Ralph Hall

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Guam (Mr. Underwood), the very capable delegate.

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the gentleman from California (Mr. Farr).

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I rise, of course, in support of H.R. 4, aptly termed the Securing America's Future Energy Act of 2001. The Committee on Science has worked hard and in a very highly cooperative fashion, I think, to report a comprehensive bill that authorizes existing energy research and development programs of the Department of Energy and authorizes new programs to meet the challenging research needs of this Nation. I think the committee has done a good job. They certainly have recognized that we cannot put all of our eggs in one basket. We need to pursue research and development activities in energy conservation and energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies, as well as in fossil fuel energy and nuclear energy programs. We need them all. In short, we need to support these applied research programs, which we know are the basic energy research programs of the office of science. I think we have been generous in funding the program at the National Laboratories and colleges and universities throughout the Nation that are engaged in energy research. Before yielding time to others, I want to take the opportunity to thank this good chairman, the gentleman from New York (Mr. Boehlert), for his interest in working with us to craft a bill that is supported by all the members of the committee. I think that is very unusual for a chairman. That does not happen very often here, but it has happened in our committee. We have worked together. I thank also the staff of the committee for their tireless efforts in putting together the kind of bill from the Committee on Science that we should all feel very proud to support. Finally, thanks also to the members of the committee for their suggestions and their contributions and their willingness to work on the committee's bill. Mr. Chairman, I yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Woolsey), the ranking member of the Subcommittee on Energy, Ms. Woolsey.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 100, the National Science Education Act. It is a bill reported by the Committee on Science; and as we have spoken of the previous bill, it is a bipartisan bill. It is complementary to H.R. 1858, the Committee on Science's comprehensive science education legislation. The principal provision of the bill addresses the important issue of training and supporting the activities of highly qualified science and math teachers, so-called ``master teachers.'' The words ``master teachers'' will be heard several times during this hearing; several times, I am sure, as it goes to conference; and several times when it is presented to the President for his signature. The master teacher provision is consistent with the approach taken by the master teacher language in H.R. 1693, an education bill I introduced earlier this year. Over the past 3 years, the Committee on Science has held a series of hearings on how to improve K through 12 science and math education. A strong message that has emerged from this series of hearings is that there is no silver bullet that will improve student learning in these subjects. But what is also clear is the critical importance of having teachers who have achieved mastery of their subject matter and who have acquired the teaching skills to effectively implement a hands-on standards-based curriculum. Master teachers are individuals who have acquired these skills and who are available in schools as mentors and research resources for other science and math teachers. By training a new generation of master teachers, a multiplying effect occurs that will lead to improved science and math education in entire schools, not just in a single classroom. Like other provisions in H.R. 100, these provisions are consistent with education legislation that was approved in a bipartisan manner by the Committee on Science last year. I want to lay special emphasis on this, and this may be the day of the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Ehlers), I do not know; but I want to lay special emphasis on his contribution. I want to congratulate these people, all the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Ehlers), including Professor Ehlers, Dr. Ehlers and Chairman Ehlers, for his willingness to work on this bill and his willingness to work with the minority to perfect it. He did not just work this year; he was selected by the gentleman from Wisconsin (Chairman Sensenbrenner) last year to carry out the thrust of the ingredients of H.R. 100. The gentleman from New York (Chairman Boehlert) endorsed that recommendation, and we are here today I think to see the fruits of his labor. I congratulate the gentleman. I congratulate the gentleman from New York (Chairman Boehlert), of course, and others who have had a lot to do with it. I ask my colleagues to support passage of this legislation. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Eddie Bernice Johnson), the ranking member on the Subcommittee on Research, who ushered these bills through subcommittee, through committee, the Committee on Rules, and to the floor. (Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas asked and was given permission to revise and extend her remarks.)

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. (Mr. HALL of Texas asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I am pleased to be here and to join in the accolades for the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Roemer). It is an annual group of accolades, and I am very pleased that the vote on the amendment will not reflect the veneration that we have for this Member that is leaving. We are a Nation of slogans. I think MacArthur said ``the object of war was victory,'' I think Franklin Roosevelt said, ``The only thing we have to fear is fear itself,'' but Billy Graham said one that I can use here. He said, ``Love the sinner but hate the sin.'' And here I really love the gentleman from Indiana, but I absolutely hate this amendment. I have the amendment memorized because I think this is the fifth or sixth straight time that the gentleman has come with this god-awful amendment, and I just hope that my colleagues will listen carefully and vote their conscience. As crafted, this amendment could eventually force unwise choices to NASA's human space flight program, which includes both the shuttle program and the space station program. It is a bad amendment. It is an amendment that looks reasonable at first glance, but it really creates more difficulties than it solves. Actually, simply put, the Roemer amendment would deny NASA the ability to make any adjustments to the space station program that might be needed to live within the funding cap contained in last year's NASA authorization bill. We already have a cap. There is a cap. It would also prevent NASA from making the adjustments to the space station program included in the President's fiscal year 2002 budget. I think the President was a little conservative in his budget, and we are working with him on that. I think it is short of the needs we need. So I think we should oppose this amendment and once again wish the gentleman from Indiana good sailing. May the wind be at the gentleman's back when he goes back to Indiana and becomes, maybe, the next governor or the United States Senator from there. God bless the gentleman.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Eddie Bernice Johnson), the ranking member of the Subcommittee on Research, who is responsible for a lot of this bill, but she especially pushed the section of the bill that promotes the Partnership for Math and Science for Economically Disadvantaged Schools.

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise, of course, in support of this act. It is a very important piece of legislation that will strengthen science and mathematics education in the Nation's schools. It includes a lot of provisions designed to bring more support to K-12 science and math teachers, more support to their students and, of course, to the entire schools. The overall goal is to help our children become more proficient in science and math, to get them more interested in it, and I am confident that the programs authorized by this bill will do exactly that. Earlier this year, I chaired a forum in Sherman, Texas, which is in my district. It focused on the issue of the skills needed for high technology workforce. The forum highlighted the importance of providing high quality science and math education in elementary and secondary schools in order to prepare the students for the technological challenges of the new economy. The program initiatives authorized by H.R. 1858 are consistent with the recommendations I received during this conference. It was a 3-day conference in Northeast Texas, well attended. I congratulate the gentleman from New York (Mr. Boehlert), the chairman of the Committee on Science, for placing science education high on the committee's agenda this year, and for taking the necessary steps to move this legislation forward for consideration by the House today. We worked together, and I think that is the reason we are here today. We had very few disagreements. The disagreements we had, we worked them out, worked them out through our committee staffs, who worked very hard. H.R. 1858 is the result of a very bipartisan thrust and it incorporates several programs and activities from a comprehensive education bill, H.R. 1693, which I introduced earlier this year. It also includes specific provisions Democratic Members of the Committee on Science have separately developed to improve K-12 science and math education. I would particularly like to highlight the programs incorporated from H.R. 1693 that explore ways to effectively use educational technology in the classroom. The approach is to identify promising techniques and approaches, then test them in a variety of classroom settings, and then document results in terms of student performance. This knowledge will enable schools to select the technology-based material and approaches that actually work and are worth the substantial investment needed to implement them. The educational technology activities authorized by this bill respond to the recommendations of both the Web-Based Education Commission in its December 2000 report to the President and the Congress, and the President's Information Technology Advisory Committee in its February 2001 report, ``Using Information Technology to Transform the Way We Learn.'' Also, H.R. 1858 incorporates programs from H.R. 1693 to encourage and support women and minorities in pursuing careers in science and in engineering and to get them interested in it. Mr. Speaker, I want to acknowledge the collegial process through which this bipartisan legislation has been developed. I want to congratulate the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Smith), the Subcommittee on Research chairman, and the ranking member, the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Eddie Bernice Johnson), for their efforts to develop this bill. Finally, I want to thank the gentleman from New York (Chairman Boehlert), the chairman of the Committee on Science, for his willingness to work cooperatively with the Democratic Members to develop this legislation. We have had a lot of meetings, we have met here on the floor, and we have discussed it at times when he was generous with his time. As chairman, he has many things to do, but he has given us the time we asked for. We have a good chairman, and I am thankful for him. I am proud we were able to work on this legislation with minimal debate over the fundamental objections and objectives. As a result, we produced a bill that is a win-win for teachers, it is a win-win for students, and the industries that rely on math, science and technological expertise, it is a win-win for them. Mr. Speaker, I commend this measure to my colleagues and ask for their support for its passage by the House. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Woolsey), who is an integral part of this legislation and a Member who pursued it and has worked well with the opposition and me as the ranking member. (Ms. WOOLSEY asked and was given permission to revise and extend her remarks.)

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of this fine bill that the chairman, the gentleman from New York (Mr. Walsh), and the ranking member, the gentleman from West Virginia (Mr. Mollohan), have brought to the floor. I do not get excited about many Federal programs, but this bill contains money for two of the very best science agencies in the world, NASA and the National Science Foundation. These are programs that ultimately will result in an increased understanding of the world around us and will deliver practical benefits to the American taxpayers. It is a good bill. Again, let me congratulate the Chair and the ranking member for their fine work, and I urge my colleagues to support the NASA funding in this bill. It seems obvious to me that if we invest in these advanced science and engineering efforts now, when our economy is still relatively robust, we can help lay the groundwork for another generation of economic growth, which is good for all Americans. NSF is our premier agency for support of basic research at academic institutions in the physical and biological sciences, in mathematics, and in engineering. Basic research discoveries launch new industries that bring returns to the economy far exceeding the original public investment. The Internet, which emerged from research projects funded by the DOD and NSF, strikingly illustrates the pay-off potential of such research expenditures. In fact, over the past 50 years, half of U.S. economic productivity can be attributed to technological innovation and the science that has supported it. Unfortunately, the simple truth is that during the 1990s we have been underinvesting in the fields of science that NSF supports. A recent report from the National Academy of Sciences provides specific examples that make this case. The report shows that between 1993 and 1999 federal research support at academic institutions fell by 14 percent in mathematics, by 7 percent in physics, by 2 percent in chemistry, and by 12 percent in electrical engineering. Inadequate funding for basic research in such important fields imposes a price on society, because new ideas are lost that would otherwise underpin future technological advances. Of even more importance, anemic funding of academic science and engineering research reduces the numbers of new young scientists and engineers, who constitute the essential element necessary to ensure the nation's future economic strength and security. The bill before us provides funding growth for NSF in excess of nine percent. The increase will enable the Foundation to expand its investments in exciting, cutting-edge research initiatives, such as information technology and nanoscale science and engineering. Of course, I would like to see the budget-doubling rate of increase that was appropriated for NSF last year. But I understand the constraints the Committee faced and I believe they did a wonderful job under the circumstances.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, as a long-time supporter of local solutions for local problems, I want to thank my colleagues, Representative J.C. Watts and Representative Tony Hall, for their work to bring H.R. 7, the Community Solutions Act, to the Floor. I am pleased to be a cosponsor of this initiative, which recognizes the important role that faith-based groups are performing in every community in America. I commend President Bush for making this a priority of his Administration. Government has long provided public funding for social service programs through its ``charitable choice'' provisions. This Act builds on this success by expanding the services that may be provided by faith-based groups. Most of us would agree that local citizens have a far better understanding of local problems and have better solutions for those problems than some ``one-size-fits-all'' Federal program. We've spent billions of dollars fighting the war against drugs, for example--and are still losing it because we are fighting it form the top. The bill's sponsors have worked to address the constitutional concerns that have been raised, and they have provided some important safeguards. As this bill moves forward, we need to continue our efforts to fully examine the implications of this Act as it affects State laws. The Community Solutions Act holds great promise in our efforts to combat drugs, juvenile delinquency, teenage pregnancy, hunger, school violence, illiteracy and other ills. It recognizes that faith-based organizations often are succeeding where government-run programs are failing. It makes sense to include these worthy programs in our efforts to serve those in need in our communities. I urge my colleagues to recognize the contributions and potential of faith-based organizations to improve the quality of life for our citizens by voting for H.R. 7 and giving this initiative a chance to work.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a great and legendary District Attorney, the late Henry Wade of Dallas, whose 35-year career brought him national attention for his handling of the murder trial of Jack Ruby and the landmark abortion case Roe v. Wade. Henry passed away on March 1 at the age of 86, leaving a powerful legacy that will be reviewed and remembered as part of our Nation's history. It is said that Henry never lost a case he personally prosecuted. He took office in 1951 and compiled one of the Nation's lowest rates of acquittal. In 1964, Henry led the prosecution of Jack Ruby, who shot to death Lee Harvey Oswald, the man charged with assassinating President Kennedy. Ruby died in prison while awaiting a death sentence. The 1973 Roe v. Wade decision establishing the right to an abortion began in Texas when a pregnant woman, identified in court documents as ``Jane Roe,'' sued Henry for enforcing a state law prohibiting abortion except when necessary to save a woman's life. These famous cases will be reviewed by attorneys, the courts, and students of history for years to come. The name, ``Henry Wade,'' evokes an image of a quintessential Texas prosecuting attorney--a formidable and compelling advocate in the courtroom--whose folksy, country-boy demeanor disguised his keen intellect. Henry was a 1938 graduate of the University of Texas law school with highest honors, an editor of the law review, and a member of the Order of the Coif and Phi Beta Kappa. Throughout his illustrious career, Henry was a role model for countless young prosecuting attorneys--as well as a nemesis for defense lawyers. Following law school, Henry practiced law, was an FBI special agent in the United States and abroad, and served in the Navy during World War II. After the war, he joined the district attorney's office in Dallas, becoming chief felony prosecutor before winning election as district attorney. And the rest is history. During World War II Henry served as a Fighter Director for Navy pilots. At one time he was at the top of the list in ``splashes''--the term used for destroyed Japanese planes. Henry and his lifelong friend and fellow Navy officer, Thomas Unis, were inseparable during the War, and they both made a great and successful transition into public civilian life. The late Tom Unis prosecuted with Henry and later was a leading and highly regarded attorney and partner in the Dallas law firm, Strasburger, Price, Kelton, Martin and Unis. I was privileged to litigate with both Henry and Tom and served with them at a couple of bases in the Pacific toward the end of World War II. I dearly respected and loved these two guys--as did all who knew them. Mr. Speaker, Henry was a great and legendary District Attorney, a super American, and a good friend of mine. He will be missed by his children and their families, Michele Brandenberger and husband, Mike; William Kim Wade and wife, Suzanne; Henry Wade, Jr., and wife, Kristin; Wendy Ballew and husband, David; Bari Henson and husband, Dave; and 15 grandchildren. And he will be remembered. As we adjourn today, let us do so by paying our last respects to ``The Chief'', as he was known around the Dallas courthouse--Henry Wade.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the late Texas Senator Wayne Connally, my friend and colleague with whom I served in the Texas State Senate, who died on December 20. Wayne was a member of the famous Connally political family and the brother of the late Governor John Connally and Judge Merrill Connally--and was an esteemed public servant in his own right. Wayne was born and raised in Floresville, Texas, and educated in public schools in Floresville and San Antonio. He attended the University of Texas at Austin before enlisting in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II, after which he ranched in his native region. He viewed public service as a tenet of good citizenship and was elected to the Texas House of Representatives in 1964 and elected to the Texas Senate two years later. He represented Senate District 21 from the 59th through the 62nd Texas Legislatures and was honored by his peers as ``Governor for a Day'' on October 7, 1971. I served with Wayne in the Texas Senate. He was a terrific Senator--totally dedicated and, determined to represent his District and the State of Texas. Wayne was also so very capable of friendship, and he was always responsive to anyone in need. Wayne's over-riding goal was to uphold integrity and responsibility in government. He worked with his brother, Governor Connally, to create the first upper-level higher education institution in Laredo in 1970, the first step toward establishing Texas A&M International University in 1993. A tall, imposing figure who spent his life working as a rancher and a public leader, Wayne embodied the Texas persona--and he leaves behind a legacy of faithful service to the people of his native state that he so loved. He will be missed by his many friends and family, including his children, Wyatt, Pamela and Wesley; four grandchildren; his brother, Merrill Connally; and sister, Blanche Kline. The Texas State Senate introduced a resolution on March 19, Wayne's birthday, recognizing his many contributions during his years of public service and his devotion to the State of Texas. Mr. Speaker, as the House adjourns today, I ask that my colleagues from Texas and in the Congress join me in also paying tribute to this outstanding American, the late Wayne Connally.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to an outstanding citizen of the State of Texas, the late Robert L. Dillard, Jr. of Dallas, who died at the end of November, 2000. Mr. Dillard was an active and beloved member of his community--and he will be dearly missed. Robert was born on September 30, 1913, the son of an independent oilman. He followed in his father's footsteps as a young man working in the oil fields of Texas to finance his education. His hard work paid off when he received his law degree from Southern Methodist University in 1935 and an LL.M from Harvard in 1936. After receiving his degrees, Robert served as Assistant City Attorney for the City of Dallas from 1941-1945. From 1945 until his retirement in 1978, he worked in an executive capacity for Southland Life Insurance Company of Dallas, retiring as Executive Vice President. Robert volunteered much of his time and talents to many civic endeavors. He served as president of the Board of Education of the Dallas Independent School District from 1961-1962, chairman of the Board of Trustees of Methodist Medical Center, chairman of the National Board of Directors of Camp Fire Girls, chairman of Region 10 Education Service Center, and a member of the Board of Directors at C.C. Young Retirement Home. He was also active in local and state government and in Highland Park United Methodist Church, where he served as a lay leader and a longtime Sunday School teacher. A special part of Robert's life, fifty-six years total, was devoted to membership in the Dallas Scottish Rite of Freemasonry. He was initiated in 1938 into Dallas Lodge No. 760 and held numerous leadership positions within the organization, including being a co- founder of a new Lodge in Dallas, serving as president of the Board of Directors of the Masonic Home and School of Texas and vice-chairman of the Board of Trustees of Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children. In 1953 he became a Thirty-Third Degree Inspectors General Honorary, in 1961 was a Grand Master of Masons in Texas, and in 1977 served as the Venerable Master of the Dallas Lodge of Perfection. As the culmination of his lifetime of dedication to the Freemasons, in 1995 Robert became one of only eight men in Texas in the past one-hundred years to receive the highest honor the Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite can bestow, the Grand Cross of Honor. Robert left behind a loving family, including his wonderful wife of 63 years, Dundee, a son, two daughters, 13 grandchildren, and three great grandchildren. He was devoted to his family, his community and his Fraternity of Freemasons--and he leaves behind a legacy of dedication and service that will be remembered by many. Mr. Speaker, Robert was one of a kind--and we will miss him. As we adjourn today, let us do so in memory of a great American and friend, Mr. Robert L. Dillard, Jr.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume, and I thank the gentleman from Washington (Mr. Hastings) for yielding me the customary time. Madam Speaker, this is an open rule. It has everything to do with the bill that makes appropriations for the Department of Agriculture and other related agencies for fiscal year 2002. As my colleague from Washington described, this rule provides for 1 hour of general debate to be equally divided and controlled by the chairman and ranking minority member of the Committee on Appropriations. This allows germane amendments under the 5-minute rule. This is the normal amending process in the House. All Members, on both sides of the aisle, will have the opportunity to offer amendments that do not violate the rules for appropriations bills. Madam Speaker, this is generally a good bill that serves America's farmers as well as the poor and hungry in this land. And I commend the ranking Democrat, the gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. Kaptur), and the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Bonilla), the chairman of the agriculture appropriations subcommittee, for their work. They have done a fine job working with funding levels that are too low for their important jobs. The bill funds child nutrition programs at a rate slightly higher than last year. It also increases funding for the food stamp program and gives a small boost to food banks. Funding for the WIC program, which feeds mothers and their children, is given a small increase over last year. Unfortunately, this increase is insufficient to meet the demand for this popular program. Monthly participation is exceeding the administration's projections, which will result in an estimated 100,000 to 200,000 eligible people not being served. I am disappointed with the actions of the Committee on Rules which failed to make in order an amendment by the gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. Kaptur) to fund the Global Food for Education Initiative, which is commonly known as the Global School Lunch Program. Here in this country, the school lunch program has been one of the most successful nutrition programs. A hungry child faces an extra challenge in school. This program promotes education by making sure that each day all children receive at least one nutritious meal. What works in the United States ought to work around the world. If we believe in education for children, we should promote this program. Also, this is a great help to our farmers, and it is being championed by former Senators George McGovern and Bob Dole. During consideration of this measure by the Rules Committee last night, I offered a motion to permit the gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. Kaptur) to offer her amendment to fund the Global School Lunch Program. The amendment was defeated on a straight party-line vote, with Democrats supporting the program and Republicans opposing it. The gentlewoman from Ohio's (Ms. Kaptur) amendment could not be accepted because it went over budget. However, at the same time, this same Committee on Rules approved an amendment that will add $150 million over the budget to pay apple growers. The Rules Committee also denied a request by the gentlewoman from Connecticut (Ms. DeLauro) to offer an amendment to increase food safety inspections. Food imports are increasing; yet funding for food inspectors is not adequate to keep pace. This amendment, which is important to our health and safety, should have been made in order. Madam Speaker, I do not agree with these priorities. I support the bill, but I cannot support the rule that turns down these amendments that I just talked about. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to recognize again the Reverend Scott Dornbush of Van, Texas in my district who offered the opening prayer as our guest chaplain today. Reverend Dornbush has served as pastor of the Van, Texas and Ben Wheeler, Texas United Methodist Churches since 1997. Each Sunday, Reverend Dornbush delivers three sermons, two in Van and one in Ben Wheeler, which is 10 miles away. As he says with good humor, ``That's the way it's done in East Texas.'' Reverend Dornbush is actively involved in numerous projects that reflect his commitment to the social implications of the Gospel. He has volunteered at crisis centers for abused women and children, initiated counseling groups, and authored and presented a paper on ministering to abusive families. His churches also reflect his leadership and are well-known for their mission efforts. They provide foods for over 100 families and distribute, and this is unbelievable, over three tons of fresh produce. The churches also offer preschool and child care. I want to commend Reverend Dornbush and those in his congregation for their efforts in meeting the needs of those in their communities through these service-based programs. We know from experience that local citizens and local organizations have a better understanding of their communities' needs and how to meet these needs. We know that some of the most successful efforts have been sponsored by our churches and other faith-based groups. Mr. Speaker, the time has come to include these viable programs in Federal efforts to improve the lives of our citizens, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to make this happen. I am pleased to welcome Reverend Dornbush today. I want to also express my appreciation for the Guest Chaplain program which provides a vital spiritual link between Washington and our faith- based communities throughout America. I thank Reverend Dornbush.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, today I am introducing legislation that will help to improve K-12 science and mathematics education in the nation's schools. The Science Education for the 21st Century Act authorizes a range of activities to increase the numbers and enhance the capabilities of science and math teachers, to advance knowledge on the most effective uses of educational technologies, to increase participation in science and technology careers by women and minorities, and to provide more effective coordination of public and private sector efforts to improve science and math education. I want particularly to acknowledge the assistance and contributions of several of my Science Committee colleagues in the development of this legislation. The bill incorporates Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson's provision to establish school/business partnerships to improve science and math education and to support students in pursuing undergraduate degrees in science and engineering; Rep. Lynn Woolsey's Go Girl Grants to encourage girls and young women to study math, science and engineering; Rep. Jim Barcia's provision to establish an educational technology extension service to support K-12 schools; Rep. Mark Udall's scholarships for science, math and engineering students willing to become certified and to serve as science teachers; Rep. John Larson's provisions on assessing the means for deployment of broadband networks for schools and libraries and on demonstrating educational applications for such networks; and Reps. Bob Etheridge's and Joe Baca's provisions on improving the preparation and in-service professional development of science and math teachers. The importance of providing all students with a sound grounding in science, math and technology education is evident. Looking at the overall economy, worker skill level correlates directly with productivity growth. More than one quarter of the growth in labor productivity during the boom years of the 1990s is attributed to increases in worker skills, as measured by education and work experience. The Department of Labor estimates that a 1% increase in worker skill level has the same effect on output and productivity growth as a 1% increase in hours worked. Moreover, national economic, policy and cultural matters are increasingly influenced by science and technology. Having a basic grounding in science and technology is necessary for individuals to make informed judgments about public policy issues and to lead fulfilling lives. Unfortunately, it is clear that we have problems both in the quality of K-12 science and math education and in attracting students to careers in science, engineering and technology. The National Assessment of Educational Progress, the national report card, reveals that fewer than one third of 4th, 8th and 12th grade students attain proficiency in science and math. International comparisons of math and science skills show the performance of U.S. students declining with years in the school system, and falling below that of students from most of our economic competitors. Poor preparation in elementary and secondary schools is reflected in the findings that over 40% of freshmen at public 2-year colleges are enrolled din remedial classes. Even at private 4-year colleges, 13% of students are enrolled in such classes. Moreover, approximately 35% of companies provide remedial math education for their employees. Although college attendance is increasing, relatively fewer students than in the past are pursuing undergraduate degrees in science, math and engineering. From peak levels in the mid-1980s, engineering majors have declined by 30%, and math majors by 45%, relative to other fields of study. One reason that the pool of scientists and engineers is growing more slowly is simply that the group traditionally most likely to enter these field, white males, is declining as a percentage of new workers. At present, white males constitute a little over 40% of the workforce and nearly 70% of scientists and engineers. In contrast, white females are about 35% of the workforce and only 15% of scientists and engineers. The corresponding figures for African Americans and Hispanics are each about 10% of the workforce and 2% of scientists and engineers. Clearly, we must do a better job of attracting women and minorities to science and preparing them to pursue postsecondary studies in science, math and engineering. The Department of Labor projects that new jobs requiring science, engineering and technical training will increase by 51% between 1998 and 2008--roughly four times higher than average job growth nationally. The changing economy will not only require more scientists and engineers, but will require most workers to have increased skills. Sixty percent of all new jobs will require at least a high school education, and only 12% of new jobs will be filled by those with less than a high school education, and the number of such jobs will continue to decline. These trends suggest the need to improve K-12 science and math education, both to prepare more students to pursue science and engineering studies in college and to raise the skill levels for all students, who will find themselves in an increasingly technological workplace. The Science Education for the 21st Century Act will establish a range of education programs, primarily at the National Science Foundation, to address key factors that affect the quality of science and math education, as well as the associated problem of attracting individuals to careers in science, engineering and technology. First, the bill establishes programs to improve the training and professional development of science and math teachers, including incentives for science and engineering students to become science and math teachers. Clearly, an essential first step in improving science and math education in the schools is having teachers with both a sound knowledge of their subject and effective teaching skills. Next, the bill will institute programs to explore ways to use information technologies effectively in the classroom. Computers and communications networks have revolutionized the workplace, but have yet to reach their potential for educational applications. The emphasis will be on quantifying the techniques and approaches for employing technology that will lead to improved student performance, so that schools will know which approaches actually work and are worth the substantial investments needed to implement them. In addition, the bill authorizes programs to encourage the interest of women and minorities in science and math, and to help prepare them academically to pursue careers in science, math and engineering. The changing composition of the nation's workforce makes it essential that the talents of all segments of society are fully developed and utilized. And, finally, the bill establishes mechanisms to improve the coordination among the federal agencies that support K-12 science and math education activities. The federal resources available for this purpose are limited. Therefore, it is imperative that the resources be used for maximum benefit in helping the states and local school system that are engaged in reform of science and math education. Mr. Speaker, improvement of K-12 science and math education is one of the most critical problems facing the nation. It is central to meeting the workforce needs of the information age economy and thereby maintaining the nation's economic strength. The Science Education for the 21st Century Act offers initiatives and programs that will help to meet this need. I commend the measure to my colleagues and ask for their support.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 503, and I thank Representative Graham for introducing this legislation again in the 107th Congress. I am a cosponsor of this bill that makes killing a women's unborn child punishable as a Federal crime. The bill simply states that an individual who commits a Federal crime of violence against a pregnant woman and thereby causes death or injury to her unborn child will be held accountable for the harm caused to both victims, mother and child. Twenty-four States have already enacted laws which recognize unborn children as human victims of violent crimes-- this bill simply gives the same protection in Federal jurisdictions. Opponents of the bill have said that it is a back door to eliminating a women's right to choose, but this bill is about choice, Mr. Speaker, it is about respecting--and protecting--a women's choice to bring a new life into this world. H.R. 503 will allow under Federal law for the prosecutions of those who callously disregard that choice.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.J. Res. 41, the Tax Limitation Constitutional Amendment. I have been a cosponsor of this legislation since we first started it back in 1995. I have appeared before in front of post offices on April 15 and talked to distraught taxpayers on that particular day. I will get the same answer from all of them. I am going to continue to support this as long as it takes to provide a constitutional protection against tax increases for hard-working Americans. It would have a chance. This bill is going to pass sooner or later. I am not sure when it is going to pass, but it will pass. I will tell my colleagues when it could pass. It could pass when every Member of Congress would take the time to walk out into the streets of their own district and ask this simple question: Would you like to make it more difficult for Congress to raise taxes? If my colleagues do not get a yes answer from that 9 out of 10, then it will be different to the various areas that I have made that same inquiry. The tax increases that have been enacted since I have been in Congress have passed by narrow margins, once I think by a single vote. Legislation that hits everybody's pocketbook ought to require more than a simple majority of passage. A two-thirds vote requirement would give the taxpayers the protection they need and they are entitled to. The amendment would do more than just provide tax protection. It will help ensure that our efforts to maintain a balanced budget will focus on eliminating wasteful and unnecessary programs and achieving cost savings wherever we can, not raising taxes as a means of achieving this goal. Now, we are blessed with the projected budget surpluses over the next few years. I do not know if it will last for 10 years. That is the length of our budget. But I do not think anything this Congress can do can screw it up in less than 3 or 4 or 5 years. So I think we have got some real good years directly in front of us. President Bush and the Congress have pledged to return a portion of that surplus to the American citizens this year in the form of tax relief, and Congress is working out the details on that. However, should the economic environment change and the surplus begin to dwindle, our first line of defense should not be to breach our agreement with Americans by not lowering their taxes. Any serious economic situation that might call for increased taxes has to be addressed with the cooperation and understanding of all Americans and with more than a simple majority. If we ever have a balanced budget amendment, and I think there will be a time when we will pass a balanced budget amendment, take two- thirds to pass that amendment, but they could comply with it by simply raising taxes with a majority vote. Now, that does not look right to me. I think that a lot of States have already moved forward on this initiative and have enacted tax limitation measures of their own. Congress ought to recognize their efforts and give the States and the American citizens the opportunity to decide for themselves on this amendment. I urge my colleagues to join in the passage of this legislation in the 107th Congress.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Con. Res. 27, which honors the National Institute of Standards and Technology and its employees for 100 years of service. Chairwoman Morella has already highlighted many of NIST's achievements. I want to speak about the philosophy and hard work of NIST's employees. The Constitution gives the Federal government the responsibility to ``fix the standard of weights and measures.'' In 1901, the National Bureau of Standards (NSB) was formally established. Little could the Founding Fathers, or President McKinley who signed the original legislation, have guessed at the scope of activities that agency would have to undertake. Initially NBS set simple standards such as the length of a foot, the weight of a pound, and the volume of a gallon. Today, NIST, the successor agency to the NBS, is involved in measurement activities including time measurement accurate to a loss of a second every 20 million years which is important to the global positioning system, setting the length of nanometer essential to the semiconductor industry, and accurate measures of X-ray emissions used to calibrate hospital equipment. These are just a few examples of NIST measurement and standards activities that support many of the daily services we rely upon. NIST has been successful because it is responsive to the needs of industry. NIST is one of the few federal agencies that work in partnership with industry to develop the measurement tools that are the basis for the development of new technologies. NIST constantly re- invents its research mission to meet industry's evolving needs. Many in Congress complain that Federal agencies are unresponsive to their customer's needs--and this complaint is true some of the time. But NIST's record proves that an agency can serve its customers and further the public's interests in reliable standards for products. I urge my colleagues in joining with me supporting this resolution honoring NIST employees.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 90th birthday of former President Ronald Reagan and to pay tribute to his distinguished service during his eight years as our Nation's leader. President Reagan's idealism and vision set the stage for remarkable achievements both at home and abroad. His policies placed America on a course for economic growth and prosperity and military superiority in the world--helping to secure America's position as the world's super power and the pivotal leader of the free world. President Reagan's optimism for life, and his ability to inspire, renewed our citizens' commitment to the values and principles of freedom and justice upon which our Nation was founded. His policy of ``peace through strength'' brought an historic ending to the Cold War, dismantling much of the Soviet Union's military might and positioning our armed forces for victory a few years later in the Persian Gulf. His domestic policies introduced an era of economic expansion that would help carry us through the end of the 20th century. His efforts to combat crime and drugs and to reevaluate our Nation's healthcare system marked the beginnings of much-needed and long-overdue reforms. In short Mr. Speaker, President Reagan embodied those qualities that we seek in our Nation's leaders--vision, optimism, decency, integrity, responsibility. He believed in democracy, freedom, and the basic goodness of America. And he led by example. I am honored to join my colleagues today in honoring this great American and great former President--Ronald Reagan--and extending to him and to his wonderful wife, Nancy, our best wishes and our eternal gratitude for their contributions to our great Nation.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to an outstanding citizen of the Fourth District of Texas, the late Dr. L.W. ``Bob'' Conradt of Terrell, who died on November 8. Dr. Conradt was an active and beloved member of his community--and he will be dearly missed. Dr. Bob Conradt served Terrell as an excellent doctor. After closing his office where he practiced medicine for 26 years, he joined Blue Cross-Blue Shield as a Vice-President and medical director and served in that capacity until he retired in 1986. His community endeavors included membership in the Kaufman County Medical Society and the Texas Medical Association, as well as serving as President of the Terrell Independent School District School Board from 1963 to 1970. He also was a member of the Executive Committee of the Texas Association of School Boards, and active member of the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, and a Scout Master for the Terrell Boy Scouts. As evidenced in all of these commitments, Dr. Conradt gave his time and energy to helping make Terrell a better place in which to live. Dr. Bob Conradt was born in Lometa, Texas on March 9, 1921, to the late Albert Herman and Lennie Mae Cornelius Conradt. He attended Tarleton State University, the University of Texas, Baylor College of Medicine and graduated in the very first class of the University of Texas Southwestern School of Medicine in 1944. He served in the U.S. Army while attending medical school, and upon graduation he was stationed at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas as the General Medical Officer. In 1947, his military service was completed and Dr. Conradt moved his family back to Terrell, where he began his medical practice. Throughout his distinguished career as a doctor in Terrell, Dr. Conradt received many recognitions, including Terrell Rotary Citizen of the Year in 1965, President of the Society of Life Insurance Medical Directors in 1985, and Advisory Trustee to the Episcopal Church and the Diocese of Dallas from 1962 to 1967. He is preceded in death by his wife, Montie K. Conradt and his daughter, Montie Cathleen Conradt. He is survived by his son, Bill Conradt; a daughter, Patricia Conradt; grandsons, Tracy and Rob Morgan; son-in-law, Joe Morgan; and many other family members and friends. Mr. Speaker, Bob was one of a kind--and we will miss him. As we adjourn today, let us do so in memory of Dr. L.W. ``Bob'' Conradt.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, today I speak memory of a legendary East Texan, Johnny Cace of Longview, TX, who died recently at the age of 83. Johnny Cace was a household name in East Texas. His restaurant that bears his name is part of the culture of Longview, and Johnny was known as one of Longview's leading ambassadors of good will. Johnny was devoted to his family, his community, and his church--and he was a friend to so many from all walks of life. Born Jan. 8, 1917, in New Orleans, he grew up working with his father at their oyster camp between school years, where he learned to harvest oysters and catch fish and cook. After graduating from Buras High School in 1933 as salutatorian of his class, he attended Louisiana State University and then moved with his family to Shreveport to open an oyster and seafood market. Johnny volunteered for the U.S. Air Force during World War II and served four years as mess sergeant of officers' mess at Moore Field in McAllen. Following the War, Johnny married Valerie Savony, now deceased, and moved to Longview in 1949, opening Johnny Cace's Seafood & Steak House. The restaurant moved to its present location in 1964 and expanded several times to its current seating capacity of 450. It is a popular location for various civic luncheons and special events in Longview, and its reputation for excellence has attracted patrons from all over the State of Texas. Johnny was active and involved in the restaurant until his recent hospitalization. He served as president of the Texas Restaurant Association in 1967 and received the distinguished service award that year. He also served on TRA's State Advisory Council and was a longtime member of the board of directors of the East Texas Chapter of TRA and the state board of TRA. He was chosen as Texas Restaurant Association Man of the Year in 1967, was selected as Outstanding Restaurateur in 1961 by the East Texas Restaurant Association and as Outstanding Restaurateur in the State in 1970. In 1985, Johnny was selected as a member of the Texas Restaurant Association Hall of Honor, the highest honor one can receive in TRA. Johnny's accomplishments in Longview were just as noteworthy. He was a lifetime member of the Longview Chamber of Commerce, having served as president and two terms on the board of directors. He was a founding member of Junior Achievement of East Texas. He served as district chairman of the Sustaining Membership Drive of Boy Scouts of the East Texas area. He was a past vice president of Longview Civitan Club. He served on the board of directors of Longview Bank & Trust Co., the Good Shepherd Hospital Foundation Board and the Operations Committee of St. Anthony's Catholic Church. As a member of the Longview Council of Knights of Columbus, Johnny was a Past Grand Knight of the Third Degree and Past Faithful Navigator of the Fourth Degree. Johnny's other honors include the Boy Scouts of America Silver Beaver Award for Distinguished Service to Boyhood; the Headliner Award from the Professional Journalists; Man of the Year award by the Longview Federated Club; the East Texas Heritage Award from the Festival in the Pines; and in 1999, the Longview Partnership Chairman's Award. Johnny was an active member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, the Elks Club, Pinecrest Country Club and the Delta Fishing Club. He is survived by his wife, Margaret Gregory Cace of Longview; son John III and daughter-in-law Linda of San Antonio; son Gerard and daughter-in-law Cathy of Longview; and son Danny and daughter-in-law Sarah of Tyler; seven grandchildren; a sister, Rose Cace Sanders of Shreveport; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Johnny Cace genuinely liked people and always had a smile and a kind word to say to those he met. He was a friend to so many from all walks of life--and he was liked by all who knew him. He was truly one of Longview's most influential ``goodwill ambassadors,'' and he leaves a legacy of goodwill that will be remembered for many years to come. He also leaves a powerful family legacy in his sons, who are carrying on the family restaurant business and will help keep the Cace legend alive. Gerard operates the Longview establishment; Danny operates the restaurant in Tyler, and John operates the restaurant in San Antonio. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor for me to pay my last respects in the Congressional Record to an outstanding American and an exemplary individual who was beloved by his family, friends, and the citizens of Longview, and who will be truly missed--Johnny Cace.