Luis Fortuño

Mr. FORTUNO

Mr. FORTUNO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I submit this statement for the record in support of H.R. 4289, which will name the Veterans' Affairs Outpatient Clinic in Ponce, Puerto Rico after Captain Euripides Rubio. Captain Rubio was an officer in the United States Army who fought and, at age 28, died in combat in the jungles of South Vietnam. For the actions that led to his death, Captain Rubio was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, one of four residents of Puerto Rico to have earned this supreme honor. By naming the veterans' clinic after Captain Rubio, Congress pays tribute to his courage and, by extension, honors the hundreds of thousands of sons and daughters of Puerto Rico who have served in the armed forces of this great Nation. I thank the Congress, and particularly the Veterans' Affairs Committee, for helping to preserve the memory of an extraordinary American. It is fitting that Ponce, where Captain Rubio was born in 1938, is known as ``the City of Lions.'' Captain Rubio truly had the qualities of a lion--strength, courage, and fidelity. Those who served alongside him in the 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry remember him as an inspirational leader and as a model soldier completely committed to his country and to his comrades. It is impossible to read Captain Rubio's Medal of Honor citation without shaking one's head and wondering how the world produces men of such caliber. On the day of his death--November 8, 1966--enemy forces launched an attack against the battalion's defensive position in the Tay Ninh province. Machine gun fire, mortar rounds and rifle-launched grenades exploded within the defense perimeter. Captain Rubio chose to leave the relative safety of his post and ``braved the withering fire to go to the area of most intense action where he distributed ammunition, re-established positions and rendered aid to the wounded.'' In the process, Captain Rubio was wounded twice. Moments later, when a rifle company commander was medically evacuated, Captain Rubio assumed command. He received a third wound as he ``selflessly exposed himself to the devastating enemy fire to move among his men to encourage them to fight with renewed effort.'' While helping to evacuate wounded comrades, Captain Rubio observed that a smoke grenade, intended to mark the Viet Cong position for U.S. air strikes, had fallen perilously close to friendly lines. Captain Rubio ran to reposition the grenade but was immediately brought to his knees by enemy fire. Despite his many wounds, Captain Rubio picked up the grenade, ran through the deadly hail of fire to within 20 meters of the enemy position, and threw the grenade into the midst of the enemy before he fell for the final time. Because of Captain Rubio's actions, U.S. aircraft were able to identify and destroy the hostile positions. The Medal of Honor citation ends with these simple and powerful words: ``Captain Rubio's singularly heroic act turned the tide of battle, and his extraordinary leadership and valor were a magnificent inspiration to his men. His remarkable bravery and selfless concern for his men are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit on Captain Rubio and the U.S. Army.'' There are many important ways in which this Congress and this country can honor our Nation's warriors. We can--and should--work to ensure they have the proper equipment they need to fight. We can--and should-- work to ensure that their families are taken care of during long deployments. We can--and should--work to ensure that, having left the service, our veterans receive the best educational opportunities and medical care available. Simply put, we should fight and sacrifice on behalf of those who have fought and sacrificed for us. There is something else we can do, too. Something we as a country do not do enough of. And that is to publicly honor the most remarkable instances of bravery on the battlefield displayed by our men and women in uniform. In the last two years, six Americans have won the Medal of Honor for their actions in Afghanistan and Iraq. And yet one must struggle--often in vain--to find stories in the mainstream press about these present-day Euripides Rubios. Had they lived, these heroes would likely have been reluctant to talk about themselves. Such is the nature of soldiers. It is our obligation--and it should be our privilege--to publicly honor their achievements. And H.R. 4289 does precisely that. Thanks to Congress's actions today, I know that many children in Puerto Rico, looking upon the clinic that bears his name, will ask their parents or grandparents who Euripides Rubio was. It is my fervent hope that, from the answer given, they will learn about this Lion of Ponce, who died far too young, but whose short life was filled with greatness.

Mr. FORTUNO

Mr. FORTUNO. Madam Speaker, I am tremendously proud to be a co- sponsor of House Concurrent Resolution 2, which expresses the sense of this Congress that schools in the United States should honor the contributions of individuals from the U.S. territories by including such contributions in the teaching of American history. This Resolution will encourage schools to teach--and students to learn--about the rich history and vibrant cultures of the U.S. territories and the many achievements of individuals born there. I want to commend Congresswoman Christensen for introducing H. Con. Res 2. In the case of Puerto Rico, the impact that our native sons and daughters have had on every aspect of American society cannot be overstated. Can you imagine preparing a history of Major League baseball without devoting at least a chapter to Roberto Clemente and the hundreds of Puerto Rican players who have followed in his wake? Likewise, consider how much the film industry owes to great actors like Jose Ferrer, Raul Julia and Benicio del Toro--to name just a few. Beyond athletics and the arts, many Puerto Ricans have made important contributions in the fields of politics, business and law. With respect to national service, students and teachers may not be aware--but should be--that residents of Puerto Rico and the other U.S. territories serve in the U.S. military. They ought to know that Puerto Rico sends a higher percentage of its residents to the armed forces that all but one other U.S. jurisdiction and that four Puerto Ricans have won the Medal of Honor. H. Con. Res 2 will help ensure that students in our Nation's schools learn basic but largely unknown facts about the U.S. territories--how they were acquired, what political and civil rights residents of the territories have and do not have when compared to their fellow citizens in the states, and the prospects for change. Unsurprisingly, there are still many people in our great Nation-- children and adults--who do not know the names of the U.S. territories or their location on a map. It is my hope that, by teaching students about the history of the territories and the individual accomplishments of their residents, we can foster better understanding of and greater appreciation for the many contributions that the territories have made to American life. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. FORTUNO

Mr. FORTUNO. I thank my colleague. I want to begin by thanking Chairman Berman for ushering H.R. 3658 through the committee process. In his short time as chairman, Mr. Berman has shown intelligence, generosity and strong bipartisan spirit, the same leadership qualities displayed by his predecessor, the irreplaceable Tom Lantos. I want to thank my good friend, Ranking Member Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, as well. I continue to marvel at her devotion to her constituents in south Florida and at her tireless efforts to help light the lantern of freedom in dark places around the world. I also want to thank the representatives from the other U.S. territories, all of whom are original cosponsors of H.R. 3658. And I want to thank you, Ms. Watson, and you, Judge Poe, for your support for this bill. I note that Ms. Watson served as a U.S. Ambassador to Micronesia and therefore brings a special expertise to this subject. Mr. Speaker, the specific purpose of H.R. 3658 is to permit Foreign Servicemembers to take rest and recuperation travel, known as R&R, in the five U.S. territories. The broader objective of the bill is to ensure that Federal employees from the U.S. territories enjoy the same rights and privileges as their fellow citizens from the 50 States. I am pleased that the American Foreign Service Association supports H.R. 3658, and that the State Department does not oppose its passage. Mr. Speaker, the Foreign Service Act lists the instances in which the State Department may pay the travel-related costs of Foreign Servicemembers. One section of the FSA states that the Department may pay the travel costs incurred by Foreign Service personnel for what is known as home leave. The purpose of the home leave is to ensure that Foreign Servicemembers who have been sent abroad undergo a period of reorientation to the United States. The FSA provides that home leave may be taken in the 50 States and the U.S. territories. Another section of the FSA states that the Department may pay the costs incurred by Foreign Servicemembers for R&R travel. Unlike home leave, which is granted to all Foreign Servicemembers who serve abroad, R&R is granted only to those stationed at hardship posts. Under the current FSA, R&R may only be taken in locations in the United States. State Department regulations have interpreted this phrase to exclude U.S. territories. Mr. Speaker, there is no principled basis for allowing Foreign Servicemembers to take home leave but not R&R in the U.S. territories, and H.R. 3658 amends the FSA to eliminate the distinction. Just as they proudly serve in our Nation's Armed Forces, residents of the U.S. territories also represent this great country abroad as diplomats. These men and women from the territories take the same risks and endure the same long absences from their families as their colleagues from the States. Making certain that our laws treat these public servants on equal terms is the only right thing to do. Mr. Speaker, I ask you to consider the case of Mr. Ramon Negron. Mr. Negron is a U.S. citizen born and raised in Puerto Rico, a graduate of West Point, and a lieutenant colonel in the Army Reserve. Mr. Negron currently serves as a political economic officer at the U.S. Interests section in Havana, Cuba, which is a hardship post. Mr. Negron's next posting, to begin this summer, is as the Embassy Office Director in Basra, Iraq. It is neither sensible, nor fair, that under current law the State Department will not cover the cost of airfare so this U.S. citizen, U.S. soldier and U.S. diplomat can travel home to Puerto Rico to be with his family before leaving for the Middle East. H.R. 3658 will correct this disparity.

Mr. FORTUNO

Mr. FORTUNO. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 5501. This bill reauthorizes critically important legislation. PEPFAR, which is a testament to the American people's generosity of spirit, has achieved remarkable success. Because of PEPFAR, millions of sick and vulnerable people beyond our borders have received an essential education, treatment and care. There are men in Nairobi, women in Hanoi and children in Port-au-Prince who are alive today because of PEPFAR. That knowledge should give us great pride. It should also fill us with a sense of humility, born of the understanding that we have helped create something larger than ourselves. I am gratified that the bill we consider today, appropriately named after two beloved chairmen of the Foreign Affairs Committee who devoted themselves to the cause of fighting AIDS, preserves the careful compromises that gave life to this life-giving program. I want to highlight an aspect of H.R. 5501 that has not received much attention. In February 2007 I introduced H.R. 848, which called for the addition of 14 Caribbean nations as so-called ``focus countries'' under PEPFAR. As the representative of nearly 4 million U.S. citizens residing in Puerto Rico, I am particularly aware that the people of the Caribbean have always been good friends and neighbors of our country. We share a unique and resilient bond. The sons and daughters of the Caribbean who have ventured north to our shores have enriched the life of this Nation. H.R. 848 was cosponsored by Congresswomen Donna Christensen and Yvette Clarke, who have been tireless advocates of individuals living with HIV/AIDS, and I commend them for their work. We were heartened when the language of H.R. 848 was included in H.R. 5501. H.R. 5501 reflects a bipartisan agreement forged through deliberations among Democrats and Republicans on the Foreign Affairs Committee, the White House, and the State Department's Office of the Global AIDS Coordinator. Each of these groups recognized that the United States can do more to help the people of the Caribbean fighting the AIDS pandemic that is ravaging their communities. Adopting a regional approach to fighting AIDS in the Caribbean, as H.R. 5501 does, is the right thing and the smart thing to do. There are currently 15 focus countries targeted for increased assistance under PEPFAR. Only two, Haiti and Guyana, are in the Caribbean. But the AIDS pandemic has produced a humanitarian crisis that affects the region as a whole. Along with sub-Saharan Africa, the Caribbean is the most severely impacted region in the world. In 2007 there were 230,000 adults and children living with HIV, 17,000 new HIV infections, a 1 percent prevalence rate, and 11,000 AIDS-related deaths. Statistics like this can have a mind-numbing effect. We must remember that behind each of these numbers lies a tragic story of human suffering. In addition, the AIDS pandemic in the Caribbean poses a significant national security threat to the United States, because the disease undermines political stability and economic development in the region that President Bush has called our ``third border.'' Current spending by the United States to combat AIDS in the Caribbean is not sufficient to address the problem. Setting aside funding to Haiti and Guyana, U.S. assistance to the Caribbean has remained stagnant and, in fact, even decreased slightly.

Mr. FORTUNO. In closing, I want to emphasize this point. By adding these Caribbean nations, Congress does not seek to substitute its judgment for the judgment of the experts at the State Department in determining how PEPFAR money will be allocated. These fact-intensive decisions will and should ultimately be made by OGAC. But expanding the list of so-called focus countries in this manner does send a strong and clear message from this Congress that the broader Caribbean region should be considered for a reasonable amount of additional funding. And I believe this is a message that we can all support.

Mr. FORTUNO

Mr. FORTUNO. Madam Speaker, I want to commend President Bush, Speaker Pelosi, and Ranking Member Boehner for their bipartisan leadership in compromising on this economic stimulus package, and in their generosity and sense of fairness in making these economic relief measures extensive to the U.S. citizens of Puerto Rico. I also want to take this opportunity to thank my colleague and friend, Congressman Jose Serrano. His leadership and sense of fairness was key in our inclusion in the economic stimulus package. Puerto Rico is in dire need of this economic stimulus package. Although this measure is intended to avert a potential recession in the U.S. economy after several years of strong growth, Puerto Rico's economy has been in a recession for the last 2 years. Our economy is in a ``perfect storm'' scenario with recurring fiscal imbalances caused by uncontrolled government expense, dramatic tax increases, and misguided economic development strategies of the local state administration, resulting in higher unemployment and reduced consumer confidence. Residents of Puerto Rico pay the same Social Security and Medicare payroll taxes as our fellow citizens in the States. Payroll taxes are especially regressive in the case of Puerto Rico since the per capita income on the island is only one-third the national average. My constituents are hurting badly, so it is imperative that the assistance that this economic stimulus package provides be channeled directly to those in need, the individual taxpayers, and not to the state government that has repeatedly mismanaged our resources. If at the end, this legislation provides for the Secretary of the Treasury to make a block payment to the territorial governments, including Puerto Rico, the Secretary must retain the capacity to guarantee our citizens that they will receive their payments in a timely fashion and for the correct amount. We are not asking for special treatment, I am only asking that our workers be treated on the same terms as their fellow citizens in the States.

Mr. FORTUNO

Mr. FORTUNO. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to withdraw my cosponsorship of H. Res. 106.

Mr. FORTUNO

Mr. FORTUNO. Mr. Speaker, during this month, our country proudly celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month. In the midst of this celebration, it is with great honor and pride that I stand in support of H. Res. 443 which seeks to recognize the service of the 65th infantry regiment during the Korean War known as the Borinqueneers Regiment. I also want to thank Congressman McGovern for his leadership in honoring these brave soldiers. At a time when there is a national dialogue on the contributions of Hispanic Americans, there is no better way to recognize their achievements, than by voting for H. Res. 443. We know that since the Civil War, where over 10,000 Hispanic Americans wore uniforms for both sides, the number of soldiers of Hispanic heritage that have served in each conflict has been significant. Their participation in every military conflict is a source of many heroic actions. In World War I, 200,000 Hispanics were mobilized and to this day we hear stories of their valor, and devotion to spread democracy and freedom around the World. Roughly half a million Hispanics served during World War II. They fought bravely in all of the major conflicts extending throughout Europe, the Pacific and Africa. But it is during the Korean War that over 148,000 Hispanics served, of which 20,000 were from my district in Puerto Rico. 4,000 of them comprised the 65th Infantry Regiment, the largest U.S. infantry regiment for that war. This regiment fought in every major campaign of the Korean War and received numerous praises including a Presidential Unit Citation, Meritorious Unit Commendations and two Republic of Korea Unit Citations for their performance. I would like to quote General Douglas MacArthur, who said in Tokyo on February 12, 1951: ``The Puerto Ricans forming the ranks of the gallant 65th Infantry on the battlefields of Korea . . . are writing a brilliant record of achievement in battle and I am proud indeed to have them in this command. I wish that we might have many more like them.'' It is due to this ever-growing identity in the United States, that Hispanic Americans continue to wear, with honor, the uniforms of our Armed Forces. This legislation honors the 65th Infantry Borinqueneers and the legacy they left behind; a legacy of valor, courage and self- sacrifice in the face of adversity. I am proud to be an American of Hispanic descent and equally proud to represent the members of the 65th Infantry Regiment; it is for them that I stand here today in support of this legislation and urge all my colleagues to unanimously vote in favor of H. Res. 443.

Mr. FORTUNO

Mr. FORTUNO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my deep sorrow to the families and friends of the nearly 3,000 men and women who perished in the terrorist attacks on September 11th 2001. On this day six years ago, our great country was attacked. Yet, the terrorists were not seeking our money or our land. They were out to destroy what we stand for: freedom, democracy, and the American dream. It seems we have come a long way since that dreadful September morning; yet, on a daily basis, we live with the memory of all those who passed away. Today, Americans remember the courage and bravery we witnessed from the countless civilians, police officers and firefighters who fought the terrorists and ran into the destroyed buildings while many others would have run from them. We will never forget these heroes for giving their lives so they may save the lives of others and the freedom of all. I join my fellow Members of Congress, not as a Republican or a Democrat, but as a proud American, in expressing our sincere gratitude to those who showed us the true spirit of our Nation. May God bless them and continue to bless our men and women overseas who fight for the principles we stood for.

Mr. FORTUNO

Mr. FORTUNO. Madam Speaker, Taiwan President Chen Shui-bian submitted an application for Taiwan's U.N. membership to the United Nations on July 19, and it was immediately rejected by Secretary General Ban Ki- Moon on the basis of United Nations Resolution 2758, which affirmed U.N. support for the ``one China'' policy. U.N.'s action regarding Taiwan's application was unprecedented and contrary to U.N. procedures. U.N. rules empower only the Security Council and the General Assembly with the authority to discuss and decide on U.N. membership applications. As such the U.N. Secretariat does not have the discretion or authority to summarily reject Taiwan's application. Madam Speaker, I believe firmly that the issue of Taiwan's application should be raised and debated by U.N. members. And I wish to add my voice to call for U.N. to go through the necessary process for reviewing Taiwan's application for membership.

Mr. FORTUNO

Mr. FORTUNO. Mr. Speaker, three former Republican Governors from Guam; in addition to the current Governor, Felix Camacho; two former Democratic Guam Governors; one former Republican Guam Delegate; two former Guam Delegates; and the current Delegate from Guam, Madeleine Bordallo, have all fought for fair treatment for the patriotic people of Guam who endured nearly 3 years of brutal enemy occupation during World War II. In addition, the 109th Republican-controlled Congress, the Resources Committee, chaired by Congressman Richard Pombo; the Judiciary Committee, chaired by Mr. Sensenbrenner, both acted in a bipartisan effort to favorably pass legislation to give parity to Guam. Acknowledging the patriotism of the people of Guam, who were American nationals, throughout Guam's occupation has been a bipartisan effort for decades. This issue is about patriotism; certainly not about partisanship. I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of H.R. 1595 when it comes up for a vote today.

Mr. FORTUNO

Mr. FORTUNO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an outstanding group of young leaders, ``EI Congreso de Lideres de Puerto Rico,'' whose work should serve as an example to us all. Throughout their years of hard work and dedication this group of students has forged an exemplary path towards the future. We all know the importance of strong leadership and the benefit it can bestow our society, and as we move towards the future, it is reassuring to know that admirable leadership is alive and well in the lives of our younger citizens. It is of great importance to recognize the work of those young leaders who continuously demonstrate their worth to the community by helping others achieve their potential, as they strive to fulfill their dreams, and enrich our society. In 2006, the Puerto Rico State Legislature recognized their outstanding service and contributions as part of the ``Week of Business and Professionals.'' In 2006, ``EI Congreso de Lideres de Puerto Rico'' expanded their efforts globally and across our Nation by helping to establish a sister organization, ``The Congress of Leaders of Florida.'' The Puerto Rico Chamber of Commerce has awarded this group with the Zenit Award, declaring them the Best Education and Leadership program of Service to the Community. I ask my fellow Members of Congress to join me in recognizing this group of young leaders and encouraging them to continue their work for a better tomorrow. May we all learn from their example, hard work and dedication to our future.

Mr. FORTUNO

Mr. FORTUNO. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me to speak today on the motion to recommit H.R. 1429, the Improving Head Start Act of 2007. I must commend Chairmen Miller and Kildee and Ranking Members McKeon and Castle for completing work on this important reauthorization. This motion to recommit would ensure that, one, religious organizations that are participating in the Head Start program are allowed to take religion into account in their hiring practices; and, two, religious organizations that are participating in the Head Start program are not discriminated against on the basis of their religious character and are not required to alter their form of governance or remove religious art, icons, or scripture or other symbols if they decide to participate in the Federal Head Start program. Faith-based organizations, such as churches, synagogues and other faith-based charities, are a central part of the fabric of communities across America. Many of these organizations provide assistance and services to the neediest members of society, offering a helping hand to the least fortunate among us. Faith-based organizations can make a vital contribution to Federal assistance programs and are critical to the survival of many communities and to the improvement of the lives of countless individuals. When faith-based groups hire employees on a religious basis, they are exercising their civil rights and liberties. The Civil Rights Act made clear when faith-based groups hire employees on a religious basis, it is an exercise of the group's civil liberties and does not constitute ``discrimination'' under Federal law. Faith-based providers who are willing to help provide early childhood education and other critical social services should not be denied this opportunity. Faith-based organizations cannot be expected to sustain their religious mission without the ability to employ individuals who share the tenets and practices of their faith because it is that faith that motivates them to serve their neighbors in trouble. Without the right to continue to hire on a religious basis, religious organizations, in order to avoid such dangers, are likely to simply withdraw from the Federal social service efforts altogether, to the loss of people in need everywhere. Constitutional protections are included. The motion to recommit prohibits funds from being used for worship, instruction, or proselytization in keeping with constitutional requirements. This motion to recommit does not permit religious organizations to refuse to assist individuals on the basis of religion, a religious belief, or refusal to participate in a religious practice. The nondiscrimination language of the current Head Start statute prevents discrimination in the provision of service on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, political affiliation, or beliefs.

Mr. FORTUNO

Mr. FORTUNO. Madam Speaker, at the end of the Spanish American War in 1898, Puerto Rico was ceded to the United States and became a territory under the Territorial Clause of the U.S. Constitution. It was not until 1917, by virtue of the passage of the Jones Act by Congress, that people born in Puerto Rico were granted the privilege of becoming citizens of this great Nation. It was on March 2, 1917, 90 years ago, that Puerto Ricans became U.S. citizens. Tomrrow we celebrate the anniversary of that historic occasion by re-affirming our love for our citizenship, like our forbearers have been doing for 90 years. We cherish our U.S. citizenship dearly, for the same basic plinciples and rights that have made this Nation great, among which are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness. We, as American citizens, share a common belief and admiration for all the principles and lights embodied in our Founding Documents and espoused by our Founding Fathers. This is the common bond that unites us with our fellow citizens. We have honored our citizenship for these 90 years by making major contributions to our great Nation. We have distinguished ourselves in the arts, the sciences, and sports; but most important of all, Puerto Rican men and women have served with distinction and valor in every battlefield in which our Nation has been involved, from World War I to the current War on Terror, defending our valued principles of freedom and democracy around the world, trom Europe to the Pacific, from Korea to Vietnam to the Middle East. Since 1917, Puerto Ricans have established themselves as an integral component of American society, adding to the fabric of local communities across the United States. Like most Americans, the nearly 4 million U.S. citizens living in Puerto Rico patriotically cherish their American citizenship, and value the opportunity that comes with our long-standing political relationship with the United States. This relationship provides Puerto Ricans a sense of belonging to a community that transcends the geographic limitations of our Island; it is our common thread, what binds us. After 90 years, however, we still have neither the full nor the equal rights and duties of U.S. citizenship that our fellow Americans enjoy in the 50 states. Even though American citizenship was conferred 90 years ago, to this day Americans in Puerto Rico have not been afforded the opportunity for self-determination regarding our future political status by a federally-mandated plebiscite. American citizens in Puerto Rico continue to lack full voting representation in Congress, voting rights in federal elections, equal civil rights, full democracy at the national level, and a formal process to express our wishes regarding our destiny as free citizens. Earlier this month, Representative Jose Serrano and I, introduced the Puerto Rico Democracy Act of 2007 (HR 900), together with 93 bipartisan co-sponsors, to provide a federally sanctioned self-determination process for the people of Puerto Rico. I encourage my colleagues in the United States Congress to support this bipartisan bill to establish a formally-recognized process that will enable Puerto Ricans to determine our future based on realistic and legally valid options, recognized by the U.S. Constitution. After 90 years of being citizens of the United States, we deserve that right.

Mr. FORTUNO

Mr. FORTUNO. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 1031, the Minority Diabetes Initiative Act. Sponsored by my esteemed colleague, Representative Maxine Waters, this important legislation will establish initiatives to provide grants to physicians, community- based organizations and other health care providers for diabetes care and treatment program in minority communities. It is of utmost importance that Congress take decisive action on this common-sense legislation that will benefit those struggling with diabetes. It is no secret that many serious health problems plague our nation's minority communities. Faced with tough economic obstacles, issues of access to health care, health education, and affordability of health care all contribute to a rising trend of heart disease, cancer, obesity, and diabetes among minorities. Diabetes is a leading cause of kidney failure, new blindness in adults, and leg and foot amputations. Diabetes is a major cause of heart disease and stroke, which are responsible for about 65% of deaths among diabetics. Unfortunately, diabetes is a disease that is rampant in my district, the island of Puerto Rico, and the statistics plainly prove that this is a serious problem. Official statistics put forth by the Puerto Rico Diabetes Association say that approximately 560,000 persons, including 75,000 children, are diabetic. Fifteen percent of the Island's population lives with diabetes. Compared to all of Latin America and the Caribbean, Puerto Rico has the most cases of diabetes among women ages 20 to 79, and amongst these women, diabetes is the third leading cause of death on the Island. According to CDC data published in 2000, the national diabetes death rate for Hispanics/Latinos was highest among Puerto Ricans (172 per 100,000), followed by the rates for Mexican Americans (122 per 100,000), and Cuban Americans (47 per 100,000). Clearly this is a pervasive problem not only in Puerto Rico, but among minority communities across the nation. Congress can help by moving this critical legislation towards passage. Among minorities, two of the major obstacles to adequate health care are lack of good information and language barriers. Many minorities, in particular new immigrants, do not understand the process of how the Federal health care system works, and have a hard time understanding new programs that are disseminated through traditional means of English-language ad campaigns or pamphlets they find at the clinic or doctors' office. Many don't have access to even general information--if they can't afford decent health care, how will they afford a laptop with Internet access, or even know where to access reliable information? And, in very rural areas, many debate the use of traditional versus conventional medicine, which presents a whole other set of challenges to health care education, disease treatment and prevention, and information dissemination. As you can see, in Puerto Rico, an approach to health care that is linguistically and culturally sensitive is absolutely critical to any patient's well-being. One of the many positive aspects of this bill is that it requires health care providers to make available culturally and linguistically appropriate services and conduct outreach activities to let eligible individuals know that services are available. This will enable providers to access and assist diabetics who are not being reached, and who need help. This bill is a sensible and culturally appropriate solution to effectively treat minorities with the disease. I urge my colleagues to cosponsor this legislation, and advise Congressional Leadership to move this bill towards swift passage, so we can help make better health care choices and treatment more accessible to minorities living with diabetes.

Mr. FORTUNO

Mr. FORTUNO. Madam Speaker, I am the only Republican afforded a vote under H. Res. 78, and I want to thank the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Hoyer) for introducing this bill. Having said that, I also want to thank the gentleman from Alaska, Resources Committee Ranking Member Don Young, for bringing this issue to the appropriate perspective. What the House really needs to do for the almost 4 million citizens that I represent before the Senate, the executive branch, as well as the House, is to authorize a process of self-determination for Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico has been a U.S. territory since 1898, and we still to this day remain disenfranchised. Puerto Rican Americans have been citizens since 1917, and we have served with distinction and valor in our Armed Forces and have defended our Nation in every battlefield around the world. I will say that 18,000 served in World War I. Over 65,000 served in World War II, and I must say, the oldest surviving veteran of that war was my constituent, Mr. Emiliano Mercado, who died today of natural causes at the tender age of 115 years. More than 48,000 Puerto Rican Americans served in Vietnam; 430 of them were killed and 3,000 were wounded. Close to 2,600 Puerto Rican National Guard volunteers and U.S. Army Reserve soldiers mobilized for Desert Storm. So far, I have lost 56 constituents in the global war on terror. I regularly visit our soldiers at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Every time I visit with our soldiers, our true American heroes, I cannot help myself but think that none of them have been able to elect their Commander in Chief, only because they reside in a territory. If they were to reside in one of the States, and they could because we are U.S. citizens, they would have been able to vote for the Commander in Chief. This is morally wrong in the 21st century. We are about to commemorate the 90th anniversary of Congress granting U.S. citizenship to the people of Puerto Rico, yet we still cannot vote for our President, nor vote in this Chamber, nor vote on legislation that affects us. Congress has an unfinished agenda with Puerto Rico. The 4 million citizens that live in Puerto Rico should finally be given the opportunity to make an educated, fair and democratic choice regarding their final status preference. After 108 years of territorial status and 90 years of being U.S. citizens, we are tired of waiting. The people of Puerto Rico deserve better, and we have earned our right to be heard. I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of this resolution, but I bring it back to the bottom line, and the bottom line is that we have unfinished business with Puerto Rico as well as the U.S. territories.

Mr. FORTUNO

Mr. FORTUNO. Mr. Speaker, as the only Republican afforded a vote by House Resolution 78, I rise to thank my distinguished colleague from Maryland, Majority Leader Hoyer, for introducing this resolution granting the five representatives of the nonstate areas of our Nation voting representation in the Committee of the Whole, but, perhaps even more importantly, for opening up the discussion of the status of the U.S. possessions and territories. That is what is going on here today. I also rise to urge my colleagues who can exercise their right to vote on this amendment to the rules to give the representatives in the House from the District of Columbia, Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Guam, and Puerto Rico the only meaningful representation we can provide our constituents in the House of Representatives. However, I do this with some reluctance since I share some legal concerns as well as fervor, because this proposed representation will be so limited: A vote on amendments to bills in the Committee of the Whole with a revote in the event that our votes become decisive. What the House really needs to do for the almost 4 million U.S. citizens that I represent before the Senate, the executive branch, as well as this House is to authorize a process of self-determination for Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico has been a U.S. territory since 1898, and we still remain disenfranchised. Puerto Rican Americans have been citizens since 1917, and we have served with distinction and honor in our Armed Forces and have defended our Nation in every battlefield around the world. Actually, as we speak, we have lost 54 of our constituents so far in the gulf war on terrorism. What my constituents really deserve is the opportunity to seek equal representation and equal responsibilities in the Federal system or, alternatively, the freedom of a sovereign nation, even though the latter option has very little support among my constituents. I am pleased that 110 of my colleagues in the last Congress agreed, including leaders on both sides of the aisle, such as the distinguished majority leader, Mr. Hoyer, to cosponsor the Puerto Rico Democracy Act. I am also heartened that the chairman of the committee of jurisdiction, the gentleman from West Virginia (Mr. Rahall) and the ranking minority member, the gentleman from Alaska (Mr. Young) have indicated that legislation for this purpose is a priority this year. The question now, however, is whether to give all the territories and the District of Columbia as much representation for our constituents that my four nonstate colleagues and I can constitutionally provide: A vote in the Committee of the Whole that will not be decisive on the amendments. Together, the five of us represent 4.9 million U.S. citizens, Americans who fight and die for the United States every single day. I respectfully request that they deserve this representation, limited as it may be, until our status situation is fully addressed, as I hope it will be fully addressed in the near future.

Mr. FORTUNO

Mr. FORTUNO. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 392, the District of Columbia and United States Territories Circulating Quarter Dollar Program Act, of which I am an original cosponsor. I want to thank Chairmen Frank and Gutierrez and Ranking Members Castle and Bachus for their leadership on this. This bill, introduced by Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, whom I commend as well, would finally allow the District of Columbia as well as Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Virgin Islands, and the Northern Mariana Islands the right to choose a design, which would be imprinted on the reverse of a quarter. Inadvertently these jurisdictions were excluded from the 50 State quarter dollar bill that gave each State their own coins in 1998. I echo the sentiments of my colleagues. This bill recognizes the importance of including all Americans in the symbols of American citizenship. I am confident and hopeful that this bill will see swift congressional passage and then that the President will imprint his signature. As Puerto Rico's sole representative in Congress of the almost 4 million American citizens who reside in Puerto Rico, it is my honor to acknowledge the significant contributions which Puerto Rican Americans have made to our Nation. In particular, Puerto Ricans have never failed in their proud patriotic commitment to their call of duty, defending this Nation and its democratic principles. Madam Speaker, Puerto Rican Americans have served with honor and distinction in the Armed Forces of the United States in all wars and conflicts since 1917 to this day. This bill's passage is long overdue. Its enactment would be an extremely meaningful way to honor these Puerto Rican Americans. It may seem like a small gesture, but our exclusion from this program undermines how faithful Puerto Rican Americans have been to this Nation and how we revere our citizenship and fellowship with all Americans.

Mr. FORTUNO

Mr. FORTUNO. Mr. Speaker, I strongly support passage of H.R. 57, sponsored by my colleague and friend representing the U.S. Virgin Islands (Mrs. Christensen). From our perspective, it is noncontroversial legislation. It allows the local government of the Virgin Islands to set their own property taxes. This is consistent with the philosophical stand of the Republicans who believe in letting local governments create their own laws without Federal intervention. Without this bill, the Virgin Islands would be forced to adhere to an outdated and unworkable Federal Property Tax Code. I urge my colleagues to correct the problem. I also want to take this moment and congratulate my colleague Congresswoman Christensen not only for seeing H.R. 57 pass today, but for her pending rise to the chairmanship of the Insular Affairs Subcommittee. I look forward to serving as the subcommittee's ranking member and addressing the many issues facing the U.S. territories and possessions. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. FORTUNO

Mr. FORTUNO. I thank the gentleman from California. Mr. Speaker, I stand here today in strong support of a Federal minimum wage increase that is applicable under the same terms and conditions to all 50 States and Puerto Rico. I support a Federal minimum wage increase because it would strengthen the economy as well as provide long overdue benefits to our working, middle-class families who are the backbone of our Nation's economy. However, I am concerned that the bill under consideration, while seeking a long-awaited increase in the Federal minimum wage, does nothing to offset the impact on small businesses and their workers. This is particularly important for Hispanics in the United States who, according to a recent report released by the U.S. Census Bureau, are opening businesses at a rate that is three times as fast as the national average. Only one bill, the Working Families Wage and Access to Health Care Act, offers a balanced approach that would provide for a minimum wage increase without threatening the backbone of our economy or penalizing small businesses. Our bill increases the minimum wage in exactly the same increments as the bill before us today but also expands affordable health care to many of the working families benefiting from the increase and includes some important tax protection alternatives for small businesses and their workers. The Working Families and Access to Health Care Act should be carefully considered and, at the very least, deserves to be discussed.

Mr. FORTUNO

Mr. FORTUNO. Mr. Speaker, I would like to express my concern over the proposed rule put forth earlier this year by the Department of Health and Human Services regarding the Medicare Program and revisions to payment policies under the physician fee schedule for calendar year 2007. This rule, as written, would have a negative impact on Puerto Rican doctors and their patients. While I fully support the overall objective of the changes--to ensure that HHS payment systems are updated to reflect changes in medical practice and the relative value of services--I am confident that can be achieved without inflicting another harmful financial burden on Puerto Rico. I would support legislative activity that would prevent further cuts from taking place. First, it must be understood that the cost of living in Puerto Rico is at least the same, if not higher than in the U.S. mainland. As a matter of fact, the costs of transportation, water, electric power and housing are all notably higher on the Island. These cost differentials were not adequately considered in the proposed rule. Under the proposed rule, Puerto Rico would be forced to assume two large losses. The first is on the elimination of the payment floor with slightly over a 2 percent cut, plus the cuts in each of the specialties. Radiology would suffer the most, with an average cut of 16 percent. This is an issue that affects doctors, patients and ultimately the quality of care that can be provided to those most in need. I strongly recommend that these proposed reductions be suspended for calendar year 2007, and that the impact of any further floor reductions be considered thoroughly before implementation. As you know, Puerto Ricans are U.S. citizens and pay the same Medicare payroll taxes and deductibles as their fellow citizens in the 50 States. Thus, we must ensure that Medicare recipients in Puerto Rico have the same access to quality health care as those in the 50 States, and that health care providers on the Island receive satisfactory reimbursements for their services.

Mr. FORTUNO

Mr. FORTUNO. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the Veterans Affairs Medical Facility Authorization Act. This bipartisan proposal, which I am honored to cosponsor with Chairman Brown and Ranking Member Michaud, would authorize major medical facility projects and major medical facility leases for the Department of Veterans Affairs for fiscal years 2006 and 2007. As Puerto Rico's sole representative in Congress, I want to thank Chairman Brown and Ranking Member Michaud for agreeing to include section 9 of this bill. This section recognizes the need for medical facility improvements in San Juan, Puerto Rico. I request that the Secretary of Veterans Affairs take steps to explore all options for addressing these concerns, including the option of a public/private partnership to construct and operate a facility that would replace the current Department of Veterans Affairs medical center in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The San Juan VA Medical Center is a 319-acute-care-bed facility with documented condition deficiencies. In October of 2002, a decision was made to develop a two-phased strategy for the San Juan VA Medical Center: phase one, a new six-story tower with 314 beds; phase two, a main building renovation that will include asbestos abatement, sprinklers, utility improvements, and would correct seismic deficiencies. On April 14, 2006, an $84.05 million construction contract was awarded for phase one. The building is expected to be completed in May 2009. The existing facility has approximately 630,845 gross square feet, and the proposed new tower would provide an additional 250,000 feet. However, the CARES review determined that San Juan, based on current and projected workload, requires a total of 1,283,547 gross square feet to efficiently service our veterans. The current two-phase plan still falls far short of the requirements identified under CARES by nearly 402,702 gross square feet. Given the documented substantial facility deficiencies, I am concerned about the U.S. taxpayers continuing to fund expensive renovations in San Juan which will ultimately fail to meet the capacity needed to handle the predicted workload. For this reason, this bill requires that no later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this act, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall submit to the Committee of Veterans' Affairs of the House and the Senate a report identifying and outlining the various options available to the Department for replacing the current Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Puerto Rico. Mr. Speaker, Puerto Rican veterans have served with honor and distinction in the Armed Forces of the United States in all wars and conflicts since 1917. Currently, over 9,000 of our men and women are active in our Nation's war on terrorism. Puerto Ricans have always responded to the call of defending our Nation, ranking number sixth in per capita contribution in Army, Reserve, and National Guard, fourth in the Reserve deployments when compared to units, and four Medals of Honor in Korea. In closing, I would like to once again thank Chairmen Buyer and Brown, Ranking Members Evans and Michaud, and committee staff for their report and their fine work.

Mr. FORTUNO

Mr. FORTUNO. Mr. Speaker, today I express my strong support for H.R. 1849, the Breast Cancer Patient Protection Act. Breast cancer adversely affects hundreds of thousands of American women and their families each year. Introduced by Representatives Sue Kelly and Rosa DeLauro, this bill would require that health plans provide coverage for a minimum hospital stay for mastectomies, lumpectomies and lymph node dissection for the treatment of breast cancer and coverage for secondary consultations. H.R. 1849, in conjunction with its Senate companion bill, S. 901, represents an important bicameral effort to improve and ensure the health of American women. I strongly believe that H.R. 1849 is a valuable tool to provide effective health care and recovery support to those impacted by breast cancer.

Mr. FORTUNO

Mr. FORTUNO. Mr. Speaker, today, Puerto Ricans celebrate the 89th Anniversary of being granted United States citizenship by an Act of Congress. It is on this historic occasion that I, as Puerto Rico's sole representative in Congress, am proudly introducing on their behalf the Puerto Rico Democracy Act of 2006. Since 1917, we have cherished that citizenship, and the principles of freedom and democracy for which our Nation stands. Hundreds of thousands of Puerto Ricans have fought valiantly in all wars since then to defend those principles that we so strongly value, with 50 of our own making the ultimate sacrifice in our Nation's current War on Terrorism in Iraq and Afghanistan. The bill I am introducing today honors the life and sacrifice of these heroes . . . heroes who have left their loved ones behind to defend our democratic values even as they themselves are unable to vote for their Commander in Chief. After 108 years of being a territory of the United States, Puerto Rico's status dilemma remains unresolved. Over the years, many in Congress have expressed their willingness to respect the right of self- determination for the U.S. citizens residing in Puerto Rico yet, during that time, there has never been a federally sanctioned self- determination process. On December 22, 2005 the President's Task Force on Puerto Rico's Status issued a comprehensive and balanced report providing options for the Island's future status and relationship with the United States. This Task Force, created by Executive Orders from President Clinton and President Bush, clearly outlines in its report a process to address Puerto Rico's century old status dilemma. The bill that I am introducing today simply implements the recommendations of the Task Force Report in order to preserve the guiding principles found in that report, which avoid prejudice towards a particular status option, and develops alternatives that are compatible with the U.S. Constitution and basic policies of the United States. Some will argue that Puerto Rico's status should be determined by a select few, however, I sustain that, after 108 years of waiting, the four million U.S. citizens of Puerto Rico deserve nothing less than a direct and meaningful vote. The Puerto Rico Democracy Act of 2006 guarantees that the terms and conditions of Puerto Rico's future be developed jointly and democratically by the people of Puerto Rico and the Congress and not by the whims of an elite few. In supporting this legislation, Congress would finally sanction a real opportunity for the people of Puerto Rico to exercise their right of self-determination with a process that would allow for a direct vote from the people. The first plebiscite, which would be held during the 110th Congress, but no later than December 31, 2007, would allow the people of Puerto Rico to elect whether to remain a U.S. territory, or to pursue a path toward a constitutionally viable permanent non- territorial status. It would not be until a second plebiscite during the 111th Congress that specific non-territorial status options would be defined, should the voters decide they want to opt for a permanent, non-territorial status. Congress has a date with history. As a territory, Puerto Rico is subject to Congressional authority under the Constitution's Territorial Clause. After 89 years as U.S. citizens, we deserve the opportunity to provide the people of Puerto Rico with a process where, through their direct vote, they can choose the status of their choice. Congress must assume its constitutional responsibility and act now; otherwise the efforts of the Presidential Task Force on Puerto Rico's Status, established by President Clinton and President Bush, would have been in vain. I wish to thank my many colleagues, on both sides of the aisle, who have agreed to become original co-sponsors of this bill, validating the recommendations made by the President's Task Force on Puerto Rico's Status to commence a democratic process under which the people of Puerto Rico will be able to exercise their inherent right to self- determination. The four million U.S. citizens of Puerto Rico deserve no less.

Mr. FORTUNO

Mr. FORTUNO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an outstanding individual, Mr. Francisco Rovira-Calimano, whose life work serves as an example to us all. He is a hard- working gentleman, an honest citizen, and a true humanitarian dedicated to the betterment of humanity. Today, Mr. Rovira-Calimano celebrates his 95th birthday--and this is a cause for great celebration. Paco, as everyone knows him in his beloved town of Guayama, Puerto Rico, was born on February 1, 1911, to Amalia Calimano-Diaz and Jose Rovira-Tomas, his hard-working parents, an exemplary couple in that lovely town by the Guamani River. As the eldest child, Paco soon learned the value of sharing, supporting others, fairness, and hard work principles--values which he has sustained throughout his long and fruitful life. He was an exceptional son, who for 20 years took care of all his mother's needs after his father passed away. He is a man of few words but strong actions and convictions. While growing up, he attended the Guayama public schools system during his elementary school years, then St. Augustine Academy in San Juan and completed high school at Peekskill Military Academy in New York State. He attended college at Louisiana State University and graduated from The New York State Institute of Agriculture in 1934. Since childhood, he had worked at the family dairy farm ``La Cuadra'', doing extensive manual labor, and upon graduation he returned to work there. Later, he also acquired ``La Tuna'', a farm which he skillfully managed raising sugar cane, plantains, cattle and tending to his beloved Paso Fino horses. Over the years, Paco was involved in many civic endeavors. He joined and became an active member of the Farmers Association of Puerto Rico. Additionally, he was an active member of the Regulatory Board of the Milk Producing Industry, of which he is still an honorary member. He has also been a member of the Guayama Rotary Club for over 40 years and served as its president in 1957. He was a member and an active board member of the ``Asociacion de Duenos de Caballos de Paso Fino de Puerto Rico'', (Paso Fino Horse Owner Association). For many years he collaborated with the ``Asociacion Agropecuaria'' (Agriculture and Livestock Association) from Mayaguez, and was a board member for two years. His main goal was to bring together people from all walks of life sharing a common interest. Paco's life spans through WWI, the Great Depression, WWII, the Korean war, the Vietnam conflict, and the two gulf wars in Iraq. He has seen 17 Presidents enter the White House and even though he is an American citizen residing in Puerto Rico, he unfortunately cannot vote for the President because of where he lives. However, he has always wanted to see Puerto Rico become an integral part of our powerful nation. Mr. Speaker, at 95 years of age, Paco continues to work hard every day. He is currently the President of the Campoamor Corporation, and the Santa Elena Development Company. This exceptional human being is married to Elsa Sabater-Recio. They recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary. He is the loving father of 5, the doting grandfather of 14, beloved great-grandfather of 11, and father figure of many, many more. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mr. Francisco Rovira- Calimano on his 95th birthday and to thank him for sharing his wonderful life, his heart, his time, and his energy with his family, the people of Guayama, and all Puerto Ricans. Mr. Speaker, he has set a high standard for all of us to follow.