Betty McCollum

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor the St. Paul YWCA for its 100 years of providing hope, opportunity, and a community gathering place for the residents of St. Paul. Founded in 1907 by a group of dedicated young women who moved to St. Paul to look for employment opportunities in the factories and mills, the St. Paul YWCA and its programs have continuously evolved to meet the changing needs of the community. The first YWCA was constructed on Fifth Street in downtown St. Paul with a gymnasium, club, classrooms, auditorium, and a 100-bed residence. Since its beginning, the YWCA has maintained its commitment to serve and support women by providing programs in education, business skills, home arts and crafts, and physical fitness. Over the years, the St. Paul YMCA has helped to foster other community initiatives and organizations. It provided office and meeting space for organizations such as Campfire Girls and the League of Women Voters, and later helped to spur the beginning of community agencies such as the Hallie O. Brown Center, Travelers Aid, International Institute of Minnesota, and Capitol Community Services. The YWCA was a pioneer of the first Festival of Nations grand opening in 1932. During the Great Depression, the St. Paul YWCA helped to build up the community by offering job assistance and counseling for women in business and industry. Similar efforts were undertaken during World War II, when the YWCA provided support for women entering the labor force as well as support for servicemen and women through the USO and relief efforts. In the second half of the 20th century, the St. Paul YWCA expanded its community outreach by offering educational and recreational programs, including housing projects as well as emergency shelter for homeless women and children in the state of Minnesota. In the first 7 years of the 21st century, the YWCA has risen to new opportunities, serving more than 6,000 people through its programs that include wellness services, supportive housing, long-term mentoring, childcare, youth development programs, volunteer services, and community programming. In addition, the YWCA has served over 350 schools, community and government agencies, service providers, and businesses through its programs. I look forward to celebrating YWCA's many successes in the years to come. Madam Speaker, in honor of the founders of the St. Paul YWCA, its staff, board members, and volunteers, and its delivery services that have made a difference for the lives of others, I am pleased to submit this statement for the Congressional Record recognizing the 100th anniversary of the St. Paul, MN, YWCA.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise to support the Student Loan Sunshine Act, and to congratulate Chairman Miller and Ranking Member McKeon for moving quickly on this critical issue. The recent investigation by New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo has brought attention to serious problems in our student aid industry. While it is unfair to malign all schools and all lenders, it is clear that in large part due to lax oversight by the Department of Education, there have been many instances of actions intended for profit--rather than for improving student access to education. It is time to put an end to the conflicts of interest and corrupt practices that increase costs for students and taxpayers. This legislation is an important first step in improving oversight of the student loan industry and in ending inappropriate relationships between lenders and colleges and universities. H.R. 890 will ban loan arrangements that include benefits to higher education institutions, prohibit lenders from serving as staff in campus financial aid offices, and ban gifts from lenders to campus officials and their families. It allows the continuation of preferred lender lists but requires that these lists include at least 3 lenders and that the institutions explain their choices. This bill includes civil penalties for companies that violate the new regulations and increases the Department of Education's authority to regulate the private loan market. The Student Loan Sunshine Act also makes it clear that lenders who are transparent in their processes and advocate on behalf of students continue to be an important part of the student aid system. Mr. Speaker, the recent scandals in the student loan industry illustrate the Department of Education's failure to adequately regulate the student loan industry and the conflicts of interest too often noted in this administration. As the New York Times reported, Department officials were alerted to inappropriate lender subsidies in 2003 and failed to act. This week a top ED official, who formerly worked for Sallie Mae, has resigned. It has also been noted that a recently investigated lender was a top contributor to the Republican party. It is time to refocus higher education policy where it should be--on the student. This Congress has made access to higher education a priority. It is critical to the future of students, our communities and our Nation. With more and more students and parents relying on student loans and with student debt burden increasing, clearly we must do all we can to ensure the integrity of student aid programs. The Student Loan Sunshine Act is an important first step. I also look forward to working with Chairman Miller and the other members of the Education and Labor Committee to pass a strong Higher Education Act Reauthorization that protects students, increases access to higher education, and improves our Nation's global competitiveness. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 890.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Con. Res. 105, to honor women suffragists with a National Suffragists Day. On July 19, 1848, at the Seneca Falls Convention, now famous suffragists, Lucretia Mott and Elizabeth Cady Stanton made one of the first public appeals for women's right to vote. This convention launched a more than 70 year fight for suffrage, which culminated with women gaining the right to vote in 1920 with the adoption of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Without the dedication, commitment, and hard work of women suffragist pioneers like Mott, Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, Sojourner Truth, and Alice Paul, our country would not have the first female Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives or more women elected to Congress than ever before. I am proud to be a cosponsor of H. Con. Res. 105, to honor the women suffragists who changed this country. Their bravery continues to inspire young women today to take an active role in government and to use their voices to make a difference. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting the goals and ideals of a National Suffragists Day.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, I rise today to express my support for H.R. 1678, The Torture Victims Relief Reauthorization Act of 2007. This legislation continues and improves a much needed and valuable safety net to help victims of torture recover from their trauma and rebuild successful lives. Every member of this body knows that torture is a tool used to enforce a level of terror among preyed upon people. Not only can the physical scars of torture last forever, the emotional pain experienced by victims can last a lifetime. Frequently, the aim of brutal torture is not to kill the victim, but to break their will. Victims are humiliated, crippled, traumatized and then returned to their communities as a brutal message of intimidation to others. In many instances, doctors and medical personnel participate during torture sessions to ensure the victim will not die. Groups that sanction, sponsor and commit torture focus on inflicting terror, intimidation and fear on entire communities. But through appropriate help, services and intervention, victims of torture can heal. The Torture Victims Relief Act provides critical funds to improve access to the health, legal and social services critical to victims and their families through domestic treatment centers for rehabilitation and research and training for health care providers. H.R. 1678 also makes grants available to foreign countries to carry out projects that work to treat the psychological and physical effects of torture. Treatment is critical, but there is more that can be done. This legislation also creates a partnership by increasing funding for foreign treatment centers and strengthening our commitment to the United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture. This bill sends a strong message to the international community that treating victims of torture is a priority for Congress, and that we welcome the support of our like-minded friends around the globe. This issue is important in my district. Minnesota is a new home for a growing number of immigrants and refugees and the late Senator Wellstone was a true champion for victims of torture. In addition, Minnesota is proud to be home to the Center for Victims of Torture--a world renowned center for the treatment and healing of torture victims.When the center opened in 1985, it became the first of its kind in the United States and only the third treatment center in the entire world. Today, with centers in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Washington, DC, Sierra Leone and Liberia, CVT is helping thousands of torture survivors from 60 countries. Madam Speaker, torture is a crime against humanity and unacceptable at any time, by any nation. Any nation that tortures or tolerates torture is truly not free. I strongly encourage all my colleagues to support this legislation and commend the gentleman from New Jersey for his commitment to this issue and his work on this bipartisan legislation.

Mr. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Mr. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, I rise today to express my support for H.R. 254, the Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2007. This legislation makes a profound statement that this country will not tolerate bigotry and ignorance that results in violence against its citizens. My first vote as a member of the Minnesota House of Representatives was for equal rights on housing and employment for the gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans-gendered (GLBT) community. As a Member of Congress, including this important vote today, I will have proudly voted for this legislation three times. It is time for this bill to become law so that all Americans can fully participate in and enjoy the rights of a democratic society. Since 1991 the FBI has received more 113,000 reports of hate crimes and we know that this crime is underreported. The message of this bill is clear. The country does not tolerate crimes committed against individuals based on their sexual orientation. Crimes of hate are unlike other violent acts of randomness. Targeting people because of their race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender or disability is a form of domestic terrorism that sends chilling messages to communities that they are not welcome and that intolerance and ignorance is alive and well. Some have inaccurately suggested that this bill legislates against thoughts and ideas. That is absolutely untrue. The focus of this bill is to provide local authorities a greater means by which to prosecute violent acts of hate, not thoughts. Not only does this bill not legislate against thoughts and speech, it explicitly includes First Amendment free speech protections for persons accused of acts of hate. Current law limits federal jurisdiction over hate crimes to violent acts committed against citizens based on religion, race, color and national origin if they are targeted while they are participating in federally protected activities, such as voting. H.R. 254 will strengthen federal law by expanding federal jurisdiction and allocate the necessary resources and tools to local law enforcement officials and prosecutors to go after individuals who act on their bigotry and ignorance with violence. The needed prosecution of hate crimes can stretch crucial state and local resources thin. This legislation authorizes the Attorney General to make grants available to law enforcement agencies that have acquired astounding expenses investigating and prosecuting hate crime cases. This bill is needed to protect the civil rights of all Americans who have been targeted based on their differences and it utilizes the resources of this government to ensure fairness and justice. I commend the Chairman of the Judiciary Committee, Mr. Conyers, for bringing this legislation to the Floor and I urge my colleagues to support it.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 1429, the Improving Head Start Act. Having had the opportunity to serve on the Education and Workforce committee for 6 years, I am very pleased to have the opportunity today to finally vote for a Head Start reauthorization bill that will improve on the success of this critical program. Head Start is one of the most successful programs funded by Congress. Research shows that children who attend Head Start enter school better prepared, are less likely to need special education services, and are more likely to graduate. The Minneapolis Federal Reserve Bank reported a few years ago that there is actually a 16 percent rate of return on investment in quality early education. In my opinion, funding education for our youngest children is the most efficient and important investment we can make. The biggest challenge facing Head Start has been lack of resources. In Minnesota, less than half the children eligible for Head Start are served due to funding shortages. And nationwide, only 2 percent of children eligible for Early Head Start receive services. We can do better. Increasing access to Head Start is good for children, for families, for communities and for the federal budget. The Improving Head Start Act will expand and improve Head Start. It will allow access for 10,000 more children and prioritize expanding Early Head Start. It increases teacher qualifications and helps to attract quality teachers by improving salaries. It will also improve coordination with other early education programs, ensure that parents continue to play an important role in governing Head Start and strengthen the focus on health, mental health, and obesity prevention. Equally important are the things this bill does not include. It prohibits further use of the National Reporting System--high stakes testing that was inappropriate for 4-year olds and was draining time and dollars from Head Start programs. It does not include block grants to the states which would have diluted Head Start's high standards and comprehensive programming. And finally, I join with faith groups in Minnesota and around the country in applauding the successful efforts to defeat a provision to allow discrimination in hiring with Head Start dollars. I congratulate Chairman Miller and Speaker Pelosi for making our children's education a priority for the 110th Congress. I am pleased to support H.R. 1429 and look forward to continuing to put the interests of our children and our families first.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, today I will introduce a bipartisan piece of legislation that will keep newborn babies and young children alive and healthy in the world's poorest countries. I urge my colleagues to cosponsor the United States Commitment to the Global Child Survival Act. Every year, more than 10 million newborns and children under 5 die. That is 28,000 babies and toddlers dying every day. Pneumonia, diarrhea and malnutrition needlessly kill millions. Sixty percent of newborns and young children die needlessly from treatable or preventable problems just because they are poor. This bill expands access to the basics, antibiotics, vaccines, vitamins, antimalaria drugs, which will save lives. I urge my colleagues to cosponsor the United States Commitment to the Global Child Survival Act and to invest in keeping newborns and young children and their mothers healthy.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of H.R. 1867, the National Science Foundation Authorization Act, which will reauthorize the National Science Foundation, NSF, for the next 3 years. H.R. 1867 will continue NSF funding on a 10-year doubling path, establish pilot programs to help improve funding rates for our young researchers, and encourage NSF to foster a relationship between academia and industry in order to improve the competitiveness of research conducted in the United States. The National Science Foundation, created in the 1950s supports critical science and engineering research conducted at over 2,000 institutions across the Nation, which involves roughly 200,000 researchers, teachers, and students. Despite its relatively small size, NSF has an important impact on scientific and engineering knowledge and academic capacity. While NSF represents only 4 percent of the total Federal budget for research and development, it accounts for 20 percent of all basic research conducted at colleges and universities, and 50 percent of non-life science basic research at academic institutions. In fact, NSF is the only Federal agency that supports all fields of basic science and engineering research. NSF invests in the best ideas of its scientists, engineers and educators working at the frontiers of knowledge, and across all fields of research and education. Their mission is designed to maintain and strengthen the vitality of the United States science and engineering enterprise. In addition, NSF strives to improve its science and education collaboration at early stages in the education cycle. Science and math at the K though 12 level is becoming more interactive and engaging for our students in order to stimulate their future interest in the field of science, technology, engineering and mathematics, STEM. H.R. 1867 would increase funding for certain NSF education programs including authorizing the ``10,000 Teachers, 10 Million Minds'' Math and Science Scholarship Act, H.R. 362. Our youth represents America's future scientists. Stimulating their interest at a young age promises the continuation and success of our future biological, physical, social and engineering scientists. In the state of Minnesota, the National Science Foundation supports research conducted at the University of Minnesota, the Mayo Clinic and many other academic institutions. The research conducted at these institutions has been paramount to the field of science and technology. Minnesota is proud to employ scientists, teachers, technicians and staff that address such cutting edge technology. The research supported by the National Science Foundation touches the lives of every American; from gaining a better understanding of Alzheimer Disease to Global Climate Change and is critical to increasing our global competitiveness. It is with this commitment to the continued economic, social, and cultural well being of my district, and of the Nation, that I rise today in support of funding for the National Science Foundation for the next 3 years.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Chairman, I rise today in support of H.R. 1868, the Technology Innovation and Manufacturing Stimulation Act, which will reauthorize the National Institute of Standards and Technology, NIST, for the next 3 years. H.R. 1868 is the first reauthorization of NIST since 1991. Authorizing $2.5 billion over 3 years, this bill would increase funding for the Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program, which keeps jobs in the United States; creates the Technology Innovation Program, which allows universities partnering with businesses to apply for funding through NIST and speed research in high-risk, high-reward technologies in areas of critical national needs; continue funding NIST on a 10-year path to doubling; and provide necessary construction funding for laboratory upgrades. Founded in 1901 under the National Bureau of Standards Act, NIST has been in the forefront of innovative technology in areas of public safety, industrial competitiveness and economic growth through standards and measurements. Its mission is to promote U.S. innovation and industrial competitiveness by advancing measurement science, standards, and technology in ways that enhance economic security and improve our quality of life. NIST works tirelessly with industry, universities, and other government agencies to address technological innovations that will fundamentally change products and services available in the 21st century. NIST is renowned for working on cutting edge technology. Innovations from this research will ultimately impact our quality of life. Also supported in this reauthorization would be the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, founded by NIST and given by the President of the United States. The Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award recognizes businesses for their standard of performance excellence in their business practices. Minnesota has been the recipient of three Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Awards in the past 10 years. Most recently in 2005, Sunny Fresh Foods, Incorporated won its second Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award for its quality and leadership that continually focuses people and business processes on improving product and services to its customers and stakeholders. NIST sits at the nexus of science and industry. NIST's unique role is to advance measurements and standards so that the next innovation can be realized and commercialized. In today's global economy, the ability of the United States to remain competitive relies increasingly on our ability to develop and commercialize innovative technologies. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 1868 in order for National Institute of Standards and Technology to remain as the premier institute for measurements and standards in the world.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, for the third time I will vote in strong support of H.R. 1591, The Iraq Accountability Act. This time I will vote to override the President's veto of this critical legislation. With U.S. troop levels in Iraq increasing towards 170,000, all of whom are in the middle of a civil war; it is an act of political gamesmanship, not executive leadership, for President Bush to veto this legislation. With this veto, President Bush, with the strong support of his Republican minority in Congress, rejected $95.5 billion for our troops in harm's way and walks away from billions in needed funds for our veterans. The President vetoed this bill and rejected providing our troops with needed training, mandatory rest time, and an exit strategy from a civil war in Iraq. This presidential veto sends a clear message to Congress and to the overwhelming majority of American people who are demanding a change in this administration's Iraq policy. The message is this: the White House has no intentions of holding Iraq's political leaders accountable for the future of their country. They have no intention of honoring the benchmarks his administration has established for measuring success in Iraq. And, President Bush has no intention of ending the U.S. military's presence in Iraq during his remaining 20 months in the White House. The only timetable this president is likely to honor will result in him walking out of the White House on January 20, 2009, leaving behind more than a hundred thousand U.S. troops in Iraq and the greatest foreign policy disaster in American history for a new president to address. The Democratic majority in this House have made the needs of our troops, our veterans and our Nation's security our top priority. Unlike the minority in Congress and the White House, we are not deluded by a false hope that Iraq will suddenly transform itself into a nation of peace and tranquility with a surge of U.S. troops. Every indicator--military, economic and social-- demonstrates that U.S. troops and American taxpayers are bearing an overwhelming burden on behalf of a nation that is broken and an Iraqi political leadership that refuses to act to retain sovereignty over their own nation. Iraqis must take responsibility for the future of their nation, not U.S. troops. The only solution that can be achieved and sustained in Iraq is through political dialogue, not expanded military action by a foreign army. President Bush's failed policy has U.S. troops doing the job Iraqi soldiers and police should be doing. The veto of this legislation not only strips General Petraeus and all our commanders on the ground of any leverage to hold Iraq's political leaders accountable, it ensures that U.S. troops will continue being engaged in door-to-door searches, Baghdad foot patrols and raids on torture centers run by Iraqi security forces. Last month, 104 Americans were killed in Iraq. The President's surge is not creating security for Iraqis, but has placed U.S. troops at greater risk. In March, 2,762 Iraqi civilians and policemen were killed. In April thousands more Iraqis were killed. On Monday, sixty Iraqis were killed, including the thirteen corpses found in Baghdad, ``all blindfolded, handcuffed and shot in the head'' according to the Washington Post. These are not just numbers, they are lives. They are the lives of men and women, children as well, American soldiers and Iraqi civilians, killed as part of a bloody civil war. More than 50,000 Iraqi are fleeing their country every month. Two million Iraqis are now refugees and another 1.9 million Iraqis are internally displaced because of sectarian killings, ethnic cleansing and civil war. For my colleagues who warn about a horrific humanitarian crisis if this legislation becomes law, why do you ignore the horrific humanitarian crisis that is taking place right now as a result of the failed policies of this White House? I will vote to override this veto. This legislation starts the process of ending the war in Iraq. This legislation not only holds the Iraqis accountable, it holds President Bush accountable as well. This war started because of distortions, false information and the determination of the Bush White House to deceive the American people, not a threat to our national security. It has always been a war of choice and an unjust war. The empty rhetoric from the Republicans in this chamber claims that this legislation puts the American people at risk, yet it is their stay the course support for a disastrous Iraq policy that harms America. My Republican colleagues' rejection of accountability standards, benchmarks for success, and an exit strategy from Iraq is an indication of their blind loyalty to President Bush, his failed leadership and a perpetuation of the deceit that brought us the Iraq War. I urge all my colleagues to vote to override President Bush's veto of H.R. 1591 and let us start down the path of successfully ending the war in Iraq.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of ensuring equal pay for equal work for all Americans. Since 1963, when President Kennedy signed the Equal Pay Act into law, women have made significant strides in the workplace. However, there continues to be a wage gap, and in 2006, women earned 77 cents for every dollar earned by men. A new study by the American Association of University Women finds that just 1 year out of college women are earning only 80 percent of what men earn, and by 10 years after graduation the gap has widened and women are making only 69 percent as much as men. More than 40 years after the Equal Pay Act was signed into law, a woman has to work nearly 16 months to earn an amount equal to the amount a man earns in just 12 months. This gap results in $250,000 in lost wages over the course of the average woman's life. This wage gap not only affects a woman's current income, but often means she will have less money available to her in retirement. For women of color the pay disparities are even greater--African American women earn 71 percent and Latinas earn 58 percent of what their male colleagues earn. The gender wage gap is not just a women's issue, it is an issue that affects the strength of our families and our communities. This is why I am a cosponsor of the Paycheck Fairness Act to strengthen the Equal Pay Act of 1963 to provide for equal rights in pay regardless of a person's sex, race or national origin. This legislation should be a priority for the 110th Congress. It is long past time to close the gender pay gap. I urge my colleagues to join me in working to eliminate these unjust pay disparities.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act. I am a cosponsor of this important legislation, which bans discrimination in the workplace and in health insurance on the basis of predictive genetic information. It prohibits insurance companies from denying coverage or increasing premiums because of genetic factors. Also, under this bill, employers cannot consider genetic factors in the process of hiring, firing, or promoting workers. H.R. 493 is much like a Minnesota law, which I voted for when I was a member of the Minnesota House of Representatives. Genetic discrimination has the potential to affect every person in the United States. Despite advances in modern medical technology, it is impossible to predict with certainty whether a given individual will actually develop a disease. Patients recognize that few laws exist to prevent health insurers or employers from using their predictive genetic information to deny them coverage or jobs. As a result, they may avoid taking an important genetic test or participating in genetic research. Federal employees are already protected from genetic discrimination by an executive order signed by President Clinton and retained by President Bush. It is time to extend this protection to the rest of our country. H.R. 493 will give Americans the security they need to take care of their health needs without worrying that they will face discrimination. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this bill.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, it is my great pleasure to rise today to recognize the 150th anniversary of Mount Zion Temple in St. Paul, Minnesota. Mt. Zion's long service as a faith home to generations of Minnesotans deserves special recognition. This year's celebration marks the temple's deep dedication to community, life-long learning, worship and social justice. Mount Zion Temple has a proud history in Minnesota. Eight Jewish pioneers came together to found Mount Zion Hebrew Congregation in 1856, two years before Minnesota became a state. Now 150 years later, every Reform congregation in the Twin Cities can trace their beginnings to the original congregation of eight families. Mount Zion has been a pillar not only for the faith community but also for generations of Minnesotans who have been touched by the temple's strong commitment to community involvement. In 1900, members of Mt. Zion founded Neighborhood House, a community center providing advocacy, support, and community building programs to St. Paul. Today, more than 100 years later, the new ``Paul and Sheila Wellstone Community Center at Neighborhood House'' serves a growing community in St. Paul. Our entire community shares pride in this legacy. Madam Speaker, recognizing the countless contributions of Mt. Zion Temple to the people of Minnesota during the past 150 years, it is my honor to submit this statement for the official Congressional Record.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the District of Columbia Voting Rights Bill, and commend Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton and Oversight and Government Reform Committee Ranking Member Tom Davis for their hard work and commitment to ensuring that District of Columbia residents have full representation in Congress. Eighty-two percent of Americans believe that the District should have voting rights in the House. It is time to end the 206 years of ``taxation without representation'' for District of Columbia residents. H.R. 1905 will provide District of Columbia residents a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives. It will also grant a vote to the next State in line to get a congressional seat, which, according to the 2000 Census, is Utah. As a result, this bill will permanently expand the size of the House of Representatives from 435 to 437. This bipartisan legislation also includes a ``non-severability clause'' providing that if a court determines that one section of this bill is invalid, then all other sections will be unenforceable. Ensuring that all citizens, including District of Columbia residents, have representation in the House is not only fair and just, but also critical to maintaining a strong democracy, in which all citizens' voices are heard. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this important legislation.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 328, expressing the condolences of the House of Representatives on the death of the Honorable Juanita Millender-McDonald. Congresswoman Millender-McDonald was a strong advocate for women and human rights, speaking out against injustice in our country and around the world. She was the first African American woman to chair a Committee in Congress, and will be remembered for her commitment and dedication to ensuring that every American's vote counts. As Co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus for Women's Issues in the 107th Congress, Congresswoman Millender-McDonald worked tirelessly to ensure that women from both sides of the aisle participated in the activities of the Caucus. She was a warm and open person, and was a true mentor to me during my first term in Congress. On behalf of the families of Minnesota's Fourth Congressional District, we extend our prayers and sincerest condolences to her husband, Mr. James McDonald, Jr., her children and all of her family and friends. Representative Juanita Millender-McDonald will be remembered and honored in the highest regard. Madam Speaker, please join me in paying tribute to the life of Congresswoman Juanita Millender-McDonald.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of the Shareholder Vote on Executive Compensation Act, and I commend Chairman Frank for his work on this critical issue. While American families struggle to meet their basic needs, such as access to affordable housing, health care, and education, the CEOs of top companies earn more than 430 times the pay of an average worker. The disparity between CEO compensation and minimum wage earnings is even more severe. The average CEO earns more before lunch than a minimum wage worker earns in a year. This inequality needs to be addressed. The Shareholder Vote on Executive Compensation Act is an important step toward fairness because it empowers shareholders and holds public corporations accountable for their compensation practices. H.R. 1257 requires that public companies give shareholders the opportunity to have a nonbinding advisory vote on the company's executive compensation. It also gives shareholders an additional nonbinding vote if the company awards the CEO a new, undisclosed personal exit package, also known as a ``golden parachute'' package, during negotiations to buy or sell a company. This bill does not in any way cap executive salaries nor does it diminish the board's legal authority. It simply provides shareholders with a mechanism to voice their support or opposition to an executive compensation package. This legislation is supported by the International Corporate Governance Network, the Council of Institutional Investors, labor unions, and shareholder organizations. Further, this approach to corporate governance is not new, and it has been shown that it works. The nonbinding advisory vote has been successfully implemented in the United Kingdom and more recently in Australia. It was also adopted voluntarily by the insurance company, Aflac, and 52 other companies have similar proposals pending. Mr. Chairman, American families cannot afford to continue subsidizing excessive CEO compensation packages. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 1257.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor the 2007 St. Paul Central High School Minutemen Girls Basketball Class AAAA State champions. The Minutemen won a convincing 81-63 victory over the Minneapolis South Tigers to capture the championship title on March 17, 2007. I extend heartfelt congratulations to the Minutemen champions and the entire Central High School. As the result of their hard work, outstanding athletic ability, power and speed, the team achieved success throughout their season as well as their championship game. With 32 wins and 0 losses, the 2007 St. Paul Central Minutemen Girls Basketball champions have the best winning record of any girls basketball team in Minnesota history. In achieving its victory in the Class AAAA championship game, the team's 81 points set a new score record, surpassing the previous high score of 80 points. The Minutemen Girls team victory earns them a place in St. Paul Central Girls Basketball history alongside the 1976 and 1979 St. Paul Central Girls State Championship teams. I am proud of the positive example set by these fine young student athletes. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the students, faculty and staff of St. Paul Central High School, please join me in honoring the St. Paul Central Minutemen Girls Basketball State champions.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, I rise to state for the record that had I been present for the votes on H.R. 1677, the Taxpayer Protection Act, and H. Res. 196, supporting the goals and ideals of World Water Day, I would have voted in the affirmative for both bills. I was unable to vote for H.R. 1677 and H. Res. 196 because I was in an important meeting with constituents from Minnesota.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program Reauthorization Act. Increasing access to cancer screening for women at risk is an essential part of preventing deaths from breast and cervical cancers. However, unfortunately, women with fewer resources and women of color, who are disproportionately uninsured or underinsured, are significantly less likely to have access to preventative screenings such as mammograms and Pap tests. I am proud to be a cosponsor of H.R. 1132, which reauthorizes the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program, NBCCEDP, to improve access to screening and diagnostic services for breast and cervical cancers among underserved women. It also authorizes increased funding for this lifesaving program. Since it was created in 1991, NBCCEDP has provided breast and cervical cancer screening services to more than 2.9 million uninsured and underinsured women. It has diagnosed more than 29,000 breast cancers, 94,000 precursor cervical lesions, and 1,800 cervical cancers. H.R. 1132 renews our commitment to saving women's lives through screening and early detection of breast and cervical cancers. Ensuring that all women have access to these vital health services must be a priority. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this bill.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of H. Con. Res. 99, the 2008 House Budget Resolution, and I congratulate Chairman Spratt for advancing the priorities of American families. This budget moves our country in a new direction. First, it is fiscally responsible. In contrast to the 6 years of high budget deficits under the former majority, this proposal provides for a surplus in 2012 by strictly adhering to the pay-as-you-go principle adopted in the first days of the 110th Congress. It also protects the integrity of taxpayer dollars by instituting initiatives to crack down on wasteful or fraudulent spending. It is critical that we do not burden our children and grandchildren with crippling debt which threatens the competitiveness of this Nation. H. Con. Res. 99 provides for the top priority of the Federal Government--which is to keep our Nation safe and to keep our promises to the brave men and women that serve in the Armed Forces. This bill increases funding for veterans' health care and services by 14 percent, provides more homeland security funding than the Bush administration requested, and funds the 9/11 Commission recommendations. The Democratic budget resolution also makes critical investments in our future by doubling funding for the National Science Foundation and making significant increases in math and science education. This budget recognizes that one of the most efficient and effective investments we can make is in our children's education. It increases funding for No Child Left Behind, special education, Head Start, and student aid programs--all of which have been neglected or reduced over the past 6 years. Studies have shown that by recognizing the needs of children today, we both save taxpayer dollars in the long run, and ensure the availability of highly skilled workers in the future. Last November Americans made clear that access to health care is a top priority for families and should be for the Congress. This budget rejects the draconian cuts to Medicare and Medicaid proposed by the Bush administration and provides for an expansion of the State Children's Health Insurance Program to insure millions more children. This budget recognizes that those who need tax relief in this country are not corporations and the very wealthiest. This proposal includes relief from the Alternative Minimum Tax for millions of middle-income taxpayers and extends other middle-income tax cuts like the child tax credit, marriage penalty relief and State and local deductions. The budget resolution is a statement of priorities. Chairman Spratt has proposed a common-sense, fiscally responsible budget that puts families first and grows our economy. I am proud to support H. Con. Res. 99 and urge all my colleagues to join me. I also congratulate the Progressive Caucus and the Congressional Black Caucus for the budget ideas they put forward. I have supported both of these amendments today largely because of the increased attention to diplomacy, peace, and investment in the global community. These issues must continue to be a part of the appropriations debate.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Chairman, I rise to speak on the amendment offered by Mrs. Biggert. The region affected by Hurricane Katrina could use additional affordable housing units beyond those occupied at the time of the hurricane. However, this is a problem that exists for many communities across the country and should be addressed in a comprehensive manner by adequately funding the Department of Housing and Urban Development. In the 4th Congressional District of Minnesota, the average wait time for public housing is over 5 years, and most waiting lists are closed. There is a deficit of 12,635 affordable housing units for very low- income families. It is a serious problem when too many families do not have safe, stable housing. The Administration's response to this problem was to flat fund the Section 8 program, ensuring that our communities cannot address the waiting lists that currently exist, and to propose significant cuts to Community Development Block Grants. We need a comprehensive solution to affordable housing needs--both in the Gulf Coast Region and across the country. I strongly support the Gulf Coast Hurricane Recovery Act, and will support efforts to increase access to safe affordable housing for all Americans.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of this legislation, in support of our troops, in support of our veterans, and in strong support of ending the Iraq war. After 4 years of mismanagement, mistakes and excuses, the Bush administration and their supporters in Congress continue to be comfortable with a ``stay the course'' policy, while American troops are in the middle of an Iraq civil war. Passing this supplemental appropriation requires leadership. It will be the Democrats passing this bill, taking the first historic step towards ending President Bush's Iraq war. It will be Democrats who hold President Bush and President Maliki accountable for achieving the political conditions that will allow U.S. troops to come home safe and soon. Speaker Pelosi, Chairman Obey, Chairman Murtha all deserve to be recognized for their courage and their leadership in bringing this war to an end. And I urge all my colleagues to support this bill and take the first important step towards ending the war in Iraq.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 149, a resolution supporting the goals of International Women's Day. International Women's Day is an opportunity for us to evaluate the status of the world's women. As we take time to reflect on our achievements, we must reaffirm our commitment to addressing the inequalities and injustices that women in our country and around the world continue to face. For example, we must do more in the fight against poverty. As much as 70 percent of the world's poor are women, many of them subsisting on less than $1 a day. Furthermore, according to the World Bank, women earn on average 22 percent less than men. To address these disparities, we must continue expanding micro-lending practices and other opportunities for women to start small businesses, as well as working to increase women's land and property rights. Improving access to education for girls is also critical to expanding economic opportunities for women. Despite the fact that access to primary education is increasing around the world, girls compose two- thirds of the 130 million school-aged children who are not attending school. Investing in girls' education enhances the quality of life of women and families throughout the world. Increased education for girls results in numerous benefits including lower maternal, child, and infant mortality rates, lower rates of HIV/AIDS infection, and higher earnings. Here at home, we celebrate Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the first female Speaker of the House, women's increasing educational attainment and participation in the workforce, and the growing number of women-owned businesses. While we have made incredible strides, challenges remain. Here at home, we must continue working to close the gender pay gap, increase access to appropriate health care, and protect Title IX, which provides opportunities for American girls and women in athletics. I am committed to working for peace and justice for all the world's women. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting the goals of International Women's Day.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor a group of Minnesotans who exemplify the great spirit of American compassion, generosity and human ingenuity by making a difference in the lives of a group of orphans living in EI Salvador. I especially want to thank the staff and volunteers of both Friends of the Orphans Minnesota Region who helped facilitate arrangements for five Salvadoran orphans to have eye surgery in Minnesota earlier this year. Claudia Vanessa Vasquez Ramos, age 18; Estela Martinez Perdomo, age 18; Hector Lopez Jovel, age 10; Jonas Perez, age 6 and Brian Stanley Lemus, age 5 were born with strabismus, commonly known as cross or unaligned eyes. When Minnesota residents learned about these orphans, and that corrective surgery for strabismus is not available in EI Salvador, they worked with Friends of the Orphans to bring them to Minnesota for surgery. Mr. Nestor Jaramillo arranged surgeons and nurses at Fairview Southdale Hospital to perform the surgery, while Friends of the Orphans made flight arrangements and helped to coordinate host families. On January 18th, the children arrived in Minnesota, and their successful surgeries were performed the following day. The day after their surgeries, I had the opportunity to meet these young people at Our Lady of Grace Church in Edina, Minnesota, and experienced firsthand their excitement with their new, corrected vision. By January 22nd, they returned to EI Salvador with a much brighter outlook for the future in their home country. I am pleased to honor the generosity of doctors, pediatricians, and nurses at Fairview Southdale Hospital in Edina, Minnesota, who through the donation of their skills and time to perform the surgeries, gave a life-long gift to these orphans. Fairview Southdale Hospital surgeons and nurses: Marshall Everson, M.D.; S. Jafar Hassan, M.D.; Mathew Jones, pediatrician; Thomas LeFebreve, pediatrician; Linda Rosengren, R.N.; Barbara Resendez, R.N.; George Markuson, surgical tech; Christine Volp, C.R.N.A.; Dennis Bless, C.R.N.A.; Dr. Suzanne Shearen, M.D.A.; Becky Hagemann, R.N.; Jan Johnson, R.N.; Sharon Cegla, R.N.; Shirley Holton, R.N.; Kristi Bahnemann, R.N.; Susan Hahn, health unit coordinator; Brad Beard, President of Fairview Southdale Hospital; Nestor Jaramillo, Jr., Vice- President of Sales and Marketing; Bonnie Herda, director of periop services; Julie Hennen, communications and marketing staff. In addition I want to recognize the extraordinary individuals, families, groups and organizations that have offered their hearts to make a difference in the lives of these orphans: Friends of the Orphans Minnesota Region and its entire staff: Judy Hawkinson, Charlene Dick, Gail Duer, Erin Dirksen and Mackenzie Wheeler. Host families: Nestor and Laurie Jaramillo, Stephen and Elizabeth Smith, John and Mary O'Toole. Nuestros Pequenos Hermandos (NPH) Central America: Father Ron Hicks. The U.S. Embassy in San Salvador: thanks to Consul General Virginia Hotchner and the entire staff of the Consular Section for their assistance in providing non-immigrant visas for the children. Mr. Chao Lee from my St. Paul office: special thanks to Chao for his hard work and tenacity in working with Friends of the Orphans and the U.S. Embassy in San Salvador to secure non-immigrant visas for the children. Madam Speaker, in honor of the staff of Friends of the Orphans, U.S. Embassy staff in San Salvador, and the doctors, pediatricians and nurses of the Fairview Southdale Hospital and compassionate citizens who made an impact on the lives of the five Salvadoran orphans, I submit this statement for the official Congressional Record.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, I rise to express my profound respect and admiration to all the members of the Negro Baseball League. These athletes contributed greatly to the sport of baseball and to our nation. African American baseball players were an important part of breaking down barriers, reducing prejudice, and moving the country towards integration, fairness, and equality. And because of their talent and determination, Major League Baseball finally integrated in 1959, 40 years after the formation of the Negro Baseball League. While the 4th District was never home to an official Negro baseball team designated by the Negro League, which began in 1920, it was home to the St. Paul Gophers. The team was formed in 1907, long before the official Negro League was created, and with the likes of Bobby Marshall, a stand-out at the University of Minnesota in three sports, they went on to win the unofficial championship in 1909 against the Chicago Leland Giants. Minnesota was also home to Minneapolis Keystones, an all-black men's team that also played in the early 1900's and, in 1944, the Minneapolis Millerettes, a member of All-American Girls Baseball League. Even though these teams played for only a short time, they remain an important part of the history of our state and a testament to the value of inclusion in our communities. I am proud to support for H. Res. 162 and to recognize the enormous achievements by African American athletes throughout our Nation's history.