Jerry Costello

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. COSTELLO. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. COSTELLO. Madam Speaker, I strongly support H.R. 1831, the Small Business Liability Protection Act. For over 8 years, there has been a general consensus among the Members of this House that too many small businesses, homeowners, and small charitable organizations were being sued by large businesses for Superfund clean-up costs when these parties did nothing more than put out their normal trash. Unfortunately, the House has not been able to pass legislation to stop these abuses because liability protection was always a component of a larger and more controversial bill. Today, we are taking a critical step to ending this abuse, which has been called a nightmare for small businesses, their families, friends, and neighbors. This bill is brief, only 13 pages; but its impact will be widespread among the small business community. Businesses with not more than 100 employees will now be able to feel secure that they will not be sued by larger businesses when all they did was send out ordinary trash to a Superfund site. In my district in southwestern and southern Illinois, for example, virtually all businesses will now be protected from such lawsuits. In addition to protecting those who sent the trash, the bill also exempts any party that sent very small amounts of waste to a Superfund site. At too many sites across the country, polluters at Superfund sites have engaged in abusive practices of literally suing every business in the phone book as a way of spreading out their cost for Superfund clean-up. The theory was that everyone's trash must contain some hazardous substances. This bill will stop that abuse. This bill demonstrates that by working in a bipartisan manner, we can in fact get results that help real people, real benefits to real people. It is no secret that this bill is of major interest to the National Federation of Independent Business. That organization should be congratulated for reaching out in a bipartisan manner and working with Democrats and Republicans to develop this legislation. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this legislation, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. COSTELLO. Madam Speaker, I yield 10 minutes to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Deutsch), of the Committee on Energy and Commerce; and I ask unanimous consent that he be permitted to allocate time.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. COSTELLO. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise in support of House concurrent resolution 109, a resolution honoring the services and sacrifices of the men and women who served in the United States Merchant Marine. Madam Speaker, tomorrow is National Maritime Day, a day set aside by law for the past 68 years to recognize the contributions to our Nation by these men and women who have served our Nation in war and in peace, transporting goods and military supplies wherever they are needed. The Merchant Marine is not well-known by many Americans. The Merchant Marine is composed of those men and women who operate the commercial ships that transport both military supplies and the everyday goods that we use in or society. This includes everything from tanks to televisions, from ammunition to automobiles. During World War II, over 6,000 Merchant Marines died when their ships were attacked by the enemy. Merchant mariners were exempt from the draft during World War II, because it was vitally important for them to use their unique skills to transport our military supplies in the Atlantic and Pacific theaters of operation. Their mission was made dangerous by the constant attacks of the German submarines. I would urge my colleagues and the American people to take the time to visit some of the merchant ships from this era that are on display around the country. In Baltimore, they can visit the S.S. John Brown. In San Francisco, they can visit the S.S. Jeremiah O'Brien, and in Los Angeles, they can visit the S.S. Lane Victory. These Liberty and Victory ships were turned out of our shipyards at a rate of one per day. Once on board, a much better appreciation for the conditions under which these mariners worked and the sacrifices and contributions these Americans made for our Nation would be gained. Today, the men and women who serve in the U.S. Merchant Marine are responsible for the safe operation of container ships, dry cargo ships and tankers that are all the lifeline of commerce. Over 95 percent of the imports and exports that come from overseas are transported by water. These ships form the bridge over which the goods and materials for U.S. factories and consumers are shipped. During Operations Desert Shield/Desert Storm, these men and women successfully transported the weapons and supplies from the United States to the Middle East that were crucial for our victory. Madam Speaker, it is fitting and appropriate for the House of Representatives to recognize the service and sacrifices made by the men and women who serve in the U.S. Merchant Marine. Therefore, I strongly urge my colleagues to support passage of House concurrent resolution 109 as a sign of our appreciation for their work to protect our freedom.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, this event needs little introduction. The year 2001 marks the 33rd anniversary of the D.C. Special Olympics. The torch relay event is a traditional part of the opening ceremonies for the Special Olympics, which take place at Gallaudet University in the District of Columbia. In the mid-1960s, Eunice Kennedy Shriver started a summer camp for handicapped children in her backyard. Since that modest beginning, this event has grown to involve approximately 2,500 Special Olympians competing in over a dozen events. More than 1 million children and adults with special needs participate in Special Olympic programs worldwide. The event is supported by thousands of volunteers. The goal of the games is to help bring developmentally disabled individuals into the larger society under conditions where they are accepted and respected. Confidence and self-esteem are the building blocks for these Olympic games. I enthusiastically support this resolution. I thank the subcommittee chairman for his support. I urge passage of this legislation. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. COSTELLO. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, I am delighted to join the sponsor, the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Hoyer), in supporting H. Con. Res. 79 and acknowledge the efforts of the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Hoyer), who has been such a champion for his constituents for this event. H. Con. Res. 79 authorizes the use of the Capitol Grounds for the Greater Washington Soap Box Derby. Youth ranging in age from 9 to 16 construct and operate their own soap box vehicles. On June 23, 2001, children from the Greater Washington area will race down Constitution Avenue to test the principles of aerodynamics. Hundreds of volunteers donate considerable time supporting the event and providing families with a fun-filled day. The event has grown in popularity, and Washington now is known as one of the outstanding race cities. Madam Speaker, I support H. Con. Res. 79 and urge my colleagues to support it as well.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H. Con. Res. 76, a resolution to authorize the use of the Capitol Grounds for a series of summer concerts sponsored by the John F. Kennedy Center. Last summer, approximately 5,000 people attended and were entertained by the Capitol Hill Millennium stage performances. Musicians, dancers, pianists, and storytellers performed here on Capitol Hill. Members of Congress, their staffs, employees, tourists, and neighbors were treated to a wonderful, free concert during their lunch hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays from Memorial Day to Labor Day. As with all events on the Capitol Grounds, these concerts are free and open to the public. The Kennedy Center works with the Architect of the Capitol to ensure that all rules and regulations are enforced. Madam Speaker, I support this resolution and thank the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. LaTourette), the gentleman from Minnesota (Mr. Oberstar), and the gentleman from Alaska (Mr. Young) for bringing this matter to the floor in an expeditious manner. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to adopt this legislation, and I thank the subcommittee chairman for his support.

Mr. COSTELLO. Madam Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Guam (Mr. Underwood). (Mr. UNDERWOOD asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. COSTELLO. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, I support H.R. 495, a bill to designate the Federal building in Charlotte Amalie, U.S. Virgin Islands, in honor of our former colleague, Ron de Lugo. Although Ron was a native of New Jersey, he spent his entire life working in and associated with the Virgin Islands. He attended St. Peter and Paul School in St. Thomas and attended the College of St. Joseph in Puerto Rico. In 1956, he began his public career when he was elected to the Territorial Senate. From 1961 to 1962, he served as administrator for St. Croix; and in 1963, he returned to the Territorial Senate and was minority leader for 3 years. In 1972, Ron became the first Virgin Islands delegate to the U.S. Congress and served until 1979. After an unsuccessful campaign for Governor of the U.S. Virgin Islands, he was once again elected to Congress in 1980 and served until 1995. While in Congress, he was a tireless advocate for infrastructure improvements for the Virgin Islands. From his position on the Natural Resources Committee as chairman of the Subcommittee on Insular and International Affairs, he was vigilant in assuring that Federal policies preserved the natural beauty of the islands. Ron also was supportive of all efforts to provide for full participation of residents of the Virgin Islands and Guam in the electoral process as well as equal treatment under various Federal programs. Ron de Lugo fought for the rights and privileges for territorial delegates, and left his mark on the political development of the territories. He worked endlessly for his constituents and for full political status for the Virgin Islands. He was a real consensus builder, and he was well liked on both sides of the aisle. Madam Speaker, it is fitting and proper that we honor Ron de Lugo's public service with this designation. I support H.R. 495 and urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this bill. Madam Speaker, I yield such time as she may consume to the gentlewoman from the Virgin Islands (Mrs. Christensen), the author of this legislation.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Madam Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of National Law Enforcement Week and the National Peace Officers Memorial Service, which was held today. America's law enforcement officers are one of our most valuable resources. Almost one million individuals nationwide perform an incredibly important task as they put their lives in danger on a daily basis to protect and serve the people. As a former police officer, and the father to a former police officer, I know the inherent risk involved in the profession and salute these men and women for their efforts. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased that since 1993, the 12th District of Illinois has received funding for 286 new law enforcement officers under the COPS grant funding program. These additional officers have worked to increase the safety and well being of my constituents. Last year 150 very devoted, brave officers from the ranks of state, local and federal service were killed in the line of duty--144 men, and 6 women were killed. The average age of those killed was 39 years, and with an average of 10 years in service. In my state of Illinois three police officers died in the line of duty during 2000--At this time I would like to read their names into the record: Gregory M. Sears, Alane Stoffregen, and William Howard Warren. Their names will be etched on the memorial wall, and will join 4 other officers from Illinois already memorialized. In addition to those three officers, I would also like to read into the record the names of two fallen officers from the St. Louis, Missouri area, which is across the river from the district I represent. The officers are: Robert J. Stanze II, St. Louis Police Department, and Richard Eric Weinhold, St. Louis County. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting our fallen Peace Officers as well as honoring our courageous law enforcement officers. These men and women deserve this praise and recognition.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating National Nurses Week. This week is an important reminder of nurses and their continued dedication and concern for their patients every day. Well trained nurses are the cornerstone of our nation's health system. Currently, hospitals and other health care employers are faced with an emerging nurse shortage. After meeting with several nursing and health care organizations in my district, I believe increased funding of existing nurse education programs and new programs to recruit and retain nurses are desperately needed to provide advanced training and to build the faculty workforce. I am actively working with my colleagues to pursue these goals. It is important to support the goals and ideas of National Nurses Week, because their impressive level of achievement and accomplishment are a milestone for the nursing profession as a whole. Mr. Speaker, I know my colleagues join me in support and appreciation of these extraordinary individuals.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to the $1.35 trillion budget resolution. While I am in favor of tax relief for the American people, I do not believe relief should be accomplished through tax cuts benefiting big business and the wealthiest of Americans. I believe that the Congress can and should pass legislation giving tax relief to the American people. That is why I have consistently voted to eliminate the death-inheritance tax and the marriage tax penalty. Mr. Speaker, the Congress can and should give tax relief to the American people. However, any tax cut should not threaten our Social Security and Medicare programs. While we still have a surplus we should provide a prescription drug coverage paid by Medicare, an initiative the majority of Americans support. Even so, we should not support a budget and ensuring tax cut that spends expected revenue 11 years down the road. We need to have a mechanism in place to adjust the plan if revenue projections prove to be wrong. Today I intend to vote against the Republican budget. A more realistic five-year spending bill should be put in place to fund critical programs important to the American people like Social Security, Medicare/Medicaid, national defense and other important programs. Then we should bring a tax relief package before the Congress that is realistic and that has a mechanism that directly ties tax cuts to controlled spending and the amount of revenue that will come to the federal treasury each year. I am also troubled that this budget does nothing to ensure the solvency of Social Security, instead relying on a commission loaded down with individuals who have publicly supported the privatization of Social Security. I am adamantly opposed to investing any money intended for a secure retirement through our current Social Security system in a stock market that is increasingly more volatile. Mr. Speaker, today we should reject this misguided budget.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, H. Con. Res. 74 authorizes use of the Capitol Grounds for the 20th annual National Peace Officers Memorial Service--a most solemn and respectful service. I strongly support this resolution that honors police officers--brave men and women, who gave their lives in the daily work of protecting our families and us. On average, one officer is killed in this country every other day, approximately 23,000 are injured every year, and thousands are assaulted going about their daily routines. During last year 150 very devoted, brave officers from the ranks of state, local and federal service were killed in the line of duty--144 men, and 6 women were killed. The average age of those killed was 39 years, and they had an average of 10 years in service. In my state of Illinois three brave police officers died in the line of duty during 2000--At this time I would like to read their names into the record: Gregory M. Sears, Alane Stoffregen, and William Howard Warren. Their names will be etched on the memorial wall, and will join 4 other officers from Illinois already memorialized. In addition to those three officers I would also like to read into the record the names of two fallen officers from the St. Louis, Missouri area who have family ties in Southern Illinois. Robert J. Stanze II, St. Louis Police Department, and Richard Eric Weinhold, St. Louis County are police officers who died in the line of duty in 2000. Mr. Speaker, the service to be held on May 15 is the 20th anniversary of this memorial service. I support the resolution and urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this tribute to our fallen Peace Officers.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the 50th anniversary of Boy Scout Troop 103 in Bethalto, IL. Troop 103 of Bethalto, IL, is sponsored by the Bethalto United Methodist Church located at 240 East Sherman Street in Bethalto, IL. United Methodist has sponsored Troop 103 for the past 50 years. For Troop 103, there have been 10 former Scoutmasters and the Troop has produced 25 Eagle Scouts in their 50 years of existence and will soon add four more. This Troop has 27 active scouts that participate in many scouting activities throughout the year. They have participated in the annual Lincoln Pilgrimage in Springfield, IL, and also the Memorial Day Parade in Bethalto. Many former Scouts remain as business owners in the community of Bethalto. The Boy Scouts of America was incorporated to provide a program for community organizations that offers effective character, citizenship and personal fitness training for youth. They endeavor to develop citizens who are physically, mentally and emotionally fit; have a high degree of self-reliance as evidenced in such qualities as initiative, courage and resourcefulness; have personal values based on religious concepts; have the desire and skills to help others; understand the principles of the American social, economic and governmental systems; are knowledgeable about and take pride in their American heritage and understand our nation's role in the world; and are prepared to participate in and give leadership to American Society. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Troop 103 on the occasion of their 50th anniversary and to recognize their service to the community.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to support America's steel industry. America's steel industry is in a near crisis state. Beginning in 1997, dumped and subsidized steel imports grew dramatically until they reached almost 40 percent of the U.S. steel market. Steel prices rapidly decreased; steel workers were laid off; steel companies filed for bankruptcy. As a result of the weakened steel industry, the level of imports deemed acceptable by the government increased, and recovery has been difficult. The steel industry needs help. I believe H.R. 808 is a good first step in providing assistance. The Steel Revitalization Act of 2001 provides import relief by imposing 5-year quotas on the importation of steel and iron ore products in the United States. The quotas will return the import market share to the levels prior to 1997. This provision is very similar of H.R. 975, which passed the House with strong support in the previous Congress. In addition, the legislation will augment the Steel Loan Guarantee Program, which provides guaranteed loans to qualified steel companies. Currently, steel companies are finding it almost impossible to raise capital through other sources, especially due to plummeting stock prices and decreasing demand. The Steel Revitalization Act will expand the program by authorizing $10 billion rather than $1 billion, guaranteeing 95 percent of the loan rather than 80 percent and extending the terms from 5 years to 15. With this expansion, more companies will be able to take advantage of this worthwhile program. Mr. Speaker, in the congressional district I represent, steel companies like Laclede and Granite City Steel are seriously distressed. Many of my constituents are at risk of losing their jobs. It is of the utmost importance that we in Congress work hard to keep America's steel industry vital. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 808 and our steel industry.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Con. Res. 95. I am proud to acknowledge and commend the charter school movement for its contribution to improving out nation's public school system. A charter education is a special and rigorous public education for more than 500,000 children nationwide. Charter schools serve a broad range of students, many of which better meet the needs of students than conventional schools. Charter schools exercise increased autonomy in return for increased accountability. They are accountable for both academic results and fiscal practices to their sponsors, their parents, and the public. The charter schools in my district, Syzygy Charter School, Visional Academy Charter School, Tomorrow's Builders Charter School, and Fort Bowman Academy Charter School, increase opportunities for learning and access to quality education for all students, create choice for parents and students within the public school system, encourage innovative teaching practices, and encourage community and parent involvement in public education. Mr. Speaker, it is important to establish a National Charter School Week. The charter schools in my district and nationwide demonstrate impressive levels of achievement and accomplishment, and I commend them for their continued dedication to serve. For these reasons, I support this legislation.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Con. Res. 91. Autism, a brain disorder that affects 1 to 2 in every 1,000 Americans, too often results in a lifetime of impaired thinking, feeling, and social functioning. This disability has no racial, ethnic, or social boundary and usually appears in the first three years of a child's life. In Fairview Heights, Illinois, the Illinois Center for Autism was established in 1977 to provide a Special Day School program. At the time, it was serving eight children with autism. Today, the Illinois Center for Autism has helped prevent the institutionalization of hundreds of people with autism and has assisted them to become productive members of society. I commend the center for its continuing commitment to autism and dedication to service. Mr. Speaker, it is important to support the goals and ideas of Autism Awareness Day and Month and support the goal of increasing federal funding for aggressive research on autism. I recognize the parents and relatives of autistic children and hope this legislation gives them optimism for their children. The Illinois Center for Autism in my district is one example of true achievement, and I commend the center for its continuing commitment to autism and dedication to service. For these reasons, I support this legislation.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the victims of one of history's most terrible tragedies, the Armenian Genocide. The Armenian community commemorates this atrocity each year on April 24, the day in 1915 when 300 Armenian leaders, intellectuals, and professionals were rounded up in Constantinople, deported, and killed. From 1915 through 1923, one and a half million Armenians had been massacred, 500,000 more had been deported, and the survivors were systematically deprived of their property, freedom, and dignity. In my district, there is a significant population of Armenian survivors and their families that showed heroic courage and will to survive in the face of horrendous obstacles and adversities. These survivors are an important window into the past. It is through their unforgettable tragedy that we are able to share in their history and strong heritage. Mr. Speaker, in the Armenian consciousness, the events of 1915 through 1923 are a vivid and constant presence. I am pleased my colleagues and I have the opportunity to pay tribute to the Armenian community in order to ensure the legacy of the genocide is remembered.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Vince Cosmano on his retirement and the 30 years of service he has given to O'Fallon Township High School in O'Fallon, Illinois. The second of five children, born to James and Jean Cosmano of Chicago, Vince came from a family proud of their Italian heritage. As a youth, Vince was an achiever, performing in the high school band and attaining the rank of Eagle Scout. His passion for teamwork was shaped during his high school years where he excelled in football and swimming. Learning and an education were highly valued traits in the Cosmano household, Vince's brothers Don and Bill chose careers in education and his sister Jean Marie and youngest brother Richard succeeded in their respective fields of work. In college, Vince followed his passion, studying history at Illinois State University and playing the french horn. Fortunately, for the future high school band students at OTHS, Vince's love for music became his calling. He graduated from ISU with a B.S. in Education in 1965, followed by a Masters in Music Education in 1971. From 1965 to 1971, Vince taught school, first in Wyoming, then Piper City and later Chillicothe. O'Fallon, Illinois would soon welcome and embrace the dynamic Vince Cosmano to their music department. In August of 1976, the music department at OTHS was poised for change. The newly established Panther football program was open for competition and Edward A. Fulton was moving from the High School music program to his roots in the junior high music program. The Marching Panthers Band of OTHS was just 10 years old. The Panthers first were served by John Albert, then Ed Fulton and then it came to Vince Cosmano. At that time, the band consisted of 130 members with a total of 4 buses and no equipment trucks. Vince debuted with the Panthers at the 1977 U of I field show competition, winning second place in field, third in parade and a drum major caption award. The OTHS Marching Panthers have since garnered grand championships, national parades (including appearances at the Macy's and the Tournament of Roses parades), television appearances and hundreds of other awards. Through all of the trophies, awards and citations, the OTHS Marching Panthers have gained national renown and an even stronger program under Vince's direction. Currently, the music program is comprised of 250 students, six buses, three equipment trucks, legions of OTHS alumni with support from parents, colleagues, fans and friends. Vince always credited the students of the Marching Panthers for their diligence and hard work--only with great reluctance did he ever accept individual recognition. He was previously named ``O'Fallon's Man of the Year'' and served as the President of the Illinois Music Educators Association, District 6. In 1999, the Illinois High School Association honored him as the state's Outstanding Music Educator. A national honor quickly followed as Vince was chosen as the Outstanding Music Educator for a seven state area by the National High School Association. Vince exemplifies the philosophy that hard work equals good things. As Vince retires, he will enjoy time with his fiancee Sue and his three sons, Tim, Jeff and Patrick. His favorite teaching activities-- concert band, music theory and private lessons--will be replaced by fishing, swimming and gardening. Vince will always be remembered as a man of presence and a man of action. Whether getting the students up at 4 a.m. to be ready to march in the Macy's parade or helping to take tickets at a Panther Football game, Vince was there. It has been through his direct efforts that he has instilled the qualities of music and respect into the hearts of the many students he has touched. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Vince Cosmano and to recognize his commitment to community service.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Chairman, I intend to vote against the ten-year budget offered by the Republican leadership today because its $1.6 billion tax cut is too large and it fails to adequately fund important priorities such as agriculture, education, veterans, the COPS program, prescription drugs for seniors and national defense. I will also vote against the Democratic budget, because while it is a vast improvement on the Republican plan, it is also based on unreliable ten-year projections. Instead, I will support the alternative budget offered by the Blue Dogs, because it is based on economic estimates covering only the next five years. This body knows from experience that trying to predict the economy over five years is difficult, and that over ten years it is impossible. The Blue Dog five-year budget makes sense. It provides for a reasonable tax cut while paying down the debt and devoting more resources to critical priorities that the Republican budget neglects. I am particularly concerned about the excessive Republican tax cut amid signs that the economy is slowing, which could lead to big deficits in the future. While I support a significant tax cut and will vote again this year to repeal the estate tax and eliminate the marriage penalty tax, I believe a five-year budget will allow a better opportunity to assess the health of the economy and to tailor policies to keep it strong. I am also concerned that the Republican budget allows for the privatization of Social Security, which could jeopardize the long-term solvency of the program. Mr. Chairman, we learned from the Reagan polices of the 1980s that large tax cuts do not lead to balanced budgets, let along surpluses. We need a more fiscally responsible approach than the Republicans are currently offering to provide tax relief while keeping our important commitments to programs like Social Security and Medicare. I believe the Blue Dog budget meets these goals and I urge my colleagues to support it.