Joe Knollenberg

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, today I join the people of the 9th Congressional District and the State of Michigan in honoring the passing of an American hero and patriot, Captain Sean Grimes, who lost his life in the line of duty in Iraq on March 4th. Captain Grimes was assigned to the U.S. Army's 1st Infantry Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team where he served with distinction as a Combat Medic. At the time of his passing, Sean Grimes was 31. A Bloomfield Hills native, Captain Grimes graduated from Lahser High School in Bloomfield Hills in 1991. Shortly after graduating from high school Sean enlisted in the Army Reserve serving as an enlisted man for four years. His love of the Army prompted him to enroll in the Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) while pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing at Michigan State University. In 1997 he graduated from MSU and was commissioned as a Distinguished Military Graduate. His efforts and desire to provide the best medical care to soldiers led him to the Brooke Army Hospital at Fort Sam Houston in Texas in 2003, whereupon he graduated from the Army's Physician Assistant Course. Until the day of his death, Captain Grimes displayed a sense of service not only to his fellow soldiers, but to his fellow man, helping civilian Iraqis in need of medical care. We may never really know the full impact his selfless acts may have had on the lives of his fellow soldiers and civilians he came into contact with. But the manner and character in which he fulfilled his duties tells us that he indeed made a difference in the lives of others and that that difference was for the better. These efforts have been recognized by the Army through a variety of medals Captain Grimes received during his career, culminating in being awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart posthumously. Captain Sean Grimes exemplified what is best about the American soldier, devotion to duty above self, tireless dedication to his fellow soldiers and most importantly a driving desire to protect the freedoms we cherish so dearly. While he will certainly be missed most by his family, his sacrifice will not be forgotten. Captain Grimes paid the ultimate price both to protect the freedoms we exercise daily and to, bring those same freedoms to people who have never experienced true liberty. Today we honor his memory and may we never forget his sacrifice.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, today I join the people of my Congressional District, as well as thousands around the country and the world, in honoring the passing of a truly great individual Mr. Max Fisher. On March 3, 2005, Max Fisher passed away at the age of 96. Max Fisher, a resident of Franklin, Michigan, was an internationally known philanthropist, businessman, advisor, and diplomat, and universally recognized as a driving force for positive change in the United States and the world. The son of Jewish Russian immigrants Velvil and MaIka Fisch, Max was born in Pittsburgh in 1908. He attended Ohio State University on a football scholarship and graduated in 1930 with a degree in business administration. After graduating from college Max Fisher moved to the Detroit area where he became an extremely successful businessman and real estate land developer. Max Fisher played a unique role in U.S.-Israel relations. This role has been described by many, including in the 1992 biography, Quiet Diplomat, by Peter Golden. Former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger wrote in his memoirs that Max Fisher provided an important service as an informal liaison between the White House and the American Jewish leadership under Presidents Nixon and Ford. Max Fisher also served as the head of a variety of nonprofit and charitable Jewish organizations including United Jewish Appeal, the Republican Jewish Coalition, the Jewish Welfare Federation, the Jewish Agency, Council of Jewish Federations, United Israel Appeal, the American Jewish Committee, and the National Jewish Coalition. Max was a self-made man who spent much of his life raising money for philanthropic and political endeavors and remained an active supporter of charitable and civic organizations. He was a major benefactor of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, gave generously to Ohio State's College of Business, and helped found Detroit Renaissance, a nonprofit business roundtable aimed at improving conditions in the city and region. Max also held 13 honorary degrees from educational institutions. Max Fisher is survived by his wife, Marjorie Fisher; daughters and sons-in-law, Jane and D. Larry Sherman, Mary Fisher, Julie and Peter Cummings, Marjorie Fisher; son and daughter-in-law, Phillip and Lauren Fisher; 2 sisters; 19 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. Max was a humble man of strong principle, who consistently focused on doing what was right, without seeking fame or prestige. His optimism and positive mental attitude continually motivated those around him to overcome the challenges before them. Therefore, I express my deepest condolences to his family, friends and admirers. And I also join in honoring Max Fisher for his diplomatic contributions, exceptional philanthropic achievements, boundless generosity, unwavering principle and integrity, and achieving great financial success while maintaining admirable humility.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the loss of Mrs. Terri Schiavo. On March 21, 2005, S. 686 passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 203-58. This was rollcall vote number 90. Unfortunately, I was out of the country on official Congressional business and unable to return for this emergency session. However, had I been present I would have voted in support of this legislation.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of the supplemental appropriations bill, and I thank the gentleman from California (Mr. Lewis) for yielding me time. I want to commend the gentleman for putting together what I believe is an excellent bill and for his leadership in reviewing each single element of the administration's request. The Subcommittee on Transportation, Treasury, and HUD that I chair has mostly technical items in this supplemental that are not controversial, so I would like to focus my comments on the overall bill. In the past few months, we have seen an extraordinary progress in Iraq and in the Middle East at large. From the historic Iraqi elections, the new Palestinian leadership, voting in Saudi Arabia, and massive demonstrations in Lebanon against their Syrian occupiers, I believe that these events show major positive changes that can come to this part of the world. We must maintain that momentum, and that is what this bill does. By passing this legislation, we will keep our soldiers in Iraq fully equipped as they continue their daunting task in maintaining security and training Iraqis to take over those functions. The funding included in this bill to secure a new United States embassy will help get us out of the palaces that we currently occupy. We will provide much-needed assistance to Afghanistan in its efforts to become more secure, restrict the drug trade, and develop its economy. This is a good bill, and it deserves our support. I would like to comment specifically on one part of the supplemental that I know many of us are concerned about, and that is the $200 million to aid the Palestinian Authority. The Palestinians have an opportunity to get their house in order, and we should help them. Prime Minister Abbas and Finance Minister Fayyad are the right people for their jobs, but we all know that the Palestinian Authority still needs a great deal of reform, and we need to be careful about how we provide money to help the Palestinians. That is why under the direction and leadership of the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Kolbe), we included specific conditions for how this money can be used. We maintain the prohibition on direct assistance to the Palestinian Authority. We require the administration to provide a comprehensive report on the steps taken by the Palestinian Authority on good governance, economic reforms, and dismantling the terrorist organizations. And we require an audit of the Palestinian Authority's financial structures. Providing this money sends an important signal that the U.S. is prepared to help the Palestinians. Including the appropriate conditions sends an equally important signal that the Palestinian Authority has expectations that must be met. The committee should be commended for handling this issue in a balanced and effective way; and I urge everyone, obviously, to support it. Mr. Chairman, again I say, this is a good bill, It is a necessary bill, and I urge again all of my colleagues to support it.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a fine organization in my congressional district, the National Truck Equipment Association, NTEA, which is the leading association supporting the commercial truck and transportation equipment industry. Established in 1964, the NTEA supports the $86 billion commercial truck and transportation equipment industry. The Association currently represents nearly 1,600 companies that manufacture, distribute, install, sell and repair commercial trucks, truck bodies, truck equipment, trailers and accessories. The multi-service work trucks produced by NTEA member companies are vitally important to our Nation's economic system and our day-to-day living. Almost all delivery, utility, repair, maintenance, disposal/ recycling and emergency services, as well as the construction and agricultural industries, utilize commercial vehicles. These versatile vehicles enable us to deliver goods, construct and repair roads, homes and buildings, transport people, provide emergency fire, medical and rescue services, install and repair utilities, collect trash for disposal and recycling, control snow and ice, and operate farms, among many other services. At the heart of today's commercial truck and transportation equipment industry are an estimated 4,000 small businesses, many of them family- owned, about 2,000 of which operate as distributorships. In aggregate, the work truck and equipment industry has annual sales of more than $90 billion and employs more than 75,000 people. This week, NTEA will host its 41st Annual National Truck Equipment Association Convention and Work Truck Show, one of the largest trade events in the United States. The show, which represents the largest gathering of work trucks and equipment in North America, will bring together manufacturers, distributors, fleet managers, leasing companies, dealers, buyers and users of work trucks in all industries in an environment designed to deliver the newest products, encourage peer interaction and enhance professional development. In honor of this 41st Annual Convention, I want to commend NTEA and its member companies for their significant contributions to the country. I look forward to working together with NTEA to build upon its achievements to make the association even stronger for the future.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary businessman and exceptional American, George Hamilton, President of Dow Automotive and recently named one of the most powerful African Americans in corporate America. Since 1988, Black Enterprise has published a list of the most powerful African Americans in corporate America. This year, Mr. Hamilton has been chosen by the magazine for this honor. The list is compiled from the 1,000 largest publicly traded companies and leading international corporations located in the United States. This year Mr. Hamilton is among 75 African Americans honored from 62 companies and twelve industries. Mr. Hamilton joined the Dow Chemical Company in 1977 as a seller of plastics in the automobile industry. Since coming to the company, Mr. Hamilton has held a number of positions in sales, marketing, development and business operations. Prior to joining Dow Automotive in 2000 he served as North American Commercial Director for Engineering Plastics for the Dow Chemical Company. While holding his position at Dow Automotive, Mr. Hamilton is also active within many engineering and automotive Boards. He is a proud member of the Society of Automotive Engineers and the Society of Plastics Engineers. Mr. Hamilton also sits on his company's Global Commercial Leadership Network, Corporate Contributions Committee as well as the CEO Council on Diversity. This is a significant honor for Mr. Hamilton and I wish to congratulate him on his accomplishments and recognition as one of the 75 most powerful African Americans in corporate America.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, a strong domestic manufacturing base is vital to our country's national defense and economic security. Because of massive global competition, and costs that manufacturers cannot directly control, manufacturing in the United States is under great stress. In order to improve the economic environment in America for manufacturers, we have to address the issues that make our companies less globally competitive. These issues include lawsuit abuse, rising health care costs, energy policy, tax reform, and fighting against criminal counterfeiters. But in order to provide an environment where our manufacturers can effectively compete in the global market, we must address the distortions in the U.S. market for steel. Today I am introducing a resolution that seeks to address unnecessary distortion. There are currently 188 antidumping and countervailing duty (AD/CVD) orders in place on various types of steel, which is well over half of all AD/CVD orders in existence. Many of them have been in place since the early 1990s. Some still serve a purpose, others do not. The ones that don't are distorting the U.S. market for steel and unnecessarily damaging steel consuming companies in the form of decreased availability, reduced quality, delayed deliveries, and higher prices. In fact, U.S. companies suffer from artificially high steel prices, higher than anywhere else in the world, making them globally less competitive. For example, the January 2005 price of hot-rolled steel in the United States was $695/ton, on the world spot market $575/ ton, and in China $510/ton. Five auto parts companies have recently filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, citing artificially high prices for steel as a significant reason. The Department of Commerce (DoC) and International Trade Commission (ITC) are required by law to conduct 5-year ``sunset reviews'' of anti- dumping and countervailing duty (AD/CVD) orders to determine whether to terminate, suspend, or continue the duties beyond the 5 years they have already been in place. In particular, on March 2, 2005 the ITC will conduct a sunset review hearing on hot-rolled steel products from Brazil, Japan, and Russia (Invs. 701-TA-384 and 731-TA-806-808 (Review)). And on April 26, 2005 the ITC will conduct a sunset review hearing on stainless steel sheet and strip from France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom (Invs. 701-TA-380- 382 and 731-TA-797-804 (Review)). Today I am introducing a resolution that urges the DoC and ITC to consider, and report on, the impact of the AD/CVD orders on domestic steel-consuming companies and the overall economy when conducting sunset reviews of duties on steel products. The DoC and ITC have the discretion to take into account the impact of these duties on steel consumers, and they should. But traditionally they have not. If this continues, economic decisions will be made without seeing the full effects of those decisions. This is not wise, and it's not fair. Furthermore, the damage unnecessary duties do to steel consumers causes the customer base for domestic steel producers to shrink, ultimately harming the steel industry. Sound economic policy cannot be made in a vacuum. When economic policy decisions are made, the full effects of those decisions should be taken into consideration. I support both a strong domestic steel industry and a strong domestic manufacturing base because they are vital to our national defense and economic security. Removing some specific duties will not harm domestic steel producers, who are doing quite well. In fact, domestic steel producers noted record earnings in 2004 (including increases as high as 45 percent over 2003) and analysts predict a strong 2005 for the industry. If the AD/CVD duties for specific types of steel were removed, market conditions would become less distorted and steel producers may see some extremely high prices they charge now drop to just very high. This will not cause material injury to steel producers, and in fact could provide some much-needed relief for their customer base. This resolution does nothing to change trade law. It simply calls for sound policy and fundamental fairness. The DoC and ITC already have the authority to look at the full picture during sunset reviews of duties on steel products. This resolution simply calls on them to do just that. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this resolution.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, sound economic policy cannot be made in a vacuum. Today I am introducing a resolution to help take steel policy out of that vacuum. My resolution calls on the Commerce Department and the International Trade Commission, the ITC, to simply consider domestic steel consumers when they decide whether to continue duties on imported steel. Although Commerce and the ITC have the authority to consider steel consumers in sunset reviews, they traditionally have not done so, and frankly, that is simply wrong. Steel consumers are hurting, and unnecessary distortion in the steel market is the reason why. As decisions are made about the import duties on steel products, does it not make sense to consider the impact on steel consumers? Some steel duties are still necessary, but some are not. The deck should not be stacked in favor of keeping unnecessary duties. Let us look at the full impact. It is a matter of fundamental fairness.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize one of the finest institutions in my Congressional District, William Beaumont Hospital, which today celebrates its 50th Anniversary. Responding to a need for hospital services in southern Oakland County, William Beaumont Hospital first opened its doors in Royal Oak, Michigan on January 24, 1955 with 238 beds. In 1977, Beaumont opened a second hospital in Troy, Michigan. Today, Beaumont Hospital is a 1,061- bed tertiary care, teaching, research and referral center, representing 91 medical and surgical specialties, with a staff of more than 2,400 physicians. The importance and value of Beaumont Hospital to Oakland County is clear. In 2003, Beaumont was ranked first in the State of Michigan for inpatient hospital admissions, births and emergency room visits. In 2002, the hospital was ranked first in the United States for outpatient surgeries, and second in the United States for total surgeries. Beaumont has also established itself as a major teaching facility, with 290 resident physicians in 17 accredited residency programs, 40 fellows in 13 fellowship programs and affiliations with major universities. Beaumont has made tremendous contributions to Oakland County as the county's third largest employer. In 2001, the hospital was ranked by Crain's Detroit Business as one of the best places to work. Technological advances over the past 50 years have brought many changes to the healthcare profession and to hospital services, and the staff of William Beaumont Hospital has remained true to its mission of providing efficient, effective, and compassionate patient care. It has maintained services that have earned it a reputation as one of the nation's top hospitals. In 50 years, Beaumont Hospital has grown into a thriving hospital that is nationally recognized for providing outstanding healthcare services. Beaumont Hospital has been an important resource for Oakland County and an exemplary institution during its years of service and dedication to our community. I am proud to have this top rate facility in my Congressional District. This is a significant milestone for William Beaumont Hospital and I want to commend it for its service and dedication to the residents of Oakland County. I look forward to working together with Beaumont Hospital to build upon its achievements to make the hospital even stronger for the future.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Martin J. ``Hoot'' McInerney, recipient of the St. Joseph Mercy Oakland Hospital Man of the Year Award and Distinguished Community Service Award. Known for his kindness and infectious personality, Martin J. ``Hoot'' McInerney is also known throughout the metro-Detroit area as a successful car dealer and philanthropist, supporting numerous charities on a local, national and international level. Hoot was born and raised in Detroit. He began his career in the automobile industry as a young boy working for an auto dealership, being paid fifty cents a week to keep the coal furnace stoked over cold weekends. In 1963, Chrysler offered Hoot his first dealership. Forty- one years later Hoot has become a successful businessman owning numerous car dealerships in the metro-Detroit area. The former U.S. Marine is still known to ``hang out'' at his Star Lincoln Mercury dealership in Southfield, Michigan. Hoot helped to establish the St. Joseph Mercy Men of Mercy in 1974. He is also one of the founders of the J.P. McCarthy Foundation, in honor of the late and renowned radio personality who was diagnosed with and succumbed to myelodysplastic syndrome. He is also a generous donor to several Catholic churches and schools in the metro-Detroit area as well as churches and schools in Honduras, Nicaragua and the Sisters of Mary in Omaha, Nebraska. In addition, Hoot supports Focus: HOPE, Operation Read, the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, Purple Rose Theater, Friends of Golf, St. John's Men's Guild, Angel's Place, the National Football Fund and Stewards of Tomorrow. Mr. Speaker, Hoot McInerney is deserving of this recognition for his humanitarian and volunteer efforts. His dedication to helping others has made a significant difference in the lives of many people.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize the Oakland Livingston Human Service Agency as it celebrates its 40th anniversary as a community action agency. I commend their years of service and dedication to improving our community. In 1964, the Economic Opportunity Act was enacted into law and provided stimulation and incentive for urban and rural communities to mobilize their resources to combat poverty through community action programs. That same year, Judge Carl F. Ingraham, Oakland County Executive Daniel T. Murphy, and James P. Dickerson created the nonprofit agency, the Oakland County Commission of Economic Opportunity (OCCEO) to serve Oakland County, Michigan. In 1965, the new agency received its first Federal grant, $77,000 from the Office of Economic Opportunity. This money allowed the opening of OCCEO's central office in Pontiac, Michigan and the hiring of James M. McNeely as its first executive officer. During its first 10 years, OCCEO served the Oakland County community in an effort to eliminate the causes and consequences of poverty. In 1975, OCCEO began serving Livingston County and the agency's name was changed to the Oakland Livingston Human Service Agency (OLHSA). Today, OLHSA's mission is to enable the low income, elderly, and people with disabilities living in Oakland and Livingston Counties to become self-sufficient. Over the years, OLHSA has worked to reduce poverty by focusing all available resources toward helping low income individuals and families acquire the skills and knowledge they need to improve their personal quality of life. Today, the agency operates 74 programs, employs 575 people, and has an annual budget of more than $30 million. The work OLHSA has done for our community is truly remarkable. I had the opportunity to see their good work first-hand last year when I celebrated National Homeownership Month with families that OLHSA had helped. Through OLHSA's sponsored home-buying counseling classes, families participated in eight weeks of counseling and education designed to deal with budget and credit issues. This led them to their ability to qualify for an affordable mortgage and make their homeownership dreams come true. This is just one example of the many programs that OLHSA provides to our citizens. Mr. Speaker, I commend the contributions that OLHSA has made over the past 40 years to our community and wish them continued success.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Judge Richard D. Kuhn recognize his civic duty and 32 years of judicial service in Oakland County, Michigan. Judge Kuhn learned of law early in life as a Congressional Page in the U.S. Congress. Later, after completing an undergraduate degree from Michigan State University he received his Juris Doctor from the Detroit College of Law. He was a successful small businessman and quickly found himself immersed in local politics. He was a Republican nominee for offices at the local, county, state and federal level. He contributed to the writing of the state constitution as a delegate to the Michigan Constitutional Convention. Highly respected by his colleagues, Judge Kuhn's 32 years of service on the bench include three terms as Chief Judge in addition to working as the supervising judge of a Citizens Grand Jury. In both of these positions he was elected by his contemporaries, showing his valued opinion and expertise. Judge Kuhn led both community and professional organizations. He was a past director of both the Optimist and Kiwanis Clubs of Pontiac, Michigan. He was Chairman of the Board of the Central United Methodist Church in Waterford, Michigan. He is the past president of the Detroit College of Law Alumni Association. In addition, he has led numerous local Bar Associations. In service to the state of Michigan, he served on former governor John Engler's Criminal Justice Advisory Council. Judge Kuhn is a member of the State Bar of Michigan, Oakland County Bar Association, and both the Michigan and American Judges Association. He is also a loving husband, father and grandfather. Mr. Speaker, Judge Richard D. Kuhn, highly regarded for his judicial integrity, is deserving of this recognition for his professional and dedicated service as Oakland County, Michigan's Circuit Court Judge.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate a constituent of mine, Hayes Wendell Jones. This year marks the 40th anniversary of his gold medal victory in the 1964 Summer Olympics. Since then, Mr. Jones has succeeded in business and been a dedicated servant to our community. Hayes Jones went to Pontiac, MI, schools and became a student athlete at Eastern Michigan University. To help pay his way through college, he mopped floors and washed dishes. As an athlete, he was considered too short for hurdles, but through hard work and determination, Hayes became a worldclass track sprinter and hurdler. In 1960 at the Rome Summer Olympic Games, he finished third to win the bronze medal. Four years later, in 1964 at the Tokyo Summer Olympic Games, Hayes won the gold medal in the 110-meter hurdles. There is no question that Hayes Jones is a track and field legend. He is a member of the Helms Athletic Hall of Fame in Los Angeles; the Michigan Hall of Fame; the Eastern Michigan Athletic Hall of Fame; the National Track and Field Hall of Fame; and the Pontiac Central High School Hall of Fame. Hayes has also been successful in business, using his athletic experience to learn about different cultures and backgrounds. He understands that good business is really about building and maintaining good relationships. He is currently a Senior Business Development Representative for Oakland County, Michigan. As an Oakland County resident, I can say we are lucky to have him serving the county. Hayes should also be recognized for his selfless acts to the community. He has parlayed his athletic and business success into community service. He serves as chair of the volunteer committee of the Arts League of Michigan and is on the board of directors for Dominican High School and Academy in Detroit. He is former board chair of the Pontiac Chamber of Commerce and former economic development committee chair for the Oakland County Business Roundtable and the Pontiac Area Urban League. In addition, he has served on the board of trustees for North Oakland Medical Center and the Clinton Valley Boy Scouts. Hayes has even donated his gold medal to the city of Pontiac, MI, to inspire youngsters to achieve their dreams. He has given them the opportunity by organizing a track and field program, ``The Junior Olympics,'' for students in Pontiac middle schools. Just as importantly, he has worked to ensure their education by serving as a school board member for the Pontiac School District. Mr. Speaker, on this fortieth anniversary of Hayes winning an Olympic gold medal, I commend and thank him for his service and dedication to our community.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I think that it is very appropriate that we do pay tribute to the gentleman from Florida (Chairman Young). Mr. Speaker, I yield the balance of my time to the gentleman from Florida (Chairman Young) and ask unanimous consent that he be allowed to yield time.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material and that I may include tabular material on H.R. 4837.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I consider it a distinct honor to be here today to present H.R. 4837, the fiscal year 2005 Military Construction appropriations bill. I am grateful to the conferees in both parties in both Houses for acting together in unison to produce an effective piece of legislation that I think we can all be proud of. It is important to understand that this bill is not about lawmakers in Washington. H.R. 4837 is about people, specifically the soldiers, sailors, Marines, airmen and their families who serve this great country. We must never forget their selfless service. I firmly believe this bill reflects our commitment to their continued sacrifice. First, I would like to thank the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Young) for his continued unwavering support. The gentleman truly understands the importance of this bill and has laid a solid foundation on how to construct this successful legislation. The gentleman from Florida (Mr. Young) is a great advocate for our men and women in uniform, and his position is reflected in our final product. I would also like to commend the ranking member, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Edwards), on the subcommittee who has been doing great work. We have worked together for some time now, and it is a pleasure to have an association with him. Both he and the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Obey), whom I also salute, give the committee, I think, some real leadership and some dedicated advice and counsel, and I sincerely value the advice and wisdom they have given me. They lend a great deal to military construction matters. The 2005 Military Construction appropriations bill totals $10 billion and is in full compliance with the subcommittee's 302(b) allocation for both budget authority and outlays. It is both fiscally responsive and responsible, and it is focused on the quality-of-life needs of servicemembers and their families. Some key funding highlights in this bill include $5.5 billion for military construction; $4.1 billion for family housing; $82 million for chemical demilitarization construction; $246 million for the base realignment and closures account. H.R. 4837 also includes funding for family housing privatization projects. Housing privatization is one of the most critical and successful programs to support military families in years. Few programs rival the effectiveness that privatization has demonstrated; yet Congress instituted a spending cap that placed this program in jeopardy. Although we worked closely with the authorizers to address this issue earlier this year, the subcommittee was not able to remove the cap through the appropriations process. However, I am proud to say because of the work of so many people that we now have authorization language to eliminate the cap altogether, paving the way to quality housing for military families for years to come. This was the right decision, and it was made for the right reasons; and I believe I can speak for all conferees when I say that we will continue to support family housing privatization initiatives in the future. In conclusion, this year's Military Construction appropriations bill continues to focus on our country's greatest treasure, that is, the servicemembers and their families who serve our Nation. By supporting this bill today, you are supporting our men and women in uniform. [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TH09OC04.035 [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TH09OC04.036 [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TH09OC04.037 [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TH09OC04.038 Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to the previous order of the House, I call up the conference report on the bill (H.R. 4837) making appropriations for military construction, family housing, and base realignment and closure for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2005, and for other purposes, and ask for its immediate consideration.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I just wanted to make sure that we did not omit thanks to the staff on both sides who have done tremendous work over the past several months, and I want to list those now. Obviously, Carol Murphy on the majority side and Tom Forhan on the minority side. Tom was in the hospital this week, so he could not be here, but they have been great to work with all year. In addition, let me salute Walter Hearne, Mary Arnold, Eric Elsmo, Jeff Onizuk on my staff, Bernard Chau on my staff, and of course I thank John Conger who has also been a part of this process. So to all of them, thank you very, very much. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Kentucky (Mr. Rogers), who obviously has some comments to make.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that it be in order at any time to consider the conference report to accompany the bill (H.R. 4837) making appropriations for military construction, family housing, and base realignment and closure for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2005, and for other purposes; that all points of order against the conference report and against its consideration be waived, and that the conference report be considered as read.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to take from the Speaker's table the bill (H.R. 4837) making appropriations for military construction, family housing, and base realignment and closure for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2005, and for other purposes, with a Senate amendment thereto, disagree to the Senate amendment, and agree to the conference asked by the Senate.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, the focus of the Jobs Action Team's ``Competitiveness Agenda'' this week is ending lawsuit abuse, and with good reason. The United States is the lawsuit capital of the world, and this puts American companies at a competitive disadvantage. Frivolous lawsuits are costing American businesses $129 billion each year. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce found the greatest impact is on small businesses--which contribute three-fourths of all new jobs, which face additional costs of $17,000 each year. This is unacceptable. The House of Representatives has responded by passing numerous legal reform bills. H.R. 4571, introduced by Representative Lamar Smith, passed the House yesterday. This bill provides for appropriate sanctions against those who file junk lawsuits. The Senate must act now. Americans should not have to fear life-ruining lawsuits. This should not be a country where individuals can file cases to get money wherever they can--many with no intention of going to court. Let's end lawsuit abuse now. Liability Costs for Small Business fast facts ``America's small businesses are the driving force behind our economic achievements, and the U.S. Chamber is proud to support and represent this country's small business owners.''--Thomas J. Donohue, president and CEO, U.S. Chamber of Commerce The total annual cost of the tort system to U.S. businesses (large and small) is $129 billion. Small businesses with $10 million or less in annual revenue bear 68 percent of that cost, paying $88 billion a year. Very small businesses ($1 million or less in annual revenue) bear 26 percent of the business cost, paying $33 billion a year. A small business with $10 million annual revenue pays about $150,000 a year in tort liability costs--money that could be used to hire additional employees. A small business with $1 million annual revenue pays about $17,000 a year in tort liability costs--money that could be used to expand or improve health benefits for employees. Very small businesses ($1 million or less in annual revenue) pay 44 percent of their tort liability costs ($15 billion) out-of-pocket, as opposed to through insurance. There are over 4.5 million U.S. small businesses with $10 million or less in annual revenue. There are about 3.8 million U.S. small businesses with $1 million or less in annual revenue. Small businesses contribute approximately three-quarters of all new jobs added to the economy. The Liability Costs for Small Business study was conducted for the U.S. Chamber Institute for Legal Reform by NERA Economic Consulting.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate Peter Vanderkaay, a resident of Oakland Township, Michigan, on his Olympic gold medal he won at the XXVIII Olympic Games in Athens, Greece. He has made all of us from Oakland County and Michigan proud. Peter won his gold medal on the men's 4 200 meter freestyle swimming relay team, swimming the third leg of the race. Peter and his teammates, Michael Phelps, Ryan Lochte, and Klete Keller, set a new American record on their way to beating Australia by 0.13 seconds. It is the first time an American Olympic team has won this race since 1996. Peter was a standout in high school swimming for Rochester Adams High School where he earned four varsity letters. He is a Michigan State champion in the 200 yard freestyle and a two-time Michigan State champion in the 500 yard freestyle. He was also selected as the 2002 Oakland Press Scholar Athlete of the Year. Peter will return to the University of Michigan this fall as a junior and will continue to swim for the school and Club Wolverine. His accomplishments are overwhelming and impressive, especially considering it has only taken him two years to reach these achievements. Peter is a seven-time NCAA All-American, was the 2004 Co-Big Ten Conference Swimmer of the Year, the 2003 Big Ten Conference Freshman of the Year, and a six-time Big Ten Champion. Being a world-class swimmer takes dedication and resolve. It takes sacrifice and long hours of practice. It is not always immediately rewarding and there are many challenges before becoming a champion. I commend Peter on his determination. I also realize raising a swimmer is not easy and that is why Peter's parents, Mark and Robin, deserve recognition for their hard work over the years. In fact, they have raised four swimmers; Peter's brothers Christian, Alex and Dane are accomplished swimmers in their own right. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Peter Vanderkaay on his Olympic success and wish him all the best in his future endeavors, both in and out of the pool.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I agree wholeheartedly with the substance of what he is saying because we have been down that road so many times and had those discussions. The problem is I do not want to stop this bill from moving forward, and that is exactly what we would be doing as much as taking on a risk that we are not clear about what the resolution will be. This motion would require the bill to go back to committee and would slow down the many important programs that we are trying to help. For this reason alone I must oppose this motion.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, reclaiming my time, I appreciate what the gentleman said. I also take it from what he just said that he is going to be a player in this process as we go forward.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, could we come to the conclusion that it would resolve the problem and also eliminate the cap?