Doris Matsui

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, Sacramento's flood risk is well documented. It is the most at-risk metropolitan area for major flooding in our nation. It is home to California's State Capitol, an international airport, and half a million people. If Sacramento were to flood the economic damages could reach up to $40 billion dollars. A critical component for protecting Sacramento from a disaster is the Natomas Levee Improvement Project. Local taxpayers have voted to tax themselves on two separate occasions to pay for this project. Moreover, in the absence of federal participation, the state and local governments have already completed 18 miles of levee improvements and will have spent upwards of $350 million on the project by the end of this year. The federal government has not been able to support this crucial flood protection project, because of the current ban on earmarks and this Congress's challenges in investing in our nation's infrastructure. The result of this is that construction is expected to stop this year leaving 100,000 of my constituents at risk. While I realize and appreciate that the authorization of Army Corps of Engineers projects is not within the purview of the Appropriations Committee, the topic is nonetheless important to raise. The underlying problem is the absolute prohibition against ``earmarks'' our Majority has imposed on this body, which is impeding our ability to our job. This moratorium has resulted in the stopping routine authorizing legislation our constituents badly need: a new Water Resources Development Act bill. Working with the Corps of Engineers, we have accomplished every conceivable review, documentation and approval requirement for this project to go forward, but Congress has still yet to act on the legislation necessary to move forward with these badly needed projects. The completed Chief's Report for this project was sent to Congress by the Corps over a year ago yet no action has taken place. One hundred thousand people, an international airport, hundreds of small businesses, a number of schools remain at risk. It is my sincere hope our Majority will reexamine its current moratorium to ensure local needs can be met. Everyone can agree that we must bring an end to wasteful, unjustified projects. But in our effort to throw out the wasteful, we've also thrown out the very worthy, and people's lives and livelihood are in jeopardy. To address the unjustified yet real prohibition resulting from the ``earmark'' label, I introduced legislation last month that is in full compliance with the House's rules: H.R. 4353, the ``Flood Protection Public Safety Act of 2012.'' This bill authorizes flood protection projects that have a completed Army Corps of Engineers Chief's Report that have been sent to Congress for approval. The bill would allow a small number of flood protection projects across the nation to move forward including those in Sacramento, Topeka, Cedar Rapids, and North Dakota. Congress faces a choice. Invest in our infrastructure today, or pay the price of recovering from a disaster tomorrow. We can all agree that preventing a disaster is a much wiser and cheaper solution. Though an authorization is outside the scope of the bill pending before us, I ask that this body forge a responsible, sensible policy on so-called earmarks, a policy that continues to stop wasteful projects but allows and even promotes worthwhile initiatives. For 200 years the federal government has been a partner with the states to provide for the public's safety. I urge my colleagues on the other side of the aisle to revise the current moratorium that is preventing Congress from responding to urgent public safety needs across the nation. I believe these matters are integral to the House of Representatives as a body and deserve each of our attention. I have written to the House's leadership urging them to revise this body's rules and provided responsible ways to ensure taxpayer money is protected, while allowing fully vetted projects to move forward. I look forward to working with you and our colleagues in the House in a bipartisan manner to address responsible reforms that will ensure critical public safety challenges are met, while ensuring taxpayer money is being spent wisely. It is my hope we can responsibly resolve this issue in a timely manner.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church and Dr. Ephraim Williams, who has been its Pastor for 41 years. As church members gather together to celebrate the completion of mortgage payments on the church's Family Life Center and the leadership of Dr. Williams, I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring St. Paul's important role in the Oak Park neighborhood and the larger Sacramento community. Since 1971, St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church has been a valuable community resource. Its congregation has grown 50-fold since its founding, and now has over 5,000 members. It has provided healthcare, tutoring, and employment assistance, facilitated charity in the community, established mentorship programs for local youth, and much more. St. Paul's dedication and service to its community has been nothing short of exemplary. This month, Dr. Williams will welcome congregation and community members in celebrating the completion of mortgage payments on the Family Life Center, a community center promoting active, healthy, and community-centric lifestyles. The facility includes classrooms, space for childcare and the arts, and hosts many community events. I am confident that the Family Life Center will continue to be a shared treasure of the Sacramento area. Dr. Williams' work in the community has earned him many awards and a great deal of recognition, from the California Legislature, the City of Sacramento, the Black American Political Association, and others. In 2011 he was awarded the Key to the City by the Mayor of Sacramento in recognition of his service as pastor. His leadership has made the St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church a staple in the City of Sacramento. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church and Dr. Ephraim Williams, as they celebrate their 41st year as a congregation and the completion of mortgage payments on the Family Life Center. I am confident that this church will continue its service to the Sacramento community under his stellar leadership. I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church's outstanding work in providing the community with invaluable services.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. I thank the gentlemen from New Jersey and Indiana. Mr. Chairman, in many areas of the country, such as the communities I represent, Federal flood control projects are essential. Indeed, Sacramento, California, is the most at-risk city in the Nation for potentially catastrophic flooding. I am a strong supporter of the work done by the Army Corps of Engineers to protect our communities and strengthen our levees. It is therefore with some reservation that I rise to address a matter where the Corps' good intentions could inadvertently have adverse consequences. In its laudable efforts to ensure that flood control levees function as intended, the Corps has issued draft guidelines regarding the presence of vegetation on and adjacent to flood control levees that could, if implemented without close collaboration with State and local authorities and without flexibility to take into account site-specific conditions, result in the unwarranted and unacceptable loss of critical environmental resources as well as the misapplication of limited Federal and non-Federal dollars. On May 18, I introduced H.R. 5831, the Levee Vegetation Review Act, a bipartisan bill which is cosponsored by 30 of my colleagues. The bill directs the Corps to review its current policy, taking into account a broad array of factors, including potential regional or watershed-based variances to the national policy where appropriate. It also provides flexibility to the Corps to exempt certain areas from the policy where deemed necessary by the Corps. Mr. Chairman and Mr. Ranking Member, I ask that you consider the objectives of our bill and the potential impacts of the Corps' current policy, not just on California, but on the Nation, as you move to conference with the Senate on the Fiscal Year 2013 Energy and Water Development Appropriations Bill. I yield to the gentleman from Indiana.

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Chairman, I rise to engage in a colloquy with the distinguished chairman and ranking member of the Subcommittee on Energy and Water, Mr. Frelinghuysen and Mr. Visclosky, on the Army Corps of Engineers' policy on vegetation on levees. I yield to the gentleman from New Jersey.

Ms. MATSUI. I thank the chairman and the subcommittee ranking member.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. I thank the gentleman from Florida for yielding. Mr. Speaker, since I was elected to office in 2005, increasing the level of Sacramento's flood protection has been my highest priority. Sacramento is the most at-risk metropolitan area for major flooding, as it lies at the confluence of two major rivers--the Sacramento and the American. Sacramento is home to California's State capitol, an international airport, and half a million people. If Sacramento were to flood, the economic damages would range up to $40 billion. We have a lot at risk. We are all well aware of our country's austere budget environment, but it is imperative that Sacramento's basic flood protection needs be met. The Federal Government must continue to fulfill its commitment to protect the lives and the livelihoods of the capital area of the largest State in the Union. I want to applaud the Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee for including adequate funding for Sacramento's top flood protection projects: For the American River Common Features, the bill includes more than $6 million, which would be for work within the American River watershed, including American River Common Features General Reevaluation Report, further design work in support of levee improvements in Natomas and levee improvements on the American River. For the Folsom Dam Joint Federal Project and Dam Raise Project, the bill includes more than $87 million to continue construction on the auxiliary spillway, which will provide greater efficiency in managing flood storage in Folsom Reservoir and critical dam safety work. Mr. Speaker, each one of the projects is a critical component in improving the flood protection for the entire Sacramento region. Taken together, these projects help us to achieve the flood protection levels that families and businesses throughout the Sacramento area need and deserve. In addition, the legislation includes a reserve fund that will allocate over $92.5 million to the Corps for the purpose of funding flood protection projects. Since I remain concerned that the Corps did not request its full capability for Sacramento flood protection projects in their budget, I will work vigorously to secure additional funding for Sacramento's flood protection priorities during the Corps' reserve fund competitive process, as outlined in this bill. Mr. Speaker, I will continue to push for higher levels of funding to meet our flood protection needs and priorities, not only for the Sacramento area region but for the country as a whole.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. MATSUI. I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 3310, the Federal Communications Commission Consolidated Reporting Act of 2012. This bill consolidates various technology-specific competition reports the Federal Communications Commission is required to make to Congress into a new, single communications marketplace report that will be submitted to Congress every 2 years. The FCC is required to assess the state of competition, deployment, as well as regulatory barriers to market entry and competition in the communications marketplace, taking into special consideration Internet- based competition. I support efforts to streamline the FCC's reporting requirements, and I am pleased the committee majority, led by Communications and Technology Subcommittee Chairman Walden, worked with Democrats to improve the legislation throughout the markup process. These improvements include the adoption of an amendment offered by Ranking Member Eshoo that would ensure the FCC continues to have the ability to consider all forms of competition in producing the communications marketplace report. H.R. 3310 seeks to reduce the reporting burdens Congress had previously imposed on the FCC while encouraging the agency to analyze competition in the communications marketplace in a much more comprehensive way. Under Chairman Genachowski's leadership, the FCC has accomplished numerous reforms aimed at improving agency process. The FCC has improved the number of notices of proposed rulemakings that contain the full text of proposed rules from 38 percent to 85 percent. Additionally, the FCC has reduced average time between Commission vote and release of full text of the decision from 14 calendar days to 3 calendar days. In addition, the FCC voluntarily complied with President Obama's Executive order in conducting retrospective analysis of the Commission's existing rules. During the process, the FCC has eliminated over 200 obsolete regulations, including the Commission's elimination of 25 data collections as part of the Data Innovation Initiative. Looking ahead, the FCC has a major task in implementing the public safety and spectrum provisions of the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act. Specifically, the Commission will be undertaking arguably the most complex spectrum auction in history through an incentive auction of the broadcast spectrum. Congress must work closely with the FCC to ensure the auction's success. As a cochair of the bipartisan Federal Spectrum Working Group, I'm hopeful that we'll have the opportunity to work closely with the FCC and the NTIA and other relevant agencies in identifying underutilized Federal and commercial spectrum for repurposing. Mr. Speaker, our Nation continues to face a spectrum scrunch, particularly as more and more Americans opt for advanced technology and mobile devices and applications. We must ensure that we meet future demand. Finally, I want to applaud the FCC's recent efforts ensuring that all Americans have access to the communication tools they need to be competitive in the 21st century economy. Today, one-third of Americans have not adopted broadband, and these numbers are particularly high among lower-income Americans, seniors, rural Americans, residents of tribal lands, and people with disabilities. The commission recently approved responsible reforms to parts of the Universal Service Fund, including the creation of pilot programs to promote broadband adoption. These pilot projects will help make broadband more affordable for lower-income Americans and address other challenges to broadband adoption, including digital literacy and the cost of devices. I commend the FCC for these efforts, and I look forward to working with the commission when these pilot projects are announced. I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. MATSUI. I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, in closing, H.R. 3310 is a step forward to further ensuring transparency by requiring consolidation of various telecommunication reports by the FCC. As broadband continues to play a critical role in our economy, it is important that we fully understand any and all barriers to Internet services while continuing to allow the Internet economy to grow and innovate. Again, I want to thank my colleagues on the Energy and Commerce Committee for working in a bipartisan manner on this bill. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Pioneer House of California and its members, as they observe this Memorial Day. The Pioneer House is a non-profit retirement facility that is home to over 22 veterans and two veteran staffers. Each of them has bravely served our country, and dedicated their lives to our freedom. Their service, along with the service of all veterans, has been crucial to maintaining our liberty. The following men and women are members of the Pioneer House and have bravely served our country: Milo Chun, Jack Cochrane, Helen Lee, George Newhall, George Schmidt, Jeanne Kelly, Arnold Lee, Rod Rasmussen, Thomas McCauley, Nolan Jones, Ted Lochowski, Eddie Rose, Leonard Watson, John Saville, Ninus Harris, Lionel Holmes, Fred O'Shea, John Dierking, James Shields, Lou Adam, Gene Tarr, and George Sleep. Staffers Carolyn Keesor and David Armstrong not only served our country, but provide key support to the facility. As Memorial Day approaches, I would like to personally thank each and every one of them for their service, commitment, and dedication to our country. Mr. Speaker, as the members of the Pioneer House gather for Memorial Day to honor their fellow veterans, I ask all my colleagues to join me in saluting these fine individuals for their excellent work and commitment to our nation.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate May as Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. Against the background of this year's theme, ``Striving for Excellence in Leadership, Diversity and Inclusion,'' this month provides us an excellent opportunity to reflect upon, and honor, the many contributions Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) have made to our Nation. From fighting in our armed services, to building the transcontinental railroad, to helping America lead the world in scientific discoveries, AAPIs have played an integral role in our country's greatest achievements. As America's fastest growing population, more and more AAPIs are performing integral roles in forward-thinking companies and in American innovation. And, we are continually seeing a greater number of AAPIs elected to serve in public office and appointed to the Federal judiciary. AAPIs are making great progress; however, there are still obstacles that must be overcome for AAPIs and other minority populations. We must continue to work together to ensure that our country does not repeat injustices of the past. We must continue to fight back on issues like racial profiling, housing discrimination, and disparities in health care. We must continue to ensure that AAPI voices and ideas are heard. Our country has always been the land of opportunity. Our strength has been derived from the diverse cultures, traditions, and perspectives of the people that make up our society. As we look to our country's future, we must ensure that all of the cultures and peoples that call America home are represented and promoted. Mr. Speaker, I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues in Congress, in particular, the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, to provide greater opportunity and equality so that AAPIs, and our Nation as a whole, can continue down a path of prosperity and success.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the California Asian Pacific State Employees Association, and their members, as they gather to raise scholarship funds for local high school students. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring this generous organization. The Asian Pacific State Employees Association was founded in 1975 with the goal of assisting its members while they work for the State of California, and to encourage state employees to give back through a variety of community projects. Located in all of the major urban centers in the state, APSEA's members work for a wide variety of California government agencies. APSEA's annual scholarship dinner raises funds and recognizes numerous young men and women who are involved in rigorous academic studies, dedicate their time to Asian and Pacific Islander causes, or are involved with the Ronald McDonald House Charity. This dinner has provided additional scholarship funds for many local students who are committed to making their community better. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to celebrate this fantastic organization, their members, and their annual dinner. They are a shining example of community service and community pride. I am confident that APSEA will continue the tradition of giving selflessly and helping others with their organization and events, and I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring their outstanding commitment to their community and their continued work to help students succeed.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary 25 year career of retiring Parliamentarian of the House of Representatives, John V. Sullivan. A graduate of the United States Air Force Academy and former Air Force Judge Advocate, John exemplifies public service. He began his career in the House of Representatives by serving as counsel to the Committee on Armed Services, and soon transitioned to the Office of the Parliamentarian. John took on the role of Parliamentarian in 2004, after seventeen years in the Office of the Parliamentarian. Serving as only the fourth Parliamentarian in modern history, John has consistently conducted himself in the most professional, non- partisan manner. He has been a constant through multiple Congresses, and under Speakers of both parties. John's knowledge of House procedure and traditions is unparalleled, and he was a model of decorum and even temperament. His service will be missed. Mr. Speaker, I have enjoyed calling John a colleague throughout my time in the House, and ask my colleagues to join me in wishing him all the best in his retirement.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Sacramento African-American Art Collective (SAAAC), which serves to enhance cultural and artistic experiences in the Sacramento area community. SAAAC came together in 2010, and offers great opportunities for African-American artists to showcase their work in collaboration with local businesses. I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring the artists, organizers, and businesses involved in this valuable cultural resource. SAAAC was founded as a means to increase the exposure of African- American artists to the Sacramento community, and likewise to allow the Sacramento community to enjoy the unique messages and perspectives offered by African-American artists. Since its inaugural 1st Saturday Art Tour in February, 2011, SAAAC has become an integral part of the monthly art experience in Sacramento. Local businesses continue to volunteer their time and space to exhibit the work of these artists, all of whom are locally-based. In honor of Black History Month, and in collaboration with the California Governor's office, SAAAC exhibited several works in the Governor's Annex at the California State Capitol. The collection, co- sponsored by the California Legislative Black Caucus, was titled ``Family: Those We Love!'', and was available to enjoy from February 20th, to March 2nd, 2012. This was the first such exhibit in the Governor's Office to acknowledge the contribution of African-American artists to the distinct cultural milieu that makes Sacramento great. The collection is now on display at the Kuumba Collective Art Gallery in Sacramento. Among the artists and community leaders I'd like to recognize are Gerry GOS'' Simpson, Frank Blackwell, Milton Bowens, Warren Spirling, Lawrence Sullivan, Daphne Burgess, Shonna McDaniel, Gene Howell, Mallory Knight, Lumumba, Marichal Brown, David Alexander, James and Renee Sweeney, John King, Kanika Marshall, Constance King, Marshall Bailey, Frankie Edwards-Lee, Cynthia Brooks, Janis Wade, and Daneshia Johnson. I would also like to recognize the dozens of businesses and sponsors that have collaborated with SAAAC, including the Sacramento Central Labor Council, AFL CIO, The Brickhouse Gallery, Crave The Spotlight, Pacific Housing Inc., and many others. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize these community members and their priceless contributions to the rich and diverse cultural experience that Sacramento offers. As artists, friends, and community leaders gather at the Kuumba Gallery, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Sacramento African-American Art Collective and its partners for helping to enrich our lives.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Madam Speaker, I rise today to remember Congressman Donald Payne. Today, we lost a dear colleague and friend in the House of Representatives, and the American people lost a dedicated leader. I am honored to have served with Congressman Payne, and am deeply saddened by his passing. Donald spent his life fighting for those less fortunate, and was a committed advocate for education, civil rights, and social justice-- both at home and abroad. He was a humanitarian in the truest sense of the word, and his passion was both inspiring and contagious. As the first, and only, African-American from New Jersey elected to Congress, Donald was a trailblazer. His achievements are a testament to the hard work, patience, and determination that became the hallmark of Donald Payne's career in public service. As a senior member of the Education and Workforce Committee, Donald was a steady and effective representative for working men and women across America. His efforts on their behalf led to tangible gains in the areas of worker health and safety. Donald also lent his voice in support of early education, working tirelessly to ensure that every American child receives a first-class education, regardless of financial circumstance. As a member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Donald won the admiration and respect of his colleagues for his extensive and unrivaled knowledge of international affairs, especially concerning Africa. His humanitarian efforts to secure international aid for populations ravaged by war and disease are a tribute to his compassion and unwavering resolve to improve the lives of the downtrodden. Madam Speaker, Donald's legacy and long list of accomplishments will continue to provide a lasting example for my colleagues and I going forward. My sincere condolences go out to Donald's family, friends, staff, and constituents. He will be missed in this House.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. I thank the gentleman for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to this rule and to this bill. The issue of water in California has been debated for many decades because it is such a critical issue for our States. As a daughter of a California Central Valley farmer, I grew up on a farm; and I deeply understand the value of and the controversy over water. Being able to plan the next growing season is critical for farmers. Unless they can count on the water being provided, there is no assurance for their crops. Now, in northern California, we have balanced our watershed. We have provided water for our farms, our cities, and our sensitive habitats in a way that we can have sustainability. But this legislation throws out the ability of the people of California to decide their own water future. Mr. Speaker, any real solution to California's water issues will need to be crafted with consensus within California, not in a partisan manner on the House floor the way H.R. 1837 has been written. This legislation purports to have the support of northern California, but I'm here to tell you that nothing could be further from the truth. My district, the Sacramento region as a whole, the five delta counties, are among countless others who oppose this bill, and the list continues to grow. Some of the strong concerns include the loss of the State's right to manage its own water, the decimation of environmental protections for our Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, the ability to manage the Folsom Dam reservoir for the benefit of the lower American River, and, most importantly, the overall instability that this bill would create in California. The idea of usurping the rights of States to control their own water is incredibly damaging, not only to the Sacramento area but to California and even to our country. For those of our colleagues who represent areas outside of California and plan to support the bill because they may not impact your State, I have news for you. This is not just about California. H.R. 1837 will set a precedent that will create a domino effect so that it could happen next in Utah, Colorado, Nevada, Texas, and so forth. We don't need Federal legislation that only creates more problems for an already intractable problem. We cannot afford to give up California's right to control its own water future. The stakes are just too high. I urge my colleagues to strongly reject this legislation.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of this amendment. I have always said that solutions to our country's resource problems must be based on sound science. To do otherwise is simply foolish and severely shortsighted. Mr. Chairman, H.R. 1837 ignores years of scientific research on the health of California's watersheds. This bill pretends that science does not exist. We don't believe the Earth is flat, and we don't believe that thunder is made by bowling balls. We know better. Science has given us the answers to so many questions about the world in which we live. We have used science and discovered the truth. H.R. 1837 will prevent the use of the best available science and adaptive management in the bay delta by permanently limiting agencies from acting on new scientific information developed since 1994. The amendment before us would require us to use the scientific research that we have on California's natural resources. It would allow us to acknowledge what the research has shown us to be true. This amendment is critically important, not only to California, but to every State in this Union. Mr. Chairman, lastly, I keep hearing that the Sacramento area supports this bill. I represent the Sacramento area, and I can tell you that both the city and county of Sacramento strongly oppose this bill. I urge my colleagues to support this amendment and to reject the bill.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. I'd like to thank the gentleman for yielding me time. Madam Speaker, this bipartisan agreement will ensure that 160 million Americans will not see a tax increase at a time when so many families are still struggling to make ends meet. The payroll tax cut provides American families an average of $1,000 annually to help pay their bills and for day-to-day necessities. I am also pleased that this agreement will extend unemployment insurance. With the unemployment numbers in my district over 12 percent, continued unemployment benefits are important for so many to make ends meet while still trying to find work. Additionally, providing for a Medicare physician payment fix will ensure that seniors have continued access to care. But I do urge my colleagues to continue working for a long-term solution to this critical issue. I am supportive of the spectrum provisions in this bill, which will finally provide public safety with a nationwide interoperability network and ensure a path for continued American innovation. However, Madam Speaker, I do have reservations about other ways this package is paid for. The second-largest job provider in my district behind the State government is the health care sector, employing nearly 30,000 workers. The Medicare bad debt reductions in this bill would seriously hamper the health systems in my district. For example, UC Davis Medical Center would lose $4 million over the next few years. Additionally, I am greatly disappointed by the cuts to the Prevention and Public Health Fund--which I actively worked to get included in the Affordable Care Act--as prevention is the best way to improve public health. While passage of this bill is critical for America's middle class, unemployed, and seniors, I have strong concerns that it should not be at the expense of our country's health care and Federal workforce.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Central Valley Flood Protection Board as they celebrate their 100th Anniversary. It is a great pleasure to recognize the Board's long standing dedication to flood protection projects and flood management in the Central Valley. As Board members, staff and agency partners gather to celebrate this milestone, I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring the key role the organization plays in protecting millions of Californians from a potentially devastating flood. The Central Valley Flood Protection Board was created by the California Legislature in 1911. The Board's role is to serve as a liaison between the State of California, local residents, property owners, cities and counties, and the United States government. The Board works closely with the Army Corps of Engineers to ensure that the Central Valley receives the highest level of flood protection possible, while addressing a number of financial, environmental, and engineering challenges. Over the last century, the Board has maintained a wide variety of Central Valley flood protection systems and infrastructure along the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers, and their tributaries. This encompasses 1,600 miles of levees, 107 million acres of land, and 1,300 miles of designated floodways. The Congressional District that I represent is home to the City of Sacramento, which sits at the confluence of the American and Sacramento Rivers. It is without doubt that the Board's investment decisions have helped improve the safety for each of us that call Sacramento home. In 2007, the California Legislature and the governor signed legislation that changed the name of the Central Valley Flood Protection and expanded the Board's responsibilities and authorities. The Board remains responsible to the citizens of California to ensure that the flood management system within the Central Valley meets the ever-mounting challenges of the 21st Century. This includes working with the Corps of Engineers on vegetation management and the California Department of Water Resources on a new Central Valley Flood Protection Plan. The Board is led by Chair Benjamin Carter, who serves alongside Jane Dolan, Teri Rice, Francis ``Butch'' Hodgkins, Emma Suarez, John Brown and Michael Villines. The Board's Executive Officer is Jay Punia. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to the Central Valley Flood Protection Board and their continuous commitment to providing the Central Valley with ever-improving levels of flood protection. The Board has contributed immensely to the safety and vitality of California's Central Valley. As Board members and staff gather to celebrate their 100th anniversary, I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring their outstanding work in providing flood protection for the residents of the Central Valley.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to bring attention to a possible unintentional consequence of H.R. 1254, the Synthetic Drug Control Act of 2011. This legislation would add two categories of synthetic drugs to the list of Schedule I controlled substances. While I am troubled by news reports involving these drugs and I support restrictions on the sale of these chemicals for purposes of illicit use, I am concerned about the impact the ban would impose on legitimate scientific research, including much needed medical advances. To maintain our position in the world as the leader in the research and development of pharmaceuticals, we must ensure that researchers have access to the compounds necessary to discover and create new drugs. We cannot afford to stifle these advancements. At a time when other countries continue to make gains in medical research, we must make certain our researchers have all available means necessary to further their studies and uphold our competitive edge. If enacted into law, should this measure hinder any progress in the arena of medical research, I would urge Congress to re-examine this issue in a way that protects public health while continuing to make much needed medical advancements possible. In the meantime, I would also urge my colleagues in the Senate to thoroughly examine this issue during any consideration of H.R. 1254 or a similar legislative proposal.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 20th anniversary of the Capitol Corridor train service, which connects the Sacramento Region to the San Francisco Bay Area. It is a great pleasure to recognize the corridor's stellar track record of providing cost- effective, public transportation that stimulates economic development, reduces emissions, and promotes partnerships among passengers, private investors, and the communities. As the Capitol Corridors' supporters and partners gather to celebrate this milestone, I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring the essential role that the Capitol Corridor plays in Northern California. Since its inception on December 12, 1991, with a mere six trains between Sacramento and San Jose, the Capitol Corridor has significantly grown and invested in infrastructure, increasing the number of weekday trains to thirty- two, weekend trains to twenty-two and expanding its corridor to span seven counties with a total population of 6.7 million. In addition to investing in railcars and tracks, it has established signaling systems and sixteen stations that directly connect its passengers to the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system, Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority buses, and Sacramento Regional Transit light rails. Over the past twenty years, the Capital Corridor has experienced a 600 percent increase in ridership, up to 1.7 million passengers in the 2010-2011 fiscal year. In all, it has carried nearly 19 million people to travel 1.3 billion miles. With this popular intercity train service, the downtown Sacramento Valley Station is now the seventh busiest Amtrak station in the country. The Capitol Corridor has been managed by the Capitol Corridor Joint Powers Authority (CCJPA) since 1998. Previously, the Capitol Corridor was a partnership between Amtrak and Caltrans. The CCJPA consists of a partnership of six transit agencies from the counties serviced by the Capitol Corridor. Operating funds for the CCJPA are provided by Caltrans. Administrative costs are kept down because of the strong partnership between Amtrak, BART, Caltrain, Caltrans, CCJPA and Union Pacific Railroad. In the past twenty years, the Capitol Corridor has stayed major accident-free and also improved lives by reducing air pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to the Capital Corridor, and its record of giving Northern Californians more transportation options, on their 20th anniversary. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Capitol Corridor's outstanding work in providing the community with much needed services.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Ethel MacLeod Hart Senior Center, a popular gathering location for Sacramento's seniors. It is a great pleasure to recognize the center's 50th Anniversary, as it has provided a positive environment that enhances and affirms older adults' dignity and promotes their independence. As the Hart Center's supporters and patrons gather to celebrate this milestone, I ask all of my colleagues to join me in honoring the center's leadership and service to the Sacramento community. The Sacramento Senior Center was formed in 1961, and was later renamed the Ethel MacLeod Hart Senior Center in honor of Hart's generous legacy to the city's senior community. From its earliest beginnings, the center has helped to foster a welcoming environment that supports older citizens' interests and needs, a place in which senior citizens feel a connection to each other and receive validation from the wider community. Over the last fifty years, the Hart Center has provided a wide variety of recreational and health services. The center's programs include flu clinics, legal workshops, the Friendship Cafe, computer classes, and a hearing impaired club. In addition, the Center's staff publish a monthly newsletter called the Hart Cornerstone that announces community events, and provide fitness classes that promote physical exercise and encourage healthy aging. The Hart Center has also partnered with a number of organizations to meet the needs of local seniors, including the Gray Panthers, Older Women's League, Sacramento Senior Legal Hotline, California Health Advocates, Social Security, the Franchise Tax Board, and many others. As a member of Congress, I have had the privilege of visiting the Hart Senior Center on numerous occasions. Earlier this year I had the opportunity to speak at an Older Women's League monthly meeting at the Center, and talk about legislative proposals that affect Sacramento's senior community. Additionally, last summer the Hart Senior Center hosted a Social Security 75th anniversary party where we celebrated the program and reflected on its importance. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to the Ethel MacLeod Hart Senior Center on its 50th anniversary. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Hart Center's role of providing the community with much needed services.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Save the American River Association (SARA), as the organization's staff, volunteers, and supporters celebrate its 50th anniversary. It is my pleasure to recognize SARA's dedication to preserving the American River for future generations, and I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring their leadership in protecting the American River. Established in 1961, SARA, a grassroots non-profit organization, has grown to a group of over 600 members. Initially, SARA was founded to establish the American River Parkway. The American River is designated both as a state and national wild and scenic river. It is governed by the American River Parkway Plan, which is approved by the State Legislature upon recommendation of the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors. The efforts of thousands of SARA volunteers who contributed countless work hours to maintaining and improving the parkway over the last 50 years are evident as the American River Parkway has come to be known as the ``Jewel of Sacramento.'' The American River offers a unique wildlife and recreation area that provides for fishing, boating, rafting, picnicking sites, golfing, and nature historic tours for Sacramento residents and visitors. SARA has been able to ensure a clean, comfortable and safe environment along the river. Volunteers work to preserve the native habitat and vegetation, improve public safety, reduce the threat of fires and increase the public's stewardship of the American River. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to the Save the American River Association and the organization's continuous commitment to providing the public with access to the incredibly beautiful American River. Their past 50 years have been tremendously successful and I am confident SARA will continue to enjoy great success in the future. While the SARA staff, volunteers and supporters gather together to celebrate the organization's 50th anniversary, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring their outstanding work in keeping the American River the ``Jewel of Sacramento.''