Carolyn McCarthy

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. I thank my colleague from New Jersey for taking such leadership on this. As he had mentioned, I have spent over 30 years of my life as a nurse, so I would like to talk about why it is so important that we have a prescription drug benefit under Medicare. I am going to try and cover this a little bit widely why some people that are even younger, that are not on Medicare, on why it is so important to support this because they are going to be there one day, and I think that is important. Nobody talks about that. I will say to you, I am only 58 years old. I am a healthy person. Yet, of course, once I turned 55, you start going for your physicals and I discovered that I had extremely high cholesterol. There is a drug on the market to help me reduce that. I tried exercise, did the diet; but apparently my problems with cholesterol are hereditary and there is nothing that can be done except being on this medication. I have been taking the medication faithfully, my cholesterol is down very low; but March 1 of this year, my prescription drugs went up 100 percent. Like I said, I am healthy and I am only taking one drug right now. But the reason I talk about this, because our seniors were also hit with those increases, especially those in New York and in many parts of this country. That is why as a health care professional who happens to be in Congress, I am fighting to make sure that our seniors get the medication that they need to have a healthy life. Why? If our seniors are taking the medications mainly because it prolongs our life, makes our life more productive and, by the way, a lot of times these seniors because they are productive are continuing to work. I think that is important to look at. But if they do not take their medications because they cannot afford it, what happens? They end up in the hospital, sicker than before, because the medications that they were taking, they choose to either take a half a dose or skip a day. Now, people that are on medications have to follow the directions that the doctor or the health care provider tells them to do. But when it comes down to our seniors that might not be able to afford prescription drugs on a monthly basis, because I have to tell the gentleman, a year and a half ago I asked all my seniors in my district to send me their prescriptions. I wanted to see how much they were paying. I wanted to really see what was going on, just in my district alone. I was astounded by what the majority of my seniors were paying on a monthly basis. A lot of them are on fixed incomes, and a lot of them said ``I do not take my medication every day.'' We are not talking about one drug, two drugs, three drugs; we are talking about $700 to $800 a month just on their medications. Some of them have absolutely no choice. They could be having a reaction to a heart medication, so they are taking that, and a lot of times it takes a lot of balance. But it comes down to this, it really, really does. I want the American people to really understand why we as Democrats are fighting for a good prescription drug plan. We will be keeping America healthier. By the way, I cannot tell you, when I was back in my district in the last couple of weeks, how many people, young people, people that are taking care of their parents, are saying to me, ``I cannot afford to help my parents anymore to pay for their prescription drugs.'' So not only are we hurting the elderly people, we are now seeing that, because our mothers and fathers are living longer, we are also seeing now the families being affected, because they have to help chip in to pay for their medication. This is why it is important. If we were rewriting Medicare today, I do not even think that we would think twice about whether to put a prescription drug benefit in with it. So, again, with the amount of monies that we spend here to try certainly to keep everybody healthy, why we would not be doing something with prescription drugs, I have no idea. Let us remember, our hospitals right now are under a crunch time, and the more times that they can help their patients stay out of the hospital, that is what they want to do. Prescription drugs are the answer. I think we have to start looking also at other ways of reducing prescription drug costs. Of course, that has to do with looking at genetic medication also. Again, here we have the pharmaceutical companies fighting us on this. All they have to do is change one little molecule in a medication and it makes it a whole new drug and it stops it from getting it on to the market. We can do things to make the American people and our seniors healthier, and, in the end, we will have a more productive society in many ways. So I am hoping to be very honest with you. Here we are in June. We might break by the end of September, maybe October, with the legislative work that we have ahead of us. I do not know whether we are going to get to this issue now. It is really a shame, because since I have been here in Congress, which is going on 6 years, we have been talking about doing something with prescription drugs, and here we are ending another session, the 107th Congress, without really doing something. I do not want people to be fooled. If something does get passed in this House, is it going to help the American people? Is it going to help our seniors? I think that is something that people and consumers have to be smart about. This is where, in my opinion, seniors can get involved. They should be calling their Congressperson, they should be calling their Senators, to say to get involved and to have a prescription drug policy that they can afford. I think that is the most important thing. Again, I thank the gentleman for his leadership, who has been talking about this issue many a night by himself. I have to say, when I talked to health care providers, when I talked to doctors, when I talked to pharmacists, they said ``we make no money on these prescription drugs,'' because they know that they have to make sure that their seniors get their medications. A lot of times they give it to them at cost, or a lot of times they will give them an extra couple of pills, because they know the patient is not taking it. We are in America. We are in America. We should not even be discussing this. This is a no-brainer. It is the Federal Government's job to make sure that we keep our seniors healthy as long as possible, and that is by having good medication and making sure that our seniors can afford to take it. With that, we should be looking at Medicare, at getting a good prescription drug plan out there. As far as I am concerned, if we do not do the right thing, we have let the American people down. I mean that with all my heart.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Chairman, I think when the gentlewoman brought up there are 61 women here representing the people of this Nation, I think that we should also remember those people who are on Social Security disability. My son was on Social Security disability, and it got us through some very, very hard times. There are millions and millions of people with disabilities that are counting on Social Security also, and I do not think we should forget them.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Chairman, will the gentlewoman yield?

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, as the House debates Welfare Reform, we must focus on how we are going to help families move from welfare and poverty to work and prosperity. As I looked at both the Republican and Democratic bills, I found the Democrat proposal did a lot more to move families from handouts to becoming active workers in today's market. To begin with, the Democrat substitute strengthens the current work requirements by: Increasing the number of work-focus activity hours from 20 to 24 hours; requiring a minimum of 30 hours of work and provides states the option of increasing the number of required hours to 40 hours a week; and replaces the current caseload reduction credit with an employment credit that reduces states participation rate according to the number of people leaving welfare to work. In addition, the Democratic substitute provides the state with the necessary resources to meet the stronger work requirements. The Republican bill places a large unfunded mandate burden on the states. The Democratic substitute raises the bar on the work requirements and provides the states with the resources to meet these changes. For example, it provides an additional $11 billion for mandatory childcare funding over five years to meet the work requirements. In addition, the bill increases the set-aside for child care quality from 4 to 12 percent. Furthermore, the Democratic substitute provides states with the flexibility. The most promising state programs that help welfare recipients obtain and advance in a job combine a ``work first'' approach with supplemental training and education. The Republican proposal eliminates vocational education training from the list of work related activities that count toward the state's participation rate. Finally, the Democratic substitute rewards self-sufficiency and gives families the help they need to successfully move from welfare to work. It improves the Individual Responsibility Plan so that every family has a specific plan detailing the steps and work supports needed to move the parent into meaningful work activities and achieve self- sufficiency. It also provides a 5-year extension of Transitional Medical Assistance (TMA) for parents and children leaving welfare. The Republican bill only extends TMA for 1 year. Mr. Speaker, I urge all my colleagues to support this Democrat alternative and reject the underlying bill that hurts American families.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of the past, present and future female congregants of Congregation Sons of Israel-- Woodmere Synagogue. For over 70 years, the Woodmere Sisterhood organization has promoted ideals that lie not only at the core of Judaism, but at the core of humanity. Their involvement on Long Island has affected individuals on many levels. Hundreds of women have dedicated themselves to bettering our community and on June 2, members of the Congregation will honor the Sisterhood at the annual Journal Dinner Dance. These women led other congregants in perpetuating the rich heritage of the Jewish people through a variety of community outreach programs. These included trips to various museums, ``Lunch and Learn'' Sabbaths, screenings of pertinent films and lecture series. They established and maintained a Judaic library and Video Center for the use of the congregation and Hebrew School. They also created several scholarship funds. One offers teens the opportunity to spend a summer in Israel; one offers partial tuition to the Hebrew High School; one offers needy children partial tuition to the Morgenstern Hebrew School; and one subsidizes camp tuition. They also have a Torah Fund for the Jewish Theological Seminary in New York City. The Sisterhood plays a crucial role in certain day-to-day operations of the Synagogue. Their participation in the local community varies from providing new floral arrangements for the sanctuary every Sabbath to gift-giving on special occasions: Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, weddings and births. The Sisterhood was also instrumental in hosting Bat Mitzvah classes for adult women in the congregation. The Sisterhood is involved in International matters, especially those concerning Israel. The current situation has greatly affected all members of Congregation Sons of Israel-Woodmere. The Sisterhood just concluded a fund raising drive to purchase an armored school van for an Israeli school. The list of the Sisterhood's accomplishments and contributions is endless. Today I rise in recognition of the countless women who have contributed to this effort, in particular the following past Sisterhood presidents: Florence Behrens, Rosetta Sokoloff, Jeanette Kirshenbaum, Roslyn Mayer, Gertrude Wicksel, Ann Studner, Mildred Kreiss, Gertrude Leinwand, Mollie Lewitt, Rose Lewis, Sherle Gross, Dorothy Feldman, Charlotte Koss, Dorothy Kimmel, Bertha Snyder, Blanche Finkel, Lila Goldman, Anne Selier, Barbara Semel, Arline Slepoy, Edna Ritzenberg, Muriel Liebowitz, Rosalie Bachana, Karen Boxer, Joan Mann, Shirley Fisher, Audrey Liberstein, Leslie Aronin, Teri Stein, and Liane Feuer.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of a prescription drug benefit for all seniors. As a nurse, I am very familiar with the role of prescription drugs in medical treatment programs. In recent years, more and more drugs have become available to manage medical problems that formerly were left untreated or required periods of hospitalization. These drugs have allowed Americans to live longer, more productive lives. I also know the importance of taking the correct dosage of drugs, at the prescribed times. Today, too many seniors cut back on the dosage, or alternate the days they take the drugs. By altering the dosage, they do not receive the full benefit of the prescription drug therapy. Some seniors are forced into choosing between buying food or paying for their prescription drugs. Why have they been faced with these decisions? Because they cannot afford to pay for their prescriptions. It is time for Congress to establish a Medicare prescription drug plan. We need to make prescription drugs affordable for all our seniors, regardless of where they live, what drugs they take, or their income level. We need a plan that provides a meaningful reduction in the cost of prescription drugs. But more importantly, we must also look at the continuing increase in the cost of prescription drugs. The rising cost of drugs is certainly a consideration in a Medicare prescription drug plan. The problem of increasing prescription drug costs is not limited to our seniors. Individuals enrolled in HMOs, employer sponsored insurance plans, or private insurance plans are seeing their coverage of prescription drugs diminish and/or their co-payments rise as the insurer tries to keep pace with the rising cost of prescription drugs. Hospitals and state Medicaid programs are struggling with the cost of prescription drugs. We must look at ways to ensure prescription drug are available at reasonable prices for all Americans.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding time to me. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this legislation that recognizes the years of public service by former New York Senator Al D'Amato. As a freshman in Congress, I looked to many of my colleagues for advice and guidance when it came to legislating. Senator D'Amato was an invaluable source of knowledge that I relied upon whenever a question or concern arose, by the way, which was quite often in my first 2 years. Senator D'Amato was able to work with Democrats and Republicans alike, which allowed him to pass legislation beneficial not only to New York, but to the country as a whole. One of the things about Senator D'Amato, he did work with both sides of the aisle to get something done. I think that is important. We sometimes lose that here. I experienced this firsthand when we worked together on legislation addressing the alarming number of breast cancer cases on Long Island. I was amazed over his ability to obtain so much attention and exposure to a problem that impacts thousands of women across the country. His support for a particular cause went beyond a one-time press conference or a photo opportunity; it was genuine. In a town where one is known for one's word, we always knew where we stood with Senator D'Amato. His vigorous support for legislation was equaled only to his rigorous opposition, which was always expressed in a proud New York fashion. Although Senator D'Amato no longer walks the halls of the Senate, he continues to draw attention to problems confronting this country. Renaming a courthouse in his honor is a fitting tribute to someone who served New York as a public servant in the United States Congress for 18 years. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation. Again, I will stress, Senator Al D'Amato was a man of his word. I think that is important. When one gives one's word and stays with it, I think that is truly a real tribute to someone.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of all of the Volunteer Fire Departments of Long Island, New York, and in particular, the Westbury Fire Department. It is important to recognize the crucial role they played in aiding New York City during the disasters of September 11. The courage and quick reaction of these volunteer fire departments helped to save countless lives as well as support the New York City Fire Department in its greatest time of need. The Westbury Fire Department was one of the first detachments to mobilize and was in Manhattan soon after the first airplane struck the World Trade Center. Years from now when our children and grandchildren inquire about September 11 and that horrible day, we need to be able to point out the gallant participation of the Long Island Volunteer Fire Departments, including the Westbury Fire Department. Their willingness to sacrifice themselves in order to save others deserves our praise. I would like to commend these brave men and women who put their lives at risk daily to keep their communities safe. Their heroic contributions helped New York City through one of its darkest times.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise in solidarity with Israel. I'm proud to make this statement of support today, especially in light of the ever-changing news reports coming out of the region. The resolution currently on the House floor is simple: the United States supports Israel's war against terrorism. Some in the international community contend the United States is biased; they render our country's support for Israel controversial. They are entitled to their opinions, as are we; I firmly believe every American makes the right decision when stating support for Israel during this turbulent time in history. Israel, our sole democratic ally in the Middle East, continues to persevere. She has faced many tough times since her declaration of Independence, and this threat to Israel's existence surely rates as one of her most difficult battles yet. Israel fights hatred on a daily basis. This hatred is terrorism. It is murder. Israel has every right to defend herself against terrorism. When innocent civilians are murdered, over and over again, Israel has no choice but to take action. Israel is no stranger to difficulty, and no stranger to compromise. I continue to support Israel's decision to root out terrorists. I think it's natural, and expected, and it must be done just like America's efforts in Afghanistan. I also support Israel's recent decision to end the situation in Ramallah; the compromise was a worthwhile trade-off, consistent with Israel's aim: the obliteration of terrorism by getting terrorists off the streets. Israel faces daily barages of criticism from her Arab neighbors and much of Western Europe, not to mention the United Nations. Sometimes she even faces criticism from United States officials. Nevertheless, Israel continues to act in the best interest of her people. She refused to end military incursions until Israel's security was assured. After unsubstantiated Palestinian allegations of a massacre in Jenin were publicized by the media, Israel agreed to allow a UN factfinding mission entrance after certain conditions were met. These guidelines were not followed, and Israel revoked its support for a mission; coincidentally, no evidence of a massacre ever materialized, and the UN ended its effort as well. I firmly believe that difficult decisions will be made in order to achieve a permanent peace, and the above decisions are part of this process. This resolution is evidence that as Israel fights terrorism and searches for a lasting solution to this ongoing crisis, the United States will remain at her side.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Con. Res. 358 and in celebration of May, National Better Hearing and Speech Month. Did you know that 28 million people in the United States today suffer from hearing loss, and 16 million people have a speech or language disorder? 42 million people have a speech, language, voice or hearing impediment. Hearing loss is the most common congenital disorder found in newborns, and ten percent of children entering the first grade suffer from mild speech disorders like stuttering. As a nurse, I know the issue of speech and hearing health affects many different people, from infants to adults to senior citizens. You can be born with a disorder, or you can develop one later in life due to late onset of a specific impediment, a stroke or traumatic event. But many Americans don't realize the extent to which our society deals with speech and hearing disorders. That is why, since 1927, the speech and hearing community has celebrated May as a month to increase national awareness of this health problem. As a nurse, I understand the importance of getting the right healthcare immediately, especially when it comes to our children. Deafness is the most common birth defect; that out of the 12,000 babies born in the U.S. each year with hearing loss, 4,000 of them are profoundly deaf and need a cochlear implant, and 8,000 need hearing aids. Unless a child gets medical attention by the time they are two, permanent damage is done to his or her language and speech. A newborn hearing test is simple and easy, and only costs $35. Our babies are subjected to batteries of other tests, and I think it's crucial for this one to be included. As a founding member of the Congressional Hearing Caucus, I am extremely proud of H. Con. Res. 358. Not only does this resolution support the goals and ideals of National Better Hearing and Speech Month, it calls attention to and commends the 41 states that have implemented routine hearing screenings of every newborn before the baby leaves the hospital. The resolution also supports the efforts of speech and hearing professionals to improve the speech and hearing development of children and encourages all Americans to have their hearing checked regularly and to avoid environmental noise that can lead to hearing loss. All across the United States, people are trying to make a difference. I commend everyone in the speech and hearing community for their education and awareness efforts, as well as the extraordinary level of care and medical attention they give to their patients.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise in celebration of Israel's Independence Day. Fifty-four years as the sole democracy in the Middle East is a huge accomplishment. As a member of Congress, and a friend of Israel, I know that she will have 54 more, and counting! This is only a beginning. Israel has faced many tough times since 1948, like the one now. Over the past 18 months, Israel has continued to battle hatred on a daily basis. This hatred is terrorism. It is murder. Israel has every right to defend herself against terrorism. When innocent civilians are murdered, over and over again, Israel has no choice but to take action. I don't think it is unreasonable for Israel to root out terrorists. I think it's natural, and expected, and it must be done just like America's efforts in Afghanistan. But for the past couple of weeks, Israel has been criticized by many for her military action against terrorism, and lack of compassion for Palestinians. But what other choice does Israel have? Is Israel supposed to wave suicide bombers through the checkpoints, allow wanted terrorists to go without arrest? Are we to expect Israel to sit by and watch her country crumble, and her people be murdered in groups of 20 while they sip coffee at cafes? No. I firmly believe that difficult decisions will be made in order to achieve a permanent peace. I also think one of the decisions was Israel's resistance to international pressure to end the military operation. Israel entered towns in the West Bank with a plan: to root out terrorism. Obviously, there was an exit strategy to be used once the terrorists were caught. Recently, Israel announced her upcoming withdrawal from almost all of the towns she entered. I commend Israel's decision to withdraw only after the operation is complete. So does the upcoming withdrawal of troops bring Israel back to where she was? Can we expect Israel to compromise should daily suicide bombings begin again? No. Terrorism is not something you can compromise with, it is not something to reward. What I know is this. Israel will survive this crisis. Israel will continue to do what is necessary to rid the country of terrorists. If terrorist attacks end, military action will end, and more difficult decisions in the name of peace will be made. What those decision are, I can't tell you. No one can. But last Sunday, I joined 3,000 of my constituents in a pro-Israel rally on Long Island. Many of those constituents were Jewish; others, like myself, were Christian. These same people participated the weekend before at a rally in New York City. They also traveled with over 100,000 other Americans to the Capitol on Monday for a national rally. Regardless of their religion, they are standing up for their beliefs. Terrorism must be destroyed. Not only here, but in Israel, and in many other countries. The US firmly believes in this, and I know Israel will continue to enjoy broad support as she eliminates terrorist threats from her borders. Israel will always have a friend and ally in the US government.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to express my concern with H.R. 3991, the Taxpayer Protection and IRS Accountability Act, because of the ``527'' provision hidden inside of it. This provision is a feeble attempt by the GOP leadership to gut campaign finance reform by attaching a controversial provision to a popular and passable taxpayer protection bill. The ``527'' provision would have opened a loophole in the recently passed campaign finance bill by permitting thousands of dollars of campaign contributions to escape public disclosure. The problem lies in the bill's provisions to exempt state and local 527s from Federal reporting as long as they are required to report ``substantially similar'' information at the state level. My problem with that is who would be the judge of what ``substantially similar'' means? The bill makes it easier for federal candidates and party officials to solicit funds and coordinate campaigns with 527s. The bottom line is that this provision would make it extremely difficult to track these groups and their activities. I want a real solution that would ease the federal filing requirements while closing all loopholes. I cannot allow all of our progress made from passing the campaign finance bill to be underscored by voting for a bill with a poison pill inserted into it. The amount of hard work and support put into the campaign finance reform bill cannot be allowed to be undone by passing H.R. 3991.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of National Organ and Tissue Donor Awareness Week which begins April 21- 27, 2002. As a nurse, I saw firsthand how transplants and the generosity of donors save lives. As a Congresswoman, I have been proud to help my constituents work through the process of transplant surgery, and bring awareness to the importance of donors. A few years ago my office was fortunate enough to help a constituent, John Pellegrino of Floral Park, New York, navigate through the insurance maze. I'm pleased to note John celebrates his two-year liver transplant anniversary on April 13. However, John's anniversary is bittersweet, especially for his donor's parents, now also his good friends, Harold and Melinda Yarbrough of Louisiana. In the midst of facing the agony of losing their precious daughter Breann, the Yarbroughs gave life to John and six other people. It is fitting to honor John and the Yarbroughs--as well as the thousands of transplant recipients and donors. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Congress first designated the third full week in April as National Organ and Tissue Donor Awareness Week in 1983 (Public Law 98-99) to raise awareness of the critical need for organ and tissue donation and to encourage all Americans to share their decision concerning donation with their families. Bone grafts enable individuals to walk again while skin grafts save the lives of critically burned patients, and donated corneas prevent or correct blindness. Heart valves help repair critical cardiac defects. Today, more than 79,000 men, women and children wait for an organ transplant, without an increase in donation, that number will continue to escalate, Currently, 16 people die each day because there are not enough organs available for transplant. Every day 114 individuals are added to the national waiting list for organs. I commend Breann's parents for making a decision that allowed John to live. I am grateful to Breann for her gift to John. We need more heroes like Breann. With awareness about organ and tissue donation, more organ transplants can save and enhance lives. Join me in bringing awareness to National Organ and Tissue Donor Awareness Week, April 21-27, 2002.

Ms. McCARTHY of New York

Ms. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Rabbi Israel Miller's contributions to the global Jewish community and in memory of his recent passing. Rabbi Miller was born in Baltimore, MD., but he made his home in New York. A graduate of Yeshiva University, the Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary and Columbia University, Rabbi Miller was a well- learned man who dedicated his life to the needs of the international Jewish community. Rabbi Israel Miller expressed his dedication to different members of the Jewish community through his activism and leadership in a variety of organizations. He served as president since 1982 of the Conference of Jewish Material Claims Against Germany, an organization dedicated to financial restitution of Holocaust survivors. Miller helped Soviet Jewry through his leadership of the American Jewish Conference on Soviet Jewry. He also served as chairman of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, founding and honorary president of the American Zionist Federation, and a founder of the Jewish Community Relations Council. Rabbi Israel Miller lived a long, healthy and gratifying life. He is survived by his wife, Ruth, his four children, 19 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and brother and sister. I share their pride over his achievements. Rabbi Miller's accomplishments and contributions to our local, national and international community were obvious and greatly appreciated. His involvement in the peace process in Israel is notable and commendable, specifically in light of the recent conflict. I join my constitutes and the entire Jewish community in remembering Rabbi Miller as a leader and role model for past, present and future generations.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to express my strong solidarity with Israel during this time of crisis. Built on the backs of international Jewry, consisting largely of pogrom and Holocaust survivors, modern Israel has weathered many battles against her existence. Our sole democratic ally in the Middle East, Israel is no larger than the state of New Jersey, and is situated amid enemy nations. These countries and their leaders have objected to Israel's existence since her declaration of Independence in 1948. It wasn't until 1979 that Israel entered into a peace treaty with Egypt, and 1994 with Jordan. Nevertheless, the Israeli people defied all odds; the army won countless wars and small battles, and the western society flourished. After the Intifada of the late 1980s, Israel took a monumental step by joining Yasser Arafat, chairman of the PLO, in signing the Oslo Accords. This agreement laid out specific steps to be taken by both parties to ensure a lasting peace in the region. The PLO renounced terrorism, and Israel recognized it as the representative of the Palestinian people. At the same time, guidelines were given for the election and creation of a Palestinian government in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, and the redeployment of Israeli troops from those regions. The period since 1993 can be characterized as a struggle between those who were committed to peace and the necessary steps to maintain the peace, and those who weren't. Yasser Arafat's renunciation of terrorism was never realized; suicide bombings and terrorist attacks peppered the peaceful landscape in Israel. Obviously, there are two sides to every situation. Although Israel took steps to withdraw from the West Bank and Gaza Strip, Jewish settlements were continually built and populated. This undoubtedly contributed to the sense of unrest. In 2000, the situation combusted. We called it the second Intifada, but wasn't it just a continuation of the first? The use of terror as a political tool never ended; the current crisis is merely a culmination of the inevitable. The situation reached a detrimental turning point with the reprehensible act of terror we now call the Passover Massacre. This was followed with a string of suicide bombings perpetrated against different populations in Israel. Today, Israel finds herself in an unbearable situation. Despite Israeli trust, Yasser Arafat allowed terrorism to invade Israeli society. He failed to keep his promise, and as the elected leader of the Palestinian people, he must take responsibility for his inaction. Israel has every right to enter Palestinian cities and refugee camps to root out terror. What other choice does Israel have? Is Israel supposed to wave suicide bombers through the checkpoints, allow wanted terrorists to go without arrest? Are we to expect Israel to sit by and watch her country crumble, and her people be murdered in groups of 20 while they sip coffee at cafes? The answer is an unequivocal no. And as a Member of Congress, I will support Israel's decision regarding security and self-defense in any way possible.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to extend my deepest sympathy to the families of the Reverend Larry Penzes and Eileen Tosner. Both were fatally shot last week during a 9 a.m. mass at Our Lady of Peace Church in Lynbrook, Long Island. My heart is with the parishioners, the clergy and staff of Our Lady of Peace who witnessed this brutal violence. However, what is equally disturbing is that this could have been prevented. The assailant had a history of mental health problems. However, he was able to purchase a rifle several days before the attack because most States do not provide mental health records to FBI NICS database. According to the General Accounting Office, for every 75,000 people who attempt to buy a gun, only one was denied through NICS based on the mental health criteria. This is one of the loopholes in our gun safety laws that must be closed. Gun violence wreaks havoc in our lives in various ways, not the least of which is the loss of safe places in our communities. If we are not safe in our churches, our schools, our trains, where are we going to be safe? I urge this body to seriously consider the havoc gun violence creates in our society. Better yet, consider its effect on your community. It can happen anywhere.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Chairman, I am extremely concerned whether this education budget is adequate. It is true that there are some program increases; but at a time of increased need and urgency, this increase is the smallest in a decade. In the end, this education budget leaves me wondering whether we are truly keeping our commitment to our children and our teachers. I know my spirits were up when just 2 months ago the President signed into law the new education bill promising to leave no child behind. I am afraid to say that we are leaving more than a few children behind. The budget we are debating today actually cuts funding for these programs by $90 million. In fact, this budget funds the No Child Left Behind Act at $4.2 billion below the authorized level. One cannot help but ask if we are keeping our promise. In fact, I fear this budget falls far short of that promise. Looking at the details, this plan cuts or freezes many elementary and secondary education programs. It cuts programs to improve teacher quality at a time when we need them the most, down by $105 million. It cuts the safe and drug-free schools program, down $102 million. By the way, these programs are working in our communities. And it freezes funding for after-school programs when we need after-school programs more than ever. However, the truth is that it did not have to be this way. During the Budget Committee markup, we offered amendments to strengthen education, to stand with the President on what he wanted in his education bill. But amendment after amendment to keep the President's promise to leave no child behind were rejected. Republicans rejected an amendment to provide $3 billion more for elementary ed programs. They rejected raising the maximum Pell Grant award for our college students. They rejected an amendment to allow Head Start to serve 1 million more children. While I could argue that education should always be a top priority, properly investing in education is more critical than ever. A strong commitment to education is good for the economy, and it is good for national security. We support the President on the war and homeland defense. We should be doing more for our children in education.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to extend my deepest sympathy to the families of Reverend Lawrence Penzes and Eileen Tosner, both of whom were fatally shot Tuesday morning during 9 a.m. mass at Our Lady of Peace Church in Lynbrook, New York. Reverend Penzes, 50, was ordained in 1978, and he became pastor at Our Lady of Peace in 1994. It is safe to say he was the backbone of the church. Parishioners remember him as a wonderful, generous and outgoing lay leader who touched countless lives. Other members of the Rockville Centre diocese commend his commitment to the Catholic faith and community. Penzes has been instrumental in helping his church community of 2,400 families through the 6 months following September 11. He organized several sessions on dealing with stress, and continued his regular trips to U.S. armed forces stationed around the world. Other notable ways he served our country was his time as a chaplain in the local police force, and the air force. Eileen Tosner, 73, was a devout Irish Catholic whose life revolved around her family, friends and community. She was a quiet but active woman who was always willing to help with whatever task was at hand. She worked at the church and volunteered on Sundays at the local VFW Post 2307 during bingo games. Up until two years ago, she helped other senior citizens by working as a companion and a helper. Often she could be found at the Lynbrook senior citizens center with her friends. She was married to her husband Frank for more than 50 years, and together they had five children. Tosner's life wasn't easy; she had two paralyzed siblings, and two of her sons died of cancer. But all throughout her life, despite her difficulties, she remained deeply religious. My heart is with the parishioners, the clergy and staff of Our Lady of Peace who witnessed this brutal violence. We must all say a prayer and light a candle for the community near Our Lady of Peace that was affected by this tragedy. The neighbors, police, emergency personnel and the nearby schools were all senselessly victimized as well. I was in the vicinity of the church when the shooting occurred. Many of the local roads were blocked; those living nearby were basically under house arrest. Police covered the streets as they looked for the shooter, who had taken cover in a nearby home. Four hundred schoolchildren were being held indoors at the church school. This isn't a new occurrence. Random acts of gun violence against innocent people happen all the time. A lot of Americans don't think it can happen to them, but my neighbors and I know all too well the pain that gun violence brings. It has happened everywhere: on trains, in schools, homes, the workplace. And now, in a place of worship. It is unbelievable, yet it's true. I have processed the details of what happened yesterday. I'm not standing here on a soapbox. I'm not talking about a certain piece of legislation. I'm talking about safety. I'm talking about our children's safety, our neighbors' safety, the safety of different religious worshipers. I think it's obvious. Gun violence wreaks havoc in our lives in various ways, not the least of which is the loss of safe places in our community. If we can't be safe at church, at school, on commuter trains, in our workplaces or at home, where does that leave us? I urge you to seriously consider the havoc gun violence creates in our society. Better yet, consider its effect on your community. Please take a minute to think about it before it's too late. May God be with us all.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of Jessica Stahl, my constituent from Rockville Centre who has been chosen as a top student finalist in the Intel Science Talent Search (STS), a nationwide competition honoring young people for outstanding work in science and research. Jessica's 10th place prize was the largest awarded to a Long Island finalist this year. She will receive a $20,000 scholarship prize for finishing in the top ten. Jessica is a seventeen-year-old senior at South Side High School. Jessica's project was a research project on dance therapy titled ``Development of a Movement Analysis Instrument and its Application to Test the Effect of Different Music Styles on Freedom of Body Movement.'' Jessica wanted to determine if one style of music could produce more expressive and freer movement than others. She developed an original method for quantifying body movements, something no previous researcher had achieved, then found one musical piece that was available in classical, rock, jazz, dance, and reggae styles-- Beethoven's 5th Symphony. Jessica believed that the answer could have applications in dance/movement therapy for emotional as well as physical problems. Her results pointed towards raggae as the most liberating. The awards, presented by Intel Corporation, honor young people for being the nation's brightest high school seniors. Intel Corporation gave out scholarships totaling $530,000 at an awards ceremony this week which was precluded by a public exhibition of all 40 of the students involved in the competition. The Intel STS is America's oldest and most prestigious science competition and is also considered as the ``Junior Nobel Prize.'' Jessica's ideas and creativity point to a bright future. It is reassuring to see such potential in our young people. I applaud Jessica for her hard work and ingenuity. Long Island, particularly Nassau County, is proud to commend such a talented young individual.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of John Plack, my constituent from New Hyde Park who has been chosen as a top student volunteer in Prudential Financial's Spirit of Community Awards, a nationwide program honoring young people for outstanding acts of volunteerism. John is one of only nine students from New York chosen for this award. He will receive an engraved bronze Distinguished Finalist medallion in the Prudential Spirit of Community Award ceremony. John is a sixteen-year-old junior at New Hyde Park Memorial High School. John's project was to create the ``Children Helping Children Remembrance Quilt.'' He headed the worldwide effort to make remembrance quilts from squares displaying personalized messages of condolence and hope for children affected by the September 11 terrorist attacks. Thanks to John our community will always remember the support and help given by the world to New York during a desperate time. Children everywhere will always be aware of the contributions made by many to a city in need. Our community can rest assured that its future is in good hands with people like John demonstrating outstanding public service. The awards, presented by Prudential Financial in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals, honor young people for outstanding community service. This year, a record 28,000 youth volunteers across the country were considered for these awards. John's ideas and creativity show his vision and determination to make the world a better place. It is refreshing to see such a young person with such a mature outlook and it bodes well for our future generations. I applaud John for his hard work, generosity and leadership. Long Island is proud to commend such a talented young individual. We are fortunate to have John Plack in Nassau County.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to discuss the future of Social Security. Social Security is the basis of the American worker's retirement. Given the essential role it plays for every generation, regardless of gender, race, or socioeconomic status, I believe all my colleagues join me in support of this program. Unfortunately, that is where our common ground ends. We all know Social Security is in danger, and we all know something must be done. We just disagree as to how we can accomplish this difficult--yet necessary--task. Each year, more Americans retire and begin collection of Social Security, but not enough people are joining the workforce to supplement the depleting funds. We must find a way to finance the Social Security Trust Fund without cutting guaranteed benefits. I firmly believe investment is a critical part of the American worker's future, but I don't believe the government can promote investment at the expense of current retirees. Today, as my generation approaches retirement age, and we plan our finances for the future, I count on receiving Social Security benefits. I don't recommend the American public rely solely on Social Security for their retirement. I want every generation to think constructively about their retirement by saving and investing money outside of Social Security. Since I want my constituents to retire in comfort, I want to make sure their money is secure. That is why I support pension reform legislation, why I believe each and every American worker should be actively involved in their finances, and why I know Social Security must be saved--not replaced by an alternative and faulty solution. There is nothing to debate--if Congress doesn't do something to strengthen and finance Social Security, the trust fund will run out in 2038. My colleagues and I are good at waiting until the last minute to solve a problem . . . but this isn't one with which we should play political games.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, today, the House of Representatives will vote on another stimulus package that comes closer to the immediate needs of the country. We are all facing a sagging economy, escalating unemployment levels, and close to my home on Long Island, our concerns also include reconstruction efforts. Although this bill does not include everything I would have preferred, it is an improvement from the previous versions I opposed. Although I support the provision extending unemployment benefits for an additional 13 weeks, this bill neglects the immediate unemployed health insurance needs of displaced workers. This bill provides a temporary tax credit equal to 60 percent of the cost of health insurance purchased by unemployed workers. This is a step in the right direction, but displaced workers need health insurance assistance now; not when they file their taxes next year. New York is in dire straights because of the September 11 attacks. The sudden spike in unemployment levels has placed an enormous strain on unemployment rolls and other assistance programs. I was pleased the bill included $3.9 billion in national emergency grants to states for health care and reemployment assistance for displaced workers, as well as an additional $4.6 billion for health care expenses. In addition, this measure includes a number of temporary tax provisions for reconstruction incentives to businesses located in the New York Liberty Zone surrounding the World Trade Center. Among these provisions includes $8 billion in tax-exempt bonds over the next three years for reconstruction in the areas of New York City damaged by the September 11 attacks. Also included are several measures intended to attract businesses back to New York City. Nonetheless, I am disturbed over the procedural games this bill must endure. We had an opportunity to pass a Senate cleared unemployment extension measure on its merits which would have passed the House and been sent to the president. Unfortunately, several tax provisions were added to the bill, essentially making it impossible to pass the Senate. Since September 11th, more than one million have seen their unemployment benefits expire. Another two million workers will exhaust their benefits over the next 6 months. Yet we continue to play partisan and procedural games holding the unemployed hostage. It's unfortunate that some of the positive measures of this bill will never see the president's desk. America needs an economic stimulus package that prioritizes the needs of this country during this difficult time. Therefore we must address the needs of our workers as well as providing our businesses with stimulating tax cuts that provide the temporary relief they need. However, this will never be achieved if the same procedural games are played.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of H.R. 2356, the Shays-Meehan Bipartisan Campaign Finance Reform Act of 2001. This legislation provides desperately needed reform to our current campaign system. As a proud cosponsor, and one of the 218 Members to sign the discharge petition needed to force a vote on this bill, I believe we can finally remedy many of the ongoing concerns associated with hard and soft money in our political system. In the past, proposed election law revisions raised First Amendment objections, created new loopholes in the current law, or negatively affected get-out-the-vote (GOTV) efforts and voter registration. I believe H.R. 2356 overcomes these concerns and gets at the heart of election reform--special interests in Washington. This legislation bans soft money to national parties, reins in campaign attack ads that masquerade as issue ads, and addresses GOTV concerns. A strong consensus of my constituents on Long Island have consistently voiced their support for this important piece of legislation. Their disenchantment with the current system results in fewer Americans exercising their right to vote. Congress has the opportunity to address the concerns over the corrupting influence of money in politics and public policy and pass real campaign finance reform. Shays-Meehan is the real campaign finance reform bill that closes loopholes in our current system. It's time to pass this legislation and reform a political system that is awash in money. I urge my colleagues to support this important measure.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I have named the Rockville Centre Union Free School District as School District of the Month in the Fourth Congressional District for February 2002. The schools in the district are Francis F. Wilson, Jennie E. Hewitt, Floyd B. Watson, Riverside and William S. Covert Elementary Schools, and South Side Middle and High Schools. I decided to honor the entire Rockville Centre school district for their commitment to helping the victims and their families of the September 11 tragedy. I commend their determination to make the world a better place. Dr. William Johnson is the Superintendent of Schools in the Rockville Centre School District. Primarily serving the residents of Rockville Centre, the school district also includes portions of the neighboring South Hempstead communities. The administrators of the schools are: Joan F. Waldman, Principal, Floyd B. Watson Elementary School; Darren Raymar, Principal, William S. Covert Elementary School; Carol Burris, Principal, South Side High School; Thomas Ricupero, Principal, South Side Middle School; Joanne Spencer, Principal, Jennie E. Hewitt Elementary School; Patricia Bock, Principal, Riverside Elementary School; and Ann Peluso, Principal, Francis F. Wilson Elementary School. All five of the elementary schools contributed to the various relief funds through a wide-range of events such as fundraisers, exhibits and collections. Students at Hewitt and Waston Elementary Schools responded immediately to President Bush's request for one dollar from every child to be sent to starving children in Afghanistan. Covert Elementary School will donate half of the proceeds from its annual Variety Show to their local World Trade Center fund. Wilson Elementary School ran a coin campaign and donated the proceeds, totaling over two thousand dollars to the American Red Cross. Furthermore, the Rockville Centre school district has excelled on the academic front. Several schools in the district have recently received individual awards for outstanding educational standards. Riverside Elementary School recently became the recipient of the Pathfinder Award, a prestigious distinction given by the Business Council of New York State for most improvement on state-wide English and Math exams. Two students from South Side High School are semifinalists in the nationwide Intel Science Talent Search, where the winners receive college scholarships. In 1998, South Side High School was named Blue Ribbon School. The unity and generosity of these children and their families is amazing. I am very proud of all of these schools and their benevolent efforts. Congratulations on this honor, and keep up the good work.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I would like to associate myself with the words that were spoken here. There was never any contention about this bill. I certainly supported it in committee and I support it today and I urge all of my colleagues to support it. I think in this time of need of this country that we have to do everything possible to make sure that our young people and also our parents know they have the ability to send their children to college for higher learning. If anything, it is national security to make sure we have the brightest minds, especially in math and science, to continue the work that we need. What happened on December 20, unfortunately, I think was a misunderstanding. I know my chairman has promised to work with me to again bring up hopefully the bill on the Surviving Spouse Loan Act, which is important certainly to many of the victims on September 11, and I am hoping that we will continue to work on that. I wish we were able to work on it that night to have a clarification on it. So, again I stand here in great support of this bill. It had nothing to do with the merits, the confusion that happened that morning, at 5 o'clock in the morning, I believe it was. But unfortunately we probably should not do things like that at 5 o'clock. As a nurse I can state one's mind is not functioning very well. With that, I do urge my colleagues. The gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Boehner) and I have worked well together on our committee. We have a lot of work to do on IDEA coming this year and I am willing to work with the gentleman on that. Again, I hope his promises of helping me to get this bill to the floor will continue. I am more than willing to work together. I urge all of my colleagues to certainly support this amendment.