Donald Payne

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Madam Speaker, the gun safety debate that we are having is not about politics or political means. It is about doing what's right by our families, protecting our children, and reducing the gun violence that persists in the streets of my district every single day. If Congress has the power to prevent some of this senseless violence, then we have a moral obligation to do so. Background checks are an absolute must. Criminals and the mentally ill should not be able to go online or walk into a gun show and walk away with a gun. My bill, the Safer Neighborhoods Gun Buyback Act, provides a 25 percent markup on guns traded in, creating an incentive to get the most widely used guns in crimes off of our streets. It's not complicated. These are commonsense reforms, and the victims of gun violence and their families deserve a vote. So I urge my Republican colleagues to bring this legislation to the floor. We owe it to the American people, and New Jersey families should not have to wait any longer for commonsense reform.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my good friends and colleagues--Congressman Horsford from Nevada and Congressman Jeffries from New York, across the water from me--for once again anchoring this Special Order for the CBC on the impact of sequestration. I came to Washington to work--to serve the hardworking families and individuals in my district who have been disproportionately impacted by this economy. I came to Washington to spur growth and development for the sake of this country's economic future. Unfortunately, my colleagues on the other side oppose any effort that would support this mission. Sadly, the only growth and development that the Republican leadership has spurred has been the development of lies and the growth of fear among the American people. We now face the drastic cuts of sequestration because the Republican leadership in Congress refuses to adopt a balanced approach to our Nation's deficit and debt. Instead, they push drastic measures that would only further depress this economy. The fact is that it is impossible to reduce Federal debts without a healthy economy, and a healthy economy will not develop as a result of sporadic cuts but, rather, as a result of increased revenue, in part by an increased volume of working people who earn income and pay taxes. This is common sense; yet the sequester and everything the Republican leadership has proposed undermines the current and future workforce, and it disproportionately harms low-income families and individuals. At a time of great need for a skilled workforce, the sequester would cut workforce development programs and assistance for college students. As it was stated, YouthBuild and Job Corps are key workforce development programs that provide pathways to employment for low-income youth. These programs already experienced a 37 percent cut in fiscal year 2011, but they will face additional cuts under sequestration. TRIO programs are key Federal supports for first-generation college students to prepare them to attend and complete college. These programs serve nearly 800,000 students, and they will face cuts of almost $43 million under sequestration. In New Jersey, my home State, around 1,480 fewer low-income students will receive financial aid for college, and nearly 650 fewer students will receive work-study jobs. Approximately 15,000 students will be impacted by the cuts in education, and around 1,300 children will be removed from Head Start. Nationally, approximately 9 million students will be impacted due to cuts in education, and nearly 70,000 children will be removed from the Head Start program. Further, under sequestration, the security of children and their families will also be impacted. Research shows that the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children--WIC-- improves birth outcomes, reduces child anemia and improves the participants' nutrition and health. It is widely regarded as one of the most effective social programs; yet under sequestration this program will be forced to cut an estimated 600,000 to 775,000 women and children. This is devastating. These cuts are unnecessary and counterproductive. Democrats have offered commonsense solutions time and time again to our deficit issue, including the latest alternative to sequestration--H.R. 699. Unfortunately, the Republican leadership prefers manufacturing problems and not offering real solutions. The Republican leadership claims that their actions are in the name of our Nation's future and austerity for our children; but our Nation's deficit peaked at $1.4 trillion in 2009, which was prior to their efforts to cut, and it has been falling ever since. Our economy, though sluggish, is experiencing record growth. Now is not the time for arbitrary cuts. Now is the time to end the shameful attack on the middle class and the hardworking Americans. Pass a balanced approach. We are waiting for leadership in this area.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Madam Speaker, I stand here today in absolute disappointment with this body and the total lack of Republican leadership. I can't even begin to express the disappointment I have with the GOP leaders who choose to play a game of chicken rather than do something to save 2 million American jobs. After more than 20 years of watching my father serve the 10th Congressional District of New Jersey, the district that he loved, I came here to Washington to do the same. I came down here to get to work, to dig in, to get my hands dirty, and to help resolve the pressing issues that will ruin this country if ignored. As we speak, people are terrified; and if they aren't terrified, it's because they've stopped listening to the partisan bickering. But make no mistake, these cuts will be unimaginable to people across the country and to people across New Jersey's 10th Congressional District. So I ask my colleagues: why are we here again? Why? We've played this game before, heard this tune, danced this oppressing musical number before. It's like I'm Bill Murray in the movie ``Groundhog Day,'' where every morning I wake up hoping it is a new day, and every morning I wake up to the same maddening song. It's the song of a failed Republican leadership doing absolutely nothing--nothing all over again. Talk about a do-nothing Congress. The 112th Congress passed just 283 bills, and 22 percent of them were bills to name post offices, courthouses, and other projects. So when you break it down, Congress really only voted to pass two bills a week--two bills a week. We can do better than this, but we need to work together. When I speak to my fellow Democrat Members, there is a frustration. They are frustrated because we've seen the pain and fear in the people we speak to back home. There's frustration because we are ready to work. That's why I was sent here. That's what I was sent here to do. So let's stop the nonsense and let's get to work. The effects of sequestration are real. Maybe people don't understand what the word ``sequestration'' means, but when they start to lose vital services that they need to live, it is going to devastate working families, the middle class, and the vulnerable in my district. In New Jersey alone, more than 40,000 people could lose their jobs. New Jersey will lose $17 million in funding for teachers, aids, and staff who help disabled children. Thirteen hundred children in New Jersey will be cut from Head Start. Eleven thousand civilian Department of Defense employees will be furloughed. Senior Meals on Wheels programs will lose nearly half a million in funding in New Jersey, possibly the only meal they have for the day. And funds will be slashed for victims of domestic violence, resulting in 700 victims not receiving the care that they need to survive. Right now, Democrats have a plan on the table that will stop sequestration and start reducing the deficit in a balanced way. It's a plan that cuts spending responsibly, closes corporate tax loopholes, protects the most vulnerable, and ensures millionaires pay their fair share. And you know what? More than 76 percent of the American people support a balanced plan. Including today, we have 3 days to go; and with $85 billion in automatic deep spending cuts on the chopping block, it's time for Washington to stop playing games, stop pointing fingers and do what's right by the American people. That's what the American people expect, and, quite frankly, that's what they deserve. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to bring H.R. 699, the Stop the Sequester Job Loss Now Act, to the floor.

Mr. PAYNE. Madam Speaker, I'm deeply saddened for the American people that we are unable to bring this bill to the floor and stop the loss of 2 million American jobs.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Thank you. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my good friends and colleagues, Congressman Horsford of Nevada and Congressman Jeffries of New York, for anchoring tonight's CBC Special Order on the Voting Rights Act. Fair and equal access to the ballot box is an important topic and one of these that has not been fully resolved. One hundred-fifty years ago, President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, but it took another 100 years to pass the Civil Rights Act, and eventually the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Since then, our country has made progress in achieving justice and equality, but it is no secret this process has been painfully slow and noticeably deficient. The Supreme Court will hear the case this week of Shelby v. Holder, which, if ruled in the favor of Shelby County, Alabama, would take us back 50 years and undo protections granted in the Voting Rights Act. Some argue that we no longer need some of these protections provided in the Voting Rights Act. Some argue that we have achieved equality and justice for all. Some argue that section 5 is outdated because racism has been eviscerated. It is true we've come a long way and times have changed, but the unfortunate fact is that we have not changed enough. Let's look at the facts. This past November, people across this Nation had to wait in line to vote for hours in places such as Miami, Tampa, Richmond, Charlotte, and Raleigh. Sometimes people waited 6, 7, or 8 hours to exercise their fundamental right to vote. In the President's State of the Union Address, President Obama had a guest, a woman by the name of Desiline Victor, who waited 6 hours in Florida to vote. She was 102 years old. This is simply unacceptable. And unfortunately, long voting lines have become all too commonplace, particularly in urban and minority-rich areas. So the big question I get asked from my constituents is: Why wouldn't we want everyone who is eligible to have the opportunity to vote? The answer is simple: When more Americans vote, they tend to vote for Democrats. Regardless of someone's political persuasions, every eligible American should have the fair opportunity to cast their ballot--whether they be white, black, Asian, Latino, man, woman, gay, straight, Protestant, Catholic, atheist, or agnostic--because of the simple fact that we are all Americans and voting is a fundamental right in this country. This is about preserving democracy, and eliminating section 5 would undermine that right upon which this country was founded. This past year, 37 State legislatures shamelessly passed laws that oftentimes targeted minorities and attempted to limit their access to the ballot. Strict photo ID laws, limitations on early voting, and stringent voter registration laws all had one purpose: It wasn't about reducing fraud; it was about preventing certain populations from voting. It is astonishing--and it could not be more evident--that racism and the effort to suppress the right to vote is alive and well in this Nation. Luckily, section 5 rightly ensured that many of these laws never passed preclearance. So it cannot be plainer that now is the time to strengthen, not weaken, section 5, as it still serves as a very real and critical purpose in preserving our democracy and the right to vote for millions.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, yesterday, I introduced a resolution to designate March as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. I want to thank Senators Lautenberg, Menendez, and Enzi for introducing a similar resolution in the Senate. I also want to thank the entire New Jersey delegation and all those who signed on to this bipartisan resolution. This issue is very personal to me, as I lost my father, the late Congressman Donald Payne, Sr., to colon cancer just last March. It became my mission to raise awareness of the importance of cancer screening. While colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer, it remains the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States. In New Jersey alone, 1,600 people will die of this disease this year. African Americans and Hispanics are at increased risk. Too many people forego screenings because of the perceptions around testing. But I am here to tell you: be a man; get tested. You just might save your own life.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Let me first say ``thank you'' to the gentleman from New York, the gentleman from across the river with whom we are looking forward to having a great working relationship, as well as with the gentleman from Nevada, who has also distinguished himself very early in this Congress. As we debate this issue, we must not forget that we are a Nation of immigrants, and it is our rich history of immigration that has strengthened this country generation after generation. Yes, we must secure our borders, but we must also recognize that there have been a record number of deportations and seizures over the last 4 years. This issue of border security cannot be used as a fear tactic to prevent progress. In my district, people migrate from all over the globe, not just from Latin America, but from the Caribbean and Africa and Asia as well, and they are all in search of the same thing--the American Dream. Children who were brought here through no fault of their own and who think of themselves as Americans wait in limbo, so we have a moral obligation to fix our broken system. It is not only the right thing to do, but it is the practical thing to do. Over 11 million undocumented workers live in our communities. They go to our schools, and they work among us every day. It is time for Congress to provide these 11 million people their chance to come out of the shadows without the specter of deportation hanging over their heads. It's also time to streamline the legal immigration process and to make it more efficient for high-skilled workers and those working in science fields to be able to stay and keep their talents here. In my district--the 10th district of New Jersey, and in every corner of America, immigrants are receiving degrees in science, technology, engineering, and math. They are the business leaders and innovators of the future. But when they graduate, they are sent home. If we want to remain the pre-eminent country in the world--If we want to continue to attract the best talent--If we want to continue to out- innovate the rest of the world--if we want to continue to be a just nation. Then we must act now.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, let me first begin by thanking my good friend and colleague, my chairwoman, Congresswoman Marcia Fudge from the State of Ohio, for anchoring this evening's Special Order on the culture of violence. Coming together to address gun violence and bullying in America is long overdue. There must be something extraordinary done to truly curb these atrocities from occurring in our communities. Too many innocent men, women, and children have died because of the ease of access to illegal firearms. Fifteen of the 25 worst mass shootings in our history have occurred in America in the last 50 years. Harvard Injury Control Research Center studies indicate that in homes, cities, States, and regions in the U.S. where there are guns, both men and women are at a higher risk for homicide, particularly from firearms. These statistics are tragic. We must do something, and we must do something now. On the issue of bullying, bullying is also a major concern in our Nation. Who will be able to tell what will become of the next generation if statistics continue to rise with each national report on bullying? I'm very sensitive to this issue because I have three young children at home, and I perish the thought that they would be subjected to such actions. We are losing our next generation of poets, musicians, doctors, lawyers, scientists, and athletes to senseless gun violence and aggressive bullying. One out of every four teenagers is bullied and, furthermore, deterred from their academic potential. 282,000 students are physically bullied in secondary schools each month. One out of 10 children drop out of school because of bullying. We must take measures to protect our Nation's future generations. From the mass murder at the movie theater in Colorado, to Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut, to the schoolyard killings at Mount Vernon Elementary School in Newark, New Jersey--four youngsters with their whole futures ahead of them were violently murdered by a gang behind a school--I have seen what damage guns can do in the wrong hands. Let us be steadfast in making sure that events like these never happen again. Gun violence and bullying in America are not just problems, they are national health issues. What are the solutions? Well, Federal action is yielding some progress. The Brady law of 1994 has blocked the sale of firearms to over 1.6 million felons, fugitives, and other individuals. Still, more is needed. Proactive approaches include renewing the assault weapons ban, closing the gun show loophole, mandating installation of trigger locks, and eliminating influxes of cheaply made weapons. This does not infringe on anyone's right to bear arms in this Nation, but we have to do things that make common sense. There are guns that have been outlawed in this Nation's history. You cannot get a submachine gun. You cannot get a sawed-off shotgun. Why shouldn't assault weapons be added to that group? Also, gun buyback programs in my district and my State have removed hundreds of guns from the streets, and I am considering offering legislation to bring these programs to scale on the Federal level to help stem the tide of violence. These measures would undoubtedly save lives. Enough is enough. It is time to take action. Thank you, Madam Chairwoman.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. I am very dismayed by what I have heard tonight. Citizens of this Nation--any of us--would think at a time of natural disaster they could depend on their Congress, their Nation, the people of this country. Many times, we have come to the aid of citizens throughout this Nation. Why not now? What is different now? New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and parts of Pennsylvania have been devastated. My district not as much, but we still have issues there that need to be addressed. Just the other day, I was on vacation with my children, and I got a call. There was a leak in the roof of my house. I did not realize there was about a 10-foot patch in my roof missing--from Sandy. I had the wherewithal to take care of it, but there are hundreds of thousands of residents in those States who need our help. I was told by a Member of this body, who was laid to rest this year, that this was a great body to serve in. Please let me know that he was telling the truth.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor my good friend and mentor, chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus, Representative Emanuel Cleaver, the outgoing chairman of the CBC. An accomplished and esteemed legislator, Congressman Cleaver was instrumental in orchestrating the CBC For the People Jobs Initiative, which brought together private and public sector entities across the Nation to help the unemployed Americans get jobs. He also spearheaded voter protection events to bring attention to the State voter suppression policies designed to discourage and prevent African Americans from exercising their right to vote. Personally, it was my pleasure to get to know Congressman Cleaver through his relationship with my father, the late Congressman Donald Payne, Sr. However, I became more acquainted with Mr. Cleaver when I was a candidate for the 10th Congressional District of New Jersey. Throughout the many encounters with Congressman Cleaver, he has always shown tremendous leadership, intellect, kindness, and poise. These characteristics were on full display during the passing of my father. My family and I were honored to have Mr. Cleaver deliver a very emotional and uplifting speech that was felt throughout the church during my father's home-going service in March. His advice and words of comfort during those very challenging times were tremendous help, and I will always be grateful for his unwavering support. During my transition to Capitol Hill, he offered a great deal of support, oftentimes stopping me in the hallways to ask me how am I doing and how can he help. His assistance has eased my transition considerably, and I am grateful for the profound impact that Congressman Cleaver has had on me. In just a few months, I've come to know why my father considered him a great colleague and an outstanding leader. Today I cannot think of a better friend and mentor. Thank you.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise first to offer my deepest condolences to the families of the victims in the recent Sandy Hook Elementary tragedy. In addition, I add my voice to the outcry of my colleagues, constituents, and Americans around the Nation to call for action against gun violence in this country. This Connecticut tragedy was the 30th mass murder in the U.S. since the 1999 Columbine incident, but mass murders only represent a small portion of the gun violence in America. In my hometown of Newark, New Jersey, 348 shootings and 93 deaths occurred last year as a result of gun violence. Unfortunately, it is too late to save these victims, but it is not too late to prevent the next attack. With stricter gun laws and the ban on certain types of guns, specifically assault weapons, carnage clips, and armor-piercing bullets, it would undoubtedly help to save lives. Now is the time for action.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I join my colleagues today in recognizing World AIDS Day. While great progress has been achieved nationally and globally, our fight against HIV/AIDS should only grow stronger. Globally, 6.8 million people are eligible for HIV treatment but don't have access. In the U.S., accessibility of treatment has significantly increased, but the rate of new HIV infections has only stabilized. So today, in recognition of World AIDS Day, I come first to remember the lives of the affected in my district, the country, and the world but also to reaffirm my commitment, on their behalf, to stand with those who have relentlessly forged progress, including my late predecessor and father, Donald M. Payne. Today, I stand with the Nation and the world in international solidarity, committed to the fight against HIV/AIDS and ``Getting to Zero.''

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor and a privilege to be a Member of the U.S. House of Representatives and to represent the people of the 10th Congressional District of the State of New Jersey. I'd like to take this opportunity to thank my wife, Beatrice, for being here, my three children, who did not come, my triplet children, who were the apple of my father's eye, Donald III, Jack, and Yvonne, for always supporting me and encouraging me. I could not have done this without you. I also want to thank my uncle, the former assemblyman William Payne, who gave my father his undying love, guidance, and strong support his entire life. Without his encouragement, I would not be standing here today. Our Nation faces many challenges, both at home and abroad, but the most immediate concern for all of us is to help New Jersey recover from the devastating effects of Hurricane Sandy. You have my word that I will continue to work every day to ensure that the 10th Congressional District of the State of New Jersey and the entire State receives all the Federal support we need until we reach full recovery. Nearly 2 years ago, my father was sworn into his 11th and final term in Congress. I look forward to continuing to build on his legacy and serving the people of the 10th Congressional District of New Jersey, the Nation, and the world. And finally, I look forward to working with all of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle. For those of you that knew my father, I'd just like to end, and it'll probably be the last time I mention it. As I went through the campaign and was successful in my candidacy, after the campaign I had time to reflect on what all of this meant to me, and I realized that there were many parallels in our lives, and I'll just end with this. When my father was 8 years old, his mother died. My mother died when I was 4. He was first elected an Essex County freeholder. That was my first elected office. He then went on to the Newark Municipal Council in the city of Newark. That was my next elected office. He won his first time in Congress in the middle of his second term as a Newark municipal councilman. I'm in the middle of my second term as a Newark municipal councilman. And when he was sworn into Congress he was 54 years old. When I'm sworn in for the 113th Congress I will be 54 years old. We will both be fortunate and privileged to serve in the 112th Congress, and we have both been privileged to serve with President Obama. When his father died he was 77 years old, and he died on March 6. My father was 77 years old, and he died on March 6. So God has a plan for your life. And I think if I am half the man he was and the public servant, I'll consider myself a success. Thank you very much.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer my best wishes to Dr. William F. Owen as he concludes his tenure at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. It is my distinct pleasure to thank Dr. Owen for all he has done for the students, staff and the Greater Newark community for the past four years in his capacity as President and CEO of UMDNJ. I am proud to add my congratulations to that of his family, friends and colleagues as they celebrate in honor of a man who has been an integral part of the changing landscape of Newark. For all the leadership he has shown and the contributions he has made, Dr. Owen is a worthy recipient of the accolades he received on February 22, 2012 during a reception held in his honor. Fortunately, my office has always been able to collaborate with Dr. Owen and his staff to bring informative programs to residents of the 10th Congressional District at various events including the bi-annual Health and Wellness Expo hosted by the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation. Dr. Owen's involvement was instrumental in making the 2011 Expo a success. Dr. Owen also guided UMDNJ through a tumultuous period of instability. His leadership was key in bringing the institution back to a prominent position within the Newark Collegiate and Healthcare Community. Although Dr. Owen was very successful during his tenure at UMDNJ, there was one partner who was an invaluable assistant, his wife Alice Owen. Through their combined efforts, they were able to work with the UMDNJ Hospital Auxiliary to help raise funds for several new rooms. These additions helped patients and families have a more pleasant and comfortable experience during their time at the hospital. The greater Newark community as well as the UMDNJ family will truly miss this wonderful team. Mr. Speaker, I know my fellow members of the House of Representatives agree that Dr. William F. Owen has been an integral part of UMDNJ. He has had a stellar career here in Newark and we wish him well in his future endeavors.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to extend my deepest sympathy to the family, friends and fans of Ms. Whitney Elizabeth Houston whose sudden death on February 11, 2012 has left us all saddened. Her passing leaves a void in the lives of those of us who knew and loved her. It also marks the silencing of a voice that was one of the greatest in the history of the recording industry and one that will be missed throughout the world. Ms. Houston, known lovingly to her legions of fans as Whitney and to her family and friends as ``Nippy'' was born and raised within the borders of the 10th Congressional District in the cities of Newark and East Orange. Whitney made her singing debut at the family's longtime church home, New Hope Baptist Church in Newark. The fact that Whitney would love to sing came as no surprise to anyone who knew her family's history. The Drinkard Sisters, on her mother side were legendary in the Greater Newark area and beyond. Her mother, Cissy Houston and cousin, Dionne Warwick are both well known talents. What we would discover over the course of Whitney's career would be her incredible international appeal driven by her angelic voice and God given talent. Not only was Whitney a gifted singer but she was an actress, a model, film producer, record producer and songwriter. Whitney Houston was a Super Star and in 2009, the Guinness World Records cited her as the most awarded female act of all time. These awards include two Emmy Awards, six Grammy Awards, 30 Billboard Music Awards and 22 American Music Awards. She was a trend setter and influenced many of the artists performing today. Her incomparable style will live on forever with every mention of incredible voices. Mr. Speaker, I know my colleagues here in the House of Representatives agree that our nation has lost one of its greatest talents in Whitney Houston. Fortunately for her family especially Bobbi Kristina, her legacy will live on. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Madam Chair, I rise today in opposition to H.R. 1173. While my Republican colleagues see H.R. 1173 as a solution to the Department of Health and Human Services' letter to Congress about the CLASS Act, I strongly contend that repeal is not the answer. According to the Department's announcement, there is no viable way forward to implement the CLASS Act at this time but families impacted by accidents and illnesses are also without a viable way forward to meet long-term care needs. The cost of long-term care can be extremely taxing. In 2010, the private-pay rate for a semiprivate room in a nursing home averaged $205 per day, or about $75,000 per year. In comparison, the median total household income for elderly Social Security beneficiaries in 2008 was $20,000 per year. The CLASS Act was established as part of the Affordable Care Act in response to the growing number of citizens with long-term health care needs and the repeal of this act would only impose enormous financial, emotional and physical burdens on these citizens. This is an issue that affects every American family. No one regardless of class, race or creed is exempt from a potential accident or illness requiring long-term care. It is estimated that 15 million Americans will need some kind of long-term care by 2020, but fewer than three percent have a long-term care policy. We should not abandon this effort, rather Congress should come together to find a sustainable solution to address this challenge.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition of H.R. 3630, the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act. This bill is yet another example of Republicans bringing a partisan bill to the floor which has no chance of becoming law. At this critical time in our economy, Republicans are continuing to pursue their own ideological agenda. Time and again, Republicans continue to choose brinksmanship over constructive engagement with Democrats. Allowing these extensions to expire would have a devastating impact on our economic growth and job creation. Republicans must put aside partisan differences and work with Democrats so that we can assist millions of Americans who lost their jobs through no fault of their own. Putting money in the pockets of American families should be one of our top priorities. It just seems like common sense. Although H.R. 3630 extends the Emergency Unemployment Compensation program until January 2013, it also lowers the amount of time benefits are provided from 99 weeks currently to 59 weeks. Furthermore, the bill also would allow States to require a high school diploma or being enrolled in classes for a GED to be eligible for benefits. The bill also offsets the cost by freezing Federal employee pay for another year through 2013. Although recent data has shown that the national unemployment rate has dropped to 8.6 percent, the African American unemployment rate rose at the same time from 15.1 percent to 15.5 percent. High African American unemployment rates are a direct result of the high job loss in the public sector. During the past year, while the private sector has added 1.6 million jobs, State and local governments have shed at least 142,000 positions. Because traditionally there has been racial discrimination in employment, blacks have relied on government jobs in large numbers since the Reconstruction era. As a matter of fact, one of the first job openings for freed enslaved people was the United States Postal Service, which opened their doors and hired qualified ex-slaves during that period. We will be passing legislation that helps the private sector, but we also need to be concerned about the public sector instead of freezing or limiting their pay. As a matter of fact, the private sector has been very derelict. During World War II, even though the United States was way behind in our development of a war machine--ships, tanks, and boats--President Roosevelt had to send an Executive order to companies insisting that they hire African Americans because we were losing the effort, but they refused to break down racial discrimination even as we were being outmanned by our enemies. And so we find there is still the difficulty for African Americans to get into the private sector; and we find that, therefore, many are losing their jobs in the public sector. H.R. 3630 also makes large cuts in health care programs. It cuts over $21 billion from the Affordable Care Act programs, which will increase the uninsured by 170,000 Americans. Additionally, H.R. 3630 rolls back the Emergency Unemployment Compensation program substantially, making drastic cuts to Medicare, and contains controversial riders that should not be included in this bill. We should not risk tax increases on middle class families, dropping unemployment benefits for those out of work, or preventing seniors from accessing their doctors through Medicare by including unrelated and controversial provisions. The bill is fiscally careless, and it increases the deficit by $25.3 billion over the next 10 years, according to CBO. Due to the more than $21.5 billion in provider cuts, the American Hospital Association is urging Congress to oppose this bill that will harm health care in communities across America. Important funding for preventive care that was included in the Affordable Care Act is also subject to billions of dollars in cuts. Changes in the bill will result in 170,000 more uninsured Americans. So, therefore, I urge defeat of this unfair plan, which also throws in the pipeline, which makes no sense.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues here in the House of Representatives to join me as I rise to pay tribute to Judge John H. Watson, Jr. as he retires from his position as Municipal Court Judge for the City of East Orange. It is my distinct pleasure to add my congratulations to that of his family, friends and associates as they celebrate in honor of a man who has been involved in every aspect of law for over 30 years. For all the leadership he has shown and the contributions he has made over the years, Judge Watson is a worthy recipient of the accolades he will receive on November 18, 2011. I consider it a privilege to have been involved with Judge Watson's early foray into public service. In addition to serving on the bench, Judge Watson has maintained a successful private practice where he has used his legal expertise to guide numerous clients through a variety of legal matters. He has been a mentor to new attorneys and has provided internship opportunities to youngsters interested in pursuing law degrees. Fortunately, for the community at large, Judge Watson has always been a fair and thoughtful individual. He is a Vietnam War veteran who obviously has a strong sense of loyalty to his country. A graduate of Rutgers University Law School, Judge Watson held a number of positions before branching out on his own. He is a member of several Bar Associations and has been an active participant in the Rutgers-Newark Law School Alumni Association. A doting husband and father, Judge Watson is also a loving grandfather, a loyal friend and a trusted confidant. Mr. Speaker, I know my fellow members of the House of Representatives agree that Judge Watson has been an integral part of the East Orange Court system. His retirement is the culmination of a stellar career and we wish him well in this new and exciting phase of his life.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Chairman, H.R. 3094, the Workforce Democracy and Fairness Act, really, as you know, should be called the Election Prevention Act. I'm gravely concerned about today's legislative proposal. Current law recognizes that workers should be able to associate with other units into any appropriate bargaining unit. This bill creates a presumption that all workers should be in a bargaining unit unless it is proven otherwise. That's just the reverse of the way law should be. It allows employers to stuff the ballot boxes with workers who are not engaged in the organizing drive in the first place, therefore likely to vote ``no.'' It also increases the chances that workers' petition for an election will be rejected, which would cancel elections because they do not obtain the 30 percent signatures from this vast bargaining unit, all ways to try to thwart the election. The NLRB has proposed rules which would eliminate loopholes in current law that allow unscrupulous employers to delay elections, frustrating workers' efforts to organize. This bill would essentially impose arbitrary delays and block those pending NLRB rules to eliminate avoidable delays. The fact of the matter is that that bill encourages frivolous litigation. The original bill provided employers with an unqualified right to consistently raise a new issue at any point during the pre- election hearing in order to drag out the hearing. This would include any issue that may reasonably be expected to impact the election's outcome. This bill does not limit these problems, but states that these issues, even when immaterial to an election, are considered relevant. Based on this fact, a hearing could therefore go on indefinitely, and that's what the purpose of this is. Furthermore, parties could bring up issues such as economic conditions, or unfair labor practices, or other items not normally considered in pre-election hearings. Additionally, this bill seems to require that the board must finish a request for review before an election can be directed. This will encourage employers to file requests for review, even frivolous ones, to create a backlog at the board and further delay elections. The current election process needs to be fixed. Employers easily delay and prolong elections giving themselves a unfair advantage to our American workers. The fact that we are even discussing the ``Workforce Democracy and Fairness Act'' is a mockery. There are millions of unemployed workers across the nation and yet we are here to limit the rights of those who are employed. We should be here passing the American Jobs Act to help the unemployed. A recent survey, conducted by the National Employment Law Project, NELP, of four of the top job search websites--CareerBuilder.com, Indeed.com, Monster.com, and CraigsList.com--found over 150 job advertisements that specified applicants must be currently employed. That is simply unacceptable. However, the provisions in the American Jobs Act will prevent qualified Americans, who are unemployed through no fault of their own, from being unfairly screened from employment opportunities. For over 300 days in the House majority, the GOP has refused to put forward a clear jobs plan. Now is the time to help our workers and not harm them. Again, I would like to reiterate my strong opposition to H.R. 3094 and I request my Congressional colleagues to do as well. International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, Upper Marlboro, MD, November 28, 2011. Re. H.R. 3094 Workforce Democracy and Fairness Act. Dear Representative, On behalf of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, I strongly urge you to vote ``NO'' to the ``Workforce Democracy and Fairness Act'' H.R. 3094. This anti-worker legislation should be called the ``Election Prevention Act'' because it would give unscrupulous employers more opportunities to thwart workers' efforts to organize and also add more delays to an already broken National Labor Relations Board (``NLRB'') election process. This bill was introduced in direct response to the NLRB's proposed rule to minimize undue delay in union elections. Instead of minimizing delay, H.R. 3094 mandates it. For example, no election may occur sooner than 35 days after filing of an election petition. However, there is no limit on how long an election may be delayed as a result of employer claims, challenges and litigation. Delay gives employers more time to use any means, legal or illegal, to pressure employees into abandoning their organizing efforts. H.R. 3094 imposes restrictions on workers' opportunities to receive information from unions, but does nothing to curb the power of employers to force workers to listen to their antiunion propaganda, under the threat of discharge if they try to object. H.R. 3094 also manipulates the procedure for deciding who is in the bargaining unit. The bill encourages the ``gerrymandering'' of bargaining units by codifying a test that destroys 75 years of Board decision-making. In sum, H.R. 3094 would delay and ultimately prevent union representation elections, encourages frivolous litigation, and manipulates the procedure for deciding who is a bargaining unit. For the above reasons, I ask that you oppose this latest attack on workers' rights by voting ``NO'' to the ``Election Prevention Act.'' If you have any questions, please contact Matthew McKinnon, Legislative Director. Sincerely, R. Thomas Buffenbarger, International President.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to urge my Republican colleagues to move fast and join forces to extend the unemployment insurance and payroll tax cuts. Now more than ever, most Republicans are content with cutting off the unemployment insurance and raising taxes on millions of middle class Americans while refusing to raise taxes on the richest 1 percent. The unemployment rates for the month of October in my congressional district of Union, Essex, and Hudson Counties in New Jersey are between nine and 10 percent, which is above the national average. If Congress does not act by the end of this year, 2.2 million unemployed workers, including my constituents, will lose their unemployment insurance benefits by February 2012. When times could not get any tougher, Republicans also refuse to extend the payroll tax cut holiday enacted earlier this year that gave virtually all working Americans a much needed tax cut. Failing to extend the payroll tax cut will strip over $120 billion from the pockets of consumers. We must act now and extend the unemployment insurance and payroll tax cuts.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend the decision by the Architect of the Capitol to publicly display two important paintings in the Capitol Visitors Center. ``The Discovery of the Hudson River'' and ``Entrance into Monterey,'' both by Albert Bierstadt, will welcome so many to the Capitol complex as they learn about the history and processes of our country. These works are part of the Hudson River School of Painters, and celebrate the beauty and diversity of the United States. Coincidentally, two painters in the School have ties to my district in New Jersey. Asher Brown Durand was born, and later died, on a farm in my district. Although he began his career in engraving, Durand's legacy is in landscape painting, as one of the first artists of the Hudson River School of Painters. Durand's influence can be seen in another painter in the School, George Inness. Inness lived in Newark, a town I call home. Inness' distinct style combines the Hudson River School traditions with techniques he learned during travels in Western Europe. Inness and Durand, like many of their fellow painters, traveled extensively abroad. Upon Durand's return to the United States, he took regular trips to paint the scenery of the Hudson River, the Adirondacks, and the White Mountains. Durand's style was highly detailed, a hallmark of the School. One of Durand's most famous pieces, ``Kindred Spirits,'' is often cited as one of the epitome of the School's values. This work cemented Durand's place at the forefront of the movement caused by the School. Durand, as part of the first generation in the Hudson River School, is important because of his influence on later painters in the school, and on art in general. Durand helped form what is today known as the National Academy Museum and School, and served as president of the Academy for several years. As the School's reputation increased, many of the School's painters traveled extensively to study, thus introducing these men to the culture of the grand capitals of Europe. This motivated many of the artists and other business leaders to found the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City in 1870. Some of these Hudson River School painters later served as trustees of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and were members of the executive committee. On this very floor many years ago, Congress was moved to create several national parks, like Yellowstone and Yosemite, after viewing the School's magnificent landscape paintings. Eventually, these same paintings were used to encourage Congress to form the National Park Service in 1916. Mr. Speaker, I am sure my colleagues, and the American people, can agree with me when I acknowledge and appreciate the achievements of Asher Durand, George Inness, and the Hudson River School of Painters.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Mr. Benjamin Hickman Wright, Senior who passed away on April 12, 2011. His beloved family is holding a memorial service on November 23, 2011. Throughout his lifetime, Mr. Wright exemplified the highest traits of fidelity to his country and family in a manner truly deserving of this great honor. Mr. Wright was an individual who came from a lineage that strove for excellence in all facets of their work. Over a lifetime of achievement and service to others, Mr. Wright embodied the ideals of hard work and dedication to his community, which is the bedrock of American values. Mr. Wright was an individual who realized significant achievements throughout his life. This can be traced back to his family who attained advanced degrees in the early twentieth century. In fact Mr. Wright's grandfather and great uncle were the first African American physicians in Ohio. Mr. Wright's father was a top ranking life insurance salesman who also gave back to his community by teaching sharecroppers how to read, write and calculate the price of their produce and goods. After receiving a stellar education, Mr. Wright served in the armed forces during World War II in the European Theater as a First Class Petty Officer of the United States Navy. He was recently honored for his service with an Armed Forces Citation signed by President Obama. From one generation to the next, it is evident that the Wright family has attained significant accomplishments and remained committed to excellence in their work. Mr. Wright maintained and advanced this work through his many accomplishments including his service in the military followed by his service as an Economic Advisor in Monrovia, Liberia. Mr. Wright would go on to become a business owner and an employee in several fortune 500 companies. By the 1980's he founded a nationwide coalition of civic and fraternal associations that served to empower and up lift others. His commitment to serving his community and country and his accomplishments benefited and enhanced the lives of many citizens over several decades. His memory and work will be remembered by a grateful nation and I am pleased to add my voice as his family celebrates his legacy.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to congratulate Mr. Thomas R. Ashley, Esq. who is a recipient of the Daniel L. Golden Lifetime Achievement Award. Mr. Ashley is one of New Jersey's and the nation's leading trial lawyers. It is with great pleasure and honor that I recognize the legacy of this accomplished attorney. Mr. Thomas R. Ashley, Esq. is a native of Camden, New Jersey. As a star basketball player at Camden High School, Mr. Ashley received a scholarship to attend Rutgers University. He went on to accept an academic scholarship to Rutgers Law School, later becoming a recipient of Rutgers Law School's Civil Rights Award. With many opportunities and offers at major law firms, it was his law school professor, Mr. Arthur Kinoy, who urged Mr. Ashley to join the national legal staff of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). In 1968, Mr. Ashley prepared his first case with the NAACP lead team for the dismissal of an African-American man charged with the arson of a building in Enid, Oklahoma. Within four years, he teamed up with the well-known criminal and civil rights attorney, Mr. Raymond A. Brown, and started building a Newark based law practice that continues to this day. Mr. Ashley's other accomplishments and affiliations include membership in the New Jersey State Bar Association, Essex County Bar Association and the National Directory of Criminal Lawyers as one of the top 500 criminal trial lawyers in the United States. He was also named the ``Ten Leaders of Criminal Defense Law for Northern New Jersey'' by Digital Press International in April 2004. Mr. Thomas R. Ashley, Esq. is an extraordinary attorney, who continues to advocate for civil rights and justice in the Newark community and throughout the United States. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate a noble and well-deserved recipient of The Daniel L. Golden Lifetime Achievement Award.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Forty-three weeks, Mr. Speaker. For 43 weeks, my Republican colleagues have led the House, and they have failed to pass a single bill to create jobs. Our national unemployment rate has returned to 9.1 percent after declining earlier this year and late last year as a result of the Recovery Act. Yet my colleagues who ran on the platform of upholding a pledge to America to create jobs and strengthen the economy have failed to do so. Instead of delivering on their promise to the 14 million Americans without jobs, the Republican Congress has decided to take off of work for themselves. This Republican-led Congress has only been at work for 111 days, leaving 105 days off for recess. With so many of our constituents out of work, Congress should be at work on their behalf, doing its job and creating jobs for Americans and improving America's economy. That is what my Democratic colleagues and I have tried to do. We have proposed commonsense legislation that would strengthen our economy and create jobs now. And we say that this is what we were sent to Washington to do. We must create jobs now.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, nearly 25 million Americans are currently unemployed or underemployed; yet despite this disparaging rate, efforts to strengthen the workforce are being derailed by special interest attacks on the middle class and workers. In Wisconsin, Governor Scott Walker has taken away nearly all collective bargaining rights from the majority of the State's public employees. An Ohio referendum on State Senate Bill 5 aims to strip public workers of collective bargaining rights. For the 4 years prior to the enactment of Ohio's collective bargaining law, the State led the Nation in safety forces work stoppages. When the city and its safety forces had a dispute concerning wages, working conditions, and adequate staffing, there was no way to resolve the dispute. That is why the collective bargaining law was passed. And the law has worked. There have been no safety forces work stoppages in Ohio since the law was passed. Only through collective bargaining do American workers still have a voice. Still, this right is being attacked. The New Jersey Statehouse passed a bill destroying the right of public sector unions to collectively bargain over health care and pension issues. These efforts to turn back the clock on public safety and on those who protect and serve are unacceptable. Today I rise in support of the workers of Wisconsin; I rise in support of the workers of Ohio; I rise in support of the workers of my home State of New Jersey. I rise today in support of the millions of Americans who stand as proud union members seeking fair labor treatment and a fair shot at the American Dream. I have been protected by unions. I worked as a truck driver; I worked as a teacher; I worked on the docks of Newark; I worked as a waiter; I worked in the breweries of Newark--all of them protected by strong unions. And that's what helped me get through college and helped me get to the United States Congress. Today, I stand with 99 of my House colleagues to speak on H. Res. 452, which I introduced yesterday and which will recognize the importance labor unions play by ensuring a strong middle class by advocating for more equitable wages, humane working conditions, improved benefits and increased civic engagement of everyday citizens--the 99 percent. Ninety-nine Members cosponsored this resolution, and I'm proud to introduce it. Unions have pioneered benefits such as paid health care and pensions and have helped strengthen access to the American dream by helping to establish government policies and efforts such as family leave, minimum wage, and Social Security. Unions have also been effective in supporting immigrant rights, trade policy, health care and living wage legislation. Unions have been the voice for everyday Americans--from consumer protections to health, safety, and civil rights. The labor movement has fought to allow workers to negotiate on more equal footing with their employers, providing for a healthy, balanced workplace. Unions benefit everyone, members and nonmembers. According to the Economic Policy Institute, if more of the 66 million American workers who want to join a union could join one tomorrow, their paychecks and benefits would increase, but so would millions of others. The union premium, as it's called, succeeds in lifting wages of nonunion employees in the same industries while not being a deterring factor of the State's economic or its growth record. Unfortunately, there has been a decline in union membership, due largely to unfair labor practices and scare tactics by union-busting employers. Between 1999 and 2007, more than 86,000 workers filed unfair labor practice claims with the NLRB for being illegally fired by their employer for union activity. As a result of such efforts to weaken unions, among other things, our economy continues to suffer and the gap between the rich and the poor continues to widen, undermining the foundation of the American middle class. Contrary to the belief of union bashers, unions do not increase unemployment or reduce job opportunities. Rather, there are a great deal of facts that correlate the strength of the economy and the middle class to the growth or decline of union membership. Further, a recent report from the Congressional Budget Office also infers the impact that union membership decline has had on our economy and wealth distribution. The report found that from 1979 to 2007, average inflation-adjusted after tax income grew by 275 percent for the 1 percent of the population with the highest income. For those in the top 20 percent of the population, average real income grew only by 65 percent. However, the bottom fifth rose only by 18 percent. Three- fifths of the people are in the middle, and they grew by 40 percent. So that is not an equal distribution of growth wealth. The Wall Street Journal has stated ``the main reason U.S. companies are reluctant to step up hiring is scant demand.'' Demand is scarce because wages are stagnant while profits are up. The chief investment officer at JPMorgan Chase states: ``U.S. labor compensation is now at a 50-year low relative to both company sales and U.S. GDP.'' While wages are down, profit margins are up. Let me ask you to support this legislation. We will continue to stand on the steps of Ohio, march in the streets of New Jersey, in our neighborhoods. I, in addition to the 99 Members of the House who support this bill, we urge its passage.