Joe Crowley

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in firm opposition to the amendment offered by Chairman Hyde, ranking member Mr. Lantos of the International Relations Committee, and Mr. Sweeney. This week, the United States was voted off of the United Nations Human Rights Commission and the International Narcotics Control Board. Though it is unfortunate that the United States will not be a member of these commissions during the next rotation, that does not preclude us from being instrumental in shaping human rights and drug policies throughout the world. Whether our exclusion from these commissions was a result of decisions by the Bush Administration on the Kyoto Protocol or the ABM treaty, or the result of years of festering anti-American sentiment, we must accept the decision of the member states of the United Nations. As the leader of the international community, we must set an example for the rest of the world to follow. We must persevere in the face of adversity. By making our payment of UN arrears contingent upon the U.S. return to the United Nations Human Rights Commission runs counter to the principles of cooperation that we expect from the other members of the United Nations. We are punishing not only the countries of the Western European and other groupings for not supporting us, but the entire UN body. Instead, we need to work on mending fences with nations around the world to demonstrate that we are ready and willing to work with them, not against them. We need to pay our arrears that are long overdue. We made a commitment to the international community that we must uphold. Therefore, I strongly encourage my colleagues to vote against the Hyde-Lantos-Sweeney amendment.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Chairman, I would like to begin by thanking Chairman Hyde and our distinguished ranking member, Mr. Lantos, for crafting a fair and bipartisan bill. I would also like to thank staff on both sides of the aisle for their efforts to include valuable language that is of great importance to me and members of my constituency. I would like to bring your attention to a series of important provisions in the Foreign Relations Authorization Act for 2002-2003. These provisions form a core of initiatives that target what I believe that bridges the gap between the work we do on the international relations committee and the needs and desires of the people in my district. As the representative of the most diverse district in the United States, these provisions reflect the unique composition of my district. The importance of these provisions is not limited to the residents of my district, they are important to the foreign policy goals of all Americans. They address issues central to our foreign policy toward Ecuador, Israel, human rights abuses in Indonesia, and relations between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Two of these amendments request that the Secretary of State provide a report which outlines a comprehensive strategy to address the spill over effect of Plan Colombia on Ecuador and another which describes the steps that the State Department has taken and will take to facilitate better relations between Israel and other members of the international community. I have also offered a resolution which calls for the prompt release of the autopsy report by the Indonesian Government, and the commencement of the investigation into the death of an Acehnese human rights lawyer who was a permanent resident of my Congressional District in Queens, New York, Jafar Siddiq Hamzah. In addition, I successfully offered an amendment urging David Trimble to allow the Sinn Fein Ministers to take their rightful place on the North South Ministerial Council. Sinn Fein is a legitimate party to the Council and should be able to participate. I have therefore introduced sense of the Congress language calling on David Trimble to adhere to the terms of the Good Friday Agreement, and lift the ban on the Sinn Fein minister participate in the Council. Finally, this bill addressed the ongoing health and environmental crisis related to the extensive arsenic contamination of drinking water in Bangladesh by requiring the Secretary of State report on activities to deliver arsenic-free drinking water and to treat those already affected with arsenic poisoning. I wholeheartedly support this bill in its current form, and I commend Congresswoman Lee for her amendment repealing the global gag rule. I urge my colleagues to oppose any efforts to detract from the quality of the provisions included in this bill.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman from California for yielding me this time. Mr. Chairman, I rise in firm opposition to the amendment offered by the gentleman from Colorado (Mr. Tancredo). When the United States withdrew from UNESCO in 1984, I believe we did so for the right reasons. Mismanagement and corruption characterized an organization best known for being a forum for American bashing. Today UNESCO is not the same as it was in 1984. This organization is making important contributions in the area of education and science around the world. The U.S. participation in such an organization can only strengthen its ability to carry out the fine work it performs every day. In fact, the United Kingdom, which also withdrew its support from UNESCO in step with the United States in 1984, had returned as a full member of this worthy organization. The recent decision by the Taliban government in Afghanistan to destroy the historical Buddhist statues demonstrates that the preservation and restoration of cultural treasures sometimes cannot be left solely in the hands of national governments. From preserving these statues to preserving Timbuktu, the role of UNESCO is still important today. During a week in which we lost two important seats on the United Nations commissions, it is important we send a message to the international community that the United States is ready and willing to participate whenever it is called to duty. Therefore, I strongly urge my colleagues to oppose this amendment.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 10, the Comprehensive Retirement Security and Pension Reform Act, introduced by the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Portman) and the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Cardin). I want to thank both gentlemen for all their hard work in getting this bill to the floor today. This legislation provides portability between the employer-sponsored plans, a key component of any provision security reform, as we are in an era where Americans are no longer expected to work for one company until retirement but, rather, many employers and many corporations over a period of a lifetime. This bill also provides incentives to retirement savings by increasing the IRA contribution limit from the present $2,000 to $5,000, and expanding eligibility for deductible IRAs. Most importantly in this ever-changing workforce, this bill contains vital catch-up provisions to encourage both older workers and women workers to increase their retirement savings to make up for missed contribution opportunities. This is key for women, as many of them have previously left the workforce for the time being, quite often to raise a family, and now will no longer be blocked from providing for herself or her family's retirement security. This is solid legislation that will help all Americans who plan ahead for their retirement, and I urge all of my colleagues to support this critical, critical piece of legislation. Once again, I wanted to thank both gentlemen for getting this bill to the floor today.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Madam Speaker, I stand in strong support of the Special Order commemorating the Armenian genocide; and I commend my colleagues, the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Pallone) and the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Knollenberg), for putting this Special Order together and for keeping the issue of the Armenian genocide at the forefront here in Congress. The tragic occurrence perpetrated against the Armenian people between 1915 and 1925 by the Ottoman Turkish Empire is of great concern to me and members of my constituency. During this relatively brief time frame, over 1.5 million Armenians were massacred and more than 5,000 were exiled. Unfortunately, the Turkish Government has not recognized these brutal atrocities as acts of genocide. Nor is it willing to come to terms with these horrific events of the past that many of their ancestors participated in. Prior to the Armenian genocide, these brave people with a history of over 2,500 years in the region were subject to numerous indignities and periodic massacres by the sultans of the Ottoman Empire. The worst of these massacres prior to 1915 occurred in 1895 when as many as 300,000 Armenian civilians were murdered, and those who survived were left completely destitute. Despite these events, Armenians have survived as a people and a culture throughout Europe and now throughout the United States. The Turkish Government needs to come to terms with the past and work towards improving the future. Turkish groups have suggested that since Turks were also killed during that time frame it should not be considered a genocide. Genocide is the systematic, planned annihilation of a racial, political, or cultural group. It happened to the Jews in Germany, and it did happen to the Armenians in the Ottoman Empire. I am well aware of the importance of Turkey as an ally in an unstable region and a frontline NATO state. However, the Turkish Government must officially recognize the atrocities of its predecessors in the Ottoman Empire. I believe that by failing to recognize such barbaric acts one becomes complicit in them. Milan Kundera, the once-exiled Czech novelist, has written, ``The struggle of man against power is the struggle of memory against forgetting.'' I believe that we, too, must continue to struggle against forgetting. This Special Order begins that process. This genocide and its lessons must never be forgotten.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I am introducing legislation to address an issue that is receiving much needed attention by the international community and the U.S. government. That issue is global health. Men, women and children all over the world are struggling with the impact of an HIV/AIDS pandemic in Africa that threatens to engulf parts of Asia over the next few years and destabilize regional security on each of these continents. The former Soviet Union has one of the most rapidly growing number of HIV/AIDS cases in the world and has already overwhelmed its already faltering health care infrastructure. The people of these and those in other developing countries are struggling with the fact that more than ten million children die before their 5th birthday each year from preventable diseases in developing countries. They are struggling with the continued impact of global infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, malaria, other infections that threaten their lives, the lives of their children, the viability of their villages, their economies, their national security. Epic threats to the health of people all over the world continue to challenge governments, domestic infrastructures and societies on a rapidly growing scale. Their crisis is our crises. The stability of the region is at risk and with that, our interests in the stability of governments in Africa. Despite these daunting facts, there is something we can do. Unprecedented opportunities exist today to improve health around the world and the U.S. must maintain its leadership role on these issues. It is in our interest to do so. Our borders are not impervious to these global health threats. To address these global health threats, I am introducing the Global Health Act of 2001. During the 106th Congress, over 75 members of Congress and 152 organizations joined me in support of the Global Health Act of 2000 and we are reintroducing this legislation this year to reaffirm our commitment to improve the health of men, women and children around the world. Today, I am joined by 52 of my colleagues in introducing bipartisan legislation to increase the U.S. commitment to global health by $1 billion dollars over FY 2001 appropriated levels. With these additional funds, our commitment to global health will be authorized at $2.55 billion. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the fifty-two cosponsors of the Global Health Act of 2001. These cosponsors represent a broad cross section of the House; Democrats and Republicans, members of the Women's Caucus, the Progressive Caucus, the Black Caucus, Appropriators and Authorizers, who recognize the need and importance of an increased commitment to global health. I ask that a copy of the Global Health Act be printed in the Record following my remarks. We are joined in this effort by over 70 international organizations and two coalitions committed to global health, such as the Global Health Council, Save the Children, the Christian Children's Fund, and the American Foundation for AIDS Research, and the list is growing every day. I have included that list of the global health organizations, faith- based organizations and development NGOs that support this legislation and ask that it be entered into the Record. What does the Global Health Act do? The Global Health Act of 2001 provides an additional $1 billion to the global health programs of the Federal Government. This includes a $275 million increase for HIV/AIDS, a $100 million increase for maternal health, a $200 million increase for family planning, a $225 million increase for child survival, and a $200 million increase for infectious diseases. While other legislation will seek to target specific diseases, the Global Health Act understands the interconnectedness of health and seeks an increase for all of the global health programs that play an important role in improving the health of men, women and children around the world. It also calls for increased coordination between the different government agencies administering health programs. The HIV/AIDS pandemic is the greatest public health disaster to face mankind since the bubonic plaque. Already, 58 million people have been infected or died as a result of HIV/AIDS and more than 95 percent of new infections occur in developing countries. Sub-Saharan Africa has been the hardest hit and in South Africa it is estimated that 10 percent of its 45 million people are infected with the virus. But, the pandemic is not limited to Africa: Asia will soon have more new HIV infections than any other region and Russia is the new ``hot spot'' for the disease. The disease is ravaging families and communities and young people have been particularly devastated. Every minute, five young people contract HIV/AIDS somewhere in the world and in Southern Africa it is projected that more than half of today's teenagers will become infected and die of AIDS. UNAIDS has estimated that it would take $3 billion to address HIV/ AIDS in Africa alone (excluding access to drugs) and at this time the international community is providing less than $1 billion a year for HIV/AIDS programs in the developing world. The world looks to the United States to be a leader and now is the time for the United States to significantly expand its support for global HIV/AIDS programs. The creation of new drugs and vaccines cannot stand alone and we must also invest in the development of public health infrastructure. This infrastructure will be important as we continue to expand investment in treatment and care programs. In addition, 42 million children will be orphaned by HIV/AIDS by 2010 and we must be prepared to provide good health care to these children across the health spectrum. All children of the world need our support. As we approach the 10- year anniversary of the World Summit for Children, we must make a strong commitment in their future by investing in the world's children. Ten million children die before their 5th birthday each year in developing countries from preventable diseases, such as pneumonia, diarrhea and measles. Yet, funding for the core child survival program remained fairly stable in the FY 2001 budget. Without additional funding, the successful child survival programs will not continue to provide needed services for young girls and boys in developing countries. Through its research and development programs, the United States has developed interventions that work. Clean water and sanitation prevent infections, and oral rehydration therapy (a simple salt sugar mixture taken by mouth, which costs only pennies) has been proven to be among the most effective public health interventions ever developed. Immunization programs have also proven to be successful and almost 75 percent of children are immunized today in developing countries. Annually, immunizations avert two million childhood deaths from measles, neonatal tetanus, and whooping cough. The success of these programs is striking and the U.S. should reaffirm its commitment to children as we meet with other world leaders at the UN Special Session for Children in September, 2001. Another equally compelling problem that has not yet been given the recognition it deserves is the death of 600,000 women each year during pregnancy and childbirth--one woman every minute. Over 80 percent of these deaths are due to complications that are routinely prevented in the developed world, such as obstructed labor, infections and unsafe births. 99 percent of these 600,000 deaths could be averted. Of all the health statistics monitored by the World Health Organization, the figures on materal mortality reveal the largest discrepancy between developed and developing countries. Women in developing countries are 18 times more likely to die during childbirth than women in developed countries. This disparity does not need to continue. The WHO has identified a package of health interventions that for a cost of $1-3 per mother, could save the lives of countless mothers and their children. This small investment in mothers will have an enormous impact on the families of tomorrow. Other interventions, such as family planning, also play a large role in protecting the integrity of a family. One third of the world's population is between the ages of 10 and 24. As these young people begin to raise families, the demand for safe voluntary family planning services will increase dramatically. Many women will choose to have children and over 200 million will become pregnant in the coming year. But, following the birth of a healthy child, many couples prefer to delay or cease childbearing. About a quarter of a billion couples around the world find themselves in this situation and they do not have access to voluntary contraceptive methods. As a result, many pregnancies are unplanned or unwanted. The World Bank has found family planning to be one of the best ways to improve maternal and child health and it is time for the U.S. to signficantly expand funding and support for the international family planning programs at the U.S. Agency for International Development and increase the U.S. allocation to the United Nations Population Fund. The final important piece of the Global Health Act is the increased funding for programs that address infectious diseases. My own district was surprised and concerned when West Nile Encephalitis entered our community during the Summer of 1999. This incident reminded us that infectious diseases know no geographic boundaries, and are crossing U.S. borders with greater frequency. Tuberculosis has re-emerged on the world stage in deadlier and more drug resistant forms. With the appearance of multi-drug resistant tuberculosis, and its spread to Europe and the U.S., we face the possibility that this could again become a leading killer. But, through effective collaborative projects, the United States has been able to leverage its support for infectious disease programs and rates of malaria and polio are decreasing. In just the past ten years, the number of polio cases worldwide has fallen by almost 50 percent and the death toll from malaria has been reduced by 97 percent. These partnerships have proven to be very fruitful and are a model for future U.S. action on infectious diseases. With the resources provided under the Global Health Act and the coordination and assistance of other nations, we can make a profound difference in the health and wellbeing of millions of the world's poorest citizens. Without good health, a nation will be unable to support a healthy and strong economy. It is in our national and economic interests that the U.S. support increased funding for global health so that today's healthy children can be tomorrow's healthy world partners. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this important legislation. Organizations Endorsing the Global Health Act of 2001 1. Adventist Development and Relief Agency. 2. Advocates for Youth. 3. Africa Faith & Justice Network. 4. African Services Committee, Inc. 5. Alan Guttmacher Institute. 6. Alliance Lanka. 7. American Association for World Health. 8. American Association of University Women. 9. American Foundation for AIDS Research. 10. American International Health Alliance Organization. 11. American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. 12. AmeriCares. 13. Andean Rural Health Care. 14. Asian and Pacific Islander Wellness Center. 15. Association of Public Health Laboratories. 16. Association of Reproductive Health Professionals. 17. Association of Schools of Public Health. 18. Baertracks. 19. The Centre for Development and Population Activities--

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the 30th Independence Day of the People's Republic of Bangladesh. On this important occasion, we should all remember the people who sacrificed their lives and others who endured immense suffering to achieve political self-determination. Despite this, and since achieving independence, the people and government of Bangladesh have played an increasing role in global peacekeeping and democratic consolidation. Bangladesh is roughly the size of the State of Wisconsin but has a population estimated at roughly 130 million. It is bounded by India from the north, east and west and by the Bay of Bengal and Myanmar from the south. Bangladesh has a rich historical and cultural past as a consequence of the influx of varied races and nationalities, including the Dravidian, Indo-Aryan, Mongol-Mughul, Arab, Persian, Turkic, Dutch, French and the English cultures. The area that is now Bangladesh was under Muslim rule for five and a half centuries, followed by British rule for another two centuries. It was, most recently, a province of Pakistan for 26 years. The people of Bangladesh achieved their Independence through a difficult nine month long war of liberation in 1971. Since Independence, the people of Bangladesh have overcome formidable challenges, including rapid population growth and food shortages. The country is consolidating democratic principles at home, is a partner in global peacekeeping efforts, has vast amount of undeveloped gas resources, and has become an exporter of development best practices abroad. The U.S.-Bangladesh bilateral relationship is deepening through trade and investment partnerships and an ongoing high-level official dialogue. President Clinton made a historic visit to Bangladesh in March 2000 and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina made a reciprocal visit in October of that year. To build on these achievements, I have established a bipartisan Congressional Bangladesh Caucus and invite all of my colleagues to join me in this endeavor. The Caucus will examine issues relevant to our bilateral relationship with the Bangladeshi government, and issues affecting the Bangladeshi-American community in order to facilitate the formation of coherent foreign policy with regard to Bangladesh. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the people of Bangladesh on the milestone of their 30th Anniversary as an Independent nation.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Yes, I yield to the gentleman from Massachusetts.

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman from Massachusetts and my friend for this time. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to the process by which the Tornado Shelters Act has come before us today. While I do have some concerns about the underlying legislation, my strongest concerns lie in the nature by which this legislation has made its way to the floor. It received no consideration in either the appropriate subcommittee or through the full committee of jurisdiction. It seems to have appeared on the floor, in my opinion, if only as a space filler to keep Members here in D.C. The committee of jurisdiction, the Committee on Financial Services, of which I am a member, in a bipartisan manner should have had the opportunity to fully review this bill before bringing it to the floor. This legislation, from the short notice that I have had to look at it, would take important funding from the Community Development Block Grant program, a program, to my understanding, that the President wants to slash by more than $400 million this year, and could provide funding to private enterprises or to enterprises that do not meet the income thresholds of the CDBG funding. Tornado prevention is a good thing. But should Congress be providing funding to private groups, to groups who may not meet the regular criteria for CDBG funding? I do not think they should be. I do not have an informed answer as of yet, and I have not had the time to fully vet this legislation, again, because the committee process was waived, as was the possibility of any review by the Democratic members of the Committee on Financial Services. I have a good relationship with the gentleman from Ohio (Chairman Oxley), and I understand that there was no evidence that he or the gentleman from Alabama (Chairman Bachus), the author of this bill, was party to bringing this measure to the floor under these dubious circumstances. But because of those circumstances, this bill should be pulled from full consideration and brought back for hearings and mark-up in the committee of jurisdiction. This could be a good bill, but this House has not yet had the chance to review it properly. While we have a President who plans to slash CDBG funds as well as cut section 8 vouchers for low- and moderate-income Americans and eliminate the Drug Elimination Program which fights the scourge of drugs in our Nation's public housing, this body needs to have the chance to fully vet this bill, to ensure it is in the best interest of all Americans. I hope my friends on the Republican side of the aisle will understand the discomfort of the minority at this legislation coming to the floor, and hope that we can work together to have a chance to review this bill in committee.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Madam Speaker, I am pleased today to rise in honor of the 180th anniversary of Greek independence. It was 180 years ago that the Greek patriots rose up against the Ottomans in a courageous act of defiance. Many of them fought and died for what they believed in, the right of self-determination, self- governance, that an independent Greek nation should rightfully exist alongside other sovereign nations, free of foreign domination, oppression and constraints. A country with a rich history stretching back more than 4,000 years, Greece remains the cradle of democracy and one of the most important contributors to Western Civilization. When the Founding Fathers of this country sought to create a government of, by, and for the people, they reached for inspiration in the words and theories of the great Greek philosophers. On this day we reaffirm the common democratic heritage we share. Like our day of independence on July 4th, in which we are always reminded of the cost of freedom and independence, it is only fitting that the Congress of the United States commemorate the struggle that led to Greek independence. We fought the same battles, and won, as did those Greek patriots.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to the Bush Republican tax cut. I oppose this misguided plan to provide tax cuts to a select few while leaving working New Yorkers holding the bag. Though, unlike the rhetoric you have heard on the other side of the aisle--Democrats, like myself, support cutting taxes--they are too high and stifling. I am a strong believer in tax cuts--as a married man with two infants at home, I personally know how devastating the marriage penalty tax is--and I have voted in the past to eliminate this onerous tax. I have worked with my colleagues in both parties to eliminate the regressive tax on talking that levies a tax on every phone call you make. And as the representative of a middle and working class district comprised of a diverse swath of neighborhoods in Queens and the Bronx, NY, I know how punitive the estate tax is on the Mom and Pop enterprises that dot my district. Estate taxes are too high and they must come down. I spoke out just yesterday in the Committee on Financial Services for legislation that would lower the tax burden on the investing public via taxes levied on individuals' 401(k) plans, mutual funds and retirement accounts. So for people to claim that I, or the majority of my colleagues, are opposed to any form of tax relief is ludicrous and out right wrong. I am for tax cuts--but responsible tax cuts. In 1993, without one single Republican vote, Congress passed an austere plan for cutting spending, raising taxes on a targeted few wealthy individuals and injecting real fiscal discipline into our economy. The other side cried that this bill would be the death knell of the American economy--but the facts bear them wrong, again. In fact, our nation then began to see annual budget surpluses instead of deficits, deficits created mostly by fiscal irresponsibility of the Reagan and Bush White Houses. Now, thanks to the fiscal discipline of the Democratic Party, we are in a situation where we have experienced several years of back to back annual budget surpluses with more surpluses predicted into the future. I am proud to prove the pundits wrong and stand before you today and say the Democrats are the party of fiscal responsibility while the Republican majority has become the party of fiscal irresponsibility. We have seen a decade of incredible economic growth and expansion. The virtual elimination of inflation and the smallest interest rates in a generation. Unemployment went from 8 percent under the last President Bush in 1992, down to 7 percent, then 6 percent, then 5 percent and then 4 percent and then a historically low 3.9 percent--unheard of. All the while, real incomes rose--again, something not seen during the Reagan and Bush Administrations. Home ownership skyrocketed and consumer confidence was sky-high. but Americans didn't just spend, they invested, and the stock market exploded. Coincidence--I think not. It was a careful economic plan worked on by the Democrats in Congress--the Republicans continually refused to work with us--and the White House as well as the Federal Reserve Bank. Democrats cut spending and erased the deficit--all the while the percentage of income sent to the Federal government in the form of income taxes continued to decline. Now, we want to throw the gains of the most prosperous decade in American history out the door to pass a backward tax cut plan that will primarily benefit the wealthy. Even President Bush himself says a large share of the tax cut benefits will go to the rich--finally something we can all agree on. We are basing economic forecasts for the next 10 years on data that is as reliable as weather reports. A year ago, the Government estimated our Nation's 10-year surpluses at a little over three trillion dollars--now they ``revised'' it to over $5 trillion--Guess they forgot to carry a one. Or, instead of being a mathematical goof, these 10 year projections are very flawed. Everyone from Alan Greenspan to the CBO agrees on this point. No family could budget itself like this, no company would dare give away bonuses based for the next 10 years under the guise of favorable 10-year projections. But that's the way the Republicans like to think when it comes to our future--they are gambling with Social Security and Medicare. This Bush Republican plan represents fiscal irresponsibility at its worst. In fact, the President and the Republican Congress refuse to even consider an idea of providing triggers in their tax plan in case these projected surpluses do not happen. Triggers on these tax cuts are the only sensible option to prevent us from returning to the staggering Reagan-Bush deficits of the near past. But instead, the Republicans want the go-go parties of the 1980's to continue whereby we spend all of our children's inheritance and leave them with the bill--that stinks both economically and morally, and that is why I oppose this foolish and reckless tax cut. Congress and the President should work together, with guidance from the Fed, to address our Nation's fiscal concerns. I believe the economic priorities of the last Administration and of the Democrats in Congress are the right ones. The expected Federal surplus is the people's money--it is not the government's money. Therefore, these funds should be used to benefit the people. That is why I support a budget strategy commonly referred to as \1/ 3\, \1/3\, \1/3\--where our country would use \1/3\ of the surplus for tax cuts; \1/3\ for debt reduction; and \1/3\ for increased spending. I believe one-third of our surplus should be returned to the American people in the form of a tax cut. Not one like the President supports which would reward almost $1 trillion of his $2 trillion plan to the richest one percent of Americans--but a fair tax plan. I support and have voted for the elimination of the marriage penalty--something that will not occur even if Congress passed the President's plan exactly as written. Using just one-third of our surplus will allow for the elimination of this onerous tax. Also we can provide families and small businesses estate tax relief. Another \1/3\ of our surplus must be used to pay down our national debt. I have two young children, I do not want them and millions of other children to inherit a multi-Trillion dollar debt because I would not provide any fiscal discipline. That is morally and economically wrong. The past 8 years America has borne witness to the wonders debt relief and deficit elimination will have on our Nation's overall economy and growth rates--this is undisputed, regardless of what some of my Republican colleagues insist. If a family ran its budget like the Republicans want America to run its budget, they'd be in bankruptcy court, losing everything they worked for--and this will happen to our Nation if we pass these economically foolish tax cuts. We cannot let this happen. The other third of the surplus should be used to provide for our Nation's critical investments, such as providing a prescription drug benefit under Medicare or shoring up Social Security or providing a well deserved pay raise to the hard working men and women of the U.S. military. In my own district I know of too many people who ration their own medications because they cannot pay for their doses. A also support increased public investments in our nation's crumbling schools. I released a study several weeks ago showing 97 percent of the school children in my district studying in overcrowded and antiquated classrooms. I believe our children should be introduced to the Internet and computers at a young age. It is universally noted that the Internet economy has sparked much of our Nation's boom over the last decade, and this high technology has greatly improved our Nation's economic output and productivity levels, a reason why inflation has been virtually nonexistent. Congress can and should provide tax relief, but we should not abandon our basic values, like Medicare or Social Security, or risk the reemergence of ballooning deficits to achieve this goal. Democrats have a plan to accomplish this goal. This Republican bill will not accomplish this goal. We need an economic policy for all of America--not just the richest of America.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition to the Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution to repeal the ergonomics workplace safety standards. Each year, one million workers in this country miss work as a result of the stress and strain of injury inflicted by hazardous work conditions. These individuals suffer from a variety of disorders, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis and back injuries among others. After ten years of public process initiated by former Labor Secretary Elizabeth Dole, the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration issued an ergonomic standard, which went into effect earlier this year. During the entire time that the ergonomic standard was being considered, the Republican leadership of this body stalled any implementation of a standard. They claimed that the Department of Labor lacked any sound and scientific basis for its proposed ergonomic standard. They continually demanded that we wait until a report by the National Academy of Sciences was issued before we promulgated any rule. Well, the Academy of Sciences conducted an exhaustive two-year study focused upon the causation, diagnosis and prevention of musculoskeletal disorders and concluded that there is a direct causal relationship between the workplace and ergonomic injuries. In addition, they also concluded that ergonomic injury could significantly be reduced through workplace interventions. This is good science. Just like the Republicans demanded! I feel good to support my GOP friends in demanding good science and now we have it! But instead science is not the issues. This is just another attempt by the Republican Party to ignore the needs of the hard working Americans that make our country run each day. Repealing the OSHA ergonomic ruling would impose a substantial economic burden in compensation cost, lost wages and productivity, totaling an annual loss of nearly 50 billion dollars. American workers have been the driving force behind our economy for so many years. These men and women, people like the individuals I represent in Queens and the Bronx, New York deserve the right to work in safe ergonomically correct work environments where their health is not in danger. Let's give the American people something that they will really see and reap the benefits from each day--safe-working environments. This is not only good science, but good policy.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in support of Authorizing the printing of a revised and updated version of the House document ``Black Americans in Congress.'' I think it only seems fitting to pay tribute to the African American men and women who served in these hallowed halls. African Americans have a long history of serving in this great institution. For many years, they were not welcomed by all of their colleagues. Still these men and women persevered and paved the way for all of us serving in Congress today. I am proud to stand here with nearly 50 of my colleagues in support of this bipartisan piece of legislation. As a young man, I can remember admiring the work of Shirley Chisholm, the first African American woman elected to serve in the United States Congress from my home state of New York. Former Congresswoman Chisholm was first elected into office in 1968, as a representative for the 12th Congressional District of New York and served for 15 years until she retired in 1983. She was a great advocate for education, day care and providing other resources to improve the quality of life in inner cities. She also fought to decrease defense spending and to end the military draft. I believe that Ms. Chisholm's legacy is one that should always be remembered, honored and cherished along with many others. That is why this publication is so very important. Since its last publication, an additional 40 distinguished African Americans have served in either the House or Senate. Moreover, many of the biographies of several senior members of the House have grown outdated and I believe that the time has come to revise and reprint this important historical work. This legislation would allow the Library of Congress to revise the current volume under the direction of the Committee on House Administration. In addition, the bill would allow for the copying, binding and distribution of the book to Members in both the House and Senate. Mr. Speaker, this next edition of ``Black Americans in Congress'' will undoubtedly be a great resource and a treasured addition to every member of the House and the Senate, as well as the Library of Congress and libraries throughout this country. I urge my colleagues to join in support of this concurrent resolution.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support for H.R. 333, The Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2001. This legislation represents a good, commonsense approach towards tackling the important yet complicated issues surrounding the issue of bankruptcy. While the United States has undergone the greatest period of economic expansion in American history, in contrast, our nation has also witnessed over 1 million bankruptcy filings in each of the past five years. The facts show that in 1997 the consumer bankruptcy rate filing hit a record level of 1.3 million with $40 billion in consumer debt discharged. It is estimated that bankruptcy discharges cost each American household $400 a year and cost retailers billions. And recent trends demonstrate that our Nation--and our economy--can expect even more bankruptcies in the coming years. Ultimately, consumers pay the price for the surge in bankruptcy filings. Last year, working in a bipartisan fashion, the House of Representatives passed basically this same legislation on an overwhelming vote of 318 to 108. The fundamental issue that drove Congress to pass this bill in the 106th Congress, and hopefully again today is--Why should consumers who work hard and pay their bills on time be forced to pick up the check for those who can afford to repay their debts, but instead choose to walk away and burden others with their responsibilities? A few days ago, representatives from a number of credit unions came to my office, including Alan Kaufmann of the Melrose Credit Union in Woodside, Queens in my Congressional District. He detailed about how the hard working, middle class people of his credit union--and of my district--continually have to pick up the tab for those who file bankruptcy--whether legitimately, as many do, or irresponsibly, as far too many do. In advocating for this legislation, I stress several key components of this bill: This legislation places child and family support first in bankruptcy--above all other claims. Let me repeat, this bankruptcy reform legislation recognizes that no obligation is more important than that of a parent to his or her children. This bill includes 9 provisions designed to strengthen protections for child support and alimony payments. Family and child support obligations come first--no ifs, ands or buts. Second, this legislation will assist those that have filed for bankruptcy by assisting those people to pay their bills on time as well as create a new program about financial education. In fact, this bill creates a Debtors Bill of Rights. Specifically, H.R. 333 provides for new disclosures which bankruptcy petition preparers and attorneys who represent debtors must provide their customers or clients. This ensures that debtors are better informed about the nature and scope of bankruptcy, the different remedies available, and the significance of bankruptcy on an individual's personal financial affairs. The intent is also to allow debtors to better negotiate with their attorneys about fees and services provided. Most importantly, this bill mandates personal responsibility. As I stated earlier, even in the booming economy of the mid and late 1990's--America saw record numbers of new bankruptcy filers. All of this costs tens of billions of dollars, and these losses by companies are passed directly onto Americans--Americans who pay their debts, use their credit cards responsibly and balance their checkbooks. These people should not be held responsible for bad debtors--but they are currently, and this is wrong. As a believer in personal responsibility and working to protect the working and middle class residents I represent in Queens and the Bronx, I support this legislation. Responsible borrowers should not be paying the price for bankruptcy abuse--and too many of my constituents--hard working, middle class people--are paying for the sins of others. I believe that individuals with the means to repay some or all of their debt should be required to meet their financial obligations and not pass their debts onto society. Only those who truly cannot repay their debts should be bale to immediately discharge all of their debts under Chapter 7--and this bill protects those people who are in greatest need of bankruptcy protection. This is a good bill, it promotes personal responsibility and tightens up our current laws. Families and children are protected; consumers are protected; our local credit unions are protected and most important, hard working Americans who pay their bills and balance their household budgets are protected. I ask for the support of all of my colleagues for this commonsense legislation.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Mary Anne Kelly for her great commitment to community and family involvement. Kelly will be recognized next week by the Powhatan and Pocahontas Regular Democratic Club for her work on behalf of her community in Long Island City and Astoria, New York. Kelly's love for and roots in Queens are deep and long lasting. She was bom in St. John's hospital, then located to Long Island City, where she was raised as the only child of loving parents, Florence and Lawrence Creamer of Astoria. She graduated from St. Joseph's Grammar School in Astoria with honors and was the recipient of the Math Medal. Mary Anne then attended St. Jean the Baptiste High School in Manhattan where she participated in numerous activities and did volunteer work with the New York Foundling Home. She said that although it was often heart wrenching, it was a wonderful feeling to be able to help infants and toddlers. It was a true labor of love. Mrs. Kelly had every intention of entering Hunter College with the goal of becoming a Math teacher, as she loved working with children. However, the New York Telephone Company offered a wonderful opportunity to her, and she opted for the business world--a choice she does not regret. She worked for eight years in the commercial department, the last five years as a business representative. Kelly also served as her office's union representative. In the summer of 1956, a mutual friend introduced Mary Anne to a wonderful man. Now after 43 years of marriage to Peter Kelly, Mary Anne claims that summer day was the luckiest day of her life. They were married in June of 1958 and had three marvelous children: Peter, now a Civil Court Judge, Anne-Marie, my talented Director of Constituent Service, and Carleen. In addition, they have a loving daughter-in-law Cathy, a terrific son-in-law Robert, and have been blessed with four beautiful grandchildren Christian, Bobby, Brian and Meghan. Kelly's involvement with politics started with a phone call from Denis Butler who had decided to run for Democratic leader in Astoria. He invited her to run with him as female co-leader. They had known each other through their mutual involvement in church and Home School activities. Kelly was Vice President of the Rosary Society and had chaired many successful fundraisers for their school. That phone call was the beginning of a wonderful political union and a friendship that lasted through 30 years of service to their community and clubs. They have the honor of being the two leaders, male and female, in Queens who remained in office longer than any other political team. Although Kelly is no longer a Democratic District Leader, a title her daughter Anne- Marie Anzalone now holds, she will always remain devoted to her community and the Pocahontas and Powhatan clubs whose members have been so supportive over the years. As an elected official, I appreciate the work and dedication of people like Mary Anne Kelly to democracy and good government. Mary Anne is the person who carries the petitions, stuffs the envelopes, helping to elect hundreds of talented men and women to all levels of government, from Queens courts to U.S. President. Mr. Speaker, please join me recognizing Mrs. Mary Anne Kelly for her lifetime of service to the communities of Astoria and Long Island City, New York.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Assemblyman Denis Butler for his twenty-four years of elected service on behalf of the people of Queens. The Powhatan and Pocahontas Regular Democratic Club will honor Butler again next week for his tremendous advocacy for youth, senior citizens, veterans and the disabled. Assemblyman Butler was first elected to the New York State Assembly in April of 1976, and enjoyed victories in every Assembly race since then. During his twenty-four years in the Assembly, Mr. Butler moved up the ranks to become an Assistant Speaker Pro Tempore, to which he was appointed in 1993. Assemblyman Butler previously held the positions of Vice-Chairman of the Majority Conference, Chairman of the Majority Conference and Chairman of the Committee on Standing Committees. He was also a member of the Executive Committee of the Eastern Regional Conference of the Council of State Governments. As Chairman of the Queens Assembly Delegation, Assemblyman Butler has been an unfailing advocate for Astoria and Long Island City, successfully securing hundreds of thousands of dollars for numerous recreational, cultural, educational, civic, youth, anticrime and senior programs throughout Queens. In 1998, Assemblyman Butler received the Brooklyn Diocese's Pro Vita award, presented to him by Bishop Francis J. Mugavero in recognition of his efforts on behalf of the unborn. In 1992, he was the recipient of the New York State Catholic Conference Public Policy Award, presented by John Cardinal O'Connor and the Bishops of New York State. Assemblyman Butler was the driving force behind the Maternity and Early Childhood Foundation, a non-for-profit statewide organization that promotes alternatives to abortion, successfully securing approximately 17 million dollars for the Foundation since 1983. Assemblyman Butler is Vice-Chairman of the Queens Democratic County Committee and for thirty years was the Executive Member of the Powhatan Regular Democratic Club, one of the oldest clubs in New York State. In conjunction with the Powhatan and Pocahontas Clubs, Assemblyman Butler was the organizer for the last twenty-nine years of annual Toys for Tots Drive for the needy. Mr. Butler is a lifelong resident of the District he represented, covering Astoria, Long Island City and Jackson Heights. A graduate of La Salle Academy and Cathedral College, Assemblyman Butler also attended St. Joseph's Seminary, Columbia University and the State University at Albany. Prior to his election to the New York State Assembly, Mr. Butler, who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree, was an account executive and sales manager on the field of broadcasting, both in radio and television. Married to former Mary Kerr, Assemblyman Butler and his lovely wife have three children: Kathleen, a health care administrator; Denis, an attorney; and Thomas, President of Butler Associates, a Manhattan based Public Relations and Marketing Firm. I was proud to serve with Assemblyman Butler in the New York State Assembly for twelve years, and I am pleased to call him a friend. Mr. Speaker, please join me in commending Assemblyman Butler for his twenty-four years of advocacy for the people of Queens and New York State.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Terri Thomson of Queens, New York, for her lifetime of community service. Thomson will be honored again next week by the Powhatan and Pocahontas Regular Democratic Club for her work to improve our education and quality of life in Queens. Thomson currently serves New York City school children, parents and faculty as the Queens Representative to the City Board of Education. Thomson is one of seven Board members responsible for setting policy for an $11 billion budget, more than one million school children, 1100 school buildings, and more than 100,000 education professionals. Thomson was appointed by Queens Borough President Claire Shulman to the New York City Board of Education in July 1998. She is Chair of both the Parent Outreach and Involvement and the Finance and Capital Budget Committees. She chaired a task force that has recommended all newly constructed high schools be offered as schools of choice on a year- round calendar as a strategy to alleviate overcrowding, particularly in Queens. Terri has been a steadfast friend and consistent advocate for New York City public school children. I have attended dozens of meetings on local education issues with Terri, and she has been a powerful ally in the fight to ensure that Queens County gets its fair share of education resources. Thomson has been a strong supporter of many community organizations and has served as a board member of the Greater Jamaica Development Corporation, Queens Symphony Orchestra, Queens Library Foundation, Flushing Council on Culture and the Arts, St. Francis College Board of Regents; as Chair of Queens County Overall Economic Development Corporation, Treasurer of the Queens Chamber of Commerce and Vice Chair of the Brooklyn Sports Foundation. Thomson currently serves as Vice President and Director of State Civic Affairs in the Citigroup Corporate Affairs Department. Previously, she was Vice President and Director of New York City and State Government Relations for Citigroup in the Global Community Relations Department. She began her career with Citigroup in February 1990 as Director of Government Relations, representing her company in the communities of Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan and Staten Island. Prior to her career at Citigroup, Terri was District Administrator for ten years for Congressman Gary Ackerman, advocating for the citizens of Queens. A strong advocate for school governance reform, Thomson took a leadership role in changing the prohibition against Board of Education employees serving as parent representatives on School Leadership Teams. She has been relentless in fighting for capital dollars in the Board's Capital Plan to relieve the longstanding neglect of Queen's schools that has resulted in borough-wide overcrowding. Thomson, a graduate of Queens College, was born in Brooklyn and has lived in Flushing, Queens since the age of three. Thomson and her husband Ed have two daughters, Patricia and Maryellen. Mr. Speaker, please join me in commending Terri Thomson for all her work on behalf of her community.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, seventy-five years ago, Dr. Carter G. Woodson, a noted African American historian and scholar, founded Negro History Week. He wanted to create an occasion for African Americans to remember, honor and celebrate the accomplishments and achievements of their ancestry. As I stand before you on this diamond anniversary, all that I can say is--what a great tradition this has become. African American Heritage month is important because it provides an opportunity for all American families and communities to come together and reflect upon the contributions African Americans have made to this great country. Earlier this week, I invited one of my colleagues and close friends-- Congressman Harold Ford, Jr. of Tennessee to join me at my 2nd annual African American Heritage Month Celebration. This year's celebration was dedicated to African American Economic Development and empowerment in the New Millennium. Everyone who attended the event that evening had a good time. Each year, I enjoy celebrating this great tradition and look forward to it. African Americans have such a rich heritage and culture. Neither my district, the Seventh Congressional District of New York nor this country would be what it is today without the rich contributions of African American heritage and culture. I am proud to say that I represent the district that both Louis Armstrong and Malcolm X lived until the very last days of their lives. In the aftermath of the 2000 Presidential election, many African Americans throughout this country find themselves engaged in another struggle. While the civil right's movement ended some time ago the struggle for equal justice and equality still continues. After this past election, too many people of color felt that the votes they casted were not counted. Some even felt that there was an organized effort to disenfranchise their votes and keep them from the polls. The problems of this past election are far too reminiscent of the problems African Americans had to face prior to the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Voting Rights Act of 1965. So while we celebrate, we must remember that the fight for equal rights, justice and equality must continue. I believe that all leaders, regardless of their party affiliation, race, religion or creed must do all that they can to ensure all Americans are protected under the laws of this great nation. As I stand before you here this afternoon, I pledge to do all that I can to ensure that these rights are protected for African Americans and all Americans regardless of their race, religion or creed. I would like to thank my colleagues in the Congressional Black Caucus, especially Representative Tubbs Jones for allowing me this time this afternoon.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of House Resolution 34 introduced by my distinguished colleagues from the International Relations Committee, Chairman Hyde, our Ranking Member, Mr. Lantos, Mr. Gilman, Mr. Ackerman, and Mr. Cantor. On February 6th, the State of Israel held free and fair elections for the 16th time in its 52 year history. In a region more familiar with long-standing monarchies and dictatorships than democratic institutions, Israel should be commended for setting an example to be emulated by others in the Middle East. On behalf of the residents of the 7th Congressional District of the great state of New York, I would like to congratulate Ariel Sharon on his election victory. Since its creation in 1948, Israel has made tremendous strides in an effort to co-exist peacefully with its neighbors. It is my hope, that Mr. Sharon will take the torch once held by Rabin and Ben-Gurion, and lead the people of Israel to a peaceful and prosperous tomorrow. The United States will continue to stand alongside the State of Israel in its quest for such a future. I commend my colleagues for spearheading this resolution, and I proudly stand with the men and women of this chamber in support of the new administration in Israel.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of House Concurrent Resolution 15 offered by the gentleman from California (Mr. Royce), the gentlemen from Illinois, Mr. Hyde and Mr. Davis, and the gentleman from Washington (Mr. McDermott) and my good friend, the gentleman from New York (Mr. Ackerman). I wish to express my deepest sympathy to the victims of the devastating earthquake that occurred on the morning of January 26 of this year in the Indian state of Gujarat in western India and the families of the victims both in India and the United States. As a member of the Caucus on India and as a representative of a sizable population from Gujarat and other parts of India in my home district, I will do everything I can to help my constituents reach out to their families and friends who suffered tremendous losses as a result of this terrible event. I will be meeting with leaders of the Indian community in my district this Thursday to talk about the relief efforts that are under way thus far. I wish to commend the gentlemen from California, Illinois, New York, and Washington for their leadership in rapidly responding to the Gujarat earthquake over the last several days. I also want to extend my thanks to the Bush administration, Secretary Powell, and USAID for their quick response to the situation in India and the release of emergency funding. As my colleagues have done, I urge the Bush administration to increase the amount of technical and monetary support both for immediate disaster relief as well as for long-term reconstruction of the Gujarat state economy. I also urge the Bush administration to support World Bank funding for earthquake relief.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I introduced legislation today to provide important tax deductions to both individuals and businesses who invest in security devices for their property. Fortunately, during the past several years the rates of property crime have been decreasing nationally. Even then, we still do have a real problem of property crime in this Nation. Annually, millions of dollars are lost by robberies or thefts to people's homes and businesses. This Congress should do everything it can be encourage crime prevention and protection for law-abiding citizens. It is for that reason, that I introduced the Security for All Act. My legislation would amend our current Federal Tax Code to provide for deductions to individuals and businesses for the installation of qualified security devices. According to the FBI's 1999 Uniform Crime Reports, in my hometown of New York City, there were over 40,000 burglaries and over 140,000 larcenies of both personal and commercial property. Besides the high monetary costs burdened by our society by these crimes, there are the uncounted personal costs of recognizing a stranger came into your home, riffled through your stuff and stole your possessions. The need for his technology has already affected consumers and businesses. The need for hotels to switch to electronic access control locks to replace traditional key locks was done out of a necessity to protect the consumer and to protect the hotel industry for insurance purposes. In a similar fashion, discounted insurance rates would benefit the homeowner and the small business owner. We must do everything in our power to stop these criminals, and I view my bill as a solid preventive effort at accomplishing this goal.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Oregon (Mr. Wu) for yielding me such time. Mr. Speaker, I do not doubt for one minute the commitment by my colleagues and the Chair on the other side of the aisle for 1 minute his dedication towards helping reduce class sizes throughout this country. I just want to talk about the effects that it had on New York City. For the bill that was passed last year, the 1999/2000 act, New York City received $61 million in Federal class size reduction funds. In addition, the city received some $49 million in State funds to help reduce the size of classes as well. The State and Federal funds created 950 new smaller classes in grades K through 3 with an average of about 20 students in each class. New classes were created in 530 of the district's 675 schools; remarkable usage of that Federal and State dollars. The Independent Education Priorities Board recently completed a study, and the study revealed, among improvements reported, results were that noticeable; declines in the number of disciplinary referrals; improved teacher morale; a focus on prevention rather than remediation; and higher levels in classroom participation by students. This is really working, and we want to see that continue. I understand this may have taken place on Saturday, the debate as well again, and once again we find ourselves in the same act being repeated, but we had an agreement. The conferees met. The conference report was signed, and the leadership, the GOP leadership, killed that deal, making a mockery, in my opinion, of the conferee process. So if this is a show, if this is a ploy, the Republican leadership has created it. I suppose we will take this play on the road. We will take this play off Broadway and on the road back to our districts, and I guess on Tuesday the people will decide who was right and who was wrong.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from New Jersey for yielding me this time to speak on an issue of grave importance to my constituency. I say that because I represent a district that has the most overcrowded school district in the City of New York, School District 24, which right now is operating at 119 percent. In the year 2007, I will have three of the most overcrowded school districts, three of the top five in New York City, School Districts 24, 30, and 11, which will be operating, right now are operating at 119 percent, 109 and 107 respectively. In my district in the year 2007, every school district in my district will be operating at or above capacity. If that is not an emergency, I do not know what is. I have a very diverse district, a district made up of many different cultures and ethnic groups. But what really, I think, New York is known for, really a melting pot, if there was ever such a thing as a melting pot, my district is it. But my children and our schools are at a severe disadvantage. Mr. Speaker, the average school age in my district is 55 years of age. One out of every school in New York City is over 75 years of age. We still have schools in my district that are being heated by coal, heated by coal in my district. Mr. Speaker, I support the Rangel-Johnson bill, sending $25 billion around this country to construct and modernize schools. The $1.3 billion is not enough, but if we have the $1.3 billion, where is it? We have not voted on this floor yet. Maybe I will agree with the gentleman from Pennsylvania. Maybe this is a waste of time. Maybe this is all a song and dance. Maybe we have been through this 100 times before. But it seems as though everything we have done here lately has been a song and dance. Committees come together and bipartisanly agree on budget bills, and then the leadership of the House determines that the bill is no good, we have to go back to the drawing board again. So it seems as though song and dance is the name of the game here lately. Mr. Speaker, I do not think $1.3 billion is enough; but it is something, it is a start, but I would like to see it on the floor. I would like to see the $1.3 billion brought to the floor and acted on.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 782, to reauthorize the Older Americans Act. I would like to begin by recognizing Chairman Goodling and Ranking Member Clay for all of their hard work in producing this legislation. Mr. Clay will be missed in this chamber next year. I also would like to extend my deep appreciation to Subcommittee Chairman McKeon and Ranking Democrat Tierney for their dedication to our older Americans. Although I believe that this legislation is flawed and still has several problems, it is an important bill and Congress can no longer allow the important programs served under the OAA to continue without authorization. Unfortunately, this bill contains new formulas for funding which, in the coming years, could shift vitally needed resources away from Northeastern urban areas such as my home of New York City. Like with the funding formulas used by the VA, the Government tries to allocate resources based on new population data, neglecting the needs of those who need the most care. But while this bill has several problems--problems I hope will be worked out in a bipartisan way by the Congress next year, this bill also contains a number of important new programs as well. This legislation establishes a $125 million caregiver program. This creation will help thousands of New York families be able to provide for their loved ones in their later years. I salute this new program. Additionally, the Committee included a hold harmless provision for nutrition programs such as the Meals and Wheels program, which benefits so many of my older constituents, particularly in such places like Mitchell-Linden in my District. This legislation also toughens up the language on a top concern of mine--elder abuse. Although I did not have the opportunity to amend this legislation with provisions from my bill, the Elderly Protection Act (H.R. 1984), to provide for Federal background checks of employed caregivers or assistance to train new caregivers to identify signs of domestic abuse, I am pleased at the new language. This bill increases the severity of committing crimes such as fraud and exploitation of the elderly--an all too common occurrence in our country. In my district, Father Coleman Costello of Walk the Walk is establishing a new and innovative center to provide for the abused elderly and provide treatment for their abusers. While this bill could have gone further to address this hidden crime, it does make positive steps. I ask welcome the language regarding the senior jobs program in Title V of the OAA. Our senior need jobs, but we must ensure that these jobs are in their communities and serving their needs as well as the needs of the elderly in their neighborhoods. All in all, with the problems notwithstanding, I will vote to support this legislation as it will provide some new funding streams to New York City as well as reauthorize a number of key programs under the Older Americans Act. Stating that, it is my hope that Congress can revisit some of the questionable provisions of this bill in the 107th Congress so that all older Americans can fully benefit from the Older Americans Act.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, reclaiming my time, I want to just say that she will be eligible for dating when she is 40 years of age. So I thank all my colleagues very, very much.