Dale Kildee

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Chairman, I yield 4 minutes to the gentlewoman from Washington, D.C. (Ms. Norton).

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Chairman, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Woolsey). (Ms. WOOLSEY asked and was given permission to revise and extend her remarks.)

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I join with many of my colleagues today in expressing my opposition to the Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA). United States trade policy must put American workers first. I voted against and have been a vigorous critic of NAFTA, and I am concerned about efforts to further expand this bad policy through CAFTA or other harmful free trade agreements. NAFTA has been terrible for American workers, because it encourages corporations to abandon the United States to exploit weak labor and environmental standards in other countries. CAFTA will only further this destructive behavior. Of vital importance for stopping CAFTA is ensuring that the domestic sugar industry is not being severely damaged or destroyed. Stopping CAFTA could help prevent the loss of hundreds of thousands of U.S. jobs and family farms in sugar producing states across the country. My home state of Michigan is the 4th largest producer of sugar beets in the nation. We have roughly 2,100 sugar beet farmers producing more than 3 million tons of sugar beets. The Michigan sugar industry supports 5,000 jobs and generates an estimated $500 million of economic activity. Michigan's Saginaw Valley and Thumb area produce more than 90 percent of the sugar beets grown east of the Mississippi River. The Michigan Sugar Company plant located in Caro in my Congressional District, has roughly 350 year-around and 1,000 seasonal employees. CAFTA will flood U.S. markets with foreign sugar and we should not be using this industry as a bargaining chip during trade negotiations. Our sugar program provides the only effective way of dealing with the unfair predatory trade practices in the world dump market for sugar. Without it, the U.S. sugar program cannot be sustained and the domestic industry will certainly collapse. CAFTA unfortunately undermines this important program. The United States is a world leader, and we must enter into trade agreements that encourage positive standards and quality of life for both the United States and foreign nations. Otherwise, corporations will be allowed to exploit foreign workers while abandoning American workers, who are the most productive in the world. I will not support any trade agreement life CAFTA that continues the United States down this misguided path.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I am truly happy to rise before you today to recognize the accomplishments of a gentleman who has selflessly dedicated himself to public service for most of his adult life. On Friday, February 18, friends and family will join civic and community leaders in my hometown of Flint, Michigan, to honor Dan Harrell, as he retires as Coordinator of the Genesee County Board of Commissioners after 17 years. After graduating from Flint Northwestern High School in 1967, Dan Harrell enrolled in what was then known as Genesee Community College, graduating in 1969. From there, he went on to the University of Michigan-Flint, where he received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science and History in 1971. Dan's love of politics, however, began much earlier--in 1960, where an 11 year-old Dan patrolled the streets of Flint, handing out campaign literature for presidential candidate John F. Kennedy. After stints as a teacher and a salesman, Dan became Assistant Finance Director of the Michigan Democratic Party. Later, in 1982, he joined the staff of newly elected State Senator Joe Conroy and remained for six years, until he left to become Board Coordinator. As Coordinator for the nine-person Board, Dan has served as a bridge and guiding force, assisting the Commission with fulfilling their task to improve the quality of life for all Genesee County residents. In addition, Dan serves as coordinator for the county's FOIA requests, and its Emergency Management department. Dan's peers have described his work and his ability to deal with people from all walks of life as ``invaluable.'' Dan's love of politics has extended outside of the office, where he has been a key part of many campaigns over the years, including one of his own: in 1989, he successfully ran for a seat on the Flint School Board, serving as Treasurer for three of the six years of his term. He has also been a member of the Whaley Children's Center Public Policy Board and the Urban League Board of Directors. And then there are his greatest accomplishments: his marriage to Evelyn, their two daughters, and three grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, once again I am honored to acknowledge the life and career of Dan Harrell. He has made Genesee County a better place to live, and I am proud to call him my colleague, my constituent, and my friend. I ask my colleagues in the 109th Congress to join me in congratulating him for his unwavering commitment to justice, and wishing him well in his retirement as well as all his future endeavors.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Chairman, I rise in favor of the Farr amendment. This bill gives the Secretary unprecedented authority to waive all laws to finish the construction of the security barrier. This bill denies due process to anyone challenging the Secretary's decision by prohibiting judicial review of the Secretary's waivers. These provisions would undermine the Federal trust responsibility to Indian nations by allowing waivers of Federal requirements of providing tribal notification that are specifically designed to protect Native American burial grounds, religious shrines, and cultural and historical sites. I urge my colleagues to support the Farr amendment.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this resolution. Mr. Speaker, Catholic schools provide a high quality education to millions of our children. Catholic schools teach critical values and provide their students with beneficial and life enriching experiences. The contributions which Catholic schools make to our nation and our children strengthen our society and our place in the world. H. Res. 23 recognizes and celebrates our Catholic schools. Fortunately, our country values education and the institutions which provide it. Catholic schools are an instrumental part of this effort to improve the academic achievement and societal values of our children. Their place in American education and our nation as a whole is strong and necessary. Fortunately, both public and Catholic schools provide a strong foundation for our nation's children. While our public schools educate the vast majority of our children, our Catholic schools provide an excellent and enriching alternative. Together these two sectors of our education system will work to ensure our excellence in the world. In closing Mr. Speaker, I again want to stress my support for Catholic schools and also our public schools. Our children are better off having both Catholic and public schools provide them with a high quality education.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise before you today to pay tribute to an outstanding individual, Ms. Stella Wells. On February 17, 2005, family and friends will gather to honor Stella, as she celebrates her 100th birthday. Stella was born in 1905 in the town of Beech Grove, Arkansas. There, in 1922 under the same roof where she was born, she married farmer Charles Wells. Stella and husband Charley had six sons, 20 grandchildren, 37 great-grandchildren and 31 great-great-grandchildren, and 13 great-great-great-grandchildren. She has a total of 91 living descendents. The two enjoyed a marriage of 54 years. Stella is a longtime resident of Genesee County. She originally moved to Michigan for a short time in the early 50's and later Stella and Charley moved back to become permanent residents in 1974. Stella is currently the oldest living member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4087 of Davison. She is also a member of Harmony Baptist Church of Burton as well as Holly Grove Baptist Church of Beech Grove, Arkansas. Along with her many roles in the community, her greatest is as a beloved mother. Mr. Speaker, as the Member of Congress representing Genesee County, I ask my colleagues in the 109th Congress to please join me in not only recognizing Stella Wells for her outstanding life, but to wish her a very happy 100th birthday.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I want to acknowledge the long years of service which James Stedman has provided to the Congress. ``Jim'' as he is better known to his friends and colleagues retired this month after 31 years at the Congressional Research Service (CRS). His dedication, determination and spirit will be sorely missed. I know that I have relied on Jim on numerous occasions in the past and he has certainly made me a more effective legislator. James Stedman began his career at the Congressional Research Service as an education policy analyst in 1973, after earning a bachelor's degree from Middlebury College and a master's degree from Harvard University, both in history. Upon joining CRS, he reached the status of Specialist in Social Legislation in a very short period of time. From the beginning of his career, and continuing for over 30 years, Jim has expertly supported Congressional work on education related legislation. Jim's most important contribution however has been his effective and unselfish mentoring of the next generation of CRS education analysts. Jim has for decades been a nationally recognized expert on numerous major aspects of Federal education policy. One such area is elementary- secondary school reform. Jim has shown a boundless understanding of the complexities of standards-based reform, school choice (a topic on which he prepared pioneering policy analyses), and Federal programs to support the recruitment, development, and retention of elementary- secondary school teachers. Jim also excelled in his knowledge of Federal efforts to improve mathematics and sciences education; and all aspects of Federal policy to provide financial assistance to postsecondary students from low- to moderate-income families, including grant, loan, and tax-based programs. Throughout his career, Jim has not only been exceptionally productive, but also innovative. He has provided ground-breaking analyses that have been especially useful to the Congress in its consideration of how best to provide financial aid for college bound students, through loans, grant, or tax-based methods. Jim has also undertaken pioneering work of broad significance on the process used to determine the amount of aid a college student receives, commonly referred to as ``needs analysis.'' Jim was also the leading CRS analyst supporting congressional legislation and other activities in response to the Reagan administration's ``A Nation at Risk'' and the Clinton administration's ``Goals 2000 initiatives.'' In more recent years, Jim's work has been primarily devoted to providing strong leadership to teams of CRS staff assisting with higher education legislation during the 105th and 108th Congresses. He has coordinated a vast number of projects in support of committee deliberations on higher education legislation, serving as the primary liaison between the CRS higher education analysts and authorizing committee members and staff. Jim has also unselfishly devoted a great deal of time and effort to helping the relatively new CRS analysts to build expertise in legislation, relevant issues, and sources for data analysis. Jim's contributions will be sorely missed. The leadership and knowledge he provided for over 30 years has greatly benefited the Congress and the American people. Jim's retirement now provides him the time to pursue a second career as a teacher. If he brings the same determination and spirit to teaching that he had for 30 years at CRS, he will be a success. This House should congratulate Jim on his retirement and wish him the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise before you today on behalf of the courageous men and women of the Michigan State Police. Day after day, these brave individuals work together to ensure safe streets for the citizens of Michigan. On Friday, January 28, the Michigan State Police will gather to celebrate the retirement of First Lieutenant Diane Garrison, after 25 years of dedicated service to the force. Diane Garrison enlisted with the Michigan State Police June 11, 1979, and graduated on September 26. During her distinguished career, she has been stationed at several posts, including Bay City, Lansing, Detroit, Brighton, Coldwater, and ultimately Flint, where she served as Post Commander until her retirement on December 31, 2004. As a State Trooper, Diane has made it her life's work to protect and defend human dignity and the quality of life for our citizens. Many people, myself included, have greatly benefited from her experience and leadership. This extends to the community as well, where Diane is a proud member of St. James Catholic Church in Mason, and serves as a Kindergarten Religion Education teacher. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize the accomplishments and career of Diane Garrison. I ask my colleagues in the 109th Congress to join me in congratulating her for her unwavering commitment to justice, and wishing her well in her retirement as well as all her future endeavors.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding me time. I also thank her for her excellent and her tireless work on this bill. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the conference report. This legislation is a remarkable improvement over the House bill and deserves the support of us today. The bill represents a good compromise reflecting the views of schools, disability advocates and, most importantly, parents. The bill protects the civil rights of children with disabilities in critical areas. The bill ensures compliance with IDEA's key provisions through a strong monitoring and enforcement system. This system will lead States to fix problems before children with disabilities fail to receive a free appropriate public education. This bill also makes IDEA work for all stakeholders: students, parents, teachers, school administrators, and school districts. First, the legislation provides new opportunities for parents and schools to address concerns before the need to file a lawsuit arises. Second, the bill increases parental involvement in IEP meetings by allowing the use of teleconferencing, video conferencing, and other alternative means of participation. Third, the legislation requires initial evaluations to occur within 60 days of referral, ensuring that children get the help they need. The conference report also provides fiscal relief for school districts. The bill allows school districts which are in compliance with IDEA to replace a portion of their local expenditures with Federal funding. This will allow school districts to begin to realize the promise we made 30 years ago to provide the Federal share of special education costs. Most importantly, Mr. Speaker, the bill also improves discipline and ensures the safety of disabled and nondisabled children alike. The bill requires schools to determine if a child's behavior was the result of their disability or poor implementation of their IEP when considering a disciplinary action. In addition, the bill prevents schools from placing children with disabilities in alternative placements for unlimited periods of time. Despite its positive aspects, Mr. Speaker, the main failure of this legislation is that it does not immediately meet the promise of full funding of IDEA. We made this promise nearly 30 years ago and have consistently failed to meet it. Soon we will have an appropriations bill on this floor, hopefully today, that will not even meet the levels we have authorized in this bill. While I support this conference report, we need to do a better job of living up to our promises. This bill puts us on that path; and I therefore urge that we pass it.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise before you today on behalf of United Auto Workers (UAW) Local 1811, located in my hometown of Flint, Michigan. On December 9, 2004, civic and community leaders will join family, friends, and members of Local 1811 to honor Ms. Betty Mosely- Maberry, who was unanimously selected by the Local's Executive Board to be the first recipient of their Walter Reuther Distinguished Service Award. The Walter Reuther Distinguished Service Award is bestowed on UAW members who have authenticated 20 years of notable service. It honors the extraordinary contributions they have made to advance the cause of working people, their families, and communities. As Walter Reuther championed human dignity and social justice for all, the men and women who have received the award in his name have committed themselves to these same ideals. Betty Mosely-Maberry began her career at Buick Medical in December 1967. She was one of the driving forces behind Local 1811's organization in 1972 and 1973, and as a result, was elected Chairperson of their bargaining unit. Over the years, Betty has fulfilled the duties of interim President and Vice-President of Local 1811, and officially represented them as Recording Secretary for over 16 years. Betty also served on their Civil Rights, Community Service, and Education Committees as either a member or Chair. Betty retired on July 1, 1999, although the influence she had on her peers was so great that she was asked to continue as Recording Secretary. She selflessly and respectfully declined the offer, citing that active members should hold the position. However, Betty decided to run for a trustee seat, which she won and holds to this day. Mr. Speaker, all 22 members of UAW Local 1811's Executive Board feel that Betty Mosely-Maberry truly exemplifies the spirit in which the Walter Reuther Distinguished Service Award is given. Her willingness, hard work, and dedication to her brothers and sisters in labor as well as the community, are deserving of the highest respect. I ask my colleagues in the 108th Congress to join me in commending her.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I stand before you today to recognize a gentleman who has long been at the forefront of working to protect and defend the rights of America's labor workers. On December 1, in Bay City, Michigan, friends and family will join members of Utility Workers Union of America Local 144 to honor Mr. Jim Davison, as he celebrates his retirement after 34 years. After honorably serving his country in Vietnam as a member of the United States Marine Corps, Jim Davison began his relationship with the UWUA September 1, 1970, when he began work at Consumers Power. After four years, he was appointed as a union steward, as well as a delegate to the Bay County AFL-CIO Central Labor Council. In 1975, Jim was elected his Local's Sergeant-At-Arms, and became Second Vice-President in 1981. In 1987, Jim was elected President. In 1981, Jim was chosen as Vice-President of the Bay County AFL-CIO Labor Council. Seven years later, he became the Council's President. Also in 1988, he was elected to serve as Vice-President of the Michigan State Utility Workers Council in Lansing. Jim served admirably in that position until 1995, when he then became Secretary/Treasurer of the State Council, a position he held until this year. Jim retired from Consumers Energy in September 2004. In addition to his tremendous work on behalf of the UWUA and the AFL- CIO, Jim has been a tireless advocate of the community. He has spent many years on boards for the United Way on the local and state levels, and has also provided key leadership for groups such as the Saginaw Valley Blood Bank, Bay County Economic Development Council, Michigan State Labor Education Program, and the Kawkawlin Fire Department, where he served as Assistant Fire Chief from 1996-2004. Jim has also been active in politics, which includes his recent election as a Trustee in Kawkawlin Township. Mr. Speaker, I am exceptionally grateful for Jim Davison's dedication to his brothers and sisters in labor, and to the community. He is a shining example of the best our society has to offer, and a true role model for his peers as well as all those he comes into contact with. I ask my colleagues in the 108th Congress to join me in congratulating Jim on his retirement, and wishing him the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise before you today to bring to your attention an event that took place in my district. On Saturday, August 21, 2004, the Lake Fenton Community School District gathered to mark the official ribbon cutting and formal dedication of their newly constructed Lake Fenton High School. The celebration concluded on Sunday, August 22, 2004 with a non-denominational service and community open house. Lake Fenton High School was first dedicated on May 19, 1961. With increasing enrollment and changing educational needs, the Lake Fenton Board of Education and the Lake Fenton Schools Support Services/ Facilities Committee implemented plans to build a new high school. Their hard work and dedication resulted in three elective bond activities, and the final product is the first newly built facility within the Lake Fenton School District, and the only new high school constructed within Genesee County in over 30 years. This is indeed an accomplishment worth commending. The new high school boasts state of the art technology, computer and science labs, a media center, auditorium, gymnasium, and an outdoor athletic facility. The labs will allow the school to fully support their new program entitled ``Project Lead the Way''. This program introduces students to the demanding field of Engineering and Digital Electronics. As stated by their principal, Julie Clontz, Lake Fenton High School is trying to in every way possible to adjust their curriculum to meet the needs of the students and help prepare them for life after high school. The completion of this beautiful new facility and the implementation of these exciting educational programs is without a doubt a step in the right direction. Superintendent Ralph Coaster has provided excellent leadership in this endeavor. Mr. Speaker, as a Member of Congress, I consider it both my duty and privilege to work to improve the quality of our public school system. I am glad that communities such as Lake Fenton share this sentiment. They continue to work diligently to ensure students have the tools necessary to compete and succeed. I ask my colleagues of the 108th Congress to please join me in congratulating this fine community and its school district and in wishing them the very best in future endeavors.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise before you today on behalf of the members of the Michigan Department of the Polish Legion of American Veterans, USA to pay tribute to Matthew M. Lewicki, World War II veteran, for his service in the United States Army's 45th Infantry 179th Infantry Division from May 1, 1943 to November 5, 1945. On Saturday, October 16, 2004 the Polish Legion along with family and friends will gather to present Mr. Lewicki with medals he earned during his military career. On May 1, 1943 Mr. Lewicki entered into the U.S. Army during World War II. He was assigned to the 45th Infantry 179th Infantry Division as a Private Infantry Auto Rifleman. He was wounded at Anzio Beach, Italy. Dunlop Acting Adjutant General sent notification to Mr. Lewicki's family on April 11, 1944 stating that he had been captured by the Germans and was a Prisoner of War. He had been missing in action since February 18th. The Germans sent him to a warehouse in Italy for three weeks, after which he was transferred to a prison camp in Germany where he was assigned to work on a farm. His Prisoner of War number was Stalag 7-B, #11689. Mr. Lewicki spent a total of 14 months in captivity. Corporal Lewicki was honorably discharged on November 5, 1945. Mr. Lewicki, after his discharge from the service, returned to his employment at General Motors Buick Motor Division. He retired in 1980 after 44 years of employment. Matthew M. Lewicki was born on June 13, 1915 in Troy, New York. The Lewickis relocated to Flint, Michigan in 1917 when Matthew was 2 years old. Mr. Lewicki met his lovely wife, Albina Piotrowski, in 1940 and they were married on May 3, 1941. To this blessed union were born two sons, Matthew and David. Mrs. Lewicki passed away on March 6, 1992 at the age of 70. Matthew Lewicki is a lifelong charter member of Dom Polski and the Sea League. In his spare time Mr. Lewicki enjoys bowling and fishing. Mr. Speaker, as a Member of Congress, I consider it my duty and my privilege to protect and defend human dignity and the quality of life for our citizens. I am extremely grateful to have a person like Matthew M. Lewicki who shares these beliefs, and has made it his life's work to see this task achieved. I honor Mr. Lewicki for his commendable service to our Nation and its mission of spreading peace. I ask my colleagues in the 108th Congress to please join me in congratulating Mr. Lewicki, and wishing him the best in future endeavors.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise before you today to recognize an outstanding community leader, Margaret A. Perry of Mt. Morris, Michigan. Margaret Perry will be retiring from her post as Mt. Morris Charter Township Trustee after 16 years of commendable service and dedication. The township along with family and friends will honor Ms. Perry during a ``Sweet 16 Retirement'' celebration on October 23, 2004 at the Ramada Inn and Conference Center in Flint, Michigan. Margaret Perry was born in Athens, Georgia. She has been a resident of Genesee County for 50 years and a Mt. Morris Township resident for 40 years. Margaret has been a champion for the community. She began her career in politics in 1988 when she became the 1st African American elected to a township position in Genesee County. She has held the post of Mt. Morris Township Trustee from 1988 to the present. She is a member of the Planning Commission, and Michigan Township Association. She is a member of the Heart of Senior Citizens Services Board. Margaret has been the forerunner in organizing voter registration and get-out-the-vote drives in Genesee County. She is an active member of the A. Philip Randolph Institute (APRI). She served as the Michigan Chapter APRI Vice- President from 1987-2003, Greater Flint Chapter APRI Director of Operations 1986-2002, and Greater Flint Chapter APRI Financial Secretary 1986-2002. As a loyal member of the Democratic Party, Margaret has held many leadership positions. She was 1st Vice Chairperson of the Genesee County Democratic Party from 1986-1992, and elected a delegate to the Democratic National Convention in 1988. She has also served as the field organizer for the Democratic Coordinated Campaign in 1990 and holds a Michigan Democratic Party Certificate on Campaign Organizing. She also held the positions of 7th Congressional District Democratic Black Caucus Fundraising Chairperson and Correspondence Secretary from 1984-1990. Margaret has dedicated her life to making Mt. Morris Township and Genesee County a better place to live, work and visit. She is retired from her position with Hurley Medical Center as a Laboratory Technical Aide with 25 years of notable service. Aside from being an outstanding leader, Margaret is also devoted to her children and grandchildren, and she credits the love and support of her family for her success. Mr. Speaker, as a Member of Congress, I ask my colleagues in the 108th Congress to please join me in paying tribute to an outstanding community activist, Margaret A. Perry, for her past and current service and contributions to Genesee County and Mt. Morris Township. I wish her the best in future endeavors.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise before you today to pay tribute to Mr. J.D. Rogers, III, who on September 18, 2004 was honored during the UAW Local 599 Walter Reuther award ceremony in Flint, Michigan for his contributions as the longest-serving production committeeman in the history of the Local. J.D. Rogers began his leadership career within UAW Local 599 in 1976 when he was elected as Alternative Committeeman. One month after assuming his post he was elected to fulfill the position of the recently resigned Committeeman. His superior leadership skills and support of the union membership granted him several unopposed elections to this post. J.D. is committed to fulfilling Walter Reuther's mission of helping people, and ensuring human dignity and social justice for all. His hard work and dedication to the duties of his elected position is commendable. His deeds are self evident in the faith the members of 599 have bestowed upon him in allowing him to be re-elected. His service to the UAW extends many years and is highly regarded. Mr. Speaker, many people have greatly benefited from the leadership and service of Mr. J.D. Rogers. His commitment to the UAW membership is unwavering. I ask my colleagues in the 108th Congress to please join me in congratulating him on obtaining his mark in history and in wishing him the very best in future endeavors.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise before you today to pay tribute to Mr. Mo Felling for attaining the honor of being the longest serving skilled trades committeeman in the history of UAW Local 599 in Flint, Michigan. On September 18, 2004, the UAW Local 599 members will honor Mr. Felling during their annual Walter Reuther award ceremony. Mo Felling began his leadership career within UAW Local 599 in 1977 when he was elected to the post of Alternative Committeeman. In 1980 he was elected to the post of committeeman, a position he has held successfully to this date. His impeccable service and love for his fellow members is commendable. He is committed to upholding the mission set forth by Mr. Walter Reuther; which is to help people, and ensuring human dignity and social justice for all who are employed within the manufacturing automobile industry. I salute Mr. Felling for his great attention to detail and on a job well done. Mr. Speaker, many people have greatly benefited from the leadership and service of Mr. Mo Felling. I ask my colleagues in the 108th Congress to please join me in congratulating him on obtaining his mark in history and in wishing him the very best in future endeavors.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Chairman, I strongly urge my colleagues to oppose the Ose amendment which will exempt the construction of the proposed security barrier in the San Diego area from most Federal environmental laws, regulations and executive orders, including four that specifically and directly impact Indian tribes. The Ose amendment would waive the requirements of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act of 1990, the 1996 Executive Order 13007 on sacred sites and the Archeological Resources Protection Act of 1979. These Federal requirements were enacted by Congress and implemented by Democratic and Republican administrations to fulfill promises we made to native Americans that their places of worship, resting places for the deceased, and religious freedom will not be disturbed or intruded upon again and, instead, will be protected and preserved. This amendment undermines those laws by precluding tribal consultations on Native American burial grounds, religious shrines, and cultural and historical sites located in the construction area. I urge my colleagues to vote ``no'' on the Ose amendment. Mr. Chairman, I include for the Record the following letter: National Congress of American Indians, Washington, DC, October 7, 2004. Hon. Chairman Sensenbrenner, House Judiciary Chairman. Honorable James Sensenbrenner: We have become aware that a proposed amendment to H.R. 10, ``The 9/11 Recommendations Implementation Act'', would undermine two federal statutes designed to preserve and protect Native American cultural heritage. NCAI is extremely sensitive to the issues of protecting our homeland. Tribes play a vital role in protecting our borders with over 200 miles of United States border located on tribal lands and with 38 tribes on or near international borders. Additionally, significant numbers of tribes are located near critical infrastructure, including missile silos, chemical depots, dams and nuclear power plants. Native peoples have proven their unwavering commitment to protecting this country. Currently, 19,761 American Indians and Alaskan Natives are serving in the military, and as noted by many members of Congress, Native Americans serve in the United States military at higher rates than any other ethnic group. The Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act of 1990 (NAGPRA), P.L. 101-601, 24 U.S.C. 3002), was enacted to protect fragile tribal cultures from exploitation. It was designed to address the flagrant violation of the ``civil rights of America's first citizens'' 136 C.R. Sec. 17174. Furthermore, Congress has expressly stated in statue that it viewed NAGPRA as part part of its trust responsibility to Indian tribes and people, specifically stating that it ``reflects the unique relationship between the Federal Government and Indian tribes'' 25 U.S.C.A. Sec. 3010. The destruction of culturally sensitive sites is irreversible and unconscionable. The proposed amendment of Representative Ose would undermine the very foundation of NAGPRA and the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (16 U.S.C. 470 et seq.). At the very least we would expect that a consultation process be considered in any legislation that would affect cultural sites. We urge you oppose any amendments that would undermine our rights to protect and preserve our cultural heritage. Sincerely, Tex G. Hall.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 4278. The bill is the culmination of many months of bipartisan and bicameral efforts to reauthorize the Assistive Technology Act. This law is an important component in ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access assistive technology to attend school, maintain employment, and live independently. As Members know, this bill is critically needed. This legislation finally ensures that State grant programs can count on a stable source of Federal funds to support their operations. The last reauthorization of the Assistive Technology Act in 1998 sunset the State grant program. For the past 3 years, many States have wondered whether a certain year would be their last year of Federal funding. This bill erases this doubt by ensuring that all States will be eligible for funding through 2010. I want to mention the inclusion of the American Indian consortium as a funded protection and advocacy system under this legislation. Individuals with disabilities in Indian country are some of the most disadvantaged when it comes to the ability to access assistive technology. This bill will provide resources to this consortium to ensure the needs of Native Americans seeking assistive technology are represented. This provision alone will have a tremendously positive impact on Indian country. The momentum behind this bill would not have been possible without a real bipartisan effort to move this bill. I want to thank Chairman Boehner and McKeon and their staff for working closely with myself and my staff. I also want to thank Senators Kennedy and Gregg and their staff for their hard work on this bill. We have truly created a bill that will improve the ability of individuals with disabilities to access assistive technology. This legislation is an excellent example of what we can accomplish if we put our efforts into working together.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Holt).

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, this bill extends our higher education program for one year. We need to do this because Congress has not completed its work in reauthorizing the Higher Education Act this session. While I support this legislation, it represents a missed opportunity. Students are facing some of the worst tuition increases in decades. Families have struggled to find ways to pay for college. Unfortunately, the bipartisan cooperation has not been as helpful as it was back in 1998, and the administration has neglected its role. The Congress and the Bush administration have frozen the maximum Pell grant over the last 3 years. Indeed, Republican higher education legislation which failed to move would have jeopardized college affordability for millions of students by eliminating the ability of students to lock in low, fixed interest rates when they consolidate their student loans, by reducing student choice in how they can repay their student loans, and by increasing the ability of students to go further into debt. If we did reauthorize the Higher Education Act, we could have addressed the critical needs of students, including allowing student borrowers to refinance their consolidation loans and lock in today's low interest rates. This increases the long-term affordability of college. We could have provided incentives to help colleges hold down increases in tuition. Recent tuition increases have hit American families and students especially hard. We could have allowed working students to keep more of the funding they earn than having it used to calculate their student aid. Unfortunately, today, we are not going to be improving our student aid programs. Instead, we are keeping the status quo. While this bill is necessary, we have lost an opportunity. I look forward to working with my colleagues as we did in 1998, hopefully in a bipartisan fashion in the next Congress, to improve our higher education programs. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, let me make it clear that the Kildee-Van Hollen efforts to end this subsidy have never gone after existing loans. Both the Kildee-Van Hollen amendment and H.R. 5113 affect prospective loans. Mr. Speaker, I am going to support this bill today despite some glaring inadequacies. H.R. 5186 makes an improvement over current law which has been providing lenders excessive subsidies, but it also fails to address a large share of this subsidy and only enacts this change for about 1 year. The loophole, which this bill only partially closes, has increased lender profits by nearly $1 billion in fiscal year 2004. Under this antiquated loophole, lenders presently receive an additional 5.5 percent return, compared to subsidies on regular student loans. That is free money. Worse, this loophole has reduced resources that should be used to make college cheaper for students. The gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Van Hollen) and I became concerned about this issue in October of last year when we asked the General Accountability Office to investigate how lenders were exploiting this loophole. This report produced alarming results including: The Federal subsidy provided under this loophole has grown nearly five times from $200 million in fiscal year 2001 to $1 billion in fiscal year 2004. The volume of loans carrying this subsidy has grown from $11 billion in fiscal year 1995 to over $17 billion at the end of the third quarter in 2004. Clearly, these facts demand immediate action. The GAO's report on this matter called for such action by the Bush administration. Unfortunately, they failed to answer that charge. Due to this refusal, Congress now has to take steps to deal with this issue. I am pleased that the gentleman from Ohio (Chairman Boehner) and the gentleman from California (Mr. McKeon) have now responded to our calls to close this loophole. Today's effort is especially timely considering that all committee Democratic members called for a markup on the gentleman from Maryland's (Mr. Van Hollen) and my legislation to eliminate this lender loophole. However, it is important that Members understand that this bill has two major deficiencies. First of all, it does not completely close the loophole which lenders have been exploiting. It keeps on ``recycling.'' Cyclists pedal through the Tour de France for handsome profits; recyclists pedal through the U.S. Treasury for even greater profits. This is free money and it should be stopped. Under this legislation, lenders will continue to receive sizeable and excessive subsidies, perpetuating this taxpayer ripoff. Second, this bill does not close this loophole permanently. Instead, it opts for about a 1-year fix. This loophole should be permanently and completely closed, and the savings should be used to make college cheaper for needy students. Failing to completely and permanently close this loophole is a lost opportunity to create more aid for needy students. Permanently and completely closing this loophole would enable us to increase the bill's loan forgiveness provisions even more, or enact other means to make college more affordable. Students are bearing the brunt of rising college costs and shrinking aid. It is unfortunate that we cannot completely and permanently address this problem and provide more help. I would hope that passage of this legislation does not end our efforts to fully and permanently close this loophole.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Woolsey).

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this resolution. H. Res. 805 promotes the need for greater public awareness of effective runaway youth prevention programs and the increasing need for safe and productive alternatives, resources and supports for youth in high-risk situations. Mr. Speaker, let me first applaud the hard work of the front line workers who are on the ground working with runaway and homeless youth every day. For many youth, these workers represent the only responsible and caring adults they will have contact with during their time on the streets. Many of these workers are volunteers who make themselves available 24 hours a day. They venture into dangerous situations, providing a lifeline to these young people. They should be acknowledged for their efforts. Mr. Speaker, the youth who come to these programs represent a lost generation. Most of them are not runaways. They have been thrown away, thrown away by their parents and by society. When they come to these programs, they do so out of a need for security, shelter and comfort they cannot find at home. These programs provide that comfort. They provide basic life skills, training, job preparation and placement, health referrals and services. As of this fall, youth who visit these programs will be automatically eligible for school nutrition programs and will be able to receive meals and snacks through shelter programs. The reauthorization of child nutrition programs enacted this summer made this possible and ensures that these youth can get a nutritious meal even if they are on the street. Nearly 150,000 youth are served at basic centers and through transitional living programs. Yet as this resolution points out, many more runaways and homeless youth find themselves without these critical community services. It is appropriate, Mr. Speaker, that Congress take time out to promote greater public awareness of the needs of these young people and the services that are available to them in the community. In closing, I urge my colleagues to support this resolution. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.