Betty McCollum

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding time to me. I also would like to state my support for our strong relationship with the Philippines. However, Mr. Speaker, my statement here today is to signal to the leadership that we need to provide additional assistance to land mine victims. I am here today as a cosponsor of the International Disability and Victims Land Mine Act of 2001. I thank the distinguished gentleman from California for his efforts on behalf of this legislation. Land mine victims can no longer wait for assistance to regain their lives. Every year, thousands of people are killed or maimed as a result of land mine explosions. Those who survive these disastrous experiences will forever suffer devastating injuries: a farmer who was plowing his field loses his legs and will no longer be able to provide food for his community; a mother who has lost her arms will no longer be able to carry water to her children and her family, and the carefree days of playing with friends are stolen from the child who is a victim of a land mine explosion. People in Afghanistan, Kosovo, Thailand, Angola, and numerous other countries throughout the world have had their lives destroyed as a result of land mines. Afghanistan is one of the most heavily land-mined countries in the world, and the displaced Afghan people are traveling through unfamiliar lands. The number of land mine injuries are expected to rise, just as our servicemen are experiencing tragedies from land mines. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 3169 illustrates to the people of Afghanistan that we will not abandon them following the war. During this holiday season, we must not pass up an opportunity to bestow a priceless gift to land mine victims throughout the world. This bill would show compassion to the innocent people who will suffer long after the war has passed. We must bring this bill to the floor for a vote. We must give a voice to the victims of land mines.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of House Concurrent Resolution 280. This resolution expresses solidarity with Israel in its fight against terrorism following the recent attacks in Haifa and Jerusalem during the weekend of December 1-2, 2001. This resolution also urges the President to ensure that Palestinian leader Yasir Arafat carries out a sustained campaign against terrorism. In the latest attacks in this troubled region, Palestinian terrorists took the lives of 26 innocent Israeli citizens and wounded at least 175 others. Those who are responsible for these attacks have committed brutal acts of murder, and no cause can justify their actions. I wish to express my deepest condolences to all of those who have been affected by these tragic events. As we mourn for the thousands of Americans who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks of September 11th, we also mourn for the innumerable men, women, and children of Israel who have suffered at the hands of terrorists for decades. Now more than ever, the United States and Israel are bound together in the common fight for freedom, security, and tolerance for all. During the past 15 months of violence in the Middle East, the Palestinian leadership has turned a blind eye to terrorist activity within the Palestinian territories. Terrorist groups have actively recruited new members, planned attacks and carried out violent acts against innocent citizens with little or no fear of punishment by the Palestinian Authority. Despite numerous commitments made by Mr. Arafat to take action against these terrorists, the violence has continued. The time has come to call on Chairman Arafat and the Palestinian leadership to demonstrate a true commitment to the eradication of terrorism in all its forms. We must insist that Mr. Arafat validate his words with real actions and a demonstrable effort to arrest, prosecute and punish perpetrators of terrorist attacks. We must make clear that we will not tolerate terrorism! Mr. Speaker, it is clear that the current challenges to the Middle East peace process are monumental. The prospect for peace is not only contingent on the ability of the Palestinian Authority to combat terrorism, but it is also dependent on the level of commitment from the Israeli leadership. Both sides of this conflict must accept certain compromises, or peace efforts will be in vain. However, we must not abandon our vision of peace, security, and opportunity for all Israelis and Palestinians.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to discuss my views on H.R. 3210, the Terrorism Risk Protection Act. With the unexpected attacks on New York City and Washington, DC on September 11th, the United States has fought many battles in the past two months. The loss of lives, jobs, homes and businesses have had unforeseen effects on our country, and the world. Under such circumstances, it is our duty as Americans to rise in support of our country. As a Member of Congress, it is my job to look out for the best interest of those affected by such tragedies. H.R. 3210, in its original state, did provide for the interests of Americans. While I was supportive of the bipartisan bill as approved by the Financial Services Committee, I am very disappointed with the significant changes made by the majority leadership in the Rules Committee. Unnecessary provisions were added in an effort to open this legislation up for partisan tort reform. The revised legislation limits the rights of a victim to seek legal action due to terrorist attacks. In addition, the restrictions include a complete ban on punitive damages, as well as non-economic damages. Such restrictions on damages will severely limit the possibility of victims to receive compensation for negligence. The bill will force every legal action involving a terrorist-related claim into federal court even though states are the traditional arena for deciding such cases. This bill is written so broadly that its restrictions would apply to any future legal action involving terrorism, even if an insurance company were not a party to the action. I supported a compromise in which the insurance industry was to assume appropriate financial responsibility. There is simply no need for such broad and controversial tort reform provisions to be attached to this measure. The minority substitute, which I support, strikes the tort provisions, requires an industry deductible, and ensures affordable and available coverage. The underlying goal today is not only about helping the economy, and the insurance and reinsurance companies. Victim's rights should not be limited. H.R. 3210, without the Democratic substitute amendment, limits the rights of victims, and leaves who is left accountable in question. It's true; the insurance industry faces a rough road ahead. It's true that this industry is essential to America's economy. While I do agree with the underlying concept of protecting the insurance industry, I could not vote for final passage of this legislation in its current form.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, in regard to H.R. 2538, the Native American Small Business Development Act, I would like to include in the Record the following letter I received from the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians. Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians, Red Lake, MN, December 5, 2001. Re Inclusion of Native American Business Development Centers as Eligible to Apply for the Native American Small Business Development Act Funding (Advocacy) Hon. Betty McCollum, Western Avenue North, Suite 17, Saint Paul, MN. Dear Congresswoman McCollum: We appreciate your sponsoring the Native American Small Business Development Act (H.R. 2538) and the inclusion of Executive Order 13175-- Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments in the bill. The Upper and Lower Red Lakes form over one-third of the reservation's surface area. The Red Lake Reservation is home to members of the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians. The Red Lake Chippewa have lived on the shores of Red Lake since the early 1700s. The band reserved the Red Lake Indian Reservation when they ceded some 2.9 million Acres of surrounding lands to the United States in trust in 1889. An 11-member Tribal Council now governs the reservation. As you know, Native American Business Development Centers, funded by the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) have delivered specialized business development services to the American Indian community since 1972. You may not know that in 2001, the forecast is that these centers, which will receive $1,583,500 in funding, will generate $118,305,884 in contracts and financing. This, by any economic measurement is an excellent return on the investment for the federal government. There are eight Native American Business Development Centers nationwide staffed by Professional American Indian tribal members who understand cultural and economic barriers facing Indian communities (see attached listing). Native American Business Development Center's personnel focus solely on American Indian economic development and have the expertise to serve the unique needs of Indian tribal members. Native American Business Development Centers deliver services required for successful work in Indian Country and include specialization in: Government to government relationship between the federal Government and respective tribal governments (special programs and unique resources based on the relationship); Histories of Indian tribes--as separate and independent political sovereign communities within the United States; Tribal loan and grant programs for economic development; Reservation trust land status and collateral financing issues associated with it; The lack of infrastructure due to isolation and remoteness. Roads, sewers, electricity, telephone lines/Internet access (61% of reservation homes lack telephones/Internet access), plumbing; tribal business codes, tribal court systems and laws pertaining to economic development; Utilization of Indian specific agency programs, such as the Department of Defense--Five Percent Indian Incentive for the use of Indian Subcontractors Program; Indian Preferences under Subsection 7(b) of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (1975), the Johnson-O'Malley Act of 1934, the Snyder Act of 1921, and the Buy Indian Act of 1910; Cultural barriers (Native American Business Development Centers have successfully worked with tribal councils for over 30 years). The MBDA and Small Business Administration when serving multiple populations created the Native American Business Development Centers to address unique cultural and economic problems and opportunities that were not addressed. As you know, the 19th Century Indian preference statutes continue today with ``Indian Preference'' legislation--it is a continued recognition and respect of the federal government's commitment to honor treaties with Indian tribes and uphold the intent of the United States Constitution. We respectfully request that you consider an amendment to your well-intended bill that would include Native American Business Development Centers as eligible (and ideally suited) to apply for the Native American Small Business Development Act funding. Sincerely, Bobby Whitefeather, Chairman.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, today the House of Representatives passed an important bill, the American Indian Small Business Development Act, and I was pleased to support it. This bill creates a three-year pilot program that would provide grants to Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) for the purpose of assisting Native Americans start or expand a small business. These pilot projects will complement programs already in place that are designed to provide culturally-tailored business development assistance by allowing Indian tribe members, Native Alaskans and Native Hawaiians to access additional one-on-one counseling and other technical assistance that is provided by the SBDCs. I am proud of the successful work that the SBDCs perform in Minnesota. They provided support and long-term counseling services last year to over 3,500 existing and prospective businesses, including to 77 Native Americans. With the bill we passed today, they will be able to expand and respond even more to the overwhelming need for assistance in our Native American communities. Mr. Speaker, some Tribal leaders in Minnesota are concerned that the bill today doesn't include the Native American Business Development Centers. These centers were created to address unique Native American cultural and economic problems and opportunities that were not being addressed by the Small Business Administration. I share their concern. However, I feel that we need to create as many opportunities as possible for Native American entrepreneurs and look forward to working with the SBDCs and Minnesota tribes to make sure these resources are put to good use. The average unemployment rate on Indian lands is 45 percent. Congress has a responsibility to make sure we support all programs that are designed to foster economic development and to assist Native Americans to create new small business opportunities. I'm pleased we addressed this issue today and look forward to working with my colleagues to make sure all programs benefiting Native Americans are fully supported by this Congress.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition to the rule. Fast Track trade authority affects every single American, and they probably do not even know it. We import millions of tons of food into this country. That is a lot of food. In 1993, 8 percent of imported fruits and vegetables were inspected. Since NAFTA, the number is now .7 percent. That is a 91 percent decrease in the inspections of fruits and vegetables that our children consume every day. Minnesota families believe that meats, fruits and vegetables that they buy comply with our food standards. In these trade agreements there are no food standards; there are none. We buy strawberries and grapes tainted with pesticides that are illegal to use in this country. Congress passes food safety standards and the President's negotiators trade those standards away because, in their eyes, food safety is a barrier to free trade. Mr. Speaker, this rule makes in order an up or down vote on Fast Track legislation that would forfeit all of the authority of Congress to directly participate in international trade agreements. Congress needs careful, deliberate negotiations on future agreements, not a fast track.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, tomorrow the House will vote on a bill offered by the chairman of the Committee on Ways and Means which concedes to the executive branch this body's constitutional authority to negotiate trade agreements. My role in Congress is to represent the voices and values of the working men and women of Minnesota's fourth district, not to abdicate my vote to the President. I want an opportunity to have input on agreements that promote global trade. Trade agreements are essential to our economic well-being, to our role as a global leader in promoting workers' rights, human rights and healthy environment. This Fast Track trade authority requires no congressional approval prior to the signing of a trade agreement, only consultations. This body may only vote to certify that the administration has failed to consult with Congress. I was not elected to Congress to be a consultant. We are the House of Representatives, not the House of Consultants. I urge my colleagues to oppose H.R. 3005.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I join my colleagues today in supporting House Concurrent Resolution 270. This simple, yet important, statement supports the goals and ideals of Native American Heritage Month to highlight the important contributions Native Americans have made to our history and culture. This resolution also encourages the American people to honor and recognize the accomplishments and heritage of Native Americans, including their contributions in the areas of agriculture, medicine, art and language. Long before the first Europeans arrived in the upper Midwest, the Dakota and Ojibwe nations called Minnesota home. You can still visit many of the areas where Native Americans created their communities and see examples of this rich history. Pipestone National Monument, a sacred quarry in Southwest Minnesota, is still being used to mine the soft red pipestone that was at one time used to create the ceremonial pipes that were used in dealings between tribes and to honor the spiritual world. The story of this stone and the pipes made from it spans four centuries of Plains Indian life and is inseparable from the traditions that structured their daily routine. Today, carvings are appreciated as much as art as well as for ceremonial use. The heritage and customs of my state, Minnesota, have been greatly influenced by Native Americans. The name of Minnesota itself comes from a Dakota word meaning ``waters that reflect the sky'' and many more of Minnesota's cities and counties hold names that represent the Native American heritage that surrounds them. I commend the authors of this resolution for helping raise awareness of Native American culture and heritage. As a member of the Native American Caucus, I look forward to working with them to make sure the noble goal of encouraging the American people to honor and recognize Native American accomplishments happens not only during Native American Heritage Month but also throughout the year.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of H.R. 3338, the Defense Appropriations bill for fiscal year 2002. In this time of national awareness of the very real threat of terrorism, I believe it is our responsibility as lawmakers to ensure the readiness and quality of life of our military by providing these forces with the necessary resources, equipment and training to defend our nation's interests and to keep the American people secure. With our country at war, it is more important than ever to continue to support our armed forces and provide them with the necessary resources needed to wage this war and protect our nation and our world from terrorism. Despite my support for this bill, I have strong reservations about the way this bill has placed an added emphasis on programs and provisions that do not address the most pressing needs of our nation. For example, this measure provides $7.9 billion for an untested and unproven missile defense program, while providing only $613 million to improve federal, state, and local bioterrorism preparedness. By moving forward with a costly national missile defense system, we are investing billions of scarce federal dollars in an unproven and dangerous scheme while placing at risk the well-being of our nation in a time of national crisis. In addition, this Defense Appropriations bill will cut critically needed funding from the Department of Labor's employment and training administration to provide additional funding relief to assist New York's efforts to recover from the September 11th terrorist attack. While there should be no doubting my commitment to the people of New York and their efforts to recover and rebuild after the terrorist attacks, I am concerned that the funding they need may come at the expense of other programs and initiatives deserved of funding. Specifically, funding in this bill in the employment and training administration was to be used for the New National Emergency Grant program, which would allocate emergency funding to the states to provide health insurance, income support, and job search assistance and training for displaced workers following the September 11th attack. This includes a $24 million grant for the State of Minnesota to provide assistance to displaced airline employees who have lost their jobs when the government suspended domestic and international air travel. These layoffs have had a devastating impact on these individuals and their families and to Minnesota's economy as a whole. With the huge influx of current layoffs, the state cannot meet the needs of these laid off workers without this emergency grant. While this is not a perfect bill, with our nation at war, it is a necessary bill. It is imperative that our nation continues to maintain a strong national defense, especially during this time of domestic and international crisis. However, in the weeks and months ahead we must also pledge our commitment to work as a unified Congress to provide increases in additional security, bioterrorism preparedness, and employee assistance measures. Furthermore, we must work to help New York recover and rebuild from the devastating attack of September 11th, as well as stimulating our economy and strengthening our nation's infrastructure and safety measures.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Con. Res. 77, a resolution expressing the sense of Congress to reunite United States citizens with their family members in North Korea. North and South Korea have made significant progress in their relationship, as has the United States made very important steps in its relationship with both North and South Korea in the past two decades. H. Con. Res. 77 is the next step. This very important resolution recognizes the need to reunite Americans of Korean ancestry with their family members in North Korea. Over 500,000 Americans of Korean ancestry were separated from family members with the division of North and South Korea. This simple measure will bring about a long awaited family reunion, over 50 years later. I believe it is very important for the United States to be involved in reunification and peace efforts in Korea, and this resolution brings us one step closer. This is a significant effort in mending relations with North and South Korea, and their relationship with the United States.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I unavoidably missed votes on November 6, 2001 because I was in my congressional district on official business. I would like the record to reflect that had I been present, I would have voted yea on roll call votes 426, 427, and 428.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of the Democratic substitute to strengthen the security measures at our nation's airports and in our nation's skies. It is critical that we pass aviation security legislation that protects our national security, ensures passenger safety, and restores America's confidence in our aviation system. Our nation has taken significant steps to appropriately respond to the events of September 11th, and I am proud of how Congress has worked together in our war against terrorism. Now, however, we must take the necessary step of making the federal government directly responsible for protecting airline passengers and ensuring that air travel anywhere in the United States complies with the most stringent safety standards and regulations. Aviation security is a matter of national security and the United States doesn't ``contract out'' the security forces that defend and protect our nation. We would never consider contracting out the duties of the U.S. Customs Service, Border Patrol or local police departments, and it makes no sense to do so with airport screeners, who act as the front line in aviation security. Safety at our nation's airports is of critical importance. I support the appropriate federalized role of placing federal security personnel and equipment in every American airport. A professionally trained security force with a national screening and oversight standard is absolutely necessary to give confidence to air travelers and airline industry employees. Securing our nation's airspace allows travelers to not only take advantage of the benefits and ease of air service, but is at the core of our 21st Century economy. A strong aviation system also has a major secondary commercial impact--through travel agencies, taxi and chauffeur services, and the hospitality sector, to name a few. Restoring faith in our nation's aviation system is essential to commercial health and vitality. In the past, Congress has passed aviation security measures but failed to fully implement them. It is clear we must go farther now. Anything approaching the status quo is absolutely not acceptable. In the end, we must be able to look back on this debate and know that despite our differences in the process, we have achieved one common goal: a stronger, safer national aviation system.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Chairman, I rise today in support of the Defense Authorization Act (H.R. 2586), and in support of our armed forces and the service men and women who defend our great country. In this time of national awareness of the very real threat of terrorism, I believe it is our responsibility as lawmakers to ensure the readiness and quality of life of our military by providing these forces with the necessary resources, equipment and training to defend our nation's interests and to keep the American people secure. I am encouraged that the Armed Services Committee, the Administration and our joint Congressional leaders have crafted legislation that firmly addresses many of our military's most pressing needs. I am firmly committed to maintaining a strong national defense, especially during this time of domestic and international crisis. I am also very pleased we have not forgotten our equally important responsibility of improving the quality of life of our military personnel. The current defense budget includes significant commitments to military salaries, health care, housing allowances and housing construction opportunities. We need to assure our military that as we continue to support their readiness capabilities, we remember the personal well being of the men and women in uniform as well as their families. While I am supporting passage of this authorization, I am particularly concerned that we are placing too high an emphasis on an untested and unproven method of defense. Specifically, I am opposed to provisions in this bill that authorize an increase in funding for national missile defense. By moving forward with a costly national missile defense system, we are investing billions of scarce federal dollars in an unproven and dangerous scheme. Deployment and testing of the proposed missile defense system will jeopardize our obligations under the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty that has served our nation and the world well for nearly three decades. In addition, evident by the recent attacks on our country, we must consider the possibility that an anti-missile system completely fails to address one of our most serious threats of attack the introduction of chemical, biological or nuclear weapons by non-state actors through as pedestrian means. The proposed missile defense system not only does not make our nation more secure, it diverts resources away from the very real human investments needed to keep our military, intelligence agencies and domestic security agencies strong. Before we add billions of additional dollars to untested and unproven programs that destabilize relationships with allies and undermine our treaty obligations, let's use this appropriation to focus on strengthening our home security and providing our citizens with the appropriate resources necessary to ensure the events of September 11th never happen again on American soil.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, tonight, I vote to support the use of America's military force against the terrorist organizations that plotted to attack our peaceful Nation. This will likely be the most important vote I take as a Member of Congress. With this vote, I put my trust in our President, the men and women of our Armed Forces, and my fellow Americans. We will overcome this tremendous challenge with honor, dignity, and justice.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, much is being made these days--and justifiably so--of the courage of America's ``Greatest Generation'' of men and women who fought and won World War II. Like his fellow veterans of the European Theater, former U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Alden T. Johnson vividly remembers witnessing countless acts of courage and devotion amidst falling bombs, raging fires and an often terrified civilian populace. However, until very recently, Mr. Johnson--who grew up in the northwestern Minnesota communities of Karlstad, Shelly and Hamlma and who now resides in Red Wing--never realized that his own act of courage years before that war had been recorded on the front page of the Karlstad Advocate on May 17, 1929. Alden's sister, Millie Peterson's--a long time aid to Minnesota Attorneys General Warren Spannaus and Hubert Humphrey III--discovered the article at the Minnesota Historical Society. I commend the piece to my colleagues not only because it demonstrates the courage that was multiplied by factor of millions in winning World War II--but also because this rescue so long ago evokes the brand of caring and determination that will being America through the terrible attack of this week all the stronger. I know my colleagues in the Congress of the United States will join me in extending the long-overdue recognition due to Alden T. Johnson. Car Rolls into Ditch on Slippery Road at Halma, Burns A bad accident took place on the road two miles south of Halma opposite the Ulin place Friday evening when a brand new Nash car driven by Conrad Jensen of Warren turned-over in the ditch and burned. For the first-time in twenty years all of the Johnson boys, Theodore, Chris, Conrad, Ben, Aksel and Eldor were together, all having been at Halma Friday to attend the funeral of their father. They were visiting at the Chris Johnson home at Karlstad in the afternoon and in the evening they decided to drive to Halma and spend an evening on the old homestead where they had lived and grown to manhood. Theo., who owned a big new Nash rode to Halma earlier in the afternoon with his brother Aksel to help him do up the chores and suggested that one of his brothers drive his car over in the evening. When they left here in the evening Conrad Jensen drove the Nash and with him in the car were Mr. and Mrs. Eldor Johnson, Mrs. Theo. Johnson, Mrs. Conrad Jensen and Chris Johnson's oldest son. Alden. Mr. and Mrs. Ben Johnson accompanied by Mr. and Mrs. Chris Johnson followed them in the former's Chrysler. The grade was slippery after the recent rains near the Ulin place and the Nash car skidded badly altho they were driving slowly and after cutting across the road from one side to the other turned over in the ditch. A great deal of damage would not have been done if the gasoline had not for some reason caught fire. In less than two minutes after the accident the whole car was a mass of flames. Chris and Ben arrived just as the accident happened and opened the front door to the car letting out Conrad and his wife. The back door they could not open and the flames were shooting around all over when Alden kicked the glass out of the door and thru this the rest of the passengers were pulled out. The car burned up entirely leaving only the iron frame and the engine. None of the passengers of the car were hurt but the loss of the car is a very hard blow to Mr. Johnson as he had no insurance on it and had only run about a thousand miles.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, yesterday's terrorist attack was a crime against the American people and it was a crime against humanity. Calling this attack an act of war does not begin to accurately describe this barbaric attack. Today, we stand with our President, the men and women of law enforcement, and with our Armed Forces as we dedicate our Nation to achieving swift and appropriate justice for the terrorists responsible for this act. Today, we have been inspired by the courage of Americans risking their lives to rescue and heal their neighbors. Today, we are comforted by America's prayers for the injured and grieving. And, today, from the ashes of this horrific act, we as Americans reaffirm our highest beliefs in freedom, democracy and justice. On behalf of the people of Minnesota's Fourth District, our hearts and prayers are with the victims of this terrible crime.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Chairman, today I will vote against the Boehlert- Markey amendment. I support increasing fuel efficiency standards for SUVs, light trucks and minivans as a way of improving our air quality and reducing our reliance on foreign oil. I also support using alternative fuels and much needed flexible fuel vehicles that can burn the home grown ethanol-based gasoline E85. This amendment asks me to make a false choice between higher fuel efficiency standards and an increasingly successful clean air program in the Twin Cities. It will stop the production of clean air vehicles at Ford Motor Company's St. Paul plant that use E85 fuel. This amendment could have done both-- raise fuel efficiency standards and protect this clean air program. I will unfortunately oppose it today. The St. Paul-Minneapolis metropolitan area has shown the nation that alternative fuels can help clean our environment and sustain our economy. E85, a fuel that is 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline, helps our cars and trucks burn cleaner, reducing air pollution while at the same time helping Minnesota's farmers and our rural economy. The Twin Cities leads the nation in the number of gas stations that offer E85 with over 60 fueling stations throughout the metro area. It will not matter how many stations we have if we are not manufacturing the cars and trucks that use this innovative fuel. And that is the problem I have with this amendment. Currently, our St. Paul Ford plant receives a credit for producing Flexible Fuel Vehicles that can use a combination of gasoline or another hybrid fuel like E85. Manufacturers like Ford use this credit as an incentive to produce these types of cars and trucks. The Boehlert-Markey amendment would shift the credit from the number of vehicles produced to the actual consumption of the alternative fuel, whether it's E85 or something else. I agree with the amendment's authors about CAFE standards. However, it Is equally important for us to provide incentives for people to consume home grown fuels. Because so little E85 and other alternative fuels like it are consumed nationwide, would we be reintroducing the age-old chicken and the egg conundrum? Do we need the cars to encourage the use of the fuel, or do we need the fuel before the cars? Would this be a disincentive to car and truck manufacturers to make automobiles that run on multiple fuels? Would we be providing a disincentive to car and truck manufacturers to make consumption of alternative fuels, and do not provide incentives for manufacturers to make these cars and trucks, we will be left without both. What's more the Ford Motor Company plant in St. Paul has been a leader in manufacturing trucks that run on E85 and other innovative fuels. Ford, the Minnesota Corn Growers, American Lung Association of Minnesota, the U.S. Department of Energy, and Minnesota Department of Agriculture and others on the E85 Team have been instrumental in our area in promoting these clean-air vehicles and the alternative fuels that run them. Mr. Chairman, this isn't an easy decision for me. We need to increase the fuel efficiency standards of all our cars and trucks and continue to work on improving our air quality. We put ourselves on the moon. Surely we can raise the efficiency of our automobiles. However, I know what the negative impact could be on the production of clean air vehicles and clean air in St. Paul. I unfortunately have to oppose this amendment today.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Chairman, earlier this summer, I went to the Arctic Refuge; and it is a living treasure. It is a treasure that must be defended and protected for future generations. Drilling in the arctic is not about a national crisis, it is about petroleum pirates and this administration willing to plunder a national treasure for profits. I want to believe that this Congress has the courage and wisdom to invest in an energy strategy that emphasizes conservation, energy efficiency, and renewables. I urge my colleagues to protect the Arctic Refuge.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, today I will vote against H.R. 7, the Community Solutions Act, because I strongly support the constitutional separation of church and state, and I believe this bill infringes on that separation. The bill would threaten religious autonomy, as religious organizations would be subject to government regulations in exchange for federal funds. The truth is that the federal government can already fund faith-based charities if they meet the following three conditions: they establish a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charitable organization, they agree not to proselytize using tax dollars, and they cannot discriminate in job hiring. H.R. 7 would remove these important protections. I also believe this bill allows federal intrusion on state and local jurisdiction, as faith-based groups would not have to adhere to Minnesota's comprehensive state and local nondiscrimination laws. I recognize the very important contributions of faith-based organizations to our communities and families. Some successful faith- based organizations in Minnesota such as Church Charities, Lutheran Social Services, and Jewish Family and Children's Services have developed a reputation for providing quality services without religious discrimination. These organizations certainly complement many governmental social services and I would not want to see their roles diminished in the lives of so many Minnesotans. This bill has the potential to interfere in the historic working relationships between faith-based organizations, the government, and the people they so generously serve.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I have opposed a resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution authorizing the Congress to prohibit the physical desecration of the flag of the United States. I believe burning the flag is an offensive and disrespectful act. In some cases, it is an act that is already illegal under statute. However, I do not support amending the Constitution to make it a criminal offense to burn any flag under any circumstances. I can state with confidence that my colleagues on both sides of the aisle can agree that the liberty and freedom guaranteed by our Constitution, and symbolized by our grand old flag, is our nation's greatest strength. Everyday, the freedoms that surround us in our homes, schools and places of work here in this chamber, are a constant reminder of what our flag means, and what has been sacrificed to ensure its lasting stability and continuity in our nation. Every day Congress is in session, we pledge allegiance to this flag, ``and to the republic for which it stands.'' The willful destruction of our nation's flag is deeply offensive. The flag is a symbol of our national unity and a powerful source of national pride, and deserves to be treasured and treated with respect at all times. Yet, despite my love for my nation and the flag, and my deep admiration for the men and women who fought and died defending our nation, I cannot support this well-intended resolution. I believe it is important that we take heed to the constitutional parameters that will be reduced as a result of this amendment. One of our most cherished liberties, and one in which the Framers of the Constitution placed a heavy hand upon, is our freedom of expression. Every individual in America is truly free to express his or her opinions, without threat of hindrance or persecution. From time to time we undoubtedly may disagree with another's opinion or action. Nonetheless, this does not mean that their views should be constricted by the Constitution. If any limits are placed on this freedom, we are opening the possibility that others can be placed on our freedom of expression at a later time. Unfortunately, I believe this amendment will indeed serve to reduce that freedom which we all love and hold dear to our hearts. If we start down this dark path, we are opening the door to a precedent of extreme consequences. We must not allow this to occur. It is critical in this debate to remember that what provides for our freedom and our supreme rule of law is not the flag itself, for this is a mere symbol. What binds our nation, what our soldiers swore and died to protect and what all Americans cherish, is the fundamental beliefs held in our Constitution. The flag is the symbol of the Republic, the symbol of what the Constitution provides: the rights that all Americans enjoy. As the distinguished senior Senator and Constitutional Scholar from the state of West Virginia, Senator Robert Byrd, so eloquently stated, ``That flag is the symbol of our Nation. In a way, we might say that flag is the symbol of our Nation's history. That flag is the symbol of our Nation's values. We love that flag. But we must love the Constitution more. For the Constitution is not just a symbol, it is the thing itself!''

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to oppose S. 360, the bill sent to us from the other body, to place the name of the late Senator Paul Coverdell on the Peace Corps headquarters. While I did not know Senator Coverdell, my opposition to this bill is not intended to show any disrespect upon a man that served our Nation with honor and dignity and proud public service. Senator Coverdell, as the Peace Corps' 11th director, and as a United States Senator from Georgia, was an advocate for the agency, for volunteers, for the value returned volunteers contribute to our communities here at home. Mr. Speaker, the National Peace Corps Association, which advocates on behalf of the agency and returned volunteers, opposes placing the name of Senator Coverdell on the Peace Corps headquarters. Mr. Speaker, I submit for the Record the following letter from the National Peace Corps Association. National Peace Corps Association, Washington, DC, July 17, 2001. Hon. Betty McCollum, Longworth House Office Building, Washington, DC. Dear Rep. McCollum: We have just learned that you plan to address the House regarding House bill S-360, which includes a provision to rename the Peace Corps Headquarters, wherever sited, after the late Senator Paul Coverdell. The National Peace Corps Association, the alumni organization of former Volunteers and staff of the Peace Corps with more than 13,000 members, opposes that section of the bill. We believe, based on the reactions of former Volunteers around the country, that this position reflects the view of a clear majority of former Peace Corps Volunteers. We have great respect for the late Senator Coverdell and the leadership that he provided as Peace Corps Director. We note especially his establishment of the World Wise Schools Program (now named after him), which brings the Peace Corps experience directly into classrooms here in the United States. However, it is the view of the National Peace Corps Association that, as the heart of the Peace Corps is the Volunteers themselves, the headquarters should not be named after any single director, no matter how distinguished. We have no objection to the other parts of the bill. Thank you. Dane F. Smith, President. Mr. Speaker, returned volunteers from my Minnesota district have contacted me, and they do not want the Peace Corps headquarters named for any individual. They oppose this legislation. Mr. Speaker, I am also submitting for the Record at this point the following constituent letters from the returned Peace Corps volunteers. St. Paul, MN, March 2, 2001. I am a returned Peace Corps Volunteer (Zaire 1973-75) and wish to express my very strong opposition to the bill which was passed by the Senate and referred to the House, S. 360. RFH. This bill would name the new Peace Corps building in Washington after Senator Paul Coverdell. Senator Coverdell was a brief and undistinguished director of the Peace Corps. If the building is to be named, it should be for people who made a major contribution: President Kennedy set it up, Hubert Humphrey supplied the suggestion, Sargent Shriver was the first and very dynamic director, and Loret Ruppe (if they want a Republican) was also a very dynamic and much appreciated director. I have received many communications from other former Volunteers and the opposition to naming the building after Coverdell is very strong among all I have heard from. There are over 5,000 former volunteers in Minnesota, and about 160,000 nationwide. It would be an insult to all of us to let the Peace Corps headquarters be used in this political way. Thanks,

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, Minnesotans want real campaign finance reform. They want it now. My State has led the Nation in how we run our elections. From our voters registering on election day to limiting our campaign spending, Minnesota campaigns have a reputation of being open, honest and competitive; and we consistently lead the Nation in voter turnout. One of the reasons why I ran for Congress was to work to help to restore the public's trust in our elected leaders. The Shays-Meehan bill is the first good step in cleaning up our campaign finance system. By eliminating soft money, Americans' confidence in our electoral system will be restored. Mr. Speaker, this bill helps to control the amount of money contributed in campaigns, but we need to go farther. We must take control of how much money is spent on elections. I will work to take the next step on campaign finance reform by limiting the hundreds of millions of dollars spent on our elections. However, we must begin now. We must begin today. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support Shays-Meehan and begin the process.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, it is far past the time for us to address the intolerable discrimination in drug pricing and provide a comprehensive prescription drug benefit now. These drug re-importation amendments fail to address the real issue of the lack of affordable prescription drugs and in turn provide no real relief. Seniors should be able to buy American prescription drugs for the same price in Rochester as you can in Rio, in Mankato as you can in Mexico City, at their own pharmacies. We pass ``buy America'' legislation in this body all the time; yet here we are asking American Seniors to buy American alright, just not in America--go to Canada, or Mexico, or the Islands--just not at their local pharmacy. Congress should pass legislation now to prevent drug companies from discriminating against U.S. Seniors, allowing them to get their drugs at the same prices as their counterparts in other countries. I urge Congressional leaders to bring to the floor the Prescription Drug Fairness for Seniors Act (H.R. 1400), which I am a cosponsor of, to directly tackle the issue of price discrimination. It's time to stop the current price discrimination and provide a comprehensive prescription drug benefit for all Seniors. Not debate re-importation amendments that only provide band-aids and not real answers.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from California for his kind words. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to be part of a special organization located in Minnesota. It is The Center for Victims of Torture. The Center was established in 1985 to healed the emotional and physical scars of government-inflicted torture on individuals, their families, and our communities. Torture victims face debilitating and unimaginable social, physical, emotional and spiritual scarring. Many survivors are challenged with daily constant anxiety, depression, and suffer from fear. Torture is a crime against humanity. It is a crime against all of us. Today I stand here with my colleagues to ensure that the United States works in collaboration with all nations to end government- sponsored torture, to end policies and practices that violate human rights. Although the memories cannot be erased, the wounds can be healed.