Sheila Jackson Lee

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, one week ago today in the Dallas Central Business District, a lone gunman, motivated by anger and rage, terrorized a peaceful assembly of my fellow Texans protesting injustice by unleashing a hail of bullets from an automatic rifle that took the lives of five officers of the Dallas Police Department and Dallas Area Rapid Transit and wounded twelve others. Today I joined my fellow Texans and others at the memorial in Dallas. Earlier today, a memorial in honor of the fallen was held at Dallas' Meyerson Symphony Center, attended by several hundreds, including the President of the United States and the First Lady; Vice-President Biden and Dr. Jill Biden; former President George W. Bush and Mrs. Laura Bush; members of the Texas congressional delegation, representatives of law enforcement agencies from across the nation. President Obama reminded us that in the aftermath of one of the most tumultuous weeks in memory that the nation is not as divided as it seems and urged the nation to find meaning in the midst of sorrow by working together so that we can ``preserve those institutions of family and community, rights and responsibilities, law and self-government that is the hallmark of this nation.'' I especially appreciate the remarks of former President George W. Bush who reminded us that ``to renew our unity, we only need to remember our values'' and that we ``are bound by things of the spirit, by shared commitments to common ideals, and that we are at our best when we practice empathy, which is the strongest ``bridge across our nation's deepest divisions.'' Mr. Speaker, there is much wisdom in President Bush's admonition that we avoid judging other groups by their worst examples, while judging ourselves by our best intentions. We are one country with a common future and a single destiny, and, deep down, we know that President Obama was right when he said that we all must aspire and strive for an open heart, where we ``worry less about which side has been wronged, and worry more about joining sides to do right.'' Due to an injury sustained the week before, Texas Governor Greg Abbott was not able to attend the moving tribute to the fallen Dallas officers so I want to extend to him my best wishes for a complete and speedy recovery and to commend and associate myself with the following statements from his Open Letter to the People of Texas: ``Though anguish and sorrow may darken the days ahead, we will not be overcome by evil--we will overcome evil with good. Texas is an exceptional state with exceptional people. We've faced tough challenges in the past, but we have come together to overcome those challenges. In the coming days, there will be those who foment distrust and fan the flames of dissension. ``To come together--that would be the greatest rebuke to those who seek to tear us apart.'' Mr. Speaker, what is called for in sorrowful times likes this is unity and healing and the faith that a righteous cause can only be advanced by righteous words and actions. Let us remember and honor the fallen and wounded in Dallas by rededicating ourselves to the spirit of empathy and love and respect for human dignity that has made and will keep our country the wonder of the world.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Chair, I have a parliamentary inquiry.

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Chair, am I able to request a unanimous consent to make that the amendment from Jackson Lee?

Ms. JACKSON LEE. I thank the gentleman from Georgia for standing as the amendment was being called up. Mr. Chair, I am on the floor. This is the Jackson Lee amendment. I hope the Record reflects it and corrects that I am here. The Record should be corrected. This is an amendment that deals with homeland security, and it reflects my general debate statement that there are some restraints that this particular legislation has that are not well suited for the needs of the American people. In this instance, this particular amendment deals with homeland security and the agency rules and regulations that are issued by the Department of Homeland Security. As currently drafted, H.R. 4768 would shift the scope and authority of the judicial review of agency actions away from Federal agencies by amending section 706 of the APA to require that courts decide all relevant questions of law, including all questions of interpretation of constitutional statutory and regulatory provisions on a de novo basis without deference to the agency that promulgated the final rule. I am concerned about the ability of agencies to act in times of imminent need to protect citizens, in particular, dealing with homeland security and the very climate, Mr. Chair, that we are in as we speak. The Jackson Lee amendment is a simple, but necessary, revision that would remedy this concern by excluding from the bill cases with rules that are made by the Secretary of Homeland Security and that pertain to any matter of national security. Why can there not be a bipartisan assessment and accepting of this particular amendment that deals with the core of our responsibilities as President, as the executive, and then as Congress? We are destined to be able to secure the security of America. Our courts, particularly the Federal courts, are to uphold the constitutional authority that is given to the Federal Government under the Constitution. The instance, certainly, of national security--the protecting of this Nation--is one of those. The Constitution begins by saying that we have organized to create a more perfect Union. The Declaration of Independence, which is not part of the Constitution, indicates the inalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Liberty is certainly part of security, and I am dismayed by this legislation--this onerous burden of having a de novo review of the Homeland Security rule to protect the American people. We should have learned our lesson after 9/11 for those of us who were here in the United States Congress. This is no reflection on the good intent of my colleague from Texas. I know his intentions are well, but I was here during 9/11. I was in this building. I was chased, if you will, by the horrors of those who were screaming ``get out'' of the Capitol of the United States with no knowledge. Yes, Mr. Chair, as I ran out with other colleagues, leaving shoes behind and literally running on one foot versus two feet, I could see the billowing smoke from the Pentagon. What was in the air was the question of: Is it the White House next? Is it the State Department next? Is it my hometown of Houston--the energy capital, in essence, of the world? These are the questions of security that the American people realize are real. And certainly in the backdrop of these tragic mass shootings and the involvement of the Homeland Security Department, I can make the very strong point that the Jackson Lee amendment is an amendment that should be considered seriously because a de novo review on a Homeland Security regulation is a difficult process to take in light of the responsibilities of national security. My amendment would keep in place the appropriate and needed expertise and specialized abilities of the Department of Homeland Security to make the rules and regulations that are necessary for our Nation's security; so I ask my colleagues to support the Jackson Lee amendment. Mr. Chair, I would like to thank Chairman Sessions and Ranking Member Slaughter for making my amendment in order. The Jackson Lee Amendment Number 2 exempts from the bill rules issued by the Department of Homeland Security. H.R. 4768 purports to address constitutional and statutory deficiencies in the judicial review of agency rulemaking. As currently drafted H.R. 4768 would shift the scope and authority of judicial review of agency actions away from federal agencies by amending Section 706 of the Administrative Procedures Act (APA) to ``require that courts decide all relevant questions of law, including all questions of interpretation of constitutional, statutory, and regulatory provisions, on a de novo basis without deference to the agency that promulgated the final rule''. Effectively, H.R. 4768 would abolish judicial deference to agencies' statutory interpretations in federal rulemaking and create harmful and costly burdens to the administrative process. Mr. Chair, I am concerned about the ability for agencies to act in times of imminent need to protect citizens. In particular, H.R. 4768 would make sweeping and dangerous changes that would jeopardize the ability of the Department of Homeland Security to protect our nation in times of urgent and imminent need. The Jackson Lee Amendment Number 2 is a simple but necessary revision that would remedy this concern by excluding from the bill cases with rules made by the Secretary of Homeland Security and pertaining to any matter of national security. As a Senior Member of the Homeland Security Committee, I understand the many challenges the Department of the Homeland Security (DHS) already faces and its critically important role in preventing terror threats and keeping Americans safe. The Department is the first line of defense in protecting the nation and leading recovery efforts from all-hazards and threats which include everything from weapons of mass destruction to natural disasters. We do not need to be reminded of the heightened state of security we are now in and the ever-increasing demands imposed upon our government agencies tasked with keeping our borders and citizens safe. Now is not the time to undermine or slow the ability of DHS and its ability to address growing threats and active acts of terrorism. For the past 70 years the APA has served and guided administrative agencies and the affected public in a manner that is flexible enough to accommodate the variety of agencies operating under it inclusive of changes through time. The overall mission of DHS is too critical and its functions indispensably essential, such that it would be impugned to do anything that will slow down the process that allows DHS to do its job. The Jackson Lee Amendment Number 2 would keep in place the appropriate and needed expertise and specialized abilities of the Department of Homeland Security to make rules and regulations necessary for our nation's security. I urge my colleagues to support the Jackson Lee Amendment Number 2.

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Chair, I thank the gentleman for claiming the time, but I do want the Record to reflect that this is a Jackson Lee amendment. However the Record can correct it, I desire for it to do so. This amendment is in keeping with Justice Scalia, who was an aggressively vocal supporter of the Chevron deference during his career. It is an indication of just how broad and mainstream the support is for maintaining such deference, and that is deference to the agencies and their reviews and their expertise. With the de novo scenario that this bill provides for, in spite of its alleged exemptions of national security issues, there is a vast level of responsibility of the Homeland Security Department. Frankly, all of its work comes under the context of regular order for protecting the American people--from immigration issues, to policing issues, to Secret Service--and many of these should not be tampered with by a de novo review of the regulatory scheme that they will be putting forward. I ask my colleagues to support the Jackson Lee amendment to secure the Nation.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 4785, the Department of Homeland Security Stop Asset and Vehicle Excess (SAVE) Act. H.R. 4785 will amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 and direct the Under Security of Management for the Department of Homeland Security to oversee and manage vehicle fleets throughout the department. As a senior member of the House Committee on Homeland Security and a senior member of the Committee on Homeland Security Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Infrastructure Protection, and Security Technologies, I believe that authorizing the Under Secretary is important in ensuring that DHS is well-managed. This bill improves the management of DHS fleets by authorizing the Under Secretary to impose penalties for the mismanagement of fleets and requires the DHS to identify alternative methods for management. The Under Secretary shall also be responsible for ensuring that components are in compliance with federal law, federal regulations, executive branch guidance, and department policy. This legislation also requires the DHS Under Security to monitor compliance with federal laws and regulations related to the use of government vehicles, develop a methodology to determine optimal fleet size, and approve vehicle leases and acquisitions. In addition, H.R. 4785 requires DHS agencies to report data on vehicle use quarterly and submit fleet management plans, including cost-benefit analyses, annually to the Under Secretary. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased that H.R. 4785 includes an amendment I offered during full committee markup that addresses the management of the fleet vehicles used by protective services under the purview of DHS. The Jackson Lee Amendment requires a GAO report on the status of efforts to achieve capability to collect automated information as required by the bill, and to assess the ability of Under Secretary for Management to identify and address any relevant security concerns regarding vehicles used by protective services. It is of the utmost importance that DHS have stricter controls in place in order to reign in the cost of fleet management. H.R. 4785 will provide better management and oversight of the second largest civilian vehicle fleet in the federal government, and thus save millions of taxpayer dollars.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. I rise in support of in support of H.R 5385, the ``Quadrennial Homeland Security Review Technical Correction Act of 2016'' and thank my good friend Congresswoman Watson Coleman for her leadership on this important bill. This bill provides a simple but yet crucial purpose: to improve the quality and timeliness of the review that DHS carries out by including more stakeholder engagement, conducting a regular risk assessment, and maintaining all documents regarding the Quadrennial Review. In 2007, the Committee on Homeland Security passed Public Law 110-53, the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act. Under this Act, the Department of Homeland Security is required to produce every four years a unified, strategic framework for homeland security missions and goals, known as the Quadrennial Homeland Security Review (QHSR). The goal of the QHSR is to provide a comprehensive assessment and analysis of the threats facing the homeland. Thus far, the Department has produced two reviews, in 2010 and 2014. The Government Accountability Office assessed each review extensively and determined that stakeholder engagement and documentation were among the areas for improvement in future QHSRs. Among the key provisions are more specificity on outreach to stakeholders and requirements for supporting documentation on stakeholder engagement and risk assessments. In addition, this legislation enhances stakeholder engagement, by further specifying appropriate stakeholders to consult with during the preparation of the QHSR including the Homeland Security Advisory Council, the Homeland Security Science and Technology Advisory Committee, and the Aviation Security Advisory Committee. Additionally, this bill requires the Department to use a risk assessment when determining the homeland security missions and threats. When interacting with outside agencies to gather information on sources and strategies, the Department must do so to the extent practical for the Department to gather the information needed. Finally, the Quadrennial Homeland Security Review Technical Correction Act of 2016 requires DHS to retain all written communications through technology, online communication, in-person discussions and the interagency process and all information on how the communications and feedback informed the development of the review. I urge support of this legislation to ensure that future Quadrennial Homeland Security Reviews provide homeland security decision-makers inside Department of Homeland Security and across the country with the analysis they need to help protect the United States.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 5056, the Airport Perimeter and Access Control Security Act of 2016, which amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to reform programs of the Transportation Security Administration, and streamline transportation security regulations. As a senior member of the House Homeland Security Committee and the Former Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Transportation Security, I believe that this bill is of the utmost importance in securing safe airports in our country. The objective of the bill is to establish a risk-based, intelligence- driven model for the screening of employees at airports based on level of access and employment positions at domestic airports. The purpose of H.R. 5056 is to modernize and enhance airport perimeter and access control security by requiring updated risk assessments and the development of security strategies. An important part of keeping our airports safe from attacks is to make sure that the perimeters and the security check points are safeguarded and secure. TSA has kept American citizens safe by conducting incredibly thorough airport searches. The same detailed precautions need to be taken for people commuting around and near airport perimeters. This legislation seeks to bolster perimeter security and access controls at domestic airports by requiring the Transportation Security Administration to update relevant risk assessments and leveraging system-wide incident reporting to analyze trends contributing to the threat environment. This bill would require the Department of Homeland Security to develop and conduct an exercise related to the terrorist and foreign fighter threat in order to enhance domestic preparedness for and the collective response to terrorism, promote the dissemination of homeland security information, and test the U.S. security posture. H.R. 5056 would also test the security posture of the United States and the Secretary of Homeland Security through appropriate offices and components of the Department of Homeland Security. The Department of Homeland Security should immediately engage the local and state law enforcement agencies to ensure that city and state governments have the funds to increase the utilization of the local law enforcement to provide that added protection. Mr. Speaker, the state of access controls at domestic airports is in need of direct and thorough scrutiny in order to mitigate perimeter breaches and insider threats to aviation security. H.R. 5056 ensures that scrutiny will take place.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 4404, the Terrorist and Fighter Travel Exercise Act of 2016, which requires the Department of Homeland Security to develop and conduct an exercise related to the terrorist and foreign fighter threat in order to enhance domestic preparedness for the collective response to terrorism. As a senior member of the House Committee on Homeland Security and Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security, and Investigations, I understand that threats to homeland security are increasing and being prepared to defeat them is of the utmost importance. It is estimated that 250 U.S. citizens are among the number of foreign recruits who have traveled to Syria since the beginning of the conflict. In 2014, the total number of foreign fighters entering Syria was estimated to be 14,000. This disturbing news coupled with the massive migration of people seeking to flee from war torn Syria now entering Europe by the thousands raises important concerns regarding security. H.R. 4404 requires the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to develop and carry out national exercises to evaluate the nation's preparedness against the threat of foreign fighters and terrorists. Under this legislation, FEMA would develop and conduct an exercise to test the ability to respond to the threat of persons leaving the United States to provide material or support to terrorist organizations or of foreign fighters attempting to enter the United States. I have on several prior occasions outlined several areas of particular concern regarding Worldwide Threats and Homeland Security Challenges. The United States has seen several instances of domestic terrorism at the hands of U.S. citizens within our borders, such as the tragedies in San Bernardino, Orlando, and most recently, Dallas. In response to these tragedies, it is our duty to address issues surrounding domestic violence at the hands of extremists and the availability of assault weapons. H.R. 4404 is a positive step in the right direction and I urge its support by all members.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 5588, the ``Veterans' Compensation COLA Act of 2016,'' which authorizes for the Department of Veterans Affairs to increase the rates of compensation for veterans. As the friends, family, co-workers and neighbors to veterans, we have an obligation to ensure that they feel their service to this country is appreciated by their fellow Americans. These honorable men and women are major contributors to our military presence and many have given their lives to keep our nation safe. In the State of Texas we have 1,099,141 veterans under the age of 65 and 590,618 who are over the age of 65--there are over 1,689,759 veterans living in our state. The 18th Congressional District has 20,607 under age 65 and 9,844 veterans over the age of 65. H.R. 5588 increases the rates of compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities. Additionally, the bill provides for an increase in the rates of dependency and indemnity compensation for the survivors of certain disabled veterans and surviving spouses and children. The increase will be the same percentage as that provided under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this legislation.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 3178, the ``Strengthening Transparency in Higher Education Act,'' which streamlines and simplifies information regarding institutions of higher education. At a time when American innovation and intellectual growth is critical to maintaining our country's global economic leadership, higher education is an indispensable means of ensuring the next generation can uphold the exceptionally high standards of American innovation. As the founder and chair of the Children's Caucus, and a longtime advocate for education opportunities for students at every stage, I know this nation can do better. In order to ensure tomorrow's economic, academic, and political leaders are the best our nation has to offer, higher education opportunities must be available and accessible to all. I support the ``Strengthening Transparency in Higher Education Act'' because it makes an important contribution in ensuring higher education remains accessible and possible for all students. In particular, H.R. 3178 simplifies available information on higher education opportunities by developing and making publicly available a website known as the ``College Dashboard Website'' that will streamline available information about participating institutions in a readily- accessible manner. The information on this website will include: (1) A link to the website of the institution, as well as an identification of the type of institution; (2) Information about the institution including its attendance, student-faculty ratio, and percentage of degree-seeking or certificate- seeking undergraduate students enrolled at the institution who obtain their degree or certificate within a particular time frame; (3) Financial information including average net price per year and availability of financial aid; and (4) Data about campus safety, as well as regional and national data regarding starting salaries in all major occupations. The ``College Dashboard Website,'' moreover, will include links to more exhaustive data regarding enrollment, completion, costs, financial aid, faculty, and institutional comparison. Finally, the ``College Dashboard Website'' will include links that provide net price calculators for participating institutions of higher education. These resources being made available to the education marketplace will provide important information to students and their families in their search for the best education value possible. As an effort to simplify the public's access to institutions of higher education, H.R. 3178 represents a crucial step in bolstering the accessibility of education in America.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. I rise in support of H.R. 5530, ``HBCU Capital Financing Improvement Act'' and thank my good friend Congresswoman Adams for her leadership on this important bill. In particular, this bill strengthens and streamlines capital financing of historically Black colleges and universities, and bolsters the welfare of these institutions by providing financial counseling and technical assistance to qualified schools. This legislation will help lay the foundation needed to develop critical solutions to meet current and emerging needs, like student retention and improving graduation rates. As the founder and chair of the Children's Caucus and Member of the Congressional Black Caucus, I am particularly concerned about the events of the last few days and weeks that highlight a national problem that involves the health and well-being of young African American boys and young men. One important solution must be access to affordable quality education for every person in this nation. HBCUs graduate far more than their share of African American professionals. While the 105 HBCUs represent just 3 percent of the nation's institutions of higher learning, they graduate nearly one quarter of African Americans who earn undergraduate degrees. I am proud that Texas Southern University one of the nation's great HBCU is a constituent in my home city of Houston. I routinely partner with Texas Southern University to promote education opportunities and collaborate on community projects routinely. H.R. 5530 will help facilitate my work with Texas Southern University and other HBCUs by expanding the financial opportunities they need. America's HBCUs have a proud and solid tradition. Scattered throughout the nation, many of these institutions of higher learning have fostered the academic development of African-Americans for over a century. Since their inception, HBCUs have furthered the development of African Americans who have become leaders in science, health, government, business, and education, the military, law, and world affairs including: Booker T. Washington, Founder of Tuskegee Institute Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King; Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall; World renowned opera singer Leontyne Price; Media mogul Oprah Winfrey; And Congresswoman Barbara Jordan of Texas Mr. Speaker, we must continue to provide our strong support to HBCUs so that every citizen can enjoy a future of hope and opportunity. We commend these great institutions as they build on a foundation of continued success for every college student. Graduates of HBCUs have made great contributions to our society, and America, and they continue to serve as role models for all Americans. Most Americans agree that education provides the best chance of preparing today's youth to lead the Nation throughout the next century. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing the importance of National Historically Black Colleges and Universities and help strengthening them by continued funding these critical institutions and ensuring our nation's youth have access to quality education.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 3179, ``Empowering Students through Enhanced Financial Counseling Act,'' which amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to authorize $2 million allocated for activities related to student loan counseling. Financial literacy and consumer awareness is very crucial for all loan borrowers, especially for our youth. The loan will provide counseling of federal Pell Grant recipients with comprehensive information on the loan terms and conditions, as well as testing these students on their knowledge of this information before accepting the grant. Students receiving any Federal Loans would be notified of the loan conditions, informing them on the amount, eligibility, exhaustion, and consequences of borrowing the loan. An important aspect of this procedure includes a requirement for the borrowers to receive the contact information for the institution's financial aid office. I have college students interning in my office, who have taken out loans for their education and these are the largest sums they have borrowed in their lifetime. One student did not know that completing the FAFSA would automatically grant her a Federal Stafford Loan, and she did not find out about her loan until she received a job at her institution's financial aid office. Mr. Speaker, taking this example into account, educated students across the nation are not as familiar with the process and terms of Financial Aid and loans as they should be or as we ought to think they are. Through H.R. 3179, first-time borrowers will receive statements with interest rates and repayment plan options. This legislation will educate the individuals seeking an education on how to finance their studies. This legislation will also create jobs in underserved areas as well. Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this legislation.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 5528 the ``Simplifying the Application for Student Aid Act'' which aims to strengthen, improve, and streamline student aid process. Access to quality education is a key factor in securing a successful and bright future. For many students and families, federal financial aid is the only means of making postsecondary education possible. In times of economic adversity and uncertainty across the United States, the Simplifying the Application for Student Aid Act ensures that students and families are supported in realizing their education goals. A student's application process starts when he or she submits the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students who wish to enroll in fall classes are encouraged to begin applying for aid in January. However, the FAFSA relies on income tax data from the previous year that is not readily available at the time students should start filling out their applications. This flawed process results in significant delays in the submission of FAFSA forms, which leaves financial aid administrators little time to put together aid packages for incoming students. More importantly, students do not learn in a timely manner what their financial aid packages will ultimately be, which makes it more difficult to plan for the cost of their education. The current application runs 10 pages long and includes 108 questions on topics such as income, expenses, family size, and assets. As part of an effort to reauthorize the Higher Education Act, the bipartisan legislation will help students make timely financial decisions about their education. In addition this bill will allow students to use family income data from two years prior to the date of the FAFSA application. Establishes a link between the online FAFSA form and income tax data stored by the Internal Revenue Service to automatically input income data into the FAFSA form, reducing the need to manually input information that often prevents low-income students from applying for aid. And most importantly, strengthens the integrity of federal financial aid by providing institutions more time to verify the income of their students. As the country continues to work through some of the most difficult economic conditions in a generation, it is imperative that we increase our investment in education. If we are truly going to compete against emerging nations like China and India, we must continue to invest in our education system. I am proud to represent Houston, Texas which is home to several prestigious universities and dozens of community and technical colleges. With such an emphasis on higher education, we have long been working to become a leader in producing workers for the 21st century economy. This crucial legislation will build on the infrastructure already available in Houston and make higher education more affordable and accessible for everyone.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 5529, the ``Accessing Higher Education Opportunities Act,'' which amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to authorize additional grant activities for Hispanic-serving institutions. At a time when American innovation and intellectual growth fundamentally depend on education, the accessibility of institutions of higher education is a critical concern in the struggle to maintain America's role at the forefront of global innovation. As a lifelong advocate of equal education opportunities for all students, I know the importance of making higher education accessible across all demographics, and I know we can do better. Without an honest effort to even the playing field for all students by ensuring that all students have the opportunity to extend their education as long as they can, America, as a country, stands to lose out on the brightest economic, academic, and political leaders of the future. To that end, this measure emphasizes the importance of equality of opportunity for all students pursuing higher level education by urging the expansion of grant programs for Hispanic-serving educational institutions. In particular, this measure amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to specifically: Support programs (which may include counseling, mentoring, and other support services) designed to facilitate the successful advancement of students from four-year institutions to post baccalaureate doctoral degree granting programs; and Develop or expand access to dual or concurrent enrollment programs and early college high school programs. Without this concrete measure to bolster support for Hispanic-serving institutions, institutions of higher education will fail to fulfill the American promise of equality of opportunity. In particular, I am proud to represent institutions such as the Lone Star College and the University of Houston Downtown, institutions that will directly benefit from increased efforts to further support Hispanic-serving educational institutions.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Chairman, let me thank the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Johnson) for his leadership of the subcommittee from which this legislation, I believe, has found its journey. Let me also acknowledge my colleague from Texas. On the Judiciary Committee, we have the benefit of the counsel of nonlawyers. It is a new phenomenon. When I first came on, we had only lawyers on the committee. But as a lawyer who remembers sitting in an administrative procedure law class by a seasoned senior professor at the University of Virginia Law School, I remember he was embedded for decades, and managed to make the Administrative Procedure Act interesting. And the one thing I knew, even as a younger law student, the APA, for 70 years--at that time it hadn't reached 70--had served and guided administrative agencies and the affected public in a manner that is flexible enough to accommodate the variety of agencies operating under it, inclusive of changes through time. So what saddens me as a person who enjoyed many aspects of law school and understands and enjoys the deliberation of issues dealing with the question of law is the complete skewing in spite of my friends who view this as remedy. And I would just like to offer them my thoughts as to why this is not: because the legislation would allow Federal courts reviewing an agency action to conduct a de novo review of all relevant questions of law without deferring to the legal interpretation of the agency. Now, let me be very clear. I am a student of the three branches of government. I appreciate my colleagues'--in this instance, Republicans'--concern about the sanctity of the three branches of government as evidenced by the Constitution. But in that structure, we developed agencies to have expertise; not to not be challenged, but to have expertise. And I want those listening to understand that I respect that expertise, but I respect the challenge. But what this particular legislation is doing is that de novo, my friends, of course, is starting from scratch. So that means a regulation by the Department of Homeland Security--I am on the Homeland Security Committee, this agency created after 9/11. And in the backdrop of what we have faced, the heinous acts of Dallas, 5 fallen officers, 12 persons shot--now, we can't claim this recent incident. Allow me to offer my sympathy to those in Michigan, two bailiffs, and I don't know how many others may be shot and killed. But we know that we are in a different framework of dealing with security in this country. Some of these are a regulatory scheme through the Homeland Security Department, Transportation Security Administration. And to take that expertise on behalf of the American people and, as they say, throw the baby out with the bathwater, say to the courts that do not have a discernible expertise--our judges are quite skilled, but they are not the experts in every aspect of how this government runs. Members of Congress have to brief themselves to be able to assess what is going on in the government, and we have that responsibility. But you are asking the courts now to undo every regulation and become the expert on Federal lands, public lands, on Environmental Protection Agency issues, on Health and Human Services issues, on issues dealing with homeland security, on issues dealing with education. This is untenable, Mr. Chairman. This will not work. And I just want to cite to you from a number of groups that have come together. The Coalition for Sensible Safeguards says: ``Congress should be looking for ways to strengthen our country's regulatory system by identifying gaps and instituting new safeguards for the public. Unfortunately, this legislation does the opposite by ensuring more delays.'' Let me clarify their language, because I will go a little further. I would be willing to look at filling the holes.

Ms. JACKSON LEE. I would be willing to look at discussing this further by looking at what are the holes, where do we think we are not being effective on behalf of the American people. That is reasonable legislation and legislative discourse, if you will. But I can't look at something that tells me that I have got to take something involving the Children's Health Insurance Program or the 1191 waiver that deals with Medicaid, and I have got to untangle it, go into a court because someone challenged it, and I have got people waiting in line for healthcare relief and hospitals that are looking for payment on uncompensated care, and I have got a court that has to now ramp up. And individual courts don't have the vastness of research that agencies have to be experts on health care and to be experts on a variety of issues that are so very important to us. I would hope that we can send this legislation back. I hope that we could look--what are we trying to fix? I think the three branches of government are very clear. We legislate, the executive has its powers, and there are agencies. But the citizens have a right to seek a review of a regulatory structure or a regulation. They have judicial review. Section 702 of the APA, in its current form, subjects agency rulemaking to judicial review for any person suffering legal wrong because of agency action, or adversely affected or aggrieved by agency action within the meaning of a relevant statute. Courts in particular retain an important role in determining whether an agency is permissible, arbitrary, or capricious. Mr. Chairman, that is within the context of what this Administrative Procedure Act does. It has been effective for 70 years plus. And what we are doing is--we are not detangling. We are tangling, and we are blocking the good government work that these agencies do to help the American people be safe in water, in the environment, in public lands, in security. I ask my colleagues, let's go back to the drawing board before we move forward on this legislation. Mr. Chair, I stand in opposition to H.R. 4768, the Separation of Powers Restoration Act of 2016, a bill to address purported constitutional and statutory deficiencies in the judicial review of agency rulemaking. I am opposed to H.R. 4768 because this bill is unfortunately deeply flawed and harmful to our nation's fundamental and well-established federal rulemaking process. Specifically, H.R. 4768 would abruptly shift the scope and authority of judicial review of agency actions away from federal agencies by amending Section 706 of the Administrative Procedures Act (APA) to ``require that courts decide all relevant questions of law, including all questions of interpretation of constitutional, statutory, and regulatory provisions, on a de novo basis without deference to the agency that promulgated the final rule''. Effectively, H.R. 4768 would abolish judicial deference to agencies' statutory interpretations in federal rulemaking and create harmful and costly burdens to the administrative process. Enacted in 1946, the APA establishes the minimum rulemaking and formal adjudication requirements for all administrative agencies. And for the past 70 years the APA has served and guided administrative agencies and the affected public in a manner that is flexible enough to accommodate the variety of agencies operating under it inclusive of changes through time. In addition to the APA, numerous other procedural and analytical requirements have been imposed on the rulemaking process by Congress and various presidents. Generally, agencies' development of new rules is an extensive process that is fully vetted with appropriate avenues for judicial relief where necessary. Namely, Section 702 of the APA in its current form subjects agency rulemaking to judicial review for ``any person suffering legal wrong because of agency action, or adversely affected or aggrieved by agency action within the meaning of a relevant statute.'' Courts in particular retain an important role in determining whether an agency action is permissible, arbitrary, or capricious. And while, the APA requires reviewing courts to decide all relevant questions of law, interpret statutes, and determine the meaning of agency action, it is well-established that courts ``must give substantial deference to an agency's interpretation of its own regulations.'' Indeed, the Supreme Court has routinely observed that the scope of judicial review is narrow and a court is not to substitute its judgment for that of the agency. Rather, it is well-settled that courts must give considerable weight to an agency's construction of a statute it administers. Such deference was established as bedrock administrative law in the 1984 Supreme Court case Chevron v. Natural Resources Defense Council, now known as the Chevron deference. Chevron deference has been upheld by hundreds of federal courts since and has been endorsed by both conservative and liberal Supreme Court justices and federal court judges. H.R. 4768 would override the Chevron doctrine enabling courts to ignore administrative records and expertise and to substitute their own inexpert views and limited information. Such a measure would radically transform the judicial review practice and make the rulemaking process more costly and time-consuming by forcing agencies to adopt more detailed factual records and explanations, effectively imposing more procedural requirements on agency rulemaking. This cumulative burden would have the effect of further ossifying the rulemaking process or dissuading agencies from undertaking rulemakings altogether. H.R. 4768 marks an unprecedented and dangerous move away from traditional judicial deference towards a system of that would enhance powers for corporate lobbyists and weaken protections for consumers and working families. Congressional consideration for an enhanced judicial review standard or a legislative override of judicial deference is not one we are unfamiliar with--but it is a matter we have long ago rejected along with our nation's leading administrative law scholars and experts. H.R. 4768 is an unnecessary and misguided bill that would burden the rulemaking process and not simplify it. For these reasons, I am opposed to H.R. 4768.

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Chairman, I include in the Record the Statement of Administration Policy, the President's veto threat on this bill, and also a letter from the Coalition for Sensible Safeguards. Statement of Administration Policy H.R. 4768--Separation of Powers Restoration Act of 2016--(Rep. Ratcliffe, R-TX, and 113 cosponsors) The Administration strongly opposes House passage of H.R. 4768, the Separation of Powers Restoration Act of 2016, because it would unnecessarily overrule decades of Supreme Court precedent, it is not in the public interest, and it would add needless complexity and delay to judicial review of regulatory actions. This legislation would allow Federal courts reviewing an agency action to conduct de novo review of all relevant questions of law without deferring to the legal interpretation of the agency. Both Federal statutes and case law provide Federal courts with the appropriate tools to review regulatory actions and afford appropriate deference to the expertise of the agencies that promulgated the rules and regulations under review. If the President were presented with H.R. 4768, his senior advisors would recommend he veto the bill.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 5640, the ``Electricity Storage Innovation Act,'' which is designed to expand knowledge to control, store, and convert electrical energy into chemical energy. Energy is crucial to innovation and economic competitiveness in the global economy. As a former long-time member of the House Science Committee, I am well-aware of the challenges posed by electricity generation and storage. At present, there is no ability to store electricity generated by our nation's power grid. H.R. 5640 requires that the Electricity Storage Basic Research Initiative include research specific to multivalent ion materials in electric energy storage systems and electrochemistry modeling. My preference for research legislation is to allow the science to lead and not place legislative mandates on what to research. The legislation encourages multilateral and multidisciplinary research efforts between National Laboratories, universities, and the private sector to achieve milestones in advancing and modernizing electricity storage innovation. H.R. 5640 specifically designates two subsections for innovation: (1) Electrochemistry Modeling and Simulation, and (2) Mesoscale Electrochemistry. I strongly support the $150 million in funding to expand theoretical and fundamental knowledge to control, store, and convert electrical energy into chemical energy. Through this funding, innovation and scientific milestones can be made to bring America to the cutting edge of technological advancement. H.R. 5640 is an important step in developing the technology needed to remain competitive in the global market of alternative energy. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 5640.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 5638, the ``Solar Fuels Innovation Act,'' bipartisan legislation that establishes the Solar Fuels Basic Research Initiative at the Department of Energy. As a former long-time member of the House Science Committee, I am well aware of the challenges posed by solar power generation. In our diversified and globalized economy, it is critical to invest in innovative solar power research to ensure energy independence of the United States. According to the most recent report by the International Energy Agency in 2014, the United States was fifth in solar power production. The United States produced 18,317 megawatts of solar power in 2014. The United States has more land space to harness solar power than some of the countries currently surpassing us, which includes Italy, Japan, and Germany. H.R. 5638 authorizes the Secretary of Energy to implement the Solar Fuels Basic Research Initiative to expand the scientific knowledge of photochemistry, biochemistry, electrochemistry, and materials science needed to convert solar energy to chemical energy. The legislation encourages multilateral and multidisciplinary research efforts between National Laboratories, universities, and the private sector to achieve milestones in advancing and modernizing solar power research. H.R. 5638 specifically designates two subsections for innovation: (1) Artificial Photosynthesis, and (2) Biochemistry, Replication of Natural Photosynthesis and Related Processes. The bill authorizes $150 million for each subsection of fiscal years 2017 through 2020. H.R. 5638 also authorizes the same amount and division of funding amount to the ``Biochemistry, Replication of Natural Photosynthesis and Related Processes'' subcategory. Mr. Speaker, this innovative legislation will help ensure that America remains a leader on the cutting edge of technological advancement. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 5638.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to the Rule for this very important reason. I oppose the rule because we should instead be devoting our time, attention, and energy to passing legislation to address the epidemic of gun violence and keeps the most dangerous weapons out of the hands of the most dangerous persons and potential terrorists. Mr. Speaker, we should instead be debating and voting on ``No Fly, No Buy'' legislation to keep guns out of the hands of suspected terrorists and H.R. 1217, the ``Public Safety & Second Amendment Rights Protection Act of 2015,'' sponsored by Congressman Peter King of New York and Congressman Mike Thompson of California, which expands and strengthens the firearms transfer background check system. Less than a month ago, on June 12, our nation was horrified and heartbroken by the heinous act of terror and hatred that claimed the lives of 49 innocent persons and wounded many more in Orlando, Florida, the deadliest mass shooting in the history of our country. Our hearts still grieve over a loss so overwhelming and senseless. Mass shootings have become too common in our country and we owe it to the victims of gun violence--from Orlando to Charleston to Aurora to Chattanooga to Fort Hood and more--to keep weapons intended for military use out of the hands of persons who would use them to massacre civilians. Mr. Speaker, the statistics are grim. In 2015, 13,286 people were killed in the United States by firearms and 26,819 people were injured; In 2015 there were 372 mass shootings in the United States, including 64 school shootings at elementary and secondary schools; More than 700 children have lost their lives to gun violence in the first 160 days of 2015; On average, 7 children and adolescents lose their lives to gun violence each day, 75 percent of which are under the age of 12 years old; So many people die annually from gun violence in the United States that the death toll between 1968 and 2011 eclipses the total lives lost in all the armed conflicts in the history of the United States; Mr. Speaker, let me briefly recount some of the gun violence carnage that claimed the lives of more than 300,000 persons during the period 2005-2015: 1. On June 7, 2015, a gunman shot and killed nine people at the Mother Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina, one of the oldest and largest black congregations in the South; 2. On November 11, 2009, at Fort Hood, near Killeen, Texas, a gunman shot and killed 13 people, and wounded 30 others; 3. On August 5, 2012 in Oak Creek, Wisconsin, a gunman shot and killed six people, and injured three others, at the Sikh Temple of Oak Creek; 4. On July 7, 2015 in Chattanooga, Tennessee a gunman shot and killed five people, including two U.S. Marines and a Naval Officer, and shot and injured two others at a recruiting center and U.S. Naval Reserve Center; 5. On December 2, 2015 in San Bernardino, California, two gunmen killed 14 people and injured 21 others at the Inland Regional Center; 6. On December 14, 2012, a gunman murdered 26 persons, including 20 children and 6 school administrators and teachers, at Sandy Hook Elementary in Newtown, Connecticut; 7. On April 16, 2007, a gunman killed 32 persons and injured 17 others at Virginia Tech University in Blacksburg, Virginia; and 8. On August 8, 2015, a gunman brutally murdered his ex-girlfriend and her six children and husband in one of the most notorious cases of domestic violence in the history of Houston, Texas; Nearly 100 metropolitan areas have experienced mass shootings like these since 2013. Mass shootings occur more frequently in states that do not require background checks for all gun sales and analyses of mass shootings in the United States between 2009 and 2015 document that the majority of mass shootings occur in venues where the carrying of firearms is not restricted. In states that require background checks for all handgun sales, including guns offered in unlicensed sales online and at gun shows, there are 52 percent fewer mass shootings. Congress has observed 25 moments of silence honoring victims of mass shootings since the December 14, 2012 massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, but has not enacted or even brought up for debate and vote a single gun violence prevention measure. That is why I have introduced H.R. 5470, the ``Stop Mass Killings by Violent Terrorists Act,'' which will prohibit a firearms dealer from transferring a semiautomatic assault weapon or large capacity ammunition clips to a purchaser until the Attorney General has verified that the prospective transferee has truthfully answered new questions on the firearms background check questionnaire regarding contacts between the prospective purchaser or transferee and federal law enforcement authorities. H.R. 5470 complements many of the gun violence prevention and anti- terrorism bills I have introduced in this and previous Congresses, including the ``No Fly For Foreign Fighters Act'' (H.R. 4240), which passed the House earlier this year and is pending in the Senate. I am pleased that Republican Senator Susan Collins, along with her colleagues Senator Lindsay Graham and others, have introduced bipartisan legislation this week that will ban the sale of guns to anyone who appears on the government's No-Fly list, or the selectee list, a list which includes names of people who require additional security at airports. Clearly, if you're too dangerous to get on a plane, you're too dangerous to buy a gun. On average gun violence claims the lives of 90 persons each day. Since 1968, more than a million persons have died at the hand of a gun. The homicide rate in the United States is about 6.9 times higher than the combined rate in 22 other populous highly-developed countries, despite similar non-lethal crime and violence rates. Mr. Speaker, we can reduce the incidence of mass shootings like the ones that occurred in San Bernardino, Newtown, and Orlando by making it more difficult for those who would do our people and communities harm to obtain automatic assault weapons and high capacity ammunition magazines more difficult, or better yet, by banning them altogether. And a good place to start is for the House to reject this Rule and bring to the floor for debate and vote H.R. 1217, the Public Safety & Second Amendment Rights Protection Act of 2015,'' and the bill I have introduced with Congresswoman Corrine Brown, whose congressional district includes Orlando's Pulse Nightclub, H.R. 5470, the ``Stop Mass Killings by Violent Terrorists Act.''

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 4539, the ``400 Years of African-American History Commission Act,'' which will develop and carry out activities that commemorate the arrival of Africans in English colonies in 1619 at Point Comfort, Virginia. Mr. Speaker, today it is difficult to imagine there once was a time in our country when African-Americans were owned, disrespected, and treated as less than second-class citizens for hundreds of years. However, since the 1960's we have witnessed social and economic revolutions that have transformed our country for the better and brought about the greatest reduction in economic and social inequality among Americans in history. H.R. 4539 will create programs that highlight the undeniable impact that slavery, de jure segregation, Jim Crow Laws, and the Black Codes had in creating and mandating systemic racism and inequality. The Commission will plan programs that acknowledge the impacts that marred the social, political, and economic progress of African- Americans in the United States. The Commission encourages the collaboration of organizations that honor the great contributions of African-American activists, leaders, writers, and artists. H.R. 4539 encourages the collaboration and participation of civic, economic, historical, educational, patriotic, artistic, and religious organizations to come together to celebrate anniversary activities. The contributions of African-Americans to our great nation is an essential part of our history and should be celebrated. Tribute must be paid to the trailblazers, pioneers, heroes, and leaders, the countless number of well-known and unsung heroes whose contributions have helped our nation become a more perfect union The African-American History Commission will help us honor those who have come before us, and pay forward to future generations by addressing what is the number one issue for all American families today: preserving the American promise of economic opportunity for all. To accomplish this, the Commission will assist non-profit organizations, localities, and states to further the commemoration of the 400th anniversary of the arrival of Africans in English colonies by allowing grant funding for the development of programs The Commission is also authorized to provide funding for research and academic and public policy organizations to publish and distribute information about the arrival of Africans in the United States and their contribution to this country. It took hard work, courage, patience, determination, and most of all, an unwavering faith that America could live up to the true meaning of its creed. Mr. Speaker, enacting H.R. 4539 and establishing the African-American History Commission will lay the foundation for the next generation of groundbreaking activists, leaders, scientists, writers and artists to continue contributing to the greatness of America. Social progress and justice does not always come easy or overnight but with commitment, determination, and perseverance, progress can be made and barriers can be broken. It is through our work in creating possibilities and programs for today and future generations that we best honor the accomplishments and legacy of our predecessors. Through the establishment of the 400 Years of African-American History Commission, that is made possible. I urge all Members to join me in supporting H.R. 4539.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of S. 1252, the ``Global Food Security Act of 2015,'' which requires the President to develop and implement a Global Food Security Strategy to reduce hunger and maintain global food security and nutrition. Even in an age of globalization and industrialization, hunger and food security remain fundamental impediments to global wellbeing. According to UN estimates, 795 people currently live undernourished lives, with 12.9 percent of the population of underdeveloped countries living without proper nutrition and 3.1 million children under the age of five dying of malnutrition every year. Moreover, with the world's natural resources and biodiversity rapidly degrading, global food security continues to be threatened, as one of the global economy's most crucial driving forces, agriculture, continues to suffer globally, and particularly in underdeveloped states. Even as the threats of hunger and food instability loom, the necessity of global food security remains, as solutions to global food issues also represent instrumental steps to poverty eradication and economic growth. In an age where food concerns plague underdeveloped nations and largely industrialized international powers alike, moreover, it is more important than ever to remain committed to proven food initiatives and measures of global food assistance. In particular, the Food Security Act specifies the importance of promoting activities and programs that strive to promote global food security, resilience, and nutrition. These measures include programs that: 1. place food insecure countries on a path toward self-sufficiency by coordinating U.S. assistance programs; 2. accelerate agricultural and economic growth in a manner that reduces global poverty, hunger, and malnutrition; 3. increase the productivity and livelihoods of small-scale producers; 4. build resilience to food shocks in vulnerable populations; 5. create an environment for agricultural growth and investment; 6. improve the nutritional status of women and children globally; 7. align with existing U.S. strategies and investments to achieve these objectives; 8. and strengthen relationships between U.S. and foreign universities that contribute to agricultural growth. In addition, this measure specifies that the President must coordinate a comprehensive government strategy to promote global food security by coordinating across federal departments and agencies to provide assistance under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to prevent or address food shortages. The President's annual report to Congress on the implementation of these specifications and measures will enable continued monitoring and evaluation of the success of these strategies. This measure is integral to restoring global food security, and represents a vital step in the global war against world hunger. I urge all Members to join me in voting to pass S. 1252.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. I just want to add my voice and thank Mr. Upton, as the chair of the conference, and Mr. Pallone, and all of the conferees, for what I thought was a significant historical moment. We have passed legislation, as a member of the Judiciary Committee, with no mandatory minimums. Our CARA bill speaks about grants, helping people overcome their addiction, but more importantly, helping communities. My community alone is suffering from something called Kush. That is not heroin, but all of these issues have to be confronted as a health epidemic. I thank the gentleman for accepting my amendment dealing with other drugs, about dealing with a public health epidemic, and I ask for support of the conference report. Mr. Speaker, I rise to discuss the conference report for S. 524, the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act. The conference report is the product of a long process of consultation and hard work between Congress and experts and advocates representing a wide range of interests--including victims, addiction treatment specialists, and law enforcement. In many respects, this bill is a compromise--but it does reflect advances in our approach to substance addiction issues. As a Member of the Bipartisan Task Force to Combat the Heroin Epidemic I have worked with my colleagues to come together with a comprehensive legislative package to address this national epidemic. I was an original cosponsor of the lead legislative measure and primary contribution of the House Judiciary Committee, H.R. 5046, the Comprehensive Opioid Abuse Reduction Act, and I was a cosponsor of the predecessor bill, which is substantially similar to the Senate-passed version of S. 524. The text of H.R. 5046 is largely incorporated into the conference report, and would establish a grant program, to be administered by the Department of Justice, to assist states and local governments, particularly by helping criminal justice agencies to tackle the opioid problem from a variety of angles. It would encourage the development of alternatives to incarceration that provide treatment as a solution to the underlying motivation for criminal behavior or conduct associated with mental disorders. Combined with other treatment programs under the jurisdiction of other Committees, the approach Congress is taking with the crisis of heroin and other opioids is thoughtful and comprehensive. I hope it signals a departure from some of the failed approaches concerning other drug crises in the past. For instance, our response to the surge in crack cocaine in the 1980s was to enact draconian mandatory minimum penalties with vastly disparate treatment for crack and powder cocaine. At that time, Congress took action that we are still trying to rectify. At one point, more than 80 percent of the defendants sentenced for crack offenses were African American, despite the fact that more than 66 percent of crack users are white or Hispanic. As we work on other legislation to address the enforcement and sentencing disparities related to the crack issue, we must re-examine our approach to that and other drug issues. I am grateful for the assistance of my colleague, Bob Goodlatte, the Chairman of the Judiciary Committee, for working with me to include in this bill my amendment to express the sense of the Congress that an effective and fiscally responsible approach to addressing substance abuse epidemics--no matter which drug is involved--requires treating such epidemics as a public health emergencies emphasizing prevention, treatment, and recovery. Provided in Section 708 of the Report, the Sense of Congress Regarding Treatment of Substance Abuse Epidemics expresses that decades of experience and research have demonstrated that a fiscally responsible approach to addressing the opioid abuse epidemic and other substance abuse epidemics requires treating such epidemics as a public health emergency emphasizing prevention, treatment and recovery. Indeed, we must adopt a public health approach with regard to substance abuse issues going forward. And I am heartened that, in this bill, we are not raising sentences or impacting mandatory minimums that add to mass incarceration, but we are supporting proven anti-addiction mechanisms. However, the conference committee had the opportunity to do even more--as is necessary given the urgency of the current crisis--and provide real money, right now, to implement the programs the bill authorizes. Unfortunately, this bill does not do that and our communities remain in dire need of resources to save lives that are in immediate jeopardy. That is the unfinished business of this effort and we must not rest until we have done all that we can in Congress to help protect our communities from opioid abuse. In contrast to the way we are dealing with the opioid crisis is the ill-advised strict ``law-enforcement'' centered approach Congress took in addressing crack cocaine crisis in the 1980s that that we are still trying to rectify. At one point, more than 80 percent of the defendants sentenced for crack offenses were African American, despite the fact that more than 66 percent of crack users are white or Hispanic. While we are now engaged in a comprehensive ``public health'' approach centered on public health in addressing the crisis involving heroin and other opioids, we must not forget that there is unfinished work to be done to address the enforcement and sentencing disparities related to the crack cocaine. We are not raising sentences or impacting mandatory minimums but we are funding anti-addiction mechanisms such as treatment alternatives to incarceration. We are not adding to mass incarceration--with all of the related and devastating collateral consequences--but instead we are incentivizing state and local governments to prevent, treat, and heal. That is what we should be doing, and that is what we should have done for crack and cocaine addicts. But it is not too late--we should find a way, before this Congress adjourns sine die to apply this more comprehensive approach, including treatment alternatives, to those suffering from crack and cocaine addiction. legislation supported by jackson lee 1. Regarding bipartisan comprehensive legislation: H.R. 953--Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act of 2015 Rep. Sensenbrenner, F. James, Jr. [R-WI-5] (Introduced 2/12/15) 124 Cosponsors (84 Dems--including SJL, 40 Reps) *No Sentencing Enhancements or Penalties H.R. 3719--``Stop the Overdose Problem Already Becoming a Universal Substance Epidemic Act of 2015'' or the ``STOP ABUSE Act of 2015'' Rep. Guinta, Frank C. [R-NH-1] (Introduced 10/08/2015) 8 Cosponsors (4 Dems, 4 Reps) *No Sentencing Enhancements or Penalties H.R. 4697--Prevent Drug Addiction Act of 2016 Rep. Esty, Elizabeth H. [D-CT-5] (Introduced 03/03/2016) 2 Cosponsors (Reps) *No Sentencing Enhancements or Penalties 2. Legislation to improve pain management practices: H.R. 4499--the ``Promoting Responsible Opioid Prescribing Act of 2016'' and as the ``PROP Act of 2016'' Rep. Mooney, Alexander X. [R-WV-2] (Introduced 02/09/2016) 31 Cosponsors (18 Rep, 13 Dem) *No Sentencing Enhancements or Penalties

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, as a resident of Texas, representing parts of Houston, Texas, which includes the headquarters of the Houston Police Department, the Nation's heart is heavy and saddened. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the people of Dallas and to the families who have lost their fallen heroes. We respect all of those who are on the front line of allowing the American people to protest. We understand the young people, who are many colors and backgrounds, who felt compelled to protest the loss of life of two individuals. The law enforcement officers respected that, too. They understood the pain of Mr. Castile and Mr. Sterling's deaths. Always in America, we have been able to come as protesters under the Constitution, but we recognize that law and order is the standard of this Nation. As I pray for these families, I ask the Congresspersons to rise to the level of leaders and leadership to seek out unity. As I just spoke to the head of my police department, I extended my hand to be able to work together with community and police to bring us together because that is why we are a great Nation. In Houston on Sunday, we will march and mourn for those fallen, but we will be praying for nonviolence in this Nation. What I will say, Mr. Speaker, is that the words that are ugly of those who want to divide us, I will not hear them and I will not listen to them. I will only embrace and bring us together. I will tell the young people whose faces I saw last evening in Washington, who were an array of mosaic colors, backgrounds, and religions, that we love you and we thank you for this protest of nonviolence. We will stand against violent gun behavior, thugs, and terrorists. Americans want unity, respect, and human dignity for all.