Tom Davis

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Chairman, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from California (Mr. Dooley). (Mr. DOOLEY of California asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Chairman, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from California (Mr. Dreier). (Mr. DREIER asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. I will yield on your time. Do you have the time, or are you just trying to interrupt me so I cannot get a stream of thought? You have ample opportunity to rebut me on the time allotted to you. So they were never an American company, and this is not a corporate inversion under the current law, and the gentleman knows that, and the author of this amendment knows that. Secondly, Bermuda is a British territory. Britain is a member of the World Trade Organization. To say they are not is fallacious, and I think we ought to at least keep this on a factual level. We have differing opinions, which I respect on this; but let us at least argue from the same basis of facts. Mr. Chairman, I am happy to yield 4 minutes to the gentleman from Oregon (Mr. Blumenauer).

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Chairman, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Colorado (Mr. Tancredo).

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Chairman, although I am defending the committee's position in this particular case, my understanding is I do not have the right to close because I am not a member of the committee.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Chairman, there are 330,000 American jobs in the contract that is currently being let to Accenture and its American corporate subsidiaries. But the other side would just delay those jobs at least 2 years and the creation of those jobs as they rebid this contract and recompete this contract and keep our borders less safe.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Chairman, I raise points of order against section 512, subsections (b) and (c), section 514 and section 525 on the grounds that these provisions change existing law in violation of clause 2(b) of House rule XXI and therefore are legislation included in a general appropriation bill.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. I yield to the gentleman from Wisconsin.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Chairman, I have discussed this with the gentleman from Tennessee. We are uncomfortable, as the gentleman knows, with the reporting requirements just through appropriations. We would want to include the committee which has jurisdiction over Buy- America, which is ours. We cannot rewrite this, but I pledge to work with the gentleman as we move forward on these issues.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to the amendment. The gentlewoman is entitled to her strong opinion but not her own facts. She notes that troops overseas need help. The reality is if her amendment passes, this will have to be recompeted and it will push back protecting our borders another 2 years. A lot of companies invested money in this. Homeland Security invested money in going through these. This will have to start again. The bids of the losers in this particular case will be made public. Everyone will have a starting place. This pushes the outcome to protect our homeland 2 years. So this does not do anything to protect the homeland, number one. Number two, Accenture, to my understanding, pays an effective tax rate for fiscal year 2004 of 34.8 percent. The two competitors in this pay, in their recent 10-K filings, 31.3 percent and 28 percent respectively. I ask the gentlewoman where is the tax advantage if they are paying a higher percentage of their taxes? Does she know? There is no tax advantage.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. I yield to the gentleman from Texas.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Yes.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Chairman, reclaiming my time, obviously it is the usual subterfuge on this. As a primer, they pay taxes on profits. They do not pay taxes on their losses. But we are talking here about an effective tax rate, not the tax rate itself, which of course would be equal for U.S. income. All work performed on this contract is performed in the United States. They were awarded this contract and the experts, the career civil servants who looked at this, decided this was the best procurement to protect the homeland. What they would have us do, the author of this would say let us not take the best defense we can get for the homeland, let us take something else. Let us pay a little more, let us get a little bit less because we want to settle the score because the parent company of the U.S.-based company that won this procurement somehow should be punished, even though all the work will be performed in the United States. And Accenture LLP led the SMART Border Alliance, which represents 31 U.S. companies employing 330,000 people in 50 States. Again, the US-VISIT program led the source of selection process here and chose this as the most effective means, not just cost effective but technically effective means, to protect the homeland, and they want to throw that out the window and say we will take second best for some other reason. The time to address this, frankly, was at the time of the procurement. Congress held hearings on this. We had an opportunity on this procurement before it was let to do something on that in the hearings. As I noted before, they do not receive a competitive advantage on this. Accenture is not a corporate inversion. This was a global partnership and all of their U.S.-based work of course they pay taxes on in the United States. The thing I worry about most, though, is retaliation. Right now in information technology we are running an $8 billion trade surplus. This jeopardizes that surplus by inviting retaliation from other countries in the globe where we currently maintain a trade surplus with retaliation against U.S. companies doing business in those different countries, and I think that would be a disaster for the U.S. economy, something that my district in Northern Virginia knows something about, being one of the leaders in this. I do not think we should reduce the safety and security of the U.S. to settle a political score in this particular case. Why should U.S. taxpayers pay more money and take, in the opinion of the career civil servants, a secondary technical solution to protect our homeland? I also want to note no jobs are being outsourced. All the work on this contract is being performed in the United States. Accenture I do not even believe has any employees in Bermuda. Every cent of taxes that is earned on this will be paid here. The CEO of Accenture lives in Texas. Their Chief Financial Officer lives in Texas. And the idea that somehow they are not employing Americans or these jobs are going offshore or any intimation of that is patently false. Let us take a look at the procurement itself because I think it is important. It is creating a nationwide entry and exit tracking system for foreign nationals visiting the United States. This amendment delays that for 2 years. I do not think our homeland needs that. I do not think the security in this country needs that. I urge defeating the amendment.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Reclaiming my time, I am particularly concerned with section 333 regarding the implementation of the E- Government Act. I understand the department's frustration with the funding of this initiative. I would like to work with the gentleman from North Carolina to find a way to properly implement e-government at the department rather than stopping this important program altogether.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. I thank the gentleman and urge my colleagues to support H.R. 4568. Point of Order

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. I yield to the gentleman from North Carolina.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word. Mr. Chairman, the interior appropriations bill contains a number of legislative provisions within the Committee on Government Reform's jurisdiction. I believe that in the past few days, we have established lines of communication and a good working relationship on these matters. I expect that as this bill moves forward to the other body in conference, we will continue this relationship and work together to make sure that these provisions are appropriate.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of President Reagan over the weekend. My thoughts and prayers go out to Nancy and to the Reagan family and friends. This is an extraordinarily difficult time for any family, but I hope they can find some comfort in the joy and inspiration that President Reagan brought to so many around the globe. Ronald Reagan was a true American original, a Midwestern boy of humble beginnings who chased his dreams of stardom in Hollywood and evolved into one of the foremost political leaders of the 20th Century. His legacy is so profound and pervasive that it's easy to take for granted. But we should not forget that it was Ronald Reagan who restored strength to the Office of the President. It was Ronald Reagan who reshaped the federal government and ushered in two decades (and counting) of lower taxes and economic growth. It was Ronald Reagan who bolstered America's strength as a world military power. And it was Ronald Reagan who reminded us that America was indeed that ``shining city on the hill,'' and we had bountiful reasons to be proud to be Americans. His love of country was a guiding force throughout his life and his political career--he knew America was great because America was free, and his sought to shine the light of freedom on corners of the globe darkened by the stain of totalitarianism. His demand for Mikhail Gorbachev to ``tear down this wall'' is not only a seminal moment in Cold War history, but a reminder that America's democratic ideals are ultimately stronger than any barriers erected by forces of oppression. Quite simply, President Reagan's words and actions helped change the world for the better. And I can't think of a greater accomplishment than that. We lost more than a man on Saturday, when President Reagan ended his long journey into the sunset. We lost a true giant, and a great American.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Sergeant Allen O'Reilly, UMC. Allen O'Reilly was born November 7, 1980 near Chicago, IL. At the age of 18, he dedicated his life to the service of his country by enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corps. Due to Allen's intelligence and potential, the Marine Corps selected him to be an avionics technician. After boot camp at Parris Island, SC, Allen went on to complete the academically challenging training required for this specialty at Pensacola Naval Air Station and the Marine Corps Air Station at Camp Pendleton, CA. As is so common with Marines, Allen spent a great deal of time participating in numerous training exercises around the globe. He was also called to duty against a hostile enemy, participating in Operation Iraqi Freedom, spending long months away from family, friends, and the comforts of home. Mr. Speaker, Allen was sadly taken from us last month. However, the memory of his service and dedication lives on. The medals he was awarded are a testament to his abilities and his accomplishments as a faithful Marine. I rise before my colleagues today to commend Sergeant O'Reilly--one willing to sacrifice so much of himself to protect the life of freedom and liberty all Americans enjoy.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Annandale High School as it prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary. Since its establishment in 1954 when President Eisenhower's ``Atoms for Education'' program lent its name to the school's mascot, the Annandale Atoms, Annandale High School has committed itself to lofty standards of academic and extracurricular excellence. Over the years, as the Annandale area has expanded and diversified, Annandale High School has followed the community's example. The school boasts such a great diversity that it recently received national attention. During his second term, President Clinton publicly recognized Annandale as a ``model school for diversity'', commenting on the fact that Annandale's student body represents over 80 countries and more than 40 native languages. To this day, Annandale High School remains a distinguished and greatly lauded school in all aspects from sports to the arts to academics. Annandale High School has won six state football championships and many other state-level recognitions. In addition, the band program, accompanied by the choral department, has won multiple awards in national competition and has performed in concerts at the Kennedy Center. This summer, a select choir will participate in the second part of an international exchange program with Germany. Furthermore, Annandale High School has taken the initiative to pioneer the International Baccalaureate program within the Fairfax County Public School System. This program, which allows students to take accelerated, honors courses that count towards an internationally recognized diploma, is one that other schools throughout the county remain reluctant to adopt due to its rigorous nature. Annandale High School plays an instrumental role in shaping its students into kind, considerate, and generous individuals devoted to helping others and improving their community. Most recently, three sisters, all students at Annandale, founded Wash America, a car wash initiative designed to provide financial support to families of the victims of the September 11th attacks. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I would like to thank Annandale High School faculty and staff for the immeasurable contributions that they have made to the community by shaping today's youth and tomorrow's future. I congratulate the High School on its successes over the last 50 years and I wish it more successful years in the future. I ask that my colleagues join me in applauding this outstanding and distinguished institution.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Res. 612, which recognizes and honors the firefighters, police, public servants, civilians, and private businesses who responded to the devastating fire in Richmond, Virginia, on March 26, 2004. On March 26, 2004, a destructive fire swept through Virginia Commonwealth University and the Carver Community of Richmond, Virginia. The size of this blaze quickly grew out of control such that local Richmond firefighters called for assistance from fire stations throughout the region. The quick response and valiant united effort of firefighters, police, public servants, and civilians extinguished the blaze and averted further destruction of property. Additionally, public, private and civic organizations provided shelter, food and comfort to those affected by the fire. This is a further example of the amazing courage and perseverance required on a daily basis by fire and rescue personnel across the country. These citizens don the uniforms of service to protect and provide for our communities and for our Nation. Mr. Speaker, this resolution honors the firefighters, police, public servants and private businesses who responded to this emergency with swiftness and courage, working together to protect the citizens of the Commonwealth of Virginia. I urge all of my colleagues to support this important resolution.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Adult Rehabilitation Center of the Salvation Army in Alexandria, Virginia. The Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC), is a social service organization dedicated to saving people from addiction, dysfunction, poverty, incarceration, and homelessness. It provides support to those who suffer from social and emotional needs and enables them to provide for themselves. An impressive 600-person turnout at the dedication ceremony on January 29, 1984 revealed both a need and support for the work of the ARC in Northern Virginia. The ARC provides adequate housing, therapy and employment in an orderly and nourishing environment. ARC focuses on the physical and spiritual needs of participants to facilitate re-entry into society through gainful employment. Frequently those who are rehabilitated experience a normal lifestyle. ARC is also unique in that its programs are self supporting. Items such as clothing and household items are brought to the salvation centers, repaired and refurbished and then resold to the public in the Salvation Army Thrift Stores. Finally, ARC does not discriminate based on race, color or religious belief and is open to all men with a treatable handicap. Because of these distinct and honest characteristics, the Salvation Army is very successful. Since its inception ARC has provided an invaluable asset to the Northern Virginia community. Its services are greatly appreciated. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I would like to congratulate the Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center of Alexandria on 20 years of successful service. I call upon my colleagues to join me in applauding their efforts to prepare individuals in body, mind and spirit for active useful roles in society.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Colonel Frank S. Vajda on winning the Mason District Council of Civic Associations' Man of the Year award. This special honor is truly well- deserved. Colonel Vajda first relocated to Fairfax County following his retirement from the United States Air Force after 28 years. He quickly became active in both volunteer and community activities, demonstrating a strong commitment to improving Fairfax County. Currently a member of the Court of Camelot Civic Association, Colonel Vajda has also served the organization as president. Moreover, Colonel Vajda founded and continues to orchestrate Camelot's annual holiday charity fund drive in support of the Children's Hospital. With community safety as a top priority, Colonel Vajda has served on the Camelot Neighborhood Watch Group for the past 15 years. As the organization's current coordinator, Colonel Vajda has tirelessly upheld the highest standards of care in the nation's oldest continuously active watch group. Furthermore, he organized and promoted the first park watch group at Pine Ridge, a local neighborhood park. Stemming from Mr. Vajda's efforts, the Park Authority, the Fairfax County Police, and the Rose Purple have effectively established the county- wide PARKWATCH system. Since 1997, Colonel Vajda has notably contributed to the Friends of Mason District Park as a member of the Steering Committee. His other efforts include acting as a park volunteer for the Mason District Park Festival, the Spring Egg Hunt, and the Spotlight by Starlight summer concert series. Colonel Vajda's actions have ensured that all of these events were carried out in a safe and secure environment. In 1998, Colonel Vajda was selected as the Mason District Representative to the Public Safety and Park Bond Referendum Committee. On this committee, his duties included speaking commitments informing county voters as to the purpose of the bonds during many speaking commitments. In 2001, Colonel Vajda extended the scope of responsibilities upon his appointment to the Park Authority Board. He continues to maintain the highest standards of service and dedication to this group. Throughout his accomplished career of service, Colonel Vajda has received numerous awards including the 1998 Elly Doyle Park Service Award on the Pine Ridge Park Green Team. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Colonel Vajda for his extensive service to the Mason District. His contributions and efforts are much appreciated and greatly admired. I call upon my colleagues to join me in congratulating Colonel Vajda on his award and in wishing him the best of luck in all future endeavors.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman. I ask this question for myself and my colleagues, the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Wolf), the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Moran) and the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Hoyer). I note on Wednesday, March 31, with 299 votes, the House passed House Resolution 581 regarding pay comparability for Federal employees. That language is not included in the resolution. Is it the gentleman's understanding that the language of that resolution is the position of the House?

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Sophie R. Hoffman for over two decades of dedicated service to the Jewish Community Council of Greater Washington, including 2 years as their president. Sophie R. Hoffman has worked tirelessly on behalf of the Jewish community, advocating Jewish interests, strengthening public support for Israel, building ties with other faith, minority, and ethnic groups and establishing a framework for social action. While serving the Jewish community, Ms. Hoffman has enhanced the quality of life for those around her. She played a key role in securing over $2 million in grants for Jewish social service agencies, which provide for vulnerable citizens throughout Greater Washington. For years, Ms. Hoffman has committed herself to strengthening public support for Israel. Her duties included presenting Cardinal McCarrick with a menorah to honor the heroes and martyrs of the Holocaust. This was then permanently placed on the campus of the Catholic University of America. Furthermore, the Council has established and developed public school literacy programs under Ms. Hoffman's guidance. She has also been incredibly involved in preserving the principles of religious freedom in public schools and working to nurture a positive environment for the children. Her remarkable organization efforts have helped to create a framework for social action. Throughout her accomplished career as a dedicated public servant, Ms. Hoffman has continuously demonstrated her vitality and commitment towards the Greater Washington community. Due to her contributions of time and talent, the diverse society is able to maintain its beauty while evolving to keep pace with the rapidly changing region. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I would like to extend my best wishes to Ms. Hoffman on her retirement from the Jewish Community Council of Greater Washington. Her significant contributions are much appreciated and greatly admired. I congratulate her on a job well done. I call upon my colleagues to join me in honoring Ms. Hoffman and in wishing her the best of luck in all future endeavors.