Tom Davis

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to clause 2(a)(2) of Rule XI of the Rules of the House of Representatives, I hereby submit the rules of the Committee on Government Reform for the 108th Congress for publication in the Congressional Record. These rules were adopted by the Committee on February 13, 2003, in a meeting that was open to the public. 1. RULES OF THE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT REFORM U.S. House of Representatives 108th Congress Rule XI, clause 1(a)(1)(A) of the House of Representatives provides: Except as provided in subdivision (B), the Rules of the House are the rules of its committees and subcommittees so far as applicable. (B) A motion to recess from day to day, and a motion to dispense with the first reading (in full) of a bill or resolution, if printed copies are available, each shall be privileged in committees and subcommittees and shall be decided without debate. Rule XI, clause 2(a)(1) of the House of Representatives provides, in part: Each standing committee shall adopt written rules governing its procedure. * * * In accordance with this, the Committee on Government Reform, on February 13, 2003, adopted the rules of the committee: Rule 1.--Application of Rules Except where the terms ``full committee'' and ``subcommittee'' are specifically referred to, the following rules shall apply to the Committee on Government Reform and its subcommittees as well as to the respective chairmen. [See House Rule XI, 1.] Rule 2.--Meetings The regular meetings of the full committee shall be held on the second Tuesday of each month at 10 a.m., when the House is in session. The chairman is authorized to dispense with a regular meeting or to change the date thereof, and to call and convene additional meetings, when circumstances warrant. A special meeting of the committee may be requested by members of the committee following the provisions of House Rule XI, clause 2(c)(2). Subcommittees shall meet at the call of the subcommittee chairmen. Every member of the committee or the appropriate subcommittee, unless prevented by unusual circumstances, shall be provided with a memorandum at least three calendar days before each meeting or hearing explaining (1) the purpose of the meeting or hearing; and (2) the names, titles, background and reasons for appearance of any witnesses. The ranking minority member shall be responsible for providing the same information on witnesses whom the minority may request. [See House Rule XI, 2 (b) and (c).] Rule 3.--Quorums A majority of the members of the committee shall form a quorum, except that two members shall constitute a quorum for taking testimony and receiving evidence, and one-third of the members shall form a quorum for taking any action other than the reporting of a measure or recommendation. If the chairman is not present at any meeting of the committee or subcommittee, the ranking member of the majority party on the committee or subcommittee who is present shall preside at that meeting. [See House Rule XI, 2(h).] Rule 4.--Committee Reports Bills and resolutions approved by the committee shall be reported by the chairman following House Rule XIII, clauses 2-4. A proposed report shall not be considered in subcommittee or full committee unless the proposed report has been available to the members of such subcommittee or full committee for at least three calendar days (excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, unless the House is in session on such days) before consideration of such proposed report in subcommittee or full committee. Any report will be considered as read if available to the members at least 24 hours before consideration, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays unless the House is in session on such days. If hearings have been held on the matter reported upon, every reasonable effort shall be made to have such hearings available to the members of the subcommittee or full committee before the consideration of the proposed report in such subcommittee or full committee. Every investigative report shall be approved by a majority vote of the committee at a meeting at which a quorum is present. Supplemental, minority, or additional views may be filed following House Rule XI, clause 2(l) and Rule XIII, clause 3(a)(1). The time allowed for filing such views shall be three calendar days, beginning on the day of notice, but excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays (unless the House is in session on such a day), unless the committee agrees to a different time, but agreement on a shorter time shall require the concurrence of each member seeking to file such views. An investigative or oversight report may be filed after sine die adjournment of the last regular session of Congress, provided that if a member gives timely notice of intention to file supplemental, minority or additional views, that member shall be entitled to not less than seven calendar days in which to submit such views for inclusion with the report. Only those reports approved by a majority vote of the committee may be ordered printed, unless otherwise required by the Rules of the House of Representatives. Rule 5.--Proxy Votes In accordance with the Rules of the House of Representatives, members may not vote by proxy on any measure or matter before the committee or any subcommittee. [See House Rule XI, 2(f).] Rule 6.--Record Votes A record vote of the members may be had upon the request of any member upon approval of a one-fifth vote of the members present. Rule 7.--Record of Committee Actions The committee staff shall maintain in the committee offices a complete record of committee actions from the current Congress including a record of the rollcall votes taken at committee business meetings. The original records, or true copies thereof, as appropriate, shall be available for public inspection whenever the committee offices are open for public business. The staff shall assure that such original records are preserved with no unauthorized alteration, additions, or defacement. [See House Rule XI, 2(e).] Rule 8.--Subcommittees; Referrals There shall be seven subcommittees with appropriate party ratios that shall have fixed jurisdictions. Bills, resolutions, and other matters shall be referred by the chairman to subcommittees within two weeks for consideration or investigation in accordance with their fixed jurisdictions. Where the subject matter of the referral involves the jurisdiction of more than one subcommittee or does not fall within any previously assigned jurisdiction, the chairman shall refer the matter as he may deem advisable. Bills, resolutions, and other matters referred to subcommittees may be reassigned by the chairman when, in his judgement, the subcommittee is not able to complete its work or cannot reach agreement therein. In a subcommittee having an even number of members, if there is a tie vote with all members voting on any measure, the measure shall be placed on the agenda for full committee consideration as if it had been ordered reported by the subcommittee without recommendation. This provision shall not preclude further action on the measure by the subcommittee. Rule 9.--Ex Officio Members The chairman and the ranking minority member of the committee shall be ex officio members of all subcommittees. They are authorized to vote on subcommittee matters; but, unless they are regular members of the subcommittee, they shall not be counted in determining a subcommittee quorum other than a quorum for taking testimony. Rule 10.--Staff Except as otherwise provided by House Rule X, clauses 6, 7 and 9, the chairman of the full committee shall have the authority to hire and discharge employees of the professional and clerical staff of the full committee and of subcommittees. Rule 11.--Staff Direction Except as otherwise provided by House Rule X, clauses 6, 7 and 9, the staff of the committee shall be subject to the direction of the chairman of the full committee and shall perform such duties as he may assign. Rule 12.--Hearing Dates and Witnesses The chairman of the full committee will announce the date, place, and subject matter of all hearings at least one week before the commencement of any hearings, unless he determines, with the concurrence of the ranking minority member, or the committee determines by a vote, that there is good cause to begin such hearings sooner. So that the chairman of the full committee may coordinate the committee facilities and hearings plans, each subcommittee chairman shall notify him of any hearing plans at least two weeks before the date of commencement of hearings, including the date, place, subject matter, and the names of witnesses, willing and unwilling, who would be called to testify, including, to the extent he is advised thereof, witnesses whom the minority members may request. The minority members shall supply the names of witnesses they intend to call to the chairman of the full committee or subcommittee at the earliest possible date. Witnesses appearing before the committee shall so far as practicable, submit written statements at least 24 hours before their appearance and, when appearing in a non-governmental capacity, provide a curriculum vitae and a listing of any Federal Government grants and contracts received in the previous fiscal year. [See House Rules XI, 2 (g)(3), (g)(4),(j) and (k).] Rule 13.--Open Meetings Meetings for the transaction of business and hearings of the committee shall be open to the public or closed in accordance with Rule XI of the House of Representatives. [See House Rules XI, 2 (g) and (k).] Rule 14.--Five-Minute Rule (1) A committee member may question a witness only when recognized by the chairman for that purpose. In accordance with House Rule XI, clause 2(j)(2), each committee member may request up to five minutes to question a witness until each member who so desires has had such opportunity. Until all such requests have been satisfied, the chairman shall, so far as practicable, recognize alternately based on seniority of those majority and minority members present at the time the hearing was called to order and others based on their arrival at the hearing. After that, additional time may be extended at the direction of the chairman. (2) The chairman, with the concurrence of the ranking minority member, or the committee by motion, may permit an equal number of majority and minority members to question a witness for a specified, total period that is equal for each side and not longer than thirty minutes for each side. (3) The chairman, with the concurrence of the ranking minority member, or the committee by motion, may permit committee staff of the majority and minority to question a witness for a specified, total period that is equal for each side and not longer than thirty minutes for each side. (4) Nothing in paragraph (2) or (3) affects the rights of a Member (other than a Member designated under paragraph (2)) to question a witness for 5 minutes in accordance with paragraph (1) after the questioning permitted under paragraph (2) or (3). In any extended questioning permitted under paragraph (2) or (3), the chairman shall determine how to allocate the time permitted for extended questioning by majority members or majority committee staff and the ranking minority member shall determine how to allocate the time permitted for extended questioning by minority members or minority committee staff. The chairman or the ranking minority member, as applicable, may allocate the time for any extended questioning permitted to staff under paragraph (3) to members. Rule 15.--Investigative Hearing Procedures Investigative hearings shall be conducted according to the procedures in House Rule XI, clause 2(k). All questions put to witnesses before the committee shall be relevant to the subject matter before the committee for consideration, and the chairman shall rule on the relevance of any questions put to the witnesses. Rule 16.--Stenographic Record A stenographic record of all testimony shall be kept of public hearings and shall be made available on such conditions as the chairman may prescribe. Rule 17.--Audio and Visual Coverage of Committee Proceedings (1) An open meeting or hearing of the committee or a subcommittee may be covered, in whole or in part, by television broadcast, radio broadcast, Internet broadcast, and still photography, unless closed subject to the provisions of House Rule XI, clause 2(g). Any such coverage shall conform with the provisions of House Rule XI, clause 4. (2) Use of the Committee Broadcast System shall be fair and nonpartisan, and in accordance with House Rule XI, clause 4(b), and all other applicable rules of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Government Reform. Members of the committee shall have prompt access to a copy of coverage by the Committee Broadcast System, to the extent that such coverage is maintained. (3) Personnel providing coverage of an open meeting or hearing of the committee or a subcommittee by Internet broadcast, other than through the Committee Broadcast System, shall be currently accredited to the Radio and Television Correspondents' Galleries. Rule 18.--Additional Duties of Chairman The chairman of the full committee shall: (a) Make available to other committees the findings and recommendations resulting from the investigations of the committee or its subcommittees as required by House Rule X, clause 4(c)(2); (b) Direct such review and studies on the impact or probable impact of tax policies affecting subjects within the committee's jurisdiction as required by House Rule X, clause 2(c); (c) Submit to the Committee on the Budget views and estimates required by House Rule X, clause 4(f), and to file reports with the House as required by the Congressional Budget Act; (d) Authorize and issue subpoenas as provided in House Rule XI, clause 2(m), in the conduct of any investigation or activity or series of investigations or activities within the jurisdiction of the committee; (e) Prepare, after consultation with subcommittee chairmen and the minority, a budget for the committee which shall include an adequate budget for the subcommittees to discharge their responsibilities; (f) Make any necessary technical and conforming changes to legislation reported by the committee upon unanimous consent; and (g) Designate a vice chairman from the majority party. Rule 19.--Commemorative Stamps The committee has adopted the policy that the determination of the subject matter of commemorative stamps properly is for consideration by the Postmaster General and that the committee will not give consideration to legislative proposals for the issuance of commemorative stamps. It is suggested that recommendations for the issuance of commemorative stamps be submitted to the Postmaster General. Rule 20.--Panels and Task Forces (a) The chairman of the committee is authorized to appoint panels or task forces to carry out the duties and functions of the committee. (b) The chairman and ranking minority member of the committee may serve as ex-officio members of each panel or task force. (c) The chairman of any panel or task force shall be appointed by the chairman of the committee. The ranking minority member shall select a ranking minority member for each panel or task force. (d) The House and committee rules applicable to subcommittee meetings, hearings, recommendations and reports shall apply to the meetings, hearings, recommendations and reports of panels and task forces. (e) No panel or task force so appointed shall continue in existence for more than six months. A panel or task force so appointed may, upon the expiration of six months, be reappointed by the chairman.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to honor the Javits-Wagner-O'Day (JWOD) Program for their strong portrayal of public service and dedication to the blind and severely disabled. For the past 64 years JWOD has provided 38,000 disabled Americans with opportunity, incentive, and employment. Through this program, dedicated employees provide federal and military consumers with a wide array of SKILCRAFT and other high JWOD products and services. In addition, JWOD provides a plethora of product categories that include office supplies, military specific, safety, maintenance, repair, medical-surgical, janitorial-sanitation, and customization. JWOD also provides many service to the federal and military customers that include call center and switchboard operations, military base and federal office building supply centers, CD-Rom duplication-replication, data entry, document imaging, and grounds care. I commend Javits-Wagner-O'Day Program and the opportunities it provides for an underemployed category of deserving citizens. Furthermore, due to the exceptional quality and socioeconomic benefits of the program I urge my colleagues to purchase SKILLCRAFT and JWOD products from the Capitol Hill Office Supply Store. The JWOD Program is administered by the president-appointed Committee For Purchase From People Who are Blind and Disabled, assisted by National Industries for the Blind (NIB) and NISH, who work in co- operation with more than 650 non-profit agencies to ensure disabled persons receive quality employment. Mr. Speaker, I extend my warmest gratitude to the Javits-Wagner-O'Day Program for their admirable contributions to Fairfax County, Virginia. The program is distinguished through their devotion on disabled citizens and community service. I call upon my colleagues to join me in applauding their achievements and supporting their cause.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to honor the Mount Vernon Voice, which has recently been named the 2002 New Business of the Year by the Mount Vernon-Lee Chamber of Commerce. The Voice, founded by Marlene Miller and Steve Hunt, is a weekly newspaper dedicated to providing complete community coverage of the Mount Vernon and Lee Districts and the City of Alexandria. Having celebrated its one-year anniversary in January 2003, the Mount Vernon Voice has already proven to be a good neighbor and an invaluable member of its community. Being the only newspaper located in the community, it serves and is staffed by residents of the area. Additionally, the Voice is proud to sponsor numerous community events and organizations, including Mount Vernon Community Day, the Mount Vernon Orchestra, Lee District Nights, educational forums on local public schools, the Alexandria Red Cross Waterfront Festival, the Animal Welfare League's Canine games, and many more community functions. Located in the heart of the 11th District of Virginia, the Mount Vernon Voice has established itself as a vital member of the Northern Virginia community. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I call upon my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Mount Vernon Voice and its staff for their many achievements, and wish them continued success in their future endeavors.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Frank Meeks, who has recently been named the Chamber Citizen of the Year by the Mount Vernon-Lee Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Meeks earned a degree in political science and English from the University of Southern Mississippi, with the goal of attending law school. In order to help defray the cost of continuing his education, he became a delivery boy for Domino's Pizza in 1979. Within a short amount of time, Mr. Meeks became manager of the store, and decided to stay with Domino's. In December 1980, Mr. Meeks took 2 years off from Domino's Pizza and served as a congressional aide for Senator Trent Lott, then a Member of the House of Representatives. Mr. Meeks continued to earn extra money by assisting Domino's Pizza in opening up new stores in the Virginia area. After 2 years with Mr. Lott, Mr. Meeks decided to return to Domino's and was awarded the franchise for Northern Virginia and Washington, DC. Mr. Meeks opened his first store in July 1983 in Alexandria, Virginia. Today, Frank Meeks oversees the operation of fifty-nine Domino's Pizza stores in Washington, DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia. Mr. Meek's franchise, Domino's Pizza Team Washington, continues to be one of the top franchises in Domino's Pizza, Inc. Under Mr. Meek's leadership, Team Washington has been active in supporting area schools. Team Washington has generously contributed to the post prom and after graduation parties in Fairfax County, Virginia, and Montgomery County, Maryland. In addition, Team Washington has also contributed to the Washington's Children's National Medical Center, Food and Friends, Mount Vernon High School, and numerous other organizations. Mr. Speaker, in closing, it gives me great pleasure to extend my warmest congratulations to Mr. Frank Meeks. I call upon my colleagues to join me in honoring him for all of his success and dedication to his work and the community.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to honor Rent-All Center which was named the 2002 Small Business of the Year by the Mount Vernon-Lee Chamber of Commerce. Located in the heart of the 11th District of Virginia, the Rent-All Center was opened by Freeman and Lois Jones in 1970. It was created to serve the Mt. Vernon community as a source for home improvement and light contracting equipment. Today, the company has grown from a local tool rental shop into a full service party rental company, servicing the entire metro Washington, DC, area. The Rent-All Center can best be described as a family-operated business. While currently managed by Douglas Jones and Judith Beyer, the children of Freeman and Lois Jones, on any given day three generations of family members can be found working there. In addition to its outstanding business ethic, the Rent-All Center has distinguished itself through its commitment to serving the local community through participation in numerous community organizations, such as the Southeast Fairfax Development Corporation. Rent-All Center also supports youth sports, and is a member of the Board of Directors of the Woodlawn Little League. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I call upon my colleagues to join me in congratulating Douglas Jones, Judith Beyer, and all those associated with the Rent-All Center for their many achievements, and wish them continued success in their future endeavors.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate National Bass Guide Service on their recognition by the Mount Vernon-Lee Chamber of Commerce as the Home- Based Business of 2002. Founded by Steve Chaconas, National Bass Guide Service is a fishing charter operation on the Potomac River that specializes in largemouth bass. Since its foundation two years ago, National Bass Guide Service has tripled the number of fishing charters it provides. In addition, Mr. Chaconas has expanded into outdoor writing for four publications, giving more exposure to the sport of fishing. In addition to the numerous services they provide along the Potomac River, National Bass Guide Service is dedicated to contributing to the community. Mr. Chaconas has served as chairman and Master of Ceremonies for the St. Jude Children's Hospital Annual Bass Fishing Tournament, raising nearly $100,000 for the hospital. National Bass Guide Service has also donated fishing trips to the Hollin Hall Senior Center, the Recreation Boating and Fishing Foundation, as well as to churches and organizations for fundraising auctions. Mr. Speaker, in closing, it is an honor to extend my warm congratulations to National Bass Guide Service for all of their achievements. The recognition by the Mount Vernon-Lee Chamber of Commerce is well deserved. I call upon my colleagues to join me in wishing the National Bass Guide Service future success.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Chairman, we heard some of the same dire predictions from the other side when we passed this legislation originally in 1996. We heard predictions that the caseloads were going to rise, that unemployment was going to rise, that the child poverty level would reach all-time highs. In point of fact, the opposite has occurred. Instead, welfare rolls shrank as many Americans moved from welfare to work, from dependence to self-sufficiency. Over the last 6 years we have seen incredible results, results that need to continue to spread for the benefit of our Nation as a whole. 3.6 million fewer Americans live in poverty today than in 1996. Employment of single mothers is now more than 70 percent, which is an all-time high. Since 1994, welfare caseloads have fallen by 60 percent, today leaving less than 2 percent of the U.S. population on welfare. Moreover, crime has dropped, illegitimacy has declined, and abortions are rarer. A lot of good things came out of that legislation that we passed in 1996. We knew that the original system that was designed for a different time and a different era. It was designed for a time when most of the women were home. Most women did not work outside the home, and out-of- wedlock births were rare; but times changed and we have reformed a system whose incentives were perverse that discouraged self- sufficiency, that subsidized out-of-wedlock births, that trapped beneficiaries by making it too costly for them to go back to work because of the benefits that they would lose. By sharing this responsibility with the States, we are using the federalist model going back literally to a lot of innovation we get at the State level that is discouraged by Federal bureaucracies. This legislation takes us to the next step. I think it would return more people and move them off of the welfare rolls, on to payrolls, of building successful families and building a successful country. I want to thank the authors of this legislation, and I am proud to support it.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to honor Ms. Erin Beaulieu upon her selection as one of two recipients of the Virginia 2003 Prudential Spirit of Community Award. Erin, a Red Cross member and eighth-grader at Whitman Middle School in Alexandria, Virginia, started a Red Cross student chapter at her school and encouraged her fellow students to become involved! The chapter now boasts more than 30 members dedicated to helping the American Red Cross respond. For her efforts, she was selected from more than 24,000 nominees to receive a Spirit of Community Award. The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, created by Prudential Financial in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals, constitute America's largest youth recognition program based exclusively on volunteer service. The award was created with the intent to impress upon all youth volunteers that their contributions are critically important and highly valued, and to inspire other young people to follow their example. Erin should be extremely proud to have been singled out from such a large group of dedicated volunteers. I heartily applaud Erin for her initiative in seeking to make her community a better place to live, and for the positive impact she has had on the lives of others. She has demonstrated a level of commitment and accomplishment that is truly extraordinary in today's world, and deserves our sincere admiration and respect. Her actions show that young Americans can and do play important roles in our communities, and that America's community spirit continues to hold tremendous promise for the future. I call upon my colleagues to join me in applauding Erin for all that she has done.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, we rise today to recognize and honor Mr. Gerald T. Halpin for his years of service in his workplace and community. Mr. Halpin currently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of WEST*GROUP MANAGEMENT LLC, a corporation he founded in 1962. As President of WEST*GROUP, Mr. Halpin has been responsible for the development, redevelopment, and construction of over 13 million square feet of office, retail, residential, and industrial space. With his co- founders, WEST*GROUP initiated the development of the area known as Tysons Corner, Virginia, upon the purchase of a 125-acre farm in 1962. Since this initial development, Mr. Halpin has since opened four beautifully landscaped office parks located near major transportation arteries in Northern Virginia and suburban Maryland. Having served as Chairman of Alexandria Management Corporation, Mr. Halpin has also acquired extensive experience in the development of hotels and resorts. He was an owner and key developer of the luxury resort The Cottonwoods, as well as two other hotels in Scottsdale, Arizona. In residential real estate, Mr. Halpin has also achieved a high level of expertise. Mr. Halpin has plans to construct four high- rise condominium towers in Tysons Comer, Virginia. In addition to his professional achievements, Gerry Halpin has given back to his community. He served for more than eight years as a member of the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority and its predecessors. Mr. Halpin was also appointed to the Governor's Advisory Board on Industrial Development, and has served on the Board under three governors. Currently, Mr. Halpin serves as Chairman of the Washington Monument Visitor Education Fund. In addition, he also chairs the Grand Teton National Park Foundation, an organization that he founded. Mr. Halpin has also served as a Trustee of the American Museum of Immigration, the National Parks and Recreation Association, and the Wolf Trap Foundation. Mr. Halpin has been honored for his many accomplishments throughout the years. Most recently, he was recognized as the Ernst & Young Greater Washington ``2002 Master Entrepreneur of the Year.'' Also in 2002, he was awarded an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Humanities from Shenandoah University. Other significant awards include the Fairfax County Citizen of the Year Award, the prestigious Ellie Doyle Service Award from the Fairfax County Park Authority, as well as a Virginia Senate proclamation honoring Mr. Halpin as an ``Outstanding Virginian for a Lifetime of Dedication to Fairfax County.'' Mr. Speaker, in closing, it is with great pleasure that we extend this recognition to Mr. Gerald Halpin. His dedication to his business and community deserves to be commended. We call upon all of our colleagues in joining us to applaud Mr. Halpin for all of his accomplishments.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, on the morning of Saturday, February 1st, the men and women of Columbia Mission STS-107 were on their way home when they were suddenly and tragically taken from us. Today we offer the respect and gratitude of a grateful nation for their service and their sacrifice. Over the last few days our Nation has prayed for the family and friends of the lost and have learned of the lives of seven truly extraordinary individuals. Commander Rick Husband, Pilot William McCool, Payload Commander Michael Anderson, Mission Specialist David Brown, Mission Specialist Kalpana Chawla, Mission Specialist Laurel Clark, and Payload Specialist Ilan Ramon understood the risk and were willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for the advancement of humanity. The crew conducted more than 80 scientific experiments in the physical, life, and space sciences during their voyage. The objective of their mission was to help us solve problems here on Earth through experiments such as growing bone and prostate cancer tissue in search of new treatments; testing new techniques of encapsulating anti-cancer drugs to improve their efficiency; and examining the physics of combustion and fire quenching to gain insights into fire-suppression that cannot be obtained on Earth. Their mission is a reminder of the importance of our space program and the benefits that can be achieved through these efforts. Our search for understanding and our basic desire to reach into the darkness just beyond our grasp are both the hallmark and the calling of our humanity. As we take these moments to grieve for the lives lost and the families and friends left behind, we also stand here today resolved that space exploration and the cause of research and discovery must go on. Perhaps it is testimony to the greatness of our society when sending men and women into the heavens seemingly becomes commonplace--and perhaps it is regretful that many of us take notice only when a tragedy such as this occurs. Nevertheless, we were reminded on Saturday that all great endeavors involve great risk. We will go on and continue the work these seven astronauts began. They will go down in history as heroes who paid the ultimate price as pioneers in the frontier of space exploration. For their memories and in their names, we rededicate our efforts to unlock the mysteries of the heavens.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to honor Mr. Gregg Modesitt on his selection as The Central Fairfax Chamber of Commerce Business Leader of the Year for 2002. Mr. Modesitt will be honored at the Central Fairfax Chamber of Commerce Luncheon on January 23, 2003. Mr. Modesitt is a certified public accountant in Northern Virginia, but more importantly he provides considerable community leadership. Mr. Modesitt is involved with many local organizations and has been honored by many for his professional talents and philanthropic efforts. In the past, he has served as treasurer, vice president and president of the Central Fairfax Chamber of Commerce, in addition to serving as the Director and Vice President and Loans of the Virginia Asset Financing Corporation. He also has served on the faculty at Northern Virginia Community College, teaching adult education courses, been an active member and President of the Annandale Rotary, and served as a life member of Virginia Jaycees. These activities are simply a few of the many activities Mr. Modesitt has undertaken. More important than his professional accomplishments are the immense personal and social impacts Mr. Modesitt has had on the Northern Virginia community. He is a strong supporter of mentoring programs in the community and is described by colleagues as one who willingly gives his time and knowledge to others who need guidance and encouragement. One notable way Mr. Modesitt has consistently given to the community is his service as Santa Claus each year for organizations that assist underprivileged children. Mr. Speaker, in closing, it is with great pleasure that I extend a wholehearted thank you and congratulations to Mr. Modesitt. His contributions to Virginia and his community have been great. I call upon my colleagues to join me in applauding him for all that he has done.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to honor Mr. Andrew Horwat, upon his selection to perform with the Honor Band of America. Andrew has made Robert E. Lee High School history by becoming the first student ever from his high school to be selected for this national Honor Band. Every year student musicians all across the country are nominated by their band directors to take part in this national performance. After the nomination, musicians are evaluated by a distinguished panel of university wind conductors, and selected to attend the Bands of America National Concert Band Festival and National Percussion Festival. This year, the 11th District of Virginia is proud to send one of our own to this selective event. Andrew is currently a drum major in the Marching Lancers, Lee High School's band. In March, he will represent this group when he travels to Indianapolis to perform with all other high school students selected for the Honor Band of America. This experience will provide Andrew with the opportunity to participate in rehearsals, master classes, and special clinics and concerts in addition to rehearsing with the Honor Band. This experience will not only recognize Andrew for the dedication he has already exhibited, but also motivate him to continue his hard work. Andrew's accolade is a perfect example to young students that hard work and dedication do pay off. I believe that Andrew will serve as an example to his peers and hope that through this experience, he will be able to share with them all that he has learned. Mr. Speaker, in closing, it is with great pleasure that I extend this recognition to Mr. Andrew Horwat. His hard work and discipline are an example to all of us. The 11th District of Virginia is honored to have such a young talent in our community. I call upon my colleagues to join me in applauding him for all of his accomplishments.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to honor Mr. Al Akers upon his retirement as President of the Occoquan Watershed Coalition on December 1, 2002. Mr. Akers' resume and accomplishments speak for themselves. He holds masters degrees in both business administration and international relations, and he is a graduate of the Advanced Management Programs at the Claremont Graduate School and the University of Southern California. After retiring from the U.S. Army as a major general, Mr. Akers helped launch two companies and was the executive director of a non-profit organization. Not only does Mr. Akers have an impeccable career on paper, he has had a great and tangible impact on his community. In 1993, he served as chairman of the Superintendent's Community Advisory Counsel for Fairfax County Public Schools. Then, in 1995, he was selected as Lord Fairfax for the Springfield District, and also became a member of the Task Force on Fairfax County Resources and Expenditures. Mr. Akers served as a member of the Lorton Task Force from 1995-1997 and as vice chairman of the Springfield District Council. In addition to serving as vice chairman of this council, Mr. Akers was, and remains a member. Perhaps one of his most significant contributions has been his work with the Occoquan Watershed Coalition, an all-volunteer organization committed to the protection of ``The Downzoned Occoquan Watershed'' and drinking water it provides. Mr. Akers served as vice president of the Occoquan Watershed Coalition from 1994-1999, in addition to serving as the coalition's representative to the Fairfax County Federation of Citizen's Association since 1995. It is his tenure as President of the Occoquan Watershed Coalition we recognize today. Mr. Speaker, in closing, it is with great pleasure that I extend a wholehearted thank you to Mr. Al Akers. His contributions to Virginia and his community have been great. Virginia is proud to have such a distinguished citizen in its professional and social community. I call upon my colleagues to join me in applauding him for all that he has done.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Mr. Duncan Holaday upon his retirement after 35 years of devoted service in support of our great Nation. His last position was with the Department of the Navy, where he served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Installations and Facilities. Mr. Holaday was born on February 15, 1943 in Berkeley, CA. He graduated from Beloit College in 1965 with a bachelor of arts degree in philosophy. In 1976, he received a master of business administration degree from Syracuse University. Mr. Holaday began his Government service with the U.S. Army in 1967 as a management intern. Following completion of his training, he spent the next 15 years as an operations research analyst with the Army, serving both in the Pentagon and in Europe as well as with the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Program Analysis and Evaluation. While in this position at OSD, Mr. Holaday was responsible for analyzing Army and Marine Corps force structure, force basing, military construction, and manpower requirements. From 1982 to 1987, Mr. Holaday served as a director in the office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Installations. It was there that he implemented the Model Installation Program, which was a highly successful test of the proposition that base commanders could do a better job of running their bases when freed of restraints imposed by headquarters. While at OSD, he also developed and implemented DOD-wide real property and base utilization policies. He later served as the Director of the Defense Acquisition Regulatory System under the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition between 1987 and 1990. From 1990 to early 1993, he was the Executive Director of the Defense Ethics Council. After leaving the Office of the Secretary of Defense in April 1993 and before joining the Department of the Navy in 1994, Mr. Holaday worked with then Vice President Al Gore on the National Performance Review, NPR. There, he was responsible for improving real property acquisition and management within the Federal Government and oversaw government-wide implementation of NPR recommendations for downsizing and streamlining the Federal workforce. In October, 1994, he was appointed Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy, Installations and Facilities. As the Deputy Assistant Secretary, he was responsible for establishing policy and improving oversight on the Department of the Navy's acquisition, construction, use, management, operation, and disposal of real estate, facilities, and housing at Navy and Marine Corps bases worldwide. During the transition in administrations, between January and August, 2001, he served as the Senior Civilian Official in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Installations and Environment. As Senior Civilian Official, he was directly responsible to the Secretary of the Navy for the formulation of Department-wide policies and procedures, and for overseeing all Department of the Navy functions and programs relating to environmental protection; Navy and Marine Corps facilities and installations; housing; long-range basing and infrastructure requirements; and safety and occupational health for military and civilian personnel. In this role, he provided stability and continuity during the absence of three presidentially-appointed political appointees. His accomplishments throughout his career, and especially while serving in the Department of the Navy, are extraordinary. He has worked tirelessly to promote investment in the facilities where sailors and marines live, work, and train. He was at the forefront of the Department's efforts to improve military family housing through the innovative use of privatization authorities allowing partnership with the private sector. During his stewardship, the Department of the Navy was able to realize over $600 million in investment in Navy and Marine Corps family housing, using only slightly over $100 million of its own resources. To every problem and challenge he has faced, he has brought keen insight and attention to detail that has enabled thoughtful solutions. He demonstrated extraordinary environmental stewardship in successfully shepherding the transfer of land on the western end of Vieques within the timeframes specified by law. He has successfully engaged in the extremely complicated task of negotiations and agreements, allowing the Department to convey base closure property for redevelopment by local communities. Mr. Holaday has left a remarkable legacy. The hallmark of his service, throughout his career, has been improved living and working conditions for the soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines who serve our country so bravely, day after day. He has been steadfast in his service to this great nation and his devotion to those with whom he has served. His superb performance has won him countless awards, including the Distinguished Civilian Service Award in 2001. His leadership will be sorely missed. I for one am extremely grateful that he chose to enter public service. I wish to recognize and thank him for his honorable service and would like to join with his many friends and colleagues, both within the executive branch and here in Congress, in wishing him fair winds and following seas as he and his wife, Mary Margaret, and son, Duncan, continue forward in what most assuredly will remain a life of service to this great Nation.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to honor Mr. Bill Cole, an outstanding citizen of Northern Virginia. Mr. Cole has completed an exceptional career that has positively impacted our community. As a retired Army Officer with 28 years of service, Mr. Cole's last assignment was with the Department of Defense in helicopter research and development. While holding a master's degree in public administration, Mr. Cole currently works for William W. Cole & Associates, a business consulting firm he formed in 1992. Mr. Cole has also served as General Manager of Capital Lighting & Supply, Inc, an electrical distributor, for 18 years. Concurrently, he was co-owner and Vice President of Shannon Builders, a residential construction company, from 1978-1982. Perhaps one of Mr. Cole's most important contributions to the community was his service as President of the Occoquan Watershed Coalition, an all-volunteer organization that is committed to the protection of ``The Downzoned Occoquan Watershed'' and the drinking water that it provides. Mr. Cole formed the Occoquan Watershed Coalition in the fall of 1994 and on December 7, 1994, the coalition was recognized as an official organization. Bill Cole's efforts have motivated others to dedicate their time and energy to improving quality of life for others. He is that rare individual who cares more about doing good than getting credit. Mr. Speaker, in closing, it is with great pleasure that I extend this recognition to Mr. Bill Cole. His contributions to Virginia and his community have been great. Virginia is proud to have such a distinguished citizen in its professional and social community. I call upon my colleagues to join me in applauding him for all that he has done.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, on Sunday, October 27, a milestone in Federal procurement was observed. That day marked the 30th anniversary of President Nixon's signing of the ``Brooks Act'' qualifications based selection (QBS) process into law as Public Law 92- 582. This law, which prescribes the process by which Federal agencies select contractors for architecture, engineering and related services (``A/E services''), is codified in 40 USC 541 et. sq. for civilian agencies and, by reference, also applies to military agencies (10 USC 2855). Regulations implementing the law are found in part 36 of the Federal Acquisition Regulations. Named for its sponsor, our respected former colleague, the Honorable Jack Brooks of Texas, the Brooks Act provides for selection of firms for A/E services on the basis of demonstrated competence and qualifications, with negotiation of a fee that is fair and reasonable to the government. Agencies publicly announce their requirements for A/E services, firms submit their qualifications (including resumes of personnel, past performance, experience and background), agencies review the competing firms' qualifications, a short list of most qualified firms is established and agencies conduct interviews, and the most qualified firm is selected for specific contract negotiations of the precise scope of services to be performed and negotiation of a fee that is ``fair and reasonable to the government'' based on the government's own estimate of the project cost. QBS has been a trendsetter. When it was enacted in 1972, the QBS law was a radical exception to the government's overwhelming reliance on awarding contracts based on the lowest bidder. Indeed, QBS was a precursor to the trend that came in the 1990s to migrate from lowest bid to best value procurement. Moreover, contractors' past performance is a major factor in the evaluation and selection process--again something used in A/E contracting since 1972, but which became commonplace in other areas of Federal procurement in the 1990s. The Federal government annually spends billions of dollars on construction of facilities and has capital assets of hundreds of billions. This investment is highly dependent on A/E services for feasibility studies, design, operation and maintenance. It has been said that A/E services accounts for less than 1/10th of 1 percent of the life-cycle cost of a facility, but the quality of the A/E services performed determine what the life cycle cost will be. The wisdom of Congress in passing, and President Nixon in signing, the ``Brooks Act'', and of Congress in preserving this law for the past 30 years, has provide the American public with quality, cost effective and efficient A/E services on projects that stand the test of time. The wisdom of the law is also demonstrated by the degree to which it has been emulated. The QBS process is included in the Model Procurement Code for State and Local Government written, published, endorsed and advocated by the American Bar Association, and the process has been enacted in ``min-Brooks Act'' statutes by more than 30 State Legislatures. As a local government official, I can personally attest to the value of this process in projects ranging from design of schools to hazardous waste site remediation, from water and wastewater facilities to geographic information systems (GIS) for growth management and transportation planning. Today, Americans have the cleanest water, the safest and most attractive and functional public buildings, the most accurate maps, the safest roads, and many other aspects of the quality of life and our built environment because of the work of professional architects, engineers, surveyors and mappers who have worked on Brooks Act contracts. It is improtant that Congress pause at this moment to reflect on the success of this law. It has provided enormous benefits and effectiveness, and paid huge dividends to the taxpayers of our Nation. Mr. Speaker, the Brooks Act has enjoyed wide bipartisan support over the years. This is a law that works. I congratulate our Nation's architects, engineers, surveyors and mapping professionals who have completed millions of dollars worth of projects as contractors to government agencies, as well as the dedicated public servants in the design professions who have been responsible for awarding these contracts and performing the inherently governmental responsibilities for oversight of that work. The Brooks Act fosters a true public- private partnership that should stand as a model for how government and the private sector can work together to build a better America.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, as the federal government has increased its use of the Internet and other information technologies to conduct its business, the need for a comprehensive approach to the management Electronic Government initiatives has become evident. Therefore, Congressman Jim turner, the Ranking Member of the Government Reform Subcommittee on Technology and Procurement Policy, introduced H.R. 2458, the Electronic Government Act of 2002. H.R. 2458 is a bipartisan bill to enhance the management and promotion of electronic government services and processes and to increase the electronic availability of information to the public. I worked closely with Congressman Turner to develop this bill. H.R. 2458 was reported favorably by the Committee on Government Reform with a unanimous vote. With agreed upon changes reflected in the text before the House today, the bill is supported by the Science and Armed Services Committees, as well as by the leadership of the Senate Governmental Affairs Committee. Following action by the House, the legislation is expected to be taken up by the Senate and acted on in its present form. The bill contains five titles, covering a broad array of government information management issues. Title I would strengthen government-wide approaches to improving the use of information technology for service delivery and governmental efficiency and effectiveness by establishing an Office of Electronic Government in the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), a statutory interagency Chief Information Officers (CIO) Council, a program to promote contractor innovation and excellence in E-Gov services and processes, and an interagency E-Gov Fund to provide funding for innovative E-Gov initiatives. Title II would mandate a number of specific initiatives to enhance Federal E-Gov capabilities. Among its provisions are requirements to support broader use of electronic signatures, a develop a Federal Internet portal, improve public access to public information in Federal agencies and the courts, strengthen privacy protections, improve Federal workforce information technology skills, and make greater use of share-in-savings contracts. Title III, ``Federal Information Security Management Act of 2002'' (FISMA), would permanently authorize a government-wide risk-based approach to information security and otherwise strengthen Government Information Security Reform (GISRA) provisions of the FY 2001 Defense Authorization Act. Title IV would provide authorization of appropriations for the legislation and effective dates for its provisions. Title V would reduce paperwork burdens and improve privacy protections by establishing new procedures for statistical data sharing among key statistical agencies. Following favorable action on the bill by the Committee on Government Reform, the managers renewed discussions with the Administration, including OMB, the Department of Defense, and the Department of Commerce, and the Committees on Science and Armed Services, and the Senate Committee on Government Affairs. The resulting agreement involved making a number of revisions to the reported bill. The changes are described below. Section 205 of H.R. 2458 is revised at the request of the Administration to ensure that on-line access to Federal court records not compromise legitimate privacy and security concerns. The revised language would require the judiciary to develop rules to clearly set forth litigant rights and obligations, as well as court responsibilities with regards to the treatment of privacy and security issues associated with court records. Section 209 is revised with the addition of subsection (b) to require the Director of OPM, in consultation with the Director of OMB, the CIO Council, and the Administration of GSA, to analyze, identify, assess, and oversee the government-wide development of information technology and information resource management training curricula and methods. Agency heads will use these curricula and methods to establish training programs that meet their needs for information technology and information resource management while designing the training to maximize efficiency and economy. Section 210 authorizing the government-wide use of share-in savings contracts for information technology has been amended to sunset in September 2005, rather than in 2009. The provision has also been amended to prohibit the agency letting the contract to retain any savings attributable to a decrease in the number of employees performing the function and to prohibit the inclusion in savings of enhanced revenues from the collection of fees, taxes, debts, claims, or other amounts collected by the government. The requirement that the General Accounting Office (GAO) review the Office of Management and Budget report to Congress on the use by the agencies of the share-in- savings authority has been expanded to include an independent assessment by the GAO of the effectiveness of share-in-savings contracts and of whether the authority should be continued. Finally the section now provides for the repeal of the current share-in-savings pilot authority in 40 U.S.C. 11521. Section 213(b) requires a study to evaluate the best practices of community technology centers that receive federal funds. 213(b)(1) is amended to clarify that OMB must ensure that such a study is conducted. Likewise, Section 214(b)(1) is amended to clarify that OMB must ensure a study is conducted on the use of information technology to enhance crisis management. A new section 216 is added to Title II that calls for the development of protocols for geographic information systems so that industry and government can develop innovative multi-layered maps and analyses using the government's massive amount of geographic data. This section is not intended to inappropriately move activity into the government that is best left to the private sector. Furthermore, nothing in this provision is intended to encourage the development of technical standards that would require the procurement of specific hardware or software. A new subsection (c) is added to Sec. 3533 in section 301 of the bill. This subsection delegates to the Secretary of the Defense and the Director of Central Intelligence OMB authority under Sec. 3533(a)(1) for developing and overseeing the implementation of information security policies, and under Sec. 3533(a)(2) for providing risk-based information security protections, for DOD and CIA systems that process information whose unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction would have a debilitating impact on the missions of the agencies. This revision was requested by the Administration and the Armed Services Committee. Sec. 3536(a)(4) in section 301 of the bill is modified to require that the Federal information security incident center described under this section is to keep the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), as well as other appropriate agencies, informed about information security incidents and related matters. Section 303 of the legislation as reported by the Committee on Government Reform would amend 40 U.S.C. 11331 to transfer to OMB the authority to promulgate information security standards, which is currently a responsibility of the Secretary of Commerce. After much discussion about the practical consequences of such a transfer, it was agreed to retain the current law's structure while strengthening it in a number of instances. First, FISMA's revision of 40 U.S.C. 11331, at sec. 303, is modified to maintain standards promulgation by the Secretary of Commerce, largely as currently provided in law. Sec. 11331 is revised, however, to continue FISMA provisions for minimum mandatory security standards, a time limit on promulgation of the standards, and the elimination of waiver authority. Second, FISMA's Sec. 3533(a), in sec. 301, is revised accordingly to strike references to OMB promulgation of the NIST-developed standards. In place of that mandate, OMB would be required, at Sec. 3533(a)(1), to use its oversight authority to ensure agency use of such standards, and at Sec. 3533(a)(8), to include an assessment of the standards in its annual report to Congress. Third, to harmonize other references in the legislation to standards promulgation, a number of provisions in Titles I and II are also revised purely for the sake of consistency: i.e., in Sec. 3602(f)(8) in sec. 101, in sec. 202(a)(2), in sec. 202(f)(2), in sec. 207(d)(2)(iii), in Sec. 3534(a)(1)(B)(i) in sec. 301, in Sec. 20(c)(3), (e)(1), and (e)(8) in sec. 303, and in sec. 304(6). Finally, sec. 306 is stricken because given the transfer back to Commerce of all standards promulgation, there is no need to address the division in authority between OMB (security standards) and Commerce (system standards). Section 303's amendments to section 20 of the NIST Act, 15 U.S.C. 278g-3, are modified in several respects. First, NIST guidance concerning the identification of national security systems, at subsection (b)(3), is to be developed in conjunction with the Department of Defense, including the National Security Agency. Second, as requested by the Administration and the Science Committee, subsections (c)(5), (6), and (7) are modified to be ``to the maximum extent practicable.'' These changes are intended to preserve the policy of reliance on flexible, performance-based, technology-neutral requirements, while recognizing that there likely will be times where needs such as interoperability or the reality of market predominance will require guidance that addresses specific technologies or products. Third, as requested by the Science Committee, the bill drops subsection (d), which would have established a NIST Office for Information Security Programs. Finally, also at the request of the Science Committee, subsection (e) is revised consistent with current law to provide for NIST technical assistance to agencies, at (e)(2), and to authorize NIST to help the private sector, upon request, with NIST guidance and other assistance, at (e)(6). Title V of this bill is based on H.R. 5215, the Confidential Information Protection and Statistical Efficiency Act of 2002, introduced by Congressman Stephen Horn, Chairman of the Government Reform Subcommittee on Government Efficiency, Financial Management and Intergovernmental Relations. Chairman Horn and Ranking Member Janice D. Schakowsky have worked tirelessly with the Administration to finalize these provisions. This section creates the opportunity for three federal statistical agencies to reduce reporting burdens on businesses while simultaneously making the process of developing economic statistics more efficient. This title provides the statutory changes necessary to allow the Bureau of Economic Analysis, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and the U.S. Census Bureau to enter into negotiated agreements to share confidential business information. The magnitude of the gains in efficiency and burden reduction will turn on the willingness of these agencies to move swiftly to capitalize on the opportunities presented by these changes. Title V also include language introduced in this Congress by Representatives Sawyer and Waxman, which provides strong protection from disclosure for information provided to the government by individuals and businesses. A new provision added to Title V provides a resolution to a longstanding problem of information exchange between the Congressional Budget Office and statistical agencies by making it clear that Congressional intent is for CBO, in fulfilling its statistical service to the Congress, to have access to the necessary information held by statistical agencies in the executive branch. Finally, a number of technical corrections are made: At Sec. 3532(b)(2)(A) in sec. 101 to correct a paragraph indentation; and at Sec. 3533(a)(8)(D) in sec. 101 to correct a subsection cross- reference. With these changes, the managers of H.R. 2458 are able to state that the legislation before the House of Representatives today reflects agreement across the aisle, among key members and committees in both houses of Congress, and with the executive branch. I urge passage of this bill.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, let me commend my friend, the gentleman from Utah (Mr. Hansen), for a distinguished career here, not only his stewardship of the Committee on Resources, but his stewardship of the most popular committee in the House, the Committee on Standards of Official Conduct. I know that could the gentleman have stayed on the Committee on Standards of Official Conduct as chairman, he would have probably stayed in this body, and his disappointment at going off that. But Jim was a pillar of integrity, picked by the leadership because of that, because of his objectivity in dealing with these kinds of issue, and the gentleman added a great dimension to this body. We will miss you and I hope you stay active, Jim.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, will the gentleman yield?

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I would agree with the gentleman. But anyway Steve is going to be missed. He is leaving on his own volition. We always like to say there are three ways to leave public office and two of them are not very pleasant. Steve has opted for the third role, but I hope he will remain active in government and somewhere find a place for him perhaps in the administration because he has a lot to give and a great education and great experience.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the gentleman from California (Mr. Dreier) bringing up Steve Horn. I have known Steve Horn I think longer than anyone in this body because I was a Senate page from 1963 to 1967 and Steve Horn worked there as a legislative aid to Senator Tom Kuchel. When he left Senator Kuchel's office, his replacement was a young man named Leon Paneta. So history works in strange ways, but I kept up with Steve through the years, followed his career in the presidential administration he went into, leaving Tom Kuchel, and then into his academic career. Of course Steve had degrees from Harvard and Stanford, was a university president, well regarded in the Long Beach community. When he was elected to Congress in 1992, it was a huge upset. This was a district that had been drawn to elect a Democrat, and Steve won it and held it every time, the only Republican most years to be elected in that area because he transcended politics. He was a very detail-oriented Member. He took copious notes on every hearing, what Members were saying. I hope some day he will publish that and share that with the world. He was active not just in the Y2K legislation that the gentleman from California (Mr. Dreier) and I worked on, he also wanted to put the ``M'' back in OMB, management, and he was a stickler for bringing management back into government. He felt that we spent too much time on budgetary items and not enough time managing that budget. I think this evening on some of the unanimous consent legislation going through, some of that will bear the imprint of Mr. Horn, as did a lot of legislation that passed through this body from his work on the Committee on Government Reform and Oversight when he was a very active subcommittee chairman for years.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, will the gentleman yield?

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Let me join my friend from Texas in also honoring George Gekas and his 20 years of service to this body. I think the crowning achievement this evening was an overwhelming vote for this bankruptcy bill. The objectionable parts of this bill were not inserts that he put in there as part of the political sausage-making that goes on between the House and the Senate; but the overwhelming 244-116 vote I think speaks well for the kind of bill that he worked with his colleagues across party lines to put together. A graduate of Dickinson from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, he was very underspoken, not just soft-spoken, but understated, was someone who was not always out there getting the credit, issuing press releases, but he was here. He had one of the best attendance records in the House, often driving between Harrisburg and Washington, D.C., between sessions, getting back to his district as often as possible. He was an impeachment manager as the majority whip noted and had a distinguished career in the Committee on the Judiciary where he was involved in the intricacies of many bills that came out of there. His 20 years of service here I think are a reflection of the dedication that he put into public service which preceded his election to Congress. He will be missed from this body. I will miss him. Again, I congratulate him for this crowning achievement, the passage of this bankruptcy bill tonight.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, will the gentleman yield?

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Hoyer).