Ileana Ros-Lehtinen

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to share some words written by Anne Vasquez about the tragic loss of a teen from my Miami high school: Shannon Melendi and I became fast friends. Tears still sting my eyes when I think of the final chapters of Shannon's short life. At 19, a sophomore at Emory, she disappeared on a Saturday afternoon lunch break from her job at a softball field in suburban Atlanta. The year was 1994. It would be another painful 12 years before the suspect confessed. Shannon's body was never found. No funeral, no official moment to mourn. The last 20 years have unfolded in surreal fashion. A smart 19-year-old with quick wit, the president of her high school senior class, an aspiring lawyer, a champion debater, the daughter of present and caring parents--it can happen to anyone, anywhere. Indeed. Thank you, Anne. Shannon, we'll always remember you.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Madam Speaker, there has been a lot of misinformation today about the Cuban Twitter program. This is not a secret program. Cuba democracy programs are public. Both USAID and State publicly put out requests for proposals from different NGOs or private businesses to administer and implement our Cuba democracy programs. The objective of these programs is to provide greater access to information to those suffering under the repressive regime. The Cuban dictatorship controls, censors, and blocks information going into the island to deny Cubans the ability to hear about world events or about the human rights violations occurring throughout the island in their very own country. The funds help provide technology-based training to get through--to cut through the censorship of the Castro brothers. Our goal is to stimulate new ideas to help the Cuban people tackle pressing issues such as human rights abuses. These new technology programs are also aimed at reaching out to the Cuban youth to share experiences and provide them with the tools to build their capacity for grassroots organizing to promote democracy, liberty, and freedom. The Cuban people deserve freedom.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to address the crisis in Ukraine, Putin's rising aggression and intransigence in the face of increased international opprobrium, and the failure of American leadership that has allowed these recent events to transpire. This is yet another example of Vladimir Putin looking at President Obama's foreign policy and making the calculation that he can do whatever he wants without fear that the White House will react with anything other than empty threats. We have seen this time and time again, so much so that the President's lead from behind policy has not only eroded our influence and credibility around the world, it has hurt our relations with other countries, and it has shown tyrants like Putin, Assad, Maduro, Kim Jung Un, Khamenei, and the Castros that the U.S. lacks the courage of its convictions. Putin has annexed Crimea, and we would be foolish to think that he will stop there as he seeks to reestablish Russia as more than just a regional power, and the Obama administration has misguidedly dismissed Putin and his provocations as those of a weakened Russia acting out. This is an astonishing view to take and one that could seriously harm our U.S. national security interests if we continue to downplay these threats. In 1994, the United States, along with Ukraine and Russia, signed the Budapest memorandum. In that agreement, all sides agreed to respect Ukraine's territorial sovereignty if Ukraine returned the nuclear weapons it inherited after the fall of the Soviet empire. We gave our guarantee to protect Ukraine's borders, a guarantee that we clearly did not keep. What kind of message is the United States sending to the world again? You can bet that Rouhani and Khamenei are sitting in Iran, and they are paying very close attention, Mr. Speaker. They are making the calculations right now, and they are betting that perhaps they will face no repercussions if they abandoned the negotiations and actively and openly pursue nuclear weapons. President Obama's lack of leadership and strength has shown that the umbrella of U.S. security that so many have relied upon is not as wide nor as durable as they once thought. The House and the Senate have acted to pass sanctions legislation against Putin over his actions in Crimea, but it is clear that Putin is not going to be deterred by this. It may be a case of too little, too late because the administration failed to take decisive action from the get-go, just like it had in Iran and Syria before this and just like it is now failing to do in Venezuela. While Obama threatens consequences for Putin over his Crimea provocations--and fails to act on these words--he hasn't even mustered up the fortitude to even feign strong condemnations for Maduro and his thugs in Venezuela, as they continue to brutally oppress the opposition in Venezuela, the opposition that is calling for reforms and democracy. Mr. Speaker, I have here a poster of Maria Corina Machado, a valiant human rights leader in Venezuela, and she is just one of the many victims of Maduro's thuggery. There have been 30 people killed as a result of Maduro's violent attempts to oppress dissent, while opposition leaders like Leopoldo Lopez have been unjustly detained over a month now in military prison, and Maria Corina Machado has been stripped of her seat in the national assembly, thus revoking her immunity, her protection, suggesting that Maduro and his goons will soon be coming to take her away to a military prison. Yet again, President Obama chooses to lead from behind. The administration has repeatedly said that we need to work with the Organization of American States to hold Maduro accountable, but that body is even more afraid to call out Maduro than this administration. Mr. Speaker, 5 years of failed foreign policy from this administration is really coming home to roost, and that means dire consequences for the American people, for the people of Venezuela, for the people of Ukraine, and for freedom-seeking people throughout the world. It is time for the administration to take an active role in foreign policy for the sake of American national security and for the sake of the future of democracy. It is time to quit this leading from behind. It is time to restore American leadership, and that is the only way to make the world a safer place.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the contributions of Dr. Bernardo ``Bernie'' Fernandez to medicine in south Florida. Dr. Fernandez will soon assume the post of CEO of Baptist Medical Health Group, and he is an accomplished doctor with a record of success as CEO of Cleveland Clinic Florida. His leadership in the field of medicine earned him the distinction of being named one of America's best doctors and the title of Fellow at the American College of Physicians and the Society for Vascular Medicine and Biology. Dr. Fernandez has given back to the south Florida community by actively participating in charitable groups and supporting our shared alma mater, the University of Miami. However, none of this is done in a vacuum and is only accomplished with the love and support of his wife, Rosy, and their children, Steven and Cristina. Again, I congratulate Bernie for his leadership, and I know that our south Florida community will continue to benefit from his more than 25 years of experience. Congratulations to Bernie.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, 35 years ago next week, on April 10, 1979, the Taiwan Relations Act (TRA) codified America's commitment to our democratic ally Taiwan. Since then, this watershed legislation has served as an anchor for peace and security in the Western Pacific region and the cornerstone of close defense, economic, and cultural relations between our peoples. The TRA serves the interests of both of our nations by fostering United States power in the Pacific and allowing the people of Taiwan to sustain a peaceful, democratic, and prosperous way of life by mandating the availability of necessary U.S. defense articles and materials to enable a sufficient Taiwanese self- defense capability to counter Chinese aggression. In 1979, there was much consternation in Washington that American security and economic interests in Taiwan would be neglected by President Carter's unjust decision to recognize the People's Republic of China and derecognize the Republic of China (Taiwan). The TRA was enacted to address these concerns and its guidelines now govern, in the absence of diplomatic relations, nearly every facet of U.S. relations with Taiwan. In the face of a hostile military posture by China, the new law helped level the defense capabilities across the Strait so that Taiwan's future could be determined by peaceful means. China's rapidly increasing defense budget and provocations in the East and South China Seas are evidence of China's regional hegemonic ambitions. In order to counter and preserve the Taiwanese people's ability to determine their own future, we must reaffirm, clarify, and strengthen relations with our democratic ally and friend Taiwan. That is why I was proud to introduce, with my colleagues, the co-chairs of the Congressional Taiwan Caucus, Representatives Mario Diaz-Balart, John Carter, Albio Sires, Gerald Connolly, the Taiwan Policy Act (TPA), which seeks to accomplish these goals. If enacted, the TPA would codify that it is U.S. policy to support the people of Taiwan, their democracy and human rights, and that Taiwan's future must be determined peacefully and with the Taiwanese people's assent. The bill would reaffirm the continuation of longstanding policies established within the TRA and by the Six Assurances of 1982. It would strengthen our ally's ability to defend itself against Chinese aggression by advancing the sale or transfer of necessary defense articles like F-16 C/D fighter aircraft, Perry class guided missile frigates, as well as other air and air defense, maritime, and ground capabilities. It would help Taiwan build its capacity to partner with other friendly foreign militaries in matters of intelligence, communications, and training and further economic ties by promoting bilateral investment and tax agreements with the ultimate goal of a Free Trade Agreement. The TPA would also encourage visits by cabinet-level and other high-level officials and support meaningful participation in international organizations like the World Health Assembly, the International Civil Aviation Organization, and United Nations entities. The TRA serves as an enduring reminder of the extent to which Taiwan and the United States share a common commitment to freedom and a government elected by the people and for the people. As we celebrate the 35th anniversary of the TRA, there is no better time to recommit to the people of Taiwan and reaffirm that the United States will ensure the flame of liberty continues to burn brightly in the face of Chinese aggression.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, the United States must stand in solidarity with human rights in Venezuela and against the repressive actions of Maduro. Since protest began almost 2 months ago, there have been nearly 40 killed at the hands of this brutal regime. At the Organization of American States here in Washington, DC, opposition leader Maria Corina Machado was prevented from speaking the truth about the democracy crisis in Venezuela. And as a result of her appearance at the OAS, Maduro's top henchman, Diosdado Cabello, stripped her of her position in the Venezuelan legislature. The highest kangaroo court backed this attempt to silence dissent, proving that it, too, is nothing more than a political tool used by Maduro to attack the opposition. Today, Maria Corina, joined by thousands of supporters of democracy, marched to protest this politically motivated act, but were met with tear gas from Maduro's security thugs. These actions must not go unpunished. It is shameful that the Obama administration continues to neglect the suffering of the Venezuelan people. The time to sanction human rights violators in Venezuela is now.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize Roxcy O'Neal Bolton, a pioneer and champion for the rights of women and an honored constituent in my south Florida congressional district. Yet Roxcy is truly larger than life and belongs to our entire State as well as our Nation. This week she will be recognized as a Women of Character, Courage and Commitment Honoree by the National Women's History Project. This accolade is a well-deserved acknowledgment of her efforts to lead American women out from lifetimes as second-class citizens into an era of far greater equality between the genders, all while being a committed wife and mother. Just as she did in her home life, Roxcy demanded equal respect in the workplace. From equal opportunity to equal pay, she knew that if women banded together, we were going to make a difference. In 1972, she founded Women in Distress, the first women's rescue shelter in Florida to provide emergency housing, rescue services, and care to women who found themselves in situations of personal crisis. Roxcy was also a fighter on behalf of abused women. At that time, no one talked about rape, much less did anything about alleviating the horrendous trauma that the victim undergoes. Brave crime victims who actually reported their rapes were often treated callously. Roxcy used her amazing presence, her force of will and characteristic personality as aggressive tools for positive change. As an outspoken woman, she made waves on these topics, and by 1974, her efforts facilitated the creation of the first rape treatment center in the country located in my regional congressional district at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami. In 1993, this center was proudly renamed after Roxcy. She is also known for organizing Florida's first crime watch to help curb crime against women. For all of these efforts and more, Roxcy has been the recipient of numerous civic awards related to her work. That includes the prestigious induction into the Florida Women's Hall of Fame in 1984 for forcing police and prosecutors to make rape crime a priority, as well as illustrating to health departments the need for rape treatment centers. She is a true champion for womankind. Her legacy as a champion for human rights, an end to sexual discrimination in employment and education, as well as in preserving and recognizing women's role in history will forever be remembered. I am proud to have Roxcy O'Neal Bolton in my congressional district. As Roxcy would certainly say, the struggle for women's equality issues is far from over. Yet, with her example, I am confident that we will continue to push ahead and positively change the future for our daughters and granddaughters. So, again, Roxcy, congratulations on being honored as a National Women's History Project 2014 Women of Character, Courage and Commitment. You have given countless girls and women the ability to pursue their full potential. Congratulations to Roxcy, and may you keep fighting for many years still.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate the College of Engineering and Computing at my alma mater, Florida International University, known as FIU, on its 30th anniversary of proven excellence in producing high-quality graduates. The college was established with one mission in mind: to provide public access education to those interested in these fields and to serve as an instrument for economic development in our vibrant south Florida community. They have accomplished that and much more. From using nanotechnology to improve human health to building superior bridges, people's lives across the country are impacted each and every day in a positive way through FIU's STEM graduates. FIU has also created many programs to encourage young students to pursue careers in STEM fields. Their latest innovative approach was to create an Accelerated Technology Magnet Program that would prepare low- income high school students for employment and educational options in computer science and information technology. I am certain FIU will continue to lead and produce more skilled professionals in these fields. Go, FIU. Go, Golden Panthers.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise tonight to congratulate a dear friend and an incredibly kind and compassionate woman, Jana Falic, the president of Women's International Zionist Organization, WIZO, U.S.A. This Wednesday, March 26, Jana will be honored at this year's annual WIZO Gala with the prestigious Joseph Handleman Light of Philanthropy Award for her outstanding contributions to securing Israel's future. Through her time, effort, and generosity, Jana has helped WIZO secure the needs of vulnerable Israelis through assistance, education, and empowerment so that they too can realize the hope of a better tomorrow. Her philanthropic endeavors are motivated by her deep affection for the democratic Jewish State of Israel and have helped improve the lives of so many children, women, and elderly Israelis. I can't think of anyone more deserving of this award than Jana Falic, and I only regret that I cannot be there in person to congratulate this good friend of Israel, this good friend of the United States. Congratulations, Jana.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, due to National Women's History Month every March, we celebrate the tremendous contributions of women who have helped make this Nation the greatest on Earth. But when thinking about our amazing female forebearers, what becomes clear is that their primary mission was one of education. Education is the key in getting girls and boys, women and men to believe in themselves, to have the confidence and know-how to use their individual, God-given abilities to better their own lives and improve the condition of our communities. As we celebrate the wonderful legacy that our American heroines have left across the United States, let's not forget that the mission of education is not yet finished. As a former Florida certified teacher, Mr. Speaker, I have witnessed the transformational impact that education can have. Let's follow the lead of great women that we are honoring this month, and let's continue working together to make a quality education a reality for all, both here in our great Nation and around the world.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a great sense of urgency over the critical need to have more Customs and Border Protection officers at Miami International Airport, known as MIA. MIA, which I humbly represent, is not only the busiest airport in the State of Florida, but it is also the second largest international gateway in the Nation. In fact, international passenger traffic at MIA has steadily grown over the last few years far more than any other U.S. international gateway. However, the insufficient Customs and Border Protection officers, known as CBP, staffing levels at MIA pose a threat to this welcome growth of travel and tourism into our country. Passengers are experiencing long wait times for immigration and customs processing. For example, just a few days ago, last Wednesday, the 7,681 passengers who arrived at the Federal Inspection Service at MIA's North Terminal were held in line for more than 2 hours. Out of the 72 lanes available to assist passengers, only 20 were open. And there is only one simple explanation for this problem. CBP staffing does not meet the numbers needed for the safe and efficient processing of passengers and cargo going through our airport. As time passes by, this endemic problem has only proven to deteriorate. The Miami-Dade congressional delegation and MIA officials have long been focused on how to fix this problem while ensuring a safe and seamless travel experience for our local residents and our many, many visitors. Earlier this week, I wrote a letter to Secretary Johnson of the Department of Homeland Security asking for his immediate action on alleviating the ongoing shortage of CBP officers, a deficiency that sets back efforts to make Florida competitive; and it hurts our travel and tourism, two vital engines to our Nation's economy. The entire Miami-Dade congressional delegation, including our Senators, is united on this bipartisan, bicameral effort. With a strategic location to handle connections between the Americas and Europe, MIA serves as the doorstep to the United States. In 2013, a record 40 million passengers passed through MIA's doors as they made their way to their final destinations. These people come to our port of entry either to visit south Florida or to make connections to other national and international destinations. We need to welcome them with the world-class airport that MIA can be and not with long lines, hassles, and congestion. Under the leadership of Dr. Emilio Gonzalez, the director of the Miami-Dade Aviation Department, MIA has taken a number of steps to ease the lack of CBP officers. How have they done this? Installing automated passport control self-serve kiosks; also, increasing the Miami-Dade Aviation Department staffing, participating in a reimbursable fee agreement pilot program approved by Congress which allows for needed overtime, and by closing certain gateways in order to concentrate CBP officers in appropriate areas. However, despite MIA's innovative approach, CBP's insufficient staffing levels continue to pose serious challenges to the airport's daily operations. With the growing number of passengers arriving or transitioning through MIA and with the World Cup in Brazil approaching, MIA will have an even busier summer. We need to be prepared. And that is why we ask for Secretary Johnson's assistance in providing much- needed CBP staffing and to remember that MIA's success is our Nation's success. Mr. Speaker, I cannot stress enough the pressing need for Federal staffing at MIA, which will only allow for a further streamlining of long lines and will also help in the reduction of wait times for visitors and for residents, alike.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, Amos Rojas, Jr., was sworn in yesterday as the U.S. Marshal for our southern district of Florida. A consummate public servant, Marshal Rojas served 24 years of his career with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, including 8 years as a special agent in charge of the Miami region's operations center. Marshal Rojas was most recently deputy director of the South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force within the Miami-Dade County State Attorney's Office. The U.S. Marshal Service traces its roots back to the Judiciary Act of 1789 under President George Washington and has played many important roles throughout our Nation's history. I am proud to see Marshal Rojas join this elite and storied law enforcement agency. Congratulations, again, to south Florida's new top cop.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, as dean of the Florida delegation, it is my pleasure to welcome the newest Member of this proud body, Congressman David Jolly. Today is a significant progression for David, from staffer to elected Representative; a progression beginning from his many years working for his community as a staffer for our esteemed late colleague, Congressman Bill Young. I am confident that David has returned to these Halls to ensure that Bill's legacy is carried on, one of extraordinary constituent service, as well as his unwavering respect and civility for all of us in this Chamber. I also know that David will, in his own words, ``bring his own deep desire and drive to get things done for this country.'' David is a fifth-generation Floridian, and is joined in the gallery today by his rightfully proud parents and family to mark this momentous occasion. I am certain that he will work hard to maintain that sentiment with each of them, as well as his constituents in Pinellas County. He is a welcomed addition to our Florida delegation familia--a fresh and strong voice for our Sunshine State and our great Nation. Before I yield to my distinguished colleague, Corrine Brown, let me also say that just like you, David, I, too, won a special election to fill the seat of a legend of this institution, so believe me when I say that having big shoes to fill should be seen as both an exceptional honor as well as an exceptional opportunity. Congratulations, and welcome from all of us. I yield to the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Brown).

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the gentleman from Florida, the Honorable David W. Jolly, be permitted to take the oath of office today. His certificate of election has not arrived, but there is no contest and no question has been raised with regard to his election.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, every day, teachers across our Nation reach into their own pockets to pay for classroom supplies like books, software, and pencils, without ever being reimbursed by their schools; and since 2002, teachers could at least count on a $250 above-the-line tax deduction to help defray the cost of these purchases. But at the end of last year, this tax deduction was allowed to expire, meaning that teachers are not able to claim it on their individual returns this tax season or count on it next year, as they continue to purchase supplies for their classrooms and their students. The REPAY Supplies Act, introduced by Carol Shea-Porter and cosponsored by more than 50 of our colleagues from both parties, aims to fix this problem and make the educator expense deduction permanent. Ms. Shea-Porter and I were disappointed to learn that this modest deduction was not included in the recent tax reform proposals, and we will send a letter in the coming days to ask that a hearing on the REPAY Supplies Act be held as soon as possible. I hope that my colleagues will join us in signing this letter to the Ways and Means Committee and give teachers the opportunity to testify before Congress about the impact the deduction has had on their checkbooks and on their classrooms. Mr. Speaker, I am a former Florida-certified teacher, and I know how important it is that students come to school prepared and ready to learn; but without the basic supplies needed to take part in lessons, students are put at a disadvantage in the classroom, forced to rely on outdated materials and without essential learning tools, and too often, teachers go into their own pockets to make up the difference. For many educators, teaching is more than a full-time job. They arrive at the school while many of us are still getting ready for work. They stay late into the evening. They prepare lesson plans, grade papers, and deal with parents and grandparents, like us, who can admittedly be a handful when guaranteeing that their child is receiving the best education possible. Teachers care deeply about their students and are often willing to sacrifice personal needs in order to provide them with the best learning experience possible. According to the latest status of the American public school teacher report by the National Education Association, educators are spending approximately $477 per year on basic school supplies for their students and their classrooms. Mr. Speaker, we all want the best for our children. We work hard every day in this Congress to make sure that our children have a bright future; and education, we know, is a key to this success, an essential component of that brighter future that we are trying to create for the next generation. But it doesn't seem to make a whole lot of sense that we are hamstringing the very people we have entrusted with their education. Teachers are giving up their own time and money to help students learn and be engaged in school. The least we can do is to provide them with this modest $250 deduction to help mitigate the financial and personal sacrifices that they are already making. Every 2 years since 2002, Congress has come together in a bipartisan manner to extend this deduction on behalf of our country's educators. By making this tax deduction permanent, Congress can give teachers certainty that at least some of their purchases will be paid back, that it will improve access to essential learning materials, and that it will give our educators the recognition they deserve. I urge Members to join Ms. Shea-Porter and me in this fight, and I look forward to working with all of us to ensure that our Nation's teachers and our children have the education and the tools necessary to succeed.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize K9s for Warriors, a remarkable Florida organization that is providing therapeutic service dogs for veterans suffering from issues like posttraumatic stress disorder, PTSD. One in five of our heroes returning home from Iraq and Afghanistan have PTSD, a tragic epidemic that can disrupt the transition to civilian life and often causes the loss of hope, damage to family relationships, or harm to themselves and others. Since its inception, K9s for Warriors has provided over 100 therapy dogs to veterans, at no cost to the veterans, teaching, certifying, housing, and feeding each warrior as they learn to train the dog to address their specific disabilities and assist in mitigating posttraumatic stress. K9s for Warriors is not only healing invisible disorders and putting suffering veterans on the path to recovery, but it is also giving new hope to the heroes and their families who put their lives on the line to defend ours.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I recognize the hardworking women leaders who, throughout the years, have made instrumental contributions to the district I so humbly represent and to our entire South Florida community, in fact. On March 13th, the Miami-Dade County Commission for Women, the Parks Foundation of Miami-Dade, and the Miami-Dade Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Department will be hosting the ``In the Company of Women Awards'' in celebration of Women's History Month. This annual ceremony honors some of the exceptional women in our community in fields like arts, communications, government, and athletics. The honorees during this year's event will be: Valerie Riles, Wendy Kallergis, Jacqueline Menendez, Judy Brown, Honorable Migna Sanchez- Llorens, Alyce Robertson, Nilda Peragallo Montano, Marie-Elsie Dowell, and Angela Smith. In addition, Linda Robinson, the former Vice-Mayor of Palmetto Bay, a village I represent, will receive the Mayor's Pioneer Award. Constable Thelma Hardison will be bestowed with the Posthumous Award, and Marcia Fernandez-Morin will be presented with the Community Spirit Award. These 12 honorees will join the ranks of many outstanding women, including my late mother, Amanda Ros who was honored during the third annual ``In the Company of Women'' celebration. As a fellow recipient of this award also, I am pleased that the great passion and dedication of these women leaders will be recognized, and it will inspire them to do even better work. Their many accomplishments are an example of what women everywhere can strive to attain. Congratulations to each award winner.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, as we stand here today in this chamber as Members of the People's House sworn to support and defend the Constitution of the United States and the ideals enshrined therein-- freedom and democracy--it would only be fitting that we honor the life and legacy of a man who embodied those ideals. Authorizing a bust of Vaclav Havel to be forever memorialized in these hallowed halls of the United States Capitol alongside some of the world's greatest voices for freedom, equal rights, and human dignity would be an apropos testament to a man who was a tireless advocate for liberty, human rights and for the right of self-determination for the people of Czechoslovakia. It was Vaclav's unwavering commitment to his country and to democracy that inspired generations to rise up and break free from decades of communist rule. But the fervor for which he opposed ruthless dictators wasn't limited to just Eastern Europe, but to wherever they may be. His support of the people of my homeland, Cuba, meant a great deal and revealed Vaclav's true nature. Vaclav advocated for the rights, dignity, and liberation of the Cuban people and created the International Committee for Democracy in Cuba in order to increase the visibility of the plight of the Cuban people and generate global support for freedom and democracy on the island. I was honored to have authored the House Resolution in 2012 that celebrated the life and legacy of Vaclav Havel after his passing, and I stand here today to express my utmost support for H. Res. 506. Every time we will see his bust in the Capitol will serve as a reminder that we must never give up the struggle against tyranny and oppression--and that is how we will forever honor the memory of Vaclav Havel.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate Brain Science Awareness Week and to highlight amazing advances made by south Florida's neuroscience community to unravel the mysteries of the mind. At the University of Miami's Miller School of Medicine, research is yielding new insights for the treatment of devastating neurological disease, like Alzheimer's. My mother died from complications of Alzheimer's, so I know how terrible this disorder is. Investigators at The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis are translating progress into hope for understanding traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries that are impacting thousands of our bravest warriors returning home from Afghanistan and Iraq. On Saturday, March 22, scientists will introduce students to the wonders of the human brain at the Miami Brain Science Fair in hopes of inspiring young people to pursue the educational and professional fields that will fuel the next significant scientific discoveries.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, last week people across the Nation and in 51 other countries around the world came together to raise awareness about eating disorders. It was National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, a time not only to learn the facts but also to give people the knowledge and the resources to treat and prevent eating disorders. Most people know that eating disorders are common in our country. They may even know about them through experience, whether through a friend, a family member, or perhaps they suffered or continue to struggle with one personally. What is actually not known is how prevalent they are, the reasons why they occur, and what we can do to prevent these tragic illnesses. According to the Eating Disorders Coalition, eating disorders impact at least 14 million Americans and are so common that 1 to 2 out of every 100 children in America have one. Although eating disorders affect both men and women, the young and the old, and all the races and economic classes, we know that they are seven times more likely to impact women. In fact, 1 in 200 American women suffers from anorexia, and 2 to 3 in 100 women suffer from bulimia, the two most common eating disorders. Distinguished by an obsession with thinness and fear of weight gain, anorexia usually results in extreme weight loss because of restricted eating habits. Bulimia is similar in that those suffering also have an obsession with weight and body image. However, while anorexics restrict their food consumption, bulimics instead purge their food after binge eating. Both anorexia and bulimia can cause heart problems, brain damage, osteoporosis, and even death. Anorexia has the highest mortality rate of any mental illness, and those suffering from it are 57 more times likely to die of suicide relative to their peers. Many people are also not aware that they can be genetically predisposed to an eating disorder. As reported by the Eating Disorders Coalition, 50 to 80 percent of the factors determining who develops an eating disorder is based on a person's genes. However, just possessing one of those genes does not automatically result in an eating disorder. Other factors like peer pressure and false advertising can be the ultimate contributors. More and more academic evidence, as well as a study by the American Medical Association, has linked eating disorders with unrealistic body images found in advertising. By the time our children reach 17 years of age, they will have been exposed to over 250,000 television commercials depicting unrealistic body sizes. Too often, this exposure, combined with other factors like predisposition, feelings of inadequacy, societal pressures, and competition, depression, or anxiety can lead to an eating disorder. The kinds of altered or photoshopped images found in our media today can cause unrealistic expectations of what the body is supposed to look like, causing emotional, mental, and physical health issues, and often resulting in an eating disorder. That is why I plan to offer legislation to look at how advertising can more closely resemble the true human form while making sure that artistic expression and the freedom of media outlets is not restricted. If enacted into law, this bill would have the Federal Trade Commission work with stakeholders like the Eating Disorders Coalition and other experts across our Nation to study the serious impact of advertising that promotes unrealistic body image expectations, and then report back to Congress on how to best stop the destructive impact of this practice. Together, Congress can have a positive impact on the tragic epidemic of eating disorders. I look forward to working with my colleagues to bring this important legislation to the floor soon.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I recognize the hardworking women leaders who, throughout the years, have made instrumental contributions to the district I so humbly represent and to our entire south Florida community, in fact. On March 13, the Miami-Dade County Commission for Women, the Parks Foundation of Miami-Dade, and the Miami-Dade Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Department will be hosting the In the Company of Women Awards in celebration of Women's History Month. This annual celebration honors some of the exceptional women in our community in fields like the arts, communications, government, and athletics. The 12 honorees this year will join the ranks of many outstanding women, including my late mother, Amanda Ros, who was honored during their third annual In the Company of Women celebration. As a fellow recipient of this award also, I am pleased that the great passion and dedication of these women leaders will be recognized, and it will inspire them to do even better work. Their many accomplishments are an example of what women everywhere can strive to attain. Congratulations to each award winner.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, we will finally vote on the Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act. Times are still tough for many hard-working families. Federal agencies like FEMA should not be in the business of making things tougher. Yet that is exactly what FEMA's callous and impractical administration of the National Flood Insurance Program is doing. Homeowners in south Florida, and throughout our Nation, cannot afford the astronomically increased insurance premiums forced on them by FEMA. Without action to correct this agency's abuse, many family budgets that are already at the breaking point will fall apart. Although I support passage of this vital bill today to protect our families and the American Dream of homeownership, we absolutely must do more to help bring premiums down.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution (H. Res. 488) supporting the people of Venezuela as they protest peacefully for democratic change and calling to end the violence, as amended.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and to include extraneous material on this measure.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, H. Res. 488 signals U.S. support for the people of Venezuela as they protest peacefully for democracy in the face of Nicolas Maduro's violent repression and his crackdown on those who express their opposition to his regime's failed policies. We must take a clear stand because the Maduro regime has responded in a deeply undemocratic manner by forcibly repressing protesters, attempting to silence critics by blocking media outlets, and even authorizing the arrests of key opposition leaders such as Leopoldo Lopez. As protests have swelled throughout the country, the actions of regime forces have led to the deaths of at least 15 and to the unjust detention of more than 100 freedom seekers. It is incumbent upon the Organization of American States, the OAS, to act according to the principles of its Inter-American Democratic Charter and address this crisis of democracy. Yet recent history has shown us that the Secretary General of the OAS will not lead the way in this important effort. Thus, in the absence of his leadership, responsible nations in the hemisphere must act. They cannot remain silent. The Panamanians have stepped up to the plate. They have proposed a ministerial meeting at the OAS, but regrettably, Mr. Speaker, that proposal has not moved forward. This resolution will send a clear message to the OAS and to Nicolas Maduro that the United States condemns these undemocratic actions. We see the plight of the people of Venezuela, and we stand on their side in the struggle for democratic change. We stand together with the Women for Life, Mujeres por la Vida, who march clad in white through the streets of Venezuela peacefully, like their companions in the struggle for freedom in Cuba--Las Damas de Blanco, the Ladies in White. We stand with the students who take to the streets demanding the release of their fellow students who have been unjustly detained, only to be met with the clubs and the teargas of Maduro's henchmen. And we stand together, Mr. Speaker, united with the people of Venezuela who wish to cast the yoke of repression and oppression and the influence of the Castro regime, which has been more than eager to help Maduro silence the oppression in Venezuela because it fears that the movement will sweep over the island of Cuba. We must stand together and support those who seek freedom: freedom of expression, freedom of assembly, and the freedom from government abuse and government oppression. We must speak with a unified voice, Mr. Speaker, about the crisis of democracy in Venezuela and stand in solidarity with the Venezuelan people in their spirited struggle. But in the face of a determined autocrat who disregards expectations of right conduct and who is willing to use violence to impose his will on free citizens, well, Mr. Speaker, words are just not nearly enough. We must act, and we must act now. We must support those who are pleading for respect for democratic principles and for human rights in Venezuela. I want to thank the chairman of our important committee, Chairman Royce, and my good friend, also, Ranking Member Eliot Engel, for getting this measure to the floor so quickly. I also want to thank their exceptional staff. I want to thank Congressmen Albio Sires and Mario Diaz-Balart, who have supported this resolution from the very beginning. Mr. Speaker, we have worked closely together in a bipartisan and a bicameral way, including with the State Department, to ensure that this is a strong, bipartisan resolution, and I urge my colleagues to support it. With that, Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.