Rosa DeLauro

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to rise today to join the Center for Human Potential and Public Policy and the many who have gathered at the University of Chicago to honor and celebrate the contributions of an outstanding American--a man who is my dear friend, Irving B. Harris. Today's Festschrift is a fitting tribute to a man who has spent a lifetime in the service of others. As I look over the course of Irving's life, I am struck by his countless acts of generosity and compassion. As an advocate, a philanthropist, and a leading voice for children, his achievements have left an indelible mark on our society. Irving Harris recognized early on that the key to our children's success lay in their most formative years, birth to three. He inspired, developed and supported scores of programs and organizations dedicated to improving the lives of disadvantaged youngsters across the nation. He founded the Erikson Institute, a child development graduate school, and the Ounce of Prevention Fund, a public/private partnership that created and promoted community-based initiatives to improve early childhood development. He was a leader in development of Zero to Three: The National Center for Infants, Toddlers, and Families whose work to support families and promote the healthy development of babies and toddlers had a tremendous impact in communities across the nation. His work brought him national recognition as a leading voice for the betterment of children across the country. Irving Harris is one of those rare individuals with roots in the world of business and finance who has used his hard-won wealth and influence to help others less fortunate. And his work and diligence and dedication is not only remarkable but unceasing. It is a reflection of all that we strive to be. His sincerity is marked by the principles he instilled in his own family--in his children and grandchildren, who today carry on his work on behalf of the other children of America. Through education, public policy development, grant-making and advocacy, Irving Harris' vision and leadership has earned him recognition and many honors and awards over the years. He has served many organizations including the National Commission on Children and the Carnegie Corporation's New York Task Force on Meeting the Needs of Young Children. It has been an enormous privilege for me to work with Irving over the years, and I and look forward to continuing our collaboration. Irving knows that our young people represent the future and we as a community and nation must give them the tools to succeed. He recognized this simple fact many years ago, and dedicated his life to fulfilling that important goal. Irving Harris continues his work today, as I hope he will for many more years to come. Thank you, Irving for the difference you have made in this country, and the millions of lives you have made better through your vision, your passion, and your generous spirit of mind. You are an inspiration to all of us.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to this legislation. At a time when 8.8 million Americans are out of work, when their unemployment benefits are about to expire and when our economy has not created a new job in nearly two-and-a-half years, Congress should be rushing to get our economy moving again. But by cutting taxes for only the wealthiest taxpayers, this bill will do nothing to jumpstart job creation. In fact, Goldman Sachs has rated the dividend tax cut as one of the least effective options in terms of stimulating economic growth. Under this plan, people making more than $1 million will get a $93,537 tax break--while those making between $20,000 and $30,000 will get only $189. Our States are already facing fiscal crises and cuts in vital services. They are cutting education, child care and health services. In fact, half of the Nation's Governors--Democrat and Republican alike--have already proposed tax increases out of necessity. This bill does nothing to provide aid to States, and in fact, the budget chief for my State's Republican Governor said the President's dividends tax plan would cost Connecticut $100 million. Instead of a dividend tax cut that will cost States millions--a tax cut even Alan Greenspan says will explode the deficit--the Democratic plan provides real tax cuts for working families. Our plan proposes an immediate increase in the child tax credit to $800 per child, refundable for low-wage families. It provides investment tax incentives for business and targeted assistance for those looking for work, including a long-overdue extension in fiscal relief, so that we do not end up leaving them with no choice but to raise taxes. Let's do the right thing for our families, turn aside this bill and pass a meaningful economic package that provides tax cuts for families and ensures long-term growth for our economy.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to rise today to join the Center for Human Potential and Public Policy and the many who have gathered at the University of Chicago to honor and celebrate the contributions of an outstanding American--a man who is my dear friend, Irving B. Harris. Today's Festschrift is a fitting tribute to a man who has spent a lifetime in the service of others. As I look over the course of Irving's life, I am struck by his countless acts of generosity and compassion. As an advocate, a philanthropist, and a leading voice for children, his achievements have left an indelible mark on our society. Irving Harris recognized early on that the key to our children's success lay in their most formative years, birth to three. He inspired, developed and supported scores of programs and organizations dedicated to improving the lives of disadvantaged youngsters across the nation. He founded the Erikson Institute, a child development graduate school, and the Ounce of Prevention Fund, a public/private partnership that created and promoted community-based initiatives to improve early childhood development. He was a leader in development of Zero to Three: The National Center for Infants, Toddlers, and Families whose work to support families and promote the healthy development of babies and toddlers had a tremendous impact in communities across the nation. His work brought him national recognition as a leading voice for the betterment of children across the country. Irving Harris is one of those rare individuals with roots in the world of business and finance who has used his hard-won wealth and influence to help others less fortunate. And his work and diligence and dedication is not only remarkable but unceasing. It is a reflection of all that we strive to be. His sincerity is marked by the principles he instilled in his own family--in his children and grandchildren, who today carry on his work on behalf of the other children of America. Through education, public policy development, grant-making and advocacy, Irving Harris' vision and leadership has earned him recognition and many honors and awards over the years. He has served many organizations including the National Commission on Children and the Carnegie Corporation's New York Task Force on Meeting the Needs of Young Children. It has been an enormous privilege for me to work with Irving over the years, and I look forward to continuing our collaboration. Irving knows that our young people represent the future and we as a community and nation must give them the tools to succeed. He recognized this simple fact many years ago, and dedicated his life to fulfilling that important goal. Irving Harris continues his work today, as I hope he will for many more years to come. Tbank you, Irving for the difference you have made in this country, and the millions of lives you have made better through your vision, your passion, and your generous spirit of mind. You are an inspiration to all of us.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with the greatest pleasure that I rise today to join family, friends, and the Derby community on ``Maria Conlon Day'' to recognize the outstanding achievements of our hometown hero, Maria Conlon. Starting guard for the Lady Huskies of the University of Connecticut, Maria was instrumental throughout the season and the National Championship Tournament. A graduate of Seymour High School, Maria displayed a unique talent during her high school career--a fact which is reflected in the recognition she received as WBCA Honorable Mention All-American, Gatorade State Player of the Year, three-time All-State pick, four-time All-League Selection, two-time State Championship MVP, and New Haven Register Player of the Year. She has owned the State records for three- pointers in both a season and career. She continues to own the school records at Seymour High School for points, assists, and steals. Maria was honored at the end of her high school career with the retirement of her jersey number. During her three-year career with the University of Connecticut Huskies, Maria has become well-known for her sharpshooting from behind the three-point line. She is one of only two players to have been on the court in all seventy of UCONN's record-setting run of seventy straight victories. There are many facets which must come together to make such history. Maria's leadership, spirit, and uncompromising drive are one of the forces behind the Huskies' sensational victories. Winning their fourth NCAA championship, this year's victory was especially gratifying because the Huskies overcame incredible odds to earn a repeat championship. The first women's basketball team in history to win a national championship without a single senior on the roster, the Lady Huskies have set a new standard for team work and perfection. Maria and her fellow teammates have again shown that their undeniable talent and dedication will make dreams a reality. Maria has worked hard to achieve her goals and serves as a role model to young women across the country. We are certainly fortunate to have her call Derby home. I am honored to stand today and join the Derby community in congratulating Maria Conlon and honoring her on ``Maria Conlon Day'' for her outstanding achievements--not only as a Lady Husky, but as a member of our community. Hers is a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today to join the Connecticut Dental Association in extending my sincere congratulations to Dr. Kurt Koral who will be honored today with the Distinguished Service Award. In a career that has spanned nearly four decades, Dr. Koral has worked diligently to improve the field of dentistry. In addition to his private practice, he has and continues to serve on the staffs of both the Hospital of Saint Raphael and Yale-New Haven Hospital. He is also an Associate Professor at the Yale University School of Medicine's Department of Surgery. As a surgeon, professor, and legislative activist, Dr. Koral has touched the lives of thousands. Throughout his career, Dr. Koral has demonstrated a unique commitment to the field of dentistry through his participation in numerous professional organizations and continued advocacy. Past President of the New Haven Dental Association, Fellow of the Pierre Fauchard Society and the American College of Dentists, and member of the Connecticut Dental Association, among many others, since 1968--Dr. Koral has committed a lifetime of leadership to his profession. I have often spoke of the importance of participating in the legislative process. I believe that through these efforts real change can be made. Dr. Koral shares this belief and has worked hard over the years to effect public policy at every level of government. Today, as Chairman of the Connecticut Dental Association's Legislative Council, Dr. Koral is a leading voice in matters important to the Association and the field of dentistry. For his many invaluable contributions and unparalleled advocacy, I am honored to rise today to pay tribute to Dr. Kurt Koral as he is recognized with the Connecticut Dental Association's Distinguished Service Award. Through his continued advocacy and constant participation, he has made a real difference in the lives of many. His efforts are sure to inspire others for many years to come.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to the rule for this misguided reauthorization of the Workforce Investment Act, a bill that fails to create job opportunities or extend unemployment benefits, that places the burden of increasing rising unemployment costs, that places the coping with that issue on our already financially crippled cities and States. We are at a time in our history when record numbers of people are being laid off, when unemployment benefits are going to expire at the end of this month, and what is our response? Curtailing the services these workers depend on to find new employment, and doing so when these services are already underfunded and straining to meet the increasing demand. The President's budget called for rescinding $300 million in funding in addition to the more than $700 million in cuts to job training programs for this year and next. This bill block grants adult dislocated worker and employment service funding and helps workers find jobs. It cuts summer employment opportunities mentoring and job counseling. At a time when men and women in our military are returning from combat, it takes money from disability and veteran employment and adult learning programs. My Republican colleagues would like to tell us that what they are doing is providing flexibility to the States to deal with these issues. The only flexibility that they provide to these States is what populations to jettison, what programs to cut. Our States are not going to be capable of handling what the Federal Government and what this Bush administration and the Republican House leadership want to foist on them. I tried to offer a modest amendment to provide assistance to women to help move into nontraditional jobs, like carpentry, manufacturing, where women comprise less than 25 percent of the workforce. Jobs would provide long-term employment, they generate pay between $14 and $35 an hour, provide medical care, retirement benefits. To do that, all we would have had to do was to give governors the flexibility to direct resources to train one-stop employment center employees, help them to be trained so that they can help women find these jobs and others find these jobs. The Republican majority response? No. The simple truth is that this bill abandons workers. It does nothing to stop these families from falling through the cracks. Turn aside the rule. Let us pass a workforce bill that prepares our workforce and gives them the tools for economic security for themselves and for their families.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague, and I do have someone else who would like to speak, another colleague. I just want to say to my colleague from Connecticut (Mr. Larson) I had no idea that he aspired to sports commentary. We have talked about Maryland and Missouri and Texas, but we have to deal with California as well. But the long and the short of it, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentlewoman from Ohio (Mrs. Jones).

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Connecticut (Mr. Larson).

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I will take my colleague up on the trip to Cleveland. Mr. Speaker, I am reluctant to do this, but my colleague from Connecticut (Mr. Larson) has asked for a minute, so I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Connecticut (Mr. Larson).

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I think it is absolutely clear that we do have to work together and we will work together to make sure that we preserve title IX. In closing, I want to thank the gentleman from Connecticut (Mr. Simmons) for bringing this resolution to the floor. We all wholeheartedly congratulate the number one NCAA women's team in the country, the UConn Huskies. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, we have a rally going here. I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Washington State (Mr. Inslee). (Mr. INSLEE asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I want to thank the gentleman from Connecticut (Mr. Simmons), my colleague from the Connecticut delegation, for introducing this resolution honoring the Huskies for their fourth NCAA women's basketball championship and their third and fourth seasons. An extraordinary group of young women. This year's victory is especially inspirational because the Huskies overcame incredible odds this year, to repeat with only one starting player returning from last year's championship team. They are the first women's basketball team in history to win a national championship without a single senior on the roster and only the third to win back- to-back championships. With this title victory against the mighty Tennessee Vols, and I might just say to my colleague from Tennessee that we honor today these young women for their competitive spirit and their heart, our Huskies are certain to be remembered as one of the greatest basketball teams in sports history. The people of Connecticut are tremendously proud of their Huskies, who have set an example for all us with their teamwork and with their standard for perfection. Though this victory was a team effort, as the gentleman from Connecticut (Mr. Simmons) has said, and he listed the names of all of the members of the team, I just want to make particular mention of guards Maria Conlon, who is from Derby, Connecticut, and I represent Derby, Connecticut. It is in the third congressional district. And Diana Taurasi, a fellow daughter of Italian immigrants who scored 28 points on her way to being named the Final Four Most Outstanding Player and Consensus National Player of the year. Diana was nothing less than dominating. She scored the third-most points in Division I tournament history, the fourth most-ever in the Final Four, and tied for the second most-ever in a title game. She did this all with an aching back, one good ankle, and a heart whose size is only matched by that of the Huskies' dreams and their determination. The game of women's basketball has changed since the days when women in my generation played it on only a half court, and I did that for 4 years at the Academy of Our Lady of Mercy Laurelton Hall in Milford, Connecticut. I am sure that in the days when my mother played, and she did, and my mother is 89 years old, but she played in the leagues when they had them in New Haven, Connecticut, women's leagues all those years ago, but no one dreamed at that time that women would one day play before a national audience of millions. The game may have changed, but the need to get young girls involved in sports has not. Without question, the Huskies have illustrated for us that the results of Congress's commitment and my colleagues' commitment through title IX, that when given the resources, women are just as talented and as exciting to watch as any men's team that is out there. Women now constitute 40 percent of college athletes compared to the 15 percent 30 years ago before title IX became law. As evidenced by the trailblazing UCONN Huskies, the values that women learn from sports participation, leadership, teamwork, discipline, pride and accomplishment are irreplaceable. Today's athletic successes help us to increase our participation in tomorrow's workforce, like the number of business management and ownership positions. In fact, 80 percent of female managers of Fortune 500 companies have a sports background. There may be a future Fortune 500 executive on the Huskies right now. Either way, one cannot deny that participation in athletics has given women many of the tools they need for success. Because of their hard work, absolute determination, and a commitment to teamwork on and off the court, these talented young women will be remembered as we debate title IX and its impact on the women in this country. They will be the image in our minds of women reaching for their dreams and succeeding. The UCONN Huskies have set a new standard of excellence that teams in the future will strive to match. They achieved perfection, and they have inspired all of us. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the Huskies on their championship win and on their incredible season. They have once again earned our recognition and respect. Let's go, Huskies. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I just say to my colleague from Tennessee, who has an office across from mine in the Rayburn Building, that our staffs had a wager, and they have been gracious in making sure that we were the recipients of the goodness of the State of Tennessee and the district. As I said in my comments, it is wonderful and marvelous to watch these young women, whether they are the Huskies or the Lady Vols, just play their hearts out. I think it is a tremendous tribute to them and to what they do in terms of their leadership of our country, now and for the future. We are proud of the Lady Vols as well, and I thank my colleague.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, this is the most irresponsible budget in our Nation's history. It adds almost $6 trillion to the public debt, with $1.2 trillion in tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans. It will do serious, long-term damage to our economy, compromising our ability to address the most serious challenges facing us. For the third year running, the Republicans are proposing a budget that lays the groundwork for increasing the deficit while again failing to stimulate the economy. Time and again, Republican budgets offer tax cuts and promise economic growth, yet all we have to show for it is a net loss of 2.6 million jobs, a stock market that has fallen by $4.6 trillion, and consumer confidence that has dropped to its lowest level in nearly a decade. A responsible budget provides hope, it lifts people up, it gives us a blueprint for our future, a view of our government's priorities. But this budget lets the people of this country down. The Republican leadership puts massive tax cuts ahead of the interests of the American people. This budget does not reflect our values, our priorities as a Nation, a Nation at war. The Republicans pay for these tax cuts on the backs of disabled veterans, college students and children. It places massive unfunded mandates on our States at a time when our States are facing the worst fiscal crisis since World War II. This budget flies in the face of all that we believe, all that we ought to be dealing with as a Nation because budgets are about choices. I believe that the current budget resolution does not deal with the issues that are a priority in this country. This Republican budget reflects the wrong values and the wrong priorities for America, and I urge my colleagues to vote against it.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the UConn Huskies for winning their fourth NCAA women's basketball championship and their third in four seasons. The victory is inspirational because the Huskies overcame incredible odds, having only one starting player return from last year's championship team. With this title victory, there can be no doubt that our Huskies are certain to be remembered as one of the greatest basketball teams in sports history. The people of Connecticut are justly proud of their Huskies, who have set an example for us all with their teamwork and their standards of perfection. I know this victory was a team effort; but we are particularly proud of Maria Conlon from Derby, Connecticut, of the third congressional district, and Diana Taurasi, a fellow daughter of Italian immigrants, who was named the Final Four Most Outstanding Player and Consensus National Player of the Year after she scored the third most points in Division I tournament history, the fourth-most ever in the Final Four, and tied for second-most ever in a title game, all with an aching back, one good ankle and a heart whose size is only matched by that of the Huskies' dreams. These women have shown that given the resources, they are just as talented and exciting to watch as any men's basketball team out there. They are role models for girls and boys alike across this Nation, and we should remember them as we debate title IX and its impact on women in this country. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the Huskies on their championship win and their incredible season. They have truly earned this recognition. Go Huskies.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Chairman, I inadvertently voted ``no'' on rollcall vote No. 121 today. I would like the Record to reflect that I intended to vote ``aye.'' Amendment No. 4 Offered by Mr. Meehan

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, go Huskies. But let me speak about an issue that I think the Huskies care about as well and that is pay equity, and I want to speak on an issue that is important to every woman and every family in America, one that has been ignored by this Chamber. Again, it is about pay equity. The issue of pay equity goes to the heart of what we fight for as working women. It is about ensuring that women who work every bit as hard as men and who play basketball every bit as hard as men are paid what they deserve. Fair pay is not a women's issue. It is a family issue. Two-earner families are not the only norm. Particularly in this economy, they are a necessity. Robbing women of their due worth robs entire families. It underminds their dreams, and that is why closing the wage gap must be an integral part of any pro-working family agenda. Today women are short-changed, undervalued to the tune of 76 cents on the dollar. For African American women, they earn only 69 cents for every dollar that men earn. Hispanic women, that number plummets to 56 cents. I am reintroducing today the Paycheck Fairness Act, and what it would do for the first time is put wage discrimination on the basis of gender on the same footing as wage discrimination occurring on the basis of race or ethnicity. I ask this House leadership to please bring this legislation to the floor so that we can pass it.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague, Congressmen Emanuel for his leadership on this important issue. I think all of us can agree on the urgency with which we need to provide funding for both the war in Iraq and the humanitarian needs of the Iraqi people. It is absolutely essential that Congress and the Administration provide our soldiers with the resources they need to see the Iraqi conflict through to its conclusion. Equally indispensable is the United States' responsibility to play a key role in providing the funding necessary to the rebuilding of Iraq once the war is over. The goals outlined in President Bush's recently released reconstruction plan for Iraq--paying for Iraqis' health care services, education, transportation, and housing for millions of people--these are noble goals that will need to be met as soon as the last shot is fired. But no less urgent are the needs we are facing today, right here at home. These are difficult times. More and more Americans are out of work--their families without health insurance. Many of our public schools are literally falling down. And we have homeland security and other serious infrastructure needs that we can no longer afford to ignore. That is why Congressman Emanuel's bill is so important. The American Parity Amendment would increase funding for urgent needs right here at home by $1.7 billion. We are talking about critical investments in education, in first responders and health care. Investments in transportation and water infrastructure, in social services for seniors, and housing for low-income Americans--all of them crucial to rebuilding our country and revitalizing our economy. What we are saying today is that it is important that we win the war and rebuild Iraq, but at a time when so many Americans are struggling, America is in need of a little post-war reconstruction, too. Since passage of the President's tax bill two years ago, two and a half million more Americans have lost their jobs, with the number of Americans without health insurance rising by four million. A trillion dollars worth of corporate assets have been foreclosed on, and two million Americans have moved from the middle class into poverty. And so in this legislation, states and localities would be eligible for funding according to their level of unemployment and how high it is compared to the national average, in addition to factors such as how long that state's unemployment rate has been that high, how large the state's population and what the average income is. This bill is designed to target the most vulnerable regions in the nation so that the funding is put to its best possible use. Those localities are also under great pressure to meet their increasing homeland security needs. Cities and towns have already spent more than $3 billion on homeland security improvements since September 11. But with states experiencing their worst fiscal crisis since World War II, it is altogether unlikely that these localities can count on their states to assist them with meeting these needs. In fact, two weeks ago I met with first responders in my district to talk about their problems. Fire chiefs, police chiefs, and mayors, they all agreed on one thing--they are desperate for funding to upgrade equipment and to train volunteers on how to use that new equipment. The $4.25 billion in homeland security funding in the supplemental this body passed last week is a good first step, but we need to do more, which is why this legislation is so sorely needed. It will get funds into the hands of the first responders who need them. I am proud that we will take the lead in rebuilding Iraq, but like so many Americans, I think it is time that we rebuild America, too. We want our troops who are bravely serving our country abroad to come home to a revitalized economy--to an America that is stronger and more prepared to meet the many challenges before us. None of us are under any illusions about the magnitude of those challenges. But we owe it to our troops and their families to be equally as realistic about the challenges that we face right here at home. Again, I would like to thank my colleague for his leadership on these issues.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of this legislation. We all recognize the need to provide this emergency funding. It is the right thing to do for our troops, particularly those who are now in harm's way. No Member of Congress would send America's sons and daughters to war without providing for them the adequate resources, and we will pay any price to protect our troops and the American people. As the distinguished ranking member of the committee has said, there are no Democrats, there are no Republicans, there are only Americans who are involved in this debate. However, I do remain concerned that the supplemental package falls short in funding pressing needs like homeland security. It is not a small venture; it is critical to our local communities. To date, our cities and towns have spent nearly $3 billion to protect their communities from the threat of terrorism. They cannot rely on State governments which are in the midst of the worst fiscal crisis since World War II. So at a time when towns like West Haven, Connecticut are spending more than $4,000 per week to meet these needs, we have a responsibility to offer them a helping hand. They cannot afford to do this alone. While $4.2 billion for homeland security is an improvement over the initial proposal, there remains approximately $10 billion in unmet needs to adequately secure our ports, our airports, the police, fire, emergency medical personnel on the front lines who need this funding for training and for new equipment. We cannot afford to ignore those funding gaps. Congress owes it to our troops overseas, who are sacrificing so much to protect the American people, to pass a bill that not only gives our fighting men and women the resources to carry out their mission, but one that also complements those efforts by securing our greatest vulnerabilities here at home. Let us ensure those fighting men and women a safe homeland to return to.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Chairman, I am proud to offer this amendment with my colleagues, the gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. McGovern) and the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Skelton). It would reduce military and security assistance to Colombia and add $61 million to the Office of Domestic Preparedness for assistance to State and local first responders. Today our country is at war and the Nation's threat level is high. I heard in my district a few weeks ago when I met with police, fire, and emergency medical personnel that there is a serious need in our cities and towns to provide funding for first responders in our fight against terrorism. Our localities have already spent in excess of $3 billion to meet their homeland security needs; and with this economy, with States in the single worst fiscal crisis since World War II, we cannot expect them to shoulder the full burden. Any bill to fund the war must also provide these cities and towns with the funds they need to safeguard their communities. This bill includes provisions that have nothing to do with meeting our homeland security needs or funding the war in Iraq. In particular, I am talking about the substantial military aid for Colombia. In fact, this bill contains more military and security assistance for Colombia, $105 million, than the amount that nearly every State will receive for first responders. And what is so urgent at this particular moment about our objectives in Colombia that could not be addressed in the annual appropriations process? Why is this funding in an emergency bill meant to address Iraq? I am concerned that this funding for Colombia may signal an escalation of our military involvement there. If this is true, then we have an obligation to have a full debate here in the Congress and reconsider our objectives there rather than simply approve additional funding without any debate at all. No matter how we feel about our involvement in Colombia, this bill is not the vehicle by which we should be making serious policy decisions regarding the escalation of our involvement. I urge my colleagues, do right by their cities, their towns, police, fire, emergency medical personnel. Support this amendment. Give first responders the resources they need to keep their communities safe.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to join the many family, friends, and colleagues who have gathered to celebrate the retirement of one of our community's most outstanding citizens and my dear friend--Assistant Chief Douglas P. MacDonald. Doug has devoted over thirty years of dedicated service to the City of New Haven and its residents, for which we extend our deepest thanks and appreciation. As a thirty-one year veteran of the New Haven Department of Police Service, Doug is a tremendous example of what it is to be a law enforcement official. Throughout his career, Doug has worked hard to ensure the safety and security of our families. Since he first joined the Department in 1972, he has held the ranks of Detective, Sergeant, and Lieutenant. Appointed Assistant Chief six years ago, Doug has served in various positions including District Manager, Supervisor of the Hostage Negotiation Unit, the Narcotics Enforcement Unit, and the Manager of the Family Services Unit. Doug has demonstrated a unique commitment to public service--leaving a legacy that many will strive to match. Perhaps even more telling of his commitment has been his work with the Yale Child Study Center in the development of the Child Development--Community Policing Program. This collaboration between the Yale Child Study Center and the New Haven Police Department gave birth to what has become a national model for addressing the needs of children exposed to violence. Doug has been locally and nationally recognized as an advocate for youth and the need for government, municipal agencies, and community organizations to work together to address the issues of youth violence. His work has made a real difference in the lives of thousands of children across the country. I consider myself fortunate to have been able to work so closely with Doug--especially on issues concerning children and youth violence. Doug has been a source of inspiration to me and many others throughout the community. It is rare that you find an individual who demonstrates such dedication to our most vulnerable citizens. His experience, knowledge, and generosity has been an invaluable asset to both myself and my staff and for that I am truly grateful. His retirement marks the end of a proud and respected career--a standard to which many will be held in the future. Community leader, advocate, and public servant, I am honored to call him my friend and, though Doug may be retiring from the New Haven Police Department, I will continue to look to him for his advice and counsel. His work in this community is far from completed. For all of his good work, I am proud to rise today to pay tribute to Assistant Chief Douglas MacDonald and to extend my very best wishes to him and his family for many more years of health and happiness.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to rise today to join in paying tribute to one of New Haven's most respected and treasured citizens and my dear friend, Dr. Edward Zigler, as he celebrates his retirement from a most distinguished and impressive career. For over 4 decades, Ed, a professor of psychology at Yale University, has devoted his talent and energies to the smallest of our Nation's citizens--our children. Nationally recognized for his contributions, Ed's vision and tenacity has made the safety and security of our children and families a national priority. As policy makers, we often look to those with field expertise for advise and counsel. There are few that have served in these halls in the last thirty years who will not recognize the name Dr. Edward Zigler. A member of the National Planning and Steering Committee for Project Head Start, Ed was instrumental in the development and implementation of this tremendous program and has been asked to serve as an advisor to each succeeding Administration since President Johnson. His efforts on a national committee of professionals charged with examining the possibility of making infant care leaves a reality in America directly inspired the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993. Founder of the School of the 21st Century, which has been adopted by over thirteen hundred schools nationwide, Ed saw his vision of adding child care to the mission of public schools become a national model. It is not often that you find an individual whose efforts have so effectively changed public policy. Through each of his accomplishments, Ed's work has dramatically changed the face of public policy concerning our children. He has made a real difference in how we, not only as legislators but as a society, view the importance of early childhood education programs, child care standards, addressing the needs of abused children and those exposed to traumatic violence, as well as the critical need for effective family support programs. A pioneer in his field, Ed has touched the lives of millions of children across the country--giving them a strong voice and ensuring that their interests are heard at every level of government. As a professor, Ed has taught many who have gone on to hold significant positions as policy makers and teachers themselves. Those he has trained will go on to teach others, for his is a legacy not just of books and articles but of ideas and inspiration. Through his position with the Yale Child Study Center and as Director of the Bush Center in Child Development and Social Policy, these institutions have become recognized leaders in addressing the most significant issues facing today's children and families. This weekend, leading researchers and policy-makers in the fields of child development and social policy will gather for a Festschrift entitled Child Development and Social Policy: Knowledge for Action in celebration of Ed's lifetime of work--a reflection of the impact his career has made. Ed has left an indelible mark on our community and our nation and we have certainly been fortunate to have him call New Haven home. It is my great privilege to join all of those gathered in extending my sincere thanks and appreciation to Dr. Edward Zigler for his invaluable contributions. I have been honored to have the opportunity to work closely with Ed on issues both here in Washington as well as in Connecticut. He has been an invaluable resource and I look forward to continuing to look to him as we continue to work to improve the quality of life for all of America's children.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, when the House considered the Republican budget last week, there was a lot of debate regarding whether the President's tax cut proposal was coming at the expense of other obligations, obligations to pay for child care, for public schools, college loans and nutrition programs that help children get a good start in life. Lost in the argument was the fact that nearly everyone in this body is for tax cuts in some form. Our differences are about who these tax cuts go to. Who needs them and why. Tax cuts and our spending priorities need not be mutually exclusive. But who do the tax cuts in the President's dividend tax plan go to? By and large, no matter how we look at it, they go to Americans who do not need them. Specifically, two-thirds of the benefits of the tax cut would flow to the top 5 percent of the population. That is individuals with an average income of about $350,000 per year. The top 1 percent of people who, on average, have an average income of $1 million, this is 1 percent of tax filers, they would receive 42 percent of the benefits; and people with incomes that exceed $3 million would receive nearly a quarter of the tax cut benefits. The top 2 percent of tax filers would receive nearly as much from this tax cut as the bottom 90 percent of all tax filers combined. How much is that exactly? Well, millionaires could receive up to $90,000 in a tax cut. But if one's income is between $40,000 and $50,000, people who could really use a tax cut, they would receive an annual average benefit of $84; and people with incomes between $30,000 and $40,000 would receive only $42. Mr. Speaker, I think most of us recognize those who pay more into the system will get more out of the system, but a $42 tax cut for some and a $90,000 tax cut for others is simply beyond all reasonable bounds of proportion and fairness, particularly in this economy when these tax cuts mean that vital services are being reduced at a time when so many families are struggling to make ends meet. $42 will not go far for a family worrying about paying the rent or putting food on their table. At the very least, we have an obligation to do something for these families. Mr. Speaker, that is why I offered an amendment during the Committee on the Budget markup to expand the child tax credit from $600 to $1,000 per child, to make it available to low-income families with children who are currently not eligible because they do not pay enough in Federal income tax to qualify for the full credit. They pay taxes, they pay payroll taxes, State taxes, local taxes, and excise taxes, but they do not pay enough in Federal income tax. My amendment would have built on the President's tax plan to help working families, while at the same time stimulating the economy. As a matter of fact, the President's tax plan includes a proposal to increase the child tax credit to $1,000 per child for some families. In fact, he allocated $7.4 billion for this purpose in fiscal year 2003. But, today, 20 million children will not receive the full increase, including 10 million who will not receive any increase at all, because, as I have said, these families do not pay enough in income taxes to have the credit count. I want to be clear, these working families do pay taxes. They pay FICA, payroll taxes, State and local taxes, excise taxes, all of which place a far heavier burden on those with the lowest incomes. This is not an issue of income redistribution. Even taking into account the Earned Income Tax Credit, about two-thirds of low- and moderate-income families with children still face a net tax burden. They deserve to receive the full amount of this tax credit. Over three-quarters of these children are in working families who are struggling to make ends meets. The President's proposal will also leave out about one-half of African American children and over 40 percent of Hispanic children. My amendment would have reaffirmed President Bush's proposal to increase the child tax credit to $1,000, but it would make the credit fully refundable so every single eligible family could benefit from it. In addition to being the right thing to do for working families, this tax cut would stimulate our economy, which continues to flounder. Only about one-fourth of the $300 rebate in the last tax cut were put back into the economy. The rest was saved. Giving tax cuts to families who would spend the money immediately, typically low- and middle-income families, would be the best stimulus we could give to our economy right now. This proposal would have been offset by reducing other aspects of the President's tax plan, such as the dividends tax cut which, as I have said, would give nearly two-thirds of its benefits to the top 5 percent of the population. The top 5 percent with average incomes of $350,000 do not need another tax cut. Mr. Speaker, this week is being touted as a week to focus on our children. We should take this opportunity to provide relief to families who need it the most. When this body takes up the tax cut legislation next week, the least we can do is consider the working families who are the backbone of our economy.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong opposition to this rule. Budgets are about priorities. They are about values. But this budget does not reflect our priorities or our values. Instead, it shows an irresponsible disregard for working families and priorities the American people have made clear. One example of that disregard in the Republican budget is its potential impact on the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. While this budget does not explicitly instruct the Resources Committee to open ANWR for oil exploration, it is clear that the Republican majority intends to use its reconciliation instructions to the Resources Committee to move forward with the Administration's drilling proposal. ANWR is one of the finest examples of wilderness left on the planet, with a full range of largely undisturbed ecosystems. The tens of thousands of caribou, polar and grizzly bears, birds, wolves, and fox that call this place home should not be sacrificed for a mere 180-day supply of oil, which is all the United States Geological Survey says we will likely recover. Even oil companies like British Petroleum, who have given up on the prospect of drilling in the Refuge, understand the relatively small amounts of oil ANWR is expected to yield and the high cost of removing it. This budget should invest in renewable energy sources, not drilling for oil in the pristine wilderness. Yet my amendment to protect the Refuge in the Budget Committee was defeated on a party-line vote. Mr. Chariman, this budget does not reflect the priorities or values of the American people. I urge my colleagues to oppose this rule.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to this budget resolution, the most irresponsible budget in our Nation's history. The budget is antijobs, antigrowth, antifamilies. It adds almost $3 trillion to the public debt. It undermines our Nation's savings, investment, growth, jobs, and retirement security, and will do serious long-term damage to our economy, compromising our ability to address the most serious challenges that face us. And it does this all in the name of $1.4 trillion in tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans and corporations, two-thirds of which would flow to people who have an income above $350,000. These tax cuts are paid for on the backs of disabled veterans, nutrition programs, children participating in the school lunch program, college loan assistance, $670 billion in cuts vital to services that people in this country are interested in. This administration also seriously endangers the public health by starving agencies that are responsible for protecting our environment, funding that is needed in order to enforce our environmental laws. It cuts Superfund cleanup, water quality, clean air, water funding, cuts of $3.1 billion in all. This administration continues to undermine the credibility of our environmental statutes by failing to enforce vital environmental requirements. Penalties for violations of environmental laws have decreased precipitously since the Bush administration took office, with the amount of the average penalty dropping by more than half. Mr. Chairman, asthma is currently the most common chronic disease in children. The EPA conservatively estimates that 15,000 premature deaths occur each year due to the exposure to air pollution. The National Resources Defense Council puts the number at 60,000. That tells us that environmental protection matters, that this budget and these cuts have real consequences for every American family and child. By putting a $1.4 trillion tax cut ahead of the public health, this budget will have catastrophic effects on pollution enforcement efforts. It does not reflect our values as a Nation and our priorities as a people. I urge my colleagues to oppose it.