Candice Miller

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Madam Speaker, the nation's current debt ceiling is $12.1 trillion, and the Congress is going to have to act to raise that ceiling in the next month or so. Let me be clear--the spending path we are on is unsustainable, and we cannot have 17% spending increases on appropriations bills as standard operating procedure. I would warn the majority that we should not make these large increases a regular practice. That being said, I am willing to support the Conference Report for the Interior and Environment Appropriations bill because of the tremendous positive impact it will have on the Great Lakes. The Great Lakes are one of the world's unparalleled natural resources. They are wholly \1/5\ of the planet's fresh water supply. They are home to a tremendously diverse ecosystem. They represent the identity and economic prowess of the region, and my home state of Michigan. Throughout my career at the local, state, and federal levels of government, I have promoted efforts to clean up our precious Great Lakes, which have suffered from severe pollution--partly out of ignorance and partly out of indifference. Improper sewage discharges, industrial pollution, and invasive species have wrecked havoc on the Great Lakes over the decades. It takes tremendous coordinated efforts at all levels to deal with these problems. It is the legislation before us today that gives us an opportunity to embark on a new chapter in restoring the Great Lakes. This Congress and this administration have stepped up to the plate and provided full funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative--a $475 million effort that will combat invasive species, reduce non-point source pollution, and remove contaminated sediment. Through this measure, we will begin to undo the damage that has occurred, and we can take a big step forward in preserving the Great Lakes for future generations. This conference report also includes an important policy provision that will help protect thousands of jobs in the Great Lakes Region. Late this summer, the EPA proposed a rule that would have the effect of eliminating up to half of the U.S. flag vessels on the Great Lakes. In addition to the maritime jobs that these vessels support, the cargo on these vessels is critical for commerce including the steel and automobile industries. Losing these vessels would have meant higher costs for consumers and lost jobs for many in the Great Lakes region. I want to commend Chairman Obey and Chairman Oberstar for their hard work on this issue. As a result of their efforts, the conference report includes language that will grandfather in 13 of these affected vessels, and provides a waiver for other vessels if economic hardships can be shown. We all want cleaner air, but the EPA went about this the wrong way by targeting these small ships that collectively produce fewer emissions than one large ocean-going vessel. Because of the importance of this legislation to the Great Lakes environment as well as the jobs of those who live in the region, I will support this conference report and I urge my colleagues to join me.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Madam Chair, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, as Democratic leaders retreat behind closed doors to craft their government takeover of health care, American seniors are rightly concerned about what $500 billion in cuts in Medicare will mean to them. Throughout this process, Democrats have made clear that they intend to force American seniors to carry a large share of the cost of reform, and this includes eliminating Medicare Advantage. Democrats understand how negative the reaction will be when seniors learn that they are scrapping this program, so they have placed a gag order on companies that provide this coverage, stopping them from communicating with seniors on the ramifications of this change. That's right, the Democrats who promised transparency and accountability have gone behind closed doors to craft legislation and have used the power of government to stop dissenters from communicating with American seniors. Well, American seniors are right to be concerned. With the job-killing tax increases the Democrats are also talking about, American workers need to be concerned as well, Mr. Speaker. Perhaps that is why the Democrat majority will not allow us to have 72 hours to read the bill before it's voted on.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Madam Speaker, our Nation currently has an unemployment rate of nearly 10 percent. In my home State of Michigan, it's actually over 15 percent. In the last fiscal year, our Federal budget deficit was over $1.4 trillion; and the Obama administration projects that over the next 10 years, our deficit will be over $9 trillion. When dealing with our budget, difficult times like these require very decisive actions. Unfortunately, over the last year or so, as this Congress has racked up record-breaking deficits, we have seen legislation brought to the floor that forced massive new debt on the American people while giving Members little or no time to read any of the legislation. Last fall, the Bush administration and the leadership of this House asked the House to vote on a $700 billion bailout for Wall Street with no strings attached on how the money would be spent. I was proud to vote ``no'' on that Wall Street bailout. Unfortunately, that bill did pass this House, and it became law. The result has been a program that has been widely rejected by the American people. Then in February, President Obama asked Congress to pass an economic stimulus plan, and many on our side of the aisle were ready to help. In fact, we proposed a bill that, according to a formula used by President Obama's own economic advisers, would produce twice the jobs at half the cost. Instead, the Democrats crafted a bill behind closed doors. They filed a 1,073-page conference report in the middle of the night and asked Members of this House to vote on $787 billion of deficit spending while not one single Member of this House, nor the American people, had the chance to read the bill before we cast our votes. Then in June, this House voted on a cap-and-trade national energy tax that would fundamentally change our economy. This bill totaled 1,428 pages, including a 300-plus page manager's amendment. The Rules Committee and the Democratic leadership gave us about 16 hours to read the bill and the amendment before it was voted on. Only after the fact did we see a memo produced within the Obama administration that indicated that the bill would cost every single American household an average of $1,700 per year in higher energy costs. Madam Speaker, we will soon consider health care legislation that will have a far-reaching impact on one of the most personal issues facing every American, and that is how they will protect the health of themselves and their families. Nobody knows what this legislation will look like. Nobody knows how much it will cost. Nobody knows when it will be brought to the floor. But every American has a vital stake in the outcome of the legislation. Many Members of this House from both parties have had enough and are insisting that we bring transparency into the process before a vote is taken, and the American people are demanding the opportunity to be able to read the legislation that their Representatives will be voting on before the vote so that their voices can be heard. That is why I am proud to cosponsor H. Res. 554 which would require that all major legislation, significant amendments and conference reports be available in their entirety on the Internet so that Members can read the legislation before casting their votes and so that the American people can have some opportunity to have their voices heard. If legislation that will govern more than one-sixth of our economy comes to the floor, don't Members as well as the American people deserve a chance to at least read it? President Obama ran last year on a platform of openness and transparency, but unfortunately, it has been business as usual in Washington. We have had limited to no transparency. We have not had a chance to read important legislation before asking for us to vote on this legislation. I would urge my fellow Members who have not signed on as cosponsors of this important resolution to join us in an effort to bring transparency to the process, to join us in demanding that we in Congress cast an informed vote on important legislation that will impact every American, to join us in allowing the American people to have their voices heard. The Members of this House and, most importantly, Madam Speaker, the American people deserve no less.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Madam Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the Jacob Michael Davis Foundation located in Macomb County, Michigan. This non-profit organization was created in the loving memory of 7-year old Jacob Michael Davis, who sadly passed away in 2005 after a hard fought battle with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The organization will be hosting its 4th Annual Banquet and Fundraiser on November 14th in Shelby Township, so I want to highlight the great work the foundation has performed over the few short years since its inception. The foundation has carried forward Jacob's legacy--his giving spirit and his unique ability to comfort other young patients while he himself was seeking medical treatment. The foundation has also picked up his torch of hope as it continues to spread his light of compassion and pass his courage on to other families who unfortunately have had to cope with childhood cancer. Although based in the State of Michigan, the Jacob Michael Davis Foundation has extended its helping hand across this great nation, from coast to coast and places in between. The effects of any childhood illness can be devastating on a family. The emotional and financial distress can leave a mother and father feeling like they have no options, and sometimes even worse with a negative outlook on the future. With so many variables to deal with, families can easily become overwhelmed and lose focus of the primary objective--the care, treatment and recovery of the child. But these fears and unknowns are exactly the reason why the Jacob Michael Davis Foundation was created. The foundation is a source of comfort to assist families with those unexpected financial burdens not necessarily covered by insurance. For example--travel and temporary housing expenses, medical equipment, mental health programs, academic and school tutoring support, post-treatment survivorship programs and bereavement counseling. These are just a few of the economic barriers that the foundation seeks to remove. The Foundation's goal is to help families keep their energies focused on the recovery and the healing of the child. Amazingly, the staff, volunteers and board members of the Jacob Michael Davis Foundation do not accept any form of monetary compensation, ensuring that every possible cent is spent to assist those families in need. This certainly speaks volumes about the people who believe in the foundation's mission and the remarkable work they have achieved, continue to achieve and hope to achieve in the future. It certainly is my honor to commend all the volunteers for their charitable and dedicated work. Furthermore, I am pleased to announce that last month I added my name as a cosponsor to H.R. 1230 which was introduced by my colleague, Representative Doris Matsui, from California. This legislation seeks to establish a National Acquired Bone Marrow Failure Disease Registry and authorize research on bone marrow diseases. I encourage other Members to support this bill and join in the fight to defeat this disease. In conclusion, I offer my support to the Jacob Michael Davis Foundation on this special occasion. I wish everyone in attendance all the best and hope you have a very successful evening. You are helping to sustain a wonderful cause. I know that in memory of Jacob you will never lose faith in your mission and your passion will be forever alive.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Conference Report for H.R. 2997, the Agriculture Appropriations Act of 2010. My district is home to some of the most fertile farm land in our great nation, as well as some of the hardest working farmers. While so many people identify Michigan with manufacturing, it can be easy to forget that agriculture is Michigan's second leading industry, and the bright spot in a struggling Michigan economy. As you drive through my district, you will see fields full of dry beans, sugar beets, corn, wheat, soybeans, various vegetables, and other crops needed to feed our nation and the rest of the world. You will also see thriving cattle and pork industries. This bill is important because it provides much needed funding for the Farm Services Agency which administers disaster and loan programs, farm commodities and conservation programs directed towards producers. The bill also goes a long way in providing money for continued agriculture research which is so important in increasing harvest yields and furthering education for our producers. Agriculture research is vitally important to ensure that America remains the greatest food producer in the world. Finally, this legislation will provide necessary money for our nation's struggling dairy farmers. In these tough economic times, dairy producers have been struggling with a steep drop in price for their product. My district is home to a large dairy industry, and it is of vital importance that we do all that we can to help these producers out. While there are certainly challenges with this bill, it is vital that we move this important funding bill forward. The funding provided by this bill will serve as strong support for an industry that is crucial for our national economy. I strongly urge my colleagues to vote in favor of this important legislation.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, it has become the custom of this great country to recognize the contributions made on behalf of freedom for the American people. Each year we celebrate Memorial Day to commemorate lives that have been given in service of our Nation and Veterans Day to recognize our service men and women. But occasionally, it is necessary to commemorate the actions of individuals in furthering the cause of American freedom. In this Chamber, we feature the portrait of Marquis de Lafayette, a Frenchman who left his family and the comforts of life in Europe to fight for freedom in the colonies. Lafayette sacrificed much to serve as an adviser to General Washington, and was rewarded by witnessing the surrender of the British at the Battle of Yorktown. Among honors conferred on General Lafayette was an honorary U.S. citizenship. But less known and appreciated for his service is Casimir Pulaski, a Polish Revolutionary War hero who fought and died for our country over 200 years ago. Pulaski was a Polish commander who fought the Russians for Polish independence, and, as a result, he was renowned in Europe for his bravery and cavalry skills. Following the recommendation of Benjamin Franklin, General Washington brought him to America to help our forces fight the British. Pulaski was promoted to general officer by Washington after showing incredible bravery at the Battle of Brandywine. And when funding from Congress was tight, Pulaski used his own money to purchase necessary equipment for his soldiers. In 1779, after launching an assault against the British in the Battle of Savannah, Pulaski was wounded, and he died 2 days later. In his death, he fulfilled a commitment he had made to General Washington in which he stated ``I came here, where freedom is being defended, to serve it, and to live or die for it.'' I am a proud cosponsor of this joint resolution which would posthumously declare Casimir Pulaski to be an honorary citizen of the United States. This is one of the rarest honors that the Congress can bestow, and we have only done so on six previous occasions. The concept of freedom drew patriots from across the colonies, and around the world, to our land to join in our struggle for freedom. Casimir Pulaski had the bravery, courage, and love of liberty and independence that the Polish people have been so well known for throughout history. He died for our freedom and he deserves this posthumous recognition.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I come from the great State of Michigan where we currently have the highest unemployment in the Nation and where our citizens have suffered more than most in this economic downturn. And every week when I come to Washington, I am constantly amazed that this Congress isn't laser focused on creating jobs, because the question being asked by the American people is: Where are the jobs? When President Obama said he wanted an economic stimulus bill principally focused on tax cuts and infrastructure investment, I was all for it. But the bill that was passed by the Democrat majority in Congress really was unrecognized from what was originally proposed. That bill focused much more on expanding the size of government than expanding jobs in the private sector. Americans were told that if this huge expansion of government were passed, that 2 to 3 million new jobs would be created and unemployment would not reach 8 percent. And what are the results actually? Well, since that time, our economy has shed nearly 3 million jobs and the unemployment rate has now reached nearly 10 percent. In my home State of Michigan, it is in the 15 percentile. Nine months after the passage of the failed stimulus plan, Americans are still asking: Where are the jobs? After passing a jobs bill that did not create jobs, House Democrats passed a cap-and-trade national energy tax. This national energy tax will destroy millions of jobs in this struggling economy. Manufacturing, which is so important in my home State of Michigan, would be especially hard hit when millions more good-paying jobs are shipped overseas to nations that are not going to put this jobs-killing tax on their manufacturing companies. Struggling American families will also be very hard hit. The Obama administration's own estimates project that this legislation would cost our economy $200 billion every year, which means an increase of $1,700 for every American household. That means hard-pressed Americans are going to pay more for energy while at the same time having their jobs put at risk. I would ask this, Mr. Speaker, as the American people continue to do: Where are the jobs? Congress is now considering a health care reform bill that would amount to a government takeover and would be funded with job-killing tax increases and cuts to Medicare impacting the coverage of millions of American seniors. That bill, H.R. 3200, places an 8 percent tax on payroll for every business in this Nation that does not offer health care coverage to their workers. Well, I have talked to countless employers, and they tell you that their costs run much higher than 8 percent, so they would end the private coverage that they currently give to their employees and dump them all out on the public plan. Republicans have been accused of being the party of no because we have stood against this job-killing agenda, but we have offered alternatives, better alternatives, and it is actually the Democrats in Congress who have said no to these ideas. Let me cite a few specific examples. We have offered an alternative to the stimulus plan that, according to the formula created by President Obama's own economic team, would create twice the jobs at half the cost. We have offered an all-of-the- above national energy plan as an alternative to the Democrats' national energy tax. Our plan would encourage the development of clean alternative energy while allowing the development of domestic supplies, which would bring energy costs down instead of driving them up. And it would create jobs here in America, and it would make America more energy independent. We have offered commonsense approaches to health care reforms that would provide greater competition, increase access to care, and reduce costs. We feel that individuals should be able to purchase health care across State lines, and small businesses should be able to group together to open up more options and reduce costs to protect private health care. And we believe we need to enact real medical liability reform to end junk lawsuits that drive up costs by forcing doctors to practice defensive medicine. I raise these points because I truly believe we have to have bipartisan consensus to address the challenges that are facing our Nation. Mr. Speaker, the American people are way ahead of the politicians here in Washington. They understand the need for jobs. They understand that bigger government will not increase jobs but will put millions more jobs at risk. Mr. Speaker, it is long past the time we start listening to commonsense Americans who continue to ask: Where are the jobs?

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Res. 731. The Department of Homeland Security has worked diligently to keep us safe since the devastating attacks on 9/11. And thankfully we've not had a successful attack since then--it's not because of luck, but due to the hard work of the men and women who work every day to secure the Homeland. The over 200,000 employees of 22 agencies that make up the Department deserve our utmost gratitude for their steadfast resolve and commitment to prevent acts of terror against our citizens. They have worked to increase cooperation between our intelligence and defense communities. They have strengthened our preparedness and created partnerships among Federal agencies and local and state first responders. These employees patrol our land and sea borders, secure our airports and Ports of Entry and safeguard critical infrastructure. Theirs is truly a 24/7 job whose successes are rarely known or acknowledged. As the recent arrest of Najibullah Zazi, the Afghan accused of plotting to plant bombs in New York shows, we still face many challenges to stop the threat of terrorism on our shores and in our cities and towns. Border security must be enhanced; we must remain vigilant if we are to continue to disrupt plots and attacks on our nation. Complacency isn't an option because as we have seen over and over again, the intent to commit acts of terrorism remains strong. Defending the homeland will take more than just a Federal effort--our fire fighters, law enforcement officers, emergency medical personnel, and other first responders selflessly and repeatedly risk their lives to fulfill their mission of helping to prevent, and prepare to respond to, acts of terrorism, major disasters, and other emergencies. All Americans should take the opportunity during National Preparedness Month this September to take steps at home, work, and school to enhance their ability to assist in preventing, protecting against, and preparing to respond to acts of terrorism. I commend the work of our first responders and the Department of Homeland Security. I offer my full cooperation in meeting our shared goals of keeping America safe and secure. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Res. 679, Supporting the goals and Ideals of American Legion Day. The American Legion was chartered by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic, war-time veteran's organization, devoted to mutual helpfulness. The American Legion has been a guardian of our national ensign, and the first ``Flag Code'' was drafted during a conference called by The American Legion in Washington, D.C. The code eventually was adopted by Congress in 1942. And today, the Legion is at the forefront of efforts to gain a constitutional amendment to protect the American flag from physical desecration. The American Legion's voice has been instrumental in establishing the Veterans Administration, then later advocated for it to become a cabinet level department, creating a GI bill, and fighting for compensation for Vietnam vets exposed to Agent Orange and for veterans diagnosed with Gulf War Syndrome. The American Legion became the largest single contributor to the ``Vietnam Wall'' in Washington, DC--its members collectively donated $1 Million dollars. And today, the American Legion is a strong advocate for today's servicemen and women returning from the battlefields of Iraq and Afghanistan--assisting combat wounded veterans receive compensation for their injuries and helping to create a 21st Century GI Bill. The reason that we are free today is because brave men and women have answered our Nation's call in our time of need. They have sweated, bled and sacrificed for our freedom. And as it is written on the Korean War Memorial in Washington, D.C, freedom isn't free--the cost is readily apparent in the rows of crosses in Arlington, where many generations of American warriors have been laid to rest. We owe our veterans a debt that can never be fully repaid, but I personally want to thank them for your service and sacrifice. I will continue to work to ensure that our veterans get the care, help, and benefits they so richly deserve. Let us remember our obligations to our Nation's veterans, as Abraham Lincoln said in his Second Inaugural Address, ``to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow and his orphan.'' The American Legion has been there for our Nation's veterans for over 90 years, and I'm proud to support this resolution, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Madam Speaker, the American health care system is clearly in need of reform. Yet at the same time our system of health care continues to be the envy of the world in producing life- saving innovations in the pharmaceutical industry, in medical procedures and in treatment. Congress certainly must act to help bring down costs and expand access to health insurance, while preserving the quality of care patients receive in this great, great Nation. I have heard many of my Democratic colleagues, and certainly the President, speak about the need to increase competition in the health insurance marketplace to help reduce costs, and I could not agree more. But where I part company with my Democratic colleagues is in their prescription for the problem. The way they want to increase competition is to create a new government insurance company, better known as the public option, to provide this competition. They have demonized insurance companies in an effort to build support for this misguided plan, even though recent public opinion surveys have shown that over 80 percent of Americans are satisfied with their current plan. My concerns with the public option, which are shared, I think, by huge amounts of Americans, is that it would have an unfair advantage that could crowd out private health care, and it would put huge new costs on the American taxpayers. For months the President has said if you like what you have, you can keep it. Then just last week, the President changed that and he said, instead, there is nothing in this bill that would force you or your employer to change what you have. Well, it may be true that nothing will force you or your employer into the public option, but the bill before the House has perverse incentives to encourage your employer to do just that. The bill mandates individuals to purchase insurance, and it requires large employers to provide care for their employees. Businesses that do not provide health care insurance will be taxed at 8 percent of their payroll as a penalty, and most employers will tell you that health care costs typically run about 14 to 16 percent of their payroll. So businesses that are struggling to make ends meet will now face a choice, either continue to pay 15 percent of their payroll to provide coverage for their employees, or just dump them out onto the public plan and take the 8 percent penalty. Well, that is a pretty easy business decision to make. Unfortunately, it has very broad implications for their employers, and I believe this Nation will go to a government-run health care plan very, very quickly as a result of that. Madam Speaker, there is a better way to reduce the cost of insurance at virtually no cost to the government, and that is to simply allow individuals and businesses to purchase health care insurance across State lines. Lifting this restriction would bring hundreds, if not thousands, of new competitors into the private marketplace to compete for business. This would absolutely reduce costs, and it's a simple change which we can enact immediately. The President actually made an analogy to private auto insurance, and I would respectfully remind the President that auto insurance can be purchased across State lines, and there is no public option in auto insurance. The market regulates itself to keep costs down. Additionally, millions of Americans today have their health care covered by a health savings account. If H.R. 3200 is enacted, health savings accounts will be gone and those who utilize them will be forced to change their coverage. So, again, this is actually less choice and less competition in the health care industry. I was very glad last week when the President said he would look at pilot programs with regard to medical liability reform. For too long, trial attorneys have looked at doctors as ATM machines and have filed countless frivolous lawsuits. This has driven up costs by forcing insurance companies to settle because these suits cost too much to fight, regardless of their merit, and the costs are passed along to doctors in the form of higher premiums and ultimately higher health insurance costs to consumers. It has also made it very difficult for specialty doctors like OB/GYNs to practice, and it limits access, particularly in rural areas. Many States have enacted caps on noneconomic damages. And in every place where this has happened, doctors have moved in, lawyers have moved out, and costs have gone down. So I was very disappointed when the President said over the weekend that he doesn't believe caps work. Respectfully, Mr. President, actually, caps on noneconomic damage is medical liability reform. Madam Speaker, the American people are rightfully concerned about how any reform will impact out-of-control Federal spending and our exploding Federal deficit. It just stretches credibility when people are told that we can create a public option, expand access and availability of care, and we can do so without dramatically increasing taxes or adding to the Federal debt. Well, you can't get something for nothing, particularly when the government is involved. And many seniors find it difficult to believe that we can pay for some of this by reducing spending on Medicare by $600 billion and more and not impact their level of care. The proponents say these cuts are just waste, fraud and abuse. Well, if there is that much waste, fraud and abuse, we should be attacking that. Madam Speaker, we can do better. And, for the sake of the American people, we must do better.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, last week, the President came to this House for a joint session of Congress to discuss how we as a Nation will reform health care. The debate over health care has made clear that the American people are actually paying attention to what is happening here. During the President's speech, our colleague, Joe Wilson, made a mistake--a mistake that I believe was driven by both the substance and the emotion involved in this debate. Immediately after he made that mistake, Congressman Wilson did the appropriate thing. He immediately apologized to the President. President Obama very graciously accepted his apology. Mr. Speaker, recently, President Obama made a mistake when referring to actions of the Cambridge police while acknowledging that he did not have all the facts. In the national uproar that ensued, he called it a teachable moment. I thought that was a very human response to an incident that was blown totally out of proportion, in my opinion, and some actually inferred that it had racial overtones. I think what we have here today, Mr. Speaker, is a teachable moment, and it has nothing to do with race. Joe Wilson is a patriotic American who has defended our freedom in uniform as well as here in the United States Congress. He is the father of four sons who also served this Nation in uniform to defend our liberty, our freedom, our democracy. And we have all heard Joe Wilson speak on this floor, and he ends every floor statement with the same following words: God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th. Joe Wilson simply made a mistake and was forgiven by the person who was harmed by that mistake. Case closed. So why are we here? What can we be taught by forcing a vote on this resolution? Well, I believe what is going on here, Mr. Speaker, today, is a reflection of the unease among the American people as they have watched this Congress enact a $700 billion Wall Street bailout, a $787 billion economic stimulus bill, a $1.8 trillion deficit, this year alone, placed on the backs of their children and their grandchildren. They have been watching as Congress works on health care legislation that would fundamentally alter one of the most personal factors in their lives, and that is how to care for themselves and their families. During the August recess we saw the frustrations of the American people when they came out in large numbers to exercise their rights guaranteed under the First Amendment--the right to free speech, the right to peaceably assemble, and the right to redress their grievances before government. And how were they treated when they did this? Some leaders of this House called them un-American, or an angry mob. All of this for simply making their voices heard. I understand that democracy is sometimes difficult and it can instill passion. That passion, that love for our Nation and the belief in the idea that every American deserves to be heard is what makes America great. And we who are honored to serve here have a duty to listen. The acrimony that has developed here is what needs to be stopped. We need to stop and we need to listen to one another. We need to focus on the needs of the people and do the work that they sent us here to do. Most importantly, get our economy moving. I come from Michigan, where countless of my fellow citizens have lost their jobs and many have also lost their health care. The resolution that we are considering today will not create one job. It will not help one person get health care for their family. It will do nothing to allay the concerns of seniors who are worried about their Medicare. It will do nothing to get our economy moving again. It will simply inflame a debate that should have been over when President Obama accepted Joe Wilson's apology. We can do better. The American people can do better. And, hopefully, in this teachable moment, we will learn.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Res. 556, which recognizes the 75th anniversary of the passage of the Federal Credit Union Act. Credit unions, not-for-profit financial cooperatives, are a form of economic democracy. Credit unions exist to serve their members, not turn a profit. Earnings beyond operating expenses are returned to members in the form of lower loan rates, higher interest on deposits, and lower fees. While we are recognizing the 75th anniversary of the passage of the Federal Credit Union Act today, it is important to note that credit unions have been present in the United States since 1909, starting with the chartering of the first credit union in the State of New Hampshire. As a Representative from Michigan, a State with 341 credit unions serving over 4.3 million members, I can speak to the positive impact of these vital financial institutions. In Michigan, members of a credit union can expect to see a membership benefit of, on average, $92 a year by working with a credit union. For the average household, the annual benefit rises to $175. I know that in my district, $175 goes a long way toward covering necessary household expenses. For a member in Michigan, financing a new automobile through their credit union produces an average savings of $156 per year in interest expense. The Invest in America program, a partnership between GM and Chrysler with credit unions, has helped to spur over 189,000 new vehicle sales. Sales from this program have reinvested over $3.05 billion in the national economy, crucial support during the current economic downtown. In addition to the direct financial benefits that credit unions provide to their members, credit unions positively impact their communities in other ways. Credit unions put on financial literacy seminars throughout Michigan in order to educate people about their financial options. Because of these contributions to our Nation's communities, I am proud to support House Resolution 556. Congratulations on the 75th anniversary of the Federal Credit Union Act and the first 100 years of credit unions in America. I urge my colleagues to support the passage of this bill.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I was very proud to be the Republican lead sponsor of the original legislation that we passed a number of months ago. Cash for Clunkers--what a fantastic success. This program has exceeded everybody's expectations; and now most of the naysayers are even admitting that it's the best $1 billion in economic stimulus funds that the Federal Government has ever spent. Here are a couple of today's quotes from those who are directly impacted. First of all, the CEO of one of our Nation's largest auto groups said, ``The most brilliantly conceived and most effective economic stimulus program ever put forward by the Federal Government.'' Ford Motor Company says, ``Huge success.'' This Congress appropriated $1 billion or November 1, whatever came first, and only several days into the program, we need more cash for the Cash for Clunkers. We can just think about the tremendous economic multiplier effect this is having. It is good for the auto dealers; it is good for the auto manufacturers; it is good for the suppliers; it is good for workers; it is good for the States, Mr. Speaker. Think about all of the revenue that is being generated by sales tax and licensing fees as well for this program. It is good for the environment. It's getting all of these old vehicles off the road, and it's absolutely great for consumers. Let me just read quickly. Here's one letter I got from a lady in Dearborn Heights, Michigan: Thank you for pushing through and helping to develop the Cash for Clunkers legislation. I am now the happy owner of an American-made 2010 Ford Fusion that I will be picking up on July 30. It has been 12 years since I have been able to purchase a new vehicle. I was able to save over $7,000, before tax, on my Ford Fusion. My old vehicle was a 1995 Ford Windstar with 150,000 miles.'' She says, ``I'm so excited for me.'' Well, we're excited too. Mr. Speaker, throughout our Nation's history--since we've had the automobile, actually--it has been automobile sales that have literally pulled our Nation out of recession; and this time it's going to be the same. I think we are seeing ourselves being placed on the road to economic recovery here, and this road is paved by the Cash for Clunkers program. I actually wrote a letter at the beginning of this week to the Speaker and to the House leadership, saying that we were going to run out of money, that we were going to need some more money for this program. Here we are on Friday of the first week. We absolutely need to do this, Mr. Speaker. We cannot leave for our August recess until we vote for this reprogramming of unspent economic stimulus funds for this program. We need to do it. One other thing, for those who keep saying that we need to get the government out of the automobile business, if you really want to get the government out of the pocket of General Motors or whatever, this is the way to do it, Mr. Speaker. I would urge my colleagues to support this bill. It is very, very important not just for the State of Michigan, this is a national economic program, the best thing we've ever done. More cash for Cash for Clunkers.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Madam Speaker, before I came to Congress, I had the privilege of serving 8 years as Michigan's Secretary of State. In that job, one of my key responsibilities was to serve as the state's Chief Elections Officer. During my tenure, we made great strides in improving the accuracy and security of the elections system in our state. However, as any former or current Secretary of State can tell you, one of the greatest challenges you have is convincing non-voters--those who are eligible to vote, and may be registered, but fail to participate in the electoral process. One of the common challenges in changing the views of these citizens is countering the belief that the system doesn't work either due to corruption or negligence or some other issue. So, these citizens fail to exercise their Constitutionally-given rights to choose their government, and they don't vote. As elected officials, we need to take whatever measures we can to increase the public's confidence in the voting system. One of the greatest achievements of my tenure as Secretary of State was the creation of the Qualified Voter File, which provided for easy determination of who is and is not a registered voter. In fact, the Ford-Carter Commission on Federal Election Reform cited Michigan as a national model in this area. This device was critical to ensuring that we have full voter participation and that no one is needlessly disenfranchised. Absentee ballots, historically, have been an area that has contributed to this perception. Many have seen these ballots as ripe for corruption and many voters are unsure what happens with their ballots after they mail them in. The bill we are considering today will go a long way towards correcting these perceptions. H.R. 2510, the Absentee Ballot Track Receive and Confirm Act, authorizes grants to states that choose to establish procedures to track absentee mail-in ballots. These systems would allow voters to find out for themselves the status of their absentee ballot. Voters will now be able to determine when their ballot should arrive, if the elections office received it and whether it was counted. Additionally, this measure protects the secrecy of the ballot by only marking the outside ballot envelopes. No other information about the voter or how that vote was cast will be recorded. The right to vote is one of the most cherished rights that we have as citizens. This measure will reduce the potential for fraud and restore confidence in absentee voting among the public. Furthermore, absentee voters will gain the knowledge that their vote has been counted and they are not being disenfranchised through the process. I urge my colleagues to support the measure.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Fire Chief Ronald B. Nichols from the Fort Gratiot Fire Department in St. Clair County, Michigan. This year marks the 50th year Mr. Nichols has been a member of the department--and during 31 of those years he has proudly served as Chief. Chief Nichols has consistently raised the bar and set a high standard during his outstanding career in the fire service. The State of Michigan and the 10th Congressional District truly have been very fortunate to have him as one of our fire chiefs. During his tenure, the Fort Gratiot Fire Department experienced tremendous growth and commercial expansion. Through his continued leadership, he has been able to administer safe and effective fire codas while keeping pace with the latest technological advancements and changes in local fire prevention ordinances. Chief Nichols has stepped forth to fulfill numerous leadership roles and positions. He is a 26 year member of the International Association of Fire Chiefs, a member of the St. Clair County Fire Chiefs Association, a member of the St. Clair County Firefighters Association, and a member of the National Fire Protection Association. In 1992, he was recognized by his community, earning the St. Clair County Firefighters Association Firefighter of the Year Award. First responders are often under-appreciated and taken for granted until crisis strikes and the public reaches out for help and rescue. Against all common sense and natural instinct, firefighters rush to the scene of an emergency and into harm's way without the slightest hesitation. Firefighters are the backbone of our communities. Without the promise of any fame, fortune, or so much as a simple ``thank-you'', firefighters remain constantly vigilant and ready to serve. I know sometimes younger people idolize professional athletes and cheer for their favorite sports teams. And the same could be said for some adults too. But if you really want to see true teamwork search no further than your local fire station. It is here where men and women work together and count on each other to protect lives. Their service demonstrates courage, camaraderie, and bravery. I am extremely proud of all the men and women who risk so much to protect our safety and well-being, so it is my honor to offer my sincere gratitude to Chief Nichols for his 50 years of service. His leadership, integrity, and dedication are greatly appreciated. I wish him, his family, and his wife, Carole, all the best as he continues to serve the citizens of Fort Gratiot. Thank you, Chief Ronald B. Nichols, for dedicating your life to a noble cause. And thank you for ignoring fear and always demonstrating incredible bravery. That is what a real hero does.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Res. 508. I'm a proud member of the General Aviation Caucus and have been a long time supporter of general aviation. My husband was a fighter pilot in Vietnam, and now we fly an RV-8 aircraft, which he built in our garage. More than 75% of all flights in the United States are general aviation. America relies on general aviation for business, medical delivery services, sightseeing and for just plain fun and a love of flying. General aviation contributes high-skill jobs in aircraft manufacturing, avionics and technology development, and flight training. This is a vital industry in America's economy. Currently there are 19,000 airports nationwide that provide jobs for 1.3 million Americans and bring in more than $100 billion dollars annually. According to a 2006 report from the General Aviation Manufacturers Association, general aviation contributes more than $4.1 billion in value to the state of Michigan alone. And there are more than 200 general aviation airports in Michigan--these airports are a vital link to rural communities. After the terrorist attacks of 9/11, the General Aviation community responded by partnering with the TSA to develop a nationwide Airport Watch Program that uses pilots as eyes and ears for observing and reporting suspicious activity. The General Aviation Community has made impressive contributions to our nation's economy and security. So I am proud to support this resolution. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Res. 483 Supporting the goals and Ideals of Veterans of Foreign Wars Day. Nearly 110 years ago, what was then known as the American Veterans of Foreign Service was established to advocate for the rights and benefits for veterans of the Spanish-American War and Philippine Insurrection. That organization later became the Veterans of Foreign Wars, which was chartered by Congress in 1936. Since then, the VFW's voice has been instrumental in establishing the Veterans Administration, creating a GI bill, developing the national cemetery system and the fight for compensation for Vietnam vets exposed to Agent Orange and for veterans diagnosed with Gulf War Syndrome. Today, the VFW is a strong advocate for today's servicemen and women returning from the battlefields of Iraq and Afghanistan--assisting combat wounded veterans receive compensation for their injuries and helping to create a 21st Century GI Bill. VFW's Operation Uplink hosts free call days every month of the year, so troops can call home--at no charge--from Internet cafes throughout Iraq, Afghanistan and Kuwait. The VFW provides grants to meet the needs of servicemen and women faced with hardship as a result of military service--they award more than $3.4 million in scholarships and incentives to worthy students and VFW Posts often sponsor Farewell and Welcome Home Activities. The reason that we are free today is because brave men and women have answered our nation's call in our time of need. They have sweated, bled and sacrificed for our freedom. And as it is written on the Korean War Memorial in Washington, D.C, freedom isn't free--the cost is readily apparent in the rows of crosses in Arlington, where many generations of American warriors have been laid to rest. We owe our veterans a debt that can never be fully repaid, but I personally want to thank them for your service and sacrifice. I will continue to work to ensure that our veterans get the care, help, and benefits they so richly deserve. Let us remember our obligations to our nation's veterans, as Abraham Lincoln said in his Second Inaugural Address, ``to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow and his orphan.'' The VFW has been there for our nation's veterans for over 110 years, and I'm proud to support this resolution.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, many of my Republican colleagues and I have been coming down to this floor and asking the question, where are the jobs? Because the stimulus package has failed to deliver on the promise of 3 million jobs that it said it would, and instead our economy has actually lost over 3 million jobs. And now we will soon be asked to vote on a health care reform package that places even more hurdles to jobs and growth of job creation. The health care plan being debated puts an onerous new tax on individuals and small business job creators through a surtax on income. It adds a new 8 percent tax on payrolls for companies that don't provide health care, Mr. Speaker. Does anyone actually believe that the addition of this new tax will encourage job providers to either raise their workers' pay or to create new jobs when both of these actions actually lead to higher taxes? In the rush to pass the stimulus, the Democrats put $1 trillion of new debt on our children and on our grandchildren and did not create the jobs that we need. In our rush to pass a new health care bill, we will now put new hurdles to job creation and economic growth. Where are the jobs? Clearly not in this new health care package.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Madam Speaker, I rise today to officially recognize the new Rolland-Warner Middle School in Lapeer, Michigan, which is named in honor of Doris F. Rolland and the late Ronald C. Warner. The community is preparing to mark this special occasion with a dedication ceremony on August 27th at the site of the new facility. The process to name the school took nearly two months, and it was anything but simple and easy considering there was an exceptional list of 19 possible candidates to pick from. Any one of these individuals would have been an excellent choice to receive this honor. But in the end, the members of the Lapeer Community Schools, LCS, Board of Education voted unanimously to name the facility the Rolland-Warner Middle School. Mrs. Doris Rolland truly is an extraordinary person, and I commend her for her dedication and tireless work to educate the youth of Lapeer County. Mrs. Rolland still resides in beautiful Mayfield Township with her husband. Her resume speaks volumes about her commitment and devotion to help children succeed in academics and life, and especially those with special needs. Mrs. Rolland was both a teacher and principal at Woodside School at Oakdale, which coincidentally is the site of the new facility. In addition, she supervised a staff of 300 people who worked in the residential unit, the research unit and the unit that housed students with emotional impairment. Mrs. Rolland also served for 10 years as director of special education that served 750 students and 200 staff. She demonstrated unwavering passion for her work, and never questioned her mission. I thank her for her devoted spirit and willingness to assist the future of Lapeer, and I also want to offer my sincere congratulations on this very appropriate honor. Mr. Ronald Warner held many positions during his 41 plus years career in the education field that concluded in 1984 when he retired as the Assistant Superintendent for the Lapeer Community Schools. However, Mr. Warner sadly passed away in June of 2008 at a tremendous loss to the community. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and friends. And his family should rest assured that his spirit and legacy continue to live on. Mr. Warner began his career in Almont and held various teaching and administrative positions within the district. Mr. Rolland consistently demonstrated to his students and colleagues an outstanding capacity for leadership and the ability to make a positive difference. He helped countless young people learn and grow by challenging them to expand their minds. His contributions are greatly appreciated, and I could not think of a better way to show this gratitude other than by placing his name on the new school. His family should be extremely proud of this achievement, and I applaud Mr. Rolland posthumously on this wonderful acknowledgement. August 27th will be a great day for the Lapeer Community Schools District and for the City of Lapeer as they pay tribute to Mrs. Doris Rolland and Mr. Ronald Warner, and I am pleased to have had the opportunity to do the same. I want to thank all parties involved for their hard work during the nomination process. The community can stand proud of these two individuals as they have their names remembered forever on the new facility. They are rightfully deserving of this prestigious distinction because they have laid a strong foundation on which to build and expand upon. In closing, I offer my encouragement and best wishes to all the teachers, students and parents who are a part of the Rolland-Warner Middle School family. The future is bright and your potential is limitless. Go Wolves!

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Madam Speaker, I want to thank my colleague, Ms. Edwards, for offering this important resolution. This resolution designates the fourth day of June, 2009 as National Children and Families Day. Our children are this nation's most important resource, and this resolution highlights the invaluable role families have in raising healthy, well-adjusted children. Families come in many different shapes and sizes, but they all play a critical role in the care and development of their children. Research shows that spending time together as a family is critical to raising strong and resilient kids. And studies have shown, the more often children eat dinner with their families, the less likely they are to smoke, drink or use drugs, so we should be in the business of supporting families. Early childhood experience lays the foundation for later development, and the first three years of a child's life are especially important. Investing resources in children and families will pay large dividends for our society, not only in increased productivity, but also for more opportunities for our children to realize their dreams. We must take it upon ourselves as a society to cultivate loving and supporting families whenever possible. National Children and Families Day provides us an opportunity to recognize our responsibility to foster family environments that nurture the next generation and to promote a positive environment for families across America. Lee Iacocca said it best when he said, ``The only rock I know that stays steady, the only institution I know that works is the family.'' I urge my colleagues to support this resolution.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Res. 519, Expressing appreciation to the people and Government of Canada for their long history of friendship and cooperation and congratulating Canada as it celebrates Canada Day. I'm proud to be an original cosponsor of this resolution, and I'd like to thank my good friend Bart Stupak for offering it. On July 1st, 1867 with the enactment of the British North America Act, Canada was united as a single country. Over the next 142 years, Canada has become one of our closest friends, our largest trading partner and a steadfast ally. And in the wake of 9/11, Canada has been a stalwart partner, sending troops to Afghanistan as part of the NATO coalition. They have stood shoulder to shoulder with us as we conduct our difficult mission to rid Afghanistan of the Taliban and give the Afghanis hope for a life free from tyranny and repression. Our Canadian friends have been vital as we work to secure the homeland on our shared waterways and long land borders. Cooperation is the key to securing the homeland along the Northern Border, and I'm pleased to say that we have a great partner in Canada. In southeast Michigan, cross-border communities symbolize the relationship we share with our Canadian neighbors. Detroit, Michigan and Windsor, Ontario jointly celebrate Canada Day and the United States' Independence Day with the International River Days. This festival lasts several weeks, culminating in one of the largest and most spectacular fireworks displays in North America. I want to wish our neighbors and friends in Canada a happy and prosperous Canada Day. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information regarding earmarks I received as part of H.R. 3293 the Department of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2010. Requesting Member: Congressman Candice S. Miller Bill Number: H.R. 3293 Labor, Health and Human Services and Education Appropriations Act of 2010 Account: FIPSE Legal Name of Requesting Entity: St. Clair County Community College Address of Requesting Entity: 323 Erie St., Port Huron, MI 48061 Description of Request: This request, in the amount of $100,000.00, would be used to further facilitate and develop curriculum for their Water Quality Technology Program. Requesting Member: Congressman Candice S. Miller Bill Number: H.R. 3293, Labor, Health and Human Services and Education Appropriations Act of 2010 Account: Administration for Children and Families--Social Services Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Eva's Place Domestic Violence Shelter Address of Requesting Entity: P.O. Box 29, Sandusky, MI 48471 Description of Request: This request, in the amount of $200,000.00, would be used for shelter funding and to further facilitate domestic violence shelter programs. Requesting Member: Congressman Candice S. Miller Bill Number: H.R. 3293, Labor, Health and Human Services and Education Appropriations Act of 2010 Account: Administration for Children and Families--Social Services Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Huron County Safe Place Domestic Violence Shelter Address of Requesting Entity: P.O. Box 8, Bad Axe, MI 48316 Description of Request: This request, in the amount of $150,000.00, would be used for shelter funding and to further facilitate domestic violence shelter programs. Requesting Member: Congressman Candice S. Miller Bill Number: H.R. 3293, Labor, Health and Human Services and Education Appropriations Act of 2010 Account: Administration for Children and Families--Social Services Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Lapeer Area Citizens Against Domestic Assault Address of Requesting Entity: P.O. Box 356, Lapeer, MI 48446 Description of Request: This request, in the amount of $200,000.00, would be used for shelter funding and to further facilitate domestic violence shelter programs. Requesting Member: Congressman Candice S. Miller Bill Number: H.R. 3293, Labor, Health and Human Services and Education Appropriations Act of 2010 Account: Administration for Children and Families--Social Services Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Safe Horizons Domestic Violence Shelter Address of Requesting Entity: P.O. Box 610968, Port Huron, MI 48061 Description of Request: This request, in the amount of $200,000.00, would be used for shelter funding and to further facilitate domestic violence shelter programs.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information regarding earmarks I received as part of H.R. 2892, the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act of 2010. Requesting Member: Congressman Candice S. Miller Bill Number: H.R. __ Transportation, Housing and Urban Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2010 Account: AIP Legal Name of Requesting Entity: St. Clair County International Airport Address of Requesting Entity: 177 Ash Dr., Kimball, MI 48074 Description of Request: This request, in the amount of $500,000.00, would be used to extend the runway thus allowing larger and heavier aircraft to access St. Clair County. This airport has provided commercial, corporate and general aviation services for over 55 years. Requesting Member: Congressman Candice S. Miller Bill Number: H.R. __, Transportation, Housing and Urban Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2010 Account: Transportation and Community and System Preservation Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Sanilac County Address of Requesting Entity: 60 W. Sanilac Rd., Sanilac County Courthouse, Room 214, Sandusky, MI 48471 Description of Request: This request, in the amount of $250,000.00, would be used to continue to build a bike path between Lexington and Port Sanilac. This is a great need in the area for a safe and secure bike path that is isolated from motorized traffic. This project is also expected to help promote tourism in the area. Requesting Member: Congressman Candice S. Miller Bill Number: H.R. __, Transportation, Housing and Urban Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2010 Account: Transportation and Community and System Preservation Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of New Baltimore Address of Requesting Entity: 36535 Green St., New Baltimore, MI 48047 Description of Request: This request, in the amount of $250,000.00, would be used for a non-motorized pedestrian path to be located on the east side of County Line Road between Green St. and Hobarth Rd. This will address the need for a safe, non-motorized route along a major thoroughfare of County Line Rd. and offer direct access to Anchor Bay High School. Requesting Member: Congressman Candice S. Miller Bill Number: H.R. __, Transportation, Housing and Urban Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2010 Account: Economic Development Initiatives Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Marine City Address of Requesting Entity: 303 S. Water St., Marine City, MI 48039 Description of Request: This request, in the amount of $250,000.00, would be used to help rehabilitate the City Hall which is on the historical register. It would restore the interior and exterior of the building. The surrounding grounds have become the cornerstone of Marine City's historic district.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, when the economic stimulus plan was passed earlier this year, the American people were told that we had to act immediately because of our economic crisis. We were also told that that plan would create or save 3 million jobs and that the unemployment rate would not rise above 8 percent, and that we had to act so fast that actually not one Member of this House or the American people had a chance to read the bill. And what has actually happened since that time? Well, the economy hasn't gained 3 million jobs. It's actually lost 3 million jobs. Where are the jobs? Unemployment is almost 10 percent. In my home State of Michigan, it is 15.2 percent today, and $787 billion has been added to our national debt and we have an annual deficit approaching $2 trillion. Mr. Speaker, now we're being told that we need to pass health care reform immediately because we're in a crisis. We're told that it will be deficit neutral because it includes massive new taxes on individuals and small businesses. But CBO says that it will actually increase the deficit, Mr. Speaker, while others say that it will force millions of Americans out of their private health insurance. We do need to reform our health care system, but doing it in such a panic mode is a recipe for disaster.