Sheila Jackson Lee

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 1320, ``Expressing support for the vigilance and prompt response of the citizens and law enforcement agencies in New York and Connecticut to the attempted terrorist attack in Times Square on May 1, 2010. Their exceptional professionalism and investigative work following the attempted attack, and their consistent commitment to preparedness for and collective response to terrorism.'' Mr. Speaker, democrats are focused on keeping Americans safe. This was an excellent example of Federal, State, and local law enforcement and counter-terrorism authorities working together in a coordinated way, and also a good reminder that citizen awareness and responsible action by every day Americans is also a key component in defeating those who seek to harm us. This timely awareness and cooperation resulted in a quick and appropriate response Saturday night, and combined with a sophisticated and aggressive investigation, led to a swift arrest shortly thereafter. It is prevalent that we live in a dangerous world with ever-evolving threats. The Obama Administration and our State and local law enforcement authorities understand the nature of the threats and are working tirelessly to defeat them. In Congress, we provided state-of- the-art resources, tools, and authority to wage this fight against terrorism and we will continue to do so in the future. Some may want to politicize this very serious attempted attack and dispute whether the suspect should be read his Miranda rights, taken to federal court or given other rights afforded to U.S. citizens. Because the suspect is an American citizen, even Glenn Beck agrees that the Constitution must be upheld with respect to a citizen's rights in this case. Democratic Record [and Contrast with Republican Approach] We have tripled the number of our troops fighting on the central front in the war against al Qaeda and their extremist allies in Afghanistan--after years of taking our eye off the ball and under- resourcing this fight. We have successfully stepped up our partnership with Pakistan, which has gone on the offensive for many months in the rugged border region with Afghanistan--after years in which al Qaeda was able to establish a safe-haven. We have worked with our partners to target al Qaeda's leadership, and to take out key terrorist leaders--increasing the pressure to a new level. We are responsibly removing our troops from Iraq and ending that war--after seven years of a war that carried enormous costs in lives and resources. We have restored America's leadership and standing in the world, strengthening our alliances and building new partnerships--after years of frayed alliances and growing opposition to our leadership. We have rallied the world around the ambitious goal of securing all vulnerable nuclear material around the world in 4 years, including specific steps and a clear plan for achieving that goal-- after years of insufficient action against the gravest threat we face. We have reset our relations with Russia, including the most comprehensive nuclear arms treaty in 20 years--after relations with Russia fell to a post-Cold War low. We have increased Iran's isolation through our diplomatic efforts, tightening enforcement on U.S. sanctions, seeking broader sanctions through the U.N., and building a broader coalition of countries to stand up to Iran's pursuit of nuclear weapons--after years in which Iran went from zero centrifuges to 7000, and strengthened its position in the region. We are pursuing a comprehensive peace in the Middle East, which would enhance Israel's security--after years in which America was too often absent from the peace process. We have led an unprecedented international response to the global economic crisis through the G-20, averting catastrophe and putting our economy on the pathway to recovery--after the gravest economic crisis that we've faced since the Great Depression. Mr. Speaker, I strongly urge my colleagues to support H.R. 1320.

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Madam Chair, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 5019, ``The Home Star Energy Retrofit Act of 2010.'' I would like to thank my colleague Representative Peter Welch for introducing this legislation as it is important that we embrace programs that create jobs for Americans and help improve energy efficiency in our country. As a member of the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Caucus I am proud to express my support for this bill. Through the Home Star program, this bill seeks to create new jobs, save energy, and lower families' energy bills. The Home Star program will do this by encouraging home and business owners to update their stock of appliances and electronic devices with new energy efficient devices and appliances. Through the use of rebates and other consumer incentives this program will work in a proactive economic way to promote green technology and innovation. This bill comes at an important time in our history, Madam Chair. Over the last several decades we have seen national electricity and energy use growing at unprecedented rates. We have also seen massive increases in greenhouse gas emissions and a loss in employment opportunities. This bill seeks to address each and every one of these issues with an approach that would benefit the environment and work towards the improvement of our communities. The increases in consumer spending we seek to gain from this bill would also have a massive economic impact on our country during these turbulent economic times. By spurring consumer spending we will be creating new opportunities right here in the United States for industrial, economic and jobs growth. This program is expected to allow 3 million families to retrofit their homes with new energy efficient appliances. Consumers are predicted to save $9.2 billion on their energy bills over the next 10 years as a result of Home Star's energy efficiency investments. Furthermore, the Home Star program will create 168,000 new jobs here in the United States. Madam Chair, these jobs are desperately needed as our national unemployment rate has recently hit the 10 percent mark. This legislation would stipulate that construction jobs cannot be outsourced and more than 90 percent of the energy efficiency technologies approved by this bill are also manufactured right here in the United States. This legislation will also save consumers money and cut pollution. By ensuring that more American homes and businesses are retrofitted with these new energy efficient appliances and fixtures we will be working proactively to cut greenhouse gases and reduce unnecessary use of our vital energy resources. Furthermore, this bill would also help us in our goal of achieving energy independence by further reducing our demand for foreign oil and fossil fuels. The Home Star program proposed in this bill is authorized at $6 billion--however, H.R. 5019 will not include any appropriated funds. In other words, Madam Chair, this bill does not affect direct spending or revenue and will not hurt the American taxpayer. I stand today with Representative Peter Welch and other Members of Congress in reaffirming our support for energy efficiency in our nation. I also stand with my fellow members of the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Caucus in supporting this bipartisan legislation. By enacting these types of economic incentives for consumers our nation will be cleaner, more efficient and will have lower levels of unemployment. I ask my colleagues for their support of H.R. 5019, as well as for their continued support of green technology and the unemployed in our nation. By increasing our support for these types of programs we will ensure that our country remains a leader in energy efficient technology. Madam Chair, I ask my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 5019.

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to show my strong support for H.R. 2421, ``Mothers Day Centennial Coin Act''. First and foremost I would like to thank my distinguished colleague from West Virginia, Representative Shelley Moore Capito for introducing this bill. The coins minted as a result of this legislation will be in recognition and celebration of mothers and everything they do for us and signify the 100th anniversary of President Woodrow Wilson's proclamation in designating the second Sunday in May as National Mother's Day. The Mother's Day Centennial Commemorative Coin Act, if enacted, would donate half of all surcharges which are received by the Secretary from the sale of coins to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure for the purpose of furthering research funded by the organization and the other half to National Osteoporosis Foundation for the purpose of furthering research funded by the Foundation. It is of imminent importance that we recognize our mothers have made immeasurable contributions toward building strong families, thriving communities, and ultimately a strong nation. The services rendered to the children of the United States by their mothers have strengthened and inspired the nation throughout its history. We honor ourselves and mothers in the United States when we revere and emphasize the importance of the role of the home and family as the true foundation of the Nation. Today, thousands of mothers in this country have become active and effective participants in public life and public service, promoting change and improving the quality of life for men, women, and children throughout the Nation. Mothers continue to rise to the challenge of raising their families with love, understanding, and compassion, while overcoming the challenges of modern society; mothers throughout our country juggle between work, family and the household, all with a smile on their faces. I want to congratulate and praise all of the mothers in America for all of their hard work. Mothers have a huge influence on our everyday lives; we owe all of our success to them. As the famous American author Washington Irving put it best, ``A mother is the truest friend we have, when trials heavy and sudden, fall upon us; when adversity takes the place of prosperity; when friends who rejoice with us in our sunshine desert us; when trouble thickens around us, still will she cling to us, and endeavor by her kind precepts and counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness, and cause peace to return to our hearts.'' We can never thank our mothers enough for all the sacrifices they have made for us. I wish all families a very happy Mother's Day this Sunday.

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Madam Speaker, I stand before you today in support of H. Res. 1149, ``Supporting the goals and ideals of National Charter Schools Week, to be held May 2 through May 8, 2010''. I would like to begin by thanking my colleague Rep. Bishop for introducing this resolution in the House, as quality education should be at the top of our priorities list. I urge my colleagues to support and acknowledge charter schools and their students, parents, teachers, and administrators across the United States for their ongoing contributions to education and improving and strengthening our public school system. Charter school programs such as Yes Prep, Harmony, WALIPP, and KIPP deliver high-quality education, challenge our students to reach their potential throughout the United States, and provide thousands of families with diverse and innovative educational options for their children. Charter schools improve their students' achievement and can stimulate improvement in traditional public schools as well. These unique, public schools are authorized by a designated public entity that is responding to the needs of our communities, families, and students and promoting the principles of quality, choice, and innovation. Charter schools take a revolutionary approach in educating our nation's students. Today, roughly 4,700 charter schools are now serving approximately 1,400,000 children in 40 states plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico this year. Charter schools continually demonstrate their ongoing success to parents, policymakers, and their communities. Some charter schools even routinely measure parental satisfaction levels while all give parents new freedom to choose their public school. Charter schools nationwide serve a higher percentage of low-income and minority students than the traditional public system and deliver a high quality education. Chartering is a radical educational innovation that is moving states beyond reforming existing schools to creating something entirely new. Chartering is at the center of a growing movement to challenge traditional notions of what public education means. Charter schools have demonstrated their commitment to high academic standards, small class sizes, innovative approaches and educational philosophies. Many parents choose charter schools for their small size and associated safety as charter schools serve an average of 250 students. I am pleased that over the last 15 years, Congress has provided substantial support to the charter school movement through startup financing assistance and grants for planning, implementation, and dissemination. In addition, these schools have enjoyed broad bipartisan support from the administration, Congress, State Governors and legislatures, educators, and parents across the United States. The intention of most charter school legislation is to: increase opportunities for learning and access to quality education for all students, create choice for parents and students within the public school system, provide a system of accountability for results in public education, encourage innovative teaching practices, create new professional opportunities for teachers, encourage community and parent involvement in public education, and leverage improved public education broadly. Competition from charter schools has been shown to increase composite test scores in traditional district schools. Furthermore, twice as many registered voters favor charter schools as oppose them. The more people learn about charter schools, the more they like them. Congress must lend its support to these schools and their goals, especially since on average, the funding gap between charter schools and traditional schools is 22 percent, or $1,800 per pupil. The average charter school ends up with a total funding shortfall of nearly half a million dollars. Yet, 12 studies find that overall gains in charter schools are larger than other public schools; four find charter schools' gains higher in certain significant categories of schools and six find comparable gains to traditional schools. I ask my colleagues for their continued support of charter schools and urge them to support this resolution.

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Res. 1157, ``Congratulating the National Urban League on its 100th year of service to the United States.'' As a member of the House Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights, and Civil Liberties, I take great pleasure in thanking my colleague, Representative Alcee L. Hastings, for introducing this important piece of legislation that honors this historic civil rights organization. Mr. Speaker, today I join my colleagues in recognizing and congratulating the National Urban League for its 100 years of service to historically underserved urban communities across the United States. The National Urban League was originally known as the National League of Black Men and Women. Created in 1910 as a civil rights organization, the National Urban League has since made tremendous gains in equality and empowerment for the African-American community. Throughout the League's 100 years of service the organization has assisted millions of Americans and especially African-Americans in combating poverty, inequality and social injustice. The National Urban League saw tremendous growth in its partnership with the Federal Government throughout the 1970s. During this time the League began delivering aid to urban areas and making improvements in housing, education, health and minority-owned small businesses. This partnership between the League and the Federal Government revolutionized how the country viewed race relations, challenged the deep discrimination within America's social structure and established the League's reputation as a premier social justice organization. Since that time, the League has expanded to include 25 national programs, with more than 100 local affiliates in 36 states as well as the District of Columbia. In my home district in Houston, Texas, the National Urban League has played a strong role in helping the community through outreach programs. The League has sponsored hundreds of such programs over the years from job fairs to Computer Technology courses. These types of educational and community empowerment programs help to improve the quality of life for communities across the United States. The National Urban League in Houston has also played a strong role in the clean-up and reconstruction efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Ike. In September 2008, a massive Category 4 Hurricane named Hurricane Ike came ashore and slammed the Texas coastline near my home district of Houston. The National Urban League of Houston has since provided assistance to children, families and senior citizens in the community. I thank the League for its continued support of our community. Over the past several years, National Urban League has also helped thousands of people weather through one of the worst economic disasters in recent memory. Through the League's Housing and Community Development division the League was able to assist over 50,000 people with mortgage, foreclosure and other similar economic problems in 2009. Furthermore, from this assistance provided by the League's ``Foreclosure Prevention'' program, 3,000 people were able to avoid filing foreclosure in 2009. The National Urban League also helps out youth across our nation and promotes childhood education through programs like the League's Education and Youth Development division. Also, programs like the League's ``Project Ready'' ensure that students will be prepared for the transition from high school to college, or joining the workforce. The League has also created and outlined 4 new aspirational goals to mark its centennial anniversary as part of its I AM EMPOWERED campaign. The League has pledged to help achieve the following goals by 2025: Ensure that every American child is ready for college, work and life; ensure that every American has access to jobs with a living wage and good benefits; ensure that every American lives in safe, decent, affordable and energy-efficient housing on fair terms; and ensure that every American has access to quality and affordable health care solutions. Altogether the work of the National Urban League has been pivotal in improving the lives of millions of Americans through community-oriented programs, civil rights, and leadership opportunities. I stand with my colleagues today in appreciation for the service the League has provided our citizens over the last l00 years and look forward to working alongside the League for the next 100 years. Since its inception, the National Urban League has been known as an historic civil rights organization dedicated to elevating the standard of living in historically underserved urban communities. The League continues in that legacy today and continuously seeks to empower the citizens of urban and inner-city communities. I would like to thank and praise the thousands of volunteers, workers and community advocates with the National Urban League who have worked towards the empowerment of their respective communities and the creation of new opportunities. I ask my colleagues for their support of H. Res. 1157, as well as for their continued support for the National Urban League. Through the continuation of the League's programs over the next 100 years, I am confident that the United States will continue to be a more fair, just and equitable society for all Americans. I would like to again thank my colleague Representative Alcee L. Hastings for his leadership in introducing this bill as well as for his support of the National Urban League. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in supporting H. Res. 1157.

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, as a former member of the Science Committee and a strong supporter of education, I rise in strong support of this resolution Recognizing the need to improve the participation and performance of America's students in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) fields. This legislation recognizes the importance of equipping young minds with the technological and scientific knowledge necessary to compete in a globalized economy. Further, within the context of globalization, I strongly believe that this country's ability to achieve and maintain a high standard of living is dependent on the extent to which it can harness science and technology. Thus, in order to enhance the international competitiveness of the country, it is critical for us to promote and support students pursuing careers in meteorology, climatology and atmospheric research. From Ben Franklin to NASA to Silicon Valley, America has a great history of scientific innovation. In recent years, however, we have diverged from this path and have endangered our reputation as a nation at the forefront of science and technology. In 2006 only 4.5 percent of college graduates in the United States received a diploma in engineering, compared with 25.4 percent in South Korea, 33.3 percent in China, and 39.1 percent in Singapore. Today, American students rank 21st out of 30 in scientific literacy among students from developed countries, and 25th out of 30 in math literacy. If this trend continues, there are dire consequences for our children and our economy. As this bill notes, ``In 2005 the National Academy of Sciences published a report entitled `Rising Above the Gathering Storm', which estimated that in the United States innovations generated by the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields account for nearly half of the growth in gross domestic product.'' Mr. Speaker, it is essential that we invest in a workforce ready for global competition by creating a new generation of innovators and make a sustained commitment to federal research and development. We need to spur and expand affordable access to broadband, achieve energy independence, and provide small business with tools to encourage entrepreneurial innovation. The establishment and maintenance of a capable science and technological workforce remains an important facet of U.S. efforts to maintain economic competitiveness. Pre-college instruction in mathematics and scientific fields is crucial to the development of U.S. science and technological personnel, as well as our overall scientific literacy as a nation. The value of education in science and mathematics is not limited to those students pursuing a degree in one of these fields, and even students pursuing nonscientific and nonmathematical fields are likely to require basic knowledge in these subjects. In particular, there is a need to extend access to mathematics and scientific education to a number of specific groups. Even as certain minorities, including African Americans, Hispanics, and Native Americans, comprise an increasingly large proportion of the U.S. population, they continue to be underrepresented in science and engineering disciplines. Together, these three groups comprise over 25 percent of the population, but earn only 16.2 percent of the bachelor degrees, 10.7 percent of the masters degrees, and 5.4 percent of the doctorate degrees in these fields. Mr. Speaker, as we develop the reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), we must fully integrate and fund STEM education programs. Such programs are vital to the future of our nation.

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Res. 1307, ``Honoring the National Science Foundation for 60 years of service to the Nation.'' As a former member of the House Science Committee, I would like to thank my colleague Representative Bart Gordon for introducing this legislation as it is important that we recognize the important role that the National Science Foundation has played in support of education, research and innovation in our country. Mr. Speaker, the National Science Foundation was originally created by this very body--the United States Congress--in 1950. The intent of Congress at the time was to promote the progress of science, to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare, and to secure our nation through defense technology and innovation. Since that time, the National Science Foundation has worked diligently to ensure that the United States maintains its expertise and precision in discovery and innovation in addition to education in science, engineering, and mathematics. Additionally, the National Science Foundation was created with the intent of helping to educate the children of our nation and give them the tools necessary to become doctors, researchers, astronauts and chemists. As the Chairwoman of the Congressional Children's Caucus, I fully support the National Science Foundation in its efforts towards childhood education and I understand the great importance of educating our children in these areas. Moreover, the National Science Foundation supports science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education at all levels from elementary schools to national research universities. We all know the great importance this type of education has on children and I applaud the National Science Foundation for its dedication to high- quality education for the children of our nation. In addition, Mr. Speaker, the National Science Foundation had made many significant contributions to our collective standard of living and economy. By creating opportunities for research and innovation in new areas, our nation has benefited from cutting-edge medical tools, safer cars and transportation systems as well as defense innovations that have helped to protect the American people from those that would seek to do us harm. Through its research capacities, the National Science Foundation supports a network of 200,000 individuals each year, including scientists, engineers, students, and educators at over 2,000 colleges and universities, schools, nonprofit organizations, science centers and museums, and small businesses throughout our Nation. The National Science Foundation also works with and funds multi-user facilities and tools for conducting world-class research and training initiatives. In addition to these efforts, the National Science Foundation has taken a protective stance for our country against the threat of earthquakes and other natural and man-made disasters. Through its National Hazards Reduction Program, Network for Earthquake Engineering Simulation, the Approaches to Combat Terrorism program, and similar research activities the National Science Foundation has contributed to predicting and reducing the risk of devastation from natural and man- made disasters during the past decade. The National Science Foundation has also funded quick-response research at the sites of unprecedented national and international tragedies, including the September 11 attacks on the United States, the South Asian earthquake and tsunami, Hurricane Katrina, and the Haitian earthquake. These response and research efforts have helped to contribute to further preventing and mitigating the impact of future disasters. I stand today with Representative Bart Gordon and other members of Congress in reaffirming our national commitment and appreciation for the National Science Foundation as it celebrates its 60th anniversary. I would also like to thank and praise the thousands of scientists, engineers, researchers and administrators who have worked in conjunction with the National Science Foundation towards the creation of new technologies and the improvement of our collective standards of living. I ask my colleagues for their support of H. Res. 1307, as well as for their continued support for the National Science Foundation and its initiatives. By maintaining and increasing the capacity of our nation to research and develop new technologies and innovations, I am confident that the United States will continue to be a leader in the market for technology products for years to come. I would like to again thank my colleague Representative Bart Gordon for his leadership in introducing this bill as well as for his support of the National Science Foundation. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in supporting H. Res. 1307.

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Madam Speaker, as a member of the House Homeland Security Committee, I rise today to thank all of the brave individuals who were able to quickly capture the Times Square alleged bomber who was attempting to kill many in the United States--from the vendor who noticed and said that his motto is, for the American people, ``If you see, tell someone''; to the law enforcement officers, the mounties on horses; to the SWAT team and the fire department that was part of making sure it did not go off; and certainly to the people of New York. I also want to thank the Obama administration, the Attorney General, and Homeland Security, and, in particular, before we start asking questions about the no-fly list and the TSA, let's get the facts. But we do know that we are going to have more homegrown terrorists. America now has to look very seriously, as we have done, at securing America. All of us are now involved.

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Res. 1280, ``Expressing the support of the House of Representatives for the goals and ideals of National Healthy Schools Day.'' Let me begin by thanking my colleague Representative Paul Tonko for introducing this piece of legislation into the House of Representatives as it is important that we diligently work towards the improvement of deteriorating public schools across the nation and also work towards the improvement of construction techniques in schools. The issue of environmental hazards in schools has been a growing problem over the last several decades. It is unfortunate that in schools across the nation investigators can find unchecked renovations, pesticide misapplications, unsafe drinking water, and indoor air pollutants such as mold infestations. It is unreasonable to think that our children can receive the best possible learning environment when they are expected to learn under these types of conditions. There are also a wide range of problems stemming from poor air quality and ventilation problems in schools. It has consistently been shown that these types of air quality problems can lead to poor concentration, respiratory illnesses, learning difficulties, and even cancer in students. Today there are approximately 55,000,000 children and 7,000,000 adults who spend their days in the Nation's more than 125,000 public and private schools. Students and teachers also spend an average of 30 to 50 hours per week in school. These numbers equate to nearly 20 percent of our nation's population spending their days in schools across the country--many of which are currently facing deterioration in the quality of their buildings while in the face of massive budget cuts. Therefore it is critical that we work together to seek comprehensive solutions to the trend of deteriorating schools in our nation. A recent study showed that approximately one-third of public school principals reported that some environmental factors in their schools have interfered with classroom instruction. This report highlights an increasingly troubling trend among schools of deteriorating environmental factors. In fact school facilities with poor building quality can result in lower test scores, poor attendance, and health problems for students and staff. These problems are only worsened for the nearly 9 percent of American students who are known to have asthma. Asthma is also the leading cause of absence from school and is aggravated by poor air quality and ventilation problems in schools. To meet these challenges, I believe that we should begin working with school districts across the nation towards the implementation of healthy and high performance schools. These types of schools would be designed to improve indoor environments while reducing energy and maintenance costs. They would also provide for an improvement in the quality of ambient light, would reduce exposures to toxic substances and would provide a healthier and safer learning environment for children. Healthy and high performance schools are designed with specific environmental factors in mind, such as pollutant source controls, proper ventilation mechanisms, and moisture and mold controls. It is imperative that school districts in our nation recognize the importance of these new construction and maintenance techniques and work to ensure the improvement of student and teacher health across the board. By officially designating April 26, 2010 as `National Healthy Schools Day,' we in Congress will be sending a strong message to students and teachers across the nation that we intend to provide healthy and safe buildings for students to learn in. We will also be sending a message to school districts across the nation that it is vitally important to build new schools with renewable resource materials and energy efficient appliances. We must always ensure that schools and children receive all the necessary tools for their continued growth. Furthermore it is vitally important that we continue to work with state and local agencies including independent school districts across the nation for the implementation of these measures in public schools. I would like to again thank my colleague Representative Paul Tonko for introducing H. Res. 1280. I ask my colleagues for their support of this legislation as well as their continued support for children, teachers and public schools across the nation. Mr. Speaker, I strongly support H. Res. 1280 and the rule.

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of S. 3253, ``A bill to provide for an additional temporary extension of programs under the Small Business Act and the Small Business Investment Act of 1958, and for other purposes.'' Let me begin by thanking my colleague Sen. Mary Landrieu of Louisiana for introducing this piece of legislation into the House of Representatives as it is important that we work together with small businesses across the country towards the recovery of our national economy. Small businesses have long been the bedrock of our Nation's economy and many would agree that they still are. Even with the advent of modern-day multi-national corporations, most of our day-to-day purchases take place at ``mom and pop'' small businesses. Moreover, 99 percent of all independent companies and businesses in the U.S. are considered small businesses. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, these small businesses account for 52 percent of all U.S. workers. These small businesses also provide a continuing source of vitality for the American economy. Small businesses in the U.S. produced three-fourths of the economy's new jobs between 1990 and 1995, and represent an entry point into the economy for new groups. Women, for instance, participate heavily in small businesses. The number of female-owned businesses climbed by 89 percent, to an estimated 8.1 million, between 1987 and 1997, and women-owned sole proprietorships were expected to reach 35 percent of all such ventures by the year 2000. Small firms also tend to hire a greater number of older workers and people who prefer to work part-time. One strength that small businesses are known for is their ability to respond quickly to changing economic conditions. They often know their customers personally and are especially suited to meet local needs. There are tons of stories of startup companies catching national attention and growing into large corporations. Just a few examples of these types of startup businesses making big include the computer software company Microsoft; the package delivery service Federal Express; sports clothing manufacturer Nike; the computer networking firm America OnLine; and ice cream maker Ben & Jerry's. Through the passage of S. 3253 we will be temporarily extending programs under the Small Business Act and the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 through the end of July 2010. With the passage of this bill we will be helping small businesses and communities across the Nation. We will also be helping to drive our economy upward and will be helping businesses across the Nation. We must always ensure that we place a high level of priority on small businesses. It is also important that we work towards ensuring that small businesses receive all the tools and resources necessary for their continued growth and development. I would like to again thank my colleague Sen. Mary Landrieu for introducing S. 3253. I ask my colleagues for their support of this legislation as well as their continued support for small businesses across the Nation. Mr. Speaker, I strongly support S. 3253 and the rule.

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I join my good friend from Florida in acknowledging that many of the issues that we debate on this floor are not political issues. So I ask America and I ask my friends on the other side of the aisle, let us not internally implode over a decent human rights issue of immigration reform. While the economy is failing and questions are being asked about the integrity of Wall Street, let us look to a reasoned response to immigration reform. Not troops on the border, not the National Guard on the border, but a real comprehensive immigration reform that provides access to this country, legalization, and the picking up of the criminals. We understand that. There is no time for politicking and grandstanding on the question of students and families who want to be reunited. I am ashamed of the action of the Governor of Arizona, but I sympathize with the people. Let us have real border security. I will be reintroducing my legislation that asks for ramping up of Customs and Border Patrol agents, more technology to secure the border. Let's do this the right way. The faith community, the business community of America, let's talk reasonably. The business community should be talking across America about the importance of comprehensive immigration reform.

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise to make a correction on the vote on passage of H.R. 5146, providing that Members of Congress shall not receive a cost of living adjustment in pay during fiscal year 2011. Madam Speaker, I would like to state for the Record that I support the denial of a cost of living adjustment for Members. The correct vote for rollcall No. 226 would have been ``aye'' instead of ``nay,'' providing that Members of Congress shall not receive a cost of living adjustment in pay during fiscal year 2011. Again, I want to state that Congresswoman Jackson Lee opposes the cost of living adjustment for Members of Congress as stated appropriately in H.R. 5146.

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. The Republicans always want to dwell on distractions, but I believe that the American people are waiting for the health care reform bill to be implemented--and that it will. And it will save lives. But why are the Republicans standing on the side of big business and big companies too big to fail? Now we need the Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act to be able to respond to America's cry for honesty and integrity on Wall Street. Right now, one of the biggest Wall Street casinos, Goldman Sachs, is testifying. And I don't know whether they can find the facts to be able to defend atrocious acts causing millions of Americans to lose money. I personally know of a small business that they literally destroyed because they were unwilling to look at ways of allowing that business to survive. And so the $14 million of net worth loss, $22 million decline in net worth, and 2.2 million in homes lost is because of the lack of integrity on Wall Street. Pass the legislation that will end bailouts; protect families' retirement funds; college savings; homes and businesses; protect consumers; and, yes, inject transparency. Goldman Sachs, what is your answer to the question?

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to support H. Res. 1271 ``Honoring the life and achievements of Dr. Benjamin Lawson Hooks'' introduced by my distinguished colleague from Michigan, Representative Conyers. Dr. Benjamin Lawson Hooks was a civil rights leader and served as the Executive Director of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) from 1977 to 1992. Dr. Hooks graduated with a bachelor's degree from Howard University, a juris doctor degree from DePaul University College of Law, and received an honorary doctorate from Central Connecticut State University. He held professional memberships with the American Bar Association, National Bar Association, Tennessee Bar Association, Southern Christian Leadership Conference, the Tennessee Council on Human Relations, and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. After passing the Tennessee Bar, he established his own law practice. Dr. Hooks served as a distinguished adjunct professor for the Political Science Department at the University of Memphis. In 1996, the Benjamin L. Hooks Institute for Social Change was established at the University of Memphis. The Benjamin L. Hooks Institute is a public policy research center supporting the urban research mission, and honoring Hooks' many years of leadership in the American Civil Rights Movement. The Hooks Institute also emphasizes social movements, race relations, strong communities, public education, effective public participation, and social and economic justice. Dr. Hooks was ordained as a Baptist minister in 1956, and he preached regularly at the Greater Middle Baptist Church in Memphis. He joined the Southern Christian Leadership Conference along with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr. Hooks became a pioneer of NAACP-sponsored restaurant sit-ins and other boycotts of consumer items and services. In 1965, Dr. Hooks was appointed by Governor Frank G. Clement as the first African American criminal court judge in the Shelby Criminal Court. In 1966, he would later campaign for and win a full term to the same judicial office that he had been appointed to due to a vacancy. In 1972, President Richard Nixon appointed Dr. Hooks to be one of the five commissioners to the Federal Communications Commission, FCC. As a member, he addressed the lack of minority ownership of television and radio stations, the minority employment statistics for the broadcasting industry, and the image of African Americans in mass media. Dr. Hooks served as a producer and host for several local television shows in Memphis. Dr. Hooks' honors and awards include the NAACP Spingarn Medal for outstanding achievements made by an African American, receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President George W. Bush in November of 2007, and he was inducted into the International Civil Rights Hall of Fame at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site on January 12, 2008. The Memphis Library Branch is also named in his honor. The NAACP later created the Benjamin L. Hooks Distinguished Service Award, which is awarded to persons for their efforts in implementing policies and programs which promote equal opportunity. So it is with great pride and admiration that we honor Dr. Benjamin Lawson Hooks as a great civil rights leader, and as a successful businessman, judge, lawyer, and minister. He has fought triumphantly for the rights of African Americans and made great contributions to the African American community.

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Madam Speaker, over this weekend, the Governor of Arizona raised up the idea of prayer, and in her remarks, she indicated that she prayed for strength and that she prayed for our State. I rise today to pray for Arizona, for this Nation, and for those who would think a law that was signed by the Arizona Governor raises any level of constitutionality. Yet I agree with the Governor of Arizona. They have been waiting very long, and there is a crisis that is necessary to address. Madam Speaker, many of us on this side of the aisle have tried over and over again. Former President George Bush, in the last administration, tried, but that's where reasonable minds will disagree. So I'd ask the Governor to ask her own party: Why do they fail to stand up and be counted on a fair, comprehensive immigration reform proposal that, in years past, included border security as well as the opportunity for access to legalization? So the actions this past week are a travesty, hypocritical, and not sincere because you'd ask the question: What is a legal contact? What are the law enforcement authorities of the State of Arizona to do in the midst of the work that they have in protecting the community from the array of criminal acts by anyone regardless of their background? There are burglaries, thefts, and rapes, robberies and actions that require the intervention of State and local law enforcement. What is a legal contact? Is it a person who is rushing his pregnant wife to the hospital and who is stopping to ask a police officer, Will you lead me through the lights to the hospital? Is that a legal contact? What is a determination of reasonable probability? Is it brown skin? Is it someone who is dressed in yard clothes? What is the determination of reasonableness? There is no answer to that other than it is patently unconstitutional. Yes, I want comprehensive immigration reform, which is a term that many have demonized--you have to run away from it now--but we in Texas have lived with this for a very long time, the men and women of all economic levels--the business community, the nonprofit community, the faith community. The Houston-Galveston Diocese, our cardinal, the cardinal in the Houston area, has raised his voice, along with many faith leaders, to say that now is the time for real comprehensive immigration reform. I am ashamed of the law that was written and signed, because it bears no fruit. Of course, there are law enforcement officers in the region, and certainly, I'm not from the area whose only voice is to claim airtime and to shout ridiculous comments: I can lock them up. Anybody, I can lock up. This is not to say that there is not empathy and sympathy for the borders in Arizona. There is a need now for comprehensive immigration reform for Arizona, for New Mexico, for California, for Texas--for all of America. Though, I will tell you, Madam Speaker, if a young person comes to me in my district who came here from a foreign country--in this instance, France--who has been in our school system, who did not know the process and who is now unstatus but who has never been in trouble and who is going through school--he is an immigrant, but unfortunately, status-- then he is no less than the immigrants from Ireland, than the immigrants from Italy and the immigrants from places elsewhere who came to this country and who helped to build it and to make it a better place. Maybe he is no better than the immigrants who came in shackles, like myself, and their ancestors, who came in the bottom of the belly of a slave boat; but we found a way to regularize them. This Congress must find a way to regularize this process and all of the families who are huddled in fear, who have never perpetrated a crime. I want to thank the leadership of this House and the leadership of the Senate, both of which are courageous enough to take the battering and the abuse of those who misuse the Constitution and who believe they are doing something. They are not. Should they be responded to? Madam Speaker, they should. My answer is that we pass right now comprehensive immigration reform to save America, to save our dignity, to save the Constitution, and to stand for the values we believe in.

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. I thank the chairman very much both for his leadership and for this opportunity, with the ranking member, to really discuss and reinforce some of the principles that many of us support in a bipartisan manner. But I rise today to simply encourage the conference on this legislation and to be able to simply chronicle efforts that I think were not wasteful, but constructive. I do believe the administration's effort at engagement was constructive and not wasteful. It is always important--for those of who us are lawyers--to create the record, the building blocks for the final decision of the court of law. In this instance, the court of law is the combination of the American people, this Congress, and this administration, and it is, likewise, the world community, the United Nations. Also, the people of Iran are speaking and they are speaking loudly. No one can forget that fateful picture of a young lady lying in her own blood during the uprising of the people of Iran, not provoked by any world standards or provocation, but for the people of Iran simply saying enough of the despotism of this administration, of their country; enough is enough. They were willing to die in the streets. They took to the buildings to make loud noises at night, and they continue to pounce over and over again. Iran is a challenge, and it is a terror around the world. Having just come back from Yemen, Bahrain, Qatar, and Pakistan, everywhere you went individuals, leaders in government were willing to indicate what a threat Iran was. Just yesterday, in a hearing on Syria, questions are now rising as to Iran's participation in funding Hezbollah to go into Lebanon. Of course some of those particular points are being denied, but frankly I think if there is any reason to move forward on a conference, it is the concept of the disruption of Iran in the region. There are those who are in the Mid East who want peace. From Jordan, to Israel, to other places around, they want peace. If we begin to look at Yemen, that is in a distant location, a place where I visited, we know that it is an al Qaeda cesspool. We know that there are young men there that are susceptible to recruitment. All of this provides for a disruptive arena, and we here in this country must provide the moral standing of peace and democracy for those who desire so. So I rise to support the people of Iran, those who are willing to sacrifice their lives and go into the streets. And it is well known that whatever we have tried to do, the engagement of the Cold War, the standoff, Iran continues to seemingly put forward its nuclear efforts. I ask for support of this legislation, and I ask my colleagues to vote for this motion to instruct. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 2194, the Iran Refined Petroleum Sanctions Act of 2009. This legislation provides another tool for the President to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons by allowing the administration to sanction foreign firms who attempt to supply refined gasoline to Iran or provide them with the materials to enhance their oil refineries. These sanctions would further restrict the government of Iran's ability to procure refined petroleum. Currently, the availability of petroleum products is stagnant in Iran. Private firms have decided that the government of Iran's refusal to cooperate with the multilateral community on nuclear proliferation generates a significant risk to doing business with Iran. I would like to thank Chairman Berman for incorporating 1 my concerns about the human rights situation in Iran into the findings of this legislation. It is important that we acknowledge that, throughout 2009, the government of Iran has persistently violated the rights of its citizens. The government of Iran's most overt display of disregard for human rights happened in the presidential elections on June 12, 2009. As I said on June 19, 2009, ``We must condemn Iran for the absence of fair and free Presidential elections and urge Iran to provide its people with the opportunity to engage in a Democratic election process.'' The repression and murder, arbitrary arrests, and show trials of peaceful dissidents in the wake of the elections were a sad reminder of the government of Iran's long history of human rights violations. The latest violations were the most recent iteration of the government of Iran's wanton suppression of the freedom of expression. It is important that we are clear that our concerns are with the government of Iran and not its people. The State Department's Human Rights Report on Iran provides a bleak picture of life in Iran. The government of Iran, through its denial of the democratic process and repression of dissent has prevented the people from determining their own future. Moreover, it is the government of Iran that persecutes its ethnic minorities and denies the free expression of religion. As we proceed with consideration of this legislation, we should all remember that the sole target of these sanctions is the Iranian government. Mr. Speaker, the government of Iran has repeatedly shown its disdain for the international community by disregarding international nonproliferation agreements. Iran's flagrant violation of nonproliferation agreements was evidenced most recently in the discovery of the secret enrichment facility at Qom. The government of Iran's continued threats against Israel, opposition to the Middle East peace process, and support of international terrorist organizations further demonstrate the necessity for action. Iran's recent actions towards the international community reflect a very small measure of progress. Iran's decision to allow International Atomic Energy Agency, IAEA, inspectors to visit this facility was a positive sign, but not a sufficient indication of their willingness to comply with international agreements. The recent announcement that Iran will accept a nuclear fuel deal is also indicative of their willingness to engage in dialogue, though it remains to be seen what amendments they will seek to the deal. While these actions indicate a small degree of improvement in Iran's position, the legislation before us today demonstrates that only continued dialogue and positive actions will soften the international community's stance towards Iran. I would also like to emphasize that the legislation before us provides only one tool for achieving Iran's compliance with international nonproliferation agreements. I continue to support the administration's policy of engagement with Iran and use of diplomatic talks. I believe that diplomacy and multilateralism are the most valuable tools we have to create change in Iran. After those tools fail, I believe that the sanctions are an appropriate recourse.

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. I agree with my friends on the other side of the aisle, we must create jobs. And we are working intensely to do that. My recollection is that during the Clinton administration, we created some 22 million-plus jobs. In the Obama administration we are increasing our hold on not losing jobs and increasing jobs. I hope my colleagues will join me in arguing two points: one, we must invest in the private sector, but our banking industry must invest in small businesses to allow them to hire individuals; and two, we must not lose America's teachers. That is the public sector. But who can afford to lose 300,000 teachers? We must call that an emergency and begin to work on the idea of saving the Nation's teachers. To the Nation's teachers, stand up for your job because you are standing up for the education of our children. Who can afford to lose the best and the brightest? We lose that when we begin to lay off teachers. We should end any thought about laying off America's teachers.

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Let me thank the chairman of the Judiciary Committee and my colleague from Texas (Mr. Poe) for his presence and comments on the floor about Dr. Dorothy Height and, as well, the author of the resolution. I am very proud to have joined Congresswoman Fudge to be an original cosponsor of this legislation and come to the floor today, as we did yesterday, for I believe that the celebration of Dr. Height's life needs no stopping, if you will. If we continue to commemorate her throughout this week, it will not be able to account for her service. And for those who may not be familiar with Dr. Dorothy Height, I only wish that this picture was in color. For maybe as you look at this lady adorned with this fabulous hat, well attired, you will remember seeing in many pictures with Presidents, kings and queens, international leaders, a lady who was appropriately attired with that dapper and beautiful hat. The color that I remember most is her beautiful aqua, and I say that only because many times we look at women as to how they are adorned. I think that Dr. Height did not fail to be noticed when she came into a room, both by her stature and her attire, but certainly by her words. I would count her the most influential woman in the Civil Rights Movement, a friend to many, one who empowered women and clearly progeny of Mary McLeod Bethune, what a wonderful legacy that was given to Dr. Height in her leadership of the National Council of Negro Women for some 40 years. There are chapters throughout the Nation, and I am grateful to be a member of the Dorothy Height Chapter in Houston, Texas. There are many, and I must remind my colleagues and those that are listening, that the name continues to be the National Council of Negro Women, which was the name that was given by Mary McLeod Bethune. No one dared view that as any undermining of the dignity and purpose, reliability and, of course, the power of this organization. No one ran away from the word ``negro'' because we knew that in that word there was struggle, there was a showing of what we overcame. And to the instruction of Mary McLeod Bethune, we knew that it captured the empowerment of women, but it also spoke to the education of our children. Dr. Dorothy Height was in the center point of that. I had the privilege of coming here to the United States Congress and being able to look up to Dr. Height as I got to know her even before my congressional duties. What a pleasure to be able to join C. DeLores Tucker at her annual events and the National Council of Black Political Women to deal with her seeking empowerment for women, and as well to be able to join with then Betty Shabazz, Dr. Dorothy Height, and Coretta Scott King. What a powerful group of women whose history paralleled each other, but in essence they were sisters. And so I rise today to be able to acknowledge this glorified woman who came eagerly to the National Council that was headed by C. DeLores Tucker and now by E. Faye Williams, and to be able to thank her. When we were looking to pass legislation to include Sojourner Truth as the only standing figure now of an African American woman in this United States Congress, this great heroine, this great woman added her leverage, her power, her support and sisterhood to ensure that we placed Sojourner Truth, a suffragette and an abolitionist, here. So Dr. Height, as you rest today, let it be known that we do recommit ourselves to the universal access of education for all children, for the education of America's children, for reminding us that Haiti's children--now suffering in the wane of an earthquake--must be provided education, and to be reminded that there is no shame in being an agitator and a provocateur and someone who fights for freedom and justice. We are in your debt, the godmother, if you will, of civil rights. We will be forever in your debt. And the women and the men and the many different rainbow colors of these United States and around the world, people will be indebted to you for your common touch, for your spirit, and, yes, for saving so many of us. May God bless your soul. May you rest in peace as we celebrate over these days your life. God bless you, Dr. Dorothy Height. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Res. 1281, Honoring the life and Achievements of Dr. Dorothy Height and Recognizing her Lifelong Dedication and Leadership in the Struggle for Human Rights and Equality for All People Until Her Death at Age 95 on April 20, 2010. I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Dr. Dorothy I. Height who was a national treasure and a civil rights icon. For more than half a century, Dorothy Irene Height played a leading role in the never ending struggle for equality and human rights here at home and around the world. Her life exemplifies her passionate commitment for a just society and her vision of a better world. Dr. Height was a social justice and civil rights activist, a servant of the people, one who served a number of Presidents, a humanitarian, American, a hero, and a great patriot. She believed in women's rights and the empowerment of minorities. She was an inspiration to all women. She never ran away from the fight for justice. All of those are words without motion, unless you had the privilege to know Dr. Dorothy Height as I did. You would then be captured by her charm, her energy, her insight, her intellect and her compassion. Her legacy is one of a glorious and wonderful champion of the people. Dorothy Height witnessed or participated in virtually every major movement for social and political change in the last century. During the 1963 civil rights March on Washington, Dorothy Height was the only woman on the podium when Martin Luther King Jr. gave his ``I Have a Dream'' speech. For nearly 75 years, Dorothy Height fought for the equality and human rights of all people. She was the only female member of the ``Big 6'' civil rights leaders (Whitney Young, Jr., A. Philip Randolph, Martin Luther King, Jr., James Farmer, and Roy Wilkins). Her vision and dedication made the National Council of Negro Women the premier organization in advocating for the health, education, and economic empowerment for all women of African descent around the world. Dorothy Height was born in Richmond, Virginia, March 24, 1912, and educated in the public schools of Rankin, Pennsylvania, a borough of Pittsburgh, where her family moved when she was four. She established herself early as a dedicated student with exceptional oratorical skills. After winning a $1,000 scholarship in a national oratorical contest on the United States Constitution, sponsored by the Fraternal Order of the Elks, and compiling a distinguished academic record, she enrolled in New York University where she earned both her bachelor and master's degrees in just 4 years. She continued her postgraduate studies at Columbia University and the New York School of Social Work. In 1933, Dorothy Height joined the United Christian Youth Movement of North America where her leadership qualities earned her the trust and confidence of her peers. It was during this period that she began to emerge as an effective civil rights advocate as she worked to prevent lynching, desegregate the Armed Forces, reform the criminal justice system, and provide free access to public accommodations. In 1935, Dorothy Height was appointed by New York government officials to deal with the aftermath of the Harlem riot of 1935. As Vice President of the United Christian Youth Movement of North America, Dorothy Height was 1 of only 10 American youth delegates to the 1937 World Conference on Life and Work of the Churches held in Oxford, England. Two years later she was selected to represent the YWCA at the World Conference of Christian Youth in Amsterdam, Holland. Madam Speaker, it was in 1937, while serving as Assistant Executive Director of the Harlem YWCA, that Dorothy Height met Mary McLeod Bethune, founder and president of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW). Mrs. Bethune was immediately impressed with young Dorothy Height's poise and intelligence and invited her to join the NCNW and assist in the quest for women's rights to full and equal employment, pay and education. In 1938, Dorothy Height was 1 of 10 young Americans invited by Eleanor Roosevelt to Hyde Park, NY to help plan and prepare for the World Youth Conference to be held at Vassar College. For the next several years, Dorothy Height served in a dual role: as a YWCA staff member and NCNW volunteer, integrating her training as a social worker and her commitment to rise above the limitations of race and sex. She rose quickly through the ranks of the YWCA, from working at the Emma Ransom House in Harlem to the Executive Directorship of the Phyllis Wheatley YWCA in Washington, DC, to the YWCA National headquarters office. For 33 years, from 1944 through 1977, Dorothy Height served on the staff of the National Board of the YWCA and held several leadership positions in public affairs and leadership training and as Director of the National YWCA School for Professional Workers. In 1965, she was named Director of the Center for Racial Justice, a position she held until her retirement. In 1952, Dorothy Height lived in India, where she worked as a visiting professor in the Delhi School of Social Work at the University of Delhi, which was founded by the YWCAs of India, Burma and Ceylon. She would become renowned for her internationalism and humanitarianism. She traveled around the world expanding the work of the YWCA. She conducted a well-received study of the training of women's organizations in five African countries: Liberia, Ghana, Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Nigeria under the Committee of Correspondence. Dorothy Height loved and led her sorority, Delta Sigma Theta. She was elected National President of the sorority in 1947 and served in that capacity until 1956. She led the sorority to a new level of organizational development, initiation eligibility, and social action throughout her term. Her leadership training skills, social work background and knowledge of volunteerism benefited the sorority as it moved into a new era of activism on the national and international scene. In 1957, Dorothy Height was elected the fourth National President of NCNW and served in that position for 40 years, when she became Chair of the Board and President Emerita. In 1960, Dorothy Height was the woman team member leader in the United Civil Rights Leadership along with Martin Luther King, Whitney H. Young, A. Philip Randolph, James Farmer, Roy Wilkins and John Lewis. In 1961, while Dorothy Height was participating in major Civil Rights leadership, she led NCNW to deal with unmet needs among women and their families to combat hunger, develop cooperative pig banks, and provided families with community freezers and showers. In 1964, after the passage of the Civil Rights Act, Dorothy Height with Polly Cowan, an NCNW Board Member, organized teams of women of different races and faith as ``Wednesdays in Mississippi'' to assist in the freedom schools and open communication between women of difference races. The workshops which followed stressed the need for decent housing which became the basis for NCNW in partnership with the Department of Housing and Urban Development to develop Turnkey III Home Ownership for low income families in Gulfport, Mississippi. In 1970, Dorothy Height directed the series of activities culminating in the YWCA Convention adopting as its ``One Imperative'' to the elimination of racism. That same year she also established the Women's Center for Education and Career Advancement in New York City to prepare women for entry level jobs. This experience led her in 1975 to collaborate with Pace College to establish a course of study leading to the Associate Degree for Professional Studies (AAPS). In 1975, Dorothy Height participated in the Tribunal at the International Women's Year Conference of the United Nations in Mexico City. As a result of this experience, NCNW was awarded a grant from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to hold a conference within the conference for women from the United States, African countries, South America, Mexico and the Caribbean. This was followed with a site visit with 50 of the women to visit with rural women in Mississippi. Under the auspices of the USAID, Dorothy Height lectured in South Africa after addressing the National Convention of the Black Women's Federation of South Africa near Johannesburg (1977). Since 1986, she has worked tirelessly to strengthen the Black family. Madam Speaker, under the leadership of Dorothy Height: NCNW achieved tax-exempt status in 1966; NCNW dedicated the statue of Mary McLeod Bethune in Lincoln Park, Washington D.C. in 1974; the first woman to be so honored on public land in the Nation's Capital; Developed model national and community-based programs ranging from teen-age parenting to pig ``banks''--which addressed hunger in rural areas; Established the Bethune Museum and Archives for Black Women, the first institution devoted to black women's history; Established the Bethune Council House as a national historic site; Transformed NCNW into an issue-oriented political organization, sponsoring ``Wednesdays in Mississippi'' when interracial groups of women would help out at Freedom Schools; organizing voter registration drives in the South; and fostering communications between black and white women. Established the Black Family Reunion Celebration in 1986 to reinforce the historic strengths and traditional values of the Black family. Among the major awards bestowed upon Dorothy Irene Height in gratitude and appreciation for her service to our nation and the world are the following: Presidential Medal of Freedom presented by President Bill Clinton; Congressional Gold Medal presented by President George W. Bush; John F. Kennedy Memorial Award; NAACP--Spingarn Medal; Hadassah Myrtle Wreath of Achievement; Ministerial Interfaith Association Award; Ladies Home Journal--Woman of the Year; Congressional Black Caucus--Decades of Service; President Ronald Reagan--Citizens Medal; Franklin Roosevelt--Freedom Medal; Essence Award; and the Camille Cosby World of Children Award. Dorothy Height was also elected to the National Women's Hall of Fame and is the recipient of 36 honorary degrees from colleges and universities as diverse as Tuskegee University, Harvard University, Spelman College, Princeton University, Bennett College, Pace University, Lincoln University, Columbia University Howard University, New York University, Morehouse College, and Meharry Medical College. Madam Speaker, Dorothy Height has witnessed or participated in virtually every major movement for social and political change in the last century. For nearly 75 years, Dorothy Height has fought for the equality and human rights of all people. She was the only female member of the ``Big 6'' civil rights leaders (Whitney Young, Jr., A. Philip Randolph, Martin Luther King, Jr., James Farmer, and Roy Wilkins). Her vision and dedication made NCNW the premier organization in advocating for the health, education and economic empowerment for all women of African descent around the world. Thank you, Dorothy Height, for your service to our nation. You have made America a better place for all persons of all races, religions, and backgrounds. You have mentored hundreds, been a role model to thousands, and a hero to millions. You are an American original. I am glad to count you as a friend.

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, on a number of occasions many Members have had to rise to speak of a very sad and tragic incident that has occurred in their congressional district. Today, sadly, I rise as well to speak to the terrible loss of Joshua McMackle, a young freshman student at Texas Southern University in Houston, Texas. Meeting his parents and sister, Tracy, Moriah, and Bruce McMackle, his grandmother and aunt, many of whom were in the service of this country being Federal employees and law enforcement employees, it was so sad to be able to speak about this senseless and untimely death. I would say to you that this was a fine young man, a freshman who had come to Texas Southern University because of its special and exclusive music program. He was a high school graduate of the Randolph-Macon Military Academy, and he had traveled around the world with his mom and his parents. His tragic death occurred as any student might have it happen to them. Unfortunately, when parents send their children away to learn, some person, some unfortunate tragic individual would take a life by gunfire. And so it was for Joshua a week ago Saturday when he was with his friends at an event that should have been joyous, a fun time, a party, which is perfectly all right for college students, and along came outsiders who attempted, if you will, to turn this into the devastating tragedy that it was. In tribute to Joshua--we memorialize him this coming Saturday--but more importantly, in tribute to him we will say ``Never on our watch again.'' I join with his family and the memorial funding that they will have to say to young people across America, enough is enough, and to be able to enforce the laws that are necessary, along with the freedom that we have, that gets rid of those who think it is okay to take a senseless life, to beat up a fellow student, or to cause the death of someone they do not know. May this fine young man rest in peace. Joshua McMackle, we honor you for your contributions to America.

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I am particularly grateful for your leadership and that of the ranking member. Thank you for guiding me on this legislation. I rise to support S. 1963, the Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act, for the work it is doing on caregivers and dealing with suicide and unfortunate tragedies that occur among our military. This morning I was with the United States Air Force and their Air Force Cares program. I am pleased that this legislation included H.R. 228, the Blind Veterans of America, an organization chartered by Congress in 1958, which has been for nearly 50 years the only veterans service organization exclusively dedicated to serving America's blind and visually impaired veterans. There are approximately 160,000 legally blind veterans in the United States, but only approximately 35,000 are currently enrolled in the Veterans Health Administration services. It is estimated that there are 1 million low-vision veterans in the United States, and incidences of blindness among the approximate total veteran population of 26 million are expected to increase by about 40 percent over the next few years. This is because the most prevalent cause of blindness and low vision are age-related. This bill provides scholarships for training individuals, and I ask my colleagues to support it. And thank you for including H.R. 228. I rise in support of S. 1963--to provide needed support to caregivers of our nation's veterans, to improve the full spectrum of healthcare and access provided to those we honor and recognize as our country's present and past warriors and defenders. There are few if any higher obligations of the Congress, the President, and the American people than keeping faith with the men and women who have worn the uniform in service to our country. I applaud the work of the all those who have worked on this bill and who are charged with legislative, oversight and investigative jurisdiction over education of veterans, employment and training of veterans, vocational rehabilitation, veterans' housing programs, and readjustment of servicemembers to civilian life. S. 1963 addresses many of the important needs of our veterans relating to services for women's health care, rural health care, homelessness, employment, health, and education.

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, last Thursday, April 15, 2010, I was away from this House on a matter dealing with constituency and official business regarding NASA, and I would like to submit into the Record the following votes if I had been present. On rollcall vote 204, on agreeing to the resolution, H. Res. 1248. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye.'' Rollcall vote 205, on a motion to suspend the rules on resolution, H. Res. 1062. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye.'' Rollcall vote 206, on a motion to refer the resolution, H. Res. 1255. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye.'' Rollcall vote 207, on agreeing to the amendment, H.R. 4715, the Shea- Porter of New Hampshire amendment. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye.'' Rollcall vote 208, on a motion to recommit, to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. Had I been present, I would have voted ``no.'' Rollcall vote 209, on the final passage of H.R. 4715, to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye.'' Rollcall vote 210, on a motion to suspend the rules and agree to resolution, H. Res. 1242, congratulating Duke University. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye.'' Rollcall vote 211, H.R. 4851, on a motion to concur in the Senate amendment H.R. 4851, continuing the extension of unemployment benefits. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye.'' Mr. Speaker, I rise to address the Chair regarding my absence from rollcall votes 204-211 on Thursday, April 15, 2010. Mr. Speaker, I was not able to cast my votes during rollcall 204-211 on last Thursday because I was away working to save jobs for the American people. I would like to state for the record how I would have voted had I been present. For rollcall vote 204, on agreeing to the resolution, H. Res. 1248, ``Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 4715), Clean Estuaries Act of 2010 and waiving a requirement of clause 6(a) of rule XIII with respect to consideration of certain resolutions reported from the Committee on Rules, and providing for consideration of motions to suspend the rules,'' I would have voted aye; For rollcall vote 205, on motion to suspend the rules and agree as amended, H. Res. 1062, ``Recognizing the Coast Guard Group Astorias' more than 60 years of service to the Pacific Northwest, and for other purposes,'' I would have voted aye; For rollcall vote 206, on motion to refer the resolution, H. Res. 1255, ``Raising a question of the privileges of the House,'' I would have voted aye; For rollcall vote 207, on agreeing to the amendment, H.R. 4715, ``Shea-Porter of New Hampshire Amendment,'' I would have voted aye; For rollcall vote 208, on motion to recommit with instructions, ``To amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to reauthorize the National Estuary Program, and for other purposes,'' I would have voted no; For rollcall 209 on passage of H.R. 4715, ``To amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to reauthorize the National Estuary Program, and for other purposes,'' I would have voted aye; For rollcall vote 210 on motion to suspend the rules and agree to H. Res. 1242, ``Congratulating the Duke University men's basketball team for winning the 2010 NCAA Division I Men's Basketball National Championship,'' I would have voted aye; For rollcall vote 211, H.R. 4851 on motion to concur in the Senate Amendment H.R. 4851, ``Continuing Extension Act,'' I would have voted aye.

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in support of H.R. 4178--The Deposit Restricted Qualified Tuition Programs Act. As co-chair of the Congressional Children's Caucus, I support this legislation because I believe that it is an important measure to help families pay for higher education. A quality education continues to be the best pathway to social and economic mobility in this country, and this legislation will enable such paths. I want to thank my colleague, Emanuel Cleaver, for introducing this important legislation. Today, Americans are simultaneously faced with rising higher education costs and a difficult economy. Families across Texas are sending their children to college and when they graduate, they should not be saddled with debt. Democrats pledged to make a college education more affordable, and this legislation makes good on our promise. This legislation is evidence that the Democratic-led Congress is committed to working on a bipartisan basis, and with this President, to address the key concerns of America's families. During these tough economic times, many Americans saving for college saw their accounts drop over 50 percent in value and are now reluctant to invest in a securities-based plan. During the past year, many parents who contributed to a 529 college savings plan--an investment vehicle where earnings grow tax free--saw those savings take a hit. Many 529 plans were heavily invested in stocks, though their beneficiaries were just a few years away from attending college. This is a big blow to the 63 percent of parents who are saving for college expenses, according to a September 2009 Fidelity survey, and who must now manage a wide array of expenses with less money and security. H.R. 4178 establishes an avenue for those wanting to save for the college education of a child, grandchild or other related individual, in a Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, FDIC, insured deposit. Today, savers can only access the 529 college savings program through a securities-based plan, and this plan would offer another option. H.R. 4178 amends the Federal Deposit Insurance Act to prescribe requirements for deposit restricted qualified tuition programs which are exempt from Federal income tax. It also declares that in no event shall a deposit restricted qualified tuition program, the State entity designated by statute to oversee such program, or the administrator appointed to operate it on behalf of the State or a participating depository institution, be deemed to be an issuer of a security or an investment company. This bill does not make any changes to the current 529 college savings program nor the current delivery system of the program through a securities based plan. It simply adds another 529 college savings program delivery option through an FDIC insured deposit. The Congressional Budget Office and the Joint Committee on Tax have completed a review of the budgetary impact of H.R. 4178, the Deposit Restricted Qualified Tuition Programs Act of 2009. They determined that by enacting this legislation it would affect revenues, but estimate that the reduction in revenues would not be significant over the 2010- 2020 period. Similarly, implementing the bill could affect direct spending but the net impact of such spending would be negligible over the next 10 years.

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Res. 1257, ``Supporting the goals and ideals of National Financial Literacy Month, 2010, and for other purposes.'' Let me begin by thanking my colleague Representative Ruben Hinojosa from my home state of Texas for introducing this legislation into the House of Representatives as it is important that we continually promote and encourage honest and thrifty financial decision making abilities in our citizens. Considering the current state of our economy, Mr. Speaker, it is critically important that we begin raising public awareness about financial education. A recent study put forth by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) stated that approximately 54 percent of Black households, 44.5 percent of American Indian/Alaskan households, and 43.3 percent of Hispanic households either have no checking or savings accounts or have used non-bank money orders, non-bank check- cashing services, payday loans, rent-to-own agreements, or pawn shops at least once or twice a year. This statistic is alarming to many in our nation, Mr. Speaker, and it highlights an increasing lack of financial awareness in our nation. By educating our citizens on the proper use of checking and savings accounts as well as educating citizens of other financial instruments we will seek to see a reduction in the use of payday loans, pawn shops and other predatory financial transactions in our nation. Furthermore, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis the U.S. aggregate personal savings rate as a percentage of disposable personal income dropped 0.3 percent between January and February of this year. In February the aggregate personal savings rate as a percentage of disposable personal income was 3.1, as compared with 3.4 percent in January 2010. Still further, troubled loans, mortgages and toxic assets are still plaguing our economy and making it increasingly difficult for the average person to make sound financial decisions. This is why it is critically important that we help give people the tools needed to manage their personal finances. Some of the basic encouragements we can pass along to our citizens through education programs would be to increase personal savings, and reduce personal debt. Helping our citizens to become economically empowered and in control of their personal finances is also essential toward the recovery of our national economy. By giving our citizens the ability to plan for their financial future and by giving our citizens the ability to make important investment and entrepreneurial decisions, we will help to improve the quality of life of all Americans through the next generation. While it is important to focus on educating adults in the areas of thrift and finance, it is even more important that we educate our youth about the importance of making sound economic and financial decisions. These types of financial decision making habits--whether they be wise or careless--are often developed during childhood and usually become lifelong tendencies. An added benefit that would come from increasing our nation's financial literacy and providing financial education programs for our citizens would be the additional protection against financial fraud that would be created. Giving people the resources to understand and control their own finances and to understand potential risks and hazards would empower people against identity theft and other financial schemes that attempt to do them harm. I ask my colleagues for their support of H. Res. 1257, as well as their continued support for the economically downtrodden in this nation. By increasing the capacity of our citizens to make prudent economic decisions, I am sure that we will see a return to American prosperity that will last for generations to come. I would like to again thank my colleague Representative Ruben Hinojosa for his leadership in introducing his bill as well as for his support of the American people and our economy. Mr. Speaker, I strongly support H. Res. 1257 and ask for its immediate adoption.

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 1271, ``Honoring the life and achievements of Dr. Benjamin Lawson Hooks'' introduced by my distinguished colleague from Michigan, Representative Conyers. Dr. Benjamin Lawson Hooks was a civil rights leader and served as the Executive Director of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) from 1977 to 1992. Dr. Hooks graduated with a bachelor's degree from Howard University, a juris doctor degree from DePaul University College of Law, and received an honorary doctorate from Central Connecticut State University. He held professional memberships with the American Bar Association, National Bar Association, Tennessee Bar Association, Southern Christian Leadership Conference, the Tennessee Council on Human Relations, and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. After passing the Tennessee Bar, he established his own law practice. Dr. Hooks served as a distinguished adjunct professor for the Political Science Department at the University of Memphis. In 1996, the Benjamin L. Hooks Institute for Social Change was established at the University of Memphis. The Benjamin L. Hooks Institute is a public policy research center supporting the urban research mission, and honoring Hooks' many years of leadership in the American Civil Rights Movement. The Hooks Institute also emphasizes social movements, race relations, strong communities, public education, effective public participation, and social and economic justice. Dr. Hooks was ordained as a Baptist minister in 1956, and he preached regularly at the Greater Middle Baptist Church in Memphis. He joined the Southern Christian Leadership Conference along with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr. Hooks became a pioneer of NAACP-sponsored restaurant sit-ins and other boycotts of consumer items and services. In 1965, Dr. Hooks was appointed by Governor Frank G. Clement as the first African American criminal court judge in the Shelby Criminal Court. In 1966, he would later campaign for and win a full term to the same judicial office that he had been appointed to due to a vacancy. In 1972, President Richard Nixon appointed Dr. Hooks to be one of the five commissioners to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). As a member, he addressed the lack of minority ownership of television and radio stations, the minority employment statistics for the broadcasting industry, and the image of African Americans in mass media. Dr. Hooks served as a producer and host for several local television shows in Memphis. Dr. Hooks' honors and awards include the NAACP Spingarn Medal for outstanding achievements made by an African American, receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President George W. Bush in November of 2007, and he was inducted into the International Civil Rights Hall of Fame at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site on January 12, 2008. The Memphis Library Branch is also named in his honor. The NAACP later created the Benjamin L. Hooks Distinguished Service Award, which is awarded to persons for their efforts in implementing policies and programs which promote equal opportunity. So it is with great pride and admiration that we honor Dr. Benjamin Lawson Hooks as a great civil rights leader, and as a successful businessman, judge, lawyer, and minister. He has fought triumphantly for the rights of African Americans and made great contributions to the African American community.

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas

Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 1104, supporting the mission and goals of 2010 National Crime Victims' Rights Week to increase public awareness of the rights, needs, and concerns of victims and survivors of crime in the United States,'' introduced by my distinguished colleague from California, Representative Costa. The 2010 National Crime Victims' Rights Week, April 18 through April 24, 2010, will provide an opportunity for justice systems in the United States to strive to reach the goal of justice for all by ensuring that all victims are afforded legal rights and provided with assistance as they face the financial, physical, spiritual, psychological, and social impact of crime. The theme for 2010 is, ``Crime Victims'' Rights: Fairness. Dignity. Respect.'' Although our Nation has steadily expanded rights, protections, and services for victims of crime, too many victims are still not able to recognize the hope and promise of these expanded rights, protections, and services. Over 25,000 individuals in the United States are victims of crime each year, including over 6,000,000 individuals who are victims of violent crime. Despite impressive accomplishments over the past 40 years in crime victims' rights and services, there remain many challenges to ensuring all victims--(1) treated with fairness, dignity, and respect; (2) are offered support and services regardless of whether the crimes committed against them to law enforcement; and (3) are recognized as key participants in our system of justice when such crimes are reported. Observing victims' rights and treating victims with fairness, dignity, and respect serve the public interest by engaging victims in the justice system, inspiring respect for public authorities, and promoting confidence in safety. Justice systems in the United States should ensure that services are available for all victims of crime, including victims from underserved communities of our Nation. A just society acknowledges the impact of crime on individuals, families, neighborhoods, and communities by ensuring that rights, resources, and services available to help rebuild the lives of victims. Individuals in the United States recognize that our homes, neighborhoods, and communities are made safer and stronger by identifying and meeting the needs of crime victims and ensuring justice for all. Treating victims' of crime with fairness, dignity, and respect costs nothing more than taking time to identify victims' needs and concerns, and effective collaboration among justice systems to meet such needs and concerns. I urge my colleagues to support H. Res. 1104 in increasing the public awareness of the impact on victims' and survivors of crime and the constitutional and statutory rights and needs of victims' and survivors. We all have an obligation in protecting the rights of all people and ensuring that they receive the respect and dignity they deserve.