Dave Camp

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Dr. Myles Martel in celebration of his 60th birthday. Dr. Martel has been involved with the United States political process for decades, leaving behind him a legacy of leadership. He came to prominence serving as former President Ronald Reagan's personal debate advisor, after which he moved on to become an advisor to the White House Office of Communications. Dr. Martel has also served as a speech advisor to ambassadors, congressmen, senators, governors and cabinet members. His expertise has awarded him many honors, including the George Washington Honor Medal, and the Distinguished Alumni Award for Outstanding Professional from the University of Connecticut. Dr. Martel has published five books, and has been quoted by many nationally recognized newsmagazines and newspapers. I am honored today to recognize Dr. Myles Martel for his many accomplishments, and to wish him the best on the celebration of his 60th birthday.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Dr. William A. Sederburg for his faithful service as president of Ferris State University in Big Rapids, Michigan. After eight years as president and one year as interim president at Ferris, Dr. Sederburg is retiring from his position. He became the 16th president of the college in 1995 after a distinguished career as a professor, Michigan state senator, and successful businessman. Dr. Sederburg's experience in higher education is exemplary. He has held numerous leadership positions in higher education, including serving on the State Board of Education, chairing the Senate Select Committee on the Future of Higher Education, chairing the Senate Standing Committee on Higher Education and Technology, and chairing the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Higher Education. Throughout his career and efforts, Dr. Sederburg has positively affected the lives of thousands of students. He is seen as a leader by his peers, as well as an educator and trusted advisor to his students. Dr. Sederburg has worked tirelessly to improve the facilities and infrastructure on the Ferris State campus, and his dedication is an example to everyone. I am honored today to recognize Dr. William A. Sederburg for his many complishments, and thank him for his work.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following letter for the Record: Hon. Jack Kingston, Chairman, Legislative Branch Appropriations Subcommittee, Washington, DC. Dear Chairman Kingston: I am writing to ask your support for including H.R. 921, a bill I introduced, as an amendment into the base bill of the Legislative Branch Appropriations bill. My amendment requires that unused Congressional office funds from Members' Representational Allowances be returned directly to the Treasury at the end of the year for debt reduction. For the last several years, I have introduced this amendment to the Legislative Branch Appropriations bill regarding the use of unspent office funds. Taxpayers for Common Sense, Citizens Against Government Waste, the Concord Coalition, and Citizens for a Sound Economy have all supported this amendment in the past. I believe that this amendment provides a good incentive for Members to spend taxpayer funds responsibly and lead by example in our efforts to reduce the national debt. Without this amendment, unexpended Members' Representational Allowances can be ``reprogrammed'' for other budget purposes, frustrating the frugal efforts of many Members. Let's keep practicing sound spending practices and keep us moving towards reducing our enormous national debt. Since this amendment has continuously passed with strong support, I would like you to consider including it in the base bill. I have enclosed a copy of the amendment for your consideration. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me or Brian Sutter on my staff at 5-3561. I look forward to working with you on this issue. Sincerely, Dave Camp, Member of Congress.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the Traverse Bay Economic Development Corporation for their outstanding service to the small businesses of the Traverse Bay area. The Traverse Bay Economic Development Corporation is highly dedicated to the small businesses and commerce of its region. This tremendous organization has greatly assisted to improve the quality of life in the community it serves. Its unwavering commitment has been rewarded by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, which has recognized them as America's top small town for business growth. This is not the first time TBEDC has been recognized for its efforts to attract and expand business in the Grand Traverse County area. I am honored today to recognize the Traverse Bay Economic Development Corporation for their commitment to their region.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, as America moves forward with resolve to disarm Saddam Hussein, I rise in support of President Bush for his leadership and to honor our U.S. troops and their families for their dedication and sacrifice. The time has come when the United States must again lead the world against those who threaten the freedom and stability of the free world. As our troops labor in military encampments at home and abroad, let us labor in prayer on their behalf and on behalf of all freedom loving people around the world. After twelve years of Iraqi deception and non-compliance, an international coalition of over thirty countries is engaging in a military campaign to forcibly disarm Saddam Hussein. The Iraqi dictator has been given every possible opportunity to cooperate, to reveal his weapons of mass destruction programs, and to provide relief to the Iraqi people. He has failed to take advantage of multiple offers for a peaceful resolution. We do not enter into this campaign cheerfully, but with a somber resolve. Our goal of liberating the Iraqi people from a tyrannical dictator will not be accomplished without the steely resolve and contributions of all Americans. Whether you are a soldier on the front line or a `soldier' in America's economy, each person can contribute to our objective of achieving total disarmament and establishing peace. This resolution expresses the unequivocal support of the President as Commander-in-Chief for his firm leadership and decisive action, the members of the United States Armed Forces serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom for their patriotism and bravery, and the families of the United States military personnel serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Together, with our allies around the globe and our Armed Forces overseas, we will stay focused on our mission and never waver from our objective--total disarmament, the end of Saddam Hussein, freedom for the Iraqi people, and peace in the region.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 113, the Child Abuse and Neglect Bill of 2003. This bill will support efforts to enhance public awareness of child abuse and neglect. In the state of Michigan, where I am proud to represent the 4th District, the number of child abuse and neglect related fatalities have been steadily increasing since 1998. Again, in my state, there are 2.4 identified victims of child abuse per 1,000 Michigan residents. I emphasize, that statistic encapsulates identified victims only. I implore my fellow members of the House to think of the number of unreported cases. This sad fact proves that the American public is not fully aware of the problem presented by child neglect and abuse. Thus, a challenge lies before us. This is a challenge of committing every possible effort towards the elimination of child neglect and abuse. Behind every number is a person, a child. Some of these children die because of child neglect and abuse. Some of them simply never experience the love of a parent. Either situation is abominable and the American people need to be made aware of it. The mission of this bill is to break the cycle of violence, especially with emphasis on the important first step of awareness. This bill intends to achieve a maximum awareness of child abuse and neglect. Mr. Speaker, this is a worthy bill and an important step in the right direction. As a long time advocate for the oppressed children of our nation, I urge support for this bill. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Lieutenant Colonel Pamela H. Smith-Beatty for her faithful service of 22 years to the United States Air Force. Pamela began her career in the Air Force as a Second Lieutenant in the Air Force Medical Service in Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska. She continued to serve in various locations, including North Dakota, Louisiana, Texas, California, Illinois, Maryland, Korea, and Florida. Throughout her career in these locations, Pamela devotedly performed her duties primarily as a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner, but also as a Deputy Flight Commander and a Deputy Chief Nurse. Pamela has been honored with several awards, including a Space Command Field Grade Nurse of the Year award, a Meritorious Service Medal, a Commendation Medal, and an Achievement Medal. Pamela will be greatly missed by her co-workers, and greatly appreciated by her country. I am honored today to recognize Lieutenant Colonel Pamela H. Smith- Beatty for her auspicious dedication to serving her country.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 399, the Organ Donation Improvement Act of 2003. Simply stated, this bill will promote organ donation by removing existing barriers to living organ donation and educating the public. Right now there is simply not enough organs to meet the needs of patients waiting for them on the transplant lists. The challenge before us is to maximize the number of available organs and to maximize the recovery of organs available for donation. When an organ becomes available for transplant, we must spare no resource to ensure that it is delivered to a patient in need and this bill is a work towards reaching that goal. Behind every number is a person. Some are waiting for a life-saving or life-enhancing transplant. Others celebrate the gift of life they have received. The mission of this bill is to change the numbers, by increasing the number of organ and tissue donors, ultimately saving more lives. It is my hope that this outreach will educate the public about organ and tissue donation, correct misconceptions about donation, and create a greater willingness to donate. Mr. Speaker, this is a good bill and a step in the right direction. As a long time advocate for organ donation, I urge support for this bill. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Miscellaneous Trade and Technical Corrections Act of 2003. I am particularly pleased about the inclusion of a provision which will help make the United States-Canada border significantly more secure. In the aftermath of the attacks on our Nation, the level of security concerns along its 5,000 mile northern border have taken on an added urgency. Reverse inspections will safeguard international bridges and tunnels along the border. This process will ensure that potentially dangerous vehicles are inspected before crossing those bridges and tunnels. Inspecting vehicles for dangerous contents such as bombs and explosives after they enter our tunnels or begin to cross our bridges is inadequate. The reverse customs provision in this legislation aims to enact a principle of the U.S.-Canada Smart Border Declaration negotiated by then Homeland Security Director Tom Ridge and Canada's Minister of Foreign Affairs John Manley last year. In this Declaration, both countries agreed to create a new secure and smart border based on an action plan that includes a host of new security measures. I agree with the principles of the U.S.-Canada Smart Border Declaration, and I believe that the inclusion of the reverse inspections component in this bill will greatly lower the risk of future attacks on our bridges and tunnels. Bridges and tunnels, particularly for Michigan, a border state, are vital to facilitating tourism and trade, two critical factors for Michigan's economy.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, The September 11th Victims' Compensation Fund was created under ``The Aviation and Transportation Security Act'' (P.L. 107-71). This unprecedented move will ensure that every citizen injured in the terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center and the Pentagon or their surviving family members will receive at least $1.6 million in compensation. It is estimated that this Compensation Fund could cost up to $6 billion of taxpayer money. While I fully support this initiative to help the families of those harmed or killed in the vicious attacks, I believe that we should minimize the cost to the taxpayer. That is why I am introducing the Terrorist Assets Liquidation Act again for the 108th Congress. The bill authorizes the President to use the funds from the liquidated assets of frozen terrorist accounts to refund the Treasury Department for funds used to compensate victims of terrorism. Our nation has shown great and moving compassion to the victims of September 11th, with generous donations and support to charity groups providing aid and emergency assistance to victims. While it was important to show compassion and recognize our nation's need to help, we should punish those responsible, holding them accountable for their murderous crimes and limit their drain on our nation's taxpayer resources.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, today I am introducing legislation to correct an unfair restriction that is preventing some of our career military service members from using the Montgomery GI Bill. Education assistance has been a cornerstone of military benefits for over 50 years. congress recognized that military service often prevented young people from attending school and attaining higher levels of education. In 1944, Congress passed the original education bill for service members, the Serviceman's Readjustment Act. This World War II era legislation provided billions of dollars in education and training incentives for veterans and active duty personnel. The nation has reaped many times that amount in return investment from a well- trained work force and a more productive society. Building on the success of the original GI Bill, Congress has passed several other pieces of legislation expanding veterans' educational benefits. The Veterans' Educational Assistance Program (VEAP) was enacted in 1976 as a recruitment and retention tool for the post- Vietnam era. This was the first program requiring payment contributions from military personnel while they were on active duty and was available to people who entered active duty between December 31, 1976 and July 1, 1985. In 1984, Congress passed the All volunteer Force Educational Assistance program; more commonly call the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB). This expanded program provided better benefits that offered under VEAP and last year Congress passed legislation to boost MGIB by a record 46 percent over two years. With the enactment of this legislation, an estimated 409,000 veterans and service members will receive assistance under MGIB for education and training in 2003. In 1996, Congress passed Public Law 104-275, allowing VEAP participants to transfer their education accounts to MGIB and 41,041 veterans and servicepersons took advantage of the opportunity. The opportunity to convert to MGIB is very important because the benefits available are much greater. Unfortunately, those individuals who were on active duty before 1985 and did not participate in VEAP were not eligible to sign-up for MGIB, leaving a gap in available coverage for certain career military personnel. Congress has voted several times in the last decade to allow VEAP participants opportunities to transfer to MGIB, but there has not been an opportunity for those who did not have VEAP accounts to sign up for the new program, excluding them from taking advantage of great educational benefits. This unjust situation can easily be remedied. My legislation provides a one-year open enrollment period for individuals falling into the gap to attain the benefits that they deserve. This is a matter of equity. We cannot neglect our career military personnel; they have served bravely and honorably for decades and their experiences are crucial to the security of our nation. Now is the opportunity to ensure that they are provided for and have the same benefits that are available to other members of the Armed Forces.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time, and I rise today in support of H.R. 4, the Personal Responsibility, Work and Family Promotion Act of 2003. Mr. Chairman, we have the opportunity and responsibility to build on the 1996 law, which many here helped write. The law we crafted has seen unparalleled success by almost every measure, yet our work is not done. I am proud that the main focus of this legislation has been on self- empowerment, work, and most importantly, strengthening family. If we look at the fact that more parents are working today, we have a responsibility to ensure that parents have child care. This bill adds $2 billion over the next 5 years to the current record amounts for this purpose. In addition, this bill also provides the States new flexibility so that unused funds can be transferred over and used for child care needs of working families. In total, the funds available today per family on welfare, as the chairman said, represent $16,000. That is double the $7,000 available for those purposes in 1996. Many of us are not new to this issue. In addition to being one of the authors of the landmark 1996 welfare reform law, along with our current chairman, as well as the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Shaw), the chairman in 1996, I have held field hearings, sat with advisory panels, and spoken with constituents. The one common theme was proper access to child care, that that was an impediment on the road from welfare to work. This bill meets the needs of the parents who have told me time and again that child care is one of the greatest challenges they face. Let us give support to these families who desperately want the choice to work. Mr. Chairman, this is a good bill. It strengthens the landmark welfare reform bill Congress passed and President Clinton signed into law in 1996. Let us give our families the tools they need to ensure that parents can enter the workforce with peace of mind, knowing their children will be in a safe and constructive environment. I urge support of this bill.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce the Firefighting Research and Coordination Act. I am proud of this legislation for what it seeks to accomplish on behalf of our Nation's firefighters. This bill has three primary objectives: support the development of voluntary consensus standards for firefighting equipment and technology, establish nationwide and State mutual aid systems for dealing with national emergencies, and authorize the National Fire Academy to train firefighters to respond to acts of terrorism and other national emergencies. In large part, the genesis of the Firefighting Research and Coordination Act came after the September 11th attacks. After the tragic events of that day, fire departments throughout America began to grapple with new concerns over how to best train for and respond to terrorist acts. The needs of the fire service continue to grow as new threats emerge. As a result, Congress has a responsibility to assist and protect our firefighters. That is the goal of the Firefighting Research and Coordination Act. The first objective of the bill focuses on equipment and technology standards. The bill would allow the U.S. Fire Administrator, in consultation with the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the Inter-Agency Board for Equipment Standardization and Inter- Operability, national voluntary consensus standards development organizations, interested Federal, State, and local agencies, and other interested parties to develop measurement techniques and testing methodologies, and support development of voluntary consensus standards through national standards development organizations, for evaluating the performance and compatibility of new fire fighting technology. Examples of new technologies include: personal protection equipment, devices for advance warning of extreme hazard, equipment for enhanced vision, and robotics and other remote-controlled devices, among others. Equipment purchased under the Assistance to Firefighters grant program must meet or exceed voluntary consensus standards. Establishing standards for firefighting equipment and technologies will help safeguard the lives of firefighters. At present, manufacturers of emergency equipment can sell their products with no government testing or certification requirements to ensure their product meets the needs of firefighters. A January 2003 Consumer Reports article, ``Safeguards Lacking for Emergency Equipment,'' highlights the lack of standards problem. The article reports ``Firefighter organizations, which also represent most of the Nation's emergency medical technicians, say they worry that no law requires fire departments to buy equipment certified for use against chemical or biological agents.'' In a September 10, 2002 story in The, Washington Post Arlington County, Virginia Chief raised concerns about the lack of equipment standards, as well as the lack of guidelines for training the workers charged with responding to future terrorist attacks. Plaugher stated, ``Without clear goals, we risk undermining ourselves while wasting precious resources.'' The second objective of the bill addresses mutual aid systems. The Firefighting Research and Coordination Act directs the Administrator of the U.S. Fire Administration, in consultation with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Director, to provide technical assistance and training to State and local fire service officials to establish nationwide and State mutual aid systems for responding to national emergencies. The Administrator, in consultation with the FEMA Director, will also, develop model mutual aid plans for both intrastate and interstate assistance. An important example of why model mutual aid systems are important to establish comes in part, as a response to the September 11th attacks and to wildfires that have raged in the west. On July 23, 2002, Titan Systems Corporation issued a report on behalf of the Arlington County, Virginia fire department. The report found that self-dispatching fire and emergency crews were favorable in some respects, but were also detrimental. For example, the report states that the Arlington County fire department ``faced the monumental challenge of gaining control of the resources already onsite and those arriving minute-by-minute.'' The report goes on to say that, ``firefighters and other personnel came and went from other Pentagon entrances with little or no control. Thus, had there been a second attack, as occurred at the World Trade Center, it would have been virtually impossible for the Incident Commander to determine quickly who might have been lost.'' The third objective of the legislation permits the Superintendent of the National Fire Academy to coordinate with other Federal, State, and local officials in developing curricula for classes offered by the Academy. This section of the bill illustrates what new classes and training opportunities the Academy is authorized to offer its students. For example, the Academy will now be able to train fire personnel in: strategies for building collapse rescue, the use of technology in response to fires; including terrorist incidents and other national emergencies; response, tactics, and strategies for dealing with terrorist-caused national catastrophes; applying new technology and developing strategies and tactics for fighting forest fires, and other important response strategies. Over one million students have received training at the National Fire Academy. Since its inception in 1975, the Academy has helped firefighters gain vital education and training to the benefit of the American public. The Academy's courses are taught at a facility in Emmitsburg, Maryland. Its online courses and cooperation with local colleges and universities expand the reach of the Academy to thousands of firefighters across the Nation. With the Nation recovering from acts of terrorism, mammoth wildfires, and the possibility that other national emergencies may arise in the future, America's firefighters deserve nothing less than quality educational opportunities and training to prepare for these, and other types of disasters. We saw with the World Trade Center that building collapse rescue is a critical component of a firefighters job. In a December 1, 2001 article that appeared in Fire Chief magazine, a member of the Michigan Urban Search and Rescue team stated that while the Federal government has spent millions of dollars to train local first responders with weapons of mass destruction, little if any focus has been placed on building collapse rescue. ``For some time now, I have advocated that every State should have a structural-collapse response that includes an Urban Search and Rescue (US &R) task force system,'' stated the Michigan firefighter. The firefighter went on to say that, ``The FEMA US&R system does little to help with the initial response to structural collapse incidents.'' This example offers another reason why the curricula at the National Fire Academy should be expanded to include courses on building-collapse rescue and other strategies. Mr. Speaker, my legislation enjoys wide support among many of this Nation's fire groups and bipartisan support here in the House of Representatives. My colleague in the Senate, Senator McCain will introduce companion legislation today in the United States Senate. I am hopeful that this important bill will be swiftly enacted in the 108th Congress.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, Today, I rise to salute the seven astronauts who lost their lives aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia: Commander Rick Husband; Pilot William McCool; Mission Specialists Michael P. Anderson, David M. Brown, Kalpana Chawla, and Laurel Clark; and payload specialist Ilan Ramon, an Israeli. On January 16, 2002, the Columbia left on a 16-day mission that was dedicated to research in physical, life, and space sciences, conducted in approximately 80 separate experiments, and comprised of hundreds of samples and test points. The men and women aboard the Columbia traveled over six million miles and labored 24 hours a day to complete this mission. On February 1, 2003, just minutes from completing its mission, the Columbia was lost during its reentry into the Earth's atmosphere. This loss was unexpected and terrible and today we remember not only this tragedy, but the seven heroes who were lost and their achievement. For the families of the seven, we share your grief in this national tragedy. With heavy hearts we as a nation share in your sorrow and pride. My sincere condolences and prayers are with you in this time of great loss. America was blessed to have such men and women serving in the space program. While our space program has experienced tragedy before, it never becomes easy to bear. And today we grieve the loss of these heroes. Though there are great risks involved in space travel, its benefits to life on earth has been tremendous. The heroes aboard the Columbia were fulfilling America's commitment of more than a half century to explore the universe. Their loss does nothing to diminish the great respect that American's have in the space program. Despite this great loss, America will continue to send people into space. The dedication and professionalism of astronauts have impressed us for generations and the crew of the Columbia continued this tradition of brave men and women who have traveled into space to honor the American spirit of exploration. These astronauts are an example of everything that we consider honorable. Honoring them with this resolution is just one way we can pay tribute to their memory and accomplishments.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, the passage of the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997 represented a watershed event in the relationship between student support and tax policy. The Act's signature initiative, the Hope Scholarship Program, provides annual benefits to students and the families rivaling the support provided through Pell Grants and other long-standing forms of federal aid. However, many of the students who need help the most do not benefit from the Hope Scholarship Program. Today, Congressman Jim McGovern and I are reintroducing legislation that would address these shortcomings. Currently, the Hope tax credit can be used for only tuition and related expenses when college students must pay for much more than just tuition. Our legislation would allow Hope Scholarships to cover required fees, books, supplies and equipment, Additionally, a student's eligibility is currently reduced by any other grants they receive--federal, state or private. As a result, benefits have been limited primarily to middle and upper-middle income taxpayers and explain why less than one-fifth of all full-time students attending community colleges qualify for maximum Hope Scholarship benefits. Our legislation would ensure that any Pell Grants and Supplemental Educational Opportunity grants a student receives are not counted against the student's eligible expenses when the Hope Scholarship is computed. This legislation has bi-partisan cosponsors and support from numerous higher education organizations. I urge the House to bring up this legislation in the near future. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Louis Morse, clerk of Cato Township, who earned the Master Municipal Clerk designation in 2002 through the International Institute of Municipal Clerks. Mr. Morse was recognized with this honor for his exemplary performance as a municipal clerk at the local, state, national and global levels. Mr. Morse received the highest level of education achievable for municipal clerks through the Master Municipal Clerk Academy, to which he demonstrated that he actively pursued educational and professional activities and remained informed about current events in local government. In addition, he completed coursework and earned academy points by attending professional seminars and workshops, teaching advertisement writing in the profession and participating in professional meetings and conferences. Making a personal commitment to life-long learning and mentoring, Mr. Morse continues to serve his community through his extraordinary service. He truly makes the effort to go well beyond his regular duties. I am honored today to recognize Mr. Morse as an outstanding citizen whose admirable qualities make him an outstanding role model to all who know him.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time. Mr. Speaker, the Iraqi regime has posed a threat to peace, to the United States, and to the world for too long. In order to protect America against this very real and growing threat, I support giving the President the authority to use force, to use military action if necessary against Iraq. Without a doubt this is one of the most difficult decisions I have had to make as a Member of Congress. But after briefings from the administration, testimony from congressional hearings, I am convinced the threat to our Nation's safety is real. After repeatedly failing to comply with U.N. inspections, Saddam Hussein's efforts to build weapons of mass destruction, biological, chemical and nuclear, have gone unchecked for far too long. The world cannot allow him to continue down this deadly path. Saddam Hussein must comply with U.N. inspections; but if not, America and our coalition must be prepared to meet this threat. After the Gulf War, in compliance with U.N. resolutions, a no-fly zone was implemented. The purpose was to protect Iraqi Kurds and Shiite Muslims from Saddam Hussein's aggressions and to conduct aerial surveillance. But since its inception, pilots patrolling the zones have come under repeated attack from Iraqi missiles and artillery. The connection between Iraq's weapons of mass destruction and its longstanding ties to terrorist networks such as al Qaeda has significantly altered the U.S. security environment. The two linked together pose a clear and present danger to our country. Consider that Saddam Hussein could supply the terrorists who have sleeper cells in our land with weapons of mass destruction to attack the U.S. while concealing his responsibility for the action. It is a very real and growing threat. The Iraqi regime has been building a case against itself for more than 10 years, and if we fail to heed the warning signs and allow them to continue down this path, the results could be devastating, but they would not be a surprise. After September 11, we are on notice. If Saddam Hussein refuses to comply with U.N. resolutions and diplomatic efforts, we have only one choice in order to ensure the security of our Nation and the safety our citizens.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this Joint Resolution and in doing so, I stand in solemn remembrance of the tragic events of a year ago and a pride in America's response. While the loss of life was immense, and the impact of the terrorist attacks was felt far from New York, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania, the terrorists failed. The group of men, and the larger organization they represented, wanted to break the will of a proud and strong country. The world stands in witness to their failure. Instead of falling apart, our country united. Our brave first responders worked tirelessly to help survivors; we saw ordinary citizens involved in heroic efforts; and all across the country Americans joined together to offer assistance. The outpouring of support and unity could be seen in every flag that was flown with pride across this country. The United States of America rose to the challenge presented to it with a resolve that was felt around the world. Now, on our first Patriot Day, when we see our flag at half-mast, let us not only remember the tragic events of a year ago, but also the strength exhibited by all Americans. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this resolution, expressing solidarity on this day of remembrance.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Great Lakes Legacy Act, H.R. 1070. I would like to commend my colleague and friend from Michigan, Congressman Vern Ehlers for crafting this important legislation and for his diligence in gathering the appropriate support. As a cosponsor of the Great Lakes Legacy Act, I am extremely pleased that the Great Lakes region is one step closer to cleaning up toxic hot spots that lurk under the world's largest freshwater system. While globally there are 42 Areas of Concern (AOC), that is, areas that suffer from severe sediment contamination, 26 are located in the United States, and in my state of Michigan there are 14 designated AOCs. Contamination levels in these areas threaten human health, contribute to the loss of fish and wildlife habitat, restrict critical dredging activities, and lead to numerous beach closings. AOCs are among Michigan's most demanding environmental challenge. Like other environmental clean-up programs, full remediation of Great Lakes AOCs continues to be bogged down by a burdensome web of complex regulations, lack of necessary funding, and insufficient progress of research and development into new technologies. Recognizing these obstacles, the legislation we are considering today aims to solve the problems that plague successful clean-up efforts. In short, H.R. 1070 addresses the most costly and technical hurdles that face these hazardous hot spots. More specifically, this legislation authorizes funding for States, Indian tribes, regional agencies, and local governments for projects in AOCs to monitor or evaluate contaminated sediment and remediate contaminated sediments. It also targets funding for research and development of new technologies that aim to clean toxic sediments in the Great Lakes basin. My support for this legislation goes beyond my co-sponsorship of the measure. In March I introduced a resolution, House Resolution 361. H.Res. 361 calls on the House of Representatives to take swift action in helping to restore and protect Michigan's Great Lakes, the state's most precious natural resource. My bill highlights the environmental problems associated with AOCs and includes the goals set forth in the Great Lakes Legacy Act. In my view, the work done by my colleague from Michigan on this subject it too important for the Congress to let slip. My resolution affirms the importance of passing H.R. 1070 in an expeditious manner equal to its relevance for helping clean the world's largest source of freshwater. Let me make this point clear, the environmental problems that are caused by AOCs are not just a Michigan issue. Although most Areas of Concern in the United States are concentrated in Michigan, it is a national and international problem. Its risks for human health, aquatic populations, ecological habitats and wildlife are serious and impact states beyond Michigan. Therefore, it would be unwise for the Congress to ignore this issue or delay its consideration any further. Mr. Speaker, again, I am pleased to lend my full support for the Great Lakes Legacy Act and urge my colleagues to do the same. With that Mr. Speaker, I yield back the floor.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Chairman, today I rise in support of H.R. 5005, the Homeland Security Act of 2002. I would like to thank the distinguished Majority Leader for his hard work and leadership on the Select Committee to bring this legislation to the Floor. The U.S. government has no higher purpose than to ensure security of American citizens and to preserve our democratic way of life. The proposal before us creates the Department of Homeland Security, a Cabinet-level agency that will unite essential agencies for better coordination, greater preparedness and quicker response time. Currently, there is no one department that has homeland security as its primary mission. In fact, responsibilities for homeland security are dispersed among more than 100 different government organizations. We need to strengthen our efforts to protect America, and the current governmental structure limits our ability to do so. As a northern border state, Michigan is on the frontline in border security. We enjoy the longest unmilitarized border in the world with our friend and ally, Canada. With over $1.9 billion in goods and over 300,000 people crossing the border every single day, the connection between our societies is critical to maintain the economic stability of both nations. However, this openness can become a vulnerability when exploited by the mobility and destructive potential of terrorists. Currently, border security involves multiple agencies--including INS, which is under the Department of Justice; Customs, which is part of the Department of Treasury; and plant and livestock inspectors from the Department of Agriculture. All of these entities have different bosses, different equipment, and even different regulations that govern them. This legislation moves these principal border and transportation security agencies into the Department of Homeland Security. This will provide a direct line of authority and clear chain of command administered by the Secretary of Homeland Security, who is answerable to Congress and the President. Homeland security should not be a partisan issue. We must rise above politics and jurisdictional disputes to send to the President a strong bipartisan bill that will be effective in improving America's security. I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of H.R. 5005 because it is the right thing to do.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to express my support for the fiscal year 2003 Legislative Branch Appropriations bill. This is a responsible bill that will provide necessary resources for the Legislative Branch to carry out its duties in fiscal year 2003. For the past several years, I have proposed an amendment to the Legislative Appropriations bill that requires all unspent office funds from Members' Representational Allowances be returned to the U.S. Treasury and used for debt reduction. This amendment has received bipartisan support every year and I am pleased the committee has included the proposal in the base bill. I have been proud to work with my colleagues in the House of Representatives to reduce the national debt and incorporate fiscal responsibility into federal spending. We have reviewed programs and guidelines to make them more effective. Today, we again have the opportunity to reaffirm our promise of fiscal responsibility and deficit reduction to the American people by passing this legislation. Although we are in a mild recession and a time of economic hardship we must maintain our commitment to pay off the national debt by pushing for more frugal spending. Without the unspent office funds provision, left over funds can be spent on other budget purposes. We must maintain our commitment to end wasteful spending and incorporate fiscal responsibility into this Legislative Branch Appropriations bill. National security and winning the global campaign on terrorism are our top priorities, but if the government pursues pro-growth policies and maintains spending discipline, we can quickly return the budget to surplus. Now more than ever, every penny must be looked after and accounted for and it is important to reduce spending and cut government waste. I would like to thank the Chairman Lewis for his support and for including my unspent office funds provision in H.R. 5121 and I urge all members to support and pass this legislation.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Susan Hirshmann as she gets ready to leave her post as the chief of staff to House Majority Whip Tom DeLay. Susan has proven to be invaluable and a trusted employee, friend and ally. Susan Hirshmann is a remarkable individual who has become one the most important and influential women on Capitol Hill. She is highly respected by all who know her; and her comprehensive political grasp and policy expertise have set her apart as one of the greatest strategists in Washington. Susan has been an indispensable asset to Majority Whip's Office and the entire Whip organization. For five years, she has been an advisor and top staffer, as well as a trustworthy ally to those who have worked with her. Her intelligence and skill are complemented by a great sense of humor, which has made her contribution to this institution all the more praiseworthy. We will all miss Susan, but we will always remember her hard work and steadfast devotion to this institution and her country.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I was recently contacted by one of my constituents who has dedicated his life to defending our Nation. His honorable service covers 19 plus years in the Air Force but he is denied the opportunity to participate in the Montgomery GI bill. Today, I am introducing the Montgomery GI Enhancement Act of 2002 to correct the unfair restrictions that are preventing some of our career servicemembers from using educational opportunities that they deserve. Education assistance has been a cornerstone of military benefits for over 50 years. Congress recognized that military service often prevented young people from attending school and attaining higher levels of education. In 1944, Congress passed the original education bill for servicemembers, the Servicemen's Readjustment Act. This World War II era legislation provided billion of dollars in education and training incentives for veterans and active duty personnel. The Nation has reaped many times that amount in return investment from a well- trained workforce and a more productive society. Building on the success of the original GI bill, Congress has passed several other pieces of legislation expending veterans' educational benefits. The Veterans' Educational Assistance Program, VEAP, was enacted in 1976 as a recruitment and retention tool for the post- Vietnam era. This was the first program requiring payment contributions from military personnel while they were on active duty and was available to people who entered active duty between December 31, 1976, and July 1, 1985. In 1984, Congress passed the All Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program; more commonly call the Montgomery GI Bill, MGIB. This expanded program provided better benefits that offered under VEAP and last year Congress passed legislation to boost MGIB by a record 46 percent over 2 years. With the enactment of this legislation, an estimated 409,000 veterans and servicemembers will receive assistance under MGIB for education and training in 2003. In 1996, Congress passed Public Law 104-275, allowing VEAP participants to transfer their education accounts to MGIB and 41,041 veterans and servicepersons took advantage of the opportunity. The opportunity to convert to MGIB is very important because the benefits available are much greater. Unfortunately, those individuals who were on active duty before 1985 and did not participate in VEAP were not eligible to sign-up for MGIB, leaving a gap in available coverage for certain career military personnel. Congress has voted several times in the last decade to allow VEAP participants opportunities to transfer to MGIB, but there has not been an opportunity for those who did not have VEAP accounts to sign up for the new program, excluding them from taking advantage of great educational benefits. This unjust situation can easily be remedied. My legislation provides a one-year open enrollment period for individuals falling into this gap to attain the benefits that they deserve. This is a matter of equity. We cannot neglect our career military personnel; they have served bravely and honorably for decades and their experiences are crucial to the security of our Nation. Now is the opportunity to ensure that they are provided for and have the same benefits that are available to other members of the Armed Forces.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to congratulate the 2002 Detroit Red Wings who have won the most coveted trophy in professional sports. This legislation, introduced by Representative Carolyn Kilpatrick, congratulates the Detroit Red Wings for winning the 2002 Stanley Cup Championship. I am pleased to report to my colleagues that I, along with the entire Michigan House delegation, have signed on as an original cosponsor of this measure. The 2002 Stanley Cup Champion Detroit Red Wings are considered by many to be one of the greatest hockey teams. This Red Wings team was led by nine future Hall of Famers including, the best captain, defenseman, coach and goalie. After dominating the National Hockey League in the 1990s by winning two Stanley Cup Championships and dubbing Detroit ``Hockeytown,'' the Red Wings have captured their third Stanley Cup in 6 years. The championship work ethic and perseverance displayed by the Red Wings reflects the values of the people of Michigan. The 2002 Red Wings are a symbol of team effort. Comprised of a diverse mix of experienced veterans, inexperienced youth, future Hall of Famers, Olympians, North Americans and Europeans, the Red Wings always put the team and their ultimate goal before individual achievement. The Red Wings, who started the 2001-2002 season with the highest expectations, were led by their selfless captain Steve Yzerman. Yzerman, who always exemplified team unity, led the Red Wings to the Stanley Cup despite being nearly crippled by a knee injury. Not only have the Red Wings displayed excellence on the ice, but also in their communities, often volunteering their time to make significant contributions to those who are less advantaged. Unlike many professional athletes today, the Red Wings have welcome the time of ``role model.'' The Red Wings are an example of what can be achieved through hard work and team effort. Congratulating them with this Congressional Resolution is just one way we can pay tribute to their accomplishments and I urge support for the bill.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman for yielding time to me. I rise in support of the Hayworth amendment in this bipartisan effort to remove the Wolf language creating a Commission on Native American Policy from the interior appropriations bill. I have great personal respect for the gentleman from Virginia, and we agree on most things; but the Wolf provision is unnecessarily duplicative, and it violates rule XXI by legislating on an appropriations bill. What is particularly troubling to me is that there was no process, no hearings, no authorization, no consultation. The Wolf language would direct available funds from the very tight budget of the Bureau of Indian Affairs to create a commission. Others have said the proposed commission would duplicate existing reports to Congress. I will not go through all of that, but each of these questions has been answered a number of times, at great cost to the American taxpayer, millions of dollars. If there has been any thread tying together centuries of failed United States Government policy toward the First Americans, it is the lack of consultation. In the name of trying to help Native Americans, there has been untold heartache and much loss of life. At a minimum, Native Americans should be part of any process and have the same respect and opportunity to be heard as any other group who is being considered to have legislation in the United States Congress. Let us let the committee of jurisdiction deal with this issue. Let us have hearings. The United States Constitution recognizes the sovereignty of the First Americans. I would hope this House would do so, as well, and support the Hayworth amendment.