Tim Johnson

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise today in strong support of addressing a major oversight in S. 1, the Prescription Drug and Medicare Improvement Act of 2003. The bill has absolutely no provisions to control the skyrocketing costs of prescription drugs, and, as currently written, is really just a blank check for big drug companies. If one looks at the costs of prescription drugs, the numbers are just astounding. Seniors in the U.S. who lack drug coverage must pay twice as much for the five most popular drugs as purchasers in many foreign countries. All Americans who need prescription drugs could benefit from improved access to lower-priced drugs from Canada. Brand-name drugs cost an average of 38 percent less in Canada than in the United States. This could mean literally hundreds of dollars less a year for U.S. purchasers. For several years now, many of my colleagues have been fighting to provide access to lower prescription drug prices for seniors and all Americans by sponsoring a reimportation plan that is safe, effective and keeps savings in the pockets of seniors. I am happy to join several of my colleagues here today to cosponsor and support this amendment to the prescription drug bill. I want to especially thank Senator Dorgan for his leadership on this issue. He has worked hard to try to bring a solution to the skyrocketing prices seniors and all Americans must now pay for their prescription drugs. As costs continue to rise for consumers, and pharmacies' profit margins continue to shrink, a quick look at net profits of drug firms paint the real story. While Fortune 500 companies have experienced close to only a 1-percent increase in net profits over the last 30 years, and pharmacies have experienced a net loss of about that amount, drug firms have experienced an over 1-percent increase in such profits. But still, we seem to ignore the manufacturers exorbitant U.S. prices over and over. The Dorgan amendment would improve access to lower priced drugs by allowing wholesalers and pharmacists to import prescription drugs from Canada, which has a similar drug approval and distribution system as the United States. The amendment also would enable individuals to import prescription drugs from Canada as long as the drugs are for their personal use and they do not exceed a 90-day supply. This amendment finally says to the drug companies, enough is enough. I think if we work together we get a handle on the unrestrained costs of drugs in this country. Efforts such as those in the Dorgan amendment and those just embraced by many of my colleagues who joined me in cosponsoring and supporting the generics amendment yesterday will make such an important difference in the true value of what a drug benefit can really do to help seniors. I sincerely hope that all of my colleagues, on both sides of the aisle, will commit to adopting the provisions in the reimportation amendment in order to enhance the value of this legislation.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I am pleased to introduce legislation today that will provide for important health care quality and medication safety improvements in the Medicare program. The Medication Therapy Management Services Coverage Act of 2003 will enhance the Medicare program by providing coverage of pharmacists' medication therapy management services for those beneficiaries at risk for potential medication problems due to the presence of multiple or complex chronic diseases. These services, which are coordinated in direct collaboration with physicians and other health care professionals, help patients make the best possible use of their medications. The members of this body know very well the vital role that today's powerful and effective medications play in the maintenance of health and well-being of our Nation's seniors. The substantial and important discussion now underway on how best to craft and implement a prescription drug benefit for Medicare beneficiaries is an explicit recognition of this vital role. But access to the medications, even at the most affordable prices possible, is only one part of the solution to achieving the kinds of health care outcomes that patients and their health care providers desire. That is where today's pharmacists play a pivotal role. In addition to the important and continuing responsibility for assuring accurate, safe medication dispensing and counseling services, pharmacists now provide many direct patient care, consultative, and educational services. Forty states, the Veterans Administration, and the Indian Health Service, among others, all recognize the value of collaborative medication therapy management services as a way to provide optimal patient care using the specialized education and training of pharmacists. In addition, several state Medicaid programs have active demonstration projects or waiver programs in place that deliver these important services to their citizens. More specifically, in its June 2002 report to the Congress, the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission noted that it ``sees potential for a Medicare drug therapy management benefit to facilitate access to an important health care service for some beneficiaries'' and recommended to Congress that the Secretary of Health and Human Services ``. . . assess models for collaborative drug therapy management services in outpatient settings.'' This is a very important recommendation, because there is no more vulnerable group than our Nation's seniors when it comes to the potential for medication-related problems and the presence of multiple chronic diseases. If other health care systems and programs provide such services, Medicare must be reformed to provide them as well. Indeed, Medicare should be the leader in this regard. The pharmacist's specialized training in medication therapy management has been demonstrated repeatedly to improve the quality of care patients receive and to control health care costs associated with medication complications. As an essential infrastructure component of any type of Medicare prescription drug benefit, it makes sense to take this proven initial step to improve the medication use process for our seniors. This will serve all Medicare beneficiaries by ensuring that each precious dollar, regardless of who is paying the ``bills for the pills,'' is spent wisely on a safe and effective medication regimen. This is a benefit that we can all support and deliver now, as we work to also resolve the economic and political challenges in crafting a truly effective and affordable prescription drug benefit. Because pharmacists improve the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of medication regimens and reduce medication-related problems and adverse effects, the addition of their services represents real value and enhances the prospects of achieving both an affordable Medicare drug benefit and improved health outcomes for Medicare beneficiaries. In fact, numerous studies over the past decade have demonstrated returns on investments of up to $17.00 for every single dollar invested in the provision of pharmacists' clinical and patient care services. Our legislation provides a logical and very affordable first step in establishing the essential infrastructure of a Medicare prescription drug benefit. As the 1999 Institute of Medicine report ``To Err is Human: Building a Safer Health System'' stated: Because of the immense variety and complexity of medications now available, it is impossible for nurses and doctors to keep up with all of the information required for safe medication use. The pharmacist has become an essential resource . . . and thus access to his or her expertise must be possible at all times. Our legislation will assure that the Medicare program leads, rather than follows, on this important health care quality issue. Pharmacists' collaborative medication therapy management services can and will make a real difference in the lives of Medicare beneficiaries. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to give this proposal their very serious consideration.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I am pleased to introduce legislation today that will provide for important health care quality and medication safety improvements in the Medicare program. The Medication Therapy Management Services Coverage Act of 2003 will enhance the Medicare program by providing coverage of pharmacists' medication therapy management services for those beneficiaries at risk for potential medication problems due to the presence of multiple or complex chronic diseases. These services, which are coordinated in direct collaboration with physicians and other health care professionals, help patients make the best possible use of their medications. The members of this body know very well the vital role that today's powerful and effective medications play in the maintenance of health and well-being of our Nation's seniors. The substantial and important discussion now underway on how best to craft and implement a prescription drug benefit for Medicare beneficiaries is an explicit recognition of this vital role. But access to the medications, even at the most affordable prices possible, is only one part of the solution to achieving the kinds of health care outcomes that patients and their health care providers desire. That is where today's pharmacists play a pivotal role. In addition to the important and continuing responsibility for assuring accurate, safe medication dispensing and counseling services, pharmacists now provide many direct patient care, consultative, and educational services. Forty states, the Veterans Administration, and the Indian Health Service, among others, all recognize the value of collaborative medication therapy management services as a way to provide optimal patient care using the specialized education and training of pharmacists. In addition, several state Medicaid programs have active demonstration projects or waiver programs in place that deliver these important services to their citizens. More specifically, in its June 2002 report to the Congress, the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission noted that it ``sees potential for a Medicare drug therapy management benefit to facilitate access to an important health care service for some beneficiaries'' and recommended to Congress that the Secretary of Health and Human Services ``. . . assess models for collaborative drug therapy management services in outpatient settings.'' This is a very important recommendation, because there is no more vulnerable group than our Nation's seniors when it comes to the potential for medication-related problems and the presence of multiple chronic diseases. If other health care systems and programs provide such services, Medicare must be reformed to provide them as well. Indeed, Medicare should be the leader in this regard. The pharmacist's specialized training in medication therapy management has been demonstrated repeatedly to improve the quality of care patients receive and to control health care costs associated with medication complications. As an essential infrastructure component of any type of Medicare prescription drug benefit, it makes sense to take this proven initial step to improve the medication use process for our seniors. This will serve all Medicare beneficiaries by ensuring that each precious dollar, regardless of who is paying the ``bills for the pills,'' is spent wisely on a safe and effective medication regimen. This is a benefit that we can all support and deliver now, as we work to also resolve the economic and political challenges in crafting a truly effective and affordable prescription drug benefit. Because pharmacists improve the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of medication regimens and reduce medication-related problems and adverse effects, the addition of their services represents real value and enhances the prospects of achieving both an affordable Medicare drug benefit and improved health outcomes for Medicare beneficiaries. In fact, numerous studies over the past decade have demonstrated returns on investments of up to $17.00 for every single dollar invested in the provision of pharmacists' clinical and patient care services. Our legislation provides a logical and very affordable first step in establishing the essential infrastructure of a Medicare prescription drug benefit. As the 1999 Institute of Medicine report ``To Err is Human: Building a Safer Health System'' stated: Because of the immense variety and complexity of medications now available, it is impossible for nurses and doctors to keep up with all of the information required for safe medication use. The pharmacist has become an essential resource . . . and thus access to his or her expertise must be possible at all times. Our legislation will assure that the Medicare program leads, rather than follows, on this important health care quality issue. Pharmacists' collaborative medication therapy management services can and will make a real difference in the lives of Medicare beneficiaries. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to give this proposal their very serious consideration.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, it is with great honor that I rise today to congratulate the Franklin Hotel in Deadwood, SD, which celebrated its 100th anniversary of service on June 4, 2003. The Franklin Hotel has been a welcome destination for visitors to the Black Hills region and has catered to guests since its doors opened in 1903. For locals and tourists alike, the past several years have seen a resurgence and interest in history, and the setting the Franklin provides to learn more about Black Hills history continues strong to this day. Whether the visitor was a well-known actor from Hollywood taking a break from daily shooting, noted public servants and athletes visiting the area on business or personal time, or the visiting family from Anywhere, USA or the world, experiencing the professional and welcoming, friendly attitudes of the Franklin Hotel staff is just another reason of making a Black Hills visit one to remember. In many respects, board of directors president Bill Walsh is as much of an institution in South Dakota as the Franklin Hotel. The two are inseparable when it comes to colorful personalities and both are foundations in the promotion and advocacy of South Dakota and Black Hills tourism. It would be all too easy for Bill to be just concerned about the promotion of the Franklin Hotel. Instead, he has been a stalwart advocate for projects impacting and benefiting Deadwood, the entire Black Hills, and South Dakota. One of Bill's highest priorities is making sure as many people as possible put Deadwood, the Black Hills, and South Dakota on their travel itinerary. Over the years, I have appreciated Bill's valuable insight on politics, current affairs, tourism, and the economy. I have always appreciated his wit, his hospitality and, most of all, his friendship. Many who gathered for the centennial anniversary celebration have special memories of Bill and the Franklin Hotel. Many local residents will probably never forget that as the Grizzly Gulch fire tickled the edges of Deadwood and as people streamed out of town under evacuation orders last summer, the doors of the Franklin stayed open with a confident Bill Walsh sitting on the porch of the Franklin with a freshly-lit stogie in hand. I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge Bill and other members of the board of directors, Jo Roebuck-Pearson, Mike Trucano, French Bryan, and Taffy Tucker. I also want to congratulate MacKenzie Roebuck- Walsh, who co-owns the hotel along with her parents, Bill and Jo. Finally, I want to acknowledge the Franklin Hotel staff and the community of Deadwood on the centennial anniversary of the hotel. This event is but another chapter in the living legacy of one of South Dakota's cherished destinations. I am proud to have this opportunity to honor Bill Walsh and the Franklin Hotel for its 100 years of outstanding service. It is an honor for me to share with my colleagues the strong commitment to history the Franklin Hotel has provided. I strongly commend the staff and board of directors for their years of hard work and dedication, and I am very pleased that their substantial efforts are being publicly honored and celebrated.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise today in tribute to Wind Cave National Park on the occasion of the park's centennial anniversary. Nestled in the southeast corner of the Black Hills of South Dakota and adjacent to Custer State Park, Wind Cave has a rich and colorful history that has informed and educated generations of people from around the world. Wind Cave was established as a national park by President Theodore Roosevelt on January 3, 1903, as the Nation's seventh national park and the first one created to protect a cave. It was designated as a National Game Preserve on August 10, 1912. But Wind Cave's history is recorded as part of Black Hills history from the time Native Americans told stories of holes in the ground that blow wind. The first recorded discovery of Wind Cave dates to 1881 when Jesse and Tom Bingham were first attracted to the cave by a whistling noise. As the story goes, wind was blowing out of the cave entrance with such force it blew off Tom's hat. A few days later, when Jesse returned to show the phenomena to some friends, he was astonished to find the wind had changed directions and his hat was sucked into the cave. Since that time, notable visitors have included Charlie Crary, the first person reported to enter the cave; J.D. McDonald, whose family gave the first cave tours and sold cave formations to J.D.'s son, Alvin; Alvin McDonald, who was the first explorer of the cave and who kept a diary and map of his findings; and ``Honest John'' Stabler who formed a partnership with the McDonalds to develop the first passages and staircases into Wind Cave. Indeed, the early history of the cave was plentiful and colorful. William Jennings Bryan and Governor Lee visited the cave in 1892. That same year, one of the first attractions was put on display. For a quarter, visitors could come to the cave and view a `petrified man' that had been found north of the cave. Over the years, visitors would come to view the natural attractions Wind Cave would have to offer. Captain Seth Bullock became the cave's first supervisor in 1902, with George Boland serving as the area ranger. South Dakota Congressman Eben W. Martin was instrumental in the designation of Wind Cave as a national park. General John J. Pershing visited in 1910 and took important cave room readings with his pocket aneroid barometer. In 1914, Ester Cleveland Brazell was a ranger guide at the Cave, possibly making her the first woman to hold the title of ranger in the National Park Service. Walt Disney and other film and video companies have produced films in the park and countless rolls of film have been shot by amateur photographers for display in home movies and scrapbooks. Today, Wind Cave has more than 108 miles of explored and mapped passages, making it the fourth-longest cave in the United States and sixth longest in the world. Well over 5.5 million people have visited Wind Cave over the past 100 years. The first major improvements in the park were accomplished by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Wind Cave was one of many important projects CCC workers developed in South Dakota. Many of the projects can still be seen today, including roads, the entrance to the cave, concrete stairs in the cave and the elevator building and shaft. By 1935, the game preserve became an integral part of Wind Cave National Park. Bison, elk, and pronghorn became staples of the visitor experience, and the park's boundaries were expanded in 1946 to over 28,000 acres. Wildlife management was a main priority and key challenge in the 1950s and 1960s as herds grew and restoration and management of native grasses, exotic plant species, and animal herds became a main focus. The unique blend of wildlife and aesthetic beauty on the park's surface, combined with the beautiful cave formations, extensive passageways, and informative guided tours beneath the surface provide the general public with a wonderful Black Hills experience and one that provides young people with a unique learning opportunity. Visitors can take in such attractions as Lincoln's Fireplace, Petrified Clouds, Devil's Lookout, Roe's Misery, Sampson's Palace, Queen's Drawing Room, the Bridge of Sighs, Dante's Inferno, and the Garden of Eden. I want to commend the 18 superintendents who have served Wind Cave National Park, including current superintendent Linda Stoll, for their leadership and excellent stewardship of the park over the past 100 years. I also want to applaud the dedication and commitment of the park's staff over the years, from rangers and administrative staff to tour guides and custodians. All of them have partnered to ensure the visiting public's experience at Wind Cave is a memorable one. Wind Cave National Park is one of the jewels in the Black Hills crown of tourism destinations. Over the years, it has been a privilege for me to work on infrastructure needs and issues of importance involving Wind Cave National Park. From earthquakes, floods and fires to the occasional lost spelunker, Wind Cave has come a long way since the `Petrified Man' displays and 25-cent tours. Wind Cave today offers a complete visiting and educational experience for people of all ages. The ever-expanding cave continues to excite and astonish scientists, cave surveyors, spelunkers, and the general public. I wish to congratulate Wind Cave National Park on its centennial anniversary and encourage everyone to visit the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota and Wind Wave National Park.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, it is with great honor that I rise today to congratulate the South Canyon Elementary School in Rapid City, SD, which celebrates its fiftieth anniversary of service on Friday May 16, 2003. Plans for South Canyon Elementary began in June 1949, when the current school area was a quiet alfalfa field. An area rancher, Ernest Schleuning, herded his livestock down Nordbye Lane, where the school is now. Due to overcrowding at Upper Rapid School, previously on West Main Street, South Canyon Elementary School was built in 1952 and opened for the 1952-1953 school year, with 25 to 30 students in each class. Fifty years later, the school continues to serve Rapid City and the needs of its citizens. South Canyon Elementary School commemorated its fiftieth anniversary of service in the Rapid City school district with an all-school assembly, potluck picnic, and evening program. During the evening activities, the school was also open for tours, inviting all current and former teachers, staff members, students, parents, and alumni to attend. Attendees and guest speakers included South Canyon Elementary student council members, State Representative Ed McLaughlin, and Police Chief Craig Tieszen. Over the last half century, the South Canyon Elementary School has provided quality educational services to the children of Rapid City. Their vision, ``expecting excellence to happen, we affirm that all children can learn,'' has been carried out in all the children who have graduated and gone on to excel in their school careers. Not only has this school encouraged learning, but South Canyon Elementary School also strives to bring the community together in the education of its children. Their mission states just this in that, ``In partnership with staff, parents, and neighborhood, we provide each child an opportunity to reach his/her potential and become a contributing member of the community.'' I am pleased to announce that the South Canyon Elementary School is planning to commemorate this occasion by burying a time capsule. The capsule includes a current photo album of the school and items chosen by the students. Students from each class collected items from their classroom, such as popular books and baseball cards, and one second- grade class added a collection of popular snack wrappers to the capsule. Graduation speeches written by each fifth-grade student describing what school is presently like at South Canyon Elementary School were also added. I am proud to have this opportunity to honor Principal Charles McLain and the South Canyon Elementary School for its 50 years of outstanding service. It is an honor for me to share with my colleagues the exemplary leadership and strong commitment to education South Canyon Elementary School has provided. I strongly commend their years of hard work and dedication, and I am very pleased that their substantial efforts are being publicly honored and celebrated.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise today with my colleagues, Senators Kennedy, Clinton, Daschle, Breaux, Jeffords, Biden, Dodd, Bingaman, Hutchison, Campbell, Schumer, and Smith to introduce the Hepatitis C Epidemic Control and Prevention Act of 2003. I thank my colleagues for joining me in introducing this legislation that will improve the prevention, control, and medical management of hepatitis C. Hepatitis C is the most common chronic bloodborne viral infection in the United States, and it is the seventh leading cause of death in our country. Almost 4 million U.S. citizens are infected with hepatitis C, and of those 2.7 million are chronically infected and at least 2.5 million do not receive any treatment, which results in the continued spread of this devastating, yet preventable illness. The estimated direct and indirect costs of hepatitis C infection are at least $600 million annually. Symptoms of hepatitis C can include jaundice, fatigue, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain. While this disease may be asymptomatic in most patients initially, between 50 and 80 percent will develop a chronic infection, and of these half will eventually develop cirrhosis or cancer of the liver. While diagnostic tests are available to identify the disease, there is no vaccine to prevent hepatitis C, which makes prevention and control measures crucial to reducing its incidence and prevalence. The importance of improving hepatitis C prevention and control activities was brought to my attention this past year by the family of Christen Graeber Winter. Christen was from Aberdeen, SD, and passed away 5 years ago at the age of 42. She had been very ill two decades earlier and required a blood transfusion. Christen became very sick a little over 5 years ago and was diagnosed with hepatitis C, a disease that she had contracted from that blood transfusion that she had so many years earlier. Christen died in 1998, and during the last months of her life she remained as active as possible and was committed to finishing up her bachelor's degree at Presentation College, even though she was very ill. Everyone who knew Christen said she was a warm and caring person, and even towards the end of her life, she remained strong and was determined not to burden others with her deteriorating health. After her death, Christen's sister Carey started conducting research to learn about hepatitis C. She knew nothing of the disease and was surprised to learn how many people suffered from it. She learned that physicians are largely unaware of hepatitis C and therefore cases often go undetected. Carey is now a strong advocate of promoting increased funding for education, treatment, and prevention of this disease and has helped me understand how important it is that we in Congress establish the programs and appropriate the funds necessary to prevent needless deaths like the death of Christen. The hepatitis C Epidemic Prevention and Control Act will help reduce the number of people affected by this horrible illness and prevent stories like Carey's sister from continuing. The bill requires that the Department of Health and Human Services develop and implement an integrated plan to combat hepatitis C. While we know how to prevent the spread of this disease, there have been limited programs to educate health professionals, at- risk populations, and the general public on how to do so. This bill will focus on increasing knowledge and awareness of such infections among providers and patients. In addition to education, surveillance, early detection, and counseling are important tools that must be used in order to control this disease. Less than 50 percent of local health departments providing counseling and only 23 percent provide testing for hepatitis C. This bill will require that CDC promote confidential testing programs by working with State and local governments in order to catch hepatitis C cases early. It will also provide access to important counseling activities in a variety of private and public health care settings to help patients reduce the risk of harm to themselves and others. This important legislation is supported by a tripartisan coalition of my colleagues. We have recognized that hepatitis C is a preventable disease that can be halted with a strong emphasis on prevention and control. I do not want to see more cases like that of Carey's sister. We have an opportunity to make a real difference here, and I urge the Senate to support this bill.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise today with my colleagues, Senators Kennedy, Clinton, Daschle, Breaux, Jeffords, Biden, Dodd, Bingaman, Hutchison, Campbell, Schumer, and Smith to introduce the Hepatitis C Epidemic Control and Prevention Act of 2003. I thank my colleagues for joining me in introducing this legislation that will improve the prevention, control, and medical management of hepatitis C. Hepatitis C is the most common chronic bloodborne viral infection in the United States, and it is the seventh leading cause of death in our country. Almost 4 million U.S. citizens are infected with hepatitis C, and of those 2.7 million are chronically infected and at least 2.5 million do not receive any treatment, which results in the continued spread of this devastating, yet preventable illness. The estimated direct and indirect costs of hepatitis C infection are at least $600 million annually. Symptoms of hepatitis C can include jaundice, fatigue, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain. While this disease may be asymptomatic in most patients initially, between 50 and 80 percent will develop a chronic infection, and of these half will eventually develop cirrhosis or cancer of the liver. While diagnostic tests are available to identify the disease, there is no vaccine to prevent hepatitis C, which makes prevention and control measures crucial to reducing its incidence and prevalence. The importance of improving hepatitis C prevention and control activities was brought to my attention this past year by the family of Christen Graeber Winter. Christen was from Aberdeen, SD, and passed away 5 years ago at the age of 42. She had been very ill two decades earlier and required a blood transfusion. Christen became very sick a little over 5 years ago and was diagnosed with hepatitis C, a disease that she had contracted from that blood transfusion that she had so many years earlier. Christen died in 1998, and during the last months of her life she remained as active as possible and was committed to finishing up her bachelor's degree at Presentation College, even though she was very ill. Everyone who knew Christen said she was a warm and caring person, and even towards the end of her life, she remained strong and was determined not to burden others with her deteriorating health. After her death, Christen's sister Carey started conducting research to learn about hepatitis C. She knew nothing of the disease and was surprised to learn how many people suffered from it. She learned that physicians are largely unaware of hepatitis C and therefore cases often go undetected. Carey is now a strong advocate of promoting increased funding for education, treatment, and prevention of this disease and has helped me understand how important it is that we in Congress establish the programs and appropriate the funds necessary to prevent needless deaths like the death of Christen. The hepatitis C Epidemic Prevention and Control Act will help reduce the number of people affected by this horrible illness and prevent stories like Carey's sister from continuing. The bill requires that the Department of Health and Human Services develop and implement an integrated plan to combat hepatitis C. While we know how to prevent the spread of this disease, there have been limited programs to educate health professionals, at- risk populations, and the general public on how to do so. This bill will focus on increasing knowledge and awareness of such infections among providers and patients. In addition to education, surveillance, early detection, and counseling are important tools that must be used in order to control this disease. Less than 50 percent of local health departments providing counseling and only 23 percent provide testing for hepatitis C. This bill will require that CDC promote confidential testing programs by working with State and local governments in order to catch hepatitis C cases early. It will also provide access to important counseling activities in a variety of private and public health care settings to help patients reduce the risk of harm to themselves and others. This important legislation is supported by a tripartisan coalition of my colleagues. We have recognized that hepatitis C is a preventable disease that can be halted with a strong emphasis on prevention and control. I do not want to see more cases like that of Carey's sister. We have an opportunity to make a real difference here, and I urge the Senate to support this bill.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today, I proudly join with Senator Kerry and Senator Smith to reintroduce the Native American Small Business Development Act. This important legislation is designed to help American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians to overcome barriers which inhibit business development and job creation. We greatly appreciate the support of the distinguished Senators who join us in sponsoring the legislation including Senators: Akaka, Baucus, Bingaman, Daschle, Cantwell, Murray, Stabenow. The communities served this initiative represent some of the most traditionally isolated, disadvantaged, and underserved populations in our country. Despite the unique and persistent challenges to business development in these areas, many of the supportive services the federal government provides to entrepreneurs are not available in these distressed regions. The Native American Small Business Development Act endeavors to develop and disseminate culturally tailored business assistance to assure Native American businesses may secure and sustain long-term success. Native American communities continue to struggle with the social, economic, and cultural repercussions derived from persistent and pervasive poverty and unemployment. A recent report released by the U.S. Census Bureau, entitled Poverty in the United States: 2000, indicates that the ``three year average poverty rate for American Indians and Alaska Natives [from 1998-2000] was 25.9 percent. Higher than for any other race groups.'' The Native American Small Business Development Act is a deliberate effort to enhance the availability of technical assistance to support entrepreneurship in Indian Country. The communities served by this initiative represent some of the most traditionally isolated, disadvantaged, and underserved populations in our country. Too many Native American communities are plagued by feelings of hopelessness and helplessness. We must work to transform this disappointment and discouragement into a sensible, workable, strategy for economic opportunity. According to U.S. Department of Commerce census data, unemployment rates on Indian Lands in the continental United States range up to 80 percent compared to 5.6 percent for the U.S. as a whole. Census data also show that the poverty rate for Native Americans during the late 1990s was 26 percent, compared to the national average of 12 percent. In fact, overall, Native American household income is only three- quarters of the national average. This disparity is particularly evident in my home state of South Dakota where Native Americans represent over 8 percent of the State's population. While the overall State economy is relatively strong with a low 3.1 percent unemployment rate, the Native American population continues to suffer. South Dakota counties with Indian Reservations are ranked by the U.S. Census Bureau as among the most impoverished in the United States. Among the achievements included in the bill is the establishment of a statutory office within the U.S. Small Business Administration to focus on concerns specific to Native American populations. The Office of Native American Affairs will serve as an advocate in the SBA for the interests of Native Americans. In addition to administering the Native American Development Program, the Assistant Administrator will consult with Tribal Colleges, Tribal Governments, Alaska Native Corporations and Native Hawaiian Organizations to enhance the development and implementation of culturally specific approaches to support the growth and prosperity of Native American small businesses. Furthermore, the Act creates the Native American Development Program to provide necessary business development assistance. These services are vital to establish and support small businesses. The Federal Government currently invests to provide these services in communities throughout the country. It is past time for these services to be integrated into our efforts to promote self-sufficiency and economic development in Indian Country. In addition, we recognize that in order to remain competitive, businesses and entrepreneurs must be innovative and flexible to change. This legislation reflects the needs of businesses, tribes, and regional interests to pursue unique approaches that will complement local needs and improve the overall quality of services. Two pilot programs are integrated in this approach to promote new and creative solutions to assist American Indians to awaken economic opportunities in their communities. We must strive to eliminate the impediments that stifle Native American entrepreneurs. By providing business planning services and technical assistance to potential and existing small businesses, we can unlock the capacity for individuals and families to pursue their dreams of business ownership. Not only will these efforts combat poverty and unemployment, but they will bring new services and opportunities to communities that enhance the quality of life for local families. We must also work to improve access to investment capital to support economic and community development for Native Americans. As the Chairman of the Senate Banking Financial Institutions Subcommittee, I am conducting hearings last year to identify opportunities and techniques which may foster greater access to capital markets for Tribal and Native American entities. Together, these initiatives will help to turn an important corner as we endeavor to enhance the livelihood of the First Americans. I would like to thank Congressman Udall for his leadership in the U.S. House of Representatives in bringing these issues to the forefront and for his cooperation on this historic legislation. I would like to thank Senator John Kerry, the Ranking Member of the Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee, for his hard work on this legislation and his serious commitment to these critical issues. In addition, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to Senator Smith for his strong support of this effort. We are grateful to the many cosponsors who join us in introducing the bill today. I encourage the Senate to fully consider this historic legislation and to work expeditiously to enact it into law. The Native American Small Business Development Act will forge a more hopeful and prosperous future for Native American families and communities. By investing in adequate infrastructure and by making the appropriate tools available, we can empower individuals to pursue, achieve, and sustain economic opportunities that enrich their lives and their communities. The American dream will never be fully realized until it becomes a reality for all Americans. This legislation is critical to ensuring that economic growth and economic opportunity permeate the lives of Native American families. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today, I proudly join with Senator Kerry and Senator Smith to reintroduce the Native American Small Business Development Act. This important legislation is designed to help American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians to overcome barriers which inhibit business development and job creation. We greatly appreciate the support of the distinguished Senators who join us in sponsoring the legislation including Senators: Akaka, Baucus, Bingaman, Daschle, Cantwell, Murray, Stabenow. The communities served this initiative represent some of the most traditionally isolated, disadvantaged, and underserved populations in our country. Despite the unique and persistent challenges to business development in these areas, many of the supportive services the federal government provides to entrepreneurs are not available in these distressed regions. The Native American Small Business Development Act endeavors to develop and disseminate culturally tailored business assistance to assure Native American businesses may secure and sustain long-term success. Native American communities continue to struggle with the social, economic, and cultural repercussions derived from persistent and pervasive poverty and unemployment. A recent report released by the U.S. Census Bureau, entitled Poverty in the United States: 2000, indicates that the ``three year average poverty rate for American Indians and Alaska Natives [from 1998-2000] was 25.9 percent. Higher than for any other race groups.'' The Native American Small Business Development Act is a deliberate effort to enhance the availability of technical assistance to support entrepreneurship in Indian Country. The communities served by this initiative represent some of the most traditionally isolated, disadvantaged, and underserved populations in our country. Too many Native American communities are plagued by feelings of hopelessness and helplessness. We must work to transform this disappointment and discouragement into a sensible, workable, strategy for economic opportunity. According to U.S. Department of Commerce census data, unemployment rates on Indian Lands in the continental United States range up to 80 percent compared to 5.6 percent for the U.S. as a whole. Census data also show that the poverty rate for Native Americans during the late 1990s was 26 percent, compared to the national average of 12 percent. In fact, overall, Native American household income is only three- quarters of the national average. This disparity is particularly evident in my home state of South Dakota where Native Americans represent over 8 percent of the State's population. While the overall State economy is relatively strong with a low 3.1 percent unemployment rate, the Native American population continues to suffer. South Dakota counties with Indian Reservations are ranked by the U.S. Census Bureau as among the most impoverished in the United States. Among the achievements included in the bill is the establishment of a statutory office within the U.S. Small Business Administration to focus on concerns specific to Native American populations. The Office of Native American Affairs will serve as an advocate in the SBA for the interests of Native Americans. In addition to administering the Native American Development Program, the Assistant Administrator will consult with Tribal Colleges, Tribal Governments, Alaska Native Corporations and Native Hawaiian Organizations to enhance the development and implementation of culturally specific approaches to support the growth and prosperity of Native American small businesses. Furthermore, the Act creates the Native American Development Program to provide necessary business development assistance. These services are vital to establish and support small businesses. The Federal Government currently invests to provide these services in communities throughout the country. It is past time for these services to be integrated into our efforts to promote self-sufficiency and economic development in Indian Country. In addition, we recognize that in order to remain competitive, businesses and entrepreneurs must be innovative and flexible to change. This legislation reflects the needs of businesses, tribes, and regional interests to pursue unique approaches that will complement local needs and improve the overall quality of services. Two pilot programs are integrated in this approach to promote new and creative solutions to assist American Indians to awaken economic opportunities in their communities. We must strive to eliminate the impediments that stifle Native American entrepreneurs. By providing business planning services and technical assistance to potential and existing small businesses, we can unlock the capacity for individuals and families to pursue their dreams of business ownership. Not only will these efforts combat poverty and unemployment, but they will bring new services and opportunities to communities that enhance the quality of life for local families. We must also work to improve access to investment capital to support economic and community development for Native Americans. As the Chairman of the Senate Banking Financial Institutions Subcommittee, I am conducting hearings last year to identify opportunities and techniques which may foster greater access to capital markets for Tribal and Native American entities. Together, these initiatives will help to turn an important corner as we endeavor to enhance the livelihood of the First Americans. I would like to thank Congressman Udall for his leadership in the U.S. House of Representatives in bringing these issues to the forefront and for his cooperation on this historic legislation. I would like to thank Senator John Kerry, the Ranking Member of the Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee, for his hard work on this legislation and his serious commitment to these critical issues. In addition, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to Senator Smith for his strong support of this effort. We are grateful to the many cosponsors who join us in introducing the bill today. I encourage the Senate to fully consider this historic legislation and to work expeditiously to enact it into law. The Native American Small Business Development Act will forge a more hopeful and prosperous future for Native American families and communities. By investing in adequate infrastructure and by making the appropriate tools available, we can empower individuals to pursue, achieve, and sustain economic opportunities that enrich their lives and their communities. The American dream will never be fully realized until it becomes a reality for all Americans. This legislation is critical to ensuring that economic growth and economic opportunity permeate the lives of Native American families. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I support the Daschle-Johnson amendment to the fiscal year 2004 Defense Authorization bill. This amendment will provide the funding necessary to maintain a strong and reliable B-1 bomber fleet. Over the past week, the B-1 bombers, crews, and support staff of the 28th Bomb Wing have begun to return to Ellsworth Air Force Base from their service in Operation Iraqi Freedom. As they did in Kosovo and Afghanistan, the B-1 bombers performed superbly in the war in Iraq. They have once again demonstrated that they are the backbone of America's bomber fleet. The B-1's unique ability to linger over the battlefield and provide responsive firepower at the time and place required by military commanders was an integral part of our victory in Iraq. Although B-1s flew fewer than 2 percent of the combat sorties in Operation Iraqi Freedom, they dropped more than half the satellite guided Air Force Joint Direct Attack Munitions, (JDAMs). The B-1s were tasked against the full spectrum of potential targets in Iraq, including command and control facilities, bunkers, tanks, armored personnel carriers, and surface-to-air missile sites. They also provided close air support for U.S. forces engaged in the field. The bombers and crews accomplished all of this while maintaining over an 80 percent mission capable rate. This record of success proves B-1 is a vital, versatile, and potent component of our military force structure. The Daschle-Johnson amendment would provide the funding needed to start regenerating, modernizing, and returning 23 B-1s to our bomber fleet. The Department of Defense is in the process of implementing its plan to retire all but 60 B-1s, this is despite a U.S. Air Force White Paper on Long Range Bombers that determined it was in our national security interests to maintain the full B-1 fleet. Furthermore, since the Pentagon announced its decision to consolidate the fleet, the B-1s have been instrumental in the military success of both Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Given the demonstration of its unique capabilities in both these campaigns, it makes little sense to continue forward with the retirement of one-third of the B-1 fleet. With the funding provided in the Daschle-Johnson amendment, and planned increases in the Air Force's budget in future years, additional modernized B-1s could enter service in fiscal year 2005. The B-1's ability to carry a large payload of satellite guided weapons and to strike from long distances will make it an important part of our Nation's defense for many years. Mr. President, I encourage my colleagues to support the long-term viability of the B-1 fleet by voting in favor of the Daschle-Johnson amendment.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise today to express my appreciation for Sister Augusta Johnson's many years of dedicated service to the Benedictine Sisters of the Mother of God Monastery in Watertown, SD. Sister Johnson has recently announced she will be retiring after 30 years in a leadership position at Prairie Lakes Healthcare System. Sister Johnson currently serves as vice president of administrative services but began her career as the office manager at St. Ann's Hospital before it became Prairie Lakes Hospital. During her notable career, she has also served as the controller and chief financial officer of St. Ann's. When the organization was merged with Memorial Medical Center to form Prairie Lakes Healthcare System in 1986, Sister Johnson was named interim administrator. During this time, she was responsible for bringing a home-based health care program called Home Connections to Prairie Lakes. Prior to her entrance into the health care industry, Sister Johnson spent time as an elementary school teacher and principal in five South Dakota communities. As vice president of administrative services for Prairie Lakes, Sister Johnson serves as the administrator for Prairie Lakes Care Center, the vice president overseeing the Lab, Radiology and Environmental Services Departments, and Prairie Lakes Cancer Center. Over her career with Prairie Lakes, she has been the organization's representative for four major construction projects, including the current $11 Million dollar Prairie Lakes Medical Office Building and hospital expansion plan. After receiving her bachelor's degree in education from Mount Marty College in Yankton, SD, Sister Johnson obtained a master's degree in administration from Northern State University in Aberdeen, SD. She went on to earn a certificate in hospital administration from St. Louis University before returning to South Dakota. In addition to her countless obligations to Prairie Lakes Hospital, Sister Johnson is one of South Dakota's two delegates to the American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging and has served on that organization's board of directors. In addition, she is a member of Sioux Valley's long-term care finance task force and serves on the South Dakota Association of Healthcare Organizations Long Term Care Council. I commend Sister Johnson for her selfless commitment to the service of others and thank her for all of the work she has done for her community, her State, and her Nation. Her efforts have truly made a difference in countless numbers of lives of people she has never even met. I extend my very best wishes to her upon her retirement and predict that she will find peace and fulfillment in whatever lies ahead.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, throughout the military history of the United States, Native Americans have served their country above and beyond the call of duty. Although they have served in many capacities, perhaps none has been more valuable than the services they have provided as code talkers. Today, I rise to support and cosponsor S. 540, a bill to authorize the presentation of gold medals on behalf of Congress to Native Americans who served as code talkers during foreign conflicts. During World War II, the Sioux Indians volunteered their native languages, Dakota, Lakota, and Nakota Sioux, as codes. The Sioux code talkers worked tirelessly around the clock to provide information, such as the location of enemy troops and the number of enemy guns, which saved the lives of many Americans in war theaters in the Pacific and Europe. U.S. military commanders credit the Sioux with saving the lives of countless American soldiers and with being instrumental to the success of the United States in many battles during the war. Today I would like to acknowledge the following distinguished gentlemen: Eddie Eagle Boy, Simon Brokenleg, Iver Crow Eagle Sr., Edmund St. John, Walter C. John Bear King, Phillip ``Stoney'' LaBlanc, Baptiste Pumpkinseed, Guy Rondell, Charles Whitepipe, and Clarence Wolfguts. During the D-Day invasion and afterwards in the European theater, the 4th Signal Division employed Comanche code talkers to help the Army develop a code, which proved to be unbreakable by the Axis powers, and which was used extensively throughout Europe. This code was instrumental to winning the war in Europe and saved countless lives. The time has come to honor the Comanche code talkers for their valor and service to the United States. Today I would like to acknowledge the brave accomplishments of Charles Chibitty, Haddon Codynah, Robert Holder, Forrest Kassanovoid, Willington Mihecoby, Perry Noyebad, Clifford Otitivo, Simmons Parker, Melvin Permansu, Dick Red Elk, Elgin Red Elk, Larry Saupitty, Morris Sunrise, and Willie Yackeschi. During the first year of World War I, when Germany had deciphered all Allied codes, and Allied forces were suffering from heavy casualties, 18 Choctaw Indian soldiers were recruited on the battlefield to use their native language as a new code. This code, which was never successfully deciphered by the Germans, was thereafter used widely throughout the war and was instrumental in the movement of American soldiers, the protection of American supplies, and the preparation for assaults on German positions. The Choctaw code talkers were highly successful and saved many lives and munitions. Their contribution is just another example of the commitment of Native Americans to the defense of the United States, as well as another example of the proud legacy of the Native Americans. The original 18 Choctaw code talkers have already been honored by a memorial bearing their names located at the entrance of the tribal complex in Durant, OK. Now I would like to continue to honor their legacy by urging my colleagues to vote affirmatively for S. 540.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise today to share my thoughts on the tax measure before us. Few issues touch more Americans than the economy. Now that hostilities with Iraq are winding down, we need to focus on our own economy. Economic discussions tend to take on an unfortunate partisan tone, and I know that this bitterness is on display on the floor of the Senate today as we debate the President's latest tax cut proposal. Regrettably, we often forget that we share a common goal: Every single member on this committee wants America to succeed. We all want Americans to find good jobs, to have access to affordable health care, to educate our children, and to retire with dignity and comfort. While we have sharp divisions on how to achieve that common goal, I hope we can remember at the end of the day that all of our intentions are good. Despite all of our best intentions, we are facing nothing short of a budget crisis in America. CBO has revised its deficit projections upward yet again to reflect an end-of-year deficit of $300 billion. Federal revenues are on track to fall to the lowest level since 1959, even without more tax cuts, and we are about to vote on whether to raise the debt ceiling by almost another $1 trillion. At the same time, we must make good on our commitments to the Iraqi people to help rebuild that country. We need to follow through on commitments here at home: to fund education and water projects and transportation and veterans' programs. Let's not forget that we will run right through the Social Security trust fund without setting aside so much as a dime for the young men and women who are paying into that system today, nor have we taken any steps to address the imminent Medicare crisis. Now, I admit that I went to college quite some time ago, and I understand that economic theories come and go, but I do not believe that basic math has changed. If you spend more than you have, you run up a deficit. Yesterday in the Banking Committee we considered the nomination of Dr. Gregory Mankiw to become chairman of the Council of Economic Advisors. Given the health of this economy, we are certainly in need of some good advice. On reviewing some of Dr. Mankiw's work, I was especially interested in a passage from his 1998 book ``Principles of Economics,'' which talks about the dangers of short-term policies: ``People on fad diets put their health at risk but rarely achieve the permanent weight loss they desire. Similarly, when politicians rely on the advice of charlatans and cranks, they rarely get the desirable results they anticipate. After Reagan's election, Congress passed the cut in tax rates that Reagan advocated but the tax cut did not cause revenue to rise. Instead, tax revenue fell. . . and the U.S. federal government began a long period of deficit spending.'' On several occasions, I have expressed concern that this administration is sacrificing the long-term health of this Nation for a popular, short-term political measure. And the President's own nominee for the Council of Economic Advisors appears to share my concern. I voted in 2001 for the President's tax cut plan. While I would have preferred to see more of that $1.3 trillion go to working Americans, I nevertheless agreed with a majority of my colleagues that a projected surplus of $5.6 trillion over 10 years was too high, and that we needed to refund some of that money. We face a starkly different picture today, and I simply do not understand how my distinguished colleagues can reverse course so completely with respect to their long-standing stated principles. For example, the majority leader of this body, Senator Bill Frist, said back in 1996 that ``we have a moral obligation to balance the budget.'' Senator Santorum, back in 1995, said that ``the American people are sick and tired of excuses for inaction to balance the budget. The public wants us to stay the course towards a balanced budget, and we take that obligation quite seriously.'' And Senator Lott, just last year, said that ``the most important thing really does involve . . . keeping a balanced budget, not dipping into Social Security, and continuing to reduce the national debt.'' I would like to focus on Majority Leader Frist's statement that running budget deficits is a moral issue. What he meant by that was that when we run a deficit, we defer the hard decisions for our children and grandchildren. In February, a group of 10 Nobel Prize-winning economists spoke out against the President's latest plan: ``Passing these tax cuts will worsen the long-term budget outlook, adding to the nation's projected chronic deficits. This fiscal deterioration will reduce the capacity of the government to finance Social Security and Medicare benefits as well as investments in schools, health, infrastructure, and basic research. Moreover, the proposed tax cuts will generate further inequalities in after-tax income.'' And just a few weeks ago, Fed Chairman Greenspan appeared before the Banking Committee and said, in as many different ways as he possibly could, that tax cuts should only take place in the context of fiscal discipline. In other words, don't cut taxes if you can't pay for the cuts. To quote once again from Dr. Mankiw: ``Prosperity tomorrow calls for sacrifice today. It is the rare politician that is willing to call for that.'' In a radio address on March 3, 2001, when we still had record surpluses and we were on a course to pay down the debt, President George W. Bush proclaimed, ``Future generations shouldn't be forced to pay back money that we have borrowed. We owe this kind of responsibility to our children and grandchildren.'' At the time, this was an easy statement to make. Now, however, fiscal discipline requires sacrifice, and we need President Bush to follow through on the promise of leadership through hard economic times. I call on President Bush to exercise leadership and put an end to this tax cut mania. No one likes to deliver hard messages, but that is the price of true leadership. Every time I talk to someone from South Dakota, I hear the same thing: Our schools need more funding; our water projects need more funding; our veterans need more funding; the list goes on and on. But the simple fact is, we just don't have the money anymore. And we certainly won't have the money if we continue on this reckless course of tax cuts that will fill the pockets of those who already have more money than they can spend in a lifetime. I agree that we shouldn't let government grow too big. But we shouldn't destroy it either.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I recognize Sandy Jerstad for her years of accomplishment as softball coach for the Augustana College Vikings in Sioux Falls, SD. Earlier this week, Sandy marked the end of an era, not only for that institution, but for an entire community when she announced her retirement from a 27 year coaching career. When I think of Sandy, I think of all that she has accomplished and how her perseverance has carried her through both her career and her personal life. That perseverance has been exhibited and intertwined between her personal and professional life. This perseverance began when she joined the Augustana staff in 1977 as head softball coach, tennis coach, and women's administrator. She started a softball program from scratch. Her coaching career then mirrored the implementation of Title IX, a law whose purpose she continually advocates and represents on a daily basis. Sandy was Augustana's first and, until now, only softball coach. The program, and its successes, was created with the foundation she built. Augustana's softball triumphs are evident in the statistics that were earned on the field and continue through the former players, who are now women that are leaders in communities all over the country. During those early years Sandy was trying to build a program that equaled that of any men's sport with regards to budgets, equipment, scholarships, and opportunity for each girl that entered Augustana and wanted to participate in collegiate athletics. Her perseverance paid off and is evidenced in her teams' success and the increased opportunity for women athletes. This season Sandy coached her 1,000th career win, only the second NCAA softball coach to achieve this. Following this win, sportswriter Eric Bursch of the Argus Leader described it well, noting that legendary University of North Carolina Men's Basketball Coach Dean Smith only had 879 wins and has the most wins of any coach in NCAA Men's Basketball history. This is an amazing feat for any coach, and it came with not only athletic success but with personal success off the field. She will end her coaching career with a 1,011-359-2 record. Her 1991 team won the NCAA Division II National Championship, as well as a second place finish in 1993. She coached for 25 straight winning seasons. The Vikings have appeared in 16 regional tournaments under the direction of Sandy. For her contributions to the sport of softball, Sandy was inducted into the National Fastpitch Coaches Association Hall of Fame in December 2000. In 1998 she was the South Dakota Sportswriters Association coach of the year. Even with all of her career accomplishments her resolve has been quite evident in her personal life as well. It was exhibited again when her husband, Mark, was diagnosed with cancer. Mark fought bravely, but sadly, he succumbed to the disease. Sandy stood strongly by his side and helped him through his treatment. From her loss she has worked to keep Mark's memory and his work alive not only by speaking of her family's experience, but also by donating her time and resources to causes on Mark's behalf. She has been an inspiration to her players throughout her tenure and that legacy will continue to live on in each player and especially in those who have chosen to follow in Sandy's coaching footsteps. The legacy will live on with lessons that were learned from their time at Augustana. It is an honor for me to share Sandy's accomplishments with my colleagues and to publicly commend her for all she's done for softball, women's sports, Augustana, and the Sioux Falls Community, and I wish her all the best on her future challenges and opportunities.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise today to welcome home the members of the 28th Bomb Wing stationed at Ellsworth Air Force Base. The B-1 bombers and crews of the 28th Bomb Wing are returning home today, and over the next few weeks, from their service in Operation Iraqi Freedom. As they did in Kosovo and Afghanistan, the B-1 bombers performed superbly in the war in Iraq. They have once again demonstrated that they are the backbone of America's bomber fleet. The B-1's unique ability to linger over the battlefield and provide responsive firepower at the time and place required by military commanders was an integral part of our victory in Iraq. I want to specifically honor four members of a B-1 crew stationed at Ellsworth Air Force Base who were acknowledged for their service during the war. CPT Chris Wachter, LTC Fred Swan, CPT Sloan Hollis, and 1LT Joe Runci were each awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross medal for their April 7 attack on a suspected hideout of Saddam Hussein. While in the course of another assigned mission, this four-member B-1 crew was tasked with striking a building in which current intelligence indicated Saddam Hussein was meeting with top Iraqi officials. This information was relayed to the B-1 crew which confirmed the coordinates, flew to the target, and accurately released four 2,000- pound bunker-buster bombs. This all occurred within 12 minutes. Having successfully hit this leadership target, the B-1 and her crew went on to strike an additional 17 targets in two separate locations. Although B-1s flew fewer than 2 percent of the combat sorties in Operation Iraqi Freedom, they dropped more than half the satellite- guided Air Force Joint Direct Attack Munitions, JDAMs. The B-1s were tasked against the full spectrum of potential targets in Iraq, including command and control facilities, bunkers, tanks, armored personnel carriers, and surface-to-air missile sites. They also provided close air support for U.S. forces engaged in the field. The bombers and crews accomplished all of this while maintaining over an 80 percent mission capable rate. This record of success proves B-1 is a vital, versatile, and potent component of our military force structure. Like all South Dakotans, I am proud of the men and women who are stationed at Ellsworth Air Force Base. They are an essential part of our South Dakota community, and are doing their duty to keep our Nation safe. I am pleased CPT Wachter, LTC Swan, CPT Hollis, and 1LT Runci were each recognized for their remarkable actions during Operation Iraqi Freedom. But I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge all the men and women at Ellsworth who keep the B-1s in the air and ready to respond. It is the work of all the crews and all the support teams that keep the B-1 at the forefront of our military. Once again, I want to welcome home the members of the 28th Bomb Wing, and thank them for their service to our Nation.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize two communities that will become ``sister cities'' on May 31, 2003. This association began in 1986, by chance, between the communities of Webster, SD and the borough of Dewangen Germany, in the town of Aalen. Their friendship arose when the Dewangen wrestling team and their coach, Tony Abele, visited the city of Webster for one week. This ``match'' has grown and flourished through the efforts of several members of the Webster community and their Mayor, Mike Grosek. The Contract of Friendship will improve the mutual understanding between the people of these two nations, with the exchange of information to include sportive, cultural and municipal events. It will focus, above all, on the young people of both communities, imparting to them the understanding of each other's world view, problems and achievements and the importance of mutual responsibility for a peaceful co-existence. Both communities and their elected representatives have entered into this contract of friendship in the name of their respective citizens. It is their request to accept and honor the joint responsibility for global peace and environment; to support exchanges in the field of culture, sports and economy, and to deepen the good relations based on friendship and common understanding. I commend the city of Webster for its diligence in pursuing this contract of friendship, and I welcome the citizens of Dewangen, Germany to the great State of South Dakota.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to CWO Hans N. Gukeisen, a South Dakotan who was killed on May 9 while serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Chief Warrant Officer Gukeisen was a member of the 571st Medical Company and was stationed at Fort Carson, CO. He was killed when the Black Hawk helicopter he was copiloting crashed near Tikrit. Hans was on a mission to evacuate an Iraqi child who had suffered serious injuries in an explosion. Chief Warrant Officer Gukeisen had joined the military in 1989 after graduating from Lead High School in Lead, SD. Although he left the military for a short time, he had continued his service by joining the South Dakota National Guard. To pursue his dream of becoming a helicopter pilot, Hans had re-enlisted in the Army and was assigned to the air ambulance of the 571st Medical Company. Chief Warrant Officer Gukeisen's mother Margaret lives in Hill City, SD, and his father Terry in Lead. Hans' older brother Ray is also serving in the military as a Special Forces instructor at Fort Bragg. I know they, and everyone who knew Hans, will miss him deeply. Hans gave his life while helping defend America's liberty, freeing the Iraqi people, and, specifically in this mission, trying to save the life of a badly injured child. Margaret has said she will remember her son as someone who loved hunting and fishing. These are common pastimes for a boy growing up in South Dakota. But I know the Gukeisen family, and the entire State of South Dakota, will also remember Hans as a hero who died while proudly serving his country. Mr. President, I join with all South Dakotans in expressing my sympathies to the family of Chief Warrant Officer Gukeisen. I know that he will always be missed, but his service to our Nation will never be forgotten.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize and honor Rosalie Aslesen on the occasion of her retirement as school librarian for Spearfish High School in Spearfish, SD. A native of Spearfish, Rosalie graduated from Spearfish High School and received her bachelor of arts degree in theatre arts from Black Hills State University in Spearfish. After graduation, she served as a Red Cross volunteer, assisting troops in Korea in the 1960s, spending time living in Hawaii, Virginia, and Maryland before returning for a brief time to Spearfish. She returned to Hawaii and obtained a master's degree in library science, before moving back to Spearfish with her husband Herb to take a job at Spearfish High School, where she has served as librarian since 1979. Rosalie has earned the respect and admiration of all those who had the opportunity to work with her. Her friendly demeanor and wealth of knowledge helped her develop close friendships with various colleagues and students. In Rosalie's honor, her brother, William Vance, has donated an extensive collection of Library of America books to Spearfish High School. As a symbol of Rosalie's dedication to young people, these books will help educate future generations of young Americans. Over the years, Rosalie has committed herself to helping Spearfish students learn more about their heritage and culture, about themselves and the world around them. She has worked hard to help students find the best in themselves. Thousands of students over the years have benefited from Rosalie's commitment to education and to the library sciences. From assisting students with research options for papers, to finding intricate details about the history of our world, Rosalie has served as a ``human bookmark'' in the book of life for countless young adults. On the occasion of her retirement, I want to congratulate Rosalie Aslesen for her tireless dedication to Spearfish High School and her commitment to quality education. I also want to commend her for her valuable service to the community over the years. She has been very active in the United Church of Christ, has served on the board of the South Dakota Education Association, and has spent many years in the Spearfish Education Association, including the past 2 years as president. The lives of countless people have been enormously enhanced by Rosalie's service to South Dakota and her profession. Her achievements will serve as a model for other talented librarians throughout our State to emulate. Mr. President, I wish Rosalie Aslesen the best on her retirement.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise today in very strong support of the bipartisan renewable fuels standard amendment and to encourage my colleagues to support this critically important provision when it comes to a vote. Last year, Senator Hagel, my Republican colleague from Nebraska, and I worked on a renewable fuels standard for ethanol and biodiesel during consideration of the Senate energy bill. We were successful in securing inclusion of a renewable fuels standard in the Senate energy bill. We were successful on the Senate floor, but as we got to conference with the House of Representatives, the entire energy bill wound up not being passed and the whole collection of provisions collapsed in the end. But we were successful in the Senate Energy Committee last year, we were successful on the Senate floor, and I am very optimistic this year that we not only will pass a renewable fuels standard in the Senate once again but that with newfound interest in the RFS in the House of Representatives, I am confident this will ultimately make it to the President's desk and become law this year. Regrettably, time ran out on us last year during the 107th Congress, and yet two-thirds of the Senate voted in favor of a renewable fuels standard and against amendments that would have weakened or eliminated it. Today, ethanol and biodiesel comprise less than 1 percent of all transportation fuel consumed in the United States. Out of 134 billion gallons of fuel consumed in the U.S., renewable ethanol and biodiesel made from soybeans comprise less than 3 billion gallons--3 billion out of 134 billion gallons consumed. Our amendment, identical to language passed in the Environment and Public Works Committee, would require that 5 billion gallons of transportation fuel be comprised of renewable fuel by the year 2012. The consensus was agreed to last year after productive negotiations between the renewable fuels industry, agriculture groups, the oil industry, and environmentalists. Rural States such as South Dakota can make enormous contributions to energy independence throughout our Nation with a renewable fuels standard. Thanks to the establishment of six new farmer-owned co-ops in South Dakota since 1999, ethanol has enjoyed significant growth in our State. We are currently ranked fifth in U.S. production. Remarkably, one out of every three rows of corn in South Dakota is market bound for ethanol production already. More than 1 million bushels of corn are sold annually to produce nearly 400 million gallons of ethanol in my home State of South Dakota. Around 8,000 farm families are involved in value-added ethanol production at one of the eight facilities currently in operation, and two more facilities are under construction. Ethanol helps these South Dakota families increase their income in three ways. First, ethanol plants help spur competition for corn and boost corn prices locally. Corn prices include between 8 and 15 cents per bushel when an ethanol plant is based in a local market. Second, membership in a value-added ethanol co-op yields profits, or dividends, from ethanol production which supplements farm income. And third, it creates farm jobs in rural communities throughout our State. However, most farmers involved with ethanol indicate to me that a significant share of their investment thus far in ethanol facilities has been, for all practical matters, a faith-based investment. They simply have faith that ethanol is right for their investment and right for America, but there has been no adoption of ethanol or biodiesel as a part of a national energy strategy. Adoption of our bipartisan RFS amendment today will give them and other producers more than just faith when considering whether to invest in an ethanol plant. Our amendment will give producers a rock solid commitment that the United States will, in fact, increase the demand and the market for ethanol and biodiesel. The U.S. energy situation, as we all know, is uncertain, considering how volatility in gas and diesel prices, the growing tension in the world from terrorist attacks, and how the war in Iraq affected us. The more we depend on oil from the Middle East, the more our stability is inevitably tied to governments and factions in that region. The use of domestic clean renewable energy sources can increase our energy security and increase our Nation's security. It must be a critical part of our Nation's energy strategy. Simply put, adoption of the RFS amendment will help lower our dependence on foreign oil, strengthen energy security, increase farm income, provide for clean air, and create jobs throughout the United States, particularly in the rural communities. An important, but underemphasized fuel is biodiesel, which is chiefly produced from excess soybean oil. In South Dakota, soybean production has increased by a dramatic 200 percent in the last 10 years. Recently, biodiesel has emerged as a promising new energy source. RFS would greatly increase the prospects for biodiesel production benefiting soybean farmers from South Dakota and throughout the Nation. I want to ensure the record reflects the influence and the extraordinary leadership that my colleague, Senator Daschle, has lent to the support of ethanol and a renewable fuels standard. For over 20 years, Senator Daschle has been fighting for ethanol. When we began this debate, there were times in South Dakota that the discussion was about gasohol. There are times when Senator Daschle has been jokingly referred to in our State as ``Senator Gasohol.'' His leadership was instrumental in creating incentives which led to a surge in the demand for ethanol in the early to mid-1990s. In the year 2000, it was Senator Daschle again who first introduced the concept of a RFS as the next building block for expansion of the renewable fuel industry. Today, I am pleased and I am proud to join Senator Daschle and many other Senators on a bipartisan basis to demonstrate strong support for an RFS. In the 20 years or more Congress and States have provided incentives to produce ethanol, we have learned a lot of lessons. Tax incentives at the State and Federal level provided lifeblood for the ethanol industry and helped make the production of ethanol a competitive alternative to other fuels. The most aggressive growth spurt for ethanol occurred as a result of the Clean Air Act. Ethanol production doubled in the 1990s, with 10-percent annual growth. In 1990, the year we passed the Clean Air Act, the United States produced about 800 million gallons of ethanol. By 2000, we produced 1.6 billion gallons of ethanol. Coincidentally, the most recent explosion in ethanol development took place as a result of the anticipation that Congress would establish an RFS. The renewable fuels standard was first introduced in 2000 and production since that time has dramatically expanded from 1.6 billion gallons to approximately 3 billion gallons this year. Once again, ethanol production has doubled. At this stage, enactment of an RFS is the single most important market driver for ethanol that we can contemplate. What lessons have we learned? If 8,000 farm families in South Dakota invested their hard-earned money in the development of eight ethanol plants without an RFS, we could just imagine how many more producers South Dakota and across the entire Nation will be willing to invest in renewable ethanol or biodiesel production if we adopt an RFS. Ethanol plants are being constructed in record time with larger capacity and more farmer investor financing than ever before. The most impressive expansion in capacity has been right in my home State of South Dakota. Passage of an RFS will ensure greater capacity expansion, a dramatic stimulus to the economic growth of rural America. It will create jobs and it will increase our energy security. I strongly encourage my colleagues to adopt the bipartisan RFS amendment being offered by Senator Daschle and Senator Frist today. I urge support for this amendment. I yield the floor.

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent to be added as a cosponsor to the renewable fuels standard amendment just offered by Senator Daschle and Senator Frist.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I acknowledge the importance of this week and pay tribute to a very important sector of our health care workforce. This week marks ``National Nurse Week,'' which highlights the critical role that nurses play in our Nation's health care system. Nurses are the backbone of our health care system and their continued dedication and commitment to both patients and doctors deserves our praise during this special week. I am thankful for all the hard work that the men and women of this profession provide to the people of South Dakota and our Nation. South Dakota is fortunate to have several successful nursing programs throughout the State dedicated to providing outstanding service to the people of South Dakota. It is important that these institutions continue to grow and work to bring bright young professionals to the nursing field. This job has become more difficult in recent years as the profession faces increased workforce shortages. The average practicing nurse is in her midforties and will soon leave the workforce for retirement. At the same time, we have less and less young nurses entering the field. This is especially a problem for rural States, such as South Dakota, which have chronic health care worker recruitment and retention problems. The nursing shortage also puts great strain on those currently working in the profession. Initiatives need to be taken on both fronts, professional and educational, to address these challenges and bolster the nursing workforce in preparation for an aging baby boom generation. Last year, I was pleased to be a cosponsor of the Nurse Reinvestment Act, which was signed into law. This critically important legislation has established five standards that will help alleviate many of the problems facing the nursing profession, including a specific focus on implementing these programs in rural areas. First, it creates a National Nurse Service Corps Scholarship Program, which provides scholarships in exchange for at least 2 years of service in a critical nursing shortage area or facility. Second, it will recruit nurses by establishing Nurse Recruitment Grants and by creating both national and State public awareness campaigns. Third, it creates ``career ladder'' programs that will encourage individuals to pursue additional education, training, and advancement within the profession. Fourth, it includes a loan, scholarship, and stipend program for graduate level education in the nursing profession in exchange for teaching at an accredited school of nursing. Finally, it establishes a National Commission on the Recruitment and Retention of Nurses to conduct studies and make recommendations on the vital issues facing the nursing profession. The fiscal year 2003 Omnibus Appropriations bill designated $20 million in funding for the Nurse Reinvestment Act. While this marks a step in the right direction, I would like to see this funding increased to accurately reflect what is really needed to curb the workforce shortage crisis. I joined several of my colleagues in fighting for $250 million in new money for this program last year, and as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue to fight for additional resources towards that goal. As I have noted, the nursing workforce is the foundation of our health care system. The continued dedication and commitment of our country's nurses is truly inspirational and has made patients' lives better and doctors' jobs easier. I look forward to seeing this workforce grow as a result of the wonderful programs authorized by the Nurse Reinvestment Act. I will do what I can to help foster the expansion of these programs and I celebrate Nurses Week by thanking the nurses of this country for all that they do.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, on May 4, 2003, Rachel Petersen and Elizabeth Volzke were honored for their outstanding volunteer service at the Eighth Annual Prudential Spirit of Community Awards. The two State honorees for South Dakota received a $1,000 award in addition to an engraved silver medallion and an all-expense-paid trip with a parent or guardian to Washington, DC. Petersen, 18, of Rapid City, is a senior at Stevens High School. In addition to being named a State honoree, Petersen was named South Dakota's top high school youth volunteer and Rapid City's Citizen of the Month. Petersen earned this prestigious honor by initiating and leading a group of teen volunteers who prepare and serve hot lunches every Sunday to homeless and disadvantaged people in her community. When Rachel learned that hungry people were turned away from the community's food program for breaking program rules or other reasons, she decided to help. ``It still seemed like a terrible tragedy that good people with a few problems had nowhere to eat,'' she said. Rachel first arranged for a steady source of donated food, then began recruiting reliable student volunteers to help. Each week, Rachel picks up the donated ingredients, and then prepares her menu--usually a 5- gallon pot of soup, with bread, a side dish, and a drink. Volunteers help set up a feeding station in a city park, where they stay each Sunday for 2 or 3 hours, serving 40 to 50 hungry people. Rachel is training other teen volunteers to take over when she leaves for college next year. ``The eradication of world hunger will happen one meal at a time,'' Rachel said. Elizabeth Volzke, 11, a member of the Girl Scouts of Nyoda Council in Huron and a fifth-grader at Eureka Public School, received this award as recognition of her work at a local assisted living center, daycare center, and church services, among other events. Elizabeth began her volunteerism by vowing to perform 100 hours of community service to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the 4-H program. Beginning with visits to residents of the assisted living center where her mother works and playing games with them, Elizabeth and her sister also made cookies, door and table decorations, party favors, and tray liners for holiday celebrations, paying for supplies with money earned from recycling aluminum. Elizabeth was soon visiting and playing piano at other nursing homes, as well. She then expanded her volunteering to a children's daycare center because, as Elizabeth said, ``I love babies and young children.'' She plans to continue her volunteer efforts, adding, ``What a wonderful feeling it is to help others.'' The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards recognizes students in middle and high school grades who have demonstrated exemplary community service. For their commendable and inspiring efforts to aid those afflicted by illness, poverty, and other difficult circumstances, 10 students are chosen as America's top volunteers, in addition to 104 individual State honorees. State honorees, such as Rachel and Elizabeth, are chosen by their outstanding dedication to community from a pool of more than 24,000 applications. Carried out in a joint venture with the National Association of Secondary School Principals, the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards were originally created to encourage and reward youth volunteerism and young role models. People of all ages need to think more about how we, as individual citizens, can work together at the local level to ensure the health and vitality of our towns and neighborhoods. Young volunteers like Rachel and Elizabeth are examples to all of us. These two South Dakotans are extraordinary individuals who richly deserve this distinguished recognition. I strongly commend their hard work and dedication, and I am very pleased that their efforts are being publicly honored and celebrated. It is with great honor that I share their impressive accomplishments with my colleagues.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise today with my colleagues, Senators Bingaman, Corzine, Lautenberg, Clinton, Kerry and Dayton, to introduce the ``Strengthening Our States Act of 2003.'' I thank my colleagues for joining me in introducing this legislation that marks a first step in helping States being to deal with the fiscal crisis many are now facing. These challenging economic times have forced many States to make tough decisions. Among areas affected, some States have had to start cutting benefits in their Medicaid programs in order to make ends meet. The result is less access to care and poorer health for our most vulnerable populations including: low-income, minorities and the elderly. Many States are also struggling to meet the needs of a growing uninsured population which continues to worsen as more people lose their jobs. So far, my home State of South Dakota has been one of the lucky ones. We have not had to cut Medicaid program benefits to date and our fiscal health overall looks fairly good. I do not however have unrealistic expectations that South Dakota is protected from the current economic downturn and recognize that it is only a matter of time before my State experiences the burden of our neighbors. The Strengthening Our States Act or SOS Act provides several strategies to address these issues by increasing coverage to the uninsured, providing flexibility in existing State Medicaid program and providing States with assistance to avoid cuts to existing Medicaid coverage. Our proposal will improve the Medicaid program without shifting costs to States as does the Bush Medicaid proposal which block grants the program. I find it particularly troubling that in times when State governments across the country are being forced to reduce or eliminate Medicaid services in order to save money, the Administration would propose to limit the Federal Government's long-term responsibility for the only kind of health program many Americans can afford. This bill will provide temporary fiscal relief to States through a $30 billion increase in the Federal share of Medicaid payments or FMAP. Unlike the block grant program the Administration has proposed, our bill is responsive to the immediate State needs for financial support and will keep these important programs going. Other important bill provisions include assistance with the costs of care of the elderly and people with disabilities through 100 percent Federal financing of Medicare premiums and cost-sharing for low-income groups. The bill provides States with new flexibility in administering Medicaid and will increase access to care for many uninsured groups. It will also close several loopholes in existing law that prevent the disabled from accessing health care services while waiting to qualify for Medicare coverage. Finally, it will provide increased access to home and community based services for people with disabilities through mandatory waivers for this type of care. States are at their wits end trying to juggle new health care priorities. Between smallpox vaccination requirements, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome surveillance and increased numbers of uninsured individuals, States are in great need of every bit of help we can provide. Senator Daschle and other colleagues in the Senate just rolled out a tax cut proposal that recognizes the current fiscal situation experienced in our States and this will provide important relief during these challenging times. The Strengthening Our States Act is a first step in supporting our states and I hope additional steps will follow. By providing immediate Medicaid relief, we can ease some of the burden currently faced by many State governments and will hopefully prevent crises from erupting in others that are working hard to just keep afloat. I urge the Senate to support this important legislation.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise today with my colleagues, Senators Bingaman, Corzine, Lautenberg, Clinton, Kerry and Dayton, to introduce the ``Strengthening Our States Act of 2003.'' I thank my colleagues for joining me in introducing this legislation that marks a first step in helping States being to deal with the fiscal crisis many are now facing. These challenging economic times have forced many States to make tough decisions. Among areas affected, some States have had to start cutting benefits in their Medicaid programs in order to make ends meet. The result is less access to care and poorer health for our most vulnerable populations including: low-income, minorities and the elderly. Many States are also struggling to meet the needs of a growing uninsured population which continues to worsen as more people lose their jobs. So far, my home State of South Dakota has been one of the lucky ones. We have not had to cut Medicaid program benefits to date and our fiscal health overall looks fairly good. I do not however have unrealistic expectations that South Dakota is protected from the current economic downturn and recognize that it is only a matter of time before my State experiences the burden of our neighbors. The Strengthening Our States Act or SOS Act provides several strategies to address these issues by increasing coverage to the uninsured, providing flexibility in existing State Medicaid program and providing States with assistance to avoid cuts to existing Medicaid coverage. Our proposal will improve the Medicaid program without shifting costs to States as does the Bush Medicaid proposal which block grants the program. I find it particularly troubling that in times when State governments across the country are being forced to reduce or eliminate Medicaid services in order to save money, the Administration would propose to limit the Federal Government's long-term responsibility for the only kind of health program many Americans can afford. This bill will provide temporary fiscal relief to States through a $30 billion increase in the Federal share of Medicaid payments or FMAP. Unlike the block grant program the Administration has proposed, our bill is responsive to the immediate State needs for financial support and will keep these important programs going. Other important bill provisions include assistance with the costs of care of the elderly and people with disabilities through 100 percent Federal financing of Medicare premiums and cost-sharing for low-income groups. The bill provides States with new flexibility in administering Medicaid and will increase access to care for many uninsured groups. It will also close several loopholes in existing law that prevent the disabled from accessing health care services while waiting to qualify for Medicare coverage. Finally, it will provide increased access to home and community based services for people with disabilities through mandatory waivers for this type of care. States are at their wits end trying to juggle new health care priorities. Between smallpox vaccination requirements, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome surveillance and increased numbers of uninsured individuals, States are in great need of every bit of help we can provide. Senator Daschle and other colleagues in the Senate just rolled out a tax cut proposal that recognizes the current fiscal situation experienced in our States and this will provide important relief during these challenging times. The Strengthening Our States Act is a first step in supporting our states and I hope additional steps will follow. By providing immediate Medicaid relief, we can ease some of the burden currently faced by many State governments and will hopefully prevent crises from erupting in others that are working hard to just keep afloat. I urge the Senate to support this important legislation.