Eddie Johnson

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Appropriations for brownfields assessment cleanup peaked at $97.7 million in fiscal year 2002 and is only $89 million in this year's interior and environment appropriations bill. Last week before the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment, where I serve as ranking member, an EPA assistant administrator testified that for fiscal year 2006 EPA received nearly 700 proposals for Brownfield Grants. Unfortunately, EPA funded less than 45 percent of these. Mr. Chairman, our communities are very deserving of these strong HUD- administered brownfields programs. If you watch the game tonight, look at the American Center. Oh, you won't see that one. It will be in Miami tonight. But that was a brownfield in Dallas.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I want to begin by commending the gentleman from Michigan, Chairman Knollenberg, and the ranking member, the gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Olver), for their good work on this bill in the midst of an extremely tight budget environment. Both gentlemen have had to make some very unpopular decisions. However, as I stated last year, eliminating the funding for brownfield redevelopment programs should be reconsidered. As a result, I rise today in strong support of the Miller-Johnson amendment to H.R. 5576. Similar to last year, the gentleman from California and I offered this amendment today because we both feel that it is time for this body to get really serious about eliminating the Nation's estimated 500,000 brownfields. The amendment increases the Department of Housing and Urban Development Brownfields Redevelopment Program account by $15 million. In its present form, H.R. 5576 provides no funding for a program that has helped to transform communities, large and small, throughout the country. The amendment calls for a corresponding offset through a reduction of $15 million within the Business Systems Modernization Account in the Treasury title. Currently, the Business Systems Modernization Account is $45 million above the administration's request, and $15.3 million above last year's request. While I respect the committee's view that HUD funding is no longer essential or appropriate due to the EPA's expanded authority and increased appropriations, this is certainly a view that I do not share. First of all, I believe it is important to note that there are clear distinctions between EPA's Brownfields Program relative to HUD's. Although both are equally important, EPA's program focuses primarily on cleanup, whereas the focus of HUD's program is on redevelopment of brownfield sites once cleanup is complete. It is true that the authority of the EPA has been expanded. However, the consistent and chronic underfunding of the Brownfields Program by the President and the Congress leave much to be desired in terms of corresponding appropriations. In fact, appropriations for brownfields assessment and cleanup peaked.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, with tuition costs rising and the availability of financial aid declining, many parents in our country are finding it harder and harder to afford the cost of college education for their sons and daughters. However, these families know the importance of having a college degree in today's economy. We really cannot underestimate the importance. Therefore, large numbers are relying on student loans to help meet tuition costs. While these loans can be a great resource to make college accessible to more students, they can also cause great financial hardships for the borrower when they graduate and the payments are due. The administration has supported making paying for these loans even more difficult by enacting their raid on student aid and cutting $12 billion from the higher education budget. Because of these drastic and devastating cuts, interest rates on student and parent loans for college will increase significantly July 1. To avoid this dramatic increase in interest rates, I encourage all Federal student loan borrowers to visit www.loanconsolidation.ed.gov to consolidate their loans before July 1.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend DeSoto on being named an All-American City by the National Civic League. Each year, the All-American City Award is given to ten communities that exemplify the true American spirit, and show outstanding abilities to identify problems and collectively conquer community-wide issues. It takes collaboration from the whole community to be an All-American City, and DeSoto serves as a shining example of what can be accomplished when community members, government, businesses and non- profit organizations work together to address critical local issues. I would like to congratulate my outstanding constituents in DeSoto; especially Mayor Michael Hurtt and the DeSoto City Council. Through their leadership, DeSoto has produced several exceptional grassroots initiatives including: DeSoto Dining and Dialogue, the Empowered Homeowners Associations Program, and the Youth Initiatives including the Hip Hop Summit. DeSoto might be a small suburb of Dallas but has done a huge job in bettering the lives of average Texans through cooperation and grassroots initiatives. The accolades DeSoto is receiving are imminently well deserved, and I am confident of continued success for years to come.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Page Class of 2006 and in particular the page from the 30th District of Texas, Linwood Fields. You have served the United States House of Representatives with honor and dignity, and should be proud of your accomplishments. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, ``An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity.'' It is my hope that during your time here you were able to expand your perspectives on the world, and will continue to utilize this knowledge in the years ahead. I am particularly proud of Linwood Fields. He has honorably represented his family, my office, and the Dallas community. He successfully served this House through his outstanding work and extraordinary spirit. I know that this is merely the first step of a very bright future. I am confident that Linwood will go onto to become a fine and successful man, and I look forward to seeing his accomplishments in the years to come. I commend Linwood and the Page Class of 2006 for their outstanding service. Myself and my colleagues are grateful for all you have done.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I have an amendment at the desk.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Let me thank the chairman of the committee, also a Texan. I have an amendment before us today that is really unambiguous and straightforward in its intent. The amendment increases the maximum forfeiture penalty in the antidiscrimination section from $500,000 to $750,000 if the FCC determines that a cable operator has denied access to its services to a group of potential services because of that group's income. It is my respectful view that an increase of 50 percent to this bill's current penalty amount is a small price for a corporation that discriminates in the delivery of video or broadband services against communities that are crying out for increased competition and affordable cable prices. Many of the constituents that I represent are heavy cable users and heavy telephone users. The gas prices are very high. Tickets to entertainment are very high, and so cable is generally their entertainment and the telephone keeps them in touch with companies. So it is a large use many times of the lower-income communities in my congressional district and throughout America that should not be relegated to second-class citizens with regard to their ability to enjoy the fruits of cable competition that this bill touts. I am not thrilled that the Federal Communications Commission will be delving into discrimination matters that could impact an entire class of individuals. However, it is my belief that if the FCC is to be charged with enforcing antidiscrimination laws and levying correspondent fines, the agency, one, should be sensitive as possible to complaints filed by a local franchising authority that believes a cable operator with a national franchise has violated the antidiscrimination section of this bill; and, two, respond forcefully with a meaningful forfeiture penalty that preserves the integrity of the ultimate public interest goal of universal service, particularly to individuals that stand to benefit significantly from increased competition. Mr. Chairman, as I close, I would like to reiterate that a 50 percent increase in this bill's current penalty amount is a small price for the battle between the millionaires and billionaires, and so I do not know why I did not put $1 million here; but whether the action is motivated intentionally or the direct result of shortsightedness, cable providers should not be left off the hook for failing to bring competition to communities that need it the most. I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on this amendment. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I rise today to share my thoughts on H.R. 5252, the Communications Opportunity, Promotion, and Enhancement Act of 2006. Similar to the 1996 telecommunications law that deregulated the phone and cable industries, I have examined this bill with the interests of my constituents in mind and a deep respect for the advancement of technological innovation. As a result of this I have decided to vote in favor of H.R. 5252 as the bill provides the best we here in the House of Representatives could wish for with regard to the increased distribution of affordable cable services and a continued support of increased telecommunications innovation. As with any complex bill, I do not agree with every aspect of the measure; however, I do feel that the measure provides the tools necessary to facilitate increased video choice for my district. Streamlining the video franchise process will help accelerate competition in the video market. Constituents within my congressional district are crying out for increased competition and affordable cable rates and it is impossible for me to disregard their concerns by voting against this, bill. According to the Federal Communications Commission, roughly 1.5 percent of markets have head-to-head competition for cable services. Increased competition amongst cable providers will provide my constituents with consumer choice that is currently lacking. Consumers win when telecom carriers and cable operators compete head to head. A multitude of service providers, each committed to indiscriminately serving my constituents regardless of income levels holds great promise for lower prices, better service and increased programming content and diverse ownership opportunities for minority and women-owned businesses. Lastly, much has been said regarding the issue of net neutrality, the notion that broadband service providers should operate their networks in a nondiscriminatory manner. While I agree wholeheartedly with this notion, I also feel that the government should not act too prematurely in intervening with the growth and innovation of the internet. The net neutrality bill presented before us tonight would impose a non-discriminate requirement on the internet backbone. For years, the internet has blossomed, thanks in large part due the hands-off approach the federal government has taken. Currently I am satisfied with the language captured in H.R. 5252. The bill gives the FCC strong authority to protect web access and internet applications by allowing the FCC to enforce its broadband principles that ensure consumers are entitled to: (1) Access the lawful internet content of their choice; (2) Run applications and services of their choice, subject to the needs of law enforcement; (3) Connect their choice of legal devices that do not harm the network; and (4) Competition among network providers, application and service providers, and content providers. While I do not feel that additional action above and beyond the bill's current language at this time, I do support revisiting the issue in the event discriminatory conduct amongst internet service providers in the future.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of stem cell research. Last May, the House of Representatives narrowly passed H.R. 810, supporting federally funded embryonic stem cell research. My vote, recorded in support of this bill, reflects my strong views on the potential for stem cell research to benefit society. Stem cells can mature into nearly any type of cell, including nerve cells to repair damaged spines or heart cells to pump blood through the body. The therapeutic possibilities of stem cells are endless. It is my hope that the other body will work with us to support stem cell research. Somewhere out there is a little girl who suffered a spinal injury and is unable to walk. Therapy utilizing stem cells is her only hope. How much longer will she and millions of others have to wait?

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jeremy Bonner, an extraordinary young man whose dedication and achievements are to be commended. Jeremy Bonner recently graduated from A. Maceo Smith High School after 14 years of perfect attendance. This means that from the age of three, Jeremy never missed a day of school. In a time when drop-out rates and truancy are on the rise, this is truly an exceptional achievement. The efforts and devotion of Jeremy Bonner and his mother, Joan Bonner, are to be celebrated. In addition to his perfect attendance, I was pleased to learn of Jeremy's plans to join the military and pursue a career in public service. Both the military and America are fortunate to have the commitment of such a fine young man. The recognition Jeremy is receiving is imminently well-deserved, and I know this is merely the first step of many bright years ahead.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition to drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. America's natural resources are diminishing daily. Places like Fossil Rim Wildlife Center just outside of Dallas, with its 1800 acres of unspoiled natural beauty and endangered Texas Prairie Chickens, need the support and protection of Congress. Defending our natural resources is our responsibility as Federal representatives. All Americans benefit from unspoiled lands, clear skies, and wild places to enjoy. Drilling the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is not the answer to our oil crisis. That strategy is not forward-thinking and won't sustain our energy needs for very long. What we need instead are greater investments in energy efficiency and alternative fuels. Mr. Speaker, I have consistently opposed ANWR drilling and I will oppose ANWR drilling again this time around.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, we have talked about the culture of corruption here, and it is very interesting that the way I see the culture of corruption is what we do right here on this floor. Today's seniors are paying the price for a prescription drug plan that does not have their best interests in mind. Rather, it is a plan that was created to actually help the special interests. Why couldn't we have a plan in Medicare? Why? Because that is not what the insurance companies want in the law. They helped to write the bill, and now the persons who worked with them are representing them. So since the time of the law passing, three of the main Republican negotiators are making very large sums of money. Madam Speaker, the American people don't like what they see here. They see a Republican majority that is too close to the special interests, and they want Washington to work for the people and work for you again.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Chairman I want to thank the gentleman from Ohio and the gentleman from Indiana for their leadership on this important piece of water resources legislation in the midst of an extremely tight budget environment. I support the fiscal year 2007 Energy and Water Development appropriation measure. This measure includes funding for a number of flood control projects administered by the Corps of Engineers that are desperately needed within my congressional district: the Nokomis Road Bridge Erosion Project, the Upper Trinity River Feasibility Study, and most importantly the Dallas Floodway Extension. I appreciate the subcommittee's consideration of my requests and your past support for vital flood control projects in my congressional district. My constituents in the region are highly concerned about the possibility of severe flooding of the Trinity River, an event that could result in countless loss of lives and almost immeasurable property damage. The Dallas Floodway Extension, DFE, is the linchpin of the city's flood control efforts. Each year the Office of Management Budget finds within its good graces to zero out funding, but the project is of critical importance to my constituents. This legislation includes $5 million for the construction of the Dallas Floodway Extension. This funding will go towards the construction of a chain of flood conveyance wetlands and a system of protective levees that will enhance the security of Dallas' central business district and area neighborhoods. The project will also reclaim 792 acres of land that are currently in the 100-year flood plain. Although I am disappointed that this amount falls far below the Corps' expressed capability of $28 million, it is my hope that the project funding may be revisited during the House-Senate Conference. As the country's recent flooding events have highlighted, we can not continue to shortchange this Nation's water resources infrastructure. Adequate investment in our nation's infrastructure will protect lives and property, bolster economic growth, and further enhance the quality of life for all our constituents. While I recognize the difficult constraints the committee worked under in developing this legislation, and appreciate the funding included, I also know it is imperative to the public health and safety of the people of Dallas that this project proceed as quickly as possible. Mr. Chairman, I appreciate the bipartisan effort that went into the drafting of this legislation, commend that effort as a model for the way in which this Chamber ought to routinely work, and urge a ``yes'' vote on H.R. 5427.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, as someone with a great interest in Israel, Middle Eastern affairs, and world peace, I believe that we should remain cognizant of the importance of open communication, peaceful dialogue, and positive debate. I have a sincere affection and respect for both people and I pray for a peaceful resolution of deep seeded differences. We are living in historic times, and we have an opportunity to play a significant part in the Arab- Israeli peace process. This legislation rightly calls upon Hamas to renounce terrorism, and recognize Israel as an independent, sovereign, Jewish and democratic state. I too recognize the need for a secure Israel and the need for a peaceful resolution for the Israel and Palestinian people. For many, peace is a long awaited dream and I am certain that with time, they will eventually realize this dream. I also advocate for cessation of aid to a Hamas led government of Palestinian Authority since they have refused to renounce violence and terrorism as part of their military tactics. I am certain a government that refuses to curtail their terrorist ideals can run the gamut on outrageous and purposefully unrealistic demands. I am concerned that some of the provisions of H.R. 4681 directly undermine the goal of securing peace. I question the prudence in ostracizing Hamas from the international community and forbidding contact with the Palestinian Authority and the Palestinian Legislative Council when some of its members do not belong to Hamas or any foreign terrorist organization. Many of these members have in fact renounced terrorism, recognized Israel and negotiated the prior agreements. I am concerned that these tactics will only hurt relationships with moderate Palestinian leaders whose support and cooperation are vital to ensuring peace. I am not resigned to the notion that impoverishing a country and hence a people falls within the scope of our duties in ensuring a peaceful resolution. These people are already suffering tremendous poverty and unemployment increases. We must find a way to punish the evil doers without victimizing their innocent neighbors. I am certain that this legislation surpasses the formation of a militaristic strategy and enters the venue of instilling punitive economic and diplomatic sanctions against the Palestinian people. We cannot restrict U.S. humanitarian aid and potentially eliminate entire U.S. aid projects, such as vital infrastructure and small business development. We cannot threaten to withhold a portion of U.S. dues to the United Nations because it allows bodies to advocate for Palestinian human rights. I am concerned about the innocent people who will suffer the consequences in denouncing the provisions of the U.S. free trade agreement with the West Bank and Gaza. I know that refusing visas to members of the Palestinian Legislative Council, including those who belong to political parties that the United States does not classify as ``foreign terrorist organizations,'' will deter ensuring a peaceful resolution. I am concerned that negating visas to members of the PLO diplomats at the United Nations and threatening to close the PLO's office in Washington will close the channels of communication. Madam Speaker, I have long been an advocate for peace and I pray for a peaceful resolution of the Arab and Israeli people. It is in that spirit, and with that faith, that I will continue to work with the administration to ensure the United States remains firm in its commitment to the security of Israel and to those principles necessary to guarantee the success of the Arab-Israeli peace process. The wording of this Resolution changed to include much of the negative language after I signed on as a co-sponsor.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Chairman, let me thank the leaders of this amendment, Mr. Oberstar, Mr. Leach, Mr. Dingell, to protect water quality. This amendment reverses the harmful policy of EPA and the Corps of Engineers that empowers regulators to allow the pollution of waters and destruction of wetlands but eliminates the authority of local regulators to protect waters from such pollution and destruction. Since January, 2003, EPA and the Corps have restricted the ability of their own personnel to implement regulations that have been in use since 1986. These regulations are valid, understood in the regulated community, and are the method we use to protect some 20 percent of the Nation's waters. The Nation's ponds, streams, rivers, lakes, and wetlands can be no healthier than the headwaters and runoff that feed them. Since EPA guidance was put in place in 2003, regulators have allowed the pollution and destruction of these critical waters, imperiling the health of the entire aquatic system. This amendment is not about stopping the direct pollution of our great rivers such as the Mississippi or the Trinity River, which flows through my home city of Dallas. It is about protecting the waters that feed into these systems and that serve as the origins of these great rivers. When we fail to protect smaller bodies of water, we lose the flood control, water supply, water filtering, and habitat benefits that these waters provide. Waters that may appear isolated on the surface tend to be interconnected with the ground and surface waters elsewhere. We cannot simply ignore the connections among and the values of all of the Nation's waters. I support this bipartisan amendment and urge all of my colleagues to join me in voting ``yes.''

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Chairman, let me thank the chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus, most especially Mr. Scott, for their unwavering support for the development of the CBC alternative budget that encompasses progressive and visionary funding motivated by principle and compassion. The CBC alternative understands that our Nation's transportation system is the backbone of our economy and our way of life, either of which we cannot afford to shortchange. The CBC budget increases funding for public transportation, Amtrak, the FAA's airport improvement program, and other vital infrastructure programs crucial to ensure a stable economy. The CBC alternative supports greater competitiveness in science and technology. As a senior member of the Science Committee, I feel it is important to invest in our children's future. Federal entitlements such as NASA and the National Science Foundation need funding to inspire today's youth so that we can have a future in research. I ask, Mr. Chairman, that Members of this body listen to their conscience. We are in a position to prevent funding atrocities to infiltrate and demise progress. The Nation's budget cannot be based on one party's sole agenda. We cannot allow societal factors to divide us in irresponsible spending or unconscionable tax breaks to define us. Mr. Chairman, I want to thank the Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus, Mr. Watt, and Mr. Scott for their leadership and unwavering support for the development of this alternative budget. I also would like to thank all the members of the CBC and their staff for their help in completing this very important task. I appreciate and applaud their efforts on issues important to all of us. The CBC alternative budget prioritizes the .importance of social justice by advocating for the forgotten poor and more specifically addressing the needs of African Americans and other neglected minorities. The CBC alternative budget is filled with progressive and visionary funding and is motivated by principle and compassion. It is a budget that voices the concerns and needs of the poor, the children and the elderly that have been so easily set aside by this administration. The shortsightedness of the Republican budget mirrors that of its drafters. The Republican budget `` borrows from future generations to pay for today's unconscionable tax cuts and irresponsible deficit spending. It offers a $372 billion deficit in 2006 and $348 billion in 2007, and $1.1 trillion worth of deficits over five years. The Republican budget proposal ignores the needs of Texans and all hard working Americans and places the burden of the offset on their shoulders. It reduces taxes for the wealthiest Americans and slams the door on economic opportunity for working families. It reduces veterans' health care by $6 billion, education by $45.3 billion, public health by $18.1 billion, and environmental protection by $25.0 billion. They also include $6.8 billion in reconciliation cuts to mandatory programs. The CBC alternative understands that our Nation's transportation system is the backbone of our economy and a way of life, either of which, we cannot afford to shortchange. The CBC budget increases funding for public transportation, Amtrak, the FAA's Airport Improvement Program, and other vital infrastructure programs crucial to ensure a stable economy. The CBC alternative supports greater competitiveness in science and technology. As a senior Member of the House Science Committee, I feel it is important to invest in our children's futures. Federal entities such as NASA and the National Science Foundation need funding to inspire today's students and produce tomorrow's researchers. The science budget funds our scientific and engineering workforce, supports teacher enrichment programs, and helps inspire future generations of researchers. Our Nation's future depends more and more on the quality of our innovative ideas. The fruits of these investments meet vital national needs and improve the quality of life for all Americans. The CBC alternative budget also provides funding for the minority health initiative, health insurance for the uninsured, child nutrition programs, job creation programs under the SBA, the extension of unemployment insurance benefits and eliminating the disabled veteran's tax. It provides $80 billion over the next five years for education and job training programs and provides over $20 billion more for health care programs than the Republican budget. It also provides $6 billion more on community and regional development which encompasses job creation programs under SBA, community and regional development programs, nutritional programs, Hope VI and Section 8 Housing Programs, Low-Income Home Energy Assistance, and housing for the disabled and the elderly. I ask, Mr. Chairman, that Members of this body listen to their conscience. We are in a position to prevent funding atrocities to infiltrate and demise progress. This Nation's budget cannot be based on one party's sole agenda. We cannot allow societal factors to divide us and irresponsible spending or unconscionable tax cuts to define us.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, instead of offering a plan to bring us out of debt, the Republican budget actually makes the deficit worse. This is fiscal irresponsibility, and that means that we will continue to borrow billions of dollars from other nations. Today we owe Japan $682 billion; China, $249 billion; the Caribbean nations, $115 billion; Korea, $66 billion; and OPEC, that is right, the oil-producing nations we rely on so heavily to fuel our vehicles, we owe $67 billion. Washington Republicans have been so fiscally irresponsible that President Bush has now borrowed more money from other nations than all other 42 predecessors combined. And they are not done. They plan to borrow more because they stuck another debt limit increase in the budget. Mr. Speaker, this does not sound like a record anyone would be proud of. No wonder that so many Republicans are skittish about supporting it. The Democratic plan balances the budget in 5 years and restores pay- as-you-go that worked so well in the 1990s.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, the pharmaceutical industry influenced the passage of a Medicare prescription drug plan last year. It is not great, it is just all we got. The deadline is May 15 for seniors to enroll in this program. If seniors are not enrolled in 5 days, they will face a financial penalty each month for the rest of their lives. Since it took effect at the beginning of this year, the logical problems of implementing this plan have proved enormous. Seniors across the Nation have complained about the confusing number of plans to choose from and the change in prescription benefits each offers. Research has shown that many of those who contact the Federal Government for help receive incorrect information or no information at all. It is no surprise then that millions of seniors have yet to select a drug plan. Now with only 5 days to select the right plan or face a steep penalty, these seniors find themselves under pressure to make the best decision for their health and their pocketbook. Mr. Speaker, serious health decisions require time and information. Our seniors deserve more.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Asian Pacific American Heritage Month and to pay tribute to the struggles and enormous contributions of Asian Pacific Americans to our Nation's culture. It is an honor to pay tribute to the many achievements and honor the countless unique contributions to the United States made by Asian Pacific Americans across our Nation. May commemorates the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants in 1843. Therefore, it is appropriate that during the month of May we recognize the contributions made by Asian Pacific Americans to our communities. May 10, 1869 marks the completion of the transcontinental railroad and its completion is greatly credited to the labor of the Chinese immigrants. Today, there are over 14 million Asian Pacific Americans living in the United States and this represents 5 percent of the population. The rich history associated with the Asian Pacific American population has been a great contribution to the culture of the United States. Over the years, the Asian Pacific American communities have made significant contributions to Texas's diverse culture. The United States is a land of immigrants, and the history reflects a Nation that has greatly benefited from the many contributions of its immigrants. The Greater Dallas Asian American Chamber of Commerce (GDAACC) is the largest Asian American Chamber in the United States with 1,200 members currently enrolled. Located in the Asian Trade District in Northwest Dallas, GDAACC, is the focal point of Asian American economic development and cultural exchange. In recent years, due to great efforts to expand the number of programs that provide assistance to members, sponsors and partners, the GDAACC initiated the Asian Festival and approximately 15,000 people were in attendance. GDAACC is also responsible for initiating the Leadership Tomorrow Program; the Multi-Ethnic Education and Economic Development Center; and the Texas Asian American Business Symposium in Dallas, Texas. The Asian Pacific American community is well deserving of the many accolades they receive because their contributions have greatly enriched the culture and history of our Nation.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I want to call attention to the May 15 deadline for seniors to enroll in the Medicare part D prescription drug plan. The fact is, seniors who are eligible for Medicare part D who do not sign up by May 15 will face a higher monthly premium if they enroll at a later time. This puts a lot of pressure on the seniors. I had a town hall meeting and lots of seniors came. Most of them knew nothing about how to do it or did not understand it. But, seniors, as hard as we have tried, we cannot extend this deadline beyond May 15. There are nearly 48,000 residents aged 65 and older in Dallas, Texas. Not that many came to the town hall, but quite a few. I am concerned that they are not getting the message. Missing May 15 may have expensive consequences. We would like to have a bit more compassion. America's health is about more than just numbers on an insurance company's roll book.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this resolution supporting the goals and ideals of National Nurses Week, and I am indebted to my colleague from California for her scholarly presentation. I started my career as a nurse and worked for more than 15 years as a psychiatric nurse, and it helps me here. I was the chief psychiatric nurse at the VA Hospital, Day Treatment Center, as well as the Day Hospital in Dallas, Texas. Next week, May 6-12, is National Nurses Week; and it is fitting for this body to honor the millions of nurses in America. Nurses are usually very, very dedicated individuals. In my personal experience, nurses tend to be intelligent, detail oriented. They tend to be ready to act at the spur of the moment, and with knowledge. Their work touches all aspects of patient care, whether it is in the emergency room, in the operating room, in the doctor's office, at the neighborhood clinic, in the schools, and battlefields. Nurses stand at the forefront of many lines of our health care system, and they must make life and death decisions, often with little advance notice, and they have frequent hands-on contact with the patient. For these reasons, a caring attitude and compassionate heart are required for the hard work nurses do. In my years as a nurse, I have seen miracles and I have seen tragedies. At the VA, I worked with soldiers fresh from battle, as well as men and women who fought bravely years before. It was an honor to serve America's veterans, each one on his or her individual path to recovery of good health. Nurses Week is really appropriate, because there hardly is anyone alive who will be born and finish life without contact with a nurse. We have a severe shortage right now; and I would hope that we would be more open to attempting to get more nurses, American-educated nurses, so that we will not lose the care that the nurses give. They work very hard for their patients. The American public needs to know that Congress recognizes nurses for the great work they do. I thank the leadership for its support of this bill. I would like to especially thank the two other Members of Congress who also are nurses for their collaboration and united stance in support of issues important to nurses. Both of them have been more active since than I have in nursing. But it is an old saying, once a nurse, always a nurse. I commend this legislation to my colleagues and urge their support.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I would like first to extend my appreciation to the leadership of the International Relations Committee, particularly Chairman Hyde and the ranking member, Mr. Lantos, and the subcommittee people for working with me to advance this measure. I would also like to thank Mr. Blumenauer for serving as my partner on this resolution. Mr. Speaker, H. Res. 658 supports the goals and ideals of World Water Day, an initiative born out of the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development in Rio de Janeiro. The day is to be observed consistent with the recommendations called for by the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development's Fresh Water Resources Agenda which urges the protection of the quality and supply of fresh water resources. While I am aware that the official date recognizing World Water Day has passed, it is my respectful view that raising public awareness regarding one of the Earth's most precious resources should be year- round. Water is vital to human life, as a matter of fact, all life; and although it is the most widely occurring substance on Earth, it is important to note that only approximately 2 percent of all water is fresh water. As various forms of pollution and sprawl continue to adversely impact our fresh water supplies, it is imperative now more than ever that the importance of integrated water resources development and conservation and improving the overall quality of life here in the United States and across the globe be highlighted. Each day, millions of Americans turn to their faucets and their bottles for fresh drinking water, rarely giving a thought to the current demands our water supplies and infrastructure face. Yet while many Americans may think that water resource and development challenges are particularly associated with less-developed countries, it is important to note that the United States is not immune from some of the same challenges. In 1972, this body enacted the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, commonly known as the Clean Water Act. The act promised that all Americans would have access to healthy waterways and clean drinking water. Although considerable progress has been made since enactment of this legislation to ensure the integrity of our water, many challenges persist as initiatives to comprehensively overhaul the act have stalled. The Nation's wastewater treatment infrastructure, typically the first line of defense in keeping harmful pollutants out of our fresh water supplies, is in desperate need of investment. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, as much as $390 billion will be needed over the next two decades to rebuild, repair, and upgrade the Nation's wastewater treatment infrastructure. Controlling the discharge of toxic pollutants such as heavy metals and inorganic chemicals into our waterways is also becoming an increasing challenge. Data reported by the EPA indicates that 39 percent of river and stream miles assessed by States and 45 percent of assessed lake acreage do not meet the applicable water quality standards and are impaired for one or more desired uses. Further, approximately 95,000 lakes and 544,000 river miles in the United States are under fish-consumption advisories due to chemical contaminants in lakes, rivers, and coastal waters. As of 2003, mercury, a contaminant of increasing concern, has forced 45 States to issue partial or statewide fish and shellfish consumption advisories. As the ranking member on the Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee, I feel strongly that our water policy needs a strong set of government standards and safeguards to continue to protect public health and safety. We should build on our achievements made possible by innovations, like the Clean Water Act, and not turn our back on them. Congress should reaffirm and restore the Clean Water Act, which has made our water valuable for drinking, fishing, swimming and other economically vital uses for over 30 years. The Nation's future generations are depending on us. For our children's sake, it is important that we place responsible stewardship of our Nation's water resources and water infrastructure back on our priorities for our Nation. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution. There are metropolitan areas now that advise people not to drink the public water.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON OF TEXAS

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON OF TEXAS. Mr. Speaker, each year Newsweek recognizes the top 100 schools in the United States. At the very top of the list, number one and number eight are right in the middle of my district. Not a pretty area, but wonderful education. I am very proud to announce that the School for Talented and Gifted at Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Center was recognized as the number one high school in the country. Additionally, the School of Science and Engineering at the same school was ranked number eight. For those who live in Dallas, this honor comes as no surprise. The President visited earlier this year, and each day talented students are challenged with rigorous coursework and provided with an outstanding teacher environment. Townview truly excels and proves that, it really proves that children, given the right environment, can learn. Townview Center has managed to bridge the achievement gap that exists in schools throughout this country. Two-thirds of Townview students are minorities. These students are not only passing, they are excelling. Townview has recognized that we must provide all of our students with the opportunity to pursue higher education. It is this commitment to success that distinguishes Townview. I would like to congratulate the School for the Talented and Gifted and the School of Science and Engineering on this honor. And also commend the leadership and commitment of Superintendent Hinojosa, Executive Principal Alice Black, Principal Michael Satarino, and Principal Richard White.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to join the chorus of Dallas citizens and Mavericks fans across the globe in saluting Dallas Mavericks head coach Avery Johnson on his selection as the National Basketball Association's Coach of the Year for the 2005-06 season. In only his first full season as head coach of the Mavericks, Avery Johnson is the first coach in the storied history of the organization to receive the National Basketball Association's most distinguished honor for coaches. This season Coach Johnson led the club to an outstanding 60-win season, one of the best in franchise history. In March of last year Avery Johnson assumed the duties of head coach of the Dallas Mavericks after former head coach Don Nelson decided to step down. Prior to the season, Johnson announced his retirement as a player in October of 2004 to assume full-time duties as an assistant coach. Prior to his coaching debut, Avery compiled a stellar basketball resume at both the collegiate and professional levels. Avery was a college standout at Southern University where he led the NCAA in assists as a junior and senior. He was named the Southwestern Athletic Conference Player of the Year and the MVP of the conference tournament both seasons as well. He still holds several NCAA Division I records including the most assists in a single game, the highest single season assists average and the highest career assists average. At 5-11 and 180 pounds Avery went undrafted out of college, yet he did not let this deter him from his ultimate goal of playing in the NBA. He first played for the United States Basketball League with the Palm Beach Stingrays in 1988. His tenacious play and rock solid leadership led to his signing as a free agent with the Seattle Supersonics later that year. In his 16-year career with the NBA, Johnson played 1,054 games and averaged 8.4 points, 5.5 assists and 1.7 rebounds in 25.3 minutes per game. Avery also played in 90 playoff games and started 73 of those contests. He has playoff averages of 10.5 points, 6.2 assists and 1.13 steals in 31.2 minutes per game. In 1999, he was a member of the NBA's Championship team. Johnson became the 75th player in NBA history to play 1,000 career games in March of 2003 and joined Calvin Murphy as the only other player under 6-feet in height to reach that milestone. He also reached the 5,000 career assists plateau in February of 2000 against the Minnesota Timberwolves. From 1990-92, he played with San Antonio, Denver, Houston and back to San Antonio. In eight of the next nine seasons (1992-2001), he was a member of the San Antonio Spurs. He spent one year during that time in Golden State (1993-94). He spent his last few seasons with the Denver Nuggets, Golden State, and signed with Dallas as a player/coach prior to the 2004-05 season prior to entering coaching. Mr. Speaker, I am delighted to congratulate Head Coach Avery Johnson on his selection as the National Basketball Association's Coach of the Year. He is a proven leader and I am certain he will continue to lead the Mavericks organization to new heights. GO MAVERICKS!