Eddie Johnson

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I am delighted to congratulate one of my constituents who will be honored for his extraordinary volunteerism leadership in the community. Mr. Raul Magdaleno will be presented with the MillerCoors 2010 Lider of the Year Award at the Latino Cultural Center in Dallas, Texas on Thursday, February 24, 2011. Raul Magdaleno was the one among 12 Hispanic leaders chosen for outstanding contributions to his community through volunteerism at Parents Step Ahead/Padres un Paso Adelante. Mr. Magdaleno was selected through an online public voting campaign hosted from September 15 through October 29, 2010. In compliment to his award, Parents Step Ahead will receive a $25,000 grant for a community leadership project in collaboration with MillerCoors. The focus of Parents Step Ahead is to encourage parents to participate in their children's education. Although this is a prestigious award, this is not the first honor bestowed upon this exceptional Dallasite. Mr. Magdaleno is a 2004 recipient of the United States Congressional Gold Medal for his more than 29,000 hours of community service. He has clearly demonstrated his dedication to the Hispanic community and leadership ability to serve those in need. At present, Mr. Magdaleno oversees the office of Diversity and Community Outreach for Southern Methodist University's Meadows School of the Arts. Mr. Speaker, I salute Raul Magdaleno for his remarkable commitment as a servant leader. He is one that our youth across the nation can aspire towards to make this country a better place to live. In his own words, ``Perseverance and determination triumphs over any disadvantage life may bring you.''

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Chair, I rise to oppose the Carter-Ross Amendment (#165) to H.R. 1, the Continuing Resolution. This amendment would stop the Environmental Protection Agency from implementing and enforcing long-overdue safeguards that will protect our children from toxic air pollution generated by cement kilns. Cement kilns are the third-largest source of mercury pollution in America. Mercury is a dangerous chemical that impairs a child's ability to learn, write, walk, talk and read. Mercury especially is a concern for women of childbearing age, unborn babies and young children because studies have found that high levels of exposure damage the developing nervous system. Cement kilns also pump lead, arsenic and dioxins into the air, which can cause cancer, birth defects and other catastrophic health impacts. Last year, EPA finalized standards that will limit this toxic pollution from cement plants. These standards will prevent 2,500 premature deaths, 1,000 emergency room visits, 1,500 heart attacks and 17,000 cases of aggravated asthma every year. We'll achieve these health benefits while improving the economy because reduced pollution will allow people to do their jobs and go to work on 130,000 days they would have otherwise missed. We'll reduce health care costs by up to $18 billion every year. The benefits of reducing this dangerous pollution are between seven and nineteen times greater than the costs. In fact, despite hyperbolic claims of economic collapse, EPA estimates that as many as 1,300 net new jobs could be created as a result of these new protections. That is because cement plants will employ American workers in building, installing, operating and maintaining the equipment that will keep these dangerous toxins out of our children's fragile bodies. The Carter amendment would overturn affordable, commonsense protections that provide tremendous benefits at a reasonable cost. As a nurse, mother and grandmother, I urge my colleagues oppose this amendment and protect our children.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I've come to the House this evening to talk about the deficit, but it's not our budgetary deficit, which is also a concern to many of us, but, rather, the deficit of vision that I see reflected in the CR that we will be voting on later this week. By that, I mean we have a CR before us this week that will do grave damage to our economic competitiveness while having a negligible impact on the Nation's budgetary situation. It is clear that without a robust, innovative economy, it will be next to impossible to ever truly reduce our national budgetary deficit. Yet this CR cuts some of the very investments that are needed to address the crisis in competitiveness in our country that we are confronting now. For some time, important leaders in our business and academic community have warned us about this crisis. In 2005, the National Academies panel, chaired by former Lockheed Martin CEO Norm Augustine, released a report, ``Rising Above the Gathering Storm.'' This report warned that without a focused effort by the Federal Government, the future of American competitiveness was bleak. It recommended increased efforts in science, technology, engineering, and math, and we have failed to see this vision. The reason for these investments is simple: technological innovation leads to jobs. Several studies have estimated that over 50 percent of America's economic growth since World War II is a direct result of technological innovation. Some studies have suggested that this percentage is much higher still. This technological innovation coincided with an increased Federal investment in research, development and STEM education.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. I urge my colleagues to reject the cuts being proposed in the Republican CR.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Thank you very much, Congresswoman Christensen. The National Science Foundation was created in 1950; the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, or DARPA, and NASA were created in 1958; and the Department of Energy was established in 1977. Some of the technologies which originated from these Federal investments include the laser, Internet, fiber optics, and nuclear power. Companies which sprang forth from these efforts include companies like Google, SAS, Cisco Systems, Orbital Sciences, and Sun Microsystems. These five companies alone employ 130,000 people, 130,000 jobs which were created from relatively modest Federal investment. And there are hundreds of companies which had their beginning in Federal research grants. The equation is clear: Federal investment in research and development leads to new technologies and products which create jobs. And on the other side of the equation, focused investment in STEM education produces a highly-skilled workforce which ensures these high-tech jobs stay in America. At a Science and Technology Committee last session, Tom Donohue of the United States Chamber of Commerce had this to say: ``Research and development is the very lifeblood of our knowledge economy.'' That just about sums it up. In addition, investments in R&D also help to increase the participation of minorities in the R&D enterprises. Through the efforts of many in Congress, including those speaking tonight, we have made great progress in expanding the pool of talent that this country can draw on to address the competitiveness challenge that we are facing. However, the CR before us this week would take us back and undo much of the good work that has been done to date. Let me just quote a few negative impacts of this proposed CR. The CR would severely reduce, by 78 percent, funding for Hispanic-serving colleges and completely eliminate Federal support for several other programs for minority-serving colleges, including tribal colleges and institutions that serve significant numbers of black and Asian students. The key Education Department program for historically black colleges and universities would lose $85 million of the $266 million it received in 2010, or about a third of it. The CR eliminates $103 million for the Tech-Prep Program for vocational education, which heavily benefits community colleges, and also guts funding for the creation and support of statewide education data systems and eliminates all congressional earmarks for individual institutions, which in 2010 totaled almost $2 billion for colleges and universities. Under this proposal, title I would be cut by $693.5 million. The cut to title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act would mean 2,400 schools that serve nearly 1 million disadvantaged students would lose funding for teachers, tutors, and after-school programs. Nearly 10,000 teacher aides could lose their jobs. Head Start was targeted for one of the biggest reductions, a $1 billion cut below fiscal 2010. The massive cuts to the Head Start Program would remove 218,000 low income children and families and close more than 16,000 Head Start and Early Head Start classrooms across the country. It would leave 55,000 teachers, teacher assistants, and related staff without jobs. The Pell Grant scholarship maximum award would be reduced by $845, from $5,550 to $4,750. Many of the 9.4 million students who are projected to receive a Pell Grant in the 2011-2012 school year would see a lower grant award, requiring them to take on more loans for their college tuition. In addition, it makes cuts to the programs of the National Science Foundation that would lead to elimination of huge research grants, affecting thousands of researchers, which can only have a negative impact on opportunities for minorities to make contributions in science and technology. And I can fill up an hour debate time all by myself if I were to list all of the terrible impacts that the proposed cuts to the Department of Energy, NIST, NASA, NOAA, and EPA would have. Each of these agencies is critical to our future competitiveness and each of these agencies is slated for ill-founded cuts. Unfortunately, our children and our grandchildren will be the ones who ultimately pay the price for misguided cuts when they inherit an America that is no longer the world leader in innovation. We can do better. I urge my colleagues to reject the cuts being proposed in the Republican CR.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Lynne Opperman on being named president-elect of the American Association of Anatomists. Dr. Lynne Opperman currently serves as the director of the director of technology development and professor in biomedical sciences at the Texas A&M Health Science Center Baylor College of Dentistry located in Dallas, Texas. Her stellar career path in the sciences spans over twenty-five years where she has published numerous articles and served as a principal investigator for grants and subcontracts. She has been a friend and a mentor to many, inspiring the next generation of leaders in these fields. Dr. Opperman is constantly giving back to her community through her dedication and hard work and should be honored for the example she sets. Throughout the years as a nurse, elected official and now as the Ranking Member on the Committee on Science, Space and Technology I have always been encouraged by individuals such as Dr. Opperman who are strengthening our Nation's Science and Technology infrastructure. I know that Dr. Opperman will take the same passion and vigor from her previous roles into her new position as President-Elect of the American Association of Anatomists. Madam Speaker, it gives me great pride to know talented individuals such as Dr. Opperman reside in the district I represent. It should give us all optimism knowing individuals such as Dr. Opperman are making a positive difference in this country. I ask all of my colleagues to join with me in celebrating Dr. Lynne Opperman being named as President- Elect of the American Association of Anatomists.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, despite recent news that air traffic control errors have risen, I want to recognize the air traffic controllers, pilots, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and others in the commercial aviation industry on news that there were no commercial airline fatalities in 2010. This marks the third year over the past four years that there were no deaths attributable to commercial aviation. Last year there were more than 10 million domestic flights, carrying more than 700 million passengers. According to the National Transportation Safety Board, during this time, only 14 passengers suffered serious injuries and there were no major accidents. The commercial aviation safety record in the U.S. is a result of safety-minded aviation professionals throughout our nation. I agree with the FAA that it is incumbent on all parties in the aviation system to identify its risks in order to eliminate or mitigate them. History has shown that safety improvements are implemented more quickly and effectively when all sectors of the industry work together to develop solutions to identified and agreed upon areas that could use improvement. I hope that a year from now, I can report again that there were no fatalities and even fewer major injuries attributable to our commercial aviation industry; and, believe this can happen if the airlines, pilots, flight attendants, mechanics, inspectors and the many others who play a role in our aviation industry work together and with the FAA on making safety their top priority.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, February 17, 2011 marks the 9th Annual Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award luncheon. On this day, the award will be bestowed upon a dedicated leader in the Dallas community, Mr. Joel Allison. Mr. Allison will be presented the award by Dr. Ann Stuart, Chancellor and President of Texas Woman's University and the Bank of Texas. In 2002, the award was established in honor of notable Dallasite Virginia Chandler Dykes, a health care provider committed to professional and civic achievements in her public service through helping others. Past award recipients include: Kathleen Mason, 2010; Caroline Rose Hunt, 2009; T. Boone Pickens, 2008; Lindalyn Adams, 2007; Dr. and Mrs. Kern Wildenthal, 2006; Gretchen Minyard Williams and J.L. ``Sonny'' Williams, 2005; Geraldine ``Tincy'' Miller, 2004; and Susan and Charles Cooper, 2003. Mr. Allison has been with Baylor Health Care System (BHCS) since 1993 and was promoted from Chief Operating Officer to Chief Executive Officer in 2000. Under his visionary leadership, Baylor remains as a trusted health care system where patients can go to receive safe, compassionate, quality health care. BHCS has been ranked by US News as one of the best hospitals in the country for their care and treatment of kidney disorders, gastroenterology, and their rehabilitation services. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Mr. Allison for stellar leadership in the delivery of health care. Both he and Mrs. Dykes are a testament to the types of role models who inspire us to give our best in all that we do.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I am very privileged today to recognize the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport as having the best TSA operation for a major hub airport in the United States in 2010. The TSA annually awards one of its operations at a major hub airport as the airport that exhibits exceptional internal as well as external customer service. Courtesy and attention to detail with respect to passengers, customers and all other stakeholders are its hallmark. Its crowning achievement would be in the seamless execution of exemplary customer service while maintaining the highest level of airport security. Dedicated to the pursuit of the agency's core values of integrity, innovation, teamwork, dedication, competence, diversity, courtesy and respect, the TSA airport workforce receiving this award has established a record of customer confidence and satisfaction through its proactive and vigilant efforts to protect and serve the public. I congratulate the TSA employees and DFW for this outstanding achievement.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the passing of a civil rights champion and dear friend, Ms. Louise Hilma Ballerstedt Raggio. Ms. Raggio made an enormous impact for women throughout Texas, and she will be greatly missed. Louise Raggio was a true Texan. Born in Austin, Texas, Ms. Raggio spent her life as a leader who would not allow bias to prevail. Louise Raggio never backed down from correcting an injustice. She did not accept there was a glass ceiling, and led the way for millions of Texas woman. Her intellect and moral compass took her on a path that would break barriers and advance the rights of women. Louise Raggio is perhaps best known for her work on the Marital Property Act of 1967. Prior to this act it was assumed a woman was property of her husband, and hence could not buy or sell her own property, perform bank transactions or sign contracts without her husband's approval. If adhered to, this meant that a company could not hire a woman without her husband's consent. Breaking down this barrier impacted the lives of millions of women and their families. It changed conventional thought and allowed Texas women the freedoms that were allowed in most other states. Ms. Raggio was inspired by her predecessors in the women's suffrage movement. She felt she was taking up the torch for all they had achieved. Her work was a continuation of other battles fought and won, but there was still much to be accomplished. It is also notable that Ms. Raggio served as the first female assistant district attorney in Dallas County, and argued and won one of the first Texas cases to be heard in front of an all-woman jury. She was inducted to the Texas Women's Hall of Fame in 1985 and received the Margaret Brent Women Lawyers of Achievement Award in 1995. Ms. Raggio was preceded in death by her husband, Grier Raggio in 1988. She is survived by her three sons, Grier Jr., Thomas and Kenneth, and seven grandchildren and six great grandchildren. She will be missed, but her spirit and contributions will not be forgotten.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak in strong opposition to H.R. 2, the ``Patient's Rights Repeal Act''. Repealing the law would take us back to the days when big insurance companies had the power to decide what patients can receive--allowing them to once again deny coverage to children with pre-existing conditions, cancel coverage when people get sick, place limits on the amount of care people can get, or overcharge for insurance just to boost their profits. The Texas Department of Insurance issued a recent report that noted nearly 26.1 percent of Texans are without health coverage--compared to the national average of 16.7 percent, who are uninsured. Without the Affordable Care Act, Texans stand to lose: Critical Consumer Protections that ban health insurance plans from denying coverage based on an individual's health status would be lost; Young adults under the age of 26 would lose their coverage through their parents' health plans; Patients with private insurance coverage would suddenly find themselves vulnerable to annual and lifetime limits; New insurance plans would no longer be required to cover recommended preventive services, like flu shots; Seniors who have Medicare coverage would be forced to pay a co- payment to receive important preventive services, like mammograms and colonoscopies; and Small businesses would lose tax credit assistance to help families purchase affordable health insurance. Early retirees between the ages of 55 and 64 would lose health coverage through their employers for them and their families. I am confident that if we repeal Affordable Care Act, we present a grave, unhealthy danger to the lives of all Americans by playing politics. I urge my Republican colleagues to revisit the thought of repealing the Affordable Care Act by working with eager Democrats to continue building a bridge to a healthier America.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, let me thank our CBC Chair, Emanuel Cleaver and the gentlelady from the Virgin Islands, Congresswoman Christensen for anchoring this Special Order in order to pursue a very important discussion on the leadership of the Congressional Black Caucus and the Health Care Reform. We remain committed to our diligent work to be the conscience of the Congress, but also to provide dedicated and focused service to the citizens and Congressional Districts that have elected us. I hope that this discussion will highlight the impact of how the repeal of the Affordable Act would impact the American people; particularly, within the minority community. We know that not all Americans have equal access to health care. It is all too unfortunate that persons of low-income, or of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, and other underserved populations have higher rates of disease. This same population frequently experience fewer treatment options, and reduced access to the care they need. Worst of all, minority populations are also less likely to have health insurance than the population as a whole. But now, because of the Affordable Care Act, minorities can benefit from: Preventative Care that includes regular screenings, annual wellness check-ups, cancer screenings, and immunizations--all at no additional cost. Care that is coordinated to help patients manage their chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, high-blood pressure, cancer, and many other ailments that require multiple health teams. Training to increase diversity within the health professions so that patients have more choice of providers who are racially and ethnically diverse. Also, health plans will be required to use language services and community outreach in underserved communities. Expansion of the health care workforce with increased funding for community health centers, which provide comprehensive health care for everyone no matter how much they are able to pay. Banning insurance companies from discriminating against those patients who have been sick. No longer will sick patients be excluded from coverage or charged higher premiums. Neither will women have to pay higher premiums simply because of their gender. I am confident that if we repeal Affordable Care Act, we present a grave, unhealthy danger to the lives of our most vulnerable populations who need health care most by playing politics. I urge my Republican colleagues to revisit the thought of repealing the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act by working with eager Democrats to continue building a bridge to a healthier America--for all.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to a good friend, great Texan, and wonderful individual, Dan Petty, former President and CEO of the North Texas Commission, who passed away on January 11, 2011, leaving a legacy of accomplishments and good will that will last for generations to come. Dan was a kind man with a drive to bring people together to collaborate on projects that impact the entire North Texas region. His proudest moment was the region-wide collaborative efforts that resulted in North Texas hosting Super Bowl XLV. Dan Petty was a 1957 Texas High School graduate, received a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering from the University of Texas at Austin, Master of Government Administration from the Fels Institute of Government at The Wharton Graduate School, Master of Arts in Public Administration from the University of Texas, and a Master of Management in Electronic Commerce from the University of Dallas. A lifelong Longhorn, Petty played football on scholarship at the University of Texas in Coach Darrel Royal's first recruiting class. His modesty kept these and other recognitions in the background as he worked with state, local and academic leaders across the state for the benefit of Texans. In addition to being the former President and CEO of the North Texas Commission, he served as President of Henry S. Miller/Grubb & Ellis Commercial Realtors; President of the Woodbine Development Corporation/ Hunt Realty Services and Wilcox Realty Group; Assistant City Manager of Lubbock, Texas; Director of Urban Affairs for the North Central Texas Council of Governments; Executive Assistant to the Governor of Texas; Director of Public Affairs for the University of Texas; Assistant City Manager of Dallas, Texas; President of the Dallas Chamber of Commerce, Past Chairman and Board of Directors of the Cotton Bowl Athletic Association, Board of the State Fair of Texas, and a Member of the Super Bowl Bidding Committee who were instrumental in North Texas winning the 2011 Super Bowl XLV. His civic service included: Chairman for the Dallas Convention and Visitors Bureau; Texas Economic Development Commission, Museum of African American Life and Culture, American Cancer Society, Cattle Baron's Ball, Dallas Area Rapid Transit, Kindness Foundation and Dallas County Children's Services Task Force. Dan will be greatly missed by his family, especially by his wife Mary Jane Petty, children Adrienne Watson and her husband Chas, Kent Petty and his wife Jennifer, and step-children Maggie Culbertson and her husband Geoff, and Robert Riley; and seven grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in mourning the death of Dan Petty and recognizing his legacy.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the resolution before us today and think it is fitting and proper that we take this opportunity to pause and remember those who lost their lives and were wounded in the tragedy that occurred last Saturday in Tucson, Arizona. It is really hard to comprehend how such senseless acts of violence can happen. And yet while we may not be able to fathom why this tragedy occurred, the harsh reality is that six innocent people were killed, including a 9-year-old child, and another 14 individuals were wounded, including our own friend and colleague, Representative Gabrielle Giffords. As we speak, she remains in critical condition in the intensive care unit at the University Medical Center in Tucson, fighting for her life. Those of us who know Gabby know that she is a real fighter and that gives us optimism that the final outcome will be a good one and that she will be returning to this institution that she loves and still fight for what she believes in. A number of my colleagues have spoken about the many ways in which Representative Giffords has touched their lives here in Congress, and I would like to echo some of those sentiments. As the ranking member on the Science, Space, and Technology Committee, I have seen firsthand the way her passion, commitment and competence have been used to voice her help for our Nation to move forward in a positive way. She has been very active as a member of the committee sponsoring and cosponsoring numerous pieces of legislation relating to research, innovation, renewable energy, space exploration, and math and science education. They have included the Solar Technology Roadmap Act, the Science Parks Research and Innovative Technologies Act, the NASA Authorization Act of 2010, and America COMPETES, as many other important pieces. She has been tireless in carrying out her oversight responsibilities. As chairman of the Space and Aeronautics Subcommittee in the 111th Congress, she conducted numerous hearings on a wide range of issues related to NASA, civil and commercial space activities, international cooperation in space, civil aviation, and earth observations, among others. Her willingness to work hard, to get the facts and exercise tough love on the agencies she oversees has earned her the respect of Members on both sides of the aisle. In addition, while she is not afraid to express her views directly, she always has done so with civility and grace. Mr. Speaker, Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, the one I know and respect, we hope to see her return soon. It is still hard for me to comprehend that such evil could befall her and the other victims of last Saturday. I know I speak for all Members in saying that our thoughts and prayers are with each of them and their families. We look forward to the day when we can welcome Ms. Giffords back to the House floor and join together with her to do the Nation's business.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend Chairman Dave Obey on a remarkable career and to congratulate him on his retirement from the U.S. Congress. Chairman Obey has honorably served the citizens of Wisconsin's 7th district since 1969. When Chairman Obey began his service in the Congress--succeeding Mel Laird, who was appointed Secretary of Defense--he was the youngest Member of Congress in the United States. He has an impressive record of legislative accomplishments. He is now the longest-serving member of either House of Congress in Wisconsin's history. His commitment to the integrity of the House has taught me a great deal about the legislative process. His respect for the minority, interest in listening to all voices and his common-sense leadership have been critical in ensuring civil debate and productive solutions to extremely difficult problems. Chairman Dave Obey is the only Democratic Member of the House to have served on the three major economic committees in the Congress: the Budget Committee, the Joint Economic Committee and the Committee on Appropriation. Chairman Obey has been a mentor and a friend and I will miss his leadership in the U.S. House. I thank him for his service to the 7th district of Wisconsin, the country and the world, and wish him the very best in his retirement.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of S. 3481, a bill that would clarify Federal responsibility for stormwater runoff from buildings, facilities, and lands owned or operated by the Federal Government. This common sense bill ensures that the Federal Government maintains its equitable responsibility for stormwater pollution runoff originating or emanating from its property. I applaud the outstanding work of the sponsors of this legislation, the distinguished Senator from the State of Maryland (Mr. Cardin), as well as the sponsor of the House companion for this bill, the Delegate from the District of Columbia (Ms. Norton), for their efforts to move this legislation so quickly to the President's desk. Madam Speaker, simply put, this legislation clarifies that Federal agencies and departments are financially responsible for any reasonable Federal, State, or locally-derived charges for treating or otherwise addressing stormwater pollution that emanates from Federal property. Existing section 313 of the Clean Water Act states that ``Each department, agency, or instrumentality . . . of the Federal Government . . . shall be subject to, and comply with, all Federal, State, interstate, and local requirements . . . including the payment of reasonable service charges.'' Unfortunately, over the past few months, Congress has learned of several Federal agencies, including some here in the Nation's Capital, that have made the determination that stormwater management fees are ``taxes'' for which the agencies have claimed sovereign immunity and have refused to pay. This has left several State and local municipalities with the financial responsibility of addressing ongoing sources of pollution to the nation's waters that any other private business, landowner, or homeowner would otherwise be responsible for paying. Polluted runoff from urban areas is the fastest growing source of water pollution in America. As urbanization increases, impervious surfaces such as highways, roads, parking lots, and buildings replace non-impervious surfaces that absorb stormwater. Runoff from impervious surfaces is a central cause of pollution for the nation's waters, and is estimated to be the primary source of impairment for 13 percent of rivers, 18 percent of lakes, and 32 percent of estuaries in the U.S. These are significant figures, especially given that urban areas cover only 3 percent of the land mass of the country. Even here, in the Nation's Capital, pollution from stormwater runoff poses a significant challenge to the quality of local receiving waters, and negatively impacts the overall environmental health of the Chesapeake Bay. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, stormwater runoff from urban and suburban areas is ``a significant source of impairment to the Chesapeake Bay.'' According to Agency statistics, 17 percent of phosphorus, 11 percent of nitrogen, and 9 percent of sediment loads to the Bay come from stormwater runoff. In addition, chemical contaminants from runoff can rival or exceed the amount reaching local waterways from industries, federal facilities, and wastewater treatment plants. Several states and municipalities, including the District of Columbia, have taken aggressive action to address these ongoing sources of pollution. Yet, when a significant percentage of property owners take the position that they cannot be held responsible for their pollution, it places a greater financial burden on our States, cities, communities, and local-ratepayers, and makes it less likely that significant reductions in stormwater pollution can be achieved. S. 3481 amends section 313 of the Clean Water Act to clarify that ``reasonable service charges'' for addressing pollution from Federal facilities includes reasonable nondiscriminatory fees, charges, or assessments that are based on the proportion of stormwater emanating from the facility and used to pay (or reimburse) costs associated with any stormwater management program. This is a simple effort to clarify, again, that the Federal Government bears a proportional responsibility for addressing pollution originating from its facilities, and should remain an active participant in improving National water quality and the overall environment.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, on Wednesday, December 22, 2010, I requested and received a leave of absence for the rest of the week. Below is how I would have voted on the following vote I missed during this time period. On rollcall 664, H.R. 847, to amend the Public Health Service Act to extend and improve protections and services to individuals directly impacted by the terrorist attack in New York City on September 11, 2001, I would have voted ``yes.''

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of S. 3481, a bill that would clarify Federal responsibility for stormwater runoff from buildings, facilities, and lands owned or operated by the Federal government. This commonsense bill ensures that the Federal Government maintains its equitable responsibility for stormwater pollution runoff originating or emanating from its property. I applaud the outstanding work of the sponsors of this legislation, the distinguished Senator from the State of Maryland (Mr. Cardin), as well as the sponsor of the House companion for this bill, the Delegate from the District of Columbia (Ms. Norton), for their efforts to move this legislation so quickly to the President's desk. Madam Speaker, simply put, this legislation clarifies that Federal agencies and departments are financially responsible for any reasonable Federal, State, or locally derived charges for treating or otherwise addressing stormwater pollution that emanates from Federal property. Existing section 313 of the Clean Water Act states that ``Each department, agency, or instrumentality . . . of the Federal Government . . . shall be subject to, and comply with, all Federal, State, interstate, and local requirements . . . including the payment of reasonable service charges.'' Unfortunately, over the past few months, Congress has learned of several Federal agencies, including some here in the Nation's Capital, that have made the determination that stormwater management fees are ``taxes'' for which the agencies have claimed sovereign immunity and have refused to pay. This has left several State and local municipalities with the financial responsibility of addressing ongoing sources of pollution to the Nation's waters that any other private business, landowner, or homeowner would otherwise be responsible for paying. Polluted runoff from urban areas is the fastest growing source of water pollution in America. As urbanization increases, impervious surfaces such as highways, roads, parking lots, and buildings replace non-impervious surfaces that absorb stormwater. Runoff from impervious surfaces is a central cause of pollution for the Nation's waters, and is estimated to be the primary source of impairment for 13 percent of rivers, 18 percent of lakes, and 32 percent of estuaries in the United States. These are significant figures, especially given that urban areas cover only 3 percent of the land mass of the country. Even here, in the Nation's Capital, pollution from stormwater runoff poses a significant challenge to the quality of local receiving waters, and negatively impacts the overall environmental health of the Chesapeake Bay. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, stormwater runoff from urban and suburban areas is ``a significant source of impairment to the Chesapeake Bay.'' According to Agency statistics, 17 percent of phosphorus, 11 percent of nitrogen, and 9 percent of sediment loads to the Bay come from stormwater runoff. In addition, chemical contaminants from runoff can rival or exceed the amount reaching local waterways from industries, Federal facilities, and wastewater treatment plants. Several states and municipalities, including the District of Columbia, have taken aggressive action to address these ongoing sources of pollution. Yet, when a significant percentage of property owners take the position that they cannot be held responsible for their pollution, it places a greater financial burden on our States, cities, communities, and local-ratepayers, and makes it less likely that significant reductions in stormwater pollution can be achieved. S. 3481 amends section 313 of the Clean Water Act to clarify that ``reasonable service charges'' for addressing pollution from Federal facilities includes reasonable nondiscriminatory fees, charges, or assessments that are based on the proportion of stormwater emanating from the facility and used to pay (or reimburse) costs associated with any stormwater management program. Madam Speaker, in the amendment to section 313 of the Clean Water Act, a provision was included to rectify a specific problem in the District of Columbia, where the U.S. Department of the Treasury has been paying some stormwater fees. The provision simply says that agencies and departments should use their annual appropriated funds to pay for stormwater fees. This is exactly what they all do today in paying for their drinking water and wastewater bills or any other utility bill. This new language requires that Congress make available, in appropriations acts, the funds that could be used for this purpose. It should not be interpreted as requiring appropriations act to state specifically or expressly that the funds could be used to pay these charges. The statutory language does not require this, and such a restrictive reading is not intended. Madam Speaker, this legislation is a simple effort to clarify, again, that the Federal Government bears a proportional responsibility for addressing pollution originating from its facilities, and should remain an active participant in improving National water quality and the overall environment. I urge passage of this bill. The bill was ordered to be read a third time, was read the third time, and passed, and a motion to reconsider was laid on the table.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, on Tuesday, December 14, I requested and received a leave of absence for December 16 and December 17, 2010. For the information of our colleagues and my constituents, below is how I would have voted on the following votes I missed during this time period. On rollcall 640, On Motion to Suspend the rules and pass S. 841, I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 641, On Motion to Suspend the rules and pass S. 3860, I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 642, On Motion to Suspend the rules and pass S. 3447, I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 643, Providing for consideration of the Senate amendment to the House amendment to the Senate amendment to the bill (H.R. 4853) to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend the funding and expenditure authority of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund, H. Res. 1766, I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 644, On Agreeing to the Resolution, H. Res. 1766, I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 645, On Motion to Suspend the rules and pass S. 987, To protect girls in developing countries through the prevention of child marriage, and for other purposes, I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 646, On Agreeing to the Levin Agreement, H.R. 4863, I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 647, On Motion to Concur in the Senate Amdt to the House to the Senate Amendment H.R. 4853, I would have voted ``no.'' On rollcall 648, Honoring the accomplishments of Norman Yoshino Mineta, H. Res. 1377, I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 649, An act to enact certain laws relating to public contracts as title 41, United States Code, ``Public Contracts'', H.R. 1107, I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 650, Ike Skelton National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2011, H.R. 6523, I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 651, An act to establish a pilot program in certain United States district courts to encourage enhancement of expertise in patent cases among district judges, H.R. 628, I would have voted ``no.'' On rollcall 652, Providing for the sine die adjournment of the second session of the One Hundred Eleventh Congress, H. Con. Res. 336, I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 653, Providing for consideration of the joint resolution (H.J. Res. 105) making further continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2011, H. Res. 1776, I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 654, GPRA Modernization Act of 2010, H.R. 2142, I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 655, Aiding Those Facing Foreclosure Act of 2010, H.R. 5510, I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 656, Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act, S. 3874, I would have voted ``yes.''

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I do rise in support of H.R. 5116, the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act. And I am proud to say that I have worked with Dr. Ehlers, with our incoming chairman, Mr. Hall, as well as our outgoing chairman. We all know that the reauthorization of America COMPETES is to ensure that our future is more prosperous than our past. It is about ensuring America's memories are honored by investing in dreams that are even higher. The legislation before the U.S. Congress today is a message, a message that makes America understand that we are not here just to compete but to lead the 21st century. As a member of the House Science and Technology Committee for over 18 years, I am proud to be an author of this bipartisan legislation. As it returns from the Senate, it is not the same bill that we sent over. But nothing is perfect around here, and we are not headed in the future to be perfect. But we must stand up and make sure that our responsibilities to our country and to our future will be intact. Therefore, I will support this legislation and hope that we can improve it at another time. I am eager to serve with Mr. Hall, as ranking member on the committee, and I hope that we can continue to look at what this country needs to do to educate its young people so that we can be in the future. We are losing ground, and I hope that we will find ways to regain it. I have in mind to try to bring with the chairman a group of CEOs, superintendents, teachers together around the table so we can all understand what we must do to educate our young people for the future if we want to be anywhere near competing with the rest of the world. I am pleased that this bill reauthorized the Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program, a program which I helped to shape. This program helps to prepare thousands of qualified new teachers and provides current teachers with academic and development courses. Every bit of our research shows that that's one of our major problems. We have teachers teaching courses where they have never majored. Seventy percent of them, as a matter of fact, in this country are teaching courses where they never majored. It is never going to be what we want as long as we have teachers teaching math, science, engineering that have never majored in it in college. We have to have teachers who are more prepared. And as women and minorities continue to be underrepresented in the sciences, it is unfortunate that the Senate chose to cut out the Fulfilling the Potential of Women in Academic Science and Engineering Act. I have sponsored that for two sessions. I will again. I do not believe that we, as a Nation, can compete ever with ignoring the fact that 50 percent of its brainpower is left behind. I am pleased that this bill does prohibit the consolidation of programs that serve minority institutions and students in the National Science Foundation. We must be proactive. We have more work to ensure that all Americans are afforded the same chance to compete in the 21st century. It is not an in-your-face. It is not a civil rights act. It is to make sure that the majority of the students in this Nation become prepared to save this Nation. We cannot sit around and think that it is going to happen without effort. We need to help our schools around the Nation to elevate their math and science programs so that they can achieve the standard exemplified by the School of Science and Engineering at Townview, a high school in my district, in Dallas, Texas, which is rated one of the best public schools in the Nation. But that's only 20 percent of the students in the District. We must make sure that that quality of education is offered to all of our students. I want to commend Chairman Gordon and Ranking Member, soon-to-be chairman, Mr. Hall for their hard work on the legislation. And I believe that if nothing else gels us as a committee, looking out for our young people and the future of our Nation will become a real goal to achieve because it represents what is bipartisan; it represents a concerted effort to create a more competitive science and engineering workforce. I support this bill, Mr. Speaker. It is not perfect. But we have got to move on and look to the future.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I'm here this morning to simply say that Democrats continue to fight to maintain tax cuts on income up to $250,000 for couples and $200,000 for individuals. My Republican colleagues continue to demand tax cuts for all incomes, including millionaires and billionaires. I ask my Democrats to please continue to extend the unemployment benefits to help out Americans to make it through this recession, and I plead with my Republican colleagues to not hold the middle class and unemployment hostage any longer. I also recommend that we help the 155 million middle class Americans at a cost of $214 billion, and I plead with my colleagues to join us in assisting to help because only 4.8 million of the country's wealthiest, at a cost of $133 billion, is what we are trying to make a decision on. Please join me and look out for the working people of this country, and let the billionaires continue to pay the bills.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Thank you very much, Madam Speaker, and let me thank the gentlewoman from Minnesota for organizing this. I rise this evening to honor a longtime Member and the current chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Mr. James Oberstar, the distinguished gentleman from Minnesota. It has been my pleasure to serve on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee for 18 years with Mr. Oberstar. We have had some really good moments. As a matter of fact, as I was listening about the bridge, we were right here on this floor the night that the bridge collapsed. We were talking then about an aviation issue. The other thing is, being from Texas, I only speak one language-- that's Texas English--and sometimes people don't understand it here. Mr. Oberstar speaks many languages, and I was always very pleased when he was there to help me pronounce some of those names that came before our committee. To those of us who serve on the Transportation Committee and to many others in this Chamber, Chairman Oberstar has been an historian, our friend, our expert, our champion, and our admired leader. To think of the Transportation Committee--and certainly our House--without our beloved colleague leaves a vast hole among our ranks and in our hearts. During his tenure on the committee as a staffer, later as a member, and then as chairman, Mr. Oberstar has played a key role in every major piece of transportation legislation that is law today, and no one would even try to dispute that he is widely held as a foremost transportation expert among us. His dedication cannot be matched regardless of the issue, whether it's transit, highways, aviation, water, infrastructure, Coast Guard, railways, maritime, and so much more. He has steadfastly worked to achieve the best results for the American people. I will dearly miss my colleague, my friend, my chairman, but I also expect that none of us will shy away from seeking his advice in the months and years to come. During his tenure, we really have come to respect him as the expert, and we will regretfully miss him so much.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, the United States of America has a proud tradition of diversity. We are, after all, a nation of immigrants. Yet we are also united by the American Dream--the ideal that all Americans, regardless of the circumstances of their birth, have the opportunity to prosper and succeed. Note that the dream is not that everyone will be affluent, but that everyone will have the chance to achieve great things. That is exactly what the DREAM Act offers to a select group of hard working young people. It applies only to those who were raised in the United States and went on to further their education or serve in the military. It allows individuals who are truly outstanding to continue contributing to our nation's prosperity, without punishing them for the decisions of their parents or other relatives. Let me be perfectly clear--this is not an amnesty program. The individuals covered by the DREAM Act are not being offered citizenship. Initially they are assigned a conditional status, during which they are not eligible from most forms of government assistance. This includes Medicaid, food stamps, and federal grants. After ten years, this limited group would be offered a chance or earn permanent immigrant status. This is available only if the applicant can prove he or she has paid taxes; can read, write and speak in English; has maintained a good moral character; has lived continuously in the United States; and has either pursued higher education or military service. He or she must also demonstrate that they are not likely to be deported, as this program is not meant to be a safe harbor for deportees. Individuals who have benefited from the DREAM Act would be extremely constrained in their ability to sponsor family members for United States citizenship. There is also a strict time limit--an individual must apply for conditional status within a year of graduating high school, entering college, or the date of the bill's enactment. As you can see, the path laid out by this legislation is not an easy one. There will be many individuals who want to take advantage of this program who will be denied. There will be others who are inspired to greater heights of achievement, with the hope of attaining permanent immigrant status. Our nation will only benefit from encouraging and retaining these exceptional young people. To do otherwise would belie the promise of the American Dream.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, middle-income families are the backbone of our economy, and that is why we should not wait any longer to vote on extending tax cuts for middle-income families. Extension of these taxes have been held hostage by the discussion of whether to extend the rates for the wealthiest Americans. Ninety-eight percent of Americans face a tax increase January 1. For the typical middle-income American family, that would be the loss of $2,000 a year. The Republican demands would mean that those making more than a million dollars a year would receive an average of $100,000 annually, and the middle-income would be saddled with the $700 billion in new debt to pay for the multimillion-dollar tax cut for billionaires. The billionaires' lifestyles will not change, and no significant jobs will be created. If they were going to be, they would be now. I am committed to continuing tax cuts for middle-income families on incomes up to $250,000. Mr. Speaker, I favor jobs. Tax cuts for the rich will change nothing, but it will increase the deficit.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 6184) to amend the Water Resources Development Act of 2000 to extend and modify the program allowing the Secretary of the Army to accept and expend funds contributed by non- Federal public entities to expedite the evaluation of permits, and for other purposes, as amended.