Jerry Moran

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information regarding earmarks I received as part of H.R. 2997, the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2010 Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 2997 Agency/Account: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Salaries and Expenses Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Kansas State University Address of Requesting Entity: 110 Anderson Hall, Manhattan, KS 66506 Description of Project: I have secured $259,000 for The National Agricultural Biosecurity Center (NABC) at Kansas State University. NABC was established to help protect the U.S. agricultural infrastructure and economy from endemic and emerging biological threats. Funding will be used for Phase III efforts for the development, enhancement, and delivery of a targeted National Animal Health Laboratories Network (NAHLN) technical training support program. The funding is required to: (1) build and populate a lessons learned/best practices from NAHLN lab exercises and events; (2) expand animal health diagnostic screening capabilities regionally, including endemic and emerging pathogens (viruses, bacteria, and parasites) as well as prions such as BSE; (3) increase the testing capability and capacity of the Kansas State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (KSVDL) in support of the NAHLN mission by conducting research on new methodologies and standardized operating procedures for enhancing and improving the efficiency of NAHLN equipment and laboratories; and (4) develop a training strategy framework for NAHLN laboratories. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 2997 Agency/Account: National Institute for Food and Agriculture/SRG Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Kansas State University Address of Requesting Entity: 110 Anderson Hall, Manhattan, KS, 66506 Description of Project: I have secured $515,000 Great Plains Sorghum Improvement and Utilization Center. Kansas State University, along with Texas Tech University and Texas A&M University, initiated the GPSIUC in 2006. The focus of the center is on genetic improvement; production systems to enhance water and nutrient use; innovative strategies to provide improved weed control; utilization of sorghum in human food products, animal feed, and as a bioenergy and industrial feedstock; plus marketing and policy analysis in support of the U.S. sorghum industry. Sorghum seed companies are rapidly integrating new technology released by the GPSIUC into their seed offerings, with the first commercial hybrids expected to be available in 2011. Funding will be used for GPSIUC to expand existing research and educational programs, particularly in genetic improvement and sorghum utilization. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 2997 Agency/Account: National Institute of Food and Agriculture/SRG Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Kansas State University Address of Requesting Entity: 110 Anderson Hall, Manhattan, KS, 66506 Description of Project: I have secured $142,000 for Preharvest Food Safety and Security program. Kansas State University has an ongoing USDA special project on the ecology of E. coli 0157:H7 in beef cattle and the environment. This bacterial organism is a major cause of food- borne illnesses in humans. Funding will be used to expand its investigations into (1) the ecology of Salmonella in beef cattle, (2) antimicrobial resistance in cattle, and (3) agroinformatics and animal health diagnostics. These four areas of research have great overlap and synergy and will allow Kansas State University to better identify emerging threats of food-borne and zoonotic diseases associated with food-producing animals. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 2997 Agency/Account: National Institute of Food and Agriculture/SRG Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Kansas State University Address of Requesting Entity: 110 Anderson Hall, Manhattan, KS, 66506 Description of Project: I have secured $69,000 to study water conservation in the Ogallala Region of Kansas. This effort is critical to the economic viability of western Kansas. In many parts of western Kansas, freshwater from both surface and groundwater is increasingly in short supply. Drought, aquifer and surface water depletion, and population shifts have stretched community and regional water supplies to their limits. As groundwater supplies decline or become cost prohibitive, better management of water through conservation, recycling, and treatment of poor quality water for use becomes even more important. Funding for this project will be used to help: (1) agricultural producers, both crop and livestock; (2) rural communities in water-short areas; and (3) state agencies to implement economical technologies and policies that will result in water conservation and prolonged life of the Ogallala aquifer in the face of increasing competition for declining aquifers and over allocated surface waters. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Agency/Account: Cooperative State Research Education and Extension Service/SRG Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Kansas State University Address of Requesting Entity: 110 Anderson Hall, Manhattan, KS, 66506 Description of Project: I have secured $240,000 for Wheat Genetic Research. Wheat is the world's most important grain for human nutrition, but genomics and biotechnology research have lagged behind. The WGGRC is leading an international effort to map and sequence the wheat genome. The WGGRC gene bank currently maintains 12,000 lines and these collections are continuously expanding as the Center acquires, develops, and distributes new genetic and genomic resources to facilitate wheat genetics, genomics, and breeding research. Kansas State University and Kansas wheat producers have already made an investment of almost $1.0 million towards the purchase of a DNA sequencer and a robot for arraying and printing of DNA filters. Funding will be used collect, conserve, and distribute wheat genetic and genomic resources; develop improved germ plasm; develop genetic stocks; develop genomic resources; and support training and outreach. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Madam Chair, I come to the House of Representatives to encourage my colleagues to support and fund an urgent national security priority--the creation of the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility, also known as NBAF. From a rancher feeding his cattle this morning in Washington, Kansas, to a family sitting down for supper tonight here in Washington, D.C., Americans need to know that the United States is prepared to handle an outbreak of dangerous animal disease that could harm our country's economy and our food supply. Our nation's current animal disease research center, located at Plum Island, New York, is well over 50 years old and can no longer meet our needs. With today's threat of bioterror attack, as well as the threat of natural and accidental outbreaks of foreign animal diseases, it is clear that more research capacity is needed. NBAF is needed to concentrate our efforts to assess disease threats to livestock, wildlife and humans, and to develop the vaccines and countermeasures against these threats. A modern, safe animal disease research laboratory is critical for protecting our country. After years of study and a rigorous selection process, in January, the Department of Homeland Security unanimously chose to build NBAF at Kansas State University in Manhattan, Kansas. DHS found Kansas State University to be the best fit for this critical mission. Kansas was chosen because of the State's existing biosecurity research infrastructure, skilled animal science workforce, strong citizen support, and large cost-share contribution. At the time, NBAF was expected to be completed by 2015. Despite the fact that there has never been stronger need for accelerated animal disease research, I am incredibly disappointed that NBAF may now be delayed. The President requested $36 million in 2010 for NBAF design and construction. I have concerns that this investment is inadequate for moving forward with this security priority. But as the House today considers H.R. 2892, the FY 2010 Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, it appears that even the President's requested funding amount may not be provided. Citing safety concerns with researching foot and mouth disease, FMD, on the mainland, the spending bill provides no funding for NBAF. In addition, the bill requires yet another FMD risk analysis. As a Member of Congress who represents a large agricultural district, I understand the importance of determining the risks associated with conducting FMD research, whether on an island or in the middle of the country. What we know is that studies by experts at DHS and elsewhere say that FMD can be safely studied on the mainland, as it is done in other countries like Canada, just across our northern border. Modern biocontainment technology has eliminated the need for locating this work on an island, like we did decades ago. The same state-of-the-art research methods and facilities allow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to research dangerous human diseases in the city of Atlanta. While I understand the risk associated with the research of any dangerous disease, it should not blind us to the risk of inaction. The bottom line is that if we do not build NBAF and increase our capacity to combat diseases, our country will be less safe. The research that will be performed at NBAF is critical to secure America's food supply and protect our agricultural industries from animal disease outbreaks. A modern facility that can respond to outbreaks is urgently needed and must remain a top priority for the U.S. As the appropriations process moves forward, I strongly encourage my colleagues in Congress to fund and support NBAF.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. I thank the gentleman for yielding. Madam Speaker, there is an assertion, a story around Congress today that with the adoption of the Peterson amendment, the negotiations between the chairman of the Agriculture Committee and the chairman of the Commerce Committee, that this bill somehow now becomes acceptable, something advantageous for those of us who represent rural America. I can assure my colleagues, Republican or Democrat, who come from rural America and who represent agricultural interests that nothing could be further from the truth. While the Peterson amendment substantially improves the bill, at least modestly improves the bill, the end result is nothing but something that is disadvantageous and negative for rural economies. Agriculture had thought at one point in time there would be something they could gain from sequestering carbon in the soil, and yet this bill still provides no assurance that the EPA--not the Department of Agriculture, but that the EPA will allow that to occur. If they would, then the Department of Agriculture is involved; but once again, agriculture is not even mentioned in this bill in regard to offsets. In addition to that, the electric cooperatives are still disadvantaged. If you come from rural America, the allowances that this bill allows are advantages to those who live on the west and east coasts, and yet those of us who represent some of the poor areas of the country, we will be transferring our income and wealth to those coasts. This bill, in my opinion, is a jobs bill, as indicated by the gentleman from Massachusetts, but it is a jobs elimination bill. This bill creates a significant competitive disadvantage for American small business and agriculture as we try to compete in the global economy in which other countries do not abide by these caps, rules, or regulations. I would assert that during my time in Congress there is no piece of legislation that will be more damaging to the future of rural America, to the future of small farms and businesses than the bill that is before us today. This bill--a jobs bill, as described by the gentleman from Massachusetts--is a job elimination bill, not a job creation bill. I urge my colleagues, both Republicans and Democrats, who come from the Midwest, who come from rural America to vote ``no.''

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. From its very beginning in the House Energy and Commerce Committee, H.R. 2454, the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009, has been forced upon Members of Congress with little time to consider the significant and potentially damaging consequences of this legislation. On June 12th of this month, the Committee on Agriculture, on which I serve, held a 7-hour hearing to review this bill. We quickly learned that there is little solid economic analysis on how this legislation will affect our economy. Preliminary evidence makes it clear it will increase the cost of energy and, with it, the cost of everything we use in our lives on a daily basis. We do know that the Congressional Budget Office has said this bill will raise government revenue by $846 billion over the next 10 years. In everyday terms, that means a huge tax increase. $846 billion, however, is just the beginning. H.R. 2454 is permanent, and after the 10-year period analyzed by the CBO, free carbon allowances are phased out, auctioned carbon allowances are phased in, and total allowances are reduced. This means that future generations will be forced to pay much more than that indicated in the initial 10-year budget estimate. Although billed as cap-and-trade, in reality Waxman-Markey is a cap- and-tax bill. Instead of government directly levying a tax, this legislation disguises that tax as a carbon allowance auction that subsequently requires electrical generation companies, petroleum, and other biofuel refiners, manufacturers, and others to collect the tax through increased costs. The consequences go far beyond the price and our ability to turn on the lights in rural America. Kansans, who must always travel great distances to work, to school, and to receive their medical care, will pay disproportionately compared to those who have shorter distances to travel and can use public transportation. Some had hope that agriculture and rural America would actually benefit, somehow be made whole under this legislation. Under Waxman- Markey, this clearly is not the case. Despite great potential for agriculture to sequester carbon, agriculture is not mentioned once in the section that defines offsets. Instead, H.R. 2454 directs the EPA to define the world of carbon offsets. This will lead to few benefits for farmers and ranchers and will allow the EPA to further intrude upon our farms. EPA has consistently made harmful decisions that fail the test of common sense. Unless agricultural offsets are expressly defined and sole authority is given to the Department of Agriculture, farmers will never see benefits from this legislation. But even if those offsets are defined and USDA is given that authority, it is difficult to see how agriculture will overcome the increased cost of inputs caused by this cap-and-tax system. In the best case scenario under Waxman-Markey, a farmer could mitigate 10 to 50 percent of the cost of the legislation. In the worst case scenario, farmers and ranchers could find themselves unable to access the carbon offset market at all and be forced to bear the full cost of this legislation. Either way, any hope for profitability in agriculture is bleak. I am especially concerned about the livestock sector. Unlike crop farmers, ranch operations and feed yards have few opportunities to accumulate carbon - offsets. Much emphasis has been placed upon our Nation's economic recovery since the market collapse of last fall. This bill is almost certain to destroy any chance of economic recovery if enacted in its current form. Congress should be allowed to obtain sound technical and economic analysis and address this legislation's many, many, many flaws. If further legislative debate is denied, then we must do what common sense demands and defeat this bill. Congress rarely gets things right when we have ample time to properly consider policy changes, but it has never made good decisions when rushed by arbitrary timetables. Congress should abandon the current pace set by the Speaker of the House. Otherwise, Members of Congress will have abdicated their responsibilities and farmers and ranchers, rural America, and in fact, the entire country will suffer the consequences.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information regarding earmarks I received as part of H.R. 2847, the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2010: Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 2847 Agency/Account: DOJ, COPS Law Enforcement Technology Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Dodge City Police Department Address of Requesting Entity: 110 W. Bruce St., Dodge City, KS 67801 Description of Project: I have secured $200,000 for the Dodge City Police Department Equipment and Technology Upgrade Project. Funding will be used for a variety of equipment and technology upgrades that includes crime scene mapping and surveying upgrades, building security and safety cameras, and training room upgrades. Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 2847 Agency/Account: DOJ, COPS Law Enforcement Technology Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Liberal Police Department Address of Requesting Entity: P.O. Box 2199, Liberal, KS 67905 Description of Project: I have secured $200,000 for the Liberal Police Department Equipment Upgrade Project. The department is in serious need of some upgrades to current equipment including portable and car radios, mobile vehicle recorders, firearms, and holsters. Their current radios are between 7 to 10 years old and are beginning to deteriorate. Patrol vehicles are equipped with mobile vehicle recorders which are 6 to 7 years old and have started to deteriorate as well. Funding will be used for the City of Liberal Equipment Upgrade Project to help remedy this situation. Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 2847 Agency/Account: DOJ, OJP-Byrne Jag Program Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Hutchinson Police Department Address of Requesting Entity: 210 W. 1st, Hutchinson, KS 67501 Description of Project: I have secured $200,000 for the Hutchinson Police Department Emergency Response Team Equipment Upgrade Project. The Hutchinson Police Department is in great need of upgrading their tactical team equipment to include funding for new tactical body armor, helmets, weapon systems, cell disrupter, surveillance equipment and throw phone. Funding will be used to upgrade these much needed items.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Madam Speaker, I rise this evening to announce the sad passing of Dr. Bob Frederick, a distinguished Kansan and exceptional human being. Dr. Frederick served as athletic director at the University of Kansas for 14 years, the second longest tenure in the school history, and a period during which the Jayhawk athletics achieved 32 conference championships and generated 41 Academic All-Americans, the latter of which I'm sure meant the most to Dr. Frederick, as that is the kind of person he was. Dr. Frederick felt most concerned about the well-being of student athletes. First as a coach and later as an athletic director, he showed that concern as he personally took an interest in the students at Kansas University that were also engaged in the intense dedication that it takes to be a college athlete today. While very competitive by nature, he was as gracious in defeat and as much a class act as any athletic director there ever was. For Dr. Frederick, the bottom line was not about winning but, rather, about improving and advancing the lives of young men and women. Dr. Frederick loved Kansas. As part of the university for 35 years, beginning with his bachelor's and master's degrees and walking onto the basketball team to his years of serving as assistant basketball coach, athletic director, and finally as administrator and assistant professor, it is clear Dr. Frederick and Kansans were meant for each other. Dr. Frederick is perhaps best known for his bold hire of then-unknown assistant basketball coach Roy Williams in 1989. Williams, who would achieve the winningest decade of any first-time head coach in NCAA history, said of Dr. Frederick, ``He is the finest gentleman I've ever known in my life.'' A basketball coach himself at Russell and Lawrence High Schools, as well as Coffeyville Community College in Kansas, Dr. Frederick was cherished on all sides of our great State. I wish to offer this tribute to an outstanding gentleman, Dr. Bob Frederick, and express my sincere condolences to his wife, Margey, and his four sons. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I am deeply saddened by the news of yesterday's shooting at the Holocaust Memorial Museum and express my condolences to the victim's family. It is unfortunate that, even in today's world, there are still individuals who choose to deny the tragic events of the Holocaust. In the face of those who adhere to hatred, we must continue to stress the importance of knowledge over ignorance, with the hope that we can prevent future tragedies such as this. And that is just what the Holocaust Museum strives to do. Each year, some 2 million people from around the world visit the museum where they are confronted with a record of the horrors of the Holocaust so that no one can deny its existence. The museum not only reminds us of the atrocities of the Holocaust, but it shows us what happens when hatred, intolerance, and ignorance are allowed to direct the actions of men. The museum calls each one of us to recognize the humanity in all people, regardless of our differences. Its role in educating visitors about the responsibilities each individual has and its efforts to promote tolerance, understanding, and acceptance continue to be needed. I wish to express my condolences to the family, friends and coworkers of Stephen T. Johns. The outstanding courage demonstrated by Mr. Johns and all those who serve to protect citizens should not be taken for granted. My thoughts and prayers are with them.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. This week we are experiencing Iran's presidential election. While the election is noteworthy, it will probably not have an impact on Iran's illegal nuclear program. Unlike in the United States, the President of Iran has minimal influence over the country's national security policies. Those decisions are controlled by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khomeini, the unelected head of Iran's theocratic regime. The supreme leader has vowed to continue Iran's nuclear program, and unfortunately we see evidence of this. Just last Friday, the International Atomic Energy Agency reported that Iran has sped up production of nuclear fuel and installed more centrifuges in advance of the election. Nuclear weapons experts say Iran now has enough centrifuge capacity to fuel up to two nuclear weapons a year. Iran is determined to acquire nuclear weapons regardless of who is president. It would be a mistake for the Obama administration and this Congress to wait and see what direction Iran takes if a new president is elected because the course appears to be already determined. If we are going to engage Iran, we must do so right away, immediately, and back engagement with tougher actions.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise tonight to express confusion and concern. For much of the week, I have tried to find an answer to the question about why automobile dealerships across the country are being closed. I thought maybe this week I would return to Washington, D.C., and find the solution, that someone would know and provide an explanation. I cannot understand how closing automobile dealerships, those who sell automobiles, is advantageous to the bottom line, the profit of General Motors or Chrysler. This can't be a market-based decision. There must be some political consideration that is ongoing to encourage these dealerships to be closed. The closing of those dealerships is devastating to communities as well as the businesses that we are closing, and at the same time provide no economic improvement in the bottom line of our automobile manufacturers. So, Mr. Speaker, I again ask those of my colleagues and those at the White House, the automobile task force, is it a political consideration that is occurring to encourage General Motors and Chrysler to disenfranchise their franchisees or is there some market-based decision on which this is based? And yet no one can provide that answer.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, this Saturday, June 6, 2009 marks the 65th anniversary of D-day. Sixty-five years ago, 150,000 Allied soldiers, many of them just teenagers, braved tumbling seas, inclement weather, waves of machinegun fire and millions of land mines to take a stretch of beach at a place called Normandy. The bravery and sacrifice of these young men began the Allied effort to liberate Europe from Nazi occupation during World War II. D-day signaled the beginning of the end for the brutal fascist regime bent on global domination, and the return of hope to millions across the world. With the enormity and significance of D-day, it is often difficult for our minds to comprehend that such a historic undertaking was carried out by individual everyday Americans. However these individuals were not ordinary people. Rather, they possessed profound determination, courage and commitment to purpose and were led by extraordinary leaders with unrivaled character and unmatched vision. No star shined brighter at this dangerous hour than one of our greatest Kansas sons, General Dwight D. Eisenhower. Dwight D. Eisenhower, a boy from Abilene, Kansas, grew up to serve America as Supreme Commander of the Allied forces during World War II and later as our 34th President. During the most difficult days of World War II, General Eisenhower made the crucial and controversial decisions necessary for victory. With the responsibility of Operation Overlord, the largest amphibious invasion in the history of the world, General Eisenhower was fully aware that weather would play a critical factor in the success of D-day and the safety of hundreds of thousands of troops. Under the full weight of these consequences, he elected to delay the massive undertaking by one day due to weather concerns. Faced with only marginally better weather forecast the next day, June 6, 1944, he ordered the commencement of the operation and took sole responsibility for this critical decision, a choice that ultimately determined the outcome of the war. General Eisenhower's words to his troops on D-day are inscribed at the national World War II Memorial. He is quoted, ``You are about to embark on the Great Crusade, toward which we have striven for many months. The eyes of the world are upon you. I have full faith in your confidence, in your courage, devotion to duty and skill in battle. We will accept nothing less than full victory.'' No one understood the historical enormity of D-day more than General Eisenhower. His sense of responsibility was profound. Following the successful landing at Normandy, one of Eisenhower's aides discovered a note that Eisenhower had scribbled before the invasion. It read, ``Our landings in the area have failed to gain a satisfactory foothold, and I have withdrawn the troops. My decision to attack at this time and place was based upon the best information available. The troops, the air, and the Navy did all that bravery and devotion could do. If any blame or fault attaches to the attempt it is mine alone.'' In these current times of great national challenges, we need leaders who possess the same sense of responsibility. I'm honored to serve as a Commissioner on the Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial Commission. The Commission was established by Congress in 1999, and it is charged with creating a permanent national memorial to our World War II hero and 34th President. Following a rigorous selection process, the commission has selected a world-renowned architect, Frank Gehry, as the lead designer for the memorial. The National Eisenhower Memorial will reflect Ike's great legacy and his optimism for America's future. It will illustrate his love of democracy and country, and his faith in international cooperation and understanding. In fact, his memorial will be the first to reach out to international visitors in their own languages. President Eisenhower represents the best of Kansas and the best of America. This weekend, as we pause to remember those veterans who selflessly gave their lives for the cause of freedom on a foreign French beach 65 years ago, my hope is that we will reflect upon the principled leadership, conviction and commitment shown by General Eisenhower, a man who never forgot that his first responsibility was to lead a coalition to the best of his ability to victory. Indeed, we currently face tough and uncertain times ourselves, but in these difficult times, it is important to remember President Eisenhower's words: ``America is exactly as strong as the initiative, courage, understanding and loyalty of our individual citizen.''

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Imagine, if you can, living in a place so plagued by war and kidnapping that you have to walk up to 12 miles a day just to find a place to sleep at night that's safe. As Americans, I don't think we can fully grasp what that would be like. But, for thousands of children living in northern Uganda today, this is their daily commute. This is their life. For fear of being abducted by rebel leader Joseph Kony and his Lord's Resistance Army, children living in rural homes and villages would walk to town centers to sleep where they could hope to be safe. The children were among the victims of a conflict that began in 1986, and that somehow still continues today in Uganda and neighboring countries. Lacking support from the local population, Kony resorted to kidnapping children as young as 8 years old and conscripting them to his army. The children have been brutalized and forced to commit atrocities on fellow abductees and even siblings. The vicious initiations were meant to break the children's ties to their community and gain their loyalty to the LRA. More than 25,000 children have been abducted over the course of this 23-year conflict. While many Americans first learned about this issue when they saw a film made by college-age students called Invisible Children, many more remain unaware of the violence and suffering happening half a world away. I was recently reminded of the severity of this situation when students in my hometown of Hays and the community of Sterling, Kansas, shared with me the latest news from this conflict. In 2006, many were hopeful a peace agreement could be reached to allow a new generation of children to finally live a life free of fear. Although it appeared progress had been made, Kony refused to sign the final agreement in 2008, and instead escalated his attacks. Since then, the LRA has killed more than 1,000, including more than 200 on Christmas Day. The LRA has also abducted more than 450 children during this time. A few weeks ago, concerned citizens from around the world, in more than 100 cities, participated in an event called the Rescue to raise awareness about the conflict and call on their elected officials-- people here in this House of Representatives--to take action. Two of these events were held in my home State--in Wichita and Kansas City. I'm here today to join my voice with the voices of those that participated in the Rescue and to call on Congress to support efforts to end the violence and to rebuild shattered lives. People look to the United States to defend those who cannot help themselves, to free the oppressed, and to champion the cause of freedom. This Congress can be the voice for those who have none. As Brandon Nimz, a student at Fort Hayes State University, who is active in raising awareness about this issue, said in a recent letter to the editor, ``In this time when the world does not look very kindly toward the United States, I believe we must show everyone that we're not driven solely by a need for power and influence--we do have a heart. Even though we will receive no political or economic gains by helping these defenseless villagers in the five affected African nations, it is the right thing to do.'' Mr. Speaker and colleagues, tonight let us show that America does indeed have that heart. Please join me in doing the right thing by taking action to help this conflict and protect the helpless.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. The secret ballot is fundamental to free and fair elections--and they're the hallmark of the democratic process. Most every time Americans go to the polls to vote, they do so by the means of a secret ballot. Secret ballots protect the voter's privacy and allow the individual to vote his or her conscience without fear of reprisal from those who disagree with the voter's decision. As a Nation, we celebrate when the citizens of other countries who were previously denied to vote in free and fair elections are finally able to do so. We watched with pride several years ago as Iraqis braved terrorist threats to cast their vote by secret ballot. Mr. Speaker, if the secret ballot is used by Americans in local, State, and Federal elections, if the secret ballot is used by citizens of other nations for which American soldiers have sacrificed, don't American workers also deserve this fundamental right? If you can ask Kansans, they will say, Yes, workers do deserve the right to a secret ballot election. A recent poll found that 65 percent of Kansans surveyed believe that the secret ballot should remain in use for union organizing. Yet, despite the centrality of the secret ballot to our conception of fairness and public support for its use, many in Congress are pushing for the passage of legislation that would do away with this longstanding principle. In its place, the Employee Free Choice Act would allow unions to form if a majority of workers signed authorization cards--a process known as ``card check.'' Without giving workers the protection of a secret ballot, each person's choice would be known to others. It is not unreasonable to believe that those who choose not to sign authorization cards would be subject to intimidation and coercion. While this should be reason enough to defeat the Employee Free Choice Act, the legislation is further flawed. Provisions within the legislation require a mandatory arbitration process that would allow the Federal Government to dictate contract terms on businesses if a first contract is not agreed to within 120 days. The contract would be binding for 2 years and would cover decisions that are best left to company leaders that understand the specifics of that business and are most familiar with the competitive forces that the business faces. In these difficult economic times, the government-imposed and - written contracts would have an especially devastating impact on businesses that would further delay our economic recovery. Allowing the government to impose contracts on private firms and their workers would effectively allow the government to pick winners and losers in the marketplace. The Employee Free Choice Act is bad for workers and bad for the economy. Congress should reject this legislation and refocus its effort on initiatives that would protect the rights and privacy of American workers and strengthen the economy by creating conditions in which businesses can grow, prosper, and create jobs.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, in January, shortly after taking office, President Obama ordered the closure of the detention facility at Guantanamo Bay Naval Base within the year. Up to 250 detainees who are suspects from the war on terrorism will be processed and moved, possibly to facilities located inside the United States. The U.S. disciplinary barracks at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, is apparently one of the facilities under consideration to house these prisoners. I have visited Fort Leavenworth, the city of Leavenworth, and surrounding communities. I have talked to city officials, local businesses, and State legislators. I have spoken to U.S. military officers and foreign military students attending the Army's Command and General Staff College located at the fort. Simply stated, Fort Leavenworth is a poor fit for placing Guantanamo detainees. Fort Leavenworth is known as the ``Intellectual Center of the Army,'' where the leaders of our military and foreign militaries are educated. However, should these politically sensitive detainees be located at the fort, many countries will likely discontinue sending military students to America to be trained. This action would disrupt Fort Leavenworth's primary mission of military education. It would greatly impair a successful international military student program that has spread good will around the world for 100 years. Additionally, our country should not make Fort Leavenworth's soldiers and their families and northeast Kansas unfairly bear this responsibility at the cost of their safety and economic well-being. The 3,000 residents who live on post as well as the residents of nearby communities would be living at a higher security risk. Since the fort has no major medical facilities, dangerous detainees would need to be transported to a local hospital or V.A. for medical attention. Local public safety officials are not capable of handling a terrorist incident or protests that may occur and would require greater resources. The need to increase security at the fort would likely close off citizen access to Sherman Airfield, the only public airport in Leavenworth, as well as stop rail and river barge traffic that runs to the post. These actions would have significant economic consequences. Finally, the fort's disciplinary barracks lack the capability to house terrorist suspects. It is largely a medium-security facility for military prisoners. It would cost hundreds of millions of dollars to upgrade the disciplinary barracks to maximum security level and to construct the hospital, residential, and support facilities that would be required to house the additional prisoners and security personnel. As a small post surrounded by a civilian population, there is no room to grow. Fort Leavenworth is clearly an unsuitable location. I am a sponsor of legislation introduced by my colleague of Kansas, Ms. Jenkins, to prevent Guantanamo detainees from being relocated there. The decision to close Guantanamo Bay detention facility and relocate terror suspects should not be made recklessly. I'm troubled that the administration is seeking to move forward on Guantanamo despite the absence of a closure and relocation plan and despite the lack of congressional review. In their recently submitted FY 09 war supplemental request to Congress, they ask us for $80 million to close the Guantanamo detention facility to relocate prisoners, support personnel and services. I join the gentleman from California, Representative Hunter, in asking the Appropriations Committee not to include this funding in the supplemental until we see a plan. Still lacking these details this week, I'm pleased to see that our appropriations chairman, Mr. Obey, announced his refusal to provide the funding. This critical national security decision deserves critical thought. Detainees should not be moved where they do not belong. And detainees do not belong at Fort Leavenworth.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, for the past 61 years, the United States and Israel have enjoyed a strategic partnership based on shared democratic values, commitment to freedom, friendship, and respect. I rise today to recognize that relationship and congratulate the people of Israel on the 61st anniversary of Israel's independence. In addition to congratulating the people of Israel as they celebrate their independence, H. Con. Res. 111, recognizes important events and people who have shaped this nation's history. While Israel's history is marked by proud accomplishments and successes, it is also peppered by instances when Israeli's had to defend their country from outside threats. Sadly, many threats still remain. As Americans join Israeli's in celebrating their country's independence, we should take notice of those threats and renew our commitment to addressing them. No bigger, more challenging threat exists to Israel than that posed by Iran. Continuing to enrich uranium, Iran now has enough low enriched uranium that if further processed could produce a nuclear bomb. Such a development would be an existential threat to Israel. As one of Israel's closest friends and allies, the United States should take appropriate action to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Congress can begin by approving H.R. 1327, the Iran Sanctions Enabling Act, and H.R. 1985, the Iran Diplomatic Enhancement Act. By standing with Israel against Iran, we demonstrate the strength of the ties that bind our two nations. Again, Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the people of Israel on the 61st anniversary of their independence and call on my colleagues in Congress to show their support for Israel by passing legislation that will pressure Iran into abandoning its pursuit of nuclear weapons.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Madam Speaker, a few weeks ago, I came to this House floor to address my colleagues and bring to their attention the danger that Iran poses to Israel. I shared with my colleagues some of the things that the Iranian leader had said about Israel to illustrate the seriousness of the threat. Madam Speaker, the Iranian President, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, has again spoken. Last week, at the opening day of the United Nations Anti-Racism Conference, the Iranian President was given a platform on which to spread racist and hateful views. In his address to the conference, he called Israel ``the most cruel and racist regime,'' said that Zionism ``is a paragon of racism,'' and said the creation of Israel was founded on ``the pretext of Jewish sufferings and the ambiguous and dubious question of the Holocaust.'' While the Iranian leader's comments are disturbing in any context, it is even more troublesome that he would question the Holocaust on the day before we celebrated the Holocaust Remembrance. It is hard to understand how the United Nations and so many other countries fail to take the Iranian threat seriously. It is more than ironic that the U.N. would give one who has denied the Holocaust and advocated for the destruction of Israel the opportunity to speak at a conference convened to combat hatred and racism. Although the United States and a few countries had the sense to boycott the summit and thereby refuse to lend credibility to the conference and speakers like Ahmadinejad, too many nations continue to act with complacency. Last Thursday, our Nation's leaders gathered in our Rotunda here in the Capitol for the National Commemoration of the Day of Remembrance to remember the 6 million Jews who were murdered in the Holocaust. The theme of this year's events was, ``Never Again: What You Do Matters.'' That theme is a message for all of us to take very seriously. When we say ``never again,'' we need to think about the current threats to peace and security and take appropriate action to prevent senseless violence. Iran's pursuit of nuclear weapons is an existential threat to the people of Israel and a grave danger to the rest of the world. Madam Speaker, the things we do do matter. It is time for us to join together and confront this Iranian threat. Today, Israel celebrates its 61st anniversary of its independence; again, a day in which we ought to remember the threat that still remains. Congress can take action to address this threat by approving H.R. 1327, the Iran Sanctions Enabling Act, and H.R. 1985, the Iran Diplomatic Enhancement Act. The Iran Sanctions Enabling Act gives States and local governments the authority to divest their assets from any company that invests $20 million or more in Iran's energy sector. The other piece of legislation, H.R. 1985, would sanction any entity engaged in activities that contribute to Iran's ability to import gasoline or fine petroleum. I am a sponsor of these bills, and I believe that sanctions will increase pressure on the Iranian regime to change course and abandon its pursuit of nuclear weapons. The Days of Remembrance call us to soberly evaluate the changes to peace we face and take swift action as best we can to address them. Madam Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to quickly approve the Iran Sanctions Enabling Act and the Iran Diplomatic Enhancement Act. ``Never again: What we do does matter.''

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Madam Speaker, perhaps the most dreaded day of the year for taxpayers will soon be upon us, April 15. We're all at home with paper and pen, with stacks of receipts and books, strewn upon our kitchen table, and as tax day approaches, I come before the House of Representatives to share Kansans' many frustrations and to call upon Congress to fix the Tax Code. Our country desperately needs a better tax system. The United States Tax Code is complex, confusing, and terribly burdensome to taxpayers, and it impedes our Nation's economic growth. The IRS has estimated that individual taxpayers and businesses spend 7.6 billion hours each year filling out their taxes. To put that number in perspective, that's 3.8 million employees working full time for the entire year. It's obvious, certainly to anyone filling out their tax return this year, that an overhaul of the Federal Tax Code is required. The Fair Tax Act, which I support, H.R. 25, is a direction we should go and contains many meritorious ideas which would start the process. The fair tax would repeal income, payroll, and a multitude of other taxes. And those taxes would be replaced by a national sales or consumption tax on retail purchases. But no matter what system we agree upon, what we model our tax reform around, the fact remains: America deserves an easier, commonsense, and less convoluted tax system than we currently have in place. We need a tax system that promotes personal freedom. Decisions should be made based upon what's good for us individually, what's good for our families, and what's good for our businesses. It shouldn't be all about what's good for the tax man. But instead of tax simplification and tax relief, Americans this year will be facing the same broken system and a budget proposal that increases their taxes to pay for more spending. Many are angry at the reckless spending of this Congress, so much so that a national grassroots movement of tea parties has opened up this spring. On April 15, over 300 tax day tea parties are planned across the country, many of them in Kansas. Kansans are tired of footing the bill for Wall Street bailouts and rewarding bad behavior in the housing market. They're frustrated with trillion dollar stimulus efforts that fund projects and programs that simply won't stimulate the economy. They're upset with massive government spending that increases our national debt at a time when most American families are forced to tighten their belts and make tough choices. Americans are struggling, and we need to get the country moving, but increasing taxes to recklessly throw dollars at the problem is not the solution. I am one of only a few of the 435 Members of this House to vote against every stimulus and bailout plan. I'd like to say that there were more of us. Hopefully, this tax day will serve as a reminder for Congress and the administration to put the taxpayer first--spend a lot less and create a tax system that is fair and efficient and that promotes individual freedom.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise this afternoon in recognition of a respected business leader in the State of Kansas who died earlier this week. Charles R. ``Dick'' Webb of Pittsburg, Kansas, and founder of Watco Companies passed away on Monday, March 23, at the young age of 70. He was a great Kansan and an exemplary American who will be greatly missed. Dick Webb made his mark on the Kansas business community through Watco, a company he founded in 1983 along with his wife, Kaye Lynne. Watco was started literally at the kitchen table. A rail service provider, the Webbs' startup would evolve into a titan of Midwestern business. Watco Companies now supports 2,000 employees in over 26 States. This expansive network of Watco employees and products has benefited millions of Americans through efficient commodity shipping and gainful employment. Watco railroad tracks continue to move the products that move America. Food and fuel find their way across our Nation's heartland thanks to the foresight of Dick Webb. His endurance in times of uncertainty in his industry allowed Watco to emerge as a leader in rail service and technology. Entrepreneurship is highly valued in our society, and Dick epitomized that quality. With the success Watco experienced, it would have been easy to relocate the company's headquarters to a more densely populated area. But being a loyal Kansan, Dick remained in Pittsburg to grow his business and his community. Whether it was his support for his alma mater, Pittsburg State University, or his support for other local startup businesses, Dick added to the overall quality of life for every Pittsburg resident. Dick is survived by his wife, his two children, Susan Lundy and Rick Webb, as well as six grandchildren who all were raised to remain in Pittsburg. But knowing of Dick's devotion to his employees, it may well be said that he is survived by his Watco family as well. The employees and their families that aided the building of Watco continue to benefit from Dick's work and leadership. The legacy he left on our State and this Nation will continue to benefit us all. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and Members of the U.S. House of Representatives join me in honoring Dick Webb and the lasting legacy he achieved with his life.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I oppose a policy proposal by the Obama administration that would break with our country's obligation to its veterans. As we know, our veterans have sacrificed to protect our way of life and deserve the promises that we made to them being kept. Yesterday, I joined my fellow Republican members of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs and House Republican leaders in sending communications to President Obama in strong opposition to an ill- conceived plan. The administration's plan would bill veterans' private insurance for care related to service-connected injuries. It would permit the Department of Veterans Affairs, the VA, to ignore its core responsibility ``to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow and his orphan.'' Our country has a binding obligation to provide this care, particularly to those who have become disabled as a result of their service. It is wrong to shift this responsibility to private insurers--which actually the veterans will pay for in premiums--and to our disabled veterans themselves. Additionally, billing veterans' private insurance could result in higher premiums for the veterans to cover the cost of treating the service-connected injuries. Some disabled veterans may expend their insurance benefits on treatment of service-connected conditions, leaving no benefits for their family. This policy may also discourage employers from hiring disabled veterans. I encourage, in the strongest possible terms, the administration to shelve this proposal permanently. While we must look for ways to save taxpayer dollars and tackle our runaway budget deficit, we should not ask those who have already sacrificed so much to pay the bill. We must never forget that our country has a responsibility to its veterans. Congress should honor this obligation by providing the funding necessary for the VA to maintain health care services to our men and women who have served us in uniform.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise this evening in the House in strong opposition to AIG's recent payments to employees in the form of bonuses. I can't believe that this conversation is even necessary. The handling of these bonus payments by AIG's management is an insult to the people who are ultimately paying for them, the American taxpayer. I believe that good business behavior and superior professional performance should be rewarded. That's the way the market system works and should work. People that are good at their jobs should be recognized. Compensation bonuses awarded to certain AIG employees do not fall into this category of recognition. The American people own 80 percent of this company, yet 73 individuals employed by AIG received a bonus of at least $1 million each. The CEO of AIG today here on Capitol Hill called the bonuses ``distasteful.'' I can tell you that Kansans have a much more colorful description when they are telling the story about these bonuses. Their outrage stems from a series of corporate actions, actions that have steadily eroded our Nation's confidence in the competency of Wall Street and the business community, and the Federal Government's response to these business conditions. And the mortgaging of our children's future is especially damning when news of the bonuses arrives like it has this week. When the Troubled Asset Relief Program was first laid out, Members of Congress were assured that this would be a benefit to the public and would make a difference not only in the short term, but especially in the long term. For many reasons, I did not support the initial bailout, including my belief that there were few taxpayer safeguards within this legislation. Recent actions on the part of AIG only confirmed what I feared. Troubled businesses--and I think this is what is happening here-- troubled businesses were not forced to change their failed practices. Instead, they were given a lifeline, and they are beginning to pull us under with them. Kansans ask only to have an opportunity to earn a paycheck and make a living. Most Americans realize that bonuses are awarded if and when their employer is profitable and successful. AIG is neither. It is not fair, it is not right, and it ought not happen. I ask my colleagues in the House and the Senate to pursue all methods of recourse against companies that flaunt the will of the American taxpayer. But it is not just AIG we should blame. Congress passed this legislation without timely consideration. We rushed to judgment. In many instance, we violated principles that we know work, principles of an economy. And our actions as a Congress that passed this legislation allowed AIG to pay these bonuses. Shame on AIG and shame on Congress. By demanding accountability and some commonsense from those businesses that are being assisted, Congress may finally begin to get it right, and the taxpayer may finally be protected.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I come this afternoon to the House of Representatives to bring a message from Kansans and those who support the Second Amendment. The United States Supreme Court ruled last year that the Second Amendment guarantees an individual's right to own firearms and that Washington DC's gun ban is unconstitutional. This decision was a win for all Americans and sent a message to governments across the country in support of Second Amendment freedoms. Unfortunately in recent weeks we have heard from administration officials and gun control advocates that they are pushing to restrict an individual's gun rights, the rights guaranteed by our Constitution. Discussing escalating violence caused by drug cartels in Mexico, U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder last month called for reinstating the so- called assault weapons ban. This is the wrong approach. Instead of punishing law-abiding American gun owners, our citizens, our country should be working to enforce existing gun laws that outlaw illegal purchases. We should secure our borders, and we should work to increase the cooperation between the United States and Mexican authorities. Many Kansans are also concerned about H.R. 45, legislation that has been proposed to license gun owners and track firearms sales. I am hopeful that this bill does not have the support to be approved by this Congress. An article in today's Wichita Eagle, our newspaper at home, highlights an ironic twist. The article reports that news of gun control efforts, along with concerns that crime will increase with a troubled economy, has ramped up the demand for firearms and ammunitions. Shortages are now common as retail stores are having trouble keeping guns and ammunition on the shelves. I want to restate that our Founding Fathers established a Bill of Rights to our Constitution to make sure that American citizens can live in freedom without government intrusion. Human liberty and limited government are principles I hold in high regard. I stand with Kansans in opposing efforts that violate the Second Amendment, and I will continue to cast my votes where it's necessary to protect our rights, including those provided for by the Second Amendment.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, while much of the attention here in Congress is focused on the difficulties here at home, as we have heard in speeches this evening, rising unemployment rates, home mortgage foreclosures, increasing health care costs, stock market decline, I rise tonight to remind us that we cannot forget about the pressing challenges to global stability and our national security interest posed by Iran. One of the best ways to understand the seriousness of the Iranian threat is to listen to the words of its leaders. Iran's President has called the Holocaust a lie, has said that Israel ``must be wiped off the map'' and frequently speaks about a future world in which ``Israelis will be eradicated'' and Israel no longer exists. Iran's supreme leader joined in this hateful refrain recently when he called Israel a cancerous tumor. The hatred of Iran's leaders is not just directed at Israel. Ahmadinejad has called American objectives and influence ``Satanic'' and has spoken before crowds that chant ``death to America.'' Such aggressive and intolerable words are not just simply rhetoric. They represent the policies of a government committed to terror and destruction. Iran is the world's leading state sponsor of terrorism and is pursuing a nuclear program in defiance of three United Nations Security Council resolutions. Iran's support for terrorist groups Hezbollah and Hamas have enabled these organizations to carry out attacks on Israel and kill innocent civilians. With training and other assistance from Iran, Hamas increased the range of its rockets so now 1 million Israelis are within the scope of attack. Iran's pursuit of nuclear weapons threatens Israel, other nations in the region and our U.S. national security. No government that calls for the complete destruction of another nation should be allowed to have nuclear weapons. Yet Iran continues to move closer and closer to being capable of constructing such a weapon. Although Iran reportedly does not currently have a sufficient amount of highly-enriched uranium to build a nuclear weapon, Iran does possess enough low-enriched uranium that can be converted into material needed to create an atomic bomb. Using existing centrifuges, Iran could enrich its low-level uranium to that of weapons grade in several months. Time is not on our side. The Obama administration must back engagement with tougher sanctions and guard against Iranian diversions and delays. Appropriate economic, political, and diplomatic means are the best tools we have to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. Last year I cosponsored legislation that declared it was in the national interests of the U.S. to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and urged the President to impose tough sanctions on Iran, specifically its banks engaged in proliferation activities and companies doing business with Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard. I also voted in favor of legislation that expanded the types of entities in Iran that are subject to sanction and allowed state and local governments and individuals to divest in any company that invests in Iran's energy sectors. America's efforts must go further. I support sanctioning Iran's Central bank and foreign banks that conduct transactions with sanctioned Iranian entities. Efforts to prohibit the export to Iran of refined petroleum products should be pursued. Israel is one of America's closest allies and plays a central role in the peace and security of the most volatile region of the world. We must continue to demonstrate our support for our Israeli friends in the face of continued defiance and threats. A nuclear-armed Iran is unacceptable. I urge my colleagues in Congress and the Obama administration to act with the urgency this situation demands and devote the necessary attention to this serious threat. While there are problems at home that require our attention, we must not waiver in our efforts to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Madam Speaker, I rise in opposition to a cost- of-living increase for Members of Congress. Across our country, the faltering economy is closing businesses and leaving many without jobs. Our national debt is climbing to levels that future generations will be responsible for. I believe it is past time for Congress to be responsible. One action we can take is to cancel the automatic pay increase. Without a direct yes-or-no vote on this provision, we add to the impression that too many people have of Congress. If Congress is to vote itself a raise in pay, it should be done in full view. This process should be reformed. Members of Congress should not be able to receive an automatic cost-of-living increase. Each of us should be on the record with the citizens of our districts whether we believe an increase to our own salary is justified. In this time of increased economic hardship, I am going on the record in firm opposition to this increase in pay. Since I was not allowed to directly vote yes or no, this forum has become my only recourse. We will not have the transparent process promised to my fellow Americans until we cease this automatic system. I only wish I could do more to right this injustice to the American taxpayer. We have a long way to go in gaining the people's trust. Ending this unfair practice would help.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. To the gentleman from Texas, I thank you for yielding time. Mr. Speaker, I'm here to speak in favor of at least a portion of this bill related to the J-1 Visa program. I am a co-chair of the Rural Health Care Coalition along with the gentleman from North Dakota (Mr. Pomeroy). In our efforts in rural States to attract and retain physicians in communities that are highly underserved with medical care, the J-1 Visa program, the Conrad 30 program, has become a critical component of our ability to maintain a health care delivery system. Kansas alone since 2002 has attracted and retained 103 physicians. There are many communities that I represent in Kansas that have no doctor except for a J-1 Visa doc. Now, a J-1 Visa doctor is someone born in a foreign county but trains in the United States, takes their residency and certification here and earns the ability to practice medicine. In return for serving in an underserved area--and while I represent generally a rural State--these underserved areas are often urban areas of our country as well. And in return for serving the needs of patients in those communities across America, they are allowed to remain in the United States for an additional 3 years. Just last August--an example of where this comes home--the American Methodist Ministries of Garden City, Kansas, finally was able to recruit a physician for their community health clinic. That physician is a J-1 visa doctor from Peru; bilingual--a very added attractive feature to this physician's practice, but for a community that was so desperate for a physician, really a dream come true. Much about how to save lives, improve the health of Kansans and Americans relate to this program. We have tried for a number of years to extend the J-1 visa program longer than for a year at a time. And there are those who want to make changes, reallocate the physicians among States. The Conrad 30 program, the J-1 visa program, allocates 30 physicians per State in the country. The program is managed by State agencies who make the determination and have some flexibility in determining the definition of what is underserved. Most often, it's a general practice, a family, internal medicine doctor; but occasionally it's a specialist in an area that has no ability to attract and maintain a specialist, maybe even at a university hospital setting. So I come to the floor today to express my desire to see that the J-1 visa program is extended and would tell you that it's very much about saving the lives of persons and very much about increasing the chances that we improve the health of Americans across our country. So I'm appreciative of the Judiciary Committee bringing this bill to the floor. I congratulate its author for that success, and I'm looking forward to seeing it work its way through a long and always arduous process as we try to balance various States, various regions of the country and a need for physicians across America with the available physicians in this country. So I appreciate being yielded to. I thank the Speaker for the time I have had to speak in favor. I would like to encourage my colleagues, whether you're from a rural area like me or an urban area like many others, this program matters in the lives of many Americans.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate SIAS International University in Xinzheng, Henan Province, China on its 10th Anniversary as an institution of higher education. Founded in 1999, SIAS International University is a new type of post- secondary experience striving to prepare students to be global citizens. Affiliated with Zhengzhou University and in cooperation with Fort Hays State University of Hays, Kansas, SIAS was designed to provide Chinese students with an educational experience that blends Chinese educational philosophies with western-style curriculum and techniques, offering students the skills needed to compete and prosper in our increasingly interconnected world. Licensed by the Henan Provincial Education Commission, SIAS is the first Chinese institution permitted by the Chinese State Degree Office to offer core classes in Western Civilization, Sociology and Government, providing students the ability to explore new ways to think about business and liberal arts. SIAS International University is also the first solely American-owned University in Central China; thus, Chinese students earn both Chinese and American education degrees and are able to apply their skills within trans-national corporations and enterprises. Fort Hays State University and all of Western Kansas benefit from this relationship. The university has seen an increase in the number of international students on campus which enriches the learning experiences for students, faculty, and administrators. Additionally, the community has benefitted from numerous programs that have been created to share music, art and culture with these international students. The partnership between SIAS International University and Fort Hays State University is the perfect example of our world flattening--of east meeting west. Even the architecture on the SIAS campus, including the main administration building, symbolizes this marriage of cultures, with one side representing the Forbidden City in classical Chinese architecture, and the other modeled after our own United States Capitol Building. This western-inspired campus serves as an appropriate environment for a new way of thinking for the Chinese students and faculty. The friendship between the United States of America and the People's Republic of China fosters an exchange of cultural richness and advances our mutual aspirations. The relationship between SIAS International University and Fort Hays State University is one part of this paradigm. Both China and America must work diligently to preserve this friendship and search for ways to recognize accomplishments when they are due. And today, recognition is due to SIAS International University for ten years of success. Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in congratulating the Founder and Chairman of SIAS International University, Mr. Shawn Chen, as well as President Li Haijun for their extraordinary work. Also, please help me recognize Fort Hays State University President Dr. Edward H. Hammond, Provost Dr. Larry Gould, Assistant Provost for Strategic Partnerships Cindy Elliott, and the many others who have help foster this relationship and contributed to ten years of remarkable results. It is my hope that SIAS International University can continue its success in enriching the lives of students and communities both in China and here in America for decades to come.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information for publication in the Congressional Record regarding earmarks I received as part of H.R. 1105, the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009. Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Agency/Account: Agricultural Research Service, Salaries and Expenses Legal Name of Requesting Entities: ARS Manhattan Unit and Kansas State University Address of Requesting Entities: 1515 College Ave, Room 101, Manhattan, KS 66502 and 110 Anderson Hall, Manhattan, KS 66506 Description of Project: I have secured $508,000 for Karnal Bunt (KB which is a disease of wheat that is caused by the fungus Tilleti indica. Although total deregulation of KB is scientifically justified, international quarantine deregulation is a slow and complex process. Past funded breeding programs have been successful and developed an array of resistant breeding lines. These lines are now in final stages of testing prior to variety release. As Karnal bunt research is completed, we request these h d s be transitioned to address new, more critical disease threats, such as cereal rust diseases. Since 2001, other serious challenges to wheat crop health have emerged, including new virulent races of stripe and leaf rust and the African stem rust race Ug99 and its variants. Resources are needed to address these critical disease issues and vulnerabilities in U.S. cereal production. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Agency/Account: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Salaries and Expenses Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Kansas State University Address of Requesting Entity: 110 Anderson Hall, Manhattan, KS 66506 Description of Project: I have secured $259,000 for The National Agricultural Biosecurity Center (NABC) at Kansas State University. NABC was established to help protect the U.S. agricultural infrastructure and economy from endemic and emerging biological threats. There has been progress made with Phase I and Phase II funding, but more work is necessary. The NABC requires Phase 11 continuation funding to implement international linkages for food animal and food crop disease surveillance, to expand animal health diagnostic screening capabilities in Kansas and the region, to further develop a GIs-based tracking system for pathogen monitoring, and to populate a lessons learned agrosecurity archive. To address these national security needs, funding is also required for enhanced Internet connectivity, on-line training materials, and data mining tools. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Agency/Account: Cooperative State Research Education and Extension Service/SRG Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Kansas State University Address of Requesting Entity: 110 Anderson Hall, Manhattan, KS, 66506 Description of Project: I have secured $515,000 Great Plains Sorghum Improvement and Utilization Center. Kansas State University along with Texas Tech University and Texas A&M University initiated the Great Plains Sorghum Improvement and Utilization Center (GPSIUC). The focus of the center is on genetic improcement, production systems to enhance water and nutrient use, innovative strategies to provide improved weed control. Utilization of sorghum in human food products, animal feed, and as a bioenergy and industrial feedstock, plus marketing, and policy analysis in support of the US sorghum industry. Increased funding for FY09 will permit GPSIUC to expand existing research and education programs, particularly in genetic improvement and sorghum utilization. Sorghum is one of the most drought tolerant crops in the world, offering many potential advantages as a food, feed and bioenergy crop, and could be a key to sustaining viable rural economies in the Great Plains. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Agency/Account: Cooperative State Research Education and Extension Service/SRG Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Kansas State University Address of Requesting Entity: 110 Anderson Hall, Manhattan, KS, 66506 Description of Project: I have secured $142,000 for Preharvest Food Safety and Security program. Currently, Kansas State University has an ongoing USDA special project on the ecology of E. coli 0157:H7 in beef cattle and the environment. This bacterial organism is a major cause of food-borne illnesses in humans. The university plans to expand its investigations into (1) the ecology of Salmonella in beef cattle, (2) antimicrobial resistance in cattle, and (3) agroinformatics and animal health diagnostics. These four areas of research have great overlap and synergy and will allow Kansas State University to better identify emerging threats of food-borne and zoonotic diseases associated with food-producing animals. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Agency/Account: Cooperative State Research Education and Extension Service/SRG Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Kansas State University Address of Requesting Entity: 110 Anderson Hall, Manhattan, KS, 66506 Description of Project: I have secured $69,000 to study water conservation in the Ogallala Region of Kansas This effort is critical to the economic viability of western Kansas. In many parts of western Kansas, freshwater from both surface and groundwater is increasingly in short supply. Drought, aquifer and surface water depletion, and population shills have stretched community and regional water supplies to their limits. As groundwater supplies decline or become cost prohibitive, better management of water through conservation, recycling, and treatment of poor quality water for use becomes even more important. The goals of this project are to help: 1) agricultural producers, both crop and livestock; 2) rural communities in water-short areas; and 3) state agencies to implement economical technologies and policies that will result in water conservation and prolonged life of the Ogallala aquifer in the face of increasing competition for declining aquifers and over allocated surface waters. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Agency/Account: Cooperative State Research Education and Extension Service/SRG Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Kansas State University Address of Requesting Entity: 110 Anderson Hall, Manhattan, KS, 66506 Description of Project: I have secured $240,000 for Wheat Genetic Research. Wheat is the world's most important grain for human nutrition, but genomics and biotechnology research has lagged behind. WGGRC is leading an international effort to map and sequence the wheat genome. The WGGRC gene bank currently maintains 12,000 lines and these collections are continuously expanding as the Center acquires, develops, and distributes new genetic and genomic resources to facilitate wheat genetics, genomics, and breeding research. Kansas State University has already made an investment of almost $1.0 million towards the purchase of a DNA sequencer and a robot for arraying and printing of DNA filters. This request will collect, conserve, and distribute wheat genetic and genomic resources; develop improved germ plasm; develop genetic stocks; develop genomic resources; and support training and outreach. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Agency/Account: DOJ, COPS Law Enforcement Technology Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Emporia Police Department Address of Requesting Entity: 518 Mechanic Street, Emporia, KS 66801 Description of Project: I have secured $150,000 for the City of Emporia Police Department. The City of Emporia police department has had problems maintaining the pace of the replacement of equipment and staffing critical to the safety of the officers and members of the community. In the development of a five year capital improvement project, there were only four of the nearly 20 items that were new. Funding is requested for the purchase of Communication and Surveillance Equipment. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Agency/Account: DOJ, COPS Law Enforcement Technology Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Garden City Police Department Address of Requesting Entity: 304 N. 9th Street, Garden City, KS 67846 Description of Project: I have secured $150,000 for the Garden City Police Department. The Garden City Police Department is always looking for ways to be progressive and adding equipment which would help us monitor gang activity and prevent, or resolve graffiti and gang crime is sorely needed. Gang crime and graffiti have become problematic and public expectations for safety and prevention are high. Video monitoring equipment and accompanying computers and software that officers can access in their patrol vehicles would be of immense assistance to the Garden City Police Department for immediate response and intervention, especially in high crime areas. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Agency/Account: DOJ, COPS Law Enforcement Technology Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Junction City Police Department Address of Requesting Entity: 210 East Ninth Street, Junction City, KS 66441 Description of Project: I have secured $150,000 for the Junction City Police Department. Junction City Police Department is a 52 officer department located in Central Kansas next to Fort Riley military base. The unprecedented growth in the community is experiencing has magnified downfalls in their current technology and has identified the need for additional technology. The Junction City Police Department needs key technology components to merge their systems together making a more user friendly environment accessible to the entire law enforcement team rather than a limited number of educated individuals. Funding would be used to purchase additional technology, such as surveillance enhancements, GIS improvements and crime mapping technology to analyze crime trends and to ensure the proper application of department resources and manpower. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Agency/Account: DOJ, OJP-Juvenile Justice Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Youthville Address of Requesting Entity: 11200 Lariat Way PO Box 1394, Dodge City, KS 67801 Description of Project: I have secured $50,000 for the Youthville Training Institute for Foster Families. Youthville will provide comprehensive training to future foster families across Kansas, preparing them for the challenges of caring for a traumatized child. The Training Institute for Foster and Adoptive Families will recruit and train families interested in foster parenting and adopting at-risk children. These families will be prepared for adopting an at-risk child who has experienced severe emotional, physical, and/or sexual abuse. The Training Institute will consist of staff that is highly trained in helping the families build their skills in managing trauma-based behaviors in children. The families and children themselves will also receive training that is intensive and ongoing. Families who have previously adopted will also be eligible for the Training Institute. The overall goal of the program is to assist these children in becoming productive members of our society by placing them in families prepared to deal with foreseeable challenges. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Agency/Account: Corps of Engineers, Section 205 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Concordia Address of Requesting Entity: 701 Washington Street, Concordia, KS 66901 Description of Project: I have secured language for the Army Corps of Engineers to provide assistance to The Concordia project which is located on an unnamed tributary on the south side of the City of Concordia. An existing embankment on that stream serves as a detention dam during heavy rainfall events and protects a residential and commercial development immediately downstream. This embankment breached as a result of heavy rainfall in 1950 and flood waters devastated the downtown business district. The embankment was restored, but not designed to current or any acceptable engineering standards, and its condition makes the risk of flooding to the housing and business district immediately downstream very high. The project will develop a plan to construct a safe and reliable flood protection project in partnership with the City of Concordia. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Agency/Account: Department of Energy, EERE Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Kansas State University Address of Requesting Entity: 110 Anderson Hall, Manhattan, KS, 66506 Description of Project: I have secured $713,625 for the Kansas State University Center for Sustainable Energy. Kansas State University request funding to establish and sustain programs at the Center for Sustainable Energy (CSE). Through KSU's strengths in the requisite science and technology elements, it will foster collaborations with 30+ entities including other educational institutions, public and private research centers, private industries and public organizations with strategic interests in the sustainable energy. This diverse group of stakeholders will ensure a Center structure that fosters research collaborations, technology transfer, and commercialization. To address the grand challenges and produce ``game-changing'' innovations, the CSE will draw upon expertise from five major research- specialty groups: biomass design, biomass production, biomass conversion to fuels and chemicals, biofuel/product utilization, and the socioeconomic impacts of sustainable energy. A critical mass of diverse investigators from academia, industry, and national laboratories plans and carries out broad ranging research that will produce a continuous outflow of sustainable processes for technology transfer, business development, and commercialization. Commercialization activities will include market assessment, policy review and legal issues, intellectual property generation and management, facilitating collaborations and creation of investment vehicles. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Agency/Account: Department of Energy, EERE Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Kansas State University Address of Requesting Entity: 110 Anderson Hall, Manhattan, KS, 66506 Description of Project: I have secured $713,625 for the Kansas Wind Energy Consortium. A consortium (KWEC) of researchers from Kansas State University, Wichita State University, and the University of Kansas request funding to dramatically increase the penetration of wind energy via distributed wind power generation. KWEC aims to find technical and economic solutions to enable widespread implementation of distributed renewable energy resources that would apply to wind. The outcome will make Kansas and the nation more energy and environmentally secure. Additionally, with growing emphasis on renewal energy worldwide, success of this research would have global impact. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Agency/Account: Small Business Administration Legal Name of Requesting Entity: The University of Kansas Address of Requesting Entity: 1450 Jayhawk Boulevard, Room 230, Lawrence, KS 66045 Descscription of Project: I have secured $100,000 for the KU Center for Trade and Agribusiness. The University of Kansas School of Law is nationally recognized for its international trade and international finance coursework and legal analysis. The proposed center at the University of Kansas School of Law would provide law students and faculty the ability to distribute legal expertise into the field of trade which is crucial to the continued economic success of Kansas and the Great Plains. Agriculture trade makes up the majority of state economies like Kansas and increasing and expediting trade will grow these economies. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Agency/Account: EPA, STAG Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Project Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Lindsborg Address of Requesting Entity: 101 S. Main P.O. Box 70, Lindsborg, KS 67456 Description of Project: I have secured $500,000 for the City of Lindsborg's wastewater treatment plant upgrade. The City of Lindsborg engaged an engineering consultant in January of 2007 to conduct an assessment of the Lindsborg wastewater treatment plant (WWTP). The three primary drivers for the assessment were safety of the wetwell, the expiration of the current NPDES permit in 2009 and the age of the facility. The wetwell receives the raw sewage into the plant for treatment. It is a highly corrosive environment due to sewer gases and the different types of waste that enters. The current wetwell is a safety hazard because it is a confined space with poor ventilation. The regular cleaning of the wetwell is a major safety issue for wastewater treatment plant employees. The WWTP is regulated by both EPA and the Kansas Department of Health & Environment (KDHE). On September 30, 2009, the NPDES permit for the wastewater treatment plant is up for renewal. As part of the study, a mock permit was requested from the KDHE. The purpose of the mock permit was to determine what the compliance requirements would be for the renewal permit. The results of the mock permit said that any upgrade or expansion must provide for a full reduction of nitrogen by nitrification and denitrification processes. There is also the possibility of more stringent effluent limits for phosphorus that may be applied. The current recommended upgrades to the WWTP are at an estimated construction cost of $4,534,600. Of this estimated cost, 76% of the cost ($3,446,296) is due to meeting regulatory, code, safety, age and efficiency issues. The remaining costs of improvements ($1,088,304) are due to capacity and biosolids handling needs. These improvements are needed to ensure the safety of employees, rivers/streams and public health. The costs of the upgrades to comply and ensure safety are burdensome on a small community. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Agency/Account: EPA, STAG Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Project Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Salina Address of Requesting Entity: 300 West Ash St., Salina, KS 67402 Description of Project: I have secured $250,000 for the City of Salina. The City of Salina, together with the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce are working to address a key issue that slows the opportunity for job creation and economic development. The community is developing an innovative approach to housing development to address workforce development issues and to stimulate job creation and the investment of private sector capital. The shortage of homes in selected price ranges is causing supply/demand inflation that prices many buyers out of the housing market or forces them into much more debt than they should incur. Funds will be leveraged from both public and private sources to reduce the infrastructure development costs that make it challenging to develop affordable housing. A multi-phase housing subdivision will be built. The first phase will be approximately 100 lots and be sold to the public and/or direct to builders. The homes will be limited in size to ensure construction of homes that are in short supply for current and future employees. Federal funds for this project will be used for water line extensions and sewer lines and improvements to the new development. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Agency/Account: Department of Education, Higher Education Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Emporia State University Address of Requesting Entity: 1200 Commercial Street, Emporia, KS 66801 Description of Project: I have secured $190,000 for Emporia State University. Biosciences capability for instruction and research at Emporia State University (ESU) exists in the departments of biology and chemistry. The Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (BMB) major and the other existing bachelors and master's degree programs in biology and chemistry produce graduates who have contributed and will continue to contribute to the technical workforce necessary for the biosciences initiatives envisioned by the Kansas Economic Growth Act. To meet the current and long-term challenges for a successful Kansas bioscience enterprise, funding is requested to purchase various equipment that would greatly contribute to Emporia State University's Bioscience Department. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Agency/Account: Department of Education, Higher Education Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Hutchinson Community College Address of Requesting Entity: 1300 N. Plum Street, Hutchinson, KS 67501 Description of Project: I have secured $238,000 for Hutchinson Community College. In March of 2008 Hutchinson Community College will break ground on an expansion and renovation of its 40-year old science building into a Physical and Biotechnology Science Center. Donations from private donors and state and local public sources will pay for the necessary remodeling and facility expansion. Federal dollars are being requested to equip the building with required safety, communication, and technical equipment and furnishings appropriate to learning environments. HCC's enrollment in science courses increased 33% over five years, leveling off only due to physical space limitations. Credit hour generation in science courses constitutes 12% of total college hours. During the 2006-2007 academic year, 2,717 students were enrolled in science coursework generating 11,267 credit hours. Approximately 40% of these students are pursuing careers in Allied Health. Other students are preparing for transfer to four-year baccalaureate institutions and more advanced scientific study. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Agency/Account: HUD, Economic Development Initiatives Legal Name of Requesting Entity: McPherson Opera House Company Address of Requesting Entity: 219 South Main Street, McPherson, KS 67460 Description of Project: The McPherson Opera House was built in 1888 and for a number of years was the cultural, entertainment and civic center for McPherson County. The advent of movies, and to a greater extent television, negatively impacted audiences at the Opera House, and the auditorium, which had become a movie house, closed its doors in 1965. Approximately $3,000,000 has been raised and spent on the building's rehabilitation, which has included the exterior and the west commercial portion of the building. What remains to be done is the renovation of the auditorium and the construction of the Arts Center beneath the auditorium. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Agency/Account: DOT, Transportation, Community, and System Preservation Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Kansas Department of Transportation Address of Requesting Entity: 700 S.W. Harrison Street, Topeka, KS 66603 Description of Project: I have secured $1,520,000 for county road construction and improvements for US-54. In order to provide adequate access to a new ethanol plant approximately 5 miles northeast of the City of Liberal on US-54, the Kansas Department of Transportation will be constructing a new, paved county road. Access to the existing unpaved county road off US-54 is dangerous as there are no turning lanes on the highway which is a High Priority Corridor and the heaviest traveled highway in the Liberal area. A large number of semi-trucks will be entering and exiting the county road which is expected to cause significant delays on US-54 as well as major safety concerns. In addition to constructing the new county road, improvements will be made with the US-54 intersection. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Jerry Moran Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Agency/Account: HUD, Economic Development Initiatives Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Salina Address of Requesting Entity: 300 West Ash St., Salina, KS 67402 Description of Project: I have secured $118,750 for the Salina Workforce Housing Project. Funds will be leveraged from both public and private sources to reduce the infrastructure development costs that make it challenging to develop affordable housing. A multi-phase housing subdivision will be built. The first phase will be approximately 100 lots and be sold to the public and/or direct to builders. The homes will be limited in size to ensure construction of homes that are in short supply for current and future employees. This project will address two housing shortages that impact worker availability and economic development at once. The primary target is to develop homes that are appropriate for households with 110 to 130 percent of median income in Salina. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project.