Nick Rahall

Mr. RAHALL

Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to a valued member of our Committee on Natural Resources, the gentleman from California (Mr. Baca).

Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield for a UC only to the gentlelady from Texas, Ms. Sheila Jackson Lee. (Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas asked and was given permission to revise and extend her remarks.)

Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from California (Mrs. Napolitano), a subcommittee chair and member of the Committee on Natural Resources who has been intimately and powerfully involved with these issues over a number of years.

Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield for a unanimous consent only to the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Fattah). (Mr. FATTAH asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Barrow).

Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, today, we are considering a measure which will settle over a combined century of litigation. The bill will bring to closure some shameful acts undertaken by the United States, and it will allow several communities to move forward in rebuilding their communities and their trust in the United States. With passage of this legislation, Congress will resolve six outstanding litigation matters consisting of two class action lawsuits and four water settlements. In addition, the bill includes the initial installment to fund another water settlement passed earlier this Congress. First, claims by individual Indians for a historical accounting and mismanagement of individual Indian money accounts in Cobell vs. Salazar will be resolved. After a century of mismanagement by the Federal Government, a class action lawsuit was initiated by individual Indians against the United States seeking redress for the mismanagement. This bill will provide $1.5 billion to be distributed to individual Indians and to pay administrative and attorneys' fees. An additional $1.9 billion will be used to fund a Trust Land Consolidation Fund so that highly fractionated lands may be repurchased and consolidated into single tribal ownership again. This will streamline administration of trust lands. After 14 years of litigation and several attempts by the parties to settle, the administration has brought an end to a problem first created by Congress over 120 years ago. Second, discrimination claims by African American farmers against the United States will finally be settled. The settlement resolves claims by African American farmers who were denied loans based on racial discrimination. Third, H.R. 4783 will resolve the water rights claims of seven tribes and pueblos in the States of Arizona, New Mexico and Montana, bringing to an end nearly a century of active litigation. When tribes were moved to reservations, the Nation assumed a legal obligation that water should be supplied to meet the native people's needs. This legislation meets the Nation's legal commitments and provides water certainty to surrounding non-Indian regions, towns and industries, thereby allowing economies and jobs to continue to grow. Water in the West is in short supply. After years of negotiating, the tribes have agreed in these settlements to an amount of water far less than what they were originally requesting. The tribes, States and local partners negotiated these water settlements, often in contentious proceedings, over many years. They are to be commended for sticking with the process and working together to find a mutually agreed upon solution. Finally, H.R. 4783 would provide initial funding to the Reclamation Water Settlement Fund passed earlier this Congress. The settlement fund provides financial support that will be used to develop water supplies for the reservation. Many Navajo people today continue to haul water to meet their daily needs. It is time to provide this basic human right. I am proud to say that we have been able to resolve these longstanding litigation matters without adding to the Federal deficit. The entire bill, with an estimated cost of approximately $5.4 billion, is fully paid for. In closing, I think it is important to note that the House has already passed most of the various components of the bill before us today in this Congress, some even twice. This legislation has received the administration's full support. Although the Crow Nation water settlement has not yet passed in the House of Representatives, the Water and Power Subcommittee has held a hearing on this measure. All concerns by the administration have been addressed and resolved. As a result, I support inclusion of the Crow Nation water settlement in this legislation. The Senate has finally acted. It is time that we do our part one last time and send this measure to the President. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, I am honored to yield 5 minutes to the distinguished majority whip, the gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. Clyburn).

Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, our Committee on the Judiciary has been very instrumental in the drafting of this legislation, especially in regard to the paid-for section. I yield 6 minutes to the distinguished chairman of that committee, the gentleman from Michigan, Mr. John Conyers, and I ask unanimous consent that he control that time.

Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the matter under consideration.

Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Washington (Mr. Inslee). (Mr. INSLEE asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, to conclude debate on the majority's side, I yield all of the remaining time to the gentlelady from California, Ms. Maxine Waters. (Ms. WATERS asked and was given permission to revise and extend her remarks.)

Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the distinguished gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Kildee).

Mr. RAHALL. May I have a time check, please, Mr. Speaker?

Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, pursuant to House Resolution 1736, I move to take from the Speaker's table the bill (H.R. 4783) to accelerate the income tax benefits for charitable cash contributions for the relief of victims of the earthquake in Chile, and to extend the period from which such contributions for the relief of victims of the earthquake in Haiti may be accelerated, with the Senate amendments thereto, and I have a motion at the desk.

Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to yield 1 minute to our distinguished majority leader, the gentleman from Maryland, Mr. Steny Hoyer.

Mr. RAHALL

Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, this Thanksgiving, as we have since the first, Americans will set aside one day to focus on those blessings that have been granted to us. For the roof over our heads, for the health of our families, for the food on our plates--no matter how simple the meal--for the hand that holds ours as we gather around the table, we will, on this one very American day, bow our heads in prayer and we will be truly thankful. To me, the best of America is on display at Thanksgiving. Here we stand, for example: we Americans, facing difficult times, with our economy sluggish, with far too many jobless, and far too many others worrying about the future of their own jobs. Yet, many of us will invite strangers to our tables, or donate food to shelters, or serve up turkey dinners at a local soup kitchen, and we will appreciate even more deeply, the grace of God that has spared us similar trials. Even many of those who are struggling, whose tables may be leaner than usual, will take the time to give of what they have so that others do not go hungry on this day. Though that generosity, that neighborliness, the kindness, charity, and faithfulness come to the fore most prevalently on this one day of the year, I know--and all West Virginians know, that these qualities live on throughout the year in communities, large and small, urban and rural, throughout our State. And, I believe that this Nation would be better off if more Americans followed the example set in our State and devoted a greater share of their year, each year, to practicing the kindness and generosity, as well as exercising the grit and determination that comprise the West Virginia character. I am reminded of our Senator Byrd, who would have marked his 93rd birthday on November 20th, and his regular admonishment to West Virginians to hold on to those ``old values'' and to tap them for the betterment of the Nation. He would have taken to the Senate Floor in the days leading up to Thanksgiving to remind us all of our common history as Americans. He would have talked about the principles upon which this Nation was founded and urged us to set aside those petty differences that undermine our quest for the common good. Oh, how we could use Senator Byrd's wisdom, his reasonableness, and his guidance today. Our State has had more than its fair share of economic strife. But we hold tight to our faith and we marshal on, working hard side by side, to create a better future for ourselves and our children. In the wake of natural disasters, West Virginians reach out to their neighbors to give whatever they can afford, and often more. It has never been the West Virginia way to turn our backs on those in need, and it has never been in the character of West Virginians to throw in the towel when things get tough. So this Thanksgiving, as we pause to reflect on our blessings and to express our thanks to our Creator for all that we have, I hope that all Americans will also commit to exhibiting the spirit that surfaces on this day throughout the year ahead. There is no challenge confronting us that we cannot overcome if we join forces and put old-fashioned American know-how to work.

Mr. RAHALL

Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, for the last several decades multi-billion dollar trade deficits have continued to disadvantage American industries and manufacturing, and that means American jobs. Businesses, like the National Award Center, are working with employers and employees to promote critical economic priorities of higher productivity, more innovation and a strong, competitive work ethic. I commend these national priorities to all companies, organizations and related government agencies, federal, state and local which are trying to level the playing field for the United States in the global marketplace. I congratulate the National Award Center in its inaugural year.

Mr. RAHALL

Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, on November 14, 1970, a plane carrying 75 Marshall University football players, their coaches, faithful supporters and friends crashed while attempting to land in Huntington, WV. On that cold, rain-filled and foggy night so many promising futures came to a sudden and tragic end. On the night of this tragedy--known as the worst air disaster in American sports history, an entire community, our State and frankly our Nation were one in grief, but also one in believing that--from adversity--hope, growth and success can conquer all in the end. In the forty years since these souls were taken from those they loved and who loved them, the Marshall community--friends and strangers, colleagues and competitors, icons and unknowns--have bonded together in hearts and minds. On every anniversary of this tragedy we reflect on the tremendous loss, yet it is also a moment that renews promises and purpose and stirs hope in the human spirit. In the words of Marshall University Alumni Association President William ``Mickey'' Jackson, a former Marshall Football player and assistant coach for the team in 1970, who was on a scouting trip and not with the team the night of the crash, ``It is very inspirational to remember, but very, very sad at the same time. When they place the wreath at the fountain and the water stops, my heart just stops beating.'' The themes of hope and rebirth are carried forward every year at Marshall University, beginning with turning on one simple, yet so symbolic fountain. What has been learned from this tragic experience extends beyond those early hours of shock and disbelief. Two generations have been raised by the incredible power of the Marshall spirit--a strength, vitality, camaraderie and resolve that is reflected time and again. And as the story spreads, others receive solace and inspiration. And today, we are stronger because of it--for, we are Marshall.

Mr. RAHALL

Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, Jackie Withrow was an angel for the ages. She was Florence Nightingale, Susan B. Anthony and Eleanor Roosevelt all rolled into one. If the Almighty had to pick a day to open Heaven's Gates for Jackie, none could be mean more meaningful than Veteran's Day for no one cared more or worked harder for our veterans. One estimate credited Jackie with 27,500 hours of service to our veterans. I am sure that number would pale in comparison to all she really did over her lifetime of dedication to our veterans, taking them to church services on Sundays and planning new ways to serve them at all hours. Many people blaze trails, and Jackie accomplished that but made sure others were able to follow her. Jackie was always known for breaking new ceilings for women. She cared about that, of course. But I think she and the women who supported her and followed in her footsteps were proudest of the issues on which they could command attention in their day, like health care. Health care was on Jackie's radar screen from the beginning--for our miners, our children, and those needing mental health services. Senator Bill Wooton led the charge to make sure we would forever be reminded of her trailblazing leadership by appropriately naming a hospital for her. Bill spoke of ``Mercy'' and ``Justice'' to describe Jackie's contributions to us. To those we must surely add, ``Commitment'' and ``Dedication.'' Her public service never wavered. Although she served in our state's legislature for a generation, her longest public service was as a good citizen and dependable neighbor. Long out of office, Jackie continued opening doors of opportunity and opening the eyes of the rest of us. Always with a warm heart and determined will, Jackie Withrow changed our world for the better. Jackie's lasting legacy to each of us was her fierce loyalty to what she believed in the most--the ``least'' of us, as Christ taught. And, we recall the loyalty of Ruth in the Old Testament as we celebrate Jackie's loyalty to those who needed her hand and hope the most: Do not press me to leave you or to turn back from following you! Where you go, I will go; Where you lodge, I will lodge; Your people shall be my people and your God my God. Where you die, I will die There I will be buried. May the Lord do thus and so to me And more as well If even death parts me from you! Next to my family, Jackie was my earliest and strongest supporter. I will celebrate Jackie's life the rest of my days. I know countless others will never be far from her firm hand of friendship, her warm smile of compassion, and that ever present twinkle in her eye of figuring out how she was going to help. My family and I offer Jackie's family and her many friends our thoughts and prayers, as we all celebrate this extraordinary woman's life.

Mr. RAHALL

Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, Jackie Withrow was an angel for the ages. She was Florence Nightingale, Susan B. Anthony and Eleanor Roosevelt all rolled into one. If the Almighty had to pick a day to open Heaven's Gates for Jackie, none could be mean more meaningful than Veteran's Day for no one cared more or worked harder for our veterans. One estimate credited Jackie with 27,500 hours of service to our veterans. I am sure that number would pale in comparison to all she really did over her lifetime of dedication to our veterans, taking them to church services on Sundays and planning new ways to serve them at all hours. Many people blaze trails, and Jackie accomplished that but made sure others were able to follow her. Jackie was always known for breaking new ceilings for women. She cared about that, of course. But I think she and the women who supported her and followed in her footsteps were proudest of the issues on which they could command attention in their day, like health care. Health care was on Jackie's radar screen from the beginning--for our miners, our children, and those needing mental health services. Senator Bill Wooton led the charge to make sure we would forever be reminded of her trailblazing leadership by appropriately naming a hospital for her. Bill spoke of ``Mercy'' and ``Justice'' to describe Jackie's contributions to us. To those we must surely add, ``Commitment'' and ``Dedication.'' Her public service never wavered. Although she served in our state's legislature for a generation, her longest public service was as a good citizen and dependable neighbor. Long out of office, Jackie continued opening doors of opportunity and opening the eyes of the rest of us. Always with a warm heart and determined will, Jackie Withrow changed our world for the better. Jackie's lasting legacy to each of us was her fierce loyalty to what she believed in the most--the ``least'' of us, as Christ taught. And, we recall the loyalty of Ruth in the Old Testament as we celebrate Jackie's loyalty to those who needed her hand and hope the most: ``Do not press me to leave you or to turn back from following you! Where you go, I will go; Where you lodge, I will lodge; Your people shall be my people and your God my God. Where you die, I will die There I will be buried. May the Lord do thus and so to me And more as well If even death parts me from you!'' Next to my family, Jackie was my earliest and strongest supporter. I will celebrate Jackie's life the rest of my days. I know countless others will never be far from her firm hand of friendship, her warm smile of compassion, and that ever present twinkle in her eye of figuring out how she was going to help. My family and I offer Jackie's family and her many friends our thoughts and prayers, as we all celebrate this extraordinary woman's life.

Mr. RAHALL

Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, the spark that long ignited our national economic engine has been the imagination, hard work and determination of Americans and American manufacturing. They are the creators of our Nation's economic strength, leadership and freedom. American Manufacturing has long been the pride of our Nation, the foundation of our economic infrastructure and the core of our military might. It has been the driving force supporting generations of Americans in pursuit of the American dream to build a better life for ourselves, our children and our grandchildren. Today, U.S. manufacturing directly employs 14 million Americans and creates 8 million more jobs in other sectors. And, American manufacturing workers are the most productive workers in the world-- twice as productive as workers in the next 10 leading manufacturing economies--contributing nearly 12 percent to our gross domestic product. When we support American manufacturing, we not only help the bottom line, we support the American worker, and we create more American jobs. Equally as important is our ability to support our national defense and to sustain American infrastructure with American products. We must go headlong into the fight to defend our Nation's economic and military security. We must rebuild our ailing industries and invest in our 21st century workforce. There is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but we know the rules of supply and demand. We must tackle the issues head-on and fight tooth and nail to preserve American manufacturing and uphold every opportunity for Americans to have good paying jobs. We are taking steps to right this ship and return America to a place of strength in manufacturing. Four ``Make It in America'' bills have already been signed into law to: Close tax loopholes that encourage companies to ship jobs overseas. Make it cheaper for U.S. companies to get the materials they need to manufacture goods. Speed innovation by breaking the backlog of patents waiting for approval. Unleash small business lending with $12 billion in small business tax cuts and new tools to help American small businesses export goods and compete abroad. The Made in America legislation has the potential to assist manufacturing businesses throughout southern West Virginia. In my congressional district, we have nearly 13,000 people employed in manufacturing at 208 facilities. In 2009, the average U.S. manufacturing worker earned $70,666 annually, while the non- manufacturing worker earned $57,993 annually. A poll for the Alliance for American Manufacturing showed large majorities believe manufacturing is the most important industry for our economy and national security, and support action to revive it. Two- thirds of Democrats, Republicans and Independents reject the view that ``high-tech'' and ``services'' industries can replace manufacturing in a strong U.S. economy. And, more than 75-percent of Americans support a national manufacturing strategy to make sure that economic, tax, labor and trade policies work together to help support manufacturing in the U.S. Although the economy and the job market are on the way to recovery, America's manufacturing continues to face challenges. A helping hand is needed to level the playing field against foreign competition. I support H.R. 2378, The Currency Reform for Fair Trade Act, to help American manufacturers fight back when it's clear that countries like China are using unfair trade practices, like undervaluing and manipulating its currency in foreign exchange markets. This is an exploitive export subsidy used to gain an unfair advantage over U.S.- made goods in the global marketplace. Building a future for America's next generation stands on the shoulders of all of us. We must work together as Americans to invest in our country's long term future and create high-paying jobs. ``American- Made'' is far more than a label it is the key to our long term economic prosperity.

Mr. RAHALL

Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, today, I rise on behalf of all of America's National Guard and proudly introduce the Guardians of Freedom Act of 2010--a bill to elevate the Chief of the National Guard Bureau to a position on the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The National Guard is one of our nation's longest standing institutions, empowered by Congress and providing to the states a highly trained and well equipped force to protect life and property. Over the course of its nearly four hundred year history, the National Guard has remained a dual state-Federal force, providing security on the home front and fighting threats to our Nation and our freedoms all over the globe. Our National Guardsmen are true American patriots. Theirs is a proud story of tradition, service, sacrifice, and uncommon acts of heroism. They make each of us so very proud. Aristotle said, ``Men acquire a particular quality by constantly acting a particular way . . . you become just, by performing just actions . . . brave by performing brave actions.'' The American people owe an enormous debt of gratitude to our 362,192 men and women members of the National Guard in service to these great United States. These extraordinary individuals maintain the Guard's multi-mission role--providing nearly 33 percent of America's combat power globally. Yet, simultaneously and with great skill, from approximately 3,400 community-based armories they serve their fellow citizens in defense of our homeland, and in support to states and local civil authorities and emergency response needs. For decades there has been a significant evolution in the missions and capabilities of the National Guard. As Major General Allen E. Tackett, the Adjutant General of the West Virginia National Guard so appropriately states, ``Not since World War II has the Guard been so vital to the overseas mission and not since the founding of our Nation has the Guard been so vital to the defense of our homeland.'' Madam Speaker, for 34 years I have been privileged to represent the people of southern West Virginia, and it is with humble sincerity I say, our West Virginia National Guard is a model example of the training, commitment to excellence and professional dedication to America's defense. From the home front to the front lines, we call upon our National Guard to fulfill missions of public safety and security on and between our borders here at home, and send them to foreign lands to combat terrorism abroad. They are among the first called to aid in a domestic disaster and have often times been the last to leave a battlefield. This year the National Guard marks its 374th birthday. Formed as colonial militias, the new colonies in North America depended upon the Guard to protect fellow citizens from Indian attack, foreign invaders, and later to help achieve our independence. Recognizing the militia's role for the newly formed United States, the Framers of the Constitution empowered Congress to provide for training and equipping the militias. Since founding and through an historic journey of ``call outs'' and stand out missions--from the bayou communities ravaged by Hurricane Katrina to the frontiers of freedom during the Cold War, our National Guard has seen its Federal mission change. Our National Guard has a duty and commitment to the citizens and communities of the states in which these soldiers call ``family'' and ``home.'' It is a military service tradition that has been challenged by long-term and multiple deployments to front lines in two active theaters, and in support of missions in all corners of the globe as directed by our Nation's Commander in Chief. Therefore, it is not only our duty it is an absolute necessity, that Congress take action to elevate the Chief of the National Guard Bureau to a position on the Joint Chiefs of Staff to serve as an advocate and liaison for the National Guard of each State to inform of all actions that could affect their Federal or State missions. In a Nation such as ours, it is a stunning reality that today we ask our brothers and sisters, husbands, and wives to serve around the globe to preserve democracy and promote freedom. But in our country, where every voice counts, our Nation's active duty leadership excludes the voice of the Chief of the National Guard Bureau. Congress must ensure the National Guard has appropriate input during the planning and budgetary process within the Department of Defense, and end the challenge to live with ``after-the-fact'' process, as is now the case. As a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the Chief of the National Guard Bureau would have responsibility and authority to advocate and coordinate the Guard's warfighting support and force provider mission with its homeland security and support missions to ensure the Guard has the resources to perform its multiple missions and fulfill its Constitutional role to our states. Creating a Veterans' preference in the Transportation sector is very simple. It seeks to give America's veterans an opportunity advantage in the contracting process for their service to our country--a means to attach importance and to acknowledge our fellow Americans who have put their life on the line to preserve our way of life. Madam Speaker, from the battlefield to the home fields, our National Guard--America's patriots--exemplifies sacrifice and commitment to duty. I urge my colleagues to vote for Guardians for Freedom Act of 2010-- so that we may respectfully and gratefully fulfill our duty to support the original intent of our Constitution for each state to maintain an organized militia with integrity--and, effectively support and acknowledge the great sacrifice so many willingly make for all of us.

Mr. RAHALL

Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, this morning, September 29, 2010, I was unavoidably delayed and not present to vote on the following bills: (1) Republican Motion to Adjourn--Vote ``no'' on rollcall No. 545. (2) Adjournment Resolution (H. Con. Res. 321)--To provide for the House to adjourn for the Autumn District Work Period--Vote ``yes'' on rollcall No. 546. (3) Motion on Ordering the Previous Question on the Rule for H.R. 847--James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act; H.R. 2378-- Currency Reform for Fair Trade Act; and H.R. 2701--Intelligence Authorization Act (H. Res. 1674)--Vote ``yes'' on rollcall No. 547. (4) H. Res. 1674--Rule providing for consideration of H.R. 847--James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act; H.R. 2378--Currency Reform for Fair Trade Act; and H.R. 2701--Intelligence Authorization Act--Vote ``yes'' on rollcall No. 548. If present, I would have voted ``aye'' on all except the motion to adjourn.

Mr. RAHALL

Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, Constitution Day was Senator Byrd's Day. Having just finished drafting our Constitution, Benjamin Franklin was stopped in the street as he left Independence Hall in Philadelphia where delegates from thirteen former colonies had been meeting the summer of 1787. ``Dr. Franklin, what form of government have you given us?'' a concerned citizen asked. ``A republic, Madam,'' said Franklin; quickly adding, ``If you can keep it.'' Throughout Robert C. Byrd's life he was a proud keeper and guardian of two sets of laws, one laid down in our Bible (the King James Version), the other rooted in our federal Constitution. Senator Byrd was a largely self-taught man. He cherished learning, a process he continued throughout his life, and he made sure that countless Americans would get an annual lesson, a civic reminder about our Constitution each September 17th. Senator Byrd authored the law that now requires all institutions receiving federal funding to celebrate the venerable document in a meaningful and instructive way. Dr. Ray Smock, director of the Byrd Center, the repository for Senator Byrd's papers and a center for the study of Congress in Shepherdstown, West Virginia, recently shared some insights with me in advance of our celebration of the Constitution this September 17th, which serve to remind us that Senator Byrd's values are as timeless as his work for West Virginia was tireless. At the Byrd Center, among the collection of thousands of pages of Senator Byrd's work, rests the Bible he held when he was sworn in as President Pro Tem of the Senate on Jan. 3rd, 1989. That Bible, like others that were in his possession, was heavily underlined on almost every page. Sometimes he would write in the margin: ``Memorize This.'' He wrote two quotations on the inside front cover of this particular Bible: ``Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set.'' Proverbs 22:28 And, ``We speak much about what matters little; we speak little about what matters much.'' We are not sure of the source of this quotation, but the fact the Senator placed it here, shows us how important it was to him. When you think about it, even a little bit, both quotations are relevant to Constitution Day. Certainly, to the Senator, one of the great ancient landmarks had to have been the U.S. Constitution. No one defended it better or more eloquently than Senator Byrd. In the hard times we find ourselves right now, there are some prognosticators who argue that the Constitution needs to be overhauled. A recent article in Harper's magazine even suggested that the Senate is an anachronism and should be abolished. Senator Byrd spent a lifetime defending the wisdom of our Founding Fathers and the government they created. He understood from his Bible and his Constitution that mankind was not perfect. And no government conceived by man is going to be perfect either. But he believed in the genius of the Constitution, which has served us well for more than two centuries. He loved the Federalist Essays, and read them thoroughly from cover to cover, memorizing key passages. These 85 essays on the nature of the American government penned by James Madison, John Jay, and Alexander Hamilton were collectively the single best source Senator Byrd used to form his understanding of the intent of the Founders when they penned the Constitution. He quoted the Federalist papers frequently. Among his favorite passages was in Federalist 51, in which James Madison wrote: But what is government itself, but the greatest of all reflections on human nature? If men were angels, no government would be necessary. If angels were to govern men, neither external nor internal controls on government would be necessary. In framing a government which is to be administered by men over men, the great difficulty lies in this: you must first enable the government to control the governed; and in the next place oblige it to control itself. The other quotation in the Senator's Bible, ``We speak much about what matters little, we speak little about what matters much'' gets to the heart of a lot that is wrong with our public discourse these days. The 24/7 news machine, the Internet, and talk radio, devote vast amounts of time speaking about what matters little, and not enough talking about the things that matter most. We all feel that government could work better. The question is in how to make that happen. We must not surrender to bumper-sticker politics that entice one to believe that solutions to great challenges are simple and quick. The legacy of Senator Byrd's life suggests that we all need to be more responsible in making government work. Citizens and those who are elected need to put aside the extremes of partisanship to effectively address the complex needs of the country. Senator Byrd was in awe of the Founders for their ability to set aside their partisanship and work to build a nation. He admired the Framers of the Constitution for their understanding of history and of human nature. While he could play partisan politics with the best of them and while he was loyal and dedicated to West Virginia, he never forgot that his role as a Senator was to look out for the whole nation, not just one party, or one place. It is certain that he would agree that our Constitution does not need changing so much as our moral compass needs adjusting. Let us ``remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set,'' and let us all follow Senator Byrd's example of keeping our perspective on the things that matter much, and not get lost wasting our time on those that matter little. Senator Byrd is gone now, but our job to work to keep this Republic is an ongoing duty, one that each generation must take up so our Union can endure, and prosper. I will be visiting Boone County to celebrate our Constitution and the invaluable lessons Senator Byrd left with us. Constitution Day was dear to Senator Byrd's heart because it was a day of reflection on the very thing that does matter much to the future of this nation. To learn more about the Byrd Center, its collection and programs, please visit its Web site at: www.byrdcenter.org. Ray Smock is Director of the Robert C. Byrd Center for Legislative Studies, Shepherd University in Shepherdstown, WV, and is a former Historian of the U.S. House of Representatives.

Mr. RAHALL

Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Chair, I submit an exchange of letters between the Committee on Natural Resources and the Committee on Ways and Means concerning H.R. 3534. House of Representatives, Committee on Ways and Means, Washington, DC, September 13, 2010. Hon. Nick J. Rahall II, Chairman, Committee on Natural Resources, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Nick Rahall: I am writing to you concerning the jurisdictional interest of the Committee on Ways and Means in your amendment in the nature of a substitute to H.R. 3534, the ``Consolidated Land, Energy, and Aquatic Resources Act of 2010.'' Rule X of the Rules of the House of Representatives provides that the Committee on Ways and Means has jurisdiction over ``revenue measures generally.'' Section 802 of H.R. 3534, as amended, raises revenue by imposing a fee of $2 per barrel of oil and 20 cents per million BTU of natural gas produced on Federal onshore and offshore lands. As a result, Section 802 of H.R. 3534, as amended, is within the jurisdiction of the Committee on Ways and Means. I recognize and appreciate your desire to bring this legislation before the House in an expeditious manner and, accordingly, I will not seek a sequential referral of H.R 3534, as amended. However, I agree to waive consideration of this bill with the understanding that this does not in any way prejudice the Committee on Ways and Means and its jurisdictional prerogatives on H.R. 3534 or similar legislation. Further, the Ways and Means Committee reserves the right to seek the appointment of conferees during any House-Senate conference convened on this legislation on provisions of the bill that are within the Committee's jurisdiction. I ask for your commitment to support any request by the Committee on Ways and Means for the appointment of conferees on H.R. 3534 or similar legislation. I also ask that a copy of this letter and your response be included in the Congressional Record during consideration of this bill by the House. Thank you for your consideration in this matter. Sincerely, Sander M. Levin, Chairman.