Eni Faleomavaega

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution (H. Res. 675) condemning the July 17, 2009, terrorist bombings in Indonesia and expressing condolences to the people of Indonesia and the various other countries suffering casualties in the attacks.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. I certainly want to thank the chairman of our House Veterans' Affairs Committee, the gentleman from California, Chairman Filner, and my good friend from Florida on the other side for aisle for their management. And I also commend the ranking member of the Veterans' Affairs Committee, the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Buyer), for his sponsorship of this important bill. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 1293 would increase the amount authorized by the Department of Veterans Affairs under the Health Improvement and Structural Alterations, HISA, from $4,100 to $6,800 for improvements and structural alterations for homes of veterans with service-related disabilities of 50 percent or more, and from $1,200 to $2,000 for veterans with service-connected disabilities less than 50 percent. Mr. Speaker, HISA continues to provide for our veterans necessary funding for structural and home improvements such as widening doors; putting in handrails or special lighting; making kitchens, bathrooms, windows, electrical outlets and switches more accessible; and building ramps or improving entrance paths and driveways. These structural and home improvements are needed to meet the needs of our disabled veterans. HISA was created in 1973 out of concern for disabled veterans returning to their homes without proper accommodations. In 1976 there was a ceiling placed, and veterans with service-connected disabilities were receiving $2,500 and veterans with nonservice-related disabilities received only $600. In 1992, public law increased the lifetime benefit limit from $2,500 to $4,100 for service-connected veterans and from $600 to $1,200 to nonservice-connected veterans. Today the ceiling has been in the process for 17 years even though the costs for home modifications have increased tremendously. No one deserves to prolong their suffering. I believe that this must be addressed to show our continued appreciation for their service and all the accommodations to serve their disabilities should be made. Mr. Speaker, with the new generation of soldiers returning from Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, this increase is significantly necessary. Our servicemembers have served our country at its time of greatest need and have protected our Nation's best interests, and I believe we should take care of their needs and interests when they return home. This legislation is necessary, and I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 3219, legislation to amend title 38, U.S. Code, to make certain improvements in the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs related to insurance and health care, and for other purposes. Mr. Speaker, I do want to commend the gentleman from California, my colleague, the chairman of the Committee on Veterans' Affairs, and my good friend from Florida who is managing on the other side of the aisle this important legislation. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 3219, among other things, would make permanent the 2-year extension of the free Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance coverage period for totally disabled veterans following separation from active or reserve duty, enable veterans insured under the Veterans' Group Life Insurance program to increase the amount of their coverage, and eliminate the reduction in the amount of accelerated death benefits for terminally ill persons insured under both the SGLI and the VGLI programs. Mr. Speaker, such improvements to the SGLI and VGLI programs would maximize the opportunity for totally disabled veterans, especially those who have no commercial insurance, the chance to obtain insurance coverage to pay for their medical expenses. Especially in this time of economic hardship, this bill would provide tremendous financial help and security for our veterans and their families. Moreover, this bill would expand existing health care programs to include veterans that were not otherwise qualified. For example, this bill would provide for the enhanced treatment authority for veterans of the Vietnam era, like myself, and veterans of the Gulf War who may have been exposed to Agent Orange, herbicides known to contain dioxin, which has been linked to cancer and other disorders. While the full impact of these herbicides remain unknown, veterans affected have shown symptoms including persistent memory and concentration problems, chronic headaches, widespread pain, gastrointestinal problems, and other chronic abnormalities not explained by well-established diagnoses. Mr. Speaker, as a Vietnam veteran myself, and a proud member of the 100th Battalion 442nd Infantry Reserve Unit out of Hawaii, I certainly appreciate the service and sacrifice of my fellow servicemen in the United States Armed Forces. Again, I urge my colleagues to support this bill. General Leave

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I certainly want to commend my colleague, the chief sponsor of this legislation, the gentleman from Maine, Mr. Michaud, for his leadership and sponsorship of this bill. I also want to thank the chairman of our Veterans Affairs Committee, the gentleman from California, Chairman Filner, Ranking Member Buyer, and also my friend from Florida, Mr. Stearns, who is managing the other side of the aisle. Mr. Speaker, this bill addresses the important question of who will provide continuing care for injured servicemen and servicewomen once they transition to veteran status. Today, more servicemembers are surviving the wounds of war than those injured in previous conflicts. For example, the ratio of wounded to killed averaged approximately 1.7 wounded for every fatality for the first world wars. In Korea and Vietnam, the ratio improved to three wounded per fatality, largely due to air medical evacuation. In Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, improved body armor and superior battlefield medicine techniques have resulted in seven wounded per fatality. The fact of the matter is, Mr. Speaker, there is a growing need to provide continuing care to those injured and wounded from recent conflicts once they reach veteran status. As a result, providing support and resources to those giving care to these wounded and injured veterans is of real concern. Unfortunately, the Veterans Administration currently does not collect data that would enable us to assess the number of veterans currently under continuing care. More significantly, there is no data available to assess the number of caregivers, whether they be family members or other individuals. I believe this legislation provides for that right approach, and again thank the gentleman from Maine for his initiative in doing this bill. This bill would require the VA to conduct a caregivers survey at least once every 3 years of individuals caring for veterans enrolled in the VA health care system and report back to Congress no later than 180 days after the date of which the survey has been completed. Mr. Speaker, in essence this bill would improve the quality of treatment and care of our veterans. Specifically, this bill would create a new caregiver program in order to provide coordinated support services to those that are giving care to our veterans. Training would be made available to caregivers through the Veterans Administration. Pertinent information would be disseminated to make sure that the caregivers are aware and well informed of services and resources available to them. As a result, the bottom line, Mr. Speaker: Our veterans are provided the necessary care for their needs. Again, I support the legislation. I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I certainly want to thank the gentleman from Arizona, the chairman of our National Parks Subcommittee, for his leadership and sponsorship of this bill. And I certainly want to associate myself with the comments made earlier by our colleague and former chairman of our House Resources Committee, and currently chairman of the Education and Labor Committee, Congressman Miller, for his comments and commending this legislation to the extent that when you mentioned the name ``Udall,'' it resonates very well in the State of Arizona, which I'm sure my good chairman will always realize that. I say this with a sense of a tremendous feeling about the Udall family as an early Mormon pioneer family who settled what is now Arizona and the tremendous contributions that these brothers have made to our Nation's environmental issues. How ironic it is from a Western State that you have two dynamic leaders that have shown real leadership in protecting our Nation's environment and all of this, and you think that it comes only from those who want to develop our resources, rather than also looking at the environmental issues as just as important. Ironically, too, the fact that Stewart Udall's son currently serves as U.S. Senator from the State of Colorado--and I think I'm getting myself mixed up here. There are so many Udalls going around here that even I get confused. Stewart Udall's son, who is Tom, is currently the U.S. Senator from New Mexico, and Mo Udall's son, Mark, is currently the U.S. Senator from Colorado. But again, Mr. Speaker, I do want to commend my good friend, the gentleman from Arizona, for his sponsorship of this bill, and I urge my colleagues to pass this legislation, especially the tremendous help that it gives to students of the Native American community in our country. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, as a fellow NCO, my colleague, the gentleman from Georgia, and also my good friend, Mr. Wilson from South Carolina, I rise today to draw my colleagues' attention to House Joint Resolution 44, an act that would recognize the valiant efforts and heroism of the noncommissioned officers of the United States Army. I would like to commend Chairman Skelton for his introduction and leadership and sponsorship of this bill, a token of appreciation for those who serve to protect our Nation and our ideals of freedom. The noncommissioned officer rank has a long and rich history in the United States Army, originating with the Continental Army in 1775. The most visible leaders of the service, the noncommissioned officers have been the backbone of the Army for more than 230 years. Often referred to as the ``eyes and ears'' of a commander, noncommissioned officers are not only sought after for their advice and guidance, but they are the standard keepers of the service, dedicated to the upholding of the Army's and our country's values. Responsible for the training of the Army's future leaders, the noncommissioned officer is integral in executing any given mission of the service. Madam Speaker, from my own little district of American Samoa, and as a fellow American Samoan, I am very proud to share this little bit of news with my colleagues here in the House today. Just a few weeks ago, a fellow Samoan, Command Sergeant Major Iuniasolua Savusa, a ranger in the 101st Airborne, was recently selected by Admiral Timothy Keating as the Senior Enlisted Leader of the U.S. Army Pacific Command, or PACOM. In other words, the Command Sergeant Major of all the U.S.; not just Army, but the entire unified military command under the Pacific Command currently in Hawaii led by Admiral Keating. This command was established in 1947 by President Truman and is considered the largest of the United States' unified commands and consists of approximately 250,000 military personnel. Command Sergeant Major Savusa has a long and substantial career in the U.S. Army. He has served overseas all throughout Europe and was instrumental in the initial incursion of Baghdad in Operation Iraqi Freedom, former Command Sergeant Major U.S. Army Europe, and also Former Command Sergeant Major U.S. Army Central Command. Command Sergeant Major Savusa is an example of the Toa o Samoa, or many of the Samoan soldiers who are enlisted and have served in the many branches of the Armed Forces. I would like to take this opportunity to recognize Command Sergeant Major Ace Vimoto; Command Sergeant Major Charles Tobin; Chief Warrant Officer 5 Kokolua Yandall; Command Sergeant Major Falaniko, retired; and Chief Warrant Officer 5 Save Liuato Tuitele for their contributions to our military. I must pay a special tribute to Command Sergeant Majors Vimoto and Falaniko for they both had sons who enlisted in the Army and have given the ultimate sacrifice to our country. The son of Command Sergeant Major Falaniko, Private First Class Jonathan Falaniko, was killed in Iraq; while the son of Command Sergeant Major Vimoto, Private First Class Timothy Ray Vimoto, was killed in Afghanistan. We must honor these fathers and sons for their selfless sacrifice and the sacrifice they have made in the protection of our freedoms. I cannot express the immense pride I have in those who persevere daily to protect the freedom and integrity of the United States. Noncommissioned officers of the United States Army are perhaps the most visible embodiment of the moral character and strength of the U.S. Army. I would like to remind my colleagues that this recognition by Congress is the least that can be done to express a deserved gratitude of those who have served and those who continue to serve in our Army today. With that, Madam Speaker, I again commend my good friends for their management of this legislation, and I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I thank my good friend, the gentleman from Missouri, for his management of this important bill, and also the gentlelady from Minnesota for her support. I didn't realize there were fish in Minnesota that big. Maybe if she would catch a 1,000-pound marlin, she would see how big a 1,000-pound marlin would be. But, at any rate, I thank her for her support. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 593, recognizing and celebrating the 50th anniversary of the entry of Hawaii into the Union as the 50th State. I commend my colleagues, Congressman Abercrombie and Mazie Hirono, for their introduction of this resolution. My strong interest in this legislation, Mr. Speaker, is that half of my life was spent in Hawaii during my youth that I spent there. The eight main islands of Hawaii, Maui, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Oahu, Molokai, Kauai and Niihau span over 1,500 miles in the Pacific Ocean, and Hawaii is the only State comprised of islands. It is home to one-fourth of the endangered species list, as well as eight national parks, which serve to protect volcanoes, rain forest, coral reefs and other complex ecosystems. In addition to being visually astounding, Hawaii was one of the first States to significantly contribute to the diversity of Congress. The first Native Hawaiian, the first Asian American, the first woman of color, the first Native Hawaiian to serve in the Senate, all hailed from the great State of Hawaii. A favorite of Elvis Presley, whom I had the privilege of meeting when I was working as a youth performer at the Polynesian Cultural Center, Hawaii is also legendary for some of the most famous singers in Don Ho, Melveen Leed, the late Alfred Apaka and Genoa Keawe. The State also has made great efforts to preserve its culture with Hawaiian language immersion schools, hula competitions and traditional canoe voyages. And what a great thing to remember that it was Duke Kahanamoku, the father of surfing, which now has become an international sport. And a byproduct of surfing, by the way, happens to be the skateboard, which originated from the great State of Hawaii. I also want to note, Mr. Speaker, Hawaii is proud to give to our Nation her first native son, who is currently the 44th president of the United States, President Barack Obama. At the height of the presidential campaign last year, Mr. Speaker, I remember there was a national blogger going around saying that I was working as a special agent of Barack Obama, and the reason for my travel to Indonesia and to also visit the school in Jakarta, where Barack Obama had attended, was to destroy any records that would indicate that President Obama was born in Indonesia, which would obviously have him disqualified to run as a candidate for President. Well, Mr. Speaker, this blog continues today, giving such gross misinformation to the American people. I just want to say it is absolute nonsense, and those responsible for this blog should stop it, as I am sure there are better things that they can do than to discredit our President. President Obama was born in Kapiolani Hospital, Honolulu, Hawaii, period. Mr. Speaker, the State of Hawaii is also remembered for Pearl Harbor. Yes, it has its consequences, reminiscent also of the tremendous disservice and the problem that we did in mistreatment of over 100,000 Japanese Americans. They are Americans who happened to be of Japanese ancestry. It has also produced the 100th Battalion 442nd Infantry, the most decorated unit ever in the history of the United States Army, with 18,000 individual decorations for heroism and bravery in the field of battle, over 9,000 Purple Hearts, 52 Distinguished Service Crosses, and, ironically, only one Medal of Honor, but we corrected that mistake. We now have 19 Japanese Americans who were awarded the Medal of Honor, which, as my colleague from Hawaii (Mr. Abercrombie) said, Senator Inouye was one of those recipients to receive the Medal of Honor. For 50 years, members of the unit in Hawaii have brought unique and diverse elements to the culture of the United States. I think it was Michelle Obama who said, ``If you want to understand more about the President, go to Hawaii, and you will understand his sense of philosophy, his sense of caring, his sense of wanting to share and to make sure that we have proper treatment and how we should be treating our fellow human beings.'' To strive to support the endeavors of the islands of the Pacific and to not hesitate to offer any resounding support, I urge my colleagues to support this resolution. I think it is worthwhile, and we ought to give due recognition to the great State of Hawaii. Again, I thank my good friend from Missouri.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of House Resolution 2632 which encourages the display of the American flag on July 27 honoring National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day. I want to commend Mr. Charles Rangel of New York for introducing this important resolution further promoting the national recognition of the veterans who fought valiantly in the Korean war. I would also like to recognize the cosponsors for their strong support of House Resolution 2632. From June 25, 1950, to July 27, 1953, American troops were involved in heavy combat on the Korean peninsula against the invading forces of North Korea and the People's Republic of China. For 3 grueling years, our troops battled alone many other nations' troops in defending the peninsula from being enveloped wholly by communism. Today, there are rougly 2.3 million veterans still alive today. These men have served our country at its time of greatest need and have protected our Nation's best interests. It is imperative that our Nation recognizes the service of these veterans and we must honor them with the raising of the American flag on July 27. As a Vietnam war veteran myself, I personally appreciate the service of my fellow servicemen of the United States Armed Forces. I realize that the sponsor and my good friend Mr. Charles Rangel is also a veteran of the Korean war. He courageously led troops behind enemy lines for 3 days instead of surrendering to the enemy. It is necessary that we honor and remember many of those who fought bravely alongside my good friend. It is important that my fellow veterans from the Korean war are given the utmost respect for their valor and courage. I would like to once again, thank Mr. Charles Rangel and the cosponsors for creating and supporting this piece of legislation honoring the veterans of the Korean war by raising the American flag on July 27. I strongly urge my colleagues to support this resolution.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 934, recognizing the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands' (CNMIs') ownership of submerged lands lying three geographical miles outside of mainland coastlines. First and foremost, I want to commend my good friend, Congressman Sablan of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, for taking the initiative to introduce this important legislation. This bill is an example of the continued efforts by the Congress to support the Territories. H.R. 934 seeks to officially award the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands submerged lands that are located three geographical miles outside of mainland coastlines. Submerged lands qualify as lands permanently or periodically covered by tidal waters up to, but not above, the line of high tide. American Samoa, Guam, and the Virgin Islands were granted ownership over our own respective submerged lands by the 93rd session of the Congress, before the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands became a territory of the United States. The CNMI wishes to be afforded the same opportunities granted to the other territories by having these submerged lands officially recognized as a part of their Territory. Mr. Speaker, by allowing these submerged lands to be recognized, they will fall under the jurisdiction of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, as opposed to that of the U.S. Seeing as the submerged lands are located so closely to the mainland, having them fall within the jurisdiction of the CNMI will allow for sufficient justice to be served. Commonwealth citizens and officials, instead of officials residing thousands of miles away, will be implementing and enforcing laws that apply to their population. The U.S. government will still have claim over gas, oil, and other mineral deposits that may be possibly found on these lands. It should be noted that H.R. 934 applies solely to those lands that are submerged; the U.S. government will still have full control and possession of lands above sea level that do not belong to the Commonwealth. Additionally, it does not circumvent any actions that may be taken or regulations that have been put forth by U.S. naval authorities regarding these submerged lands. It is apparent that H.R. 934 serves to benefit the Commonwealth of the Northern Marina Islands and will not be detrimental to the United States. For these reasons, I urge my colleagues to pass H.R. 934. Again, I thank my colleagues for their support of this legislation.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 2990 to provide special pays and allowances to certain members of the Armed Forces, expand concurrent receipt of military retirement and VA disability benefits to disabled military retirees, and for other purposes. I want to thank my good friend from Missouri, the Chairman of the Armed Services Committee Mr. Skelton, and all the cosponsors of this important legislation. I want to thank you especially for including in this bill, provisions to extend locality pay to federal employees in Alaska, Hawaii, and the Territories. Mr. Speaker, federal employees in American Samoa are not getting fair treatment. To date, American Samoa is the only non-foreign area in which federal employees do not receive a cost-of-living allowance. Notwithstanding that by law, federal employees in the U.S. Territory of American Samoa are eligible to receive COLA payments, under OPM regulations American Samoa is not listed as a COLA-designated area. Given that American Samoa faces many of the same issues driving higher prices for goods, services, and travel that face other territories in similar situations, it seems discriminatory that the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has chosen not to provide COLA to federal employees in American Samoa. Further exacerbating the problem is the fact that ``post differential'' compensation is paid to federal employees who are working in American Samoa who have come in from other areas of the country. And so the only non-foreign area federal employees who do not receive any additional compensation are those federal employees from American Samoa, working in American Samoa. All current and future employees in the non-foreign areas who are eligible to receive a COLA, whether or not they actually do receive it, are covered by this legislation and would therefore receive locality pay under this bill. Under this measure, federal employees in American Samoa will receive 12.9 percent locality pay received by the rest of the US. Locality pay will be extended to GS employees, administrative law judges, members of the Senior Executive Service, senior level and senior technical (SL/ST) employees, administratively determined employees, GS employees that do not receive COLA, and employees in agencies with unique personnel systems such as the Transportation Security Administration, DoD, the Federal Aviation Administration, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and those agencies covered by the Financial Institution, Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act. This is a very important legislation for all federal employees and especially my constituents in the U.S. Territory of American Samoa, and I urge my colleagues to pass H.R. 2990.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of S. 407; with all good intended purpose, this bill will increase the rates of compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities and rates of dependency indemnity compensation, DIC, for the survivors of certain disabled veterans. It will also increase of the Cost of Living Allowance, COLA. At this time, I would like to thank my good friend Senator Daniel Akaka, Chairman of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee and majority ranking members for introducing this bill as well as the Committee Minority Member Senator Richard Burr who is the original cosponsor, so are Committee Members John D. Rockefeller IV, Patty Murray, Bernard Sanders, Sherrod Brown, Jim Webb, Jon Tester, Mark Begich, Roland Burris, Arlen Specter, Johnny Isakson, Roger F. Wicker, Mike Johanns, Lindsey Graham, Senators Frank R. Lautenberg, Blanche Lincoln, and Olympia J. Snowe. Mr. Speaker, this very important legislation could not have come at a time then it is most critical to address the needs of service-connected disabled veterans and survivors during these challenging economic times in our country. The testimonies offered by Bradley G. Mayes, Director, Compensation and Pension Service, Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veteran Affairs, etc., in the April 29, 2009 Committee hearing have further substantiated this measure and all voted in favor without dissent. This measure will also mandate an increase in the Cost of Living Allowance, COLA, for our disabled veterans and survivors. Mr. Speaker, it is very important that we take care of our veterans. According to VA, as set forth in its fiscal year 2010 budget, the department will provide disability compensation to 3,154,217 veterans with service-connected disabilities in fiscal year 2010. I am pleased with the undivided attention we give to this legislation which underscores how much we appreciate our veterans' selfless military service to protect our country and the freedom and liberty we enjoy. Again, I thank Senator Daniel Akaka and his Veterans Committee for this legislation and strongly urge my colleagues for their full support.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I want to commend and thank my good friend, the gentleman from New York for his sponsorship, again, of this important resolution and certainly thank him for his insights and understanding of the current situation that we're faced with as far as dealing with North Korea. Mr. Speaker, the geopolitical situation now, the realities and the development as a result of North Korea's latest activities now, makes it absolutely necessary for the United States to strengthen our alliance and partnership with South Korea. The security alliance between the United States and Korea has been pivotal ever since it was forged through much shedding of blood during the Korean War some 60 years ago. As I recall, over 33,000 of our men and women in military uniform died as a result of that terrible conflict known as the Korean War. Without question, South Korea has remained a steadfast U.S. ally, especially in our time of need, whether it be the horrific conflict of Vietnam, where I personally served at the time, where some 50,000 South Korean soldiers were right there fighting alongside the members of our Armed Forces there at that time. When we needed assistance in Iraq, Afghanistan, Lebanon, and other global hotspots, South Korea responded affirmatively and dependably as our ally. The foundation of our friendship and alliance is unshakeable. Through our shared values and common history, we are able to meet global challenges together, ranging from terrorism to the current crisis in North Korea. Mr. Speaker, our economic and trade relationship with South Korea is one of the strongest in Asia, and currently South Korea is our seventh- largest trading partner in the world. In 2007 our two countries concluded a free trade agreement that now awaits approval by our Congress as well as the Korean National Assembly. In my opinion, Mr. Speaker, the U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement will bring tremendous benefits to both of our countries. The International Trade Commission has forecast that the elimination of tariffs on U.S. goods under the agreement would increase our GDP by about $11 billion a year. The agreement will also eliminate regulatory and other nontariff barriers that have historically restricted access by farmers, manufacturers, and service providers. And to the South Korean market, with growing difficulties and the health of our economy, in my opinion, this proposed agreement will be a win-win situation: a win for our workers, a win for our businesses, and a win for our consumers. But perhaps the most compelling argument supporting a free trade agreement with this important ally of ours is the very reason that we are gathered here in support of House Resolution 309. The geopolitical factors in East Asia and North Korea's recent destabilizing actions necessitates a firm and tangible U.S. commitment in the region. And realizing that the free trade agreement would send the right message to both North and South Korea that we seek an even stronger and more comprehensive economic and trade relationship with our important ally, the Republic of Korea. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I want to thank my good friend and colleague the gentleman from California for his comments, certainly one of the most recognized experts that we have in the House as far as issues dealing with the Korean Peninsula. I do thank him for his thoughts and sentiments on this important issue. Once again, Mr. Speaker, I wish to thank my good friend the gentleman from New York (Mr. King) and also Mr. Meeks for offering this important resolution and especially also the chairman of our committee, Mr. Berman, and also our senior ranking member, Ms. Ros-Lehtinen, for their leadership and their support in bringing this bill before the floor. I ask my colleagues to join me in supporting this resolution and offering President Lee our best wishes for a pleasant visit to Washington and a successful summit with President Obama sometime this week. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution (H. Res. 309) expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that North Korea should immediately stop any hostile rhetoric and activity towards the Republic of Korea and engage in mutual dialogue to enhance inter-Korean relations, as amended.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this resolution expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that North Korea should immediately stop its hostile activities and instead return to dialogue. Mr. Speaker, as I said earlier of my strong support of H. Res. 309, it is a thoughtful, timely, and relevant resolution offered by my dear friend and colleague, the gentleman from New York (Mr. King). I also wish to recognize the contributions and efforts of my colleague, Mr. Meeks, also from New York. He was the principal Democratic lead cosponsor and is a member of my Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific and the Global Environment. Mr. Speaker, this important and bipartisan resolution shares, at its substantive core, three key principles. First, it expresses a unified sense of the Congress that North Korea should cease all hostile and destabilizing activity on the Korean Peninsula. Second, it calls on North Korea to reengage in dialogue with South Korea, as well as with the Six-Party Talks. And, third, it reaffirms our unconditional and unwavering commitment to our alliance partnership with the Republic of Korea. As we are all aware, North Korea's recent hostile activities have once again brought world attention to the fragile peace and tenuous security framework on the Korean Peninsula. In a span of less than 3 months, North Korea conducted another nuclear test, launched several intercontinental ballistic missiles, and suspended or nullified all major inter-Korean agreements, including the armistice that has maintained peace between North and South Korea since 1953. Even more alarming, Mr. Speaker, North Korea removed IAEA inspectors at Yongbyon and announced that it was restarting its plutonium production program with the ultimate aim of weaponizing its nuclear material. Meanwhile, amid the hostile brinksmanship, two American journalists, Euna Lee and Laura Ling, were captured, tried, and sentenced to 12 years in prison for reform by hard labor. North Korea's leader, Kim Jong Il, has let it be known that his 26- year-old son, Kim Jong Un, will succeed him as he succeeded his own father. North Korea's communist leadership regime is being solidified into a totalitarian, hereditary, authoritarian regime. These startling events have unquestionably precipitated the necessity of a unified congressional response to North Korea's hostile acts, while also sending a message of strong solidarity and support for our close friend and ally, the Republic of Korea. Just last Friday, the United Nations Security Council unanimously adopted a resolution condemning ``in the strongest terms possible'' North Korea's nuclear test, imposing new sanctions, demanding that the Democratic People's Republic of Korea not conduct any further nuclear test or any launch using ballistic missile technology, and urging Pyongyang to come back to the Six-Party Talks without preconditions. House Resolution 309 before us today will reinforce the Security Council's message that Pyongyang's recent actions are unacceptable, and it will also reinforce a message President Obama and Secretary of State Clinton both underscored regarding the strength of our alliance with South Korea. The administration and the international community have sent clear messages to North Korea about its provocations, and it is time that Congress also follows suit. Mr. Speaker, our consideration of House Resolution 309 today is rendered all the more relevant by the visit of President Lee Myung-bak to Washington. I understand that his incredibly busy schedule will include a summit with President Obama and meetings with Cabinet officials and the House and Senate leadership. I was also made aware that President Lee will receive the honorary doctorate degree from George Washington University, where he was a visiting scholar 10 years ago. Mr. Speaker, it is always a special occasion when Korea's President visits the United States, and I certainly would like to extend a sincere welcome and best wishes to President Lee, whom I had the honor of meeting with last year in Seoul. Mr. Speaker, for almost 1\1/2\ years now, since his inauguration last February, President Lee has continually emphasized the importance of a strategic alliance with the United States, and this has been manifested through several notable achievements. Most recently, South Korea joined the Proliferation Security Initiative aimed at preventing the spread of weapons of mass destruction. In November of last year, Korea formally acceded to the Visa Waiver Program. In October, a currency swap agreement was signed between our two countries to stem the liquidity issues in the global financial markets. And through legislation passed by our Congress last September, Korea's Foreign Military Sales status was officially upgraded to the level of NATO plus three. President Lee was also instrumental in arranging for the resumption of the importation of beef imports from the U.S. to Korea after diffusing a sensitive political situation that temporarily halted our imports of beef to South Korea. His determination to settle the beef issue underscores the important commercial ties between Korea and the United States. Mr. Speaker, I wish to close my remarks by offering a few thoughts on the importance of reaffirming our alliance partnership with Korea. The history of relations between our two countries, which can be tracked back to a treaty of friendship more than 25 years ago, has been marked by consistency and mutual solidarity between our two nations. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to support this resolution. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I also yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

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

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I also yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. At this time, I yield all of the time that he may want to consume to my good friend and colleague and the author of this legislation, the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Pascrell).

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution (H. Res. 430) expressing condolences to the citizens of Italy and support for the Government of Italy in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake that struck the Abruzzo region of central Italy, as amended.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material in the resolution under consideration.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. I yield my time.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of Senate bill 615, legislation that provides critical personnel authority for the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan, known as SIGAR. Since 2001, the United States has devoted $32 billion in humanitarian and reconstruction assistance to Afghanistan. In an effort to combat waste, fraud and abuse with regard to the expenditure of these funds, Congress created the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction, commonly known as SIGAR, in the National Defense Authorization Act of 2008. That legislation empowers SIGAR to conduct audits, inspections, and investigations of all U.S. assistance programs in Afghanistan. Congress intended that SIGAR would exercise its authority swiftly. It came into existence in July of 2008 with an authorization to hire 18 auditors, 13 inspectors and 3 investigators; but from the beginning, SIGAR has been hindered by certain limitations contained in standard Federal Government personnel authorities and by the difficulty of attracting qualified candidates to work in the difficult security environment of Afghanistan. A year after its creation, SIGAR has conducted only one independent audit and has only hired nine auditors, five inspectors and three investigators. This resolution would help resolve this problem by granting SIGAR a special hiring authority under 5 U.S.C., section 3161. Section 3161 would allow SIGAR a more flexible, excepted service authority and would empower the office to select, appoint, and employ the necessary staff to fulfill its duties. In particular, section 3161 would grant return rights to Federal employees, provide interagency detail authority and permit the setting of pay rates above the caps established by GS-15, step 10, under which SIGAR is currently required to operate. This has proven to be a vital asset for SIGAR's counterpart in Iraq, SIGIR, which has long relied upon this enhanced hiring authority to attract its dedicated core of professional staff. After conducting an in-depth review, the Department of Defense and the Office of Personnel Management have concluded that the proposed legislation is necessary to allow SIGAR to meet its responsibilities. This bill represents a vital step in allowing SIGAR to fulfill its critical duties of the oversight of U.S. assistance programs in Afghanistan. I support the bill and urge my colleagues to support it as well. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I thank my good friend, the gentleman from Florida, for his comments in support of this legislation. And I do also want to thank the gentlelady, the good Senator from Maine, Senator Collins, for her authorship to this bill. Thirty-two billion dollars is no pennies certainly to be given some sense of responsibility in knowing where the American taxpayers' money has gone in terms of the appropriations and the funding that we've given to Afghanistan and as well as to any other country, for that matter. So again, I really commend the gentlelady, the good Senator from Maine, Senator Collins, for her authorship of this bill, and I thank my good friend from Florida also in helping us manage this bill on the floor.