Silvestre Reyes

Mr. REYES

Mr. REYES. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman from California for yielding me time, and I also want to thank you for your support of the men and women of the United States Border Patrol and the important work that you do through your chairmanship and the subcommittee that deals with border issues. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of House Resolution 498, a bill that honors and congratulates the United States Border Patrol on its 85th anniversary. And I also want to thank my good friend and neighbor, Harry Teague from New Mexico, the gentleman that has sponsored this legislation, for his support of the United States Border Patrol men and women. And the ranking member as well, thank you for your support. I think that the men and women of the United States Border Patrol do incredible work. The United States Border Patrol has a unique and rich history that began on May 28, 1924, when Congress passed the Labor Appropriations Act which officially established the U.S. Border Patrol in El Paso, Texas, and Detroit, Michigan. Established during the height of Prohibition in the United States, the initial 450 patrol inspectors were not only charged with preventing the entry of undocumented immigrants into the United States but were also responsible for combating the entry of illicit liquor from Mexico and from Canada. Eighty-five years later, the Border Patrol has evolved to include almost 19,000 agents in 20 sectors and 164 stations around our country. The brave men and women of the Border Patrol are currently responsible for securing 8,000 miles of our international borders, both with Mexico and Canada and the coastal water around Florida and Puerto Rico. Since 9/11, the Border Patrol has been on the front lines in our national strategy to detect and apprehend terrorists and their weapons as they attempt to illegally enter the United States. Before coming to Congress, I served for 26\1/2\ years in the U.S. Border Patrol. For half of that time, I was a Border Patrol sector chief, first in McAllen, Texas, and then in El Paso, Texas. As the only Member of Congress with a background in border enforcement, I am keenly aware of the invaluable work that these brave men and women perform for our country each and every day. We have a lot to thank them for. In these times of heightened security, the U.S. Border Patrol and those agents are not only vital in helping to protect our country from terror threats and illegal entry of drugs but they also apprehend and deter human smugglers and bring them to justice. Oftentimes these agents are the first people to respond in humanitarian situations in the desert by providing first aid, food, water, and shelter to people that have gotten in trouble because of the heat and the distance that they're forced to travel in remote areas. Border Patrol agents perform countless rescues every year and provide critical training to law enforcement, both at home and abroad.

Mr. REYES. Mr. Speaker, the U.S. Border Patrol is vital to our Homeland Security strategy and has evolved into one of our country's finest law enforcement organizations. I'm a proud cosponsor of Mr. Teague's resolution in honor of their 85th anniversary. I urge all of my colleagues to support this bill, and I thank the men and women of the United States Border Patrol for working each and every day to keep us safe.

Mr. REYES

Mr. REYES. Mr. Speaker, I wanted to clarify some comments in the Joint Explanatory Statement for the FY09 Consolidated Appropriations Act. That statement said, ``Further, that the Intelligence Community has studied other pay-for-performance efforts, both within the Community and the rest of government is encouraging. The executive branch started implementing this effort of September 14, 2008, and therefore the Intelligence Community is directed to ensure that full implementation of the system follows the principles of merit, transparency and fairness in a manner which is deliberate and methodical.'' I want to clarify that this statement was not intended as an endorsement of the current pay for performance system in the Intelligence Community, known as the Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System (DCIPS), but as a statement of principles of what such a system should be. We all believe that the civil service personnel system should be based on merit principles and be transparent, and fair. It is our commitment to these principles that have led some of us to ask that these systems be reviewed. We have been concerned that the implementation of DCIPS lacks transparency, may adversely affect minorities, and may undermine collaboration. In particular, Chairman Skelton and I requested that the Administration pause implementation of DCIPS. In response, the Intelligence Community announced to the field that they would be pausing implementation of DCIPS. I welcome this action so the Administration can take the time to review both the substance and implementation plan for DCIPS. I note that the Administration has frozen the implementation of the National Security Personnel System (NSPS), and is reviewing that system as well, and I would welcome similar action in the Intelligence Community.

Mr. REYES

Mr. REYES. Madam Speaker, El Paso, Texas has a strong history of public service. Everywhere in our community we are surrounded by people working for the common good and devoting their lives to helping others. Our city is very fortunate to count on local, county, state, and federal employees, who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that our children are taught, our sick are provided the medical care they need, and everyday citizens have access to vital services. Our public servants are not recognized or thanked enough for the work they do. In honor of public service recognition week, I would like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation for our public servants in El Paso, Texas. Here are just a few examples of those who continue to make significant contributions to our community. Mrs. Deborah Hamlyn is a homegrown El Pasoan and veteran City employee of over 30 years. After being recruited by the City of El Paso for an internship with the Planning Department, Ms. Hamlyn continued to advance within the organization. She maintained various planning positions and in 1987 ultimately became the first female Director of Community and Human Development where she remained for over 15 years. Ms. Hamlyn now serves as Deputy City Manager and has worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life of her fellow El Pasoans. Mr. Ray Resendez, III serves as the Regional Liasion Manager for the Governor's State Division of Emergency Management. After 20 years of serving the El Paso community as a firefighter, Mr. Resendez spends his energy making sure that our community is prepared for any unforeseen disaster or emergency. In these times of a heightened state of alert, Mr. Resendez serves the people of El Paso well, with great dedication and passion. Another great example is Mr. Rodney Thompson at the Veterans Affairs Office in El Paso. He has worked diligently over the years to ensure that our nation cares for our veterans and affords them the dignity and respect that they deserve. He manages our veterans' cases and has been a great partner. In addition to Mr. Thompson, our seniors and veterans in El Paso are fortunate to have people like Mrs. Rosanna Monge, a nurse practitioner at the El Paso Veterans Affairs Health Care Clinic. Mrs. Monge has been a reliable advocate for our veterans when it comes to their health needs and is passionately committed to taking care of these men and women who have given so much. Mrs. Nellie Velez is another great example of an outstanding public servant. She is the District Manager at the Social Security Administration in El Paso and takes great care in advocating on behalf of our seniors. Ms. Isabel Mullens, the Acting Assistant Director of Field Operations at Customs and Border Protection in El Paso, has also devoted much of her life to serving our community. She started her career with the federal government on November 12, 1973. Initially hired as a GS-02 clerk at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico, she has risen to her current position through years of hard work and dedication. Thousands of people cross back and forth from El Paso, Texas to Ciudad Juarez, Mexico both on foot and by car as our communities share strong economic, social, and cultural ties. Mrs. Mullens serves our community with compassion and vigilance ensuring that our ports facilitate trade and commerce and are safe and secure. Madam Speaker, I am proud to represent the people of the 16th Congressional District. Our community is vibrant and strong because of the individuals I have highlighted and the thousands of other public servants in El Paso who take pride in their work and their service to our nation. I salute all our public servants and honor them for their efforts.

Mr. REYES

Mr. REYES. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in support of H.R. 1388, the Generations Invigorating Volunteerism Education (GIVE) Act of 2009, also known as the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act. The GIVE Act is designed to support and encourage community service across the country in fields such as education and healthcare. This Act empowers more Americans to take an active role in their communities through public service. Civic participation has the power to not only build confidence in the individual but simultaneously prepare our nation for the future. The GIVE Act creates 175,000 new service opportunities, increasing the number of participants in programs such as Ameri-Corps and establishes new service programs such as the Clean Energy Corps, Education Corps, Healthy Futures Corps, and a Veterans Service Corps. One goal of the Act will be to strengthen and coordinate disaster relief efforts through the National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) to provide relief for communities that have suffered natural disasters and emergencies. Despite the economic challenges that our country currently faces, it is particularly encouraging that young Americans are serving in record numbers. Volunteerism among college students is especially high, with the percentage of college students who volunteer each year exceeding 30%. The GIVE Act will not only support existing volunteers but will also give younger students the opportunity to serve even before they enter college. The Summer of Service and Campus of Service Programs focus on encouraging middle and high school students to participate in volunteer activities and also assist college students with an interest in public service careers. These programs will place the prospect of a college education within the reach of many students by offering monetary assistance for college. Specifically, it increases the full- time education award that servicemembers can receive to $5,350. It is important to acknowledge that students are not the only ones taking the initiative to rebuild our country. Currently, Senior Corps consists of roughly 475,000 volunteers who collectively contribute 116 million hours of service each year. The GIVE Act will increase these figures by creating Silver Scholarships and Encore Fellowships to offer all Americans over the age of 55 the chance to transition into service after retirement. I believe that service is key to building character and instilling values in our young people. Even before taking office, President Obama consistently called on all Americans to serve, and I believe his life exemplifies the power of public service. I am proud that Congress has answered his call for service through this legislation.

Mr. REYES

Mr. REYES. Madam Chair, I thank the gentleman for yielding, and I thank him for his leadership of the committee and for the inclusive process that he has utilized to come up with this budget resolution. Madam Chair, I rise in support of H. Con. Res. 85, and I urge my colleagues to vote for this budget because, at a time when Americans are looking for leadership, at a time when they are looking for this new administration to keep our country safe, this budget resolution provides the tools to do just that. It provides increased support for our national security, it increases the funding for the Department of Defense and for the veterans budget. It also funds above the administration's defense request. These additions help this country meet its military goals, it supports the efforts to reform the acquisition program, it supports the efforts to improve facilities, it supports and sets out important steps to help our country care for our wounded, our ill, and our injured servicemembers. The resolution matches the President's request for overseas operations. Having his separate request is important. It provides the transparency that has been missing in describing the real cost of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. This funding is important as we sustain our efforts in Iraq with an eye towards responsibly reducing troop levels throughout the coming 2 years. This funding is also important because it supports the administration's new Afghanistan strategy, and the intelligence community stands committed to supporting the new strategy using every means possible to attain success in Afghanistan.

Mr. REYES. Our intelligence professionals stand ready to not only continue their support to the war fighter, but also to continue their support to the policymakers that are working on issues that affect not just our country but the entire world. Again, I urge my colleagues to support the resolution. Americans are smart. They know who got us in this mess. They know what administration inherited a surplus and what administration inherited a mess. The record is clear. The dog they have sent out isn't hunting.

Mr. REYES

Mr. REYES. Madam Speaker, El Paso, Texas has a history of producing strong, passionate, and caring educators who motivate and engage our children to become lifelong learners. As a parent and grandparent, I am grateful for the contributions of our teachers in the El Paso area, and today I want to take this opportunity to congratulate Mr. Clarence K. Stark, a teacher at Irvin High School in the El Paso Independent School District, for being selected as the 1970 Texas Teacher of the Year. The Texas Teacher of the Year is the highest honor that the State of Texas can award to a teacher. Facilitated by the Texas Education Agency, the Texas Teacher of the Year Program annually recognizes and rewards teachers who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and excellence in teaching. Mr. Clarence K. Stark represents the best of the best in the teaching profession, and we salute his energy, efforts, and dedication. Mr. Stark taught government at Irvin High School in the El Paso Independent School District. In 1968 Mr. Stark impressed his colleagues with his work. Both that year and in 1969, Mr. Stark was voted as outstanding teacher of the year for Irvin High School and he was noted as saying: ``I feel very honored, grateful, and humble that my fellow teachers selected me as outstanding teacher.'' Mr. Stark's social sciences department aimed to prepare young people to be tomorrow's leaders and his devotion to his students is greatly admired by teachers at his school. Mr. Stark embodies the qualities of great leaders and his passion to reach every student at Irvin High School is a testament to his character. Mr. Clarence K. Stark is part of a larger history of educational excellence in El Paso. I am proud to note that to date El Paso area educators have been chosen as Texas Teachers of the Year 9 times. The National Teacher of the Year Program began in 1952 and continues as the oldest, most prestigious national honors program that focuses public attention on excellence in teaching. I am proud of the work of our teachers, and I am committed to ensuring that education remains a top priority in this Congress.

Mr. REYES

Mr. REYES. Madam Speaker, El Paso, Texas is extremely fortunate to have some of the best teachers in the state and the country. As a parent and grandparent, I am appreciative of the work and dedication of our teachers and I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge the life and work of the late Mrs. Rita Harlien, a former teacher at Eastwood High School in the Ysleta Independent School District, for her dedication to her students and her designation as the 1982 Texas Teacher of the Year. Mrs. Rita Harlien received the highest honor that the State of Texas can award and her work with children is long lasting and enduring. Her children and the legacy she left behind remain alive in the community of El Paso, Texas. While teaching at Eastwood High School, her students competed in many University Interscholastic League State competitions and won a state championship in debate. In 1978 she was selected as Speech Teacher of the Year. In 1981 she served as President of the Texas Speech Communication Association. While working for the El Paso Independent School District, she completed her administration certification and coauthored two speech textbooks. After serving six years in administration, as a Facilitator of Academic Competition, in the El Paso District, Mrs. Harlien's love for teaching beckoned her back to Eastwood High School where she taught drama until she retired from teaching in 1998, after 34 years of service. Mrs. Rita Harlien is part of a larger history of educational excellence in El Paso. I am proud to note that to date El Paso area educators have been chosen as Texas Teachers of the Year nine times. The National Teacher of the Year Program began in 1952 and continues as the oldest, most prestigious national honors program that focuses public attention on excellence in teaching. I am proud of the work of our teachers, and I am committed to ensuring that education remains a top priority in this Congress.

Mr. REYES

Mr. REYES. Madam Speaker, the El Paso, Texas community is proud to have some of the best teachers in the country. Today, I would like to acknowledge one of those, Ms. Rosa E. Lujan, a teacher at Ysleta Elementary School in the Ysleta Independent School District, for being selected as the 1992 Texas Teacher of the Year. Ms. Lujan received the highest honor that the State of Texas can award to a teacher because of her commitment to the children of El Paso. The Texas Education Agency annually recognizes and rewards teachers who have gone above and beyond the call of duty and excelled in the classroom. Ms. Rosa E. Lujan represents the best of the teaching profession, and on behalf of the El Paso, Texas community, I applaud her dedication to our schools. Ms. Rosa E. Lujan's love of teaching was ignited in her teens as a student at Ysleta High School. During the summer, she worked as an aide for South Loop and Ysleta Elementary School. Later on, at the University of Texas at El Paso, she started working for the Ysleta Independent School District as a fourth grade teacher. She has been noted to say: ``Being a teacher has allowed me to change children's lives. Hopefully, I have inspired children to believe in themselves, just as my teachers inspired me.'' After 35 years in education, her passion for students and learning is still burning. Ms. Rosa E. Lujan is part of a larger history of educational excellence in El Paso. I am proud to note that to date, El Paso area educators have been chosen as Texas Teachers of the Year nine times. The National Teacher of the Year Program began in 1952 and continues as the oldest, most prestigious national honors program that focuses public attention on excellence in teaching. I am proud of the work of our teachers, and I am committed to ensuring that education remains a top priority in this Congress.

Mr. REYES

Mr. REYES. Madam Speaker, El Paso, Texas has a history of producing strong, passionate, and caring educators who motivate and engage our children to become lifelong learners. As a parent and grandparent, I am grateful for the contributions of our teachers in the El Paso area, and today I want to take this opportunity to congratulate Mr. Antonio A. Fierro, a teacher at Sierra Vista Elementary School in the Socorro Independent School District, for being selected as the 1997 Texas Teacher of the Year. The Texas Teacher of the Year is the highest honor that the State of Texas can award to a teacher. Facilitated by the Texas Education Agency, the Texas Teacher of the Year Program annually recognizes and rewards teachers who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and excellence in teaching. Mr. Antonio E. Fierro represents the best of the best in the teaching profession, and we salute his energy, efforts, and dedication. Mr. Fierro knew from a young age that he would be teacher. His grandmother retired as a principal in Mexico, and he has vivid memories of sitting in his sixth grade social studies class and imagining himself teaching in front of a classroom. Fierro attended El Paso Community College and graduated with honors from the University of Texas at El Paso in 1986. He firmly believes that ``a positive and caring classroom strengthens a child's self- esteem and self worth.'' He has added that this ``knits all [his] philosophies of teaching and learning together.'' Mr. Antonio A. Fierro is part of a larger history of educational excellence in El Paso. I am proud to note that to date El Paso area educators have been chosen as Texas Teachers of the Year nine times. The National Teacher of the Year Program began in 1952 and continues as the oldest, most prestigious national honors program that focuses public attention on excellence in teaching. I am proud of the work of our teachers, and I am committed to ensuring that education remains a top priority in this Congress.

Mr. REYES

Mr. REYES. Madam Speaker, El Paso, Texas has many great teachers and today I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate my long- time friend Miguel Ignacio Tinajero, a teacher at Ramona Elementary School in the Ysleta Independent School District, for being selected as the 1995 Texas Teacher of the Year. This is the highest honor that the State of Texas can award to a teacher and the program selects only the best teachers to represent the state in the National Teacher of the Year Program. Mr. Miguel Ignacio Tinajero is one of the finest teachers in the El Paso area community, and I am grateful that he has served our children with such passion and dedication. Mr. Miguel Ignacio Tinajero is recognized for his innovative approach and teaching methods to reach bilingual students. He developed effective programs to teach children both academic and literacy skills and became the favorite teacher of the fifth- and sixth-graders at Ramona Elementary School. Mr. Tinajero is praised by students, parents, and fellow teachers in the El Paso community for his dedication and commitment to youth. Mr. Miguel Ignacio Tinajero is part of a larger history of educational excellence in El Paso. I am proud to note that to date El Paso area educators have been chosen as Texas Teachers of the Year nine times. The National Teacher of the Year Program began in 1952 and continues as the oldest, most prestigious national honors program that focuses public attention on excellence in teaching. I am proud of the work of our teachers, and I am committed to ensuring that education remains a top priority in this Congress. Thank you.

Mr. REYES

Mr. REYES. Madam Speaker, today I wish to recognize the 100th anniversary of the YWCA's El Paso del Norte Region. Since April 8, 1909, this exemplary organization has helped many women and their families reach their fullest potential. In its 100 years of service to the region, the YWCA El Paso del Norte exemplifies the positive impact volunteerism and service to others can have on a community. For years, the YWCA has played a major role in addressing the various socioeconomic challenges faced by women and minorities throughout our Nation. The personal experiences of many individuals in my district show how our local YWCA has brought to life its mission of empowering women and their families as well as promoting equal opportunities for all. Every year, the lives of more than 62,000 people in the 17 counties of west Texas and southern New Mexico are touched by the volunteers and staff of the YWCA El Paso del Norte Region. Our local chapter places a great value on building up and strengthening families by providing women of all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds with the support they need. Using a holistic approach, the services and programs of the YWCA El Paso del Norte Region promote the overall well-being of women and their families in order to provide opportunities for women to help themselves and each other. This unique environment allows women and girls from all walks of life to come together to develop life skills, as well as discover and develop their personal strengths. All of these efforts lead to lasting positive changes in their lives and their entire communities. The good work done by our local YWCA chapter has inspired many of my constituents to give back to their community through volunteer work and community service. In the El Paso region, over 200 volunteers generously dedicate more than 40,000 hours every year to the YWCA El Paso del Norte Region. One of the many important lessons this group of dedicated individuals has instilled in my community is that creating a stronger, more united community begins with building up our youth and their families. Today, I am proud to recognize and express my deep gratitude for the 100 years of service and contributions of the YWCA El Paso del Norte Region. My Congressional district is fortunate to have an organization such as this one, and I am hopeful that the next 100 years will be as robust and successful as the first.

Mr. REYES

Mr. REYES. Madam Speaker, the community of El Paso, Texas is extremely grateful for its teachers. The El Paso area has been recognized year after year for the great work our teachers do in the classroom. As a parent and grandparent, I am grateful for their contributions. Today, I want to acknowledge Ms. Dana K. Boyd, a teacher at Dolphin Terrace Elementary School in the Ysleta Independent School District, for being selected as the 2007 Texas Teacher of the Year. Facilitated by the Texas Education Agency, the Texas Teacher of the Year Program annually recognizes outstanding teachers who have demonstrated the kind of vision and excellence in teaching that is moving our education system forward. The Texas Teacher of the Year designation is the highest honor that the State of Texas can award to a teacher. Ms. Boyd has taught first, second, and third grade at Dolphin Terrace Elementary since 1999. She seeks to create a relaxing, non-threatening environment in her classroom and has been noted to say: ``my students know they are the brightest kids in the grade level [because] once they believe they are the smartest students in their hearts and minds . . . [I] am able [to set and] keep those high standards.'' She works hard to establish a sense of family in her classroom. Before school starts each year, Ms. Boyd calls each student and their family. On the first day of school, Ms. Boyd tells her students that ``the people they are sitting next to are like a second family.'' Every three months, her class has a potluck luncheon and students and parents get to know each other better while sharing a meal. With this caring approach, she has helped her students deal with difficult situations, and she firmly believes that every teacher should treat each student as they would treat their own child. Ms. Dana K. Boyd is part of a larger history of educational excellence in El Paso. I am proud to note that to date El Paso area educators have been chosen as Texas Teachers of the Year nine times. The National Teacher of the Year Program began in 1952 and continues as the oldest, most prestigious national honors program that focuses public attention on excellence in teaching. I am proud of the work of our teachers, and I am committed to ensuring that education remains a top priority in this Congress.

Mr. REYES

Mr. REYES. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Canutillo Independent School District located in the Sixteenth Congressional District of Texas. This school district is celebrating its 50th anniversary on April 18, 2009. I was born and raised in Canutillo, and I have proudly represented the people of Canutillo for the past twelve years in Congress. In 1959, the community of Canutillo worked diligently to establish a school district because too many students were forced to leave school after the eighth grade. Fifty years ago, the closest high school was 21 miles away, and many families could not afford to send their children to a distant school because no school buses were provided for high school students in Canutillo, and the community worked together to find a solution. The history of the Canutillo Independent School District (CISD) is a strong testament to us, the people of Canutillo, and our dedication and commitment to educational opportunities for students. Our first superintendent, Joseph MacDougall, was committed to these values and laid a strong foundation for the school district. Mr. MacDougall initiated much needed social services, including youth sports programs, health services for the elderly, and the Head Start initiative for pre-school children. In 1963, Canutillo ISD graduated its first senior class, and by 1964, student enrollment reached 1,013 students. The district faced and overcame significant challenges during the early years. At one point 36 community residents borrowed $1,000 each from the Coronado State Bank and loaned those funds to the district so that it could make payroll for faculty and staff. In 1965 there was a hepatitis outbreak that forced Canutillo ISD to shut down its water wells until the source of the disease was identified and nearly every student in the district was inoculated as a precaution. This led El Paso to extend water services to portions of Canutillo. In 1966 there was an attempt by the Anthony School District to annex about five acres of Canutillo ISD land. The issue was settled when State Education Commissioner J.W. Edgar ruled in favor of Canutillo. This case is the basis for landmark state legislation which prohibits one school district from annexing the property of another without an agreement between both school boards. Overcoming these challenges was difficult, but the community and the school district are stronger because of them. And that community support has never wavered as demonstrated by the 1999 ballot initiative in which 96 percent of voters passed a referendum to build a new high school. In April 2003, Canutillo ISD voters again gave their vote of confidence and passed another bond issue for district-wide maintenance and renovation projects. The new Canutillo High School opened in January 2006 with nearly 1,300 students; the population has now grown to 1,600. The community of Canutillo knew 50 years ago that investing in our children's education would pay dividends in the future, particularly for underprivileged students. Today, we can see the results of those efforts. Our graduates proudly serve in occupations ranging from military and law enforcement officers, to doctors, nurses, judges, professors and school principals. As a member of the second graduating class of Canutillo High School, it is my honor to congratulate the school board, faculty, and staff of the Canutillo Independent School District and to thank the community of Canutillo for their commitment to our students.

Mr. REYES

Mr. REYES. Madam Speaker, El Paso, Texas has a history of producing strong, passionate, and caring educators who motivate and engage our children to become life-long learners. As a parent and grandparent, I am grateful for the contributions of our teachers in the El Paso area, and today I want to take this opportunity to congratulate Ms. Kyann McMillie, a teacher at Canutillo Elementary School in the Canutillo Independent School District, for being selected as the 2004 Texas Teacher of the Year. The Texas Teacher of the Year is the highest honor that the State of Texas can award to a teacher. Facilitated by the Texas Education Agency, the Texas Teacher of the Year Program annually recognizes and rewards teachers who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and excellence in teaching. Ms. Kyann McMillie represents the best of the best in the teaching profession, and we salute her energy, efforts, and dedication. Ms. McMillie received a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education from Western New Mexico University and a Masters degree in education from The University of Texas at El Paso. Ms. Kyann McMillie's lifelong aspiration was to be an attorney or an accountant but she decided to pursue a career in teaching. She earned her teaching credentials and taught first and second grade at Canutillo Elementary School. Ms. McMillie says that, ``patience and nurturing are key when dealing with children.'' She firmly believes that to understand another person, ``we must understand the situation from which they come.'' Ms. Kyann McMillie is part of a larger history of educational excellence in El Paso. I am proud to note that to date El Paso area educators have been chosen as Texas Teachers of the Year nine times. The National Teacher of the Year Program began in 1952 and continues as the oldest, most prestigious national honors program that focuses public attention on excellence in teaching. I am proud of the work of our teachers, and I am committed to ensuring that education remains a top priority in this Congress.

Mr. REYES

Mr. REYES. Madam Speaker, El Paso, Texas is fortunate to have some of the best teachers in the country. As a parent and grandparent, I am grateful for the work of our educators in the El Paso area, and today I want to recognize Mr. Paul F. Cain, a teacher at Ysleta High School in the Ysleta Independent School District, for being selected as the 2008 Texas Teacher of the Year. This is the highest honor that the State of Texas can award to a teacher and it is a program run by the Texas Education Agency. The program recognizes and rewards outstanding teachers like Mr. Paul F. Cain for their energy, commitment, and passion for our kids. When Paul Cain graduated from high school, he had two possible career paths to pursue, the military or teaching. He initially chose the military but the Army ultimately recognized his potential and put him in a military classroom as a mathematics instructor. After more than a decade of military service, he moved to Ysleta High School to teach math. That first year, he was given a schedule, a textbook and a classroom and virtually no guidance. During his 18 years as Chair of the Mathematics Department at Ysleta High School, Mr. Cain made sure that every new teacher was mentored and supported by other veteran teachers. Mr. Cain has been quoted to say that he believes teachers are the ``most positive individuals in the world.'' He believes firmly that teachers have the responsibility to make students aware of their strengths to ``motivate [them] to participate in the learning process.'' Mr. Paul F. Cain is part of a larger history of educational excellence in El Paso. I am proud to note that to date, El Paso area educators have been chosen as Texas Teachers of the Year nine times. The National Teacher of the Year Program began in 1952 and continues as the oldest, most prestigious national honor program that focuses public attention on excellence in teaching. I am proud of the work of our teachers, and I am committed to ensuring that education remains a top priority in this Congress.

Mr. REYES

Mr. REYES. Madam Speaker, El Paso, Texas has a history of producing strong, passionate, and caring educators who motivate and engage our children to become lifelong learners. As a parent and grandparent, I am grateful for the contributions of our teachers in the El Paso area, and today I want to take this opportunity to congratulate Mrs. Christine Gleason, a teacher at Fabens High School in the Fabens Independent School District, for being selected as the 2009 Texas Secondary Teacher of the Year. The Texas Teacher of the Year is the highest honor that the State of Texas can award to a teacher and Mrs. Gleason will be representing the State of Texas in the National Teacher of the Year program in Washington, D.C. Facilitated by the Texas Education Agency, the Texas Teacher of the Year Program annually recognizes and rewards teachers who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and excellence in teaching. Mrs. Gleason represents the best of the best in the teaching profession, and we salute her energy, efforts, and dedication. Mrs. Gleason earned a Bachelor's degree in English and creative writing as well as a Master's degree in English and American literature from the University of Texas at El Paso. At Fabens High School, she teaches English IV, AP English IV, and Dual Credit English. She currently serves the school district as Chair of the English Department, National Honor Society Sponsor, Dual Credit Facilitator, UIL Coordinator, and is a literary criticism coach. Mrs. Gleason originally intended to be a novelist, but found teaching to be ``life- changing'' and ``unreservedly rewarding.'' Mrs. Gleason said that her goal is to be a ``vibrant, tenacious, creative and absolutely unforgettable teacher because that is what [she] never had and that is what every kid in this country deserves in every classroom they attend.'' The El Paso community is very fortunate to have Mrs. Christine Gleason in the classroom and we are appreciative of her commitment to our children. Mrs. Gleason is part of a larger history of educational excellence in El Paso. I am also proud to note that for the past three years, El Paso area educators have been chosen as Texas Teachers of the Year. In total, El Paso has had nine Texas Teachers of the Year. The National Teacher of the Year Program began in 1952 and continues as the oldest, most prestigious national honors program that focuses public attention on excellence in teaching. In recognition of these distinguished educators, I am submitting the names of all former Texas Teachers of the Year from the El Paso area. I am proud of the work of our teachers, and I am committed to ensuring that education remains a top priority in this Congress. Texas Teachers of the Year From the El Paso, Texas Area 1970--Clarence K. Stark; Irvin High School, El Paso, TX-- Government. 1982--Rita Harlien; Eastwood High School, El Paso, TX-- Speech. 1992--Rosa E. Lujan; Ysleta Elementary School, El Paso, TX--Bi-lingual Education. 1995--Miguel Ignacio Tinajero; Ramona Elementary School, El Paso, TX--Self-Contained 5th-6th Grade. 1997--Antonio A. Fierro; Sierra Vista Elementary, El Paso, TX--Bilingual Education K-1st Grade. 2004--Kyann McMillie; Canutillo Elementary, Canutillo, TX-- Bilingual Education 1st-2nd Grade. 2007--Dana K. Boyd; Dolphin Terrace Elementary, El Paso, TX--2nd Grade. 2008--Paul F. Cain; Ysleta High School, El Paso, TX-- Mathematics/Physics 9th-12th Grade. 2009--Christine Gleason; Fabens High School, Fabens, TX-- English 12th Grade.

Mr. REYES

Mr. REYES. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a fellow Army veteran, a man of great integrity and an unwavering sense of commitment to his Nation, Mr. James F. Sloan, on the occasion of his retirement after 34 distinguished years of public service. I have had the pleasure of working with Mr. Sloan in his role as the Coast Guard's Assistant Commandant for Intelligence. When he assumed his duties in 2003, the Coast Guard had only two years earlier been designated a member of the Intelligence Community. In the years since, Mr. Sloan has been responsible for modernizing the Coast Guard intelligence program to keep pace with an ever-expanding and increasingly complex set of national security threats. Mr. Sloan has also worked to cultivate extensive relationships and collaborative partnerships with other elements of the Intelligence Community. He has been an enthusiastic advocate for bringing the Coast Guard's wide-ranging expertise to bear in a variety of crucial national missions. Under his leadership, the Coast Guard has become an integral actor in the fight against terrorism, providing port security, conducting maritime interdiction, and supplying essential tactical and operational intelligence to a variety of other U.S. Government agencies. I would be remiss if I failed to mention Mr. Sloan's 21 years of service with the United States Secret Service. During more than two decades, he served as the agency's Deputy Assistant Director for Protective Operations and later as the Senior Program Manager of the Anti-Terrorism programs, where he represented the Secret Service on the National Security Council. The Nation is better and safer as a result of Mr. Sloan's service. For that, we thank him.

Mr. REYES

Mr. REYES. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to clause 2(a)(1) of House Rule XI, I hereby submit the Rules of Procedure of the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence for the 111th Congress, as adopted by the Committee on February 12, 2009. Rules of Procedure, for the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, United States House of Representatives, 111th Congress 1. meeting day Regular Meeting Day for the Full Committee. The regular meeting day of the Committee for the transaction of Committee business shall be the first Wednesday of each month, unless otherwise directed by the Chair. 2. notice for meetings (a) Generally. In the case of any meeting of the Committee, the Chief Clerk of the Committee shall provide reasonable notice to every member of the Committee. Such notice shall provide the time and place of the meeting. (b) Definition. For purposes of this rule, ``reasonable notice'' means: (1) Written notification; (2) Delivered by facsimile transmission, regular mail, or electronic mail that is: (A) Delivered no less than 24 hours prior to the event for which notice is being given, if the event is to be held in Washington, D.C.; or (B) Delivered no less than 48 hours prior to the event for which notice is being given, if the event is to be held outside Washington, D.C. (c) Exception. In extraordinary circumstances only, the Chair may, after consulting with the Ranking Minority Member, call a meeting of the Committee without providing notice, as defined in subparagraph (b), to members of the Committee. 3. preparations for committee meetings (a) Generally. Designated Committee Staff, as directed by the Chair, shall brief members of the Committee at a time sufficiently prior to any Committee meeting in order to: (1) Assist Committee members in preparation for such meeting; and (2) Determine which matters members wish considered during any meeting. (b) Briefing Materials. (1) Such a briefing shall, at the request of a member, include a list of all pertinent papers, and such other materials, that have been obtained by the Committee that bear on matters to be considered at the meeting; and (2) The Staff Director shall also recommend to the Chair any testimony, papers, or other materials to be presented to the Committee at the meeting of the Committee. 4. open meetings (a) Generally. Pursuant to House Rule XI, but subject to the limitations of subsections (b) and (c), Committee meetings held for the transaction of business and Committee hearings shall be open to the public. (b) Meetings. Any meeting or portion thereof, for the transaction of business, including the markup of legislation, or any hearing or portion thereof, shall be closed to the public, if the Committee determines by record vote in open session, with a majority of the Committee present, that disclosure of the matters to be discussed may: (1) Endanger national security; (2) Compromise sensitive law enforcement information; (3) Tend to defame, degrade, or incriminate any person; or (4) Otherwise violate any law or Rule of the House. (c) Hearings. The Committee may vote to close a Committee hearing pursuant to clause 11(d)(2) of House Rule X, regardless of whether a majority is present, so long as at least two members of the Committee are present, one of whom is a member of the Minority and votes upon the motion. (d) Briefings. Committee briefings shall be closed to the public. 5. quorum (a) Hearings. For purposes of taking testimony, or receiving evidence, a quorum shall consist of two Committee members, at least one of whom is a member of the Majority. (b) Other Committee Proceedings. For purposes of the transaction of all other Committee business, other than the consideration of a motion to close a hearing as described in rule 4(c), a quorum shall consist of a majority of members. 6. procedures for amendments and votes (a) Amendments. When a bill or resolution is being considered by the Committee, members shall provide the Chief Clerk in a timely manner with a sufficient number of written copies of any amendment offered, so as to enable each member present to receive a copy thereof prior to taking action. A point of order may be made against any amendment not reduced to writing. A copy of each such amendment shall be maintained in the public records of the Committee. (b) Reporting Record Votes. Whenever the Committee reports any measure or matter by record vote, the report of the Committee upon such measure or matter shall include a tabulation of the votes cast in favor of, and the votes cast in opposition to, such measure or matter. (c) Postponement of Further Proceedings. In accordance with clause 2(h) of House Rule XI, the Chair is authorized to postpone further proceedings when a record vote is ordered on the question of approving a measure or matter or adopting an amendment. The Chair may resume proceedings on a postponed request at any time after reasonable notice. When proceedings resume on a postponed question, notwithstanding any intervening order for the previous question, an underlying proposition shall remain subject to further debate or amendment to the same extent as when the question was postponed. (d) Availability of Record Votes on Committee Website. In addition to any other requirement of the Rules of the House, the Chair shall make the record votes on any measure or matter on which a record vote is taken, other than a motion to close a Committee hearing, briefing, or meeting, available on the Committee's website not later than 2 business days after such vote is taken. Such record shall include an unclassified description of the amendment, motion, order, or other proposition, the name of each member voting in favor of, and each member voting in opposition to, such amendment, motion, order, or proposition, and the names of those members of the Committee present but not voting. 7. subcommittees (a) Generally. (1) Creation of subcommittees shall be by majority vote of the Committee. (2) Subcommittees shall deal with such legislation and oversight of programs and policies as the Committee may direct. (3) Subcommittees shall be governed by these rules. (4) For purposes of these rules, any reference herein to the ``Committee'' shall be interpreted to include subcommittees, unless otherwise specifically provided. (b) Establishment of Subcommittees. The Committee establishes the following subcommittees: (1) Subcommittee on Terrorism, Human Intelligence, Analysis, and Counterintelligence; (2) Subcommittee on Technical and Tactical Intelligence; (3) Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations; and, (4) Subcommittee on Intelligence Community Management. (c) Subcommittee Membership. (1) Generally. Each member of the Committee may be assigned to at least one of the four subcommittees. (2) Ex Officio Membership. In the event that the Chair and Ranking Minority Member of the full Committee do not choose to sit as regular voting members of one or more of the subcommittees, each is authorized to sit as an ex officio member of the subcommittees and participate in the work of the subcommittees. When sitting ex officio, however, they: (A) Shall not have a vote in the subcommittee; and (B) Shall not be counted for purposes of determining a quorum. (d) Regular Meeting Day for Subcommittees. There is no regular meeting day for subcommittees. 8. procedures for taking testimony or receiving evidence (a) Notice. Adequate notice shall be given to all witnesses appearing before the Committee. (b) Oath or Affirmation. The Chair may require testimony of witnesses to be given under oath or affirmation. (c) Administration of Oath or Affirmation. Upon the determination that a witness shall testify under oath or affirmation, any member of the Committee designated by the Chair may administer the oath or affirmation. (d) Questioning of Witnesses. (1) Generally. Questioning of witnesses before the Committee shall be conducted by members of the Committee. (2) Exceptions. (A) The Chair, in consultation with the Ranking Minority Member, may determine that Committee Staff will be authorized to question witnesses at a hearing in accordance with clause (2)(j) of House Rule XI. (B) The Chair and Ranking Minority Member are each authorized to designate Committee Staff to conduct such questioning. (e) Counsel for the Witness. (1) Generally. Witnesses before the Committee may be accompanied by counsel, subject to the requirements of paragraph (2). (2) Counsel Clearances Required. In the event that a meeting of the Committee has been closed because the subject to be discussed deals with classified information, counsel accompanying a witness before the Committee must possess the requisite security clearance and provide proof of such clearance to the Committee at least 24 hours prior to the meeting at which the counsel intends to be present. (3) Failure to Obtain Counsel. Any witness who is unable to obtain counsel should notify the Committee. If such notification occurs at least 24 hours prior to the witness' appearance before the Committee, the Committee shall then endeavor to obtain voluntary counsel for the witness. Failure to obtain counsel, however, will not excuse the witness from appearing and testifying. (4) Conduct of Counsel for Witnesses. Counsel for witnesses appearing before the Committee shall conduct themselves ethically and professionally at all times in their dealings with the Committee. (A) A majority of members of the Committee may, should circumstances warrant, find that counsel for a witness before the Committee failed to conduct himself or herself in an ethical or professional manner. (B) Upon such finding, counsel may be subject to appropriate disciplinary action. (5) Temporary Removal of Counsel. The Chair may remove counsel during any proceeding before the Committee for failure to act in an ethical and professional manner. (6) Committee Reversal. A majority of the members of the Committee may vote to overturn the decision of the Chair to remove counsel for a witness. (7) Role of Counsel for Witness. (A) Counsel for a witness: (i) Shall not be allowed to examine witnesses before the Committee, either directly or through cross-examination; but (ii) May submit questions in writing to the Committee that counsel wishes propounded to a witness; or (iii) May suggest, in writing to the Committee, the presentation of other evidence or the calling of other witnesses. (B) The Committee may make such use of any such questions, or suggestions, as the Committee deems appropriate. (f) Statements by Witnesses. (1) Generally. A witness may make a statement, which shall be brief and relevant, at the beginning and at the conclusion of the witness' testimony. (2) Length. Each such statement shall not exceed five minutes in length, unless otherwise determined by the Chair. (3) Submission to the Committee. Any witness desiring to submit a written statement for the record of the proceeding shall submit a copy of the statement to the Chief Clerk of the Committee. (A) Such statements shall ordinarily be submitted no less than 48 hours in advance of the witness' appearance before the Committee and shall be submitted in written and electronic format. (B) In the event that the hearing was called with less than 24 hours notice, written statements should be submitted as soon as practicable prior to the hearing. (g) Objections and Ruling. (1) Generally. Any objection raised by a witness, or counsel for the witness, shall be ruled upon by the Chair, and such ruling shall be the ruling of the Committee. (2) Committee Action. A ruling by the Chair may be overturned upon a majority vote of the Committee. (h) Transcripts. (1) Transcript Required. A transcript shall be made of the testimony of each witness appearing before the Committee during any hearing of the Committee. (2) Opportunity to Inspect. Any witness testifying before the Committee shall be given a reasonable opportunity to inspect the transcript of the hearing, and may be accompanied by counsel to determine whether such testimony was correctly transcribed. Such counsel: (A) May review the transcript only if he or she has the appropriate security clearances necessary to review any classified aspect of the transcript; and (B) Should, to the extent possible, be the same counsel that was present for such classified testimony. (3) Corrections. (A) Pursuant to Rule XI of the House Rules, any corrections the witness desires to make in a transcript shall be limited to technical, grammatical, and typographical corrections. (B) Corrections may not be made to change the substance of the Testimony. (C) Such corrections shall be submitted in writing to the Committee within 7 days after the transcript is made available to the witnesses. (D) Any questions arising with respect to such corrections shall be decided by the Chair. (4) Copy for the Witness. At the request of the witness, any portion of the witness' testimony given in executive session shall be made available to that witness if that testimony is: subsequently quoted or intended to be made part of a public record. Such testimony shall be made available to the witness at the witness' expense. (i) Requests to Testify. (1) Generally. The Committee will consider requests to testify on any matter or measure pending before the Committee. (2) Recommendations for Additional Evidence. Any person who believes that testimony, other evidence, or commentary, presented at a public hearing may tend to affect adversely that person's reputation may submit to the Committee, in writing: (A) A request to appear personally before the Committee; (B) A sworn statement of facts relevant to the testimony, evidence, or commentary; or (C) Proposed questions for the cross-examination of other witnesses. (3) Committee Discretion. The Committee may take those actions it deems appropriate with respect to such requests. (j) Contempt Procedures. Citations for contempt of Congress shall be forwarded to the House only if: (1) Reasonable notice is provided to all members of the Committee of a meeting to be held to consider any such contempt recommendations; (2) The Committee has met and considered the contempt allegations; (3) The subject of the allegations was afforded an opportunity to state either in writing or in person, why he or she should not be held in contempt; and (4) The Committee agreed by majority vote to forward the citation recommendations to the House. (k) Release of Name of Witness. (1) Generally. At the request of a witness scheduled to be heard by the Committee, the name of that witness shall not be released publicly prior to, or after, the witness' appearance before the Committee. (2) Exceptions. Notwithstanding paragraph (1), the Chair may authorize the release to the public of the name of any witness scheduled to appear before the Committee. 9. investigations (a) Commencing Investigations. The Committee shall conduct investigations only if approved by the Chair, in consultation with the Ranking Minority Member. (b) Conducting Investigations. An authorized investigation may be conducted by members of the Committee or Committee Staff designated by the Chair, in consultation with the Ranking Minority Member, to undertake any such investigation. 10. subpoenas (a) Generally. All subpoenas shall be authorized by the Chair of the full Committee, upon consultation with the Ranking Minority Member, or by vote of the Committee. (b) Subpoena Contents. Any subpoena authorized by the Chair of the full Committee, or the Committee, may compel: (1) The attendance of witnesses and testimony before the Committee; or (2) The production of memoranda, documents, records, or any other tangible item. (c) Signing of Subpoena. A subpoena authorized by the Chair of the full Committee, or the Committee, may be signed by the Chair, or by any member of the Committee designated to do so by the Committee. (d) Subpoena Service. A subpoena authorized by the Chair of the full Committee, or the Committee, may be served by any person designated to do so by the Chair. (e) Other Requirements. Each subpoena shall have attached thereto a copy of these rules. 11. committee staff (a) Definition. For the purpose of these rules, ``Committee Staff'' or ``Staff of the Committee'' means: (1) Employees of the Committee; (2) Consultants to the Committee; (3) Employees of other Government agencies detailed to the Committee; or (4) Any other person engaged by contract, or otherwise, to perform services for, or at the request of, the Committee. (b) Appointment of Committee Staff and Security Requirements. (1) Chair's Authority. Except as provided in paragraph (2), the Committee Staff shall be appointed, and may be removed, by the Chair and shall work under the general supervision and direction of the Chair. (2) Staff Assistance to Minority Membership. Except as provided in paragraphs (3) and (4), and except as otherwise provided by Committee Rules, the Committee Staff provided to the Minority Party members of the Committee shall be appointed, and may be removed, by the Ranking Minority Member of the Committee, and shall work under the general supervision and direction of such member. (3) Security Clearance Required. All offers of employment for prospective Committee Staff positions shall be contingent upon: (A) The results of a background investigation; and (B) A determination by the Chair that requirements for the appropriate security clearances have been met. (4) Security Requirements. Notwithstanding paragraph (2), the Chair shall supervise and direct the Committee Staff with respect to the security and nondisclosure of classified information. Committee Staff shall comply with requirements necessary to ensure the security and nondisclosure of classified information as determined by the Chair in consultation with the Ranking Minority Member. 12. limit on discussion of classified work of the committee (a) Prohibition. (1) Generally. Except as otherwise provided by these rules and the Rules of the House of Representatives, members of the Committee and Committee Staff shall not at any time, either during that person's tenure as a member of the Committee or as Committee Staff, or anytime thereafter, discuss or disclose, or cause to be discussed or disclosed: (A) The classified substance of the work of the Committee; (B) Any information received by the Committee in executive session; (C) Any classified information received by the Committee from any source; or (D) The substance of any hearing that was closed to the public pursuant to these rules or the Rules of the House. (2) Non-Disclosure in Proceedings. (A) Members of the Committee and the Committee Staff shall not discuss either the substance or procedure of the work of the Committee with any person not a member of the Committee or the Committee Staff in connection with any proceeding, judicial or otherwise, either during the person's tenure as a member of the Committee, or of the Committee Staff, or at any time thereafter, except as directed by the Committee in accordance with the Rules of the House and these rules. (B) In the event of the termination of the Committee, members and Committee Staff shall be governed in these matters in a manner determined by the House concerning discussions of the classified work of the Committee. (3) Exceptions. (A) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (a)(1), members of the Committee and the Committee Staff may discuss and disclose those matters described in subsection (a)(1) with: (i) Members and staff of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence designated by the chair of that committee; (ii) The chairmen and ranking minority members of the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations and staff of those committees designated by the chairmen of those committees; (iii) The chair and ranking minority member of the Subcommittee on Defense of the House Committee on Appropriations and staff of that subcommittee as designated by the chair of that subcommittee; and (iv) Members and staff of the Intelligence Oversight Panel of the House Appropriations Committee as designated by the chair of that panel. (B) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (a)(1), members of the Committee and the Committee Staff may discuss and disclose only that budget-related information necessary to facilitate the enactment of the annual defense authorization bill with the chairmen and ranking minority members of the House and Senate Committees on Armed Services and the staff of those committees as designated by the chairmen of those committees. (C) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (a)(1), members of the Committee and the Committee Staff may discuss with and disclose to the chair and ranking minority member of a subcommittee of the House Appropriations Committee with jurisdiction over an agency or program within the National Intelligence Program (NIP), and staff of that subcommittee as designated by the chair of that subcommittee, only that budget-related information necessary to facilitate the enactment of an appropriations bill within which is included an appropriation for an agency or program within the NIP. (D) The Chair may, in consultation with the Ranking Minority Member, upon the written request to the Chair from the Inspector General of an element of the Intelligence Community, grant access to Committee transcripts or documents that are relevant to an investigation of an allegation of possible false testimony or other inappropriate conduct before the Committee, or that are otherwise relevant to the Inspector General's investigation. (E) Upon the written request of the head of an Intelligence Community element, the Chair may, in consultation with the Ranking Minority Member, make available Committee briefing or hearing transcripts to that element for review by that element if a representative of that element testified, presented information to the Committee, or was present at the briefing or hearing the transcript of which is requested for review. (F) Members and Committee Staff may discuss and disclose such matters as otherwise directed by the Committee. (b) Non-Disclosure Agreement. (1) Generally. All Committee Staff must, before joining the Committee Staff, agree in writing, as a condition of employment, not to divulge or cause to be divulged any classified information which comes into such person's possession while a member of the Committee Staff, to any person not a member of the Committee or the Committee Staff, except as authorized by the Committee in accordance with the Rules of the House and these rules. (2) Other Requirements. In the event of the termination of the Committee, members and Committee Staff must follow any determination by the House of Representatives with respect to the protection of classified information received while a member of the Committee or as Committee Staff. (3) Requests for Testimony of Staff. (A) All Committee Staff must, as a condition of employment, agree in writing to notify the Committee immediately of any request for testimony received while a member of the Committee Staff, or at any time thereafter, concerning any classified information received by such person while a member of the Committee Staff. (B) Committee Staff shall not disclose, in response to any such request for testimony, any such classified information, except as authorized by the Committee in accordance with the Rules of the House and these rules. (C) In the event of the termination of the Committee, Committee Staff will be subject to any determination made by the House of Representatives with respect to any requests for testimony involving classified information received while a member of the Committee Staff. 13. CLASSIFIED MATERIAL (a) Receipt of Classified Information. (1) Generally. In the case of any information that has been classified under established security procedures and submitted to the Committee by any source, the Committee shall receive such classified information as executive session material. (2) Staff Receipt of Classified Materials. For purposes of receiving classified information, the Committee Staff is authorized to accept information on behalf of the Committee. (b) Non-Disclosure of Classified Information. Any classified information received by the Committee, from any source, shall not be disclosed to any person not a member of the Committee or the Committee Staff, or otherwise released, except as authorized by the Committee in accordance with the Rules of the House and these rules. (c) Exception for Non-Exclusive Materials. (1) Non-Exclusive Materials. Any materials provided to the Committee by the executive branch, if provided in whole or in part for the purpose of review by members who are not members of the Committee, shall be received or held by the Committee on a non-exclusive basis. Classified information provided to the Committee shall be considered to have been provided on an exclusive basis unless the executive branch provides a specific, written statement to the contrary. (2) Access for Non-Committee Members. In the case of materials received on a non-exclusive basis, the Chair, in consultation with the Ranking Minority Member, may grant non- Committee members access to such materials in accordance with the requirements of Rule 14(f)(4), notwithstanding paragraphs (1), (2), and (3) of Rule 14. 14. PROCEDURES RELATED TO HANDLING OF CLASSIFIED INFORMATION (a) Security Measures. (1) Strict Security. The Committee's offices shall operate under strict security procedures administered by the Director of Security and Registry of the Committee under the direct supervision of the Staff Director. (2) U.S. Capitol Police Presence Required. At least one U.S. Capitol Police officer shall be on duty at all times outside the entrance to Committee offices to control entry of all persons to such offices. (3) Identification Required. Before entering the Committee's offices all persons shall identify themselves to the U.S. Capitol Police officer described in paragraph (2) and to a member of the Committee or Committee Staff. (4) Maintenance of Classified Materials. Classified documents shall be segregated and maintained in approved security storage locations. (5) Examination of Classified Materials. Classified documents in the Committee's possession shall be examined in an appropriately secure manner. (6) Prohibition on Removal of Classified Materials. Removal of any classified document from the Committee's offices is strictly prohibited, except as provided by these rules. (7) Exception. Notwithstanding the prohibition set forth in paragraph (6), a classified document, or copy thereof, may be removed from the Committee's offices in furtherance of official Committee business. Appropriate security procedures shall govern the handling of any classified documents removed from the Committee's offices. (b) Access to Classified Information by Members. All members of the Committee shall at all times have access to all classified papers and other material received by the Committee from any source. (c) Need-to-know. (1) Generally. Committee Staff shall have access to any classified information provided to the Committee on a strict ``need-to-know'' basis, as determined by the Committee, and under the Committee's direction by the Staff Director. (2) Appropriate Clearances Required. Committee Staff must have the appropriate clearances prior to any access to compartmented information. (d) Oath. (1) Requirement. Before any member of the Committee, or the Committee Staff, shall have access to classified information, the following oath shall be executed: ``I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will not disclose or cause to be disclosed any classified information received in the course of my service on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, except when authorized to do so by the Committee or the House of Representatives.'' (2) Copy. A copy of such executed oath shall be retained in the files of the Committee. (e) Registry. (1) Generally. The Committee shall maintain a registry that: (A) Provides a brief description of the content of all classified documents provided to the Committee by the executive branch that remain in the possession of the Committee; and (B) Lists by number all such documents. (2) Designation by the Staff Director. The Staff Director shall designate a member of the Committee Staff to be responsible for the organization and daily maintenance of such registry. (3) Availability. Such registry shall be available to all members of the Committee and Committee Staff. (f) Requests by Members of Other Committees. Pursuant to the Rules of the House, members who are not members of the Committee may be granted access to such classified transcripts, records, data, charts, or files of the Committee, and be admitted on a non-participatory basis to classified hearings of the Committee involving discussions of classified material in the following manner: (1) Written Notification Required. Members who desire to examine classified materials in the possession of the Committee, or to attend Committee hearings or briefings on a non-participatory basis, must notify the Chief Clerk of the Committee in writing. Such notification shall state with specificity the justification for the request and the need for access. (2) Committee Consideration. The Committee shall consider each such request by non-Committee members at the earliest practicable opportunity. The Committee shall determine, by record vote, what action it deems appropriate in light of all of the circumstances of each request. In its determination, the Committee shall consider: (A) The sensitivity to the national defense or the confidential conduct of the foreign relations of the United States of the information sought; (B) The likelihood of its being directly or indirectly disclosed; (C) The jurisdictional interest of the member making the request; and (D) Such other concerns, constitutional or otherwise, as may affect the public interest of the United States. (3) Committee Action. After consideration of the member's request, the Committee may take any action it deems appropriate under the circumstances, including but not limited to: (A) Approving the request, in whole or part; (B) Denying the request; (C) Providing the requested information or material in a different form than that sought by the member; or (D) Making the requested information or material available to all members of the House. (4) Requirements for Access by Non-Committee Members. Prior to a non-Committee member being given access to classified information pursuant to this subsection, the requesting member shall: (A) Provide the Committee a copy of the oath executed by such member pursuant to House Rule XXIII, clause 13; and (B) Agree in writing not to divulge any classified information provided to the member, pursuant to this subsection, to any person not a member of the Committee or the Committee Staff, except as otherwise authorized by the Committee in accordance with the Rules of the House and these rules. (5) Consultation Authorized. When considering a member's request, the Committee may consult the Director of National Intelligence and such other officials it considers necessary. (6) Finality of Committee Decision. (A) Should the member making such a request disagree with the Committee's determination with respect to that request, or any part thereof, that member must notify the Committee in writing of such disagreement. (B) The Committee shall subsequently consider the matter and decide, by record vote, what further action or recommendation, if any, the Committee will take. (g) Advising the House or Other Committees. Pursuant to Section 501 of the National Security Act of 1947 (50 U.S.C. 413), and to the Rules of the House, the Committee shall call to the attention of the House, or to any other appropriate committee of the House, those matters requiring the attention of the House, or such other committee, on the basis of the following provisions: (1) By Request of Committee Member. At the request of any member of the Committee to call to the attention of the House, or any other committee, executive session material in the Committee's possession, the Committee shall meet at the earliest practicable opportunity to consider that request. (2) Committee Consideration of Request. The Committee shall consider the following factors, among any others it deems appropriate: (A) The effect of the matter in question on the national defense or the foreign relations of the United States; (B) Whether the matter in question involves sensitive intelligence sources and methods; (C) Whether the matter in question otherwise raises questions affecting the national interest; and (D) Whether the matter in question affects matters within the jurisdiction of another Committee of the House. (3) Views of Other Committees. In examining such factors, the Committee may seek the opinion of members of the Committee appointed from standing committees of the House with jurisdiction over the matter in question, or submissions from such other committees. (4) Other Advice. The Committee may, during its deliberations on such requests, seek the advice of any executive branch official. (h) Reasonable Opportunity to Examine Materials. Before the Committee makes any decision regarding any request for access to any classified information in its possession, or a proposal to bring any matter to the attention of the House or another committee, members of the Committee shall have a reasonable opportunity to examine all pertinent testimony, documents, or other materials in the Committee's possession that may inform their decision on the question. (i) Notification to the House. The Committee may bring a matter to the attention of the House when, after consideration of the factors set forth in this rule, it considers the matter in question so grave that it requires the attention of all members of the House, and time is of the essence, or for any reason the Committee finds compelling. (j) Method of Disclosure to the House. (1) Should the Committee decide by record vote that a matter requires the attention of the House as described in subsection (i), it shall make arrangements to notify the House promptly. (2) In such cases, the Committee shall consider whether: (A) To request an immediate secret session of the House (with time equally divided between the Majority and the Minority); or (B) To publicly disclose the matter in question pursuant to clause 11(g) of House Rule X. (k) Requirement to Protect Sources and Methods. In bringing a matter to the attention of the House, or another committee, the Committee, with due regard for the protection of intelligence sources and methods, shall take all necessary steps to safeguard materials or information relating to the matter in question. (l) Availability of Information to Other Committees. The Committee, having determined that a matter shall be brought to the attention of another committee, shall ensure that such matter, including all classified information related to that matter, is promptly made available to the chair and ranking minority member of such other committee. (m) Provision of Materials. The Director of Security and Registry for the Committee shall provide a copy of these rules, and the applicable portions of the Rules of the House of Representatives governing the handling of classified information, along with those materials determined by the Committee to be made available to such other committee of the House or non-Committee member. (n) Ensuring Clearances and Secure Storage. The Director of Security and Registry shall ensure that such other committee or non-Committee member receiving such classified materials may properly store classified materials in a manner consistent with all governing rules, regulations, policies, procedures, and statutes. (o) Log. The Director of Security and Registry for the Committee shall maintain a written record identifying the particular classified document or material provided to such other committee or non-Committee member, the reasons agreed upon by the Committee for approving such transmission, and the name of the committee or non-Committee member receiving such document or material. (p) Miscellaneous Requirements. (1) Staff Director's Additional Authority. The Staff Director is further empowered to provide for such additional measures, which he or she deems necessary, to protect such classified information authorized by the Committee to be provided to such other committee or non-Committee member. (2) Notice to Originating Agency. In the event that the Committee authorizes the disclosure of classified information provided to the Committee by an agency of the executive branch to a non-Committee member or to another committee, the Chair may notify the providing agency of the Committee's action prior to the transmission of such classified information. 15. LEGISLATIVE CALENDAR (a) Generally. The Chief Clerk, under the direction of the Staff Director, shall maintain a printed calendar that lists: (1) The legislative measures introduced and referred to the Committee; (2) The status of such measures; and (3) Such other matters that the Committee may require. (b) Revisions to the Calendar. The calendar shall be revised from time to time to show pertinent changes. (c) Availability. A copy of each such revision shall be furnished to each member, upon request. (d) Consultation with Appropriate Government Entities. Unless otherwise directed by the Committee, legislative measures referred to the Committee may be referred by the Chief Clerk to the appropriate department or agency of the Government for reports thereon. 16. COMMITTEE WEBSITE The Chair shall maintain an official Committee web site for the purpose of furthering the Committee's legislative and oversight responsibilities, including communicating information about the Committee's activities to Committee members and other members of the House. 17. MOTIONS TO GO TO CONFERENCE In accordance with clause 2(a) of House Rule XI, the Chair is authorized and directed to offer a privileged motion to go to conference under clause 1 of House Rule XXII whenever the Chair considers it appropriate. 18. COMMITTEE TRAVEL (a) Authority. The Chair may authorize members and Committee Staff to travel on Committee business. (b) Requests. (1) Member Requests. Members requesting authorization for such travel shall state the purpose and length of the trip, and shall submit such request directly to the Chair. (2) Committee Staff Requests. Committee Staff requesting authorization for such travel shall state the purpose and length of the trip, and shall submit such request through their supervisors to the Staff Director and the Chair. (c) Notification to Members. (1) Generally. Members shall be notified of all foreign travel of Committee Staff not accompanying a member. (2) Content. All members are to be advised, prior to the commencement of such travel, of its length, nature, and purpose. (d) Trip Reports. (1) Generally. A full report of all issues discussed during any travel shall be submitted to the Chief Clerk of the Committee within a reasonable period of time following the completion of such trip. (2) Availability of Reports. Such report shall be: (A) Available for review by any member or appropriately cleared Committee Staff; and (B) Considered executive session material for purposes of these rules. (e) Limitations on Travel. (1) Generally. The Chair is not authorized to permit travel on Committee business of Committee Staff who have not satisfied the requirements of subsection (d) of this rule. (2) Exception. The Chair may authorize Committee Staff to travel on Committee business, notwithstanding the requirements of subsections (d) and (e) of this rule, (A) At the specific request of a member of the Committee; or (B) In the event there are circumstances beyond the control of the Committee Staff hindering compliance with such requirements. (f) Definitions. For purposes of this rule the term ``reasonable period of time'' means: (1) No later than 60 days after returning from a foreign trip; and (2) No later than 30 days after returning from a domestic trip. 19. DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS (a) Generally. The Committee shall immediately consider whether disciplinary action shall be taken in the case of any member of the Committee Staff alleged to have failed to conform to any rule of the House of Representatives or to these rules. (b) Exception. In the event the House of Representatives is: (1) In a recess period in excess of 3 days; or (2) Has adjourned sine die; the Chair of the full Committee, in consultation with the Ranking Minority Member, may take such immediate disciplinary actions deemed necessary. (c) Available Actions. Such disciplinary action may include immediate dismissal from the Committee Staff. (d) Notice to Members. All members shall be notified as soon as practicable, either by facsimile transmission or regular mail, of any disciplinary action taken by the Chair pursuant to subsection (b). (e) Reconsideration of Chair's Actions. A majority of the members of the full Committee may vote to overturn the decision of the Chair to take disciplinary action pursuant to subsection (b). 20. BROADCASTING COMMITTEE MEETINGS Whenever any hearing or meeting conducted by the Committee is open to the public, a majority of the Committee may permit that hearing or meeting to be covered, in whole or in part, by television broadcast, radio broadcast, and still photography, or by any of such methods of coverage, subject to the provisions and in accordance with the spirit of the purposes enumerated in the Rules of the House. 21. COMMITTEE RECORDS TRANSFERRED TO THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES (a) Generally. The records of the Committee at the National Archives and Records Administration shall be made available for public use in accordance with the Rules of the House of Representatives. (b) Notice of Withholding. The Chair shall notify the Ranking Minority Member of any decision, pursuant to the Rules of the House of Representatives, to withhold a record otherwise available, and the matter shall be presented to the full Committee for a determination of the question of public availability on the written request of any member of the Committee. 22. CHANGES IN RULES (a) Generally. These rules may be modified, amended, or repealed by vote of the full Committee. (b) Notice of Proposed Changes. A notice, in writing, of the proposed change shall be given to each member at least 48 hours prior to any meeting at which action on the proposed rule change is to be taken.

Mr. REYES

Mr. REYES. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a man of great integrity and an unerring sense of humor, Mr. John Helgerson, on the occasion of his retirement after 37 distinguished years in the Intelligence Community. During the last seven years as CIA Inspector General, John has demonstrated the unfailing courage, sense of fairness and independent judgment that Congress envisioned when it created the position of Inspector General. Under his leadership, the Office of the Inspector General grappled with some of the thorniest issues in the Intelligence Community. John is one of those rare few individuals who is always willing to speak truth to power. Prior to becoming Inspector General, John served as Chairman of the National Intelligence Council, Deputy Director of the former National Imagery and Mapping Agency, now the National Geospatial Agency, and Deputy Director for Intelligence at CIA. There are few individuals in the Intelligence Community with as wide-ranging and distinguished experience as John. Our country is better-informed and safer as a result of his service. In his retirement announcement, John noted that the country's first Inspector General was appointed by General George Washington to be the ``eyes, ears, and conscience of the commander.'' We are truly fortunate that CIA, and the Intelligence Community as a whole, had John's eyes, ears and conscience throughout his career. We will miss his intelligence, insight and honesty. As Chairman of the Intelligence Committee, I have come to trust and rely on John's good judgment in a variety of sensitive situations. I thank him for working with me to ensure that his office and my committee maintained a professional, productive relationship. I wish him continued success in all of his future endeavors.

Mr. REYES

Mr. REYES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 1105, the FY 2009 Omnibus Appropriations Act. I support this omnibus package because it rejects the harmful cuts that former President Bush insisted on in his budget. Instead, this bill provides and restores critical funding in areas such as energy research, healthcare, education, law enforcement, and biomedical research. As a proponent of the recently enacted economic recovery bill, I support this omnibus because its passage is necessary in order to allow the stimulus plan to work. In light of our nation's current economic downturn, I am pleased that Members of Congress will not receive an automatic cost-of-living increase scheduled for FY2010. In these difficult economic times, Members should forgo a cost-of-living increase. Last night, in his address to a Joint Session of Congress, President Obama emphasized his commitment to create or save 3.5 million new jobs in this country. The omnibus bill addresses this pledge by providing $3.6 billion for job training programs. I believe that job training is critical to help workers receive the necessary skills training they need to move into higher paying jobs and provide for their families. But that is not all. In terms of education, I am particularly pleased that the omnibus bill takes a comprehensive approach to education. The bill provides $7.1 billion for Head Start; $15.8 billion for Title-I programs serving the most disadvantaged students in our country; and a much needed $19.2 billion for federal student financial aid programs like the Pell Grant. These funding levels complement President Obama's ambitious goal to tackle our nation's drop out rate and have America lead the world by the year 2020 with the largest proportion of college graduates. In my district alone, 20,179 students receive Pell Grants which provide students with resources to offset the rising costs of tuition. By ensuring funding for these types of investments, we are opening the doors of opportunity for all our children. I have worked closely with my colleagues to find ways to curtail the violence in Mexico and support our southern neighbor. I am pleased that this omnibus bill provides $405 million for counter-narcotics and law enforcement programs through the Merida Initiative. With violence surging in Mexico, President Obama has made clear that we will stand with Mexico as the government combats the illicit drug and weapons trade, and the Merida Initiative is a critical component of this strategic partnership. In keeping with the aim of the recovery plan, we must continue to reinvest in our transportation infrastructure which has been neglected for years. As we transition to a system with a greater focus on energy- efficiency, the omnibus reaffirms our commitment to bolstering our nation's transit systems. The Federal Transit Administration will receive funds through this omnibus appropriations bill for grants for new buses, stations, intermodal facilities, and technology improvements. I know my district in Texas will greatly benefit from additional funds to make our transit system more efficient and accessible. Our existing national highway systems will also continue to be critical, so I am pleased to know funding has been included to improve and repair our nation's aging highway infrastructure. Recognizing that the current recession will persist, President Obama has asked Congress to help our fellow Americans weather these tough economic times. Housing authorities and non-profits that provide housing assistance across this nation will likely experience a greater demand for their services this year. Significant funding in this omnibus is dedicated to ensuring low-income families and the most vulnerable members of our communities have access to safe, affordable housing. For the remainder of the current fiscal year, both the Public Housing Capital Fund and the Public Housing Operating Fund will receive funding increases so that public housing authorities can make critical repairs and improvements to their housing units, improve living conditions for their residents, and keep up with maintenance and energy costs. During this recession, meeting the housing needs of our low- income, elderly and disabled community members is critical, and I am glad to see just over $1 billion in grants will be available to rehabilitate, buy, and build affordable and safe housing. The omnibus also increases funding for Section 8 vouchers to continue helping over 3 million low-income families and individuals as well as provide 14,000 new, targeted vouchers for the disabled and homeless veterans during this housing crisis. An additional $75 million will be used for 10,000 housing vouchers for homeless veterans, and $1.7 billion will also be made available in the form of grants so communities can provide housing and services for other homeless individuals. Last night, President Obama made it clear that we will take on health care reform this year. We have already made great strides in expanding health care coverage for our nation's children through the reauthorization of the Children's Health Insurance Program. Through the recovery plan, we have taken an important first step in cutting costs by investing in electronic medical records as well as research into diseases and preventative care. This omnibus appropriation continues these investments by providing the National Institutes of Health with critical funding to research diseases such as Alzheimer's, cancer, and diabetes. Because prevention is increasingly being recognized as essential to curbing costs, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will receive $6.6 billion for public health programs at the federal, state, and local levels. Community health centers, like those in El Paso, will be able to provide services for an additional 470,000 uninsured people with the $2.2 billion provided through this bill. We also provide funds to state high risk insurance pools so they can help people who cannot obtain health insurance in the commercial market because they are medically high risk. With the $496 million provided for childhood immunization, approximately 15,000 additional children will receive the vaccinations they need. However, all these worthy programs will need the support of a well- trained base of providers. In addition to the investment in training medical professionals included in the recovery plan, $171 million in the omnibus will go to support nurse education programs and $222 million will support the Health Professions Training program to train doctors and other professionals. This funding will go a long way not only in ensuring access to services but also quality care Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of this omnibus bill because it will address our nation's immediate needs as well as invest in our long term economic strength.

Mr. REYES

Mr. REYES. I thank the gentlelady for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute as well to our Speaker's national security adviser and former staff director to the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, Mr. Michael Sheehy. As chairman of the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, I have had the immense honor of working closely with Mike on significant intelligence issues of our day. Whether the subject matter is foreign intelligence surveillance laws, satellite technology or human intelligence operations, he is virtually a walking encyclopedia of knowledge. Mike's national security expertise is the result of many years of public service, first during his time in the U.S. Navy JAG Corps, and then in the 10 years he spent as an aide to the late Representative Edward Boland. As some of you may remember, Mr. Boland was the first chairman of the House Intelligence Committee and he earned great distinction as the father of the Boland Amendment, which prohibited funding of U.S. involvement in the Nicaraguan Contras uprising. Acting as an associate staff member for the House Iran-Contra Investigating Committee, Mike had a front-row seat to the history that evolved during his service to Representative Boland. Mike joined the Intelligence Committee as chief counsel in 1990 under the leadership of then-chairman Anthony Beilenson. In 2003, he received the Defense Intelligence Agency's Director's Award, the highest award given by that agency. It was at that time that he left the committee when then-minority leader, our Speaker today, hired him as her senior policy adviser. To me, it seems she knew a good thing when she saw it. We missed him on the committee, but we were glad he was there advising our Speaker. In the time that I have had the privilege to serve as a member and now as chairman of the Intelligence Committee, I have grown to rely on him and discovered that Mike's depth and breadth of intelligence knowledge are only surpassed in my opinion by his exacting eye for detail, his capacity to focus on the bigger picture and his ability to find middle ground when there doesn't seem to be any. While he is often quiet, Mike is always processing, turning the information over and over in his head, and offering a measured, thoughtful response to whatever the situation may be. Just as he has ably served the Speaker, he has become a trusted adviser for me as chairman and for our Intelligence Committee as well. So, today, to Mike, I say thank you for your service to your Nation and thank you for your capable counsel on all matters of intelligence. I wish you success as you retire with over 35 years of public service, and I hope that you find much happiness in all of your endeavors. God bless you, Mike.

Mr. REYES

Mr. REYES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the conference report accompanying H.R. 1, the American Recovery and Investment Act. This jobs creation package comes at a critical time for our nation as we face one of the greatest economic crises in our country's history. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate in my home state of Texas climbed from 4.2 percent in December 2007 to 6 percent in December 2008. The employment situation has grown worse in 2009 as major employers across the country continue to cut tens of thousands of jobs. These dire circumstances require swift and bold action by the Congress to create jobs, jumpstart growth, and transform our economy to compete in the 21st century. I support the American Recovery and Investment Act because it will help businesses create jobs and will allow families to afford their bills while laying a foundation for future economic growth in key areas like health care, clean energy, education, and infrastructure. This $789 billion compromise package will create or save 3.5 million jobs nationwide over the next two years. This comes down to an estimated 269,000 jobs in Texas and 7,600 jobs in my congressional district. The jobs created will be in a range of industries from education to healthcare, with over 90 percent in the private sector. The tax cuts in the legislation will place more money in American workers' wallets by providing direct tax relief to 95 percent of workers. This refundable tax credit of up to $400 per person or $800 per couple will provide much needed tax relief and help stimulate our economy. By offering an additional $100 per month in unemployment insurance benefits, this bill will help the 677,000 workers in Texas who have lost their jobs in this recession as well as provide extended unemployment benefits to an additional 125,000 laid-off Texas workers. I am particularly pleased that this legislative package will provide funding to modernize schools in Texas. According to preliminary estimates, El Paso-area school districts could receive tens of millions of dollars in funding for renovation projects, Title I grants to help disadvantaged children, and grants for special education. Our schools have been neglected for far too long and this important funding will ensure that our children have the labs, classrooms, and libraries that are necessary to learn and compete in a global economy. The legislation's huge investment in our nation's roads, bridges, and mass transit systems will greatly assist several projects in my district that have gone without necessary repairs and upgrades for years. By investing in these neglected projects we will create good jobs as well as make much needed improvements to our nation's infrastructure. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of this economic recovery bill that will help average Americans, as well as cash- strapped state and local governments, weather this current economic downturn.

Mr. REYES

Mr. REYES. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 2, the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) Reauthorization Act of 2009, as amended by the Senate. At this time, the reauthorization of SCHIP is critically important for the nation and particularly my district of El Paso, Texas, where over 20,000 children in El Paso County are enrolled in the program. My district has one of the highest rates of uninsured children in the country, and the current economic recession is making it even harder for many more families to afford health insurance. I am deeply troubled that Texas has the highest number of uninsured children in the United States. It is simply unacceptable to have one in five children in my state without health insurance, and this legislation will expand coverage for millions who are uninsured. The current economic recession is affecting many families across our nation. Recent studies estimate that for every one percent increase in our national unemployment rate, 1.1 million Americans lose health insurance and more than a million enroll in Medicaid and SCHIP. Having a large number of uninsured children in our communities places a tremendous financial burden on parents and local hospitals, as families are forced to send their children to the emergency room because they cannot afford a regular doctor's visit. For the families of the children in El Paso and throughout our country who rely on SCHIP for scheduled checkups, prescriptions, eyeglasses, this program is vitally important. The cost of health care is ever-rising, and reauthorizing SCHIP for the next four and a half years is an important first step in stemming the rising tide of the uninsured. Today's bill provides sufficient federal funds to help states maintain their current programs and extend coverage to four million additional uninsured low-income children. Many states may experience much higher enrollment in SCHIP than projected due to job loss and lower incomes, and many would be unable to support the higher demand without this relief. By reauthorizing this program, we help states meet increased demand for SCHIP-enrollment and prevent them from cutting back on the program just when families need it the most. The health and quality of life of our children must be a priority, and I firmly believe that this bill addresses the need to provide quality health care to our Nation's uninsured children especially in a time of economic recession. For this reason, I am proud to support this legislation, and I applaud President Obama and my colleagues in Congress for this a top priority.