Julia Brownley

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Jane Rozanski, a remarkable visionary and dedicated leader to the aging population of Ventura County, California. As the Chief Executive Officer of the Camarillo Health Care District, Jane has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to providing health care and improving the access of medical services to seniors in our community. For over two decades, Jane oversaw the development of the district, which has grown to serve over 35,000 residents annually. Under the steadfast leadership of Jane Rozanski, along with her highly skilled team, the Camarillo Health Care District embodies the commitment to provide quality and affordable medical care. The Camarillo Health Care District has been recognized throughout California as a model of innovation and efficiency, has received statewide recognition as the Executive Team of the Year by the Association of California Healthcare Districts, and has been recognized nationally as an innovative and competent partner in federal projects. Jane has worked tirelessly to improve access to healthcare services throughout the community. In addition to her impressive work in the Camarillo Health Care District, she has upheld the responsibility of a commissioner on the California Commission on Aging for nearly three years and has brought her valuable expertise on how to best serve California's elderly citizens. Community advocates like Jane exemplify Ventura County's impressive leadership. Though Jane will be stepping down from her position as CEO of the Camarillo Health Care District, her immense impact on the community will continue to inspire the future of public health services. For her lifelong work, Jane is so deserving of our immeasurable gratitude. I graciously thank Jane for her unwavering commitment and dedication for the past 22 years as the CEO of the Camarillo Health Care District. It has been my sincere pleasure to work with Jane over the years. There is no doubt that Jane's legacy will extend to future generations for her extraordinary commitment to excellence. As she starts this new chapter in her life, I wish her all the best in her future endeavors.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Dr. Trudy Tuttle Arriaga, a supportive, encouraging, and inspirational educational leader and advocate in Ventura, California. After earning a Bachelor's and Master's degree, teaching credentials, and a Doctorate from the University of Southern California, Dr. Arriaga worked as a paraeducator at Ventura Unified School District for two years beginning in 1974. She returned to Ventura Unified in 1981 to begin her teaching career. She taught special education at Mound Elementary School and from there transferred to Balboa Middle School where she taught general education and the deaf/hard of hearing program. She then became an itinerant teacher specialist at Elmhurst and Loma Vista Elementary Schools. Dr. Arriaga continued her career as a teacher and assistant principal at De Anza Middle School and later became principal at Sheridan Way Elementary School. She also served as principal at El Camino High School and Pacific High School. In July of 2001, Dr. Arriaga became the superintendent of the Ventura Unified School District, becoming the first woman to serve in the position. During her tenure as superintendent, Dr. Arriaga was able to enhance the quality of education at the district. Seventeen of Ventura Unified School District's 27 schools have achieved an API score of 800 or above, dropout rates throughout the district have decreased as attendance rates have increased. She also brought a focus on schools of choice and helped new elementary and middle schools focus on Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), leadership and the arts. Dr. Arriaga also brought a dual language program to the district and greatly encouraged the program. Now, many students are learning new languages and graduating with a multilingual seal. For over three decades, Dr. Arriaga has dedicated her career to the education and academic success of countless students. She is a passionate advocate for children and continually demonstrates her support and encouragement of students. When making important decisions, Dr. Arriaga considers every angle, striving for the most beneficial solutions. Following her retirement from Ventura Unified School District, Dr. Arriaga will continue her service and work for students and education at California Lutheran University, where she will soon serve as a full time instructor and as the administrator of the Education Leadership Doctoral and Master's Program. She has also accepted a contract from Corwin Press Publications and will be co-authoring a book on cultural proficiency. Dr. Arriaga's passion for education for all students is unquestionable, and it is my sincere pleasure to join the Ventura Unified School District in honoring Dr. Trudy Tuttle Arriaga for her 35 years of dedication, passion, leadership and service for the students and community of Ventura. I wish her all the best in her future endeavors.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize and congratulate the Santa Barbara and Ventura Colleges of Law for their many years of outstanding leadership in education and remarkable services to the Central Coast community. The Santa Barbara and Ventura Colleges of Law have educated over 1,800 graduates who today serve in leadership positions in legal practice, government, business and non-profit organizations. For over 45 years, the Santa Barbara and Ventura Colleges of Law have provided numerous opportunities and access to legal training in the practice of law through its Juris Doctor and Master of Legal Training degree programs. Through legal clinics, public service programs, and the work of its students as interns for governmental entities and non-profit organizations, the Colleges of Law have further reinforced the rule of law and access to legal services. Furthermore, these colleges have been active stewards of the community by providing space, sponsorship and support for local law-related activities, including those of judiciary, bar associations, bar foundations, schools and other groups throughout the region. On the occasion of its 45th anniversary, it is my sincere pleasure to honor the Santa Barbara and Ventura Colleges of Law for its contributions to academic excellence in the teaching of law and to the service and community leadership provided by its graduates.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Channel Islands Harbor on the occasion of the harbor's 50th anniversary as a premier harbor along the Central Coast. In the 1940's, the United States Congress directed the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to address the issue of beach erosion affecting the Naval Bases on the Ventura County coast, as well as communities and wetlands south of Port Hueneme. A location was recommended by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for a sand trap and breakwater in Hollywood by the Sea, and authorized by Congress in 1954. Construction of the sand trap and entrance to Channel Islands Harbor began in 1959 for the purpose of preventing coastal erosion and providing boating and other recreational opportunities to residents of Ventura County. The development of Channel Islands Harbor was an example of cooperation among the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the U.S. Navy, the County of Ventura, and businesses investing in the harbor. That cooperation continues to this day. Since the County of Ventura held the grand opening of the harbor in May of 1965, Channel Islands Harbor has been serving the citizens of Ventura County and visitors alike as the first recreational harbor in the region. Visitors can enjoy numerous outdoor venues including several beach-lined parks and coastline for picnics and surfing, as well as nearby biking and walking paths. The harbor offers a number of restaurants and a diverse collection of shops to stroll. For fishing enthusiasts, there are sport fishing excursions throughout the year. And from December through April, daily tours can offer a glimpse at the majestic whales that traverse the waters off our coastline. The harbor is also a departure point for voyages of exploration to the remarkable Channel Islands. Though initial development included only a small portion of the current harbor area, Channel Islands Harbor now includes over 300 acres of land and water, including 2,200 boat slips, two hotels, two yacht club buildings, two boat yards, three shopping areas, two freestanding restaurants, a Maritime Museum, and over 100 condominiums and 400 apartments, providing both a thriving community and a recreational destination along the Central Coast of California. For these reasons, it is my sincere pleasure to offer my congratulations to the Channel Islands Harbor on its 50th anniversary and its countless contributions to the region.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. I am in its current form.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, I have a motion to recommit at the desk.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, this is the final amendment to H.R. 2578, which will not kill the bill or send it back to committee. If adopted, the bill will immediately proceed to final passage, as amended. My amendment would provide an additional $3 million for Violence Against Women prevention and prosecution programs, increasing resources for sexual assault victims' assistance. My amendment would also provide an additional $3 million for Juvenile Justice programs, directed to the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force program. Mr. Speaker, there is more than ample room within the budget cap for this bill to do more to help sexual assault victims and prevent the exploitation of children. I hope we can all agree that these critical programs are worthy of added resources. The Sexual Assault Services Program was authorized through the Violence Against Women Act and was the first Federal program dedicated to the provision of direct services to victims of sexual violence. Across the country, the Sexual Assault Services Program supports critical, lifesaving, safety net services. Support services are offered to both adult and minor survivors of sexual assault and to family members who are helping them cope with the mental health issues and physical trauma of sexual assault. The program also funds intervention and advocacy services, providing survivors with the help that they need to navigate through the medical and criminal justice systems. For many survivors of sexual assault, this program is a critical and necessary source of support at the most vulnerable time in their lives. We must support these lifesaving programs and stand up for survivors of sexual assault. Additionally, we must do more to protect vulnerable children from predators who despicably exploit children on the Internet. That is why my amendment will provide a much-needed increase for the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force program, which funds State and local law enforcement who investigate online child exploitation. The program also provides forensic, prevention, and investigative assistance to law enforcement, educators, prosecutors, and families. The program also ensures law enforcement officers are trained to deal with online child pornography and child enticement so that these cases will be fully investigated and prosecuted. In 2014 alone, 7,800 individuals were arrested, and the task forces around the country conducted over 60,000 forensic investigations. Clearly there is an urgent and compelling moral need to address these heinous crimes. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on the motion to recommit, to vote ``yes'' to protect women and girls from sexual assault and violence, to vote ``yes'' to protect children from online predators. Mr. Speaker, at this time, I yield to the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Wasserman Schultz), my friend who is a champion in protecting children.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Chairman, I appreciate very, very much the chairman accepting my amendment. I appreciate his support, and I know veterans across the country will as well. I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Chairman, I rise to offer an amendment to H.R. 2578, which would increase funding in Veterans Treatment Courts. Our Nation's heroes are returning home from over a decade of war in Iraq and Afghanistan with the invisible wounds that come with multiple deployments in military service to our Nation. The signature wounds of these wars, post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury, have led to a rise in mental health issues among our veterans. According to the National Center for PTSD, about 11 to 20 percent of veterans who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom have PTSD in a given year. Since 2005, the number of veterans diagnosed with post-traumatic stress has doubled. Too often, these mental health issues can severely impact a veteran's life--from being able to keep a job, to drug abuse, to criminal activity in some circumstances. Instead of receiving the mental health services and support that they need, a growing number of veterans ends up being incarcerated in our justice system. My simple amendment would increase funds for Veterans Treatment Courts by $2.5 million. Veterans Treatment Courts are designed to give veterans with mental health and substance abuse issues and who find themselves in trouble with the law an opportunity to get the help they need while avoiding jail time. In my district, the Ventura County Veterans Treatment Court, which started as a pilot program in 2010, has helped dozens of veterans. Judge Colleen Toy White, one of the program's many champions in Ventura County, knows that the treatment courts reunite families and save lives. Rather than arresting and jailing veterans for a few days or weeks and then putting them back on the streets with nothing changed in their lives, the Ventura County collaborative court connects veterans to needed treatment and services, which may include mental health care, drug and alcohol treatment, vocational rehabilitation, or other life skill services and programs. The process begins with a guilty plea, an in-court meeting involving the veteran, his or her attorney, and a VA representative. I was very impressed with the care that the court officers and volunteers extended to our veterans who found themselves before the court. A recent success for the Ventura County Veterans Treatment Court is a young man who was an Active Duty marine. Before leaving the service in 2014, he had completed three combat tours in 12 years. He was arrested for two DUIs within 3 weeks. After 5 months of treatment, he still stands with his back against the wall rather than taking a seat in court. It is a common sign in combat veterans, but he is now getting evaluated by VA, is going to treatment, and has hope once again. Since the Veterans Treatment Court program began in 2008 in Buffalo, New York, over 220 Veterans Treatment Courts have been established across the United States, and many more are being planned. I believe we need to increase Federal resources to these critical programs nationwide, which is what my amendment seeks to accomplish. It is our obligation to ensure our veterans receive the appropriate attention to their needs and that we do whatever we can to help them transition to an independent civilian life. I strongly urge my colleagues to support my amendment to provide veterans who are in trouble with the resources they need to help them secure a strong future. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Chairman, I have an amendment at the desk.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Cornelia ``Connie'' Baer, an exemplary civic servant, advocate, and community leader in Ventura County. Connie has embodied public service through her staunch leadership and advocacy, as well as steadfast dedication and continued commitment to our community. Over several decades, Connie has generously given her time and energy as a valued and highly respected board member and representative for an array of organizations, including the Harbor Community Council, the National Women's Political Caucus, and the League of Women Voters. Both locally and nationally, Connie has been a vocal advocate for equality. She was instrumental in the founding of the Stonewall Democrats of Ventura County. In addition, she has played a significant role in the establishment and development of the Ventura County Women's Political Council, which encourages all women to actively engage and participate in the political process. Additionally, since earning her bachelor's degree in International Relations, Connie has been an active alumnus of the University of Southern California (USC). Connie also attended the Southwestern University School of Law, where she received her Juris Doctor degree, and later embarked on a respected career in law in Ventura County. Connie's dedication and outstanding volunteerism is best illustrated by her 19 years of service on the Ventura County Medical Resource Foundation's Board of Directors. Through her service and leadership, Connie has successfully assisted the organization in furthering its mission of supporting the medical needs of Ventura County's under- served and vulnerable communities. From providing the life-saving medical equipment for premature infants to providing dental and vision care to children of low-income households to funding breast cancer prevention, early detection and treatment programs, the Ventura County Medical Resource Foundation is ensuring that quality health care services are readily available and accessible to all of Ventura County's residents. However, this outstanding organization could not offer these invaluable services if it were not for the remarkable generosity and commitment of individuals such as Connie Baer. For these reasons, it is my sincere pleasure to join the Ventura County Medical Resource Foundation in recognizing Connie Baer with the 2015 Trailblazer Award for her extraordinary life of leadership and service to the entire Ventura County community.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise to urge the House to bring to the floor my bill, the Help Hire our Heroes Act. My bill would renew the Vocational Rehabilitation Assistance Program (VRAP) and permit additional veterans to participate in the program. As you may know, the VRAP program provides up to 12 months of re-training assistance to veterans in need of employment training, but who are unable to participate in other VA programs because of their age and time since active duty service. Specifically, the program provided training assistance to unemployed veterans between the ages of 35 and 60 who are no longer eligible for the GI Bill. Veterans could use these benefits at community colleges and technical schools in occupations that the Department of Labor identified as ``high demand.'' The VRAP program started in 2012, but funding for this program expired in March 2014 and the VA has not been able to enroll new veterans in VRAP. In 2014, there were 573,000 unemployed veterans, 55 percent of whom were age 45 and up. I simply do not understand why the Majority has allowed this important veterans' job training program to lapse. It has resulted in thousands of older, qualified veterans being unable to access job training to help them find work. As we approach Memorial Day, Congress should be doing all it can to help unemployed veterans find work. Please bring my bill to the floor, so that we can renew the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to pay tribute to Deputy Sheriff Yevhen ``Eugene'' Kostiuchenko, an 11-year veteran of the Ventura County Sheriff's Office, who was tragically killed in the line of duty on October 28th, 2014. Deputy Kostiuchenko was born in Kiev, Ukraine, where he attended secondary school and later attended the Military University of Defense of Russian Federation in Moscow. Deputy Kostiuchenko served in the Ukrainian Armed Forces and as a liaison between the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, and Central Intelligence Agency. He also held the prestigious position of serving as the adjutant to the General of the Ukrainian Army. While Deputy Kostiuchenko's homeland was near to his heart, he loved America. He especially loved serving his community. In April of 2003, Eugene began his distinguished career with the County of Ventura. He initially worked with the Sheriff's Office of Emergency Services (OES), where he assisted with training and response plans for the County's Terrorism Working Group. While working in OES, Eugene received his United States citizenship in 2006, which was a proud moment in his life as he began working toward his ultimate goal of becoming a deputy sheriff. Through discipline and dedication and a remarkable work ethic, Eugene successfully completed the rigors of training and was sworn in as a deputy sheriff on November 29, 2007. Those who knew Deputy Kostiuchenko remember him fondly as a kind, compassionate, and caring officer. Eugene enforced the law with great distinction and it was his steadfast commitment to serving his community that made for a particularly noteworthy career. Above all else, Deputy Kostiuchenko is remembered as a loyal friend and family man. Deputy Kostiuchenko is survived by his wife of 13 years, Maura Kelley, and his two sons, Tristan and Justin. He is also survived by his parents, Anatoly and Nadiia, and his brother Oleksandra. Deputy Kostiuchenko's dedicated and courageous service will never be forgotten. On behalf of the people of Ventura County, who he so bravely served and protected, I express my sincere condolences to his family and friends, and to all who knew him. He will be remembered as a husband, friend, and hero.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Madam Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Madam Speaker, I have a motion to recommit at the desk.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. I am in its current form.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Madam Speaker, this is the final amendment to H.R. 36, which will not kill the bill or send it back to committee. If adopted, the bill will immediately proceed to final passage, as amended. My amendment would ensure that nothing in the bill would prevent a woman from terminating her pregnancy after 20 weeks if her health were at risk. Only 1.1 percent of abortions performed in the United States occur after the 20-week mark. These rare procedures are often the most medically difficult and dangerous cases where women--many of whom want and have dreamed of being parents--are faced with impossible decisions. As it is written, H.R. 36 would force a doctor to wait until a condition becomes life threatening before performing an abortion. It shows no concern for the long-term health of the mother, her future ability to bear children, or her right to make her own medical decisions. It ignores that there are very real and very serious reasons why a woman may need an abortion later in pregnancy. For example, pregnant women with severe fetal anomalies or women whose amniotic sacs rupture prematurely and cannot support the fetus would be forced to give birth. The bill also treats doctors as criminals for providing care that has been the law of the land for 42 years, and it puts doctors' safety at risk by requiring public disclosure of doctors who provide abortion care around the country. Both the American Medical Association and the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists understand that there is no appropriate one-size-fits-all solution. They oppose bills not based on sound science and that interfere with the physician's ability to provide the highest quality of care. H.R. 36 does more than endanger the health and lives of women. It also robs rape victims of their constitutionally protected right to choose. The bill's revised rape exception continues to question rape victims' honesty by requiring that adult rape victims obtain counseling or medical treatment 48 hours before obtaining an abortion and prohibits both services from being performed by a woman's regular OB/ GYN. By placing these onerous burdens on women, this bill revictimizes women who have already been traumatized and denies women the right to choose their own doctor. Further, many women, especially victims of abuse, do not report rape for fear of reprisal. The National Institute of Justice estimates that only 35 percent of women report rape. Forcing a survivor to report her sexual assault before she can terminate a pregnancy resulting from rape or incest denies her basic rights. If we are serious about reducing the number of abortions, we should improve access to birth control and family planning, we should support comprehensive sexual education, we should do anything but pass this misguided, misinformed, and ill-conceived legislation. Instead of bills that harm women, we should work together on bipartisan legislation to help women and families, including passing legislation that provides equal pay for equal work, access to child care, and paid family leave. We should also pass a transportation bill, fix our crumbling infrastructure, create jobs, and strengthen the economy. Backward bills, not based in science, that fail to respect a woman's right to privacy and right to make her own health decisions have no place in local, State, or Federal legislation. I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on the motion to recommit, vote ``yes'' to protect women's health, vote ``yes'' for a woman's right to choose. I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Chairman, I have an amendment at the desk.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Chairman, I rise this afternoon to offer an amendment to H.R. 2029. My amendment would restore the funding for major construction projects in the Department of Veterans Affairs to $1.14 billion to meet the level that the VA has requested. As ranking member of the House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Health, I share the outrage of many of my colleagues over the unacceptable mismanagement of the VA's major construction program. I agree that VA management must be held accountable for their failure to manage construction costs for the Denver hospital. Congress must reform the VA construction program so that it uses taxpayer dollars wisely and efficiently. However, we cannot continue to ignore the sad state of disrepair in VA hospitals and clinics across our country which are in desperate need of funding for modernization and health and safety improvements. Most of the VA's medical infrastructure is old and outdated. The average building age is approaching 60 years. Many VA health facilities urgently need seismic retrofitting or emergency repairs. Others are too small to accommodate the growing population of veterans returning home from Iraq and Afghanistan, and the aging population of veterans who served in Vietnam continues to put great stress on the VA. Many veterans in underserved communities like Ventura County are counting on us, on Congress, to ensure that new construction projects are delivered and that their health care needs will be met. The funding levels in the bill would delay VA plans to expand health care facilities in many locations, harming VA's ability to provide care to veterans. If the current funding level in this bill is made law, the VA would have to scuttle plans for a rehabilitative therapy building in St. Louis, Missouri, two outpatient clinics in Alameda and French Camp in California, and a community living center in Perry Point, Maryland. Delaying these projects is not the right way to honor our commitment to our Nation's veterans. Mr. Chair, draconian funding cuts to the VA's major construction program are not the only way that veterans are being shortchanged in this bill before us today. The majority's bill also fails to meet the administration's budget requests in other areas, including medical services, medical facilities, and information technology. For example, the VA estimates that at the bill's current funding level, over 70,000 fewer veterans will receive medical care compared to the administration's request. In addition, the VA will not be able to pay for cemetery expansions in St. Louis, Portland, Riverside, Puerto Rico, and Pensacola, which would have enabled the Department to serve 18,000 veterans and their family members annually. Veteran advocates, including AMVETS, Disabled American Veterans, Paralyzed Veterans of America, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars, agree that, in the long run, Congress will be forced to appropriate much larger sums to enable the VA to catch up on the deficits being created by this bill, not only in capital infrastructure, but in critical investments in other VA services in health care. If we really want to change the culture of the VA and ensure that veterans everywhere can get the services and benefits they have earned, Congress must do its part by investing in our veterans. When Congress cuts corners, we put the health and well-being of the men and women who have served this country at risk. I realize, Mr. Chairman, that my amendment is subject to a point of order, so I intend to withdraw my amendment, but we must fix this bill before it moves forward. Mr. Chairman, I ask unanimous consent to withdraw my amendment.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the Ventura County Leadership Academy as they celebrate 20 years of promoting and cultivating the next generation of community leaders in Ventura County. The Ventura County Leadership Academy was established in 1994 by the United Way of Ventura County as a pipeline for developing a strong, dynamic group of leaders. These leaders are driven with ambition and purpose to create a stronger community and to heighten the quality of life in Ventura County. The Ventura County Leadership Academy has developed into a premier program, facilitating life-long friendships and bonds that draw graduates back to volunteer their time and skills in order to make the Ventura County Leadership Academy the best experience possible for future cohorts. The diverse individuals that collectively make up the cohorts each year are provided a curriculum, which includes a focus on regional issues related to education, public safety, economic development, health care, and more. Students have the unique opportunity to meet with key decision-makers from the public, private, and non-profit sectors of the county. This experiential learning environment brings participants to the forefront of critical issues in our community. The Ventura County Leadership Academy instills the confidence and skillsets that comprise a well-rounded change agent. To date the Ventura County Leadership Academy has had 20 outstanding cohorts, and 430 successful graduates making strides across the county with what they have gained through the Ventura County Leadership Academy. For the past two decades, the Ventura County Leadership Academy has contributed an invaluable service to our community by developing influential and effective leaders that continue to propel Ventura County into the 21st century and beyond. It is with great enthusiasm that I offer the Ventura County Leadership Academy my sincere congratulations in reaching this milestone, and I am pleased to join them in celebrating their 20th anniversary.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, as Members of Congress, we have a responsibility to serve our veterans as well as they have served us and our country. That means a lifelong commitment to their health and well-being. Veterans who are severely disabled or blinded after they return home are eligible for medical care at VA specialty rehabilitation clinics, where we can improve their quality of life and independence; but, too often, veterans cannot afford the cost of the trip. The Blinded Veterans Association of America estimates that, even though these VA clinics have long wait lists, one of four beds is empty because veterans who need care cannot afford to pay for transportation for their care. That is why I have introduced the Veterans Medical Access Act, legislation to reimburse blinded and severely disabled veterans for travel expenses in Ventura County and across the country so they can access the lifesaving and life-changing care they need. I hope that my colleagues will join me in support of this critical legislation.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Captain Lawrence R. Vasquez, Installation Commander of Naval Base Ventura County, on the special occasion of his Change of Command. Since February 2012, Captain Vasquez has been recognized for his outstanding leadership and service as Commanding Officer of Naval Base Ventura County. His exemplary tour as the senior ranking officer in charge has been marked with distinction and remarkable success. Under his dedicated command, Naval Base Ventura County became the first and to date only military installation to operate manned and unmanned aerial systems in FAA-controlled airspace. Naval Base Ventura County is also the only Navy installation tapped to support the Department of Health and Human Service's mission to house and process unaccompanied minors apprehended crossing the border into the United States. During the Springs Fire of May 2013, Captain Vasquez's exceptional leadership enabled a joint city, county, and federal response to the fast-moving blaze, which threatened homes, California State University Channel Islands, and valuable military assets near the Pacific Coast Highway in Ventura County. Captain Vasquez has been a staunch supporter of community engagement, personally participating in over 250 public meetings, and hosting tours and events to bring a better understanding of the Navy's mission and better collaboration among community partners, including government organizations, schools and business entities. Captain Vasquez is the embodiment of an extensive and distinguished career of service to our country in the United States Navy. As a Naval aviator with over 26 years of commendable service, Captain Vasquez led a 12-aircraft helicopter squadron, the HSL-45 ``Wolfpack.'' Additionally, he served as the Flag Aide to Commander of the Naval Coordinator Mid-South Region, as well as personal administrative aide to the Secretary of the Navy. Captain Vasquez is recognized for his outstanding leadership and served as Commander of the Provincial Reconstruction Team in Farah, Afghanistan, a joint military and civilian team charged with extending the reach of the government in Afghanistan through reconstruction, development, governance, and security. Captain Vasquez's exemplary work has earned him numerous accolades and awards to include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and the Marine Corps Commendation Medal, the Navy Achievement Medal, the Combat Action ribbon and various unit and campaign awards. Additionally, he was awarded the 2004 League of United Latin American Citizens' (LULAC) ``Excellence in Military Service'' award. Captain Vasquez's remarkable career and many accomplishments are indicative of his unwavering commitment and dedication to his country and community. As he embarks on a new chapter in his career as the Chief of Staff for the Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia in Naples, Italy, I want to express my sincere appreciation for Captain Vasquez's honorable and selfless service to our community and wish him the best in all his future endeavors.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, today, I would like to recognize an important milestone in the United States relationship with Taiwan. On April 10, 1979, President Jimmy Carter signed the Taiwan Relations Act. Since that historic date, we have watched Taiwan contribute greatly to international security. As you know, Taiwan's location makes it a key strategic security partner in the Asia-Pacific region. Relieving cross-strait tensions has been a security priority of the United States, and I am pleased that Taiwan has worked hard to increase economic engagement with China in an effort to ease tensions. These economic engagements have gradually been working, improving security and cooperation in the region. Additionally, Taiwan has been a close partner in the United States counterterrorism strategy, ensuring cargo is screened before shipping to U.S. ports. Throughout the past 36 years, Taiwan has shown a willingness to cooperate and negotiate with the U.S. to maintain our relationship. Going forward, I hope we can continue this important relationship, which benefits the citizens and businesses in both the United States and Taiwan.