Eddie Johnson

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman very much. I yield to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Bentsen).

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Green) could not be here, but he left a statement. I notice in the statement, in his congressional district, which is also in the Houston area, at least 70 percent of the children in the Aldine School District rely on the school nurse for primary health care services, or as their initial health care provider. That does not have to be, and it should not have to be. We have too many children who are not getting any kind of attention in Texas. We cannot allow this to continue. It is ironic that we talk about how great we are, this big, wonderful State, with the greatest prosperity in the history of the State. We have all of these children starting out, without the availability of health care, a full life perhaps with chronic illnesses because they do not have access to the care that they deserve, and they can have it. They would have it if we had a Texas government that had enough compassion to enroll them in the program. Nobody wishes to be poor, no one wishes to be uneducated, no one wishes to be a long ways from various health care outlets. But when that happens, the entire State ought to have access to that care. They need to be informed and they need to be enrolled. This is simply not the time to turn our heads and pretend this is not going on. It is not the time to simply say to poor kids, get back, be quiet, you might make us look bad. We have got to give attention to these poor kids who are kids of working parents, low-income parents, who do not have access to health care that taxpayers are willing to pay for. The money is available. Texas has access to the money and refuses to use it. Is that compassion, I ask the Members? Is this America? This is not what we stand here and fight for, and what we fund each day. We tried to be very sure that when welfare reform came, that our poor kids would not fall through the cracks. We did our part at this level. It is time for the State of Texas to look up and acknowledge that though we have much wealth, we have the largest number of poor kids being neglected. In a State where you can hardly breathe the air, we have kids who are getting their lungs injured every day simply because they do not have access to care that has been paid for. We simply refuse to use it. Mr. Speaker, I call upon all of my colleagues to join me in making a plea to the State of Texas, my home State. I was born in the State and I know the State. I served there in the House and in the Senate. This callousness must not continue, and certainly we must not allow it to spread in this Nation. Mr. Speaker, I include for the Record the statement of the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Green). The statement referred to is as follows:

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, reclaiming my time, there has been a whole legislative session that has come and gone since these dollars have been available, and as of May 21 of this year, we had not used any of the dollars allocated for Texas. Can the gentleman think of any reason why we have denied these children the right to health care when there is nothing standing in the way between them and health care enrollment?

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Lampson).

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, this has been available now for at least 2 years. We have already talked about the fact that when people have a language problem or they live a long ways from where they might be able to get health care relief, it is usually the lowest income which means usually the least well educated. Has Texas taken on any leadership or responsibility to try to be sure that we can spread the word to the persons who are eligible?

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, for the 60 minutes, we plan to address the House on health care for children in Texas. I will be joined by several Members. My colleagues can see, Mr. Speaker, that this ad has a child that has on boxing gloves. Our children should not have to fight to get health care coverage that they truly deserve. A child born in the year 2000 is far more likely to grow up healthy and to reach adulthood than a child that was born in 1900. Over the past 100 years, our Nation's scientific, technological, and financial resources have built the most advanced health care system in the world. But the doors of health care still remain shut to some. Millions of children have inadequate medical care. Ensuring that every child in our Nation receives the best possible health care, we must have a top priority in this Nation. To a large extent, health status is still determined by race, language, culture, geography, and economics. In general, children in low-income communities get sick more often from preventable acute and infectious illnesses, such as measles, conjunctivitis, and ear infections. Low-income children and teens are also more likely to suffer from chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes and asthma. These are the leading causes of school absences. In fact, the sharpest increases in asthma rates are among the urban youth. Very prevalent. Despite the tremendous advances in medical technology and public health, millions of children have less of a chance to grow up healthy and strong because of unequal access to health care. Texas is a perfect example. Children without health insurance or a regular source of health care are more likely to seek care from emergency rooms and clinics, which have long waits to see a provider, limited follow-up, and little to no health education about preventive strategies or ways to manage a chronic illness. Compared with insured children, uninsured children are up to eight times less likely to have a regular source of care, four times more likely to delay seeking care, nearly three times less likely to have seen a provider in the last past year, and five times more likely to use emergency room as a regular place of care. There is no question that insurance is key to maintaining health. When Medicaid was initiated in 1965, infant mortality rates began to decrease, and that continues today. The health insurance status of children through age 18 in Texas compared to that of the rest of the country. On this next chart, imagine 100 children from Texas standing in front of us, 54 of these children are insured through private employer-based policies; 24 percent are uninsured; 22 percent are covered through Medicaid. This equals to about 1.4 million of the 6 million children in Texas without health insurance. On our next chart, just imagine 100 children from all over the country standing in front of us. Sixty-four percent of these children are insured through private employer-based programs; 21 are covered through Medicare; 15 are uninsured. Why is it that Texas's percentage of uninsured children is higher than the Nation's average? The reason is due to a Texas Government that chooses not to take advantage of the government funding that will allow many children to be insured. I just read a news clipping here talking about the millions of dollars that is turned back or unused in the Federal Government simply because we have not enrolled these children. It is unfortunate that we have a Government so benign in Texas that will not enroll the children. As a matter of fact, Texas can expand its Medicaid coverage to the age of 18 and cover those whose income is up to 300 percent of the Federal poverty level. Presently, Texas only covers children up to age 18 and whose income is 100 percent of the Federal poverty level with title XXI funds. There is something grossly inadequate about how we take care of our children and their health care in Texas. Over half of all States have expanded the coverage to 200 percent and beyond. The next chart shows income eligibility levels for children 1 and older in Medicaid and separate State programs. This chart shows that most States have expanded health care coverage to children in title XXI funds. This coverage is provided through Medicaid expansions and/or separate insurance programs. Why, then, Texas? Ten States offer Medicaid to those with incomes up to 150 percent of the Federal poverty level. Texas falls within that category. Texas falls at the bottom. Our children fall at the bottom. There are several colleagues that I have here, Mr. Speaker, who will also make comments on whether or not our children are being treated fairly if they have to simply fight for the health care they deserve. I yield to the gentleman from Texas.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Could the gentleman tell me why we are just beginning to talk about this information since this has been available for a while?

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in favor of this language of this treaty. I truly believe that the failure to enact PNTR will deprive the United States of meaningful market access. China has access to our markets. We need access to their markets. This agreement will provide a landmark set of rules in protecting patents, copyrights, trademarks, and other forms of intellectual property protection. This system protects Americans' research, innovation, and creates incentives for further investment of technological services. We need this treaty today. There is no way that we can be the leader of the world. Our chair at the table of the world is empty. No agreement ever before has contained stronger language to strengthen the guarantees of fair trade and to address practices that distort trade and investment. It will help American workers by eliminating practices that can cost American jobs and force unfair transfer of technology to China. For the first time, Americans will have the means to combat many of these practices. Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak on Permanent Normal Trade Relations with China (H.R. 4444). The potential of Permanent Normal Trade Relations is far from being realized by many Americans, in fact, it is far from being realized by many of my colleagues. I am here to express the reason I support this measure. What we are doing should not be looked at as a favor for China, but as an act that is in the best interest of America and Americans. And certainly, my district, my state, our country, our American workers. Without PNTR, American workers, American farmers, and American business will be left behind. While groups, such as Asian, Latin American, Canadian and European competitors reap the benefits of PNTR, American workers, American farmers, and American businesses will miss out on opportunities that may possibly raise their economic standards. To compete effectively, American workers, American farmers, and American businesses, need the access provided by granting PNTR--the ability to export and distribute goods in China. This access will allow our businesses to export to China from here at home and to have their own distribution networks in China. This is more convenient than being forced to set up factories in China to sell products through Chinese partners. This will provide the opportunity for our firms to attain the access they need to China's fastgrowing services market in sectors like telecommunications. This agreement truly strengthens our ability to ensure fair trade and protect U.S. agricultural and manufacturing bases from unwanted import surges, unfair pricing, and unwarranted abusive investment practices. I truly believe that failure to enact PNTR will deprive the United States of meaningful market access for goods--key elements that are necessary to safeguard American workers from unfair import surges from China. This agreement will also provide a landmark set of rules for protecting patents, copyrights, trademarks and other forms of intellectual property. This system protects Americans' research and innovation and creates incentives for further investment and technological progress worldwide. Our firms also need access to China's fastgrowing services market in sectors like telecommunications. Just think, this access will allow, for the first time, our companies the ability to sell and distribute products in China made by workers here at home without being forced to transfer our technology to China. This ability to work at home also sets the stage for increased trade, which will play a part in raising the living standards here in America. The U.S., the world's largest exporter, will gain the most from a strong, open, multilateral trading system. This trading system will help raise living standards for American working families that depend on export-related jobs. It is a fact that jobs supported by goods exports pay 13-16% more than the national average. Denying China PNTR will cost American exports and the jobs they support as well as higher paying jobs. We must not allow our competitors in Europe, Asia, and elsewhere to capture Chinese markets. Simply stated, if Congress enacts PNTR there will be more exports to China of products made in the United States by American workers and products grown by our farmers. If Congress does not grant PNTR, our competitors will enjoy the full market access and enforcement rights in China that we will be denied. No agreement ever on WTO accession has ever contained stronger measures to strengthen guarantees of fair trade and to address practices that distort trade and investment. Mainly, it will help American workers by eliminating practices that can cost American jobs and force the unfair transfer of U.S. technology to China. For the first time, Americans will have the means to combat measures such as forced technology transfer, frequent mandated offsets, frivolous local content requirements, and other unfair practices that drain jobs and technology away from the U.S. Passage of PNTR will open China to American values and practices also. U.S. companies are more committed than their Asian competitors to progressive labor management practices and protecting the safety of their workers. It is clear, our decision could fundamentally change not only our relationship with China, but China itself. Since I am a representative of Dallas, Texas, let me expound on how PNTR will help Texas and my district. The U.S.-China Bilateral Agreement on China's accession to the WTO opens an important market to Texas' exports, by benefiting key industries, busily creating export, and blossoming employment opportunities. Texas' exports to China are broadly diversified with almost every major product category registering exports to the Chinese market in 1998. Texas' merchandise exports sales to China totaled over $583 million in 1998--a 46% increase from the $399 million sold to China in 1993. Included in Texas' exports to China are sales from key metropolitan areas. For example, my district, Dallas, grossed $92 million in sales. The agreement will open the market for a wide range of services, including telecommunications, banking, insurance, financial services, professional, hotel, restaurant, tourism, motion pictures, video distribution, software, business, computer, environmental, and distribution and related services. This will occur not only in Texas, but also throughout America. It's simple, granting PNTR will not erase the horrific acts of the Chinese Government, but it will enable self-protection and allow opportunities for American workers. Opportunities that we should not allow to pass us by due to past actions of the Chinese Government. Let me end by acknowledging the work that all of my colleagues have and continue to do in order to ensure America's leadership position in the world. As Members of Congress and leaders, we must realize that now is the time to encourage China to evolve. We can advance America's economic system without diluting the goals we stand for and the goals that allow democracy to prevail.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON. Mr. Chairman, as the Internet flourished during its infant stages and development, the importance of access and accessibility is key to America. It is my belief that the Internet should not be encumbered with burdensome taxation. However, sales through the Internet without paying taxes gets into another area, an area that could seriously effect the economy of states such as Texas. The Internet, a technology where America is the unquestioned world leader, should be allowed to develop and flourish without every state and locality burdening such commerce with taxation during its growth process. The purpose of H.R. 3709, sponsored by my colleague, Representative Cox, will extend for an additional five years the current three-year moratorium on the imposition of state and local sales taxes on Internet access, as well as any multiple or discriminatory taxes imposed on the Internet. With this legislation, Members of Congress are attempting to find a fair solution for traditional business and state and local authorities, while not stifling the growth of e-commerce. Though H.R. 3709 may be attractive, the extended five-year period may be too long. I find the amendment proposed by my colleague, Representative Delahunt, more appealing. His amendment will provide only a two-year extension of the moratorium on state and local taxes on the Internet. This two-year period will hopefully give us time to come up with a feasible and fair solution to this troublesome problem for states that fund themselves through sales tax. Let me end by acknowledging the work that each of you have and continue to do in order to ensure America's leadership position in the technological world. As Members of Congress and leaders, we must realize that ill-considered and disruptive new taxes could literally kill the initial growth stage of our most dynamic and innovative segment of our economy--the Internet. However, now is the opportune time to examine the relationship between taxes and the Internet. We must find ways that will allow the Internet to play its role as a valuable asset, while funding programs that will be beneficial for individual states, such as Texas, who rely on sales tax for the construction of its transportation systems and the education of our children.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the Barrett/Rush Amendment and in support of the FCC's Low-Power FM radio station proposal. The Barrett/Rush amendment is a reasonable compromise to this legislation that would allow the FCC to continue work toward establishing these important communications tools. Mr. Chairman, low-power FM stations would give churches, schools and local community groups access to the radio spectrum at a cost they can afford. These stations will only reach a couple of miles, but the message they will carry will reach many people. These stations will give churches a greater voice in the community. These stations will allow schools to set up in-house radio stations. Schools can train kids for a career in the radio industry, as well as provide announcements of school closures and after-school events. Local community groups will be able to contribute to the diversity of voices in their community while providing important information. The bill we are considering today will effectively give Congress the ability to kill the low-power FM program. The Barrett/Rush amendment forces Congress to act on this proposal instead of allowing it to wither away. My colleagues and I have heard the concerns of broadcasters that these new stations will interfere with existing stations. This amendment will allow for further study to ensure that the integrity of the spectrum is maintained. However, it mandates that Congress will act on this proposal after the independent study on interference is completed. This amendment represents a more responsible compromise to allay the concerns of broadcasters while giving the FCC the ability to move forward with this program. Mr. Chairman, I urge support of this amendment and low-power FM radio. Let's give new strength to the voice of the people.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON. Mr. Speaker, I proclaim April 9, 2000 as ``Willie and Bernice Rucker Day'', in the Thirtieth Congressional District of Texas. This distinction marks the fiftieth wedding anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Rucker. Mr. and Mrs. Rucker grew up, met and married in New Orleans, LA. Mr. Willie Rucker retired from the United States Army in 1971 after serving over 21 years. He worked for the Regional Transportation District in Denver CO, taught ROTC for Denver Public Schools, and, upon moving to Dallas, worked for Dallas Area Rapid Transit, retiring in 1996. Mr. Rucker can attribute much of his successful career to the support of his wife. Mrs. Bernice Rucker has been a constant companion, friend and mother. Mr. and Mrs. Rucker are the parents of six wonderful children, Vernon, Rodney, Clyde, Candace, Debra, and Patrick, who have become productive members of society. Mr. Speaker, The Ruckers are a prime example of true family values. They are a testament to the virtue of marriage and an asset to Texas. I ask the citizens of the Thirtieth Congressional District of Texas to unite with me in paying tribute to these great Americans. Please join me in celebrating ``Willie and Bernice Rucker Day'' on April 9, 2000.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of this substitute, and especially call attention to the section dealing with the National Science Foundation and NASA, which is the area that will have the potential of closing the digital divide. I will point out that the President's recommendations clearly took care of this area. This is not a substitute for the President's proposal, it is a substitute for the Republican's proposal. If the President's proposal had been presented here today, we would have very little alteration to it. So I rise in support of this substitute, in lieu of the fact that we have to speak on behalf of the people.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, let me first commend the chairman of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and our ranking member and all of our leadership, but most especially our chairman, who helped us to negotiate, through lots of tenacity and commitment, this agreed upon conference report. It was not easy coming, but we are very grateful for his leadership. Mr. Speaker, today is where aviation is growing the fastest of any other method of transportation, and it really is an economic engine for practically every community where it exists, and most especially mine. This is the only way that we have goods and services moving at all times, and it has enabled us to enjoy the most prosperous time in our history. We have to attribute much of that to aviation. Numerous jobs have been created because of our ability to move people very rapidly around the world, and all of us know what happens when jobs disappear. That is when we will need many more services spent in other ways, where most of us really do desire to be independent. This is a mode of transportation that really does it. I understand clearly about distribution of funds. But when funds are collected from a particular industry with a commitment that those funds go back to that industry, then I think it is only fair and it only shows integrity when that is what happens to the funds. With the passage of the facility fee, this is not distributed to everyone, only those passengers that use the service, and we need the improvements. That is one clear and fair way to get them.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, Speaker Carl Albert passed away Friday, February 4, 2000, after a distinguished career during which he shepherded the nation through some of its most difficult years. The people of the Thirtieth Congressional District of Texas pay tribute to this great American and join the nation to express sincere sorrow regarding his passing. Beginning in the Eightieth Congress, Speaker Albert spent the next thirty years representing the citizens of the Third Congressional District of Oklahoma in the U.S. Congress and helped create a new era of American opportunity. He supported civil rights and antipoverty legislation. Speaker Albert provided invaluable leadership to the House of Representatives as majority leader during the Eighty-seventh through Ninety-first Congresses. As leader of this legislative body during the Ninety-second through Ninety-fourth Congresses, Speaker Albert fostered a lasting legacy. Speaker Albert successfully steered the nation through difficult times and ensured a fair forum for democratic discussion on issues ranging from the impeachment of President Richard Nixon to the war in Vietnam. He provided the nation with stability and security while he was first in line to succeed the President of the United States, in 1973 and again in 1974. Speaker Albert personified great American values throughout his life. He rose from childhood poverty to become a Rhodes Scholar, winner of the Bronze Star, and a distinguished U.S. Congressman. During a time when we sometimes let partisanship get the better of us, we should look at Carl Albert as a symbol of the most esteemed values of the U.S. Congress. I join the nation in paying tribute to an exemplary citizen, who was during his lifetime and continues to be an inspiration in the greatest traditions of domestic representation.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I am appalled today that there is going to be real debate on whether or not we are going to raise the minimum wage by one dollar over 2 years or 3 years. We are talking about present minimum wage of $5.15 an hour. Can we imagine that in the greatest economy that we have ever known? Persons who are heads of these companies are making multi-million-dollar salaries per year and the ones who make them get there cannot even get a dollar raise in minimum wage. These are working mothers who have to pay child care, shelter, food, transportation. Most do not even have health care, so we have to pay that as taxpayers. I cannot believe this Nation ought to be outraged that we are debating whether or not we are going to raise minimum wage by one dollar, just one dollar, over a 2- year or a 3-year period. That is unconscionable. I do not know anyone in any State that can live on minimum wage and take care of all of their responsibilities. Their responsibilities become ours.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay special tribute to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. during African- American history month. I would like to highlight the organization's ninety-two years of service to our nation. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority currently has over 800 chapters in the United States and the Virgin Islands and has spread to several countries abroad including: Germany, Caribbean, London, England, and Japan. Since 1908, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. has served as an instrument to enrich social and economic conditions in the world. Alpha Kappa Alpha strives to promote high scholastics and ethical standards, vocational and career guidance, health services and the advancement of human and civil rights. Led by national Basileus, Norma S. White, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. focuses on five national targets including: education, health, the black family, economics, and the arts. Today, the tradition of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. lives on. As we move into the 21st century, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. will continue to uplift the principles of service to all mankind.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to lead the citizens of the Thirtieth Congressional District as we pay tribute to the extraordinary contributions African-Americans have made in the advancement of health and science in America. I look forward to an equally storied future. Beginning with Imhotep, who many call the father of medicine, blacks have led the world in medical and scientific innovation. In Ancient Egypt, Imhotep diagnosed and treated over 200 diseases and illnesses, including tuberculosis, appendicitis, and arthritis. As early as 2850 B.C., Imhotep was performing surgery, and documenting the roles of the human circulatory system and vital organs. Like their ancestors in Africa, blacks in America have historically and consistently enhanced the quality of life through scientific discoveries and medical breakthroughs. In the 1860's Dr. Alexander T. Augusta was named head of a Union Army hospital during the Civil War. Also during the Civil War, one of my predecessors in the U.S. Congress, Ohio Senator Benjamin Wade, an abolitionist, gave Rebecca Lee a scholarship which enabled her to become the first African-American woman doctor. Following the example of Doctors Augusta and Lee, African-Americans have continued to lead the nation in advancing health care. Institutions like the Howard University College of Medicine and Meharry Medical College trained physicians who have saved the lives of thousands of African-Americans, many of whom had no other access to medical treatment. Black doctors have blazed trails throughout our history, including Dr. Charles Parvis, who helped keep the Howard Medical School open by declining to accept a salary and later became the first African-American to run a civilian hospital, Freedman's Hospital right here in Washington, D.C. For too long medical history did not include the legendary contributions of African-American health care professionals, who, despite serious obstacles and institutionalized racism, soared to amazing heights of success. Dr. Daniel Hale Williams, without access to the benefit of X-rays, breathing apparatus, or blood transfusions, performed the first successful open heart operation. Dr. Louis Wright is credited with the development of the neck brace. Dr. Charles R. Drew developed a critical method of preserving blood, and Dr. Ben Carson performed the first successful separation of Siamese twins joined at the back of the head. Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. performed the first surgical implantation of the device that corrects arrhythmia in the human heart. Today, our nation can reflect with great pride on the contributions of former Secretary of Health and Human Services Louis Sullivan and former Surgeon Generals Dr. Joycellyn Elders and Dr. David Satcher. Just as in the health care field, African-Americans have led the way in other areas of science. History is replete with the inventions and creations of African-American scientists. George Washington Carver revolutionized the agricultural foundation of this country through his discoveries--300 new uses for the peanut, 118 from the sweet potato, and 60 from pecans. Elijah ``The Real'' McCoy, helped make the industrial revolution possible by developing an oiling device for machines. Garrett Morgan's inventions still impact us today, in the form of the gas mask and the traffic light. Mr. Speaker, I could go on about the contributions of African- Americans to health and science, including Lewis Latimer and his electrical filament, Benjamin Banneker and the first striking clock and space pioneers, Guy Bluford, Ronald McNair, and Mae Jemison. The world would certainly not be as prepared to enter the new millennium if it had not been for the contributions of these outstanding Americans. And the scientists, health care professionals, and inventors I have mentioned barely scratch the surface. Scores of other African-Americans fought against the odds to dramatically change the scientific frontier. I join the citizens of America in paying tribute to the African- American legacy, and as we look to the future, I am proud to stand on the shoulders of these great Americans.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise to represent to citizens of the Thirtieth Congressional District to pay honor and tribute to scores of African-Americans who have paved the way for the realization of the American dream. African-American history is American history. Even before there was a United States, Crispus Attucks became the first American martyr when he was killed during the Boston Massacre of 1770, fighting against taxation without representation. Over 5,000 black soldiers and sailors fought in the American Revolution, only to be told that they were only three-fifths human when the Constitution was ratified. Africans transplanted to America endured centuries of oppression, beginning before they even set foot on the American shore. The middle passage was a terrible, often fatal voyage of slaves from Africa to the New World. Africans were herded like livestock into the lower decks of a ship, where they were shackled together in inhumane conditions, fed only substance portions, and thrown overboard in shark infested waters if they got sick, weak, or the weight of the ship was simply too heavy. Once here, they were subjected to every oppressive tactic known to man, from the spirit breaking submission demanded on the plantation, to the family breaking practice of slave breeding and trading, to the mind numbing laws forbidding slave education. Yet, even in the days when it seemed that ``hope unborn had died'', Africans in America reached amazing heights of achievement in all areas of endeavor, from science and medicine to politics and education, from Benjamin Banneker and Daniel Hale Williams to Shirley Chisholm and Martha Collins. Over stony roads, African-Americans have trod over the obstacles to success, each time redefining the American Dream as they fought on to victory. I would like to take this special opportunity to highlight the enormous contribution to African-American history, and thus, American history, by African-Americans from Texas, and, in many cases, from my district. Maynard Jackson, who went on to become the first and one of the most successful mayors of Atlanta, was born in Dallas in 1938. As mayor of Atlanta, he laid the foundation for the new South's centerpiece city by ensuring that all races were allowed to take part in Atlanta's economic opportunity. ``Blind'' Lemon Jefferson used Dallas as a base to launch an extraordinary blues career, during which he made over 100 recordings of his intricate melodic rhythms and influenced countless artists, including B.B. King. Before Rafer Johnson went on to be a gold medalist and a world decathlon record holder, he also lived in Dallas. Dallas native Bobby Seale went on to lead tens of thousands of African-Americans toward heightened political consciousness. Dallas served as a launching pad for James Farmer, the noted Congress of Racial Equality leader and winner of the Presidential Medal of Freedom. And as the first black mayor of Dallas, Mayor Ron Kirk continues to lead the city into unprecedented economic success. North Dallas has produced extraordinary African-Americans. Dallas native Ernie Banks set records in baseball and was voted the ``Greatest Chicago Cubs Player of All Time''. Austin native Bill Picket was the first black working cowboy, and revolutionized the genre with his unique style of bulldogging. From my birthplace, Waco, TX native Monroe Majors became the first black to practice medicine west of the Rocky Mountains, and Jules Bledsoe changed the face of opera through his groundbreaking production, ``Showboat.'' Madam Speaker, I have just scratched the surface of North Texas African-American contributions to the American fabric. From Al Lipscomb, who led the fight to make Dallas elected officials more representative of the populace, to Royce West and John Wiley Price, who led the fight for justice in Dallas today. As I look to the dawn of a new century, I am proud to be a part of America's esteemed legacy of African-American achievement.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of H.R. 2086. The bill authorizes a major new research investment in information technology, which is consistent with the President's information technology for the 21st century initiative. This research initiative is very important to the Nation's future and its well-being, and I am pleased that the measure has now come before the House for its consideration; and I give my thanks and respect to the chairman, and the chairman of the subcommittee and the ranking member of the committee. Information technology is a major driver of economic growth. It creates high-wage jobs, provides for rapid communication throughout the world, and provides the tools for acquiring knowledge and insight from information. Advances in computering and communications will make the workplace more productive, improve the quality of health care, and make government more responsive and accessible to the needs of our citizens. Vigorous long-term research is essential for realizing the potential of information technology. The technical advances that led to today's computers and the Internet evolved from past federally sponsored research, in partnership with industry and universities. H.R. 2086 will ensure that the store of basic knowledge is replenished and thereby enable the development of future generations of information-technology products and services. H.R. 2086 has received the bipartisan cosponsorship of many Members, and I would like to acknowledge the collegial manner in which the bill was developed by the Committee on Science. I want to thank the chairman of the committee, the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Sensenbrenner), for his efforts in crafting the bill and further thank the chairman, and the ranking Democratic Member, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Hall), for their efforts in moving the bill to the floor. H.R. 2086 will establish a multiagency research initiative that responds to the recent findings and recommendations of the President's information-technology advisory committee. This committee, which was established through statute, is composed of distinguished representatives from computer and communication companies and from academia. It reached its conclusions following a comprehensive assessment of current federally funded information-technology research. The President's advisory committee found that Federal funding for information-technology research has tilted too much toward support for near-term, mission-focused objectives. They discovered a growing gap between the power of high performance computers available to support agency mission requirements versus support for the general academic research community. They identified the need for socioeconomic research on the impact on society of the rapid evolution of information technology, and they judged that the annual Federal research investment is inadequate by more than $1 billion. I believe that H.R. 2086, as reported from the Committee on Science, addresses each of the deficiencies identified by the advisory committee and will effectively implement its recommendations. I am particularly pleased by the inclusion of a provision that I offered in committee to explicitly authorize research to identify, understand, anticipate, and address the potential social and economic cost and benefits from the increasing pace of information technology-based transformations. In addition to support for research, H.R. 2086 will also contribute to providing the highly trained workers needed by the information industry. My district knows about this all too well. The bill would expand the human resources pool through two principal mechanisms. First, as a part of their training, graduate students will participate in most of the individual research projects supported by the bill; and, secondly, special provision is made for student internships in industry to help recruit individuals for careers and information-based companies. I sponsored the provision in the bill that opened such internships to students participating in the Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation program administered by the National Science Foundation. Research discoveries in information technology over the past 30 years have resulted in new commercial enterprises that now constitute a major fraction of the economy. Businesses that produce computers, semiconductors, software and communications equipment have accounted for a third of the total growth in the United States economic production since 1992. Clearly, there is ample evidence of the value of past Federal investments in information-technology research. A 1995 study by the National Academy of Sciences documented several billion-dollar-per-year companies that had their genesis from discoveries resulting from government-sponsored research. H.R. 2086 will provide the basic research needed to underpin the technological advances in the future. Because of the wide recognition of the importance of the research and education components of H.R. 2086, many organizations have expressed their support for the bill's passage. Among the industrial organizations that have endorsed 2086 are the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the Association for Manufacturing Technology, the National Association of Manufacturers, the Business Software Alliance, and the Computing Technology Industry Association. In addition, many academic institutions and technical societies have expressed support for the bill, including the Association of American Universities, the National Association of State Universities Land Grant Colleges, and the Computer Research Association. Mr. Chairman, I believe that H.R. 2086 is an important investment in the future prosperity of this Nation and in the well-being of our fellow citizens. I commend the measure to all of my colleagues and ask for their support for its passage.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise to support the resolution and to thank the gentleman from Oklahoma (Mr. Watkins) for having the foresight to come with this resolution to pay tribute to this great American, former Speaker Carl Albert. I join the Nation as I represent District 30 of Texas to express sincere sorrow regarding his passing. Speaker Albert passed away last Friday, February 4, after a distinguished career, during which he shepherded the Nation through some of the most difficult years. Beginning in the 80th Congress, Speaker Albert spent the next 30 years representing the citizens of the Third Congressional District of Oklahoma in the U.S. Congress, and helped create a new era of American opportunity, supporting civil rights and anti-poverty legislation. Speaker Albert provided invaluable leadership to the House of Representatives as Majority Leader during the 87th through 91st Congresses, and Majority Whip during the 84th through the 87th Congresses. As leader of this legislative body during the 92nd through the 94th Congresses, Speaker Albert fostered a lasting legacy. He successfully steered the Nation through difficult times and ensured a fair forum for democratic discussion on issues ranging from the impeachment of President Nixon to the War in Vietnam. He provided the Nation with stability and security while he was first in line to succeed the President of the United States in 1973 and separately in 1974. Both times he turned down the opportunity to go to the White House in order to continue to represent the people in the Third Congressional District of Oklahoma. He personified great American values throughout his life. He rose from childhood poverty to become a Rhodes Scholar, winner of the Bronze Star, and a distinguished U.S. Congressman. During a time when we sometimes let partisanship get the better of us, we have but to look to Carl Albert as a symbol of the most esteemed values of the U.S. Congress. I join the Nation in paying tribute to an extraordinary and exemplary citizen who was, during his lifetime, and continues to be, an inspiration to the greatest traditions of democratic representation. I think it speaks well for the type of leadership he offered when we see the congressman that followed him in the Congress that he left in 1977, being elected as a Democrat and returning as a Republican, still representing the same people and upholding the same values as Mr. Albert upheld during his time of tenure. I want to thank the gentleman for being here today to represent the people as well as the Nation in the Third Congressional District of Oklahoma. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, let me rise and thank the gentleman from Oklahoma (Mr. Watkins). I hope that the gentleman takes it as a compliment when I refer to having served with the label of both parties, and I hope all of us can see that it is something that is bigger than all of us when we speak about a giant in history as we are speaking about Congressman Albert. So I thank the gentleman for the opportunity. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, let me thank the gentleman for his leadership and all those who stand here on behalf of the American people. Not anywhere can we go in this country that people are not begging for a sensible health care delivery system. We passed this bill 4 months ago. There is no reason why the conference committee could not have acted back then. But we are desperate now and we do need this. People scream out for it. I am a registered nurse, and I see the difference in the quality if we do not have any accountability. These companies dictate to physicians. We want to put the health care back into the hands of the caregiver, not the bureaucrat. Because, my colleagues, what happens is they dictate to the physicians, they dictate to the nurses, but they do not want to take the responsibility for it. Patients need rights. They need to be able to complain when they have been wronged by the system. We cannot get it until we get a good, aboveboard nonpartisan approach to it. It is very, very important.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Chairman, on rollcall No. 577, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``no.''

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, let me thank the gentleman from California (Mr. Lewis) and the gentleman from California (Mr. Farr) for setting aside this time to give tribute and salute to George Brown, our House colleague who died earlier this year after representing his constituents in California for more than 34 years. He is survived, as it has been said, by his wife Marta and their six children. She is here with us in the Chamber and we are delighted to see her. Many of us are aware of Marta's strong interest in public service and her commitment to social change. I know that she will continue Mr. Brown's legacy of boundless curiosity and forging public policy that advances social justice. Representative Brown, who became one of my best friends here, embodied the best that the House of Representatives has to offer. He was committed to public service, fought for social justice and became the Nation's foremost policymaker when it came to science and technology. He was a good listener and that is one of the reasons he was so successful. He took the time to understand his constituents and their problems. He believed that lawmakers should do their own homework, learn the issues and know how the issues affect their constituents. He prided himself on doing his own research. I served with Mr. Brown on the House Committee on Science and the longer we served together, the greater my admiration for him grew. As chairman of the House Committee on Science during the 102nd and 103rd Congresses, he reached the pinnacle of his legislative career. He was the recognized leader in forming the institutional framework for science and technology in the Federal Government. He worked tirelessly to expand the scope of NASA as one of the Federal Government's lead agencies in promoting research and development. In the 1960s and again in the 1980s, he helped restructure the National Science Foundation by directing that agency into more active roles in engineering and the development of advanced technologies. He also redirected the National Science Foundation to become the Nation's lead Federal agency in promoting mathematics, science, engineering and technology. His efforts have had a lasting impact on the development of these disciplines for kindergarten through 12th graders and more. He recognized that today's students will become tomorrow's workers. To be successful, these students must be technologically fluent and that will not happen without a strong commitment from the Federal Government working hand in hand and in coordination with the private sector. He understood that fact. He developed legislation that established the Office of Science and Technology to focus the Nation's policy in these areas. In the 1970s, he championed the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency and the Office of Technology Assessment. He also directed the Congress toward groundbreaking initiatives for energy and resource conservation, sustainable agriculture, wind energy, global climate change research and space exploration. Throughout his career, he enthusiastically supported both piloted space flight and nonpiloted space exploration. Before being elected to the Congress, he was the mayor of Monterey Park, California. Later he was elected to the California State Assembly where he worked on labor and environmental legislation. In fact, he introduced the first bill in the Nation to ban lead in gasoline in the early 1960s. He was elected to the House of Representatives in 1962 where he fought for passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and worked hard to stop U.S. participation in the Vietnam War. His career of public service spanned more than 40 years. He truly was a legislator for all seasons and the breadth of his interests spanned many horizons, from space exploration to social justice. Mr. Speaker, this House is a better place because George Brown served here. I am proud to have known him and the country has moved forward because of his service in this Chamber.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Rev. Alfred Walker, Jr., the 12th pastor of the historic New Hope Baptist Church in Dallas, TX. Reverend Walker has served New Hope Baptist Church with unwavering faith. His fine tradition of spiritual guidance and community service is an inspiration to us all. New Hope Baptist Church is blessed to have called Reverend Walker its pastor. Likewise, the Reverend was fortunate to serve a church with such a rich history. New Hope has the distinction of being the first African-American church within the city limits of Dallas entirely organized and owned by African-American people. In the 1870's, Sisters Rainey, Robinson, Drake, Williams, Starke, Taylor, and Brother Jerry Taylor held regular prayer meetings. On July 27, 1873, these spiritual leaders organized their prayer band into a church. Many direct descendants of these pioneers continue to worship at New Hope. In addition to its religious programs, the church has been a strong force in the community. New Hope sponsored one of the earliest African- American newspapers, and it has offered etiquette and public speaking classes to interested citizens. The church constructed the historic building at 919 Bogel Street, that became the center for cultural, political, and educational activities. Also, the first free public schools for African-Americans in Dallas were organized at New Hope Baptist Church. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the grateful congregation of New Hope Baptist Church, I commend Rev. Alfred Walker, Jr., for his dedication to the church and the community. I also commend Dallas' oldest African- American Christian Witness, New Hope Baptist Church, for 126 years of continuous community service.