Lucille Roybal-Allard

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor that I join my colleagues of the Congressional Asian Pacific Caucus in recognizing the month of May as Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. This year's theme, ``Celebrating Our Legacy,'' commemorates the contributions Americans of Asian and Pacific Islander descent have made to our country. What better place than our nation's Capitol to highlight the historical legacy of Asian and Pacific Islander Americans. Their contributions, which have enriched our American society and strengthened its core values, are vast and varied. This evening I would like to focus on their valiant efforts to protect our nation. There is no better example of the critical role Asian Pacific Islanders played in defense of our country than during World War II. Although their families and friends were forcibly being moved out of their homes and put into internment camps encircled by barbed wire, Japanese American men insisted on being allowed to fight for their country. This resulted in the formation of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team. Among the 442nd,s many heroes is Sadao Munemori from Los Angeles. Mr. Munemori received the Congressional Medal of Honor posthumously for saving the lives of his fellow soldiers while sacrificing his own. In Europe, on April 5, 1945, Mr. Munemori led the attack against the last stronghold of Hitler's army in Italy. Thrust into command when his squad leader was wounded, Munemori attacked two German machine gun nests that had pinned down his squad in a minefield. After withdrawing due to heavy enemy fire, Munemori took refuge in a shell crater already occupied by two of his men. When an unexploded hand grenade bounced off his helmet and rolled toward his companions, Munemori jumped on it, absorbing the blast. In the South Pacific, Filipino American soldiers fought along side American soldiers in some of the bloodiest battles of the war. For almost four years, during the most intense and strategically important phases of World War II, more than 200,000 Filipinos fought side-by-side with Allied forces and willingly sacrificed their lives and well-being in defense of freedom. By holding off the enemy at the Battle of Corregidor for six months, these Filipino American veterans enabled forces to mobilize back home. Moreover, many Filipino American soldiers lost their lives as POW's during the Bataan Death March, demonstrating their ultimate loyalty to our country. These courageous men won the freedom of the Filipino people and made a tremendous impact on our ability to prevail in the Pacific Theater. There are many more unsung heroes like Mr. Munemori and the Filipino veterans. And it is their legacy that we celebrate during the month of May. Generations of Asian Americans have given us their culture, traditions, and values and greatly enriched American society. I ask all my colleagues to join us in expressing our heartfelt appreciation to all Americans of Asian and Pacific Islander descent for their contributions to our country.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to the rule and in opposition to what I see as the irresponsibility of the Republican leadership in addressing domestic and international emergencies. We want to send a strong message of support for our troops in Kosovo today, and I hope that we will. But the Republican leadership has a consistently poor record of leadership when it comes to providing emergency assistance to those in need. During the last 2 years, Republicans have politicized emergency appropriations bills and delayed, sometimes for months, getting needed assistance to our farmers in California and North Dakota who have experienced disasters. We all remember that in 1997, when the Republican leadership sent the House home for the Memorial Day recess while North Dakotans flooded out of their homes waited for relief. Today, emergency assistance for our farmers and for critical Central America has waited for months while Republicans use the Kosovo supplemental appropriations bill as a vehicle for their political agenda. Mr. Speaker, these are the faces and this is the tragedy of what is happening in Central America. But 6 months has passed since Hurricane Mitch killed more than 9,000 people in Central America in the worst disaster in 200 years. Thousands more are missing, and tens of thousands have been left homeless. $5.3 billion in damage to this region has wiped away 50 years of progress and returned the region to the level of development it had in the beginning of the century. Yet the Republicans continue to turn their backs on this tragedy in our own hemisphere. The emergency supplemental is critical to the reconstruction of this region. If emergency aid is not received soon, it will lead to the political instability of the region and cause mass migration towards the United States. Responsible leadership means support for our troops, and it means helping our farmers in need. But responsible leadership also means that we must help those in the backyard of our own hemisphere. I support the Obey amendment as a common-sense approach to balancing the many emergency needs that require our attention. The Republican leadership must stop playing political games while American farmers and our troops and our neighbors in Central America continue to suffer.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to this bill. I would gladly vote for H.R. 833 if it were a ``balanced and sensible'' bankruptcy reform bill. Unfortunately, H.R. 833 fails to include reasonable consumer protections. Because the closed rule prevented Mr. Delahunt, Mr. Watt, Mr. LaFalce and I from offering an amendment to ensure that the credit industry assumes its responsibility for the dramatic rise in consumer debt this bill allows misleading and coercive practices to continue. My staff collected credit card solicitations they receive in the mail. In a matter of weeks, we amassed dozens of solicitations, offering free cookbooks, calling cards, sweatshirts, and frequent flyer miles. All promoted low teaser rates in giant print. But you need a magnifying glass to see the permanent rate, which can jump to 25%. With these aggressive marketing techniques, fundamental bankruptcy reform must include reasonable consumer protections. Without them, H.R. 833 is a lost opportunity for this House. I urge my colleagues to oppose the bill.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to observe one of the most tragic events in our history, the Armenian Genocide, which took place during the final years of the Ottoman Empire. Each year on April 24th, the Armenian community, along with their friends and supporters around the world gather in remembrance of the 1.5 million Armenians who lost their lives. The facts on the Armenian genocide are well documented. By the direction of the Ottoman Government, thousands of Armenian citizens were ruthlessly killed in their eastern Anatolian villages. Hundreds of thousands more were forcibly deported to Syria and then marched into the desert and abandoned without water, food, or shelter. This tragedy of history has left deep scars in the hearts and minds of its survivors and their descendants. In remembrance of one of the twentieth century's darkest chapters, we must make a commitment to ourselves and to our children that such atrocities will not be allowed to repeat themselves ever again. Following the war, hundreds of displaced Armenians came to the United States to rebuild their shattered lives. Their contribution, as well as that of their descendants, has greatly enriched American society. It is my hope that the memories of the past will serve to remind us of the importance of tolerance and respect for the diversity of our people.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, a fair and accurate census is in the best interests of our Nation. I therefore rise in opposition to the rule and to H.R. 472. H.R. 472 is nothing more than an unnecessary delaying tactic to prevent the Census Bureau from using modern statistical methods, methods that the National Academy of Sciences and the National Academy of Statisticians have said are necessary to obtain an accurate count of the American people. We must not let H.R. 472 repeat the mistakes of the past. The stakes are simply too high. In California, for example, as a result of the 1990 undercount, 835,000 Californians essentially became invisible. Half of those missed were Latinos, and tragically, over 40 percent were children. Due to this undercount, the hardworking people of California lost $2.2 billion in Federal funds for transportation, schools, housing, health services, and valuable programs over the past 10 years. Mr. Speaker, counting every American is an issue of social justice. My Republican colleagues must put the interest of the country first and stop trying to micromanage the census. Let the experts at the Census Bureau do their job to ensure an accurate 2000 census. I ask my colleagues to defeat the rule and H.R. 472. Announcement by the Speaker pro tempore

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, as one of the original six cosponsors, I come to the floor in strong support of House Resolution 110. I wish to congratulate the Salvadoran people and President-elect Francisco Guillermo Florez Perez and Vice President-elect Carlos Quintanilla Schmidt on the free and fair conduct of the Presidential elections of March 7, 1999. Since the signing of the 1992 peace accords, the Republic of El Salvador has conducted two democratic elections for President and Vice President. The peaceful and orderly manner in which these elections have been carried out, with the participation of ten parties representing the entire political spectrum, is proof of El Salvador's commitment to democracy, national reconciliation and reconstruction. Specifically, it demonstrates their ability to implement the provisions of the 1992 peace accords. The United States must continue to support the efforts of the people of El Salvador to ensure political stability and the strengthening of the democratic process. This progress however is being threatened in the wake of Hurricane Mitch. It is paramount that the United States take the lead in helping the region recover from the devastation of the hurricane. If it does not, we risk the unraveling of a fragile democracy and a return to the political instability that the region experienced for decades and threatened our national interests.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, one of the priorities of the Clinton administration and congressional Democrats is improving education. Democrats recognize that the future of this country depends upon ensuring that all American children receive a high quality education that prepares them for the jobs of the 21st century. Democrats believe that every public school must be a place where facilities are up to date and in good repair, where classrooms are not overcrowded, where the environment is safe and drug-free, where students have adequate textbooks and computers, and where teachers are well-qualified. This is why Democrats are once again promoting an aggressive, comprehensive agenda to strengthen and improve our Nation's public schools. This evening, I would like to highlight a key component of the 1999 Democratic education agenda, the school modernization initiative. This initiative will help address the tragic conditions of overcrowded and crumbling American schools. Sadly, Mr. Speaker, thousands of our public school children are trying to learn in schools that are overcrowded and in desperate need of repair. This problem is exacerbated by the fact that our country has the highest number of students in our history and enrollment will continue to grow at a considerable rate for at least the next decade. In order to keep pace with this growth, the Department of Education has estimated that we need to build 6,000 new schools over the next 10 years just to maintain current class size. This crisis is compounded by the fact that in addition to our overcrowded schools, many of our existing schools are in desperate need of repair. According to a 1998 report by the American Society of Civil Engineers, American schools are in worse shape than any other part of our Nation's infrastructure, including our roads, our bridges and our mass transit. Moreover, in 1995, the nonpartisan General Accounting Office, in an in- depth study on the condition of the Nation's public elementary and secondary schools, found that 60 percent of our schools in all regions of the countries are in desperate need of repair. Thirty-eight percent of our urban schools, 30 percent of our rural schools and 29 percent of suburban schools have at least one building in need of a new roof, a new plumbing system, a new floor or a new electrical system. In addition, 58 percent of our Nation's schools face serious environmental problems, such as ventilation, heating, air conditioning and lighting problems, along with environmental hazards such as asbestos, lead in the water and lead-based paint and Radon. These conditions are dangerous and unacceptable. Leaky roofs, buildings in despair and overcrowded classrooms are not merely annoyances or inconveniences. They are barriers to learning. This is substantiated by study after study that has produced strong evidence of the link between academic achievement and the condition of our schools. Students who attend class in clean, safe buildings not only do better academically, they also receive a far more positive message about their self worth than students who must attend run-down and overcrowded schools. That is why President Clinton and the Democrats in Congress have a responsible and realistic blueprint for improving our schools. In order to help States and localities address this critical issue, the President has again included his school modernization initiative in his budget proposal for this year. Democrats in the House and Senate support this much needed proposal and have included it in their family first agenda. Mr. Speaker, this proposal creates a Federal tax credit to finance the interest on bonds which States and local school districts can issue for school construction and repair. These bonds would generate $22 billion in funding to build and modernize our public schools while costing the Federal Government only 2 to $3 billion over the next five years. Mr. Speaker, this is not another program leading to federal control over local public schools. Instead under this legislation the Federal Government will be a partner with State and local governments. It will be States and localities that will determine their needs and decide when, where and even if they want to spend Federal funds to modernize their schools, and State and local participation in this program will be totally voluntary. Most importantly, local school districts around the country are in favor of this proposal. While it is true that historically States and local districts have shouldered the majority of the responsibility for our schools, this crisis is of such a magnitude, an estimated $12 billion nationally, that States simply cannot solve this problem alone. Mr. Speaker, this is a national crisis. The education of our children is not only critical to their personal growth, but to our country's ability to compete in the highly technical and global economy of the 21st century. Federal support is essential and in the best interests of our Nation. In closing I would like to give my colleagues an illustration of the severity of the problem. This is a picture of Balmont High School in Los Angeles, although it could be anywhere in this Nation. As my colleagues can see, the roof of this gymnasium has multiple leaks, and when it rains, they need to put garbage cans in order to collect the water so that the gym is not completely flooded. These are pictures of two other schools in Los Angeles, both with extensive water damage which has caused the ceiling tiles to fall off, leaving wiring and piping exposed. It is clearly not a safe environment in which our children can learn. Mr. Speaker, what message are we sending to our nation's children and their parents if Congress sits idle while our schools continue to fall apart? I urge my colleagues to support the democratic school modernization initiative. Mr. Speaker, I now yield the remainder of my time to my colleague from Texas (Mr. Hinojosa), a man who is a champion of education and the chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Task Force on Education and Training.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to join eleven of my colleagues in introducing the Consumer Credit Report Accuracy and Privacy Act of 1999. My bill gives every American the right to examine and correct their credit reports free of charge. The credit reporting industry affects the lives of virtually every working American. Information used in a credit report can affect the ability to obtain a job, credit card, insurance policy, or even a place to live. For this reason, it is imperative that the credit industry maintain accurate records on American consumers. In spite of the fact that the reporting of false delinquencies, errors in personal demographic information, and missing credit accounts all have the potential to result in the denial of credit, only six states (Colorado, Georgia, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Jersey and Vermont) offer consumers free credit reports on request. For the rest of the nation, most consumers cannot obtain a free credit report until after they have already been denied credit or suspect they are a victim of fraud. The fact that the three largest credit bureaus have 450 million files on individual consumers and process over 2 billion pieces of data every month presents a daunting challenge to maintain the most accurate records possible. Given these figures, the chance of acquiring inaccurate information is highly likely. In fact, some studies have shown that up to one third of credit reports could contain serious mistakes. It is important to note that the credit reporting industry gathers its information without the direct consent of American consumers, and in turn, uses this information for its own profit through the sales of reports to credit grantors, employers, insurance companies, and landlords. Consumers should have the right to know what is being said about them, especially if the information will affect their overall credit standing. My bill will also help to address the growing problem of identify theft. Increasingly, criminals are able to obtain personal credit reports and assume a consumer's credit identity. In the process, they are able to run up huge debts while ruining the unsuspecting victim's credit records. We could minimize this problem if consumers more regularly audited their own credit reports to find out who else has been looking at them. This bill has the endorsement of the nation's key consumer advocacy organizations, including U.S. Public Interest Research Group, Consumer Action, Community Reinvestment Committee, Consumer Federation of America, Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now, and the National Community Reinvestment Coalition. In closing, the Consumer Credit Report Accuracy and Privacy Act encourages consumers to be pro-active in reviewing and protecting their personal credit history from possible mistakes and fraud. My bill simply gives consumers the right to know what credit bureaus are saying about them without having to pay a fee for the privilege.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, on March 12, 1999, Hispanas Organized for Political Equality (HOPE) Education and Leadership Fund's Eighth Annual Symposium, entitled ``A Proud Past . . . A Powerful Tomorrow,'' will take place in the 33rd Congressional District. In honor of this important event, I am proclaiming March 12, 1999, as Latina History Day. The Symposium serves to address a variety of issues important to Latinas of all ages. I am pleased that Latinas benefit from the workshops on health, business opportunities, and cultural identity. This Symposium also includes Teen Track, which focuses on providing young Latinas with workshops on leadership and on establishing a path to success. Since its founding in 1989, the HOPE Education and Leadership Fund has remained dedicated to improving the educational, political and economic status of Latinas. HOPE has anchored itself by the principle that knowledge of the political process coupled with active participation will guarantee a more representative, democratic government. The proclamation of Latina History Day during ``Women's History Month'' memorializes the important role Latinas play in American society. Latinas are breaking glass ceilings and pioneering into areas our mothers never imagined. Latinas own businesses, are executives in our country's largest corporations, are being elected to public office and appointed to powerful positions. We recognize the work and sacrifices of our mothers and grandmothers, celebrate contemporary Latinas, and are building the foundation for future generations. I commend the HOPE Education and Leadership Fund for their commitment to Latinas, and in their honor, proclaim March 12, 1999, as Latina History Day.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to recognize the career of one of Los Angeles' leading public officials. After 35 years of public service, Mr. Keith Comrie is retiring as the City Administrative Officer for the City of Los Angeles. During his illustrious career, Mr. Comrie served both the City and the County of Los Angeles, making significant contributions to both governments. Mr. Comrie grew up in South-Central Los Angeles and first entered public service with the City of Los Angeles in 1963, after earning a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a Masters in Public Administration from the University of Southern California. He moved to the County government in 1969 where he rose to become the Director of the Department of Public Social Services receiving statewide recognition from Governor Ronald Reagan for saving County taxpayers $120 million per year and for making the welfare system one of the most responsive and efficient in the state. In 1979, Mr. Comrie returned to the City of Los Angeles at the request of Mayor Tom Bradley to serve as the City Administrative Officer. He has served in that position for 19 years, including one year as interim Administrator of the $200 million Community Redevelopment Agency. During Mr. Comrie's tenure of service, the City of Los Angeles has seen its economic base expand to keep pace with population increases that have made it not only the second largest city in the nation but a city of world class status. Today, Mr. Comrie can look with pride at his role in successfully steering the City through the recession of the early 1990's with balanced budgets. During this time, he helped maintain the City's position as one of the best managed cities in the nation. Additionally, he played a key role in most of the major developments in the City, including such landmark projects as the renovated Central Library, the Los Angeles Convention Center, and the Staples Center Arena. He also played a central role in rebuilding the City after the 1994 Northridge Earthquake and oversaw over $3 billion in capital improvement projects such as libraries, fire and police facilities, and sewer system reconstruction. Many of these projects are in my Congressional District, which includes much of the central business district of the City of Los Angeles. Therefore, I can attest to the significance of these projects, many of which were started under Mr. Comrie's watch. Mr. Comrie oversaw a staff of more than 100 and worked with over 30 council members during the terms of two mayors. Mr. Comrie's accomplishments on behalf of the City of Los Angeles have been recognized by his peers. Of his many prestigious awards, he is very proud of being named the ``Best City Administrative Officer in America'' by City and State Magazine. At 59, Mr. Comrie and his wife Sandra McNutt-Comrie can look foward to many productive years in retirement during which he can pursue his interests in cars and auto racing while taking satisfaction in a job well done for the City of Los Angeles.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, I am deeply saddened by the events of this week, and my heart goes out to the men and women in uniform and their families who are involved in Operation Desert Fox. We want them to know that America is firmly behind them as they face their most difficult challenges. To bomb another country is no an easy decision for a president. However, I am convinced that President Clinton had no choice but to respond to Saddam Hussein's repeated violations of negotiated agreements by launching the strike. The United Nations Special Commission on Iraq (UNSCOM) is responsible for monitoring Iraqi weapons programs and dismantling weapons of mass destruction. The United Nations and the United States have repeatedly demanded that Iraq cooperate with UNSCOM and fully comply with all applicable UN Security Council resolutions. Yet, Saddam Hussein has repeatedly defied the United Nations and refused to keep his promises. He has attempted to restrict UNSCOM's activities and interfere with the efforts of UN weapons inspectors. This conflict is not with the Iraqi people. It is with Saddam Hussein--a dictator who has repeatedly threatened his neighbors, defied world public opinion, oppressed his own people, violated their basic human rights and used weapons of mass destruction against innocent civilians. I sympathize with the suffering of the Iraqi people and I am hopeful that this military action will be completed with minimal loss of life. No matter what difference we may have domestically regarding the President, this is clearly not a time for partisan politics and divisive language. We must stand united behind our troops and assure them that the American people are with them in this tragic time of crisis. I am hopeful that this mission may be completed quickly and without the loss of American lives and that our fighting men and women may be able to return home to their families in time for the holidays.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to this unfair process that does not allow me to vote my conscience. Mr. Speaker, I rise to denounce the unfair process that has brought us to this critical point in our Nation's history. I am outraged that the Republican leadership will prevent me and my colleagues from voting our conscience on this grave issue, by refusing to allow us a vote on censure, which I believe, is the appropriate punishment for the actions of the President. In our democratic society what is so frightening is the unfairness of the process that brought us to this point. The Republican agenda was clearly predetermined. Even before the hearings began, Republicans were calling for impeachment. Although not one shred of evidence has been produced to prove the President's actions reached the level of high crimes and misdemeanors, the Republican leadership continues to pursue its goal, not for justice and fairness, but for the removal from office of the President of the United States. Tragically, these unfair acts that have controlled this entire process, have chipped away at the freedoms of fairness and justice our men and women in uniform are fighting to preserve even this very day. I still have hope, however, that my Republican colleagues will listen to the American people and change the unfair direction of this process by allowing us to vote on censure.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, I join my colleagues in honoring the memory of a great man and a great leader, Mayor Tom Bradley. I am proud of the fact that Tom Bradley served for 20 years as mayor of my home town, the great city of Los Angeles. He was dignified, gracious, and extremely effective. Known as a great coalition builder, he had no trouble getting the sometimes uncooperative city council to provide him the eight votes needed to approve his initiatives. Through these initiatives, Mayor Bradley transformed the city's financial core and made Los Angeles the trade mecca it is today. He expanded our seaport and our airport, helped build one of the most spectacular skylines of any city, and brought to Los Angeles one of the most successful Olympics ever: the 1984 Olympics. I have no doubt that had it not been for the leadership of Tom Bradley, Los Angeles would not be the world class city that it is today. He is truly the father of modern Los Angeles. But more importantly, the legacy Mayor Bradley left was his investment in the people of Los Angeles. His leadership changed the face of the city government, by opening the doors of City Hall and creating opportunities for women and minorities. He helped working parents and their children, by implementing an after-school day care/tutoring program named LA's Best. He encouraged at-risk high school students to stay in school by providing them with a mentor and a city job through his Los Angeles City Youth Service Academy. And, because Mayor Bradley knew it was important to produce and preserve housing for our families, he created the City's Housing Preservation and Production Department, which has made home-ownership and affordable housing a reality for many Angelanos. Tom Bradley was truly a great mayor of Los Angeles. He was the people's mayor. We will miss him dearly.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to our friend and colleague, Jane Harman, who will be leaving Congress after 6 years of distinguished service. I had the privilege of meeting Jane when we came to Washington as part of the 103rd Congress, often referred to as ``The Year of the Woman.'' At that time, there was great hope and expectations about the impact the new surge of women would have on Congress and our Nation. Jane Harman has not only lived up to those expectations and hopes, but she has indeed exceeded them. Clearly, no one works harder than Jane on behalf of her constituents and for the issues in which she believes. When an issue is important to Jane, the word ``no'' is simply unacceptable. Jane personifies the term ``can do. ''If anyone doubts Jane's vigor, one need look no further than her stellar performance on the military basic training fitness test that she passed with flying colors. Strong and determined, intelligent and bright, she is also compassionate and caring and willing to stand up for her beliefs regardless of the consequences. Many times I witnessed Jane vote her conscience, knowing full well it could jeopardize her next election in the politically tough district she represents so well. She once said to me before a difficult vote. ``I know it's going to hurt me politically, but I've got to vote for what I believe is right or I can't live with myself.'' She then made the tough vote. Since our offices were across the hall from each other, I often witnessed Jane succeeding in the balancing act of being a legislator, manager, and mother. I remember on one occasion, amidst a series of votes, Jane was on the phone counseling her daughter and helping her with her homework. Jane is proof positive that when given the opportunity, women can meet the challenges of national leadership with intelligence, dignity, and grace. It may surprise you, but I'm not going to say goodbye. For I am convinced we haven't seen the last of you. In fact, I suggest that in the not too distant future, we may yet address you as Madam Governor or Madam Secretary. Thank you for all you have done and will continue to do for California and our Nation. I'm proud to have served with you and proud to have you as a friend. My best wishes are with you always.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Ms. Speaker, I would like to thank Congressman Gene Green and Congressman Martin Frost for organizing this Special Order to honor our friend and colleague, the Honorable Henry B. Gonzalez. Congressman Gonzalez has served his constituents and our nation with honor and dedication throughout his distinguished career. Throughout his 38 years of service, Mr. Gonzalez has been in the forefront of the fight for basic human rights and needs, including affordable housing, consumer protections, and economic opportunity. He began his public service career in 1953 as a member of the City Council of San Antonio, where he served until 1956. From 1957 until 1961, he served the people of Texas as a state senator. In 1961 he was elected to the House of Representatives making history as the first Mexican-American to represent the state of Texas. With his wealth of experience in public service, Henry Gonzalez was appointed Chairman of the Subcommittee on Housing and Community Development in 1981 and Chairman of the Full Banking Committee in 1989. As Chairman of the Committee on Banking and Financial Services, he was a strong and effective leader. Through his leadership, Congress passed landmark legislation reforming the savings and loan industry, updating banking regulations, and improving public housing. As Ranking Member during the 104th Congress, he helped defeat several banking proposals that would have undermined consumer protection laws. For the past 6 years, I've had the privilege to serve with him on the Banking Committee and have witnessed firsthand his wisdom, commitment and compassion. Henry Gonzales has also been an outstanding role model. Not only has he opened the doors of opportunity for many young Latinos, but he has set a high standard for elected officials throughout our nation. No one can challenge his integrity, honesty and decency. Henry B., as he is lovingly called, has been an exemplary member of the House of Representatives, and it is with deep regret that I say farewell. Congressman Henry B. Gonzalez, I am grateful to you for your leadership and your service in the House of Representatives. Along with many of your long-time colleagues, I will most sincerely miss you. Your memorable fights on behalf of the common people will long echo throughout the halls of Congress and the chambers of our hearts.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, I am outraged that the Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations bill has eliminated all funding for LIHEAP, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. This critical program provides energy assistance to over 170,000 households in my home state of California and over 4 million needy families nationwide. Many of these families have young children and over half include elderly or handicapped persons. By eliminating LIHEAP, Congress is causing unnecessary suffering and forcing poor families to choose between heating their homes and buying food for their children. When winter temperatures fall below zero, children can freeze to death. When heat waves soar above 90 degrees, the elderly and handicapped are at high risk of heat stroke and other grave health complications. The heat wave in Texas this past summer killed over 100 people, many of whom were elderly. Clearly, air conditioning is a life and death matter. This vital program can be fully funded for the modest sum of 1.1 billion dollars. It is unconscionable that we would even consider eliminating this inexpensive and compassionate program. I urge my colleagues to restore full funding for the LIHEAP program in the omnibus appropriations bill.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize the achievements of Esteben Torres, my esteemed colleague and friend. As a member of the House for over 15 years, Esteban has faithfully represented the people of East Los Angeles with enthusiasm, dedication and respectability. As the highest-ranking hispanic member on the Appropriations Committee, longstanding member and former chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, and Deputy Democratic Whip, Esteban is an excellent role model for Latinos and young people across our nation. Not only is Esteban Torres an inspiration for our future leaders, but for anyone who strives to improve his or her life. Esteban embodies the wonderful American ideal that no matter who you are or where you come from, you can find success. Esteban comes from very humble beginnings. His father, a Mexican immigrant who toiled in Arizona's copper mines, was deported during the Depression along with many other Mexican immigrants. Esteban never saw his father again. Later, living with his mother in East Los Angeles, Esteban almost dropped out of high school. But Esteban defied the odds. Starting as an assembly line worker at the Chrysler Plant in Los Angeles, he rose through the ranks of the United Auto Workers, and later served in the Korean War. In the 1960s, he founded a critically important community development corporation, the East Los Angeles Community Union. Recognizing Esteban's superb diplomatic skills, President Jimmy Carter appointed him as Ambassador to the United Nation's Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization in 1976 and later, as Special Assistant to the President for Hispanic Affairs. In 1982, Esteban was elected to represent the 34th Congressional District. What I appreciate most about Esteban is that he has never forgotten his roots. He has tirelessly advocated for the workers and low-income families of this country. He exemplifies the promise of the American dream. Thank you for making a difference in so many people's lives. I will miss your companionship and kindness. I bid you a fond farewell, Esteban.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to the Republican's Impeachment Inquiry Resolution. Like so many Americans, I personally am disappointed by the President's conduct. The President demonstrated an extraordinary lack of judgment and respect for his family, the Presidency, and the American people. The President's actions were wrong. But, as many Americans have indicated, they hardly warrant impeachment. In pursuing their partisan attack on the President, Republicans are trivializing the impeachment standard. It is an insult to the traditions of this Chamber that the majority party allowed only two hours of debate on such a critically important matter as impeaching the President of the United States. The power to impeach and remove a sitting President from office is one of the most important Constitutional responsibilities our Founding Fathers assigned to Congress. In the more than 200 years of our nation's history, the House has faced this weighty decision only twice. As elected officials we cannot take this matter lightly. To do so would degrade and undermine our judicial system and the U.S. Constitution. And what about the Americans who voted to elect the President? While many Americans are unhappy with the President's actions, they are even more unhappy with the way the House is handling the matter. Many of my constituents--both Democrats and Republicans--have written to tell me that they are sick of this issue, do not appreciate the constant barrage of graphic details and want the President and Congress to do the work they were elected to do. I couldn't agree more. Americans are far more interested in the status of our economy, reforming health care, reducing crime, improving our schools and preserving Social Security than the President's personal improprieties. Does Congress have a duty to fully investigate any actual wrongdoings by the President? Of course. But this investigation must be based on facts, not politics. I urge a no vote on the resolution.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, in order to attend the funeral services for former Los Angeles Mayor Tom Bradley, I was not present for roll call votes 480, 481, and 482. Had I been present, I would have voted nay on roll call 480, and yea on roll call votes 481 and 482.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition to this unfair resolution. (Ms. VELAZQUEZ asked and was given permission to revise and extend her remarks.)

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to the Republican tax cut plan. It is grossly irresponsible that the Republicans have paid for their tax cut, not with actual funds, but with a projected budget surplus that may never be realized. According to the Congressional Budget Office, a recession within the next few years could wipe out every penny of the predicted surplus, forcing us once again into deficit spending. And even more irresponsible is the fact that 98 percent of the projected budget surplus through 2008 comes from the Social Security trust fund--money that should be reserved for our seniors and future retirees. Mr. Speaker, I agree that American families deserve a tax break. However, no tax cut is worth jeopardizing the future solvency of Social Security. The Democratic Substitute saves Social Security first and then gives hard working American families a much needed tax cut. I urge my colleagues to reject the Republcians' irresponsible plan and vote in favor of the Democratic substitute.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to have my name withdrawn as a cosponsor of H.R. 4006.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Chairman, I rise to support the Mollohan amendment. The census is critical to our country as it is the basis upon which decisions are made that directly impact every community in our Nation. Without a fair and accurate census, States lose their fair share of an annual $170 billion in Federal funds that could support children's education, senior health services, and job training programs. Communities could also lose state and local government funds for services and infrastructure, and many communities will lose jobs and economic opportunities since businesses use census data to make decisions like the hiring and the firing of employees and the opening of new businesses. Mr. Chairman, the American people cannot afford to have us repeat the grievous mistake of the 1990 census when 4 million people were missed, 80 percent of whom were urban Americans, 50 percent of whom were children, and 80 percent of whom were Latinos, African-Americans, Asian-Americans, and American Indians living on reservations. And many States lost as a result of the 1990 undercount, as well. For example, the 1 million Californians that were not counted resulted in the State of California losing 1 congressional seat and at least $1 billion in Federal funds. Mr. Chairman, the stakes are very high. It is outrageous that the Republicans are forcing the Census Bureau to use outdated technology that will again miss millions of Americans. If we are willing to ignore communities of people and make then victims of neglect, what does that say about us as a country? I ask the Republican leadership to put the interest of the country ahead of politics and support the Mollohan amendment to make every person in the country count.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, due to business in my Congressional District, it is with deep regret that I was unable to vote in support of roll call vote 340, a resolution honoring the slain capitol police officers, Jacob Chestnut and John Gibson. My sincerest condolences go out to their families and loved ones.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, due to a family emergency, I was unable to be present for roll call votes 279 through 308. Had I been present, I would have voted yea on roll call votes 279, 281, 286, 287, 288, 290, 294, 295, 297, 298, 299, 300, 301, 303, 305 and nay on roll call votes 280, 282, 283, 284, 285, 298, 291, 292, 293, 296, 302, 304, 306, 307, and 308.