A. McEachin

Mr. McEACHIN

Mr. McEACHIN. Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. McEACHIN. Mr. Chair, I have an amendment at the desk.

Mr. McEACHIN. Mr. Chairman, just briefly, of course, I was not here at the time, but it was my understanding that this is nothing unlike what the other side of the aisle did during the Obama administration. So what this amendment seeks to do, in many cases, is not that unusual. And while the gentleman is correct, the size of the payments that BP had to make were because of a certain type of conduct: What we want to do is just freeze things where they are. While I acknowledge that there is a possibility that somehow someone wanted to slow down the process, I don't believe that this administration would do just that. Again, millions of dollars have been spent. Much time has been spent in developing this plan. I think we just need to leave it in place. Mr. Chair, I ask my colleagues to support the amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. McEACHIN

Mr. McEACHIN. Mr. Chairman, I thank the ranking member for yielding. Mr. Chairman, I am proud to rise in support of this amendment to restore funding to the Environmental Justice program within the EPA. This program enables the agency to better assist frontline communities that are disproportionately impacted by pollution. Low-income and minority communities face disproportionate levels of hazardous pollution and environmental contaminants due to where their members live and where they work. The harms are real. For instance, higher levels of air pollution result in members of minority groups having higher death rates and higher numbers of emergency room visits and hospital stays. As the cofounder and co-chair of the United for Climate and Environmental Justice Task Force, it is my mission to combat these environmental injustices and ensure frontline communities no longer bear the unequal burden of environmental, economic, and health harms. That is why, Mr. Chairman, this amendment is so important. The Environmental Justice program leverages Federal funds to greatly improve health and quality of life in our most vulnerable communities. Since the establishment of the program, communities have been better able to revitalize neighborhoods, build health centers, expand affordable housing, and create new green spaces and recreational areas. I urge my colleagues to show low-income and minority communities that we care about their health, housing, and overall well-being by supporting the amendment.

Mr. McEACHIN

Mr. McEACHIN. Mr. Speaker, Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Church was founded in 1867 by the Reverend John Jasper in an abandoned confederate horse stable on Brown's Island, along the shores of the James River. Credited as the first church in Richmond organized by an African- American preacher, it relocated to its current space in downtown Richmond in 1869. Jasper's charismatic ministry drew increasingly large crowds, and his sermon ``De Sun Do Move'' became well-known both in the United States and internationally. His speaking talents and powerful faith brought flocks of black and white Richmonders alike to the church, listening and celebrating together. Six more pastors have led Sixth Mount Zion during its long history, including Dr. Augustus Walter who served for over forty-three years until his death in 1967. Greatly admired for his leadership and faithful dedication, Dr. Walter was instrumental in defending the church from destruction when Interstate 95 was built in downtown Richmond in 1957. Sixth Mount Zion is one of the nation's pioneers in the field of religious historic preservation, and opened its John Jasper Memorial Room and Museum in January 1926. It contains bibles, books, paintings, clothing, ceremonial artifacts, and furniture from the church's rich history. Among these items are a golden bust of Jasper made in 1904, a rare stone from Mount Zion in Jerusalem, and a quilt commemorating the church's 130th anniversary. The Commonwealth of Virginia has recognized the church's rich history with two highway markers--one at the church site and another in Fluvanna County near John Jasper's birthplace. Residing within the historic Jackson Ward District, the church is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the Virginia Landmarks Register. In 2004, the Richmond City Council honored the church with a special designation as a local ``historic district' encompassing the 3 acres of land on which it stands, the only black church in Richmond to receive this distinction. For 150 years, Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Church has been a central institution in Richmond and Virginia, supporting its members and the wider community through growth and hardship. It has addressed the social concerns of the city's residents, and was one of the first black churches to have an organized charity with a staff social worker to administer to the indigent of the city. It continues to assist individuals and families with the resources necessary to overcome obstacles that prevent them from achieving personal, social, and economic goals.

Mr. McEACHIN

Mr. McEACHIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of a pillar of the Richmond community. This year, Richmonders and parishioners celebrate the 150th anniversary of Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Church. Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Church has been a central institution in our community since its founding in 1867 by Reverend John Jasper. The church was founded in an abandoned Confederate horse stable on Brown's Island and, since then, has been a pillar of our community. The long history of supporting the community has continued under the leadership of six distinguished leaders, including the current pastor, Reverend Tyrone Nelson. Reverend Nelson is a fellow alumnus of Virginia Union University's Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology, a member of Henrico County Board of Supervisors, and a longtime friend. Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Church has addressed the social concerns of the city's residents and was one of the first Black churches to have an organized charity with a staff social worker available to help our community. Mr. Speaker, Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Church continues to assist community members with resources necessary to overcome life's obstacles. I pray that Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Church will thrive in our community for another 150 years.

Mr. McEACHIN

Mr. McEACHIN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise to oppose this resolution, which would stack the deck against hardworking families, small businesses, and nearly any group or individual who needs financial services. Mr. Speaker, universal access to fair and impartial courts is a principle that is enshrined in both the Sixth and Seventh Amendments of our Constitution. It is the cornerstone of our justice system. Without that access, we cannot hold bad actors accountable; families and small businesses suffer; justice is denied. Forced arbitration clauses protect the powerful by denying Americans their day in court. Big corporations have enormous leverage. They offer essential services and have few competitors. For many consumers, having a cell phone or a checking account means accepting arbitration. Often there are no other options. The CFPB has sought to correct that injustice. The Bureau's arbitration rule ensures that those who are wronged by a financial institution have meaningful recourse. At Wells Fargo and elsewhere, recent events have shown why that recourse is essential. When our courts are out of the picture, accountability can slip; cutting corners becomes less risky and more attractive. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to oppose this resolution.

Mr. McEACHIN

Mr. McEACHIN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Colorado for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I think a couple of points, before I get to the main portion of my remarks, that the manager of the bill threw out need to be addressed. First of all, my wife is a prosecutor. I like prosecutors, but they are lawyers. I was a trial lawyer until December 31 of last year. Guess what? We sue drunk drivers. We sue for people who get hurt when it is not their own fault. I come from a State where contributory negligence is the law. So I appreciate the reverence you hold prosecutors in--I do, as well--but we are all lawyers. I also want to point out that, while there may be people on the floor who are not lawyers, you can't honestly believe this bill gives you equal access to justice, and here is why: You have a cap on noneconomic damages. So a person who is injured by a doctor and a person who receives the exact same injuries from some other tort have two different recoveries that they can reach. One is capped; one is not. That is not equal justice, in my judgment, under the law. In addition, you all are the pro-business party, yet you all want to get into how people contract with one another. I would suggest that is inconsistent with your pro-business approach. Mr. Speaker, what this bill really underlies is a fundamental mistrust for our constituents. Think about it. Juries are made up of our constituents. What you are really worried about is that your constituents are not going to get it right when they are sitting in that jury box and making decisions. Your constituents are wise enough to send me and 435 of us here to the Congress to make decisions about trillion-dollar budgets, yet you don't trust them to sit in the jury box and make the very important decisions for their fellow citizens when they are injured. Mr. Speaker, I want to suggest that this bill clearly violates the spirit of the Seventh Amendment, the right to trial by jury, by putting these limitations on the jury, by putting limitations on access to justice.

Mr. McEACHIN

Mr. McEACHIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize greater Richmond area high school seniors who plan to enlist in the United States Armed Forces following graduation. These students have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to scholastic achievement. It is with profound enthusiasm I commend the following student leaders on the selfless choice to answer our Nation's call to service: Adams, Solomon; Bailey, James; Bontilao, Domenique; Broughton, Adam; Delao, Natty; Flournoy, Paul; Gascott, Andrew; Hall, Liam; Herrera, Jordy; Johnson, Forrest; Jones, Savion; Lewis, Antonique; Lindsay, David; McClain, Lakeeya; McCullers, Orlando; McGriffin, John; Monteeria, Darius; Saddler, Kioni; Sauvager, Alexandra; Gordon, Shamai; Smith, Robert III; Taylor, Gabriel; Turner, Nathaniel; Viera, Sabrina; Whiting, Shamon; Williams, Fat Tae; Wilson, Armone; Witherspoon, Kendell; Woods, Ashley; Wren, David; Wynn, Kahli; Aggabao, Richard; Barba, Rigoberto; Barquero, Iyan; Briggs, Colin; Broussard, Micha; Burleigh, Emon; Cassidy, Christopher; Cheek, Austin; Cruz, Alexa; Decriscio, Donald; Dunn, Taylor; Fleming, Lauryn; Garcia, Alejandro; Hoffler, Tyler; Howe, Kyle; Lofton, Jerron; Marentes, Saul; Marshburn, Donald; Nunes, Amy; Parker, Dajohn; Perkins, Cierra; Ramirez, Alonso; Scruggs, Carlos; Spraggs, Armani; Tabora, Ivan; Taylor, Matthew; Williams, Darius; Williams, Taeyah; Yeomans, Jesse; Gadsen, Breyona; Glatt, Matthew; Grella, Julia; Hamilton, Brian; Hollen, Joseph; Hopkins, Jonathan; McLean, Alphonsje; Peyton, Calvin; Ratliff, Isis; Speer, Harrison; Taylor, Daryl; Vinson, Simone; Green, Vivian; Washington-Allen, Dominic; Williams, Kyle; Clary-Hayman, Tiana; Feggins, Roman; Chapman, Ravon; and Tunstall, Anthony. On this day, I acknowledge your courage and commitment to our country and express my sincere gratitude for your willingness to serve honorably. I look forward to joining the Blue Star Families of Richmond and Henrico Co. Public Schools to honor these exceptional students during the ``Our Community Salutes Reception and Awards Ceremony'' on Tuesday, May 30, 2017 at Hermitage High School in Henrico Co., Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in saluting these brave, young women and men for the courageous decision to join the United States Armed Forces upon their high school graduation.

Mr. McEACHIN

Mr. McEACHIN. Mr. Speaker, historic First Baptist Church (Centralia)--originally known as Salem African Baptist--was established in 1867, in Centralia, Virginia by freedmen from Salem Baptist Church. The mother Church is located two miles west of this site--on a hill by the railroad near the intersection of Centralia and Chester Roads. Members of the first Board of Trustees--Daniel Wilkerson, Wilson Lewis, Lemuel Dodson, James White, and Emanuel Johnson--received the deed of trust for this plot of land from Mr. & Mrs. P. A. Chalkley of Salem Baptist. Mr. Ben Duval, also from Salem Baptist, donated lumber for the Church. Prior to the erection of the first modest sanctuary in 1867, the first worship services were held in a brush arbor at this sacred site. Between 1867 and 1949, the Church prospered under the leadership of eleven pastors including Reverend Lewis Branch who was the first, Reverends Ned Bland; Eli Saunders; J. E. Brown; T. H. Johnson (1897 to 1906); William Thomas (1906 to 1915); H. M. Chapman (1915 to 1919); J. H. Binford (1919 to 1929); C. A. Cobbs (1929 to 1931); C. J. Washington (1932 to 1934); and W. B. Ball (1934 to 1949). In the early 1900's during the pastorates of Reverend T.H. Johnson and J.H. Binford, the second edifice was erected and renovated into the edifice of historic and architectural significance for which it is renowned: Historic First Baptist (Centralia). Per O'Dell (1983; pp. 346 and 356), ``Another church departing somewhat from the standard plan is . . . First Baptist Church of Centralia, erected by a black congregation in the 1910s.'' Known for its twin towers, and architectural elements that included Gothic Revival, Colonial Revival, and Shingle styles, the edifice was according to O'Dell, ``larger than any in the county at the time . . .'' Also, the exterior decoration was reported to be ``more elaborate than that on most rural churches of the period.'' Needing more space for a growing discipleship, in 1963 under the leadership of Dr. Samuel Moss Carter, the twelfth pastor who served for forty years (1950 to 1990), First Baptist (Centralia) moved to its current edifice at 2920 Kingsdale Road--two miles northeast of the historic site at 4412 Centralia Road, Chester, VA. On April 16, 1996, Historic First Baptist Church (Centralia) was razed by arson. Led by Divine intervention and forgiveness of the arsonists, the current and thirteenth pastor--Dr. Wilson E.B. Shannon (who was installed in 1991) and the congregation that included professionals with architectural drafting, brick masonry, plastering, and contracting--reconstructed Historic First Baptist (Centralia) to authentic specifications within one year (1997) of her being destroyed. In July 2012, following an historic expose designed for the Chesterfield Historical Society of Virginia (CHSVA), First Baptist Church (Centralia): Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow (at which time, CHSVA recognized her historic and architectural significance), the Church was invited to apply for Chesterfield Historic Landmark status. Designated as a Chesterfield County (VA) Historic Landmark in June 2014, the Church was also granted one of the highly coveted Virginia Historical Highway Markers by the Virginia Department of Historic Resources in December 2014. The marker was installed in November 2015 at a grand ceremony marking this epic achievement. While First Baptist (Centralia) is the third church in Chesterfield to earn distinction as an historic landmark, First Baptist (Centralia) is the first African American Church in Chesterfield to earn this distinction. To further address family-life ministry and community needs, the shared vision of disciples and Dr. Shannon and First Lady Cynthia Smith Shannon--who just celebrated their 26th anniversary at First Baptist-- includes expansion of the Samuel Moss Carter Family Life Center to a 45,000 square ft. edifice encompassing banquet facilities for 750 occupants, an indoor Olympic sized swimming pool, and other amenities supportive of family life ministry. First Baptist Church (Centralia) has been blessed over the last 150 years to have been a spiritual beacon for her members, the Church community and beyond--supporting them through the challenges of independence, the Great Depression, societal changes, physical growth, world wars, arson, and familial joys and sorrows. She welcomes the next 150 years--Magnifying God's Word, Blessing His Name, and Aspiring to Exalt His Kingdom on Earth.

Mr. McEACHIN

Mr. McEACHIN. Mr. Speaker, I thank Congressman Soto for yielding. I also want to thank the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Wittman), my friend and colleague, for bringing this legislation forward. I rise, 410 years after the first English settlers landed in what became Jamestown, Virginia, to finally grant Federal recognition to some of the Native American tribes who met those early settlers. Today, with the passage of H.R. 984, we are recognizing the rightful status of Virginia tribes in our national history. It is largely a historical accident that the tribes of Virginia are not recognized. The six tribes have treaties that predate the United States, but because of the systematic destruction of their records, they have been denied Federal recognition for the services that come along with it. We are fixing this injustice today by passing H.R. 984. Federal recognition will provide what the government has long denied: legal protections and financial obligations. Federal recognition will provide financial assistance for the tribes' social services, their healthcare, their housing needs, educational opportunities, and repatriation of the remains of their ancestors in a respectful manner. These opportunities will allow Virginia's tribes to flourish culturally and economically. These opportunities will lead to a better, brighter future for the next generation. Federal recognition is an issue I have cared deeply about since my time in the Virginia General Assembly. I am proud and humbled to cosponsor this legislation. We have waited too long, Mr. Speaker, to recognize Virginia tribes. I urge my colleagues to support passage.

Mr. McEACHIN. Mr. Speaker, earlier today, I spoke during debate on H.R. 984, the Thomasina E. Jordan Indian Tribes of Virginia Federal Recognition Act of 2017. I rise, 410 years after the first English settlers landed in what became Jamestown, Virginia, to finally grant federal recognition to some of the Native American tribes who met those early settlers. Today, with passage of H.R. 984, we are recognizing the rightful status of Virginia's tribes in our national history. These six tribes have treaties that predate the United States but because of the systemic destruction of their records, they have been denied federal recognition and the services that come along with it. We are fixing this injustice by passing H.R. 984. Federal recognition will provide what the government has long denied--legal protections and financial obligations. Federal recognition will provide financial assistance for the tribes' social services, health care and housing needs, educational opportunities, and repatriation of the remains of their ancestors in a respectful manner. These opportunities will allow Virginia's tribes to flourish culturally and economically. These opportunities will lead to a better, brighter future for the next generation. Federal recognition is an issue I have cared about deeply since my time in the Virginia General Assembly and I am a proud cosponsor this legislation. We have waited too long to recognize Virginia's tribes. I urge my colleagues to support passage.

Mr. McEACHIN

Mr. McEACHIN. Mr. Speaker, this year marks the 150th Anniversary of First Baptist Church Centralia, founded in 1867 in Chesterfield County, Virginia Originally Salem African Baptist Church, the African American congregation held its first 30 years of services under an arbor made of brush on a modest one-acre plot. The first building was officially erected in 1897 under the leadership of the Reverend T. H. Johnson, incorporating Gothic Revival and Colonial Revival style elements. Later this building was remodeled by Reverend William Thomas into the historic building we know today as Centralia, featuring its signature twin towers. Under the leadership of Reverend Samuel Carter and Dr. Wilson E. Brown Shannon the church grew as a congregation and as a spiritual beacon for its members. Dr. Shannon extended the reach of the church by expanding the Samuel Moss Carter Family Life Center to accommodate up to 150 preschool children, banquet amenities to accommodate 750 occupants, and other family life ministry facilities including an indoor Olympic sized swimming pool. Shortly after the groundbreaking of this highly anticipated Family Life Center, the Historic First Baptist Church Centralia was destroyed by fire on April 16, 1996. Rebuilt to original specifications in 1997 following the arson attack, a rededication ceremony was held in celebration. On November 22, 2014, the Historic First Baptist Church Centralia was designated a Chesterfield County Historic Landmark. A Virginia Historical Highway Marker was also erected in recognition of its historical and architectural significance in November 2015. As First Baptist Church Centralia celebrates its 150th year anniversary, may your efforts and continued courage to spread the gospel of God through oratory teachings, community involvement and leadership be commended.

Mr. McEACHIN

Mr. McEACHIN. Mr. Speaker, I, too, rise today to recognize my brothers of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated, during the annual James ``Biff'' Carter Kappas on Capitol Hill Legislative Policy Conference. Each year, my brothers come to Capitol Hill with their crimson blazers to raise awareness around the key issues that affect our communities. I had the privilege of joining this noble clan of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated, right here in Washington, D.C., at American University, where we chartered the Kappa Chi chapter of the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. It was in the fall of 1980 that I was allowed to cross the burning sands and commit myself to a life of honorable achievement in every field of human endeavor. Mr. Speaker, today I am proud because now, more than ever, we need the leaders in our communities to raise their voices, raise awareness, and come to Washington, D.C., as advocates on behalf of their communities, as it says in the First Amendment, ``to petition the government for a redress of their grievances.'' I am proud of the brothers of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated, for coming to Congress today, as they do each spring.

Mr. McEACHIN

Mr. McEACHIN. Mr. Speaker, every Monday, Representatives Plaskett and Veasey lead our Caucus' discussion on issues of great importance to the American people, and I am glad to be joining them this evening to discuss a critical priority that is often overlooked: environmental justice. Our country is built upon ideals like liberty, justice, equal protection for all Americans, yet we still fall short on those goals in important ways. While I believe we are making progress, this is a critical moment. Over the last 100 days, we have seen how eager the new administration is to undo our recent achievements, from selecting EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt, a man who does not believe in climate change, to overturning critical antipollution protections. The Trump administration has shown a dangerous contempt for proven science. The administration has even favorably discussed pulling the United States from a global climate change prevention pact, a move that could have disastrous, unknowable consequences for every generation to come. Mr. Speaker, the list goes on and on and on; but at this point, Mr. Speaker, before I continue, I want to bring forward my good friend--he has got a fabulous first name like I do--Congressman Donald Payne, Jr. He is from the 10th Congressional District of New Jersey. He is a fierce advocate for environmental justice in his hometown of Newark. I thank the Congressman. His voice and advocacy will help us move toward sounder policies and more just outcomes, and I look forward to working with the gentleman.

Mr. McEACHIN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the Congresswoman. As has been demonstrated tonight, on nearly every facet of environmental policy, we are in danger of backsliding irreparably. I want to talk about an area where that danger is especially great and where stakes are especially high. Today, and for much of our history, certain communities have been the victims of profound environmental injustice. Lower income, rural, tribal, and especially minority communities are at an increased risk of exposure to the negative impacts of pollution and climate change. For far too long, communities of color have been on the front lines of environmental and economic injustice, shouldering the health burdens of living in areas with higher rates of dangerous fossil fuel pollution and lower rates of income and employment. Mr. Speaker, an African-American child born in the United States has twice the chance of developing asthma than a White child and is four times more likely to die from an asthma attack. This is not a coincidental statistic ginned up for shock and awe but the day-to-day reality that African-American families across the United States have been dealing with for decades. Rooted in America's legacy of segregation and redlining communities of color while simultaneously restricting their government services, employment opportunities, and environmental protections, African- American families have historically borne the brunt of the worst health impacts of polluting industries and have received dwindling economic opportunities due to systemic racism. This is why we see coal plants, oil refineries, and natural gas plants, which spew some of the most toxic substances around into the air and contaminate water supplies, are frequently located in communities of color--communities that have little political or economic power to protect themselves. These disparities, Mr. Speaker, are unacceptable, and they did not arise in a vacuum. In many cases, they have been the avoidable results of government action or inaction. For example, according to the FY 2015 Annual Environmental Justice Progress Report, ``Many low-income, minority, and tribal communities are disproportionately impacted by air pollution and are not able to participate in environmental decisions due to barriers preventing them from meaningfully engaging in the political process.'' These voices deserve to be heard. Their silence--particularly their enforced silence--is unacceptable, and it is incompatible with our, small D, democratic values. The practical consequences of that silence are dire: poorer public health, diminished economic opportunity, and decreased quality of life. To address these grave human and civil rights issues, the environmental justice movement was born--a movement grounded in the belief that all citizens, regardless of race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic class, should share fairly in the benefits of environmental resources and the burdens of environmental hazards. As policymakers, Mr. Speaker, we have a responsibility to embrace that vision--to correct and prevent environmental injustice. We can and we must do better. It is not enough to avoid repeating past mistakes. True equity requires a recognition that some communities have been hurt much more and, as a result, need more resources and targeted assistance. If we succeed--if we achieve equitable policies that promote environmental justice--our world will become a more fair, more liveable, and more sustainable place. But if we fail, public health will suffer. People will lead shorter and harder lives. None of us should be willing to accept that outcome. Mr. Speaker, I think it is worth noting that the environmental justice movement began in 1982, when North Carolina established a toxic waste landfill in Warren County--a poor, rural, majority African- American locality--over the objections of the residents. In the more than 20 years since, many environmental justice organizations have formed. During the Clinton administration, the pursuit of environmental justice became a Federal priority. Sadly, though, these improvements have not been enough to fix longstanding problems, and, again, the progress we have made is under grave threat. Left unchecked, this administration would devastate communities of color and many other vulnerable groups as well. Today, the Trump administration is rolling back budgets, cutting offices, obscuring scientific information, and attacking legislation aimed at curbing environmental justice. That is why, on March 7, we witnessed the resignation of Mr. Mustafa Ali from his post as leader of the Environmental Protection Agency's Environmental Justice Program. For more than two decades, Mr. Ali helped lead our Nation's efforts to secure justice and positive change for vulnerable communities that have seen their public health threatened and the quality of their air, water, and land degraded. In his letter, Mr. Ali said: ``Communities of color, low-income communities, and indigenous populations are still struggling to receive equal protections before the law. ``These communities, both rural and urban, often live in areas with toxic levels of air pollution, crumbling or nonexistent water and sewer infrastructure, lead in the drinking water, brownfields from vacant former industrial and commercial sites, Superfund and other hazardous waste sites, as well as other sources of exposure to pollutants. ``Despite the many challenges we face regarding the impacts of pollution and a changing climate, we have just as many effective tools and programs with long track records of assisting vulnerable communities in meeting their goals of improving public health and enhancing the environmental quality of their local communities.'' Mr. Speaker, I know my Democratic colleagues are eager to use these tools to secure just outcomes and better lives for the people we represent. Mr. Speaker, I urge my friends in the majority to join with us. Mr. Speaker, in concluding, I would like to thank my colleagues for joining me this evening to discuss environmental justice. Together, we have amplified a simple truth: regardless of the color of your skin, how much money you make, or where you live, every American is entitled to clean air, clean water, and access to our public lands. Again, when we fail to achieve those goals, public health suffers, quality of life suffers, and people lead shorter and harder lives. We know that climate change is real. We know that it is being caused by human activity. If we fail to act, we know that there are going to be terrible consequences for the entire human community. We also know that vulnerable populations and marginalized communities are poised to suffer the most--just as they have in the past. That kind of environmental injustice has a long history, and it must stop. That is why, this past week, I announced the creation of the United for Climate and Environmental Justice Task Force alongside my colleagues, Congresswoman Jayapal from Washington State and Congresswoman Barragan from California. We are going to fight every day to prevent climate change and to mitigate its worst effects. We are going to advocate for policies that correct and prevent environmental injustice. We are going to defend every American's right to clean air, safe water, and healthy communities. I think I can speak for all three of us when I say that we look forward to working with you all. Millions of working families are counting on us, Mr. Speaker, as their Representatives in the House and the Senate to serve them and to make wise decisions to improve their lives. We must confront environmental and economic injustices through fierce participation in the planning processes in at-risk areas moving forward. That means demanding more stringent environmental compliance and enforcement that protect communities of color from fossil fuel pollution and demanding greater investments in clean energy deployment in historically African- American communities that will create union and family-wage jobs with upward mobility. I know my colleagues on this side of the aisle are committed to making this change, and I challenge our friends in the majority to join us. I urge them to support greater transparency, objectivity, and outreach in environmental policymaking. I urge them to support processes that improve two-way communication between decisionmakers and the people their decisions affect. I urge them to help ensure that the decisionmakers are confronting the full effects of their choices-- including how consequences are distributed and by whom they are borne. Protecting the environment, Mr. Speaker--creation care--is my passion. I commit to you that I will continue fighting each and every day to address climate change and sea level rise, push for renewable energy and green technologies, and do everything I can to leave this planet a better place for future generations. Mr. Speaker, I am an Eagle Scout, and I know that we are supposed to leave the campground better than the way we found it. The time is now to continue fighting for perhaps the most important issue of the 21st century--the environment. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman from the Virgin Islands (Ms. Plaskett) for her indulgence.

Mr. McEACHIN

Mr. McEACHIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as the proud sponsor of the resolution honoring Earth Day. For more than 40 years, people have come together on Earth Day to support protections for our air, water, and land, and to increase appreciation for Mother Earth. But every day, not just on Earth Day, we must renew our commitment to preserving our planet. One way to do this is by continuing to build upon the Paris Agreement and other efforts. That is why countless Americans marched last week for science, and that is why even more will turn out for this weekend's Climate March. It is also the reason why tomorrow I will co-announce the creation of the United for Climate Task Force, a voice in Congress for communities of color, low-income communities, and other marginalized groups disproportionately impacted by environmental injustice. Alongside my colleagues Congresswoman Jayapal and Congresswoman Barragan, we will promote a Federal agenda that stands for environmental justice. The task force will strive to protect the rights of all to clean air, safe water, healthy communities, equal protection from the environmental and health hazards, and guaranteed access to the decisionmaking process. Like those who celebrated Earth Day in 1970, we have a shared responsibility to ensure that future generations inherit a livable, sustainable, and ecologically rich planet.

Mr. McEACHIN

Mr. McEACHIN. Mr. Speaker, I would like to honor Reverend Eddie Perry, pastor emeritus of Saint John's Baptist Church. Reverend Eddie Perry's efforts and continued courage to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ through oratory teachings, community involvement and leadership are to be commended. He continues to make an indelible mark in Charles City and has served as the pastor of Saint John's Baptist Church for several years. Reverend Perry is a committed husband and father whose continued leadership is an inspiration to his congregation and all those who know him--myself included. Reverend Perry is a dedicated man of faith. I thank Reverend Perry for his service. The bell of his lifelong achievements will ring for all of eternity.

Mr. McEACHIN

Mr. McEACHIN. Mr. Speaker, before my time in Congress, I was a trial lawyer. As a trial lawyer, I learned that, where there is smoke, there is fire. Mr. Speaker, I am here to tell you that there is a fire threatening our Republic. Mr. Speaker, make no mistake about it: Russia attacked our country when it tried to meddle in our elections. But we have a Commander in Chief who will barely acknowledge this act, much less condemn it. Mr. Speaker, we hear tough talk from the President when it comes to Iran, North Korea, and China; but when Russia moves missiles in violation of treaty obligations, when a Russian spy ship patrols just outside our coastal waters, we hear crickets. As evidence mounts that Russia is interfering with the democracies of Europe, we hear crickets. Indeed, Mr. Speaker, this President sees no moral difference between our democracy and the Putin regime. Mr. Speaker, there is smoke; there is fire. Our Republic is being threatened. We are the first responders, and we can only put this fire out with the truth. We need to establish an independent commission to investigate the Trump-Russian ties and find our way to the truth.

Mr. McEACHIN

Mr. McEACHIN. Mr. Speaker, I have a motion to recommit at the desk.

Mr. McEACHIN. I am opposed.

Mr. McEACHIN. Mr. Speaker, this is the final amendment to the bill, which will not kill the bill or send it back to committee. If adopted, the bill will immediately proceed to final passage, as amended. Mr. Speaker, my amendment is simple. It ensures that the EPA continues to use the best available science to respond to threats to public health, including black lung and asthma, caused by or exacerbated by exposure to pollution or toxic chemicals. This motion to recommit reverses harmful restrictions imposed by this bill that make it almost impossible to base public protections on the best available scientific information, much of which is private or proprietary and cannot always be published. In its current form, Mr. Speaker, this bill, the so-called Honest and Open New EPA Science Treatment Act, seriously impedes the EPA's ability to protect the American public from pollutants, toxins, and other dangerous threats to their well-being. The true intention of this bill is not to increase transparency in policymaking but, rather, to bar scientists and civil servants from enforcing the intent of bedrock protections in the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, and other important laws. If this ``secret science'' bill passes in its current form, the EPA's work will grind to a halt and countless Americans will suffer or even die as a result. Hardworking miners, whose work and contributions have been overly politicized in the debate to keep access to science, are the greatest at risk. Generations of miners toil dutifully to support their families, all the while exposing themselves to toxicity and pollution that can leave them with lifelong debilitating diseases, such as black lung and asthma. Families who will struggle from the costs to treat these expensive diseases and from loss of income due to days missed from work do not need more obstruction or political football. They need access to the best care available, which relies upon evidence-based science. They deserve far better than what the majority is offering. Mr. Speaker, I came to Congress with a mission to uphold the values and principles of the great constituents living in Virginia's Fourth Congressional District. I believe that includes advocating for the health of all Americans. That means advocating for sound science and reasonable policies. It means rejecting dangerous, shortsighted, and an astonishingly hard-hearted piece of legislation that is currently before you. Mr. Speaker, science is the bedrock of sound medical and public health decisionmaking. EPA's science-based decisionmaking process has saved lives and led to the dramatic improvements in the quality of the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the Earth we share. All Americans have benefited from the research-based scientific advice that scientists have provided the EPA, and that is why I urge my colleagues to support my motion to recommit. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

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

Mr. McEACHIN

Mr. McEACHIN. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoidably detained during roll call no. 170, the amendment to H.R. 1367, numbered eleven, offered by Ms. Hanabusa. I was also unavoidably detained during roll call no. 171, the final passage of H.R. 1367. I was also unavoidably detained during roll call no. 172, on approving the Journal. Had I been present, I would have voted: Yea on Roll Call No. 170 Yea on Roll Call No. 171 Yea on Roll Call No. 172

Mr. McEACHIN

Mr. McEACHIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Mr. Mustafa Ali's 24 years of service to the health and wellness of the American people. On March 7, Mr. Ali sent his resignation to Administrator Scott Pruitt. He resigned from his post as the leader of the Environmental Protection Agency's Environmental Justice program. For more than 2 decades, Mr. Ali led our Nation's leaders on environmental justice in their search for equalizing the playing field for vulnerable communities that have been victims of actions that threaten their public health and the quality of their air, water, and land. In his letter, Mr. Ali said, in part: Communities of color, low-income communities, and indigenous populations are still struggling to receive equal protections before the law. These communities, both rural and urban, often live in areas with toxic levels of air pollution, crumbling or nonexistent water and sewer infrastructure, lead in their drinking water, brownfields from vacant former industrial and commercial sites, Superfund and other hazardous waste sites, as well as other sources of exposures to pollutants. Despite the many challenges we face regarding the impacts of pollution and a changing climate, we have just as many effective tools and programs, with long track records of assisting vulnerable communities in meeting their goals of improving public health and enhancing the environmental quality of their local communities. Mr. Ali's resignation is a signal for me. In my eyes, a longtime soldier in the fight to level the playing field for all Americans to live in a clean environment left the Environmental Protection Agency because it was no longer welcoming for individuals who want to work with facts. As we await the President's fiscal year 2018 budget, we need to remember how impactful Environmental Justice programs are to our constituents' health. Flint is one of the most salient examples of what can happen when environmental justice watchdogs are not empowered to do their good work.