobs. Small businesses form the entrepreneurial backbone of our Nation's economy. Most new jobs in this country come from businesses started only from a little seed money and a big dream. Yet, this budget cuts the very Small Business Administration programs that help keep the American Dream alive. This dream is being lived, at this very moment, by the hard working owners of countless Section 8A-small businesses. These businesses provide services to our government that are often less expensive and higher quality than many large corporations. We must oppose a budget that bundles small business contracts together into larger contracts that only multinational and large corporations will be able to bid on. This budget also does nothing to solve our Nation's crippling health care crisis, which means high cost and little coverage to working families. It also means a consistent 15 percent yearly cost increase to employers who are becoming less willing to pay for their workers' health care. This budget leaves behind the $9 billion in funding that President Bush promised for education. This budget leaves behind 40 percent of the funding for after school programs, 26 percent of the funding to migrant education programs, 43 percent of the funding for high school equivalency programs, 13 percent of early education programs, and the list goes on. I wish my Republican colleagues understood that it is neither apathy nor laziness that makes people poor and creates under-performing schools. Even where the budget seeks new funds for neglected priorities, the approach to solving the problem is deeply flawed and the conditions are unfair and counterproductive. During a time of corporate scandals, Republicans choose instead to go after labor unions. The Department of Labor is even increasing its funding to audit, investigate, and prosecute labor unions. It increased its funding by closing down the United States Employment Service. During a time of state budget shortfalls that are forcing deep cuts to education, this budget instead redirects critical education funding to private school vouchers so that he can begin to privatize public education. During a time of soaring energy prices, the Republican budget freezes funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, so our seniors can bake in the summer and freeze in the winter. Seniors will be forced to leave Medicare to get a prescription drug care benefit, only to be covered by HMOs that will provide less care for more money. Our seniors are concerned that this budget puts the long-term solvency of social security in serious jeopardy. This budget will have a record of $1.8 million deficit over the next 10 years. This reckless deficit must be paid off, but how? Republicans hope to indebt our Nation to the point where we have no choice but to privatize Social Security. We must strengthen Social Security--not privatize it! The current state of our economy demands investments to help people, but Republicans are instead squandering the funds on tax cuts. The resources that the budget seeks fall well short of basic needs--a direct result of the President's obsession with butchering the tax code and wringing from it trillions in tax breaks for the wealthiest. Tax breaks that are breaking the backs of our State budgets. According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, the President tucked 11 tax cut proposals in his budget that would have disastrous effects on State budgets. Talk about kicking someone when they are down! The tax cuts will cost the States $64 billion in revenues over the next 10 years. Those are $64 billion dollars that would have funded our police and funded our schools. Eleven States have cut their spending on K-12 education, delaying much-needed renovation and construction, eliminating preschool and after-school programs and, in some places, cutting days from the school week. Nineteen States have cut higher education spending, forcing cancellation of classes and tuition hikes. Eighteen States have cut their welfare programs, even though the rolls are rising for the first time since passage of the 1966 welfare reform law. The number of States with waiting lists for child care assistance has grown, and the waits are getting longer. In seven States, eligibility for child care aid has been tightened significantly, and five States have hiked parent fees. Twelve States are cutting Medicaid. At least 1 million people, largely in working poor families, will lose their health care coverage if these cuts are fully implemented. Another 1 million are experiencing cuts in coverage and benefits. Many States have implemented or are considering tax increases to raise revenues. Among the 34 governors who have submitted 2004 budgets, 16--Republicans and Democrats--have called for increases in taxes and fees. Three are proposing personal income tax hikes, seven recommend sales tax increases or an end to sales tax exemptions, five propose corporate tax hikes and three are considering various other fees and levies. Ironically, these State tax hikes, many of which will hit low- and moderate-income residents, may offset any Federal cuts. This budget and the tax cuts are clear examples of how Republicans want to shift the tax burden of our Nation from the rich to the working class. Around this time last year, I led a successful effort to restore food stamp benefits to legal permanent residents. Although the President signed the law, this budget does not fund our commitment to keeping all lawful residents of our Nation fed. We cannot approve monumental reforms that bring hope to people's hearts and then coldly deny the funding for these very same programs. I urge my colleagues to oppose this budget. It's a budget that sends its message--in bright neon lights--``real people don't matter.''

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Speaker, it is with deep affection that I pay tribute to the life of Willie Benson Garrett, longtime San Bernardino community and political leader and dear friend. Willie passed away in the comfort of his own home at the age of 75 on February 28, 2003. Willie was born in San Augustine, Texas. He graduated from San Augustine Colored High School and from H. M. Morgan Barber College. He later moved to San Francisco where he graduated from Marinella Beauty College. He then enlisted and served in the Merchant Marines for two years, after which he was honorably discharged. In 1957, Willie moved to San Bernardino where he has resided for the past 46 years and where he began his lifelong commitment to public service. Garrett's Barbershop earned recognition as one of the most successful barber businesses in the area and was the catalyst for Willie's commitment to the betterment of his community. Garrett's Barbershop became the central point within the community where many local leaders discussed political, economic, social and other issues. As a community and political activist, Willie was President of the NAACP, supported the League of Mothers, helped establish WAG, was a member of The Black Democratic Club, was the Best Yet Promotions Political Campaign Advisor, and managed the Westside Drop-In Center in the City of San Bernardino. For his many contributions, Willie received the ``Man of the Year'' award for San Bernardino, received the 2001 NAACP Community Activist Award and received the ``Role Model of the Year'' award by WAG. Willie did not let his retirement stop him from making sure the well being of his community continued to be a priority. Willie was a member of the New Hope Baptist Church and more recently the impetus behind seminars and workshops on prostate cancer, diabetes, and other health issues relevant to women and men through support garnered from Kaiser, Community Hospital, The VA and Loma Linda Hospitals. He also provided leadership to the camping program of the local 4-H youth program for a number of years and helped pave the way for Native Americans to help teach to the 4Her's. Willie credited his success to the grace of God and to the support of his loving wife, Constance Garrett, of over 20 years. His 2 daughters, Bertha Hilburn and Patricia Scott, 2 sons, Shelley Garrett and Craig Garrett Cramer, 7 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, 3 sisters, Erma Jean Stafford, Ruth Stewart and Freddie Bivins and 2 brothers, Earnest and Leonard Garrett, also survive him. Willie Benson Garrett has left behind a wonderful legacy of community and political activism. The many nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends who loved him dearly will miss him. Willie touched us all with his kind deeds and leadership in our community. Barbara and I extend our deepest condolences to Willie's family. May God bestow his comfort upon them at this time.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I would like to pay tribute to Major Jose Ramon Baca, who is a very special individual to me. He was truly appreciated and loved by all who were fortunate enough to know him. Jose ``Ray'' Baca was born in Las Nutrias, New Mexico, to Alberto and Josefita Peralta Baca on March 19, 1940, and grew up in Albuquerque's South Broadway neighborhood. Ray graduated Albuquerque High School in 1958, and continued his education at the University of New Mexico. He graduated from the University in 1962 with a B.S. in chemical engineering and was a member of the Tau Beta Pi National Engineering Honor Society. After graduating, Ray married Victoria Morales in San Antonio, Texas on July 16, 1966. Together they raised their two sons, Rafael and Arthur. Once joining the Air Force, Ray's ambition, brilliance, and passion poised him for success. During his 20-year career in the Air Force, he worked as a launch officer for the Atlas Missile Project in Roswell and in Turkey. He received a Masters of Science degree in 1968 in nuclear engineering from the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. He also worked as a staff scientist at McClellan Air Force Base in California and later at the Air Force Missile Command in Washington, D.C. His yearning for knowledge led him to return to the University of New Mexico. In 1987 he received a M.A. in History and Southwestern Studies and was a doctoral candidate in history. His dream was to continue to research and write about his native state. Ray passed away on June 6, 2002 surrounded by his loving family. He was preceded in death by his father, Alberto Baca and sister, Viola Baca, and is survived by his wife of 35 years Victoria Baca; sons Rafael and Arthur; mother Josefita Baca; and sisters Dolores Padilla, Priscilla and Anna Mae Baca. His family, innumerable friends and community will miss him greatly. He will be remembered as a loving and generous husband, father, son, brother, and friend. He valued his family above all things, and supported and encouraged them in all stages of their lives. He instilled in his children a strong sense of family, love, and respect, and he encouraged them to excel in their education. He was an exceptional, compassionate and motivating individual. And so Mr. Speaker, I submit this loving memorial to be included in the archives of the history of this great nation.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, domestic violence is not just an issue that affects women; it is an issue that affects us all. So many of our mothers, sisters, co-workers, colleagues and friends may be victims of domestic violence and you may never even know. The woman sitting next to you may be battered or abused, and she is keeping it a deep dark secret because she is embarrassed, ashamed, or afraid. We need to continue to work hard to bring the issue of domestic violence out of the closet. Silence will not fix the problem. We need programs that continue to bring the issue out in the open and let victims know that their lives mean something! Let them know that there is no justification for abuse and that they do not have to live with it day after day. Victims need to know that there are places that they can go and people who can help. Victims need to know how to enact a plan so that they can flee their batterer and have resources available so that they are not forced to go back. It takes a tremendous amount of courage to flee an abuser, having the resources available to stay away should be the farthest thing from a victim's mind. That is why it is so important to have counseling services available helping with preparation. I saw a flyer the other day entitled ``10 Things Men Can Do to Prevent Men's Violence Against Women.'' Men need to understand that while most never abuse, there are factors that contribute to the cycle of violence and all of us need to do our part to end the cycle. We need to teach our sons how not to abuse and how not to contribute to it. We need to teach them that women must be treated with respect and dignity. Until men become actively involved in ending domestic violence, these cycles will never be broken.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I join my fellow members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus in strong opposition to the nomination of Miguel Estrada to the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals. After meeting with Mr. Estrada, I am convinced that he possesses neither the professional qualifications nor the commitment to diversity necessary for service on the second most influential court in our nation. We are disturbed by the fact that the President has nominated a person who has no prior experience as a judge and who is not considered one of the foremost legal voices of our time. It is clear to us that Mr. Estrada's nomination has more to do with his Spanish surname than his qualifications for the job. Miguel Estrada has no connection to the Latino community. He has no particular affinity for the role of the courts in lifting up the Latino community. He has never contributed pro bono legal services to Latino organizations, and has no interest in righting the wrongs of the past. In short, he has no business representing our community on a bench that is just a stone's throw from the highest court in the land. I strongly urge the Senate to vote against the confirmation of Miguel Estrada, and I stand in solidarity with our brave colleagues in the other chamber who are opposing his nomination.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. I would like to take the opportunity to thank Congresswoman Julia Carson for helping bring awareness to heart disease. Heart disease is America's number one cause of death. That fact alone is distressing but coupled with the fact that many cases of heart disease are preventable makes the issue catastrophic. Approximately 108 million Americans are overweight. 44 million are obese. This nation has got to do better about taking care of our health not only for our own lives, but also for the lives of our children. Children in America are learning bad habits. They are not being exposed to the proper diets or the necessary physical activity. Too often children sit idle throughout a school day and then return home to once again sit idly in front of a TV playing a video game. We need to learn the lesson that stimulation of the muscles and body are just as important as stimulation of the mind. Cases of heart disease will only continue to increase until we make a conscious effort to offer better nutrition in schools, access to health education, and more access to physical activity. This month is American Heart Month and the American Heart Association wants us all to learn the warning signs of a heart attack, because so often people ignore the signs and the situation becomes fatal. This message is important and we should help bring more attention to this life saving information. However, we should not rely on warning signs alone to save our lives. Prevention is essential. Heart Disease is not an issue that can be ignored by certain segments of the population. It is not a Caucasian disease, an African-American disease or a Latino disease. It is a disease that affects everyone! It is the leading cause of death for all Americans! That is why we must all come together to make a change collectively!

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, our nation is facing a catastrophic nursing shortage. The average age of nurses in America is 43 years of age. Nurses are leaving the profession in droves, and fewer people are choosing to enter the profession. We have to do more to not only retain the nurses that we have but also to increase their numbers. We need to send the message that nursing is a rewarding and much needed profession. We need to do our best to make sure that nurses get the recognition that they deserve so that we can turn around the shortage. Nurses need to know that they are needed. I support H. Con. Res. 54 because it helps bring more recognition, not only to the individualized profession of visiting nurses, but also to the profession as a whole. Visting nurses deserve all of the recognition that can be afforded. They are a valuable group of professionals that travel to the homes of some of the sickest individuals to ensure that they are receiving much- needed health care in the comfort and privacy of their own home. By supporting Visiting Nurses Associations we are supporting a system of health care that is compassionate and that allows patients to receive care while maintaining their dignity. In my district, The Visiting Nurses Association of the Inland Counties works hard to bring care to patients all over the area. I know that they are working to obtain the necessary grant money to implement essential technology so that they could treat more patients while offering the individualized care that every patient deserves. I applaud the effort of the nurses and I applaud the Congress for bringing recognition to their noble work.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Chairman, I oppose H.R. 4, the Personal Responsibility, Work and Family and Promotion Act. I opposed this bill during the last Congress and I oppose it now. For as long as I remain in this House, I will oppose any bill that claims to help American families while punishing them. I oppose H.R. 4 because it offers no educational opportunities, and I state, no educational opportunities. It does not provide for adequate funding for child care, for child care, I state. It is very important to a lot of us. It does not restore the benefits to legal permanent residents. I am tired of bills that pretend to promote families, that pretend to promote families. I am tired of bills that tell the unemployed that you are just lazy. Unemployment rates are steadily climbing in our country. It is time we get serious about fixing our problem. If you ask any person on welfare in this country if they would be rather working, overwhelmingly the majority would say yes. They desire to work and we should make sure we do increase the workforce. We are at a time in our country where we do not have the employment right now, and more and more people are in poverty. And yet we are asking many of these individuals to go out and fight for this country. And yet we are willing to put more people out in the streets and not provide jobs. We should be providing jobs. We should be providing educational training, vocational programs. We need to have access to English language training. We needs more access to literacy programs. Jobs in this country are becoming scarce. We need to provide help for people. I oppose this legislation.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 25, I was detained in the Chamber when the time elapsed on the vote. Had I not been detained and as a veteran, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, our Nation and the entire world mourn the passing of the crew of the Space Shuttle Columbia. They were brave individuals committed to challenging the limits of our knowledge and to the advancement of humanity. These brave souls have left us, but their spirit will remain forever. Our Nation will always remember these heroes--Commander Rick D. Husband, Pilot William C. McCool, Payload Commander Michael P. Anderson, Mission Specialist David M. Brown, Mission Specialist Kalpana Chawla, Mission Specialist Laurel Blair Salton Clark, and Payload Specialist Ilan Ramon. I ask the Almighty to guard the souls of these greatest examples of humanity, and that they be loved and remembered with the deepest of gratitude and admiration for their dedication to advancing our understanding of the universe and discovering ways that science can improve our lives. Thanks to missions like that of the Space Shuttle Columbia, we live, you might say, in a completely different universe than we did a generation ago, and our children will live in a totally different universe in their adulthood than we do now. We forge this path of progress from the sacrifices of brave souls like the crew of the Columbia. It is at times of grief that we find the higher purpose in our lives--our faith in God, love of family, and a dedication to the advancement of humanity. We find ourselves conflicted by the pain of losing some of the greatest examples of humanity and overcoming our fear of breaking from the shell of our known universe and receiving with open arms the wealth of knowledge that awaits us. In the end, we must surrender to our scientific impulse and our restless, altogether human curiosity about the physical universe. We are incapable of nothing, and, like the universe and the love in our hearts, our future is without limits.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I would like to pay tribute to Major Jose Ramon Baca, who is a very special individual to me. He was truly appreciated and loved by all who were fortunate enough to know him. Jose ``Ray'' Baca was born in Las Nutrias, New Mexico, to Alberto and Josefita Peralta Baca on March 19, 1940, and grew up in Albuquerque's South Broadway neighborhood. Ray graduated Albuquerque High School in 1958, and continued his education at the University of New Mexico. He graduated from the University in 1962 with a B.S. in chemical engineering and was a member of the Tau Beta Pi National Engineering Honor Society. After graduating, Ray married Victoria Morales in San Antonio, Texas on July 16, 1966. Together they raised their two sons, Rafael and Arthur. Once joining the Air Force, Ray's ambition, brilliance, and passion poised him for success. During his 20-year career in the Air Force, he worked as a launch officer for the Atlas Missile Project in Roswell and in Turkey. He received a Masters of Science degree in 1968 in nuclear engineering from the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. He also worked as a staff scientist at McClellan Air Force Base in California and later at the Air Force Missile Command in Washington, D.C. His yearning for knowledge led him to return to the University of New Mexico. In 1987 he received a M.A. in History and Southwestern Studies and was a doctoral candidate in history. His dream was to continue to research and write about his native state. Ray passed away on June 6, 2002 surrounded by his loving family. He was preceded in death by his father, Alberto Baca and sister, Viola Baca, and is survived by his wife of 35 years Victoria Baca; sons Rafael and Arthur; mother Josefita Baca; and sisters Dolores Padilla, Priscilla and Anna Mae Baca. His family, innumerable friends and community will miss him greatly. He will be remembered as a loving and generous husband, father, son, brother, and friend. He valued his family above all things, and supported and encouraged them in all stages of their lives. He instilled in his children a strong sense of family, love, and respect, and he encouraged them to excel in their education. He was an exceptional, compassionate and motivating individual. And so Mr. Speaker, I submit this loving memorial to be included in the archives of the history of this great nation.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I would like to commend the accomplishments, devout commitment, and exceptional service of James Z. Hernandez. James is a remarkable individual who has devoted his life to helping people throughout his community. His proactive approach and passionate spirit render him a vital resource and beloved community member. His innovative drug and alcohol prevention programs have triggered a domino effect of initiatives that can only be described as pure genius rooted in deep concern for others. James witnessed the devastating effects of drug and alcohol abuse that had been plaguing families and communities and understood the magnitude of the problem. Being the passionate spirit that he is, it comes to no surprise that he was a pivotal force in bringing access to culture-specific substance abuse prevention and treatment services to America's Spanish-speaking population. On a crusade to further his cause, James took the issue to the political arena and became involved with legislation affecting Latino youth and adults. He collaborated with government agencies and elected officials to bring much needed attention to drug and alcohol abuse within his Latino community. I had the pleasure of working with James, on groundbreaking legislation while I served in the California State Assembly. AB 1784, The Alcohol and Drug Treatment For Adolescents Act, was the first legislation of its kind to provide assistance to youth with drug problems. The legislation became law and set precedent for other youth rehabilitation programs. James has consistently focused on finding ways to help curb the rapidly growing rate of drug dependent Latinos. His work in this field has been tremendous in paving the way to for a drug-free tomorrow. In 2001, his credentials and expertise led him to become an appointed member of the Los Angeles County Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Commission. Throughout his career, James has demonstrated his effectiveness in addressing the problem and finding a solution. James is now the Executive Director of the California Hispanic Commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse, lnc.(CHCADA), which maintains over 20 substance abuse prevention and treatment contracts throughout Los Angeles, Orange, Sacramento, and Solano counties. It is only appropriate that James receive praise from so many as he approaches 30 years of devoting his life to serving others. His ardent work in the field of drug and substance abuse deserves to be commended. It is because of his relentless persistence and astounding vision that a multitude of preventative services exists. Throughout counties in California, individuals with addiction problems can receive professional assistance in fighting a crippling disease. His life's work means so much to so many people. And, in the words of Jackie Robinson, ``A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives.'' And so Mr. Speaker, I submit this commendation of James Z. Hernandez to be included in the archives of the history of this great nation, for individuals like James are what make this nation great. His life represents hope for countless people across California who have confronted the perils of drug and alcohol abuse and can now be comforted with hope.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I come before this Chamber with a heavy heart, because I know that I am making one of the most difficult decisions in my life. Like my colleagues in Congress and every American, I have debated whether unilateral military action in Iraq is the best thing to do. I have carefully weighed and considered all options. I pray to God that I am making the right decision. I have not been able to sleep. I think about the mothers and fathers I have met who have asked me, how long will this war last? How many lives will be lost? Could our children be drafted? How many of those children will come back with deformities, with cancer or mental illness? I think about our many sons and daughters that will be affected by our decision. I wonder how many will not make it home to their parents. I think about the many veterans that already have served our Nation but still have not received access to the benefits of our country that has promised them that. I think about the innocent Iraqi children who will be caught in the crossfire. I think about how this war could make us more suspicious of others based on the color of their skin. I have talked to bishops, clergy, community leaders. All of my constituents have written and voiced their concern about the war. Is the price we will pay in lives worth the security we might gain by eliminating only one of countless threats? In our Nation's history, we have never fired the first shot, so why now? One thing is clear: We must exhaust every alternative before we send our sons and daughters into harm's way. We all want to keep our families and our Nation safe from terrorists and weapons of mass destruction, but I also want to make sure that I can look into my children's eyes and tell them that we have done everything we can to avoid a war. War should also be the last resort, not the first option. I do not believe the President has made the case clear to the American people that now is the best time, or that unilateral action is the best option. That is why I will vote in favor of the Spratt substitute. The Spratt substitute supports the President's proposal for intrusive weapons inspections and still gives the President the power to use our military if Iraq refuses to comply. Let me be clear: I support the President in his efforts to protect and defend this Nation, but we must do so with the support of the United Nations and the international community. The Spratt amendment says that the President has to get congressional approval before he unilaterally invades Iraq. Does that not make sense? Should the President come to Congress before he leads this Nation into war? That is what our Constitution demands. Like the rest of the Nation, I am concerned that Saddam Hussein could transfer weapons of mass destruction to terrorist organizations, but we must not act in haste and not without the support of the United Nations and the world community. That is why I reluctantly will vote against H.R. 114. Mr. Speaker, I want to make one thing clear: Do not confuse my vote against the resolution as a vote against our troops. As a veteran, as a Congressman, as a patriotic American, I stand 100 percent for our troops. I remember how our brave men and women were treated when they returned home from Vietnam. They were treated with scorn and hate. We must not repeat our mistakes of the past. Regardless of what we think of the war, we must all support our soldiers, and we should protect their lives by winning support of our allies. Acting alone will increase our economic burden and leave us with few resources to rebuild Iraq. It would raise the question about the legitimacy of our action in the eyes of the world. It would create more instability in the region and turn a mere threat into our worst nightmare. Mr. Speaker, has the Bush administration answered all of our questions? What will happen if we go to war and Saddam Hussein uses chemical or biological weapons against our troops? Our troops must have the equipment and resources they need to fight the war. Do we know what Saddam will throw at us? That is why we must provide them with all possible protection and treatment and benefits they need. When our children come back to us sick with cancer, horribly disfigured, we must not turn our backs on them or their families. What will happen with this regime? We must make sure that a new Iraq is democratic and respects human rights. A post-Saddam Iraq must be a beacon of hope to the Arab world and not a tool of American foreign policy. What effect will this have on our war on terrorism? Would going to war with Iraq add fuel to the fire of the war on terrorism? What effects would this have on our economy? The Bush administration tries to paint a rosy picture of the state of our economy, but we have gone from a record surplus to crippling deficits. My constituents are concerned about their savings, their jobs, prescription drugs, Social Security, the schools. How will this war affect them? The President must not forget the economic problems of the American people. I am placing my trust, and our country is placing its trust, in this President to heed these concerns. I know the President's resolution will likely pass this body with little effort. I oppose it because more of our men and women will die if we go to war. I pray to God that I have made the right decision.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to support full funding for the ``No Child Left Behind'' Act (H.R. 1). The new little red schoolhouse entrances to the Department of Education building are a perfect example that the Administration is ``all show and no tell'' when it comes to education. By building those little red schoolhouses, at a cost of $98,000, at least 160 children have already been left behind by the Administration's cuts in education funding. The Bush Administration thinks that the American people will see those schoolhouses and believe that the Nation's children are in good hands under the Bush education system. The American people know better. Americans will notice when after school programs are no longer available for their children. Americans will notice when their special needs children cannot get extra help from their own community schools. Americans will notice when their teachers become frustrated because they can't get the training they need to provide the best quality instruction to their students. Americans will notice when these same teachers have to leave their students because they can't get the training required to meet the Administration's new accountability standards. Americans will notice when their kids can't receive as much in student loans, and don't have access to scholarships for low-income students. And, Americans will notice when their kids who need help with their English skills are falling behind because their schools no longer provide training in English. Since 1997, the average increase in Federal education funding has been 12 percent a year--until now. The Bush Administration proposes to increase Federal funding by only 0.5 percent, but flaunts the ``No Child Left Behind'' Act as its first big accomplishment. If leaving millions of children out in the cold when it comes to their education is an accomplishment, then dark times lay ahead. The Bush Administration has slashed about 82 percent of the budget increase promised by the ``No Child Left Behind'' Act for low-income students. The President's budget cuts the expected increase for low-income students from $5.65 billion to only $1 billion extracted from other important programs. Low-income students can expect to lose over $664 million in badly needed funds. English language training programs will now face a freeze in funding even though 300,000 students with limited English will enroll in school next year. The Bush budget cuts English language training funding by almost 10 percent per child, but still requires testing of these students to determine how to bring students up to new standards. We should be helping school districts like those in my Congressional district, which are struggling to make good on their promise to hire more bilingual teachers to help the growing number of Spanish-speaking children. Instead, the Bush budget cuts funding for bilingual education and teacher training. The Bush administration's budget cuts special education programs by so much that the goals set by the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) cannot be met for at least 12 more years. Special Education is underfunded by $500 million. The ``No Child Left Behind'' Act requires that IDEA be met in 7 years, not 12. The funds for the Teacher Quality State Grant program, which is the primary Federal program for training teachers in core academic subjects, have come to a halt. 92,000 fewer teachers will be trained than the Program currently supports. The Bush Administration's budget is $404 million below the amount promised in the ``No Child Left Behind'' for teacher training. The Republican budget also freezes child care funding and includes only a slight increase for Head Start. This will reduce the number of children already eligible and leave millions empty-handed. The Administration fails to fund its vital education program that claims to leave no child behind. It seems that Republicans think that simply by naming the education bill ``No Child Left Behind,'' they are keeping their promise to the American people. Americans know better! Americans deserve better! I urge both the Administration and the Members of Congress to fully fund the ``No Child Left Behind'' Act for the sake of our children.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I oppose H.R. 556, the Unlawful Internet Gambling Funding Prohibition Act. Although this bill is entitled a ``prohibition'' act, it is really an authorization act. Section 3 of the bill provides a carve-out for transactions with businesses licensed or authorized by States. It provides exemptions that, in essence, would allow States to license new Internet gaming operations for lotteries, horse tracks, and corporate gambling operations. The House Judiciary Committee rejected a similar provision in July when it adopted an amendment to delete all authorizations for interstate Internet gaming. Although the bill grants States these exemptions, it does not provide Tribal governments with the same exemptions. I would not be standing here today, in opposition to this bill, if there were a flat prohibition on internet gaming. But that is not what this bill does. The bill gives an advantage to private gaming enterprises. It does not treat tribal governments as equals. Just when we think that the centuries of mistreatment and discrimination are ending, something comes up to show us that they haven't. We are learning that the more things change, the more they stay the same. Once again, Congress is trying put tribal governments at a disadvantage. And once against, I will stand up and defend the sovereignty of tribal governments! I will stand up and make sure that our government lives up to its trust responsibility! Gaming provides the financial resources that tribes need to survive and to bring economic development to their people. It provides the resources that tribal governments need to provide health, education and hope to their people. It is the lifeblood of our Native American brothers and sisters! I will not stand by and watch as Congress puts tribes behind the eight-ball. I urge my colleagues to vote ``no'' on H.R. 556.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I would like to pay tribute to Patsy T. Mink a very special individual to me and to the entire 107th Congress. She was truly a beloved woman. Born December 6, 1927, Patsy was destined for greatness. She made history as the first Asian Pacific American woman admitted the bar of Hawaii, the first Asian Pacific American woman elected to state office in Hawaii, and in 1964 became the first woman of color to be elected to the United States House of Representatives. Furthermore, her vision to change the status quo and better the livelihood of all Americans led her to sponsor Title IX of the Education Act of 1972, paving the way for every woman athlete in America. Patsy represented her constituents of the 2nd Congressional District of Hawaii, to the fullest of her ability. Before being elected to Congress she served in both Hawaii State House of Representatives and Senate. With more than 40 years in the political arena she possessed a wealth of knowledge that poised her as one of the most revered Members of Congress. She dedicated her life to serving her fellow Hawaiians through diligently working on legislation that addressed education, health, women and veteran issues. She was a beloved community figure whose passionate voice spoke for every person regardless of race or gender. Patsy is survived by her husband John and daughter Wendy. My prayers and condolences are with her family and friends as they have lost a great, loving, and kind woman. She will be greatly missed. And so Mr. Speaker, I submit this loving memorial to be included in the archives of the history of this great nation, for women like Patsy T. Mink are unique in their generous contributions to this country.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Madam Speaker, first of all I would like to commend the gentleman from California (Mr. McKeon) and the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Hinojosa) for bringing this resolution before us, which I strongly support, H. Res. 561, recognizing the contributions of Hispanic-serving institutions. Hispanic-serving institutions are located in fast-growing Hispanic communities. As we look at the number of Hispanics and growth within our communities, Hispanic-serving institutions continue to provide services to our communities. They are reaching out not only to low-income people, but are providing an opportunity to many individuals that otherwise would not have an opportunity to go to a State college or university to pursue their dreams and fulfill those dreams to become productive citizens in our communities. It is the Hispanic-serving institutions within our communities that are now reaching out and providing opportunities not only in academics, but opportunities in careers and the potential to fulfill the goals for many of these students who will end up being our mayors, our city council members, our Members of Congress, and members of our communities who are contributing. Recent studies by the Department of Education shows that the number of Hispanics are growing, and enrollment is increasing within our Hispanic communities. It is important that we continue to fund Hispanic-serving institutions to make sure that no child is left behind, that no student is left behind, and that each student has an opportunity to be all that he or she wants to be. This can only happen if we continue to provide the funding to these important institutions that are reaching out and giving an opportunity to many kids that do not have one. I commend the Hispanic-serving institutions in providing this important vehicle and an opportunity such as those that I have in my district. I have two community colleges, San Bernardino Valley College and Cal State San Bernardino, with the possibility of UC-Riverside being another Hispanic-serving institution. These are a few of the many that we are going to see in the future, but it is our responsibility to make sure that they have the funds to provide for books, professors, laboratories, curriculum and other services that are rapidly growing within the Hispanic population to make sure that these students have the needs and the tools to perform in school. Hispanic-serving institutions provide that vehicle. I want to commend our colleagues for bringing this resolution forward. I encourage the administration to continue to support the growth that we have.