Betty McCollum

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Chairman, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 800, the Employee Free Choice Act, and I applaud Chairman Miller and the Education and Labor Committee for making working families and the rights of organized labor a national priority. Every employee's right to organize must be protected. Too often, this is not the case, and I saw it first hand when I worked in the retail industry. While many companies respect the rights of their employees, others put up hurdles and even break the law to keep workers from effectively coming together to fight for improved working conditions. This must be stopped. H.R. 800 ensures that American workers have a voice in the workplace. It allows workers to decide whether they want to form a union if the majority of workers sign authorization cards in support of the union, and it strengthens penalties for employers that discriminate against union supporters. This legislation is about strengthening America's working families. Union workers earn almost 30 percent more, on average, than non-union workers and approximately 44 percent more when you take into account wages and benefits. In my home State of Minnesota and throughout the country, families struggle every day to make ends meet. The Employee Free Choice Act protects employees' right to organize, allowing workers to bargain for the higher wages and the better benefits that American families rely on and that they deserve. On behalf of the working men and women of Minnesota, I am proud to support this legislation.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, today I rise to congratulate Mendota Elementary School on its 50th anniversary. For 50 years, the Mendota Elementary School has provided academic excellence for the children of Mendota Heights. The school has served as a community resource, providing education opportunities for students, parents and the public, and providing public spaces for civic engagement. This celebration comes at a great time for Mendota Elementary School. The school was recently included among nine Minnesota schools named as U.S. Department of Education 2006 Blue Ribbon School Award schools. The Blue Ribbon School Award is a special recognition that reflects the outstanding academic performance of the students, teachers and staff of Mendota Elementary School. As a good steward of public education, the Mendota Elementary School provides a safe and nurturing place for our children to grow and learn. Teachers and staff offer an enriched environment for children to develop into healthy, contributing and productive citizens. In honor of the students, parents, families, teachers and staff of Mendota Elementary School, I am pleased to honor this special anniversary. I look forward to continued celebrations of success and milestones in the education of the people of Mendota Heights community.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, there is no more important issue facing our Nation today than the prolonged, painful, deadly war in Iraq. Next month America's courageous and determined troops start year 5 of combat operations inside Iraq. As Iraq continues to deteriorate into a failed state of endless killing, President Bush has decided not only to stay the course but to escalate America's combat presence. The resolution we debate tonight puts Congress in step with the American people in rejecting the President's escalation of the war. This resolution supports our troops and sends a clear message to President Bush that he is increasingly isolated in believing that Iraq's future can only be salvaged by sending more Americans into their civil war. Let us remember that year 5 in Iraq will start with over 150,000 U.S. troops in the midst of an Iraq civil war. Year 5 in Iraq will start with 2,600 Minnesota National Guardsmen and -women who have already served and sacrificed for a year, being ordered to serve an additional 4 months of duty. Year 5 in Iraq starts with over 3,100 American troops having sacrificed their lives and nearly 24,000 troops having sacrificed their bodies. To all of our veterans and their families, I offer my prayers, and I pledge my support in the difficult months and years ahead. With a true sense of humility and respect and admiration for their service and sacrifices, I thank you, I thank your families for what you have endured. Our troops have always done their jobs with skill, with determination and courage. And now it is time for the elected leaders of this Nation to respond with courage and skill and forethought to the challenges presented in Iraq. It is time for the people of Iraq, the diverse ethnic groups, the religious sects, their tribal leaders, to decide for themselves whether their future is to be one of ongoing murder, revenge, civil war, or reconciliation, peaceful cooperation and security. It is time to end Iraq's dependence on U.S. troops and to fully transfer the responsibility for security and governance to the Iraqis. It is time to start the process of bringing American troops home safe, soon. It is time to bring this war in Iraq to an end. Achieving peace in Iraq will require an Iraqi political solution. Peace requires a robust, active, tireless diplomacy from the United States, in partnership with Iraq's neighbors and the entire world community. This Congress has the opportunity and the obligation to advance a foreign policy vision rooted in the belief that Iraq's future requires shared global commitment. Tomorrow Congress will pass this bipartisan resolution. This resolution is important because it is the second step in putting the White House on notice. The first notice was delivered to President Bush by the American people last November when they elected a new majority to Congress. The American people elected this majority because they wanted this very debate to take place, because they reject the ``stay the course'' status quo in Iraq. Instead of hearing the American people, instead of acting on the recommendations of the Iraq Study Group, instead of learning from his past mistakes in Iraq, President Bush decided to escalate the war. Rather than take the counsel and the advice of experienced statesmen and trusted military leaders, President Bush acted alone and decided to escalate the war. Now our President calls himself ``The Decider.'' In America, the people, not the President, are the ultimate deciders in our democracy, and the people and this Congress have decided that the escalation of combat troops into Iraq is misguided. This Congress has the authority and the obligation to hold the President accountable, and this House is ready to exercise its constitutional powers. The American people are demanding action to end this war in Iraq. Let us listen to the American people. Tomorrow let us pass this important resolution and begin the process of working together as Americans to end the war in Iraq.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the life of SSG James Wosika. Sergeant Wosika was killed on January 9, 2007 while on foot patrol in Fallujah, when an improvised explosive device detonated near him. Due to his bravery and self-sacrifice, the nine other soldiers in proximity to Sergeant Wosika were not injured. Sergeant Wosika was serving his 10th month in Iraq with the Minnesota National Guard. He graduated from Highland Park High School in St. Paul in 2000. In school, he was a State champion wrestler and football player and he is remembered by his loved ones as a wonderful young man who would do anything for his friends and family. Sergeant Wosika was warm, brave, and dependable. He loved his country and honored his family, many whom served in the military before him, when he enlisted in the National Guard after high school graduation. To his fellow soldiers, his friends, family and all Americans, Sergeant Wosika was a hero. Madam Speaker, Minnesota has lost 49 soldiers since the beginning of this war. The Minnesota National Guard has also just been informed that their tour in Iraq has been extended by 4 months. It should be the top priority of Congress to keep our families safe-- in our communities, while serving our government, and while serving our country overseas. I will continue working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure this remains our focus throughout the 110th Congress. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring the life of this brave and honorable young man. Along with all Americans, I extend my prayers and deepest condolences to the friends and family of SSG James Wosika.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 6, the CLEAN Energy Act, which will end federal welfare for big oil companies and redirect billions of dollars towards investments in a cleaner, more secure energy future. Less than two weeks into the 110th Congress, Democrats have already delivered real progress for American families by passing the six measures outlined in the 100 Hours Agenda with time to spare. The CLEAN Energy Act (H.R. 6) is one of these priorities. As a co-sponsor of H.R. 6, I was proud to vote for the bill when it passed the House 264-163 on January 18, 2007 with the support of 36 Republican members. Over the past several years, U.S. taxpayer subsidies to oil companies have increased at a time of record-high energy prices for American consumers and record profits for oil companies. In 2006, the five largest oil companies operating in the U.S. received $97 billion in profits--five times their earnings in 2002. In this economic environment, the oil companies themselves have said most federal supports are unnecessary. The new Congress is ushering in new priorities. H.R. 6 repeals $13 billion in subsidies that should never have been granted during a time of war and spiraling federal budget deficits. Specifically, the measure requires large oil companies that were awarded royalty-free federal drilling leases in 1998 and 1999 to pay their fair share or lose eligibility for future federal leases. It would also close loopholes and end giveaways for big oil in the tax code and in the 2005 Energy bill. In keeping with the Democrats' pledge to take America in a new direction, H.R. 6 reinvests these billions into a Strategic Renewable Energy Reserve that will be used to fund clean, renewable energy technologies such as home-grown biofuels. H.R. 6 is an important first step in reducing America's dependence on oil. In this new era of global terror and global warming, energy security is national security. Only by pursuing a bold new direction on energy policy will America achieve our three, interdependent goals of national security, economic strength and environmental protection. With an abundance of renewable energy sources in our backyard and clean energy technology companies across the state, Minnesota stands to reap more than its share of benefits from a new national push for clean energy. One year ago, in his State of the Union Address, President Bush promised to end our oil addiction. Today, the new Democratic majority is helping the President make good on that promise and working to create a more secure and prosperous future for the next generation of Americans.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 5, the College Student Relief Act of 2007. I am proud to be a cosponsor of this important bill, and I congratulate Speaker Pelosi and Chairman Miller for bringing this legislation to the floor in the first 100 hours. This action is a clear indication that the new democratic majority understands that college affordability is a key part of ensuring our global competitiveness in the future. H.R. 5 will cut the interest rate on student loans in half over the next 5 years. This will save students an average of $4,400 over the life of their loan. And because the effort is focused on subsidized loans, the relief will assist those who need it most--low and middle income families. The cost of higher education is growing out of reach for too many Americans. Tuition has increased 60 percent at the University of Minnesota since 2000 and student debt loads are skyrocketing. A recent study showed that this debt load is causing graduating students to delay decisions such as buying a home, getting married, or having children. The College Student Relief Act is important, not only for students and families, but for our country. If we do not address this problem, by 2020 the United States is projected to face a shortage of up to 12 million college-educated workers. Our strength as a nation has always been the talent and skills of our citizens. To ensure this continues, the most important investment this Congress can and must make is in the education of our people. Access to quality education, including vocational and technical training schools, will prepare a highly skilled workforce to compete in the growing global economy. And today we can make an investment in our future without adding to the deficit. H.R. 5 meets the Democrats new pay-as-you-go requirements by increasing efficiencies in the current program and redirecting the savings back to students. This is in stark contrast to the Republican plan last year which cut $12 billion from the student aid program and used those savings to pay for tax cuts for the Nation's wealthiest. H.R. 5 is a promise kept and a first step in improving access to higher education. I look forward to working with my colleagues to continue this effort throughout the 110th Congress.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, it is my great pleasure to rise today to recognize Minnesota Public Radio's 40 years of broadcasting excellence. Minnesota Public Radio--or simply ``MPR'' as it is known to its many members and fans--began humbly on January 22nd, 1967, as a small radio station at Saint John's University in Collegeville, Minnesota. Thanks to the extraordinary vision and dogged determination of then-recent graduate Bill Kling (now MPR President) and future college president Father Colman Barry, that little college radio station has grown into a 37-station network that serves nearly 800,000 every day with its programming for radio, Internet and in-person audiences. Nationally, MPR reaches more than 14 million people through original programs produced by American Public Media. Throughout the years, MPR has earned distinction as one of the nation's finest public radio systems, offering world-class news and cultural programming. Its vision has always included strengthening radio nationally. In 1970, MPR helped provide the leadership to found National Public Radio, with President Kling serving on NPR's first board of directors. In 1982, MPR launched American Public Radio and its corporate parent (later renamed American Public Media), which distributes Minnesota Public Radio programming, to affiliate stations nationwide. One of MPR's most formative years was 1974, when a talented young writer who was working as a classical music host at the station began a regular Saturday night variety show. The host was Garrison Keillor, the show ``A Prairie Home Companion,'' and the rest was history. From its home in St. Paul's Fitzgerald Theater, and on the road, ``A Prairie Home Companion'' continues to entertain listeners every Saturday night on MPR and on public radio stations across America. MPR has come a long way since its college radio station beginnings. It continues to expand and enhance its programming to serve a diverse, dynamic and growing audience. In recent years, it has launched ``The Current,'' a critically acclaimed music service helping to showcase local talent in addition to its news and information and classical music services. In 2006, MPR completed a $46 million capital campaign that has enlarged its St. Paul headquarters, adding to the network's ability to serve the public through high-quality programming. MPR news and information earns its reputation as ``the most trusted news source'' for Minnesotans daily with its thorough and thoughtful coverage and timely reporting. This trust is exemplified through MPR's partnership with the State of Minnesota to maintain and improve the technical infrastructure to the state's Emergency Alert System (EAS). In addition, MPR serves as the backbone of the state's AMBER Alert child abduction warning system. I join my fellow Minnesotans who are so proud of MPR's commitment to its audience. We rely on MPR for news without spin, for high quality music and cultural programming. Most of all, we appreciate the people who make MPR great. They have built a strong foundation that will ensure that MPR will be serving listeners for decades to come. Madam Speaker, please join me in commending Minnesota Public Radio for its contributions to Minnesota and the nation throughout its first 40 years on the air.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 4, the Medicare Prescription Drug Price Negotiation Act. I am proud to be a cosponsor of H.R. 4, and I congratulate Speaker Pelosi and Majority Leader Hoyer for keeping their promise to the American people by taking this important step to place access to quality care for America's seniors and fiscal responsibility for taxpayers over increasing corporate profits. The Republican Medicare Modernization Act of 2003 included an unprecedented provision outright prohibiting the Federal Government from negotiating for lower prescription drug prices. The result was predictable. Drug company profits soared, while drug prices increased for seniors and persons with disabilities. A July 2006 New York Times article reported that pharmaceutical companies may have received a more than $2 billion windfall last year as a result of the transfer of low- income Medicaid recipients into the Medicare Part D program. Profiting from the sale of medications for our most vulnerable citizens is unacceptable. H.R. 4 will require the Department of Health and Human Services, HHS, to negotiate for lower drug prices on behalf of Medicare beneficiaries. This legislation does not say how the negotiating authority should be implemented, but instead allows the Secretary of Health and Human Services to determine the best way to negotiate for the lowest prices. I have held several town halls in my district about Medicare Part D, and each time my constituents have clearly stated that a ban on negotiating for lower prescription drug costs makes no sense. H.R. 4 is supported by community pharmacists, AARP, consumer rights' groups, and dozens of other organizations. Additionally, negotiating for lower prescription drug costs is not a new idea. States, corporations, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and large pharmacy chains all negotiate to receive price discounts on prescription drugs. In fact, HHS already has experience negotiating for lower prescription drug costs. In 2001, the agency successfully negotiated for lower prices for Cipro, the medication used in response to the anthrax attacks. It is time for HHS to use this expertise to benefit America's seniors and persons with disabilities. Clearly, there is still much more work to be done to correct the many inadequacies of Medicare Part D, but H.R. 4 is an important first step, and one which will result in lower drug costs and real savings for millions of seniors and people with disabilities. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 4.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 3, the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act. Through the election, the American people have shown their overwhelming support for the expansion of stem cell research. This legislation will expand lifesaving research and ensures that the Federal Government can implement ethical guidelines. I am proud to be a cosponsor of H.R. 3, and I applaud Speaker Pelosi, Majority Leader Hoyer, and Congresswoman DeGette for bringing forward this legislation which reflects the priorities and the needs of the American people. This bill will provide hope and opportunity for millions of Americans suffering from chronic and life threatening health conditions. This legislation will also ensure that the Federal Government can implement ethical guidelines over federally funded research, which will help to set high standards for all research. To be clear, H.R. 3 only allows Federal funding for embryonic stem cell research in cases where the cells were created for fertility treatment and will otherwise be discarded. The expansion of funding to stem cell research has the power to make a real difference in the lives of Americans. Stem cells offer remarkable potential contributions to medical science and improve the lives of millions of people who suffer from incurable diseases such as juvenile diabetes, Alzheimers's, Parkinson's, AIDS, and spinal cord injuries. It may also help us to understand abnormal cell growth that occurs in cancer, as well as change the way we develop drugs and test them for safety and potential efficacy. Recent research at Wake Forest University has shown that stem cells obtained from amniotic fluid have been able to differentiate into several cell types. This is an exciting development, but we cannot stop there. According to the study's director, Dr. Anthony Atala, it is essential to expand embryonic stem cell research, which is why he supports H.R. 3. Attached is Dr. Atala's letter in support of this important bill. In addition, I also submit an edited version of patient advocate, Peter Morton's valuable and powerful testimony to the need for this critical research. It is imperative that we move our health care policy in a new direction and support efforts to improve the quality of life. This research is supported by 72 percent of Americans and the majority of the Congress. H.R. 3 is supported by over 200 patient groups, universities, and scientific societies, and has been endorsed by more than 75 national and local newspapers and eighty Nobel Laureates. It is time to stop making policies based on ideology. The American people have spoken, and we can no longer delay the implementation of this vital legislation. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 3. Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, January 8, 2007. Hon. Diana DeGette, Hon. Michael Castle, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Representatives DeGette and Castle: I am writing in regard to my research that was published in Nature Biotechnology that found that stem cells obtained from amniotic fluid have been able to differentiate into several cell types. This research has the potential to open up an important field of inquiry that could be critically important to the development of treatments within the field of regenerative medicine. I understand that some may be interpreting my research as a substitute for the need to pursue other forms of regenerative medicine therapies, such as those involving embryonic stem cells. I disagree with that assertion. It is very possible that research involving embryonic stem cells will have critical implications for advancing research into amniotic fluid stem cells. It is essential that National Institute of Health-funded researchers are able to fully pursue embryonic stem cell research as a complement to research into other forms of stem cells. Your legislation, the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2007, H.R. 3, would update the current federal embryonic stem cell policy and allow federally funded researchers to conduct research on an expanded set of embryonic stem cells within an ethical framework. I believe this legislation would speed science in the regenerative medicine field, and I support its passage. Sincerely, Anthony Atala, Director.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 15, a resolution to honor the late President Gerald Ford who passed away on December 26, 2006. A man of great honor and integrity who led this country through one of the most difficult times in our history, he will be remembered as a fair, respected leader who was able to rise above partisanship to serve the citizens of this nation. President Ford, born in Omaha, Nebraska and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan, embodied the spirit of the Midwest. He was hard-working, modest, unassuming, and throughout his life held an unabashed pride in the University of Michigan where he starred on the football team. During World War II, President Ford earned the title of lieutenant commander and several honors while serving this country in the U.S. Navy. Mr. Ford began his political career when he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives as the Representative from Grand Rapids, Michigan. He held that seat from 1949 until 1973, and of the 25 years he served in the House, he was minority leader for 8. In 1973, when Vice President Spiro Agnew resigned, President Richard Nixon nominated then Congressman Ford to assume the vice presidency. President Ford's nomination was quickly approved by both the House and the Senate. However, his time as Vice President was brief and the attention of the country was focused on the looming Watergate scandal. On August 9, 1974, President Nixon stepped down and President Ford assumed the position of Commander-in-Chief. As our nation's president, Ford was faced with the critical task of regaining the trust of a country that had lost confidence in its top leadership. In order to begin to restore transparency and integrity to the office of the President, he traveled around the country listening and talking to the people of this country. President Ford felt the way in which he could help the country to begin to move beyond the wounds of Watergate was to grant a full and unconditional pardon to President Nixon. President Gerald Ford put the needs of our nation before his own vulnerability to political fallout, and that is the mark of a great leader. On behalf of the families of Minnesota's Fourth Congressional District, we extend our prayers and sincerest condolences to Mrs. Betty Ford, her children and all of the family and friends of President Ford. President Gerald Ford was a loving husband and father and a devoted public servant. He will be remembered and honored in the highest regard. Mr. Speaker, please join me in paying tribute to the life of President Gerald Ford.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 1, the Implementing the 9/11 Commission Recommendations Act. The safety of our families, our communities and our country is the top priority of Americans and today, finally, it is the top priority of Congress. It is long past time to make the changes and investments necessary to improve our homeland security. The Commission submitted 41 recommendations in 2004. Since then, the Republican-controlled Congress has failed to take action. In fact, last year, the bipartisan 9/11 Commissioners gave Congress failing grades on implementing the Commission's recommendations. H.R. 1 will both enhance our homeland security and reduce the threat overseas. Implementing these recommendations is supported by 9/11 families and 62 percent of Americans. This bill includes several critical elements to improving American security. It will establish a grant program to improve interoperability and finally allow our first responders to communicate and share information with one another. It also ensures that taxpayer dollars are used wisely and requires that homeland security grants are awarded based on risk. H.R 1. will provide for screening of 100 percent of containers bound for the U.S. and establishes an improved system of screening the cargo and baggage on aircraft. Democrats have also included provisions to act proactively in improving stability around the world. This legislation will improve prevention of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and nuclear technology. It will also take a critical step in reducing the appeal of extremism by encouraging educational opportunities in Arab and Muslim countries. H.R 1. will change Congress' failing grade to an ``A'' from the 9/11 Commission. This legislation is a comprehensive effort to enhance our security and to promote stability and understanding around the world. 9/11 Commissioner Lee Hamilton said that if H.R. 1 passes, America will be safer. I urge my colleagues to join me in making this so.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 2, the Fair Minimum Wage Act. I congratulate Speaker Pelosi, Majority Leader Hoyer and Chairman Miller for their recognition that this is a critical issue to our economy and for their success in making a real difference for families across America. The Fair Minimum Wage Act will raise the federal minimum wage from $5.15 to $7.25 over 2 years. This pay raise is the first in more than 9 years and will affect 13 million Americans. This change is long overdue. Currently minimum wage employees working 40 hours a week, 52 weeks a year, earn only $10,700 a year--$6,000 below the poverty line for a family of three. The inflation-adjusted value of the minimum wage is 31 percent lower today than it was in 1979, and in real dollars a $5.15 an hour minimum wage is worth just $4.75. If the wage had just kept pace with inflation since 1968 when it was a $1.60 an hour, minimum wage would have been $8.46 last year. While in the Majority, Republicans repeatedly blocked this increase with the argument that fairness for our lowest paid workers will hurt small business. However, this summer, 650 economists, including 5 Nobel laureates, announced their support for increasing the minimum wage and their view that these arguments against such an increase are simply not valid. Mr. Speaker, while denying this needed wage increase, Members of Congress have received pay raises of over $30,000. In addition, a recent study estimated that CEOs of top companies make in 2 hours what a minimum wage worker makes in a year. This inequity is not only an economic issue--it is a moral issue. American full-time, full-year workers should not be forced to raise their families in poverty. A part of the hope and promise of America is that if you work hard, you will succeed. I am proud that the Democrats today are helping to make that dream a reality for millions of Americans.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate a fellow Minnesotan, Congressman Martin Sabo of Minneapolis, on his distinguished career of public service. The neighboring cities of St. Paul and Minneapolis, MN, are known as the ``Twin Cities.'' As the representative from St. Paul, it has been my privilege to serve in Congress with my ``Twin brother'' Martin Sabo. After I was first elected to the U.S. House, he immediately became an expert mentor, always generous with time-tested insights. I will never forget the much-needed help he and his staff offered me as I made a difficult transition into Congress following the death of my predecessor, Congressman Bruce Vento. Six years on, we are partners working to solve the problems facing the families of St. Paul and Minneapolis. Through these collaborations, I have come to admire his wisdom--garnered through his personal experience, knowledge and integrity--and recognize what the Congress will lose following his much-deserved retirement. Martin's public life began 45 years ago when he was elected to the Minnesota State House of Representatives at the young age of 22. He went on to serve with distinction as both House Speaker and minority leader until his election to Congress in 1978. During his nine terms in the U.S. House of Representatives, Mr. Sabo's patient dedication to results and sound governance earned him the respect and trust of his colleagues. In his position on the powerful Appropriations Committee, Congressman Sabo directed federal funds to advance Minnesota's transportation system and improve the quality of life for U.S. soldiers and their families. As Chairman of the House Budget Committee in 1993, he played a central role in shaping and supporting President Clinton's landmark budget, which righted America's fIscal course and set the stage for years of unprecedented economic growth and prosperity. Outside of the House Chamber and Capitol Hill committee rooms, Mr. Sabo championed causes close to his heart. He promoted educational and cultural exchanges between the United States and Norway as a co-founder of the Friends of Norway Caucus in the House. As a fellow Norwegian, I can attest to the success of these exchanges in reinforcing the bonds between Minnesota and Norway. Mr. Sabo also combined his passion for Minnesota Twins baseball with big league Washington politics by serving as the long-time manager for the Democratic squad at the annual congressional baseball game where, in my opinion, he equaled Minnesota Twin greats Tom Kelly and Ron Gardenhire. Congressman Sabo's tactical mastery and commonsense approach in the dugout is an honest metaphor for his model of leadership in Congress. He worked on behalf of Minnesota in the tradition of Minnesotans--with quiet dignity, progressive ideals and intent of purpose. His instinct for good policy and a focus on the needs of real people over partisan politics has served his constituents and his country well. We are honored to inherit his legacy of a public life, honorably lived. While I am certain his wife Sylvia and his children and grandchildren look forward to spending more time with him, he will be dearly missed by his colleagues at the Capitol.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Chairman Henry Hyde on a remarkable career and to congratulate him on his retirement from the U.S. Congress. Chairman Hyde has honorably served the citizens of Illinois' 6th District since 1975. He has an impressive record of legislative accomplishments, has led two powerful committees and has been conferred 8 honorary degrees. I have had the honor to serve under Chairman Hyde on the House International Relations Committee for the past four years. During a time of growing international pressures, he has led this committee with skill and dignity. His commitment to the integrity of the House has taught me a great deal about the legislative process. His respect for the minority, interest in listening to all voices and his common-sense leadership has been critical in ensuring civil debate and productive solutions to extremely difficult problems. This leadership was evident during the successful passage of the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, PEPFAR, which has helped to bring needed urgency and attention to this global crisis. Mr. Hyde and his committee staff enabled me, as a first term member, to ensure that my amendment to set aside 10 percent of funding for orphans and vulnerable children was passed as part of this bill. The enactment of this legislation is a testament to Mr. Hyde's ability to bring people and ideas together to make a real difference for families around the world. In March of 2005, I had the pleasure of traveling with a congressional delegation led by Chairman Hyde to Mexico and Panama. We had the opportunity to meet with President Vincente Fox of Mexico and President Torrijos of Panama to discuss issues of mutual importance to our countries. It was a wonderful experience for me to see firsthand the respect that leaders around the world have for Mr. Hyde. Chairman Hyde has been a mentor and a friend and I will miss his leadership in the U.S. House. I thank him for his service to the 6th District of Illinois, the country and the world, and wish him the very best in his retirement.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life and courage of U.S. Army Sergeant Bryan T. McDonough. Sergeant McDonough was on patrol near Fallujah, Iraq when a bomb exploded near his vehicle, killing him and fellow Minnesotan Spec. Corey Rystad, and injuring two others, on December 2nd, 2006. A graduate of Roseville Area High School, SGT McDonough, 22, was enrolled in classes at St. Cloud Technical College before he was deployed to Iraq in March 2006. Sergeant McDonough's father, Tom, shared how after learning more about the families left behind by the many men and women who were injured or killed in Iraq and Afghanistan, McDonough decided to enlist in the Minnesota Army National Guard in September 2003. He was assigned to B Company 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 136th Infantry, based out of Crookston, Minnesota. As testimony to his leadership and dedication while in the Minnesota Army National Guard, he was posthumously promoted from the rank of Specialist to Sergeant. The McDonough family lovingly describes Bryan as an avid sportsman who enjoyed spending time bass fishing and hunting with his family at their cabin in Wisconsin. They cherish their memories of a considerate, generous young man who always tried to make sure that those he was with were happy. Perhaps the most poignant example of SGT McDonough's concern for others was his stated desire that his family and friends not worry about his safety during his deployment. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring the life of Sergeant McDonough for his brave and honorable service to the United States and his commitment to protecting our freedom. He possessed great courage, love of our country and a strong sense of duty toward his fellow Americans. Sergeant McDonough's parents, Tom and Renee, his brother and sisters, Shannon, Katie, and Kevin, and his many friends have my deepest sympathies for their profound loss.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the bravery and determination of Minnesota men who served in the U.S. Armed Forces in the Philippines during World War II. In particular, I want to note the contributions of the 194th Light Tank Battalion. On Easter Monday, 1941, 83 St. Paulites reported for induction into the U.S. Army, joining 163 men from Hennepin County. Seventy-seven of these men joined the 194th stationed at Fort Lewis, Washington. They were trained and deployed to the Philippine Islands. At 12:30 p.m. on December 8, 1941, the day after the attack on Pearl Harbor, the Philippine Islands were attacked by Japanese planes, placing U.S. Armed Forces on wartime status. The air strikes destroyed U.S. airplanes stationed at Clark Field, leaving U.S. forces and Philippine Scouts trapped and with few supplies. Despite these great hardships, the 194th Light Tank Battalion fought on bravely for the next four months, delaying the Japanese offensive. Ultimately, U.S. forces were forced to evacuate to the Bataan Peninsula after relentless attacks by Japanese forces. April 9, 1942 marked the beginning of the notorious Bataan Death March. Following heavy land attacks and after withstanding hundreds of raids from the air by Japanese forces, the Fall of Corregidor, forced American forces to surrender on May 6, 1942. Courageous American forces held out in spite of supply shortages, hunger, disease, and exhaustion. In the days that followed, many Minnesota military personnel from the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Corps, and the Nurse Corps were added to the rolls of prisoners of war. More than 75 percent of the men who were in service December 8, 1941 perished. Those who survived faced 3\1/2\ years of imprisonment until they were liberated in August and September, 1945. Many veterans of the Philippine Campaign, the Bataan Death March and Japanese Prisoners of War are known only to history, their individual identities lost in the aftermath of war, but I want to recognize Harold Hurvers of St. Paul, the last survivor of the draftees. Through his stories of this horrific ordeal, Americans can learn volumes about the great sacrifices made by our veterans. All Minnesotans, indeed, all Americans owe Mr. Hurvers and all veterans a debt of gratitude for their service. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Mr. Hurvers and the Minnesota Draftees of the 194th Light Tank Battalion.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the staff and patrons of the Minnesota Children's Museum on its 25th Anniversary. Since its inception on December 12, 1981, the Minnesota Children's Museum has welcomed more than 5 million children through its doors, giving young people hands-on experiences that offer a world of opportunities for children, youth and adults alike to explore and discover. As the number of visitors has grown from 65,000 to 400,000 per year, the Minnesota Children's Museum has moved to larger space three times, from downtown Minneapolis to its current location in downtown St. Paul. Thanks to the vision and commitment of founders Marialice Harwood, Kate Donaldson and Suzanne Payne, the Children's Museum continues to expand as an innovative venue for educating and nurturing young children, and offer unique public spaces for civic and community engagement. In the new En Mi Familia gallery, children learn the life stories and dreams of a young Mexican American author and artist, Carmen Lomas Garza. In the Habitot gallery, infants and toddlers ranging in age from six months to four years old can safely explore and crawl through the Habitot's pond, prairie, forest and bluff caves to enhance their cognitive, physical and social development. In the Rooftop ArtPark, where nature and art come together, young visitors experience the changing colors of leaves from treetops to changing weather conditions in Minnesota, In the World Works gallery, children explore and discover the fun of water by building boats and racing them through a water tube. Through these imaginative approaches to lessons about society, science and art, the Minnesota Children's Museum shows young people that learning can be fun. Community investments like the Children's Museum provide the foundation for lifelong learning. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring all the people who have made the Minnesota Children's Museum a success for children's education.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I recently attended an event on stem cell research in Minnesota and had the opportunity to hear patient advocate, Peter Morton, speak. Mr. Morton shared his moving story which highlights the importance of expanding embryonic stem cell research. Stem cell research provides millions of Americans and their families with hope for a life without the pain and suffering that accompanies currently incurable diseases such as juvenile diabetes, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and spinal cord injuries. Expanding this vital research must be a priority for Congress. I submit an edited version of Peter Morton's statement to the Record today as a valuable and powerful testimony to the need for this critical research.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to H.R. 6099. H.R. 6099 is an extreme intrusion into the relationship between a woman and her doctor. Rather than improving informed consent as the authors claim, this legislation would put into federal law inflammatory rhetoric that has not been proven to be fact. In 2004 a federal district court found that there is ``no consensus of medical opinion'' on the issue of fetal pain. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, it is highly improbable that a fetus could feel pain before the third trimester. In addition, studies conducted by JAMA on this issue showed that additional anesthesia, as is proposed in this bill, poses increased risk to a woman's health. Yet this bill would force health care providers to tell patients seeking an abortion that there is ``substantial evidence'' regarding fetal pain and force them to offer anesthesia for the fetus. It would also force the patient to sign a statement to prove she understood that information. H.R. 6099, if passed, would actually require a medical professional, under federal law, to give women inaccurate and potentially harmful information. This law makes no exceptions for individual patient circumstances or a doctor's judgment of medical necessity. And if a doctor does not provide this information, he or she will face civil sanctions. Our health care system--the best in the world by many measures-- depends on the quality of our health care providers and their ability to communicate with and care for their patients. It is outrageous for Congress to remove the discretion of doctors and instead, rely on politics to make medical decisions. This legislation is based on inaccurate information and political motivation and should be rejected. I urge my colleagues to join me in opposing H.R. 6099 today and in working to improve health care for all Americans in the 110th Congress.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise to support H.R. 6111 because it is critical that we address the unsustainable cut scheduled for reimbursement to physicians under Medicare. Due to the inequities of the Federal Government's formula, physicians in Minnesota receive some of the lowest payment in the Nation while providing, in my opinion, the best care. I will continue to work to ensure that Congress addresses this problem in the long term and that quality health care is available for Medicare beneficiaries in Minnesota and across the country. I also strongly support the tax extensions included in this legislation. The Research and Development Tax credit, the college tuition deduction, the State sales taxes exemption, and teacher classroom expenses deduction are widely supported and important to families and businesses in the 4th District. It is unfortunate that the Republican majority has once again failed to craft a durable solution to the Alternative Minimum Tax, which is squeezing middle class families. I look forward to working with incoming-Chairman Rangel to improve tax fairness for middle class families in the next Congress. However, I am deeply disappointed the Republican majority chose to insert an unrelated and irresponsible plan to open 8 million acres to oil and gas drilling in the eastern Gulf of Mexico into this otherwise constructive bill. Our country consumes 25 percent of the world's oil supply but controls only 3 percent of known reserves. That means an energy policy focused primarily on domestic fossil fuel production will never deliver energy security for America's working families and small businesses. Instead, the Congress must commit to a comprehensive energy strategy that makes bold investments in homegrown renewable fuels, mass transit, innovative vehicle technology and increased vehicle efficiency. In addition to these failings, the bill's offshore drilling provisions continue a pattern of giveaways for big oil at taxpayer expense. H.R. 6111 will rob tens of billions of dollars from the Federal Treasury in offshore drilling royalties. Nearly 40 percent of the royalty revenue generated from new leases will go to four States-- Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama--which will cost the Federal Government an estimated $20 billion over the next two decades. And the bill does nothing to stop the Federal Government from giving oil and gas companies $7 billion in tax breaks for drilling on Federal lands (known as ``royalty relief'')--resources that should be directed to providing tax relief for American families. I voted for the Markey-Hinchey amendment to H.R. 6111, which would have restored a modicum of fiscal sanity to the offshore drilling aspects of the bill. The amendment would push oil and gas companies to renegotiate their royalty free drilling leases by prohibiting companies holding such leases from gaining access to the eight million acres this bill opens to exploration. Unfortunately the amendment narrowly failed on the House floor. Despite a clear message in last month's mid-term election for a return to ethical governance, Republican leaders used the popularity of tax credit extensions and the need to restore cuts in Medicare reimbursement to force a reckless offshore drilling plan upon America. Therefore, it is with both regret and resolve that I support the omnibus package included in H.R. 6111.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in strong support for House Resolution 973--recognizing Financial Planning Week. Now more than ever, working families need the tools and resources to make sound financial decisions. American families are struggling with financial burdens--from growing student loan and credit card debts to increasing interest rates. Flattened wages and negative savings rates mean that too may families have to choose between sending their children to college and saving for retirement. The financial situation for most American families is grim. In fact in 2005--for the first time since the Great Depression--the personal savings rate of Americans was negative. Americans have depleted their savings to pay off debt and to simply make ends meet. This is a dangerous trend for Americans that must be reversed. That is why financial planning is more critical than ever. Americans need the tools and resources to know how to save for a variety of life opportunities and situations--including retirement, college, starting a new business, and buying a first home. Many families simply need assistance with budgeting for everyday needs. I commend the financial institutions that have included in their business models financial planning assistance for their customers. These institutions help to strengthen the economic situation for our communities and families. What is unfortunate is that this Republican Congress has done little to provide relief to struggling families. Instead, families are being squeezed--flat wages, increased costs of health care, skyrocketing prices at the gas pump, and double digit college tuition increases. In nearly every aspect of life, American families are faced with financial burdens and tough budget decisions. Congress could benefit from better financial planning--America deserves a Government that knows how to model good budget decisions. Unfortunately, this Republican Congress has led our Government into a negative savings rate--spending and borrowing more than our Nation can afford--while passing budgets that benefit the Nation's wealthiest while shortchanging hardworking, middle class families. Today, I rise to support this important resolution. I will continue to work to support legislation that will encourage working families to save for their futures and to ensure that working families have the resources to make sound budget decisions.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to S. 403. S. 403 makes it a Federal crime for anyone other than a young woman's parent to take her across State lines for an abortion unless the parental notification and involvement requirements of her home State have been met. In States without a current parental notification law, the Federal law applies. This legislation also requires a physician to notify, in person, the parents from another State about a medical procedure the doctor will be performing. I will continue to work to do more to reduce abortion, but this is the wrong approach. Criminalizing health care providers and clergy while further victimizing young women who are already facing major challenges will not reduce abortions, will not reduce teen pregnancy, and will certainly not help to protect young women in this country. It is unfortunate that this legislation does not contain a judicial bypass process for young women who cannot, through no fault of their own, discuss this issue with their parents, as in cases of abuse or incest. This bill even criminalizes a victim's support network, the grandparents, aunts and uncles, adult siblings, religious counselors, and other trusted adults whom a young woman might turn to for help in this time of crisis. It also requires doctors to know the notification laws in all 50 States or face criminal penalties. S. 403 undermines Minnesota's authority, forcing all States to comply with and enforce other States' laws. This legislation is opposed by a wide variety of individuals and organizations including physicians, public health experts, women's organizations, religious groups, and think tanks. Simply put, S. 403 imposes significant barriers to young women's emotional and physical health. The reality is that marginalizing and isolating these vulnerable young women will not protect them in their time of need, but rather force them to seek risky and unsafe ways to terminate their pregnancy. Instead, we must do more to support families and to work to reduce unwanted pregnancies through comprehensive education, adoption assistance, and family planning. Mr. Speaker, S. 403 is a dangerous bill, harmful to those young women most in need of help. I urge my colleagues to join me in opposing this legislation, which poses a serious threat to young women's access to safe reproductive health choices.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor ``Heat's On,'' a partnership between Union Pipefitters and the Minnesota Mechanical Contractors Association that has been helping those in need for 21 years. Winters are cold in Minnesota, and home heating is a basic necessity. Over the past two decades, St. Paul Pipefitters Local 455, Minneapolis Pipefitters Local 539 and local contractors come together each fall to volunteer their skills and time to inspect and fix furnaces, flues and smoke alarms for low-income senior citizens and disabled homeowners. Thankfully, most of these visits turn up no serious problems. However, when inspections do not go smoothly, these professionals are able to provide the help needed. Volunteers sometimes uncover major problems. On average, 10 homes out of the 400 homes inspected each year have furnaces that must be replaced, and many of these homeowners cannot afford the expense. This year, pipefitters and contractors have come together yet again to establish a fund to help these homeowners with the cost of furnace replacement. Thanks to the outstanding Heat's On partnership, thousands of senior citizens and disabled Minnesotans have been able to remain safe in their homes. Just as important, they have a sense of relief knowing that their homes will be warm and comfortable as cold weather approaches. I am proud to live in a community that cares--where union workers come together with small businesses for the good of our neighbors. This is a partnership that makes sense, which is why it has served as a model for other communities. Mr. Speaker, please join me in commending all of the volunteers from St. Paul Pipefitters Local 455, Minneapolis Pipefitters Local 539 and the Minnesota Mechanical Contractors Association for 21 years of Heat's On.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 4830, the Border Tunnel Prevention Act. We need to secure our borders and ensure the safety of our country. The Border Tunnel Prevention Act is one positive step toward preventing criminals from entering our country unnoticed and illegally. This law creates new penalties for anyone using a tunnel to smuggle people, drugs or weapons into the United States. This effort is another tool for law enforcement and border security to begin to address illegal immigration and to aid in their efforts to keep our communities safe. I have heard numerous times from Minnesota law enforcement agents about illegal drugs that pass through the Twin Cities on a regular basis, much of it originating south of the border and intended for the U.S. or Canada. While our law enforcement has made progress in shutting down meth production in the U.S., 80 percent of this dangerous drug comes from ``superlabs'' in Mexico. No legislation can entirely stop the flow of illegal drugs into our country, but this bill will add increased provisions to punish those who smuggle drugs into the U.S. Madam Speaker, I am pleased to support H.R. 4830 today as a first step in what I hope will be a comprehensive effort to address immigration reform and the challenges law enforcement faces in keeping our communities and our country safe.

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota

Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise to oppose the previous question. This do-nothing Republican Congress plans to adjourn without taking action on the issues facing American families. It is outrageous that instead of addressing our national security and economic security, Republicans are focused on scoring cheap political points that benefit special interests, further divide this country, and put us at greater risk. Families--not big oil companies--need relief from the economic squeeze most are facing. This year we see the cost of health care, energy and education going up while wages stagnate. Our economic growth depends on an investment in our future and on recognizing that hard working, middle class Americans are the engine of our economy. It is also outrageous that 5 years after the tragedy of September 11, Republican leadership has failed to make the necessary investment in Homeland Security, preferring instead to continue to provide unaffordable tax cuts to corporations. Democrats have proposed 5 actions that this Congress can take that will make a real difference in the lives of families. This Congress should not adjourn without increasing the minimum wage. Republicans voted to increase our pay by $31,600 this year but have refused a pay raise for the 15 million hardworking Americans making the minimum wage. We must allow the Federal Government to negotiate for best price for pharmaceutical drugs on behalf of American seniors, persons with disabilities and taxpayers. This will significantly lower the cost of drugs, providing for resources that we use to fill the doughnut hole and finally provide the comprehensive coverage our seniors have been fighting for. In order to ensure our global competitiveness, Congress should reverse the raid on student aid by replacing the $12 billion cut earlier this year to pay for tax cuts for the wealthiest. This summer gas was over $3 dollars a gallon. And while we are feeling some relief now, clearly it is temporary. At the same time, oil and gas companies are enjoying record profits at the expense of the American taxpayer. It is time that this Congress insist on an energy plan that benefits families and decreases our dependence on foreign oil. Lets roll back tax breaks for Big Oil and invest those dollars in alternative fuels. And to keep America safe, Republicans should stop blocking the full implementation of the 9/11 Commission recommendations and commit the resources necessary to secure our borders, ports, airports and chemical facilities. Instead of simply scaring Americans with talk of a terrorist attack, Democrats want to take real steps to keep American families safe. Mr. Speaker, America needs a new direction. By voting against the previous question I am voting for initiatives that will promote economic growth and provide real security. I urge my colleagues to reject the politics of cynicism and fear and to work together to move this country forward.