Sheila Jackson Lee

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. I yield to the gentleman from Indiana.

Ms. JACKSON LEE. I thank the ranking member very much. I would like to conclude, but I thank you for this support and make this statement as I conclude. Breast cancer has been just about as brutal on women in the military as combat. More than 800 women have been wounded in Iraq and Afghanistan, according to the Army Times, and 874 military women were diagnosed with breast cancer between 2000 and 2011. According to that same study, more are expected as it goes. So, in conclusion, let me thank the chairman and the ranking member for their focus on this amendment. I will conclude by saying that breast cancer is striking relatively young military women at an alarming rate, but male servicemembers, veterans, and their dependents, are at risk, as well. So I ask my colleagues to support this amendment. Again, those of us who are survivors recognize that the more research and the more intervention, the more lives we can save. With that, I ask the committee to support the Jackson Lee amendment, and I thank the ranking member and chairman. I yield back the balance of my time. Mr. Chair, I want to thank Chairman Frelinghuysen and Ranking Member Visclosky for shepherding this legislation to the floor and for their devotion to the men and women of the Armed Forces who risk their lives to keep our nation safe. Mr. Chair, thank you for the opportunity to explain my amendment, which is identical to an amendment that I offered and was adopted in last year's Defense Appropriations Act (H.R. 2397). My amendment increases funding for the Defense Health Program's research and development by $5 million. These funds will address the question of breast cancer in the United States military. The American Cancer Society calls several strains of breast cancer as a particularly aggressive subtype associated with lower survival rates; in this instance, it's a triple negative. But I raise an article that says: ``Fighting a Different Battle; Breast Cancer and the Military.'' We all know, by the way, that breast cancer can affect both men and women. The bad news is breast cancer has been just about as brutal on women in the military as combat. Let me say that sentence again. Breast cancer has been just about as brutal on women in the military as combat. More than 800 women have been wounded in Iraq and Afghanistan, according to the Army Times; 874 military women were diagnosed with breast cancer just between 2000 and 2011. And according to that same study, more are suspected. It grows. The good news is that we have been working on it, and I want to add my appreciation to the military. The Jackson Lee Amendment, however, will allow for the additional research. That research is particularly needed since women are joining the Armed Services in increasing numbers and serving longer, ascending to leadership. With increased age comes increased risk and incidence of breast cancer. Not only is breast cancer striking relatively young military women at an alarming rate, but male service members, veterans and their dependents are at risk as well. With a younger and generally healthier population, those in the military tend to have a lower risk for most cancers than civilians-- including significantly lower colorectal, lung and cervical--but breast cancer is a different story. Military people in general, and in some cases very specifically, are at a significantly greater risk for contracting breast cancer, accrording to Dr. Richard Clapp, a top cancer expert at Boston University who works at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on military breast cancer issues. Dr. Clapp notes that life in the military can mean exposure to a witch's brew of risk factors directly linked to greater chances of getting breast cancer. So, I am asking that we do the right thing. We are on the right track, we're on the right road. But with the expansion of women in the military, I can assure you, for long life, a vital service that these men and women give, it is extremely important to move forward with this amendment. Researchers point to a high use of oral contraception that's linked to breast cancer among women that would ensure that this particular amendment would be a positive step forward. I urge my colleagues to support the Jackson Lee Amendment.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as a mother, as a senior member in the Homeland Security Committee which was created in the backdrop of the horrific tragedy of 9/11. Today, the President and America confronts a heinous group in Iraq, ISIS, that is beheading persons and proclaiming one religion over another. And again, an op-ed appears in The Wall Street Journal from the former Vice President, who wants to blame everything on President Obama whose administration has just brought into justice one of those who perpetrated the violence and killed our Americans at Benghazi. This is not an American issue in Iraq. We gave them that opportunity. We gave 4,000 in treasure. This is really an international issue that calls upon the United Nations and the nations surrounding Iraq and Maliki to be able to have a coalition government. It is the same in Nigeria with Boko Haram that is beheading persons, kidnapping girls. We need a coalition that faces down these terrible, horrific, tragic terrorists--these are thugs--and it cannot be on the shoulders of Americans. We have given our treasure. We can protect our Embassy and we should. Thank you, Mr. President. We can give resources, but there needs to be a strong coalition. Those who come back from the ghost of yesteryear and blame this administration should be silenced. America should stand united together, and others need to work together to stop this tragedy.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. I yield to the gentleman from New Jersey.

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Chairman, this is a daunting time to be on the floor of the House during Defense Appropriations, and I add my appreciation to the chairman and to the ranking member for the bipartisan approach with which they have treated our men and women. As we speak, there are soldiers who have left our soil, and they are in Iraq protecting our men and women at our embassy. There is never a time that we do not call upon our soldiers to stand and to defend our Nation or our citizens. My amendment recognizes that. My amendment is a budget-neutral amendment. It adds $500,000 by reducing another account by $500,000 for an emphasis on PTSD, for outreach toward hard-to-reach veterans, especially those who are homeless or reside in underserved urban and rural areas. Let me congratulate the committee for its hard work in recognition of the crisis of PTSD, but let me also cite that Houston is the third largest military retirement community in the United States, exceeded only by San Antonio and San Diego, California. Houston is the second highest military recruiting district in the United States for all Armed Forces, to include the Coast Guard, and many return back to Houston. Twenty-three percent of the Houston adult homeless population are veterans, and nearly 2,500 men and women. I see them every day in my district. I have several homeless facilities that are particularly for veterans. As I interact with them, I see the clear signs of PTSD. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with this committee in establishing a PTSD center in one of our hospitals that was not a veteran facility. An estimated 7.8 percent of Americans will experience PTSD at some point in their lives, with women 10.4 percent and men 5 percent to develop PTSD; as well, estimates of PTSD from the gulf war as high as 10 percent; estimates from the war in Afghanistan are between 6 percent and 11 percent; and current estimates of PTSD in military personnel who served in Iraq range from 12 percent to 20 percent. Posttraumatic stress disorder is of course something of great concern, and many times I have seen, again, these individuals who are in these very facilities. My amendment will help to ensure that no soldier is left behind and the urgent need for more outreach toward hard-to-reach veterans suffering from PTSD, especially those who are homeless and reside in underserved areas. Mr. Chairman, I have been to what we call stand-downs. We have a number of them in our community. I started going to stand-downs way before I came to the United States Congress. These are street events that soldiers, retirees, or veterans come together, and particularly those who are homeless. I would say to you they are the most moving experiences that I have ever seen. The soldiers, the veterans are glad to see people who care. Many of them are suffering, but many of them-- all of them--put on that uniform and served us. Joe, for example, saw a good deal of active combat during his time in the military. Some incidents in particular have never left his mind, like the horrifying sight of Gary, a close comrade and friend, being blown up by a land mine. Even when he returned to civilian life, those images haunted him. Scenes from the battle would run repeatedly through his mind and disrupt his focus on work. Filling up at the gas station, for example, the smell of diesel immediately rekindled certain horrific memories. At other times, he had difficulty remembering the past, as if some events were too painful to allow back into his mind. He found himself avoiding socializing with old military buddies, as this would inevitably trigger a new round of memories. His girlfriend complained that he was always pent up and irritable, as if he were on guard, and Joe noticed that at night he had difficulty relaxing. When he heard loud noises, such as a truck backfiring, he literally jumped as if he were readying himself for combat. He began to drink heavily. I am glad that this committee has recognized the importance of providing these services for our soldiers, no matter the long range of time that they have been out, that they are now veterans, that they are still important and they still were willing to put on the uniform. In light of our crisis with the Veterans Affairs, I would ask my colleagues to support this amendment providing extra outreach to those veterans who did not think for one moment to put on that uniform and defend their Nation. Let's now provide them with that extra comfort.

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Chairman, I have an amendment at the desk.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. I thank the gentleman. This must be a unified effort. Frankly, the President is right to be deliberative. We yet do not know, as I speak--there may be some news announcement--what his decision may be. But I do believe he has done the right thing by providing security and safety for the thousands of Americans that are in Baghdad and protecting our Embassy. That is the right thing to do. He has done the right thing by finding one of the perpetrators of Benghazi. I would ask we do the right thing by not ignoring again another terrorist threat, Boko Haram in northeast Nigeria, that is fueling the flames, taking over municipalities, ready to pounce on places other than the northeast. These are threats that need the collective body of the United Nations--in this instance, the African Union, the ECOWAS, and all the states surrounding Nigeria, and, of course, the Nigerian government, of which we are friends with. But I will say that America cannot continuously go it alone. We have given our treasure. Our young men and women never say ``no.'' When they are called to duty, they go, reservists and all. I believe it is time to be responsible, respectful, and cautious in the way we move forward using our troops around the world. I ask my colleague to consider this as we deliberate on this appropriations bill. Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak on the rule for H.R. 4860, the ``Department of Defense Appropriations Act of 2015'' and the underlying bill. I thank Chairman Frelinghuysen and Ranking Member Visclosky for their work on this legislation to the floor and for their devotion to the men and women of the Armed Forces who risk their lives to keep our nation safe. I also want to extend thanks and appreciation to the men and women in and out of uniform who defend our nation and serve honor and distinction. My work in the 18th Congressional District of Texas has allowed me the privilege of working with men and women in the military, the workers in aeronautics and space industries that contribute to our nation's defense as well as those in the Department of Defense who work in and around our nation's capital. Through my work as a Member of Congress I know those who have served and returned home to a tough economy, struggles with physical disabilities and life changing injuries associated with their service to our nation. The men and women who serve in the military are collection of statistics and data points, but individuals with names and faces--real people who depend on us to ensure they are the best trained, best equipped, and best led defense force in the world. I appreciate the Committee's continued support for providing funding that assists military men and women's ability in operating in unconventional and irregular warfare and countering unconventional threats, supports capacity-building efforts with foreign military forces, and supports ongoing operations, as well as programs that will improve the health and well-being of the force, including sexual assault prevention. This bill before us does much but not enough to recognize the sacrifices of the men and women serving in the military. The fiscal year 2015 Department of Defense military personnel budget request was for $128.95 billion. The Committee appropriated $128.127 billion, nearly $800 million less the request and less than the need. While we watch Al Qaeda-inspired terrorists in Nigeria in the form of Boko Haram and ISIS in Iraq carry out terrible acts of violence, it is important to ensure that military has the resources needed to respond to any threat to our nation or its allies. The bill recognizes that the military is changing due to the expanded roles for women who pursue careers in the armed services and it is essential that this change not lead to a diminution of rights or opportunities from what women would enjoy had they pursued a different career path. That is why I will be offering an amendment (Jackson Lee No. 1) to provide $5 million in increased funding and support for medical research related to breast cancer research. The identical amendment was offered and adopted by the House last year. This additional funding will be made available for Triple Negative Breast Cancer research. TNBC is one of the most deadly forms of the disease that is extremely difficult to detect, and has an extremely high mortality rate. I will also be offering an amendment (Jackson Lee Amendment No. 2) to reprogramming $500,000 toward outreach programs targeting hard to reach veterans, especially those who are homeless or reside in underserved urban and rural areas, who suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). An identical amendment was offered by me and adopted by the House last year. PTSD, along with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), are the signature wounds of the Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and Operation Iraqi Freedom. The need for treatment and support of those afflicted will be with us long after the conflict ceases and our heroes have returned home.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commemorate the 20th Anniversary of National Men's Health Week from June 9-15, 2014. Men's Health Week is a time to focus attention and heighten awareness of preventable health problems affecting men and boys and encourage early detection and treatment. On May 24, 1994, Congress passed S.J. Res. 179, a joint resolution establishing National Men's Health Week (NMHW). The joint resolution was signed into law (Pub. L. 103-264) by President William Jefferson Clinton on May 31, 1994. Men's Health Month is celebrated across the country with screenings, health fairs, media appearances, and other health education and outreach activities. I encourage all men, young and older, and their families, to develop positive and proactive attitudes toward health and wellness, engage in preventive behaviors, lead healthy lifestyles, and seek timely medical advice and care. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, afflicting 1 out of every 11 American men and killing 34,000 men every year. For African-American men, the rate of affliction is even worse; African-American men have the highest incidence of prostate cancer in the world. In the past 5 years, the death rate for prostate cancer has grown at almost twice the death rate of breast cancer. National Men's Health Network has encouraged the development of thousands of health awareness activities as corporations, hospital systems, clinics, faith-based communities, the public sector, and others use the month of June to highlight their services and reach out to men and their families. Mr. Speaker, much progress has been made in the past 20 years with improvements in the health and well-being of men and boys, with a dramatic improvement in life expectancy and surprising drops in key mortality indicators. There has been a steep drop among males in overall mortality, and corresponding improvements in the mortality rates for cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Our goal this month should be to raise awareness about men's health in our communities and to support National Men's Health Week and to rededicate ourselves to providing support for our men by further educating ourselves and our communities on Men's Health and effects. Recognizing and preventing men's health problems is not just a man's issue because it impacts wives, mothers, daughters, and sisters. Men's health is truly a family issue. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in the recognition of National Men's Health Week, and ask all Americans to take time this month to find out what you can do to help the growing population of the men around you.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute and remember the great Ruby Dee, one of the most talented and influential actresses in American history and a committed activist for social and economic justice for more than 60 years. Ruby Dee passed away peacefully in her New Rochelle, New York home on June 11, 2014. She was 91 years old. Born Ruby Ann Wallace in 1922 in Cleveland, Ohio, Ruby Dee moved to New York's Harlem as a small child where she was raised by her father, Marshall Wallace, and his wife, Amelia, a schoolteacher and stickler for elocution and the person who introduced Ruby Dee to poetry, music and dance. It was in her Harlem school where Ruby Dee first read a passage from a play for her class mates and was met with applause, sparking her passion for acting. After graduating from Hunter College in 1945, she embarked upon a truly remarkable stage and screen career, one that lasted nearly 70 years. She was a member of the American Negro Theatre where she acted alongside other legends such as Sidney Poitier, Harry Belafonte, and Hilda Simms. In 1946, Ruby Dee appeared in her first movie, a musical called ``That Man of Mine.'' She went on to star in several acclaimed films including ``The Jackie Robinson Story,'' ``The Incident,'' ``Purlie Victorious,'' ``Do the Right Thing,'' and ``American Gangster,'' for which she was nominated for the Best Supporting Actress Academy Award, the second oldest person ever to be nominated. Ruby Dee is perhaps best known for extraordinary portrayals of Ruth Younger in the stage and screen productions of Lorraine Hansberry's timeless classic, ``A Raisin in the Sun,'' for which she received the National Board of Review Award for Best Supporting Actress. Playing the wife of the main character, Walter Lee Younger (played by Sidney Poitier), Ruby Dee's Ruth Younger was, as the New York Times put it: ``a character with far too much on her plate: an overcrowded home, a troubled husband, a young son, an overbearing mother-in-law, a wearying job and an unwanted pregnancy, not to mention the shared burden of black people everywhere in a society skewed against them.'' Over her illustrious 70 year career, Ruby Dee was the recipient of numerous honors and awards, including the Emmy, the Grammy, the Obie, the Screen Actors Guild, and the Drama Desk Awards. In 1995 President Clinton awarded her the National Medal of Arts and in 2008 she received the Spingarn Medal, the highest honor bestowed by the NAACP. That same year she also received the Eleanor Roosevelt Val- Kill Medal in recognition for her active engagement and ``personal presence at pivotal moments in the tumultuous history of American civil rights.'' In 1946, Ruby Dee joined the cast of the Broadway-bound play, ``Jeb,'' where she met Ossie Davis, the play's lead character, and the man who would become her husband and soul mate in 1948. Over the next 59 years Ruby Dee and Ossie Davis performed together on stage and screen numerous times and were united in their protests against injustice, whether it was speaking out in the 1950s against the executions of Julius and Ethel Rosenberg; McCarthyism; or the revocation of Paul Robeson's passport. They protested the Vietnam War and marched for civil rights, voting rights, women's rights, environmental justice, and against South African apartheid. In 1963, at the March on Washington, the couple served as the masters of ceremonies at Washington Monument entertainment event preceding the march to the Lincoln Memorial. Ruby Dee and Ossie Davis counted among their close friends both the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X; Presidents Carter, Clinton, Obama; and Nelson Mandela. Throughout her life, the husky-voiced Ruby Dee was a profile in courage. She bravely stood up for her beliefs and spoke truth to power when many did not out of fear that association with controversial causes would have an adverse effect on their careers. But because of her courage and steadfastness, the doors of opportunity would later be opened to future generations of performing artists of all races, creeds, and backgrounds. It truly can be said that Ruby Dee was an inspiration for African- American performers and women around the world. Mr. Speaker, Ruby Dee lived a long, fulfilling, storied and consequential life. She made her mark in the world. More important, she made a difference in the lives of untold numbers of girls aspiring to realize their dreams. I hope that Ruby Dee's family and loved ones are comforted by the fact that so many people all around the world are mourning with them at this difficult time. So today one of our nation's greatest actress has taken her final bow and the curtain has come down on the extraordinary passion play that is and was the life of the legendary, talented, and supremely beautiful Ruby Dee. Her next play will be in Heaven, accompanied by a chorus of angels.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Con. Res. 100, which authorizes the use of the Rotunda of the Capitol for a ceremony to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the enactment of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. It is fitting and proper that the Rotunda of the Capitol is the venue for the commemoration for one of the consequential governmental actions since the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation. On July 2, 1964, fifty years ago next month, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the act that profoundly changed our country and brought about the greatest reduction in economic and social inequality among Americans in history. Mr. Speaker, today it is difficult to imagine there once was a time in our country when blacks and whites could not eat together in public restaurants, use the same public restrooms, stay at the same hotels, or attend the same schools. It is hard to believe today that just 50 years ago, discrimination on the ground of race was a legal and socially accepted practice. But the Civil Rights Act of 1964 changed that. The Civil Rights Act outlawed discrimination and segregation in employment, public accommodations, and education on the ground of race, gender, religion, or national origin. This act became the soil from which our country flourished; opportunities were bred and dreams were born. This change did not happen overnight or by accident. It took hard work and courage and an unwavering faith that America could live up to the true meaning of its creed. Fortunately for our country, there were such men and women who had that faith and courage. People like the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Whitney Young, Rosa Parks, and John Lewis are just a few of the many noble leaders who took a stand for freedom and risked their lives to make real the promise of America for all Americans. Today, 50 years later, we continue to preserve the rights and freedoms that so many fought for and could only dream of before the Civil Rights Act. On the evening of June 11, 1963, President John F. Kennedy addressed the Nation and uttered the words that would echo in history: It ought to be possible for every American to enjoy the privileges of being American without regard to his race or his color. But this is not the case. We are confronted primarily with a moral issue. It is as old as the Scriptures and is as clear as the American Constitution. The heart of the question is whether all Americans are to be afforded equal rights and equal opportunities, whether we are going to treat our fellow Americans as we want to be treated. One hundred years of delay have passed since President Lincoln freed the slaves, yet their heirs, their grandsons, are not fully free. They are not yet freed from the bonds of injustice. They are not yet freed from social and economic oppression. And this Nation, for all its hopes and all its boasts, will not be fully free until all its citizens are free. Now the time has come for this Nation to fulfill its promise. And a better country, we have become. Although we have come a long way, we must not become complacent on the issues of civil rights. Our Nation is a growing melting pot, and we must continue to make sure American citizens, regardless of their religion, race, or gender, are granted the right to freedom and equality. This Nation prides itself on the abundance of individual freedom. Through the Civil Rights Act of 1964, we have nurtured a land where every American citizen is born free, and with the opportunity to chase their own American dream. Mr. Speaker, before signing the Civil Rights Act of 1964, President Lyndon Baines Johnson addressed the Nation on the significance of the bill he was about to sign: We believe that all men are created equal. Yet many are denied equal treatment. We believe that all men have certain unalienable rights. Yet many Americans do not enjoy those rights. We believe that all men are entitled to the blessings of liberty. Yet millions are being deprived of those blessings-- not because of their own failures, but because of the color of their skin. The reasons are deeply imbedded in history and tradition and the nature of man. We can understand--without rancor or hatred--how this all happened. But it cannot continue. Our Constitution, the foundation of our Republic, forbids it. The principles of our freedom forbid it. Morality forbids it. And the law I will sign tonight forbids it. It is most fitting that the Rotunda of the Capitol be venue of the ceremony commemorating the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which was passed by the Congress of the United States and has for 50 years ensured and protected the right of all Americans to live their dreams in a land where equal opportunity is the birthright of all.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak on H.R. 4457, America's Small Business Tax Relief Act Of 2014. H.R. 4457 permanently sets the IRC Section 179 small business expensing maximum limit at $500,000. In order to remain profitable and be competitive, small business like limousine owners as represented by the National Limousine Association, farmers and ranchers, and others must continually upgrade and replace equipment, buildings, and storage facilities. A This is a very important provision due to its immediacy for small business owners. With provisions like Section 179, businesses are able to reduce maintenance costs, take advantage of labor-saving advances, become more energy-efficient and adopt technology that is environmentally friendly. Section 179 allows a taxpayer to deduct the cost of new or used business property rather than depreciating the cost over a longer period of time. The immediate expensing provided by Section 179 allows these businesses increased cash flow for purchases that might otherwise be delayed or that would require them to incur debt expense. The bill would make permanent rules that allow small businesses to expense capital investments in new equipment and property, making permanent provisions that provide that the maximum amount that a taxpayer may expense is $500,000. Unfortunately Mr. Speaker, this bill is estimated to cost $73.1 billion over 10 years and it is not paid for, which means that the deficit will necessarily go up as a result. The Congressional Research Service has reviewed quantitative analyses of the tax break and found that, ``. . . accelerated depreciation in general is a relatively ineffective tool for stimulating the economy.'' Mr. Speaker, I understand the point that supporters of the bill argue: that it is necessary to ensure that small businesses can continue to make new investments in property and equipment even as costs rise, affecting more than 10 percent of small-business tax returns. They say it lowers the cost of capital for tangible property used in business, eliminates depreciation record-keeping requirements with respect to expensed property and removes a disincentive to buying more efficient cooling and heating equipment. Democrats generally support increased expensing under Section 179 but we cannot sit idly by while the party which has made deficit reduction their rallying cry--refuses to offset the cost of the bill. It must be noted that permanently extending six tax provisions that GOP leaders want to act on would add $310 billion to the deficit. With the bills on the floor today, Republicans are continuing their gross double standard of adding billions to the deficit to fund permanent tax breaks for businesses, while insisting on fully offsetting the cost of initiatives for middle class and working Americans, including veterans benefits, student loans, and unemployment insurance. The Democratic Motions to Recommit would put the brakes on Republicans' deficit-busting spending spree, and shorten these tax extensions. Democrats have always strongly supported expanded ``Section 179'' expensing for small businesses and tax relief for S-Corporations, but permanent extensions of tax breaks that cost hundreds of billions are hypocritical and irresponsible. We need comprehensive tax reform that addresses the tax needs of middle class families as well as businesses. In the meantime, Republicans shouldn't be punching hundred billion dollar holes in the deficit. It is time for Republicans to stop ignoring hard working American families, and work with Democrats to create jobs, invest in innovation, and build an economy that works for everyone not just the wealthy. Mr. Speaker, I am prepared to vote for a two-year extension but these bills must be paid for--because if they are not--future generations will suffer because of the unsustainable debt. Let us get back to being fiscally responsible.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate and honor our fathers--fathers of this country--who have provided the stable, loving atmosphere for children all over the Nation. I thank, in particular, my late father, the first African American comic cartoonist, Ezra Jackson, who provided me with such stability and love and inspiration; my father-in-law, a Tuskegee Airman, who served in World War II; certainly, my own husband, Dr. Elwyn C. Lee, who integrated the faculty of the University of Houston and its administration. But the real tribute is to the many fathers across America who have taken children and treated them with love and dignity and who have given them, even if they did not have it, some semblance of comfort-- fathers who have adopted, fathers who have foster cared, fathers who are incarcerated but who still try to maintain the love and connection with their children, poor fathers, working fathers--those who have found their way to claim Sunday as the day when we say, ``Happy Father's Day.'' We honor the fathers of America. We thank you for the foundation that you have given to this Nation.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak on H.R. 4453, The Permanent S Corporation Built-In Gains Relief Act of 2014. Identical to a provision contained in the discussion draft of the ``Tax Reform Act of 2014'' released on February 26, 2014, the bill, H.R. 4453, reported by the Committee on Ways and Means, provides a permanent five-year recognition period for built-in gains of an S corporation. I support sound tax policy which allows small businesses in Houston to grow and invest in their people--which is exactly what this bill would do. And supporters of the bills argue that they would eliminate a significant deterrent that can discourage C-corporations from electing to be S-corporations and will provide additional flexibility for S- corporations to access capital by selling unproductive assets to finance expansion of their businesses. Of course Democrats support permanent treatment of S-corporation taxes but we must again take our Republican friends to task for not offsetting the cost of the bill, noting again that permanently extending six tax provisions that GOP leaders want to act on would add $310 billion to the deficit. That's $310 billion which could go to Head Start, Student Loans, or feeding the needy. Because we are the party of Small Business, Democrats understand that by making the provision permanent, businesses have more certainty and they can make better, more fluid decisions--but the process by which we are doing it is unseemly. But the GOP has made paying for every bill a prerequisite--except in this case. Where is the consistency, I ask? In moving forward with a permanent extension of a select group of tax extenders, the Majority is once again leaving to an increasingly uncertain fate critical provisions like the Work Opportunity Tax Credit, the American Opportunity Tax Credit, the New Markets Tax Credit, the Mortgage Relief Debt Forgiveness and the renewable energy tax credits, as well as the long-range status of the EITC and the Child Tax Credit. The Democrat's Motion to Recommit would extend the S Corporation shorter Built-in Gains Recognition Period and Charitable Contribution Adjusted Basis for only two additional years, through the end of 2015, as opposed to the underlying bill's permanent extension. It would prevent these tax cut extensions from permanently adding to the deficit, undermining comprehensive tax reform, and putting further pressure on the United States' discretionary priorities. Mr. Speaker, I am prepared to vote for a two-year extension but these bills must be paid for--because if they are not--future generations will suffer because of the unsustainable debt. Let us get back to being fiscally responsible.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the service of Colonel La'Tonya Lynn of the U.S. Army for her extraordinary dedication to duty and service to our Nation. Colonel Lynn distinguished herself through exceptionally meritorious service from August 13, 2012 to June 20, 2014, while serving as the Chief of the Army House Liaison Division. During this period of extraordinary change, continued combat operations in Afghanistan, significant fiscal constraints and challenges facing the Army, Colonel Lynn fostered a strategic partnership with both the 112th and 113th Congress. She clearly understood the importance of Congressional oversight and did a truly outstanding job managing some of the most complex issues the Army faced during the last three legislative cycles. A native of Glen Burnie, Maryland, Colonel Lynn began her career in the Army in 1986. She was commissioned as a Military Police Officer upon graduation from Hampton University. Her assignments include Chief, Prisoner Services; Platoon Leader; Assistant Operations Officer; Company Commander; Budget Officer; Executive Officer; Deputy Division Provost Marshal, 1st Armored Division; Division Provost Marshal, 1st Infantry Division, Operation Iraqi Freedom; Battalion Commander, 10th and 91st Military Police Battalions, Fort Drum, New York; Commander, Task Force Vigilant, Operation Enduring Freedom, Afghanistan and Brigade Commander, 8th Military Police Brigade, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. She also served as Chief, Military Police Enlisted Branch, Human Resources Command and Executive Officer for the Director of Strategy, Plans and Policy, Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, G3/5/7, in the Pentagon. Colonel Lynn has attended numerous Army and civilian schools and training programs. She earned a Master of Science in National Resource Strategy from National Defense University (ICAF), a Master of Business Administration degree from Bowie State University, and a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Hampton University. Colonel Lynn is an Army Airborne Paratrooper whose military awards include, among others, the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, multiple Kosovo Campaign Medals, multiple Afghanistan Campaign Medals, and Kuwait Liberation Medals. She received the Parachutist Badge, Army Staff Identification Badge and also earned the prestigious Military Police ``Order of the Marechausee.'' In light of her achievements, the Army has recognized her outstanding potential and has assigned her to serve as the Chief of the Ethics/ Character Task Force at Headquarters, Department of the Army, Pentagon. Colonel Lynn's outstanding leadership, strategic vision, and keen judgment are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon her, the Office of the Army Legislative Liaison and the U.S. Army. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the selfless service of Colonel La'Tonya Lynn as she proceeds to the next chapter in her remarkable career and continues to serve our great Nation.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall vote No. 286, I voted ``yes'' inadvertently. I would like the Record to reflect that my vote would have been ``no.''

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, this past weekend, I had the privilege of joining the President of the United States in the official delegation to the 70th commemoration of D-Day. It was not a normal experience of an international codel, the opportunity to interact with our colleagues and allies in Europe, but it was a testament and a testimony to the continuing strength, determination, and value of the United States of America. It was a moving experience. It was an experience based in reality. We listened to the recounting of the deliberations of General Montgomery, General Eisenhower, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Winston Churchill, and many others. We listened to the stories of young men, many of whom signed up at the age of 15 or 16, 17, wanting to serve their country, not knowing where they would go, now in their late 80s and early 90s, and some would say the sweetest men that you had ever seen, showing pictures, telling stories, and shedding a tear about the comrades that were left on Omaha Beach or Sword Beach, soldiers that didn't speak the same language but understood the words of liberation and freedom. I would only say that I hope this challenges this body called the House of Representatives, that they didn't wear the armor of Republicans or Green Party or Tea Party or Independent Party or Democratic Party; they wore the armor of an American. What wonderful words of General Eisenhower, who said that he needed the unity, the strength of all, or the sadness of those who ploughed their way onto the beach, seasick and nauseous as they were, losing tons of equipment, and, unfortunately, at times coming and falling over bodies of bleeding soldiers, losing some 10,000 in the first day. Where is the America of that time, prepared to take up comprehensive immigration reform or prepared to take up serious gun regulations to stop this unending violence in America, even the shooting of two law enforcement officers? What has America come to? Where is its greatness? Where is the reality that we are the generations that have inherited those young men's lives--and young women's, the Rosie Riveters--who left their homes, sacrificing? Where is the placement of the Voting Rights Act reauthorization, which is a bipartisan bill? Why haven't we passed that to show that liberty is real in the United States of America? I had moments where tears fell--of joy--and the privilege of talking to and meeting these men, watching them receive the honor from the French people, and as we walked through the streets even today, the people of France were saying thank you with a degree of emotion that knew that they would not be free, they would not be liberated, they would not be France if it had not been for those boys who left the soil of this United States; or those who came from Guadeloupe and Martinique, men of color who came and were trained from Fort Dix and then fought on the shores; or my uncle, who fought in Tunis and Ethiopia; and others who left my widowed grandmother, her three sons, leaving one behind--all of us have been touched. So it is important that, even as we look to the status of Sergeant Bergdahl, that we look at it in a spirit of fairness, not grandstanding, not partisan politics, but finding out the facts and realizing that America is greater than divisive politics when you look to the Greatest Generation of which we have now been given the gift of their life, their sacrifice. No one will be the same after they have walked amongst the white crosses that represent the blood shed by America, not to conquer Europe, but to free Europe. That is our mantra, and that is what we should do for the American people, not to conquer them, but to free them from violence, from inconsistent policies, and certainly from the inability to vote. I pay tribute to the 70th commemoration of the brilliance of America and the spirit of her youth, and I tell everyone that that brilliance and that spirit is not lost upon us today. I am happy because I know that embedded in all of those who walk the streets of this Nation and call themselves an American have that same spirit, and we can make a difference in this country for all of those who need us.

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Mr. Chair, let me, first of all, thank Mr. Latham and Mr. Pastor for their leadership on this important legislation and overall indicate that my amendment is important, but it restates a current law. In particular, what I think is important is that it emphasizes the nature of projects that create economic development, particularly in the transportation area. It cites 5309, title 49, the Secretary may make grants under this section to State and local government authorities to assist in financing, goes on to say new fixed guideway capital projects, small start projects, including acquisition of real property. It goes on to talk about car capacity improvements, including double tracking, and it specifically goes into the line of work that deals with projects on approved transportation plans. That is key. The language here says section grants to State and local governments, which means that when local governments propose their projects, the Secretary has the authority to go forward on them. Let me, for a moment, give some quotes from organizations that have supported light rail and the economic development of transportation. One statement says that we simply cannot afford to have limitations on Federal funding or turn away money that can be utilized to make our region a better place to live, work, and build businesses. It is well documented that economic development of transportation projects guides the Nation. Whether or not it is on the seaways, whether or not it is dams, whether it is highways, whether or not it is tollways, whether or not it involves other modes of transportation, they are economic engines. And it is important for the local community to be the drivers of that. One statement says that the region will not be able to maintain its economic vitality without the ability to create and preserve infrastructure that supports the movement of people and goods throughout our country. So this amendment clearly speaks to the global aspect of the Secretary of Transportation having the ability to work with our local and State governments. I would ask my colleagues to emphasize in the support of this amendment, to recognize that we are emphasizing the crucialness of the high transportation dollars to economic development. I would hope that this appropriations bill, which is focused on Housing and Urban Development in many ways, and focused on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development as it serves sometimes the poorest people, transportation as it provides those same people the opportunity to seek employment or reach places of employment--they should not be constrained. Federal funding that is designated and provided should not be constrained. I would lastly make this point: that when you go through the environmental process through NEPA and that process is completed, and it has all the t's crossed and the i's dotted and the hearings are in, it is important that this authority that I just mentioned is allowed to proceed. Again, I emphasize the Secretary may make grants under this section to State and local government authorities to assist in the financing of any number of transportation projects. I ask my colleagues to support this amendment, and with that, I will yield back with the point that, again, this meets the test of recognizing that important cities across America have the ability to receive this funding, including the fourth-largest city in the Nation. With that, I yield back the balance of my time. Thank you for this opportunity to briefly explain my amendment. Let me offer my appreciation and thanks to Ranking Member Pastor and to Chairman Latham for their work on this legislation and long commitment and advocacy for sound domestic policy regarding our nations transportation systems and provide for affordable safe housing to our nation's citizens. Houston is the fourth most populous city in the country; but unlike other large cities, we have struggled to have an effective mass transit system. Over many decades Houston's mass transit policy was to build more highways with more lanes to carry more drivers to and from work. The city of Houston has changed course and is now pursuing Mass transit options that include light rail. This decision to invest in light rail is strongly supported by the increased use by Houstonians in the light rail service provided by previous transportation appropriations bills. The April 2014, Houston metropolitan transit Authority report on weekly ridership states that 44,267 used Houston's light rail Service representing a 6,096 or 16% change in ridership in April of last year. This increase in light rail usage outpaced ridership of other forms of mass transit in the city of Houston: metro bus had a 2.3% increase over April 2013; metro bus-local had a 1.3% increase over April 2013; and Metro bus-Park and ride had a 8.0% increase over April 2013. On February 5, 2013, the Houston Chronicle reported on the congestion Houston drivers face under daily commute to and from work. The article stated that Houston commuters continue to enjoy some of the worst traffic delays in the country, according to the 2012 urban mobility report, Houston area drivers wasted more than two days a year, on average, in traffic congestion, costing them each $1,090 in lost time and fuel. Funds made available under this deal should be available for the construction of the University rail line and support of local government decisions by the Houston Metropolitan transit Authority and the city of Houston to expand rail service. As elected officials and members of Congress we should allow local governments to decide how they will spend transportation dollars made available under this appropriations bill.

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I have an amendment at the desk.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Chairman, working with housing developments in my own district, there is an interest in making sure that the tenants are informed of their rights and responsibilities. This amendment provides for informing tenants of their rights and responsibilities. The amendment would increase funding to the Department of Housing and Urban Development's Policy Development and Research Office to support efforts to inform tenants of their rights and responsibilities. In 2012, 23.8 percent of Houstonians were living in poverty. According to the Christian Community Service Center, 17.3 percent of Houston families live below poverty. In the city of Houston, 31.3 percent of children under the age of 18 live in poverty, and 33.6 percent of children under the age of 5 live in poverty. The amendment will increase the Department of Housing and Urban Development's Policy Development and Research funding. This amendment will support work by HUD to inform tenants of their rights and responsibilities. Those who provide shelter to residents of publicly subsidized housing may own monthly family dwellings or a single home. A relationship between the tenant and the property owner is very important to the long-term housing stability of those living in public or subsidized housing. Many residents of low-income communities may never have lived in a home of their own and may not have the knowledge or experience to know the basics regarding their obligation as tenants to abide by rental agreements or the obligation of property owners to maintain safe and pest-free housing. It is my interest to continue to press forward for more information to the many housing developments that I have in my congressional district. I think it is important to give notice to the Department of Housing and Urban Development that a better job can be done. With that, Mr. Chairman, I ask unanimous consent to withdraw the amendment.

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Chairman, I have an amendment at the desk.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, on June 9, 2014, I was unavoidably detained attending to representational activities in my congressional district, and thus unable to return in time for rollcall votes Nos. 272 through 274. Had I been present, I would have voted as follows: 1. On rollcall No. 272, I would have voted ``yes''. (H.R. 4412, To authorize the programs of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration) 2. On rollcall No. 273, I would have voted ``no''. (Broun Amendment to H.R. 4745, Transportation--Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2015, reducing funding for Amtrak by $34 million (10% cut)) 3. On rollcall No. 274, I would have voted ``no''. (Chabot Amendment to H.R. 4745, Transportation--Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2015, reduces overall funding for Section 8 housing programs by approximately $3 billion (10% cut))

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commemorate LGBT Pride Month and the remarkable progress that has been made in making our country more diverse and tolerant and embracing of differences in the 45 years since the infamous Stonewall Uprising in 1969 in New York City. Our country made progress with the repeal of ``Don't Ask, Don't Tell,'' which I was proud to support. Our nation is now stronger and our people are safer thanks to the sacrifices made by these brave Americans, who no longer need to choose between service and silence. There have been other changes for the better. In July 2011, President Obama and his administration concluded that a critical section of the Defense of Marriage Act is no longer constitutionally defensible. The Supreme Court agreed and on June 26, 2011, handed down the landmark decision in United States v. Windsor, 570 U.S. 12 (2013), which struck down Section 3 of DOMA because it violated the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment by treating relationships that had equal status under state law differently under federal law. That decision accelerated the movement for marriage equality and today 19 states now recognize same-sex marriages. Mr. Speaker, this year marks the 50th anniversary of the landmark Civil Rights Act of 1964, brilliantly shepherded to passage by one of the greatest Texans, President Johnson, which outlawed discrimination in public accommodations, education, and employment on the grounds of race, creed, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The Civil Rights Act has made our country better. I am pleased to report that progress is being made at the local level as well. Last month, the Houston City Council approved the Houston Equal Rights Ordinance, which extends the right to seek and hold employment, obtain housing, and enjoy public accommodations free from discrimination to all individuals in Houston without regard not just to sex, race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin but also to age, familial status, marital status, military status, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity or pregnancy. The HERO Ordinance represents another giant step forward in our nation's and my city's continuing efforts to form a more perfect union. I believe the anti-discrimination protections Houstonians now enjoy should be extended to all persons in our country, which can be done this year were Congress to pass the Employee Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA). Although more remains to be done to realize the full promise of America that all are equally treated and protected by the law but it is undeniable that America is closer to realizing that promise than it was during the dark days of Stonewall. So there is much reason for joy and optimism when my home city of Houston celebrates Houston Pride Week later this month, from June 20- 29. According to the 2010 U.S. Census, the 16th largest LGBT community in the nation is located in the Houston metropolitan area, which I am privileged to represent. This dynamic community is culturally diverse and economically and artistically vibrant. Houston Pride Week has been an annual event for the last 35 years, since 1979, held to promote the individuality of Houston's ever-growing LGBT community. The Pride Festival and Parade are at the center of the Celebration and are annually attended by more than 400,000 people from Houston and around the world. Mr. Speaker, progress is made through the efforts of courageous leaders who actively engage their communities and face adversity to ensure that the rights of all are clearly defined and protected. People like the legendary Bayard Rustin, who organized the 1947 Journey of Reconciliation which inspired the Freedom Rides of the 1960s and helped Dr. King organize the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and who was the driving force behind the 1963 March on Washington. Other members of the LGBT community whose contributions have made enriched American culture and made our country better include the great poet Langston Hughes; Billy Strayhorn the musician and gifted composer whose 30-year collaboration with Duke Ellington gave the world some of the greatest jazz music ever; and James Baldwin, one of the towering figures in the history of American literature. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to acknowledge the achievements of just a few of the countless number of Americans who overcame prejudice and discrimination America be a more welcoming place for succeeding generations of LGBT community members.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in humble gratitude to commemorate the 70th anniversary of D-Day, the Allied Forces' audacious amphibious landing at Normandy, France, on June 6, 1944. ``Operation Overlord,'' as D-Day was formally known, was the largest single amphibious assault in the history of warfare. The success of D-Day, which was far from certain at the outset, led to the liberation of Western Europe, signaled the death knell of the German Wehrmacht, and paved the way to unconditional victory by the Allied Forces over the evils of Nazism, fascism, and Japanese imperialism. It is no exaggeration to say that D-Day changed the course of human history. The aim of the meticulously planned D-Day operation was to open a second front in the European war theater from which the Allied Forces could attack the German army and push east to capture Berlin. With the Russian Army advancing from the east, coupled with the southern front opened by the Allied invasion of Italy from North Africa in 1942, the opening of a western front would set in motion the pincer movement that would catch the German Army in a trap from which there would be no escape. The formidable German Army expected that the Allied Forces would try to launch an invasion from the western beaches of France, they just did not know when or where. So in anticipation of an Allied invasion, the Nazis constructed the infamous Atlantic Wall, an extensive system of coastal fortifications built along the western coast of Europe and Scandinavia. Under the direction of Field Marshal Rommel, the Atlantic Wall was reinforced by the addition of concrete pillboxes built along the beaches to house machine guns, antitank guns and light artillery. Mines and antitank obstacles were planted on the beaches themselves and underwater obstacles and mines were placed in waters just off shore. By the time of the D-Day landing, the Nazis had laid almost six million mines in northern France. And awaiting Allied soldiers who made their way on to and away from the beaches were gun emplacements and minefields extended inland. ``War is hell,'' said General William Tecumseh Sherman during the Civil War. And that is an apt description of what awaited the brave Allied warriors who set sail from England to the beaches of Normandy in the early morning of June 6, 1944, at the beginning of what has rightly been called ``The Longest Day.'' But they were buoyed in their resolve by the millions of prayers from Americans and others back home, of all races, religions, and creeds, invoking the Lord's blessing, mercy, and grace. With the outcome in doubt, President Franklin Roosevelt asked the nation to join him in this solemn prayer: Almighty God: Our sons, pride of our nation, this day have set upon a mighty endeavor, a struggle to preserve our Republic, our religion, and our civilization, and to set free a suffering humanity. Lead them straight and true; give strength to their arms, stoutness to their hearts, steadfastness in their faith. They will need Thy blessings. For these men are lately drawn from the ways of peace. They fight not for the lust of conquest. They fight to end conquest. They fight to liberate. They fight to let justice arise, and tolerance and goodwill among all Thy people. They yearn but for the end of battle, for their return to the haven of home. The prayers were needed because the cost of D-Day was high. U.S. casualties on D-Day totaled more than 2,499 dead, 3,184 wounded, 1,928 missing, and 26 captured. Our British and Canadian allies suffered terrible losses on D-Day as well: approximately 2,700 for the British and 946 for the Canadians. German casualties are estimated at 4,000 to 9,000. In total, the number of combatants killed, wounded or missing in the Battle of Normandy for both sides exceeded 425,000, not including the estimated 15,000 to 20,000 French civilians killed. But the operation was a success. More than 156,000 troops or paratroopers came ashore on D-Day, 73,000 from the U.S., 83,000 from Great Britain and Canada. By the end of June 11, D-Day+5, 326,547 troops, 54,186 vehicles and 104,428 tons of supplies had come ashore. And with them the seeds for the victory in Europe that would come less than a year later, on May 8, 1945, with the fall of Berlin and the unconditional surrender of the Nazis. On the eve of the Normandy invasion, General Dwight D. Eisenhower, the Supreme Commander of the Allied Forces, addressed the soldiers, sailors, and airmen of the Allied Expeditionary Forces to let them know that they were about to embark upon the ``Great Crusade,'' and that the ``eyes of the world were upon you.'' He told them that their task would not be easy because the ``enemy is well trained, well equipped and battle-hardened. He will fight savagely.'' But, General Eisenhower said, ``this is the year 1944. The tide has turned. The free men of the world are marching together to victory.'' And march to victory they did, full justifying General Eisenhower's ``confidence in [their] courage, devotion to duty, and skill in battle.'' Because of the heroism of these men who willingly risked their lives to be the tip of the spear of liberty, the war was won and a world was saved for freedom. Mr. Speaker, D-Day was, and remains, a day like no other in the history of man's sojourn on earth. We remember Gettysburg. There, President Lincoln paid tribute to those ``who gave their lives so that the nation might live.'' And it is equally fitting and proper that we remember D-Day. And that we continue to honor those who risked all and gave all so that the world could remain free.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute and remember one of the most influential and prominent leaders in the movement to empower women and groom the next generation of women Democratic political leaders. Grace Garcia died on Monday, June 2, in a traffic accident in Waxahachie, Texas. She was 59 years old. She died doing what she loved and what she was put on earth to do, and that was to help women gain the skills, resources, and opportunities to become leaders in their communities. Powerful and courageous, compassionate and sympathetic; this was the rare and beautiful blend that was Grace Garcia. Grace Garcia came from a military family and the ethic of duty and service to others was embedded in her soul. Although the family relocated often, Grace claimed San Antonio, Texas, as her home. Grace Garcia attended Jefferson High School in the San Antonio Independent School District and went on to earn her B.A. from the University of Texas at Austin, and afterwards, moved on to live out her dreams. From the start of her career, Grace Garcia was actively involved in government and politics. She went on to hold prestigious senior level positions from the state to the national level. She played prominent roles in the management of President Clinton's successful 1992 and 1996 presidential campaigns, Senator Hillary Clinton's 2008 presidential campaign, and was an advisor and confidante of Texas State Senators Wendy Davis and Senator Leticia Van de Putte in their bids for Governor and Lieutenant Governor of Texas. During the Clinton Administration, Grace Garica held the position of Deputy Director in the Office of Presidential Scheduling and Director of the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs at the U.S. Department of the Interior. Grace Garcia later went on to work in the Obama Administration as Senior Advisor to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in the Office of the Chief of Protocol at the U.S. Department of State. Upon her return to Texas, Grace Garcia was named Executive Director of Annie's List, an organization dedicated to ``advancing progressive women in Texas from the ballot box to the halls of power.'' She was a mentor to many women who had dreams and ambitions to become leaders in the Democratic Party. But she was more than that: she was a beacon of light. Annie's List flourished as a result of leadership and organizational genius as reflected in the unprecedented achievement of nominating women to the two highest statewide constitutional offices. Grace Garcia was a visionary leader and had tremendous passion for advancing equality and opportunity for women in the field of public service. Women like Grace Garcia are diamonds. They are sharp, shine brightly, are unbreakable, and perfectly suited for their mission. Grace Garcia loved to defy the odds; where others were deterred by obstacles, she saw and seized opportunity. As a founder of the National Latina Political Action Committee and leading member of the National Latino Finance Council for Hillary Clinton's presidential bid, Grace Garcia proved to be an influential leader for the Latino community. Grace Garcia's modesty belied her remarkable ability to influence events and improve people's lives. Her departure came all too soon, but the trail she blazed leaves us a path to follow. Grace Garcia opened doors of opportunity for women, and to honor her memory, we must continue that effort. Mr. Speaker, today we remember the gift with which we were abundantly blessed with, and that is the life of Grace Garcia. I hope it is a comfort to her family that so many of us mourn with them at this sad time. But through our sadness, we draw strength from the legacy she left behind. Grace Garcia will never be forgotten. She lives on in lives and deeds of progressive women political leaders in this generation and those to come. So long my friend. We will miss you dearly, and forever hold you in our hearts. I ask the House to observe a moment of silence in memory of the remarkable Grace Garcia.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak on the Rule for H.R. 4681, the ``Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 2014,'' and H.R. 4745, the ``Transportation, Housing and Urban Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2015. H.R. 4681 is a bill authorizing appropriations for our nation's intelligence agencies for Fiscal Year 2014 through Fiscal Year 2015. The bill provides funds for the conduct of intelligence and intelligence-related activities. H.R. 4745 makes appropriations for the Departments of Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015. Our nation is long past due for a Transportation and Housing and Urban Development Appropriations bill. This bill is about jobs--jobs-- jobs. Unfortunately, H.R. 4745's $17.1. billion in discretionary appropriations for the Department of Transportation for fiscal year 2015, is $727.3 million below the funding for fiscal year 2014. Included in the legislation is $15.7 billion in total budgetary resources for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which is $7.3 million below the fiscal year 2014 enacted level and $446 million above the request. This will provide full funding for all air traffic control personnel, including 14,800 air traffic controllers, 7,300 safety inspectors, and operational support personnel. The bill also fully funds the FAA's Next Generation Air Transportation Systems (NextGen) at $852.4 million, and funds Contract Towers at $140 million. These investments will help ease future congestion and help reduce delays for travelers in U.S. airspace. The Bush Intercontinental Airport and William P. Hobby Airport will benefit from funding provided under this bill: nearly 40 million passengers traveled through Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and an additional 10 million traveled through William P. Hobby (HOU); more than 650 daily departures occur at IAH; IAH is the 11th busiest airport in the U.S. for total passenger traffic; IAH has 12 all-cargo airlines handles more than 419,205 metric tons of cargo in 2012. The funds being sent back to states will repair critical transportation infrastructure that is vital to local, state and the national economy. Further the bill provides for funding for our Nation's housing and urban development programs that fund block grants, special housing programs that serve our Nation's elderly, young, disabled, and veterans. The legislation includes a total of $40.3 billion for the Department of Housing and Urban Development, a decrease of $769 million below the fiscal year 2014 enacted level and $2 billion below the Administration's request. The bill does not contain funding for any new, unauthorized ``sustainable,'' ``livable,'' or ``green'' community development programs. Affordable safe housing is vital to the well-being of elderly, low- wage workers, the unemployed, under-employed, disabled persons and our Nation's veterans. In 2012, Texas ranked second among the 50 states among states with workers earning at or below the federal minimum wage. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, of the 6.1 million workers paid hourly rates in Texas in 2012, 282,000 earned exactly the prevailing federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour, while 170,000 earned less. In the State of Texas the percentage of persons living in poverty makes the funds provided for housing and mass transit systems including light rail critical: 34% of children live in poverty; 21% of adults (19-64) live in poverty; and 17% of elderly live in poverty. The funds provided will make it possible for low wage workers to have affordable options for travel as well as support access to affordable housing.