Brian Higgins

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Chairman, at the outset, I would like to thank the chairman and the ranking member for their work on this appropriations bill. While not perfect, the bill funds the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative at $300 million so that critically important work to clean up the Great Lakes can continue. My amendment would prohibit funds in this act from being used by States in violation of the Great Lakes Compact, an agreement among the eight Great Lakes States outlining how this precious and nonrenewable resource is to be managed. The compact prohibits water from being pumped to areas beyond the drainage basin, and sets strict criteria for any diversion request. To that end, a municipal government outside the basin recently had its application approved to divert up to 8.2 million gallons per day from Lake Michigan, most of which will be returned after being treated. This diversion request was only approved after conditions were met lowering the volume of water to be withdrawn as well as reducing the service territory it would be provided to. Going forward, it will be important to ensure that the approval of this request does not set a precedent that will threaten to deplete this resource by encouraging further diversion requests that do not uphold the strict water management standards outlined in the compact. As freshwater supplies in other parts of the country and the world dwindle, the desire to divert water by tanker or the construction of pipelines could become a greater threat to the Great Lakes. The Great Lakes are a nonrenewable source. Less than 1 percent of the water is renewed annually through rainfall and snow melt. The onslaught of climate change will likely cause water levels to decline in the future. Irresponsibly diverting water from the basin could threaten the fragile ecosystem, putting fish and wildlife at risk by degrading water quality and damaging habitats. This amendment is supported by the Alliance for the Great Lakes, the National Wildlife Foundation, and Citizens Campaign for the Environment. [From Citizens Campaign for the Environment] Memorandum of Support: Compliance With the Great Lakes Compact Amendment to H.R. 5538--Higgins Background While seemingly inexhaustible, the Great Lakes are truly a gift of the glaciers, as rainfall and snowmelt only naturally replenish about one percent of the water annually. Once water removal from the Great Lakes for any reason extends beyond one percent annually, lake levels will decrease. The existing strains on this fragile ecosystem, such as pollution, invasive species, and climate change, will only be exacerbated if the sheer quantity of water is jeopardized by Great Lakes water export. The Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact has been law in New York and the United States since 2008. The Compact is a valuable interstate agreement that builds on century-old interstate and international protections for the Great Lakes. The Compact specifies how each Great Lakes state will act to protect Great Lakes water quantity. The Compact prohibits water diversions out of the basin, with limited exceptions. Justification A municipal government that is considered a community in a straddling county of the Great Lakes Basin recently had its diversion application approved after strict conditions regarding the volume of water and service territory were met, among others. Going forward, it will be important to ensure that the approval of this request does not set a precedent that will threaten to deplete this resource by encouraging further diversion requests that do not uphold the strict water management standards outlined in the Compact. Congress can help ensure compliance with the Great Lakes Compact by prohibiting federal funds from being used by states to break the strict guidelines laid out in the Compact. Predicted to be more valuable than oil, our abundant fresh water resources are the envy of many who suffer from already strained, polluted, or disappearing water resources. Congress must protect the integrity of the Compact if we are to protect Great Lakes water quantity for future generations.

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time. The Acting Chair. The question is on the amendment offered by the gentleman from New York (Mr. Higgins).

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

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I recognize Major Brenton Weece of the United States Army for his extraordinary dedication to duty and service to our Nation. Major Weece will soon transition from his current assignment as an Army Congressional Liaison in the House of Representatives to serve as an officer in the Oklahoma National Guard. A native of Miami, Oklahoma, Brent was commissioned through the Oklahoma State University Army ROTC Program in 2005 and subsequently assigned to the Oklahoma National Guard. Since then, Brent has served in multiple staff and leadership positions in the Oklahoma National Guard, including two deployments with Oklahoma's 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team. In 2008, he deployed to Iraq as the aide-de-camp to the commander of the Joint Area Support Group--Central in Baghdad and in 2011 and 2012, he commanded an infantry company in eastern Afghanistan. During the course of Major Weece's service to this Nation, he has earned awards and decorations including: the Bronze Star Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Air Assault Badge, Pathfinder Badge, Combat Action Badge, and Combat Infantryman Badge. In 2015, Brent was selected to serve as a Congressional Liaison in the US Army House Liaison Division. Army Congressional Liaison Officers provide Members and staff insight and understanding of Army policies, actions, operations, and requirements. Their first-hand knowledge of military needs, culture, and tradition is a tremendous benefit to Congressional offices. His service in the House of Representatives has proven invaluable to both the Department of Defense and Congress. Brent was especially effective in his service to Members and staff as he escorted them on fact-finding missions to multiple countries in Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Mr. Speaker, it has been a pleasure to work with Major Weece during his time as an Army Congressional Liaison Officer in the House of Representatives. On behalf of a grateful Nation, it is my honor to recognize the selfless service and sacrifice of Major Brenton Weece, his wife, Emily, and their children Lily and Graham. I wish them the very best as they continue to dedicate their lives to the service of our Nation.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, the poor condition of America's infrastructure costs our economy hundreds of billions of dollars each year. Freight bottlenecks, aviation congestion, inadequate ports, and deteriorating roads will cost 2.5 million American jobs over the next 10 years unless we address it. Meanwhile, interest rates are at a historic low. The yield on a 10- year Treasury bond is 1.4 percent. Indexed for inflation, the interest rate is negative. Observing this, Nobel Prize economist Paul Krugman wrote: ``They say that money talks; well, cheap money is speaking very clearly right now, and it's telling us to invest in our future,'' to nation-build in America. Increasing spending by $250 billion a year, the amount needed to bring our infrastructure to a state of good repair, would create 3 million jobs and would improve America's competitiveness in the long term. We should use today's record low rates to finance this inevitable spending. Refusing to do so makes no economic sense. I encourage this Congress to reconsider before this opportunity is lost.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, every day, 170 felons, 50 domestic abusers, and 20 fugitives are prevented from buying a gun after a background check raised a red flag. Unfortunately, loopholes allow buyers to circumvent background checks at gun shows and over the Internet, which represents 40 percent of all gun purchases. This practice is neither safe nor smart. It is not fair to responsible gun buyers or sellers. Closing these loopholes has broad bipartisan support. In fact, 90 percent of Americans--and 81 percent of Republicans--support background checks for all gun purchases. Congress can and should do more to prevent gun violence. Background checks can keep guns out of the hands of violent criminals, fugitives, and people under investigation for terror activity. It is time for a vote on this commonsense and bipartisan measure. Let's close these loopholes and keep guns out of the hands of terrorists and criminals.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the life of Joseph E. Ryan, a man who served his country, city and community in times of need. A leader on the field of battle so many times and in so many ways, Joe Ryan lived a life full of triumph and tragedy that is testament to his indomitable spirit and determination to make a difference in this world. The first born in a family of ten, Joe Ryan graduated from St. Joseph's Collegiate Institute in 1961, where he was class president and an all-Catholic and all-Western New York football player. He went on to earn his degree in industrial and labor relations from Cornell University, while also capturing all-Ivy League honors as a center and linebacker on the football team. Mr. Ryan served in the Navy from 1965 to 1969, in which he spent 17 months in Vietnam as a diving team commander. He earned the Bronze Star for his actions and rose to the rank of lieutenant before returning home from service. Upon his return, Mr. Ryan's involvement and influence in the community began and grew for more than forty years. An engineering consultant in 1971, the late Mayor Frank Sedita tapped this rebel with a cause to serve as the executive director of the Citizens Advisory Committee, where he energetically directed the Community Development Block Grant program and fostered the growth of local nonprofit neighborhood groups. In 1982, he helped found the local Vietnam Veterans Leadership Program and served as its first president. A horrific bicycle accident in 1985 would leave Mr. Ryan paralyzed but his efforts to assist others in need could never be contained as even from his hospital bed he finalized arrangements for his self-created Best of the Turtles race to raise scholarship money for the children of local Vietnam veterans. In 1998, City of Buffalo Mayor Anthony Masiello appointed him as Community Development Commissioner. Mr. Ryan remained in that position for more than four years leading the creation of the Department of Strategic Planning and a focused effort to engage residents in planning initiatives to revitalize neighborhoods. With staunch determination to be an advocate for others, Joe Ryan volunteered countless hours to the community and those in need. He served on the national board of directors of the Eastern Paralyzed Veterans, which advocated for veterans on health care issues. He took part in the Paralyzed Veterans America Wheelchair Games in 1987, helping raise money for the Erie County Medical Center spinal cord injury unit. He served as a chairman of the Board of Managers for Erie County Medical Center in the 1990's and was President of the Friends of the Night People. Mr. Ryan had also been on the board of directors of St. Joseph's Collegiate Institute, and a board member of the National Spinal Cord Injury Association, the Buffalo Area Council of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse, the United Cerebral Palsy Foundation, and the Cornell University Presidential Council. Mr. Ryan was justifiably recognized many times for his life's work in public service. He received the D'Youville College Community Service Award, and was named Buffalo News Citizen of the Year in 1986. He was given the Clarkson Center's Courage to Come Back Award for devoting his talents to providing customized housing that allow people with disabilities to live independently. And while he lived an independent and purposeful life, little would have been possible without the unconditional, unyielding love and loyalty of his devoted wife of 44 years, Eileen and their greatest shared accomplishment, son Sean, a former NFL player. Mr. Speaker, I honor the life of Mr. Joseph E. Ryan. I ask that my colleagues join me in expressing our deepest condolences to all of the Ryan family, including his daughter-in-law, Mary Elizabeth, his grandchildren, Emmie, Sienna and Colin, his brothers, sisters and many friends and colleagues as they join together at a celebration of his life on Saturday, June 25 at St. Joseph's University Church. The extraordinary story of his life will continue to be told by all those who will always remember: here was a man who could not stand himself, yet made it his life's work to always stand up for others.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the remarkable Joan M. Flanagan on the occasion of her retirement after more than thirty years of accomplished and distinguished service with what was the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) and is now United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. Ms. Flanagan entered on duty on November 24, 1985 as a Mail and File Clerk in the Records unit at the INS Office then located at the Buffalo Federal Court House on Court Street. In June of 1987, she joined the Investigations Unit of INS as the Anti-Smuggling/Vehicle Seizure clerk where she participated in a pilot program to track data pertaining to vehicle seizures into the automated seizure/forfeiture system. That system was expanded when the data was entered into the Operation Activities Special Information System (OASIS) and rolled out to all Ports of Entry proving to be a very useful tool for the inspection program. In January of 1990, Joan Flanagan joined the Information/FOIA-PA Unit (Freedom of Information Act/Privacy Act), as an Information Officer for Buffalo. At that time, the Buffalo Information Officers also staffed INS Information offices in Rochester and Syracuse several days a week. In October 2002, Ms. Flanagan was promoted to Supervisory Information Officer. She was the leader of the Information employees of INS who answered sometimes extremely complicated questions from the public who appeared at the office in person. The Information Officers also answered phone inquiries, and reviewed and responded to those who had written letters to INS. In 2004 she served as a core member and subject matter expert in the area of Immigration Information on the Government's Team known as the ``Most Efficient Organization Team'' during a Competitive Sourcing competition relating to all IIOs positions nationwide. At that time, the IIO positions nationwide were deemed commercial in the ``Fair Inventory'' and were placed in A-76 competition to allow private companies to compete for these positions. The Team goal was to prepare the most cost effective proposal that would allow the IIOs to remain as federal employees. As the subject matter expert, Ms. Flanagan conducted site visits to various offices to research and gather data to aid in the progress of new concepts. She helped streamline workloads and identify and implement the most cost effective measures during the development of the Government's competitive bid for the 1,300 IIO positions. This competition was cancelled in October 2004 prior to submission of final proposals after it was likely learned the work being done by the Information Officers was done as well as possible in terms of cost efficiency, accuracy and service to the public. In September 2007 Joan Flanagan was promoted to District Adjudications Officer, now called Immigration Service Officer II. In this position, now as part of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service in the Department of Homeland Security, she interviewed applicants who had applied to become permanent residents of the United States and/or those who applied to become citizens of the United States through Naturalization. In January 2011 she was promoted to Supervisory Immigration Services Officer. In June of 2013 Joan Flanagan was promoted to Chief of Staff of District 2, the Buffalo District, in USCIS which oversees USCIS field offices in Albany, New York, Hartford Connecticut and St Albans, Vermont and a sub office in Syracuse, New York. While her dedication to country is well documented and her stellar reputation is well deserved, it is her love and loyalty to family and community that is also deserving of our deepest respect and recognition. The wife of William ``Bill'' Flanagan for 26 years, Joni is the very proud mother of the late Jeffrey Fuqua, Kristie (Daron) Moore, Karyn (Duane) Smith and Erin (Kyle) Kiminski. As a completely devoted grandmother to Marissa Stack, Nicholas Moore, Carolyn and Kameron Kiminski, Kaylee Reid and Madison Fuqua, there is no stopping her and Bill from cheering them all on at school programs and sporting events. The tragic loss of her beloved son, Technical Sergeant Jeffrey Fuqua, to PTSD following more than eleven years of active service in the US Air Force, including tours of Iraq and Afghanistan, compelled her and her daughters to action. This fierce trio of warriors moved with a sense of urgency to help other veterans and their families struggling with PTSD as they brought the community together to raise awareness and funds for WNY Heroes and Horizon Health Services-Freedom Village. She recently joined with her family in unveiling a bench in memory of her son at her grandchildren's school, Notre Dame Academy in South Buffalo. In sharing great joy as well, it is expected that Joni and Bill, a veteran and a retiree from federal service, will use this time to be together with family and visit the Magic Kingdom even more often. From an entry level position as a GS-3 clerk, Chief of Staff Joan Flanagan rose through the ranks holding three supervisory positions. Her influence is found in significant policies and programs for USINS and USCIS, she has advised and mentored scores of other employees, and became one of the key players in the Buffalo District, a district known for many years to demonstrate the absolute highest standards of accomplishment, dedication, and service in the federal government to the people of the United States. Throughout three decades of service, Joan became a reliable resource for information due to her expertise in a myriad of subjects. Joan's intelligence and compassionate personality have made her a truly valued individual and admired friend inside and outside of the office. Joan's dedication to her many positions throughout her career and incredible work ethic will leave her dearly missed. Mr. Speaker, I recognize and congratulate Joan M. Flanagan on her extensive service and remarkable achievements in both the Immigration & Naturalization Service and the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services. We join with her colleagues and many friends in wishing Joan, her husband and family good health and happiness as she brings her extraordinary career to a close and begins a new chapter in her life.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I stand before you today to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of VOICE-Buffalo, a faith-based community of urban and suburban congregations throughout the County of Erie that has more than exceeded its mission to be the ``Voice of the Voiceless.'' In 1996 VOICE-Buffalo Clergy identified congregation-based organization as the strategy for breaking down the barriers that divide neighborhoods, our city and region. Tirelessly dedicated to creating a culture of responsibility and accountability for what happens in our community, VOICE-Buffalo continues to build the capacity of people to act on their concerns and to strengthen and connect institutions to individuals. Today, 55 interfaith and diverse congregations, unions and other community organizations that share common values, focus on bringing local issues that profoundly impact the lives of residents to the forefront. VOICE-Buffalo members believe in the positive progress that can be achieved through rallying local leaders, congregations and the private sector together to hold those in power accountable for making decisions that are in the best interest of the community. For two decades, VOICE's mission has taken root in those committed to the cause of social and economic justice and whose training enhances engagement in the public life of their congregations and communities. This committed membership acts locally to connect people, build public relationships, address issues in their church neighborhoods and has built a regional organization with the capacity to address policies that impact individuals, families and communities. Committed to long term systemic change, VOICE-Buffalo has achieved tangible and transformative success with its push to increase health and public safety with the development of a city-wide uniform garbage tote system, the implementation of Project Holy Ground to strengthen congregations, engage and connect people to the community and bring stability to neighborhoods. In 2004, VOICE-Buffalo called for targeted demolition of unsafe properties that led to collaboration with the city of Buffalo to develop a user friendly manual on housing inspections and procedures. Recent successes have been made in public transportation and in bringing methods of Restorative Justice to Erie County. Voice sponsorship has boosted training for more than 50 ``peace circle keepers'' and the establishment of faith-based peace center ``hubs.'' In March of this year, I had the privilege of working with VOICE- Buffalo, NOAH (Niagara Organizing Alliance for Hope) and its joint federation, Gamaliel WNY (Western New York) in welcoming U.S. Labor Secretary Thomas Perez back to his hometown of Buffalo, New York. Secretary Perez accepted the invitation extended by VOICE-Buffalo President Pastor James Giles, NOAH President Rev. JoAnne Scott and Paul Vukelic, CEO of Try-It Distributing, for a public dialogue on workforce diversity and training strategies. Secretary Perez addressed a packed auditorium at Bennett High School outlining the Federal Government's plan to provide resources to fill the existing gaps by connecting people in need to the pipeline of opportunity and employment. The challenge to develop innovative approaches has been embraced by VOICE-Buffalo and its community partners who continue to use their expertise to identify the underlying issues that prevent hiring and advocate for sustainability measures. There is well-deserved national acclaim for Buffalo's renaissance but the true measure of success will be when all residents are able to participate in the rebuilding of Western New York. VOICE-Buffalo has accepted that challenge and is leading the way to ensure that a pathway to participation is in place and that it is sustainable. The process of creating positive social change is never easy; it takes courage, faith, patience and vision. And that is why I rise today in the House of Representatives to acknowledge with admiration and appreciation the courage, faith, patience and vision of VOICE-Buffalo. More than 400 others joined together in the Golden Ballroom of Statler City to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of VOICE-Buffalo on June 2, 2016 and to give thanks for the contributions of Father Harry Grace, Rev. Will Brown (posthumously), Marianne Rathman, Murray Holman, Robert Spicer and Amy Vossen Vukelic. Thank you for this opportunity to congratulate VOICE-Buffalo for its accomplishments. I would like to extend my best wishes for continued success. By standing together, we can ``be the people we've been waiting for'' that make a difference in our community and set ``Our Path to Power.''

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the career and legacy of service of Mr. Roger E. Miller, who is celebrating his retirement from the post as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Healthcare Programs. After 26 years of tirelessly serving the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, he leaves a legacy of incomparable dedication to communities across the country. Roger Miller began his career as HUD's first staff member with a background in healthcare, holding a Master of Hospital Administration degree from the University of Minnesota. Prior to his role at HUD, Miller was Senior Vice President of York Hospital, a large teaching hospital where patient care costs were among the lowest in the nation. Throughout his career, Roger E. Miller has maintained his devotion to healthcare through assisting in the expansion of Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital, and the construction of multiple healthcare facilities around Western New York, such as the Gates Vascular Institute, HighPointe on Michigan and the new Oishei Children's Hospital. Roger Miller has been an integral part of the HUD Office of Healthcare Programs which administers the Section 232 Residential Care Facilities Program and the Section 242 Hospitals Program, together comprising a $31 billion FHA portfolio of insured mortgages. Miller has led the OHP to improve its abilities to serve more communities across the nation while maintaining very low claim rates in both programs. In recent years, he has spearheaded a vigorous effort to implement Office- wide Lean Processing quality improvements and process reengineering, enabling OHP to better respond to emergent industry needs. Other notable career and personal achievements by Roger Miller include the launch of a large assisted living facility, a system of community health centers, a preferred provider health insurance company, and becoming a Fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives. Additionally, Roger has chaired state hospital association committees and served as an adjunct faculty member at York College. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me a few moments to honor the career of Roger E. Miller. I ask that my colleagues join me in expressing our congratulations on an accomplished career and to commend his dedication to his profession and improving the health of our communities.

Mr. HIGGINS

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

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Chairman, I want to thank Chairman Simpson and Ranking Member Kaptur for their work on this bill. Mr. Chairman, my amendment would prohibit the shipment of dangerous, highly radioactive liquid nuclear waste, which the Department of Energy plans to begin shipping by truck later this year in a series of over 100 shipments from Ontario, Canada, to South Carolina. The department wants to transport this liquid waste, which is far more radioactive than spent nuclear fuel, across the northern border at the Peace Bridge and through downtown Buffalo. In contrast to spent nuclear fuel in solid form, which has a history of being shipped by land, this would constitute the first ever shipment of liquid nuclear waste by truck in a transportation cask that was never certified for this purpose. Its liquid form, if spilled, could make containment nearly impossible. The route crosses the Great Lakes, across the busiest passenger crossing at the northern border, and through a high-density metropolitan area. In the event of an attack or an accident, the consequences could be devastating. In spite of these concerns, the Department of Energy failed to comply with the National Environmental Policy Act by not commencing with a new Environmental Impact Statement, instead, relying on old, outdated information. The evolving threat picture since 9/11 requires that the Department of Energy reassess the manner in which it ships such dangerous materials. Proceeding with the shipments would also ignore the will of the House, which unanimously passed legislation requiring the Department of Homeland Security perform a terrorism threat assessment regarding the transportation of chemical, biological, nuclear and radiological materials through the United States. To reiterate, my bill would only impact one type of nuclear waste shipment, and other shipments of spent nuclear fuel would not be affected. I urge support for my amendment, which would prohibit these shipments until the Department of Energy performs a full and thorough review process. Proceeding without doing so would seriously compromise public safety. Mr. Chairman, I urge support of my amendment. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today Buffalo's Roswell Park Cancer Institute was awarded $33 million in new research grants from the National Institutes of Health. This funding will support research to develop new therapies for prostate cancer, for head and neck cancer, and to advance the great promise of immunotherapy, which is research to unleash the cancer- killing potential from the body's own immune system. Under the leadership of Dr. Candace Johnson, Roswell Park scientists are providing hope and the potential for healing to millions here and throughout the world. In Buffalo, the Roswell Park Cancer Institute is helping to fuel an economic renaissance that has captured the attention of the Nation. Nationally, the National Institutes of Health's funding supports over 400,000 good-paying American jobs. Congress needs to fully fund cancer research for the National Institutes of Health because, on this issue, if American leadership is not there, there is no leadership.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the career and legacy of service of the Honorable John T. Curtin who is celebrating his retirement from the post as a United States District Judge for the Western District of New York. After 48 years on the bench, no other local judge has served longer or, many would argue, with greater distinction than Judge Curtin. Nominated by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1967 at the urging of Sen. Robert F. Kennedy, Curtin was a U.S. District Attorney with a reputation for organized crime investigations. As a federal judge, it was the 1972 Buffalo Public Schools desegregation suit that made Curtin a household name. His ruling led to a plan that included the forced busing of black and white students and the creation of specialized magnet schools designed to encourage the voluntary transfer of children. The order he signed would be hailed as a national model for how to integrate a diverse school district. Curtin also issued orders to desegregate Buffalo's police and fire departments, a move that ushered in a new generation of women and minority officers and firefighters which remains in effect to this day. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Curtin oversaw a huge lawsuit about toxic waste dumped in the Love Canal neighborhood of Niagara Falls. The case led to the relocation of hundreds of residents and became a national rallying cry for environmentalists. He would then later oversee the L.A. Boys gang case, in which he gave two of the longest prison terms in local history. Also, before most other Americans, he recognized the futility of the war on drugs and the damage it caused, when he stopped hearing drug cases more than 20 years ago. Inside and outside the courtroom, Curtin was known for his soft- spoken demeanor and even-handed temperament. Curtin was well known for his courage and independence and his retirement marks the end of an era in Buffalo federal court, an era marked by landmark rulings and historic court cases. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me a few moments to honor the career of the Honorable John T. Curtin. I ask that my colleagues join me in expressing our congratulations on an accomplished career and to commend his dedication to his profession and the Western New York community.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of infrastructure week, which is a joint effort by business and labor to highlight the dangerous conditions of America's roads and bridges. There are currently 69,000 structurally deficient bridges in America. Every second of every day, seven cars drive on a bridge that is structurally deficient. Congress said that we couldn't afford to rebuild the roads and bridges of America, so we only spent $50 billion a year in the last decade to rebuild America's roads and bridges--pathetically weak. We were told we couldn't afford it. But American taxpayers spent $87 billion rebuilding the roads and bridges of Afghanistan. We spent $73 billion rebuilding the roads and bridges of Iraq--off budget and unpaid for. Congress needs to get its priorities straight. We need to put American workers back to work and invest in our infrastructure to unleash the great potential of American businesses to grow the American economy.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Madam Speaker, on April 15, the Department of Transportation tentatively approved the Norwegian Air International's request for a foreign air carrier permit, which would enable it to operate flights in the United States. This decision is inconsistent with the intent of the United States- European Union Air Transport Agreement and threatens thousands of U.S. jobs by undercutting American wages and working conditions. While Norwegian Air International is owned by a Norwegian company, it operates under a flag of convenience, which allows it to dodge Norway's collective bargaining laws, tax regime, and regulatory climate. The application should be denied. I have cosponsored legislation to permit the issuance of this permit and will continue to work with my colleagues in a bipartisan fashion to ensure a level playing field for U.S. businesses and American workers.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 4981, the Opioid Use Disorder Treatment Expansion and Modernization Act. Like the TREAT Act, which I introduced, this bill would allow qualified physician assistants and nurse practitioners to prescribe the medical treatment patients need to break their addiction to opioids. Utilizing these healthcare professionals is crucial to combat this epidemic, especially in medically underserved areas. The bill would also increase the number of patients that physicians can prescribe Suboxone to from 100 to 250 per year. This is a step in the right direction. But there is no cap on the prescription of opioids, and it is counterproductive to cap treatment for opioid addiction. The TREAT Act would eliminate this cap. The Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor & Pensions has reported out a version with an annual cap of 500 patients. I urge my colleagues to support the Senate position so that more Americans can access this lifesaving treatment. I thank the sponsors of this bill, Mr. Bucshon and Mr. Tonko, and the Senate sponsor of the TREAT Act, Ed Markey, for their work on this important initiative.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. Deborah Habes for her honorable service and dedication to our community on the occasion of the Kentucky Derby Luncheon at the Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village, hosted by the Amherst Women's Interclub Council. A resident of the Village of Williamsville since 1977, Ms. Habes has been the cornerstone to her community for several years. She has been the Village of Williamsville Deputy Clerk since 2001, and previously occupied the role of Village Building Department Clerk from 1991 to 2001. In addition to her official duties, Ms. Habes volunteers extensively. She is a member of the Williamsville Business Association (WBA) on the Board of Directors. Currently she is Chair of the WBA Community Enhancement Committee, Chair of the `Love Your Village, Love Your Library Mad Hatter Returns!' Fundraiser Gala since 2012, volunteer member of the Village Beautification Committee since 1990, and Volunteer Chair of the Village of Williamsville Garden Walk since 2010, and Volunteer Chair of the annual Village/WBA Main Street in Bloom Project. As a village resident, village volunteer and a village employee, she aids in this committee's mission to bring together Village residents, businesses and the Village government as a unified community force. In 2005, drastic budget cuts eliminated the branch from county funding. After the great, and much appreciated efforts of other dedicated community members enough funds were raised to allow the library to remain open, but with very limited hours. Under Ms. Habes' leadership the committee picked up the reins, and continued to support this library by starting the `Love Your Village; Love Your Library' movement and presented the inaugural Gala Fundraiser inside the Williamsville Library in February 2012. They have now celebrated 5 years of increasing success for this now signature Village-centric event, and the Committee is happy to report that through a combined effort, thousands of dollars have been raised in the last 5 years solely for the support of the Williamsville Branch. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me a few moments to honor the work of Mrs. Deborah Habes. I ask that my colleagues join me in expressing our thanks for her admirable work to better the Village of Williamsville.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I stand before you today to recognize the contributions of past and current older persons to our country, in particular, those who defended our country. Every President since Kennedy has issued a formal proclamation during or before the month of May, asking the entire nation to pay tribute in some way to older persons in their communities. Older Americans Month is celebrated across the country through ceremonies, events, fairs, and other such activities. Centers such as the Salvation Army Golden Age Center in Buffalo, New York are dedicated to serving those who have given so much. When Older Americans Month was established in 1963, only 17 million living Americans had reached their 65th birthday. About a third of older Americans lived in poverty and there were few programs to meet their needs. Interest in older Americans and their concerns was growing. A meeting in April 1963 between President John F. Kennedy and members of the National Council of Senior Citizens led to designating May as ``Senior Citizens Month,'' the prelude to ``Older Americans Month.'' Older Americans Month includes a community of older Americans who deserve recognition for their contributions to our nation and recognizes that older adults are trailblazers--advocating for themselves, their peers, and their communities--paving the way for future generations. This act is committed to raising awareness about issues facing older Americans and helping all individuals to thrive in communities of their choice for as long as possible. We appreciate the value of inclusion and support in helping older adults successfully contribute to and benefit from their communities. I wholeheartedly believe that our community can provide opportunities to enrich the lives of individuals of all ages by, promoting and engaging in activity, wellness, and social involvement; emphasizing home and community-based services that support independent living and ensuring community members can benefit from the contributions and experience of older adults. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me a few moments to honor and recognize Older Americans Month. I urge every resident to take time this month to acknowledge older adults and the people who serve them as powerful and vital individuals who greatly contribute to our community, such as those at the Salvation Army Golden Age Center.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. Roseanne Butler-Smith for her honorable service and dedication to our communities, especially our libraries, on the occasion of the Kentucky Derby Luncheon at the Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village, hosted by the Amherst Women's Interclub Council. Ms. Butler-Smith earned her B.A. degree in History from Canisius College, as well as a Master's in Library Science and Information from the State University of New York at Buffalo. She is an active member of the community who loves to garden, travel, and even serves as a Boy Scout Leader with Troop 468. She currently serves as the Director of the Amherst Public Libraries, which includes the Williamsville Branch Library. Ms. Butler-Smith is a member of the New York State Library Association, American Library Association and Public Library Association. In 2005, budget cuts eliminated funding for the Williamsville Library, which had been a fixture of the town for over 100 years. Ms. Butler-Smith, along with a few dedicated others, raised funds to enable the library to remain open. Afterward, the Williamsville Business Association's Community Enhancement Committee founded the ``Love Your Village; Love your Library'' movement in support of the Williamsville Library. In 2012, the first annual gala fundraiser for the library was held. In the last five years, the event has grown enormously, and has successfully raised thousands of dollars for the Williamsville branch. As Amherst Library Director, Ms. Butler-Smith manages the use of this funding. Ms. Butler-Smith's leadership has resulted in great accomplishments for the Williamsville library, including the ability for the library to remain open every Saturday throughout the year. Ms. Butler-Smith's dedication to our community is equaled only by her commitment to her family. With her husband of 25 years, Gordie Smith, they have raised three children: Ryan, Conner, and Colleen. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me a few moments to honor the work of Mrs. Roseanne Butler-Smith. I ask that my colleagues join me in expressing thanks for her admirable work for Western New York.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to cosponsor the Families of Flint bill, introduced by Mr. Kildee, who has been working tirelessly to help his community cope with the crisis there. It is our moral obligation to make sure that those families get the help they need. The tragedy in Flint has brought to light the danger of using lead pipes to deliver drinking water, particularly in older cities. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, 10 million American homes and buildings receive drinking water via pipes that contain lead, a known neurotoxin. The time to act is now, but Congress has cut infrastructure funding for this purpose. This year, Congress budgeted just $906 million for the safe drinking water fund. That is a cut of 34 percent compared to 2010, and far below the $334 billion that is needed over the next 20 years. We can do much better. I don't know whether a national lead pipe replacement program would have prevented the crisis in Flint, but I do know that without one, the next tragedy is inevitable.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the career and legacy of service of Sister Denise A. Roche, GNSH, Ph.D. upon the occasion of her retirement as President of D'Youville College. A Buffalo native, Sister Denise is a graduate of Holy Angels Academy and D'Youville College. She went on to earn a master's degree in sociology from Boston University and a doctorate at the University of Massachusetts. Prior to being named President of D'Youville in 1979, she served as an instructor, acting chair, teaching assistant, assistant professor and associate dean at the college. Sister Denise was named 14th President of D'Youville when she was just 36 years old, the youngest person ever to serve in that position. During her remarkable tenure lasting over 36 years, she has overseen 400 full-time employees and managed a $50 million operating budget. Sister Denise led the college to triple its enrollment from 1153 in 1980 to more than 3100 in 2014, created major new academic offerings that attracted a significant number of new students, and achieved fiscal stability. Under her leadership, the college endowment grew from $1.2 million to $34 million. During her presidency $77 million was invested in the campus including a new library, three academic centers, gymnasium, apartment-style residence hall, athletic fields, and property and parking additions. These investments have improved on-campus life and helped stabilize the dynamic and diverse neighborhood in Buffalo's West Side surrounding the college. Her strong belief in helping and encouraging all students has seen a multitude of success stories as former students come back to thank her for her faith in them and motivating them to succeed. She has supported ``City As School,'' an alternative program for non-traditional high school students at D'Youville for more than a decade, resulting in young people reaching higher academic achievements and leading more productive lives. To our community, Sister Denise is much more than president of the college. She is a consummate community leader whose advice and counsel is sought on a wide range of issues affecting the city of Buffalo. Her thoughtful and caring demeanor has endeared her to all whose lives she has touched. Sister Denise has received many awards and accolades for her work at D'Youville and throughout Western New York, including Citizen of the Year by The Buffalo News in 1994, the Chancellor Charles P. Norton Medal from the University at Buffalo, the Lifetime Achievement Award from the WNY Hispanics and Friends Civic Association, and a Special Award presented to her by the National Conference of Christians and Jews. She is a member of the WNY Women's Hall of Fame, and both Canisius College and Niagara University have awarded her honorary degrees. While a very grateful community extends deep appreciation for Sister Denise's extraordinary leadership at D'Youville College, her work is far from over as she was recently nominated by New York Governor Andrew Cuomo to serve as chair of the Niagara Frontier Transit Authority (NFTA). In this role, she will be responsible for the oversight of Erie and Niagara Counties' public transportation system, including the bus and rail systems, the Buffalo-Niagara International Airport and the Niagara Falls International Airport. As Chairwoman, Sister Denise will bring her decades of experience and expertise to the NFTA to continue serving the public. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me a few moments to honor the life and distinguished career of this outstanding educator, leader and devoted Sister of the Grey Nuns, Sister Denise A. Roche. I ask that my colleagues join me in expressing our congratulations on an exemplary career and to commend her for her admirable work to enrich D'Youville College and the Western New York community and wish her all the best in her future endeavors.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, the discovery of major offshore natural gas deposits 90 miles west of Haifa presents Israel with new opportunities--and new threats. Developing this resource will reduce Israel's dependence on fuel imports and improve ties with its neighbors through export agreements. However, the offshore platforms will be an attractive target for Hamas, Hezbollah, and other terrorist organizations. A successful attack could be a humanitarian, economic, and environmental disaster. The United States-Israel Maritime Security Partnership Act would authorize the use of the David's Sling Weapon System to intercept short-range missiles, promote Israel's inclusion in naval exercises, and increase the number of visits by U.S. naval vessels to Israeli ports. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to help our ally protect its coastline and offshore infrastructure from attack by cosponsoring this timely legislation.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, 1 in 68 children are diagnosed with autism, and 3.45 million Americans are living with it. April is National Autism Awareness Month, a time to direct attention to and appreciate the special gifts of these Americans. In Congress, it is a time to redouble our commitment to them by supporting the Autism CARES Act, which authorizes research in early intervention programs; the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, which includes early intervention and education services for people with autism; and the BRAIN Initiative at the National Institutes of Health. In western New York, I have been proud to support $5.7 million in Federal grants for promising work at the Institute for Autism Research at Canisius College. There is a great deal to be done to piece together the mysteries of autism and support the individuals and families living with it every day.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize and honor the 50th anniversary of the Great Lakes Center (GLC). For more than half a century, the Great Lakes Center has worked to improve the quality of the environment by providing the best possible science to decision makers concerned with the health and sustainability of our freshwater resources, with a primary focus on the Great Lakes and their watersheds. The Center was established in 1966 when Howard Sengbush formed the Great Lakes Laboratory. The Great Lakes Center's field station is located on SUNY Buffalo State's waterfront campus along the Black Rock Channel. It is a multidisciplinary research, education, and service institute focused on advancing our knowledge and understanding of the largest body of freshwater on Earth. The Great Lakes Center is the only institution within the SUNY system with a research field station physically situated along the water. The Center maintains a large fleet of research vessels dedicated to specific types of research and educational functions. Over the last eight years under the Direction of Sasha Karatayev, the GLC saw sustained activity and productivity: over 80 research papers published, 240 presentations given at various state, national, and international meetings and 35 funded projects totaling over 14 million dollars. This living laboratory dedicated to the investigation of the ecology of the Great Lakes and its tributaries is staffed by research scientists, educators, technicians and professors with the Biology department. The Center provides opportunities to obtain Masters of Arts and Masters of Science degrees in Great Lakes Ecosystem Science. The Great Lakes ecosystem is complex, dynamic, and fragile. The work conducted at the GLC informs policy makers, educators, community leaders, and environmentalists--and contributes toward effective stewardship and decision-making. As part of the Great Lakes Observing System, the GLC operates the only operating observation buoy in eastern Lake Erie. The GLC continuously works to reverse the damage of decades of abuse neglect of the Great Lakes. The Center continues to explore opportunities to expand its educational programs within the regional community. In February of this year, I was proud to speak on the House Floor during Great Lakes Day to demonstrate the importance of Congress to continue to fund the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI). Since the creation of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative in 2010, nearly $1.6 billion has been invested in projects to clean up the Great Lakes, the world's largest freshwater system. Locally, the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative supports a number of initiatives including the restoration of the Buffalo River. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me this opportunity to once again speak about the Great Lakes with pride in this visionary, vitally important and internationally renowned center whose home base is my alma mater, Buffalo State College as its Gold Anniversary was celebrated on April 15, 2016. Congratulations and deepest appreciation to all those who contributed to the past and present of this Center as the preservation, protection and promotion of the Great Lakes is of immeasurable importance to our future.