Madeleine Bordallo

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise this morning to address a particular provision included in Title VI of S. 1932, the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005. This provision, Section 6055, is very important to my district, to my constituency, and to the Members of this body who represent one of the U.S. territories. Over the past two years, since arriving in Congress, I have worked to address the serious concern relating to the application of the Medicaid program to Guam and the other U.S. territories vis-a-vis the application to the 50 States. In the 50 States, Medicaid is an individual entitlement. There are no limits on the Federal payments for Medicaid in the 50 States as long as the state is able to contribute its share of matching funds. However, annual Federal Medicaid payments in Guam and in the other U.S. territories are subject to different rules and may not exceed a certain amount specified in law. These limitations are set under Section 1108 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1308(g)). The reality is that Medicaid claims and expenditures in Guam and in the other U.S. territories exceed the limited amounts or ceilings set in U.S. law. Even if the Government of Guam is financially prepared, able and willing to meet its share of the matching requirement, U.S. law will not allow for Federal Medicaid payments to be made beyond the specified limit. Fortunately, to account for inflation, the law was previously amended to provide for increases beginning in 1999 to the ceilings based on the annual percentage change in the medical care component of the Consumer Price Index. Indexing the ceilings for inflation was a needed and important improvement in the Medicaid program for the U.S. territories. However, even with the inflation indexing, the ceilings provided for in current law fall far short of meeting actual Medicaid-eligible claims in the territories. Apart from the fundamental and more inherent issues associated with the disparate treatment of the territories in this entitlement program, are the practical and public health problems caused by the seemingly arbitrary and budget-driven federal funding limitations placed on the territories. Medicaid is an important Federal safety net and it is essential that the program be operated efficiently and to the fullest extent needed in the territories. I am pleased that the Senate receded to the House position and accepted Section 3141 of H.R. 4241, the House version of this budget reconciliation legislation, in the conference committee. This provision will provide for adjustments to the Medicaid payments for the U.S. territories under Section 1108 of the Social Security Act. These Medicaid adjustments address critical health care needs in the territories. Specifically, Section 6055, as included in the conference report, will provide annual increases for Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007 in the ceilings placed on Federal funding for the Medicaid program in Guam, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and Puerto Rico. The total adjustment for all territories in Fiscal Year 2006 is $20 million and in Fiscal Year 2007 the adjustment is $28 million. For Fiscal Year 2008 and subsequent fiscal years, the funding for the Medicaid program in the territories will be calculated by increasing the Fiscal Year 2007 amount by the percentage change in the medical care component of the Consumer Price Index, in the same manner as currently provided in law. The Congressional Budget Office has estimated that these adjustments will amount to additional $140 million in Medicaid payments for the territories over the next five years, and $323 million over the next ten years. This provision has been included in this conference report as a result of bipartisan negotiations. On September 8 and 9, 2004, in the 108th Congress, I offered an amendment to H.R. 5006, the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2005 that would have provided an additional $8 million in Medicaid funding that year for Guam, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. A point of order was raised and sustained on the amendment the first time it was offered. However, a modified and second amendment filed to the bill for the same purpose, was debated the following day. This amendment led to a serious and direct discussion for the first time on the House floor on the issue of Medicaid payments to the territories. Ultimately, I withdrew the amendment at the request of the gentleman from Texas, Mr. Barton, who pledged to work with me, my colleagues from the territories, and the gentleman from Indiana, Mr. Burton, on this issue. The gentleman from Texas, Mr. Barton, the Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, kept his word. The gentleman and his professional staff and counsel have worked patiently and diligently with us to address this issue. The language included in Section 6055 of S. 1932 is a result of this close collaboration and cooperation. I want to thank the gentleman from Texas, Mr. Barton, the gentleman from Indiana, Mr. Burton, who has been an ally and leader on this issue, and the leadership of the budget committees, for their work on this provision. In the case of Guam, the adjustment made to the ceiling by this bill will bring the Federal Government, closer to meeting the actual amount of recent annual Medicaid costs. This is especially the case when factoring in Federal grants received under mandatory appropriations made for annual Compact-impact assistance. Guam currently receives $14.2 million every year from the Department of the Interior to defray costs incurred as a result of increased demands placed on health and social services due to the residence in Guam of citizens of the Freely Associated States. This funding was authorized by the Compact of Free Association Amendments Act of 2003 (Public Law 108-188). However, despite the adjustments made to the ceilings set under Section 1108 of the Social Security Act by this bill, a significant and outstanding issue remains with respect to the application of the Medicaid program in Guam and the other U.S. territories. The Federal Medicaid matching rate, which determines the share of Medicaid expenditures paid for by the Federal Government, is statutorily set at 50 percent for the territories (42 U.S.C. 1396d(b)(2)). However, a formula is used to determine the matching rate for the States. If qualified for the formula the territories would receive rates as high as 77 percent. I hope that at some point in the future the rate for the territories could be set by the same formula as used for the states or at minimum adjusted to be on par with the rate statutorily set for the District of Columbia. With the increase in Medicaid payment authorization provided by this legislation, the territories can more effectively address health care needs within the fiscal constraints of the Medicaid program. As has been stated, the Medicaid program in the territories is significantly different from the program in the states, and these differences present unique challenges to the territorial governments. I thank the conferees for their attention to and acceptance of this important provision for the territories. This adjustment to Federal funding for Medicaid in the territories will have a significant impact in helping to address health care disparities between the states and the territories. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues from the territories, and the leadership of both chambers, to effectively address and eliminate disparities in federal health care financing between the states and the territories.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 4519, the State High Risk Pool Funding Extension Act of 2005. I do so mainly because this bill would not only extend the authorization for Federal support for State high risk health insurance pools until 2010, but also because it provides, for the first time, authorization for the U.S. territories to receive this Federal support. With this Federal support, the U.S. territories will be able to establish and operate high risk health insurance pools like those already successfully operating in several States. The costs of providing health care in the U.S. territories are very high due to the number of uninsured individuals, the prevalence of chronic diseases among residents, significant transportation expenses, and small risk pools over which to spread the cost of health insurance. Additionally, the vast majority of employers in the U.S. territories are small businesses. Like most small businesses nationwide, Guam's small businesses are limited in their financial ability to offer affordable health coverage to their employees. The State high risk pool model is an innovative method to address the need for health insurance for high risk populations. To date, 31 States have established high risk health insurance pools. However, section 201(b) of the Trade Act of 2002 (Public Law 107-210), which authorized Federal funding for the creation and initial operation of high risk pools in the States did not include the U.S. territories among those eligible to receive this funding. The ineligibility of the U.S. territories for this assistance remains a concern. Previous versions of this bill being considered today to reauthorize this Federal program did not include the U.S. territories among those to be qualified to receive seed funding and additional grants to initiate and operate high risk pools. However, the bill before us today, the product of negotiations over the last several months, does include the U.S. territories. H.R. 4519 will enable Guam and the other U.S. territories to form high risk insurance pools. The establishment of such pools will save the Federal Government Medicaid resources, because individuals with chronic illnesses will have another alternative to utilize to pay for expensive healthcare services. Assisting the U.S. territories in operating high risk pools will help the local treasuries with insuring high risk individuals. The establishment of high risk pools will reduce the risk of the general pool of health insurance consumers in the U.S. territories. This will allow for greater competition in the health insurance market, reduced costs for consumers, and will result in more economically manageable and affordable employee health plans for small businesses. I came to this floor on July 27 of this year to highlight the need to include the U.S. territories in this Federal program, when this House debated H.R. 3204, the precursor to the bill before us today. The gentleman from Arizona, Mr. Shadegg, the author of this bill, recognized this need. The gentleman from Georgia, Mr. Deal, and the gentleman from Ohio, Mr. Brown, supported this request. I thank them for their leadership and for their attention to and understanding of the needs of the U.S. territories. Additionally, I want to thank the gentleman from Texas, Mr. Barton, and the gentleman from Michigan, Mr. Dingell, the chairman and the ranking Democratic member of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, respectively, and their staffs, for their attention to this issue. I thank all of these gentlemen for their cooperation and assistance on this important issue. Together, with my colleagues from the Virgin Islands, Mrs. Christensen, American Samoa, Mr. Faleomavaega, and Puerto Rico, Mr. Fortuno, we were able to improve the legislation to take into account the needs of the U.S. territories. I look forward to working with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Government of Guam in establishing a high risk pool in Guam with Federal seed money. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 4519.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce legislation that will require rate integration for wireless interstate toll charges. Specifically, this legislation would amend Section 254(g) of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended by the Telecommunications Act of 1996, to provide for rate integration of wireless long distance service within the United States, including the territories. With this legislation I intend to require uniformity in rates charged by cellular phone and other wireless service providers for calls and communications to and from Guam within the United States. Section 254(g) directs the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) ``to adopt rules to require that the rates charged by providers of interexchange telecommunication services to subscribers in rural and high cost areas shall be no higher than the rates charged by each such provider to its subscribers in urban areas.'' Pursuant to Section 254(g), the FCC promulgated a regulation (FCC Order 98-347) to cover Commercial Mobile Radio Services (CMRS) as an interexchange service. CMRS includes Personal Communications Service (PCS) and cellular services. In defense of their Order, the FCC noted that ``if Congress had intended to exempt CMRS providers, it presumably would have done so expressly as it had done in other sections of the [1996 Telecommunications] Act.'' Subsequent to its issuance, the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit vacated FCC Order 98-347, by ruling that interexchange telecommunication services do not encompass CMRS. In its ruling, the Court cited the phrase ``interexchange telecommunications service'' contained in Section 254(g). Since wireless telecommunications do not use exchanges, the Court held that ``it is by no means obvious that the Congress, when it used a phrase in which the word `interexchange' is an essential term, was referring to CMRS.'' It is unclear from the language of the statute whether section 254 applies to wireless services. Section 254 does not include specific language regarding its applicability to wireless services, not does it specifically exclude such services. Moreover, the legislative history of Section 254(g) is not instructive as to Congress' intent regarding the applicability of the rate integration requirement to wireless services. Clearly, ambiguity in the law exists. As a result, cellular customers are subject to varying rates for calls made within the United States. This is particularly evident with respect to rates assessed to calls made to Guam and the other U.S. territories under service plans offered to cellular customers within the 48 contiguous states of the United States. Again, the Telecommunications Act of 1996 requires rate integration for noncellular, landline communication services. The legislation introduced today would simply extend this same requirement to wireless communications. Rate integration for wireless interstate toll charges is important to businesses and individuals located on the U.S. mainland who engage in regular and reoccurring voice communication with other businesses and contacts located in the offshore territories. Family members and friends are among the customers who are assessed higher and different rates for cellular calls made to Guam or the other territories. These differences in wireless rates exist despite the fact that the U.S. territories are included in the North American Numbering Plan, the numbering plan for the Public Switched Telephone Network of the United States. This legislation would bring the uniformity and fairness in rates desired by those in Guam wishing to keep in closer contact with relatives, friends, and associates who reside in other parts of the United States through the latest technology. Additionally, as technology in telecommunication advances, laws should be updated and developed to keep pace. This legislation would update existing law to take into account advances in and the popularity of wireless telecommunications since enactment of the 1996 Act. The legislation would do so in a manner consistent with both a previous, but vacated, FCC Order and with rate integration requirements applied to other more traditional telecommunication technology. I look forward to addressing the issue of rate integration for wireless services as part of the legislative effort to reauthorize the Telecommunications Act of 1996.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of House Concurrent Resolution 218, which recognizes the centennial of sustained immigration from the Philippines to the United States and acknowledges the contributions of our Filipino-American community to our country over the last century. What started out as a few hundred migrant farm workers in California and Hawaii has grown into the second largest Asia Pacific American ethnic group in the United States today, and a cornerstone of the foundation of our nation. Since they first set foot in the United States in 1587, Filipinos have made extraordinary contributions to our nation's economy, history, politics, and culture. Larry Itliong and the often overlooked Filipino farm workers worked hand-in-hand with Cesar Chavez to form the United Farm Workers. Together, they were responsible for the movement that improved working conditions for farm workers in California, and indeed throughout our nation. Former Los Angeles Rams Quarterback, Roman Gabriel, actor Rob Schneider, and Allan Pineda Lindo, better known as Apl of the Black Eyed Peas, are just some of the Filipino-Americans who continue to raise the profile of Filipino-Americans in the fields of athletics, arts and entertainment. On my home island of Guam, Filipino- Americans are important leaders in our business community, several have served in our local legislature, and countless others have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Today, the contributions of the Filipino-American community remain strong throughout the United States, and are particularly evident in the Pacific Islands that are a part of the American family. Filipino- Americans have made the most out of the last 100 years since their ancestors arrived in Hawaii. They have moved up from the sugarcane plantations to assume prominent positions in public office. They have, at various times, served as Members of the Hawaii House of Representatives, State Senators, Cabinet Members, an even Governors. However, perhaps the most significant Filipino-Americans are the working professionals who continue to provide for their families while lending their strength to the community at large. They are teachers and farmers, lawyers and medical professionals whose work ethic and determination truly embody the spirit of the American dream. At a time when we are proud to stand up and say that we are American, we must not overlook the individual pieces upon which our nation stands. The contributions of the Filipino-American community to our country are significant, and it is right that we salute all that they have done for our nation. On this occasion, let us recognize the historical significance of sustained immigration from the Philippines to the United States. On Guam, I want to say ``Maraming Salmat Po'' to our Filipino-American community. Today, the Filipino Community of Guam (FCG) is an organization comprised of over 70 individual community groups through which several thousand Filipino-Americans contribute to our island. I join my colleagues in recognizing and honoring their accomplishments, and those of their Kababayan throughout the United States.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of House Resolution 487, which recognizes the goals and ideals of a Korean American Day and which honors the contributions that Korean Americans have made in the United States. On January 13, 1903, 102 Korean immigrants arrived in the United States. They arrived on the SS Gaelic in Honolulu in the U.S. Territory of Hawaii where they established residence and labored on Hawaiian sugar plantations. These immigrants pioneered the migration of Koreans to America. Today this movement continues and remains strong. The island of Guam is home to many Korean immigrants and Korean Americans alike. In the 1960s, President John F. Kennedy lifted the United States security clearance requirement for travel to and from Guam. This was an important-step with respect to the future growth and development of Guam's economy and trade with Asian nations. The removal of the security clearance requirement was followed by an influx of new immigrants to Guam, the westernmost territory of the United States. Koreans began to establish communities on Guam as early as in the 1970s, and in 1980s many new Korean families arrived on island to establish a beginning in America. Many Korean immigrants opened new businesses and several have risen to assume important leadership roles in advocating for the small business community. The contributions of Korean Americans are not only found in Guam, but in every community across the United States. Korean Americans are key contributors in the economic, medical, academic and religious fields. Notably, at least 4,000 Korean Americans are currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, with 25 percent serving in Iraq. Whether they are serving as leaders in their communities or fighting alongside their fellow Americans in defense of our country, Korean Americans have demonstrated their significant presence in and contributions to the United States. I wish to express my heartfelt support in recognizing the 103rd anniversary of the arrival of the first Korean immigrants to the United States. On this occasion, I also take the opportunity to recognize the growth and contributions of the Korean Association of Guam. The Korean Association of Guam was established to advance the professional and civic interests of Korean Americans in Guam. Today, the Association serves as an important welcoming support group for new immigrants from Korea. Through the continued efforts and contributions of Korean Americans, our nation's ties with Korea will be strengthened in the years to come. I urge passage of House Resolution 487 in honor of the story and contributions of Korean Americans.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Kim Kee Yee for a career of dedicated service to the United States Government spanning sixty years. Mr. Yee will be honored today in Tiyan, Guam with a Federal Career Service Ceremony. Mr. Yee was born on February 18, 1928, in the then U.S. Territory of Hawaii to Kon Fook and Kui Len Lau, who immigrated to Hawaii from China. While attending Waipahu High School, Mr. Yee witnessed the attack on Pearl Harbor. Upon graduation from high school in 1945, he enlisted in the United States Army where he officially began his service to the United States of America. While in the Army, Mr. Yee successfully completed fifty ``jumps'' as a paratrooper in the famed 82nd Airborne Division. Mr. Yee was honorably discharged from the Army in 1946. Shortly afterward he came to Guam and accepted a position as an electronic technician with the Civil Aeronautics Administration. In 1950, after passage of the Organic Act of Guam, Mr. Yee began his career with the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Guam Office. Since then, Mr. Yee has served with distinction. Mr. Yee was given a career appointment by the FAA in 1957. Of special note is that, as an FAA employee on Guam, Mr. Yee worked in support of U.S. Armed Forces during the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the Persian Gulf War of 1991. Currently, Mr. Yee serves as an Airway Transportation Systems Specialist. Mr. Yee has received numerous awards in recognition of his excellent service. Mr. Yee is a seven-time recipient of the FAA's Performance Award. In addition, he has also received the Special Act/ Service Award on four separate occasions. Mr. Yee has furthermore received a Letter of Commendation for Reliability of Guam Radar Services. Today, I join with the FAA and the people of Guam in honoring Mr. Kim Kee Yee for his years of distinguished service. His career serves as an inspiring example of commitment to the United States Government. Mr. Yee married Ms. Anita Benevente Santos from the village of Sinajana, Guam on December 1, 1956. Their marriage has blessed them with five children and eleven grandchildren. I congratulate Mr. Yee and his family upon his reaching sixty notable years of distinguished service to the United States Government.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate the Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health (FFCMH) upon the occasion of their 17th Annual Conference. Their conference will be held this weekend in Washington, D.C., and will be hosted by I Famagu'on-ta, the chapter and delegation from Guam. The Federation is a national family-run network of community-based organizations dedicated to improving mental health services for children through advocacy, training, family support, and engagement in the public policy process. I commend the Federation for their support, service and commitment to children with mental health needs and their families throughout the United States. In January of 2002, Guam advocates for families reached out to the Federation for assistance as resources and support for children with mental needs and their families in our community were largely unavailable on island. The association with Guam was born of the efforts initiated by Mary-Therese Edgerle, who at that time was a concerned parent on Guam. Through her vision and dedication, a family organization for parents whose children experience serious emotional disturbances or S.E.D. was established in the territory. Through its former executive director, Barbara Huff, the Federation lent extraordinary assistance and key backing to Guam advocates in the early efforts to organize on behalf of children with mental health needs. Barbara personally saw to it that the Federation grew to include membership and organization in Guam. As a result of the collaboration between Guam advocates and Federation leaders, Guam's families began to learn and understand their rights and the many possibilities and programs that could be developed to help their children affected by S.E.D. Sandra Spencer, the current Federation executive director, has been equally supportive of Guam. Under her direction and guidance, Guam has been blessed with ongoing leadership training through Lisa Conlan, the technical assistance partnership and peer mentor. The various board, individualized evaluation plan, crises, and family partners train-the- trainer programs, as well as their technical support, have provided invaluable expertise and assistance to the families and most especially, the children of Guam. The Federation staff members have given of their time willingly and unselfishly, as have other Federation Chapters, to provide Guam with much needed support, resources and information. In particular, I would like to recognize Sue Smith from the Parent Support Network in Georgia for her steadfast dedication and assistance to the Guam Chapter. With the benefit of a $180,000 statewide Family Network Grant award in October 2002, the Guam Chapter successfully identified and strengthened local families through early program development stages. This work has resulted in a $9.5 million grant. The Child Mental Health Initiative Cooperative Agreement with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration was entitled Project I Famagu'on-ta or ``Our Children,'' in support of children and youth on Guam affected by S.E.D. As a result of Federation training, Guam Identifies Families Terrific Strengths, Inc., or G.I.F.T.S. was awarded tax-exempt status as a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization in October 2005. The development and passing of legislation in Guam has further helped to shape and create a nationally recognized system of care on Guam. This legislation has also helped form G.I.F.T.S. as a new Federation chapter. It is this territorial chapter that is hosting the registration of the Federation of Families National Conference this weekend. The establishment of G.I.F.T.S. marks the beginning stage of an association providing much needed services to children and families on Guam. I commend and congratulate the Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health for their unselfish devotion, commitment and support provided to those affected by S.E.D. I further express my sincere and heartfelt gratitude for their outstanding work in making a difference in the lives of the families and children of Guam and in other communities throughout the nation. Through the efforts of the Federation our nation has the ability to foster healthy emotional development for our children in need. I wish the Federation a successful and productive conference. Dankulo na Si Yu'os Ma'ase and thank you.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions and research of Dr. Kyle D. Smith, a Professor of Psychology at the University of Guam. Today, Dr. Smith will be honored as the ``Professor of the Year'' from Guam at an awards ceremony here in Washington, DC, sponsored by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education and The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. Dr. Smith has devoted his academic career to undergraduate teaching, and his contributions in the field of psychology and his innovative teaching techniques, have earned him the selection as Guam ``Professor of the Year'' for 2005. In 1981, Professor Smith graduated summa cum laude in psychology at the University of Tulsa. He received both a Master of Science degree in psychology and a Ph.D. in social psychology from the University of Washington, Seattle, in 1984 and 1987, respectively. Professor Smith has served on the faculty at the University of Washington, Seattle, the University of Washington at Bothell, and Marmara University in Istanbul, Turkey. He currently is a Professor of Psychology in the Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Guam. Professor Smith is a respected academician and is recognized by his colleagues for his outstanding research and teaching ability. Professor Smith has focused his recent research on cultural factors in emotions and moral concepts. He has contributed to national dialogue on important issues currently facing academia, including most especially contributions in the areas of minority education and published research with respect to the learning environment for international students. His research has focused on the incorporation of culture, ethnicity, and diversity in teaching methodology and in the curriculum. In a joint research endeavor with colleagues, Professor Smith has designed a new undergraduate degree program in Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences. Professor Smith is widely recognized for his interactive classes in general psychology, social psychology, and cross-cultural psychology, where he emphasizes innovation, cultural relevance, and leadership. He applies theory to real world situations and promotes critical thinking development. His commitment to teaching and his research in the field of psychology has contributed to the mission and growth of the University of Guam. Our island community recognizes his accomplishments and his selection as the ``Professor of the Year'' for 2005. Our Nation needs professors like Dr. Smith who are committed to teaching and who educate the leaders of tomorrow. Great educators should be commended for their contributions to society. The U.S. Professors of the Year Awards sponsored by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education and The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching help sustain the national commitment to undergraduate education. I join with the people of Guam in commending Professor Kyle D. Smith upon receiving this award and in honoring his accomplishments.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman very much for the time. I rise today in strong support of H.R. 1492, the Preservation of World War II Internment Sites Act. Introduced by our colleagues from California, Mr. Thomas, and I thank him for his perseverance, Mr. Honda and Ms. Matsui, this legislation would go far in preserving the memory and the history, however troubling and painful they may be, of our government's decision to intern Japanese-Americans during the Second World War. I thank Chairman Pombo and Ranking Member Rahall for their very hard work in reporting this bill from the Resources Committee. Both U.S. history and the American conscience now view Executive Order 9066, which directed the Japanese Americans be interned, as totally wrong. President Jimmy Carter signed into law legislation that led to the 1982 ``Report of the U.S. Commission on Wartime Relocation and Internment of Civilians.'' That report concluded that ``Executive Order 9066 was not justified by military necessity.'' Further, the report concluded that the underlying rationale for Executive Order 9066 was shaped by ``race prejudice, war hysteria, and a failure of political leadership.'' When signing the Civil Liberties Act of 1988 into law, President Ronald Reagan said: ``Here we admit a wrong. Here we affirm our commitment as a Nation to equal justice under the law.'' The Civil Liberties Act provided a long overdue apology for the imprisonment of Japanese-Americans during World War II. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 1492 directs the Secretary of the Interior to create a program within the National Park Service to support and work in partnership with citizens, governmental and tribal organizations, educational institutions, and private nonprofit organizations for the purpose of identifying, protecting, and acquiring historic confinement sites where Japanese-Americans were detained during World War II in order to gain inspiration from these sites and to demonstrate the Nation's commitment to equal justice. The initiatives that will be funded by this bill, and the history that these initiatives will preserve, are important to our country. The Second World War was a great battle for freedom. However, 120,000 Japanese Americans were forced from their homes and ordered to live in seclusion. Answers to the questions: Why did this happen, where did this happen, and to whom did it happen, and what was it like for those who experienced it, this should remain available for future generations of Americans to study, to interpret, to reflect upon and to learn from. Passage of H.R. 1492 will go far in achieving these goals. It deserves our support, Mr. Speaker, and I commend the gentleman from California (Mr. Thomas) who has long worked to preserve this story and those sites of historical significance. I also again thank the gentleman from California (Mr. Honda) and the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Matsui) for their leadership, and I urge support for H.R. 1492.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in support of H. Con. Res. 268, which expresses the sense of the Congress regarding support for the current oversight structure for the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). The Internet is the technological wonder of this generation. Established as means for a very select few researchers and scientists to share information, the Internet has developed into a powerful research, business, and recreational tool that shapes the world in which we live. As lawmakers, we must ensure that we do nothing that will inhibit further development and innovation of this marvelous system that we call the World Wide Web. I fear that efforts to change the way the Internet is governed may do just that. The current structure has been in place for nearly 8 years. That structure includes the important work done by ICANN. Since 1998 the number of Internet users has grown tremendously in size both within the United States and throughout the world. This legislation affirms ICANN's stewardship during this time of unprecedented technological innovation and change in the way we communicate with friends, conduct business, and learn about the world in which we live. For these reasons and others, I voice my strong support for ICANN and this resolution. An element of particular interest to my district, Guam, relates to our inclusion in the Asia-Pacific Network Information Centre (APNIC) Regional Internet Registry. Except for Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and American Samoa, all other U.S. jurisdictions are included in the American Registry for Internet Numbers (ARIN). This distinction in Regional Internet Registry membership has presented several technical challenges for Internet users in Guam. For instance, Internet users in Guam who wish to access and download files from a website registered under ARIN are sometimes restricted from doing so. Some websites have controls built around the Regional Internet Registries to guard against intellectual property rights infractions. In the case of Internet users in Guam, access is restricted to some ARIN registered websites. These restrictions have disrupted Internet commerce and limited participation of U.S. citizens in Guam in Internet-based government services. The Internet provides Guam with a vital link to the continental United States. The Internet factors heavily in communication between family members living on Guam and in the continental United States. The Internet is also essential for firms on Guam wishing to conduct business with firms located in the continental United States. Furthermore, with the aid of the Internet, Guam's citizens can have better and greater access to the Federal Government. I have written to ICANN regarding the Regional Internet Registry issue and the challenges that APNIC membership has presented for Internet users in Guam. With the attention and oversight of the Department of Commerce, I hope this and other issues affecting protocols for Guam-based servers and Internet users can be resolved in a manner favorable to my constituents. The continuance of Department of Commerce oversight of ICANN management of the Internet presents us the best opportunity to resolve these issues in a manner favorable to Guam. Therefore, I support passage of H. Con. Res. 268.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 3665, the Veterans Housing and Employment Improvement Act. This legislation would permanently authorize a successful and worthy pilot program, commonly referred to as the Native American Home Loan Program. Established in 1992 as a 5-year pilot program, Congress has extended the authority for this loan program on three separate occasions. Clearly, the program has proven very effective and deserves a permanent authorization. Administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs, this program makes direct loans to Native American veterans who reside on tribal lands and veterans who reside on land trust properties in the United States territories, Hawaii and Alaska. We have thousands of veterans on Guam, many suffering from military-related illnesses. Currently, Madam Speaker, five veterans from my district of Guam have loan applications under this program, pending review by the Department. These loans are for the purchase, renovation, or construction of new homes. And, as you know, home ownership is also a primary driver for economic growth of local communities. Affordable housing is important, very important, for our veterans. Furthermore, home ownership is part of the American dream. Permanent authorization will ensure this important lending program remains an option for veterans who seek to purchase homes. Permanent authorization of this program will contribute to the growth of our local community. Permanent authorization will allow veterans to live the American dream which they have served to defend. I want to take this opportunity, Madam Speaker, to thank my colleague from Arkansas, John Boozman; the chairman, Steve Buyer; the ranking member, Lane Evans; and the hardworking committee for their diligent work on this legislation. I strongly urge its passage.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the two soldiers from the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands who became casualties of Operation Iraqi Freedom on October 31, 2005 in Iraq. Specialist Derence Jeffrey W. Jack and Staff Sergeant Wilgene T. Lieto made the ultimate sacrifice in support of the global war on terror, and in doing so, helped to preserve our freedom. SSG Lieto served in Iraq as a Sergeant--the U.S. Army awarded him a posthumous promotion to Staff Sergeant. These soldiers left their homes and their families to answer the call of duty as members of the E Company, 100th Battalion, 442nd Infantry Regiment of the U.S. Army Reserve. On behalf of our communities in the Northern Marianas and Guam, I join with our local leaders in offering our sincerest condolences to the family of Derence Jeffrey W. Jack, especially his wife Melissa Jack and their daughter, and to the family of Wilgene T. Lieto, especially his wife Tiara Lieto and their son and daughter. The service and sacrifice of these soldiers will always be remembered and I join our Pacific island community in honoring the patriotism of these Army reservists. Derence Jeffrey W. Jack, from Gualo Rai, Saipan, was a manager at the Bank of Guam branch in Saipan. Wilgene T. Lieto, from Tanapag, Saipan, was a police officer. SPC Jack and SSG Lieto were part of the ``Go For Broke'' Battalion, serving with fellow soldiers from Guam, the Northern Marianas, American Samoa, and Hawaii. Although their loss brings great sadness to the people of the Northern Marianas and Guam, we take comfort in knowing that that these soldiers served with honor. May God bless them and their families.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to somberly note the 2,000th death of an American servicemember in Iraq. Having reached this unwelcome milestone, I realize that the important number, however, is and remains, one. Each loss of a servicemember in Iraq is a loss to one unit, to one family, to one mother and one father and it is a loss we all suffer together as one Nation. Each loss represents the supreme sacrifice of one more American hero, a hero that now stands forever alongside the American heroes who gave their lives in forging this great Nation in the war of independence, that preserved our Union in the Civil War, that defeated the fascists and the Nazis in World War II and that fought communism in Korea and Vietnam. Among these men and women we honor today are four from my community in Guam. These four fallen heroes are a reflection of our island's patriotism, valor and sacrifice. I mark this new milestone with great sadness but take comfort in knowing that another generation of Americans, included among them another generation of Guam's sons and daughters, has answered the call of duty to protect freedom and the American way of life. We owe a deep gratitude to these fallen men and women and to their families. May God bless them and may God bless our country.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, today I have introduced legislation to increase the period of authorized stay for the Guam Visa Waiver Program to mirror the period of authorized stay established in law for the nationwide Visa Waiver Program. I have introduced this bill at the request of both the Governor and the Lieutenant Governor of Guam. The Guam Visa Waiver Program was authorized by the Omnibus Territories Act of 1986 (Public Law 99-396). This program was established to largely complement the nationwide Visa Waiver Program, which was permanently authorized by Congress in 2000 (Public Law 106- 396), and to strengthen economic and cultural ties with nations in East Asia and the Pacific Rim. Today there are currently 27 countries participating in the nationwide Visa Waiver Program, while an additional ten countries are authorized to participate in the Guam Visa Waiver Program. These ten countries, admitted into the program as participants through the State Department rulemaking process, are as follows: Brunei, Indonesia, the Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Taiwan, the possessions of the United Kingdom, Vanuatu and Western Samoa. Under current law, nonimmigrant visitors arriving in the United States, including Guam, through the nationwide Visa Waiver Program are permitted entry for business or pleasure for a period not to exceed 90 days. However, nonimmigrant visitors arriving in Guam from any of the ten countries currently participating in the Guam Visa Waiver Program are permitted entry for business or pleasure for a period not to exceed 15 days. The bill I have introduced today would increase the period authorized for stay in Guam under the Guam Visa Waiver Program from 15 days to 90 days, a period equal in length to that established in law for the nationwide Visa Waiver Program. I believe that establishing consistency in the authorized periods of stay under both programs will improve the administration of the Guam Visa Waiver Program. Additionally, extending the period of authorized stay for the Guam Visa Waiver Program could potentially boost tourism for Guam. Tourism is a key sector of Guam's economy, and the Guam Visa Waiver Program has been central to increased international travel to Guam since its implementation in 1998. I believe this program can be strengthened with an increased authorized period of stay. This bill has been co-sponsored by the Chairman and the Ranking Member of the House Small Business Committee, Mr. Manzullo and Ms. Velazquez, respectively. Their support is especially appreciated given the fact that this bill will support many small businesses in Guam which are a part of the visitor industry. Additionally, Mr. Abercrombie, Mr. Burton, Mrs. Christensen, Mr. Faleomavaega, and Mr. Farr are original cosponsors of this bill. I look forward to building more support for this bill in the 109th Congress and to working with the leadership of the House Judiciary Committee on this issue.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 484, a resolution introduced by our colleague from Nevada, Mr. Porter, to recognize the value of runaway youth prevention programs and the needs of homeless and at-risk youth. Our consideration of this resolution today is timely given that October is recognized as National Runaway Prevention Month. In my district, we have benefited greatly from the development and implementation of several runaway youth prevention programs. These programs have proven their effectiveness with increasing support from various members of our community. They have been built with support from families, parents, teachers, social workers, counselors, ministers, and other civic-minded citizens in our community. They have also been supplemented with important grant assistance from both the local and federal government. Their effectiveness is worth promoting and increasing awareness of the needs of our homeless and at-risk youth is an important undertaking. I take this opportunity to share the story of just one particular organization in Guam that has grown to fulfill these needs of Guam's homeless and at-risk youth. As a member of the National Network for Youth, Sanctuary, Inc. has developed and sponsored many important programs serving our homeless and at-risk youth. Sanctuary, Inc. works in close collaboration with the Department of Youth Affairs of the Government of Guam as well as with the judicial system and the courts to identify ways to support our youth. Through workshops, counseling, referral services, support groups, and especially with their annual summer parent-child conference, Sanctuary, Inc. works to strengthen family relationships and promotes a drug, alcohol and violence-free lifestyle among youth participants. Their after-school programs are especially effective in providing activities for our youth and complementing their classroom instruction. Apart from their programs, Sanctuary operates two temporary emergency shelters to accommodate our homeless youth, providing them with room and board and a family away from home. I commend Sanctuary, Inc. for their outstanding work and their positive influence on our at-risk youth and their families. I urge my colleagues to support H. Res. 484. I too urge all of us to work together to increase awareness of effective runaway youth prevention programs. Through these proven community-based programs we can help provide for a safer and more educational environment for our at-risk youth.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my deepest sympathies and condolences to the family of Mr. Anthony A. Leon Guerrero who passed away on October 10, 2005. He was born on Guam on June 19, 1952 Throughout his life, Mr. Leon Guerrero made numerous contributions to the island of Guam, most notably serving as the president, the chief executive officer, CEO, and chairman of the Bank of Guam. He attended the London School of Economics at the University of London, majoring in Monetary Economics in 1976. He earned his masters of Business Administration at Stanford University's Sloan Program in 1985. At the Bank of Guam, which was founded by his father, the late Jesus S. Leon Guerrero, Tony served with a professionalism that sets a standard for senior executives on our island. Mr. Leon Guerrero served in various positions at the Bank of Guam, rising from commercial loan officer in 1974 to chairman of the board, president and CEO in 2002. Under his stewardship, the Bank of Guam and its 14 branches strengthened its position as the leading financial institution in the Western Pacific region. He was a true visionary in Guam's business community, launching online banking services for the island. Through his leadership, the Bank of Guam became the first local company to go public when its stock was offered for trading on the Pacific Exchange in August of 2000. Mr. Leon Guerrero's public service includes tenures as chairman of the Guam Economic Development Authority and the Guam Council on the Humanities. He served on various government boards and commissions including the University of Guam Board of Regents, the Guam Political Status Commission, the Guam Waterworks Authority, the Hagatna Restoration and Redevelopment Authority, the Pacific Islands Development Bank Board of Governors and the Micronesian Regional Tourism Council. He served on civic boards and organizations including the Guam Chamber of Commerce, the Guam Bankers' Association, the Catholic Education Council Board of Trustees, the American Cancer Society, Goodwill Industries, the Agana Restoration and Redevelopment Corporation, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute, Pacific Islanders in Communication, the Young Presidents' Organization and the Financial Services and Information Technology Committee, Saipan. Tony Leon Guerrero was truly a leader in the business community. Although he was an innovator and consummate entrepreneur, the island spirit in him never changed. Despite his many accomplishments, he was still just ``Tony'' to those who knew him best. The respect that people felt for him in his professional life was equaled only by the love they felt for him in his personal life. He was dedicated to the island in which he lived and worked. The Bank of Guam is often referred to as ``The People's Bank,'' and Tony was a leader in the business community and a conscience for social activism. He understood that with great talent comes great expectations, and he exceeded the expectations of his father and his business associates as the Bank of Guam grew and prospered under his watch. Tony was an advocate in the community for the revival of pride in the Chamorro culture and the cultures of the indigenous peoples throughout Micronesia. His bank invested in indigenous arts and crafts and the bank's branches are themselves centers for the display of Pacific cultures. As chairman of the board and CEO, Tony ensured that the Bank of Guam lived up to its commitment to our island's development and steered the bank through the difficult years of an economic recession. The bank's solid performance and success is a testament to his business acumen and his vision. The sense of loss in our island and throughout our Pacific region is a testament to a great humanitarian and community leader. I am deeply saddened by this loss and know that the many people on Guam and throughout the Pacific are mourning as well. My thoughts and prayers are with his mother Eugenia A. Leon Guerrero, his wife Mari Flor Herrero, and his three children, Maria Eugenia, Alexandra and Jesus. My condolences also go to his brother Jesse A. Leon Guerrero and his wife Deirdre, his sister Senator Lou Leon Guerrero and her husband Jeff Cook, their families, and the entire Leon Guerrero extended family. Although he will be missed by his family, friends and business associates throughout the Pacific, his legacy of service will live on in our community.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of H.R. 3402 which reauthorizes the Violence Against Women Act. Domestic violence is an issue throughout our Nation and in my district. Federal funding of the Violence Against Women Act has helped decrease domestic violence on Guam, and the reauthorization of these programs will ensure that the progress we have achieved in reducing domestic violence will continue. In reauthorizing this Act, Congress sends the message that domestic violence will not be tolerated and we stand with women on this issue. Statistics show that in 2001 alone, more than half a million women were victims of nonfatal violence by a partner. But these women were more than statistics--they were someone's mother, daughter, sister, or friend. Their voices have been heard and that is why I support H.R. 3402 and the reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Guam's Little League Baseball Team for their victories in the Pacific Regional Tournament in Fukuoka, Japan and their subsequent advancement to the Little League World Series in Williamsport, PA. I would like to recognize all of the coaches and players for their extraordinary effort: Coaches Shon Muna, Eddie Muna, and Tom Duenas; Eric Alcantara, 12, of Mangilao, attending Untalan Middle School, son of Gerard and Joan Alcantara; Calvert Alokoa, 12, of Mangilao, attending Untalan Middle School, son of Arou and Cil Alokoa; Gerald Borja, 12, of Barrigada, attending Untalan Middle School, son of Gerard and Darlene Borja; Valiant Borja, 11, of Barrigada, attending Untalan Middle School, son of the late Harold and Audre Borja; Joseph Duenas, 11, of Dededo, attending Untalan Middle School, son of Tommy and Joann Duenas; Chad Fernandez, 11, of Barrigada, attending Untalan Middle School, son of Wayne and Doreen Fernandez; Sean Manley, 12, of Mangilao, attending Untalan Middle School, son of Albert Manley and Sinfrosa Longa; Ryan McIntosh, 11, of Mangilao, attending San Vicente School, son of Bob McIntosh and Lucille Ryder; Scott Perez, 12, of Sinajana, attending Agueda Johnston Middle School, son of Frank Camacho and Margaret Perez; Byron Quenga, 12, of Yona, attending Inarajan Middle School, son of Bill Quenga and Jacalyn Taisacan; Alomar Rdialul, 12, of Mangilao, attending Untalan Middle School, son of Albert and Madeleine Rdialul; Trae Santos, 12, of Barrigada, attending Untalan Middle School, son of Tim and Carmen Santon; Jeremy Taijeron, 12, of Yona, attending Inarajan Middle School, son of Bill and Marie Quenga. These young men displayed outstanding teamwork, skill, spirit, and sportsmanship and showcased the talent of our island. Our team is a source of pride year after year, with our entire island rallying around them whenever they compete. In 2001, the Guam Little League team had a spectacular run in which they went undefeated in regional play and continued their streak in the World Series against Mexico, Canada, and Europe; and advancing to the international semifinal. In 2002, they again advanced to the international semifinals after another outstanding performance. They once more reached the World Series in 2003, after going undefeated in the regional tournament. The 2005 Guam team went undefeated against teams from Indonesia, the Philippines, the CNMI, and New Zealand in regional play. They advanced to the Little League World Series representing the Pacific and faced teams from Russia, Canada, and Mexico. During the Little League World Series Guam swept their pool, defeating Russia 6-2; Canada 5-0; and Mexico 5-3. After winning their pool, Guam went on to play Curacao in the international semi-finals. Although Guam did not advance to the finals, effort inspires us and their record in tournament play is outstanding. Our entire island community congratulates the Guam Little League Central-East all stars who represented the Pacific. They are an inspiration for us all and we are very proud of their effort and accomplishments.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Chairman, today, in honor of the reauthorization of the Head Start Program, I would like to recognize the contributions of Head Start to the education of children in Guam and throughout our Nation. Head Start programs across the United States have been an essential part of the academic, physical, emotional, behavioral and cognitive development of 3 and 4 year olds. Early childhood education for pre-schoolers is extremely important as an essential element of child development. Guam's Head Start programs have educated thousands of children over the past 30 years to become good upstanding citizens. The program not only caters to the children, but integrates the involvement of parents to nurture an ongoing education in the homes. I commend all the hard working teachers who have enthusiastically and effectively worked to positively influence the lives of at-risk children and their families. I support Head Start and H.R. 2123, which is critical to provide adequate funding for this wonderful program.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, the majority has already explained the purpose of H.R. 394, which was introduced by the gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Meehan). Barrett's Farm is a significant historical resource, as evidenced by its previous designation on the National Register of Historic Places. The British marched out of Boston in April of 1775 looking for munitions stored by colonists at Barrett's Farm. They found neither the munitions nor the farmer's owner, James Barrett, leader of the Middlesex militia, who was to soon meet the British at North Bridge where, as Emerson wrote, ``The embattled farmers stood and fired the shot heard around the world.'' The gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Meehan) is to be commended for his leadership on H.R. 394. Many individuals and organizations recognize the historical importance of Barrett's Farm and support this legislation. It is our hope that this study authorized by H.R. 394 will determine the most appropriate means to preserve and interpret this important aspect of our Nation's history. Mr. Speaker, with that, we support H.R. 394 as a means to help preserve the history of Barrett's Farm and its role in the start of the American revolution, and urge adoption of the legislation by the House today. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Meehan).

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 409 directs the Secretary of Agriculture to exchange 160 acres of Federal land in the Sierra National Forest at Shaver Lake for an 80-acre inholding also in the Sierra National Forest. H.R. 409, Mr. Speaker, further requires that the owners of the nonFederal land make a $50,000 cash equalization payment and convey the Federal land to the Sequoia Council of the Boy Scouts of America within 4 months of receiving it. Mr. Speaker, we have no objections to H.R. 409. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. (Ms. BORDALLO asked and was given permission to revise and extend her remarks.)

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. (Ms. BORDALLO asked and was given permission to revise and extend her remarks.)

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, the purpose of S. 1340 is to extend for 10 years the authorization to use surplus funds in the Pittman-Robertson wildlife restoration account to support wetlands restoration projects, coordinated under the North American Wetlands Conservation Act. The accrued interest generated by funds deposited in the Pittman- Robertson account since 1989 has provided over $235 million to fund North American wetlands conservation projects across the country. This extension will ensure the continuation of this valuable conservation funding source, and will be important to our future efforts to restore protected wetland habitats in the region devastated by Hurricane Katrina. I urge Members to support this worthy legislation. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.