Alcee Hastings

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I especially appreciate the remarks of the distinguished woman, the Rules Chair, Ms. Slaughter, and echo her sentiments. I am now pleased to yield 3 minutes to my colleague from the Rules Committee, a good friend, Jared Polis of Colorado.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I am very pleased and privileged at this time to yield 5 minutes to the distinguished gentlewoman from New York, the distinguished Chair of the Committee on Rules and my good friend, Ms. Louise Slaughter.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, House Resolution 829 provides for consideration of the conference report to accompany H.R. 2892, the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act of 2010. The rule waives all points of order against the conference report and against its consideration. The rule provides that the conference report shall be considered as read. And finally, the rule provides that the previous question shall be considered as ordered without intervention of any motion, except 1 hour of debate and one motion to recommit, if applicable. This conference report appropriates over $42 billion in funds necessary to protect the American people and enhance our national security. Through terrorist threat mitigation, natural disaster response, and immigration enforcement, this appropriations bill provides the funding to fulfill the many essential responsibilities of a range of important governmental agencies, from the Coast Guard to FEMA to Customs and Border Protection to the Transportation Security Administration. Particularly critical in this legislation are the partnerships established with State and local communities to prepare for and protect against a range of emergency situations, including natural disasters and acts of terrorism and violence. The funding provided for emergency response resources demonstrates the need for collaboration among Federal, State, and local governments in providing for effective security. It's worth noting a few of the major initiatives contained in this conference report. This legislation helps secure our borders by providing over $10 billion for Customs and Border Protection, including funding for over 20,000 Border Patrol agents, which represents an increase of 6,000 agents since 2006. In addition, this report extends authorization of the E-Verify program for 3 years, under which employers are able to check the legal status of their workers. This legislation provides the funding to operate and improve the existing E-Verify program. Ensuring the safety and security of our Nation's infrastructure is a critical part of this legislation. This conference report provides the necessary funding to the Transportation Security Administration and the Coast Guard to protect our Nation's vast transportation network, including airports, seaports, subways, trains, and buses. With this funding, the TSA will be able to improve explosive detection equipment at airports, and the Coast Guard will be able to replace aging ships and aircraft, which is much needed, modernizing a force that is essential to our national security. Madam Speaker, I have always praised the Federal Emergency Management program for the fine work they do in helping distressed communities. In my home State of Florida, we are frequently plagued with natural disasters, including hurricanes and flooding. These disasters profoundly impact Florida's residents, particularly when so many individuals and families experience severe damage to their homes and communities. I'm pleased with the funding levels indicated in this report for the firefighter grants, flood map modernization, predisaster mitigation, and emergency food and shelter programs. I know that the men and women at FEMA work hard and are dedicated to relieving the plight of Americans faced with the hardships of natural disasters. At the same time, I've never been shy about making my voice heard on matters important to my constituents and all residents of Florida and our Nation that experience disasters. I have been outspoken on the need for FEMA to improve temporary housing. I'm also pleased to have included language in this bill requiring the Florida Long Term Recovery Office, located in Orlando, to remain open. And a footnote there, Representatives Alan Grayson and Suzanne Kosmas are deserving of a lot of consideration from us for that action that I, along with Robert Wexler and others, began quite some time before they came to Congress. In order to enhance communication and relief operations, this is necessary in the event of a natural disaster. Madam Speaker, I do want to address the provisions in this report relating to the detainees at Guantanamo Bay. I know that this body has been very focused on this matter, as rightly we should be, as President Obama has committed his administration to close the detention facility at Guantanamo by January of 2010. This conference report prohibits current detainees from being transferred to the United States, except to be prosecuted, and then only after Congress receives a detailed plan on the risks involved, the legal rationale for their transfer, and a notification from the Governor of the affected State. This is all well and good, but the language in this bill, while a good step forward, is not going to solve the problem of what to do with the hundreds of individuals we have detained, and those in the future that we may have to detain, whether they are detained at Guantanamo or Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan or any other facility where they may be detained by the United States. The debate over Guantanamo, in my opinion, is missing the larger picture, and that is a need to reform our entire detainment policy. As I have maintained, the problem is policy, not the place. Without a system of justice to deal with suspected terrorists, wherever they are held, we are left with a broken system that has been a significant recruiting tool for al Qaeda and other groups which threaten our Nation's security. We need to deny them that image of America. We need a judicial process that accomplishes at least three things: Number 1, protects our national security by holding and prosecuting those who have committed crimes or who pose an imperative threat to our country; number 2, upholds international standards of human rights; and 3, strengthens our Nation's image as a country that upholds the rule of law and does not resort to arbitrary justice, even while under threat. This appropriations season has, so far, brought forth a number of bills, almost all with language relating to Guantanamo and a whole lot of that ``not in my backyard'' stuff. At some point soon, we're going to need to move beyond trying to legislate this matter into appropriations bills and, instead, deal with what is necessary, and that is, new policies and guidelines to bring our national security needs in line with our historic national values. I'm pleased to have introduced H.R. 3728, the Detainment Reform Act, which will move us forward on this matter, and I urge my colleagues and the President and his administration to give some vent to supporting this effort, revising it, or doing what is necessary in order for this bill or others to establish the policy that's needed for detaining individuals who would be imperative threats or conduct themselves in a criminal manner against this Nation. Madam Speaker, ultimately, the conference report before us today provides the necessary funding for the Federal, State, and local agencies, programs and efforts that will protect our Nation. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. I ask unanimous consent that all Members be given 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks on House Resolution 829.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, for the purpose of debate only, I yield the customary 30 minutes to my good friend, the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Diaz-Balart), and all time yielded during consideration of the rule is for debate only. General Leave

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, by direction of the Committee on Rules, I call up House Resolution 829 and ask for its immediate consideration.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. I thank my colleague for yielding. I did not ask my distinguished good friend, because I didn't know how many speakers he had, and I didn't want to interdict the program as it is set forth. Mr. Speaker, I rise in very strong support of the resolution offered in a bipartisan fashion and demonstrating very strongly how we do respond to those who are in need. In the case of Eni Faleomavaega, American Samoa has had for a considerable period of time a distinguished Member of this body who has helped so many of us when we have had difficulties such as in Hurricane Andrew. Those that live in these areas, or my friend that just spoke from Hawaii, all of us understand these dynamics. Eni, our heart goes out to you. As one who has visited American Samoa with you on three different occasions and had the good fortune of bringing my son there, I just want you to know how heavy my heart was when I saw those places, and my heart goes out to you and all.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to introduce the Drug Price Competition Act of 2009, a bill that will help achieve some of the goals that are essential to health care reform: ensuring fair market competition and increasing access to affordable drugs. State-of-the-art drugs have undoubtedly improved and saved lives, and consumer demand for these drugs has certainly posed an economic burden on countless Americans. Although prescription drugs account for 10 percent of total health care expenditures, it is one of the fastest- growing segments within health care spending. Consumers are not the only ones who face the cost of prescription drugs. The federal government is now the largest purchaser of drugs in the United States and accounts for roughly two-fifths of the drug consumer market. Generic drugs cost between 80-85 percent less than brand name drugs and comprise 70 percent of all drug prescriptions that are filled in the United States today. Many have acknowledged the role that generics have played in alleviating the burden of prescription drug costs on individual and government health care spending. The Hatch-Waxman Act of 1984 established a pathway for generic drugs to receive approval from the Food and Drug Administration, FDA, and enter the consumer market. However, some generic and brand name drug companies have exploited a flaw in this Act and have restricted access to generics. Under the Hatch-Waxman Act, the first drug company that submits an application for product approval to the FDA receives a 180-day period of exclusivity in which no other generic company is allowed to enter the market. This application is also accompanied with a challenge to the brand company's drug patent. In response, brand companies often pay generic companies large sums of money to encourage them to postpone their entry into the market. Generic drug companies frequently comply because they can retain their 180-day period of exclusivity even if they agree to enter the market years later than was first anticipated. Additionally, generic manufactures that were not the first-to-file have no incentive to challenge the brand company's patent and potentially open the blocked markets because they would not be able to enter the market until after the 180-day exclusivity period. Madam Speaker, the Drug Price Competition Act of 2009 is a House companion to a bill that Senator Bill Nelson of Florida introduced earlier this year. The bill targets the root of the blocked drug market problem. It allows generic companies that win patent challenges to share the 180-day exclusivity period with the generic companies that first submitted an application to the FDA. However, no subsequent challenger would be eligible to share in the exclusivity reward once the generic drug has been launched. If enacted, first-to-file generic manufactures would be less likely to accept a late entry date because this would mean that another generic manufacturer could win a patent challenge and share the 180-day exclusivity period. Madam Speaker, generic medications are critical to managing everything from heart disease to battling life-threatening cancer. Stymied market competition and delayed access to generic medication pose serious health and economic costs to patients and taxpayers. The Drug Price Competition Act of 2009 will effectively correct the systemic flaw in the Hatch- Waxman Act that has blocked price competition, and increase access to affordable life-saving medications. I urge my colleagues to support this important bill that takes a fair market and cost-saving approach to improving our health care system.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize LT Daniel Choi for his service to the United States of America and outstanding contributions to the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender, LGBT, equality movement as an Army officer, Iraq War veteran, and now civil rights activist. In clear defiance of ``Don't Ask, Don't Tell,'' the unjust law that prohibits LGBT service members from serving openly and honestly in the military, Lieutenant Choi courageously spoke three words on national television--``I am gay.'' In doing so, he knew that he was risking his military career, but was firm in the belief that he had chosen the harder right over the easier wrong. Lieutenant Choi was ultimately discharged, but has since devoted his life to activism in the hope that, one day soon, Don't Ask, Don't Tell will be repealed. Lieutenant Choi's story is one of excellence and leadership. He was born in February 1981 in Orange County, California and attended Tustin High School, where he was student body president, participated in the American Legion Boys State program, and was involved in various extracurricular activities ranging from Christian Club and Model United Nations to varsity swimming and marching band. It comes as no surprise that Lieutenant Choi was admitted to the prestigious U.S. Military Academy at West Point, where he continued to excel and learn the values that gave him purpose as an officer in the Army and activist for LGBT rights. It was at West Point that Lieutenant Choi first recited the Cadet Honor Code: ``A cadet will not lie, cheat, steal, or tolerate those who do.'' In 2003, Lieutenant Choi became one of only eight graduates in his class to earn a degree in Arabic Language, in addition to Environmental Engineering. During his 10 years of honorable service to this nation, Lieutenant Choi served as an Infantry Officer. Specifically, he was a Platoon Leader, Company Executive Officer, Battalion and Brigade Staff Officer, Iraqi Arabic language instructor, and civil-military and reconstruction engineer in the 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum, New York. For 15 months from 2006 to 2007, Lieutenant Choi saw duty as an Infantry Platoon Leader and Arabic linguist in South Baghdad, Iraq, providing an invaluable service to his fellow soldiers and the United States' mission by communicating quickly and clearly with the Iraqi people. In 2008, Lieutenant Choi became an Infantry Platoon Leader in the Army National Guard's 1st Battalion, 69th Infantry in Manhattan, New York. While an officer with the Army National Guard, Lieutenant Choi co- founded KNIGHTS OUT: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender West Point Graduates, an organization of West Point alumni, staff, and faculty who are united in supporting the rights of LGBT soldiers to openly serve their country. On March 19, 2009, Lieutenant Choi appeared on MSNBC's The Rachel Maddow Show to discuss the military's Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy. In a surprising announcement, Lieutenant Choi revealed that he was gay. Fully aware of the consequences, he refused to lie about who he is and accept a policy that compromises the integrity of the U.S. military and its service members. Despite testimony from his commanding officer, members of his unit, and fellow soldiers who served in Iraq, as well as 260,000 letters and signatures of support, a panel of New York National Guard officers recommended that Lieutenant Choi be discharged on June 30, 2009. Guided by the same values he learned at West Point and in the Army, Lieutenant Choi now advocates for the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell and the reversal of Proposition 8 in California, an amendment to the state constitution that recognizes marriage as between only one man and one woman. He continues to raise public and political awareness of issues that affect LGBT service members and the LGBT community as a whole. Madam Speaker, the West Point Cadet Prayer teaches cadets ``. . . never to be content with a half-truth when the whole can be won.'' Don't Ask, Don't Tell is a no-truth policy and must be repealed. I am honored and humbled by Lieutenant Choi's selfless example and, although he is no longer in uniform, he continues to fight for the freedom of all Americans to be the best they can be, gay or straight.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to express my deep condolences to the people of American Samoa and Samoa on Tuesday suffered a devastating tsunami triggered by a powerful earthquake of 8.0 on the Richter scale. The destructive path of the tsunami has flattened villages and caused the deaths of over a hundred people. I am truly saddened by this devastating turn of events. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims' families during this most difficult time. While hundreds of people are being treated for injuries and as rescue efforts continue, I am glad to see that relief supplies are getting to the Pacific islands right away. Madam Speaker, I also would like to extend my condolences to the people of western Indonesia who regrettably suffered a powerful earthquake on Wednesday, where at least 1,100 people have been killed. The aftermath of this earthquake has caused landslides and trapped thousands under buildings, including two hospitals. I send my deepest sympathies to the families who have lost loved ones from this devastating earthquake. The valiant efforts of local authorities and the Red Cross to rescue victims must not go unnoticed. These brave individuals are on the frontline and face many grave dangers to help those in need. I would also like to commend my colleague and friend, Congressman Eni Faleomavaega for his quick response to this terrible tragedy. His leadership during this difficult time will undoubtedly help the people of American Samoa and Samoa rebuild the Pacific islands and restore it back to its beautiful heritage. Madam Speaker, the coming weeks and months will be a very trying time for all those affected by these natural disasters. I wish the people of American Samoa and Samoa as well as Indonesia a safe recovery.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and career of Dr. Mack King Carter, Senior Pastor of New Mount Olive Baptist Church in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on the occasion of his retirement. New Mount Olive, founded in 1918, was extremely fortunate to receive Dr. Carter as co-pastor in August 1981. Dr. Carter has led the congregation since November 1982. Dr. Carter, a native of Ocala, Florida, received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Florida in 1970, a Master of Divinity degree in 1976 and a Doctorate of Ministry degree in 1978, both from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has done additional studies at Florida Memorial College and has received honorary doctorate degrees from Florida Memorial and Bethune Cookman College. Dr. Carter is considered one of America's great African American ``pulpiteers.'' His travels have taken him throughout the United States and abroad, preaching, teaching and lecturing. A talented educator and popular speaker, his classes at the National Baptist Convention Congress of Christian Education are filled to capacity with preachers and lay persons who come to hear one of God's master teachers. The consummate theologian, he is considered a ``preacher's preacher.'' During his long career, Dr. Carter served three churches in Ocala, Florida and one in Prospect, Kentucky before coming to New Mount Olive. A great writer in addition to his other talents, he has authored four books: A Catechism for Baptists, To Calvary and Beyond, A Quest for Freedom and Interpreting the Will of God. In his younger days, Dr. Carter was a huge fan of the New York Yankees. Everyone in the New Mount Olive family and visitors through the years fondly recall his greeting, ``We're deliciously proud to have you.'' Since 1973, he has been the devoted husband of Patricia A. Thomas Carter and is the proud father of two wonderful daughters, Annalisa Robinson-Melton and Pamela Latrice Johnson. He is also the doting grandfather of Brittany N. Robinson and Carter Nathaniel Johnson. Madam Speaker, it has been a great joy for me and this congregation to have Dr. Carter as a friend, supporter, comforter and mentor. I wish him the very best on his retirement.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to introduce the Services for Ending Long-Term Homelessness Act of 2009. The reality is that more than a half million Americans do not have a place to call home each night, and half of them are without shelter. This bill will alleviate the wide-spread problem of chronic homelessness across the country. According to the Department of Children and Families' most recent report, there are 85,907 persons homeless on any given day. At least 2 million people find themselves homeless at some point each year in our country. There isn't nearly enough shelter for these individuals. In 2007, my home state of Florida alone had 48,000 homeless people, with 14,900 of them families and 7,691 of them chronic cases. Recently, I heard the story of a 25-year-old mother of three in my district, who was running out of options--staying at a hotel in Palm Beach County after fleeing domestic violence in Miami. As she was running out of money, this brave young woman and her young children soon would be homeless. But, they were one of the lucky ones. She was referred to The Lord's Place residence for homeless families, where she now lives with her children. As a leader in my district for chronic homelessness solutions, the Lord's Place is a perfect example of the types of establishments that would benefit immensely from this legislation. In this survivor's words: ``I am here. I am working. I am breathing. And I am grateful.'' Throughout our country, over 100,000 people have nowhere to call home for years on end. These are the long-term homeless, who all too often also confront mental illness, substance addiction, life-threatening illness or other serious health problems. The good news is: this bill presents us with an opportunity to put an end to this national crisis that hits home for all of us. In 2003, the President's New Freedom Commission on Mental Health recommended the development and implementation of a comprehensive plan designed to create 150,000 units of permanent supportive housing for consumers and families who are chronically homeless. Affordable housing alone can't meet the needs for many people with severe mental illness. This bill will establish funding for supportive housing, affordable housing linked to accessible mental health, substance addiction, unemployment, and other support services as necessary. Permanent supportive housing is cost-effective, and is the soundest available investment of public and private resources to end long-term homelessness. Current programs for funding services in permanent supportive housing, other than those administered by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, were not designed to be closely coordinated with housing resources, nor were they designed to meet the multiple needs of people who are chronically homeless. This bill will establish a comprehensive grant program to provide supportive housing for chronically homeless individuals and families that they so badly need. Support services will include mental health services, substance use disorder treatment, referrals for medical and dental care, health education, and services designed to help individuals make progress toward self-sufficiency and recovery. Permanent supportive housing can help the chronically homeless stay off the streets, out of hospitals and jails, and ultimately help them achieve the stability they need to lead healthy lives as productive members of their communities. Madam Speaker, it is time we take a stand to put an end to long-term homelessness in America. I urge my colleagues to support this bill and to support a proven and cost-effective solution to ending chronic homelessness.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise to introduce a resolution expressing appreciation to the nation of Bermuda for accepting four detainees from Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. These four men-- Chinese Uighurs--had been cleared by the federal government for release but were unable to be sent to their home country of China, for fear for their safety and in compliance with international human rights law. The United States has been working with other countries to effect a safe and efficient process for resettling detainees cleared of wrongdoing and scheduled for release. This is a complicated and difficult process but has resulted in approximately 15 resettled detainees since President Obama took office. Four of those went to Bermuda. Dozens more have been cleared for release but have not yet been transferred to a third-party nation. In a May 2009, visit to the White House, Premier Ewart Brown of Bermuda generously offered to assist the United States in relocating released detainees from the detention facility at Guantanamo. One month later the four Uighurs were transported to Bermuda, where they currently receive government assistance to integrate into the surrounding community, including work at a local golf course. Madam Speaker, I appreciate Bermuda--our friend and ally--assisting us in the effort to resolve the complex problem of resettling detainees cleared for release. The fact of the matter is that the Bush administration's reckless approach to establishing an extrajudicial system at Guantanamo has left us grappling with how to humanely and effectively resettle detainees who pose no threat to our national security. To that end we owe the people of Bermuda sincere thanks for taking on the responsibility of ensuring the rights and well-being of these four released detainees, who have been cleared of any wrongdoing. Bermuda and the United States have set a positive example for the safe, efficient, and humane process of releasing former detainees.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise to introduce a resolution expressing appreciation to the nation of Portugal for accepting two detainees from Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. These two Syrian men had been cleared by the federal government for release but were unable to be sent to their home country, in compliance with international human rights law. The United States has been working with other countries to effect a safe and efficient process for resettling detainees cleared of wrongdoing and scheduled for release. This is a complicated and difficult process but has resulted in approximately 15 resettled detainees since President Obama took office. Two of those went to Portugal. Dozens more have been cleared for release but have not yet been transferred to a third-party nation. In December 2008, Portuguese Foreign Minister Luis Amado announced in a public letter to European officials that Portugal was ready to assist the United States in resettling released detainees. In doing so, Portugal became the first nation to publicly state its willingness to take Guantanamo detainees who were not its own nationals. In August 2009, Portugal accepted the two Syrian released detainees and provided homes for them to live freely. Madam Speaker, I appreciate Portugal--our friend and ally--assisting us in the effort to resolve the complex problem of resettling detainees cleared for release. The fact of the matter is that the Bush administration's reckless approach to establishing an extrajudicial system at Guantanamo has left us grappling with how to humanely and effectively resettle detainees who pose no threat to our national security. To that end we owe the people of Portugal sincere thanks for taking on the responsibility of ensuring the rights and well-being of these two resettled detainees, who have been cleared of any wrongdoing. Portugal and the United States have set a positive example for the safe, efficient, and humane process of resettling former detainees.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to introduce the Services for Ending Long-Term Homelessness Act. The sad reality our nation faces is that more than a half million Americans do not have a place to call home each night, and half of them are without shelter. This bill will alleviate the widespread problem of chronic homelessness across the country. According to the Department of Children and Families' most recent report, there are 85,907 persons homeless on any given day. At least 2 million people find themselves homeless at some point each year in our country. There isn't nearly enough shelter for these individuals. In 2007, my home state of Florida alone had 48,000 homeless people, with 14,900 of them families and 7,691 of them chronic cases. Recently, I heard the story of a 25-year-old mother of three young children in my district, who was running out of options-- staying at a hotel in Palm Beach County after fleeing domestic violence in Miami. As she was running out of money, she and her kids--ages 6, 5 and 3--soon would be homeless. But, they were some of the lucky ones. She was referred to The Lord's Place residence for homeless families, where she now lives with her children. As a leader in my district for chronic homelessness solutions, the Lord's Place is a perfect example of the types of establishments that would benefit immensely from this legislation. In her words: ``I am here. I am working. I am breathing. And I am grateful.'' Throughout our country, over 100,000 people have nowhere to call home for years on end and all too often are confronted with mental illness, substance addiction, life-threatening illness or other serious health problems. The good news is: this bill presents us with an opportunity to put an end to this national crisis that hits home for all of us. In 2003, the President's New Freedom Commission on Mental Health recommended the development and implementation of a comprehensive plan designed to create 150,000 units of permanent supportive housing for consumers and families who are chronically homeless. Affordable housing alone can't meet the needs for many people with severe mental illness. This bill will establish funding for supportive housing, affordable housing linked to accessible mental health, substance addiction, unemployment, and other support services as necessary. Permanent supportive housing is cost-effective, and is the soundest available investment of public and private resources to end long-term homelessness. Current programs for funding services in permanent supportive housing, other than those administered by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, were not designed to be closely coordinated with housing resources, nor were they designed to meet the multiple needs of people who are chronically homeless. This bill will establish a comprehensive grant program to provide supportive housing for chronically homeless individuals and families that they so badly need. Support services will include mental health services, substance use disorder treatment, referrals for medical and dental care, health education, and services designed to help individuals make progress toward self-sufficiency and recovery. Permanent supportive housing can help the chronically homeless stay off the streets, out of hospitals and jails, and ultimately help them achieve the stability they need to lead healthy lives as productive members of their communities. Madam Speaker, it is time we take a stand to put an end to long-term homelessness in America. I urge my colleagues to support this bill and to support a proven and cost-effective solution to ending chronic homelessness.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, on August 31, 2009, the Republic of Turkey and the Republic of Armenia announced their intention to normalize relations. The leaders of these two countries, working together with the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, have agreed to begin discussions that will culminate in the signing of two protocols within the next six weeks. The protocols will then be submitted to the respective Parliaments for ratification on each side. These two protocols provide for a framework for the normalization of relations, including the establishment of diplomatic relations and opening of the common border. This development has significant implications not only for Turkey and Armenia, but for the entire Caucasus region, which has had a turbulent and sometimes troubled history. The successful efforts of Turkey and Armenia to open borders, develop trade relations and other economic benefits, and create a long-lasting dialogue will serve to promote peace and stability throughout the region. I believe that we all should welcome this development and strongly support it. Madam Speaker, I applaud the leadership of Turkey and Armenia and encourage these two nations to work diligently in the weeks ahead to create a framework that will advance peaceful and fruitful relations for many years to come.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, it is my privilege to rise before you today in recognition of Helen Snapp and her distinguished service with the U.S. Women's Air Force Service Pilots (WASP) of WWII. In honor of Mrs. Snapp's sacrifice to our nation, this Congress bestows upon her our highest gesture of appreciation, the Congressional Gold Medal. I am especially proud to serve Helen Snapp in Florida's 23rd district. Helen grew up in Washington, D.C., where she quickly realized a passion for flight. Helen is one of the spectators who sat on Pennsylvania Avenue, eagerly anticipating the parade in honor of aviation legend Charles Lindbergh. Like many young women, Helen admired female aviation pioneers, Amelia Earhart and Jacqueline Cochran. Helen would follow in their footsteps and go on to earn her license to fly. Jacqueline Cochran would eventually offer a personal invite for Helen to join the ranks of distinguished women pilots. Helen would go on to join the WASP and honor the inroads her heroines had paved. At the outset of the Second World War, women were perceived as intellectually and physically inferior to their male counterparts. This stigma was well established throughout Air Force culture. Consequently, women were strictly prohibited from flying combat missions. Instead, women were limited to serving in non-combat roles. With this background, WASP was created to allow women to fly as service pilots. Unlike their uniformed sisters, WASP was created as a civilian division. In fact, WASP was the only women's military branch in WWII not to receive congressional approval. Women service pilots were mainly used as auxiliary pilots. By serving in this capacity, the women pilots released qualified men to fly in combat. WASPs were limited to the North American front. Their duties also included ferrying airplanes, towing targets, and training men to be pilots, navigators, gunners and bombardiers. In a two-year period, the women of the Air Force service pilot's organization flew over sixty million miles and delivered 12,652 airplanes domestically. Thirty-eight of these brave women, who received no military benefits, sacrificed their lives serving our country. Helen and the women of WASP defied the accepted belief that females should be relegated to remedial tasks. These civilian soldiers boasted higher admittance standards and a graduation percentage that surpassed their male counterparts. As the war continued, WASP played a pivotal role in our efforts to defeat the axis powers. More importantly, these brave women proved to their skeptics that women were fully capable of operating aircraft during wartime. They matched, if not exceeded, male performance. In his closing address to the last WASP graduating class General Henry ``Hap'' Arnold, a one-time cynic, offered his praise, ``You and nine hundred of your sisters have shown that you can fly wingtip to wingtip with your brothers. If there ever was a doubt in anyone's mind that women can become skillful pilots, the WASP have dispelled that doubt.'' Helen's service facilitated the transition of women into the Air Force and, ultimately, redefined the female role in the military. Her efforts allowed the military to fully appreciate a woman's capability and iron will. Like her champions Earhart and Cochran, Helen refused to allow the perpetuation of female mediocrity. Her service defied expectations and generated opportunities for generations of young women to follow. Her perseverance symbolizes the female spirit and the grit that is embodied in the Congressional Gold Medal. Madam Speaker, Helen Snapp continues her lifetime of exceptional accomplishment. Helen continues to advocate on behalf of local women pilots and possesses a fond admiration for female astronauts. Helen continues to see her old flying companions when she can. It is only fitting that Helen Snapp now share this distinguished honor with the same pioneer that inspired her ambition, Charles Lindbergh.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I demand a recorded vote.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I demand a recorded vote.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, as a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., I rise today to pay homage to my fraternity brothers. On July 17, 2009, I introduced House Resolution 659 along with Representatives John Conyers, Jr., Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., Wm. Lacy Clay, and Bennie G. Thompson congratulating Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. on 98 years of community service. Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. (KAC) is a collegiate Greek-letter fraternity founded on January 5, 1911 by ten distinguished African-American gentlemen on the campus of Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana. The vision of the God-fearing men was to foster leadership through fraternal brotherhood and Christian ideals. Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. has been a significant contributor to our society. Through its Kappa League and National Guide Right programs, Kappa Alpha Psi has provided thousands of at-risk youth in communities throughout the Nation with role models and mentors that encourage them to make positive contributions to, and to take leadership roles in, their communities. Among so many other notable accomplishments from my brotherhood, I am honored to continue serving Kappa Alpha Psi alongside our other brothers in Congress. Each day in Congress, we strive to ensure that our brotherhood continues to exemplify achievement in every field of human endeavor. Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. is celebrating its 79th Grand Chapter Meeting in Washington, DC from August 4 to 9, 2009. With anticipation of the Golden (100th) Anniversary in 2011 at Indiana University, the Washington, DC Conclave of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity is projected to be one of the largest and most celebrated ``homecomings'' within the Kappa's conclave history. Madame Speaker, I ask that you join me in welcoming the brothers of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and, their families to our Nation's ``Kapitol'' for this significant occasion of unity and achievement. I urge my colleagues to join me in support of this important resolution honoring my great fraternity Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I demand a recorded vote.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I demand a recorded vote.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. I believe you understand that it was not made in order under the rule, and toward that end, I think that's your answer. One of the things I keep hearing--

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Mr. Speaker, my good friend for whom I have great affection began his remarks by saying he's baffled. Well, I'm baffled and befuddled by the many actions that my good friend from Arizona persists in bringing to the floor of the House of Representatives. Start with the fact--and the distinguished chair of the Appropriations Committee will outline the particulars of the bill--but start with the fact that there are no unfunded mandates in this particular provision. So, once again, this point of order is not about unfunded mandates. It's about trying to block this bill without any opportunity for debate and without any opportunity for an up-or-down vote on the legislation itself. I think that's wrong, and I hope my colleagues will vote ``yes'' so we can consider this important legislation on its merits and not stop it, as my friend would try to do, on a procedural motion. Those who oppose the bill can vote against it on final passage. We must consider this rule, and we must pass this legislation today. Now I have the right to close, but in the end I'm going to urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' to consider the rule, and take one final moment to ask my friend to consider what he does when he persists, as is his right as a Member of this body, in coming here repeatedly after every measure that he wishes to put forward. What does he think he is doing to the legislative council of this office? There are 441 Members that ought to be able to access that body, and many of us find our legislation at the back of the track for the reason that we are coming here with what amounts to nothing but process motions that everybody has heard. We have an expression here--and children use it frequently--``I got the memo.'' Or, ``I got it.'' We hear him on this particular subject. He can vote on it at any such time, but it is the Rules Committee that makes the determination as to what rules are going to be on the floor of the House of Representatives. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.