Thomas Reynolds

Mr. REYNOLDS

Mr. REYNOLDS. Mr. Speaker, by direction of the Committee on Rules, I call up House Resolution 546 and ask for its immediate consideration.

Mr. REYNOLDS. Mr. Speaker, House Resolution 546 is a modified open rule that provides for consideration of H.R. 3752, the Commercial Space Launch Amendments Act of 2004. The rule provides 1 hour of general debate and makes in order under the 5-minute rule any amendments preprinted in the Congressional Record. The rule also provides one motion to recommit with or without instructions. Mr. Speaker, recent discoveries in the space program have reinvigorated our Nation's enthusiasm for space travel and discovery and, while in its infancy, commercial human space flight is becoming a new and exciting industry. As this concept continues to mature, there is hope of regular and safe round trips into space for paying customers. Eventually these trips will also serve as an important tool for investigation into commercial remote sensing and microgravity and atmospheric research. Currently there is no clear, defined structure to preside over this emerging new concept. Failing to provide a precise and consistent form of management will negatively affect the industry's ability to plan for its future, compete with international providers and attract financing from investors. The underlying bill creates a process for all commercial space flight and grants authority over commercial human space flight to the FAA's Office of the Associate Administrator for Commercial Space Transportation. This will clearly define the structure to allow flights of suborbital rockets carrying human beings. Centrally locating this within the Administrator's office will also expedite the issuance of permits and licenses for commercial space travel. The Administrator will also be charged with drafting a policy for crews relating to training and medical condition prior to space travel. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 3752 is a noncontroversial bill that moved easily through the committee process and is necessary to support this emerging space industry. I urge my colleagues to support this rule and the underlying legislation. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. REYNOLDS. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time, and I move the previous question on the resolution. The previous question was ordered.

Mr. REYNOLDS

Mr. REYNOLDS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman from Michigan for yielding me this time. I rise before the House today to remember a great man, a mentor to many of us both in Congress today and Congresses of the past, and that is Barber Conable, who passed away a few months ago. Barber Conable distinguished himself as a Member of Congress for 20 years and had the respect of his colleagues on both sides of the aisle. He was notable also for an esteemed academic career and his professional knowledge on a wide variety of issues, from taxes to Social Security, and his willingness to tackle any problem head on. Always lending a helping hand was a signature trait of Barber's. He never let partisanship get in the way of progress. Barber Conable was the best example of what a public servant ought to be. He loved his country, his community, and his family. He never strayed from the strong values he was raised on. His genuine sophistication as a legislator came effortlessly, revealing the compassion and unselfishness that was the hallmark of his public service. Today, it is fitting that we pay tribute to a great Congressman, a great public servant who never forgot the roots of his hometown and his community that we name the Batavia post office after Barber Conable. I appreciate the support of my colleagues not only from New York but throughout the Congress that have joined me in cosponsorship of this legislation.

Mr. REYNOLDS

Mr. REYNOLDS. Mr. Speaker, as the Western New York community gathers tonight to celebrate the life and career of the Honorable Judge Joseph Mattina, I rise to pay tribute to this outstanding jurist and dedicated public servant. Throughout his career, Judge Mattina has been an exemplary community leader. Over his 40 years as a Supreme Court and Surrogate Court Judge, he has displayed a selfless commitment to our fellow citizens and to the betterment of our community. He has truly served our society with tireless devotion, and his community contributions distinguish him as an example for us all. As a judge, his name has become well known throughout both New York State and our nation. He has presided over significant and challenging trials, such as the Attica Prison Rebellion. He has also been influential in overseeing important programs throughout the State. But Judge Mattina is known not only for his contributions to his profession, but for his contributions to our community. He is a decorated awardee, recipient of such awards as ``Outstanding Citizen of the Year'' and the ``National Brotherhood'' award. He has been honored by Time Magazine and has been inducted as a charter member of the Hall of Honor at the National Judicial College. He will be honored yet again this year when a state-of-the-art medical center located in Buffalo, NY is named after him: the Judge Joseph S. Mattina Medical Center. This is in recognition of his more than 35 years of service as a volunteer and as an important advocate of the construction of this facility. Judge Mattina has earned a legacy of outstanding leadership and superb dedication. He has made significant and considerable contributions to our community, for which we are all incredibly thankful. Mr. Speaker, I ask that this Congress join me in honoring Judge Joseph Mattina, and wish him the best of luck upon his retirement.

Mr. REYNOLDS

Mr. REYNOLDS. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall Number 8, I was unable to be in the Chamber to cast a vote on the Baldwin Substitute Amendment to S. 1920 before time elapsed on the vote. My absence was due to my attendance at the Memorial Service for former Representative Barber Conable of New York. Had I been present for the vote, I would have voted ``no,'' on the Baldwin Substitute Amendment.

Mr. REYNOLDS

Mr. REYNOLDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before the House of Representatives today in remembrance of a great man who once served in Congress--former Representative Barber B. Conable, Jr. During his twenty years in Congress he represented both his constituents and this institution with grace and integrity. Regardless of where his service led him, Barber always remained true to his Western New York roots. While he distinguished himself as a Member of Congress and earned the respect of colleagues on both sides of the aisle, Barber was also notable for his esteemed academic career, his professional knowledge on a wide variety of issues from taxes to Social Security, and his willingness to tackle any problem head on. Always lending a helping hand was a signature trait of Barber's; he never let partisanship get in the way of progress. Barber Conable was the best example of what a public servant ought to be. He loved his country, his community and his family, never straying from the strong values he was raised on. His genuine sophistication as a legislator came so effortlessly, revealing the compassion and unselfishness that was a hallmark of his public service. In devoting his life to serving others, Barber exemplified loyalty to his country as a veteran of both World War II and the Korean War. With a thirst for knowledge, Barber shared his experiences when he taught at the University of Rochester and later went on to become President of the World Bank. Though no matter what national or global stage he was on, his commitment to the community never waned as he joined countless local boards and organizations over the years. As a fellow Member of Congress, Barber was the model representative we should all aspire to. As a fellow Western New Yorker, I strive to serve the region with the same humility and regard Barber once did. The legacy of his warmth and generosity will live on in those who had the pleasure of knowing him. He will always be remembered as a true leader and a true friend. Like the many others fortunate to call Barber Conable a friend, I will miss him dearly.

Mr. REYNOLDS

Mr. REYNOLDS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this rule and the underlying legislation. For the first time in the nearly 40-year history of the Medicare program, Congress tonight has the opportunity to provide more than 40 million seniors and disabled Americans a guaranteed prescription drug benefit. In my home State of New York, this means nearly 3 million Medicare beneficiaries will have greater access to life-saving prescriptions. For many of these beneficiaries, this amounts to drug coverage that they would not otherwise have; and for countless others, it means vastly improved benefits. In providing a prescription drug discount card, greater access to less-expensive generic drugs, enhanced ability to create individualized health savings accounts and strong protections for retirees with current coverage, this bill helps bring Medicare into the 21st century. What the bill also accomplishes is improved access to care in a variety of other areas that will help Americans all across the country get the care they need and deserve. For example, by updating the critical hospital formulas for marketbasket and indirect medical education, New York State will be infused with over $1.2 billion over the next 10 years. Of that, hospitals in my congressional district will receive close to $40 million. In cash-strapped regions of western New York that I represent, this payment relief is great news for patients of all ages and income levels. New York will also be bolstered by many other funding streams that will bring critical Federal funds into the State and help mitigate local fiscal burdens. And the Federal Government assuming costs of New York beneficiaries eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid, the State will save over $3 billion over 8 years on prescription drug coverage for its Medicaid population. Because New York already provides a popular, generous prescription drug program, well over 300,000 seniors, the State will have access to $125 million over 2 years in transitional assistance to help the new Federal drug program coordinate with the existing State program. These funds will ensure a seamless transition and coordination of benefits for many seniors who want to remain in the State program, yet still receive enhanced benefits through the Federal plan. Mr. Speaker, this body is poised to make history. Today begins the final step in a journey that began not 3 days ago, not 3 years ago, but nearly a decade ago. Congress promised a prescription drug benefit. Congress promised to make Medicare stronger, and it took this majority to deliver on that promise. I urge my colleagues to support the rule and the underlying legislation.

Mr. REYNOLDS

Mr. REYNOLDS. Madam Speaker, by direction of the Committee on Rules, I call up House Resolution 444 and ask for its immediate consideration.

Mr. REYNOLDS. Madam Speaker, for the purpose of debate only, I yield the customary 30 minutes to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Hastings), pending which I yield myself such time as I may consume. During consideration of this resolution, all time yielded is for the purpose of debate only. (Mr. REYNOLDS asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. REYNOLDS. Madam Speaker, House Resolution 444 is a standard rule that provides for consideration of the conference report to accompany H.R. 2754, the Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2004. The rule waives all points of order against the conference report and against its consideration. The rule also provides that the conference report will be considered as read. Madam Speaker, the underlying conference report is the result of hard work and compromise by the energy and water appropriations conference committee. The conference report suggests a strong civil works program with the Army Corps of Engineers. By concentrating $4.5 billion on the traditional tasks such as flood control, shoreline protection, and navigation, which yield the most economic benefit for the Nation, the bill ensures the highest possible return on taxpayer investment. Within the agreement, the Department of Energy is provided with $22 billion. Included in that funding is nearly $350 million for renewable energy programs and $393 million for nuclear energy programs. Specific programs funded within the Department are the nuclear energy research initiative of $11.6 million, $6.5 million for the nuclear hydrogen initiative, and $68 million for the advanced fuel cycle initiative. Adequate and needed funding is provided for science programs within the Department, including high-energy physics, nuclear physics, biological and environmental research, fusion energy research, and advanced scientific computing research. The nuclear waste program continues to be one of our highest environmental priorities and one that is of particular importance to my region. I am also pleased that the conference report provides a total of $580 million for nuclear waste disposal. Additionally, $7.6 billion is provided for environmental management cleanup activities, continuing the strong commitment to accelerate cleanup schedules at contaminated sites throughout the country. This funding is vital in reducing public health and safety risks. The conference report also provides $8.7 billion for the National Nuclear Security Administration, which includes the nuclear weapons program, defense nuclear nonproliferation, and Naval reactors. In closing, Madam Speaker, I would like to commend the gentleman from Ohio (Chairman Hobson) and all of the distinguished conferees on both sides of the aisle for their hard work and dedication to our Nation's energy and water priorities. I urge my colleagues to support this rule and the underlying conference report. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. REYNOLDS. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. REYNOLDS. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I take with good note the ranking member of the full Committee on Appropriations on the compliments to the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Hobson) as chair of the subcommittee, and I know that he works hard in those endeavors to achieve that, but it is not easy to get such a fine accolade on behalf of the ranking member, and on behalf of the chair of the subcommittee I will pass along his kind remarks. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. REYNOLDS. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Nevada (Mr. Gibbons). (Mr. GIBBONS asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. REYNOLDS. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time, and I move the previous question on the resolution. The previous question is ordered.

Mr. REYNOLDS

Mr. REYNOLDS. Mr. Speaker, I move that the House do now adjourn.

Mr. REYNOLDS

Mr. REYNOLDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before the House of Representatives today to honor the life of Vincent A. Bruni. As a prominent figure within the Rochester community, Mr. Bruni shared his vision and his love for music with others for over fifty years. Mr. Bruni, more commonly known as ``Mr. B,'' raised the drum and bugle corps movement in North America to new and exciting levels. The Bruni name is synonymous with modern-day drum corps, in part because Mr. Bruni dedicated his life to entertaining people all over the country and all over the globe. Always one to give back to the community, Mr. Bruni led his national and world champion Empire Statesmen Drum and Bugle Corps in local parades, winter and spring concerts, and in efforts to support high school bands and other groups throughout Western New York. As a result of the heart and soul he demonstrated and instilled in others, the Empire Statesmen became the only corps in history to win the Triple Crown: the American Legion, Drum Corps Associates, and World Show Band championship titles all in one year. For decades, Mr. Bruni represented the City of Rochester, New York proudly with his unfaltering commitment to teaching children and adults of all ages. His lessons were not simply about music, but about what it means to work hard as a team, have pride in what you do, and how to stand tall in the face of great adversity. Musicians, performers and fans of drum corps all around the world know ``Mr. B'' as a man of integrity, someone that others will continue to strive to be like even now that he is gone. Vince Bruni will be remembered as a true patriot--someone who loved serving his country as a veteran of the United States Navy, as a schoolteacher, but most importantly as an entertainer. Mr. Bruni has done Rochester and America proud, and while he will be sorely missed, he will forever be remembered by the countless people whose lives he touched over his long and distinguished career.

Mr. REYNOLDS

Mr. REYNOLDS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for clarifying the record. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. REYNOLDS. I yield to the gentleman from Wisconsin.

Mr. REYNOLDS. Mr. Speaker, by direction of the Committee on Rules, I call up House Resolution 351 and ask for its immediate consideration.

Mr. REYNOLDS. Mr. Speaker, for the purpose of debate only, I yield the customary 30 minutes to my friend, the gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. McGovern), pending which I yield myself such time as I may consume. During consideration of this resolution, all time yielded is for the purpose of debate only. Mr. Speaker, House Resolution 351 is an open rule that provides for consideration of H.R. 2989, the Department of Transportation, Treasury, and related agencies appropriations for fiscal year ending September 30, 2004. The rule waives all points of order against consideration of the bill. The rule also provides for one hour of general debate, to be equally divided between the chairman and ranking minority member of the Committee on Appropriations. The rule provides that bill shall be considered for amendment by paragraph. In addition, the rule waives clause 2 of rule XXI prohibiting unauthorized or legislative provisions in an appropriations bill against provisions in the bill, except as otherwise specified in the rule. Further, the rule authorizes the Chair to accord priority in recognition to Members who have pre-printed their amendments in the Congressional Record. Finally, the rule provides one motion to recommit, with or without instructions. Mr. Speaker, this is the first year that the Congress is considering appropriations for the Department of Transportation and the Department of Treasury along with Postal Service, the Executive Office of the President and general government provisions in a single appropriations bill. This change was necessary to make room for creation of a subcommittee for the new Department of Homeland Security. The Committee on Appropriations has worked diligently to combine these agencies and produce legislation that meets the Nation's priorities in a multitude of areas. The bill provides $89.3 billion in total budgetary resources, which is an increase of $2.7 billion above the current level. This funding represents the firm commitment of this Congress to fund necessary programs and projects across the Nation. Total transportation funding in this bill is over $58 billion. This funding, which is so important in my district and others throughout the entire country, is significantly increased over current year spending. From highways and transit programs to airports and Federal Aviation Administration, the underlying legislation meets the needs of our communities in previous years. Some transportation programs have had guaranteed funding in authorization acts. Even though such guarantees no longer apply to this bill, the committee has provided at least a level of funding which was guaranteed last year; in the case of highways and airports, even more. The absence of these guarantees means new choices in the allocation of funds by providing the flexibility of fund programs that were not protected under the previous guarantees but were equally important. The underlying legislation also gives significant increases to the Treasury Department, bringing their appropriation to over $11 billion. Of those funds, $2.7 million is available for stronger agency involvement in international affairs, including technical advisers for rebuilding the currency, banking and financial systems in Iraq; $29.3 million is allocated for the new Office of Terrorist Financing and Financial Crimes, and $5.3 million for IRS counterterrorism activities. Additionally, funds are provided for the Office of Foreign Assets Control and Financial Crimes Enforcement Network to help fight money laundering and track down terrorist financing. All of these are important elements of the war on terrorism, and they are funded at or above the administration's request, demonstrating our pledge to keep America safe from terrorists and showing that national security remains a top priority. Many other agencies and programs that I have not outlined today are also funded under this bill. Mr. Speaker, I would like to commend the chairman and ranking member of both the appropriations full committee and subcommittee for their hard work on this difficult measure. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this rule and the underlying legislation. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. REYNOLDS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, this is an open rule, and there will be ample debate throughout the day as we first have the debate on the appropriations bill and then the opportunity for Members to submit amendments for consideration throughout the day. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. REYNOLDS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I am certainly glad it is an open rule that is going to be considered by an amendment process that goes paragraph by paragraph as is outlined here. And I also know, while I do not sit on appropriations nor authorizing committees and just on the Committee on Rules, that this particular one prohibits unauthorized or legislative provisions in an appropriations bill against provisions in the bill unless as specified before us today; and that as usual we recognize those, the Chair or the speaker, according to the priority of recognition of Members who have preprinted their amendments in the Congressional Record to be heard. And it provides one motion to recommit with or without instructions. Amtrak is going to be a debate that we will continue. As a New Yorker, I certainly watch that debate closely. But the Department of Transportation has testified that Amtrak needs reform more than it needs money. As a matter of fact, I believe that the witnesses, the Chair, and ranking member of the Subcommittee on Transportation, Treasury and Independent Agencies of the Committee on Appropriations indicated that they also believe that money alone was not going to solve Amtrak's problems. So my understanding is there is money there and there may well be amendments later today that ask for consideration of more or less. When we look at the discussion of how much money and what categories of programs, I suppose if there was unlimited money for transportation, we could then unlimit the categories, whether you need roads or bridges or bike paths. This legislation, while I wish there was more transportation money for my district or my State or my region or the country as a whole, has provided flexibility for the States in order to make that tough decision. Do you need a bike path? Do you need a bridge repair? Do you need roads reconstructed or constructed due to growth? So some of that flexibility with the money we have gives States the ability to make those tough decisions. I listened carefully on the earned income tax credits as our colleague, the ranking member of the Committee on Appropriations talked about it, but while my colleagues on the other side of the aisle argue that $105 million in IRS for precertification of the EITC applicants should be stricken, I just want to make the record known that every other welfare program has a precertification, except the EITC. EITC automatically sends checks, and only after they begin to look at the eligibility. So I am not sure how the system should work, and I will leave that to the administration, but it is not as if this is singled out.

Mr. REYNOLDS. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. REYNOLDS. Mr. Speaker, I have no additional speakers, but I reserve the balance of my time until my colleague is prepared to close.