Dennis Cardoza

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Madam Speaker, due to a technical glitch, my vote on rollcall No. 204 was not recorded. Had my vote been recorded, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in opposition to the Republican budget alternative and in strong support of the Democratic budget. I applaud my colleagues on the other side of the aisle for bringing forward a budget alternative, which is no small feat, so we can have a thorough debate about our Nation's priorities. I would also like to add that I support their commitment to reforming mandatory spending programs. It is a significant problem on the horizon that Federal Reserve Chairman Bernanke, former Fed Chairman Greenspan, the Comptroller General, and others have forewarned us about. While I support their concept of reigning in mandatory spending, I suspect we differ in how to go about that. What bothers me more about this process is not that we have disagreements, because we are going to have disagreements on where we spend the money and who pays for it. Those are legitimate arguments that should be vigorously debated. But the rhetoric that we use that surrounds it I think is unfair on both sides of the aisle. I was not here in 2001, but I voted for about half of the 2003 tax cuts because I thought it was the right policy for this country. However, I did not agree with other budget policies. I don't believe that Republican budgets addressed critical health care and education priorities, or met the needs of our veterans. And the policies added staggering amounts to our Nation's debt. Regardless of how we got here, I think we ought to not fool ourselves about where we actually are. This is a train wreck that we find ourselves in, that the former Republican majority could not right. It was such a train wreck that Republicans could not pass a budget and could not finish the appropriations process last year. Democrats had to do a continuing resolution when we assumed the majority this year to clean up the mess that was left behind. According to the Bush Administration's own numbers, the policies of President Bush and the Republican Congress put us on pace to increase the federal debt by well over $4 trillion by 2008. By comparison, it took the first 41 presidents combined to accumulate a total of $4 trillion in debt. The debt and deficits we have racked up are not sustainable over time. They undermine America's economic strength by driving up interest rates and reducing investment. They force us to become increasingly beholden to foreign nations, as three-fourths of all new federal borrowing has come from foreign investors such as China and Japan. And they mortgage our children's future, forcing them to pay back the mountains of debt we are incurring today. We should be investing in our children's future, not borrowing from it. We have a responsibility to begin cleaning up the fiscal mess that we inherited. The Democratic budget does just that and promises a new direction for our country. What we are trying to do with the Democratic budget is to take tow trucks to this train wreck and pull those cars off the track. Then, somehow, we have got to straighten out the track. It is going to be a lot of tough work and a lot of hammering on those tracks to get them back in line. And then we have got to set those railcars back up on the railroad track and somehow get this train moving again. Correcting the fiscal course of our country cannot be achieved overnight, but I believe that this budget is a good first step. It addresses our Nation's priorities. It institutes tough spending control measures and fiscal discipline. It provides for responsible tax relief. And it brings our budget back to balance within five years. The gentleman from South Carolina, Mr. Spratt, should be commended for helping to right this train. The budget may not be perfect, but he deserves a tremendous amount of credit for what he has done and the Blue Dog Coalition certainly appreciates his efforts. We think we are headed in the right direction and are on the right track.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Joe Hollstein, who is retiring after 28 years of service to the city of Ceres. Joe Hollstein has admirably served Ceres and its residents since 1979. In most cases, Joe has supervised most of the capital projects that have occurred in Ceres for nearly three decades. Joe was instrumental in getting new wells drilled to increase the water supply and he explored the possibility of tapping into surface water. Joe also increased water storage capacity by having ground water reservoirs constructed which added to the city's firefighting capabilities. Seeing a need to expand the city's wastewater treatment plant, Joe has worked continually on this project with the latest development to develop a sewer line to Turlock from Ceres. As a traffic engineer, Joe has always been a valued resource to the community and surrounding areas. He has worked from day one with Cal Trans to widen Whitmore Avenue Overpass and to revise the Mitchell Road interchange. In spite of funding delays, Joe has continued to provide technical expertise on these projects and have kept them as a focal point for the local Council of Governments. Joe has continued to be responsive to the public and its concerns by hosting public hearings and meetings to allow for public input. It is not unusual for Joe to personally respond to the residents on matters of concern to them. In addition to public works infrastructure projects, Joe has maintained a vision for acquisition of land for parks and city owned buildings, He worked closely on the design of the public safety building and the new fire stations. Joe continued to find unique ways to fund the community's growth and needs. He was very proactive in establishing special assessment districts to bring additional funds to the city--the establishment of street lighting and landscape maintenance districts. These districts were established in Ceres at a time when few cities had special district fees. Outside of city hall, Joe has continued his commitment to the community; Joe has diligently volunteered his time to pruning the beautiful roses at Smyrna Park and to the restoration of the Daniel Whitmore Home. Throughout his career with the city of Ceres, Joe Hollstein has been a consummate public servant. He has utilized his skills and experience for the betterment of the community. Joe has not limited his work to his own department but worked to provide facts and figures for other city projects. I am honored to rise today to recognize the work of Joe Hollstein and to honor him for his many years of distinguished service to the Ceres community. I wish him the very best in his retirement.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of this rule and the underlying bill. It is the responsibility of this Congress, ladies and gentlemen, to demand accountability from this President and insist on concrete results from the Iraqi Government. Ladies and gentlemen, our troops are laying their lives on the line every single day. The least we can do is demand and require Iraqi accountability. This bill embraces that responsibility and sets the stage for handing over control of security of Iraq to the Iraqis. It is also the responsibility of this Congress to provide our troops with the resources they need to do their jobs. And let there be no confusion. This bill provides full funding for our men and women in uniform, who continue to serve the country with great courage and dedication. This bill also provides $1.7 billion in new funding for veterans' health care, something that is direly needed. The state of veterans' health care in America is in crisis, and our troops deserve better. In addition, this bill will help us refocus our efforts on those who attacked us on September 11 by increasing funding for the war against al Qaeda and the Taliban in Afghanistan. It is deeply troubling to me that this war in Iraq has undermined our efforts to address the urgent threats in the war on terror. After failing to kill Osama bin Laden when we had the chance at Tora Bora, the administration turned its attention to Iraq, allowing the Taliban to regain lost ground in Afghanistan. Finally, Mr. Speaker, our goals in Iraq must reflect reality. For far too long Congress served as nothing more than a rubber stamp for this President's disastrous policy in Iraq. Those days, Mr. Speaker, are over. Iraq has descended into a bloody civil war that cannot be resolved by the American military. Even our military commander in Iraq, General Petraeus, has said there is no military solution to this conflict. The Sunni-Shia divide goes back 1,400 years. America alone cannot reverse 14 centuries of division and hate. I support the rule, and I support the underlying bill.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I move that the House do now adjourn.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Chairman, I support this legislation, and believe that it will improve accountability in Federal contracting and increase the amount of information provided to the public and to Congress about Federal contracts. However, I believe that more needs to be done. I am particularly concerned about overuse of exemption four of the Freedom of Information Act--the exemption that protects trade secrets and business confidential information. Too often, this exemption is used to withhold information about Federal contracts that should be made public. With minimal exceptions for proprietary information, the public should have access to information submitted to the Federal Government in application for Federal contracts. And agencies should release information to the public regarding questionable performance of Federal contractors. The public should be able to easily access through FOIA information relating to whether a contractor actually performed the work required under the terms of the contract as well as information that indicates the use of substandard materials or work practices in performing the contract. Waste, fraud, and abuse in contracting is all to common. Contractors should not be able to hide behind a FOIA exemption in order to keep their poor performance out of the public eye. I have spoken to Chairman Waxman and he has pledged to jointly request that GAO conduct an examination of this issue and clarify what legitimately qualifies as an exemption for confidential business information. I appreciate Mr. Waxman's interest in this issue and look forward to working with him.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, as I said earlier, maintaining an adequate water supply is critical to the health and livelihood of our agricultural industry, our economy and our environment. Water is not an infinite supply, and water scarcity is occurring across the country and becoming more widespread. We have to find innovative ways to reuse and recycle the water that we have so it will be there to meet our needs, as well as the needs of future generations, and we have to provide the means to make that happen. This bill does just that. I urge a ``yes'' vote on the rule and on the previous question. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time, and I move the previous question on the resolution. The previous question was ordered.

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, by direction of the Committee on Rules, I call up House Resolution 215 and ask for its immediate consideration.

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, for the purpose of debate only, I yield the customary 30 minutes to the gentleman from Washington (Mr. Hastings). All time yielded during consideration of the rule is for debate only. I yield myself such time as I may consume. (Mr. CARDOZA asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, House Resolution 215 provides for the consideration of H.R. 700, the Healthy Communities Water Supply Act of 2007, under an open rule with a preprinting requirement. The rule provides 1 hour of general debate equally divided and controlled by the chairman and ranking minority member of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The rule waives all points of order against consideration of the bill except for clause 9 and 10 of rule XXI. The bill shall be considered as read. The rule provides that any amendment to the bill must be printed in the Congressional Record prior to consideration of the bill. Finally, the rule provides one motion to recommit with or without instructions. Mr. Speaker, simply stated, maintaining an adequate water supply is critical to the health and livelihood of our agricultural industry, our economy, and our environment. However, as critical as water is to sustaining our way of life, all too often we take it for granted. Water does not come in an infinite supply. It is, in fact, a very, very scarce resource, particularly in my region of the country. There are significant water supply issues in my home district of California's Central Valley. The valley faces water shortages as various interests compete for this scarce resource. The Central Valley is not unique. Water scarcity is occurring across the country and is becoming more widespread due to several factors. Population is on the rise. Pollution is a constant threat. Growth and development are expanding. And drought can strike us at any time. Despite these pressing needs, we are severely lacking in programs that address the looming shortage. The Environmental Protection Agency, the Congressional Budget Office, and other organizations have estimated that $400 billion is needed for programs to maintain existing and build new water infrastructure. The EPA has also estimated that programs to address sewer overflows need in excess of $140 billion. However, even meeting the needs of these programs has been challenging as this administration has constantly cut funding. Moreover, these programs deal exclusively with protecting our water quality and do not address scarcity or shortages. While these programs are just as important, it doesn't make sense to have a one-track mind. Improving the quality of water is just one part of the equation. We also have to find innovative ways to reuse and recycle water that we have so it will be there to meet our needs as well as the needs of future generations. The rule and the bill we have before us today will begin to address this problem. Mr. Speaker, the Healthy Communities Water Supply Act of 2007, H.R. 700, is quite simple. H.R. 700 extends a critical pilot program for alternative water source projects. Alternative water source projects allow local communities to develop innovative ways to reuse and recycle water, thereby saving money and expanding water use options for the entire country. This pilot program was initially created in 2002, but the program has expired. The bill authorizes $125 million to help communities finance pilot projects to recycle or reuse water or to develop alternative water sources. It is not an excessive investment. Given the scarcity and challenges we face, this is just a start, but this funding is absolutely critical and is a step in the right direction. This will help spur technological development so that individuals, agriculture, and industry have access to the water they need. The bill is also fiscally responsible as it provides a 50 percent matching requirement. Many should be recognized for their interest in ensuring that the future water supply will meet future water demands. I would like to commend my colleagues Mr. McNerney, Mrs. Tauscher, and Mr. Kagen for introducing this important bill. I would also like to thank Mr. Oberstar and Mr. Mica for their leadership in bringing this legislation to the floor. Mr. Speaker, this is a good bill. This is a necessary bill. And this is a critically important investment for people today and for generations to come. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Madam Speaker, it is with the greatest of pleasure that I rise today to honor a renowned reporter from my district, Mike De La Cruz, who retired from the Merced Sun Star on December 29, 2006 after more than 37 years on the beat. Mike De La Cruz was the authority in and around Merced on news relating to law enforcement. He developed a great relationship with local authorities and earned the reputation of being a knowledgable and ethical reporter. He chronicled Merced County's criminals in a style that mixed straight news with a tone of mild bemusement at how people ended up on the wrong side of the law. Throughout his career, Mike has had his share of memorable moments such as the time he broke his ankle jumping over a fence while attempting to cover a police raid on marijuana growers. Or the time he suffered a terrible sunburn after waiting for hours in an orchard for deputies to bust a cock-fighting ring. Whatever the situation, Mike utilized his extensive contacts to ensure his stories were accurate, and at the same time to assure the people of Merced that law enforcement was looking out for them. Over the 37 years that he put pen to paper, Mike always garnered respect for his balanced reporting. Madam Speaker, journalism in Merced will never be the same without the quick witted and balanced reporting of Mike De La Cruz. He will be missed by local law enforcement and the faithful readers of the Merced Sun Star. I want to take this time to express my sincere thanks to Mike De La Cruz for his many years of dedicated service and for all that he has done for our community. I certainly hope his future is as colorful and rewarding as his past. My fellow colleagues, I ask that you please rise to join me in honoring Mike De La Cruz.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Madam Speaker, it is with the greatest respect and sincerity that I rise today to honor an exceptional community leader, the late Mr. Joseph Edward Gallo. Mr. Gallo, a prominent Merced County rancher, dairyman and cheese producer, died February 17, 2007 at his home in Livingston, California at the age of 87. Joseph Gallo started life as an immigrant's son on September 11, 1919 in Antioch, California, and ended it as one of the most successful dairymen in the country. He was the youngest of three boys to parents Joseph Sr. and Susie Gallo who moved to California from the Piedmont region of northern Italy. At a young age, Joe moved to Modesto, California with his family, and attended Franklin Grammar School. In 1937, Joseph graduated from Modesto High School and began his studies at Modesto Junior College. He then enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II and served in the Philippine Islands and Korea. In 1945, one year before he left the Army Joseph married Mary Ann Arata of Modesto and together they had three children: Peter Joseph, Michael David and Linda Ann. The family suffered a great loss in 1968 when 1st Lt. Peter Gallo was killed in action in Vietnam. Michael and Linda are partners in the Gallo business and farming enterprises, Michael serving as CEO since his father's retirement and Linda's husband Kenny is Ranch Operations Manager for the firm. When Joseph returned home from the service, he became the ranch manager for his brothers' grape-growing operation, E&J Gallo Vineyards in Livingston. In 1966 Joseph married Patricia Morgan-Gardali of Modesto. Patricia and her nine year old son, Sam Gardali, joined the family, making their home in Livingston. During the 20 years he worked for his brothers' operation, he was also developing his own vineyard and cattle business. Joseph eventually accumulated 4,000 acres of vineyards, at one time becoming one of California's largest wine grape growers. In the years following, his interest in livestock developed and in 1979 Joseph built his first diary with 4,000 milking cows. Four more diaries would follow as did the founding of the Joseph Gallo Diary & Cheese Co. in 1982. In the 25 years since, Joseph's business has flourished and in addition to becoming a successful agricultural organization, it has become a leader in protecting the environment and public health for this and future generations. I remember as a child always hearing my father talk about what an amazing farmer Joe Gallo was and how impressed he was with how the Gallo operation had skillfully grown from a small ranch to one of the nation's most successful dairyman and cheese producers. His success was truly phenomenal and reflective of Joe's commitment, hard work and dedication to his business. The Joseph Gallo Farms tradition and commitment to balancing success with environmental responsibility is unmatched and has set the standard for farming operations across the country. Joseph Gallo will be remembered as one of the early pioneers in using methane from manure as a source of electricity. He has been recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and was most recently named the International Dairy Foods Association's Innovative Dairy Farmer of the Year. Joseph's interest in environmentally conscious farming had much to do with his love of the outdoors, especially hunting, fishing and traveling. His work has truly helped shape the future of environmentally-friendly farming and will forever be admired and remembered for his ingenuity. Throughout his life, Joseph has supported and been involved with countless community organizations and foundations including the Livingston Community Health Center, Mercy Medical Center Merced, St. Jude's Catholic School and Emanuel Hospital Chairman's Club of Turlock. He was also a major contributor to the Veteran's Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C. in memory of his son Peter. Joseph's legacy will also be memorialized in the Joseph Edward Gallo Recreation and Wellness Center at the University of California, Merced, after his son Michael and daughter Linda donated funds to its construction in their father's name. Joseph Gallo is survived by his wife of 41 years, Patricia; his son Michael and wife Lori; his daughter Linda and husband Kenny Jelacich; his stepson Sam Gardali and wife Kay; and six grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son Peter, and his brother, Julio Gallo. He is also survived by his brother Ernest Gallo. Madam Speaker, it is my distinct honor and privilege to join our community and the Gallo family in honoring the life and legacy of Mr. Joseph Edward Gallo. We lost a pioneer, a community leader and a dear friend in his passing.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of this rule and the underlying bill, H.R. 976, The Small Business Tax Relief Act of 2007. This bill provides $1.3 billion in tax breaks for small business owners and is one of the final steps toward raising the federal minimum wage from $5.15 per hour to $7.25 per hour. It has been 9\1/2\ years since the last minimum wage increase despite widespread support across the country and within the U.S. Congress. And why? Because of partisan politics, and special interests coming before the people's interests. The Democratic Congress promised a change in priorities. And as one of our first measures of business, Democrats brought a minimum wage increase to the House floor, which received overwhelming bipartisan support. The other body has followed suit and we must work to resolve our differences, which is why we bring this bill before the House today. A recent poll showed that 89 percent of Americans favor raising the minimum wage. The American public deserves--and has demanded--that raise. With our immediate consideration of this bill, we will heed that call. Hard-working Americans have waited far too long to receive an honest day's pay for an honest day's work. The people's time has come. We have pledged to act in the public's best interests and we must do so without further delay. Passage of this rule and H.R. 976 will speed enactment of the long overdue increase in the minimum wage. The Democratic Congress also pledged to reach across the aisle in a bipartisan manner and address the priorities of all Americans. Our bipartisan effort resulted in the carefully constructed compromise that we have before us today. This bill isn't about partisan politics, it's just good policy. H.R. 976 will help give hard-working families the pay increase they so richly deserve, and ensure small business owners have every opportunity to succeed and prosper. And it will do so in a fiscally responsible manner that will avoid adding to the legacy of debt being left to our children and grandchildren. Simply stated, this bill is good for taxpayers, good for business, good for people, and is just good policy.

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of this rule and the underlying bill H.R. 976, The Small Business Tax Relief Act of 2007. This bill provides $1.3 billion in tax breaks for small business owners and is one of the final steps toward raising the federal minimum wage from $5.15 per hour to $7.25 per hour. It has been 9\1/2\ years since the last minimum wage increase despite widespread support across the country and within the U.S. Congress. And why? Because of partisan politics and special interests coming before the people's interests. The Democratic Congress promised a change in priorities. And as one of our first measures of business, Democrats brought a minimum wage increase to the House floor, which received overwhelming bipartisan support. The other body has followed suit and we must work to resolve our differences, which is why we bring this bill before the House today. A recent poll showed that 89 percent of Americans favor raising the minimum wage. The American public deserves--and has demanded--that raise. With our immediate consideration of this bill, we will heed that call. Hard-working Americans have waited far too long to receive an honest day's pay for an honest day's work. The people's time has come. We have pledged to act in the public's best interests and we must do so without further delay. Passage of this rule and H.R. 976 will speed enactment of the long overdue increase in the minimum wage. The Democratic Congress also pledged to reach across the aisle in a bipartisan manner and address the priorities of all Americans. Our bipartisan effort resulted in the carefully constructed compromise that we have before us today. This bill isn't about partisan politics, it's just good policy. H.R. 976 will help give hard-working families the pay increase they so richly deserve, and ensure small business owners have every opportunity to succeed and prosper. And it will do so in a fiscally responsible manner that will avoid adding to the legacy of debt being left to our children and grandchildren. Simply stated, this bill is good for taxpayers, good for business, good for people, and is just good policy.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman. Mr. Speaker, I believe in a robust military and a strong national defense; however, I oppose this escalation, because I do not believe that it will make America safer or improve security in Iraq. At this hour, sending more American forces cannot reasonably be expected to resolve a civil war rooted in over 14 centuries of deep- seated historical division. I oppose the escalation because I believe that we must recognize Iraq for what it is, not what we want it to be. Our best hope lies not with increasing Iraqi dependence on us, but rather in handing over responsibility to them. This ultimate success or failure is the endeavor that now lies in the hands of them, not us. Our goal in Iraq must reflect reality. Our objective should be to protect the ethnic minorities and religious minorities from further oppression and genocide, and to maintain a strong deterrent against the spread of a broader war in the Middle East. None of these ends is served, however, by simply escalating the failed strategy that has gotten us to this point today. Like most Americans, I am deeply dismayed by this administration's inept prosecution of this war. At almost every turn, the President and his team have been intolerant and dismissive to outside advice, the consequences of which have been dire. The President sent our men and women into battle absent a real plan and lacking the tools they need to protect themselves. By pushing our allies aside, the President has isolated America from the world. We are now bearing the burden of this war virtually alone. It did not have to come to this. From the beginning, responsible critics who genuinely desire success in Iraq have offered the President and his team sensible strategies for changing course. Almost 3 years ago, I proposed a plan to the President that offered a responsible path forward. I am still waiting to this day for a response. President Roosevelt during World War II, President Truman during Korea and the dawn of the Cold War, President Kennedy during the Cuban missile crisis, and President Reagan at the twilight of the Cold War all successfully guided the ship of state through the roughest of seas. That caliber of leadership has been sorely lacking during this challenging time for our Nation. This President's inability to admit and correct mistakes has not served our Nation or our troops well. Now Iraq has descended into a bloody civil war that cannot be resolved by the American military. The Sunni-Shia divide goes back 1,400 years. Twenty thousand more American troops cannot reverse 14 centuries of division and hate in that country. According to a recent poll, 71 percent of Iraqis want us to leave. Sixty-one percent of Iraqis support attacking U.S. troops. To argue that increasing our presence in Iraq will lessen the violence defies common sense. The American people and our military did not sign up for refereeing a civil war halfway across our planet. History has taught us that outside powers are ill-equipped to influence or resolve civil wars in foreign lands. I am also deeply troubled that the war in Iraq has undermined our efforts to address urgent threats in the war on terrorism, note notably in Afghanistan. After failing to kill Osama bin Laden at Tora Bora, the administration turned its attention to Iraq, allowing the Taliban to regain lost ground. I believe we must refocus our efforts on the following objectives: Stopping the spread of a wider war in the Middle East. Preventing a humanitarian crisis in Iraq. Protecting the ethnic and religious groups, such as Assyrian Christians, who are vulnerable to persecution. And we must redouble our efforts to snuff out the Taliban in Afghanistan. Let me close, Mr. Speaker, by paying homage to our men and women in uniform. Some have alleged that this debate is inconsistent with support for our troops. Those who insist that Congress should remain silent on this issue are very familiar with that word ``silence.'' Many have remained silent when it comes time to supporting care for our veterans and their families as well. Many have stood idly by for years as our troops went into battle lacking the equipment and body armor they needed. Most of all, far too many have been invisible when it comes to genuinely supporting our servicemen and women by insisting on an effective plan to conclude and win this conflict. Simply repeating the word ``victory'' does not equal a plan, or support for our men and women in uniform. I want to conclude by thanking those serving in harm's way. These brave men and women are America's finest. They have done everything that has been asked of them and more. Let us honor them by thanking them for a job well done and pursuing a policy that is worthy of their sacrifice.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to pay tribute to the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) as we celebrate the 98th anniversary of their inception. Since 1909, the NAACP has been a leader in advancing civil rights and has sought to remove all barriers of racial discrimination through their use of legal and moral persuasion. This organization has provided communities around the United States with strong and passionate leaders who have fought for social change. Among these organizations, it is an honor to note that California is home to 72 branches and youth units, each providing inspiration to their respective communities. As we celebrate the accomplishments of the NAACP, we must also honor the values upon which it was founded, for there is much work left to be done, and the same tireless dedication and clarity of purpose will be required to continue onward. I commend the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People for being champions of social justice and for their tireless efforts for almost a century. I look forward to celebrating their centennial in two years.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Madam Speaker, it is with the greatest respect and sincerity that I rise today to honor TSgt Richard Langman. Sergeant Langman will retire today after serving 20 years in the United States Air Force. Richard Langman was born in Dover, New Jersey, but spent most of his childhood and teen years growing up in Modesto, California. It was in Modesto where Richard showed a real talent for sports, playing in the local Bel Pasi Youth Baseball Association and even pitching a three up and three down inning during an All-Star Game. Richard continued his passion for sports during his years at Fred C. Beyer High School playing junior and senior varsity football. However, he quickly developed a new passion and entered the NASCAR ``Hobby'' division at Stockton ``99'' Speedway. As one of the youngest drivers, Richard was able to win a number of races and endear himself to many fans. His love of racing continues right up to this day. Approximately 6 months after graduating from high school, Richard set out on a new adventure and enlisted in the United States Air Force. Upon completion of basic military training and technical training for Aircraft Environmental Systems at Chanute Air Force Base (AFB), and graduating Technical School, he was assigned to the 693rd Organizational Maintenance Squadron (OMS), KC-135A, Castle AFB in Atwater, California. While assigned to Castle AFB, Sergeant Langman was handpicked to participate in the Strategic Air Command Bombing and Navigation competition (Proud Shield 89). His technical expertise resulted in a 100 percent on-time take off rate and an overall third place finish for the 93rd Wing. In 1991, he was assigned to the 909th Air Refueling Squadron (AREFS), KC-135R Kadena AB, Japan, where he developed and implemented a much needed method of tracking aircraft engine fire suppression system bottles and squibs. His methods improved the tracking rate of over $200,000 worth of Air Force assets and earned him the Air Force Achievement Medal. In 1994, he was assigned to the 55th Air Refueling Squadron (ARS) Altus AFB, Oklahoma, where his dedication to duty shined once again. He was selected as Electro-Environmental systems subject matter expert for the 55th ARS maintenance quality training program. He processed, trained, and certified over 150 civil service personnel in under a 4- month period to accommodate the KC-135R civil service maintenance conversion. In January 1997, Sergeant Langman began his special operations career when he was assigned to the 16th Aircraft Generation Squadron (AGS) where he upgraded and was task qualified on a completely different airframe in less than 6 months. His superb performance aided the 16th AGS in winning the Air Force Maintenance Effectiveness Award for 1997. Shortly afterwards, Sergeant Langman retrained into the Flight Engineer career field. In June 1999, he was assigned to the 16th Special Operations Squadron (SOS) Hurlburt Field, Florida. Sergeant Langman's SOF career includes Publications Assistant NCOIC, Flight Engineer Functional Manager, and NCOIC Unit Security Office. Sergeant Langman's combat experience in Operation Enduring Freedom includes 164 combat sorties and over 750 hours. Sergeant Langman, wife Sheila, and their two children, Karissa (age 12) and Kirsten (age 7) will continue residing in Navarre, Florida. Madam Speaker, it is an honor to share Sergeant Langman's record of accomplishments, and I thank him for his lengthy service to the United States.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the gentleman from Vermont for yielding me the time and for his able leadership on this rule. I rise in full support of the rule on H.R. 547. As a new Member of the House Rules Committee, I am very pleased that we were able to have an open rule so quickly in the 110th Congress. This rule will allow an open and honest debate on one of the most important issues facing our country: energy independence. H.R. 547, the Advanced Fuels Infrastructure Research and Development Act, addresses an extremely important, however often overlooked, component to our emerging domestic biofuels industry: pipeline and storage infrastructure. When ethanol and other biofuel additives are mixed with traditional fuels, it can cause disruptions to the pipeline infrastructure through corrosion and contamination, even clogging. These small obstacles should not be impediments to the full development of the biofuels industry, but they are still issues that must be addressed in order to move forward. This important legislation we are considering today would authorize funds to EPA and the Department of Energy to develop a program for alternative bio-based fuels and low-sulfur diesel fuels to be more compatible with existing infrastructure used to store and deliver petroleum-based fuels to the point of final sale. In California's San Joaquin Valley, we are watching the development and progression of our domestic biofuel industry with a particularly close eye. We have some of the most fertile agricultural land in the country. My district alone grows over 200 different kinds of crops, contributing over $5 billion of the $30 billion agriculture industry of our State. But as we are blessed with our soil, we are similarly blessed and cursed by our geography. The steep mountains on both sides of the valley create a trap for air which in turn creates some of the worst air quality problems in the entire Nation. We are currently in a severe ozone non-attainment area and quickly moving towards an extreme level for both ozone and particulate matter. Limited emissions from ethanol blends and other biofuels have the potential to contribute to our increasingly dangerous air quality levels. My colleague Ms. Anna Eshoo and I will be offering an amendment during general debate on H.R. 547 to expand the current areas of research covered under this legislation to include strategies to minimize potential impacts of volatile emissions from biofuels. Our amendment exemplifies the importance of this open rule. Neither Ms. Eshoo nor I sit on the Science Committee; however, through this open rule, we are able to weigh in on important legislation on behalf of our constituents. While I realize that the bill may have passed by unanimous consent last year, clearly numerous Members are interested in offering amendments, and I am pleased that our leadership has provided this opportunity to Members on both sides of the aisle. I strongly urge my colleagues to support this open rule.

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Chairman, I would like to thank the gentlewoman from California, and while I support my colleague from Texas' effort to address emissions concerns, I cannot support his amendment. Mr. Burgess' amendment simply directs the EPA and the Department of Energy to study the effect of increased emissions from biofuels. We need to do more than study this problem; and, in fact, both the California Air Resources Board and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources have studies which show increased rates of VOC emissions from ethanol-blended fuels and fuel tanks and pipelines. We must develop strategies to minimize these emissions from biofuels now so that we can accelerate the use of biofuels nationwide in the future. The Eshoo-Cardoza amendment does exactly what needs to be done in law to make that possible.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to W.R. ``Reg'' Gomes, who is retiring with distinctIon as Vice President, Agriculture and Natural Resources, for the University of California. Over the past four decades, Reg has dedicated his life to the land- grant university missions of teaching, research and public service. He has mentored hundreds of current agricultural leaders from his early career as a professor at The Ohio State University, then as the Dean of Agriculture at the University of Illinois and finally in his home state to which he returned 11 years ago to lead the vast and varied agricultural education, science and Cooperative Extension programs of the University of California. The grandson of immigrants from the Azores of Portugal, Reg was raised in the hard working dairy farming culture of California's Central Valley. This early appreciation for farming life led Reg to California Polytechnic State University (San Luis Obispo) to study animal science. Reg and his brother became the first in their family to graduate from college. Reg went on to earn a master's degree from Washington State University and a Ph.D. from Purdue University. This is an impressive collection of degrees for a young man from a small dairy farm in the small town of Hanford, California and it was the beginning of a remarkable academic career. As an internationally recognized scientist and educator, Reg has been a leading voice on several prominent State and national boards, including the Farm Foundation Agricultural Round Table, the California State Board of Food and Agriculture, the California Farm Bureau Federation Board and the Board on Agriculture and Natural Resources of the National Research Council, which he currently chairs. As a member of the House Agriculture Committee, I am particularly proud that California is the Nation's leading agricultural state with nearly $30 billion in sales coming from over 88,000 farms which produce 350 different commodities. These impressive statistics are due in large part to the innovative spirit of California farmers who are usually the first to use new technologies and science-based farming practices, and it is our state's great land-grant university--the University of California--and leaders like Reg Gomes whom we have to thank for much of our farming successes. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to offer these words in tribute to my friend Reg Gomes and to wish him and his wife Anne a wonderful next phase of their lives.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker and Mr. Ross, tomorrow night, when the President of the United States delivers his State of the Union Address, the Nation will listen carefully as he lays out his agenda for the final 2 years of office. And there is no question our Nation faces many great challenges. The one issue, however, that weighs most heavily on the minds of the American people is, of course, the war in Iraq. The President is now moving forward with a plan to escalate the war, despite bipartisan opposition. I have grave doubts about the wisdom of this action, as do most of my colleagues. Regardless of one's views on the right way to move forward in Iraq, we should be able to agree on one thing: Fraud and abuse and flagrant waste of taxpayer dollars that we have seen throughout this war have got to stop. It is bleeding our Treasury dry, and it is further undermining our security in Iraq. Some estimates suggest the war in Iraq will cost the American people $2 trillion when all is said and done, and that is truly a staggering figure. That is why the Blue Dogs are putting forward this resolution asking for accountability. We can't afford another $2 trillion in debt piled on to what Mr. Ross has already said, $8.710 and change trillion. So Mr. Speaker, I am not going to take up a lot of time. We have two distinguished colleagues that have waited here to speak to you tonight. But I will say that I applaud the Blue Dogs, and I am proud of being a member of the Blue Dogs. I am proud to be here with you again, Mr. Ross, and I just believe it is high time that the American people have a full accounting of what this war is costing, and how the contractors have misspent American Treasury in the process.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the rule and the underlying bill. The cost of public university tuition has increased a staggering 41 percent since 2001. In my district in California's Central Valley, high college costs have been a persistent barrier for working families seeking to send their children to college. If our country is serious about preserving the American Dream and extending educational opportunity to the next generation of Americans, then we must take action. The College Student Relief Act would cut the interest rate on federal, subsidized loans in half over five years. As a Blue Dog, I am proud to say that this bill is fiscally responsible: the cost will be offset by reductions in subsidies to lenders which have enjoyed bipartisan support in the past. This is a good bill for the American people, and I urge my colleagues to open the doors of opportunity for young Americans and support this bill.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the gentleman from Arkansas for his leadership on the Blue Dog Coalition. I know you are talking tonight about the Blue Dog 12-point plan for fiscal responsibility. I am just so grateful to the gentleman from Arkansas for all his work on this. I want to report to the House and to the country and to all of my colleagues in the Blue Dog Coalition that today in the Rules Committee for the first time we dealt with some issues. Actually, the PAYGO discussion came up, since our Speaker and the House reinstated PAYGO and the Democrats took over the Congress. In fact, today, we are going to be in just a few minutes having a reportable rule that will talk about the reduction and the interest rates that Americans will be soon paying on student loans. In that discussion, it was ironic, because in the opening session where we debated the PAYGO rules, the Republican Members of Congress, or a number of them, criticized the Democrats saying we were not doing real PAYGO. Today in the Rules Committee, when the PAYGO rules in fact capped some of what we would like to do, we will not be able to do everything we want to do for student loans right out of the chute, but we will do a significant amount; but we did it under the PAYGO rules and we are doing what we can do under the PAYGO rules. There was criticism that we weren't doing enough, that we should have done more, and we really didn't need to pay for it. We live by the spirit and the letter of the law of the PAYGO rules that we put in place on day one. In fact, we will have a good bill tomorrow that will limit the PAYGO rules. So it is ironic on day one they were criticizing us that we were not going to do real PAYGO. Then we live by the spirit and the letter of the law and they criticize us that we should have done more and not pay for it. So, Mr. Speaker, I just came down here to point out that irony; to talk about how effective the PAYGO rules are that are already being put in place and how I think it is a tremendous testament to the work of all the Blue Dogs in the coalition that we have made this impact on the Congress, and we will continue to do so. I yield back to my colleague from Arkansas, and thank him again for his work.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. I thank my friend and gentleman from Florida. Madam Speaker, as a fiscally conservative Blue Dog Democrat, I rise in strong support of reinstating pay-as-you-go budgeting and the rules that accompany it. As Blue Dogs, we believe, as do the American people, that restoring fiscal responsibility in Washington is an urgent national priority. For far too long now under the previous leadership of this Congress and of the current White House, we have seen reckless fiscal policies that have undermined the future of America's economy. Now the time has come to take our country in a new and responsible direction. PAYGO rules are the centerpiece of the Blue Dog 12-point reform plan for putting an end to deficit spending. We know PAYGO rules work because they have in the past. During the 1990s, with PAYGO rules in place, the massive deficits that we were seeing at that time were converted into record surpluses. We saw the greatest period of economic growth and prosperity in American history. We can do that again, and we must. This will do, in fact, that.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, after 18 years of litigation, the Friant Water Users Authority, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and the Natural Resources Defense Council, NRDC, in November reached a settlement agreement to restore the San Joaquin River. This historic agreement resolves the lengthy and costly litigation issues that created an atmosphere of uncertainty for the Friant Authority and the growers that rely upon Friant for their water supply. I rise today in support of the settlement agreement and in support of H.R. 6377, the San Joaquin River Restoration Settlement Act. This legislation not only sets out a course for the implementation of this historic agreement, but it also resolves issues that are crucial to my constituents in California's 18th Congressional District. Without this legislation, the settlement could result in significant costs--in the millions--for downstream landowners and flood control operations, and also would have untolled impacts on water delivery systems for the State of California. The release of water to restore the river would have a domino effect downstream--from flooding, water table impacts, impacts on farmland and crops near the river, Endangered Species Act impacts and resulting water supply impacts to Delta water exporters-- Central Valley and State Water Project contractors--and upon San Joaquin River tributary agencies--Merced, Turlock, Modesto, Oakdale and South San Joaquin Irrigation Districts. This legislation ensures that the release of restoration flows down the San Joaquin River will not transfer impacts downstream. After weeks of negotiations with the impacted parties, Senator Feinstein and my other Valley congressional colleagues, I am pleased that we were able to come to an agreement on language that would allow the settlement to go forward, while at the same time protect the water rights and property rights of those not party to the litigation. Specifically, the language provides that the resulting spring run salmon population would be considered an ``experimental population'' and therefore not subject to the terms of the Endangered Species Act if the salmon migrate from the San Joaquin to its tributaries to the State or Federal export pumps in the San Francisco Bay Delta. This language will protect CVP and SWP contractors as well as Merced, Turlock, Modesto, Oakdale and South San Joaquin Irrigation Districts from water supply impacts. This legislation also allows the settlement to go forward with a phased-in approach, requiring the Bureau to conduct a feasibility study on the issues of costs and impacts and mitigation of the various options to release restoration flows. No water, other than test flows and minimum restoration flow levels, will be released until a feasibility study and mitigation plan for property is completed. The settlement agreement's two goals of restoration and water management are equal goals. In order for this settlement to be successful, it is crucial to have the continued support of the Friant Water Users. Meeting the water management goals of the settlement, with the Bureau developing an effective recirculation plan with excess pumping capacity and a recovered water account to mitigate a substantial portion of the water losses to Friant districts, is the best path toward this success. Successful implementation also dictates that funding is provided to meet both of these goals. I remain committed to continuing to work with my Valley congressional colleagues, Senators Feinstein and Boxer, the settling parties and third parties to ensure that this legislation and the settlement agreement are implemented consistent with these goals.