Tom Petri

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 1178 originally introduced by my colleague from Pennsylvania, Mr. Dent. The bill directs the Comptroller General of the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to conduct a study to determine how the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) can help support homeland security missions and to report to Congress on his findings. The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is a Congressionally-chartered, federally- supported, non-profit corporation that serves as the official auxiliary of the United States Air Force (USAF). First organized over sixty years ago at the beginning of World War II, the Civil Air Patrol is a 57,000- member volunteer cadre that flies 500 planes nationwide. In addition to its aerospace education mission for youth and the general public, the Civil Air Patrol handles 90 percent of inland search and rescue missions. Its members are responsible for approximately 75 lives saved each year. Civil Air Patrol planes have been among the first to survey the aftermath of such disasters as the attacks of September 11, 2001, Hurricane Katrina, Texas and Oklahoma wildfires, and North Dakota flash flooding. The Civil Air Patrol has also assisted in humanitarian missions along the U.S. and Mexican border. Border security, drug interdiction, search and rescue are just a few missions in which airborne reconnaissance and tracking would give homeland security officials valuable information critical to carrying out their objective. The Civil Air Patrol is eager to further assist in Homeland Security missions. This bill will help better define how the Civil Air Patrol may be used more extensively to aid in homeland security missions.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Mr. Chair, I am disappointed that Congressman Murphy and I will not have the opportunity to offer our amendment to the Credit Cardholders' Bill of Rights Act which would require credit card companies to report on marketing agreements with institutions of higher education and alumni associations. The amendment also would direct the Government Accountability Office to analyze and report to Congress the impact of these arrangements on student credit card debt. To that end, today we will be introducing this amendment as a stand-alone bill, the Student Credit Card Transparency Act of 2009. According to a recent study, students are now graduating with an average credit card debt of more than $4,100, up from $2,900 just four years ago. The average number of cards per student has grown to 4.6, with over half of college students reporting they have four or more cards. The combined impact of credit card debt and growing student loan debt can greatly limit a student's future career choice. Furthermore, compounding debt from late payments and high penalties can further jeopardize a young person's financial future by making it difficult to take out their first mortgage, buy a car or even rent an apartment. As I'm sure we all know through our own experiences or through our children's, college students have become prime targets for credit card marketing campaigns. Most students enter college without a credit card and are quickly saturated with e-mails, direct mailings and on-campus solicitations to sign up for their first credit card. A recent report by the U.S. Public Interest Research Group revealed that, of the students they surveyed, 80 percent said they had received mail from credit card companies. Students reported receiving an average of nearly five mailed solicitations per month. In addition, 22 percent of students reported receiving an average of nearly four phone calls per month from credit card companies. While the practice of targeting college students may not be much of a surprise, students and parents may be alarmed to learn that many colleges, universities and alumni associations have entered into lucrative agreements with these companies to allow exclusive marketing of their cards. In these arrangements, schools receive large cash payments in exchange for handing over their students' contact information--such as address, e-mail address, and telephone numbers. These confidential agreements may also go further and give companies exclusive face-to-face access to students on campus, such as during sporting events or at the student union. Some provide the university or alumni with additional money based on a percentage of purchases using the card. Despite the fact that hundreds of schools throughout the country have such arrangements, very little is known about them. Last year's ``pay to play'' scandal in the guaranteed student loan program exposed the practice of lenders and financial aid administrators putting their own interests ahead of their students' when it came to compiling their ``preferred lender list.'' While arrangements between credit card companies and schools don't necessarily mean the student's financial interests are being harmed, I believe it is imperative to have at a minimum a better understanding of these arrangements. For instance, are schools and associated foundations making arrangements with companies that offer the best rates for their students? This bill simply seeks greater transparency by requiring credit card companies to report these arrangements. Then Congress, students and parents will be able to judge whether these agreements reflect the best interests of students or that of the school or related institution. I am happy to have the support of the United States Students Association, USPIRG, Consumer Federation of America, National Association of College Admissions Counselors, and the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers and want to thank Congressman Murphy for his work on this important bill.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise today to join in supporting House Resolution 344, commending the University of Connecticut Huskies for their historic win in the 2009 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Women's Basketball Tournament. On April 7 of this year, the University of Connecticut Huskies defeated the University of Louisville Cardinals 76-54 in the final game of the NCAA Division I Women's Basketball Tournament in St. Louis, Missouri, to capture the school's sixth national title. In the season, the Huskies remained undefeated with a record of 39-0, defeating each of their opponents by double digits. The Huskies' success was, in large part, due to the outstanding play of senior point guard Renee Montgomery and sophomore forward Maya Moore. Montgomery was chosen as the Nancy Lieberman Award winner given to the Nation's top point guard, and Moore was chosen as the Naismith Award winner, Wooden Award winner, State Farm Wade Trophy winner, United States Basketball Writers Association Player of the Year and Associated Press Player of the Year. While these two players were recognized for their outstanding play, the championship run was a shining example of teamwork. The national accolades bestowed upon this team can only be attributed to Head Coach Geno Auriemma. Coach Auriemma has refined the meaning of success in college basketball in his 23 years as head coach of UConn. During his illustrious tenure, Coach Auriemma has transformed the University of Connecticut program into the standard that all others are measured by, both on and off the court. Under his guidance, the Huskies have been transformed from a program with only one winning record to its credit to its current state, which includes six national championships, nine Final Fours and 16 Big East regular season and 14 Big East tournament titles since his arrival in 1985. While athletic success is what brings us here today, we should take time to highlight academics as well. The University of Connecticut is the State's flagship institution of higher learning. It was founded in 1881 as the Storrs Agricultural School and became the University of Connecticut in 1939. UConn is a research intensive university, a prestigious designation shared by only the Nation's top higher education institutions. They have more than 70 focused research centers where faculty, graduate students and undergraduates explore everything from improving human health to enhancing public education and protecting the country's national resources. I extend my congratulations to the University of Connecticut President Michael Hogan, Athletic Director Jeffrey Hathaway, Head Coach Geno Auriemma and his staff, the hardworking players and, obviously, the fans. I wish all continued success and ask my colleagues to support this resolution. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise in support of House Resolution 335, a resolution supporting the goals and ideals of National Volunteer Week. Throughout the history of the United States, Americans have valued an ethic of service. Citizens have come together to support our troops, educate our children or work to ensure that less fortunate individuals have a place to live. All of these activities support the theme of this year's National Volunteer Week, ``Celebrating People in Action.'' This week gives us an opportunity to recognize those individuals who serve their country, not only through the military or through national service programs run by the Corporation for National and Community Service, but also those individuals who are donating their time to serve their local communities. Just last week our President signed the latest reauthorization of the national service programs. This bill was crafted through a bipartisan process in both the House and the Senate and builds on the reforms and the corporations stated by the previous administration to ensure additional accountability in national service programs. The bill will help smaller organizations participate in national service and ensure that the unique skills of America's veterans are utilized. Volunteerism is a way for Americans to connect to their communities, learn more about the problems facing their communities and to simply make a difference. This week we salute all volunteers and national service program participants for their powerful impact, and we thank all community partners who make these efforts possible and bring more Americans into service. I want to take this opportunity to thank my colleagues, Mr. Platts, Ms. Matsui and Mr. Price for introducing this resolution, and I ask my colleagues to support this resolution.

Mr. PETRI. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of House Concurrent Resolution 99, supporting the goals and ideals of a National Early Educator Worthy Wage Day. Over 11 million children under age 5 spend an average of 36 hours a week in nonparental care settings. Over 40 percent of children are in some form of nonparental care by the age of 1, and approximately 60 percent of the Nation's children under the age of 6 are in nonparental care during part or all the day while their parents work. Parents place children in a variety of care settings, including informal, center-based and school-based environments. The majority of children remain in traditional childcare settings funded by a variety of sources, but a growing number are participating in private and State-funded prekindergarten programs. To date, 39 States and the District of Columbia have designed, implemented and funded their own prekindergarten programs on a large scale, compared to only seven States in 1980. I support programs to promote early childhood education and efforts to ensure that our children are better prepared to enter kindergarten. The quality of early childhood education can be linked to the quality of our early childhood educators. Allowing for additional training and education for the early childhood workforce is important to ensure high-quality early learning environments. Today, I rise with my colleagues to urge public officials and the general public to honor early childhood care and education staff and programs in their communities on May 1. I stand in support of this resolution, and ask my colleagues' support. I have no requests for time and yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume and rise today in support of H. Res. 337, recognizing the month of April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Recognizing Child Abuse Prevention Month allows us to help to raise awareness of the tragic circumstances of abuse and neglect that many of our Nation's children face every day. Recognizing this month also highlights the importance of the prevention and awareness of child abuse, so that children can live safely and securely, free from abuse. It is important that each of us knows how we can help prevent and stop ongoing child abuse. Understanding the causes of child abuse, learning to identify the warning signs that a child is being abused, reporting any known or suspected case of child abuse, being a friend to a child or parent in need and alerting others to the problem are all ways adults and other children can help prevent, and stop, child abuse. Child abuse may include physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse and emotional abuse. In many cases, children are the victims of multiple forms of abuse. In 2007, approximately 794,000 children were found to be victims of some form of child maltreatment. Child abuse prevention not only protects the Nation's children from years of physical, mental and emotional scars, it also lessens the costs associated with child abuse and enables funding to be used to assist children in other ways. In 2007, child abuse had an estimated total annual cost of almost $104 billion in direct and indirect costs. In 1974, the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act was enacted to address the issue of child abuse and neglect in this country and to underscore the importance of assisting children in abusive situations. Through this act, States receive grants to help with their child protective service functions, improve investigation and prosecution of child maltreatment, and to assist community-based family resource and support services. April was first declared Child Abuse Prevention Month by presidential proclamation in 1985 by President Reagan. Since then, in the month of April, child abuse and neglect awareness and prevention efforts are promoted throughout the country. As members of school systems, neighborhoods, families and communities, all of us can help to prevent child abuse and neglect. Child Abuse Prevention Month provides us with an opportunity to work together to keep children safe and to lend families the support that they need to raise happy children in a safe and secure home. This is why I stand in support of this resolution and ask for my colleagues' support. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Madam Speaker, I am pleased to offer my congratulations to the Honorable Kevin Crawford, the longest continually-serving mayor in the history of Manitowoc, Wisconsin. First elected in 1989, Mayor Crawford is stepping down this month to pursue another career path. Mayor Crawford's energetic and creative leadership over twenty years has helped provide the spark fueling a business and manufacturing revival in Manitowoc that has made the city one of Wisconsin's biggest economic success stories of recent years. His focus on job creation, pursuit of public-private partnerships and instinct for opportunity helped the city capitalize on its already diverse manufacturing base, skilled labor force and unique attributes as a Lake Michigan port city with a proud history as a World War II maritime industry leader. Over the years, I have worked with Kevin Crawford on many issues of importance to Manitowoc and have come to know him as a tireless and passionate advocate for the city. It's clear to me that his optimism and hard work have not only offered an impetus for progress and growth in the city, but have contributed to the momentum to sustain it. Last year The Wall Street Journal ran a feature story highlighting the manufacturing and exporting successes of the city and its rebound after the closing of its second-largest employer in 2003. Mayor Crawford has called manufacturing a ``core pillar of our economy,'' and has seen to it that local government takes an active role in developing what he terms ``new economy manufacturing,'' including new technology and jobs. Indeed, in the current global recession, hits to the Manitowoc economy have been buffered by the presence of promising new energy- related companies that have taken root there in recent years. During his tenure, Mayor Crawford negotiated the revival of car ferry passenger service between Manitowoc and Ludington, Michigan, and has worked to ensure its continued success. He was instrumental in bringing new owners and leadership to the ailing Burger Boat Company, now firmly positioned as a world leader in luxury yacht manufacturing. As commissioner of the Manitowoc Public Utilities, Mayor Crawford has been the dedicated chief steward of this city-owned and managed electric and water utility which has grown considerably over the last two decades and affords local citizens some of the lowest utility rates in the country. Considered one of the most knowledgeable local elected officials in the area of electric energy, he has been recognized by the American Public Power Association, the Municipal Electric Utilities of Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Water Association. Other achievements of the Crawford era in Manitowoc include the construction of a new city hall, library and public safety building, the development of a new Visitor Information Center, and major retail expansion and infrastructure improvements. In addition, Mayor Crawford created and has fostered an active sixteen-year sister-city relationship between Manitowoc and Kamagowa, Japan. The partnership has resulted in numerous citizen exchange visits over the years and is acknowledged to be one of the most vibrant sister-city associations in the country. His colleagues across Wisconsin have also recognized Mayor Crawford's outstanding leadership skills. He is a member of the Board of Directors of the Wisconsin Alliance of Cities and a Past President of the League of Wisconsin Municipalities as well as a member of its legislative committee. In light of his many years of commitment to the people of Manitowoc, Wisconsin, and his impressive record of accomplishment, I am proud to recognize Mayor Kevin Crawford and extend my congratulations and appreciation to him on his retirement from public service.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Mr. Speaker, in September 2007, the House considered and passed the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2007, H.R. 2881. That legislation reauthorized the FAA for four years. Unfortunately, the Senate was unable to come to an agreement on its bill, and so in September 2008 Congress extended the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) funding and authority for a fifth time. That extension will expire on March 31, 2009, so today we are considering another extension. H.R. 1512 would extend the taxes, programs, and funding of the FAA through September of 2009. This bill---- Extends FAA Funding and contract authority for 6 months; Funds the Airport Improvement Program at $1.95 billion through September 2009; Extends the War Risk Insurance program; and Extends the Small Community Air Service Development Program. H.R. 1512 will ensure that our National Aviation System continues to operate until a full FAA Reauthorization can be enacted. As I have indicated many times since the passage of the House FAA Reauthorization bill back in 2007, we need to pass a long-term bill so that we can meet the growing demands placed on our nation's infrastructure. Modernizing our antiquated air traffic control system and repairing our crumbling infrastructure need to be at the top of our priorities. As we begin the 111th Congress, there is still much work to be done. This 6-month extension gives us time to improve H.R. 915, the ``FAA Reauthorization Act of 2009,'' which was introduced by Chairmen Oberstar and Costello last month and approved by our Committee earlier this month. As we move toward Floor consideration of the FAA Reauthorization bill, I look forward to working with my colleagues to address ongoing concerns with some of the provisions in H.R. 915. I also urge our colleagues in the other body to take up a comprehensive FAA reauthorization package as early as possible this year. I support this extension as the best alternative to keep the FAA and the National Airspace System running safely until we can take up and pass a bipartisan and bicameral bill.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Madam Speaker, today I am reintroducing the Troops to Teachers Improvement Act to improve opportunities for veterans to transition into second careers in teaching. I am pleased to once again be joined in this effort by Congresswoman Doris Matsui. I have been a supporter of the Troops to Teachers program since its authorization, and I am proud of its success over the last decade. Since 1994, this program has placed nearly 10,000 veterans in our nation's classrooms. Troops to Teachers is a unique program that provides retiring military with a $5,000 stipend to help cover the costs of teaching certification in exchange for three years service in a high-need school, which until recently was defined as receiving grants under part A of Title I. To further encourage participants to teach in schools with the greatest need, a $10,000 bonus is offered to those who agree to teach for three years in a school with 50 percent of students below the poverty level. This structure has proven very effective in transitioning qualified retiring military personnel into second careers in teaching. Indeed, Troops participants fill several critical needs among educators: eighty-two percent are male, over one-third ethnic minorities, and a majority bring an expertise in science and math to the classroom. In an increasingly globalized economy, these valuable characteristics provide a vital resource for schools across the country. However, this success is now in jeopardy due to a drafting error in the 2001 No Child Left Behind Act which has inadvertently restricted the number of schools at which participants may fulfill their service. The applicable definition for ``high-need local education agencies'' for Troops to Teachers was inadvertently changed as it was included in the section of the legislation regarding other alternative programs that had a different definition. This stricter definition requires a higher threshold for ``high-need,'' requiring the school to have either 10,000 students or 20 percent of students from families below the poverty level. However, the original Title I definition of high-need was also retained in the law in the section specifically detailing the Troops program. Essentially, Congress inadvertently created two conflicting definitions of ``high-need'' with regard to this program. Early on, the Department of Education and the Troops to Teachers program recognized this unintended change in law and worked together to address it. From 2003-2005, while discussions were being held on how to reconcile this discrepancy, the program continued to operate under the original and intended definition. However, after the completion of a negotiated rulemaking process in September 2005, the Department issued a regulation stating that the new, stricter definition was not an error but congressional intent. As one of the leading supporters of this program during the drafting of No Child Left Behind, I can assure my colleagues that this clearly was not the intent of the supporters of the program. Madam Speaker, the unfortunate result of this, aside from limiting the number of schools at which veterans may teach and honor their obligation of three-years service, is that it has disproportionately impacted western and rural states. In my home state of Wisconsin, the number of eligible school districts has been reduced from approximately 420 to 13. Not surprisingly, participation in the program has fallen significantly since the implementation of the new definition. This decision, although understandable given the conflicting definitions contained in the law, is a disservice both to veterans wishing to continue their service to our nation as educators as well as children who stand to benefit from their unique expertise. The bottom line is that we are losing out on great teachers because they cannot accept the certification stipend due to a lack of schools meeting the higher needs threshold in their communities. The more we restrict opportunities for participation, the fewer teachers we will be able to bring into public education, and the fewer teachers we will eventually be able to attract to the schools with the greatest need. Further, given the nation's need for more math and science teachers, we should be removing, not creating, restrictions that prevent qualified teachers in these areas from teaching in our nation's classrooms. Madam Speaker, with Troops to Teachers, the Department already has an established program that is well-funded and successful. Rather than restricting it, we should be maximizing this program's potential. This legislation would correct this error and restore the original intent of the Troops to Teachers program. Our bill would ensure that veterans participating in the Troops to Teachers program may receive a $5,000 stipend for teaching for three years in any school that is in a district receiving grants under part A of Title I. This legislation would result in a 49% increase in the number of eligible schools for the program. This would mean that in my home state of Wisconsin, 94 percent of the schools in the state would once again be eligible for the program. The legislation would retain the current criteria for troops to receive an additional bonus of $5,000 for teaching in a high need school, defined as in a school district that has at least 10% or greater who come from families living below the poverty level and a school where at least 50% of students are eligible for free or reduced lunch or have a ``high percentage'' of students with disabilities. I urge my colleagues to join me and Congresswoman Matsui in supporting this successful program and restoring the opportunity to ``serve again'' to our nation's veterans.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, I urge all Members to support the resolution before us, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. PETRI. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise in very strong support of this resolution today that's being introduced by my colleague from New York, Mr. Chris Lee. This resolution, House Resolution 183, expresses condolences to the families, friends and loved ones of the victims of the February 12, 2009, accident of Flight 3407 which took place in Clarence Center, New York. There were 50 people on board Flight 3407, including passengers and crew. Sadly, all lives were lost. Our sympathy goes out to the victims and to each and every one of their families, friends and loved ones. Losing a loved one is tragic, but the loss is compounded when it's as the result of an unfortunate and unforeseen situation. I'm hopeful that this resolution will, in some small way, comfort the families and friends of all of those who lost their lives on Flight 3407. I also want to thank the first responders and those who are providing support and assistance to the families of the victims. Their efforts are appreciated. The National Transportation Safety Board is thoroughly investigating every aspect of this accident. The Board is responsible for determining the circumstances and cause of this accident, and they will report back to Congress. In the meantime, I want to assure the families, the public, the Members of Congress, that those charged with the investigation of this tragedy will not rest until the cause of this aviation accident has been determined. The loss of even one life in an aviation accident is unacceptable, but the American public should know that our commercial airlines today are both safe and reliable. The National Airspace System handles almost 50,000 flights per day and more than 7 million passengers annually. Since 2007, the commercial airline industry has maintained the lowest fatality accident rate in commercial aviation history. Up until this accident, the FAA reported no on-board fatalities in passenger operations in the past 2 years and now approaching almost 3 years with about 1.6 billion people transported during that period. Despite the amazing safety record, I wish we lived in a world where we could eliminate all accidents and risks. While I don't believe that we can do that, I do believe that we can continue to work as effectively as possible to do everything we can to avoid these types of accidents in the future. Again, I want to express my condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of the victims on board Flight 3407, and also to Mr. Chris Lee, my distinguished colleague from New York, and his constituents. I yield to my colleague from New York (Mr. Lee) such time as he may consume.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information for publication in the Congressional Record regarding earmarks I received as part of H.R. 1105, FY 2009 Omnibus Appropriations Act: Requesting Member: The Honorable Thomas E. Petri Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Division A--Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies--NRCS--Conservation Operations Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Natural Resources Conservation Service Address of Requesting Entity: Eisenhower Corporate Park, 2805 S. Industrial Hwy, Suite 100, Ann Arbor, MI 48104-6791. Description of Request: The $404,000 appropriation will be used for grants and technical assistance, demonstration grants, and information/ educational activities related to soil erosion and sediment control of the Great Lakes. This request has been made with numerous Members and Senators of the Congressional Great Lakes Task Force. Account: Division B--Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies--COPSTECH Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin Address of Requesting Entity: City County Government Center, 160 S. Macy Street, P.O. Box 150, Fond du Lac, WI 54935-0150. Description of Request: Will provide $385,000 to the City of Fond du Lac to replace all mobile and portable radios used by the Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, Police Department with radios that are P25 compliant. The Fond du Lac Police Department is the largest police agency in Fond du Lac County, and this project will further provide the Department with equipment that is compatible with other agencies' communication systems, particularly in times of emergencies when multiple jurisdiction interaction is required. This request covers the cost of programming, ancillary equipment, and installation of the radios (mobiles). Account: Division B--Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies--OJP--Byrne Discretionary Grants Legal Name of Requesting Entity: The Fox Valley Child Advocacy Center--Children's Hospital of Wisconsin Address of Requesting Entity: Concorde Building, 325 N. Commercial St., Suite 400, Neenah, WI 54956. Description of Request: The Fox Valley Child Advocacy Center, an entity of Children's Hospital of Wisconsin--Fox Valley and not-for- profit, serves as a Child Advocacy Center for Winnebago, Calumet, and Outagamie Counties. Since its inception in 2004, the Fox Valley Child Advocacy Center has had a major impact in the manner in which investigations of child abuse and neglect have been conducted in the Fox Valley. So far, about 1,000 children have been served at the Center. The $115,000 appropriation will be used to enhance the Child Advocacy Center (CAC) by supporting new staff positions as well as purchasing computer and office equipment. These enhancements will allow the CAC to take on more child abuse cases. The appropriation will be matched by private dollars. The federal government has taken responsibility to ensure that all victims of violent crimes receive adequate investigation and victim services through programs like VOCA, VAWA and the Children's Justice Act. Federal Byrne grants have also been used in many states to support efforts like Child Advocacy Centers. Account: Division C--Energy and Water Development--Operations & Maintenance Legal Name of Requesting Entity: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Detroit District Address of Requesting Entity: P.O. Box 1027, Detroit, MI 48231. Description of Request: The appropriation will provide $754,000 to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Detroit District, to restore and maintain navigable channels within the Federal Project Limits at Two Rivers Harbor. The outer harbor was last dredged in 2005 and now is experiencing shoaling problems that resulted in the issuance of a Notice to Navigation Interests by the Corps of Engineers in September 2007. This request also includes funding for dredging the upstream on the East Twin River between the 17th Street and 22nd Street bridges, to a project depth of 10 feet. This section of the Federal Channel was last dredged in 1980, and in some areas is now as shallow as 3.5 feet. The project will benefit various harbor and river users by continuing to provide safe, reliable access to Lake Michigan from all properties located adjacent to the Federal Channel. This project has been requested along with Senator Herb Kohl (WI). Account: Division C--Energy and Water Development--General Investigations Legal Name of Requesting Entity: U.S. Army Engineer Division, Great Lakes & Ohio River Division. Address of Requesting Entity: 550 Main Street, Room 10032, Cincinnati, OH 45202. Description of Request: The $1,195,000 appropriation will allow the U.S. Army Engineer Division, Great Lakes & Ohio River Division's Remedial Action Plan (RAP) Committees to identify specific actions to resolve pollution problems by coordinating with the Corps of Engineers in dredging and sediment cleanups. This request was made with numerous Members and Senators of the Congressional Great Lakes Task Force. Account: Division C--Energy and Water Development--Construction Legal Name of Requesting Entity: U.S. Army Engineer District, Chicago Address of Requesting Entity: 111 North Canal Street, Suite 600, Chicago, IL 60606. Description of Request: The $5.75 million appropriation will provide the U.S. Army Engineer District, Chicago, the ability to continue construction and operation of the electric dispersal barrier in the canal. $500,000 has also been allocated for dispersal barrier II. These requests have been made with numerous Members and Senators of the Congressional Great Lakes Task Force. Account: Division E--Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies-- National Park Service, from the Land Acquisition and State Assistance Account Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Ice Age Park & Trail Foundation Address of Requesting Entity: 306 East Wilson Street, Lower Level, Madison, WI 53703. Description of Request: The Ice Age Park & Trail Foundation (IAP&TF) is the principal non-profit partner of the National Park Service and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources in preserving, developing, sustaining, and operating the Ice Age National Scenic Trail (IANST) and the Ice Age National Scientific Reserve (IANSR) for public appreciation and enjoyment. The Ice Age Trail is one of only eight Congressionally authorized National Scenic Trails in the National Trails System. The $1,000,000 appropriation will allow the National Park Service to continue acquisition of the authorized interpretive site for the Ice Age Trail in Dane County and for the Park Service to grant to the State of Wisconsin to be matched by state, local and private funds for Ice Age Trail acquisition in Chippewa, Dane, Kewaunee, Langlade, Lincoln, Manitowoc, Marathon, Polk, Portage, Sheboygan, Taylor, Walworth, Washington, Waupaca, and Waushara counties. This project has been requested along with other Members of Congress. Account: Division E--Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies-- National Park Service, Construction Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Ice Age Park & Trail Foundation Address of Requesting Entity: 306 East Wilson Street, Lower Level, Madison, WI 53703. Description of Request: The Ice Age Park & Trail Foundation (IAP&TF) is the principal non-profit partner of the National Park Service and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources in preserving, developing, sustaining, and operating the Ice Age National Scenic Trail (IANST) and the Ice Age National Scientific Reserve (IANSR) for public appreciation and enjoyment. The Ice Age Trail is one of only eight Congressionally authorized National Scenic Trails in the National Trails System. The $125,000 appropriation will be used to open new properties to the public. Activities that would be accelerated by this funding include: property boundary marking, baseline documentation (for easements), invasive species control and ecosystem restoration, equipment purchase, construction of the Trail tread and bridges, signing the Trail to established standards and developing public access facilities such as parking lots. Since the year 2000, over 7,300 acres have been acquired to protect over 43 miles of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. This project has been requested along with other Members of Congress. Account: Division E--Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies-- EPA/STAG Water and Waste Water Infrastructure Project Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Heart of the Valley Metropolitan Sewerage District Address of Requesting Entity: P.O. Box 187, Kaukauna, WI 54130. Description of Request: The $300,000 appropriation will be used to develop improvements in sanitary sewer rehabilitation, inspection, cleaning, maintenance, and sanitary sewer overflow prevention. The Heart of the Valley Metropolitan Sewerage District encompasses the communities of Kaukauna, Little Chute, Combined Locks, Kimberly and the Darboy Joint Sanitary District of Wisconsin. This project has been requested along with Senator Herb Kohl (WI). Account: Division F--Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies--Fund for the Improvement of Post Secondary Education (FIPSE) Legal Name of Requesting Entity: LakeShore Technical College Address of Requesting Entity: 1290 North Ave., Cleveland, WI 53015 Description of Request: To resolve current and projected manufacturing workforce needs and to remain current with advancing technologies, Lakeshore Technical College (LTC) is in the process of creating a Center for Manufacturing Excellence. Manufacturing is the largest employment sector in LTC's district and employers cite a shortage of skilled workers. The Manufacturing Center is projected to cost $7.4 million. The first phase opened in 2007. The federal appropriation of $238,000 will support the second phase which will improve the quality and relevance of education by integrating advanced manufacturing technology equipment into the electromechanical and machine tool laboratories. The federal funds also will be used to hire and train additional faculty. The federal government has a vital interest in ensuring our workforce is able to meet the demands of the today's economy and respond to the changing technology, while offering employment opportunities. Account: Division F--Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies--Fund for the Improvement of Post Secondary Education (FIPSE) Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Marian College (recently renamed Marian University) Address of Requesting Entity: 45 South National Ave, Fond du Lac, WI 54935. Description of Request: $190,000 will be used to establish a collaborative abilities-based Master's Program in Nursing Education. The establishment of this program is designed to address the shortage of nurse educators, thereby expanding opportunities for students to get degrees in nursing. Through this program, Marian College (University) proposes to create the relationships and infrastructure to support collaborative agreements among a group of nursing programs at colleges, universities, and technical colleges within Wisconsin. Although the proposed program would have as its primary focus nursing education, students would be able to obtain advanced clinical preparation in specialty areas. This venture would be the first in Wisconsin to join private and public colleges in order to create new models that wisely use the scarce faculty resources available. Specifically, the federal dollars will be used for faculty, staff, equipment and travel. Marian College plans to spend $550,000 on this effort using its own resources and private funding sources outside of Marian College. The establishment of this program is designed to address the shortage of nurse educators, thereby expanding opportunities for students to get degrees in nursing. This will address a national and state-wide need for nurses as identified by Wisconsin's Department of Workforce Development. Account: Division F--Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies--Fund for the Improvement of Post Secondary Education (FIPSE) Legal Name of Requesting Entity: University of Wisconsin--Oshkosh Address of Requesting Entity: 800 Algoma Blvd., Oshkosh, WI 54901 Description of Request: $95,000 will be used for the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh's Center for the Advancement of Sustainable Processes and Environmental Research (CASPER) Northeast Wisconsin Environmental Footprint Project. This project will establish a benchmark for sustainable business activity in Wisconsin, and this information will be used to partner with area businesses to foster corporate environmental sustainability and economic development. Specifically the federal funds will be used for: research, staff training and travel, resource acquisition and office expenses. The federal government supports many programs to promote energy conservation and renewable energy. This program will aid economic development by empowering local businesses to lessen their environmental footprints. Account: Division F--Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies--Fund for the Improvement of Post Secondary Education (FIPSE) Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Wisconsin Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (WAICU) Address of Requesting Entity: 122 West Washington Avenue, Suite 700, Madison, WI 53703 Description of Request: WAICU launched the WAICU Collaboration Project in 2002. It is a comprehensive initiative to perform all administrative support (back office) functions of Wisconsin's 20 private colleges and universities on a collaborative basis. By working closely with other participating institutions to reduce paperwork and consolidate back office functions, the colleges and universities will be able to concentrate on their primary mission of teaching and learning. Also, saving money will free additional funds for students in financial need and for improvements in academic programming. The objectives include: saving money (controlling college costs); improving the quality of services to students, faculty, and staff; and serving as a national model for controlling college costs. In sum, this is a project about access, affordability, and accountability for higher education. This project will serve as a model for other states, specifically private colleges, for reducing costs. The appropriation of $285,000 will provide continued implementation of the WAICU Collaboration Project which will be used for personnel and technology costs. WAICU member colleges and universities and private foundation grants provide additional funding for this project. Account: Division I--Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies--Transportation and Community and System Preservation Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Village of North Fond du Lac, Wisconsin Address of Requesting Entity: 16 Garfield St., North Fond du Lac, WI 54937 Description of Request: The appropriation of $570,000 will be provided to begin the construction of an overpass across the Wisconsin Central Railyards located in the Village of North Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. The rail/classification yard is the largest of its kind in the State of Wisconsin and connects the rail operations of the Canadian National Railroad in Canada to the Gulf of Mexico. The overpass would not only allow for the safe and efficient passage of rail traffic through the community, but would allow for the delivery of essential services to the residents of the community. The overpass would consist of a 532' bridge span across the yard and access ramps to the connecting roads on both sides of the bridge structure. The proposed bridge structure would be supported by columns placed between the six sets of tracks that now cross Lakeshore Drive. The two sets of warning gates could be eliminated as all access to the crossings would be removed. The potential for a train/vehicle collision would be totally eliminated. The cost of the project will be split 80% Federal, 10% Village of North Fond du Lac, and 10% Wisconsin Central. This project has been requested along with Senator Herb Kohl (WI). Account: Division I--Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies--Economic Development Initiatives Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Military Veterans Museum Foundation, Inc. Address of Requesting Entity: 501 City Center, Oshkosh, WI 54901 Description of Request: The $142,500 appropriation will go toward constructing a 45,000 square foot state of the art educational facility onto the existing ``Fields of Honor'' Military Veterans Museum in Oshksoh, Wisconsin. It would be located on a 10 acre tract a half mile south of the Experimental Aircraft Association grounds (Wittman Regional Airport) overlooking Highway 41. It will contain displays of artifacts and memorabilia ranging from the Revolutionary War to the present; a multi-faceted Educational Center including a library, art gallery, 80 seat theater, an audio/visual center; administrative offices; and banquet rooms. It will also provide a unique gathering place for veterans and school groups, and become a showcase attraction for the area economy. A 5% match is required by the Military Veterans Museum Foundation, Inc. in order to receive the allocated money. Account: Division I--Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies--FTA/Buses and Bus Facilities Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Wisconsin Department of Transportation Address of Requesting Entity: 4802 Sheboygan Ave., Madison, WI 53702 Description of Request: The $269,800 appropriation will be used for renovation of the Oshkosh, Wisconsin, Transit System's administrative/ maintenance facility, shop equipment, maintenance vehicles, rehabilitation of its bus terminal, and yard equipment and maintenance.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 52, I inadvertently voted ``nay.'' I would like the Record to show that I meant to vote ``yea.'' Stated against:

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Madam Speaker, today, Representative Paul Kanjorski and I are introducing bipartisan legislation to establish a program of limited tax credits and tax deductions to get average Americans more involved in the political process. This bill, the Citizens Involvement in Campaigns (CIVIC) Act, will broaden the base of political contributors and limit the influence of big money donors in federal elections. We need to take a fresh look at innovative approaches to campaign finance reform, with special attention paid to ideas that encourage, and not restrict, greater participation in our campaigns. Toward this end, I have been advocating tax credits and deductions for small political contributions for many years. An updated tax credit system would be a simple and effective means of balancing the influence of big money donors and bringing individual contributors back to our campaigns. The impact of this counterweight will reduce the burden of raising money, as well as the appearance of impropriety that accompanies the money chase. Most would agree that the ideal way to finance political campaigns is through a broad base of donors. But, as we are all painfully aware, the economic realities of modern-day campaigning lead many candidates to focus most of their efforts on collecting funds from a few large donors. This reality alienates many Americans from the political process. The concept of empowering small donors is not a new idea. For example, from 1972 to 1986, the federal government offered a tax credit for small political contributions. This provided an incentive for average Americans to contribute to campaigns in small amounts while simultaneously encouraging politicians to solicit donations from a larger pool of contributors. Currently, six geographically and politically diverse states (Oregon, Minnesota, Ohio, Virginia, Arkansas, and Arizona) offer their own tax credits for political contributions. These state-level credits vary in many respects, but all share the same goal of encouraging average Americans to become more involved. The CIVIC Act can begin the process of building this counterweight for federal elections. This bill is designed to encourage Americans who ordinarily do not get involved in politics beyond casting a vote every two or four years (that is, if they bother to vote at all) to become more active participants in our political process. The CIVIC Act will reestablish and update the discontinued federal tax credit. Taxpayers can choose between a 100 percent tax credit for political contributions to federal candidates or national political parties (limited to $200 per taxable year), or a 100 percent tax deduction (limited to $600 per taxable year). Both limits, of course, are doubled for joint returns. As long as political parties and candidates promote the existence of these credits, the program can have a real impact and aid in making elections more grassroots affairs than they are today. A limited tax credit for political contributions can be a bipartisan, cost-efficient method for helping balance the influence of large money donors in the American electoral process. Instead of driving away most Americans from participation in political life, we can offer an invitation for citizens to play a larger role in political campaigns. It seems to me that this will be a fruitful way to clean up our system, while at the same time convincing Americans that they actually have a meaningful stake in elections.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Madam Speaker, I have no further requests for time and yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. PETRI. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I might consume. I would like to just begin by commending and thanking the chairman of our Aviation Subcommittee for giving all of the members of the subcommittee an opportunity to meet some of the people who were involved in this, what could have been tragic, and turned out to be a heroic day, on February 24 when we have tentatively scheduled a subcommittee hearing to meet and find out what worked, what didn't work, and what could be done even better in the future. But I certainly on this day rise in support of the resolution before us, House Resolution 84, honoring the heroic actions of the pilot, crew, and the rescuers of US Airways Flight 1549. Like so many flights leaving New York's LaGuardia Airport on January 15, 2009, US Airways Flight 1549 pushed back late from the terminal with passengers ready to get to their destination in Charlotte, North Carolina. What happened next was anything but normal. Shortly after takeoff, the airplane, carrying some 155 passengers and crew, unexpectedly struck a flock of large birds, causing both engines to fail. Captain Chesley B. Sullenberger III, a veteran pilot with decades of experience in both the commercial airline industry and the United States Air Force, was forced to ditch his aircraft in the icy cold waters of the Hudson River. That every person onboard the flight survived the dual engine failure and the aircraft's controlled ditch into the frigid waters of the Hudson River is an extraordinary testimony to the hard work of all aviation safety personnel. I applaud the quick actions of pilot and crew alike, and commend their actions as critical to the survival of all 150 passengers. Also to be commended are those who so quickly responded to rescue those precariously balanced on the wings of the sinking plane. Indeed, even after surviving impact of a skillfully executed ditch effort, survivors of this accident still face the perils of hypothermia in the cold waters of the Hudson River. The quick action of police, Coast Guard, ferry operators, and other first responders ensured the survival of all involved in the accident, and their efforts are to be commended. The robust training programs within the airline industry, Federal Aviation Administration safety oversight efforts, as well as the equipment improvements by aircraft manufacturers, all contributed to the survival of those aboard Flight 1549. January 15 could have been a day stained by tragedy, but thanks to individual actions of Captain Sullenberger, the crew onboard, and the ongoing safety efforts of so many within the industry, we will remember that day differently. The outcome of Flight 1549 affirms the value of the hard work of the aviation safety professionals, but also renews the call for continual improvements in aviation safety. I salute those safety professionals and crew who played a role in that day's events, support House Resolution 84, and look forward to the opportunity on February 24 for us to meet some of the heroes of that day and to learn from their testimony. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Madam Speaker, as Congress considers the reauthorization of the No Child Left Behind Act this year, we have an obligation to listen closely to the students, parents, and educators that we represent to ensure that our efforts result in responsible and pragmatic improvements. While we have made great strides in the areas of assessment and accountability over the last 7 years, this reauthorization provides a critical opportunity to learn from our experiences and fine-tune the law. One example of a lesson my constituents have learned, and have vigorously shared with me, is that we should be encouraging States to move towards better assessment models. As I have met with educators over the past year, one of the primary concerns that I have heard is that the State assessment fails to provide information of value to educators and administrators. Even more disturbing, it often takes 4 to 6 months before scores are returned to schools, which leaves little or no time for teachers to use the information to address student performance before they advance to the next grade. However, I believe there is a sensible solution that Congress can adopt to address these concerns and give States more options in assessment design. Today, Representative David Wu and I are introducing the bipartisan Assessment Accuracy and Improvement Act of 2009 to give States the option to use adaptive testing as their statewide assessment measuring reading, math, and science to fulfill No Child Left Behind requirements. I believe that this legislation will give States the ability to truly track the academic growth of every child and provide more accurate information to teachers, parents and school administrators through the use of an adaptive test. For those who may be unfamiliar with adaptive testing, it is a test that changes in response to previously-asked questions. For example, if a student answers a question correctly, the test presents a question of increased difficulty. If a student answers incorrectly, the test presents a question of decreased difficulty. As you can see, an adaptive test customizes itself to a student's actual level of performance with a great degree of accuracy. Giving States the flexibility to use an adaptive test and to ask questions outside of grade level will improve the accuracy of student assessment and enable educators to target appropriate instruction for each child based on performance at, above, or below grade level. In addition, using an adaptive test over time will allow accurate measurement of the performance growth of each individual student. In my district in Wisconsin, nearly a third of school districts currently use their own funds to participate in adaptive testing in addition to the State assessment required by NCLB. Educators and administrators appreciate the diagnostic information it yields and the efficiency that it provides. I believe that school districts nationally are already ``speaking with their wallets'' by spending scarce resources to voluntarily participate in this testing because it provides valuable information that the State assessment does not. And, although our bill does not require States to adopt adaptive testing, it gives them the freedom to do so should they decide it is a better model for their students and educators. Madam Speaker, adaptive testing and growth models are the key to putting the ``child'' back into No Child Left Behind. I hope that our colleagues will join us in this pragmatic and responsible improvement to the law as we work towards a bipartisan reauthorization this year.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Madam Speaker, today, I am introducing the Charitable Driving Tax Relief Act of 2009 to remove a serious ``disincentive that limits the participation of many in charitable activities. Charitable organizations play an important role in our society, and it is important that Congress not stand in the way by penalizing those who wish to offer their services to these groups. Under current law, individuals that volunteer their time and energy by driving their personal vehicles on behalf of a charitable group can end up with an unpleasant surprise in the form of an unanticipated tax bill. Specifically, volunteer drivers receiving reimbursement for the use of their vehicle are taxed on these payments to the extent that they exceed 14 cents per mile. This treatment stands in stark contrast to the 55 cent allowance for reimbursement for the business use of that same vehicle. The Charitable Driving Tax Relief Act will equalize the tax treatment of charitable reimbursements with those received for business driving because the point of the payment is essentially the same, that is, to cover the cost of operating a personal vehicle while performing an important service in the pursuit of a greater good. To achieve this end, my legislation would exclude from gross income any reimbursement received for the use of a volunteer's car while assisting a charitable group, limited only by the cap the Internal Revenue Service sets each year regarding business driving. This treatment would be available only for services provided without compensation and drivers would be required to maintain sufficient records to substantiate the charitable use of their vehicles. Finally, this bill drops the requirement that charitable groups report these reimbursements to the IRS, removing an administrative and paperwork burden that detracts resources from their larger purpose. Each day, thousands of Americans lend a hand in providing transportation services to a multitude of organizations engaged in good works. These activities include assisting individuals with their routine grocery shopping, providing the use of a four-wheel drive vehicle to transport home-visit nurses during inclement weather, delivering meals as part of a holiday food drive, helping individuals to keep their medical appointments, and many more similar activities. These volunteer drivers are donating their time and their talents, not their vehicles, and accepting reimbursement for the use of that car, incidental to their time and talent donation, is a reasonable act, which should not result in an additional tax liability. Today, when it comes to driving a personal vehicle, our tax code makes a distinction between business and charitable uses. This distinction is a mistake; it is a serious disincentive to charitable activities, and it should be corrected. I encourage my colleagues to support the continued efforts of our charity-minded constituents by cosponsoring the Charitable Driving Tax Relief Act of 2009.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information regarding an earmark I received as part of H.R. 2638--The Consolidated Security, Disaster Assistance, and Continuing Appropriations Act, 2009: Requesting Member: The Honorable Thomas E. Petri. Bill Number: H.R. 2638--The Consolidated Security, Disaster Assistance, and Continuing Appropriations Act, 2009. Account: Army Operations & Maintenance, Operating Forces 115 Land Forces, Operations Support Account. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Deere & Company--World Headquarters. Address of Requesting Entity: One John Deere Place, Moline, IL 61265. Description of Request: Provide $3,200,000 to complete the manufacturing of approximately 215 Light-weight Tactical Utility Vehicles at John Deere Horicon Works in Horicon, Wisconsin. (Joint request with Representative Mike McIntyre of North Carolina.) The Light-weight Tactical Utility Vehicle is a rugged, air droppable, highly mobile diesel-powered tactical utility vehicle to expedite casualty evacuation and resupply activities of Corps units. They have been heavily utilized during Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. This request is consistent with the intended purpose of the Department of Defense, Army Operations and Maintenance account.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, in September 2007, the House considered and passed the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2007, H.R. 2881, which reauthorizes the FAA for the next 4 years. Unfortunately, however, the Senate has not come to any agreement on its bill and so we are here today considering a fifth extension. H.R. 6984 would extend the taxes, programs, and funding of the Federal Aviation Administration through March of 2009. This bill extends FAA funding and contract authority for 6 months, funds the airport improvement program at $1.95 billion through March of next year, extends the war risk insurance program, extends the small community air service development program, and extends application of the rule for measuring highway miles to determine eligibility for essential air service subsidies. The bill will ensure that our national aviation system continues to operate until a full FAA reauthorization can be enacted by the next Congress. As I have indicated many times since the passage of the House FAA reauthorization bill just over a year ago, we need to pass a long- term bill so we can meet the growing demands placed on our Nation's infrastructure. Modernizing our antiquated air traffic control system and repairing our crumbling infrastructure needs to be one of our top priorities when Congress reconvenes in 2009. In that connection, I would observe recent statistics which indicate that our friends in China are spending some 9 percent of their GNP on infrastructure. We here in the United States are spending about 2.5 percent, most of that on maintenance, and we are falling behind even in that regard. In 20 years, who is going to be better prepared to conduct a modern economy, somebody who is spending 9 percent of their GNP building first-class infrastructure, or someone who is barely maintaining what they already have? We need to step up to bat. This bill will do us good in the aviation sector, but we have a big job ahead of us in infrastructure generally as a Nation. Clearly, there is much work to be done. This 6-month extension gives us time to revisit the FAA reauthorization bill early in the 111th Congress. I urge our colleagues in the other body to take up a comprehensive FAA reauthorization package as early as possible in the next year. I support this extension as the best alternative to keep the FAA and the national airspace system running safely until the 111th Congress can take up and pass a bipartisan, bicameral bill that the President can sign. We should all commit to quickly passing a 4-year bill as quickly as possible next year.

Mr. PETRI. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to H.R. 6889, which would extend the authority of the Secretary of Education to purchase Federal guaranteed loans previously made under the Federal Family Education Loan, FFEL, Program and advance funds for lender-of-last resort loans. I believe this bill is premature and is merely a response to alarms raised by an industry that has continually benefited from government subsidies. Earlier this year, the lending community expressed serious concerns that unstable credit markets would affect their ability to provide Federal student loans for the upcoming school year. In response, Congress approved the Ensuring Continued Access to Student Loans Act of 2008, which put in place several provisions to ensure that students and families had continued, uninterrupted access to Federal loans, regardless of what is happening in the credit markets. That measure gave the Secretary of Education the temporary authority to buy back loans from lenders participating in the FFEL program. However, now almost four months after the emergency provisions were signed into law and one month into the fall semester, it has become clear that despite the credit crunch students are having little trouble securing Federal student loans. The New England Board of Higher Education and the New England Council recently released a survey of its region's financial aid officers that revealed ``students and parents experienced little or no problems accessing Federal student loans for this fall.'' Schools in my own State of Wisconsin have told me that students are encountering few difficulties in securing Federal student loans, and in fact, any disruption has simply resulted in some students to switching lenders. Recently, the State of Massachusetts called off a plan to provide public financing to a State nonprofit lender because only a small percentage of students were still looking for a lender. Over 2,000 lenders continue to participate in the FFEL program. Furthermore, this year hundreds of schools, including Penn State, Michigan State and Indiana, decided it was in the best interests of their students to leave the Federal Family Education Loan Program, FFEL, and enroll in the Direct Loan Program because it is immune to the effects of the credit crunch and provides the exact same Federal loans to their students. In fact, the Direct Loan Program has seen a 47 percent increase over last year in the amount of loans originated. Schools are reporting they are happy with the transition to the program, and the Education Department has continually asserted that the Direct Loan Program is capable of handling the increased capacity. Therefore, I find it alarming that just four months after passing the Ensuring Continued Access to Student Loans Act of 2008, and with widespread agreement that there currently is no student loan crisis, we have decided to extend until 2010 these authorities that provide government liquidity and financing to private lenders. While it is impossible to say these authorities did not help avoid a crisis, it's equally impossible to say private sector funds will not be available next year for student loans. I find it curious that today's action coincides with reports from the lending community that, despite the fact that there is no real crisis this year, one may exist in the 2009- 10 school year. While there is no doubt that the financial markets remain unsettled, the current authority for these powers runs through July 31, 2009. Washington is once again eager to extend temporary authorities. Instead of rushing to react to the ``alarms'' sounded by the lending community, I believe it would be more prudent for Congress to continue to monitor the situation in the student loan markets to determine if more action is really necessary before we extend another handout to an industry that has continually proven to work in the interests of their own pocketbooks and not for students and taxpayers.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Mr. Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. I am happy to support the provisions in this conference report that put in place a number of reforms that will improve access to higher education, increase transparency in college costs, and provide more accountability in the Federal student loan programs. One of my top priorities over the years has been to ensure students access to Federal aid and to provide greater budget responsibility to taxpayers with regard to the management of Federal student aid funds. This legislation incorporates several provisions aimed at protecting students' financial interests. Furthermore, I strongly support the sunshine measures that will provide greater transparency about relationships between lenders and schools. I am pleased that the conference report also retains the language that I offered to provide greater fiscal accountability at the Department of Education by requiring a Department of Justice review of any settlement with lenders that exceeds $1 million. The conference report also contains a critical first step toward the implementation of my Income-Dependent Education Assistance Act which would create a new direct consolidated loan for student borrowers that would be pegged to their income after graduation and collected by the IRS. It also includes several provisions that Representative Grijalva and I first proposed in the House that would establish a strong national effort to improve the accessibility of instructional materials for postsecondary students with visual impairments and other print disabilities. Though there is that much is positive in this conference report, I am disappointed that we failed to adequately address the problems that currently exist in the accreditation system. For many years I have argued that accreditation fails to protect the public interest because it is costly and intrusive and does not ensure educational quality. I believe the reforms included in this bill will do little to improve the system and may, in fact, have made it even worse. Again, I want to thank my colleagues for working so hard over the years to reauthorize these important higher education programs. I support today's conference report and look forward to making further improvements in the future.