Diana DeGette

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. We will pass this bill today. And we will pass this bill for millions of women, like Susan Molina, who are trying to work and support their children and do the right thing for them. Susan is a single mother in my district. Her abusive husband left her, and she has struggled to work and pay for health insurance for her two children as she worked tirelessly to move from a janitor to an apartment manager position. In 2006, Susan's two children lost their health insurance under SCHIP because her new job paid just slightly more than 200 percent of poverty level. Susan has tried to work her way up to be a responsible member of society. Eventually, she got her children in SCHIP, and they have health care, and she could work. But then after she lost her SCHIP coverage, as she testified to Congress, to our committee, she felt like a failure as a mom. She was working, she was in school trying to get her GED, but she still had to take her kids to the emergency room when they got an ear infection. Frankly, Madam Speaker, it is about time that the most civilized country in the world give health care coverage to all of its children.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Madam Speaker, 6 million children in this country who are currently eligible for SCHIP and Medicaid do not have health insurance. These children's parents work, but they cannot afford to ensure that their children have well-child care, and they have to resort to the emergency room for even the most basic services, like treatment for an ear infection. This is wrong. Today's bill will help these families, but with a number of changes that vastly improve the legislation. It allows States to give coverage to pregnant women and people who are here legally. It preserves simplified outreach and enrollment procedures. Madam Speaker, in the face of the current economic downturn, it is even more vital that we enact this bill. Sharp increases in unemployment are adding to the ranks of the uninsured, while at the same time State budgets are shrinking, and the safety net is struggling to meet this increased demand. Because, Madam Speaker, we need to provide this care for our kids because in the most civilized country in the world, no child should go without health care.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the bill just passed by the House.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the Committee on Energy and Commerce be discharged from further consideration of the Senate bill (S. 602) to develop the next generation of parental control technology, and ask for its immediate consideration in the House.

Ms. DeGETTE. Madam Speaker, I have an amendment at the desk.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Madam Speaker, I have a motion at the desk.

Ms. DeGETTE. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to take from the Speaker's table the bill (H.R. 6469) to amend the Public Health Service Act to authorize increased Federal funding for the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network, with a Senate amendment thereto, and ask for its immediate consideration in the House.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the bill just passed by the House.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Madam Speaker, after careful review of this package, I rise today to support the ``Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008.'' While I am hesitant about putting taxpayers on the hook for the mistakes of Wall Street, doing nothing is simply not an option. No one likes this bill, but without it, credit markets would seize up, more companies would have trouble making payroll, consumers would be unable to get loans for cars and homes and credit cards, their pensions would deteriorate, and the crisis in our financial markets would spread to the entire economy and across the globe. This bill will not fix our troubled economy on its own, and we have much work ahead of us to reform our financial regulatory system. But our Nation's top economic experts have concluded that without this legislation our economic problems would have gotten much worse. This bill is a vast improvement from President Bush's initial proposal, which contained no oversight, no protections for taxpayers, and amounted to a blank check to the Treasury Department. But working in a bipartisan fashion, Congress was able to agree on a compromise that includes rigorous oversight and transparency, provides funding in installments subject to congressional review, and prevents golden parachutes for CEOs that drive their companies into the ground. This legislation will inject liquidity into the credit markets so businesses and consumers can continue to utilize their credit and keep our economy moving. Madam Speaker, I hope that following passage of this bill, with a new president in office, Congress can begin work on a comprehensive, top- to-bottom review of our Nation's financial laws, and enact meaningful reform that prevents the abuses we have seen in recent years.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the subcommittee chairman for working with us on this bill. And I especially want to thank Mr. Costa and Mr. Camp for all of their hard work and advocacy in helping us bring such an important bill to the House floor. I stand here in strong support of H.R. 6469, which has been named the Stephanie Tubbs Jones Organ Transplant Act of 2008. We named this bill in honor of our dear departed colleague because Stephanie Tubbs Jones was a committed advocate of organ transplantation and was an organ and tissue donor herself. Upon her passing she was able to continue serving her constituents and the Nation by donating her tissue and organs. As the chairman said, the National Organ Transplant Act authorized the creation and operation of the Organ Procurement and Transportation Network in 1984. Among other things, the OPTN's responsibilities include facilitating the matching of deceased donor organs with individuals waiting for an organ transplant, developing policies and procedures for organ recovery, distribution and transportation, collecting and managing scientific data about organ donation and transplantation, and maintaining the Nation's organ transplant waiting list. The National Organ Transplant Act limits Federal support to the OPTN to no more than $2 million annually. But this figure has not been increased since the network was created in 1984. Since then, though, the annual operating costs of OPTN have increased from $5 million to $27 million. The demand for transplantation has increased, and the costs of transplantation have increased, but funding levels have remained stagnant. The problem is compounded by the fact that OPTN has been asked to take on new responsibilities. For example, Congress recently clarified that paired kidney donation is not a violation of the act and therefore must also be facilitated by the network. But there are no plans available to implement such a national program. The Health Resources and Services Association has also directed the network to assume jurisdiction over living organ donors, a new and very challenging jurisdiction. Therefore, Mr. Speaker, this bill increases the authorized funding by $5 million to $7 million annually. And quite frankly this amount is modest considering there are almost 100,000 patients on the waiting list for an organ transplant. This bill is supported by numerous groups, Mr. Speaker. It is a vitally important bill. I look forward to passing it tonight and further continuing Stephanie Tubbs Jones' legacy of public service.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the accomplishments and distinguished public service of Shannon Good, my Legislative Director and former Deputy Chief of Staff. Shannon is a trusted advisor and friend. It saddens me to announce that she is leaving my office to pursue her own endeavors. Her tenure has been defined not only by a standard of professionalism that distinguishes exceptional legislative directors, but by a deep and abiding commitment to fairness, high ethical standards and the best interests of the 1st Congressional District of Colorado and this Nation. Shannon is a Denver native and graduated from East High School and later graduated from Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts. Shannon has been active in politics for years, volunteering on various local and national campaigns, including mine. Prior to joining my staff, she worked in the Washington, DC office of Governmental Relations for Salomon Brothers where she tracked legislation for Wall Street analysts. Effective and committed legislative staff is essential to democratic governance. Few people recognize the magnitude and consequence of their contributions--- particularly of those intrepid staff members who actually manage the legislative work we do. Shannon's keen intellect, judgment and common sense have been invaluable to me in dealing not only with the issues all of us face, but in guiding my legislative agenda for the past nine years. She has contributed in no small measure to much of the legislation that best serves this Nation. Her work on legislation protecting our Nation's safety net hospitals, simplifying the enrollment process and expanding presumptive eligibility for children in Medicaid, expanding energy efficiency requirements to improve our Nation's energy policy, expanding FDA and USDA authority to ensure food safety and her invaluable work on the ``Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act'' are but a few of her most noteworthy contributions. Shannon has been my point person for moving significant national legislation through committee and the House. Numerous other staff members from many offices have come to rely upon her for information and guidance on a variety of issues. Shannon is one of the staff experts in the House on women's reproductive health. Any time an issue related to reproductive health has arisen, whether in major legislation or buried in a motion to recommit or an amendment, many in Washington have sought out Shannon's counsel. Furthermore, Shannon Good has excelled in recognizing and cultivating the talents and skills of my legislative team, both past and present, and she commands their respect and admiration. My District Office staff admire not only her exceptional capabilities, but her directness and understanding of the issues and challenges local offices face. Shannon is a valued member of my staff and her competence, discernment and measure will be greatly missed. She has been an abiding source of wisdom and prudent counsel. She has done the people's work without pretension and burnished a reputation for decency and professionalism. Shannon is a public servant in the finest sense and her contributions are rich in consequence. My office and indeed, the United States House of Representatives, are losing a valued resource and friend. Please join me in commending Shannon Good, a distinguished public servant and legislative professional. Her character, leadership and dedication have done much to build a better future for all of us.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Gregory M. Diamond, a dear friend and colleague who had served for over 10 distinguished years as my District Director in the First Congressional District of Colorado. Greg grew up in Denver as the son of Greek and Canadian immigrants. Both of his parents worked extremely hard to establish themselves in the United States instilling within Greg a tireless work ethic, an acumen for equality, an exceptional attention to detail, and a sharp mind for finance, politics, and sympathy for the human condition. Greg's leadership abilities shined through early when he was elected Head Boy at Denver East High School. Greg moved on to attend the University of Denver earning a Bachelor of Arts in Political Economy during the turbulent 1960's. This era of frustration with the Vietnam War and society's status quo inspired Greg to become involved in the University's anti-war and civil rights movements, imbedding a desire for social justice and fairness and the pursuit of public policies to benefit all people throughout his working life. Greg earned a Masters of Science in Judicial Administration at the University of Denver College of Law and worked for a few years in the Wayne County Court System in Detroit, Michigan. When his father became ill, Greg returned to Colorado to work in the family restaurant in the Cherry Creek neighborhood of Denver. In 1988, Greg became greatly inspired by the presidential campaign of Michael Dukakis and joined the Colorado Coordinated Campaign. In addition to sharing Greek heritage with Governor Dukakis, Greg admired his practical yet inclusive style of governing and fiscal policies. Dukakis' loss was a disappointing blow for Greg, but he had caught the political bug. He moved on to manage a U.S. Senate primary, and worked in senior capacities on various other presidential, congressional, state, local and referenda campaigns, including the bond election to build Denver International Airport, where he met his future wife Faye, to whom he has been married for 16 years. In 1991, Greg began his career in public policy, serving in former Governor Roy Romer's cabinet in the Office of Energy Conservation, then four years as the Deputy State Treasurer under former Colorado State Treasurer Gail Schoettler. He finished up his years in the Governors Office of Economic Development as a Science and Technology Advisor. Greg is unique individual and a tower in Denver and Colorado politics in a District with a multitude of strong political personalities. In a city defined by a history of rough-and-tumble politics and a varied electorate, with their own political desires, Greg has managed to fly above the fray gaining the respect, admiration, and trust of the diverse constituencies of the First Congressional District. Greg has the enviable ability to actively listen to constituents concerns and to frame their arguments and the political realities in ways only a seasoned political mind and public policy analyst could. Greg will long be remembered for his extensive briefings and memos for District meetings which were exhaustively researched and supplied with extensive supporting materials. In any meeting I attended with Greg, I was confident I was well briefed and any issue or argument would be at my fingertips. Greg is also an eloquent writer, penning many of our offices tributes and speeches. There is also no doubt Greg was extremely popular in Colorado politics and in the broader Denver community. Any meeting or reception I would attend with Greg, constituents, business, and political leaders would joke with Greg and regale me bout some past shared experience. Greg would always return the favor with his hearty infectious laughter filling the room. Greg is fondly regarded by his District Office staff, many of whom he hired. The high retention rate in my District Office is a great tribute to Greg who treated his employees with respect, compassion, and a sense of humor which often kept the staff on their toes. Greg related well to young and older employee alike, always interested in what everyone had to say, encouraging staff for good deeds done, but also willing to guide staffers back in line when they went astray. Greg leaves my office in the height of his career, rising with me as a first term Representative to the Dean of the Colorado Congressional Delegation. I am deeply indebted to him for his service, guidance, and enduring commitment to the residents of the First Congressional District of Colorado. At the end of the day, there is one main reason we come to serve in this body: to help the people we represent and to improve their communities and livelihoods to the best of our abilities. It is with the assistance of such exceptional staff members as Greg Diamond that we are able to achieve these goals. There are thousands of Coloradans and residents of Denver, Englewood, Sheridan, and Cherry Hills Village whose lives have been touched by Greg's dedication and service. I ask you and our colleagues to join me as I thank Greg for his 10 years of service to the First District, express my gratitude for his long friendship and congratulate him as he enters a new phase of his public service.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to thank my intrepid chairman, Mr. Dingell, and also Mr. Waxman, for their unfailing commitment to the public health of Americans. This bill is a good bill. When I first came to Congress, now 12 years ago, it seemed to be a bill far outside our reach. We had a number of hearings in those days, in which the tobacco manufacturers denied even that tobacco was addictive. To come from there to here is truly an extraordinary achievement, and I think we all agree that tobacco should be regulated by the FDA. One concern I still have in this bill is tobacco is illegal now for people under the age of 21. We all have seen through testimony throughout the years that the people who get addicted to tobacco tend to do so at an early age, and tobacco manufacturers have targeted young people consistently. I'm afraid that if the manufacturers say that they are targeting only adults, that what will happen will be they in fact will target young people, who will become addicted. That is why I was very pleased to include a provision in this law that directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to conduct a study on the public health implications of raising the minimum age to purchase tobacco products. This report will be in to us within 5 years and we can see if there's more that we can do to protect our vulnerable young people from becoming the targets of advertising an improper addiction to tobacco. Madam Speaker, this truly is a great day for the health of Americans. I want to commend my chairman again.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Madam Speaker, I want to also thank Chairman Dingell for his strong leadership on this issue, and also Ranking Member Barton for his wonderful ability to compromise on the bill. As the Speaker just told us, last year, it seemed like every day parents were being told that their children's toys were not innocent playthings and, in fact, were very dangerous. This mainly happened during the holiday season, where parents had no idea whether what they were buying to put under the tree would harm or even kill their child. For a long time now, we have all realized that our consumer product safety system is broken. The CPSC clearly needed more staff, more resources, and more authority. Our consumer protection laws needed to be brought into the 21st century. This legislation goes a long way to solving those problems. I am so proud to have been one of the House conferees on H.R. 4040. By working diligently with our Senate colleagues and our colleagues on the other side of the aisle, we produced a strong, bipartisan bill. This conference report has a number of provisions which will protect our kids, and I just want to highlight a few of them. It bans lead in children's products beyond trace amounts, the highest standards in the world. It permanently bans three phthalates and temporarily bans three others in toys for kids 12 and under; and, in fact, it extends all of the consumer protections to kids 12 and under because of the issue of shared toy boxes. It requires independent third-party testing of children's products to ensure that they are safe before they are sold. It increases the CPSC's budget dramatically, and it stops the export of certain dangerous products. I want to thank my conference committee colleagues and all of the staff members involved for pulling together such a good bill. Chairman, or former chairman, Ranking Member Barton was right when he said this is the way legislation should be, a strong collaborative effort that produces real results that will help all of the consumers of America. I hope, throughout the fall, as we move into the next holiday season, parents can take this issue off their plates as one they have to worry about and, instead they can worry about giving their kids a strong, safe holiday season as we approach the end of this year.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I demand a recorded vote.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Madam Speaker, although these much-needed updates for physician payments are the crux of today's bill, numerous improvements to the Medicare program and beneficiary protections are also included. It also provides incentives for physicians to use e-prescribing technology, and it extends and vastly improves low-income-assistance programs for very-low-income Medicare beneficiaries. And it includes a 2-year reauthorization of the Special Diabetes Programs for Type 1 diabetes and for American Indians, which has been a priority of the Congressional Diabetes Caucus for many years. Thanks to over a decade of investment in the Special Diabetes Programs, we can point to tangible and significant progress, such as the creation of an artificial pancreas, that is improving the lives of many people. And this multiyear reauthorization was just what we needed. I want to talk for a minute about Medicare Advantage though. Medicare Advantage was originally conceived of as a way to save money in the Medicare system. But the way it has evolved over the years, we now have 13 percent overpayments to the insurance companies that administer Medicare Advantage. There is no evidence that this money goes to the senior citizen beneficiaries. And there is further no evidence that if we cut these overpayments that these senior citizens are going to lose their insurance, because there is no evidence that they're getting that 13 percent overpayment. Now I would suggest if there was a 13 percent overpayment to the traditional Medicare program, the other side would be having a fit because we would just be throwing money away. But, according to them, it's all right if we throw 13 percent away and give it to private insurance companies. In my opinion, we need to bring our entire Medicare program into balance no matter how it is being administered. We need to be sure that it's ministered efficiently. And ultimately, we need to restore balance to our entire health care system. Vote ``yes'' to override this veto and restore the physician payments.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of House Resolution 1261. I want to take a moment this afternoon to recognize one of the premier civics instruction programs in this country. Most of my colleagues are aware of the ``We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution'' national civics class and competition. And in this day and age, when so few Americans take American Government in school, and even fewer know who their Members of Congress are, this class is incredibly vital and this competition is vital for civics awareness among our high school students. ``We the People'' is a year-long class incorporated into high school curriculums around the country that focuses on the foundation of the U.S. Constitution and its relevance in American modern government. In this program, students are not confined to the walls of their classrooms; they have the opportunity to take their knowledge on the road, participating in a national competition against students from other schools. ``We the People'' culminates in a simulated congressional hearing right here in Washington, D.C. for the finalist teams. In addition to learning the basic tenets of our democracy, the program teaches students valuable critical thinking, debate, and public speaking skills. ``We the People'' was first started in 1987, on the bicentennial of the adoption of the U.S. Constitution by the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia. Since its inception, more than 28 million students and 90,000 educators have participated. The program is sponsored by the nonprofit, nonpartisan Center for Civic Education, whose mission is to help develop and foster a well- informed citizenry through civics education. Its flagship program, ``We the People,'' is funded in part through the U.S. Department of Education under the Education for Democracy Act. And just to show how bipartisan this program is, several years ago I worked with Congressman Dan Burton to expand funding for this important program to middle school students. This year, as we've heard, East High School, in my congressional district in Denver, Colorado, won the competition for the second year in a row. Each year, thousands of students from around the country participate in this program, which, as I said, culminates in the hearings on Capitol Hill. These students are given questions ranging from the inadequacies of the Articles of Confederation, to the implications of Federalist No. 51, to what James Madison would think about current political topics. Frankly, Mr. Speaker, most Members of Congress would struggle to answer these questions. I would also like to note that these students are not simply memorizing facts from stuffy 18th-century debates that they will soon forget. They are diving into real-world debates over executive power, civil liberties, and other issues that are on our front pages every day and on the agenda in this hallowed Chamber week in and week out. I would like to say I have personal familiarity with the depth of knowledge this program gives to students because I was one of the very first volunteer coaches of the East High School team in the 1980s, well before my tenure in Congress, when I was a practicing attorney in Denver. And I can attest, these students know far more than many professors and Members of Congress about our political process and our Constitution. So, given the depth of knowledge of these thousands of high school students around the country, it really was a tremendous achievement for this year's East High School team to win the ``We the People'' competition for the second year in a row. Under the leadership of this year's teacher and coach, Susan McHugh, and the dedication of my long-time friend and colleague, Loyal Darr, the ``We the People'' coordinator for Colorado's First District, East High School demonstrated an unrivaled expertise in constitutional issues. To all of the dedicated students, teachers, parents and organizers of ``We the People'' nationwide, on behalf of the United States Representatives, I want to congratulate you on your accomplishments and thank you for your efforts towards promoting civic engagement, healthy debate, and an ongoing commitment to the foundations of this great country. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this resolution. But more importantly, I urge my colleagues to think about the importance of civics education in this country. We need to look at the successes of Denver's East High School. We need to look at the accomplishments of ``We the People'' participants from across the Nation and their ability to dissect complex current and historic political issues. And we need to ask ourselves, do we need more civics education, or less? The answer is self-evident. Mr. Speaker, I would like to place the names of the team and their coaches in the Congressional Record. With that, Mr. Speaker, I simply say this is a wonderful program, I'm so proud of my constituents, and I ask for an affirmative vote on this resolution. East High School 2008 ``We the People'' National Championship Team Isabel Breit, Nicholas Brown, Maya Burchette, Nitai Deitel, Gideon Hertz, Gideon Irving, Katherine Jablonski, Gavin Jacobs, Noah Kaplan, Brendan Lamarre, Zachary Lass, Alexandria Leenatali, Richard Londer, and Nathan Mackenzie. Rebecca Nathanson, Alyse Opatowski, Marley Pierce, Alyssa Roberts, Paige Romer, Hayley Round, Ryan Saunders, Lindsay Shields, Jeffrey Thalhofer, Shaquille Turner, Charlotte Vilkus, Taylor Want, and Jacob Zax. Coach: Susan McHugh; We the People coordinator, Colorado's First District: Loyal Darr.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act not only eliminates the scheduled 20 percent cut to physicians, which is set to take place next week, but it also will provide numerous other protections. It provides incentives for prescriptions for e-prescribing technology and it extends and vastly improves low-income assistance programs for very low-income Medicare beneficiaries. And this bill includes a very important 2-year reauthorization of the special diabetes programs for type 1 diabetics and American Indians. Thanks to over a decade of investment in these programs, we can point to tangible and significant progress, like the creation of an artificial pancreas. It is vital for a multiyear reauthorization because of the structure of the NIH funding cycle, and I want to thank my chairman and the leadership for including this language in the bill. There are other wonderful protections in the bill for diabetics and for other Medicare beneficiaries. I just want to close by saying one thing: The language in this bill and the concepts are not new today. We have been talking them to death for 2 years. This program expires next week, and I don't think that the patients of America and the doctors of America are going to be too sympathetic about process arguments, when what they really care about is being able to provide quality medical services to low income and to senior citizens in this country.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize a dual celebration for two distinguished members of the First Congressional District. This week the Kopel family of Denver celebrates the 80th Birthday of Gerald (Jerry) Kopel and the 56th Anniversary of the marriage between Jerry and Dolores Kopel. Jerry and Dolores have led an interesting and engaged life together, balancing careers in journalism, law, politics, and policy. They were the original ``power couple'' long before dual careers were more outwardly prevalent and socially acceptable. What is truly admirable is the Kopels managed to pursue these accomplishments while raising a family and contributing to the broader well-being of our community. Dolores and Jerry met at the University of Colorado when Jerry was city editor of the Silver and Gold newspaper and Dolores was a reporter. Jerry graduated from the University and Dolores transferred to the University of Denver College of Law. They married at the end of her first year of law school, while Jerry was working for the Rocky Mountain News. Dolores graduated from law school cum laude in June 1954. Jerry enrolled in law school in January 1955 but continued for a while to pull night shifts at the Rocky Mountain News as a copy editor. In 1958, Jerry graduated cum laude from the University of Denver. The Kopels had the unique experience of practicing law together until 1979, when Dolores was appointed U.S. Trustee for the District of Colorado and Kansas. As part of his life-long dedication to giving back to the community and preparing the next generation for careers in law, Jerry directed a review course for law students preparing for the Colorado bar exam from 1958 through 1985. In 1964, Jerry combined his background in journalism and his law degree to become an influential member of the Democratic Party. He served as State representative for a total of 22 years, spanning 2 decades. Jerry was known as the consummate legislator, reading every bill and every amendment that came before the House chamber. He successfully carried 110 bills as chief sponsor, including the Nation's first sunset law. Jerry's 22 years in the State Legislature and his extensive involvement in community issues and Colorado politics are encapsulated in ``The Gerald Kopel Papers'', which are housed in the Denver Public Library's Western History Collection. The papers are perhaps the most extensive archive of the public career of any American state legislator from the 20th century. After retiring from the Legislature in 1992, Jerry continued to produce a printed newsletter, titled ``Jerry Kopel's Report'' until 1998. However, for many years, Jerry prepared weekly reports for House Democrats and suggested amendments to bills being debated on the House floor. Since retirement, Jerry has returned to journalism. He writes a weekly column for the Colorado Statesman and other newspapers and has joined the technological age with an extensive Web site chronicling his columns and exhibiting his extensive knowledge of Colorado politics, law, and history. Over the years, Jerry has won numerous awards from the Colorado Press Association, most recently in 2006 in the Public Service writing category. All of his 600-some columns were edited by his wife, Dolores. Both Jerry and Dolores have received recognition from the Denver Bar Association for 50 years of practice. Their son, David, is an attorney and author who is a columnist for the Rocky Mountain News. Jerry is also an accomplished cocktail pianist, and has entertained at many local functions. He has issued several fine CDs, which are in my personal collection. I have personally known Jerry and Dolores for many years, eagerly accepting Jerry's sage advice on politics and I am an ardent reader of his weekly columns. Jerry and Dolores have had a distinctive lifetime at the forefront of Colorado politics, policy, and history and their commitment to public service and the betterment of the their fellow Coloradans serves as a sterling example for younger generations and those entering public policy careers. I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing Mr. Kopel and his wife Dolores a wonderful 56th Anniversary and Jerry a healthy and prosperous 80th birthday and pay tribute to their longstanding service and dedication to the City of Denver and the State of Colorado.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Madam Speaker, I rise in opposition to H.R. 6304, the ``FISA Amendments Act of 2008.'' I first want to thank Majority Leader Hoyer and other Members who worked very hard to arrive at a compromise with the Senate. I think this bill is an improvement over S. 1927, the ``Protect America Act,'' and the Senate bill we considered earlier this year. For example. H.R. 6304 makes it crystal clear that the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, FISA, is the exclusive means under which surveillance is conducted and states that any exceptions in the future must be specifically authorized. However, I cannot support H.R. 6304 because of the issues of reverse targeting and retroactive immunity for telecommunications companies. The strong protections against reverse targeting contained in prior House measures, which I supported, are absent from this bill. Reverse targeting, which refers to spying on Americans by targeting those abroad with whom they are believed to be communicating, opens a loophole for the Federal Government to violate the privacy of American citizens. Most significantly, the retroactive immunity provisions will block the American public's ability to hold the telecommunications companies accountable for participating in the Federal Government's domestic warrantless surveillance program. Courts will have no real power to review the administration's prior orders for surveillance activities. We may never learn the extent of the violations of Americans' privacy which may have occurred or companies which may have participated. I ask my colleagues to stand up for our values and vote no on this flawed bill.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize a dual celebration for two distinguished members of the First Congressional District. This week the Kopel family of Denver celebrates the 80th Birthday of Gerald (Jerry) Kopel and the 56th Anniversary of the marriage between Jerry and Dolores Kopel. Jerry and Dolores have led an interesting and engaged life together, balancing careers in journalism, law, politics, and policy. They were the original ``power couple'' long before dual careers were more outwardly prevalent and socially acceptable. What is truly admirable is the Kopels managed to pursue these accomplishments while raising a family and contributing to the broader well-being of our community. Dolores and Jerry met at the University of Colorado when Jerry was managing editor of the Silver and Gold newspaper and Dolores was a reporter. Jerry graduated from the University and Dolores transferred to the University of Denver College of Law. They married at the end of her first year of law school, while Jerry was working for the Rocky Mountain News. Dolores graduated from law school cum laude in June 1954. Jerry enrolled in law school in January 1958 but continued to pull night shifts at the Rocky Mountain News as a copy editor. In 1958, Jerry graduated cum laude from the University of Denver. The Kopels had the unique experience of practicing law together until 1979, when Dolores was appointed U.S. Trustee for the District of Colorado and Kansas. In the Kopels' life-long dedication to giving back to the community and preparing the next generation for careers in law, Jerry directed a review course for law students preparing for the Colorado bar exam from 1958 through 1985. In 1964, Jerry combined his background in journalism and his law degree to become an influential member of the Democratic Party. He served as state representative for a total of twenty-two years, spanning two decades. Jerry was known as the consummate legislator, reading every bill and every amendment that came before the House chamber. He carried 110 bills as chief sponsor, including the nation's first sunset law. Jerry's 22 years in the State Legislature and his extensive involvement in community issues and Colorado politics are encapsulated in ``The Gerald Kopel Papers,'' which are housed in the Denver Public Library's Western History Collection. The papers are perhaps the most extensive archive of the public career of any American state legislator from the 20th century. After retiring from the Legislature in 1992, Jerry continued to produce a printed newsletter, titled ``Jerry Kopel's Report'' until 1998. However, to this day, Jerry prepares weekly reports for House Democrats and suggests amendments to bills being debated on the House floor. Since retirement, Jerry has returned to journalism. He writes a weekly column for the Colorado Statesman and other newspapers and has joined the technological age with an extensive Web site chronicling his columns and exhibiting his extensive knowledge of Colorado politics, law, and history. Over the years, Jerry has won numerous awards from the Colorado Press Association, most recently in 2006 in the Public Service writing category. All of his 600-some columns were edited by his wife, Dolores. Both Jerry and Dolores have received recognition from the Denver Bar Association for 50 years of practice. Their son, David, is an attorney and author who is a columnist for the Rocky Mountain News. Jerry is also an accomplished cocktail pianist, and has entertained at many local functions. He has issued several fine CD's which are in my personal collection. I have personally known Jerry and Dolores for many years, eagerly accepting Jerry's sage advice on politics and I am an ardent reader of his weekly columns. Jerry and Dolores have had a distinctive lifetime at the forefront of Colorado politics, policy, and history and their commitment to public service and the betterment of their fellow Coloradans serves as a sterling example for younger generations and those entering public policy careers. I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing Mr. Kopel and his wife Dolores a wonderful 56th Anniversary and Jerry a healthy and prosperous 80th birthday and pay tribute to their longstanding service and dedication to the City of Denver and the State of Colorado.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to the amendment to be voted on today which will provide another blank check for the war in Iraq: I remain steadfast in my opposition to the Iraq war and its continued funding. Tens of thousands of our bravest sons and daughters have been wounded and over 4 thousand killed. We have spent hundreds of billions of dollars on this war, which has necessarily meant we have had fewer resources to deal with significant problems here at home. Our continued military involvement in Iraq only prolongs the tragedy this war has been for our country and delays the inevitable time when Iraq will have to take responsibility for its own security. While my support for our heroic troops is unwavering, it is time to bring them home. These views are shared by the vast majority of the American people. I strongly support the other two amendments the House is considering today. One amendment would bring needed change to our efforts in Iraq. For example, it would require that the redeployment of our troops out of Iraq begin within thirty days with a goal of completing that redeployment by December 2009. And, it would encourage Iraq to contribute towards its own reconstruction. The other amendment addresses important domestic priorities. Among other provisions it would modernize educational benefits for veterans and extend unemployment insurance. It also would block devastating Medicaid regulations which, if left in place, would reduce access to safety-net health care for people across the country and threaten the ability of certain health care providerss, such as Denver Health in my district, to offer vital services. These three amendments on the floor today offer the Members of the House of Representatives a stark choice. They can choose to reject the views of the American people and blindly follow the misguided policies of the Bush Administration. Or, they can choose to end this war. support our veterans, and help Americans struggling in these dark economic times. History will look most kindly on those who show the independent judgment and wisdom that such important decisions require.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of National Foot Health Awareness Month and the critical role that podiatric physicians play in our national health care system. Combined, two feet contain one quarter of all the bones in the human body, and an average day of walking puts the equivalent of several hundred tons of pressure on the feet. Given this degree of stress, it is perhaps no surprise that over half of all Americans experience foot pain at some point in their lives. Podiatrists are at the forefront of expert foot health care. Podiatrists are physicians who specialize in foot and ankle care and who have been trained to diagnose and treat foot and ankle ailments. Their scope of practice includes performing foot and ankle surgery. Throughout April, podiatrists will be engaged in a national awareness campaign titled ``Podiatrists Keep America Walking,'' timed to coincide with National Foot Health Awareness Month. This year's ``Podiatrists Keep America Waking'' campaign will focus on children's foot health. Consistent with this theme, podiatrists will educate expectant mothers about foot ailments experienced by pregnant women, and parents about steps they can take to protect their children from foot abnormalities. Foot pain is no mere inconvenience, and it should not be treated lightly or ignored. In many cases, persistent foot pain or recurring injuries can be the first sign of a serious condition, such as diabetes, anemia, arthritis, and certain circulatory disorders. Paying close attention to foot health, and taking regular advantage of the care provided by a podiatrist, can often aid in the early diagnosis of these and other conditions. Americans living with diabetes must be particularly mindful of foot health. Diabetes is a chronic and potentially life-threatening illness impacting approximately 21 million Americans. Foot care is especially important for those living with diabetes because the risk is great for developing a foot ulcer that could become infected, and might ultimately result in amputation. In fact, diabetes is the leading cause of non-traumatic lower extremity amputation, and experts estimate that 86,000 lower limbs are amputated every year as a consequence of diabetes-related complications. Among those living with diabetes, Native Americans, African Americans, Hispanics and older men are most vulnerable to foot ailments. However, regular and expert foot care can significantly reduce the likelihood of amputation by helping to ensure early diagnosis and successful treatment. The growing epidemics of diabetes and obesity and their concurrent complications are among many reasons why podiatric physicians are an important part of America's health care team. Madam Speaker, I applaud doctors of podiatric medicine for their vital contributions to the health of all Americans, and urge all Americans to be vigilant not only during National Foot Health Awareness Month, but throughout the year.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I would like to have the following letters of support for H.R. 1424, the Paul Wellstone Mental Health and Addiction Equity Act of 2008, submitted for the Record on the floor debate of this bill. American Correctional Association, Alexandria, VA, February 29, 2008. Hon. Patrick J. Kennedy, Cannon HOB, Washington, DC. Dear Representative Kennedy: On behalf of the American Correctional Association and our 18,000 members I'd like to express our full support for your bill, H.R. 1424, the Paul Wellstone Mental Health and Addiction Equity Act of 2007. The health care system in our country has neglected the mentally ill long enough and it must change. We in criminal justice and more specifically the corrections profession know first-hand the effect inadequate mental health care has on our communities. Jails and prisons have become defacto mental health hospitals wherein a high prevalence of mental health problems and addiction among inmates is common and recidivism rates are high. A report issued by the U.S. Department of Justice Bureau of Justice Statistics in September 2006 revealed that more than half of all prison and jail inmates had a mental health problem. BJS also reported that more than two-fifths of state inmates and more than half of jail inmates showed symptoms of mania, 23% of state prisoners and 30% of jail inmates suffer from depression and that 15% of state prisoners and 24% of jail inmates met the criteria for psychotic disorders. 24% of state prisoners and 19% of jail inmates suffered from substance dependence or abuse and an estimated 42% of inmates in state prisons and nearly half of those in local jails were found to have both a mental health problem and a substance dependence or abuse problem. Without proper care and treatment in a mental hospital, these individuals will never recover or be healthy again nor will they ever be able to live a normal life. Most likely they will continue to recidivate, crowd our facilities, drive up costs throughout the entire criminal justice system and cause harm to others and unto themselves. Quite simply, correctional facilities are not equipped and corrections personnel are not trained to handle the mentally ill individuals. We appreciate your leadership on this issue and offer you our full support for H.R. 1424, the Paul Wellstone Mental Health and Addiction Equity Act of 2007. Sincerely, Gary D. Maynard, President.