Laura Richardson

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as an original cosponsor of H. Res. 1096, which encourages all individuals in the United States to participate in the 2010 Census and expresses support for the designation of March 2010 as Census Awareness Month. This important legislation will help achieve an accurate count of the United States population and ensure that communities across the country have the schools, infrastructure, and other vital resources they need to thrive. I thank Chairman Towns for his leadership in bringing this bill to the floor. I would also like to thank the author of this legislation, Congressman Reyes, who has taken the time to increase public awareness on this crucial issue. Mr. Speaker, an accurate count of all individuals living in the United States, as required by the Constitution, is critical to ensure the well-being of cities and communities throughout the country. The Census helps guarantee the accurate and fair composition of voting districts at the Federal, State, and local levels and the proper allocation of Federal resources to communities. Census data also helps city planners identify changes in population so that they can place schools, fire and police stations, and other city services in locations that will best serve their residents. Finally, accurate census data is essential to the long term prosperity of our country, as it is used by businesses to make effective decisions regarding investments and growth. It is crucial that we increase public awareness of and achieve full participation in the 2010 Census. It is estimated that approximately 16 million individuals--the equivalent of nearly 27 Congressional districts--did not participate in the 2000 Census. Low-income communities--the communities that rely most on a fair distribution of resources and services--are at risk of being undercounted in this year's Census and, consequently, underserved for the next decade. This important legislation will help ensure that all communities get their fair share of resources and are equipped to achieve prosperity and growth. I urge my colleagues to join me in support of H. Res. 1096.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 362, a resolution expressing the support of the House of Representatives for the goals and ideals of the National School Lunch Program. The National School Lunch Program is a federally assisted meal program operating in public and nonprofit private schools and residential child care institutions. It provides nutritionally balanced, low-cost or free lunches to children each school day. I support this resolution because it recognizes the fundamental role the National School Lunch Program plays in making sure that every child, regardless of socioeconomic status, has the energy and nutrients he or she needs to learn and grow as scholars. The National School Lunch Program has been providing for children in our public schools for over sixty years. It was established under the National School Lunch Act signed by President Harry Truman in 1946. In 2008, the National School Lunch Program provided meals for more than 30 million American children. Parents who work two and three jobs just to put a roof over their children's heads do not have to worry that their children will not have lunch when they get to school every day. In 1998, Congress expanded this program to include reimbursement for snacks that children receive at afterschool programs. Children receive nutritious snacks so they have the energy and ability to focus during valuable tutoring sessions and enriching extra-curricular lessons. Mr. Speaker, during these difficult economic times, the National School Lunch Program is even more important than usual. In September 2009, the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities released an analysis of how the recession had affected working families thus far. According to that report, the median household income declined 3.6 percent in 2008 after adjusting for inflation, the largest single-year decline on record. The poverty rate rose to 13.2 percent, its highest level since 1997. The number of people in poverty hit 39.8 million, the highest level since 1960. While Congress works to turn this recession around by passing landmark legislation like the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and the Jobs for Main Street Act, programs such as the National School Lunch Program give working parents the peace of mind that comes with knowing that their children are taken care of. If a parent loses his job and his family falls into poverty, he does not have to worry that his children will have nutritious lunches and snacks provided every day at school. That is one less thing for hard-working families to worry about in these tough times. Mr. Speaker, I applaud the National School Lunch Program for its dedication feeding our most valuable population in this country--our children. Without nutritious food, low-income children would have extreme difficulties focusing in school and therefore would be at a great disadvantage academically. The National School Lunch Program does its part to ensure that all children have the energy they need to learn and succeed every day in school. I ask my fellow colleagues to join me in supporting H. Res. 362.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, as a member of the Native American Caucus, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 2314, the Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act, which will formally extend the federal policy of self-determination and self-governance to Native Hawaiians. I would like to acknowledge Speaker Pelosi, Majority Leader Reid, and Chairman Rahall for their leadership in bringing this milestone bill to the floor. I would also like to thank my colleague Congressman Akaka, the author of this legislation, who worked so hard for so many years to give Native Hawaiians the opportunity for self governance. Mr. Speaker, the Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act provides Native Hawaiians with an opportunity for self determination and cultural preservation, while empowering them to be an equal partner with the state and federal government. They will finally be on equal footing in federal policies toward American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians. I am pleased to champion H.R. 2314, which provides the self governing opportunities that have been denied to this community for so long. Native Hawaiians should have the same opportunity for cultural preservation and self-determination as indigenous people on the mainland U.S. Just to be clear, this bill does not recognize a Native Hawaiian government upon passage, nor exempt a Native Hawaiian government from any provision of the U.S. Constitution, Federal law, or taxation. Mr. Speaker, I support this bill because it will finally extend the federal policy of recognition to Native Hawaiians. This legislation is yet another example of how Congress is responding to calls for change in America. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 2314.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to salute the Aquarium of the Pacific located in my community of Long Beach, California, for receiving the prestigious Super Nova Star of Energy Efficiency from the Alliance to Save Energy, a coalition of prominent business, government, environmental, and consumer leaders who promote the efficient and clean use of energy to benefit consumers, the environment, economy, and national security. Each year the Alliance to Save Energy recognizes companies, learning institutions, state offices, and government programs for their efforts to promote energy efficiency domestically and globally. My constituents at the Aquarium of the Pacific received the Super Nova Star Award on September 17, 2009, at the Alliance to Save Energy Gala in Washington, DC. Madam Speaker, the Aquarium was chosen for this globally recognized award because it is the most energy efficient business in the Nation with annual revenues under $50 million. The Aquarium became the first among museums, zoos, and other aquariums in this country to certify its greenhouse gas emissions with a third-party, the California Climate Action Registry. This led to its being named as a Climate Action Leader with the Climate Action Registry in 2007. The Aquarium of the Pacific has used energy-efficient practices to maintain steady kilowatt-hour usage for the past 8 years despite rising visitor numbers. It is no surprise to me that the Aquarium of the Pacific received such a prestigious award because it is a pioneer of marine education and energy efficiency in my district. In 2008, the Aquarium inaugurated a new environmental classroom that was recognized as Long Beach's first LEED-platinum certified building. The classroom achieved LEED-platinum certification because it uses solar power, a green roof, a rainwater capture system, and a highly efficient pool pump, among other energy and water efficiencies. The Aquarium is committed to achieving LEED platinum or gold certification for all future projects and is setting an excellent example for how other businesses and institutions in my district can prioritize and achieve energy efficiency. Madam Speaker, the Aquarium of the Pacific is a vital part of my constituents' community environmental conservation efforts. The Aquarium's Green Team task force organizes environmentally friendly activities such as an annual street cleanup day, an Earth Day festival, a sustainable seafood initiative, and a watershed and ocean literacy program. As the Aquarium continues to grow, one of the underlying objectives of the master plan is to increase attendance by expanding the facility's capacity and conservation programs without increasing energy and potable water usage. Madam Speaker, I also want to commemorate the Aquarium of the Pacific for its ongoing efforts to broaden the public's understanding of the Pacific Ocean and its complex ecosystem. The Aquarium's mission is to instill a sense of wonder, respect, and stewardship for the Pacific Ocean, its inhabitants, and ecosystems. It is the largest aquarium in Southern California and the fifth largest in the nation. With 200,000 school children visiting annually, the Aquarium of the Pacific provides a fun and educational experience for students of all ages and backgrounds through its interactive exhibits and daily presentations. The Aquarium hosts a variety of educational programs, cultural festivals, classes and courses, offsite field trips, and renowned guest speakers to connect Long Beach's diverse community with the Pacific Ocean's diverse ecosystem. I applaud the Aquarium of the Pacific for its hard work and dedication both to educating the community of Long Beach about marine environments and to mitigating the effects of climate change. I ask my fellow colleagues to join me in recognizing the Aquarium of the Pacific for having received the high honor of the Super Nova Star of Energy Efficiency.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 4532, the Social Security Disability Applicants' Access to Professional Representation Act of 2009, which will authorize the permanent extension of the attorney and non-attorney fee-withholding provisions passed under the Social Security Protection Act of 2004. This important legislation will guarantee that seniors have access to the professional representation needed to secure the benefits that they deserve. I thank Chairman Rangel for his leadership in bringing this bill to the floor. I would also like to thank the author of this legislation, Congressman Tanner, for his hard work and determined efforts to ensure that Americans are able to achieve financial security and stability in their old age. Madam Speaker, for seniors, getting Social Security benefits can be a rigorous process. Many seniors rely on professional representatives to help them complete applications, obtain medical evidence, and prepare themselves and other witnesses for hearings. H.R. 4532 will permanently extend critical provisions passed under the Social Security Protection Act of 2004 that allow representation fees to be withheld from Social Security Insurance (SSI) applicants' past-due benefits and paid directly to representatives. H.R. 4532 will also extend provisions that make qualified non-attorney representatives eligible to be paid through fee-withholding. The provisions set to be extended by H.R. 4532 will provide easy access to the qualified representation that many seniors need in order to secure their benefits. This legislation is especially important in these tough economic times. With limited income and increased health care needs, seniors across the country--and especially in my home State of California--have been hit particularly hard by the ongoing economic recession. Now, more than ever, we need to help the elderly access the benefits that they need to achieve financial stability. In conclusion, I support this bill because it will make the Social Security system more fair and easy to use for the 63,000 seniors in my district and millions more across the country. In order to uphold our obligation to senior citizens we must provide them with the resources needed to take advantage of available benefits. By helping senior citizens get the benefits they need, the Social Security Disability Applicants' Access to Professional Representation Act of 2009 represents a much needed response to our Nation's current economic challenges. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 4532.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 1022, which honors the life and sacrifice of Medgar Evars, recognizes the important role he played in progressing the cause of civil rights, and congratulates the United States Navy for honoring him with the naming of the United States naval ship Medgar Evars. H. Res. 1022 is an important measure that pays tribute to an individual who sacrificed his life fighting for the core American values of equality and civil rights. I thank Chairmen Conyers for his leadership in bringing this bill to the floor. I would also like to thank the author of this legislation, Congressman Hank Johnson, who has taken the time to remember the invaluable work of Medgar Evars and to celebrate the United States Navy's efforts to honor this American hero. Medgar Evars was born in 1925 in Decatur, Mississippi. Growing up in the heart of the segregated South, Medgar Evars experienced the worst of racial oppression. Still, in 1943, he volunteered to serve his country in World War II, and fought valiantly with the United States Army in the Battle of Normandy. After fighting overseas for the cause of freedom and democracy, Medgar Evars returned home to a segregated country as a second-class citizen. He dedicated himself to activism, working tirelessly for the cause of racial equality on behalf of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). As a result of his activism, Medgar Evars was the target of numerous death threats and assassination attempts. But his bravery and dedication knew no bounds and he continued his important work until he was tragically murdered on June 12, 1963. It is entirely fitting that we honor Medgar Evars, who in his life as well as his death, helped move our country out of a time of oppression and segregation and into an era of greater tolerance and equality. It is equally fitting that the United States Navy has chosen to honor Medgar Evars with the naming of the United States naval ship Medgar Evars. This ship, a Lewis and Clark class dry cargo ship, is a state- of-the-art vessel that will provide essential logistics support to Navy operations around the world. Just as Medgar Evars helped bring our nation racial reconciliation, the United States naval ship Medgar Evars will help the Navy to promote peace and conflict resolution throughout the world. This ship is one more way in which the life and sacrifice of Medgar Evars will continue to serve as a beacon of equality. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H. Res. 1022.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 1085, which supports the goals and ideals of National African American History Month, celebrates the contributions that African Americans have made to the transportation and infrastructure of the United States, and urges the American people to join the House of Representatives in celebrating these vital contributions. H. Res. 1085 is an important measure that pays tribute to African Americans' crucial role in building our nation, innovating new technologies, and helping create long-lasting economic growth and prosperity. I thank Chairman Oberstar for his leadership in bringing this bill to the floor. I would also like to thank the author of this legislation, Congresswoman Corrine Brown, for chronicling the crucial, and often overlooked contributions of African Americans to our nation's growth and progress. Madam Speaker, African Americans have made significant and far- reaching contributions to our nation's transportation systems and critical infrastructure. Thousands of African Americans overcame racial discrimination, harsh environmental conditions, and frequently physical danger, to build critical portions of our nation's highways, bridges, and transit systems. Many African Americans founded aeronautics schools that trained pilots who went on to serve in the military or fly commercial airliners. Further, African Americans were the source of innovative designs that helped make our transportation and infrastructure systems modern, efficient, and safe. For example, Garrett A. Morgan developed the traffic signal, which has proven indispensible to our transportation system. Elijah McCoy's ``lubricating cup'' automatically oiled steam engines, making the railroad system dramatically more efficient. Elbert R. Robinson invented the electric railway trolley, which was adopted by cities across the country. Humphrey Reynolds produced the safety gate on bridges, a development that has made transportation significantly safer. These are only a few examples of the vital contributions of African Americans to transportation and infrastructure in the United States. It is perhaps even less well known that during the Civil Rights Movement, countless African Americans devoted themselves to tireless activism that led to the desegregation of our nation's transportation systems and improved working conditions for transportation workers of all races across the country. These invaluable efforts not only improved our roads, bridges, and transit systems, but also led to significant national progress in achieving racial equality and reconciliation. It is entirely fitting that we take this opportunity to honor African Americans' contributions to our transportation and infrastructure and appreciate the innumerable benefits that these efforts yielded for our nation. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H. Res. 1085.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. I thank the chairman for that response.

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Chairman, as a member of the Homeland Security Committee and subcommittee Chair, I'm concerned that the members of the Homeland Security Committee have not consistently and were not adequately briefed by the administration on the events surrounding the failed Christmas Day terrorist attack. The Homeland Security Committee has an important role in congressional oversight over agencies within its jurisdiction. Mr. Chairman, do you agree with me and Chairman Thompson that the Homeland Security Committee should be briefed in a timely manner on national security matters that play a central role in homeland security?

Ms. RICHARDSON. Madam Chair, I rise to engage the chairman of the Intelligence Committee for purposes of a colloquy.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. One year ago the economy was declining by 6 percent. Over 600,000 Americans month after month after month were losing their jobs, with no relief. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act that this Democratic Congress ensured that we brought forward was enacted to ensure that President Obama and his commitment as well would jump-start our economy, that we would create and save 3.5 million jobs, that we would give 95 percent of Americans who needed assistance a tax cut that we would deliver, and finally, that we would rebuild America through our roads, our rail, and our water infrastructure. When we look at America today, we are doing better than what we were doing a year ago, but we have more to do. The American Recovery Act helped us to create new infrastructure, to train teachers, hire educators, and to improve health care. But we are ready to do more.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 4061, the Cybersecurity Enhancement Act, which addresses the recommendations of the Cyberspace Policy Review to improve cybersecurity in the Federal, private, and public sectors. I would like to acknowledge Speaker Pelosi and Chairman Gordon for their leadership in bringing this important resolution to the floor. I would also like to thank my colleague Congressman Lipinski, who authored this legislation that will result in the development and implementation of a strategic plan guiding the overall direction of Federal cybersecurity and information assurance research and development. As a former member of the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Emergency Threats, Cybersecurity and Science and Technology, I have been concerned about these issues. The rapid development of information technology has led to increased connectivity and productivity that has greatly benefited the U.S. economy. However, with these great advances comes the disadvantage of increased vulnerability of our information technology infrastructure. Reports of cyber crime, hacking, and viruses has steadily risen, heightening concerns over the adequacy of our cybersecurity measures and the need for further research and development. My district, the 37th district of California, is heavily dependent on technology and computing networks, so I am pleased that H.R. 4061 is a bill that will improve cybersecurity in the Federal, private, and public sectors. This legislation achieves this goal by developing a skilled cybersecurity workforce, coordinating and prioritizing the Federal R&D portfolio, improving the transfer of cybersecurity technologies to the marketplace, promoting cybersecurity education and awareness for the general public, and coordinating U.S. representation in the development of international cybersecurity technical standards. My district, the 37th district of California, is heavily dependent on technology and computing networks, so I am pleased that . . . In conclusion, Madam Speaker, I support this legislation because with our increasing reliance on the internet, we need to make sure our cyber systems are secure. I am pleased that Congress is taking action to promote these improvements and adequately fund the areas of government responsible for our cybersecurity. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 4061.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Madam Speaker, as a member of the Homeland Security Committee, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 2611, which will amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to authorize the Securing the Cities Initiative of the Department of Homeland Security. This legislation will implement a unified strategy and provide the technology for defending New York City, Long Island and surrounding areas against radiological and nuclear threats. I would like to acknowledge Speaker Pelosi and Chairman Thompson for their leadership in bringing this important bill to the floor. I would also like to thank my colleague Congressman King, who authored this important legislation. H.R. 2611 amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to authorize appropriations to the Director of the Domestic Nuclear Detection Office of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for the Securing the Cities Initiative. The Initiative uses next generation radiation detection technology to detect the transport of nuclear and radiological material in urban areas by terrorists or other unauthorized individuals. As the representative of one of the largest ports in the nation, Long Beach, I so pleased to support this initiative. In conclusion, Madam Speaker, I support this bill because it is another step to making our cities and ports as safe as we possibly can. The Securing the Cities Initiative is a critical national capability to detect the dangerous introduction of nuclear and radiological material. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 2611.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, as a member of the Native American Caucus, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 725, the Indian Arts and Crafts Amendments Act of 2009, which will safeguard an industry critical to the Native American economy and small businesses. First, I would like to acknowledge Speaker Pelosi, Majority Leader Hoyer, and Chairman Rahall for their leadership in bringing this important bill to the floor. I would also like to thank my colleague Congressman Pastor, the author of this legislation, who worked so hard to help such an underserved community protect their economic livelihood. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 725, the Indian Arts and Crafts Amendments Act of 2009 amends the Indian Arts and Crafts Act of 1990 to authorize any federal law enforcement officer to conduct an investigation of an offense involving the sale of any good that is misrepresented as an Indian produced good or product. H.R. 725 authorizes the Indian Arts and Crafts Board to refer offenses to any federal law enforcement officer for investigation. In addition, this bill proposes new penalties for goods offered or displayed for sale or sold for less than $1,000 at a $25,000 fine, a 1-year imprisonment, or both. In California, the State I represent, there are over one hundred Native American tribes, many of varying levels of economic success. Misrepresentation of products is one of the biggest problems facing the Native American art industry and market. Not only does the industry have to compete with the larger market, but Native Americans must compete with those who copy and counterfeit their work. Income from a single artist is often the sole source of support for their family, as well as being a source of strength and pride that reinforces cultures and traditions within communities. Therefore, as a long time friend and supporter of the Native American community, I am so pleased to champion a bill such as H.R. 725, which protects the unique economic opportunities of this community. In conclusion, Mr. Speaker, I support this bill because it protects an important industry in the areas and populations that needs assistance. The communities benefiting from H.R. 725 represent some of the most traditionally disadvantaged, isolated, and underserved populations in America. I am proud to work with my colleagues to ensure that Native Americans receive full protection of their most viable industry. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 725.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 3326, the FY2010 Defense Appropriations Act,'' which provides $636.3 billion in defense funding. This bill keeps faith with our troops and provides the funding needed to ensure they are the best trained, best prepared, best equipped, and best cared for fighting force in the history of the world. That is the least we can do for those who willingly risk their lives to keep us safe. Madam Speaker, I also support the bill because it makes the needed investments to keep our nation strong, safe, and respected in the world. One of the most important investments is the $2.5 billion in funding provided to build and maintain 10 C-17 Air Force cargo aircraft, which is assembled in my district but serves the nation and helps protect the peace the world over. I want to thank Chairman Murtha and Chairman Obey for working with me to secure this funding and also for masterly shepherding this legislation to the floor. Madam Speaker, in my remaining time let me briefly explain why I fight so hard for the C-17, as Chairman Murtha can attest: Airlift is the enabler of global reach, global power, and global vigilance. This is what makes us a superpower. The C-17 is the best airlift aircraft in the world because of its ability to fly long distances and land in remote airfields in rough, land-locked regions. The C-17 is the premier transporter for military, humanitarian and peacekeeping missions because it can: Take off from a 7,600-ft. airfield, carry a payload of 160,000 pounds, fly 2,400 nautical miles, refuel while in flight and land in 3,000 ft. or less on a small unpaved or paved airfield in day or night. In addition to the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, the C-17 has proved its mettle in humanitarian missions to Darfur, Myanmar, China, and Georgia in the former Soviet Union. The men and women who design and build the C-17 represent a critical component of our nation's industrial base and a workforce that is second to none. At a time when we are adding to our troop strength in the Army and Marine Corps overall, and expanding our deployment to Afghanistan, it only makes sense to continue production of the C-17, the only program that provides for strategic airlift over the long term. For California alone, the C-17 program at Long Beach contributes almost 14,000 direct jobs and an economic impact of $2 billion. In conclusion, Madam Speaker, I support this bill because it restores and enhances the readiness of our troops, equipment, and defense infrastructure. It takes care of our military personnel and their families. And it authorizes the needed investments to keep our nation strong, safe, and respected in the world. I urge my colleagues to join me in voting for the bill on final passage.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, as a member of the Homeland Security Committee, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 1517. This legislation will allow certain U.S. Customs and Border Protection employees who serve under an overseas limited appointment for at least 2 years, and whose service is rated fully successful or higher throughout that time, to be converted to a permanent appointment in the competitive service. I would like to acknowledge Speaker Pelosi and Chairman Thompson for their leadership in bringing this important bill to the floor. I would also like to thank my colleague Congressman Engel, who worked so hard authoring this important legislation. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 1517 would correct a longstanding classification problem among a small group of Customs and Border personnel that were hired before DHS was created. These 35 people are working overseas, mostly in Ireland, and need to be properly classified as CBP staff. I am pleased that the Homeland Security Committee has taken action to correct this problem and that this bill has come before the full Congress today. I support H.R. 1517 because it is an efficient fix to this classification issue. Our Customs and Border personnel work so hard every day to keep us safe, and they deserve prompt action by this body to correct any problems in classification that could prevent them from receiving any appointments they may deserve. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 1517.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. I thank the gentlelady for yielding. I especially want to thank our chairwoman, Congresswoman Barbara Lee, and Congresswoman Fudge, who's been leading, really, this delegation on an hourly basis weeks on end whether the issues are popular or not. Tonight I'd like to talk about small business and the impacts of unemployment and what it means to our country and really where the jobs are in this country and why we must address small business. The unemployment crisis is hurting every region of our country--not just one State, east coast, west coast. It's everywhere. In the district that I represent, unemployment is ranging anywhere between 15 and 21 percent. That's well above the national unemployment rate, and clearly we can no longer stand by idly waiting for someone, even if it's in our other body, to act. The American people need jobs now. They've already asked it, they've already helped to fund it, but unfortunately the jobs have not been seen on Main Street and on the side streets where many of our constituents live. So let's talk a little bit about small business and why they're so important in this equation. There are 26.8 million small businesses in the United States accounting for more than 99.7 percent of all employer firms. Those are regular people like you and me who are trying to survive who didn't get a bailout 6 months ago. Small businesses employ just over half of all of our private sector employees. And likewise, in the second largest district in this United States--which is California, where I'm from--small businesses are an integral part of our economy comprising 90 percent of all of the businesses in our State. More than 50 percent of the employees in California work for small businesses, and there's an estimated 3.7 million small businesses in California. So why would you ask that I would even talk about that? Let's talk about women and how women are impacted with small business. Privately held, women-owned businesses in California, where I'm from, generate more than $406 billion in sales and employ over 2.8 million people. And when you look at those particular figures and then you break it down to minorities, minorities even further own 4.1 million firms and generate $694 billion and employ 4.8 million people. So what is the problem and what is it that I brought to the CBC to contribute in terms of a proposal of what we could do to help? We could help small businesses, and we already have the current framework to do so. It's called the SBA. But unfortunately, as with many government agencies, just because something exists doesn't mean it should stay that way. We can always work to make it better. So when we consider the SBA that was really established in 1953, there are changes that have to occur. And the one that I'd like to talk about tonight is not all of the wonderful training, not all of counseling--all of that we desperately need--but there's a program today that can change and it can be done now. That's our section 8 services. Section 8 was established to include access to business development opportunities for businesses within that particular financial area, but there's a problem with it. As far back as 1992, magazines and other individuals have highlighted the problems with the section 8 program. The problem is, instead of creating multimillion-dollar business success stories, the section 8 program consistently graduates companies before they're ready to flourish. It gives them a short period of time--7 years, 9 years--to begin to utilize contracts, and then it throws them out without an umbrella or without a safety net. I would say if we could do a safety net for some of these other Wall Street firms and financial industries, why aren't we holding our hands out to small business? This has led to a surprising result that many of us have seen, that companies who were able and who were succeeding with the section 8 program, when they were then bumped out, of course, what were the results? In 1991, SBA studied 645 former 8(a) companies that were doing fine, but prior to them being kicked off, after that point, 42 percent fell through. We can stop that, and we can change it today by four simple proposals that I have for you. I propose that we reform and modernize the section 8 program to help more small disadvantaged business enterprises, DBEs, to remain in business and to hire more workers--we were talking about over 4 million workers--by doing the following: One, extend at least 2 years the 9-year program in which section 8(a) certifies businesses to participate. Number two, we can reinstate those who already did their 7 or 9 years, and they're kind of at the brink, and with a couple more years of help, they could be back on a level ground. We should extend their time as well. And then thirdly, we should create a new program that's kind of in the middle ground, not of a major company that's bringing in billions of dollars, but clearly a small business that's hiring 10 people, 20 people in your neighborhood. We need for them to exist. And finally, we should consider that under this program, eligible companies who are able to participate, we should really grow that revenue, because what was $100,000 yesterday that somebody made is not nearly enough in terms of keeping a viable company going. So, in closing, what I'd like to say to our Chair, Ms. Barbara Lee, and also Ms. Fudge from Ohio, I applaud the efforts that we've taken. The American people want to know what we're doing. What we're doing is caucuses like the CBC are coming together. We're meeting. We're talking about direct jobs. We're talking about keeping teachers and police officers employed. We're talking about helping small business owners stay alive. That's what we're doing, and we're bringing those proposals to the Speaker, to the President of the United States, and we're asking them to act now. We're ready to vote. We're ready to do our part. But we need to make sure that these dollars go to the American people, which is where they started from.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 4284, which would extend the Andean Trade Preferences Act, ATPA, and the Generalized System of Preferences, GSP, for an additional year. I would like to thank Chairman Rangel for his leadership on this issue and for bringing this bill to the floor. It is critically important that we extend these trade preferences before they expire at the end of this calendar year. We have seen in the past the damage that a short lapse can do to cross border business relationships. The trade preferences we seek to extend benefit both the United States and our South American trading partners. These preferences support economic growth both here in the United States and abroad in some of the poorest countries in the world. Almost 2 million jobs in the United States and the Andean region depend on ATPA preferences and the region has emerged an important market for U.S. exports. Because use of the programs is conditioned through eligibility criteria, such as labor, human rights, and intellectual property, the United States is able to advance both important economic and foreign policy goals. I therefore urge all of my colleagues to join me in voting for H.R. 4284.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of House Resolution 940, a resolution recognizing and honoring the National Guard on the occasion of its 373rd anniversary. The National Guard has a rich and vital history of protecting our Nation, and I am proud to support this resolution honoring them. I would like to thank Congressman Latta for authoring this important resolution, and House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer and Speaker Nancy Pelosi for their skill and leadership in bringing it to the floor. Mr. Speaker, since the attacks on September 11, 2001, hundreds of thousands of members of the Army and Air National Guard have been called upon by their States and the Federal Government to provide security at home and combat terrorism abroad. As a conferee on H.R. 2647, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010, I was proud to support the provision of $200 million to support National Guard and Reserve military construction projects. The men and women of the National Guard make so many sacrifices to keep our Nation and its people safe, and we need to make sure they have the support and funding to perform their duties. This resolution recognizes and honors those sacrifices. In conclusion, Mr. Speaker, I support this resolution thanking the members of the National Guard for their service and continued support, as well as expressing condolences and gratitude to the families of members of the National Guard who have lost their lives. I am proud to honor and support the compassionate, courageous, and dedicated members of the National Guard who serve a critical role in protecting the United States and its citizens' freedoms and treasured liberties. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H. Res. 940.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of House Resolution 28, which expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) should increase and enhance its efforts to secure rail and mass transit systems in ways that are consistent with the 9/11 Act and H.R. 2200. I would like to acknowledge Speaker Pelosi and Chairman Thompson for their leadership in bringing this important resolution to the floor. I would also like to thank my colleague Congresswoman Sheila Jackson-Lee, who authored this resolution recognizing TSA and its programs and urging the Administration to continue its efforts protecting the infrastructure of our Nation. 11,300,000 passengers depend on our Nation's mass transit lines as a means of transportation, and more than 25 million children depend on the school transportation system. My district, the 37th district of California, is a key transportation hub as well. Nearly 45 percent of all U.S. imports travel through the District. As such, it is critical that TSA shares our commitment to securing these systems. H. Res. 28 recognizes TSA for leading Federal efforts to secure our Nation's rail and mass transit systems, the National Explosives Detection Canine Team Program as a valuable resource, and the successful Online Learning Center that ensures those responsible for securing against terrorist attacks on our transportation systems are highly trained. So I am happy to stand in support of H. Res. 28. In conclusion, Mr. Speaker, I support this resolution because we cannot take the safety of our Nation's infrastructure for granted. We need to urge TSA to take all the action necessary to adequately protect our Nation and expand upon programs with a proven record of success, such as the Online Learning Center. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H. Res 28.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, as a member of the Homeland Security Committee, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 3980, the Redundancy Elimination and Enhanced Performance for Preparedness Grants Act. This legislation directs FEMA to streamline its grants reporting process to make it more efficient and informative, and it eliminates redundant requests for information. I would like to acknowledge Speaker Pelosi and Chairman Thompson for their leadership in bringing this important bill to the floor. I would also like to thank my colleague Congressman Cuellar, who worked so hard authoring this important legislation holding FEMA accountable for our taxpayer dollars. Mr. Speaker, on October 27, as a member of the Subcommittee on Emergency Communication, Preparedness, and Response, I heard testimony from both FEMA officials and state and local government officials about the new grants tracking program currently being tested. State and local officials, including the mayor of Los Angeles in my home state of California, urged the federal government to reconsider their use of this program. In the words of the mayor, ``all the reports that it generates provide no guidance or value for assessing homeland security investments.'' H.R. 3980 directs FEMA to identify and address the problems it is experiencing with grants reporting and tracking. This legislation is almost a direct response to the concerns raised to Congressman Cuellar and me by the mayor of Los Angeles about the FEMA grants reporting process. I am proud that this legislation addresses those concerns. When it comes to homeland security and taxpayer dollars, we simply cannot afford to be wasting time or money on programs that offer no guidance or value. So I am pleased to champion H.R. 3980, which addresses this problem. In conclusion, Mr. Speaker, I support this bill because it will make our grant process more efficient and informative. Redundant reporting requirements will be eliminated, and communities and organizations will be able to better focus on doing the work they need to do to keep our nation safe. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 3980.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 3961, the ``Medicare Physician Payment Reform Act of 2009.'' Our seniors and veterans have worked for affordable, quality, and accessible health care. The bill before us, H.R. 3961, ensures that Medicare payments fairly compensate physicians for their services. This legislation will ensure that doctors will be available to treat their Medicare patients. Over the last five years, Medicare payment rates to doctors were set artificially low just to keep the system from becoming insolvent. That was the wrong approach. Instead of saving money, the system had the unintended consequence of discouraging doctors from accepting Medicare patients. Under the ``Sustainable Growth Rate'' formula, or ``SGR,'' employed by the previous Administration and Congresses, the rate of physicians' reimbursement steadily decreased in order to restrain the growth of overall Medicare spending. So while aggregate spending was balanced, payments to individual doctors provided minimal incentive for them to continue treating Medicare patients. Indeed, if this flawed SGR formula were implemented in its current form, Medicare physicians would suffer a 21 percent fee reduction in January 2010. This would be disastrous for Medicare patients because many of their doctors would no longer be able to afford to provide them with the quality care they need. H.R. 3961 will allow doctors to keep their doors open to their Medicare and TRICARE patients. Rather than being reimbursed based on some externally constructed, faulty measure such as the SGR, doctors will be reimbursed based on a new measure, one that reflects the actual cost of the services they provide to their patients. H.R. 3961 also sets 2009 as the baseline for years to come. This means that, rather than a steadily declining reimbursement, doctors will experience a reimbursement rate that either matches or slightly exceeds what they received the year before. This bill ends the cycle of fee reductions based on an artificially constructed formula and replaces it with a stable system that reflects the valuable relationship between seniors and their doctors. In my district alone, there are more than 60,000 seniors on Medicare. For them, this bill means access to the quality care provided by their doctor. Since doctors know they will be reimbursed fairly for their services, they will not feel compelled to close their doors to the Medicare and TRICARE patients in my district. This bill also establishes more moderate target growth rates for Medicare spending. These target growth rates are much more realistic than the SGR and they will not result in the types of fee reductions like the 21 percent reduction that is currently threatening physicians. Finally, this bill encourages integrated care so that providers can communicate and develop a comprehensive wellness plan that meets the needs of each patient. Mr. Speaker, it is not surprising that President Obama strongly supports H.R. 3961. He understands the relationship between reasonable reimbursement rates and availability of quality care for Medicare beneficiaries. Likewise, the American Medical Association supports this bill because it provides physicians with the financial stability they need to invest in the infrastructure needed to build a health care system that works. The AARP supports this bill because it represents meaningful, sustainable reform for the 40 million seniors it represents. I support this bill because it continues the work we began this month when we passed the historic Affordable Health Care for America Act. This necessary and timely reform benefits our seniors and our veterans. As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, the security and peace of mind that this legislation will bring to our seniors and veterans is something for which we can all be thankful. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 3961.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Chair, as a member of the Committee on Homeland Security and an original co-sponsor, I rise in strong support of H.R. 3791, the Fire Grants Reauthorization Act of 2009, which reauthorizes for five years $1 billion per year for FEMA's Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) program and reauthorizes $1.2 billion for the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) program. This increase in federal support for the nation's fire departments is especially important in this tough economy as local officials struggle to provide critical services--including public safety services--in the face of declining revenues and decreasing budgets. I thank Chairman Gordon and my colleague, Congressman Mitchell of Arizona, for their hard work in shepherding this critical legislation to the floor today. We all remember the wildfires from this summer that hit my home state of California especially hard. Over 160,000 acres were destroyed in the ``Station Fire,'' the most in the history of Los Angeles County. But not only did people lose their homes in this terrible tragedy, two firefighters lost their lives as well. Incidents like these underscore the importance of providing firefighters with the best possible equipment and training to perform their dangerous jobs. And that is probably the most important reason of all for passing H.R. 3791, the Fire Grants Reauthorization Act of 2009. Mr. Chair, I support H.R. 3791 because it: Provides a fairer distribution of FIRE Grant funding among fire departments by setting a 25 percent distribution of the appropriated funds among the categories of career, volunteer and combination fire departments; Lowers matching and maintenance of expenditure requirements and authorizes the FEMA Administrator to waive or reduce such requirements for applicants facing demonstrated economic hardship; Raises the limit on FIRE Grant awards to $9 million for jurisdictions based on population so that large urban areas with population more than 2.5 million like the one I represent. Makes the SAFER Grant program more accessible to fire departments by making it a three-year program with a 20 percent match. Raises the maximum amount for individual Fire Prevention and Safety Grants to $1.5 million. Mr. Chair, in the last nine years the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program, or FIRE grant program, has aided thousands of fire departments nationwide by providing more than $5 billion in federal aid for critically-needed training, equipment, health and wellness programs and other fire service needs. The Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response or ``SAFER'' program has provided nearly $700 million to fire departments to help hire and retain firefighters since its creation in 2004. Yet, despite the success of the programs, effectiveness has been curtailed by the uneven distribution of grants among jurisdictions of varying sizes. Statutory restrictions have inadvertently hampered larger fire departments that protect the majority of the population from receiving much-needed federal assistance. As a result, the majority of FIRE Grant funds currently are being spent to protect a relatively small portion of the population. H.R. 3791 corrects this imbalance by targeting more funding to larger fire departments in the more populous jurisdictions. Mr. Chair, H.R. 3791 is the product of bipartisan cooperation and is broadly supported by the firefighting community because it strikes an equitable balance in the distribution of the grants so that the funding can benefit all types of communities and ensures that fire departments with the greatest need can apply for and receive funding in amounts sufficient to address their real needs. That is why this legislation is broadly supported by the firefighting and fire prevention community, including the following major organizations: the International Association of Fire Chiefs, the National Fire Protection Association, the National Volunteer Fire Council, the International Association of Fire Fighters, the International Association of Arson Investigators, and the Congressional Fire Services Institute. Mr. Chair, H.R. 3791 is good for our firefighters. It is good for our local governments. It is good for the nation and good for my district. I am proud to be an original co-sponsor of the critical legislation and urge my colleagues to join me in voting for its passage.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, as a member of the Native American Caucus, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 1834, the Native American Business Development Enhancement Act of 2009, which will promote entrepreneurship within the Native American community. This is the kind of legislation we need to lift us out of this economic downturn. H.R. 1834 will serve as a vehicle to create jobs, support small businesses, and help people get back to work in the communities that need it most. I acknowledge Chairwoman Velazquez for her leadership in bringing this important bill to the floor. I would also like to thank my colleague Congresswoman Kilpatrick, the author of this legislation, who worked so hard to help such an underserved community get the opportunities they need to succeed. Mr. Speaker, the Native American Business Development Enhancement Act establishes the Office of Native American Affairs in the Small Business Administration, SBA, to increase Native American entrepreneurship. H.R. 1834 will enable SBA's administrator to operate a Tribal Business Information Centers program to provide Native American populations with business training and entrepreneurial development assistance. The SBA will contribute agency personnel and resources to the centers, as well as make grants to the centers. In addition, Indian tribe members, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians can apply for grants to assist with outreach, development, and enhancement of small business startups and expansions. In California, the State I represent, there are over 100 tribes, many of varying levels of economic success. As a long time friend and supporter of the Native American community, I am so pleased to champion a bill such as H.R. 1834, which provides economic opportunities that have been denied to this community for so long. But more must be done, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure that Native Americans receive the full equal range of opportunities in this country. In conclusion, Mr. Speaker, I support this bill because it will provide job training and opportunities to the areas and populations that need the most assistance. The communities served by H.R. 1834 represent some of the most traditionally disadvantaged, isolated, and underserved populations in America. This legislation is yet another example of how Congress is taking the action necessary to respond to the current economic situation with innovative solutions. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 1834.

Mr. RICHARDSON

Mr. RICHARDSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Res. 891 which recognizes and honors the Coast Guard and Marine Corps aircraft pilots and crewmembers who lost their lives off the coast of Southern California on October 29, 2009. Let me take a moment to commend Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez, who hails from my home state of California, for her leadership in bringing this resolution to the floor and giving us the opportunity both to mourn our loss of these individuals and to thank the Coast Guard and the Marine Corps for their brave service to this country. I was truly devastated when I heard the news on October 29, 2009, of a collision between a Coast Guard transport plane and a Marine Corps helicopter off the coast of Southern California, not far from my district. At the same time, I was deeply grateful for those members of the Coast Guard and the Navy who immediately went out and conducted an intense search and rescue mission to locate any possible survivors of the crash. We are indebted to the men and women who dedicate their lives to the Coast Guard and the Marine Corps. Even in the face of a tragedy such as this one, one that affects members of their own community, these brave men and women are ready and willing to serve their country in whatever way necessary. I support this resolution and urge my colleagues to do the same.