Joe Crowley

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of this legislation introduced by Chairman Hyde. Chairman Hyde, I would like to commend you for your continued support of the Good Friday Agreement and a lasting peace in the north of Ireland. A few weeks ago during the Saint Patrick's Day festivities I had an opportunity to meet with many of the actors involved in creating a lasting peace in the north of Ireland. When I met with the Taoiseach and Gerry Adams about the ongoing situation, I stressed the importance of bringing about representational government to the people of the north. It has been over three years since free and fair elections took place in the north. The people spoke and elected leaders to represent them, but I am sad to say when they went to the voting booth in November of 2003, their vote was not respected. This issue needs to move forward so the people of the north can finally have democratic rule. If a true and lasting peace is ever to be achieved the people must be able to feel they are invested in the process. All parties must begin to put aside their differences and work toward the common goal of peace and reconciliation in the north. This battle has been allowed to go on for too long with seemingly both sides knowing what the other is doing. The IRA has lived up to its obligations and fully decommissioned and now it is time for Unionist paramilitary groups to for their example. I am proud to be an original cosponsor of this legislation and would urge all of my colleagues to send a strong message to the parties involved in the peace process. The House of Representatives is engaged and would like to forward movement. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of the resolution. In doing so, I want to commend the tremendous work of an organization known as the Washington Ireland Program, or ``WIP.'' Every year since I came to Congress in 1999, I have hosted a WIP student and I have found these students from both the North and the Republic of Ireland to be exceptional future leaders. WIP is a six-month program of personal and professional development that brings outstanding Protestant and Catholic university students from Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to Washington, DC, for summer internships and leadership training. The program begins and ends with practical service in Northern Ireland and Ireland. In Washington, participants get firsthand experience with U.S. government and politics and an immersion in American culture by living with area Host Families. Through an intense eight-week schedule, young people from different sides of the political divide are challenged to work and learn as a team and to create an environment of mutual respect. The program aims to send students home with enhanced professional interpersonal skills and a new confidence in their own leadership abilities which they are expected to demonstrate through service to their own communities. To date, 300 young adults have graduated from the program. Many WIP graduatess moved into important careers in politics, business, media, and education. These include: a research officer to the NI First Minister in Westminster; television and radio news journalists; reporters for major newspapers in Belfast and London; barristers and solicitors; university professors and primary school teachers; consultants with Accenture and Price WaterhouseCoopers; Dublin PR firm managers; assistant to Members of the NI Assembly and the Irish Parliament; political party operatives in Northern Ireland and the Republic; and Executive Officer for the Home Office in London. This dynamic program should serve as a model for many of the geographically and religiously conflicted areas around the world. WIP is helping to ensure a lasting peace throughout the Emerald Isle. I congratulate its officials, staff, and volunteers, and hope that my colleagues will join me in supporting its efforts in the years to come.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 185th anniversary of Greek Independence. I would also like to make a special honor of Congressman Bilirakis, who is celebrating his last Greek Independence Day as a Member of the House of Representatives. I commend him for his service not only to our country but his indefatigable support of Hellenic issues. I know he will be missed not only by his constituents in Florida, his colleagues here and by all Hellenic Americans. March 25th is a date that will live in the hearts and minds of Greeks all around the world. After close to 400 years of Ottoman rule, on March 25, 1821, the people of Greece rose up against the Turks and won their independence. The Greeks have a history dating back almost 4,000 years, Greece is the cradle of democracy and its great philosophers were an invaluable inspiration for our founding fathers. In ancient Athens they found a model for the new democracy that our forefathers used to establish our democracy in America. We are joined by blood, culture, and a profound commitment to shared values. Greek ideals of democracy and freedom inspired our Nation's founders and breathed life into America's experiment with democratic self-government. Mr. Speaker, I have the great honor of representing a number of Greek-Americans in the Seventh District of New York. Their influence and active participation in the life of their communities has fostered economic, political and social growth throughout New York City. Generations of Greek Americans have enriched every aspect of our national life, in the arts, sciences, business, politics and sports. Through hard work, love of family and community, they have contributed greatly to the prosperity and peace that we all enjoy as Americans today. But as we celebrate Greek independence, we must keep in mind the ongoing struggle for freedom and demand for human rights on the island of Cyprus. I believe the United States and the international community must remain steadfast in our resolve to bring peace and unity to an island that has been home to violence and division for far, far too long. Mr. Speaker, let me reiterate my strong commitment to Greek communities in my district, the country, and throughout the world. Their strength and dedication to democracy and peace in the world has made them a shining star of modern civilization.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Resolution offered by Representative Gerlach, H.R. 1053--lifting the provisions of Jackson-Vanik from the country of Ukraine. In December 2004, the world watched as a democratic candidate was poisoned, a stolen victory, and marches in the street by people hungry for freedom and for a better future for their children. The world witnessed true passion. We witnessed people expressing themselves and their will to live freely and democratically. We witnessed people determined to take charge of their nation's destiny and risk all to do so. We witnessed young and old, families and students--all camping outdoors in the blistering Ukrainian cold to protest against a sham victory and demand true elections. What we witnessed was true everyday heroism. While we, the people of the world, witnessed victory--the people of Ukraine lived it by forcing it. By rejecting tyranny and corruption and demanding equality and freedom, they brought about peaceful democratic regime change. As a result, President Viktor Yushchenko has been able to democratically reform laws in Ukraine to bring this country to Market Economy Status. Additionally, Ukraine has continued to bring religious minorities together, restore privately owned property, and condemn anti-Semitic remarks from national organization. As a result of Ukraine's tireless effort to reform, on March 6, 2006 the United States and Ukraine signed a very important trade agreement that would eventually help grant Ukraine access to the World Trade Organization. Now the only piece of the puzzle still left for this fledgling democracy is lifting of the Jackson-Vanik restriction--and permanently granting normal trade relations status with the United States. I am pleased to join with my colleagues and my constituents in support of H.R. 1053 and grant Ukraine PNTR for the hard work and democratic reforms that have been instituted after the ``Orange Revolution'' Let's support this democratically elected government and grant them Permanent Normal Trade Relations status.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of S. Con. Res. 79. The United States exercising the option of cutting off assistance to the Palestinian Authority because of the participation of Hamas in the Palestinian Government should not be a surprise to the Palestinian people. This House spoke out strongly with the passage of H. Res. 575, which clearly stated before the elections that we did not approve of terrorist organizations participating in the Palestinian elections. Today's resolution should bring home that the United States will not provide aid to a government run by terrorists. The Hamas victory is unacceptable because it provides a group of murderers with a seat at the table. I can not understand how the most secular Palestinian people would support an organization whose goal is to take their rights away. The United States must stand by our friend and ally Israel in this relationship as should the rest of the world. The United States should refuse to lend legitimacy to an organization whose primary goals include the elimination of the State of Israel and the use of violent measures to attack the Israeli people. The United States cannot support any government that continues to approve of and utilize terrorism. Terrorism takes many forms, dressing up a political party in the trappings of an election does not negate the underlying mission of what Hamas seeks to achieve, the abolition of the Jewish State. We must make it clear to the Palestinian people that the United States does not approve of terrorist actions and will not provide financial assistance to any group or organization that condones, plans, or enacts violent activities. The United States has designated Hamas as a terrorist organization, and as such should not provide any funding to them. The victory of Hamas indicates the Palestinians are not interested in achieving peace with Israel and does not move the Palestinian people towards their goal of statehood. The United States should not supply any government aid to the Palestinian authority until Hamas renounces all terrorist activities, recognizes the right of the State of Israel's right to exist, and fully disarms its terrorist organization. The United States has worked for years to find a peaceful solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. But a solution will not come about with the current leadership of Hamas involved in any form of Palestinian Government. In order to help facilitate the development of a true and lasting peace between the Israeli people and the Palestinian Authority, the United States, European Union and other countries must speak with a united voice that the activities of Hamas in any sort of elected Palestinian Government is anathema.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, shame! That is all I can say--both on the way the Republican leadership has governed this country this year--and on how they are using the troops as a political tool to provide huge taxpayer benefits to the oil and gas industry. Over 2,100 Americans killed in Iraq, and the Republican leadership waits until the last night of Congress--3 months after we needed to fund the military--to pass the spending bill for our troops. This is called a ``must pass'' bill, as it is one Congress MUST pass as if we don't, the military will literally run out of money and not be able to pay our troops, buy supplies and give them shelter. Specifically, the facts show that without passing this bill, our military is slated to run out of money for Iraq operations in January. What does this mean? It means the curtailment of training and equipment maintenance activities in the United States to better prepare our troops. It means that contracts will be severely delayed or canceled to provide body armor, armored vehicles, jammers, and radios needed in the field to keep these guys not only protecting our security but protecting their own lives. But the politicians in Washington, many of whom have never worn the uniform and have done a heck of a job to avoid service, now stand proud and mighty saying they are working for these troops safety. And they will again use our troops as a prop to make their so-called case. But the facts are the troops are the last things on the mind of the White House and this shameful Republican Congress. This Republican Congress and this Bush White House has continually underfunded our troops and used them as a political prop. Remember ``Mission Accomplished'' anyone?!? If Congress cared about our military so, outside of props and campaign commercials, why is this bill 3 months behind schedule? Why is this bill being used to provide a multi-billion gift to the nation's biggest gas companies, by allowing them to drill in Alaska? The Republican Leadership attached the can't pass ANWR provision to this must pass bill in the ultimate example of politics gone wrong. By not giving us the ability to vote on ANWR alone, this does not mean that we approve of this misguided policy. I thought they were making enough profits off Americans at the pump now--but Congress and the White House think they can make more money for the ExxonMobils of the world--this time off the backs and lives of our troops fighting overseas in Iraq and Afghanistan. This is the most shameful act I have seen in the most corrupt Congress in American history. This year America has seen the Republican Majority Leader of the House of Representatives Tom DeLay be indicted on money laundering charges. America has seen the Republican Majority Leader of the Senate Bill Frist under investigation for criminal charges--charges like those that sent Martha Stewart to jail. America has seen a senior Republican Congressman from California, Randy Cunningham, take over $2 million in bribes through war- profiteering using information he gathered on the House Intelligence Committee. He sold this confidential information to the highest bidder, but this Congress won't even seize his 6-figure, taxpayer-financed annual pension. America has seen the U.S. Congress put up for sale to the highest bidder by people like Jack Abramoff and Mike Scanlon. But tonight, we are seeing something far worse and far more depraved, the complete politicization of our troops, serving in war time, to provide a boon to the oil and gas industry. There is more shame to go around Congress now than indictments, and that is saying something today in Washington. The Republicans are holding funding for our military, funding for body armor, funding for security for military personnel hostage to keep the world safe for the profits of big energy. And for that you pay $2.35 a gallon for gas! Regardless of what one thinks of the war, we need to protect our sons and daughters fighting over there. But again, this bill and this Administration falls short, using politics over policy; using political consultants over generals to fight a war. Who loses? Our troops lose. Their families lose. America loses. But this bill again reflects the warped priorities of the Bush Administration. While I am angry about this process and this bill, I will reluctantly vote for it as our men and women in military need these funds immediately--even with these shameful additions. I won't play the Republicans' game and hold our troops hostage, but I hope the Republicans in Congress and the White House who use our military as a political sound bite or tool to pass their own unrelated items recognize they represent the worst of America. The blood of American men and women is on their hands for their politics of delay, diversion and division. I yield back what shame is left in this corrupt institution.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank my friend and colleague from California (Mr. Lantos), the ranking member of our committee and the International Relations Committee, for yielding me this time. I rise in strong support of House Resolution 456, which expresses support for the memorandum of understanding signed by the government of Indonesia and the Free Aceh Movement, a document that was signed on August 15 of this year that will end the conflict in Aceh, a province in Sumatra, Indonesia. Before I discuss the merits of this resolution, I would like to thank my colleagues who have joined me in support of this resolution, in particular the gentleman from Washington (Mr. McDermott), the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Burton) and the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Wexler). Aceh was brought to my attention in the year 2000 by one of my constituents, Jafar Siddiq Hamzah, a human rights lawyer from Aceh. Mr. Jafar told me about the abysmal human rights record of the Indonesian military and others throughout the province of Aceh. Upon his return to Aceh in August of 2000, not long after we met, Mr. Jafar was abducted in Medan, tortured for several weeks, and found mutilated in a mass grave in the fall of 2000. Cases like Mr. Jafar's happened too often and motivated me to push for an end to his 3-decade-long conflict that he so much wanted to see ended, that took over 15,000 Aceh lives. This resolution expresses support for the peace agreement signed on August 15 of this year by the Free Aceh Movement and the government of Indonesia. This agreement saw both sides making several concessions in order to broker this peace. The Free Aceh Movement has abandoned its demands for independence and has agreed to disarm. On the other side, the government of Indonesia has granted amnesty for the Free Aceh prisoners and has agreed to a timeline of troop withdrawal. The memorandum has also given the people of Aceh new political powers that will allow them to retain 70 percent of the revenue from the natural resources of their province. A truth and reconciliation commission and a human rights court will also be established, giving the people the machinery for justice, as well as for peace. The considerable compromises that both sides made in this memorandum of understanding shows their willingness to secure peace for the citizens of Indonesia and Aceh. This resolution acknowledges and expresses support for the memorandum signed by the Indonesian government and the Free Aceh Movement. This resolution further expresses hope that both parties will fulfill their commitments so that peace will be instilled in the region. Lastly, and perhaps most significantly, this resolution encourages the Secretary of State and the Administrator for the United States Agency for International Development to commit resources so that peace can be supported and so that peace will endure. I support this resolution to show the people of Aceh and the government of Indonesia that the U.S. Congress supports this progress as well. Lastly, as my good colleague from California mentioned, the devastation of the tsunami, the tsunami that took so many, many lives, perhaps that tsunami did take many lives and we know it did. This peace accord will ensure, if carried through, that many, many more people within Aceh will not lose their lives, and for that, Mr. Speaker, I ask all my colleagues to support this worthy resolution.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank my friend from Pennsylvania for yielding me this time. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the Terrorism Risk Insurance Revision Act of 2005. As one of the original voices calling for an extension of this important Federal backstop, I am pleased we are voting on this bill before today and allowing the TRIA program to continue for an additional 2 years. And while I support this bill and do so because I recognize the importance of this legislation and its critical need to our economy, especially in major urban areas like New York City, this is not the bill I would have written. The House Committee on Financial Services, under the leadership of Chairman Mike Oxley and Ranking Member Barney Frank, produced a strong bipartisan bill; then we responsibly named conferees to hammer out the differences between the Senate- and the House-passed bills. Unfortunately our colleagues in the Senate, led by Chairman Shelby, refused to participate in civics class 101, ignoring the House bill and ignoring the important contributions of the House. They ignored major provisions such as the inclusion of group life coverage in this bill so that the Federal TRIA program would cover not only buildings destroyed by terrorists but the people in them as well. The Senate ignored language that would have prohibited the denial of life insurance to Americans who have traveled or even planned to travel to countries that actuaries view as ``troublesome,'' such as Israel or Colombia. The Senate refused to include language to provide for a real commission to look into a long-term nongovernmental solution to the issues involved in insuring and reinsuring for the threat of terror. And this bill ignores language to provide insurance protections for the rebuilding of the World Trade Center, the actual reason we created this Federal backstop program in the first place. But while I am not happy about the process and exclusion of important provisions, the underlying need for TRIA to be extended is reason enough for me to vote for this bill, and I urge all my colleagues to do the same. I want to thank Chairman Oxley for his honesty, for all of his hard work on this bill, as well as Congressman Steve Israel, Mike Capuano and Congressman Paul Kanjorski, all who have worked very hard to see this pass. But most importantly, I want to thank Ranking Member Barney Frank, who has pushed for the reauthorization of this program for over a year, has incorporated ideas from both sides of the aisle and has been a true champion in developing and in crafting legislation that helps keep our economy moving. With that, Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues to support this worthy legislation.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Chairman. I rise in opposition to H.R. 4437. Immigrants--who are likely counted among the families of most members of this body--work, pay taxes, serve in our military, and contribute in a resoundingly positive way. And our burdensome, inefficient immigration system is not working for immigrants and it is not working for our country. Unfortunately, this bill lets down immigrants, those who depend on them, and our Nation on the whole. There is a lot that is troubling in this bill, but also troubling is what is not in this bill. Real immigration reform and security improvements cannot end with a discussion on enforcement anymore than you can make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich without peanut butter. Immigration is about so much more. Immigration is also about bringing families together, and supplying a pathway to citizenship for those who come here and contribute. Moreover, it is foolish to pretend that we have somehow solved our immigration or security concerns by simply making it harder for people to come or stay here. That is simply increasing the incentive for immigrants to immigrate, live and work in the shadows. And that is a loss for immigrants, their families, society, and national security. Make no mistake--our immigration system needs reform. And it is appropriate to discuss how to best enforce our laws and secure our borders. Certainly none of my constituents in New York City are interested in making things easier on terrorists who use our immigration system to harm America. But let's make sure the enforcement tactics we're talking about make sense. And let's make sure our tactics actually make us safer. And let's make sure that immigration reform does not end with enforcement. Because at the end of the day, immigration is too important to just take the most simplistic response and label it a solution. Fortunately, there is a better bill--a bipartisan bill offered by Congressmen Kolbe, Flake, and Gutierrez. A bill that reduces immigration backlogs and helps family reunification. A bill that recognizes that comprehensive immigration reform--as opposed to strictly discussing enforcement--is the only way to protect both the security and the ideals of the U.S. And this is certainly not that bill.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank my friend and colleague from New York for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, bringing this resolution to the floor this evening, it is not about the withdrawal of our troops from Iraq. It is about the Republicans playing politics and questioning the patriotism of one of Congress' most decorated veterans. The Republicans are doing what they do best, creating a smoke screen to hide the fact that this administration has misled our country into war. This resolution was rushed to the floor in the Republicans' hopes of dividing Democrats, but unfortunately, Mr. Speaker, what it has proven to be is a device to divide Americans. I will not stand here and let Republicans question the patriotism of Mr. Murtha or any Democrat. In America, it is not unpatriotic to question a war in which almost 2,100 Americans have lost their lives and some 25,000 Americans have been gravely injured. When a mother who has lost her son camps out in Crawford, Texas, wanting only to speak to the President, she was called unpatriotic. When a POW GOP Senator offered an amendment to ban the use of torture, he was called unpatriotic. Now, when one of the most decorated veterans in America questions the planning and the direction of this war, what is he called? Unpatriotic. I do not believe the Republican Caucus is unpatriotic, but I do believe this evening they are pathetic. Our country demands answers about how to win this war and to get our troops home safely.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Madam Speaker, I rise in opposition to the Republican cuts to food stamps under this reconciliation budget, an incredible total loss of $844 million, $844 million that comes directly from people in this country who are struggling to feed themselves and their families; $844 million from people who can least afford such a drastic cut. And once again, immigrant families are being treated particularly inhumanely by this Republican plan. And let me be clear. We are talking about denying assistance to legal permanent residents, immigrants who play by the rules, support our communities, and serve in our military; immigrants who sacrifice so much to come here; immigrants who are frequently among the most vocal supporters of America and the American Dream. Under the Republican plan, 70,000 legal immigrant households will be denied food stamps for an extra 5 years. But if the argument for supporting humane treatment of our immigrant population does not sway you, consider that many of these legal immigrant families include children, kids who are American citizens, kids who will be denied food stamps for an extra 5 years. If you do not see this as unconscionable, I do not know what you see as unconscionable. If you do not think this is un-American, I do not believe there is anything that is un-American more than this.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate and honor Reverend Dr. Calvin E. Owens, Sr. as he marks his 29th Pastoral Anniversary. But 29 years is only one milestone in a life dedicated to the community, to others, and to God. After 38 years as a preacher and a lifetime as a teacher, Reverend Dr. Calvin Owens has inspired and lifted so many to recognize the potential that God has invested in each one of us. Reverend Owens's career has seen him travel through so many institutions, and like the Good Samaritan, leave his mark every step of the way. His pastoral journey began at Unity of Tabernacle Baptist Church in Mt. Vernon and, in 1968 after being ordained as a minister of the Gospel, he went to First Corinthian Baptist Church. It was there he served for six years as Director of Youth Development before moving on to the New Community Baptist Church of New York City as Pastor. He served there honorably before being called to serve the Lord as Pastor of the Community Protestant Church in 1976, the place he still calls home. But he has inspired and educated not only from the pulpit, but out in the community spreading the word of forgiveness, mercy, love and tolerance as part of the New York City Police Department's Police Clergy Liaison Committee; as the Second Vice President of the Riverbay Board of Directors of Co-op City; Treasurer of the Baptist Ministers Conference of Greater New York; and for eight years now as a member of Community Board #10. He is always serving his flock. The good works of Reverend Dr. Owens have not gone unnoticed. A certificate of Award for Faithful Service from the New York Baptist Educational Center; the New York Baptist Educational Center Certificate of Appreciation for Outstanding Service and Contributions to the Department of Pastoral Care; the Bronx Ministers Evening Conference Scholarship Award; the Harlem Hospital Center Certificate of Appreciation for Outstanding Service and Contributions to the Department of Pastoral Care; as well as numerous other awards for Christian leadership and service. But the awards most important to highlight are the one's provided by God--his three sons and three daughters. They are a living tribute to you, Reverend. Therefore, on behalf of United States House of Representatives, I am honored to acknowledge and honor the life and contributions of Reverend Dr. Calvin E. Owens, Sr. as he celebrates his 29th Pastoral Anniversary.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the resolution introduced by the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Hyde) and the gentleman from California (Mr. Lantos). The President of Iran stated clearly that his intentions are to wipe the State of Israel off the map. He followed up these remarks the other day by saying, ``My words were the Iranian nation's words.'' These comments further highlight the nefarious intentions the Iranian regime has towards not only Israel but towards the West. You would think when international pressure is bearing down on Iran over the refusal to allow IAEA inspections, they would not be making such disgusting comments. The United States must start a serious diplomatic effort to ensure that a vote is taken next month to bring the Iran nuclear program to the Security Council. The Iranian leadership will continue to make these outrageous statements, but it is not just words for Iran. A U.N. report released this week said large shipments of weapons from Iran are being shipped through Syria to Palestinian terrorists. Israel and the Palestinians have a chance for peace, but this chance will not be achieved if bad actors like Iran and Syria continue to fan the flames of violence. I do not believe the majority of the Iranian people support the words of Mr. Ahmadinejad. His hard-line politics make him a favorite of the ruling mullahs, and he was able to win the presidency when the reformist voters chose not to vote instead of supporting him. It is not as if the Council of Guardians gave the Iranian people any other choice. They made sure that any candidate representing reformist views was removed from the ballot. Mr. Speaker, I strongly support this resolution, and I urge all of my colleagues to send a message to the Iranian regime that we do not support these unacceptable and disgusting statements.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Chairman, I rise to tell my colleagues of the good bipartisan bill that was crafted by the Financial Services Committee, by Chairman Oxley and by ranking member Barney Frank. The members of that committee crafted a bill that passed the committee on a vote of 65-5 that would finally create a tough new regulator for the Federal housing GSEs and the Federal Home Loan Banks, something that was needed after some accounting missteps at the GSEs. At the same time, this bill also created a massive new Federal housing trust fund, using a percentage of the profits of these housing GSEs to ensure a new stock of affordable housing in every section of this country and providing millions of families the opportunity of attaining the American dream of homeownership. But that is not the bill that is before us under this manager's amendment. This bill went before the Committee on Rules where it was hijacked by the extremist wing of the Republican Party that holds a grip over the House of Representatives. They added language to ban churches and other houses of worship the ability to tap into these funds if they take part in any type of nonpartisan voter activity, such as helping register people to vote or taking people to the polls. What this bill really is is an utter disregard for our Constitution. This is not a gray area. This is a limitation on free speech. I am amazed that the same people who champion legislation by the gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. Jones) known as the Houses of Worship Free Speech Restoration Act, which would allow churches and other houses of worship to discuss politics and endorse candidates from the pulpit without losing their tax-exempt status, will now be the same people who are stripping their churches from any of this funding to help their congregations. This bill could be the greatest housing construction legislation ever passed by Congress and will help people in every district in America and benefit almost every church and house of worship in our country, but the far right wing is opposed to it. They are hypocritically opposed to it and so stuck in ideology that they refuse to debate this bill for the issue it is. Like scared children, they tuck the provisions into the manager's amendment and refuse any opportunity in the rule to strike it because they know they cannot win. We are a religious country and we have many members of the cloth in Congress, most of whom, I point out, are Democrats, and the far right knows that their anti-religious language cannot pass on the merits. That is why I regretfully ask all members of faith and all Members who respect the independence of religion and the pulpit to oppose the manager's amendment. As the gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Frank) has stated, if the manager's amendment is defeated, all of the good sections will be restored, such as targeting this aid to the hurricane-ravaged areas, in the motion to recommit. Mr. Chairman, stand up for your constituents, stand up for the American dream of homeownership, stand up for people of faith, and stand up to the far right wing extremists who are hijacking this bill for their own purposes.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to lament the wrecking of a solid, bipartisan bill that, at one time, both established a tough new regulator for our Nation's secondary mortgage market and created a new national housing trust to build affordable housing. Our Nation's economic security and the housing opportunity of millions of Americans is being played with on the floor today. But more than this particular bill, I also lament the fact that this Congress is held hostage to the extreme right wing agenda of the majority. A small cabal of 50 or so Members who, though small in number, loud in voice, threaten this Republican Majority and hold this Congress and our country hostage. They claim they want smaller government but they are saddling our children with trillions in the notorious birth tax--yes, every child born in America today comes into this world with a $30,000 debt to the Government thanks to the skewed economic policies of the so-called fiscally conservative Republican Party. They claim to help people but want to strip away student loans from college kids, Medicaid from the poor, and aid to farmers, for bigger tax cuts for the richest Americans. They claim they support families, but they are robbing the basic tenet of the American Dream--home ownership--right here in this very bill. They claim to represent people of faith, but they are stripping away the ability of groups like Catholic Charities, Baptists and other people of faith to use this new funding to benefit their communities and make America stronger. If this rule passes the Republicans will have done what they do best, stripping away the American Dream of owning a home for millions of Americans. As well as continuing on their path to destroying what this country stands for, religious freedom, home ownership and the ability of child to live a better life than his or her parents. This debate is bigger than this rule, bigger than this bill. It goes to the heart of who the Republican Party is today, and it is a party that does not stand for working people. This rule demonstrates this fact. Vote down this anti-religion, anti- American rule.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak in strong support of the amendment offered by Mr. Hyde and Mr. Lantos. Iran and Syria remain threats to the security and stability of the Middle East and the world whether it is from their continued support of terrorists to their desire to obtain unconventional weapons. Iran continues to thumb its nose to the IAEA and the international community on its desire to obtain nuclear weapons. According to the British, Iran is providing weapons to terrorists attacking coalition troops and working hard to destabilize Iraq even though it is not in the region's interests. Syria keeps its border with Iraq open thus allowing foreign fighters to illegally enter Iraq and carry out terrorists plots. These terrorists are working against the Iraqi people's quest for freedom and democracy. Iran is not the only neighbor Syria has been working hard to destabilize. Last week, the UN released the findings of its investigation into the assassination of former Lebanese prime minister Rafik Hariri and I don't think any of us in this House were surprised to see that they pointed a finger at the regime of Syria's President Bashar Assad. Before his death the former prime minister had become one of the most vocal opponents of the Syrian occupation. This report names high level Syrian and Lebanese government officials who plotted to assassinate this outspoken leader. I hope that our actions today will show President Assad that our resolve is strong. Mr. Speaker, Syria must change its ways and begin to contribute to international peace and security rather than undermine it. I urge all my colleagues to support this important amendment.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize the completion of the Guru Gobind Singh Foundation and its opening, which will occur on October 2, 2005. I commend this organization for their dedication to the construction and also the inauguration of such an important spiritual center within the Sikh community. The Guru Gobind Singh Foundation (GGSF) is a Gurdwara, an institution with a hope to increase global awareness of Sikhism, the world's fifth largest religion, as well as enhance the image of Sikhs in order to bring them into the mainstream, especially in American society. Since its inception in 1985, GGSF has devoted its time and energy to promoting and highlighting the issues concerning Sikhs in the United States. Since 1987, this group has represented Sikhism in the Inter- Faith Conference, held in Washington, DC, and in 1993, participated in the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago. Also since 1987, they have consistently demonstrated their support for the Civil Rights Movement through their annual involvement in the birthday celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr. Uplifting local communities and focusing on the youth, GGSF has organized Punjabi and Gurmat classes every Saturday for 14 years in addition to camps, study circles and educational conferences. On an international scale, GGSF attended a Global Conference on Environment in Moscow in 1990, and various other conferences in Turkey, Greece, Japan and England, at which the organization fully represented Sikhism by illustrating its viewpoint on different topics. As early as 1984, GGSF has adamantly worked for the protection of the human and civil rights of Sikhs in India. More recently, in March of 2000, the Guru Gobind Singh Foundation organized an inter-faith memorial service for the 40 Sikh victims of the Kashmir Massacre, a tragedy which occurred in India. After the unforgettable tragedy of 9/11, GGSF played a major role in representing Sikhism and creating awareness of the portrayal of Sikhs in the media since 9/11. Also, the organization worked closely with the White House, U.S. Congress, and civil liberties organizations and held press conferences to call attention to the racial profiling and to deter hate crimes against Sikhs. The Guru Gobind Singh Foundation has proven to be a cornerstone of the Sikh community and more importantly, of American society. This organization has continuously worked to increase Sikh participation in the religious, social, cultural and political fabric of America. While ensuring the protection of those members of the Sikh community, GGSF promotes mutual respect and human rights for all people, and contributes to the efficiency of dialogue and understanding among all religions. I commend not only their success over the years from its inception up to the inauguration of a new spiritual center, but also their undeniable commitment to the promotion of religious and cultural awareness both nationally and internationally. The Guru Gobind Singh Foundation serves as a strong, unified representative of Sikhism by communicating the interests and perspectives of the Sikh community to the American public and international organizations. Once again, I fully acknowledge the achievements of the Guru Gobind Singh Foundation and its undying determination to foster awareness and understanding of Sikhism in America.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time. I thank the chairman of the committee and the ranking member of the committee for introducing this resolution. Through this resolution today, the House of Representatives will send the condolences of the American people to those who have been so tragically affected by the October 8 earthquake. I believe this House can do more than just send our condolences, though. The President has taken the first step with the initial pledge of $50 million and the USAID Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance activated its disaster assistance relief team quickly to ensure that urgent aid was provided. But the situation in Pakistan, the hardest hit in South Asia, remains critical. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said that weather and lack of access to remote areas is delaying the aid needed to save countless lives. We are also seeing logistical problems in providing the basic needs of the people who were made homeless and without shelter by this quake and, as I mentioned earlier, further impaired by heavy rains and flooding in the earthquake region. Critical needs such as food, clean water, and shelter are badly needed as the winter is fast approaching in this mountainous region, akin to the Adirondack region in New York State, which this time of year can have snow, and especially during the evening. So far, we have been able to help thousands of people, but that is simply the tip of the iceberg. Madam Speaker, I represent one of the largest populations of South Asians in the country and over the past week I have been reaching out to my Pakistani community. What I have found is a community doing all that it can to raise funds to help their families and friends who were so tragically affected by this earthquake. I also had the honor of speaking to a private Muslim school in my district to update them on the U.S. efforts to provide emergency relief. I was sad to learn that several students' families were directly affected, one student losing over 40 members of their family. The students and the community leaders were very grateful that our country is working to help their homeland, but we all agree that more can and needs to be done. Madam Speaker, I challenge this House to provide for the millions who have been left injured and homeless. This is a chance not only to help people in need, but to change the hearts and minds of Muslim countries' attitude towards the United States. After the tsunami, the majority of Indonesians changed their view of us because they saw the soft power of the United States. It is time to show that same soft power to the people of Pakistan so that they too can have a change of heart towards the United States and our people.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of these supplemental appropriations for the victims of Hurricane Katrina. As someone who helped rebuild my city, New York City, after the terror attacks of 9/11 and as someone who lost over 110 constituents, countless friends and my first cousin to the horrors of the World Trade Center, I know the pain and suffering the people of the Gulf Coast are feeling and their despair. When America hurts, America helps. The damage of Hurricane Katrina is much greater than the physical destruction that was left in its wake. And it is much more than the psychological trauma that has affected these survivors who are now displaced. The damage is so great, and the lack of response from our Federal Government in the immediate days after this storm was so small, that it begs for this Congress to demand answers. Why was the agency that is responsible for our emergency response, FEMA, so woefully under-prepared and under-funded? Why did the director of FEMA have no emergency management experience? Why was funding for the Army Corps of Engineers designated to protect the City of New Orleans from a dangerous flood of this level, diverted to pay for tax cuts for the wealthiest 1 percent of Americans? These questions demand answers. Last week we saw many shocking images of poverty and economic disparities among us. Like many parts of many cities in this country, the tourist trodden French Quarter with fancy hotels and restaurants are worlds away from the reality for the people who work in them. One third of the city of New Orleans lived below the poverty line, and these people, mostly African American, where the ones who were most impacted by this storm and the mismanagement of the Federal response. We also saw positive images of Americans helping Americans in need. We saw a young six year old boy; lead his siblings to safety and to be re-united with his family. We saw neighbors help out other neighbors to get them to safety, and we saw the National Guard many fresh off duty in Iraq, put on their boots and wade into the water to save lives. This money today will provide an immediate infusion of cash to provide healthcare for displaced people, emergency housing vouchers for people without a home, emergency unemployment insurance for people now without a job, and money for debris removal and systems to provide clean water to the city of New Orleans. This money partners with the amazing response of the American people and the world community to the victims of Hurricane Katrina. Constituents throughout my district have volunteered their time, contributions and money to help the people of the Gulf remembering how these same people helped us after 9/11. When America hurts, America helps and the remarkable sacrifice and contributions of so many people who have opened up their wallets and homes to these victims is what makes our country so great. Today's support is a strong step, but it not the last step. The last time this many people were displaced was during the Civil War. This Congress must get back to work in a bi-partisan manner, and address the needs both immediate and future, of the victims of Hurricane Katrina. And we should not adjourn or recess until we do so. Tax-cuts, estate tax repeal, plans to privatize Social Security, should all take a back burner, while these people suffer. We must work to bring the full Federal resources of this government to help these people get back into their homes and quickly as possible, and to rebuild their lives. We must use this tragedy as an opportunity to improve the quality of life for these residents of New Orleans and the Gulf Coast. For one- third of the people of the city of New Orleans to be living in poverty, sub-standard housing with poor healthcare, is in-excusable in this the richest country in the world. We must raise living standards through job training, better schools and stronger neighborhoods and eradicate the hopeless conditions so many Americans live in not only in the Gulf region but throughout our Nation. Let us use this terrible storm to learn a lesson and commit us to a new war on poverty that will truly bring Americans who are living in 19th Century poverty into the 21st Century through better housing, healthcare and education. And we must use this as an opportunity to find out what went wrong, how our government whose responsibility is protecting its citizens, failed so miserably in the Gulf Region and how we can prevent this tragedy again. I call for an independent Commission, bi-partisan with the full authority of the 9/11 Commission to get to the bottom of this, and recommend to the Congress the changes that will be necessary to protect American lives in the future.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I would like to commend Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice for her visit to Lebanon last week, which recently held elections for a new Parliament. During her brief stay, Secretary Rice asserted the necessity for the uninhibited growth of democracy in that region and demanded the complete removal of foreign occupiers. Lebanon carries in its history a long tradition of foreign occupation. After plunging into civil war in 1975, Syrian troops forcefully occupied Lebanon. Throughout subsequent decades, the Syrian military unjustly held Beirut, with their tenure characterized by violent bombings and raids on the Lebanese people. The United States has long opposed this occupation of Lebanon, and Congress has continually insisted on their removal. Syrian and Iranian sponsorship of terrorist ally Hezbollah threatens the emerging Lebanese democracy. I praise the heroic Lebanese citizens on their insistence for the Syrian exodus in early 2005, despite the Hezbollah security threats. I also laud them on their fair elections for their first National Assembly after the termination of the Syrian presence. Accordingly, this provides an opportune time for self- determination and democratic changes in the region. It is imperative that the U.S. continues to support Lebanon's desire for full security control and territorial autonomy so this budding democracy can materialize. Yet as Lebanon gains control over their country, they should simultaneously avoid isolating themselves from their neighbors. Israel and Lebanon share a number of parallel interests and could markedly benefit from stronger relations with the other. Syria has strangled trade with Lebanon since their withdrawal; additionally, trade between all three nations has essentially come to a standstill recently. There should be a push for increased commercial exchanges between Israel and Lebanon, especially with the United States through the Qualifying Industrial Zone. I recommend that as Lebanon stabilizes and secures itself as a viable democracy, we consider their addition to the QIZ, which would encourage the Middle East peace process via economic integration. Assuring that emerging democracies in the Middle East are safe and stable should be a top priority of the U.S. With respect to Iraq, much work still remains. This administration, through Operation Iraqi Freedom, has presented a poorly executed plan to instill democracy in Iraq. I believe that what America, Iraq, and the Middle East at large need is a plan for success. My amendment to the State Department Authorization Act called for a plan for a success in Iraq, this accepted bipartisan amendment calls on the President to present a strategy indicating how we would provide for a stable Iraqi government and strong Iraqi police force, hence allowing for a lessened US presence there. This could be done by mobilizing an international effort through increased presence of NATO forces in Iraq. NATO participation in Iraq would open up the doors for other non-NATO countries to share the burden of the war. Furthermore, we should also better train the Iraqi military police, hence providing real security to the communities of Iraq.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Rev. Dr. Marvin J. Bentley, a model community leader. Rev. Bentley was born in Brooklyn, New York. He received his basic religious training at the Cornerstone Baptist Church, and under the tutelage of the late Dr. Sandy F. Ray was licensed to preach the Gospel by the Cornerstone Baptist Church, Brooklyn, New York. Dr. Bentley was educated within the New York City public school system; he attained his Bachelor of Science degree from the State University of New York at Stonybrook, majoring in health science and social welfare. He obtained his seminary education at Union Theological Seminary, NYC, securing a Master in Divinity Degree. Drew University, Madison, NJ conferred his Doctor of Ministry Degree upon him, and he recently received an Associates Degree from Nassau Community College, L.I., N.Y., in Applied Sciences (Mortuary Science). Dr. Bentley was ordained at the Abyssinian Baptist Church, New York, where he served as the Assistant Minister under the mentorship of Dr. Samuel D. Proctor, and Dr. Calvin Butts III. Dr. Bentley is active in many civic and community activities. He serves on numerous boards and committees and is the former president of American Baptist Churches of Metro New York. He is a former Naval Chaplain in the United States Naval Reserves. He has served as President and Vice-President of Community School Board 30, former member of Community Board 3, and past president of the Corona-East Elmhurst Clergy Association. Dr. Bentley has received many civic and religious awards and honors. As pastor, Dr. Bentley has been serving the Antioch Baptist Church of Corona for 24 years, enjoying a blessed ministry. During his tenure at the church, it has relocated into a beautiful, gothic style new church home on the comer of Northern Blvd and 103rd in Corona, Queens, New York. It has grown to numerous ministries that include male and female ``Rights of Passage'' ministries (GEM and GAAYAW), The Antioch Bible Institute, Christian Bookstore, Video Ministry, Credit Union and Athletic Ministry. In addition to the aforementioned ministries, under Pastor Bentley's leadership, the Antioch Baptist Church of Corona has embarked upon a ministry to liquidate the credit card debt of their congregation. This ministry has caused the congregation to take a look at their finances, spending, and saving habits.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I oppose this rule, and I oppose this overreaching bill. A lot of people on the other side of the aisle are trying to claim that caps on awards for victims of medical malpractice will help doctors. Some are claiming that caps on awards will even help patients. The other side has one crucial fact wrong. Capping medical malpractice awards does not mean insurance rates will fall. A recent study, looking at premiums over the last 5 years, found that claims payments have been stable while premiums have more than doubled. In fact, malpractice insurers' total premiums were three times higher than total payments in 2004. If we want to decrease medical malpractice insurance costs for doctors, let us talk about that. Let us talk about reducing medical errors by improving hospital resources and funding for graduate medical school education. Or let us talk about investigating insurance companies' pricing practices. But to pretend that this is medical malpractice awards set by juries and judges who have actually listened to victims' grievances, to put the blame for rising insurance costs on victims, that is not only cruel, it is completely false. If we want to cap medical malpractice awards, let us call it for what it is: a gift to the insurance industry at the expense of innocent victims. This bill hurts patients wrongly injured or killed by bad doctors, does not lower medical malpractice rates for the so many good doctors out there, and really only benefits the insurance companies. The other side would rather drive a wedge between two noble professions: doctors and lawyers. I say that is wrong-headed. Vote down this rule; and more importantly, vote down this bill.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, on the morning of Thursday, July 21, 2005, this morning, I was not in Washington due to personal business and was therefore unable to vote. If I were here, I would have voted ``no'' on rollcall vote 401; and ``no'' on rollcall vote 402.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentlewoman from Nevada for yielding me this time, and I rise in support of the amendment offered by my good friend and myself. The Prime Minister of Israel and the Israeli people have taken the first bold steps through the disengagement plan. Now it is time for the Palestinian Authority to match its words with its actions and live up to its commitment to be a true partner for success and stability in the Middle East. Our amendment will tighten up language dealing with aid to the Palestinian Authority. Both the gentlewoman from Nevada and I believe that we should be doing all we can to help the Palestinian Authority, but that benchmarks need to be set in place. Over the past 10 years, Congress has had little to no accountability over the aid we have given to the Palestinian Authority. As aid from the United States begins to flow into the Palestinian Authority, we must use this aid to promote a true democratic government for the Palestinian people. Mr. Chairman, our amendment would force accountability over this money and provide Congress with the ability to end the flow of funding, or quite frankly would allow the President to end the flowing and the funding of this money if the certification requirements in the bill are not met. This amendment will make sure our aid to the Palestinian Authority is tied to the emergence of a democratic Palestinian government that is working to overcome four important issues. The first is that they denounce and combat terrorism and work to disarm terrorists; secondly, agree to work to eliminate terrorist incitement, including their textbooks and what the children are taught; thirdly, agree to respect boundary and sovereignty of its neighbors; and finally, respect human rights for all people. I believe we must have full accountability over the aid we give to make sure that the emergence of a democratic Palestinian government can take place. As was pointed out, these are U.S. Federal taxpayer dollars being expended. We want accountability as to how those moneys are expended, and there is a Presidential waiver. This is, quite simply, a tool that the President can use to coax and to move the Palestinians toward a peaceful settlement.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 31st Anniversary of the Turkish Invasion of Cyprus. First, I would like to acknowledge Representative Bilirakis and Representative Maloney for their efforts in bringing this issue to Congress. Today, as you well know marks the Anniversary of a day 31 years ago when the people of Cyprus's lives changed. In 1974, Turkish forces invaded Northern Cyprus and seized control of more than one-third of the Island. Cyprus has for the past 31 years been divided by a 113 mile barbed wire fence that runs across the island. Therefore, Greek Cypriotes are prohibited from visiting the towns and communities where their families have lived for generations. In 1983, illegal occupiers of the island declared the territory to be an independent state and called it the ``Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus,'' a country which today remains shunned by the International Community and is not recognized by anyone besides Turkey. Currently there are over 35,000 Turkish troops illegally stationed and it continues to be one of the most militarized areas in the world. I commend the United States Government, the European Union and the United Nations for encouraging a solution to the problem plaguing Cyprus. I sincerely hope that by taking a stance today, we can promote a renewed effort for direct negotiations and help the Greek Cypriotes get back what is rightfully theirs. I would like to express my support of the Greek Cypriotes who have been disenfranchised for generations and continue to be mistreated today.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Chairman, I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Lee).