Daniel Inouye

Mr. INOUYE

Mr. INOUYE. Mr. President, earlier today Senator McConnell singled out for criticism funding in this bill for upgrades of outdated information technology at the State Department and U.S. Agency for International Development. He said: ``$524 million for a program at the State Department that promises to create 388 jobs . . . that comes to $1.35 million per job.'' He went on to say: ``$100 million for 300 jobs at the U.S. Agency for International Development, $333,333 per job.'' With all due respect to my friend, the minority leader and former chairman of the State and Foreign Operations Subcommittee who was a strong supporter of these programs in the past, that is a simplistic statement which does not tell the whole story. First, it undercounts the number of jobs these funds will generate, as I will explain. And second, it implies that the only value of a stimulus project is the jobs created, as if the resulting product is of no value. If we adopt that standard, I hate to think what the minority leader would say about other Federal projects, whether the cost of building the Washington Monument or a project in his State. Computer systems are inherently not personnel intensive, but they do have a significant impact on the supply chain economy. The State Department's and USAID's estimate of the number of jobs related to information technology upgrades is approximately 688 jobs. I doubt the unemployed citizens of Kentucky, any more than the citizens of Hawaii, would scoff at that number. But this does not take into account the jobs created across the country when a Federal agency has a major investment in computer technology and systems. Much of the hardware would be manufactured by workers here in the U.S. Other components are made overseas and shipped to our ports, like Long Beach, CA. U.S. workers unload the container ships and load the computer parts onto trucks or rail cars. Those trucks or trains travel across the country, and their drivers purchase fuel and food. The components are then unloaded and delivered to their final destination. The 688 jobs cited by the Senate Appropriations Committee were merely those jobs directly identified with installing these computer systems and providing services to these Federal agencies. It does not take into account the impact of manufacturing, purchasing, and transporting new equipment. But this funding will do more than create jobs. The information technology upgrades proposed in this bill would improve the worldwide technology capabilities of two Federal agencies which are out of warranty and not up to current user demands. These technology systems form the core of communications between Washington and posts overseas. Some of these funds would be used to upgrade secure phones as the current secret level phones are no longer supported by the available technology. The Department has identified serious weaknesses in cybersecurity which these funds will address. Recent legislation mandating the Comprehensive National Cybersecurity Initiative requires all Federal agencies to become compliant with new standards to prevent cybercrime. Federal agencies working overseas are particularly vulnerable to attack from foreign agents attempting to hack into the State Department's computer system. Sometimes this is to gain intelligence, but recently entire government computer systems have been taken down by malicious actors. We cannot take this risk, which is why the Congress supported legislation last year to improve cybersecurity measures. Funds in this bill would address that need. Without these funds the State Department would not likely be able to make these critical investments for some years. Funds will also be used to construct a back-up site for the worldwide information technology system, to prevent a single-point failure in communications. This need was identified after the 9/11 attacks by many independent reviews, but there have not been sufficient funds in the budget. This investment would ensure that the State Department's technology system, which supports 265 embassies and consulates in 154 countries, would not shut down if there is a major incident on the east coast of the U.S., like a power failure. No. 1, the bill includes funding for many Federal agencies and departments to upgrade facilities or technology, and the State Department funding is in line with these same types of projects. No. 2, this funding included for the State Department and USAID is for existing construction projects and upgrades that have been under- funded or deferred for years. No. 3, these will support only domestic facilities which will improve the efficiency of the State Department's operations and create jobs in the U.S. No. 4, in several instances, like the diplomatic security training facility and cybersecurity upgrades, the funds will strengthen security for U.S. diplomats posted overseas. No. 5, all of the funds will be spent domestically at facilities in the U.S. The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. Udall of Colorado.) The Senator from Washington is recognized.

Mr. INOUYE. I have no objection.

Mr. INOUYE

Mr. INOUYE. Mr. President, today the Senate will resume consideration of H.R. 1, the Economic Recovery and Reinvestment Act, and Senators will offer and debate amendments to the bill. Rollcall votes are expected to occur this afternoon.

Mr. INOUYE

Mr. INOUYE. I move to lay that motion on the table. The motion to lay on the table was agreed to.

Mr. INOUYE. Mr. President, I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Mr. INOUYE

Mr. INOUYE. I am extremely impressed by the Senator's presentation. I am proud to say that I support the measure. It will provide 655,000 new jobs. As the boys in the back room would say: This is just what the doctor ordered. Congratulations.

Mr. INOUYE. Will the Senator yield?

Mr. INOUYE. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that at 12:20 p.m. today, the Senate proceed to vote in relation to the Murray-Feinstein- Specter and others amendment No. 110 and that time until then be equally divided and controlled in the usual form; that if a budget point of order is raised against the amendment, that a motion to waive the relevant point of order be considered as made; and that no amendments be in order to the amendment prior to a vote in relation thereto.

Mr. INOUYE

Mr. INOUYE. Madam President, as we begin the process of our discussions and debate on legislation to revitalize our Nation's economy, I want to take this opportunity to underscore the points I made on Tuesday of last week as we undertook the markup of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan. As I indicated, it is my belief that we all support the central goals of the legislation, which include the creation of jobs, the rebuilding of America's infrastructure, improving our children's education, moving toward energy independence, improving our health care system, and lessening the burden that this crisis has brought to the most vulnerable among us. As you well know, beginning in 1987, I served for 19 years as the chairman and vice chairman of the Senate's Committee on Indian Affairs--and in that capacity I came to know a group of American citizens who have clearly been the most vulnerable amongst us--the indigenous, native people of the United States--American Indians, Alaska Natives and Native Hawaiians. President Obama projects that in the near term, the nationwide unemployment rate could reach 10 percent. But for many of our Nation's First Americans, an unemployment rate of 10 percent in their communities would signal a giant step forward--given average unemployment rates in Indian country that range from 50 to 90 percent. The infrastructure on many Indian reservations is not only in need of rebuilding--in most parts of Indian country, infrastructure is so sorely lacking or simply nonexistent, that it must be built for the first time. Members of Congress have come to this realization time and again, as we have enacted scores of settlements of Indian land and water claims over the years, and ratified agreements between State and tribal governments--only to find that there is none of the necessary infrastructure that would enable the delivery of water to tribal lands, nor the jobs associated with the establishment of businesses on tribal lands. In Indian country, another goal that this bill seeks to accomplish-- stimulating the private sector through public sector spending--Federal funding has rarely been able to achieve. And that phenomenon is also fundamentally a function of the lack of infrastructure--adequate roads, safe water supplies, access to commercial and transportation corridors, good schools and access to quality health care. These are the critical components if we are ever to successfully encourage private sector investment in Native America through public funding. There are vast natural resources that remain untapped in Indian country--wind energy, hydropower, solar energy, and other sources of clean, renewable energy--undeveloped in large part because of the lack of infrastructure and lack of access to electric transmission lines The same is true for those things most Americans have come to take for granted--basic connections to the outside world, such telephone service, access to the Internet and broadband services, public health and safety broadcast systems. A transition to digital television isn't a challenge to those who have no electricity. Safe and affordable housing, running water, potable water, a source of heat--these aren't givens in Indian country as they are elsewhere in America. So tribal governments have taken matters into their own hands--they have sought to restore their federally recognized status, to reacquire the lands that were lost through the opening of Indian reservations to homesteading and the treaty-making process, and to reconsolidate their traditional tribal land bases, so that in turn, they can develop a geographic base upon which to build and sustain economic growth and the means to effectively serve--through tribal government programs and services--all of those who reside on tribal lands--not just the citizens of their governments. But our Federal bureaucracies--as well intentioned and well meaning as they may have been--have stood in the way of the tribal governments' efforts to achieve this economic growth and development of Native communities and those communities which surround them, and I believe that the scope of this bill must be inclusive enough to embrace initiatives that are designed to remedy not only centuries-old problems but to fulfill the commitments that we have made in a host of land and water claims settlements, in agreements involving State and tribal governments, and most importantly in our treaties with the Indian nations. Accordingly I will look forward to working with my colleagues to assure that this bill does not inadvertently place obstacles in the paths of those who seek to become self-sufficient and self-sustaining-- those who have faithfully served our country and placed themselves in harm's way in the defense of our country in larger proportions than any other group of Americans--this Nation's First Americans, the Native people of the United States of America. Madam President, I want to inform the Senate that neither S. 336 as reported to the Senate nor division A of the Inouye-Baucus substitute amendment to H.R. 1, Senate amendment numbered 98, contains any congressional directed spending items as defined in rule XLIV of the Standing Rules of the Senate. I can also inform the Senate that division B of the amendment, prepared by the Committee on Finance, contains no limited tax benefit, limited tariff benefits, or congressional directed spending items as defined in rule XLIV. Madam President, I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Mr. INOUYE. Mr. President, I rise today in support of H.R. 1, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. This bill will create 4 million American jobs, invest in the future of America by rebuilding our roads, bridges and schools, and will give State and local governments the resources they need to deal with surging demand for social services and falling tax revenues. Further, this measure will provide tax cuts to working families who are struggling every day to cope with this terrible recession. Today, we face the gravest economic crisis that this Nation has seen since the Great Depression. Our fourth quarter gross domestic product shrank by 3.8 percent, the largest drop since 1982. A million jobs have been lost in the past 2 months, and this coming Friday we expect to learn that during the month of January, another 600,000 jobs, at a minimum, have been lost. The American people fully understand the depth and seriousness of our economic problems. U.S. foreclosures increased by more than 81 percent last year, a record, with over 2.3 million foreclosures. Our States are struggling terribly, facing the prospect of cutting off vital services, including schools and police. Forty-four States are facing budget shortfalls totaling $90 billion for fiscal year 2009 and $145 billion for fiscal year 2010. In 2008, U.S. stocks lost roughly $7 trillion in value. In an instant, the life savings of millions of Americans simply disappeared. Our banking system is in grave shape. Last year, 25 banks with $373.6 billion in total assets failed in the U.S. All the while, the critical needs of our Nation are going unmet. The American Society of Civil Engineers--ASCE--estimates that $2.2 trillion is needed over a 5-year period to bring the Nation's infrastructure to an adequate condition. How can we grow our economy and provide opportunities for today's working men and women if the basic physical infrastructure that underlies every job in this country is falling apart? We must invest in our future by making the necessary commitments to ensure that our infrastructure will support our future economic growth. But today, we face a much more immediate crisis. In Saturday's New York Times, economist Allen Sinai stated: My sense is that business is slashing hugely and across the board. Everyone is cutting prices, people, capital spending and all kinds of expenses. It is almost a herd instinct. There is nothing more destructive to economic growth than deflation. It was the defining characteristic of the Great Depression, and it is the single most difficult economic condition to reverse. We cannot allow a deflationary spiral to develop. Only one institution in the United States, the Federal Government, has the capacity to step into the breach and stop the terrible spiral of increased layoffs leading to decreased spending, in turn leading to more layoffs and so on. The Federal Government must take aggressive action. We must use all means at our disposal to address this deepening crisis. Some argue that this is all part of the natural business cycle, that the best course of action is to stand back and let this crisis work itself out. I would remind those who take this position that the Great Depression was also a part of the natural business cycle. President Hoover refused to take aggressive action, and the results speak for themselves. It was not until President Roosevelt took office in 1933 and implemented a series of drastic policy reforms that the economy slowly began to improve, and, almost as important, gave the average American reason to believe that there was a light at the end of the tunnel. We must act boldly, decisively, and with all possible speed, or we will face dire consequences. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is the answer. This legislation will not only create jobs now, but will also begin the process of rebuilding the physical infrastructure of America that is the key to future prosperity. Based on these needs, The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act focuses on the following goals: First, creating or saving at least 4 million jobs; Second, investing in America's future by rebuilding our basic infrastructure. Third, providing for job retraining for those workers who need to learn new skills in order to compete in the global economy today, while at the same time, improving the education of our children and young adults so Americans can remain competitive tomorrow; Fourth, moving toward energy independence and away from burning fossil fuels that leave us dependent on foreign oil; Fifth, improving our healthcare system so all Americans can have access to quality treatment; Sixth, providing tax cuts and other means of assistance to lessen the impact of this crisis on America's working families. To meet these goals the Finance and Appropriations Committees recommend a total of $888 billion in funding, including $365.6 billion in new appropriations. This is a significant amount of money, but an amount that we believe is wholly necessary to confront the challenges facing our Nation. My distinguished colleague from Montana will address the tax and mandatory spending issues that we are recommending and I will address the spending programs that were approved by the Appropriations Committee by a vote of 21 to 9. It would take far too long to describe in detail the hundreds of programs that are included in this bill, but I would like to take a moment to mention some of the more significant investments that we recommend. We will invest in our future by funding projects that will rebuild and improve our physical and cyber infrastructure. These projects, totaling $142 billion, will create jobs in the near-term, and will provide an improved foundation for future growth by fixing our crumbling roads, bridges, and schools, improving our broadband network, and increasing our ability to conserve energy. America's tradition of public education is second-to-none, but it has been sadly underfunded in recent years. We all know that for the United States to compete in the 21st century, Americans must be well-educated and capable of adapting to an ever-changing economic environment. Accordingly, we recommend investing $125 billion in education and training so that the next generation of American workers is ready and able to meet the challenge of global competition. In addition, providing job training to recently laid-off workers in new and expanding fields will help to lower the unemployment rate and will allow today's workers to better compete against foreign competition. In the area of energy, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act provides $49 billion in investments in areas critical to the development of clean, efficient, American energy, including modernizing energy transmission, research and development of renewable energy technologies, and modernizing and upgrading government buildings and vehicles. The current economic crisis has affected all Americans, but none more so than the most vulnerable among us. The $25 billion in spending proposed here will serve to lessen the blow of the current recession, providing immediate relief for children, the poor, and others who may find themselves struggling to put food on the table or a roof over their head. The bill provides $16 billion in investments in areas critical to immediate and long-term healthcare for millions of Americans. Improved information technology, research facilities, and health and wellness programs will all provide a better foundation for providing quality healthcare to consumers. We face a critical period in our Nation's history. The next few years will either see us emerge from this crisis with renewed vigor and with an economy that remains the leading engine of global growth, or we may face years of slow growth and an ongoing struggle just to maintain our current standard of living. Clearly, the goal of this package is to find ways to stimulate the private sector through public sector spending, to jump start the private sector with much needed projects that will create jobs as soon as possible, and that will provide meaningful improvements for our communities. At the same time, we seek to ensure that the funds that are appropriated in this legislation are spent carefully and with unprecedented transparency. We include $110 million in the bill to increase the resources of agency Inspectors General and the Government Accountability Office. In addition, this measure would establish a new oversight board within the executive branch which will be charged with oversight of the funding provided in this bill. Such times as these are only overcome with courageous leadership and a willingness to embrace change, listen to new ideas and take chances. This bill is not perfect. But we must not let our fear of imperfection stop us from taking the bold steps necessary to address this crisis and move America forward. The time for action is now. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 is the right policy at the right time, and I urge each and every Member of this body to join me in support of creating jobs, supporting our State and local governments, and investing in the future of America. I yield the floor.

Mr. INOUYE

Mr. INOUYE. Mr. President, I rise to introduce a bill that will establish the Hawaii Capital National Heritage Area. National Heritage Areas allow residents, government agencies, nonprofit groups and private partners to collaboratively plan and implement programs that recognize and preserve America's defining landscapes. Of the 40 National Heritage Areas established, only a few are west of the Mississippi River. This will be Hawaii's first official Heritage Area. I believe that Hawaii's unique cultural make up coupled with its historical significance will surely attract both residents and visitors to this special place. The proposed area is rich with cultural sites, museums, historic buildings, art galleries, performing arts venues, ethnic markets, and restaurants that will surely provide the average person with an experience of a lifetime. This makes Hawaii Capital Cultural district an ideal candidate for a Heritage Area designation.

Mr. INOUYE

Mr. INOUYE. Mr. President, I rise to introduce a bill that will establish the Hawaii Capital National Heritage Area. National Heritage Areas allow residents, government agencies, nonprofit groups and private partners to collaboratively plan and implement programs that recognize and preserve America's defining landscapes. Of the 40 National Heritage Areas established, only a few are west of the Mississippi River. This will be Hawaii's first official Heritage Area. I believe that Hawaii's unique cultural make up coupled with its historical significance will surely attract both residents and visitors to this special place. The proposed area is rich with cultural sites, museums, historic buildings, art galleries, performing arts venues, ethnic markets, and restaurants that will surely provide the average person with an experience of a lifetime. This makes Hawaii Capital Cultural district an ideal candidate for a Heritage Area designation.

Mr. INOUYE

Mr. INOUYE. I agree with my colleague from Hawaii. Section 214 applies to pregnant women and children who are nonimmigrants lawfully residing in the United States under the terms of the Compacts of Free Association.

Mr. INOUYE

Mr. INOUYE. Mr. President, pursuant to paragraph 2 of rule XXV of the Standing Rules of the Senate, I ask that the rules of the Appropriations Committee for the 111th Congress be printed in the Congressional Record. These rules were adopted by the full committee membership on January 27, 2009.

Mr. INOUYE

Mr. INOUYE. Madam President, S. 22, the Omnibus Public Land Management Act, includes five bills vital for increasing our Nation's understanding of our oceans, Great Lakes, and coastal areas. The ocean bills included in this package are all strong bipartisan pieces of legislation that were favorably reported by the Senate Commerce Committee in the 110th Congress and passed the House of Representatives. The oceans cover two-thirds of our planet, yet we know little about what lies beneath them or how the changing climate is affecting marine resources. Millions of Americans depend directly and indirectly on healthy and bountiful oceans. In 2007, our Nation's coastal economies contributed nearly 50 percent, or $6.7 trillion, to the national gross domestic product. While our Nation relies on our ocean, Great Lakes, and coastal resources, tremendous gaps exist in our knowledge of these ecosystems. The Senate Commerce Committee provisions included in S. 22 will strengthen and improve our marine, coastal, and scientific programs, and will help us make the best possible decisions about how to manage, conserve, and protect these valuable resources. The Ocean Exploration and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, NOAA, Undersea Research Program Act, included in this package, will give us a better understanding of our marine ecosystems and resources. This legislation reflects a long history of bipartisan collaboration in the Senate. It passed the Senate by unanimous consent in the both the 108th and 109th Congresses and was reported favorably in the 110th Congress by the Commerce Committee. The provision establishes an interdisciplinary ocean exploration program to gather observations and data from areas in the ocean we have previously been unable to explore. In addition, this legislation would help strengthen and coordinate NOAA's National Undersea Research Program. The National Undersea Research Program seeks to increase scientific knowledge for the management, use, and preservation of ocean, Great Lakes, and coastal resources through undersea research, exploration, education, and technology development. These essential activities are imperative given that approximately 95 percent of the ocean floor remains unexplored. Ocean exploration and undersea research provides unprecedented opportunities to discover items of natural, cultural, and economic value including new sources of minerals, drugs, habitats, species, artifacts, and shipwrecks. The Ocean and Coastal Mapping Integration Act included in S. 22 would integrate Federal and coastal mapping activities throughout the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone. Approximately 90 percent of our Nation's maritime territory remains unmapped by modern technology. Improved mapping of our Nation's coastal and ocean waters will increase our understanding of the marine environment, thereby increasing the safety of navigation in our maritime domain, supporting national security missions of the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard, and allowing for better management of marine ecosystems and resources. This bill also has a longstanding history of broad bipartisan support in both the Senate and House. The Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation System Act would build on current regional systems to establish a national integrated ocean, Great Lakes, and coastal observing system to collect, compile, and make available data to support marine commerce; weather, climate, and marine forecasting; energy siting and production; navigation; ecosystem-based resource management; and public safety. The legislation passed the Senate by unanimous consent in both the 108th and 109th Congresses. During the 110th Congress, the legislation passed the House and was reported favorably by the Senate Commerce Committee. The Federal Ocean Acidification Research and Monitoring Act in S. 22 mandates that steps be taken to understand and address climate change and its impacts on our oceans, a much needed and important action. Over the past 200 years, human activities have resulted in dramatic increases in greenhouse gases that are altering the Earth's climate. The oceans mitigate the effects of global warming by absorbing approximately half of all this atmospheric carbon dioxide. However, as the oceans absorb more carbon dioxide, their chemistry is changing and the oceans are becoming more acidic. The Federal Ocean Acidification Research and Monitoring Act would establish an interagency committee to develop a strategic research plan on ocean acidification and establish an ocean acidification program within NOAA to conduct research and long-term monitoring on our acidifying oceans and to develop adaptation strategies and techniques for conserving marine ecosystems. This legislation represents a bipartisan effort to promote climate change research and adaptation activities. The bill was reported favorably by the Senate Commerce Committee and passed the House in the 110th Congress. The final oceans bill included in S. 22 is the Coastal and Estuarine Land Conservation Program Act. As the U.S. population grows and more people move to the coasts, our coastal lands and ecosystems are threatened by unsustainable development. This legislation authorizes NOAA to award competitive grants to coastal States, including the Great Lakes, to protect coastal and estuarine areas which have significant conservation, recreation, ecological, historic, or watershed protection value and are threatened by conversion to other uses. As chairman of the Commerce Committee during the 110th Congress, I was pleased to favorably report these important ocean policy bills. Unfortunately, we were unable to pass these bills last Congress. I am glad that the Senate is considering their passage as one of the first major pieces of legislation in the 111th Congress. Our oceans, Great Lakes, and coasts provide many environmental and economic benefits to our Nation, and their conservation must be one of our highest national priorities.

Mr. INOUYE

Mr. INOUYE. Mr. President, I would like to recognize a great American and a dedicated Air Force officer who has diligently served in my office for the past year. Colonel Squellati was born in San Rafael, CA, and entered the Air Force in 1986 after earning her bachelor of science in nursing from New York State University. She earned her master of science in nursing from California State University, Dominguez Hills. Her assignments include commander, 47th Medical Operations Squadron, 47th Medical Group, Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas; commander, 321st Expeditionary Medical Group, Masirah, Oman; commander, 72nd Medical Operations Squadron, 72nd Medical Group, Tinker AFB, Oklahoma; and deputy group commander, 72nd Medical Group, Tinker AFB, Oklahoma. Colonel Squellati served as a principal legislative adviser to myself and the congressional committee staff on health, nursing and defense health. She drafted health related authorization and appropriations language for introduction to the Senate. She collaborated with committee staffers, constituents, and Tri-Service military personnel, attended committee hearings, prepared background information and questions for witnesses, and coordinated the development of Senate bills and amendments through Senate committees and conference committees. In addition, she made recommendations to the Senator on floor proceedings, funding requests, report language, and cosponsorship legislation. Colonel Squellati served with valor and profoundly impacted Federal nursing issues within the 110th Congress. Her performance reflects exceptionally on herself, the Air Force, the Department of Defense, and the United States of America. I extend my deepest appreciation to Colonel Squellati on behalf of a grateful Nation for her year of dedicated service in the 110th Congress.

Mr. INOUYE

Mr. INOUYE. Mr. President, today marks the 50th anniversary of Senator Robert Byrd's service to this most American of institutions: the United States Senate. ``Service to the Senate''--I have chosen these words intentionally, and with care. To serve in this hallowed chamber is to meld service to home and community with service to the Nation as a whole. It is a distinction that we are all privileged to share. But through his five decades in this Chamber, Robert Byrd's service has transcended the ordinary to rise to the absolute allegiance our country has only rarely received over her long history. Senator Byrd was born and raised in humble circumstances. The loss of his mother at the age of 1 left him a virtual orphan, and he grew up in West Virginia's coal country. The Great Depression postponed the young Robert Byrd's education, but it did nothing to hold back his lively and agile mind or his passion to seize on America's promise of equal opportunity. In 1946, he entered West Virginia's House of Delegates, and sought progressively higher offices. Finally, in 1958, he arrived in the Senate and found his ``home.'' It is said that education opens doors, but in Senator Byrd's case, we learn that the doors it opens may not be the ones that we expect. For him, he was already a Member of the House of Representatives when he began work to earn his J.D. Ten years of night school finally earned him the degree as a sitting Senator. So what doors did his studies open? After all, he was already one of the Nation's highest officials. Education, a love of history, the discipline of rigorous study, the independence of thought. If you think about it, these are the very qualities that our American democracy most depends on. And by cultivating them, Senator Byrd grew in his capacity to serve his home, serve his Nation, and to serve the Senate. Mr. Byrd served as the Senate majority leader from 1977 to 1981, and many believe it is in recognition of that time that I continue to call him ``Mr. Leader.'' But I would like to take this opportunity to set the record straight. Mr. Leader. My dear friend. Protocol dictates that anyone who served as majority leader should retain the title for life. Even in the absence of protocol, however, my heart would demand that I rise and salute you as leader of this institution. Congratulations on this milestone, Mr. Leader. We have worked together for many years, and it will be a distinct honor to continue working with you on the Appropriations Committee and in the Senate.

Mr. INOUYE

Mr. INOUYE. Mr. President, today, I am reintroducing legislation to amend Title VII of the Public Health Service Act to establish a psychology post-doctoral program. Psychologists have made a unique contribution in reaching out to the Nation's medically underserved populations. Expertise in behavioral science is useful in addressing grave concerns such as violence, addiction, mental illness, adolescent and child behavioral disorders, and family disruption. Establishment of a psychology post-doctoral program could be an effective way to find solutions to these issues. Similar programs supporting additional, specialized training in traditionally underserved settings have been successful in retaining participants to serve the same populations. For example, mental health professionals who have participated in these specialized federally funded programs have tended not only to meet their repayment obligations, but have continued to work in the public sector or with the underserved. While a doctorate in psychology provides broad-based knowledge and mastery in a wide variety of clinical skills, specialized post-doctoral fellowship programs help to develop particular diagnostic and treatment skills required to respond effectively to underserved populations. For example, what appears to be poor academic motivation in a child recently relocated from Southeast Asia might actually reflect a cultural value of reserve rather than a disinterest in academic learning. Specialized assessment skills enable the clinician to initiate effective treatment. Domestic violence poses a significant public health problem and is not just a problem for the criminal justice system. Violence against women results in thousands of hospitalizations a year. Rates of child and spouse abuse in rural areas are particularly high, as are the rates of alcohol abuse and depression in adolescents. A post-doctoral fellowship program in the psychology of the rural populations could be of special benefit in addressing these problems. Given the demonstrated success and effectiveness of specialized training programs, it is incumbent upon us to encourage participation in post-doctoral fellowships that respond to the needs of the Nation's underserved. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. INOUYE

Mr. INOUYE. Mr. President, today, I, again, introduce the Medicaid Advanced Practice Nurse and Physician Assistants Access Act of 2009. This legislation would change the Federal law to expand fee-for-service Medicaid to include direct payment for services provided by all nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, and physician assistants. It would ensure all nurse practitioners, certified nurse midwives, and physician assistants are recognized as primary care case managers, and require Medicaid panels to include advanced practice nurses on their managed care panels. Advanced practice nurses are registered nurses who have attained additional expertise in the clinical management of health conditions. Typically, an advanced practice nurse holds a master's degree with didactic and clinical preparation beyond that of the registered nurse. They are employed in clinics, hospitals, and private practices. While there are many titles given to these advanced practice nurses, such as pediatric nurse practitioners, family nurse practitioners, certified nurse midwives, certified registered nurse anesthetists, and clinical nurse specialists, our current Medicaid law has not kept up with the multiple specialties and titles of these advanced practitioners, nor has it recognized the critical role physician assistants play in the delivery of primary care. I have been a long-time advocate of advanced practice nurses and their ability to extend health care services to our most rural and underserved communities. They have improved access to health care in Hawaii and throughout the United States by their willingness to practice in what some providers might see as undesirable locations-- extremely rural, frontier, or urban areas. This legislation ensures they are recognized and reimbursed for providing the necessary health care services patients need, and it gives those patients the choice of selecting advanced practice nurses and physician assistants as their primary care providers. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. INOUYE

Mr. INOUYE. Mr. Presdient, foreign registered ships now carry 97 percent of the imports and exports moving in United States international trade. These foreign vessels are held to lower standards than United States registered ships, and are virtually untaxed. Their costs of operation are, therefore, lower than United States ship operating costs, which explains their 97 percent market share. Three years ago, in order to help level the playing field for United States-flag ships that compete in international trade, Congress enacted, under the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004, Public Law 108-357, Subchapter R, a ``tonnage tax'' that is based on the tonnage of a vessel, rather than taxing international income at a 35 percent corporate income tax rate. However, during the House and Senate conference, language was included, which states that a United States vessel cannot use the tonnage tax on international income if that vessel also operates in United States domestic commerce for more than 30 days per year. This 30-day limitation dramatically limits the availability of the tonnage tax for those United States ships that operate in both domestic and international trade and, accordingly, severely hinders their competitiveness in foreign commerce. It is important to recognize that ships operating in United States domestic trade already have significant cost disadvantages. Specifically, (1) they are built in higher priced United States shipyards; (2) do not receive Maritime Security Payments, even when operated in international trade; and (3) are owned by United States-based American corporations. The inability of these domestic operators to use the tonnage tax for their international service is a further, unnecessary burden on their competitive position in foreign commerce. When windows of opportunity present themselves in international trade, American tax policy and maritime policy should facilitate the participation of these American-built ships. Instead, the 30-day limit makes them ineligible to use the tonnage tax, and further handicaps American vessels when competing for international cargo. Denying the tonnage tax to coastwise qualified ships further stymies the operation of American built ships in international commerce, and further exacerbates America's 97 percent reliance on foreign ships to carry its international cargo. These concerns were of sufficient importance that in December 2006 Congress repealed the 30-day limit on domestic trading but only for approximately 50 ships operating in the Great Lakes. These ships primarily operate in domestic trade on the Great Lakes, but also carry cargo between the United States and Canada in international trade (Section 415 of P.L. 109-432, the Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006.) The identifiable universe of remaining ships other than the Great Lakes ships that operate in domestic trade, but that may also operate temporarily in international trade, totals 13 United States flag vessels. These 13 ships normally operate in domestic trades that involve Washington, Oregon, California, Hawaii, Alaska, Florida, Mississippi, and Louisiana. In the interest of providing equity to the United States corporations that own and operate these 13 vessels, my bill would repeal the tonnage tax 30-day limit on domestic operations and enable these vessels to utilize the tonnage tax on their international income--so they receive the same treatment as other United States flag international operators. I stress that, under my bill, these ships will continue to pay the normal 35 percent United States corporate tax rate on their domestic income. Repeal of the tonnage tax's 30-day limit on domestic operations is a necessary step toward providing tax equity between United States flag and foreign flag vessels. I strongly urge the tax committees of the Congress to give this legislation their expedited consideration and approval. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. INOUYE

Mr. INOUYE. Mr. President, today I again introduce legislation to authorize the autonomous functioning of clinical psychologists and clinical social workers within the Medicare comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation facility program. In my judgment, it is unfortunate that Medicare requires clinical supervision of the services provided by certain health professionals and does not allow them to function to the full extent of their State practice licenses. Those who need the services of outpatient rehabilitation facilities should have access to a wide range of social and behavioral science expertise. Clinical psychologists and clinical social workers are recognized as independent providers of mental health care services under the Federal Employee Health Benefits Program, the TRICARE Military Health Program of the Uniformed Services, the Medicare (Part B) Program, and numerous private insurance plans. This legislation will ensure that these qualified professionals achieve the same recognition under the Medicare comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation facility program. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. INOUYE

Mr. INOUYE. Mr. President, today I am, again, introducing legislation to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to correct discrepancies in the reimbursement of clinical social workers covered through Medicare, Part B. These three proposed changes contained in this legislation clarify the current payment process for clinical social workers and establish a reimbursement methodology for the profession that is similar to other health care professionals reimbursed through the Medicare program. First, this legislation sets payment for clinical social worker services according to a fee schedule established by the Secretary. Second, it explicitly states that services and supplies furnished by a clinical social worker are a covered Medicare expense, just as these services are covered for other mental health professionals in Medicare. Third, the bill allows clinical social workers to be reimbursed for services provided to a client who is hospitalized. Clinical social workers are valued members of our health care provider network. They are legally regulated in every state of the nation and are recognized as independent providers of mental health care throughout the health care system. It is time to correct the disparate reimbursement treatment of this profession under Medicare. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. INOUYE

Mr. INOUYE. Mr. President, today I am reintroducing legislation to enable those former prisoners of war who have been separated honorably from their respective services and who have been rated as having a 30 percent service-connected disability to have the use of both the military commissary and post exchange privileges. While I realize it is impossible to adequately compensate one who has endured long periods of incarceration at the hands of our Nation's enemies, I do feel this gesture is both meaningful and important to those concerned because it serves as a reminder that our Nation has not forgotten their sacrifices. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. INOUYE

Mr. INOUYE. Mr. President, today I am reintroducing the Native Hawaiian Medicaid Coverage Act. This legislation would authorize a Federal Medicaid Assistance Percent, FMAP, of 100 percent for the payment of health care costs of Native Hawaiians who receive health care from Federally Qualified Health Centers or the Native Hawaiian Health Care System. This bill is modeled on the Native Alaskan Health Care Act, which provides for a Federal Medicaid Assistance Percent of 100 percent for payment of health care costs for Native Alaskans by the Indian Health Service, an Indian tribe, or a tribal organization. Community health centers serve as the ``safety net'' for uninsured and medically underserved Native Hawaiians and other United States citizens, providing comprehensive primary and preventive health services to the entire community. Outpatient services offered to the entire family include comprehensive primary care, preventive health maintenance, and education outreach in the local community. Community health centers, with their multidisciplinary approach, offer cost effective integration of health promotion and wellness with chronic disease management and primary care focused on serving vulnerable populations. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. INOUYE

Mr. INOUYE. Mr. President, today, I am, again, introducing the United States Military Cancer Institute Research Collaborative Act. This legislation, twice passed by the Senate yet unsuccessful in the House, would formally establish the United States Military Cancer Institute, USMCI, and support the collaborative augmentation of research efforts in cancer epidemiology, prevention and control. Although the USMCI already exists as an informal collaborative effort, this bill will formally establish the institution with a mission of providing for the maintenance of health in the military by enhancing cancer research and treatment, and studying the epidemiological causes of cancer among various ethnic groups. By formally establishing the USMCI, it will be in a better position to unite military research efforts with other cancer research centers. Cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment are significant issues for the military population, thus the USMCI was organized to coordinate the existing military cancer assets. The USMCI has a comprehensive database of its beneficiary population of 9 million people. The military's nationwide tumor registry, the Automated Central Tumor Registry, has acquired more than 180,000 cases in the last 14 years, and a serum repository of 30 million specimens from military personnel collected sequentially since 1987. This population is predominantly Caucasian, African-American, and Hispanic. The USMCI currently resides in the Washington, D.C., area, and its components are located at the National Naval Medical Center, the Malcolm Grow Medical Center, the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology, and the Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute. There are more than 70 research workers, both active duty and Department of Defense civilian scientists, working in the USMCI. The Director of the USMCI, Dr. John Potter, intends to expand research activities to military medical centers across the nation. Special emphasis will be placed on the study of genetic and environmental factors in carcinogenesis among the entire population, including Asian, Caucasian, African-American and Hispanic subpopulations. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.