Rodney Frelinghuysen

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. I rise to oppose the gentleman's amendment. The W76 life extension program is a critical ongoing program to extend the life of that warhead. This warhead supports the mission of our Navy's ballistic missile submarines, the most survivable leg of our nuclear deterrent. Our nuclear deterrent posture relies heavily on this Navy mission, but the President's budget request proposed to cut production of the W76 by nearly 20 percent. I'm very concerned that these reductions to the W76 were proposed without fully explaining the force structure implications or the impacts to national security. Therefore, this bill restores full funding for the W76 to the levels previously provided to the committee last year in the NNSA's last acquisition report. Even the Department of Energy's inspector general provided a report that stated that the National Nuclear Security Administration's plans to try to reduce costs of the ongoing W76 program would not be achieved. That IG concluded the NNSA would need additional funds above the request to stay on track with their production requirements. This bill resolves those funding problems by increasing funding $13 million above the request. I strongly oppose the gentleman's amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to the gentleman's amendment. This is the final year of funding to a project to construct a limited number of centrifuges in order to demonstrate this technology can provide a domestic capability for enriching uranium. This capability is needed to ensure adequate supplies of enriched uranium for our defense needs. Domestically enriched uranium is needed to supply tritium for the nuclear weapons stockpile and will eventually be needed to fuel the nuclear reactors on board our submarines and aircraft carriers. Even though we have found a way to supply all our needs for the next few years, there is still no plan on how we will fulfill our defense requirements after the limited amount of fuel has been expended. In every future scenario, we will ultimately need to make an investment to ensure unencumbered enriched uranium is available. There is no reason to cut off funding for a project that is showing progress. The total cost of this project was originally estimated to cost $300 million, but the project is proceeding extremely well, it remains on budget, and is on schedule for completion this December. Because of these and other expected cost savings from uranium transfers, the overall cost to the taxpayer has been reduced and could be reduced further. The bill provides the Department with special reprogramming authority to fund the final $48 million installment, instead of direct funding. Providing the Department with flexibility on how to fulfill its portion of the cost-sharing agreement could reduce the overall costs of the program if that same progress continues and the full funding amount is not ultimately needed. This is a responsible approach that meets our defense needs while potentially saving taxpayer dollars. I urge my colleagues to vote ``no'' on the amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. I move to strike the last word.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Following the doctor's lead, for the reasons I opposed this amendment the last time, I oppose this. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. I move to strike the last word.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to the amendment. Our bill supports the most responsible path forward for dealing with this ongoing and troubled project. The National Nuclear Security Administration has stated it is conducting a strategic pause to pursue other alternatives to the MOX plant in light of what are very large cost increases. However, it has not provided any information on what new alternatives are available which have not already been exhaustively considered. While there are considerable and valid concerns about the project's management and cost growth, the United States must fulfill its end of the plutonium disposition agreement, and more delays will only raise costs. It is time for the Department of Energy to fix these issues and to get back on track with meeting its commitments. There is no value in prolonging this study into fiscal year 2014. I urge Members to oppose this amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Chairman, I ask unanimous consent that the remainder of the bill through page 46, line 15 be considered as read, printed in the Record, and open to amendment at any point.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Chairman, I have an amendment at the desk.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Chairman, this is a noncontroversial amendment, worked out jointly with the minority and the authorizing committees. It would amend the existing section 311 to require only the report on analysis of alternatives for major weapons programs to be submitted to both the authorizers and appropriators. This is a change requested by the authorizers, and I am happy to be able to include it. I ask that this amendment be supported. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Chairman, I ask unanimous consent that the remainder of the bill through page 59, line 9 be considered as read, printed in the Record, and open to amendment at any point.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Chairman, I rise to oppose the gentlewoman's amendment. The House has repeatedly had overwhelming votes in support of continuing the Yucca Mountain Repository. The language that this amendment would strike, we have been carrying for years as a way to keep the will of the House alive, and the American people support what we're doing. I urge a ``no'' vote on this amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Chairman, I move that the Committee do now rise.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I move that the House do now adjourn.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Madam Chairman, I thank the gentleman for yielding. I rise in opposition to this amendment. The rationale we have been talking about here is a human rationale. We have, as we speak, over 60,000 military serving doing the work of freedom in Afghanistan. As they prepare to leave, we should not be cutting funding in these very dangerous times. As you are leaving, you are incredibly vulnerable. They're still in the fight, they're still working hard, they need to protect themselves. While the administration hasn't offered any strategic plan, other than a date for withdrawal, those who serve there deserve our support because they have an important mission to perform. Whether it is in Kabul or a forward-operating base, they are in a dangerous situation. The reality is that things in Afghanistan are hotter than the administration estimated in their budget request. We need this money for contingencies. We need this money because of the delay due to Pakistan affecting our ground transportation--our exit. I strongly oppose this amendment and urge my colleagues to do it as well.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Pine Brook Volunteer Fire Department, located in Montville Township, New Jersey, which is celebrating its Centennial Anniversary. In 1913, the citizens of Pine Brook, an area within Montville Township, decided to organize a Fire Department to protect their community. Using land donated by Abram A. Van Wert, the people of Pine Brook built their own firehouse, which is still in use; the only changes being the addition of overhead doors and a rear meeting room. The people also provided the funds needed to start the fire company through donations. With the location and funds in place, the Pine Brook Fire Department was able to designate bell codes and zones, and purchase their first pieces of equipment; two hand-pulled chemical fire extinguishers. Over the following eight months, the Fire Department held a number of fundraising raffles, giving away pigs, ponies, clocks, and watches. With these funds, they were able to purchase a chassis from Republic Truck with two chemical tanks, a 150-foot reel of hose, and a small chemical holder and acid receptacle. Two years later, the headlights and bumper were purchased. This served the town until 1924, when the truck was sold to Hanover, and an American-LaFrance truck was purchased in its place. Throughout these early years the Pine Brook Volunteer Fire Department provided protection to the towns of Hanover, Parsippany, and to the Township of Caldwell. Over the coming years, the department struggled to maintain operation due to insufficient funds. The citizens were informed that, because of their lack of interest and support, the fire department would have to be turned over to the Township of Montville. This prompted the people to pledge greater support in the future, and the Fire Department has since thrived. In later years, the department successfully petitioned for a Fire Commission Board, and held elections in February 1937. By this time, demand for aid had grown, and a 750 gallon Mack pumper truck was acquired. In 1954, the department joined the North Jersey Volunteer Firemen's Association, and in the following year joined the Montville Firemen's Relief Organization. Around the same time, the population had increased to a problematic number; the water supply was unable to cope with the fires in the area, and feasible solutions were difficult to find. However, in 1955, the department was able to build a special 1,500 gallon tank truck, the only one of its kind in this area. In 1965, the department purchased a Mack Diesel Pumper, the second diesel fire truck to be delivered in the State of New Jersey. Later, in 1969 a Hahn Pumper was purchased, and in 1972 a Telesquirt Pumper was added to the fleet. Since 1963, the substantial growth has transformed Pine Brook from a rural community to an area diverse with industrial, commercial, and residential properties, all of which are served by the Pine Brook Volunteer Fire Department. This increase caused the department to build another fire station on Konner Avenue, which was dedicated and placed into service in June 1969. The Township of Montville, recognizing the growth, expanded the water system with the installation of water mains and hydrants throughout the township in 1970. Later in 1975, plans for a new, larger headquarters on Bloomfield Avenue next to the existing firehouse began. Two years later, the department was able to operate out of the new station. With the increases in demand over the coming years, they added a Rescue and Salvage truck, a ladder truck, as well as other pumper trucks to their fleet. With the enactment of the Uniform Fire Code in 1986 by the State of New Jersey, Montville Township established three separate Local Enforcing Agencies, with the Pine Brook Fire Prevention Bureau serving under District #3 LEA. To meet the new inspection and code requirements, the Pine Brook LEA hired a part time Fire Official and Fire Inspector. Today, the Pine Brook Volunteer Fire Department has remained an important part of community, and adapted to its ever-changing needs. The department has kept up to date with its rigs, equipment, and radio devices, as well as with volunteer training in fire safety and techniques. Due to the efforts of the Pine Brook Volunteer Fire Department, a Fire Prevention Bureau ordinance was introduced to the Township. Additionally, during Fire Prevention Week, firefighters have visited schools and educated children on fire safety for the past 29 years. After one hundred years, the Pine Brook Volunteer Fire Department continues its proud tradition of service, while maintaining a high level of professionalism and readiness for any emergencies that may arise. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Pine Brook Fire Department as they celebrate their 100th anniversary.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Madam Speaker, I am honored to join my colleagues from New Jersey in paying tribute to our late senior Senator, Frank R. Lautenberg. For the past several days, America has been reintroduced to Senator Lautenberg, and it is a story worth repeating here. He came from a family of working-class immigrants from Eastern Europe--Russia and Poland. When he was 18, during the middle of World War II, Frank Lautenberg enlisted in the U.S. Army where he served with distinction in the Signal Corps. He was very proud of his military service. In fact, when he passed last week, he was the last World War II veteran serving in the United States Senate. When he came home from the European Theater, he attended Columbia on the GI Bill--just as so many other Americans did. What distinguished him from many other returning soldiers is that through hard-work and perseverance he founded his own company. And under his leadership, that firm, grew into the largest computing company of its kind in the world. So working his way from humble beginnings to a prosperous career as a chief executive in New Jersey's private sector, he lived the American Dream. But Frank Lautenberg's true calling was public service and giving back to his community, our State, and our Nation throughout his life. In this regard, New Jersey lost a tireless advocate on June 3. For many years, we worked together as New Jersey's Appropriations team--looking out for our state's needs on Capitol Hill. I was proud to work with him on issues so important to the citizens of our state-- transportation, homeland security and open space. In fact, in his final months, we worked in a bipartisan way to ensure that New Jersey has the resources to recover from an historic storm. Yes, we owe much to this dedicated public servant. We have lost a great fighter who lived a life from which we all could learn. May the tributes and prayers of so many of his colleagues here today be a source of strength to his family.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Madam Chair, I move to strike the last word.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Madam Chair, I'd like to thank Chairman Carter and Ranking Member Price on behalf of the residents of our region: New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and the east coast. Mention was made of disasters, and I want to thank the chair and all the committee members, and certainly the big chair, Chairman Rogers, but particularly the Homeland Security Appropriations Committee for their working with us on behalf of our residents who continue to suffer. I just want to take this opportunity to thank you and show our appreciation. There were some tough decisions that had to be made, and we are especially grateful to the staff of both sides of the aisle that worked with us to make life a little more bearable for our residents. And since this is the first appropriations bill since Hurricane Sandy, I just want to express my appreciation. Also, Madam Chairman, I come from a 9/11 State. This committee is very important to urban areas. In this bill are greater protections for the residents of major cities and metropolitan areas. I'd also like to express my appreciation to Chairman Carter and Mr. Price for making sure that different grants are there for first responders. If there are manmade disasters or any type of disasters, the funds are there. I appreciate this opportunity, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Cedar Grove Ambulance and Rescue Squad, located in Cedar Grove, Essex County, New Jersey, which is celebrating its 75th Anniversary. The need for a rescue squad in Cedar Grove was realized in 1938. When a resident of Cedar Grove was in need of immediate help, and the only rescue squad available was in the nearby Township of Verona. It was May, 1938, that a group of firemen formed the Cedar Grove Rescue Squad, with the express purpose of providing emergency medical care and rescue services to those in need. The Rescue Squad was based in Center Fire Company #1, and was the sole provider of emergency medical care to the residents of Cedar Grove for thirteen years. In 1951, the Township of Cedar Grove faced a dramatic upsurge in emergency calls, causing eight Auxiliary Policemen and eight residents to form the Cedar Grove Ambulance Unit. The Unit was based out of the Municipal Building. In the following years, the Township continued to grow, as did the number of emergency calls. The need for more volunteers, vehicles, and space was patent. In 1962, the Ambulance Unit moved its headquarters to the intersection of Cedar Street and Ridge Road, and in 1965, the Rescue Squad moved to its headquarters at Pompton Avenue and Myrtle Avenue. The two organizations worked together to provide care and services to the residents of Cedar Grove, with the Rescue Squad handling on-scene work and the Ambulance Unit providing transportation to the hospital. In the early eighties, new state regulations and the overwhelming amount of calls led to merger negotiations between the Rescue Squad and Ambulance Unit. In 1982, the merger resulted in the Cedar Grove Ambulance and Rescue Squad. Today, the squad has over sixty members that handle over 1,600 calls annually. They have three ambulances in operation, and a heavy-duty rescue truck equipped with the latest in rescue and medical equipment. The members, a remarkable group of men and women, remain dedicated to serving the residents of Cedar Grove, and providing the best care in emergency situations. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Cedar Grove Ambulance and Rescue Squad as they celebrate their 75th Anniversary.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Mental Health Association of Morris County; located in the Borough of Mountain Lakes, New Jersey, which is celebrating its 60th Anniversary. The Mental Health Association of Morris County is a local chapter of the New Jersey Division of the National Mental Health Association, now known as Mental Health America. In earlier days of mental health treatment, asylums often restrained the mentally ill with chains and shackles. With the advent of better understanding came more humane treatments, and the cruel practice was halted. In the early 1950s, Mental Health America issued a call to asylums across the country for their discarded fetters. On April 13, 1956, the McShane Bell Foundry in Baltimore, Maryland, recast these into the Mental Health Bell, to be a sign of hope for improving mental health and achieving victory over mental illnesses. The bell, now the symbol of Mental Health America, serves as a powerful reminder of the invisible chains of misunderstanding and discrimination that continue to bind people with mental illnesses. The Mental Health Association of Morris County was incorporated in 1953, when a small number of people in recovery from mental illness and their families decided to bring the advocacy organization local, for a better mental health system of care. The mission of this organization is to promote mental health and to support and empower people in recovery from mental illness through effective services, education, and advocacy. Within the community of Morris County, the Mental Health Association provides services to those who are most devastated by mental illness, giving them hope for recovery. They employ peer workers who have gone through similar struggles to help coach the next generation of mentally ill. The organization aids those in need transition from homelessness to housing, and from psychiatric hospitals to the community. Additionally, the Mental Health Association of Morris County serves as advocates of community education, improvement of services, policies, and resources, and promotes self help. The goal of independence for those suffering, both financially and in conducting their lives, is an important aspect of promoting wellness. Financial support and counseling allows mentally ill people to live independently in their permanent housing opportunities where they might otherwise end up in expensive institutional or jail facilities. Their Peer-to- Peer Support Line, staffed by those recovering from mental illness, also provides cost-efficient access to counselors if the mentally ill person is suffering from a psychiatric emergency. These services reach over 3,000 people per year. The Mental Health Association of Morris County has a staff of 85, a volunteer Board of Directors, and over 100 volunteers working to achieve this mission, on a budget of only $6 million. They are a lead county agency in promoting recovery and wellness from people with mental illness and their families. They continue to embody a just and humane approach to promoting integration into a community in which all people with mental illness are accorded respect, dignity, and the opportunity to achieve their full potential, free from stigma and discrimination. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Mental Health Association of Morris County as they celebrate their 60th Anniversary.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Montclair Ambulance Unit, located in the Township of Montclair, New Jersey, which is celebrating its 60th Anniversary. In the early part of the 20th century, Emergency Medical Services were just beginning to organize formally. As populations increased, towns began to establish their own ambulance services, including the Township of Montclair. In December 1952, the first meeting of the Montclair Ambulance Unit took place, and appointed Lawrence W. Sanders as chairman. During that first meeting, trustees and the first officers were also appointed. Donald Miller was elected as Vice-President, Donald Hobart as Secretary, Fred Scharfenberg as Treasurer, and Chairman Sanders was elevated to President. In the next six months, the new Montclair Ambulance Unit organized; formulating bylaws, obtaining a Cadillac Ambulance, and finding the necessary space and equipment. Finally, on June 20, 1953, the unit officially began operations with its first assignment, which was a discharge from Montclair Community Hospital. After nearly two years of operation, in March of 1955, the Trustees of Montclair Ambulance Unit began a search for their own headquarters to accommodate members and rigs. After nearly six months, in August of that same year, negotiations began for 69 Portland Place, a location strategically situated close to Valley Road and Bloomfield Avenue. By January of 1956, Gabriel Aiello signed over the deed and gave the Montclair Ambulance Unit its first official home. Prior to this the unit had been operating out of the Red Cross building on Park Street, and storing the ambulance at the Arthur K. Brown Funeral Home. By 1958, the Montclair Ambulance Unit had responded to 2,620 requests for service, had an active membership of fifty-seven men and six women, and several administrative volunteers from the Junior League who worked in the office and initiated the ``phone tree'' when requests came in. With the impending retirement of Montclair Ambulance Unit's first Captain, Captain Maclachlan, the trustees decided to create a paid position to handle the day-to-day business operations. In 1962, after an extensive search, the unit contracted John Rankin for this role. A new Captain, R. Stan Berry, was elected by the active members. Again in 1964, a new Director was named; a retired Montclair Police Officer Frederick ``Bud'' Kupper. The year 1970 marked another milestone year for the Montclair Ambulance Unit, as they relocated their headquarters to what is now 86 Valley Road. This location served the unit for the next 35 years. By 2005, the Montclair ambulance unit sold the Valley Road building, and moved to the old Walnut Street Firehouse, renovated and provided at a nominal rate by the Township of Montclair. The proceeds from the sale helped to finance operations, the maintenance of the ambulance fleet and the cost of equipment, and the staff of highly trained EMTs. Since the first meeting in 1952, the Montclair Ambulance Unit has responded to over 175,000 requests for service, and overcome the challenges of lack of volunteerism, higher standards of training for staff, and the changes in the economic, political, and social world. The unit now has an around the clock, career staff whose training covers the entire range of EMS. Additionally, they follow an effective, new organization model consistent with other public safety entities. They have added a Chief and Deputy Chief of Operations, a full time Lieutenant, two part time Sergeants, and a Special Events Coordinator. In addition to responding to medical emergencies and transportations, the Montclair Ambulance Unit has always also responded to all fires in Montclair to aid the Montclair Fire Department while simultaneously providing mutual aid to surrounding towns, and, post 9/11, provided service to New York City. In 2012, the Unit became a New Jersey EMS Task Force agency, which allows it to be requested for aid in any declared emergency in New Jersey or across state lines, should the need arise. Most recently, they provided aid following Superstorm Sandy. Over the years the Montclair Ambulance Unit has improved and expanded services, and gone above and beyond expectations in the community. Currently, the Montclair Ambulance Unit operates a fleet of four Basic Life Support Ambulances licensed by the New Jersey Department of Health, and three support vehicles, including two supervisor/first response vehicles, and a Special Operations vehicle provided by the Department of Homeland Security. They continue to provide professional, responsive, patient-first care, and are dedicated to being a community based, industry leading, emergency medical service organization. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Montclair Ambulance Unit as they celebrate their 60th Anniversary.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Wayne Public Library, located in the Township of Wayne, Passaic County, New Jersey, which is celebrating its 90th Anniversary. The Wayne Public Library was established in December, 1922, after a discussion during a meeting of the Mountain View Parent Teacher Association with Mrs. Grace Freeman, who would become the President. The issue of the need for a public library was raised, and fundraising efforts began. By June of 1923, after canvassing the neighborhood and hosting a tag day, $1,500 was raised, and 200 books donated. Due to these efforts, on July 24, 1923, the new Mountain View Library and Preakness Library officially opened. As Wayne grew, and the collections of the libraries increased, regulation and further organization was needed. In 1947, the citizens of the Township of Wayne voted to establish an ``American Free Public Library, governed by state laws which provided for a seven member Board of Trustees including the mayor of the town and the Superintendent of Schools.'' This governing body of the library systems in Wayne still operates today. This Board of Trustees and a Library Improvement Association recognized the need for additional space to accommodate the collections, as well as to provide other locations to better serve Wayne residents. On November 6, 1962, they were able to facilitate the passing of a referendum to provide funds for a new central library building. They acquired a lot on Nellis Drive, next to the Town Hall, which allowed for an 11,000 square foot library, and on February 8, 1964, the groundbreaking and building began. A few years later, in 1967, a bookmobile was purchased to serve the Wayne neighborhoods. This held approximately 4,000 books, and was in service for nearly twenty years. Over the next fifteen years, the three branches of the Wayne libraries underwent changes to further accommodate the residents and expanding collections. With the main library crowded with over 700,000 volumes, in 1972, an extra 16,000 square feet were added. The new Preakness Branch was completed six years later, and in 1980, the Mountain View Branch was also renovated, though it would close twelve years later. In the latter 1990s, the Wayne Public Library was remodeled, and held it's grand opening on June 11, 2000. The Wayne Public Library branches are home to a variety of programs. Their spacious meeting rooms are used for a variety of purposes, including music, tutoring, and reading programs, as well as presentations and groups for children and young adults. For adults, book discussion groups, computer, English language, art classes, and writing groups are all available. The meeting rooms are also used by other groups, such as the annual ballet performance for children by the McKenna School of Dance. The Wayne Public Library also hosts movie nights and viewings for all three age groups at both locations. The library offers to display artwork from the Township of Wayne as well. The celebration of the Wayne Public Library's 90th Anniversary, on April 20, 2013, includes a Wine Tasting and Art Auction Event, featuring hors d'oeuvres, desserts, door prizes, a raffle, and live music. The event is sponsored by the Friends of the Wayne Public Library. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Wayne Public Library as they celebrate their 90th Anniversary.