Nick Rahall

Mr. RAHALL

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

Mr. RAHALL

Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to offer congratulations to several of West Virginia's most dedicated and hardworking individuals. On December 1, 2009, several individuals were honored for their role in enhancing tourism to Greenbrier County when the Greenbrier County Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) presented their fourth annual Spirit of Tourism Awards. The Greenbrier County CVB presented four awards to honor people who have made a difference in the local economy through enhancing local tourism. The Spirit of Tourism Awards recognize residents that have made a significant impact on the tourism industry in the areas of tourism development, volunteerism, securing a convention or meeting to the area, and excelling at partnering with the Greenbrier County CVB. This year's Greenbrier Award recipient was awarded to Jim Justice for his hard work and dedication since his purchase of `The Greenbrier' earlier this year. Mr. Justice has made significant developments since then with the development of a new restaurant, Prime 44, The Tavern Casino, and the announcement of the new PGA Tour `The Greenbrier Classic'. Mr. Justice has worked hard to improve `The Greenbrier' all the while increasing tourism to the county and state. Russell Williams and Annamarie Visclosky were this year's recipients of the Greenbrier County Ambassador Award, which honors those who have assisted the tourism community by going above and beyond the call of duty. Mr. Williams and Ms. Visclosky have spearheaded a number of impressive activities in the community, including the Lewisburg Chocolate Festival, Carnegie Hall's Taste of Our Towns, and the Rhythm and Blues Festival. The State Fair of West Virginia was named as this year's recipient of the Hometown Hero Award, which recognizes an individual or group that has gone above the call of duty in securing conferences or meetings in Greenbrier County. Board Member Kathryn Tuckwiller accepted the award of behalf of the State Fair of West Virginia. The Friend of Tourism Award is chosen by the Convention and Visitors Bureau to recognize an individual or group that has excelled in promoting tourism in partnership with the Bureau. This year's winner was Brier Properties which was recognized for their significant hotel development in the area and their outstanding willingness to partner with the Greenbrier County CVB in marketing initiatives. Madam Speaker, I ask that my distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating the winners of this year's Spirit of Tourism Awards who have contributed in unique ways to the growth and development of the economy in the Third Congressional District of West Virginia--a district that I am very proud to represent here in Washington, DC.

Mr. RAHALL

Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the American University of Beirut Medical Center, AUBMC, upon being designated as the first ``Magnet'' facility in the Middle East by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Magnet Recognition Program. The ``Magnet'' program recognizes nursing excellence in the delivery of care to patients, promoting quality health care services in an environment that supports professional nursing practice, and providing a mechanism for the dissemination of best practices for nursing services. AUMBC is the first health care institution in the Middle East and the third in the world outside the United States to receive this award. ``Magnet'' recognized organizations set the global standard for professional nursing care and innovative health care reform that meets the needs of patients, families, and communities. Only five percent of all hospitals in the United States are ``Magnet'' recognized institutions, including such prestigious hospitals as Cedars Sinai Medical Center and Johns Hopkins Hospitals. Special recognition is in order for Gladys Mouro, Assistant Hospital Director for Patient Care Services, who spearheaded the 6-year effort to secure ``Magnet'' recognition. I am absolutely delighted that this extraordinary designation was achieved at a U.S. recognized and supported institution, the prestigious institution of higher learning in the Middle East, the American University of Beirut. Congratulations to the AUB administration, faculty, and the entire AUBMC medical staff for their 6 years of hard work to achieve this goal.

Mr. RAHALL

Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the ninety years of service by the West Virginia State Police. Audiences throughout the world have always been transfixed by the American lawman, from the earliest days of radio with the Lone Ranger and Dragnet, to today's televised prolific forensic adventures. In West Virginia this week, we shall go a long way in setting the record right, celebrating the real human spirit, and illuminating the costly sacrifices of the steadfast mission galvanized by the shields worn proudly across our state, ``To Serve and Protect.'' The West Virginia State Police have given the people of West Virginia nine decades of dedication and commitment by an unbroken long line of forest green. This remarkable group of professionals, our nation's fourth oldest state police agency, has a storied history and rich tradition of service. In acknowledgment and with gratitude, the West Virginia Department of Culture and History is opening a splendid exhibit entitled, ``Celebrating Ninety Years of the West Virginia State Police,'' which will stand as a permanent display in the West Virginia State Museum, in tribute to this fine organization. Stretching over 90 years of history, born in the trademark forest green uniforms worn today, the West Virginia State Police force armed with 21st century tools, technologies, and expertise is the foundation for law enforcement in our democratic society. Theirs is a story of an admirable path of honor and bravery. It is one of men and women who are known, respected and recognized nationally for their efforts in law enforcement. Throughout their proud legacy and often in the face of great change, West Virginia State Police officers have been at the ready, answering trouble, turmoil, and even tornadoes of one form or another, with speed, accuracy and more often than not, a deep understanding of those they serve. For all this we are, and will forever be, grateful. Today, as we celebrate roads well travelled and those yet to be blazed, I share great pride with the people of West Virginia. And, to all the men and women of the West Virginia State Police--past and present, uniformed and non-uniformed--I express my deepest gratitude and heartfelt thanks for their service and commitment to the safety and security of the people of West Virginia. I hope my colleagues here in the Congress will join me in congratulating everyone with the West Virginia State Police and their families on their 90th anniversary and offer our sincerest best wishes for their continued success.

Mr. RAHALL

Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the achievement of U.S. Senator Robert C. Byrd on becoming the longest serving Member in the history of the United States Congress. Senator Robert C. Byrd has made a career of setting the standard for his fellow Members of Congress to emulate and today, he has, again, set the bar of Congressional service one notch higher. This is a history-making day. But Senator Byrd's record-setting achievement is not gauged best by the number of years, days, and hours he has spent in office--though he could tell us to the minute. It is, instead, more correctly measured by the wealth of hope his work has generated, the vast number of lives his efforts have touched and improved, and the multiple generations of citizens his struggles from virtual orphan to the heights of political power have inspired. His work, in short, has been monumental. His efforts have provided for public services and fundamental structures--modern highways, safer bridges, veterans centers, clean water systems--but these fall far short of the greatest and most lasting monument that he has given the people of West Virginia, his devotion and tireless work to make their lives richer. I am proud and awed--though not in the least surprised--to be able to congratulate West Virginia's senior Senator on becoming the longest serving Member in the history of the U.S. Congress. And I look forward to many more record-breaking years of Robert C. Byrd serving in the U.S. Senate and setting a wise and fruitful course for the future of West Virginia and the Nation.

Mr. RAHALL

Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the service, dedication, and sacrifices of America's professional truck drivers who serve our Nation daily by delivering the clothes we wear, the food we eat, and yes, even the medical prescriptions upon which many of us must rely. This week, November 1-7, is designated National Truck Driver Appreciation Week and is set aside to honor the 3.5 million professional truck drivers in the United States. One out of every fifteen people across this country is employed in the trucking industry, which is one of our Nation's largest employers. Truckers serve as the backbone of their industry, which is responsible for a large portion of the total U.S. freight tonnage. Estimates suggest that a majority of communities rely solely on the trucking industry for their goods and commodities. In turn, our economy not only relies, but thrives, on the good work of these men and women. America's truck drivers work to help keep our highways safe. They follow stringent safety regulations, attend frequent training programs, and help educate the motoring public to make sharing the roadways with tractor-trailers safer. Finally, Madam Speaker, America's truck drivers sacrifice precious time from their families, all the while, they deliver for ours. This week we pause to say thank you to them and to their families. I salute these fine individuals along with their understanding families for their commitment to America's future stability, increased prosperity, and for delivering life's essentials safely and securely.

Mr. RAHALL

Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, as we, in the Congress, continue to debate the course of energy in America; as we consider the science of efficiency, the effects of power generation on the environment, and the impact of energy supply on the economy and on national security, I believe we also need to remember some very fundamental things. We need, for example, to pay acute attention to the effects that the decisions we make in Washington will have on the men and women, the families, and the communities back home who have, for generations, provided the natural energy resources that fuel America. Today I am proud to introduce--along with my colleagues from West Virginia, Representatives Alan B. Mollohan and Shelley Moore Capito--a resolution honoring America's miners. The government has long recognized that it has an obligation to do all that it can to ensure that our coal miners have safe, healthy workplaces. But I contend that we also have an obligation to do all we can to ensure that our miners simply have work. America has grown strong through the labor of coal miners. Their work has provided, light, warmth, and economic security for generations of growing American families. it has fueled the steel furnaces that built our great cities and our military might And the labor of miners has made reality of the creative imaginings of America's most inventive minds. These hard-working, selfless, earnest men and women, their livelihoods, their way of life, and the future of their families and their communities are at stake. Mining can be difficult, dangerous work, but mining is also a noble, honest profession, and miners and their families are proud of the work they do for America, as well they should be. We can mine and use coal more safely, more cleanly, and more efficiently. And we will. Our future depends upon it. So, Madam Speaker, I introduce this resolution to support the goals and ideals of a National Miner's Day that will commemorate the work and the sacrifice of miners past and present. But I do so, as well, as a demonstration of support for the jobs of miners future.

Mr. RAHALL

Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, I thank the distinguished chairman for yielding, and I rise today in strong support of this Interior appropriations conference report and to congratulate the House and Senate Appropriations Committees for their work on this important funding measure. In particular, I wish to express my deep appreciation and congratulate my classmate, Interior Subcommittee Chairman Norm Dicks, as well as full committee chairman, Dave Obey, on the completion of this conference report. I thank Ranking Members Lewis and Simpson as well. I am privileged to serve as chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee. Many of the priorities funded in this legislation have long been priorities of the authorizing committee as well. We often hear Members of Congress express concern about the future of our national parks, our forests, our refuges and public lands. We often hear Members express support for a strong trust relationship with native people. We often hear Members express deep concern regarding wildlife, climate change, and water quality and quantity. I would say to my colleagues that today is one of those days where Members who say they care about these things can come to the House floor and prove it by voting for this strong conference report. Last spring, the House approved legislation that I sponsored, the Federal Land Assistance and Management Enhancement Act, or FLAME Act, to authorize a separate funding stream for emergency wildfire suppression. Over the last decade, wildfires have become increasingly dangerous and destructive, burning more acreage and more property more often. Yet financially, the Federal Government has continued to be ill- prepared to respond to these fires. Time after time, we have seen wildfires rip through communities, while at the same time they burn through the agency's budget. I moved the FLAME Act through the House because it will give the agencies the money they need to knock down catastrophic fires, while protecting the important funds needed to stop fires from starting in the first place. Thanks to the cooperation and assistance of the Appropriations Committee, the FLAME fund is included in this conference report, and for the first time, we are creating a savings account to cover the cost of fighting fires we know are going to happen. Instead of a ``rainy day'' fund, it is a fund for fire seasons when we have not had nearly enough rainy days, and I know the communities threatened by these dangerous fires are grateful it is included in this bill. The conference report also includes funding for increases for our national parks, wildlife refuges, forests and public lands, investments in what Ken Burns has reminded us is one of America's best ideas.

Mr. RAHALL. I thank the chairman. The conference report also contains significant funding for the land and water conservation fund, a contract we have made with our grandchildren that, as we deplete our offshore energy reserves, we will invest some of the profits in conservation. Finally, the conference report honors our enduring commitment to native people with significant funding increases for Indian health services and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The rates of poverty and illness among native people continue at unacceptably high rates, and sufficient funding for these programs is vital. Of course, as with all compromises, this conference report is not perfect. It includes several individual provisions I do not support. However, this legislation represents a continued commitment to protecting and preserving that which makes our Nation unique. I urge Members' support and appreciate the work of the chairman.

Mr. RAHALL

Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to show my support for National Disability Employment Awareness Month. As President Obama stated in his proclamation naming October as the National Disability Employment Awareness Month, fair access to employment is a fundamental right of every American, including the 54 million people in this country living with disabilities. Through the Ability One Program, a federal initiative, that enables people who are blind or have other significant disabilities to work and provide products and services to federal and commercial customers, thousands of working Americans are contributing to West Virginia and national economies. The more people know about the capabilities of people with disabilities to work and lead independent lives, the more we can shatter stereotypes and misperceptions. We need to celebrate empowering one another by highlighting the ingenuity and perseverance of people with disabilities. As a Nation, we should take this month as an opportunity to showcase the contributions of those with disabilities who have found success in the workplace. However, there is more that needs to be done to spread the awareness that hiring people with disabilities is good for businesses in West Virginia. For example, seven out of ten working age Americans who are blind are not employed. The month of October honors these men and women who live with disabilities and are working or want to work within their communities. I would like to take this time to shine a spotlight and raise awareness of programs in West Virginia and around the Nation that work with individuals with disabilities. Both the American Foundation for the Blind, AFB, and the National Federation for the Blind, NFB, have chapters in Huntington and around the state where they work with individuals with disabilities to improve their lives through advocacy, education and career programs. These organizations work to educate the public on the ability of those with disabilities to succeed and thrive within employment settings They promote independent and healthy living for people with vision loss by providing them and their families with relevant and timely resources. Another organization working in West Virginia to educate employers about employing workers with disabilities is Goodwill Industries. They provide education, training and career services for people with physical, mental and emotional disabilities. They work to train and employ contract workers to fill outsourced needs for document management, assembly, mailing, custodial work, grounds keeping and more. In 2008, local Goodwill organizations collectively provided employment and training services to more than 1.525 million individuals. Federal initiatives such as AbilityOne Program, also help people who are blind or have other severe disabilities find employment by working for nonprofit agencies, NPAs, that sell product or services to the U.S. government. They are the largest source of employment for people who are blind or have other severe disabilities in the United States with 12 participating non-profit agencies in West Virginia. I know employers can make a difference. Two years ago, my chief of staff became disabled after a fall in his home injured his spinal cord. He's now back at work and continues on the road to recovery with the help of accommodations I'm pleased to say the House of Representatives made for him at my request. From the Speaker and her staff, to both the Sergeant-At-Arms and the CAO's staff and to the Capitol Police and the House Staff Fitness Center--all of these offices have responded enthusiastically. From help getting his transportation past security checkpoints to getting his wheelchair into the office, from designing his workstation to accommodating his workout routine, the House answered my requests affirmatively. This month he was recognized by his state vocational rehabilitation program for his accomplishment of returning to work. All of us face battles--many of us face more than our fair share. This month serves as a reminder of that truth. It is a truth we as a society must respect and must work to make right. We have some strong allies in that battle as evidenced above. There is more than abundant evidence here that despite all odds against it, the human spirit is a difficult, if not impossible, flame to snuff out. Hope is but a small thing on show this day when compared to the many triumphs and remarkable victories we celebrate. The courage shown every day by those with disabilities is contagious and their successes empower all of us to be better individuals, better community members, and better Americans. Please join with me in celebrating all of the organizations who work to raise awareness about the dedicated and hard-working Americans who are blind or have other significant disabilities who provide quality products and services at fair market prices to the Federal government every day.

Mr. RAHALL

Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I wish to, in the very beginning, commend the gentleman from California, the chairman of our Committee on Education and Labor, Mr. George Miller, for the tremendous leadership, dedication, persistence and patience with which he has handled the pending legislation. I wish to also commend our distinguished chairlady of our Subcommittee on Water on our Natural Resources Committee, the gentlelady from California, Mrs. Grace Napolitano. I do rise in my capacity as chairman of the Committee on Natural Resources to support the pending legislation which was favorably reported out of our committee without controversy. By now, I would think that most of us are aware that there are major issues associated with drought and agriculture in California. While the rainy season has hit parts of the State, it will do little to refill reservoirs that haven't seen normal level of rainfall for years. The impacts of the drought are obvious, whether we're talking about brown lawns, fallowed fields or increased water rates for struggling families. To address this dire situation, the pending measure is based on the practical idea of conservation through reuse. By recycling water, this bill would create 39,000 acre-feet of water or enough water to supply over 24,000 homes. We're bringing this legislation up under a rule today because a very vocal minority opposed this bill for reasons unrelated to the merits of the legislation. I'm fortunate to come from a State with abundant water resources. I understand how water is critical for both people and our economy. What I do not understand is why some Members on the other side want to use this bill as a strawman so they can demagogue Democrats on the drought issue. One Republican Member from California in particular filed a number of amendments that are very good at generating headlines and controversy. Unfortunately, the amendments were not germane to the subject matter of the bill before us, nor are they very thoughtful or realistic solutions to the crisis before us. Opposition to this legislation is like cutting off one's nose to spite one's face. Water supply issues in California are not a zero sum game. Creating more water through reuse in urbanized areas reduces pressure on water demands elsewhere in the State. If opponents to this legislation want to work towards solving California's water woes, then I suggest getting real about finding solutions and stop the partisan political attacks. The bill before us today creates new water resources through reuse. We have brought up bill after bill doing the same thing before this body without any controversy, including bills for my Republican colleagues in southern California, Utah and Oregon. The only reason we are here today debating this legislation is because one Member thinks a solution to a severe drought is to gut environmental laws and overturn court decisions. Perhaps that Member should propose a rain dance as well. So it is time to support H.R. 2442 and move forward with practical solutions for a real drought in California. I urge support of the legislation.

Mr. RAHALL

Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 816 and to express my condolences and deepest sympathies to the people of American Samoa and Independent Samoa for the loss of life that was caused by the earthquakes and tsunamis that hit these islands on September 29, 2009. Struck by towering waves that reached up to 20 feet in height, the people of American Samoa, Independent Samoa and Tonga are today confronting staggering losses of life and property as they watched helplessly as the in-rushing sea swallowed up coastal towns and villages. As of last week it is estimated that 32 American Samoans and 135 residents of Independent Samoa lost their lives. And today, many families in the affected areas still lack basic necessities resulting in the risk of additional deaths because of scarce clean water, shelter, food and basic health care. I was pleased to have had the opportunity to visit American Samoa earlier this year with my good friend and colleague, Congressman Eni Faleomavaega, the author of the resolution we are debating today. Among the places we visited while we were there was the Village of Leone; one of the areas on American Samoa that was severely impacted. I want to express my profound condolences to the people of Leone for their suffering as well as to thank them once again for the warm welcome and hospitality they offered us. I want to also commend Congressman Faleomavaega for his efforts in marshalling the response of the federal government in responding to the disaster in his home island. Eni and his staff labored around the clock to coordinate the efforts of FEMA, the Red Cross, Army Corps and the other federal agencies tasked by President Obama to speedily deploy all the resources and tools necessary for a full, swift and aggressive response. Mr. Speaker, American Samoans in the Pacific and in the mainland United States are an integral part of our country's history and of our American social fabric. They are our brothers who fight valiantly in our wars and contribute immensely to the prosperity of our country. Today, I send my thoughts and prayers to the victims and their family members in this moment of grief and tragic loss. We stand in solidarity with our brothers and pray for their speedy recovery.

Mr. RAHALL

Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, I rise to express my heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to the people of American Samoa as they cope with the effects of the powerful earthquake and tsunami that struck American Samoa, Independent Samoa and Tonga yesterday, September 29, 2009. Our fellow Americans in American Samoa are presently facing tragic losses of life and property as a result of the most devastating of circumstances. It has been reported that survivors of the deadly earthquake-triggered tsunami described how they watched the in-rushing sea swallow up coastal towns and villages leaving devastation in its wake. At least 111 people are confirmed killed in Independent Samoa, American Samoa's neighbor to the north and on Tonga and officials in the Polynesia region have expressed fears the toll will rise as rescue workers struggle to reach outlying villages submerged and flattened by the wave. Additionally the island is without telephone service; homes and government buildings have been destroyed and the airport runway has been severely damaged. I applaud President Obama for his prompt response in declaring this a major disaster. I also want to commend our colleague, Congressman Eni Faleomavaega for his efforts facilitating the relief efforts that are currently underway. Last month, I had the distinct pleasure of visiting American Samoa where we were graciously hosted by my good friend Congressman Eni Faleomavaega and the American Samoa Fono. In Pago Pago and the village of Leone, two areas severely hit, we were showered with beautiful and ornate traditional gifts and received with the warmest of welcomes and hospitality. American Samoans in the Pacific and in the mainland United States are an integral part of our country's history and of our American social fabric. They are our brothers who fight valiantly in our wars and contribute immensely to the prosperity of our country. Today, I send my thoughts and prayers to the victims and their family members in this moment of grief and tragic loss. We stand in solidarity with our brothers and pray for their speedy recovery.

Mr. RAHALL

Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and remember the outstanding life and legislative achievements of U.S. Senator Edward M. Kennedy. I was first elected to the House of Representatives in 1976 and although that is over 33 years ago, Ted Kennedy had already been serving in the U.S. Senate for over a decade. The achievement of being the third longest serving Senator in our history is an accomplishment in its own right, but Senator Kennedy affected public policy in such a substantial and enduring way that the length of his time in office is really only one achievement in his remarkable journey. Senator Kennedy boldly championed landmark legislation to improve the lives of all Americans. He fought fiercely for the poor and the disadvantaged. His legislative achievements include being a major player in a wide range of issues; from addressing funding for cancer research, health insurance reform, benefits for the mentally disabled, discrimination against disabilities, and the Children's Health Insurance program to Civil Rights, and education reform. Kennedy always considered healthcare the pinnacle issue of his legislative career, and it was a great achievement for him to see comprehensive healthcare reform moving further along in legislative process than it ever has before, five of the six committees handling the healthcare bill had passed them out of committee at the time of his passing. One of his most recent achievements was the signing into law of The Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act of 2009. This landmark legislation tripled volunteer opportunities across the country and created a new service corps for education, health care, energy, and veterans. Although Kennedy was diagnosed last year with a malignant brain tumor, he continued to play a major role in the healthcare debate, and up until his final days he was truly the ``Lion of the Senate'' serving fiercely and passionately on behalf of so many Americans both in Massachusetts and around the country. August 25, 2009 was surely a sad day for all of us--but although Kennedy's life was filled with tragedy, his life was also filled with triumph. His victories in life far surpass most men and women's and his story is one of humanity and progress. Senator Kennedy was a great statesman and a true leader, who cared deeply about America's future and I am honored to have served in the United States Congress with him. I extend my deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to Senator Kennedy's wife and family, and hope they take comfort in knowing that his legend and legacy carries on in the hearts and memories of a grateful nation.

Mr. RAHALL

Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the measure that is sponsored by our good friend from Arizona, the chairman of the National Parks, Forest and Public Lands Subcommittee, Representative Grijalva. I also rise, as I have said, and as I have done time and time and time again, to point out that the claim that national heritage areas harm the rights of private property owners is utterly false. F-A- L-S-E. Utterly false. As Chairman Grijalva has already pointed out, H.R. 324 contains the extensive property rights protections included in every heritage area which has passed the House in recent years under both Democratic and Republican majorities, and signed into law by both Republican and Democratic Presidents. So I would urge my colleagues to simply read the bill. On page 16, starting on line 4, it states, and I quote, ``Nothing,'' N-O-T-H-I-N-G, ``in this Act (1) abridges the rights of any property owner (whether public or private), including the right to refrain from participating in any plan, project, program, or activity conducted within the National Heritage Area.'' Furthermore, the bill makes clear that private property owners may not be forced to provide access to the public or any government agency, and the bill does not alter or expand any existing land use or other regulatory authority. These provisions cover every possible contingency however farfetched that the minority may dream up. Let's look at the facts one more time. National heritage areas have been around for 25 years. Ronald Reagan signed the first one into law. Today we have 49 heritage areas in 29 States. Well over 50 million people live, work and recreate in a heritage area, 50 million people, and not one of them has been adversely affected. That's because heritage areas have no regulatory powers, no zoning authority, no power of eminent domain. Forty-nine heritage areas; 50 million people. That's almost my entire congressional district in a national heritage area. As a matter of fact, the entire State of Tennessee is a national heritage area. It is the Tennessee Civil War National Heritage Area. That is the entire State of Tennessee. Think about it. Last I heard, Dollywood was still booming. The Grand Ole Opry was still swinging. People were still engaging in commerce, holding homes, and contributing to the economy in Tennessee. I believe it is still on the map. And not one of them has had their private property rights diminished. And in all of these areas over all of these years, there has never been a single instance where an individual's right to private property was abridged. The Government Accountability Office interviewed property rights advocacy groups, and even they were unable to provide a single example. Not a single one. So this is the biggest red herring that I have ever come across. Nevertheless, we have included these property rights protections in H.R. 324 to make clear once again that national heritage areas do not threaten private property. At some point in order to retain even a shred of credibility, those who make these claims will either have to produce some evidence or admit their mistake. Seriously, folks, these allegations are beginning to wear thin. You have no evidence whatsoever. As to the pending measure, the Santa Cruz Valley is a treasure trove of natural and cultural resources and it would be shameful, simply shameful indeed, if we lost the opportunity to protect and preserve these resources based on irresponsible accusations that were proven false long, long, long ago. So I urge support for H.R. 324.

Mr. RAHALL

Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, the pending legislation would provide for a study to determine the feasibility and suitability of including a segment of the Elk River as a component of the Wild and Scenic River System. The Elk River is one of West Virginia's premier natural resource assets. It is the longest river in West Virginia with its boundaries entirely within the State. The study that would be authorized by this legislation, however, would focus only on that segment of the Elk where it begins at the confluence of two streams--Old Field Fork and Big Spring Fork--at the community of Slatyfork and flows North for approximately five miles to the Pocahontas/Randolph County line. The study would be conducted by the U.S. Forest Service. I would point out that this legislation was initiated by the Pocahontas County Commission which unanimously voted on February 4, 2009, to request that a study be conducted on the segment of the Elk River within their county. In this regard I commend Commissioners Martin V. Saffer, David M. Fleming and Reta J. Griffith for their initiative. The ``Slaty'' segment of the Elk River that would be the subject of the study authorized by this bill, named in reference to the community of Slatyfork where the river begins, was described in a January 2009 letter written by local resident Tom Shipley to the Pocahontas County Commission as follows: ``History abounds around, near and on the banks of the Elk River. She is, in a literal sense, very much as she was back in the early 1800s . . . one of the last rivers on the East Coast that has three naturally reproducing species of wild trout . . . Brook, Brown and Rainbow. As Big Spring Fork and Old Field merge, they form an impressive gateway to the Upper Elk . . . a gift from God to Pocahontas County.'' Indeed, the Slaty segment is a superb fishery, and the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources does a good job in the area. While what is being proposed is a study--not a designation--and while the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act is very clear that nothing in the statute ``shall affect the jurisdiction or responsibilities of the State with respect to fish and wildlife,'' I am including in the legislation being introduced today a reaffirmation that the mere act of studying this segment of the Elk River will not change the status quo with respect to State jurisdiction. In my view, most people associated with this segment of the Elk River want to keep it the way it is. As Mr. Shipley wrote, the river is ``a gift of God to Pocahontas County'' and I would add, to the State of West Virginia and the Nation as a whole. I urge the adoption of the pending legislation.

Mr. RAHALL

Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the first-ever federally-designated National Day of Service and Remembrance for September 11, 2001. Yesterday, as I stood in Statuary Hall with members of Congress and President Obama in the Ceremony of Remembrance for the more than 2,000 people who lost their lives as a result of this act of terror, I was overwhelmed by a sense of sadness, but also a sense of pride. Although the world was irrevocably changed by these senseless acts of violence, tomorrow as Americans we have decided to honor those who died not with anger and violence, but by serving others through the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act--which was supported by the 9/11 families--and designates each September 11 as a National Day of Service and Remembrance. The Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act of 2009 is bipartisan, landmark legislation that will triple volunteer opportunities across the country and create a new service corps for education, health care, energy, and veterans. It is through this bill that the United We Serve initiative was born to encourage Americans to give back to their communities through continuous community service. September 11th is a somber day, but the service work inspired by this legislation has and will continue to celebrate West Virginia and our great Nation, a country that has not and will not sink to a level of hatred and violence. Instead, our nation will face forward and choose to make a positive impact by donating our time to better our communities and our fellow citizens while truly honoring the victims who died eight years ago. On September 11, 2001 two hijacked passenger planes were flown into each tower of the World Trade Center, while a third plane was flown into the Pentagon. The fourth and final hijacked plane crashed into a field in Pennsylvania after the heroic efforts of passengers to take back control of the plane. These events had a profound impact across southern West Virginia. Not only because of the monumental damage and loss of life caused by the attack, but also because one of our own, Dr. Paul Ambrose a Cabell County native and Marshall University School of Medicine graduate, died in the terrorist attack on the Pentagon. In West Virginia we truly do know our neighbors and the death of this West Virginian deeply affected our community. However, each year we gather in his honor to celebrate the great things about our state and its people. This year Fit Fest '09 will be held to honor Paul Dr. Ambrose, and will feature fitness activities including kids races, and a 5k walk/run. Other activities to honor the victims of the 9/11 attacks include a Day of Service, sponsored by the Rahall Transportation Institute, in cooperation with the Citizens Conservations Corps and the Greater Huntington Park and Recreation District at St. Clouds Commons, which will help bring attention to the Paul Ambrose Trail for Health, as Dr. Ambrose was passionate about improving the health of his community and the Nation. Today, I commend the incredible bravery and patriotism of the families and friends of the victims of 9/11, who have been working for years to make September 11th a national day of both remembrance and service. Their unending contributions to honor their loved ones' memories and unfulfilled promises continue to enhance the lives of others. I also want to recognize Dr. Ken and Sharon Ambrose, whose constant vigil has enriched their son's legacy and the livelihoods of countless West Virginians. This day is truly a tribute to the loved ones that we all have lost and the spirit of freedom that this great Nation holds so close to its heart.

Mr. RAHALL

Mr. RAHALL. Yes.

Mr. RAHALL. I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, the CBO estimate, the $700 million that has been thrown out by the other side as a potential cost to this legislation, was done in the last Congress. It was done before the adoption of the manager's amendment that we just adopted today in an earlier voice vote. It was done without considering the ramifications of the other aspects of H.R. 1018 that this House will adopt today. It was done taking into account in a very narrow, single shot-type fashion, if you will, the potential costs of purchasing 19 million acres of additional Federal land for the use of these wild horses and burros. Therefore, when taking into account that cost, as CBO has done, they did not consider the fact that there are already Federal lands owned by the American people that are available and out there. The CBO did not take into account the management tools contained in the pending legislation with which we intend to help the BLM do a better job and improve the status quo. The CBO did not estimate any cost savings from an enhanced adoption program or from sterilization programs. The CBO did not take into account the reduction in costs of these holding pens, which I referenced earlier, the $21 million annually that it costs today--and that number keeps going up--of the current holding pens for these wild horses and burros. The CBO did not consider any of the ``today'' costs or how the improved management tools offered in H.R. 1018 will save dollars in the years ahead. I urge a ``no'' vote, not only on the Hastings substitute amendment but also a ``yes'' vote on the pending H.R. 1018. H.R. 1018 is the humane and right vote to cast today. It will save our mustangs. It will save tax dollars. It will save millions of tax dollars annually. When you look through all of the smoke and mirrors of the numbers that have been thrown out today, you will find that, by implementing herd reduction with birth control, we can save more than $6 million alone each year. Again, when we look at the cost reductions of these holding pens, this legislation is the tax-wise way to go. So I conclude by urging a ``no'' vote on the Hastings substitute and a ``yes'' vote on the underlying bill, H.R. 1018. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. RAHALL. I object to the unanimous consent, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, this amendment makes four changes to H.R. 1018 as reported by our Natural Resources Committee. First, after further consultation with experts in the field, the amendment will broaden the types of fertility control that would be available to the Bureau of Land Management in order to better manage the wild horse and burro population. Next, the amendment narrows the definition of ``commercial uses'' prohibited under the act. The purpose of this change is to clearly prohibit the sale of horses and burros for slaughter while clarifying that use of these animals on farms or in other commercial operations is allowed. The amendment also makes a technical change to clarify the membership requirements for the Wild Horse and Burro Advisory Council. And, finally, the amendment relaxes the requirement that the BLM return wild horses and burros to the acres of public land from which they have been removed since 1971. The CBO cost estimate for this bill was based on the assumption that significant land acquisition would be required. That will not be the case, however; these horses and burros can be accommodated on existing Federal lands. Restoration of those acres remains an important goal but would not be a legal requirement. This is a good package of small changes which will improve H.R. 1018. I urge my colleagues to support the amendment. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back my time.

Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the gentleman from Washington's comments on my efforts, and appreciate his full disclosure. I'll probably repeat it a few times here in the next couple of minutes, but I do appreciate him being up front about it. This substitute, which is my anti-slaughter bill from last Congress, addresses one piece of a much larger puzzle. While the slaughter issue is a disturbing one, the ROAM Act will actually address the underlying problems facing the BLM horse and burro program, which has made slaughter a possibility. The substitute would address the symptom, while the underlying legislation will provide a cure. I'm pleased that the gentleman from Washington State now opposes the slaughter of horses. When this substitute came before the Congress as a free-standing bill last Congress, and which he has already fully disclosed, he voted against it. But now he is in support thereof and is even offering it on the floor of the House. That is a step forward. Unfortunately, this conversion is a day late and several dollars short. This substitute was the right approach last Congress, but that was before the BLM announced that the program was bankrupt and they were going to have to kill 30,000 horses and burros. The GAO documented that the BLM program is out of control. First the agency was holding 5,000 horses, then 10,000, now it's 30,000. The agency now claims killing these animals is the only solution. Adopting the Hastings substitute would stop private slaughter, but without the other reforms in the underlying legislation, 1018, the BLM will have to destroy these animals. The Hastings substitute just changes the identity of those who are killing the horses. Only the underlying bill actually stops the slaughter. This substitute was the right approach last Congress, but that was also before the release of the GAO report. Now we have a thorough analysis of the obstacles facing the BLM, and a list of recommendations to address the root causes. The GAO documented the enormous cost of the current BLM approach and proposed solutions. The Congress is now in a position to do more, and we must do more. H.R. 1018 does more. Adopting this substitute would cost money, cost money, not save it, because it would allow the BLM to continue pouring good money after bad, without fixing the inefficiencies which plague the program in the first place. Since I authored the legislation Mr. Hastings is now offering as his substitute, my colleagues and I have worked with the BLM, the Humane Society, the Animal Welfare Institute, the GAO and others to find new and more comprehensive solutions. We have apparently succeeded in bringing Mr. Hastings up to where we were last Congress, and I hope that eventually all of our colleagues will understand that now is the time to do more. The substitute is too little, too late, should be rejected. And I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I am prepared to close.

Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Moran).