Eddie Johnson

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it has now been nearly three months since the Senate passed its comprehensive postal reform legislation in an effort to address the mounting financial woes of the United States Postal Service. The 21st Century Postal Service Act, as it is known, would allow the USPS to address the growing demands of a modem age of technology, and grant the agency the authority it needs to avoid insolvency without unnecessary cuts to labor. Yet, the Republican-controlled House still refuses to consider the Senate bill despite this very serious threat to millions of businesses and residential neighborhoods across the country. The Postal Service processed over 167 billion mail pieces in 2011 alone. Further, there are nearly 8.4 million jobs and over $1 trillion in revenue attributed to the mailing industry. Sitting back idly, or blindly mandating drastic and indiscriminate cuts to essential services, will cause immeasurable harm to our economic recovery. That is why I have joined my Democratic colleagues in cosponsoring sensible reform in Congress to bolster the Postal Service's operations, and to clear the path for thoughtful ways to restore the USPS to its former prosperity. When there is so much at stake, this is simply not a time to politicize these issues. Sadly, that is what my Republican colleagues in Congress are doing, and that is the cause of this delay. Mr. Speaker, the Postal Service is an American institution that unites our Nation and provides reliable and inexpensive services to businesses and residents alike. We must recognize the Postal Service as the American institution that it is, and act swiftly and appropriately to address this issue while there is still time.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, there is an unprecedented effort by the GOP to deprive millions of Americans of their right to vote. Proponents of these efforts to suppress the electorate continue to grossly exaggerate the threat of voter fraud, in hopes of excluding select groups of eligible voters from the polls, and thus swaying the election in their favor. In 2002, President Bush launched an aggressive 5-year campaign to crack down on voter fraud. The end result was a mere 86 convictions out of the 122 million people who voted during the 2004 Presidential election. There is no evidence to suggest that these facts have changed, and certainly not to the degree in which it is being touted by the Republicans. It is clear that the only reason why overly burdensome voter laws are being adopted is to exclude the elderly, our youth, minorities, and the poor from casting their ballots. Nationally, an estimated 21 million American citizens do not possess a government-issued photo ID. Under these restrictive laws, that is potentially 21 million Americans who will be excluded from the democratic process. In states like Texas, where millions of individuals live in rural areas and without easy access to ID-issuing offices, the costs are even higher. Millions more stand to be excluded, as voter suppression continues far beyond requiring specific forms of identification. Mr. Speaker, we must prevent these regressive policies from becoming law if we are to preserve the integrity of the electoral process for all Americans. Fourteen states have already passed restrictive voting laws. This deceptive practice has already gone too far, and I refuse to allow history to repeat itself in what is a direct attack on our democracy, and the American people.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Dr. Robert Earl Price, Sr., the late pastor of the New Mount Zion Baptist Church of Dallas. Dr. Price dedicated more than 42 years of his life to his congregation before he passed away at the age of 80. Dr. Price was born in Smithville, Texas, where he grew up working with local pastors in spreading their ministry. Dr. Price later settled in Dallas with his wife, and went on to have three children, whom he loved tremendously. While he was devoted primarily to his church, Dr. Price spent time with a number of groups such as the NAACP and Dallas Museum of Art, contributing to the betterment of his community. Dr. Price was a vibrant leader who was well respected within the church and Dallas, and credited with expanding the church's services and bolstering their ranks. The New Mount Zion Baptist Church grew to be a pillar of the community under the leadership and direction of Dr. Price. The church now houses a robust food bank, a day care that now serves nearly 110 families, and a credit union for local residents. Dr. Price provided spiritual guidance and inspired his congregants to strive to bring about positive social change. Mr. Speaker, Dr. Price led with the utmost integrity in his work. He prided himself on his faith, and others often looked to Dr. Price for spiritual guidance. It comes as a great loss to the community to hear of his passing, however his invaluable contributions have gone far from unnoticed. I hope his friends, loved ones, and congregants can take comfort in the good he did.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, every citizen deserves an equal opportunity to make it in America. Last week, I, along with Democratic Whip Steny Hoyer and other members of the Democratic Caucus unveiled a plan to jump-start growth in the United States manufacturing industry and support job creation that we so desperately need. My bill, the Advancing Innovative Manufacturing Act of 2012, makes investments to spur innovation and increase the competitiveness of American manufacturers. In order for America to make it, we need to maintain the capacity to manufacture new and innovative products right here at home in America. The Make It In America agenda will do just that. Mr. Speaker, I would say: Let all of us face and focus on our responsibility to America's business and press ahead to make it all in America.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, by refusing to expand Medicaid to cover millions of sick, low-income adults, Texas Governor Rick Perry has joined the growing list of Republican Governors who have decided to put partisan politics before the health of their residents. 6.2 million Texans, including 1.2 million children, lack health insurance, the highest number of any State in the Nation. Medicaid expansion would drastically decrease Texas' uninsured rate from an astonishing 25 percent to just 9 percent. Without the Affordable Care Act, millions of uninsured Americans will continue to seek primary care in our Nation's overcrowded emergency rooms, leaving taxpayers, property owners, to foot the bill. As a nonpracticing registered nurse, I am all too familiar with this scenario, which has placed a tremendous burden on our Nation's hospital systems. Madam Speaker, the highest court in the Nation has spoken, and it's time for us to move forward for the American people.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I would like to voice my support for the transportation reauthorization conference report. While I was disappointed in how House Republicans broke with the tradition of working in a bipartisan fashion on transportation policy, I appreciate the Senate's bipartisan approach, which is responsible in large part for the bill we have today. In addition to the transportation reauthorization, we have been able to come together to prevent student loan interest rates from increasing, and secure a five-year reauthorization of the Flood Insurance program. It is my hope that moving forward we can look at this conference agreement as a model of what can be accomplished legislatively by seeking bipartisan, bicameral common ground. But as with all legislation, there were many compromises, and there were several aspects of the report which I believe could further be improved. On balance, however, the conference report contains needed policy direction and authorizations that warrant support. Most importantly, transportation reauthorization will provide much needed stimulus to local economies, and get those in the construction and manufacturing industries back to work. This bill will create or save more than 2 million jobs, and authorize highway and transit programs for more than two years. The bill will also make key reforms in consolidating transportation programs, cut red tape, and leverage federal resources to expand public-private partnerships in transportation. This is also a good bill for Texas. Under this agreement, Texas is slated to receive more than $3 billion annually in highway formula funds. Unlike the original House legislation, H.R. 7, this conference agreement preserves mass transit funding through the Highway Trust Fund. Funding for mass transit is critical for my district, and Texas as a whole, as we work to develop solutions to alleviate congestion and alternative modes of transportation to accommodate a growing population. Texas has also been very successful in utilizing Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act, TIFIA, funding, and will continue to benefit under the conference agreement, which increases funding for the TIFIA program to $750 million for FY 2013 and to $1 billion for FY 2014. It also increases the maximum share of project costs that can be funded through the TIFIA program from 33 percent to 49 percent. This agreement will give the Texas Department of Transportation, local transit agencies, and contractors some much- needed certainty as they plan transportation projects. This agreement will also give 461,533 Texas students relief from the impending student loan interest increase. I am very pleased that provisions blocking the rate hike are included in the conference report. In Texas and all across the country, students and recent college graduates are now facing the highest unemployment rate of any other group. Without action, the loan rates for 7.4 million college students would have doubled, adding $6.3 billion to students' debt burden in one year alone. As the Ranking Member of the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, I recognize that the long-term viability of our transportation system requires a continued commitment to quality research and the development of new transportation technologies and materials that will make our transportation infrastructure--and the vehicles traveling on that infrastructure--safer, stronger, and more sustainable. I am pleased that the conference report acknowledges the important role of research and development across the Department of Transportation. Specifically, we cannot deny that our current transportation system places an enormous burden on the environment and public health, and therefore, I am pleased that the conference report authorizes a separate environmental research program within the Federal Highway Administration. At a time when many metropolitan regions are still struggling to meet basic health standards for air pollution, we cannot afford to stop research that will lead to a cleaner, safer, and more efficient highway system. The research conducted under this program will ensure that State and local transportation officials have the tools they need to make informed and effective decisions about local transportation projects and the environment. I also want to express my satisfaction that the conference report provides the framework and guidance necessary to allow us to begin to really understand and, more importantly, mitigate the long-term impacts of the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill on the Gulf Coast States. Regardless of whether you live in the coastal communities of Texas, Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, or Florida, the Gulf of Mexico provides a wealth of products and services that benefit the entire nation. The Gulf Coast Restoration Trust Fund will provide the resources necessary to restore the health of this unique ecosystem and revitalize the region's economy. Finally, I would like to thank my colleagues for working with me to fix a technical error in the authorization levels for the research programs under the Federal Highway Administration. In the conference committee's haste to put together the report, it appears that the authorization levels in the Research and Education Division were not updated accordingly, but thankfully this oversight has been addressed.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Thank you very much. Two weeks ago, the United States Supreme Court justly and commendably upheld the Affordable Care Act, ensuring that millions of Americans will continue to have access to quality, affordable health care. Despite this monumental victory for our country, for the 31st time since its enactment, Republicans are attempting to repeal the health care law, treating it as if this is just some kind of political game played between the two parties. While the Affordable Care Act will expand coverage for millions of Americans, many Texans will be denied access by their Governor. And I'm a Texan. Just today, Texas Governor Rick Perry announced his decision not to expand Medicaid or implement a State health exchange under the Affordable Care Act--nothing more than politics. However, during his announcement, Governor Perry failed to provide an alternative plan to address the growing numbers of uninsured Texans. Texas has the highest percentage of adults without health care insurance, and rejecting Federal Medicaid funds would only worsen this predicament for Texans. Without the Affordable Care Act, millions of uninsured Americans will continue to seek primary care in our Nation's overcrowded emergency rooms, leaving taxpayers to pay the tab, if they own property. As a non-practicing registered nurse, I am all too familiar with this scenario, which has placed a huge burden on our Nation's hospital systems. Mr. Speaker, this week's GOP messaging vote to repeal is nothing more than political warfare in an election year. Instead of bringing job- creating bills to the floor, Republican leadership insists on wasting taxpayer dollars by debating a law which has been firmly upheld by the Nation's highest court. While the Republicans have introduced numerous measures to undermine and repeal the Affordable Care Act, they have repeatedly failed to introduce one piece of legislation which could serve as a viable alternative to the health care law. I urge my colleagues to reject this effort to take away patient protections for Americans. Instead, for once, let partisan politics come in second and let the American people win this one.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the contributions of Evangelist Pia Haynes Williams, to the Texas Northeast First Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction of the Church of God in Christ, Inc. Evangelist Williams is being installed as the Jurisdictional Supervisor of Women, where she will oversee the work and ministry of over 35,000 women and youth in 300 congregations throughout North Texas. Evangelist Williams has a proven record of service to the church. In keeping with her life-long dedication to advance her faith, Evangelist Williams is founding President and CEO of her own international evangelistic ministry. Evangelist Williams also oversees the Women's and Youth ministries at the Love Sanctuary Church in Fort Worth, alongside her husband of almost thirty years. There, she continues to focus her efforts on empowering women to succeed in their personal and spiritual endeavors. Considered a true ``Daughter of the Church,'' Evangelist Williams also comes from a rich familial heritage, filled with loyalty and service to the Church. Evangelist Williams is the granddaughter of the founding Jurisdictional Bishop and First Lady of the Texas Northeast First Jurisdiction of the Church of God in Christ, while her father currently sits on the General Board of Bishops. Despite this highly decorated past, Evangelist Williams has remained a humble and compassionate servant of the church and its followers. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to honor the work of Evangelist Pia Haynes Williams as she continues to provide spiritual guidance for thousands of North Texans. Her dedication to her community and faith will serve her well in this new capacity, and I wish Evangelist Williams continued success at the Texas Northeast First Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction of the Church of God in Christ.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to draw my colleagues' attention to the tiny nation of Azerbaijan, which is a giant in world affairs. Situated between Iran and Russia, Azerbaijan stands as a friend of the United States and that friendship frequently concerns nearby nations. Part of what makes Azerbaijan a remarkable ally for the United States is that some 20 million Iranians are of Azeri descent, a large part of northern Iran is frequently referred to as ``southern Azerbaijan'' as a reminder that the territory was--for centuries--part of Azerbaijan. The development of Azeri oil and gas in the Caspian Sea, along with the major Azeri export pipelines that pump energy to Western markets, makes the region all the more strategic as a U.S. ally. But it is their geographical location to Afghanistan that makes them absolutely an essential ally for the U.S. Azerbaijan provides a crucial transit route to supply our troops in Afghanistan. With the expected closing of Manas air base in 2014, this route will be even more essential to our troops. They are a Muslim nation that is our friend, and our ally in the world. This Muslim nation is the example for a secular society of religious diversity. A majority Muslim nation with a significant population of Jews, Azerbaijan is an ally of Israel. Just this month, on the anniversary of Pope John Paul II's visit to Azerbaijan, the Vatican's Cardinal Fernando Filoni spoke at the Catholic Church of Baku, reminding us that ``An atmosphere of exemplary tolerance exists in Azerbaijan.'' Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the importance of Azerbaijan--both to the United States and to the world.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. I rise in support of Democratic Whip Hoyer's motion to instruct the conferees, which directs the conferees to agree to the Senate-passed transportation bill, MAP-21. MAP-21 passed the Senate by a strong bipartisan vote of 74-22, and it is critical that the House pass this legislation. We have been waiting a very, very long time. I'm from the State of Texas. There's no State in the Union that this bill is more important for. Our season is now to get highways started. And we have massive infrastructure needs, just like the rest of the country. Tomorrow does mark the 100th day since the Senate passed the bill, and the current reauthorization will expire next week. And while I'm encouraged by the progress being made in the conference negotiations, we simply cannot afford to delay any longer for individual pleas, for individual needs. We all have needs. This bill is not perfect. No bill we pass is perfect. But this bill is certainly needed to plan and to develop. We have to have time for the States to look at what they have available and plan for it. We cannot do this like any other bill. This is a transportation bill, infrastructure planning bill, and we simply must do something now. In addition to it saving 1.9 million jobs, it creates a million jobs. It's a jobs bill. We've been talking about passing a jobs bill for the last almost 2 years, and nothing has passed yet. I am pleading that we all support this motion to instruct, and I encourage my colleagues to support it and let's get this bill done.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak in support of Congressman Walz's Motion to Instruct Conferees on H.R. 4348, the surface transportation reauthorization bill. This motion would instruct conferees to resolve all issues and file a conference report no later than Friday, June 22nd. June 22nd is exactly 100 days since the Senate passed its bipartisan surface transportation bill by an overwhelming vote of 74 22. As a conferee to the transportation bill, I support this motion as we simply cannot afford to further delay this critical legislation. This conference process has been bogged down by House GOP conferees, who are obstructing the process and standing in the way of the jobs that would be created by passage of this bill. We are in the height of the summer construction season, and without a transportation bill, we are wasting an opportunity to spur our manufacturing sector and get those in the construction industry back to work. Mr. Speaker, if House Republican conferees are going to stand in the way of a conference report, I ask that you call up S. 1813, the Senate- passed MAP 21. We do not need another piecemeal extension. We need a comprehensive reauthorization.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate St. John Missionary Baptist Church on the historic occasion of its 136th year anniversary. From its most humble beginnings in 1876, the church has gown to provide a wealth of spiritual guidance and stewardship to so many in the Dallas area. Like the structure that houses its congregants today, St. John Missionary Baptist Church has been a bedrock of devotion and service to thousands in the community over the years. The church's call to action for decades has been ``Where Christianity is a business and not a sideline,'' and so many have taken up that call to provide leadership and evangelism to their friends and neighbors. I want to acknowledge the church's current pastor, the Reverend Bertrain Bailey for his stalwart commitment to outreach in his ministry, and the leadership and guidance he has provided. Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating St. John Missionary Baptist Church on their 136th year in service to God and their community. St. John Missionary Baptist Church has fed the souls of generations in Dallas and the surrounding communities, and may it in its blessings continue to prosper and grow in the years to come.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Barbara Williams-Skinner, who is being honored by President Obama as a Champion for Change. Dr. Williams-Skinner is being commended for her dedication to addressing the needs of low-income men and boys. Dr. Williams-Skinner has worked tirelessly through her organization, the Skinner Leadership Institute, to promote leadership building and evangelism. The organization prides itself in its holistic approach, which builds moral character, technical skills, and spiritual growth. Using this approach, the organization trains youth, ministry, and political leaders. Her work with young men, in particular, highlights the importance that she places on fatherhood within the family. As former Executive Director of the Congressional Black Caucus, Dr. Williams-Skinner helped to coordinate the Congressional Black Caucus Prayer Breakfast, which today attracts leaders from across the Nation. Since 1992, she has worked through the Leadership Institute to empower the communities around her. She has helped to train up-and-coming leaders, many of whom are today the stalwarts of their communities. The Skinner Leadership Institute hosts bi-weekly prayer walks through the halls of Congress, and its African American Leadership seminars have helped to foster a sense of community among African American leaders. Dr. Williams-Skinner has also served as a board member of Operation Push, the Christian Community Development Association, and the Neighborhood Learning Center. Mr. Speaker, the work of faith-based leaders should not go unnoticed. Dr. Williams-Skinner's commitment to cultivating spiritual maturity and public service has shaped leaders that help to reconcile the spiritual, moral, and technical needs of our country. These leaders will help build strong communities. Her work not only benefits today's leaders, but helps to secure leaders of the future. Her accomplishments and contributions to our Nation are indisputable. I applaud Dr. Williams- Skinner's leadership, and I wish her continued success with the Skinner Leadership Institute.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Bishop T.D. Jakes, senior pastor and evangelist at The Potter's House in Dallas. The Potter's House is not only a house of worship, but a global humanitarian organization with over 30,000 members, which Bishop Jakes has faithfully served for more than 15 years. As well as celebrating a career in service with over 35 years of ministry, Bishop Jakes also celebrates his 55th birthday this month. During an event in his honor this month, Bishop Jakes was joined by various church members, celebrities, and dignitaries in Dallas for a spiritual celebration of his 35 years of accomplishments in the ministry. The event, titled ``Triumphant Journey,'' highlighted Bishop Jakes' contributions to his congregants and supporters as a pastor, author, and husband. Few people have the ability and the calling to lead such a great following into a life of devotion and compassion. Yet, Bishop Jakes has devoted his efforts in his commitment to helping the needy, and empowering the disillusioned. Through his ministerial work, Bishop Jakes has used his talents to unite tens of thousands of North Texans under a united spiritual cause. Harnessing the generosity of his congregation, Bishop Jakes continues to lead a commanding effort to better his community, and bring humanitarian assistance to other parts of the world. Mr. Speaker, faith-based leaders and the powerful following they command serve as powerful tools in the furthering of altruism, and the building of strong communities. Bishop Jakes is a unifying force in North Texas, and his contributions to the faith-based community are undeniable. I commend Bishop Jakes for his leadership, and wish The Potter's House continued success in its pursuit of a better understanding of the faith.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, millions of Americans are anxiously awaiting the Supreme Court's ruling on the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act. Many of these individuals await this decision in fear, as they stand to lose their sense of security if the law is struck down. Since the Affordable Care Act was signed into law on March 23, 2010, millions of Americans have already benefited from its sweeping reforms, and millions more stand to benefit once the law is fully implemented in 2014. Texas has the highest percentage of adults without health insurance, and striking down the Affordable Care Act will only worsen this predicament for Texans. If the Supreme Court strikes down the Affordable Care Act, there will be no winners. The Affordable Care Act forces insurance companies to play by the rules, giving Americans greater control over their own health care. Under the health care law, insurance companies are required to publicly justify their actions if they chose to raise rates by 10 percent or more, and can no longer impose lifetime dollar limits on health benefits. In a major show of support, several insurance companies, including UnitedHealthcare and Aetna, have even pledged to preserve certain provisions of the health care law no matter what the Supreme Court decides. A repeal of the Affordable Care Act would further exacerbate health disparities between minorities and non-minorities. Minorities suffer disproportionately from serious illnesses such as cancer, diabetes, and HIV/AIDS. Historically, minorities have faced considerable barriers to accessing affordable health insurance, and these barriers have contributed to significant health disparities. Under the Affordable Care Act, an estimated 3.8 million African Americans and roughly 5.4 million Latinos who would otherwise be uninsured will gain coverage by 2016. If the Affordable Care Act is struck down, millions of minorities will be forced to seek primary care in our Nation's overcrowded emergency rooms, and the costs of care will be shifted to taxpayers. Mr. Speaker, while the Republicans have introduced numerous measures to undermine and repeal the Affordable Care Act, they have not yet offered one piece of legislation which would reduce health care costs for young adults and seniors or address the growing health disparities between minorities and non-minorities. As we await this monumental court decision, I, along with my Democratic colleagues, will continue to advocate for access to affordable, quality health care for all Americans.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. I rise today to speak out about the need to pass a transportation bill. I am very frustrated by the inaction of the House Republican conferees and how their obstructionism is negatively affecting job creation in this country. The current transportation extension expires at the end of this month. We are in the height of the summer construction season, and we are losing the opportunity to get these jobs going and the construction and the manufacturing industries back to work. One surefire way to create jobs is to invest in our country's infrastructure, but House Republicans are obstructing it at every turn. Last month, we were forced to pass a 10th temporary extension of highway funding because of the GOP's inaction. This is my 20th year here, and this is the first time that this bill has been held up because of partisanship. This inaction only increases the instability for the construction industry, and it makes it impossible for State and local governments to plan long term.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, with the Senate expected to consider the Paycheck Fairness Act today, it is imperative that the House get serious about addressing pay inequality for working women across the United States. The House version of the Paycheck Fairness Act, H.R. 1519, seeks to achieve this pay equality and fairness by holding employers accountable for sex-based pay discrimination. On average, women earn only seventy-seven cents for every dollar earned by their male counterparts, and that disparity can fluctuate even further across professions. For African American and Latina women, they are paid only 62 and 54 cents respectively for every dollar paid to their male counterparts. For countless families and single mothers trying to make ends meet, this wage disparity threatens their financial stability, and negatively impacts the livelihood of these women and their dependents. The Paycheck Fairness Act is a commonsense piece of legislation that will ensure equal pay for all hardworking Americans. There is no basis for which pay discrimination should ever exist, and allowing this to continue undermines our Nation's economic recovery and our commitment to equality. Mr. Speaker, fairness and equality are basic fundamentals that we must promote as a democratic Nation. Allowing pay discrimination on the basis of sex is not consistent with those principles, and I urge this Congress to take action against it. The Paycheck Fairness Act will provide a solid foundation on which we can build to promote fairness and equality in the workplace. As an original cosponsor of this important piece of legislation, I will continue to advocate for the rights of women all across the country.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to describe two bills I am introducing regarding clean water research-- H.R. 5826, The Coordinating Water Research for a Clean Water Future Act of 2012, and H.R. 5827 the Energy and Water Research Integration Act of 2012. These two bills will help focus the Federal government's research efforts on clean water, a critical natural resource that we too often take for granted. As a Representative from the great state of Texas, I know how important water is to public health, the economy, and the environment. Moreover, Texans certainly are not alone. Whether facing unpredictable and extreme weather conditions in places like Idaho where increasingly difficult dam and reservoir management is making it harder to protect property and lives; the drawdown of aquifers in the Powder River Basin from coal-bed methane operations; or the billions of taxpayer dollars spent to upgrade water infrastructure in the East, water is an ever- present topic of dinner conversation and political tension across the country. As of last week, in Texas alone more than a thousand community water systems were forced to limit water use in order to avoid shortages. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the 12-month period between October 2010 and September 2011 was the driest in Texas since 1895. The dry conditions have been so severe that large portions of the State are categorized as being in ``an exceptional state of drought,'' the worst condition on the Federal government's drought monitor scale. Throughout my career I have fought to ensure that future generations have access to clean water. My introduction of these two bills builds on the accomplishments of the former Chairman of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, Bart Gordon, who introduced similar legislation that moved through the House of Representatives in the 111th Congress. The first bill, H.R. 5826, will authorize coordination of water research activities to ensure a future where clean water is abundant, affordable, and accessible for generations to come. To do this, the country needs to better coordinate federal research among agencies which oversee and protect this natural resource. The bill elevates the importance of ensuring clean and reliable water supplies through the implementation of a National Water Research and Development Initiative at the Office of Science and Technology Policy of the White House. The Initiative will improve the Federal government's role in coordinating federal water research activities that identify, characterize, and address changes in U.S. clean water use, quality, supply, and demand. H.R. 5826 is drafted based on a range of expert recommendations, including those from the 2004 National Research Council report, ``Confronting the Nations' Water Problems; the Role of Research,'' and the 2007 Office of Science and Technology Policy report ``A Strategy for Federal Science and Technology to Support Water Availability and Quality in the United States.'' The second bill, H.R. 5827, ``The Energy and Water Research Integration Act'' focuses attention on the energy-water nexus, a term used to describe the energy required to provide reliable water supplies and the water required to provide reliable energy supplies. The bill directs the Secretary of Energy to integrate water considerations into the Department of Energy's energy research. The bill requires the Secretary to seek to advance energy technologies and practices that would minimize freshwater withdrawal and consumption, increase water use efficiency, and utilize nontraditional water sources with efforts to improve water quality. H.R. 5827 is based on hearings held in the 110th and 111th Congress when the Science and Technology Committee reviewed federal research related to water, with particular attention on the energy-water nexus. At the request of the Committee, the Government Accountability Office conducted five studies on the energy-water nexus. As GAO has aptly pointed out in its reports on this issue, energy and water are two critical resources that are intrinsically and reciprocally linked. For example, the energy sector is the fastest-growing consumer of water right now and will account for 85% of the growth in domestic water consumption in the United States between 2005 and 2030. The GAO's reports showed that very substantial quantities of water are needed to produce energy from a wide range of resources, such as for cooling thermoelectric power plants, growing and converting feedstocks into biofuels; and extracting oil shale and natural gas. GAO's work also demonstrated that the development of oil and gas sources often results in the production of large volumes of wastewater that must be managed or treated. Furthermore, GAO's work has also shown that significant amounts of energy are needed to extract, transport, treat, and use water in urban environments. In many ways, these seminal reports confirmed what we already knew, and that is that water availability and quality are essential for public health and a strong economy, but demands for, and threats to, these resources are growing. We can no longer afford to take it for granted. Whether it is billions of dollars in lost revenue for our agricultural sector, or reduced electric reliability due to low cooling water supplies for power plants, the country is already feeling the impacts of reduced water availability and quality. That is why communities and businesses across the country want to see more water research and better coordination. The bills are supported by small businesses like NanoH20, who see the need for innovative technologies in the water sector, as well as national organizations like Alliance for Water Efficiency, the Water Innovation Alliance, the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO), and the Water Research Foundation. The Water Environment Research Foundation also supports the Energy and Water Research Integration Act. Given this diverse base of support and the passage of similar bills through the House in the 111th Congress, I hope that the Science, Space, and Technology Committee and the House will be quick to take up these pieces of legislation and move them expeditiously.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Lloyd Hand and his wife, Mrs. Ann Hand, on the occasion of their 60th wedding anniversary. Mr. and Mrs. Hand are a very special couple from Texas who have since established themselves here in Washington, D.C. Both have been extremely successful in doing so, as Mr. Hand became involved in law and politics, while Mrs. Hand started her own business designing and selling custom jewelry. Mr. and Mrs. Hand are just one couple to leave Texas to come to the Potomac. After first meeting at the University of Texas, the couple has been inseparable ever since. Mr. Hand first entered the political realm as assistant to Senate Majority Leader Lyndon B. Johnson, and eventually became U.S. Chief of Protocol once Johnson became President. Mr. Hand has served a long and rewarding career in government, and now serves as a senior counsel at King & Spalding's Government Advocacy and Public Policy Practice Group. Mr. Hand has been able to utilize his decades of experience to provide counsel to Fortune 500 companies and other high- profile clients in this capacity. Mrs. Hand has also become very successful in her own right. Beginning in 1988, Mrs. Hand started her company, Ann Hand, LLC, out of her home. Her business specialized in custom-made jewelry and design, and through her success she eventually opened a salon in Upper Georgetown. Since then, Mrs. Hand's distinctive pieces have received worldwide acclaim, and many members of Congress have come to value her talent and creativity. Mrs. Hand's pieces are one of a kind, and her business has been commissioned by many different companies and national organizations to design commemorative pieces. Mr. Speaker, I am so happy to recognize this beloved couple from Texas. Mr. and Mrs. Hand have both made significant contributions to Washington, D.C. Mr. and Mrs. Hand have duly represented our state of Texas by making such a worthy impact on the Potomac, and I am pleased to honor their accomplishments today.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I voted present today on H. Res. 568 because of my concern that it contains language that could create a blank check for war with Iran. As best said by Col. Lawrence Wilkerson, former Chief of Staff of Secretary of State Colin Powell, ``This resolution reads like the same sheet of music that got us into the Iraq War.'' This resolution threatens to undermine upcoming U.S.-Iran negotiations on May 23, 2012. While I am not disputing the fact that a nuclear-armed Iran would pose a serious threat to Israel and U.S. national security interests, I am concerned that the tone of this resolution could be used as fodder for future conflict. While I am an ardent supporter of Israel and remain committed to supporting legislation that ensures their security, I urge my colleagues to support more balanced policies and diplomatic solutions as we enter into negotiations with Iran. As we struggle to get our economy back on track, we simply cannot afford the economic and social costs of another war.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak in favor of Congressman Rahall's Motion to Instruct Conferees to close the loopholes in the Buy America laws. By closing these loopholes, we can create more American jobs, and revive our domestic manufacturing base. Our economy is still recovering from the worst economic recession since the Great Depression. Today, more than 2.2 million construction and manufacturing workers are still out of work. Let's use this opportunity to get them back to work. Provisions contained in the Senate amendment to H.R. 4348 will help ensure that the materials used to construct our roads and bridges are produced in the United States. These projects are financed with taxpayer dollars, and we should be using materials produced domestically, not outsourced overseas. I want to encourage my colleagues to support this motion, and to seize this opportunity to promote our construction and manufacturing industries. By producing and manufacturing domestically, we will create and sustain good-paying jobs in our local communities.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, the Violence Against Women Act, VAWA, has historically provided a vast network of support for victims of dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking since its initial passage in 1994. Declining instances of domestic violence and increased awareness surrounding these forms of abuse are a testament to the success of VAWA's programs, and to the importance of its preservation. Unless VAWA is reauthorized, these programs will no longer be available to protect the countless victims of domestic violence and abuse throughout the United States. Today, as Congress seeks to reauthorize this landmark piece of legislation for the third time, VAWA is at serious risk of being stripped of its most important provisions. The Senate version of VAWA was adopted on April 26 with bipartisan support, and not only preserves important protections for women but also expands those protections to LGBT individuals and Native American women. Conversely, H.R. 4970 represents a partisan bill that rolls back existing protections and excludes entire groups of victims. As long as H.R. 4970 excludes critical improvements and disregards the recommendations of key stakeholders, I cannot support this bill. In the previous reauthorization, VAWA was drafted in a bipartisan fashion and included meaningful provisions for protecting battered and abused individuals, and as such I supported its passage. Unfortunately, H.R. 4970 completely fails to achieve the original objectives behind VAWA, and actually does more to harm women than it does to help them overcome their aggressors. To show my support for VAWA, I have joined my colleagues as a cosponsor of H.R. 4271, an alternative to H.R. 4970 that contains language more consistent with the original intent of the bill. H.R. 4271 is simply a better bill that goes further to recognize the same prevalence of abuse among Native American women and LGBT individuals, and ensures that all victims are protected regardless of sexual orientation or national origin. Madam Speaker, this attack on women needs to stop immediately. I can find no justification for why this Congress should exclude certain groups of women from the protections afforded by VAWA. The bill that is being considered before the House today does a disservice to victims of domestic abuse in the U.S., and falls drastically short of the original intent of the law.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Chair, I rise in support of the Lewis-Johnson amendment to H.R. 5326, the Fiscal Year 2013 Commerce, Justice, Science Appropriations bill. This amendment prevents funds in the FY13 CJS Appropriations bill from being used to shut down the regional Department of Justice Antitrust Division Offices in Atlanta, Dallas, Cleveland, and Philadelphia. These closures will have a serious adverse effect upon antitrust enforcement in 21 states including Texas, and my district in particular. The Dallas Antitrust Office has been responsible for approximately $1 billion in criminal fines to date. It has been a priority of this Administration to reign in waste, fraud, and abuse, and that is exactly what the Dallas Antitrust office has been doing. Mr. Chair, I would ask to submit into the Congressional Record a copy of my April 23, 2012, letter to Attorney General Holder highlighting the critical role the Dallas Field Office serves upholding vital antitrust laws in our region and the United States. April 23, 2011. Hon. Eric H. Holder, Jr., Attorney General, Department of Justice, Washington, DC. Dear Mr. Attorney General: In October 2011, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced its plans to close the Dallas Antitrust Division Field Office. The Dallas Field Office is joined by three other offices planned for closure in Atlanta, Cleveland, and Philadelphia. I strongly oppose this proposal and believe that millions of Americans and many U.S. companies across multiple states stand to be severely impacted by this closure. The Dallas Field Office serves Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, and Oklahoma in enforcing antitrust laws. By closing the Dallas Field Office and reassigning those enforcement positions to the remaining field offices, the Department is seriously curtailing the government's ability to enforce lawful business practices. DOJ's Antitrust Division has an extensive history of promoting fair competition in the marketplace. Shuttering the Dallas Field Office will significantly undo the progress that has been made during this Administration, paving the way for future corruption and abuse. In DOJ's October 2011 press release, you cite the potential cost savings of nearly $8 million as one of the primary factors behind this decision. I respectfully reject any arguments for cost savings in this context, particularly because there is a failure to consider the millions of dollars that the Dallas Field Office has brought in through criminal fines. While the Dallas Office costs roughly $3.5 million to operate each year, it has returned approximately $1 billion in criminal fines to date. These gains do not include criminal fines levied through the Atlanta, Cleveland, or Philadelphia field offices. Thus, closure of the Dallas Field Office is short-sighted for both long-term enforcement of federal antitrust laws, and the lost revenues that criminal penalties bring back to the American people. Another aspect of your reasoning centers around consolidating offices in order to focus on larger international investigations. Aside from the obvious implications that this would have for local or regional enforcement of antitrust laws, history has demonstrated the ongoing need to keep that focus at home in a similar, if not greater, capacity. The Dallas Field Office has served a vital role in numerous cases here in the U.S., while still managing to have an effective international presence, as demonstrated in the case of Hoffman-LaRoche. The $500 million fine paid by the global healthcare company still represents the largest criminal fine ever collected by the Antitrust Division or Department of Justice. Understanding this, I am respectfully requesting additional insight into the agency's rationale behind this proposal. The Dallas Field Office serves a critical role in upholding vital antitrust laws in the United States. Closing this office will open the doors for further violations of federal antitrust and competitive bidding laws. Should you have any questions or comments, please contact Justin Maturo of my staff at Justin.Maturo@mail.house.gov or (202) 225 8885. Sincerely, Eddie Bernice Johnson, Member of Congress.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Allow me to say happy Teachers' Day to every teacher and also to say that it is an honor and privilege to offer a resolution recognizing National Nurses Week, which is May 6 through 12. This year's theme is ``Nurses: Caring, Leading, Advocating.'' Since 1994, National Nurses Week has served as an opportunity to recognize nurses for their hard work, patience, and service, as well as for their contributions to improving our Nation's health care system. Throughout my career as a registered nurse, I've had no greater privilege than to provide health care to those who have courageously served our country. As a former chief psychiatric nurse at the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Dallas, I know firsthand the importance of providing quality care to those coming home from war. Through Joining Forces, which is a health care and treatment program for military personnel that was recently launched by the Obama administration, more than 500 nursing schools and 150 nursing organizations will work together to ``meet the unique health care needs of servicemen and -women, veterans, and their families.'' Nurses provide an invaluable service on a daily basis in settings such as hospitals, clinics, schools, workplaces, correctional facilities, and through their service in the military and during natural disasters. With over 3 million strong, nurses comprise the largest sector of the health care workforce, and year after year, nurses are voted the most trusted of all professionals. For the 12th time in 13 years, in a Gallup survey, nursing ranked first for honesty and ethical standards in 2011. While our country shifts toward a nationwide focus on prevention and promotion, I believe it is the nurses who should stand at the forefront of this reformation. Mr. Speaker, nurses save lives, provide critical care, and advocate on behalf of their patients 52 weeks a year. They deserve more than 1 week of recognition for their tireless work within health care. I want to thank my many congressional colleagues who cosponsor this bill in honoring nurses. My colleagues Congresswoman Lois Capps and Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy are also nurses. They have worked with me to promote this resolution, and they are champions of the nursing profession. This week, remember to thank nurses for the admirable and selfless contributions they make to our community.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Chair, funding for research, innovation, and STEM education is an investment in our future, perhaps one of the most important investments we make as a nation. China, the European Union, and many other countries understand this and are poised to surpass the United States in innovation capacity and in the creation of a highly skilled 21st century workforce, if they have not already. According to an analysis carried out by the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation, the United States ranks second to last of the 44 countries and regions analyzed in terms of progress in innovation-based competitiveness over the last decade. It used to be that the world's best and brightest flocked to our shores. Now many of our own best and brightest are finding better opportunities in other countries, and we are losing our edge in the competition for top talent from around the world. In 2007, and again in 2010, the U.S. Congress enacted legislation-- the America COMPETES Act--that recognized the importance of increased investment in research, innovation, and STEM education. The funding trajectories we put forth in those bills were developed while our budget situation was healthier than it is today. While falling short of the authorized levels, we nevertheless have still managed to come together on a bipartisan basis with the Administration to ensure that funding for scientific research remains relatively unscathed as many other important programs and initiatives suffer deep cuts. This is particularly the case with the CJS bill before us today. I want to thank Chairman Wolf, Ranking Member Fattah, Chairman Rogers, and Ranking Member Dicks and for their to funding science and STEM education even as they made very difficult cuts in other worthy programs. In particular, I want to commend the Appropriators for their enduring support for the National Science Foundation. The NSF is the only agency to fund basic research across all of science and engineering, and its support for education research has transformed the way we think about teaching and learning. The returns on our 65-year investment in the National Science Foundation include such critical discoveries as the hole in the ozone layer and the warming of the Arctic and such inspiring discoveries as new planets in the cosmos above and breathtaking creatures in the deep seas below. Our relatively modest investments have also led to such economically important technologies as fiber optics, the bar code, computer-aided design, cloud computing, and to a large extent the internet. But perhaps NSF's most important investment is the investment it makes in human capital--both in the great scientists and innovators of tomorrow and in the workforce at all level that will fill the jobs that would not be possible without those scientists and innovators. While I am very pleased with the overall funding levels proposed for NSF, I do want to make a couple of specific comments. First, in their report on NSF, the Appropriators raise a few important oversight issues, especially with respect to management of research facilities. The Science, Space, and Technology Committee is undertaking a series of oversight hearings in preparation for a reauthorization of NSF next year. We've already held two hearings this year focused solely on facilities. I look forward to working with the Appropriators as we refine our own guidance to the agency through a careful and deliberative process. Second, I remain concerned that the agency continues to flat-fund its broadening participation programs and is now proposing a significant cut to its informal STEM education program even though the National Academies found that out-of-school learning provides a special opportunity to provide science learning experiences for millions of students who don't have access to such experiences in their under-resourced schools. We can't afford to continue leaving behind such a large and growing percentage of our brainpower. Given the overall growth in the Education Directorate proposed in this bill, I hope we can work together to ensure that NSF does not let up in its commitment to broadening participation in STEM. Turning to NASA, it is clear that NASA is a critical part of the nation's research and development enterprise, as well as being a source of inspiration for our young people and a worldwide symbol of American technological prowess and good will. We need NASA to succeed. While fiscal challenges require difficult decisions, those decisions should not come at the expense of losing critical capabilities. I'm pleased to see that the House bill restores a portion of the 21% cut to our planetary exploration program--a program that has been a highly successful scientific undertaking that has captured the imaginations of people around the world. Planetary science has also been an increasingly international effort, especially in plans for future Mars exploration. The rationale to back out of our plans for Mars collaborations with Europe was never clear, and this restoration of planetary funding provides the opportunity to resume our engagement in that effort and sustain critical U.S. capabilities. Regarding the Commercial Crew development program, I have witnessed the enthusiasm from aspiring commercial crew companies testifying before the House Science, Space and Technology Committee and I wish them well. But as a steward of the taxpayers' dollars, I cannot let enthusiasm override the need for hardheaded oversight. NASA has yet to provide Congress with a convincing explanation of why it reversed course and scrapped its plan to use FAR-based contracts--contracts that allow NASA to ensure that its safety and performance requirements are met for whatever systems it funds--in favor of a agreements that cannot mandate that safety requirements be met. We don't have the luxury of paying for a ``hope for the best'' strategy that risks having us pay more down the road the problems that inevitably arise when that hope- based approach collides with reality. That is why I support a commercial crew development approach that returns to FAR-based contracts as soon as actionable. I am pleased that the House bill provides increases for the Space Launch System and Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle--also known as Orion--over the amounts in the budget request, although even these levels are significantly below authorized amounts. It is essential that both the SLS and Orion remain on track for planned flight tests in 2014 and 2017. With respect to Orion, I hope that by the time the House and Senate have completed their negotiations on this appropriations bill, funding for that important capability will be at least at the level in the Senate's Committee-passed. We need to ensure that the development of Orion includes sufficient funding to enable preparations for its use as a back-up or alternative to commercially provided crew and cargo transportation in a timely manner in the event those commercial vehicle programs are delayed. With respect to NOAA, I am pleased to see the CJS appropriations includes the full requested level of funding for the Joint Polar Satellite System, JPSS. It is vitally important that during a time where every region of this country is experiencing various extreme weather phenomena, we ensure that we make the needed investments in our premier weather and climate observational and forecasting tools. This year alone, this country has witnessed in every region and on every coastline some of the most extreme, record-breaking weather events. We must ensure that Americans are provided accurate short--and long--term weather forecasts--forecasts that are critical to saving lives and properties and to making informed plans. Finally, I am very pleased that the bill before us today recognizes the important role that the National Institute of Standards and Technology plays in fostering innovation and industrial competitiveness. In this bill, NIST's research budget receives a level of funding that will allow it to continue its important work with industry to advance the nation's technology infrastructure. I am also pleased that the research budget, along with a decision to continue robust funding for the Manufacturing Extension Partnership program and to initiate funding for the promising Advanced Manufacturing Technology Consortia program, will help U.S. manufacturers compete and flourish in the global marketplace. One of the keys to our ability to grow the economy for the future lies in our ability to spur innovation-based economic development in regions throughout this country. The America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 recognized how critical regional innovation is to our competitiveness and authorized a regional innovation program at the Economic Development Administration. This program built on initiatives already underway at EDA, but provided the agency with the tools and flexibility that it needed to ensure the biggest bang for its buck by funding the projects with the greatest innovative potential. I am disappointed that this bill does not follow the Senate's lead by providing a separate line item of funding for this regional innovation program. If our shared goal is to promote innovation and economic growth, we should fund these activities under the program that was developed specifically with this goal in mind and not continue to require these activities to be funded through programs that were developed for other economic development purposes.