Frank Pallone

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I listened to my Republican colleague in disbelief because the fact of the matter is that the Republican House has now adjourned, or at least is trying to adjourn, and go home for 5 weeks, as far as I can tell. The fact of the matter is that when you go home and you talk to your constituents, they talk about jobs, they talk about the economy. When the gentleman says, Oh, we already passed a bill and why doesn't the Senate take it up, he knows very well that in order to accomplish anything here in terms of tax cuts and extending tax cuts for the middle class, that we have to get together on a bipartisan basis with the Democrats. That's simply not happening here. The Senate has passed bills that seek to create jobs, larger infrastructure bills, bills that would actually send money back to the States so that we can rehire some of our public employees, our police, our firemen, and our teachers. The fact of the matter is that the House Republicans really do not want to do anything to create jobs, whether it's in the public sector or it's in the private sector. We see no action here on the House side under the Republican leadership that would do anything to stimulate the economy or create jobs.

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. I want to thank my colleague from Virginia for yielding me the time. I just want to reiterate what Mr. Scott just said. I have to say I have never had more requests and concern about programs from mayors and elected officials in my municipalities than I get for programs like this Byrne JAG program, like the COPS program, like the SAFER program that deals with fire prevention. I think a lot of it has to do with the fact that many of my towns-- and I'm sure this is true across the country--because of the recession, because of budgetary constraints are laying off police, laying off firemen, don't have the resources, if you will, to deal with a lot of the crime prevention problems, so these programs are crucial to them. I want to reiterate what Mr. Scott said about the fact that right now it's not only a question of reauthorizing, but also making sure that there's adequate funding for it. If I could just use an example in my own district, and that is that last week I was able to announce that several towns in my district, the Sixth District, have been awarded grants under the Byrne JAG program to support a broad range of activities to prevent and control crime. One grant is administered by Neptune and is benefiting both Asbury Park and Long Branch--Long Branch being my home town. Another grant is administered by New Brunswick, and it's helping Perth Amboy, Edison, and Woodbridge. The funding is used to purchase law enforcement equipment and supplies. In New Brunswick, it's being used for a police vehicle, which will have mobile video and data equipment. This is really all about community safety, which is of utmost importance. At a time when our local law enforcement has to cope with difficult funding levels, these Federal grants make it possible for towns to support critical crime- prevention activities that protect New Jersey families and their residents. I can't stress enough how important this is. So I'm just very pleased today that on a bipartisan basis we are reauthorizing this, I think, for 5 years. And as Mr. Scott said, the next step is to make sure that there's adequate funding because this is a crucial program. That's why I came down here tonight to speak about it.

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I thank my ranking member. I rise to oppose H.R. 2362, the Indian Tribal Trade and Investment Demonstration Project Act. To put it quite simply, there is no good reason for passage of this legislation. In fact, there are a whole bunch of reasons why this legislation should fail today. First, I would like to say that I strongly support efforts to bring economic prosperity to Indian Country. I've been a longtime advocate of Indian Country's right and power to exercise their sovereignty and pursue economic development in the ways they choose. That is why I was glad to vote for H.R. 205, the HEARTH Act. The HEARTH Act permits all tribes, not just a select few, to engage in leasing activities without Federal oversight under certain circumstances. Under the HEARTH Act, tribes can engage in these activities with both domestic and foreign entities. Furthermore, the HEARTH Act enjoys strong bipartisan support and passed this body on May 15 by a vote of 400-0. The bill then passed the Senate by unanimous consent, and it now only awaits the President's signature. In contrast, H.R. 2362 singles out the Republic of Turkey for preferential treatment. Anyone who questions this just needs to turn to the bill itself which states its purposes as ``to facilitate economic development by Indian tribes and encourage investment by Turkish enterprises.'' If this bill didn't give Turkey special preference, what would be the point? It would be entirely duplicative to what will be law in just a few days. The Republic of Turkey, Mr. Speaker, acts increasingly hostile to U.S. interests and has a long history of human rights violations. Turkey is not a country that should be receiving preferential treatment in any sense, and certainly not explicitly approved by this Congress. Turkey has yet to acknowledge the fact of the Armenian genocide and reconcile itself with its own history. The Armenian genocide is the first genocide of the 20th century. It's a dark chapter in history, but it must be remembered and reaffirmed. That's why we must not stand by as the Republic of Turkey continues their policy of denying the 20th century's first genocide. It is also very appropriate to remember that this past Friday marked the 38th anniversary of the illegal occupation of northern Cyprus by Turkey. On July 20, 1974, Turkey invaded Cyprus in violation of international law, and at great cost to the citizens of Cyprus. Turkish troops continue to occupy Cyprus illegally, and the invasion forced nearly 200,000 Greek Cypriots to flee their homes. The EU member Cypriot government has made strong efforts to bring this ongoing occupation to a peaceful settlement. However, the Turkish government from afar continues to push against such peace negotiations. In fact, Turkey has used its bases in northern Cyprus to harass Israeli merchant vessels peacefully engaged, in cooperation with the Cypriot Government, on oil and gas exploration. It has even threatened U.S. companies. I have just presented a couple of examples as to why Turkey's policies fly in the face of solid moral standing and threaten U.S. interests abroad. Legislating preferential treatment for Turkey would be a mistake and only signal that genocide denial, illegal occupation of U.S. allies, and other anti-U.S. policies will be tolerated. I'm proud to say that this Congress has passed legislation that gives tribes more flexibility in entering into lease agreements that will promote economic development and future vitality. Today's bill does not advance this cause. It would simply put Turkey on a pedestal, and I urge my colleagues to oppose this bill and vote ``no.''

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the late Sgt. Richard A. Cummings, Jr., a life long resident of Deal, New Jersey. Sgt. Cummings enlisted in the United States Marine Corps after high school and passed away while serving his country. His heroic actions to defend our nation's freedom are truly worthy of this body's recognition. Sgt. Richard Cummings, Jr. has exemplified a long standing history of dedication to his community and country. Sgt. Cummings attended Deal Elementary School and is an alumnus of St. Rose High School in Belmar, New Jersey. Richard was a devout member of the First Baptist Church in Manasquan, New Jersey and dedicated his time to serving the community as a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 2226. Richard was a member of Boy Scout Troop 70 and attained the rank of Life Scout. Sgt. Cummings enlisted in the United States Marine Corps the summer after he graduated high school. He proudly served at the 4th Marine Logistics Group in Red Bank, New Jersey as a diesel mechanic with the 6th Motor Transport Battalion and held this position for five years. Sgt. Cummings' most recent assignment was at the Marine Tactical Group, Marine Air Control Group- 48, in Great Lakes, Illinois. Sgt. Cummings also bravely served his country in Iraq supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. He passed away while on assignment at Marine Air Base in Yuma, Arizona at the age of twenty-four. Sgt. Cummings is predeceased by his grandparents, Charles and Helen Cummings and Becky Correia. He is survived by his grandfather, Toddy Correia of Manasquan, New Jersey, his parents, Richard, Sr. and Odette Cummings of Deal, New Jersey, his sister, brother-in-law and niece, Stefanie, Aaron and Rebecca Green of Ocean Township, New Jersey and his sister and brother-in-law Amy and Jim Bonney of Brownsville, Vermont. Also surviving are his uncle and aunts, Elliott and Marybeth Correia, Dennis and Sheri Cummings, and cousins, Todd and Lt. Mark Correia, Gregory Cummings. He will also be missed by his cousins Amanda, Toby, Mia and Izzy Wood of Austin, Texas. Sgt. Cummings will always be remembered as a loving son, brother, gracious friend and loyal Marine. Mr. Speaker, once again, please join me in memorializing the life and legacy of Sgt. Richard A. Cummings, Jr. His faithful dedication and service toward his country continue to uphold the proud legacy and motto of the United States Marine Corps of honor, courage and commitment.

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Ms. Marie ``Rie'' Blaisdell. Ms. Blaisdell will be recognized by the Monmouth County Historical Association at the 2012 Garden Party for her outstanding contributions to the association. Rie Blaisdell has served as a member of the Monmouth County Historical Association since 1959. Ms. Blaisdell continues to volunteer countless hours and is a member of the Board of Trustees. She is a strong advocate for the study of Monmouth County history. Rie is fondly remembered for her role as a docent at Allen House. She often provides animated and historically accurate stories of Revolutionary soldiers for visitors to enjoy. Colleagues continue to applaud Ms. Blaisdell's warm personality, hard work and motivation. Rie Blaisdell continues to personify the qualities of a true historian. Members of the Monmouth County Historical Association praise Ms. Blaisdell for her instrumental role in launching the Historical Association's first Garden Party in 1975. At its inception, the Historical Association Garden Party included an informal afternoon cocktail party hosted by local residents. Ms. Blaisdell has remained an active Garden Party committee member for 37 years and continues to lend her experience and expertise. Ms. Blaisdell's unending generosity has undoubtedly touched many lives throughout Central New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, once again, please join me in congratulating Ms. Marie ``Rie'' Blaisdell for receiving the honor bestowed by the Monmouth County Historical Association. Her dedication and service continues to provide inspiration and insight for future generations of historians throughout Monmouth County and New Jersey.

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, can I inquire about how much time remains on both sides?

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Gonzalez).

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the gentlewoman from Illinois (Ms. Schakowsky).

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the gentlewoman from California (Mrs. Capps).

Mr. PALLONE. I yield myself 1 minute, Mr. Speaker. I am amazed by the comments that the previous speaker made on the Republican side. The fact of the matter is that the Affordable Care Act amounts to a tax cut. Right now, in the State of New Jersey, for people who are paying for their health insurance, we estimate that about $1,000 or $1,500 annually from their premiums is actually going to pay for those who are uninsured, for people who don't have insurance and have to go to the emergency rooms and then don't pay their bills. Once the Affordable Care Act fully kicks in, because of the fact that everyone will be insured and all those people who now go to the emergency rooms and have no insurance will, in fact, have coverage, for the people who are paying their premiums right now, they're actually going to be paying less--it will be a tax cut--because they won't be paying for those people who now are uninsured. I think it's really incredible because, if you think about it, the Republicans always talk about personal responsibility. How is it fair that people don't have themselves covered? How is it that they don't carry health insurance and then make other people pay for it? I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PALLONE. I continue to reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PALLONE. I continue to reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PALLONE. I yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the gentlewoman from Colorado (Ms. DeGette).

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Engel).

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Gene Green).

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Eshoo).

Mr. PALLONE. I continue to reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PALLONE. I continue to reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I have no additional speakers at this time, so I'll reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PALLONE. I yield the gentlewoman an additional 30 seconds.

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself 3 minutes. Today reminds me of the movie ``Groundhog Day.'' For those of you who aren't familiar with the movie, it's about a TV weatherman who finds himself repeating the same day over and over again. No matter what he does, he's stuck on the same day. Does that sound familiar? I think it does. Today, we will take yet another show vote on repealing the Affordable Care Act which will never become law. In fact, we're wasting 2 days debating its repeal when Congress should be focusing on jobs and reducing the deficit. This exercise in futility does nothing but attempt to turn the clock back on all the many benefits already in place for Americans across this country. Meanwhile, it increases the deficit, puts insurance companies back in charge of America's health care, increases costs, cuts benefits for Medicare seniors, and eliminates $40 billion in tax credits to help make insurance more affordable for small businesses. Mr. Speaker, the Affordable Care Act ensures that hardworking middle class families will get the security they deserve and protects every American from the worst insurance company abuses. The law includes numerous provisions to keep health care costs low, promote prevention, and hold insurance companies accountable. For those Americans who already have health care, whether through private insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid, the Affordable Care Act is already making your coverage more secure. For example, insurance companies no longer have unchecked power to cancel your policy, deny your child coverage due to a preexisting condition, or charge women more than men. Over 80 million Americans have gained coverage of preventive care free of charge, like mammograms for women and wellness visits for seniors. Nearly 13 million Americans will receive a rebate this summer because their insurance company spent too much of their premium dollars on administrative costs or CEO bonuses, and 5.3 million seniors and people with disabilities have saved an average of over $600 on prescription drugs and the doughnut hole in Medicaid coverage, Medicare coverage. Also, 6.6 million young adults have been able to stay on their parents' plans until the age of 26, including 3.1 million young people who were newly insured--and I hear about this all the time when I am home in my district. For those Americans who yet don't have health insurance, help is really on the way. Starting in 2014, the Affordable Care Act will offer an array of quality, affordable, private health insurance plans to choose from. If someone can't afford insurance, or for a small business that wants to provide affordable insurance to their employees, tax credits are available that make coverage affordable. The result of this repeal, which the Republicans are putting forth today, is to basically say that millions of middle class Americans will lose out on new health freedoms and new health coverage that make a positive difference in their lives. Rather than refight these old partisan battles by starting over on health care and repealing basic protections that provide security for the middle class, Congress needs to work together to focus on the economy and create jobs. The House Republican leadership would do well to seek bipartisan solutions to jobs and the economy instead of seeking this repeal. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PALLONE. I will close at this time, and yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, let me say over again--and I know we've had this debate so many times that it really sounds like we just keep repeating the same thing--that this is a very important day at some level because the fact of the matter is the Republicans continue with this effort to try to repeal what is probably one of the most important pieces of legislation that has ever passed in the last few years in the Congress and has been signed by the President. The reason is that, for the first time, when the Affordable Care Act fully kicks in, most Americans--probably 98.99 percent of Americans-- will have health insurance. We estimate maybe 30, 40--perhaps more-- million Americans right now do not have health insurance. There are probably as many who are what we call ``underinsured.'' In other words, they can't really buy a good benefit package. The fact of the matter is, by 2014, when the Affordable Care Act fully kicks in, you'll be able to go on an exchange either in your State or anywhere in the country and find a good benefit package, one that's as good probably as what you would get now under Blue Cross or Blue Shield, good benefits at a good price. That is an amazing thing. We've been here for 200 years in this country and were never able to say that that would actually happen. I heard my colleagues on the Republican side in the Rules Committee say last night, We'll just repeal this and we'll come up with a better plan. But they haven't come up with a better plan. They talk about health savings accounts and malpractice and all these different things that are basically around the edges. They would pretty much not guarantee most Americans, as they do under the Affordable Care Act, that they would be able to access health insurance, the peace of mind that goes with that and all the benefits that have already kicked in that would be repealed under this bill: The fact that seniors eventually won't have to worry about the doughnut hole and will have their prescription drug coverage no matter how much they actually spend, that they'll only have to pay a co-pay; the fact that so many seniors now have preventive care; the fact that kids up to 26 years old can go on their parents' health insurance policy. So many people talk to me about that. There's also the fact that preexisting conditions for women and others is no longer a factor in terms of your ability to buy health insurance; the fact that there are no more lifetime caps, recisions, all these discriminatory practices that we've had in the past when you are trying to buy health insurance. The fact of the matter is that already, over the last few years, most of these discriminatory practices have been eliminated. Many people may not even realize it's a result of the Affordable Care Act, but the fact is that it is. That's why these discriminatory practices are going away. Last night, the chairman of the Rules Committee said, We'll repeal this and we will do something and be different, and the insurance companies will continue not to have these discriminatory practices. That's simply not true. The insurance companies will go back to the discriminatory practices if you repeal this bill. They'll almost be forced to. Because of the way this is set up, when everybody has health insurance, then the insurance companies can make enough money, if you will, so they don't have to discriminate. But they'll go back to it if this is repealed. I ask my colleagues to stop bringing this up. This is a bad bill. Let's defeat it now, and let's continue the way we should with the Affordable Care Act in light of the Supreme Court's decision. With that, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. PALLONE. I yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Lee).

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, may I inquire again about the time on both sides that remains?

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Scott).