Doris Matsui

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlelady for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to the rule and the underlying legislation. Well, here we go again. In fact, I've lost count of how many times we've had to vote on a bill to repeal the Affordable Care Act. The underlying legislation before us today would deny my constituents and the American people access to affordable health care. It would increase health costs and reduce benefits for millions of American families. It's particularly ironic that during Older Americans Month, we are here voting on a bill that will eliminate benefits to seniors, including preventive services and savings on prescription drugs. It would allow insurance companies to deny coverage to Americans with preexisting conditions, drop coverage when people get sick, reinstitute lifetime limits on coverage and charge people more based merely on gender. The Affordable Care Act has already created long-lasting benefits for many of my constituents, including Theresa, a single mother of four whose youngest child is 20 and lives with a preexisting condition. Prior to the Affordable Care Act, Theresa was personally spending over $10,000 a year to pay for her care. Her daughter's medical condition prevented her from attending college. But thanks to the Affordable Care Act, she was able to be added back on to her mother's health plan. This has meant tremendous savings for Theresa, who was worried she might lose her home, along with the care her daughter desperately needed. A vote against this rule and against the underlying legislation is a vote to protect our constituents from unfair insurance company practices, to provide relief to Americans, young and old alike, to protect job growth and creation, and for a fiscally responsible future. It is time for this Congress to move forward, not backwards. I urge my colleagues to vote down this rule and the underlying legislation.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Thank you very much. I ask unanimous consent to insert my statement in the Record opposing the GOP's heartless Mother's Day gift--more work and less pay for working moms. Happy Mother's Day.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. I thank the gentlelady for yielding me time. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of defeating the previous question. Putting people back to work is our number one priority. Mr. Connolly's bill, which is part of the Make It In America agenda, will strengthen our economy by creating jobs and spurring innovation throughout the American manufacturing sector. One area where we must assert world leadership is in clean energy technologies. This is why I have introduced the Clean Energy Technology Manufacturing and Export Assistance Act, legislation that is part of the Make It In America agenda. This bill will help clean energy technology companies access the world market and ensure these companies have the resources they need to export their products. Let's face it, the clean energy technology industry is growing rapidly. New jobs will be created, if not here, then in places like China and Germany. In my home district of Sacramento, we have over 200 clean energy companies, the majority of which are small businesses. Clean World Partners is a local company that is converting everyday items like food and waste into energy. Altergy Systems manufactures fuel cell power systems. These small business owners want to expand their manufacturing operations and export their clean energy technologies to foreign markets, but they need our help, and they need it now. I urge my colleagues to defeat the previous question and immediately take up the Connolly bill, which is part of the Make It In America agenda, to show the American public we are serious about investing in our economy.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in celebration of Gregory Kondos, a friend and renowned artist, as we celebrate his extraordinary career and his upcoming 90th birthday. Gregory is often noted as one of the finest California landscape artists, receiving a number of awards for his exquisite ability to capture beauty. As his family, friends, colleagues and fellow artists all gather to honor his remarkable career, I ask my colleagues to join me in tribute to Gregory Kondos. A resident of Sacramento for over eight decades, Gregory began his career and artistic training at Sacramento City College, later to receive both his Bachelor's and Master's in Art from California State University in Sacramento. He would later return to Sacramento City College to teach within the Art Department for 27 years, and served as the director of the campus gallery. Gregory's art is simply breathtaking, capturing California's beauty like few others ever have. I have long been an admirer of Gregory's work, and am thankful to have one of his paintings of the Sacramento River in my office. In Sacramento our rivers are our identity and the painting reminds me of Sacramento's ties to water and the benefits and challenges that brings. His California and Sacramento landscape pieces are amazing works of art that truly capture the essence and beauty of the region. After decades of work, Gregory and his art continue to be great ambassadors for the Sacramento region. His collections have been on display in numerous museums including the Monterey Museum of Art, the Hirshhorn in Washington D.C., Yosemite Museum and the National Academy Museum and School of Fine Arts in Manhattan. Additionally, Gregory has been recognized by a number of awards and accolades including being elected to the National Academy of Design. To celebrate Gregory's 90th birthday and his career as both an artist and teacher, the Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento is displaying over 70 pieces of his work in an exhibit, ``A Touch of Blue: Landscapes by Gregory Kondos.'' Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to recognize the many contributions made by Gregory Kondos to the people of Sacramento and our nation. As Gregory, his wife Moni, friends, and colleagues celebrate his achievement, I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking him for his contributions and in celebrating his birthday and exceptional artistry.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. I thank the gentlelady from New York for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support for the bipartisan, Senate- passed Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act. Since the Violence Against Women Act first became law in 1994, the incidence of domestic violence is down more than 60 percent. It is with that same record of success that we should address the prevalence of domestic violence in underserved communities. In my district of Sacramento, we are fortunate to have an organization called WEAVE, which provides crisis intervention services to domestic violence and sexual assault victims. Recently, WEAVE admitted a woman and her 8-year-old son, Tucker, to their safe house. By the time Tucker reached the safe house, his father's verbal abuse had convinced him that he was stupid and insignificant. For an 8-year- old boy to no longer smile, to play games, to enjoy life is heartbreaking. Fortunately, Tucker's mother rescued herself and her son by using the resources that the Violence Against Women Act makes available. Tucker is now living away from his father, in counseling, and on his way to a happy and healthy future. Time and time again we hear that programs like this break the cycle of domestic violence. We must view this legislation not just as a women's issue, but as a family issue, as a community issue that touches all of our lives. It is essential for all past and future victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking that we strengthen and reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act. I urge my colleagues to reauthorize an all-inclusive version of the Violence Against Women Act.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, for far too long our country has ignored the blatant warning signals that climate change is real, and its effects are happening all around us, from droughts to wildfires to extreme flooding. The time to act is now. Numerous reports indicate that we are dangerously close to losing the window of opportunity in which we can meaningfully address climate change. My district of Sacramento has already been working hard to implement commonsense policies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By developing cutting-edge clean energy technology and creating energy retrofit programs, my constituents understand the urgent need to tackle this issue head-on. Now is the time for Congress to follow their lead and show that we, too, are committed to mitigating and reversing the devastating effects of climate change. Failure to heed new warnings and take action will have drastic economic and environmental effects, not just for our generation, but for our children and grandchildren. The time to act is now.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Chief Rick Braziel as he retires from the Sacramento Police Department, an organization he served admirably over three decades. As the Chief of Police since 2008 and a member of the department since 1979, Rick has been pivotal in upholding and carrying out the mission of the Sacramento Police Department and his leadership will be missed. I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring one of Sacramento's finest public servants. Prior to serving as Chief of Police, Rick, who is a graduate of California State University-Sacramento and the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School, was appointed as the Deputy Chief of the Offices of Operations, Investigations, Technical Services, and Homeland Security and Emergency Services. Rick is a co-author of the book titled Cop Talk: Essential Communicating Skills for Community Policing and is nationally recognized for his instruction in communication skills on this topic. Over the past three decades with the department, Rick has rose through the ranks, holding a variety of positions including K9 Handler, Patrol Sergeant and Watch Commander, and Captain of Special Units and Narcotics. He has also received several professional commendations including the Silver Medal of Valor, Distinguished Service Award, and a Unit Citation. Rick is often noted by his colleagues for his innovative leadership guiding the police force to more effective ways of addressing and preventing crime. Outside of the police department, Rick enjoys competing in marathons and triathlons, and participating in both the Ironman Triathlon World Championships in Hawaii and the three thousand mile, Race Across America, bicycling race in 2012. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize the numerous contributions made by Chief Rick Braziel during his service to the people of Sacramento and our nation. As Rick, his wife Karen, their children, his friends, and colleagues celebrate his retirement, I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking and recognizing him for his many years of service.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. I would like to thank my friend, the gentlelady from Hawaii, for organizing this time for all of us to honor Daniel Inouye. It's with heavy heart that I rise here today in support of this resolution honoring the late Senator Inouye. On December 17, our country lost a beloved leader, an American hero, and a man I was honored to call my friend. Rising to become the most senior Member of the United States Senate, Senator Inouye will be remembered, not only for his distinguished record as a legislator, but also for his heroism on the battlefield. Senator Inouye served his country on the battlefields of Europe during World War II and earned the Nation's highest honor for military valor, the Medal of Honor. As a soldier, Senator Inouye fought for the lives of American citizens back home to protect his fellow servicemen and also for the ideals our country stands for: equality, justice, and freedom. When he joined politics, the only thing that changed was his battlefield. Senator Inouye was a giant in Congress who demonstrated his strong love for his country and belief in American ideals with every action he took. He was a man who stood by his convictions and fought for what he believed and was never afraid to reach across the aisle and look for bipartisan solutions to some of our Nation's most pressing problems. And while his presence was certainly strongly felt here in the Capitol, he remained accessible to and was loved, not only by his constituents in Hawaii, but across this country. When I put the word out to my California constituents that Senator Inouye had passed away and that Congress had lost one of its greatest leaders, I received an outpouring of comments from my constituents expressing their sorrow and sharing stories of ways that Senator Inouye had touched their lives. Even in my district of Sacramento, California, Senator Inouye was well known, well respected, and well loved. As the highest serving Asian American in our country's history, Senator Inouye was a true inspiration to the Asian American community. As a Member of Congress, my late husband, Bob Matsui, worked closely with Senator Inouye on the movement for Japanese American redress and reparations. Together with colleagues, they helped secure a formal government apology for innocent Japanese Americans who were victims of one of our country's darkest moments. It will be impossible to find a stronger voice for our Nation's veterans than Senator Inouye. He was instrumental in getting the Congressional Gold Medal awarded to several military units from World War II, units composed almost entirely of persons of Japanese ancestry who exhibited exceptional bravery on the battlefield while their own families were in interment camps here at home. Earlier this year, I worked closely with Senator Inouye to ensure that the Congressional Gold Medal toured the country so everyone could have the opportunity to learn about the bravery and heroism of these veterans. This is the type of man Senator Inouye was. He was a man who, up to the very end, worked tirelessly to bring recognition to those who deserve it the most. Senator Inouye devoted his life to serving his country. He was an inspiration and a role model--a real role model--an example of what every public servant should strive to be. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Irene, his son Ken, and their family, and especially to his granddaughter Maggie, whom we will make sure hears about the stories of her great-grandfather. On a personal level, when my husband passed away some 8 years ago, I recall how generous and sincere Dan Inouye was towards me and my family during those difficult days. I know this is a difficult time, but it is my sincere hope that there is some comfort in knowing that his legacy of remarkable service and dedication to our country, his love of country, will live on for generations to come. He was truly a giant.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. I'd like to thank my colleague for yielding. I also want to say, Madam Speaker, thank you for your many wonderful years of service and our friendship. We'll miss you in this Chamber, and we wish you well. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 1845, the Medicare IVIG Access Act. I'd like to thank Congressman Brady for his hard work and his leadership on this legislation, as well as Congressman Kind for the leadership on the SMART Act provisions of this important legislation. Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases or, as we call it, PIDDs, is a group of diseases that cause a person's immune system to be unable to function properly. Unlike most of us who are able to fight common infectious diseases, patients with untreated PIDD can become seriously ill from a simple cold virus or even a cut on their arm. Patients with PIDD are generally treated with intravenous immunoglobulin, or IVIG, a complex drug that provides them a temporary immune system. Every 3-4 weeks, patients receive an IV treatment for about 2-4 hours per treatment. To maintain a healthy immune system, they must have this treatment for the rest of their lives. People with commercial insurance typically receive care in any of three settings: hospital outpatient departments; a physician's office; or at home, administered by a nurse. For many patients, receiving their care at home is optimal, as it greatly reduces the risk of infection. However, for Medicare beneficiaries with PIDD, the program pays for home infusion of IVIG but does not cover nursing services and supplies. As you can imagine, a 74-year-old Medicare recipient on a fixed income is not capable of paying the several hundred dollars a month necessary for the nurse to provide IVIG infusions in their homes. As a result, many patients are forced to receive their treatment in a hospital setting, oftentimes increasing the likelihood of infection, pneumonia, and an expensive stay in a hospital billed to Medicare. Madam Speaker, this does not make sense for the patient or for Medicare, and that's why Congressman Brady and I introduced the Medicare IVIG Access Act. Madam Speaker, this legislation is budget-neutral and fully paid for. H.R. 1845 creates a 3-year demonstration project capped at 4,000 patients, in which the nursing services and supplies associated with home infusion of IVIG will be covered for Medicare beneficiaries with PIDD. I believe that this project will mirror the results of studies of patients with commercial insurance that found increased compliance, fewer infections and overall savings for patients infused at home versus the hospital. Madam Speaker, patients with rare genetic diseases should not see their access to care diminish when they become eligible for Medicare. H.R. 1845 fixes the gap in Medicare coverage that unfairly restricts patients' access to IVIG and disrupts their continuity of care. I strongly encourage my colleagues to vote for this critically important legislation.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise this evening to pay tribute to the innocent victims who were tragically struck down in Newtown, Connecticut, and to condemn in the strongest possible terms the senseless act of violence that claimed their lives. That so many victims were young children who had their entire lives ahead of them makes the shooting even more heart-wrenching. The children were so young. We saw in each of them our own children, our grandchildren. They really are America's children. Jack Pinto, 6 years old, the same age as my grandson, Robbie. He was a huge New York Giants fan and today was buried in a Giants jersey. And Noah Pozner, who is also 6, whose best friend was his twin sister, Arielle, who was in another class and survived, though I'm sure she felt she lost her other self. These children were truly innocent, mostly knowing in their short lives just joy and little about the brutality in this world until they experienced it firsthand on Friday. What gives us hope is that there was also love and bravery in the actions of the adults, the educators and first responders who acted selflessly and heroically. We will forever remember all of them and pledge that their purity and spirit will be our guiding light to act to protect our children and our community.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. I'd like to thank the gentleman from California (Mr. Miller) for yielding time to me and for bringing us together. Mr. Speaker, when the 113th Congress starts next year we'll be greeting many new colleagues, and that means we'll have to say goodbye to some of our current colleagues, both Republican and Democrat. The California Democratic Congressional Delegation is saying goodbye to six members: Representatives Stark, Berman, Woolsey, Filner, Baca, and Richardson. While in Congress, these Members served as strong advocates for their constituents, for California, and for our country. For their many years of service, these six Members have amassed a depth of institutional knowledge that will be missed come next Congress. First of all, I want to pay tribute to my good friend, Congressman Howard Berman. Howard Berman has served for 30 years. I first met Howard when he was living in my hometown of Sacramento. He was serving in the State legislature at the time. His daughter, Brinley, and my son, Brian, were in prekindergarten together, so we would see each other as we dropped off our kids. Little did we know then that we would end up being friends, both serving here in Congress. You know, we've all learned a lot from Howard. We've learned to depend on him, his counsel, and his advice. His knowledge and leadership, particularly on foreign affairs, have been invaluable to Congress. His absence from this Chamber will be strongly felt, and he will be sorely missed, but will forever be a friend. Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey has been a strong advocate--I wouldn't say harsh--strong, for families during her time in Congress. She was also one of the founding members of the Out of Iraq Caucus, where she acted as a leading proponent of bringing our brave servicemen and -women home from war. Congressman Woolsey fought for those whose voices were often not heard, and her advocacy and spirit will be very much missed. As the dean of the California Democratic Congressional Delegation, Congressman Pete Stark has been a leader and a mentor to many Members from California over the years. He has been a champion on health care issues for a very long time, and his work on the Affordable Care Act improved the law and helped ensure all Americans access to quality, affordable health care. We'll always remember his very important contribution. Congressman Bob Filner was the ranking member of the Committee on Veterans Affairs and dedicated his career to helping ensure our returning veterans have the services they need and were promised before serving our country. We'll miss him here in Congress, but I know he'll make a mark as mayor in the city of San Diego. Joe Baca has been a strong advocate for California's expansive agriculture industry while in Congress. He has worked tirelessly on behalf of the workers themselves, making sure they receive the civil and legal rights they deserve. Congresswoman Laura Richardson has worked hard to keep America safe as a member of the Homeland Security Committee. Her commitment to the safety and security of our country and her constituents was unwavering, and she will be missed next year. California is a large State with many needs and priorities, but our delegation is strong. During their time in office, these Members have been esteemed colleagues, and it has been an honor to work alongside of them. Their knowledge, passion, and commitment to public service will be greatly missed in these Halls. And I wish to thank each of them for their service and wish them the best in their next adventure.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Sacramento City Councilman Robert King Fong who has successfully served the people of Sacramento for the past fourteen years, most recently for eight years on the City Council and previously for six years on the Sacramento City Unified School District Board of Trustees. As his colleagues, friends and family gather to celebrate his career and his outstanding accomplishments, I ask all my colleagues to join me in recognizing Councilman Fong as an outstanding public servant. Councilman Fong is a third generation Sacramentan who attended McClatchy High School, the same high school that my late husband Robert Matsui attended. He then went on to receive his undergraduate degree from the University of California, Berkeley and his law degree from the University of California, Davis School of Law. After college, Councilman Fong returned to Sacramento where he practiced law and began his life in public service. He was elected to the City Council in 2004 with over 75% of the vote. Among Councilman Fong's many accomplishments was his involvement in creating a trade partnership with the city of Chongqing, China. Close to home, he was an unwavering supporter of a number of key projects, such as the R Street Improvement Project, Southside Park Improvements, and public art projects in the Southside Community Garden and the Fremont Community Garden. Councilman Fong was fortunate to represent many of Sacramento's most unique neighborhoods, including Land Park, Newton Booth, Poverty Ridge, Southside Park, Downtown, Midtown, and River Oaks. He balanced the neighborhoods' needs with city priorities, always with an eye on the big picture. This afforded him many opportunities to advocate for issues critical to the Sacramento region, including greater transportation options and improved flood protection. Councilman Fong has also been devoted to finding additional aid for the homeless and promoting arts in local schools. Mr. Speaker, as Councilman Fong's children Rebecca and Christian, friends and colleagues gather to honor him for his service to the people of Sacramento and to wish him well in future endeavors, I ask all my colleagues to join me in thanking him for helping make Sacramento a great place to live, work and play.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sacramento City Councilwoman Sandy Sheedy, as she steps down from the Sacramento City Council after 12 years of honorable service. As her colleagues, friends and family gather to honor her dedication to the people of Sacramento, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Councilwoman Sheedy's outstanding leadership as a public servant. Councilwoman Sheedy was born and raised in Colusa, California. Before being elected to the City Council, she served with distinction on various commissions and boards including the City Planning Commission, the Sacramento County Civil Service Commission, the Stanford Settlement Board, the Sacramento Association for the Retarded and the Camellia Symphony Orchestra. Councilwoman Sheedy was elected to the Sacramento City Council in 2000. As Councilwoman, she served as Chair of the City Council's Code Enforcement Ad Hoc Committee and sponsored a wide variety of local ordinances, including the promotion of a stronger local government role in curbing tobacco sales to minors and codes against illegal trash dumping and dangerous dogs. She extended her reach to as many citywide issues as possible, while always fighting for the Del Paso Heights, Robla, and North Sacramento neighborhoods. Her tenure on the City Council included the construction of a new fire station in North Sacramento and the city's first ``green street'' project, which allowed for the beautification of Dixieanne Avenue. In addition, Councilwoman Sheedy has been a long-time patron of public parks as she looked over the construction of five new parks, and I had the pleasure of joining with her for the opening of Five Star Park in 2008. Councilwoman Sheedy also helped upgrade the bridges and streetlights throughout her district, which were in clear need of repair. Councilwoman Sheedy represented the City of Sacramento well, serving on the boards of the Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District, the Sacramento Regional Solid Waste Authority, the Sacramento Metropolitan Cable Television Commission and the Sacramento Public Library Authority. As she dedicated her energy to the betterment of the people of Sacramento, Councilwoman Sheedy leaves the City Council with a high level of energy and large possibilities for the continued revitalization of District 2. Mr. Speaker, as Councilwoman Sandy Sheedy's husband Ted, family, friends and colleagues gather to commemorate her for her service to the people of Sacramento, I ask all my colleagues to join me in saluting this dedicated public servant for helping make Sacramento a better place for families to live and prosper.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in tribute to Mr. Arnie Godmintz, an activist and well-known Sacramento community leader who passed away on October 4th. Arnie was a prominent progressive leader in the Sacramento region, and his death leaves a great void in the community. As his family and friends gather to honor and remember his life, I ask all my colleagues to join me in saluting a committed and well-respected figure in Sacramento. Arnie led a fascinating life, devoted to fighting for progressive causes. Most of his work was done on his own free time and focused on the rights of the underserved and needy. Arnie's roots in activism began at a young age. After earning an economics degree from Harvard University, he worked as an organizer for auto workers. He later worked for the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs encouraging companies to find work for unemployed American Indians on reservations in Arizona and New Mexico. Arnie had to go through a lot to help those whose voices were often unheard. At one time, during the civil rights movement, Arnie was arrested while driving supplies to ``freedom schools'' for African- American children in the South. His advocacy led him to the same location where FBI agents discovered the bodies of murdered activists James Chaney, Andrew Goodman and Michael Schwerner. Those events became a part of Arnie, deeply affecting him and became his motivation to continue to advocate for the less privileged. Throughout all of his efforts, Arnie stayed humble and never spoke about himself, although he was always a passionate advocate for the underdog and often unpopular causes. Arnie was also greatly involved in local politics, donating his time, energy and enthusiasm for causes near to his heart. He was a leader in the Sacramento County Democratic Party, often organizing meetings and coordinating campaign events. He donated his time, marched at rallies, worked phone banks and walked door to door for issues he believed would improve our country. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize the numerous contributions made by Mr. Arnie Godmintz during his lifetime of service to the people of Sacramento and our Nation. As his family and friends gather to honor his wonderful legacy and countless contributions, I am honored to pay tribute to him. I ask all my colleagues to pause and join me in paying respect to an extraordinarily loving man, Arnie Godrnintz.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the Sacramento Chapter of the Japanese American Citizens League, and congratulate the chapter as they celebrate their 17th annual community awards dinner. Through their long history, the Sacramento JACL has been dedicated to advancing the civil rights of all Americans, deterring hate crimes across the Nation, and helping to lead the Japanese-American community to social and economic equality. On Thursday, November 15, 2012, the Sacramento Japanese American Citizens League will host its 17th annual community awards dinner. During the dinner, the Sacramento JACL will honor: the Sacramento Japanese United Methodist Church, one of the oldest Japanese-American congregations in Northern California; the Sacramento Senator Lions Club, a civic organization that provides its members with opportunities to serve the community through fundraising and hands-on projects; and the Sakura Minyo Doo Koo Kai, a troupe that performs traditional Japanese folk song and dance. These three organizations and their members have worked diligently to serve the community, teach others about the history of Japanese-Americans, and help preserve the Japanese culture. They stand as organizations that truly embrace the dinner's theme of ``Bunka Isan,'' helping the community honor the lives of their ancestors and celebrating their own lives as Americans. During the dinner, the Sacramento JACL will also honor my friend and colleague, California Assemblywoman Mariko Yamada. Mariko has dedicated her life to serving the public in many capacities: working as an investigator for the U.S. Department of Commerce's Office for Civil Rights; as a member of the Yolo County Board of Supervisors; and now representing her constituents in the California State Assembly. She has had tremendous success in the California Assembly, passing landmark bills that imposed greater criminal penalties on assailants that abuse the elderly and disabled, provided increased housing and employment opportunities for our veterans, and reformed government policies to protect consumers from negligence and fraud. Mariko has made California and our Nation a better place for all, and is truly worthy of tonight's honoring. Mr. Speaker, I hereby recognize and commend the Sacramento Chapter of the Japanese American Citizens League and their honorees for their continued service to Sacramento, California and our Nation. I ask all my colleagues to join with me in wishing them continued success and support as they work to protect the civil rights of all our citizens, and preserve the history of Japanese-Americans.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Friends of Light Rail and Transit as they celebrate their 25th anniversary. As supporters and members of this fine organization gather together to celebrate a quarter century of steadfast public transit advocacy, I ask all my colleagues to join me in recognizing them for their efforts to advocate for the improvement and expansion of bus and light rail service in Sacramento. For the past 25 years, Friends of Light Rail and Transit has been a staunch supporter of public transportation in the Sacramento area. Since the inception of light rail in 1987, they have been instrumental in the growth and promotion of the public transportation system in the Sacramento region. With Friends of Light Rail and Transit's support, the Sacramento Regional Transit District has continued to expand light rail service in Sacramento and most recently add the new Green Line, which will eventually link Natomas and the Sacramento Airport to the rest of the light rail system. Friends of Light Rail and Transit has also fought for improved bus service for every neighborhood in the region. Friends of Light Rail and Transit have hosted, sponsored and participated in countless community workshops for transit oriented planning projects across the region. They have pushed decision makers and policymakers to ensure public transit is at the forefront of their minds. Headed by Executive Director Seann Rooney and Board President Dain Domich, this great organization has been prominent in voicing their support for improved air quality, infill development, and congestion relief; consistently and tirelessly pushing for a better tomorrow. Mr. Speaker, as members and supporters of Friends of Light Rail and Transit gather to celebrate this milestone, and their many achievements over the last 25 years, I ask my colleagues to join me in saluting these fine individuals for their excellent work and commitment to our community.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Chairman, the No More Solyndras Act is just the latest scheme by the majority party to distract from the real issues that affect our economy and to attack America's clean energy investments and future. While Solyndra did not achieve its goals, other projects did, and they have made great investments in clean energy infrastructure and job creation. Not every investment works out, as the private sector well knows. One failure is not a valid reason to condemn the entire DOE loan guarantee program, a program created in a bipartisan manner to further our energy independence and spur economic growth. In fact, an independent report by Herb Allison earlier this year confirms that the program actually holds less risk than originally envisioned when Congress first created and funded the program. American companies are fighting an uphill battle against foreign countries that aggressively subsidize their clean energy industries. Last year, China and Germany both heavily invested in their clean energy future. We cannot and should not depend on foreign-made clean energy technologies. In order to remain competitive in the global marketplace, the Federal Government must continue to play an active role in encouraging and promoting investment in clean energy technologies. Not only does this support help spur innovation, but the loan guarantee program has already generated $40 billion of direct private investment in the U.S. economy and is supporting 60,000 direct jobs in American clean energy industries. My home district of Sacramento, California, is home to nearly 14,000 clean technology jobs and houses more than 230 clean technology companies. These are small business owners who understand the need for Federal investment to help level the playing field at home and in the global marketplace. These companies hold the promise of making us the world leader in clean energy technology while simultaneously creating good-paying jobs, lowering energy prices, and preserving and protecting our environment. This partisan bill would take us backwards in this pursuit, and I urge my colleagues to vote against it.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Teichert, Inc. and its employees as the company celebrates its 125th anniversary. For well over a century, this company has enabled the Sacramento region to grow and prosper into the wonderful place it is today. As Teichert's management, staff and business partners gather to celebrate the company's 125th anniversary, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Teichert, Inc. and its rich history. Beginning with its inception in 1877, the company has truly captured the spirit of the American Dream. Its founder, Adolph Teichert emigrated from Germany with little more than a keen eye for outstanding craftsmanship and an unyielding drive to succeed. Adolph was soon hired by California Artificial Stone Company to supervise various construction projects, including laying concrete pavement around some of California's most recognizable landmarks, such as Golden Gate Park. Adolph then started his own construction firm and would become a pioneer in Sacramento's business community. Over the next few decades, Adolph's small business progressively expanded into a multifaceted corporation that is responsible for many of Sacramento region's highways, neighborhoods and iconic pieces of infrastructure. In 1912 the company became known as A. Teichert and Son when Adolf's son joined its ranks. Since its founding, Teichert has maintained its roots as a family business. Its current CEO, Jud Riggs is the 4th generation Teichert to lead the company and Fred Teichert leads the Teichert Foundation. The 5th generation of Teicherts are dutifully at work within the company's ranks. 125 years after its founding Teichert, Inc. is the proud holder of the State of California's oldest active contractor's license, license No. 8. The company has led a wide array of Northern California's most significant construction projects, varying from the construction of the Sacramento Weir in 1918 that has kept Sacramento safe from flooding to being an integral part of the team that built Sacramento International Airport's beautiful new state-of-the-art Terminal B, which opened in 2011 and now welcomes travelers to California's capital city. The company's values of ``building,'' ``trust,'' and ``tradition'' have helped sustain the company in good times and bad. The company has grown to include Teichert Construction, Teichert Materials, StoneBridge Properties, and Teichert Foundation embracing construction, aggregate production, real estate development, and charity. By encouraging employee philanthropy and honoring their commitment to the region, Teichert has created a special bond with the people of Sacramento. Above all of their industrial efforts, the company is celebrated for the charitable reach of the Teichert Foundation. The foundation's work is evident in many aspects of the Sacramento area, including the Boys and Girls Clubs' location in Lemon Hill that carries the Teichert name. Mr. Speaker, as the leadership and employees of Teichert, Inc. come together to celebrate the company's 125th anniversary, I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring their dedication to building the infrastructure that has made Sacramento what it is today. I am confident that the company's dedication the Sacramento community will stand for generations to come.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the service of Brice Harris, as he retires from his position as Chancellor of the Los Rios Community College District. Throughout his remarkable 16 years as chancellor, Mr. Harris has skillfully guided the district on a steady path leaving a lasting legacy across the Sacramento region. I ask all of my colleagues to join me in honoring this remarkable Sacramentan. Chancellor Harris joined the Los Rios Community College District in 1996. He had been serving as the President of Fresno City College and spent time in the leadership positions with community colleges in the Midwest. One of his many remarkable accomplishments as Chancellor was the oversight and accreditation of the district's fourth college, Folsom Lake College, which is a wonderful addition to the Sacramento region serving more than 9,000 students to date. Furthermore, his concern for students' ability to access a quality education, led him to fight to keep fees low in a time of budget cuts, encouraged light rail and public transit access to the district's colleges and led to efforts to pass local bond measures to expand Los Rios facilities. Under his leadership, the district began to create programs to meet both the needs of the local workforce and students transferring to the state's four year college system. Understanding the need for more nurses and healthcare professionals, Chancellor Harris formed the HealthForce program, which has strengthened and expanded the Los Rios' nursing programs. He then went on to create GreenForce, which encourages students to enter into, and train in, the growing clean technology fields. These initiatives exemplify Chancellor Harris' forward thinking approach to education and his unwavering drive to help students succeed. Chancellor Harris has been an outstanding member of the Sacramento community. He was honored by the Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce as ``Sacramentan of the Year'' and named ``Humanitarian of the Year'' by United Cerebral Palsy of Sacramento and Northern California. In addition, he has served as chair of the Sacramento Area Commerce and Trade Organization and of the Northern California World Trade Center. Chancellor Harris was also an active participant on the Crocker Art Museum Board of Directors. Mr. Speaker, as Chancellor Brice Harris prepares to retire I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing him continued good fortune in his future endeavors. Chancellor Harris has stood as an instrumental force behind the strengthening of Sacramento's education system and workforce, and we all are thankful for his efforts.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Asian Community Center of Sacramento Valley (ACC) as they celebrate their 25th anniversary. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the hardworking staff, volunteers and supporters of the ACC who have ensured that this fine organization has continued to provide valuable senior health and social services to Sacramento's seniors. Originally established as the Asian Nursing Home in 1987, the Asian Community Center offers a wide array of culturally sensitive services and programs dedicated to improving the lives of Sacramento's seniors and their families. Today, the ACC Nursing Home continues to provide 24-hour, long-term health and nursing care to vulnerable seniors. Recognizing the growing need to provide more culturally sensitive services to senior citizens in Sacramento, the Asian Nursing Home changed its name to the Asian Community Center and established its Park City activities center. Through Park City, the ACC is able to provide more than 150 classes each month in a variety of subjects including wellness, computer literacy, physical activity and art. Located at Park City, the ACC Respite program provides daily care to older adults with disabilities and impairments, and gives them the opportunity to participate in activities specific to frail adults, and those with Alzheimer's Disease, dementia or Parkinson's. In many cases, the ACC Respite program provides a valued service to the families of disabled and impaired adults, and gives them an opportunity to fulfill daily tasks, run errands and attend appointments. Additionally, in light of state and local budget cuts in 2010, the ACC then took over the operation of Sacramento's Meals on Wheels program. The ACC created a separate non-profit and accepted responsibility for the program as local service providers were faced with shutting down the program. Today, Meals on Wheels by ACC serves meals to 5,660 home bound seniors and older adults each week, and recently served its one millionth meal! Lastly, the Asian Community Center has been instrumental in the creation of the Bridge to Healthy Families program, which seeks to build strong support systems for the families caring for elders suffering from Alzheimer's disease or dementia. Through its many programs and services to seniors citizens and their families, the ACC has become an anchor in Sacramento. Mr. Speaker I am honored to recognize and celebrate the outstanding service of the Asian Community Center of Sacramento Valley on its 25th Anniversary. The Asian Community Center's success is owed in large part to its executive director, Donna Yee, its board of directors, staff, volunteers, and the countless supporters who keep it running each day. I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring their valuable contributions to the community and honoring their continued tradition of supporting Sacramento's seniors and vulnerable citizens.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the NeighborWorks HomeOwnership Center Sacramento Region and its employees as they celebrate their 25th anniversary. NeighborWorks is a nonprofit organization committed to improving the Sacramento community by increasing opportunities for families to purchase their own homes and preserving homeownership. I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring NeighborWorks Sacramento Region for their important contribution to the Sacramento community. Originally founded in 1987, NeighborWorks has grown tremendously and now serves the entire Sacramento Region as well as parts of California's Central Valley. Lead by a committed board of directors and CEO Pam Canada, the devoted staff and partners of NeighborWorks continually work alongside local residents to improve Sacramento's neighborhoods, and make the dream of homeownership a reality for all. For 25 years, NeighborWorks has been successful in increasing homeownership, assisting first-time home buyers, and empowering residents through education and community engagement. It is my privilege to serve as an honorary member of their Board of Trustees, as it was the honor of my late husband, Congressman Robert T. Matsui too. I have enjoyed working with Pam, and always find her and her staff to be responsive to the needs of my constituents. As our nation's foreclosure crisis continued this past year, the NeighborWorks Sacramento Region has counseled more than 19,800 customers on a variety of housing related issues including foreclosure prevention, refinancing and home purchasing. Through their 3 offices, they have prevented more than 400 foreclosures by helping these distressed homeowners acquire loan modifications, and assisted 2400 residents in purchasing affordable homes. In conjunction with the McGeorge School of Law, NeighborWorks has provided more than 670 customers with free legal services through the National Foreclosure Mitigation Counseling program. Through their work, they have helped hundreds of families avoid homelessness. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to the NeighborWorks HomeOwnership Center Sacramento Region on its 25th Anniversary. I am confident that the organization will continue to be a beacon for those seeking the American dream of homeownership. I ask all my colleagues to join me in recognizing the excellence of the staff and of NeighborWorks Sacramento Region who commit their lives and professional careers to the people of Sacramento.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the service of Mr. Rob Rigsby as he retires from the United States General Services Administration and his post at the Robert T. Matsui United States Courthouse. As his wife Marilyn, his friends and colleagues all gather to celebrate his outstanding career, I ask my colleagues to join me in tribute to Rob and his almost four decades of public service. Throughout his 37-year career in federal service, the last 13 years at the Robert T. Matsui United States Courthouse, Rob has become a well-loved and respected leader among his colleagues and building occupants. Rob began his post as Building Manager the day the building opened in 1999. Since then, he has been a loyal and hard working member of the building team and has devoted his time to making Sacramento's federal courthouse the remarkable building that it is today. My late husband, Congressman Robert Matsui, and I have had our district offices in the courthouse that Rob manages. I have got to know him over the years and always appreciated his attention to detail and customer service. Rob is no stranger to my district staff, who I know share my appreciation for his work. We will always be thankful for all that he has done to make both the Robert T. Matsui United States Courthouse and my district office an inviting place for all of my constituents. Beyond his work, Rob has always had a passion for travel and upon his retirement, he will be leaving us to embark on a new journey as the owner of Ships and Trips Travel. I also understand that he will be taking a much deserved cruise. Mr. Speaker, as Rob Rigsby prepares to retire from federal service, I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing him good fortune in his future endeavors. Rob has truly been a wonderful member of the federal family and will be missed by all of his friends and colleagues. I wish him well on the next chapter of his life.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. I thank the gentlelady from New York for yielding me time. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to this rule and the underlying legislation. This bill marks the 31st time that the Republicans attempted to repeal the Affordable Care Act, even though the Supreme Court of the United States has ruled it constitutional. Unfortunately, instead of focusing on job creation, here we are again. The underlying legislation exemplifies the majority's continuous drumbeat to abolish the ACA, fearful that Americans may have a chance to fully realize its tremendous benefits. Instead, the majority has only offered vague phrases and empty rhetoric, such as ``patient-centered health care,'' while repeatedly attempting to repeal legislation that will expand access to care for millions of Americans. Clearly, their idea of ``patient-centered health care'' refers only to those patients who can afford skyrocketing health insurance rates and do not have any preexisting conditions. What is the point of ``patient-centered health care'' when only a small portion of the public can access the care? The underlying legislation before us today would deny my constituents and the American people the consumer protections for which they've been asking for for years. This legislation would increase costs to families, small business owners, and seniors across the board. It would allow insurance companies to deny coverage to Americans with preexisting conditions, drop coverage when people get sick, re- institute lifetime limits on coverage, and charge people more based merely on gender. The ACA has already created long-lasting benefits for many of my constituents, including Paula, who, in March of 2010, was diagnosed with Ewing's sarcoma, a rare children's bone cancer, and given a 15 percent chance of survival. Initially, she was lucky to have health insurance. But at an average of $60,000 per chemotherapy treatment, she quickly approached her lifetime benefits cap. These are not burdens anyone can or should have to bear. Because of the ACA, she remained covered and was able to complete her full treatment plan. And in the future, because of the law, Paula will not have to fear being denied coverage due to this preexisting condition. It is time that we move forward and focus our efforts on job creation. I urge my colleagues to vote down this rule and vote against this underlying legislation.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. I thank the gentleman from Florida for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, this conference report includes a transportation bill that will help put Americans back to work and rebuild our infrastructure. It will also ensure that students will not see an interest rate hike on their loans. This package also includes a much-needed 5-year extension of the National Flood Insurance Program. This comes after 17 short-term extensions. Mr. Speaker, I represent Sacramento, which is the most at-risk metropolitan area for major flooding, as it lies at the confluence of the American and the Sacramento Rivers. Since Hurricane Katrina, more than 25,000 homeowners in my district have been remapped, and flood insurance is now mandatory for them. The average homeowner in Sacramento that has been remapped currently pays about $350 for a PRP policy. That's a preferred-rate policy. Beginning in 2013, they were set to pay $1,350 once the PRP rate expired. However, that is no longer the case. This bill contains a number of important provisions, including a flood insurance phase-in amendment offered during debate on the House NFIP bill last July. Instead of overnight sticker shock for homeowners, the provision allows for the price of flood insurance to be phased in at 20 percent per year over 5 years to the full policy price, when preferred-risk policies are no longer available in their community. Specifically, it will effectively allow homeowners next year, in 2013, residing in Sacramento and the rest of the country, to pay close to if not the same amount they're currently paying. Each year after that, the price of flood insurance will continue to be both affordable and predictable, only rising by 20 percent until it reaches full price in year five. This provision will save the average policyholder in a remapped area hundreds of dollars, if not a few thousand, over the next 5 years. Mr. Speaker, this provision offers real savings, especially in these trying economic times, whether it's for a senior citizen on a fixed income or a family struggling to make ends meet. Finally, I would like to commend Chairwoman Biggert and Ranking Member Waters for working with me, for their continuous efforts to preserve this amendment and work towards achieving this 5-year extension.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Girl Scouts Heart of Central California and the Girl Scouts of the United States of America as they celebrate their 100th anniversary. As Girl Scouts across the country and those in Sacramento gather to celebrate this remarkable milestone, I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring the Girl Scouts' important role nationally and in the Sacramento community. The Girl Scouts began under the guidance of Juliette Gordon Low who founded the organization with a handful of girls seeking new experiences and opportunities in their communities. Over the last century they have grown to a membership of over 3.2 million girls and adults, including nearly 29,000 girls and 11,000 adult volunteers in Sacramento and Central California. Over the last one hundred years, the Girl Scouts of the United States of America has provided many services to their scouts' communities and to this country. During World War I, the Girl Scouts sold war bonds to help fund the war effort; the Great Depression saw them running food drives and volunteering in hospitals; they grew Victory Gardens during World War II; they supported the civil rights movement in the 1960s; and after the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, they reached out to a shaken America with special services to the community and for first responders. With the help of parent volunteers and other adults giving their time and effort to the organization, the Girl Scouts have been able to grow and continue their legacy as a resource for our daughters, nieces, and granddaughters. They cultivate service, character, appreciation for diversity, and confidence in young girls, fostering new generations of female leaders. The Girl Scouts Heart of Central California provides programs that include activities encouraging girls to explore careers in the STEM fields--science, technology, engineering and math; an outreach program for girls in underserved rural and urban areas; and a Latino initiative reaching out to encourage first-generation Spanish- speaking women to serve as Girl Scout leaders. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to the Girl Scouts Heart of Central California and the Girl Scouts of the United States of America on its 100th anniversary. I am confident that the Girl Scouts will continue to affect positive change and help inspire girls across the nation. I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring the Girl Scouts of the United States of America and their outstanding service to our country.