Leonard Lance

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to urge rejection of the underlying Iranian agreement. The President did not submit to Congress two inspection side agreements secretly negotiated between the IAEA and Iran. Congress and the American people have no information on what these secret side agreements entail, although news reports have suggested that Iran will be able to inspect at least some of its own military facilities. Under the underlying agreement, the world's leading state sponsor of terrorism--an antagonist of the United States, of Israel, and of several Arab nations, a 35-year-old regime known for horrible human rights abuses--will receive at least $100 billion immediately, some of which will undoubtedly be used for terrorism. A better underlying agreement can be negotiated, making sure Iran does not acquire nuclear weapons or ICBMs whose only purpose can be militaristic. It is important to note that a clear majority of the American people and a clear majority of both houses of Congress-- Republicans and some Democrats, together the representatives of the American people--oppose this deal. This is the most consequential vote I shall cast as a Member of Congress on foreign policy since I have been privileged to be here. I urge rejection of the Iranian agreement, which is not in the best interests of the national security of the United States.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Chairman, this is the way Congress should work, in a bipartisan capacity. In my 5 years on the committee, this is the most significant piece of legislation to be voted out of the committee unanimously. To those of us who are listening on C-SPAN this evening, this is what the American people demand of Congress, bipartisan cooperation. This bill will save countless lives not only in this country, but across the globe. I am so pleased it includes language coauthored by Congresswoman Anna Eshoo of California and me exempting future Food and Drug Administration user fees from sequestration. I urge an extremely positive vote tomorrow. I hope that all of our colleagues will support this to indicate to the Senate of the United States that it should move forward as well so that the legislation can reach the desk of the President of the United States.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the distinguished gentlewoman from Florida for her magnificent service regarding the foreign policy of this country and her continued expertise that is of benefit to the entire Nation. In the coming days, the American people and those of us in Congress will be able to scrutinize an anticipated agreement between Iran and the P5+1 countries and Iran's nuclear weapons program. Congress will debate and consider the administration's proposal, and I will be looking to ensure that any agreement achieves the paramount goal that Iran will never get nuclear weapons. A nuclear Iran would fundamentally change the international dynamic and put the United States and our allies, including Israel, in extreme peril. The balance of power in the world would slip away from those who have given blood and treasure in the fight for freedom and justice, while rewarding the perpetrators of some of the most heinous crimes against humanity. The principle of peace through deterrence would be compromised and the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty would be a footnote in history as rival and regional powers race to acquire their own nuclear weapons. A nuclear arms race will be yet another element of unpredictability in the world's most volatile region. I do not oppose any agreement; I oppose a bad agreement. Sanctions brought Iran to the table, and sanctions will keep Iran there. Any deal that needlessly surrenders that valuable leverage in the name of taking Iran's word is a bad agreement. There is simply not the trust that state sponsors of terror will suddenly and uncharacteristically prove to be honest. As Ronald Reagan famously said, ``Trust, but verify.'' That was true then; it is as true now as then. It is certainly true regarding Iran. A successful nuclear agreement must include tangible Iranian concessions. Steps to dismantle its nuclear infrastructure, a commitment to a robust inspections regime, and a cease to its dubious terror-related activities must be included in any agreement. The entire world will be watching, not only the 315 million people of this country, but certainly the people in the Middle East, which is extremely dangerous. This matter of great consequence will have far-reaching ramifications, and certainly, I hope that the President, the Secretary of State, and the administration will heed the bipartisan concerns that exist here in Congress. The President reluctantly signed the legislation that reached his desk. That was an expression of the will of the American people through elected Representatives here and in the other House of Congress, overwhelming in its nature; and certainly, I hope that the President and Secretary of State and the administration will recognize that the American people are deeply concerned about what appears to be the parameters of an agreement. There is still time to reach a better agreement. Let me repeat, no agreement is superior to a bad agreement, as Prime Minister Netanyahu stated in this Chamber this spring. I hope that Iran will come meaningfully to the table. I hope that Iran will cease its terrorist activities across the globe. I hope Iran will recognize that, if it were to achieve nuclear weapons, it would be the beginning of a situation with unintended consequences for the Middle East, the most dangerous part of the world; terrible consequences for our friend and ally, a country that believes in democracy, Israel; terrible consequences for other Arab nations, including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and places beyond that; and that we want to live in peace with the Iranian people. The Iranian people are a great people, a talented people, a well- educated people; and certainly, I hope that the people of Iran recognize that it is not in their best interest that their leaders develop nuclear weapons. Again, I commend with every breath I take the superb work of the gentlewoman from Florida. I am pleased to be able to join with her and with others this evening to caution that we must ensure a strong agreement and, if that is not possible, then no agreement at all.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of repealing the medical device tax, a burdensome tax on medical devices that increases costs, stifles investment, slows the race for cures, and ultimately makes health care more expensive for patients. The tax has resulted in less spending on research and development, escalating costs on the newest technologies, a reduction in capital investments, and, ultimately, is a factor in the loss of jobs in our Nation's vital life science sector, which is critical to keeping the United States a leader in the world and is crucial to my home State of New Jersey. One of the major newspapers in our area editorialized recently in support of our efforts, the Easton Express-Times, pointing out that the medical device tax is having a depressing effect on a sector of the economy that until recently was doing well. Some are looking to relocate overseas. I thank my close friend, Congressman Erik Paulsen of Minnesota, and the Ways and Means Committee for sponsoring this legislation. I urge the House to pass repeal of the medical device tax and work with our Senate colleagues to send this measure to the President.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life and 37 year military career of Major General Robert G. Kenny of Bethlehem Township, New Jersey and his dedication to the Nation. Born in New Brunswick, New Jersey in 1956, and a graduate of Rutgers University and Seton Hall Law School, Major General Robert G. Kenny deserves our sincerest thanks as he retires as the Mobilization Assistant to The Judge Advocate General of the Air Force, Headquarters United States Air Force on July 1, 2015. Major General Kenny's initial active duty assignment was with the 366th Tactical Fighter Wing, Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho from January 1982 to July 1984. He served as the Chief of Claims, Chief of Civil Law, Chief of Military Justice and the Area Defense Counsel. Major General Kenny separated from active duty and became a member of the Air Force Reserve attached to Headquarters Air Force District of Washington, Bolling Air Force Base, Washington, DC, serving as an IMA from June 1987 to January 1992. Additionally, he became an adjunct member of the faculty of the Judge Advocate General School, Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama where he was an instructor for the Advanced Trial Advocacy Course. Major General Kenny transferred to the Category A Program and became the Deputy Staff Judge Advocate of the 514th Air Mobility Wing, McGuire Air Force Base in January 1992. In June of 1998, he became the Staff Judge Advocate. He received the Reginald C. Harmon Award naming him the Outstanding Reserve Judge Advocate of the Air Force in 1998. He was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel on 27 July 1999. He deployed to Southwest Asia in support of Operation Southern Watch on four occasions from 1998 to 2001. He also deployed during September and October 2001 and served as the 60th Air Expeditionary Group Combat Support Squadron Commander at a classified location and Al Udeid AB during Operation Enduring Freedom. He was the Senior IMA to HQ 21AF/JA from 1 April 03 to 30 Sept 03; Senior IIMA to HQ 18AF/JA from 1 October 2003 to 6 January 2005; Senior IMA to HQ AETC/JA from 7 January 2005 to 31 January 2006, Senior IMA to AFLOA/CC from January 2006 to January 2007; Mobilization Assistant to AMC/JA from January 2007 to April 2008; and, Mobilization Assistant to the Deputy Judge Advocate General from April 2008 to October 2010. Most notably, General Kenny also Performed the Duties of the Judge Advocate General (PDOTJAG) from March 2014 until May 2014. He has been awarded the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal (3 OLC), Air Force Commendation Medal (3 OLC), Air Force Achievement Medal (1 OLC), Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (2 OLC), Air Force Organizational Excellence Award, Air Force Recognition Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal (1 BS), Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, Air Force Longevity Service (5 OLC), Armed Forces Reserve Medal (M Device/Silver X), Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, and the Air Force Training Ribbon. He also was honored as the 1998 Reginald C. Harmon Outstanding Reserve Judge Advocate of the Year. In his civilian capacity, Major General Kenny is a senior partner with the firm Hoagland, Longo, Moran, Dunst & Doukas in New Brunswick, New Jersey where he is a Chief Litigation Counsel. Today I rise to share Major General Robert G. Kenny's tremendous accomplishments and dedicated public service with the House of Representatives. I extend my gratitude to his wife, Kathy, and his three daughters, LeAnne, Michelle and Jacqueline, and I sincerely thank the Major General for his lifetime of service and leadership.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the Rotary Club of Hillsborough for 60 years of tremendous humanitarian service. Rotary has been a major part of community life in Hillsborough. Rotary International is a global network of community volunteers with reach and influence across many spheres of interest, from service and volunteerism to promoting public health education. Rotary is one of the largest and most influential international service organizations worldwide. Rotary members, from New Jersey to the developing world, conduct projects to address today's humanitarian challenges, including illiteracy, disease, hunger, poverty and lack of clean water while encouraging high standards in all vocations. Rotary members strive to build goodwill and the members of the Rotary Club of Hillsborough are known ambassadors for dedicated public service. The Rotary Club of Hillsborough has accomplished numerous projects to improve the lives of individuals needing assistance. Through annual fundraising events and community building activities, Rotary outings have assisted the Hillsborough Food Pantry, Homes For Hope, veterans services, families, those with special needs and projects in the public schools. Rotary has played a role in making Hillsborough what it is today--a wonderful place to build a life, raise a family and retire. Service above self is vital to Rotary and the members of the Rotary Club of Hillsborough have for 60 years been a pillar of community spirit in Hillsborough.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Will the gentleman yield?

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Chairman, I thank Mr. Pascrell for his leadership on this issue, as he has led on so many other issues. I also thank Chairman Frelinghuysen. It is due to Chairman Frelinghuysen's leadership on this legislation that we stand well-equipped to keep our Nation safe and secure. The Vets4Warriors program has saved lives in New Jersey. It has made a great difference during very challenging times for servicemen and servicewomen. Their peers offer support and a friendly ear at a time when it matters most. Their voices of encouragement, friendship, and support on the other end of the telephone remind our brave heroes of their great potential, the love of a grateful nation, and what they can accomplish in their lives. The program has been proven effective. Thousands of veterans have received critical care and assistance. It works and it should be maintained. The statistics on veterans' suicides are heartbreaking, but programs like Vets4Warriors are the types of efforts that we can implement to make a lasting difference. I thank Lloyd Deans of Bridgewater, New Jersey, and the district I serve for his support and leadership in this area, and for fighting for this program and for being a great friend and resource to other veterans. I urge adoption of the amendment.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the public service of the Honorable Mary H. Melfi, County Clerk of Hunterdon County, New Jersey who is celebrating her sixtieth birthday. Mary is currently serving in her second five year term as County Clerk, where she has built a reputation as a trusted resource for information, manager of public affairs and public servant. Mary oversees a tremendous operation, managing numerous departments and programs that deliver community services at the speed of the 21st century. Her style brings dependability to this important constitutional office and her management has instituted greater accessibility and transparency of critical governmental functions for constituents. To the benefit of residents, businesses and taxpayers, public information is readily available and put to good use for County projects. The County Clerk is the chief election officer and master pollworker in charge of overseeing the essential process of administering free and fair elections. This major undertaking includes the oversight of dozens of election districts, numerous polling machines and poll workers and thousands of ballots cast in each election--both in-person and through the mail. Mary has lived her life in Hunterdon County, growing up in Lebanon Borough and graduating from North Hunterdon Regional High School. Her public service started with membership on the Flemington Borough Planning Board and Board of Adjustment. She was elected to serve on the Borough Council for 12 years. I thank and congratulate the Honorable Mary H. Melfi for her work for the residents of Hunterdon County and wish her continued professional success, good health and happiness.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Chairman, 3 weeks ago, the tragic Amtrak accident in north Philadelphia led to deaths, injuries, and destruction. Those who were injured included two of my constituents with whom I had been meeting with earlier in the day here in Washington. While the circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation, we do know that certain measures can be taken to ensure safety and preparedness, and changes can be implemented moving forward for public safety. Inward-facing cameras are an appropriate step in modernizing train transportation safety. The National Transportation Safety Board has been advocating for this simple and relatively inexpensive reform for years. I urge support of Mr. Dent's amendment to bring this reform to fruition.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the distinguished public service of Joseph Houck, who retires after 30 years with the Summit Fire Department including seven years as Fire Chief and Director. Chief Houck obtained an Associate in Applied Science Degree in Fire Science Technology from Union County College. He is a graduate of the National Fire Academy's Executive Fire Officer Program and also completed the New Jersey's Certified Public Manager Program and received a Bachelor of the Arts Degree in Public Administration from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Chief Houck started with the Summit Fire Department in 1985 as a volunteer firefighter and became a career firefighter in 1987. Due to his dedication and skill he became a recognized leader in the department and was promoted to Lieutenant in 1995, Battalion Chief in 2000, Deputy Chief in 2005 and Chief and Director in 2008. In addition, Chief Houck served as a New Jersey State Fire Instructor and was the City of Summit's Fire Official. During his accomplished tenure, Chief Houck achieved a number of significant accomplishments in service to the City of Summit and in the name public safety. The Summit Fire Department was accredited by the Center on Fire Accreditation International--the only Fire Department in the state to earn such recognition--and the Department's reputation for professional and timely service improved under his stewardship. He managed numerous disaster responses, including Hurricane Sandy, and was a vital part of the City's emergency management team. His insight, guidance and experience proved extremely valuable during challenging times. Chief Houck has also been a member of the New Jersey Career Fire Chiefs Association and has been its liaison to the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness Emergency Services Sector, a member of the International Association of Fire Chiefs and served on its Emergency Management Committee working on interstate mutual aid plans. I wish Chief Houck many years of happiness in his retirement spent with his wife, Irene, and his children. I thank him for his dedicated public service.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the incorporation of the town of Clinton in Hunterdon County, New Jersey. Established as a separate municipality in 1865, Clinton has a rich history and is known for its natural beauty and sense of community. The 2010 Census counted the town's population at 2,719. As the recently deceased Clinton town historian and longtime mayor, Allie McGaheran, has written, the area was settled on the convergence of two rivers, the Spruce Run and the south branch of the Raritan, surrounded by excellent farmland, attracting English and German settlers. One of those settlers, David McKenny, built two mills directly across the river from each other. These treasured mills--the first dating to 1810--now the Red Mill Museum Village and the Hunterdon Museum of Art, were owned by Daniel Hunt, the namesake of the town's first moniker, Hunt's Mill. These mills have been the center of Clinton's economic and cultural life for two centuries. Later, mill owners John Taylor and John Bray championed renaming the town after DeWitt Clinton, the builder of the Erie Canal and Governor of New York. A limestone quarry, located immediately behind the Red Mill, brought another wave of settlers, including Irish immigrants crossing the ocean to establish a better life for themselves and their families in the new world. The present municipal building, a handsome Victorian structure, was the residence of John Leigh, a brick maker and farmer who served as the town's second mayor. The Lehigh Valley Railroad provided passenger and freight access, contributing greatly to the growth and wealth of the town in the 19th century. Clinton has a large historic district that is on the State and national historic registers. There are five historic sites: the two mills; the music hall that entertained generations of residents; the original Grandin Library, named for artist and philanthropist Elizabeth Grandin in the last century; and the quarry. The 150th anniversary of Clinton is being celebrated with parades, farmers' markets, art displays, performances, and other community events. I thank and congratulate Megan Jones-Holt for her work as chair of the 150th anniversary committee. She and her husband, former mayor and current Hunterdon County Freeholder Matt Holt, do so very much for the town civically. Clinton is governed by the town form of government, with a mayor and six council members. Mayor Janice Kovach and the governing body of the town are greatly involved in the yearlong festivities. Clinton is served by a dedicated volunteer fire company and rescue squad. Its beautiful and historic churches are an integral part of the community. The Clinton-Glen Gardner School District educates children through the eighth grade. High school students attend North Hunterdon High School in neighboring Clinton Township, one of our State's strongest public elementary and secondary schools. My twin brother, Jim, and I are proud graduates of the high school. My own family has been involved in the history of Clinton for many generations. My great uncle was president of the local bank, and my father practiced law in the town for 70 years. In his essay, ``The Inspiration of Clinton,'' Stephen Shoeman notes: ``Everybody in Clinton smiles. Everybody is friendly. America is beautiful because of Clinton, New Jersey, and the other towns and villages just like it.'' This year's celebration comes 1 year after the tricentennial of Hunterdon County, a yearlong retelling of Hunterdon County's storied founding and its 300-year journey in advancement from the English colonies in North America to its present-day status as one of America's premier places to live and work. Clinton's history is ingrained in the fabric of Hunterdon County. We have also just celebrated New Jersey's 350th anniversary. Public-spirited residents have worked to keep Clinton beautiful and the epitome of small-town American life. Their efforts maintain a charming and vibrant merchant district, excellent public schools, meaningful cultural events, and significant engagement in public affairs. The town of Clinton thrives on neighborly camaraderie. I am deeply honored to represent the town here in the House of Representatives. And all who love Clinton congratulate the town on its landmark celebration.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the public service of the Honorable Nancy F. Munoz, Assemblywoman for New Jersey's 21st Legislative District, as she is honored by the Somerset County Federation of Republican Women as the recipient of its Millicent Fenwick Award for Outstanding Public Service. Nancy's career as a dedicated public servant started with her interest in public health. She was graduated from Skidmore College with a bachelor's degree in nursing and later earned a master's degree from Hunter College as a clinical nurse specialist. She worked as a nurse in surgical intensive care at Yale-New Haven Hospital and also worked at Massachusetts General, Lenox Hill Hospital Emergency Room and Memorial- Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Nancy took an important role in the public school system of Summit, New Jersey where her five children, Wills, Eric, Alex, Elizabeth and Max were educated. Nancy was active in the Parent Teacher Associations at Summit's elementary, middle and high school. Her late husband, Eric, was a renowned trauma surgeon, member of the Summit Common Council and member of the New Jersey General Assembly. In 2009 Nancy was elected to complete Eric's unexpired term in the General Assembly following his passing. Nancy is an outstanding legislator, championing causes important to Eric and forging ahead on new endeavors of significance to her and the 21st Legislative District. Her expertise as a health care professional has led to Nancy's service on the Assembly Health and Senior Services Committee. She also sits on the Assembly Commerce and Economic Development Committee as well as the Assembly Committee on Women and Children. Nancy is a defender of those who cannot defend themselves. One of her most significant accomplishments was her work in securing passage of the Jessica Lunsford Act, which increased penalties on sexual offenders and the people who harbor them. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of New Jersey, the Honorable Stuart Rabner, has also appointed Nancy to the Supreme Court Ad Hoc Committee on Domestic Violence Resources. Her accomplishments and dedication have been recognized by her Assembly colleagues who have selected Nancy as the Deputy Republican Leader. The Millicent Fenwick Award for Outstanding Public Service is awarded to a role model for women who serve in the tradition of the late Congresswoman Fenwick: never compromise your principles, do what was in the best interests of your constituents and be of service to those in need. I congratulate Assemblywoman Nancy F. Munoz on this well-deserved recognition.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the public service of the Honorable Patricia Walsh, member of the Somerset County Board of Chosen Freeholders, as she is honored by the Boy Scouts of America during the 2015 Tribute to Women Awards. Freeholder Walsh has for years been a dedicated public servant to the Somerset County community and her native Green Brook. Her many accomplishments and contributions to the county, its residents and New Jersey have improved the lives of many. As a member of the Somerset County Board of Chosen Freeholders, she has held various positions, including director of board, deputy director and liaison to many community programs and departments serving the 21 municipalities in Somerset County. Prior to her service as a Freeholder, Pat was Mayor of Green Brook and a member of the governing body. Freeholder Walsh has been of service to many public interest groups and volunteer organizations, political campaigns and party political activities and has earned numerous awards honors for her time and service to each. Freeholder Walsh and her colleagues on the Board of Chosen Freeholders have worked tirelessly for years to ensure that Somerset County is a wonderful place to live and raise a family. Their management of the county finances, parks, health care system, education and public works has made Somerset one of the best counties in America. I congratulate Patricia Walsh for her well-earned recognition.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the distinguished public service of the Honorable David L. Hughes, who retired earlier this year after 41 years as the City Clerk and Secretary to the Mayor and Common Council of Summit, New Jersey. During his record tenure, David achieved a number of significant accomplishments in service to the City of Summit. David oversaw the transformation of the City Clerk position, bringing community services into the 21st century and instituting greater accessibility and transparency. To the benefit of residents, downtown merchants and taxpayers, public information is readily available and put to good use for City projects. David was an integral part of the coordination of City business, reviewing all matters before the Council's consideration, securing legal and background information from stakeholders and forming advisory opinions so that elected officials could make the most informed decisions. He also managed the municipal elections--a major undertaking including the oversight of 25 election districts, numerous polling machines and poll workers and thousands of ballots cast in each election. Due to his years of service and trusted counsel, David and his office became an encyclopedia of City history, local ordinances and best practices. I join elected officials from both parties and countless Summit residents in considering David a very thoughtful public servant. I wish David many years of enjoyment in his retirement spent with, his wife, Maria, and his children. I thank him for his dedicated public service.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following: Whereas, the State of Israel has flourished to become the preeminent democracy in the Middle East and today celebrates 67 years of independence; and Whereas, Israel has been a dedicated partner to the United States, working with our Nation and other allies to build peace collaboratively and work toward common interests and goals including the safety, security and freedom of all people around the world; and Whereas, Our Nation must continue to protect, strengthen and promote our close friend and ally Israel as we strive to achieve greater stability in the Middle East and around the world; and Whereas, At 67, despite tremendous challenges, Israel demonstrates continually that principle and motivation are transforming forces allowing Israel to thrive; now, therefore, be it Resolved that the Honorable Leonard Lance, the Honorable Peter Roskam, the Honorable Doug Lamborn and the Honorable Lee Zeldin, Members of the House of Representatives and co-chairmen of the House Republican Israel Caucus, join Israel in celebration of its Independence Day.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the distinguished public service of the Honorable Thomas Howard Kean, 48th Governor of New Jersey, who will become 80 years old next month. Governor Kean is one of the most respected statesmen in the country due to his tremendous contributions to the civic life of New Jersey and of the Nation. Governor Kean was born on April 21, 1935, in New York City, to Elizabeth Stuyvesant Howard and Robert Winthrop Kean. His father served for 20 years in the House of Representatives and became the ranking member on the Ways and Means Committee. His grandfather, Hamilton Fish Kean, was United States Senator from New Jersey. Historians can trace his family's long and proud history of public service to William Livingston, signer of the United States Constitution and the first Governor of New Jersey. Governor Kean was graduated from Princeton University in 1957, and after military service returned to Livingston, New Jersey, named for his ancestor. Governor Kean started his own career in public office with election to the New Jersey General Assembly in 1967. Known as a thoughtful and diligent legislator, he was elected to lead the chamber in 1972, when he became the youngest speaker of the general assembly in New Jersey history. Governor Kean's two successful campaigns for Governor of New Jersey were each of historical significance: in 1981, his election marked the closest margin of victory in State history, while his 1985 reelection was the largest margin of victory ever recorded in a gubernatorial race in our State. Mr. Speaker, New Jersey saw significant improvements to public education, environmental protection, access to high-quality health care, and stable taxing and spending policies during the Kean governorship. His most defining legacy was his record of inclusive public engagement that facilitated progress, compromise, and the advancement of the best interests of New Jersey. Following his time in Trenton, Governor Kean served for 15 years as president of Drew University in Madison, New Jersey, where applications, the physical structure, and the endowment increased dramatically. In the aftermath of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, President Bush turned to Governor Kean and former Indiana Congressman Lee Hamilton to chair the National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States. The two chairs led an exhaustive review of the intelligence, homeland security, and governmental response before and after the acts of terror perpetrated against this country. The 9/11 Commission's work and leadership drew bipartisan acclaim and resulted in major reforms to improve our Nation's security preparedness. The United States is safer today thanks to the tremendous work of Governor Kean and his colleagues. I had the honor to serve as an assistant counsel to Governor Kean in Trenton and am honored now to call him a constituent in the congressional district I serve. I have learned continually from Governor Kean, whether through observation or instruction, and I am among the many New Jerseyans who consider him a mentor. Governor Kean is a wonderful son and brother, husband, father and grandfather, educator, leader, colleague, and friend. He and his wife, the former Deborah Bye of Wilmington, Delaware, have raised three fine children, twin sons, Thomas and Reed, and daughter, Alexandra. His son, Thomas H. Kean, Jr., is my successor as minority leader in the New Jersey State Senate. On his 80th birthday, I congratulate Governor Thomas H. Kean and wish him many years ahead of good health and happiness. The United States of America owes him a significant debt of gratitude for all that he has done in service to the Nation.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Abraham Abuchowski, a constituent from Warren, NJ, for his contributions to the rare disease community, his important role in bringing innovative orphan therapies to market and his support of the biotechnology industry in New Jersey. Last month Dr. Abuchowski was presented with the Dr. Sol J. Barer Award for Vision, Innovation and Leadership. This award recognizes outstanding research and business leaders who have made and who continue to make significant contributions to the growth and prosperity of the biosciences industry in New Jersey and throughout the world. After receiving his doctorate from Rutgers University, Dr. Abuchowski went on to develop PEGylation, the most widely used protein drug delivery system in the world. He founded Enzon to commercialize the technology and it later became the first biotechnology company in New Jersey to obtain Food and Drug Administration approval of a product. Three decades later, New Jersey has become a leader in the biotechnology industry and our companies have secured more than thirty drug and medical device approvals in 2014 alone. Dr. Abuchowski is continuing his work to improve health outcomes for individuals affected by rare diseases and the company he currently leads, Prolong Pharmaceuticals, recently received an orphan drug designation from the Food and Drug Administration for a therapy he has been working on to treat sickle cell disease. I am proud of the contributions that Dr. Abuchowski has made to advance medical research and to develop innovative treatments for rare diseases in New Jersey and around the world. I ask my colleagues to continue to support rare disease research and treatment development to ensure affected individuals have access to innovative therapies and improved health outcomes.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. ``. . . to promote the progress of science and useful arts, by securing for limited times to authors and inventors the exclusive right to their respective writings and discoveries; . . .''

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to urge passage of H.R. 5739, the No Social Security for Nazis Act, which will correct an injustice of two generations and right a terrible wrong in the name of the lives that were lost as a result of the Holocaust. To think Nazis are receiving Social Security benefits derived from tax receipts of the American people is sickening and morally wrong. Today, Congress will move to put an end to it. This effort was originally championed in the 1990s by my predecessor from the district I have the honor of serving, the late Congressman Bob Franks, and I am proud to continue his effort and see this legislation pass on the floor of the House today. The United States, including my home State of New Jersey, stands in solidarity with the Jewish people, the State of Israel, and the decades-long struggle for peace in the world following the Nazi atrocities. This action is yet another step in demonstrating that our resolve for justice is unyielding and our commitment to pursue what is right continues even 70 years after World War II. I thank my colleague, Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney of New York City, for her leadership on this issue and for asking me to cosponsor the original bill that she had initiated. I also thank Congressman Sam Johnson and the Ways and Means Committee for taking up this effort. The world can never forget the hate and intolerance of the 1930s and 1940s that claimed the lives of millions of people of the Jewish faith and forever scarred the face of mankind. Let this effort be another chapter in the healing that has brought vigor to the pursuit of justice, attention and care to all human suffering and the work toward a world of greater understanding and peace. When given the chance to put an end to an egregious practice, we must act. I urge passage today of this important piece of legislation.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Dr. Clement Alexander Price, a shining figure in New Jersey society and culture, a respected professor and historian, and a beloved family member and friend, who died last week and leaves behind an extraordinarily distinguished record of public service. Dr. Price was a true ambassador for his beloved Newark, our State's largest city. He was a widely respected public intellectual whose eloquence and wisdom helped heal a city at a crossroads, educate the next generation of civic leaders, and shape the decisions that have advanced New Jersey. A native of the then-segregated Washington, D.C., Dr. Price rose to receive degrees from the University of Bridgeport and from Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, and spent his life in helping to transform America to a brighter, fairer, integrated society. As a Board of Governors Distinguished Service Professor at Rutgers Newark, Dr. Price's gifts as a teacher were valued by hundreds of students who sought him out as a mentor and by faculty and administration who respected his expertise and energy. Dr. Price was an accomplished author and the State's foremost authority on African American history. He wrote ``Freedom Not Far Distant, A Documentary History of Afro- Americans in New Jersey,'' and other works that explored the history of race and culture in Newark and in New Jersey. He most recently coauthored ``Slave Culture: A Documentary Collection of the Slave Narratives from the Federal Writers' Project.'' Dr. Price was also a major presence on the civic stage. President Obama appointed him as chair of his transition team for the National Endowment for the Humanities and as vice chair of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation. He was Newark's official historian. He chaired the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. He was a trustee of the Fund for New Jersey, the Newark Public Library, the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation, the Newark Education Trust, and the Save Ellis Island Foundation. He was chief historical consultant for the Jewish Museum's Exhibition, ``Bridges and Boundaries: African Americans and American Jews.'' He cofounded the Marion Thompson Wright Lecture Series, the oldest, largest, and most prestigious Black History Month event in the State. He was a member of the Scholarly Advisory Committee to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, Smithsonian Institution, which is currently being built here on The Mall in Washington. Dr. Price is survived by his wife, Mary Sue Sweeney Price, who is widely respected for her outstanding leadership for almost a generation as director and CEO of the Newark Museum, our State's greatest museum. My wife, Heidi, and I are grateful to have known Clement Price. We and the people of our State mourn his untimely passing. We extend our deepest sympathy to Mary Sue and to his legions of friends and admirers in Newark, in New Jersey, and across the United States. When he last visited me on Capitol Hill several months ago, he was, as usual, filled with optimism and good cheer. On behalf of the Congress of the United States, I celebrate the distinguished life of Dr. Clement Alexander Price in service to the Nation.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, ISIS poses a savage threat to the world, to Muslims and Christians in Iraq and Syria, to our allies, and to the United States. It has executed heinous acts of terror and violence and, tragically, will continue to do so. Allowing it to thrive unchallenged is not in the national interest of the United States of America. Today's vote is not a blanket authority but a thoughtful, detailed, and limited effort to confront ISIS. We cannot and should not do this alone. We need tangible support from a global coalition and will evaluate the commitment level in 3 months. The administration must continue to work to ensure that Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and other Islamic nations are involved in this multinational effort. Despite reservations and questions, in my judgment, we must take action. The threat is real, and ISIS must be confronted now. I support the McKeon amendment because it is thoughtful and it provides the experts here in Washington the authority they need to put together a clearly-defined, realistic strategy. This amendment does not authorize the use of military force; indeed, the amendment includes language that makes it explicitly clear that this is a train-and-equip authority and not an authorization for force. Mr. Speaker, I support this amendment, and, in the weeks and months to come, the House of Representatives must use its oversight powers under the Constitution to monitor this strategy and to demand changes as necessary.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, my thanks to Chairman Emeritus Barton for his leadership on this issue. Caller ID spoofing is growing at an alarming rate in this country. This new technology allows criminals to falsify deliberately the telephone number and the name relayed on caller ID information to make it appear as though those criminals are calling from our bank or our credit card company, or even from a governmental agency. Imagine that. I get a telephone call on my cell telephone, and under caller ID, I think it comes from my bank or my credit card company, or even worse, I suppose, from a local governmental agency. A recent case in New Jersey resulted in a resident's reportedly being scammed out of more than $5,500 by a caller, a criminal, falsely claiming to be a Federal tax agent attempting to collect back taxes. What a frightening experience for the innocent receiver of that telephone call. According to investigators, the victim's caller ID showed the number of the local police department. This has got to stop. Today's bipartisan legislation will strengthen and improve the Truth in Caller ID law to help protect consumers in a greater way from scammers, spammers, and unscrupulous telemarketers. I commend Chairman Emeritus Barton, of Ennis, Texas, Republican, and Congresswoman Grace Meng, Democrat, of Queens, New York, for their hard work and leadership on this issue. I want the American people to know that on the Energy and Commerce Committee, where Chairman Barton and I serve, more bipartisan legislation is passed out of that committee and reaches the floor of the House, and then goes over to the United States Senate and is passed in the United States Senate and goes to the President of the United States for his signature, than legislation from any other committee of Congress. Now, much of what we do on the Energy and Commerce Committee does not make the headlines because much of what we do is eminently bipartisan in nature. And that is the history of the committee, the oldest standing committee in the House of Representatives, having first been established in 1795. That is the tradition of bipartisanship, when the chairman, Mr. Barton was the chairman of that committee. It continues under the chairmanship of Mr. Upton of Michigan, and this includes the ranking member, Mr. Waxman, and the ranking member of the subcommittee. On both sides of the aisle we have a tradition on Energy and Commerce to make sure that our legislation is bipartisan in nature. I came to this issue as the result of the nefarious situation in New Jersey. I also came to this issue at the request of Congresswoman Meng of New York City, and I want to thank the Congresswoman for coming to me. I certainly believe that this legislation is in the interest of the American people. I urge all of my colleagues to vote for this consumer protection legislation.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise this morning to draw attention to the recent bipartisan accomplishments here in the House of Representatives. These efforts include passage of legislation to keep the Internet tax- free, a highway bill that will keep more than 700,000 construction workers on the job, a series of education bills that will give students and their families the tools they need to help make postsecondary education more accessible and affordable, and legislation that will reform the Veterans Administration. The House has also acted on an energy bill that would make it easier to ship our natural gas overseas, and put much-needed pressure on Russia, as well as a tax measure that will allow U.S. companies, large and small, to innovate, create jobs, and increase wages. These are just a few of the more than 300 House-passed bills, including more than 40 jobs bills, that wait for action in the Senate of the United States. These bipartisan measures would benefit American families and businesses. They all deserve an up-or-down vote in the United States Senate.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the accomplishments of Elizabeth Parker of Harding Township, New Jersey for her distinguished career in journalism and to congratulate her on receiving the esteemed Emma C. McKinney Award from the National Newspaper Association. Liz has been an important presence in the media for over 30 years, providing readers an insightful digest of news and thoughtful commentary that has helped shape the community. Liz has spent much of her career with the Recorder Community Newspapers, a premier outlet for New Jersey news and opinion. There she rose to the position of Editor, where under her leadership the Recorder's reach soon extended to 17 weekly newspapers serving the diverse constituencies of Morris, Somerset, Hunterdon and Essex Counties. She now serves as Co-Publisher and Executive Editor of the New Jersey Hills Media Group. Liz's leadership has been recognized nationally, most notably with her selection as President of the National Newspaper Association in 2010. She became only the fourth woman and second New Jerseyan in its 129-year history to lead the institution representing the interests of community newspapers. She also previously served as President of the New Jersey Press Association. Her passion for her community extends beyond the newsroom with her service on the boards for the Morris County Habitat for Humanity, Morristown Festival of Books and membership in the Rotary Club of Madison. I congratulate Elizabeth Parker on this well-deserved honor and thank her for the many years of dedicated public service to journalism in New Jersey and indeed the Nation.