Leonard Lance

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Mr. Doug Niece of Flemington, New Jersey, who passed away earlier this month at the age of 93. Mr. Niece was a long-time Cubmaster for Cub Scout Pack 61 in Flemington, where he served for more than 60 years and influenced the lives of more than 6,000 scouts. Mr. Niece was a beloved figure in the Boy Scout community and is believed to have been the longest-serving Cubmaster in the country when he retired from his scouting responsibilities in 2010. During the Boy Scouts of America 100th anniversary celebration, he was honored and recognized as one of the Top 100 Scouters in service to the Nation. Mr. Niece was professionally involved with Hunterdon County's two major newspapers, first the Republican and later the Democrat. In Flemington, he led the annual Christmas tree lighting and organized the traditional pre-dawn Christmas carolling with the Flemington Children's Choir School. He also served as a board member of the Jennie Haver Scholarship Fund, as a volunteer aide at Franklin Township School and an elder, deacon, Sunday School teacher and superintendent at Flemington Presbyterian Church. I had the great pleasure of knowing Mr. Niece and seeing many of his great contributions to the Flemington community. I know he will be missed by all who were influenced by his dedicated public service.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Thank you very much. Mr. Speaker, for those of us in the United States who value Israel, its people and its value--symbolic and real--these are heartbreaking times. Our world's most sacred lands are again brutalized by terror as evil tries to extinguish the Jewish state. Though we may be far in distance, our spirit, support, and resources are needed. The United States stands in solidarity with Israel and its fundamental right to defend itself. The ongoing crisis in Israel may feel a world away to some, but the significance cannot be understated: a free people and democratic ally of our Nation faces continued war by elements of hate and intolerance similar to those who have claimed the lives of millions, forever scarred the face of the Earth, and brought this battle to our shores 13 years ago. To know terror, look at their tactics. While Israel uses weapons to shield women and children, Hamas uses women and children to shield weapons. When Israel offers a cease-fire, Hamas orders more rocket launches. When Israel offers compromise, Hamas calls for more bloodshed. Israel needs and deserves the support of the world community, not a lecture from media commentators. If the United States were under daily rocket assault, assuredly, the press would not question our right to keep Americans safe. Many of us in Congress have worked together in a bipartisan fashion to support Israel. Look no further than the Iron Dome capability at the center of Israel's current defense apparatus. The Iron Dome has been the guardian of a people under siege, and it was constructed with the help of American ingenuity, American technology, and American funds. Countless other measures have sought to assist Israel, including legislation recently passed here in the House, to disrupt to the greatest extent possible international financing capabilities of terror networks. How can Israel negotiate with entities on a mission for its destruction? The answer is moral authority. Israel stands for peace, democracy, the rule of law, human rights, liberty, an eventual two- state solution, and peace through strength. In this time of great moral crisis, now is not the time for neutrality. Nearly 800 people proudly stood in solidarity with Israel earlier this month at the New Jersey headquarters of the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest as we rallied for Israel. Tonight, that same energy is here in Washington, where I join many other lawmakers in further conversation as how best the United States can assist our friend in need. Israel must never lose its resolve, its mission, its purpose, or forget its proud history, and the United States must support our great ally as it fights to preserve its very existence.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and public service of the Honorable Ralph Froehlich, who passed away earlier this week following more than 37 years as Sheriff of Union County, New Jersey. Sheriff Froehlich was one of the most respected law enforcement officials in the country. His life of public service began as a young man in the U.S. Marine Corps and later as a member of the Elizabeth, New Jersey Police Department for almost 20 years where he attained the rank of Lieutenant. First elected Sheriff in 1977, Ralph Froehlich was known for his passion to serve, exemplified by his work with children, teenagers and senior citizens. He holds the distinction of being the longest-serving County Sheriff in New Jersey state history. During his tenure as Union County's top law enforcement officer, Sheriff Froehlich received numerous commendations for his dedication to duty, including the New Jersey PBA Valor Award and Policeman of the Year Award. Always respected by his colleagues, he served four terms as president of the New Jersey Sheriffs' Association. Sheriff Ralph Froehlich was a beloved New Jersey public servant whose law enforcement expertise and professionalism will be deeply missed by the officers he commanded and the people he swore to protect and serve.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 6, the Domestic Prosperity and Global Freedom Act, championed by my friend and colleague on the Energy and Commerce Committee, Congressman Gardner of Colorado, a true leader in this area. This Act will help expedite approval of U.S. liquefied natural gas exports to our allies. The United States is experiencing a North American energy boom that analysts predict can produce enough natural gas to meet our domestic demands as well as that of our global allies, including Ukraine and other Eastern European nations currently at the mercy of Russian energy supplies. Expediting U.S. liquefied natural gas exports serves our national security interests as an aggressive Russian regime looks to expand power in former Soviet Union countries. This legislation helps our allies in eastern Europe and across the globe, while creating jobs here at home through private investment and economic opportunity essential to improving the American economy. As a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, I am proud to have helped bring this important energy global security measure to the floor today, and I urge all of my colleagues to support its passage. This is in the national security interest of the United States of America.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Boy Scout Troop 368 of Berkeley Heights, New Jersey for a recent act of heroism. During a hike through Harriman State Park, in New York State, these young men came across a woman who had injured her leg. The Scouts realized this women was in immediate need of assistance and through quick thinking, resourcefulness and training, successfully splinted her leg and attempted to relieve her of immediate pain. The Scouts also realized that she would be unable to navigate the mountain on her own and constructed a make-shift stretcher of two sturdy sticks and a tarp. Upon its completion, they used the stretcher to deliver the woman safely to her family waiting at the foot of the mountain. In accordance with the Boy Scout Oath, these young men meet their duty to other people: to help people in need and to lend a helping hand to make life easier for someone else. It was not until after they performed their duties that they were informed the woman they assisted was NBC News journalist Ann Curry. Ms. Curry has proudly thanked these Scouts in the media and brought them many deserving accolades. These young men proved themselves as Scouts and as citizens of high character and responsibility. I congratulate the Scouts of Boy Scout Troop 368 on a job well done.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, tonight, my colleagues and I rise to discuss a matter that has touched virtually every family America and is one of the great public health challenges of our time--or indeed, of any time--and that is the challenge of cancer, the diagnosis no person wants to hear and the battle no one should face alone. From those in treatment to those working toward prevention to friends and family dealing with the terrible illness of a loved one, everyone knows someone who has been afflicted with cancer. Cancer has been the great health menace of the last century. But now, here in the 21st century, medical advancement, innovative treatments, and the genius of many scientists and medical doctors are everyday bringing us closer to a cure. We await the advent of new technologies and of work here in Congress to deliver the tools and resources both to public and to private industry to spur the research and collaborations that will change the health of the world. It is my judgment that the United States is really the medical center of the entire world and that its brilliant medical doctors and scientists here in this country will lead the charge in the new century. Clinical oncologists are on the cutting edge of that research and are responsible for many of the advances in cancer care that are improving the lives and prognoses for many cancer patients. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, a group which represents nearly 35,000 oncology professionals across the world. When ASCO was founded in 1964, it dedicated itself to a challenging mission: a commitment to conquer cancer through research, education, prevention, and the delivery of high-quality patient care. When ASCO was founded, cancer was widely regarded as an untreatable disease, with fewer than one-half of patients alive 5 years after diagnosis. There was an undeniable stigma associated with a cancer diagnosis that left many patients to suffer in silence, with minimal support, and worse, few effective therapies. But because of the work of passionate advocates and tireless champions, the expertise of talented medical professionals, including those at the American Society of Clinical Oncology, today the survival rate is higher than two-thirds. Better cancer prevention and detection, improved care coordination, and the use of palliative care have proven to improve patients' quality of life dramatically and to increase survival rates dramatically. ASCO has put forward new technologies such as nanotechnology, medical imaging, and health information technology that are leading to entirely new ways to develop therapies. If these advances are fully realized, people with cancer will be able to receive more personalized and more effective treatment. In my work on the Energy and Commerce Committee, and particularly on its Health Subcommittee, I am sure that the wave of the future is personalized medical care. In a coordinated capacity, the members of the committee, and particularly of the subcommittee, are working together to create that new wave of the future regarding personalized medicine. Federal investments in cancer research have also resulted in a massive increase in the number and the quality of treatments available to cancer patients. I have the highest confidence in Dr. Francis Collins and his team at the National Institutes of Health. I have toured NIH's magnificent facility in Bethesda, the best of its kind on the face of the Earth. I can report that some of the best doctors, the greatest intellects, and dedicated professionals are working every day to course the future of medicine and tackle this terrible disease. We must continue our Nation's commitment to NIH to keep the United States as the global center of medical innovation. Yesterday, Mr. Speaker, the chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, Mr. Upton of Michigan, convened a roundtable with many of the most brilliant doctors regarding issues affecting the NIH. We were privileged that Dr. Collins joined us. But the work will not be done alone by public entities such as the Federal Government and NIH. In fact, great minds from across this Nation and around the world have brought their desire to rid the world of cancer to some of the finest companies on the forefront of this research. I am honored to say that many of these life science leaders in the medical and biopharmaceutical research and development field call the district I serve and the State I serve, New Jersey, home. There is work on cancer solutions every day in labs I have the honor of representing. The district I serve, Mr. Speaker, has more pharmaceutical and medical device employees than any other district in the United States. But that is not to say we are alone. There are magnificent facilities across this country. They will be described, I believe, by colleagues of mine this evening. I know there is great interest and commitment in the House of Representatives, as demonstrated by the participation this evening of distinguished Members, including Mr. Higgins of western New York. And certainly, without a doubt, Buffalo is one of the leading centers not only in this Nation but across the globe in medical technology and medical research, and extremely high-quality institutions of medical care. Of course, there is the work of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. Our committee has broad jurisdiction over Federal agencies and policies important to health care, to medical research, and to the life sciences sectors. I also have the honor of serving as the Republican chair of the Rare Disease Caucus, another mantle by which we discuss needs and ideas in the cancer support community. I am joined in that caucus with the Democratic chair, Congressman Crowley of the great city of New York. One of the major endeavors of the Energy and Commerce Committee will be to pursue an initiative of Chairman Upton's that he has titled, ``The 21st Century Cures,'' an effort that aims to accelerate the pace of cures and medical breakthroughs here in the United States. For the first time, Congress will take a comprehensive look at the full arc of accelerating cures, from the discovery of clues in basic science to streamlining the drug and device development process to unleashing the power of medicine in the treatment delivery phase. In one of the inaugural hearings this week, the incredible advancements in cancer research were discussed, and the great opportunities presented to advance new cures and treatments for other diseases were discussed. The committee will focus on the cycle of discovery, development, and delivery that saves lives. We, in Congress, want to work effectively and efficiently and ensure that there is no gap between 20th century science and the Washington regulatory process. ASCO is well-positioned for the type of 21st century science the committee is working to facilitate: accelerating the pace of clinical cancer research, establishing a new approach to therapeutic development and new technologies to obtain a greater understanding of cancer biology, and the needs that Congress and the administration are willing to work together for solutions to the market. Let me say, Mr. Speaker, that we are anxious to work with the administration, and we want to be a partner with the executive branch, making sure that we work as effectively as possible in fighting cancer. This is, by no means, a partisan matter; and, indeed, it goes beyond being a bipartisan matter. It is really nonpartisan in nature. Besides providing better outcomes for patients, benefits of more rigorous trial designs include the ability to design smaller and smarter clinical trials that can be conducted faster than larger trials that aim for smaller benefits for patients. These steps represent significant new momentum toward a 21st century research system that realizes the potential of precision medicine. As we personalize medicine in this country, it is based, in no small measure, on precision medicine; and this, again, is the wave of the future. On these critical public health issues, the public and private sector have worked together to make a difference in improving the highest quality of health care, the highest quality that the American people deserve. Congress is contributing by giving public research the 21st century tools to compete on the global stage and empowering private innovators to solve these great complexities in American laboratories. This is how Congress should work, together, on issues that make a lasting difference. Too often, Mr. Speaker, we are viewed as divisive, as overly partisan, as not coming together on the great issues confronting the American Nation. Let me make as clear as possible, on the fight against cancer, we are working closely together; and we are working with our partners in the nonprofit sector and our partners in the private sector. This is a three-legged stool. One of those legs--indispensable--is the involvement of the Federal Government, particularly through NIH, but through other agencies as well and through our oversight capacity here in Congress, making sure that drugs are brought to market as quickly as possible with, of course, recognizing that paramount is the safety of those drugs brought to market. ASCO and those of us in the Congress and leaders in the life science industries renew our commitment to the millions of patients and their families who will benefit from more timely access to innovative medical technologies. More than 40 years ago, President Nixon declared a war on cancer, and tremendous advances have been made from that initial declaration of war; but the war has not yet been fully won, and it is our responsibility, in our generation, to make sure we do as much as possible so that that war will be won. While we do not know the cure for all cancers, we do know that awareness is the best protection, and well-rounded care during and after treatment is the best therapy. These burdens often fall on loved ones. I am thankful for the families and the advocates whose challenges we may never understand fully, but whose commitment to loved ones is unyielding and inspiring. To ASCO and the other heroes of cancer care, I thank you for all that you have done and all that you will continue to do. We are here, in Congress, in a bipartisan capacity, to help give you the tools you need to succeed in the fight against cancer. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the distinguished gentleman from New York (Mr. Higgins).

Mr. LANCE. I thank the gentleman. Mr. Speaker, I now yield to the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. Fleischmann).

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the distinguished gentlelady from Texas.

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I think the impassioned remarks of my distinguished colleague from Texas are an indication of her tremendous advocacy on behalf of this issue, not only for her constituents, not only for all of the residents of the great State of Texas, but, indeed, for the entire American people. Mr. Speaker, my distinguished colleague from Texas spoke movingly about breast cancer. Yesterday, I spoke to a group of advocates dedicated to the treatment of breast cancer and working to ensure that women are educated about breast reconstruction surgery and care options following cancer treatments. These advocates, working out of love for their mothers, daughters, sisters, and wives, have championed the Breast Cancer Patient Education Act, which will take an educational approach to breast cancer treatment and allow women to have full access to their options. Since 1998, health care plans that offer breast cancer coverage have been required to provide breast reconstruction surgery and prostheses. Surprisingly, however, Mr. Speaker, recent studies report that up to 70 percent of women eligible for breast reconstruction following cancer treatment are not fully informed of their reconstruction and care options by their general surgeon, and this is particularly true in minority communities. Many of these advocates have been through great challenges personally, and I have heard both here in Washington and in my offices in New Jersey the stories of fear and insecurity that come with the diagnosis, as the distinguished gentlelady from Texas has indicated, and the despair of having so many questions and too few answers. I hope that at an early date the Congress will pass the Breast Cancer Patient Education Act to work to change that. In another area of cancer that we have not mentioned this evening, I have worked with colleagues on both sides of the aisle regarding pancreatic cancer, and I know oncologists are fighting hard against this very virulent form of cancer. The survival rate for pancreatic cancer, Mr. Speaker, unfortunately, has not increased in 40 years, and the 5-year survival rate, as I understand it, is 7 percent. It is incumbent upon those of us here in Congress to ensure that NIH and those involved in cancer research at the Federal level do as good a job as possible regarding pancreatic cancer. I acknowledge this evening all of those who are working in that area, as well. The ASCO founded 50 years ago has a great, great history over these last five decades, but much more needs to be done, and we will do it together. I conclude this evening, Mr. Speaker, on a personal note. I have a twin brother, and we lost our mother to breast cancer when we were 12 years old. Now, this was almost 50 years ago. Just think of the tremendous progress that has been made in the last 50 years, certainly with the leadership of the ASCO. But more progress needs to be made. And to all of us who have been affected, either personally or familially, based upon our family, regarding the issue of cancer, we stand here on the floor of the House to work together in this bipartisan capacity--and might I suggest nonpartisan capacity--to make sure that as we move forward we move forward together in what I know will be a successful fight. We will win the war against cancer. We will win it working together in the best traditions of the American Nation. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the dedicated public service of the Honorable Henry Y. Kuhl, a great patriot, family patriarch, public servant, businessman, and close friend, who for 35 years has served as chairman of the Hunterdon County Republican Committee. Henry will retire from his position this June, leaving a legacy that will stand the test of time in the history of New Jersey. Henry's love of country, our State, and Hunterdon County has served as the foundation of his beliefs and his devotion to our system of government in the United States, based on faith in God, respect for the individual, self-reliance, free enterprise, and service to the larger community. Henry's record as Republican county chairman is unparalleled. During his distinguished tenure, he has led an organization that has been overwhelmingly successful in producing winning majorities for Federal, State, county, and municipal candidates. Henry has also been a delegate to 10 Republican National Conventions, helping shape the direction of our party under the leadership of Presidents Nixon, Ford, Reagan, George H.W. Bush, and George W. Bush. I have known Henry my entire life. He is a respected mentor and ally, and our families' paths have crossed for more than a century. His late father, Paul Kuhl, and my late father, Wesley L. Lance, were lifelong friends. Henry's devotion to public service has been matched by his devotion to his family, church, community, and business. He and his beloved late wife, Elsa, raised two fine sons, who today are raising, with their spouses, their own families. A dedicated member of the Flemington Presbyterian Church, Henry has been involved in many charitable endeavors. He is a proud alumnus of Flemington High School and Rider University. His family's business, Kuhl Corporation, is a world leader in manufacturing egg washing and other patented equipment, based on the agricultural heritage of Hunterdon County and of the Kuhl family. When the Hunterdon County Republican Committee reorganizes following the June primary election, Henry will assume the role of chairman emeritus and continue to advance the causes to which he has dedicated his life. My wife, Heidi Rohrbach, joins me in thanking the Honorable Henry Y. Kuhl for his service to Hunterdon County and the State of New Jersey. I know that he will be an esteemed leader for many years to come, based on the great tradition of the American people: friend helping friend, neighbor helping neighbor, citizen helping citizen.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Kenneth Bateman, the President and Chief Executive Officer of Somerset Medical Center, who has been named Outstanding Citizen of the Year by the Somerset County, New Jersey, Business Partnership. Ken is a mainstay of the Somerset community where his contributions to the county, its residents and the New Jersey life sciences sector have improved the lives of many. Under his leadership, the Somerset Medical Center has experienced tremendous growth, expanding and encompassing new missions and endeavors that have made the facility a premier regional medical center. Ken and the Somerset Medical Center have invested in the community by building new state-of-the-art facilities which have made Somerset a healthier and better place to live and raise a family. I congratulate Kenneth Bateman for his well-earned recognition.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Thank you, Chairman Ryan. Mr. Chairman, I rise to support the Republican budget, which is a path to prosperity. It includes commonsense priorities and policies that will foster economic growth and job creation. This is a plan to balance the budget in 10 years and begin to pay down the national debt, and this is exactly what our economy needs. CBO says that, by reducing the deficit, our budget would promote economic growth. In stark contrast to budgets put forward by the President and by House Democrats, our budget will cut wasteful spending, rein in our national debt and, we hope, balance the budget. And the budget needs to be balanced. This would be done all without raising taxes on hardworking Americans. It includes pro-growth policies that will harness domestic energy, restore patient-centered health care, strengthen retirement and the safety net programs that are so essential, and it will reform our Tax Code. I thank my friend, Chairman Ryan, for putting forth a budget blueprint that addresses our Nation's long-term fiscal challenges truthfully and in a fiscally responsible manner. Let me say that this blueprint spends $43 trillion over the next 10 years. It reduces spending by $5 trillion. Only in Washington can an increase annually of 3.5 percent be considered a cut. That is ridiculous. At the rate we are going now, our spending would increase by 5.2 percent. We reform it to 3.5 percent annually over the next 10 years. I applaud Chairman Ryan's hard work and courage, and look forward to an honest discussion here on the floor of the House.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I thank Congressman Young for his superb management of this bill and for his expertise in this area. I rise today in support of H.R. 2575, the Save American Workers Act, which would change the health care law's definition of full-time employee from 30 hours per week to the traditional 40 hours per week. That is 8 hours a day, times 5 days in the workweek, 40 hours, the traditional workweek, empowering hardworking middle class men and women to earn additional wages otherwise denied to them under the health care law. Not long ago, I spoke to a constituent from Basking Ridge, New Jersey, the congressional district I have the honor of representing, whose son works at a grocery store. This young man was told he could only work 29 hours a week. Despite the company wanting him to work more and pay him more, it could not permit employees to exceed the health care law's arbitrary definition of full-time status. This young man from Basking Ridge must work less and earn less because of the health care law. Too many Americans are experiencing significantly reduced wages and hours worked because of the law. H.R. 2575 will protect existing jobs by removing some of the uncertainty facing employers and employees and help America's job creators put people back to work. I urge passage of H.R. 2575.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the distinguished public service of the Honorable Brendan T. Byrne, the 47th Governor of New Jersey, who today celebrates his 90th birthday. He has lived longer than any governor in the history of our State. Governor Byrne was born on April 1, 1924, in West Orange, Essex County, and currently lives in the Short Hills section of Millburn Township, Essex County, in the congressional district I have the honor of serving. He graduated from West Orange High School in 1942 and served during World War II in the Army Air Corps, where he advanced to the rank of lieutenant and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and four Air Medals. One of his fingers was frostbitten as the result of the conditions during his heroic air service over Germany late in the war. Governor Byrne was graduated from Princeton University in 1949, majoring in public and international affairs, our first Governor to receive an undergraduate degree from Princeton since Woodrow Wilson in 1879, 70 years earlier. Governor Byrne received his law degree from Harvard University in 1951. In the 1950s, as a young man, he served as a close aide to Governor Robert B. Meyner, who appointed him Essex County prosecutor in 1959. Governor Richard J. Hughes reappointed him prosecutor in 1964 and named him president of the State Board of Public Utilities in 1968. Respected by both political parties, he was appointed by Republican Governor William T. Cahill to our superior court in 1970. He was overwhelmingly elected Governor in 1973 and reelected in an uphill political campaign in 1977. During his tenure, the Pinelands Protection Act became law, and casino hotel development began in Atlantic City. Impeccably honest, he served as our Governor with great distinction. His dry wit is a joy to hear and deeply appreciated by countless New Jerseyans. I was honored to have Governor Byrne as a professor when I was a student at the Woodrow Wilson School of Princeton University in the early 1980s and recall fondly his superb teaching skills and generosity of spirit and time as the class met weekly at Morven, the historic Governor's residence in Princeton, built by Richard Stockton, a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Governor Byrne is a wonderful father and grandfather, teacher and mentor, colleague and friend. His dynamic and vivacious wife, Ruthi Zinn Byrne, is known to many New Jerseyans for her significant charitable activities. They are an integral part of the fabric of New Jersey. On his 90th birthday, I congratulate Governor Brandon T. Byrne and wish him many years ahead of good health and happiness.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the tricentennial of Hunterdon County, New Jersey, the county I have proudly called home my entire life and where my family has lived since 1739. The celebration this year is led by former State Senator Marcia Karrow and a hardworking committee of exemplary county residents. The 300-year history of Hunterdon County is an excellent example of the journey in the advancement of the English colonies in North America to the present day status of the United States of America throughout the world. To this day, Hunterdon County maintains its natural beauty and rural charm, as has been the case throughout its history. The county is proud to be named for Robert Hunter, the distinguished royal governor of New York and New Jersey who sailed to America with 3,000 Palatinate German refugees in 1710. They, and thousands of others like them, yearned for religious freedom and a better life for themselves and their descendants. Hunterdon County was formed when it separated from Burlington County 300 years ago this month, in March of 1714. From the first reading of the Declaration of Independence on the steps of what was then the Hunterdon County Courthouse in Trenton to General Washington's historic Delaware River crossing and decisive victory at the Battle of Trenton, Hunterdon's link to the 1776 birth of the United States is significant. I was personally inspired as a child by the tales of Captain Daniel Bray and the Hunterdon County militia who collected the boats on our western border that were used in Washington's crossing on Christmas night in that fateful year of our Nation's birth. The county boasts several sites associated with the Revolution, including the 1759 Vought House in Clinton Township, a Loyalist homestead that still exists with its architecturally distinguished serpentine ceiling. The county is also proud of its agricultural heritage. The county seal originally included a hay wagon and now features a bountiful sheaf of wheat. Farming was the story of most county residents, from Native Americans through the earliest colonial settlers to those who lived at the beginning of the 20th century. Many barns dot the county landscape, and this heritage is celebrated annually at the Hunterdon County 4-H and Agricultural Fair. A century and a half ago general stores and hotels, including several owned by my ancestors, were common in the towns that sprouted across the 400 square acres of the county. From Clinton in the north to Lambertville in the south, to Frenchtown in the west, to Flemington, the county seat, in the middle, they were the centers of life where Hunterdon families came to market, to socialize, and to worship. The nature of Hunterdon has changed as the population increased from the mid-20th century forward. The large agricultural townships have become more heavily populated as farmland has been transformed to houses for new residents, who demanded improvements, including establishment of a system of regional schools and construction of the Hunterdon County Medical Center. After World War II, Hunterdon was the only county in the State still without a hospital. County leaders, including the Board of Agriculture, were responsible for the building of the medical center that opened in 1953. Since then, this health care facility has become one of the premier medical institutions in New Jersey. Public-spirited men and women created five distinguished regional high schools that would become leaders in the State in academics, athletics, and extracurricular activities. The 300-year history of Hunterdon County has been captured in writings, photographs, and memories telling the compelling story of its sheer natural beauty, its people, and the larger community of churches, nonprofit groups, and civic organizations, with neighbor helping neighbor. Our ancestor have striven for 300 years to make Hunterdon what it is today, a 21st century exemplar of the United States as a whole: free, self-governed, prosperous, and dedicated to the advancement of the Nation. We, the 130,000 current residents, have a responsibility to those who will come after us to preserve and improve the county we love. Truly, Hunterdon County has always been and will always be in my heart. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I move that the House do now adjourn.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the dedicated public service of Lisa and Peter Verniero, the 2014 honorees of the SAFE in Hunterdon Evening of Awareness. I have known the Vernieros for a generation and I can attest that their recognition as the SAFE in Hunterdon Evening of Awareness honorees is well-earned. Together, Lisa and Peter have a remarkable tenure of service to Hunterdon County and the State of New Jersey. Lisa is a devoted advocate for those who benefit from the mission of SAFE in Hunterdon. She is a thoughtful, caring and determined leader who has helped craft and sustain SAFE in Hunterdon as well as a generous benefactor, fundraiser and organizer to help provide the resources for this success. Peter is a public servant whose tenure as New Jersey State Attorney General and Justice of the State Supreme Court was marked with dedication to serving all of our residents, including those most in need. His efforts to protect children and victims of crime and sexual abuse were landmark examples of good judgment, important public policy and justice under the law. Peter also recently served on the New Jersey SAFE Task Force on Gun Protection, Addiction, Mental Health and Families that examined the root causes of violence and made recommendations to help improve the situation. Lisa and Peter are committed to doing their part to break the cycle of abuse and empower survivors, their families and all victims of crime through the support networks that have helped construct. Their advocacy is just one example of the fine public servants who support SAFE in Hunterdon and the community of compassion that exists for those who need it most.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Girl Scouts of America as the organization celebrates its 102nd anniversary. More than 60 million Americans, and thousands of young women in my district, have been part of the premier leadership organization for girls. The mission of the Girl Scouts has been to introduce girls to positive role models and experiences. Activities in science and technology, business and economic literacy, outdoor awareness and team building make them women of courage, confidence and character. I applaud the Girl Scouts for more than a century of distinguished public service and the girls in my community for their achievements.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Thank you, Mr. Terry, and thank you for your leadership on this issue. I am honored to serve on the subcommittee that you chair. The discussion this evening has been on unemployment insurance, and that is a worthy discussion. Almost all Americans want to work. The best way for Americans to work is for jobs to be created. The unemployment rate in this country is far too high and the labor participation rate in this country is at a 30-year low. To those of us who are concerned particularly about the labor participation rate, the best way to get that rate up and to have jobs created is to create jobs, and that is what the Keystone pipeline will do. Like many Americans and, certainly, like many Americans whom I represent in north/central New Jersey, I have been incredibly frustrated by the repeated and unnecessary delays in moving forward with the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline. As Chairman Terry has pointed out, it has been more than 2,000 days since TransCanada filed its first application to build Keystone. This is a disappointing milestone for this important economic and energy project. 2,000 days is a long time, and not making a decision is making a decision. It is making a negative decision. The people of the United States deserve a decision to be made and, in my judgment, deserve an affirmative decision. We, of course, have passed legislation in this regard. I am very proud of the Energy and Commerce Committee on which Mr. Terry and I serve. American-made energy production is one of the few bright spots in today's struggling U.S. economy. This is due to a series of factors, and of course, our abundance of American gas is at the heart of that. As innovation leads to greater production, the Energy and Commerce Committee, under the leadership of Chairman Fred Upton and of the united effort of those of us on the Republican side, we have been working together to pass measures that will bring increased American-made energy to consumers and businesses. The Keystone XL pipeline is an important piece of our all-of-the- above energy policy strategy, and we believe--and I think this is demonstrated conclusively--that this will help lower energy costs, create jobs, and reduce our dependence on foreign sources of oil. Foreign sources of oil, of course, come from dangerous parts of the world, not only the Middle East, but Venezuela as well. We need to be less dependent on foreign sources of oil, and that is why we have promoted the all-of-the-above strategy. Those who have opposed the Keystone project cite environmental concerns. I certainly respect environmental concerns. I try to be a strong environmentalist, and I know my colleagues on both sides of the aisle try to be strong environmentalists. The U.S. State Department report regarding environmental concerns related to Keystone found that the project would have a minimal negative impact on the environment. I believe that we should look at the science and what has been demonstrated, that this would not negatively affect the environment in any meaningful way. The State Department report also outlined some of the other benefits that would come with the project--as Chairman Terry has pointed out-- 42,000 direct and indirect jobs, this at a time when our economy needs to have more in the workforce, so that we can rely less heavily on unemployment insurance, rely more heavily on getting Americans back to work, and make sure that our labor participation rate increases. The report also indicates that there would be 3,900 construction jobs. These are high-paying jobs. This is what America should really be about: construction, making things. That has been the history of America, certainly in most parts of this country. This would be of enormous benefit not only to the center of the country, but, in my judgment, to the entire country. Of course, the report also says that there is an estimated $3.4 billion in a boost to our economy. I was interested to read the testimony today of General James Jones, the distinguished former National Security Adviser to President Obama. He came out in favor of the Keystone pipeline today, as has been referenced by Chairman Terry and by my distinguished colleague from Arkansas, and I am sure by others who will speak this evening. General Jones has had a distinguished career in service to the United States of America, a career regarding our national security. There are national security concerns, Chairman Terry, regarding the Keystone pipeline. Canada is one of our best friends. Canada has stood with us. We can recall all of the times in the past where Canadians have come to help the United States. Recently, in Mexico, there was a summit among the Prime Minister of Canada, the President of Mexico, and the President of the United States. Certainly, the Prime Minister of Canada favors the construction of Keystone. That is one of the many reasons that we should move forward with Keystone. Most important of all is our own national security, our own creation of jobs, but also we should be a friend to Canada as Canada has been a friend to us. If we do not build it, then, of course, the Canadians might look elsewhere. They might turn east to China, yet another reason to build Keystone. Of course, the situation that now exists regarding Russia and its terrible actions involving the Crimea and perhaps even other parts of Ukraine, yet another reason, in my judgment, to build Keystone. After enduring more than 5 years of review of red tape and of delay, I do not believe there is any reason left for President Obama not to approve Keystone XL and to approve it immediately. I would urge the President, in all sincerity, to examine what is best in the interest of the United States, to examine what is best in the interest of making sure that we move forward together. It is time to create U.S. jobs from this aspect of energy. It is time to reduce U.S. dependence on foreign oil from unstable sources. It is time to build the Keystone pipeline, long past time. Mr. Terry, I commend your leadership this evening.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, there is uncertainty in volunteer fire departments across the country, including in my home State of New Jersey, about the negative consequences of ObamaCare's harmful employer mandate. That is why I rise today in strong support of H.R. 3685, the Protecting Volunteer Firefighters and Emergency Responders Act. Designating volunteer firefighters as paid employees under ObamaCare is bad public policy. It threatens public safety. The passage of this legislation will provide a permanent statutory solution that will ensure our Nation's volunteer first responders are protected from ObamaCare's employer mandate. I urge passage of H.R. 3685.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, this week in Washington we welcome representatives from across the country attending the American-Israel Public Affairs Committee Policy Conference, the largest gathering in our Nation of friends of the Jewish State. Representatives come to the Nation's Capital to highlight the importance of the partnership between the United States and Israel and work together toward common interests and goals. I have the honor of serving as cochair of the House Republican Israel Caucus, where protecting, strengthening, and promoting the U.S.-Israel relationship is the top priority. Just this week, under the leadership of Congresswoman Ileana Ros- Lehtinen, the House passed legislation designating Israel as a major strategic partner of the United States. I commend Congresswoman Ros- Lehtinen on her leadership in expanding U.S.-Israel cooperation in defense, energy, and science. As the Iranian regime continues to advance its nuclear ambitions and current events continually demonstrate that we live in a dangerous world, it is important that Congress reaffirm our support for and commitment to our close friend and ally, Israel.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, this week we recognize the work of the tireless advocates for rare diseases. I had the honor of serving as the Republican chair of the Congressional Rare Disease Caucus. I consider it a very important responsibility as part of my service here and an honor to work for innovative treatments, new technologies, and to build an atmosphere of appreciation and understanding on Capitol Hill with the hard work of all the patient advocates. Their passion is often driven by the care of loved ones, and their personal stories are profiles in courage. Hearing from countless advocates, many of whom are here in Washington this week, gives the members of the caucus renewed energy and purpose. Events held during Rare Disease Week highlight what has been accomplished and what still needs to be done, and there is a lot to do, but we will do it together. I am working on important legislation in this area, the bipartisan Modernizing Our Drug and Diagnostics Evaluation and Regulatory Network, or MODDERN, Cures Act. It will update the Nation's drug evaluation process to encourage the discovery and development of new treatments for chronic and rare diseases. The measure will also create a system that rewards efficiency and effectiveness to the benefit of all persons with rare diseases. The MODDERN Cures Act will encourage the development of drugs abandoned in the development process. It will create a new category of drugs known as dormant therapies for compounds with insufficient patent protection, drugs that offer the promise to treat conditions with unmet medical needs. Updating regulatory networks such as patent reform will help open the pipeline for new innovations and therapies. Patients with degenerative conditions, cancers, and rare diseases await the genius of these new solutions. While we do not know the cause or cure of many of these rare diseases or cancers, we do know that awareness is the best protection, information is the best tool for innovation, and well-rounded care during and after treatment is the best therapy. That is our mission in the caucus: to work together to find solutions that make a lasting difference. I again thank the families and the advocates whose challenges we may never completely understand, but whose commitment to their loved ones is unyielding and inspiring. The caucus pursues its mission in their name.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mary Sue Sweeney Price for her outstanding leadership of the Newark Museum as its Director and Chief Executive Officer. The Newark Museum, the largest in the State of New Jersey, is a respected public institution that has built a national reputation as a museum of service to the larger community, State and Nation and as a leader in the collection of objects, ideas, innovations, artifacts and documentation that tell the story of our rich culture and accomplished history. In countless ways the Museum has grown under Mary Sue's tenure, expanding its holdings and exhibits on its eight-building, 80-gallery campus. She oversaw the restoration of the 1885 Ballantine House, the opening of the interactive Victoria Hall of Science and the dedication of Horizon Plaza, the Museum's new entrance. The education division has flourished, visitation and donors have grown, an international symposium has been initiated and groundbreaking exhibitions have heightened public discourse. Mary Sue is the recipient of numerous awards including the coveted Katherine Coffey Award, which is the Mid-Atlantic Association of Museums' highest honor for distinguished achievement. She has received honorary degrees from Rutgers University, Drew University, Caldwell College and the New Jersey Institute of Technology. She has also attended Harvard University's Publishing Procedures Program, served as President of the Association of Art Museum Directors and sat on the Newark Arts Council. Mary Sue and her spouse, Rutgers historian Dr. Clement Alexander Price, have helped launch a renaissance that is transforming Newark, the City that they love and where they live. Mary Sue has been associated with the Newark Museum for the past 38 years, including 20 years as its Director. I became a friend and admirer of her work as a member of its Board of Trustees. I have seen her intense vision and energy profoundly reshape the organization founded by the visionary John Cotton Dana in 1909. I thank her for her dedicated public service to the Museum, to the City of Newark, to the State of New Jersey and, indeed, to the arts and cultural history of the United States. I commend her for her lasting legacy of excellence.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act. My colleagues have told the story of Gabriella Miller. She was one of the many young people every year who leaves this world too early due to disease. Too many families share this grief. Today, we take a step in making a difference in the lives of those who are struggling with pediatric diseases and disorders, such as cancer and autism. Today, Congress, in working together, will target taxpayer funding for scientific research and lifesaving treatments that can lead to better outcomes and, I hope, someday, to a cure. Especially during the holiday season, we should be thankful for our many blessings. I am thankful, in part, for the families and advocates whose challenges we may never understand but whose commitment and love for their children is unyielding and inspiring. Today, we take action in their name.

Mr. LANCE

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dover High School of Dover, New Jersey for being named a Blue Ribbon School by the United States Department of Education. The Department of Education acknowledges schools where students attain and maintain high academic goals. Dover High School is a proud example of academic excellence where students have high levels of performance, stellar student achievement and where educators facilitate a strong learning environment. I congratulate the students, faculty and community on this high honor. This is a prestigious award to receive and Dover High School is a proud example of academic excellence and worthy of this national distinction.