Betty McCollum

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, on July 20th, I held a health care hearing in the Minnesota State Capitol to discuss the challenges and opportunities for health care reform presents for Minnesota. Representatives from patient advocate groups, health plans, hospitals, health plans, County Commissioners, and State House Representatives were in attendance. The speakers discussed the need to expand preventative care, to end the practice of denying coverage for pre- existing conditions, and to improve access to quality, affordable care. In the hearing, I heard over and over again that the current flawed Medicare reimbursement formula is harming Minnesota. The people of Minnesota want health care reform that addresses the three major challenges in health care reform--cost, quality, and access--none of which can be addressed without fixing the Medicare reimbursement formula. I support moving towards a system that ensures that all patients will receive evidence-based, quality care as the standard. I would like to enter the testimony from the hearing witnesses from this event into the Congressional Record. Testimony of Representative Thomas Huntley Good morning Rep. McCollum. I commend you for holding this hearing on the need for national health care reform. Minnesota is one of the nation's healthiest states with one of the highest insured rates in the nation. Investments in coverage for low-income families, strong public health initiatives, and a primarily non-profit insurance system have all contributed to our state's reputation for a health care system that provides high-quality care at a relatively low- cost compared to other states. Yet due to rising costs, our state's current system is unsustainable without substantial payment reform at the federal level. In 2008, health care leaders from around the state collaborated on comprehensive health care reform legislation that mirrors many of the proposals being discussed at the federal level: an individual insurance mandate, investment in prevention, insurance market reforms, and care coordination incentives for providers. One of the central components of the legislation--and the one that has the most potential for cost-savings--was payment reform. There was a bipartisan consensus that transforming the health care system must start with changing the way we pay for health care. Without substantial cost containment at the state and federal levels, neither Minnesota, nor the United States, can hope to afford the costs of universal coverage. The underlying payment structure fails to adequately meet the care needs of patients and undermines health care providers' attempts to provide high quality health services. Our entire health care system's payment regimen is built on Medicare standards that emphasize a ``tyranny of the visit'' philosophy which pressures providers to increase volume, does not value quality, and prioritizes specialty care at the expense of primary care. In too many instances, the result is inappropriate care provided to patients which does nothing more than increase total health spending. In order to begin to contain costs, Minnesota's legislation included a number of reforms that restructure the payment system, moving us away from Medicare-based standards and toward a system that promotes quality-care and transforms the way health care is delivered and received. The payment reform included three components to both hold providers accountable and encourage evidence-based, high-quality health care. At each level there was an emphasis on the need for transparency for both providers and consumers. 1. Explicitly pay providers for the quality of care they provide. 2. Encourage care coordination through a medical home model that improves access to primary care. 3. Establish a system of accountability for the total cost of care through bundled care pricing. Without similar, or even more aggressive payment reforms in Medicare, our health care system's growth will be unsustainable. Medicare's participation is essential in order to create a critical mass of payers in the new system. Providers in Minnesota have spoken up regarding the disincentives in the current payment system to develop new strategies to provide more efficient forms of health care. For instance, in Minnesota a number of health care systems have initiated new approaches to managing chronic conditions including congestive heart failure, hypertension and diabetes. While their patient outcomes have dramatically improved and they have seen reductions in hospitalization, these systems have consistently lost money because the current Medicare-based payment structures do not reimburse for non-office visit treatment. Similar reforms are also being discussed in Congress. A Call to Action released by Senator Baucus in November outlined the need for pilot programs around accountable care organizations in Medicare as a way of testing new payment structures. Similarly the House Tri-Committee bill authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to develop new cost containment methodologies including accountable care organizations and medical homes. In Minnesota we have already started down this path and should be rewarded for our innovation. Representative McCollum, I know you are aware of the situation health care providers face in Minnesota. I want to thank you, as well as Minnesota Representatives Oberstar, Paulsen, Walz and Ellison, for your recent letter on this issue. As the health care reform bill moves through the House, I know you will be a strong voice for the change we in Minnesota deserve. I fear that if Congress waits to enact real payment reform that we all will pay the price. As we all know there is no silver bullet to solving our nation's health care crisis. We must work together to achieve the kind of health care system we all deserve. The consequences of doing nothing will leave us with an impossible situation. We must begin to change the system we have into a system that works. This is a unique opportunity to make a difference; a point in time that will not last forever. President Obama made the case in his February Address to Congress this year stating ``... a century after Teddy Roosevelt first called for reform, the cost of our health care has weighed down our economy and the conscience of our nation long enough. So let there be no doubt: Health care reform cannot wait, it must not wait, and it will not wait another year.''

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the Fiscal Year 2010 Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act (H.R. 3183). This Appropriations Act makes important investments to move America toward a clean energy economy. I thank Chairman Obey, the House leadership, and my colleagues on the House Appropriations Committee for their hard work on this legislation. A transition to clean, renewable sources of energy is critical for America's national security, economic prosperity, and environmental stewardship. One of the most effective strategies for reducing America's dependence on foreign oil and polluting fossil fuels is to decrease our energy consumption. This bill invests $2.25 billion in Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy programs at the Department of Energy, a 14 percent increase over fiscal year 2009. This funding will enhance the development of next-generation vehicle technologies, support research on conservation technologies for buildings and industry, and help struggling families save money and energy through the weatherization assistance program. Improvements in energy efficiency must be coupled with the development of new, 21st century energy technologies. This bill invests $4.9 billion for the Office of Science--funds that will support development of new energy technologies to modernize America's economy and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. As we develop these new energy technologies, our country must have a modern energy grid equipped to transport clean energy across the country. This bill provides $208 million--52 percent over 2009--for modernization of our energy grid. This will allow wind energy produced in my state of Minnesota to be transported to areas across the country that have high energy demand but fewer or less accessible renewable energy resources. While this bill is very strong overall, I have concerns that it could do more to move our country toward a permanent storage solution for our accumulating nuclear waste. After spending 20 years and billions of dollars on Yucca Mountain, the federal government is about to suspend this project and start over. Finding a long-term solution to America's nuclear waste storage problem is the federal government's responsibility, and I urge this Congress and this Administration to make this issue a priority. The Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2010 is a significant step toward a clean, secure energy future for America. I urge my colleagues to support passage of this bill.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of the Fiscal Year 2010 Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act (H.R. 2996). This important bill makes timely investments to protect and preserve our country's natural resources, enhance climate change research and adaptation efforts, empower Native American communities, and support the arts. I thank Chairman Obey, Chairman Dicks, my colleagues on the Appropriations Committee, and the House leadership for their hard work on this legislation. This legislation upholds America's leadership in environmental stewardship. It includes an 8 percent funding increase for the National Parks Service and a 6 percent increase for the National Wildlife Refuges. I am pleased that the bill includes my language for the first ever national, comprehensive study to identify best practices to protect and preserve the Mississippi River, America's greatest waterway. Additionally, by passing this bill, Congress is investing in tackling the urgent challenge of global climate change. The bill provides over $178 million for climate change programs in the Department of the Interior, $80 million for climate change planning and on-the-ground conservation efforts at the Fish and Wildlife Service, and $31 million for climate change adaptation activities at the Bureau of Land Management, the National Park Service, and Bureau of Indian Affairs. Climate change is happening now, and Congress must invest to adapt to its impacts on America's lands and economy. My state of Minnesota is blessed with fresh water resources, including over 10,000 lakes and the headwaters of the Mississippi River. This legislation provides $667 million--$507 million over FY2009--in much-needed investments to promote and protect our nation's great water bodies. This includes $475 million for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, which will involve the coordination and collaboration of 16 Federal agencies, the States of the Great Lakes Region, local government, and citizens groups in an effort to restore the source of 20 percent of the world's fresh surface water. This bill also directs EPA to invest in essential research on the human health and environmental impacts of endocrine disrupting compounds and other contaminants in our water supply. This bill makes important investments to empower our country's Native American communities and enhance support of the arts. It provides $6.8 billion for programs at the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Indian Health Service, including almost an almost $7 million increase in funding for the Urban Indian Health Program. And finally, H.R. 2996 includes funding increases for the National Endowment of the Arts and the National Endowment for the Humanities. I strongly support these investments and applaud the Committee for these including these provisions. I urge passage of this legislation.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, on July 20th, I held a health care hearing in the Minnesota State Capitol to discuss the challenges and opportunities for health care reform presents for Minnesota. Representatives from patient advocate groups, health plans, hospitals, health plans, County Commissioners, and State House Representatives were in attendance. The speakers discussed the need to expand preventative care, to end the practice of denying coverage for pre- existing conditions, and to improve access to quality, affordable care. In hearing I heard over and over again that the current flawed Medicare reimbursement formula is harming Minnesota. The people of Minnesota want health care reform that addresses the three major challenges in health care reform--cost, quality, and access--none of which can be addressed without fixing the Medicare reimbursement formula. I support moving towards a system that ensures that all patients will receive evidence-based, quality care as the standard. Opening Statement by Congresswoman Betty McCollum Federal Health Care Reform: Opportunities and Challenges for Minnesota Good morning. Thank you all for joining me for this morning's hearing. My goal today is to hear from a distinguished and diverse group of Minnesota experts on the subject of health care reform in Washington. I want to hear not just a view of the need for national reforms--but more specifically--the opportunities, challenges, costs, and consequences for Minnesota as we reform our nation's health care system. Let me start by saying I support President Obama's goal of reforming health care with a focus on reducing cost, increasing access, and ensuring quality care for all Americans. The current system is not sustainable for our families, businesses, tax payers, or the providers of health care. In addition, almost 50 million Americans are uninsured and too often left to access care in the emergency room where it is too expensive and too late. As we look ahead I want to maintain a system where people can keep their doctors and private insurance plans if they are working well for them. I support a public insurance option that will expand the opportunity for coverage and create a competition in the marketplace to keep premium costs down and ensure quality care. I believe we have both an opportunity and an obligation to ensure every child in America is not only covered by insurance but able to access the care they need to grow up healthy, safe and successful. We can do all of these things, but I have a concern--a major concern. Comprehensive health care reform in my opinion must mean that all 50 states move forward under any legislation passed by Congress and signed by President Obama. In other words--I want a bill in which no state is left behind--and that means Minnesota. In Minnesota we are doing a lot of things right. And, each and every one of the people testifying today is contributing to making health care in Minnesota successful. We are not perfect and I want to see even greater strides forward here at home, but when compared to many other places across the U.S. we are doing a good job. In Congress health care reform is dominating the agenda and we are at a crucial time. Minnesota's successes must not only be acknowledged, they should be rewarded. Instead, the legislation currently proposed has the real potential to actually harm Minnesota's delivery of health care and that is simply unacceptable. About fifteen years ago while serving here in the Minnesota House of Representatives I worked on the issue of geographic disparities in Medicare reimbursement. The flawed and discriminatory formula that funds Medicare continues to penalize Minnesota tax payers and patients, doctors, hospitals, counties and the entire health care sector which is providing high quality, low cost care. If the health care reform legislation moving through Congress simply extends the existing out-of-date Medicare reimbursement system into the future--rewarding high cost, low quality states while continuing to penalize Minnesota-- then this is not reform. Even worse, if this flawed Medicare reimbursement formula is extended as the basis of a public insurance option this will not only penalize Minnesota, it will undermine and deteriorate the very success our state has attained in delivering quality, low cost care. In Congress, I have been outspoken about Minnesota's unfair treatment among the leaders of the Democratic Caucus and Chairmen Waxman, Rangel and Miller who are writing the bill. I have distributed a letter I sent to Democratic leadership, signed by 19 other Democrats. Let me read from the letter: ``We represent states in which the quality of care exceeds the national average and per-beneficiary fee-for-service Medicare costs are substantially lower than the national average. Our ``low-cost, high quality'' states are setting the national standard for Medicare, yet we are penalized by the current Medicare reimbursement formula. Furthermore, any public insurance option that is based on Medicare's current reimbursement formula would only result in an unacceptable further penalization of our states.'' I was pleased to have Congressmen Walz, Ellison, and Oberstar join me on this letter because we got the attention of the leadership. The next day I was invited by Speaker Pelosi to a meeting with leadership and the three committee chairman--Chairmen Waxman, Rangel, and Miller and Majority Leader Steny Hoyer to discuss this issue. In the meeting a study of the Medicare reimbursement formula was offered ... and quickly rejected. I made it clear that we don't need to study this problem; it has been studied to death. Now is the time to fix the formula. I'm committed to working with President Obama and leaders in Congress to pass health care reform that works to make our system meet the needs of all Americans. But this doesn't mean I will allow Minnesota to be left behind or disadvantaged because we are a leader. Our group of twenty Democrats will again be meeting tomorrow. My message to leadership is clear--I want to pass health care reform but I will not vote for a bill that hurts Minnesota while benefiting other states. That is not reform, but rather a recipe for disaster. In closing, this is the most important legislation I've worked on in my nine years in Congress. It must meet Minnesota's needs and if it does not it will be difficult for our delegation to support it. In my first year in Congress--2001--education reform legislation was passed called ``No Child Left Behind.'' It was championed as a bill that would transform public education--except for one thing--I was sure it was going to hurt Minnesota and set back the reforms we already had in place. I was the only Democrat on the Education Committee to vote against ``No Child Left Behind'' and eventually 8 of the 10 members of the Minnesota delegation voted against it. I want health care reform but I will not put my constituents and the State of Minnesota at a disadvantage or perpetuate a system that penalizes the excellent health care we deliver in our state. I feel a sense of urgency as I return to Washington this afternoon. Your testimony today I hope will reinforce the need for reform and the need to ensure Minnesota's best interests are reflected in any legislation that is considered by Congress. Thank you and I look forward to hearing your testimony.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 550, a resolution recognizing the Day of the African Child. Each year more than half a million women die in pregnancy and 9 million children die of preventable causes, half of whom are in Africa. This resolution recognizes the need to reduce maternal, newborn, and child deaths in Africa, and recognizes the Day of the African Child which is held yearly on June 16th, and the importance of the U.S. partnership with African Leaders. At this moment millions of boys and girls across the continent of Africa are struggling to survive. In Sub-Saharan Africa roughly 1 in every 7 children fail to reach their fifth birthday--the highest rate of under-five mortality in the world--and 9 out of 10 African mothers will lose a child during their lifetime. But the picture in Africa is not hopeless. Eritrea, Ethiopia, Malawi and Mozambique, for example, have made significant progress in child survival and have reduced their under-five mortality rates by 40 percent or more since 1990. The African Union has made child survival a theme for their 15th Ordinary Session in 2010 and the G8 Summit leaders have also made a commitment to ensure all children have access to free basic healthcare by 2015. On June 16, 2009 I held a briefing with the Global Health Caucus and the Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health to commemorate the Day of the African Child to explore the challenges remaining and actions to improve the well being of Africa's children. I was pleased to co-host this event Congressman Payne, the African Union, and several other organizations. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution to make children and mothers in Africa and the developing world a priority. Madam Speaker, on July 14, 2009 I had the opportunity to speak at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) to discuss the development of a comprehensive strategy for improving the health of newborns, children, and mothers in the developing world. I would like to enter my remarks from this event into the Congressional Record. Advancing Maternal and Child Health in the Developing World Good morning. I greatly appreciate the opportunity to be asked by CSIS to speak about global health and specifically the health needs of women and children in the world's poorest countries. Let me start by thanking and congratulating CSIS and Steve Morrison for the on-going commitment to elevate the importance of global health. The work here is essential to the examination of U.S. foreign policy and the health investments our country is making around the world. CSIS's global health effort is impressive and really important. Many of you are here today because you are working to improve basic health care for women and children across the developing world. Thank you for all that you do. Your work may be to prevent needless deaths or to create opportunities for tens of millions to achieve a basic quality of life in which extreme poverty, hunger, disease, and suffering are defeated. It is all important work and we need you to keep fighting. Let me open my remarks with a single sentence from last week's G8 Global Health Experts Report: ``Women and children are among the most vulnerable groups and progress toward the MDGs related to maternal, newborn and child health remains too slow.'' Let me repeat that last part again . . . ``progress toward the MDGs related to maternal, newborn and child health remains too slow.'' Let me rephrase that in another way, 25,000 newborns and children under-five died yesterday, are dying today, and will die tomorrow--and everyday for the foreseeable future. One thousand-five hundred mothers will die during pregnancy or after delivery today, tomorrow, and everyday for the foreseeable future. Is progress to end needless, preventable deaths progressing too slowly? Of course it is. We don't need a G8 global health report to tell us this. What the G8 should do is ask the mother and father of one of the more than nine million children who died last year if progress has been too slow. Or, they could ask the orphaned children whose mother was one of the more than half million women who die every year from a pregnancy related death. So what are we--the richest nation and the other donor nations--doing to significantly reducing child and maternal mortality while investing in building sustainable health systems? Unfortunately, not enough in my opinion. Taking on the challenge of achieving MDG 4 to reduce children mortality (by two-thirds) and MGD 5 to reduce maternal mortality (by three-quarters) is a goal that could be accomplished if the world community invests and acts. The goals are doable. But the fate of millions of women and children cannot be just a talking point in a speech or a summit declaration. We need to do more than just talk about the MDGs. With regard to maternal and child health inspiring action may be our biggest challenge. Ministries of Health in Sub- Saharan Africa and South Asia understand that women and children are dying in massive numbers in their countries. The development and global health community understand the problem. Everyone in this room understands the situation. We don't need to wait for a miracle drug or a great technological breakthrough to deliver an essential package of interventions that can save the lives of millions of children and hundred of thousands of women every year. We are delivering those interventions today. And it is being done all around the world right now, but it does need to be scaled up and sustained. We know skilled birth attendants are needed at all births and we know how to recruit and train them. We know expanding access to family planning and child spacing improves the health of women and their children. We know exclusive breast feeding, immunizations for measles, Vitamin A, and bed nets have combined to save millions of lives over the past decade. We know the work of GAVI, the Global Fund, UNICEF and UNFPA are saving lives. And, we know USAID has been making major contributions to maternal and child health, as well as reproductive health, for decades. Tens of millions of people are alive today because of the child health programs implemented by USAID and paid for by the American people over the past forty years. We need to celebrate this tremendous success. All of you here today know every imaginable statistic and fact about the lack of maternal and child health care, the medical consequences, and the human cost. A lack of data is not the problem. So let's look at maternal and child health from a different perspective. What don't we know? This is a harder question. Something must be missing if we know how to solve such a serious problem, save lives, and yet, children and moms are still dying needlessly. Let me throw out a few questions for you to think about, because I am looking for answers myself. Where is the urgency to save the lives of children and mothers? Where is the political will to invest in the lives of children and mothers? And does anybody know or care to know the names or the faces of those babies and women who are dying needlessly at this very moment? These are the questions we need to answer if we are going to translate the endless reports, policy papers and strategic plans into the advocacy, inspiration, investments, and action needed to save lives. I am looking for answers and I am looking to you to help find them. I am one voice and vote in the House of Representatives-- there are 434 other voices and votes as well. Is child or maternal survival a priority issue for Congress? We know it's not but can it be much more of a priority? Imagine the possibility of a terrorist attack in which 5 million children were at risk, but we knew how to prevent the attack and we knew it would cost $5 billion to save those lives. Would Congress spend the money? Of course we would-- even the Blue Dogs would vote for it. Unfortunately, the terror that strikes millions of parents who watch their children die from malnutrition or malaria is not the same terror that inspires Congress. The real sense of urgency may need to start beyond Washington, in the very countries in which women and children are dying at unacceptable rates. For example, India and Pakistan have billions of dollars to spend on advanced military hardware including nuclear arsenals and yet tens of millions of their citizens live in abject misery and die for no reason other than they are poor. Nigeria, a petroleum exporter, leads the African continent in the number of mothers and children dying each year. This should be a source of shame for such an African power. Where is the urgency in India, Pakistan, or Nigeria to invest in their own citizens' lives? And, if they aren't willing to make their own children's lives a priority, how do I convince my constituents to make their kids a priority? Clearly the lack of urgency from the very countries where women and children are dying translates directly into a lack of political will. Since the whispers of dying moms and children are not heard by politicians in Ethiopia, Zambia, Afghanistan, or the United States, there should be no expectation that preventing these deaths will be a political priority any time soon. For example, where is the urgency among nations of Sub- Saharan Africa to lobby Congress to save the lives of their own citizens? If Africa's presidents are not prioritizing maternal child health their ambassadors in Washington will not be knocking on Congress's door asking for increased appropriations. No urgency translates into a lack of political will which in turn means limited resources and more needless deaths--a self-perpetuating cycle. How will the NGO, think tank, and advocacy community help to break this cycle? I want to hear your ideas. Here at home, is there the political will for the U.S. to be the global champion for women and children? The Obama Administration has demonstrated the ability to understand and articulate a global health vision. There have been numerous positive statements regarding maternal child health. The Administration's leadership would be essential for any major increase in investments for maternal child health in

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, reforming our Nation's health care system is an urgent national priority. Ensuring high-quality, affordable, access to health care for all Americans is our task here in Congress. Yet, opponents of reform are working to kill the bill and to do nothing about exploiting health care costs other than help insurance companies profit. Democrats are working for real reform that empowers patients and their doctors to make the right choices for you. Democrats want health insurance for all Americans with a focus on saving and in investing and prevention for our children. Democrats want to make prescription drugs affordable and guarantee that preexisting conditions will be treated and not denied by insurance company bean counters. Democrats want a system that ensures all patients will receive evidence-based, quality care that's the standard. My State of Minnesota has proven that high-quality, low-cost health care is a possibility here in the United States, and it should be the standard for all Americans. The time for action is now. We need to pass real health care reform.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the distinguished life of John T. Finley, retired Ramsey County District Judge and lifelong public servant. Judge Finley passed away unexpectedly in June at the age of 69, while visiting his daughter and grandchildren. While our community has lost a beloved civic leader, we celebrate John's legacy of compassion, fairness, and service to others. On the judicial bench, John's steadfast impartiality and willingness to take on tough cases earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues. No matter how politically charged or publicly scrutinized the case, John approached each one with a fair and impartial mind. He was, in this regard, an exemplary judge. John's public service began when he was elected as a Ramsey County commissioner in 1970, only one year after graduating from William Mitchell College of Law in St. Paul. He would become the longest- serving member of the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners before being elected as a judge in 1996. His vision and leadership helped to craft a comprehensive transportation plan for the region that includes light rail transit. His advocacy for investments in parks and recreation helped to put Ramsey County on the map as one of the most livable communities in America. Whether serving on the board or the bench, John's love for the community was remarkable. He was a proud native and lifelong resident of St. Paul, and he lived to serve its people. His sense of duty and honor are irreplaceable, and his leadership will be sorely missed. Madam Speaker, please join me in this tribute to former Ramsey County Judge John T. Finley.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 2920, the Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2009, which re-commits the Congress to the fiscal restraint and deficit reduction that produced budget surpluses and shared prosperity during the 1990s. The Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act, or ``PAYGO,'' requires Congress to offset the costs of tax cuts or increases in entitlement spending with savings elsewhere in the budget. This proposal is enforceable and it is realistic because it allows Congress to maintain a select number of policies without offsets such as Medicare physician payments and the Alternative Minimum Tax that Congress votes overwhelmingly to extend every year. H.R. 2920 is similar to the PAYGO law Democrats enacted under President Clinton to reverse the huge deficits created by the Reagan and George H.W. Bush Administrations. Unfortunately, another President Bush and a Republican-controlled Congress allowed these rules to expire in 2002 with devastating results. Reckless tax cuts for the wealthy and an Iraq war financed with deficit spending transformed a projected budget surplus of $5.6 trillion into a projected deficit of $4.5 trillion in only a few short years. The Bush Administration's uncontrolled deficit spending and total failure to regulate the financial sector produced an economic meltdown that pushed the U.S. economy to the brink of collapse by early 2009. Thankfully, responsibility is again in fashion in Washington. President Obama and the Democratic Congress are focused on economic recovery and modernization. Statutory PAYGO is a crucial step to restore fiscal discipline, force difficult choices on taxes and spending, and begin reducing the deep deficits left by the previous Administration. As a member of the House Budget and Appropriations Committees, I know that deficit reduction will enable the Congress to make needed investments in priorities such as health care, education, and clean energy in the coming years. I urge my colleagues to vote with me to pass the Statutory Pay-As- You-Go Act and make the Congress live with the same reality every Minnesota family faces: you cannot spend money you do not have.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Chairman, I would like to start by commending Chairman Obey for his leadership and for his crafting of a fiscally responsible bill that meets the needs of America's children, families, seniors, and communities we live in for today and tomorrow. This bill marks a new era in which Congress and the White House are working in partnership to invest in the health, education, workforce training, and success of all of our country's citizens. I would like to highlight some of the investments that are most important to my constituents in Minnesota. The $5.1 billion included in LIHEAP ensures that more than 7 million low-income households will have the money they need to keep warm this winter. The education increases in Head Start, IDEA, TRIO, and Pell Grants will help give our children a quality education and opportunities to attend and succeed in college. The $3.8 billion for the Workforce Investment Act will help to retain our neighbors who have been hurt by these tough economic times. Lastly, the investments in the CDC and in the NIH will strengthen public health and health research, which are critical to keeping America healthy. Families in Minnesota and across the United States need this bill. I strongly support this bill, and I urge my colleagues to support it as well. Again, I want to commend Chairman Obey and his staff for their extraordinary commitment to giving all of America's children and families the opportunity to be healthy, secure and successful.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor Lauderdale, Minnesota and its more than 2,300 residents on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the city. Residents of Lauderdale are proud to call Lauderdale home, because of its livability and strong neighborhood connections. The history of Lauderdale began when the Walsh family first settled the area in 1855. Shortly after Minnesota became a state in 1858, the area now known as Lauderdale was included in the newly organized Rose Township. This farmland became home to one of the first businesses founded by Swedish immigrant Nels Olson, Rose Hill Nursery, which grew to be one of the largest in the state. Toward the end of the century, Lauderdale saw an increase of settlers, who were drawn to Lauderdale because it provided easy access to both downtown St. Paul and Minneapolis via the Como Interurban street car line. On January 21, 1949, with a population of approximately 1,500, area residents voted to incorporate 270 acres as the Village of Lauderdale, named after landowner William H. Lauderdale. Over the next decade, Lauderdale continued to grow and develop. On February 15, 1954, Lauderdale annexed land between Roselawn and Ryan Avenue. In addition plans for Trunk Highway 280 were approved in 1954, which provides a vital transportation link for Ramsey County. In 1973, the village became the City of Lauderdale and continued the use of a Council-Mayor form of government which continues today. In 1997, Lauderdale was recognized by WCCO as the most livable community in the state of Minnesota. Since its incorporation 60 years ago, the City has grown from a tiny, industrial area to a lively suburban community with strong neighborhoods, prosperous businesses and with the perks of small-town living in a thriving metropolitan area. Madam Speaker, I am pleased to submit this statement for the Congressional Record recognizing the 60th Anniversary of Lauderdale, Minnesota in honor of the vibrant history, dynamic present and bright future of this city. I wish residents all the best during the events celebrating this special occasion.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 529, which condemns the violent attack on the United States Holocaust Museum on June 10, 2009 and honors the bravery and dedication of Museum employees and security personnel. I also rise to extend my condolences to the family and friends of Stephen Johns who died as a result of this horrible attack. On June 10, 2009, 89-year-old James von Brunn walked into the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and opened fire, killing security guard Stephen Johns. This act of violence led to the death of an innocent and admired security guard and wounded an institution meant to remind us where the spread of hatred can lead. Thankfully, the courage and quick action of the museum's security guards prevented further injury and death. Words of bigotry and racism cannot be ignored; too often they end in hateful actions. From the recent murder of abortion provider Dr. George Tiller to the shooting of two soldiers at a military recruitment center in Arkansas, hate too often materializes into violence with devastating effects for American families and communities. All of us must take it upon ourselves to end the ignorance and false beliefs that lead to discrimination, bigotry and worse. That is the mission of the Holocaust Museum and it is a mission and a message which now rings louder and clearer than ever. The assault against the Holocaust Memorial Museum, its employees and patrons is also a painful reminder of the public safety threat we face from gun violence. The United States must work harder to bring an end to gun violence. Madam Speaker, my thoughts are also with all those who have been victims of hate as well as those who dedicate themselves to increasing tolerance within our communities. I join my colleagues in supporting H. Res. 529.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today to express how deeply saddened I am by the passing of longtime House staffer and Members' Dining Room Hostess, Sally Crowe. The House of Representatives will mourn her for a long time, particularly the Members, staff and guests she touched on a regular basis. Her absence is truly unsettling. Sally served the House of Representatives with distinction for over 57 years--over five decades--longer than any Member in Congress today. A few years ago, she received the John W. McCormack Annual Award of Excellence for her commitment and outstanding service: An honor well deserved. Sally was first hired as a cashier in the Longworth House Office Building cafeteria in 1951. But she is best known for her service as a hostess in the Members' Dining Room in the Capitol--a post she took on in the 1960s. Sally's loyalty and work ethic was unmatched. Three years ago, she suffered a bad fall, but still returned to the job she clearly loved. She was 89 years old at that time. Just as remarkable, Sally seemed to know every Member by name. I first met her nine years ago, as a freshman Member of Congress. Those of us who were privileged to have met her are all the better for it. Sally was a burst of sunshine and brought joy to everyone who came in her path. Sadly, on Sunday, June 28--just 10 days ago--Sally bid farewell to the Congress and her family and friends. I want to extend condolences to her three daughters, six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren and say thank you for sharing her with us. Sally's sense of humor was contagious and her spirit was comforting. We miss her dearly.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Thank you, Madam Chair. I am very proud of my staff and the other staff and Members who have served in the Peace Corps who are in this House. Mr. Chairman, today the Peace Corps, one of the most successful foreign policy initiatives, is at a crossroads. Since 1961, over 200,000 Americans have served our country by helping others around the world. Today's Peace Corps needs to be reenergized. Peace Corps is not capable of meeting the demand of Americans of all ages who want to serve. As I said, Peace Corps is at a crossroads. We have an opportunity here today in this moment to reinvigorate Peace Corps for the next new century, but it's going to take leadership from Congress. The President's request simply was not enough, even though the President does propose to double, increase and fully fund Peace Corps out into the years. We have an opportunity to do it today. Chairwoman Lowey is leading with $450 million, a commitment to Peace Corps to put the agency back on track to double those numbers. President Bush spoke up from this Chamber and President Obama spoke too in his inaugural address. We have an opportunity to make history today. Support the Peace Corps.

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Chairman, I applaud the chairwoman and ranking member for both of their work in crafting a bill that everyone in this House can be proud to support. This bill commits about 1 percent of the total Federal budget to confront all of the global challenges we face: poverty, conflict, famine, drought, disease and global climate change. If we ignore these issues, they will threaten our way of life. This year's bill makes bold, necessary investments in areas of global health, agriculture and climate change, and it puts America back onto the path of doubling the number of Peace Corps volunteers proudly serving our country. I look forward to working with the chairwoman and President Obama to increase our investment in child survival and maternal health and to meet America's commitment to the Millennium development goals. Today, we start building a safer, healthier world for America's children and all of the world's children.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act (H.R. 1256). Today is a historic day for the prevention of disease and promotion of public health in America. I commend Chairman Waxman, Chairman Dingell, and Chairman Pallone for their leadership in advancing this legislation. Tobacco use is the single most preventable cause of death in the United States. More than 400,000 people die in the U. S. each year from tobacco use, including 5,600 Minnesotans. Another 8.6 million Americans are living with a serious illness caused by smoking. Unfortunately, the problem continues to grow. Every day, more than 3,500 young Americans try a cigarette for the first time. One third of these individuals will eventually die prematurely as a result of long-term tobacco use. Even those who do not choose to smoke tobacco are put in harms way--for every eight smokers who die from using tobacco, one non-smoker also loses their life. The Food and Drug Administration, FDA, is charged with ensuring the safety of food and medicine sold in the United States, but lacks the authority to regulate one of the deadliest products in America-- tobacco. This is a loophole American families cannot afford. The Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act, of which I am an original cosponsor, would grant the FDA the authority to regulate the advertising, marketing, and manufacturing of tobacco products, particularly for young people. By prohibiting the colorful marketing of tobacco products to children, we can help prevent countless young Americans from becoming victims of deceptive advertising. This bill will also allow the Secretary of Health and Human Services to approve all label statements and to restrict the sale, promotion, and distribution of tobacco products for the protection of public health. This legislation will also accomplish all of these important goals in a fiscally responsible manner--funding for FDA tobacco activity will be provided through a user fee on tobacco manufacturers. I urge my colleagues to support this bill to pass this bill and send it to the President to be signed into law. This is an important step to moving towards a healthier America.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today to call for the immediate release of two U.S. journalists, Laura Ling and Euna Lee, sentenced to twelve years hard labor in North Korea. On March 17, 2009, Laura Ling and Euna Lee were arrested by North Korean officials while investigating the plight of North Korean refugees fleeing to China. The North Korean government accused the two women of committing hostile crimes against the Korean nation and illegally crossing the North Korean border. On June 8, after a four-day trial conducted largely in secret, Ms. Ling and Ms. Lee were sentenced to twelve years of hard labor in a North Korean prison camp. North Korea's blatant disregard for due process and human rights in the treatment of these two women is unacceptable. International human rights organizations have unanimously declared their conviction the result of inflated accusations and a ``sham trial''. Despite being party to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, North Korea's judicial system fails international fair trial standards for transparency, independence, and conviction based on recognized criminal offenses. Unfortunately, the arrest and conviction of these two American journalists is but one example of the oppression under which North Koreans have suffered for too long. Ms. Ling and Ms. Lee's sentencing to prison labor camp is also a disturbing violation of human rights and humanitarian standards. The State Department reports that conditions in North Korean prison camps are harsh and life threatening, with beatings and torture a regular occurrence. Three months of detention have already exacerbated Ms. Ling's medical condition and caused significant trauma for Ms. Lee's young daughter and family. Sentencing these two women to twelve years hard labor is a severe breach of international humanitarian standards. Ms. Ling and Ms. Lee should be released immediately. The draconian sentence handed down to the two American journalists raises serious concerns about United States-Korean relations. It is deeply disturbing that North Korea would consider using these women as a negotiating tactic to avoid punishment for its latest nuclear tests. If North Korea truly wishes to ensure its national security, it should begin by releasing Laura Ling and Euna Lee and participating in the global community as a fair player. Madam Speaker, I call on my colleagues and the Obama Administration to work for the swift release of these two women back to their families.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Chair, I rise to express my opposition to amendment number 19 offered by Representative Kirk to H.R. 2410, the Foreign Relations Authorization Act. Representative Kirk's amendment would allow the United States Secretary of State, at her discretion, to make payments from the Rewards for Justice program to officers or employees of foreign governments who provide information leading to the capture of exceptional and high-profile terrorists. Upon first glance, this amendment may seem reasonable. Of course the United States wishes to encourage persons in foreign countries to assist our efforts to resist global terrorism. However, I question the necessity and wisdom of using U.S. taxpayer funds to pay employees of foreign governments for official duties they are presumably already being paid by their own governments to perform. Long-term success in the global fight against terrorism requires that America's partners make this mission an integral part of their work, not an extra-credit activity. In addition, the effect of this amendment could be contrary to America's commitment to due process and human rights. In previous instances when soldiers or officials have been offered monetary incentives to capture ``terrorists'', innocent civilians have been labeled as terrorists and accusations grossly conflated so the informant can claim a financial prize or even a political score. The language of this amendment is too vague to protect against potential human rights abuses. For the two reasons I have stated, Madam Chair, I voted against the amendment offered by Mr. Kirk.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the resolution Condemning the Murder of Dr. George Tiller (H. Res. 505) and with deepest sympathy for the loved ones of Dr. Tiller. On May 31, 2009, an assassination took place in Kansas. A physician was murdered in an act of terrorism in his church. This act of anti- abortion vigilantism inspires fear and terror. The murdered doctor had previously been shot and the clinic in which he worked had been previously bombed. This resolution, of which I am an original cosponsor, expresses our sympathy for the family and loved ones of Dr. George Tiller and declares that violence should never be recourse for a difference in beliefs. In honor of the memory of Dr. Tiller we must work harder than ever to promote tolerance and non-violence. Abortion in this nation is a legal health care procedure. I support a woman's right to make her own health care decisions and the work of health care providers to meet women's health care needs. What America witnessed with Dr. Tiller's death was a Taliban-like tactic to prevent abortions by murdering a doctor. It is terrorism and I urge the administration to extend protection to women's clinics all across our country. I support comprehensive sex education, evidence-based science, full access to family planning and reproductive health care for all women, and counseling to ensure women of all ages have the best information to make good choices about when they decide to have children. This is how we reduce abortions. This is how we empower individuals to prevent the need for abortions. Safe, comprehensive reproductive and family planning services should be accessible to all Americans and providers, because it is essential for the health and well-being of women and families. I will continue to work with President Obama in the 111th Congress to keep women's health as a priority. My condolences go out to Dr. Tiller's family and loved ones. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution and join me in condemning the murder of Dr. Tiller.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, today I rise to congratulate Minnesota Independent School District 197 (ISD197) on the occasion of its 150th Anniversary. For nearly as long as Minnesota has been a state, the school district has provided high quality public education to generations of students in what are now the communities of West St. Paul, Mendota Heights, Lilydale, Mendota, Sunfish Lake, Eagan and Inver Grove Heights. In 1852, pioneers began to settle in the area now known as the city of West St. Paul. In 1856, the township of West St. Paul and the village of Mendota Heights were formed. As families grew, the need for schools to provide public education for their children became clear. Early on, twelve students were taught by Miss Margaret Brown in the first single-room schoolhouse built in 1859 near what is now the border of West St. Paul and Mendota Heights. The school was relocated in 1863 to the current site of Somerset Elementary School on land donated by Minnesota's first Governor, Henry Sibley. By 1957, schools had grown so large in West St. Paul, Mendota Heights and Eagan, that they were consolidated into Independent School District 197. For 150 years, the public schools serving West St. Paul, Mendota Heights, Lilydale, Mendota, Sunfish Lake, Eagan, and Inver Grove Heights have given our children the ability to learn, grow, and follow the American dream. Today, the school district operates five elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school, serving approximately 4,500 students in the surrounding communities. In keeping with the spirit of the early pioneers who traveled the world to settle in this part of Minnesota, students in the district come from all over the world, speaking more than a dozen languages. Faculty, staff, and the community are all working hard to prepare students to compete globally in the 21st Century. This past April, I had the opportunity to tour several schools in the district with Superintendent Jay Haugen. I visited classes with teachers and students ready and eager to learn and also saw inventive programs such as a lunchroom reuse and recycling project at Heritage Middle School that won a national Energy Star Award. Public education in our schools is an integral part of our community and our nation, providing a world class opportunity for young people to become engaged citizens who will support a strong democracy and compete in an international economy. Today in honor of the students, parents, families, community members, teachers and staff in ISD197 public schools, I submit this statement for the official Congressional Record. I would like to personally congratulate the school district for 150 years of providing high quality public education in our community, and look forward to celebrating milestones in public education in the years to come.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Mr. Thomas Byrne, former Mayor of St. Paul, Minnesota who died on Sunday, April 5. While the city of St. Paul mourns the loss of a great civil servant, it is also a time to reflect on the legacy of this remarkable Minnesotan. Elected St. Paul's mayor in 1966 and again in 1968, Mr. Byrne's time in office is remembered for his commitment to community and transparency, and for his abiding love for the great city of St. Paul. He was dedicated to the idea that government best serves its people when it is accessible and open to all, an idea that to this day underpins the very spirit of Saint Paul's local government. During his very first year as mayor, Thomas Byrne brought back one of St. Paul's most festive traditions, its annual St. Patrick's Day parade. While the Irish-themed celebration may be the most tangible result of Byrne's time in office, his legacy runs much deeper. He managed to pass a city-wide housing law, and helped make St. Paul the first city in the United States to pass a human rights ordinance, all while fostering an environment of open dialogue that has become tradition in St. Paul. When protestors once staged a peaceful sit-in at his office, Mayor Byrne brought them coffee and doughnuts, a testament to his approach to politics. Thomas Byrne was an exceptional man not only for his service to the city of St. Paul, but for his service to our great nation. After growing up in St. Paul, where he attended Cretin High School, Mr. Byrne enrolled at the University of St. Thomas for a bachelor's degree in education. He put his own education on hold, however, to serve as a navigator for the Army Air Corps during World War II. Stationed in Italy, he flew over 50 missions before returning home to receive his bachelor's degree from St. Thomas, and a master's degree in education from the University of Minnesota. Both before and after his career as mayor, Thomas Byrne worked as a teacher and administrator for the St. Paul public school system. He served on the St. Paul Parks and Recreation Commission, the Minnesota Municipal Commission, and in his local Veterans of Foreign Wars post. He was a member of the Holy Spirit Men's Club and Choir, the St. Paul Federation of Teachers, the St. Paul Volunteer Bureau, his local American Legion chapter, and countless other community groups from Little League to the Knights of Columbus. Thomas Byrne was the true embodiment of an active, involved citizen. A profound love for his community motivated him to give back in every way he could. Like so many Minnesotans, however, he still found time to fish at the family cabin in Northern Minnesota. On behalf of myself, the City of St. Paul, and the state of Minnesota, I wish to honor the life and legacy of Thomas Byrne. I offer my thoughts and my prayers to Mary Therese Byrne, Thomas' wife of 63 years, and his three remaining children, Tim Byrne, Joseph Byrne, and Margaret Allen.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, on Monday, May 18, 2009, I was excused from a series of three rollcall votes. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on all three measures. These measures were: H. Res. 300, a resolution congratulating Camp Dudley YMCA of Westport, New York, on the occasion of its 125th anniversary, introduced by Mr. McHugh of New York; S. 386, the Fraud Enforcement and Recovery Act of 2009, as amended, introduced by Senator Leahy of Vermont; and H. Res. 442, a resolution recognizing the importance of the Child and Adult Care Food Program and its positive effect on the lives of low income children and families, introduced by Mr. George Miller of California.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of a ``gun free'' Credit Cardholders' Bill of Rights, a bill which is intended to protect American consumers and requires financial institutions to work responsibly with their customers. This legislation will eliminate the most egregious billing excesses imposed on customers and protect them from extreme fees and penalties. I commend Congresswoman Maloney and Chairman Frank for their leadership to pass this important legislation. Unfortunately, Credit Cardholders' Bill of Rights was returned to the U.S. House tainted by an irresponsible amendment offered by Senator Tom Coburn and supported by sixty-six other U.S. Senators clearly more interested in their National Rifle Association rating than public safety. Senator Coburn's amendment to allow people to carry loaded, concealed firearms in America's National Park System is nothing short of insane and a political game played at the expense of millions of families who will visit our national parks seeking enjoyment, recreation, and peace. By permitting loaded guns in national parks, the Coburn amendment endangers the safety of park visitors, park rangers, and wildlife. America's national parks are some of our country's most precious national treasures. Our national parks are not only the millions of acres of wild lands but also include urban parks like New York's Statue of Liberty and the National Mall and Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC--just footsteps from the U.S. Capitol. What rationale is there for the need to carry a concealed weapon on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial? The only rationale can be for politicians to score political points with the NRA. Families and foreign visitors to our national parks should be worried, I am. Individuals carrying loaded, concealed weapons would be allowed to attend ranger-led hikes and campfire programs along with families. Park Rangers, who are already the most assaulted federal officers in the country according to the National Parks Conservation Association, would face even greater life threatening safety risks. And park visitors would no longer have the assurance that our national parks are safe, secure places for themselves and their families. I am not alone in this position. Last year, in a letter to the Secretary of Interior, seven former directors of the National Park Service voiced strong concerns with allowing loaded guns in national parks, citing increased risk of poaching, vandalism of historic resources, and risk to visitors. The Association of National Park Rangers and U.S. Park Rangers Lodge, Fraternal Order of Police, have stated that allowing visitors to carry readily-accessible, loaded firearms would impede both their safety and the ability to keep our parks safe. This is a shameful example of the failure of the legislative process and I would urge President Obama to veto the Credit Cardholders' Bill of Rights and send it back to Congress to take the guns out.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Res. 337, a resolution to recognize April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Every year, thousands of children across the country become victims of child abuse. More than 5.8 million children in the United States were reported to be abused or neglected in 2007, and many more cases go unreported. All children deserve to be raised in a safe and nurturing environment. It is a tragedy when children are victimized by abuse, neglect, alcohol and drug abuse, or domestic violence. As a former board member of Minnesota Crisis Nurseries, I fully recognize the importance of strengthening child abuse prevention programs in Minnesota and throughout the United States. Early prevention approaches that utilize family support networks are critical to stopping child abuse before it starts. H. Res. 337 calls for increased public awareness of the maltreatment of children. This resolution also recognizes the many national and community organizations that promote awareness of child abuse and share strategies for prevention. It further urges families and individuals to report abuse or to get help by calling the National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-Child. I will continue working to strengthen child abuse prevention programs in Minnesota and throughout the United States. Keeping children and families safe must be a priority if we are to ensure the well being of our Nation's future--its children. I urge my colleagues to join me in voting for this bill.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Chair, I rise today to support H.R. 627, the Credit Cardholders' Bill of Rights. This important legislation reforms the relationship between credit card issuers and cardholders. I thank Congresswoman Maloney, Chairman Frank, and the House Leadership for their work on this legislation. Credit is essential to growth and prosperity in our economy. Thanks to bold action by this Congress and President Obama, once-frozen credit markets are slowly beginning to move again. However, hundreds of my constituents have contacted me to share their experiences of unexpected, significant interest rate increases on existing credit card debt. Many responsible borrowers who do not miss payments and only borrow within their means now find themselves in situations of great financial uncertainty as a result of legal but dubious credit card company practices. Reforms are needed to restore fairness to the consumer credit market. The Credit Cardholders' Bill of Rights will support responsible borrowing and lending and help to prevent predatory lending practices, which contributed to the economic crisis we find ourselves in today. This legislation will provide a range of new protections for consumers facing excessive credit card fees, skyrocketing interest rates, and ad hoc revisions of agreements. It will end unfair, arbitrary interest rate increases on existing balances, allow consumers to set their own credit limits, and end the practice of computing interest charges on balances from more than one billing cycle, which can lead consumers to pay interest on debt they have already paid. The Credit Cardholders' Bill of Rights enhances consumer protection from predatory lending practices by instituting common-sense policies to promote responsible lending and borrowing. Many families in my district and across the country are struggling with personal finances and will benefit greatly from the provisions of this bill. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 342 encouraging the designation of May 2, 2009 as ``Vietnamese Refugees Day''. H. Res. 342 expresses the support of the House of Representatives for a day to commemorate the arrival of Vietnamese refugees in the United States and document their harrowing experiences and subsequent achievements. May 2, 2009 has aptly been chosen for this day of commemoration since it also the date on which a powerful symposium entitled ``Journey to Freedom: A Boat People Retrospective'' is being sponsored by the Library of Congress and Vietnamese-American organizations across the United States. More than one million Vietnamese refugees left their home country following the Vietnam War. Many risked their lives fleeing peril and destruction on small, overcrowded ships. Others escaped by land to refugee camps throughout Southeast Asia. Over 22,000 of these courageous individuals settled in Minnesota and I am proud to say that many now call Minnesota's 4th District their home. Despite the difficult conditions they left behind, Vietnamese refugees have prospered in the United States. In Minnesota, and across the United States, Vietnamese-Americans have made their communities more prosperous and more vibrant. Today, Vietnamese-Americans are amongst the most distinguished contributors to the fields of literature, the arts, science and athletics in America. Vietnamese restaurants, retail services, and grocery stores have helped turn University Avenue in St. Paul, Minnesota into a thriving business center. Mr. Speaker, I call on my colleagues to recognize the great courage and achievement of Vietnamese refugees everywhere by joining me in supporting H. Res. 342.