Laura Richardson

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the memory of Donna Summer, a singer whose legacy continues to shape the music industry and inspire audiences around the world. Donna Summer passed away surrounded by her family and loved ones after a long battle with cancer. She was 63. Donna Summer was a powerhouse who defined dance music and paved the road for countless performers. Her music career spanned across four decades and led to five Grammy awards. She was the first female artist to have four number-one hits in a 13-month period as well as the first to receive a Grammy in rock. She infused the music industry with a sense of excitement and energy that brought everyone to the dance floor and continues to inspire today's artists. Her songs provided the soundtrack to the disco years, but her legacy extends far beyond this singular genre. Her versatility and talent cemented her place in music history even as the disco lights faded, and she continued to write and perform until recent years. As a devout born-again Christian, Donna Summer's life hardly resembled the glitz and glam of her stage persona. She grew up singing gospel, and her faith provided her with a strong sense of purpose and conviction. Although she may first be remembered as a singer and performer, her memory will also live on as a loving mother, wife, and friend. I feel love when I hear her music, a love that will last even after I have no more tears to shed. Her memory will carry on in the hearts of all who remember yesterday and the joy they felt when Donna Summer's songs played on the radio. Although Ms. Summer may have danced her last dance on Earth, Heaven knows she will be dancing and singing long after we dim all the lights. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in a moment of silence in honor of her memory.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the service and dedication of one of my own constituents, Ms. Cynthia Berry. For almost five years now Ms. Berry has been an essential part of the Long Beach foster care program. Ms. Berry's story is simple but inspiring. She graduated from college and took in her first foster children in her early 20's, ready to open her heart and home to try and give those less fortunate the warm and happy childhood she had experienced. When she went on to nursing school it was too time consuming to give the children everything they deserved, so she took a break from the foster care system. After becoming a single parent and raising her daughter, Ms. Berry decided it was time once again to become a foster parent. Over the past five years she has selflessly brought 20 children through her home, and showed them a type of love and nurture their own families were not able to provide. At 50 years old she is showing no signs of slowing down, and is currently in the process of adopting her three most recent children who are all under the age of five. In California there are over 80,000 children in the foster care system, the majority of whom are placed there as a result of parental abuse or neglect. As a member of the Congressional Caucus of Foster Youth I am amazed by the way Ms. Berry works with the families of her children to help them become better parents. This way they will hopefully have the opportunity to return to a safe and happier home. Most of the children that pass through her home are able to go back to their own families after being cleared by the state, but when they are unable to they continue in the system until they are 18. From there they are pretty much on their own with limited financial support from the state. Their only real hope is people like Ms. Berry, who get them out of the system. In 2008, there was an average of 123,000 children waiting to be adopted. Over the course of the year only 55,000 of these children managed to be adopted. It is vital that these foster homes are warm and nurturing places a child feels safe in. These children have already experienced so much pain in their lives, and this might be their first experience of having a caring parent watching out for them. Ms. Berry provides them with that love and security. For all her work and dedication Ms. Berry is being honored at an open house reception put on by Aspiranet, the agency that she works with. She will share her story and experiences with all the children she has helped over the years. Since May is National Foster Care Month it seems fitting that a woman of her caliber should represent the Long Beach foster care system. Mr. Speaker, Ms. Berry is the type of woman we should all look to for inspiration. She is hardworking, selfless and above all, a caring mother to all her children, biological or not. When we are feeling overwhelmed, overworked or just unhappy about our own lives, we should look to Ms. Berry, who does it all with a smile, and asks for nothing in return except the future success of the kids she loves so much.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong and unyielding opposition to H.R. 4970, ``Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2012.'' I urge my colleagues to reject this legislation and appeal to the Republican leadership to bring to the floor the Senate version of this bill which passed with a substantial bipartisan majority. Every Democratic Senator and 15 Senate Republicans, including all of the Senate GOP women, voted for the bill. H.R. 4970 reauthorizes the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) for five years. It provides federal resources authorized by VAWA directly to organizations and programs that help prevent violent crime and protect victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. It consolidates grant programs and requires more audits and direct grant applicants to disclose their sources of federal funding. It also includes new benchmarks for visa applicants who are the victims of violent crime. Madam Speaker, VAWA has never been a partisan issue until this Congress. Twice over the last 20 years, Democrats and Republicans have worked together to reauthorize VAWA and make necessary improvements. But just like on the Highway Bill, House Republicans are abandoning the bipartisan consensus that has always existed on VAWA reauthorizations. The bill rolls back important protections for immigrant victims that put them in a more vulnerable position than under current law by eliminating longstanding confidentiality of VAWA petitions for protection by allowing immigration officials to contact a battered woman's abusive spouse, tipping off the abuser to the victim's efforts to leave. H.R. 4970 also makes it more difficult for undocumented witnesses to work with law enforcement officials, and eliminates a pathway to permanent residency for victims of major crimes who cooperate with police on serious criminal cases. The bill also completely excludes vulnerable populations such as tribal women, and LGBT individuals. The House Republican bill removes the key provisions from the bipartisan passed Senate bill improving protections for Native American women and ensuring all victims are assisted regardless of religion or sexual orientation. The House Republican bill is opposed by hundreds of groups within the domestic violence community, as well as law enforcement, civil rights and faith-based groups. Drafting a VAWA bill without any input from Democrats and without any Democratic support in the Judiciary Committee goes against how these reauthorizations have been crafted for over two decades. And it has produced a bill that weakens, rather than strengthens, protections for women against domestic abuse. I oppose H.R. 4970 and urge my colleagues to do likewise.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Chair, I rise in support of H.R. 4310, the ``National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2013,'' which provides $642 billion in budget authority for the Department of Defense and the national security programs of the Department of Energy. Although the bill is not perfect and contains several provisions that I do not support, on balance I support the legislation because it (1) provides our troops the resources they need to protect and defend our country and themselves; (2) supports military families; (3) makes important investments to keep our homeland safe; and (4) incorporates three critical amendments I offered to strengthen the nation's strategic ports (of which the Port of Long Beach is perhaps the most critical), provide expanded protections for women service members, and enhances the effectiveness of the Northern Command (``NORTHCOM'') in protecting the homeland in event of war. I thank Chairman McKeon and Ranking Member Smith for their hard work in shepherding this bill to the floor on this bill and for their commitment to the men and women of the Armed Forces. Let me briefly highlight some of the key provisions that I support. I support the provisions in the bill providing all service members a pay raise of 1.7 percent, the level included in the President's request, and extends certain special pay and bonuses for active-duty and reserve personnel. The bill limits any annual increase in cost- sharing rates under the TRICARE pharmacy program to the percentage increase in retiree pay, beginning October 1, 2013. I am also pleased that the bill extends access to family housing for six months for service members mustering out due to personnel reductions. Mr. Chair, combating domestic violence and deterring sexual offenses in both the civilian and military sectors is a national priority. That is why I am pleased that this bill includes provisions requiring secretaries of the military departments to establish special victim teams for investigation, prosecution and victim support in connection with child abuse, serious domestic violence or sexual offenses under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. The bill further requires that at least one team in each military department be in place within one year of enactment and that each secretary report within 270 days of enactment with a plan and timeline for the establishment of the remainder of the special victim teams that the secretary has determined are needed. Mr. Chair, this bill provides the resources needed to protect our troops in harm's way. It provides: $2.8 billion for measures to counter IED activities in Afghanistan; $3.2 billion for Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles in Afghanistan; An increase of $321 million in unrequested funds for modernization of M 1 Abrams tanks and Bradley Fighting Vehicles, vehicles that help protect the lives of our troops; and $7.6 billion for operations and maintenance of the Special Operations Command, an amount that includes $2.5 billion in the Overseas Contingency Operations account. Another reason for supporting this bill is that it provides expanded opportunities for small businesses to participate in Defense Department contracts. For example, the bill includes several provisions designed to eliminate barriers that have prevented many small and medium-sized businesses from competing for Pentagon contracts. It also establishes new DOD goals for procurement contracts awarded to small businesses. There are also provisions to amend the Small Business Act to establish a government-wide goal for participation by small businesses at not less than 25 percent of all prime contracts for each fiscal year, and 40 percent of all subcontract awards for each fiscal year. Mr. Chair, as I noted earlier in my remarks, an additional reason why I support this legislation is because it includes three amendments that I offered to improve the bill. I want to thank Rules Committee Chairman Dreier, Ranking Member Slaughter, Armed Services Committee Chairman McKeon and Ranking Member Smith for working with me to include these amendments. My first amendment, Richardson Amendment No. 82, requires the Department of Defense to post on all its websites information on sexual assault prevention and response resources. In light of technology, many people, particularly service personnel receive the majority of their information via the Internet. Further, online access to the needed information is particularly important because persons needing sexual assault resource information may be reluctant to seek information in a public setting without fear of losing privacy, or worse retaliation. My second amendment, Richardson Amendment No. 112, improves the bill by increasing the effectiveness of the Northern Command (``NORTHCOM'') in fulfilling its critical mission of protecting the U.S. homeland in event of war and to provide support to local, state, and federal authorities in times of national emergency. This amendment was included in last year's National Defense Authorization Act and I am pleased that it is included again this year also. The purpose for NORTHCOM's existence is to bring the capabilities and the resources of the U.S. military to the assistance of the American people during a catastrophic disaster. NORTHCOM leaders will be much more effective in saving lives, protecting assets, and enhancing resilience after a disaster has occurred if they are trained in the techniques of effective engagement with civilian leadership. My amendment ensures that such training will be available. I want to thank my good friend and colleague, Congressman Don Young of Alaska for working with me across the aisle and partnering with me on the amendment, Young/Richardson Amendment 141. This amendment calls for the expedited completion of the study of the Nation's strategic ports called for in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2012 Conference Report 112 329. As the representative of a district served by the largest port complex in the nation, I have long been a strong champion on protecting our nation's ports. My colleagues have heard me say often that ``in times of war, the role of the ports is to protect the forts.'' This amendment also directs the Department of Defense to provide a copy of the report to the GAO for additional review of the extent to which the facilities and infrastructure serving strategic seaports meet the Department of Defense's requirements. The completion of this report is vital in the assessment of the structural integrity and deficiencies of the port facilities. It further examines infrastructure improvements that are needed directly or indirectly to meet national security and readiness requirements. In addition to assessing the impact on operational readiness, this report will identify potential funding sources to undertake needed improvements.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to H.R. 5326, which makes appropriations for the Departments of Commerce and Justice, Science, and Related Agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2013. Although the bill provides adequate funding levels for many programs that I support, they are far outweighed by the unpalatable provisions in the bill. That is why I will vote no on final passage. Let me list some of the more objectionable provisions of this bill. Department of Commerce The bill reduces funding by $93 million for National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). I also oppose the $92 million reduction from the President's FY 2013 Budget request for the Census Bureau. A cut of this magnitude threatens the Bureau's ability to implement Economic Census data collection activities that peak in FY 2013, hindering the successful development of critical benchmarks for Gross Domestic Product estimates. Department of Justice I strongly oppose the level of funding provided in the bill as reported by the Committee for the Community Oriented Policing Services Hiring Grants Program, which is $217 million below the President's FY 2013 Budget request. This reduced funding level would result in the loss of approximately 1,200 police hires/rehires, including veterans. Inaddition, some communities seriously impacted by crime would not be able to support enough police officers to effectively respond. The Regional Information Sharing Systems (RISS) Program offers local, state, federal and tribal law enforcement access to intelligence databases, investigative support and research, equipment loans, training and publications, and field staff support, among other services. RISS is a proven, trusted and cost-effective program that has contributed to 52,350 arrests and yielded $857 million in narcotics, property and case seizures. This represents a 223 percent return on federal investment. Today, state and local law enforcement agencies are experiencing reductions in funding and resources and are turning to RISS to cope. Nevertheless, RISS funding was severely decreased from $45 million in FY2o11 to $27 million in FY2012 and a recommended $27 million in FY2013. I requested an additional $18 million for this program to return funding back to $45 million. Mr. Speaker, the purpose of State Criminal Alien Assistance Program (SCAAP) is to reimburse municipalities for the costs incurred incarcerating undocumented immigrants convicted of crimes. This program is vitally important to my home state of California. In 2009, California received $159 million in SCAAP funds, representing over 40 Percent of the funds allocated nationwide. These funds are an important contribution towards California's cost of incarcerating undocumented immigrants, which is over $1 billion annually. The Committee recommended federal funding for SCAAP at $165 million, which is a cut from FY2012 levels by $75 million and which falls below my request by $785 million. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) I also believe strongly that the Committee's funding level for EEOC, which is $7 million less than the FY 2013 Budget request is inadequate. As the Administration points out in its Statement of Administration Policy, funding at this level would prevent EEOC from filling critical investigator positions lost through attrition, which would increase EEOC's backlog and weaken its ability to enforce Federal laws that protect individuals from discrimination based on their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetic information. Legal Services Corporation (LSC) I also strongly oppose the level of funding provided in the bill for the Legal Services Corporation (LSC), which is $74 million below the FY 2013 Budget request. At this funding level, tens of thousands of low- income Americans, including many military families and veterans, would be denied assistance with civil legal problems, impacting their ability to receive fair treatment in the courts. Now Mr. Speaker, as a representative of the 37th Congressional District of California, I understand the importance of supporting emerging businesses and manufacturers. 30,000 of my constituents are employed in the manufacturing sector, and nearly 45 percent of all U.S. imports travel through the district's neighborhoods. The 37th district also includes three universities and five medical facilities, all of which benefit from funding directed at science and research. The programs covered in this bill have a direct impact on lives across the country, and I am deeply committed to ensuring that commercial, legal and research facilities in my district are able to continue their important work. I would note briefly the provisions in the bill as amended that I do support: 1. U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA): The EDA is the only federal agency focused on private sector job creation. It provides infrastructure grants, strategic planning assistance, business development capital, and technical assistance in economically distressed areas. The Committee approved funding at $219.5 million, or 92.2 percent of my funding request. 2. Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Program: MEP is the only public-private program dedicated to providing technical support to small and medium sized manufacturers to improve efficiency, productivity and profitability. In FY2009 alone, MEP projects created or retained 52,948 jobs, generated more than $9.1 billion in sales and provided cost savings of more than $1.41 billion. The Committee met my request for funding at $128 million. 3. Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA): MBDA works to foster the growth and competitiveness of minority-owned U.S. businesses. Minority firms currently provide nearly 5.8 million jobs but have the potential to create 17.5 million jobs, leading to stronger communities and a bolstered economy. The Committee designated $28,689,000 for the agency, 94.2 percent of my request. 4. Department of Justice Youth Mentoring Grants: This account is the sole remaining source of federal funding to support mentoring for at- risk youth. The account provides grants to non-profit organizations that reduce youth interaction with the juvenile justice system, which proves to be a cost-effective method for reducing the likeliness of drug and alcohol use while improving academic performance and family relations. The Committee exceeded my request and FY2012 funding by allocating $90 million. 5. National Science Foundation (NSF): This funding will allow NSF and universities to sustain and expand their vital research and education programs, which range from improving science education to developing multimedia technologies to improve telemedicine. This significant investment will support technological advancement here at home and properly train the country's next generation of scientists and engineers. Funding for FY2013 is $7.3 billion, which is 97 percent of my request. 6. Services, Training, Officers, Prosecutors (STOP) Formula Grant Program: As the cornerstone of VAWA, STOP awards funds to every state and territory to create and sustain coordinated community responses and trainings for law enforcement, prosecutors, judicial personnel, and victim advocates. This coordinated response has been proven effective in helping hundreds of thousands of victims find safety and holds perpetrators accountable for their actions. The Committee recommends funding at $189 million, 92.2 percent of my request. 7. VAWA Transitional Housing Assistance Grants Program: After fleeing dangerous and abusive situations, survivors must rebuild their shattered lives. The VAWA Transitional Housing Program provides an essential continuum between emergency shelter and independent living, helping victims move from crisis to stability. The Committee met my funding request of $25 million. 8. Victims of Trafficking Grant Program: There are currently 40 task forces nationwide that integrate federal, state and local law enforcement with prosecutorial and victim service organizations to prevent and prosecute human trafficking and to protect the victims of trafficking and slavery. I supported the continuation of this task force program, and the Committee has set funding at $13.5 million, 90 percent of my request. 9. Community Relations Services: CRS provides resources and tools to address community conflicts that arise from racial and ethnic tensions. The Committee recommended $11,456,000 for these services, or 95.1 percent of my request. 10. Trade Adjustment Assistance for Firms: The TAAF program is the only trade adjustment assistance program that works with economically distressed U.S. manufacturers impacted by international trade agreements, offering technical assistance to help them remain employers in their communities. Its continuation is critical to the sustainability and growth of domestic manufacturing, and the Committee met my request of $15.8 million. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the decision of the Appropriations Committee to fund the programs I have described at a level consistent with my requests and want to express my thanks to Chairman Wolf and Ranking Member Fattah for their responsiveness. It is my hope that the more problematic provisions of the bill will be corrected as the process goes forward so that the final version of the bill can be signed by the president and worthy of my support.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, the higher education system in the United States is the envy of the world. The universities here are a part of America's backbone, providing young people with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in today's global economy. However, Mr. Speaker, as the value of a college education has risen, so has the cost of tuition at universities across the country. Nowhere is this truer than in public universities in the state of California where budget cuts, furlough days, and tuition increases have become the new normal. Average in-State tuition and fees at public 4-year institutions of higher education have risen 8.3 percent between the 2010 2011 and 2011 2012 academic years. The tuition hikes at public universities threaten access to higher education for millions of low and middle-income students who have worked hard in high school and deserve to go to college. As a result of the increase in tuition at public and private universities, student loan debt now exceeds credit card debt (totaling $870 billion) and is expected to reach one trillion dollars this year. Students graduating from college between 2006 and 2010 had a median student loan debt of $20,000. I am the proud sponsor of H.R. 5801, the Unshackling Students to Lead, Excel, Act, Develop and Succeed Act, or the ``U.S. LEADS Act,'' which will provide student loan debt relief for recent college graduates searching for employment. The U.S. LEADS Act, would assist recent college graduates who are entering a difficult job market by allowing them to defer payment on their federal student loans without accruing interest when the national unemployment rate exceeds seven percent, or when the unemployment rate for 21 25 year olds exceeds nine percent. We know that a college education is one of defining markers in determining an individual's economic security. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate for the civilian population 25 years and over with at least a bachelor's degree is 4.2% while the rate for individuals with only a high school degree is 10.7%. Helping young Americans pursue higher education provides them with the most secure pathway to the middle class and is an investment in our country's future. Our economy depends on an educated citizenry to out- compete and out-innovate the rest of the world, and maintaining access to a quality and affordable education is central to preserving America's status as the global center for academic research and technological innovation. If my bill were to pass, it would provide relief to more than 25,000 recent college graduates in my congressional district alone. Students who have worked hard and played by the rules deserve the peace of mind in knowing that they will not be crushed by the weight of their student loan debt if they are unable to retain gainful employment as soon as they graduate from college.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Chair, I speak in support of the En Bloc Amendment #5 to H.R. 4310, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2013, which includes two of my amendments. I thank Chairman McKeon, Ranking Member Smith, and their staffs for their work on this bill, their devotion to the men and women of the Armed Forces, and for accepting my amendments. Richardson Amendment No. 82 requires the Department of Defense to post on all its websites information on sexual assault prevention and response resources. In light of technology, many people, particularly service personnel receive the majority of their information via the Internet. Furthermore, online access to the needed information is particularly important because persons needing sexual assault resource information may be reluctant to seek information in a public setting without fear of losing privacy, or worse retaliation. Richardson Amendment #112 improves the Defense Authorization Act by increasing the effectiveness of the Northern Command (``NORTHCOM'') in fulfilling its critical mission of protecting the U.S. homeland in event of war and to provide support to local, state, and federal authorities in times of national emergency. This amendment was included in last year's National Defense Authorization Act and I am pleased that it is included this year also. The purpose for NORTHCOM's existence is to bring the capabilities and the resources of the U.S. military to the assistance of the American people during a catastrophic disaster. NORTHCOM leaders will be much more effective in saving lives, protecting assets, and enhancing resilience after a disaster has occurred if they are trained in the techniques of effective engagement with civilian leadership. My amendment ensures that such training will be available.

Ms. RICHARDSON. I thank the gentleman for allowing me to speak in support of the Young-Richardson amendment, No. 141, that we have before us. I would like to thank Chairman McKeon and also Ranking Member Smith and their staff for all of their hard work on this very important bill. The Young-Richardson amendment calls for the expedited completion of the study of the Nation's strategic ports called for in the National Defense Authorization Act. As a representative of a district that serves the largest port complex in the Nation and the fifth largest in the world, it is important that we always remember that in times of war, the role of ports is to protect our forts. This amendment directs the Department of Defense to provide a copy of the report to the GAO for additional review of the extent to which the facilities and infrastructure serving our strategic seaports meet the demands of the Department of Defense. The completion of this report is vital in its assessment of the structural integrity, the deficiencies and, most importantly, the report will identify potential funding sources to undertake these needed improvements. I thank the House Armed Services Committee for including this Young- Richardson amendment in the en bloc, and I also applaud Mr. Young on his long-standing leadership.

Ms. RICHARDSON. I would like to thank the ranking member, Mr. Smith, and Chairman McKeon for including this amendment en bloc.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize National Defense Transportation Day and National Transportation Week. America has always been a leader in transportation development from the submarine to the steam engine that connected two great oceans and the first flight at Kitty Hawk to the mighty interstates that connect our cities. Transportation is our nation's lifeblood and has been a driving force of our economy. On May 18 is National Defense Transportation Day and May 13 19 is National Transportation Week. A nation's ability to transport first responders, servicemembers, and materials to the front lines of any crisis is the key to saving lives and protecting our freedoms. Our transportation networks have enabled us to react with speed and efficiency during a crisis. Our roads, rails, runways, and shipyards have formed the foundation for a thriving global marketplace. Letting these vital infrastructures diminish in quality hampers our ability to maintain a thriving global marketplace. Recommitting to investing and building modern day infrastructure, as we did in the 1950s, we can once again galvanize our economy and soar to new heights like that of the eagle. Transportation has a high priority for me as a member of Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and ranking member of Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Communications. Crumbling bridges put our safety at risk, and antiquated infrastructure limits our capacity to respond to threats, emergencies, and hazards at home and abroad. These situations diminish our security, our prosperity, and our resilience, and we must do more to address them. The need for strong and sustainable transportation networks has never been greater. The state of our roads and railways creates a competitive disadvantage that discourages investment and slows the pace of progress. Our nation invests only 2.4 percent of our GDP where as Europe and China invests 5 percent and 9 percent respectively into creating competitive infrastructure. We are greatly lagging behind and investing would save 1.8 million jobs and create up to 1 million more jobs. Through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and the Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) Discretionary Grant program, all 50 States have launched new highway and infrastructure projects, and many have funded passenger rail development that will modernize our cities and help put more construction workers back on the job. But this is not enough; I remain committed to upgrading our infrastructure, ensuring the safety and security of our transportation systems, bringing diverse, sustainable transit opportunities to communities across our country, and investing in innovative solutions to address the transportation challenges of today and tomorrow. On National Defense Transportation Day and during National Transportation Week, we celebrate that rich legacy and recommit to building robust infrastructure that will accelerate our economy in the years ahead. An economy built to last depends on a world-class infrastructure system. I call upon all Members to recognize the importance of our Nation's transportation infrastructure and to acknowledge the contributions of those who build, operate, and maintain these critical infrastructures.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor May as Older Americans Month. Since 1963 our Nation has come together to celebrate the seniors in our communities. This month the theme is ``Never Too Old to Play'', which emphasizes how important it is for older Americans to stay active and engaged in their communities. Communities are encouraged to organize social events like trivia night, painting a mural or a team photo scavenger hunt to encourage seniors to get involved. Just this past week I hosted a senior luncheon in my district. This annual event is not only an opportunity to listen to my constituents concerns over a great meal, but it is a time for seniors to get together and enjoy themselves. We had performances from local entertainment groups, speeches and karaoke. It was a wonderful time for all involved. I have also introduced H.R. 3794, the Expanding Opportunities for Older Americans Act of 2011. This bill would amend the Older Americans Act of 1965 to include government funding to hire seniors who still wish to be working and active. Although seniors have already given so much, I truly believe they have much more to offer. Older Americans Month is also a great time to bridge the generation gap. Children to young adults can learn so much from the older generation, but they rarely interact in everyday life. There is so much valuable knowledge the young people from this country can receive from the older generation, and this is an opportunity for people of all ages to get out there and interact together. This month also gives me a chance to address an issue of key importance; caring for seniors with chronic illness and preventing unnecessary hospitalizations. In-home care can make a huge difference in recovery from illness and inpatient hospital treatments. Being around family and in the comfort of one's own home makes these traumatic experiences that much less painful. Mr. Speaker, the majority of the skilled home healthcare providers in my district deliver high-quality, clinically effective and highly efficient care. In-home care is so important for the seniors who would otherwise be forced into hospitals without it. As an elected official I want to make sure that Medicare funds in my district are going to those who qualify and deserve it, so we can continue to provide the best care for our seniors. With such a tough economic outlook throughout the nation it is of vital importance that we are not handing money over to criminals who are trying to play the system. Mr. Speaker, after decades of paying taxes and working hard so that they will have security in retirement, the seniors of America deserve our full support. I hope every community takes this month to plan at least one event supporting the older generation, and bringing people of all ages together. This month I honor the seniors of the 37th district of California, as well as all seniors across the country. Thank you for all you do, and do not forget, ``It is never too old to play''.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to submit my remarks in opposition to a Republican bill that weakens protections for violence against women and in support of the bipartisan Senate bill.

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition to H. Res. 656, Rule Providing Consideration of H.R. 4970, Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act. Reporting a closed rule for the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act is another example of shutting Democrats out of the legislation process by ruling out any opportunity for Democrats to offer much needed Amendments. The House version of the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act unfortunately omits improvements contained in the Senate version of the bill. What is worse is that the House version in its current form removes existing protections for immigrant women, and puts them at greater risk of domestic and sexual abuse, and it does not provide adequate and equal protection for tribal women and the LGBT community. For nearly two decades now, Democrats have firmly supported the Violence Against Women Act and the critical assistance it has provided for women, men, and children, and have worked with Republicans to ensure its reauthorization twice in the past. Unfortunately, since Republicans have taken over the House, bipartisanship and compromise have fallen out of fashion. Republicans have continually played partisan politics and refused to compromise in an effort to move this country forward, and here we are again with another clear example of that. Reporting a closed rule for consideration of Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act is a full-fledged promotion of the Republican attack against women and approval of legislation that is intended to silence the cries of millions of women around our country. Violence Against Women Act has never been and should never be a partisan issue. It is astonishing how the Republican majority has lost sight of our purpose as lawmakers. We have been trusted with the responsibility of protecting society and ensuring justice to victims. Democrats and Republicans have always worked together to reauthorize Violence Against Women Act since its original passage in 1994. But that is not the case today. This rule completely shuts out Democrats and does not allow for the possibility of a bipartisan consensus. I cannot support a rule making in order a bill that strips immigrant women, tribal women and the LGBT community of vital protections as this bill does. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to stand with me in opposition to this rule.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, later today the name of Anthony Giniewicz of Signal Hill, California, will be added to the National Peace Officers Memorial Wall of Honor. The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial is the nation's monument to law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty. Officer Giniewicz, who served on the Signal Hill Police Department, died on December 7, 2011, as a result of gunshot wounds sustained 26 years earlier during an exchange of gunfire with gang members. He will be enshrined on the Memorial Wall of Honor with 361 other peace officers who died in the line of duty in 2011, 19 of whom are from California. Dedicated on October 15, 1991, the Memorial honors Federal, State and local law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the safety and protection of our Nation and its people. Carved on its walls are the names of more than 19,000 officers who have been killed in the line of duty throughout U.S. history, dating back to the first known death in 1791. On February 19, 1985, Officer Giniewicz and his partner were accosted by three gang members while off duty in Signal Hill, California. When Officer Giniewicz identified himself as a police officer the assailants opened fired and shot him multiple times. Miraculously, Officer Giniewicz survived the shooting but was paralyzed from the waist. He spend the next 26 years as a paraplegic and underwent multiple surgeries before succumbing on December 7, 2011 due to complications from his injuries. It is fitting recognition of Officer Giniewicz's heroism that his name will be added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Wall during the National Peace Officers Memorial Service. Officer Giniewicz was more than a police officer, he was a dedicated father, son, brother, friend, and role model to his colleagues on the Signal Hill Police Department. Although his injuries were severe and followed him throughout his life, he fought through it and was still able to enjoy many of the activities he loved before the shooting. Officer Giniewicz was a 35-year member of the Blue Knights Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club, as well as a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association. Mr. Speaker, Officer Anthony Giniewicz epitomized everything that is good and true and great about America. He was brave and kind and fearless and devoted to serving others. He is survived by his mother, Nellie; son, Anthony Aleksandr; stepson, John; stepdaughter, Barbara; former wife, Barbara; six sisters Paula, Linda, Elaine, Christine, Diane and Laurie; and two grandchildren Katelyn and Marissa. As a member of the Law Enforcement Caucus and the representative in Congress of Signal Hill, California, I am saddened at the loss of Officer Anthony Giniewicz but proud to represent the police department Officer Giniewicz served with such distinction. I am honored to represent the people of the 37th Congressional District of California in paying tribute to the 362 fallen heroes who will be joining the more than 19,000 gallant men and women who gave the last full measure of devotion to the communities they took an oath to protect and serve. Mr. Speaker, I ask for a moment of silence in memory of Officer Anthony Giniewicz and every other man and woman whose name graces the National Peace Officers Memorial Wall of Honor.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, it is my regrettable duty to report the death of a great American, Nicolas King. Mr. King died on April 3, 2012 in Santa Rosa, California. He was 79. Perhaps more than any other person, Mr. King was responsible for preserving the Watts Towers in Los Angeles, which has been visited by millions over the past 50 years. King was instrumental in preserving the world famous Watts Towers which adds an aesthetic appeal to my 37th District. The unique work of folk art, was created over 33 years by Italian immigrant Simon Rodia. Rodia, described as a cement finisher and construction worker, began building the towers in 1921. The nearly 100-foot complex of spires and other structures are decorated with broken pottery, seashells, glazed tiles and pieces of colored glass. In 1954, Rodia moved to Martinez, California to be closer to family and signed his property over to his neighbor, Louis Sauceda. His former house had burned down, the gates to the walled property were open and unguarded, and the grounds were littered with refuse left by unwanted visitors. Nicholas King and his friend, William Cartwright, visited the famed Watts Towers for the first time and were surprised by what they saw. The current owner was a dairy farmer by the name of Joseph Montoya. For $3,000 and a downpayment check of just $20, Nicholas King and William Cartwright became the owners of the Watts Towers. King and Cartwright cleaned up the area around the towers, and an architect friend of Cartwright soon drew up a plan for a caretaker's cottage on the property. But when the architect went to apply for a building permit, he discovered that an order had been issued earlier for Montoya to ``demolish and remove the fire-damaged dwelling and dangerous towers from the premises on or before March 5, 1957.'' The Watts Towers in 1959 passed a stress test in which the tallest spire was subjected to 10,000 pounds of force and avoided demolition. With the establishment of the Committee for Simon Rodia's Towers in Watts, King and Cartwright yielded ownership of the towers to the committee. The group elected Cartwright as its chairman and he and King as permanent directors. Born Robert Nicholas King in Sacramento on March 21, 1933, he studied acting at the Pasadena Playhouse after graduating from high school in 1951. King had uncredited roles in The Long, Hot Summer and as a medic in The Young Lions. He had the role of Arnie in Joy Ride (1958) and Georgie in The Threat (1960). He also had a recurring role on the TV version of the radio serial ``One Man's Family.'' In 1969, King became a partner in a land cooperative on the Garcia River in Point Arena in Northern California, where he moved with his wife, Kate, and their two young children. King was involved in logging and started a nursery business in which he grafted apple trees and sold root stocks and apples. He also helped organize the river preservation group Friends of the Garcia and was active in the group Save Our Salmon. Nicholas King's inspirational life reminds us to preserve the rich artistic history of America. William Cartwright said it best, ``We knew we had to do something that we believed should have been done before us: preserving something that needed it and not abandoning it.'' Generations to come will be touched by the artwork at Watts Towers and we have Nicholas King to thank. He will be deeply missed and I urge my colleagues to join me in extending condolences to the King Family. Mr. Speaker, I ask for a moment of silence in memory of Nicholas King.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize May as Jewish American Heritage Month. Jewish community has been a vibrant presence in America for over 350 years and contributed greatly to American history and culture. The Jewish community has tirelessly worked to promote issues that affect all Americans, not just members of their own community. With a strong commitment to philanthropy, education, and human and civil rights, Jewish Americans have helped shape the United States into the beacon of hope and equality that it is today. Approximately five million of the world's thirteen million Jews live in the United States, constituting roughly two percent of the national population. Despite these relatively small numbers, the Jewish community has made a substantial impact on protecting America's promise of equality. Generations of Jewish Americans have pioneered workers' and civil rights, fought honorably in our armed forces, and served as a strong model for women's equality. As we enter into the month of May, we should also recognize the 64th anniversary of Israel's founding in May of 1948. The United States has always maintained a strong relationship with Israel and has respected Israel's commitment to democracy and its resilience in the face of constant adversity. The Jewish community has played an important role in fostering this relationship. Mr. Speaker, as a representative of one of the most diverse districts in the Nation, I firmly believe that an appreciation of other cultures and religions is what makes our country great. I am proud to celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month and the wonderful contributions the Jewish community has made throughout our Nation's history.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Madam Speaker, today I rise up in support of H.R. 365, the National Blue Alert Act of 2011. This bill would create a Federal information network that would make it easier to track down and prosecute those who seriously injure or kill State and Federal law enforcement officers. In 2011 a total of 72 law enforcement officers were killed by perpetrators, 10 of which were in my home state of California. For the first time in 14 years there were more officers killed by gunfire than officers killed in traffic accidents. Gun violence against law enforcement had declined in recent decades; however there was a 70 percent increase from 2008 to 2011. The cause for this increase is unknown, but with technology growing better each day, and methods becoming more sophisticated, these statistics should be going in the opposite direction. Some officers attribute the rise in deaths to budget cuts and officers not having the necessary resources to ensure their own safety. Others believe that the new trend of sending officers to the most violent areas of the city as a preventative measure has led to the spike. Regardless, this is a problem that needs an immediate solution. Due to this dramatic increase in only a few short years, the FBI conducted a study which showed many of the officers were killed while attempting to arrest or subdue a suspect who already had a history of violent crimes. With this information they implemented a new Federal program so that now when an officer pulls over a car and runs the license plate they will be informed if the suspect has a violent criminal record so they can be properly prepared. While this new program is a step in the right direction, law enforcement officers will always be put in high risk situations. It is simply the nature of the job. They put their lives on the line everyday to protect the citizens of this country, and they deserve to know their government is doing everything it can to provide them with as much safety as possible. The National Blue Alert Act of 2011 would ease the minds of officers, reassuring them of a quick and efficient response should anything happen to them while on duty. The bill would also increase the likelihood of catching a perpetrator who injures or kills an officer. Madam Speaker, every stop an officer makes can be potentially fatal. Yet these men and women go to work every day because they know their service will save the lives of countless others. With this level of self sacrifice the very least we can do as elected officials is provide them with the reassurances within the National Blue Alert Act. Today, I ask my colleagues to rise up in support of the National Blue Alert Act of 2011. A quick response may be all it takes to save the life of an officer who gives so much, and asks for so little in return.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 205, the Helping Expedite and Advance Responsible Tribal Home Ownership (HEARTH) Act of 2011. As a member of the Native American Caucus and a proud co-sponsor of this legislation, I believe the HEARTH Act is an important step forward in supporting tribal self-determination and self-governance. Native American families buying homes have to go through a unique and burdensome process that involves securing approval from the Federal Bureau of Indian Affairs to lease tribal land. This application process can take as long as two years to complete, often making the dream of owning a home on their tribal land unattainable. Sellers and mortgage lenders are usually unable or unwilling to wait this long, and buyers often resort to moving off tribal land. The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) plays an important role in the education, healthcare, infrastructure maintenance and law enforcement, among other services, for Native Alaskans and American Indians. The BIA oversees more than 55 million acres of some of the most economically depressed and isolated areas of the United States and is critical in improving the quality life of its members. The HEARTH Act is a plan for reform that will improve the efficiency of the Bureau of Indian Affairs and will shift important responsibilities to tribes. Under this Act, tribes. Under this Act, tribes will develop their own regulations to be approved by the Secretary of the Interior, and local leaders can assume control over their own leasing processes. Families will avoid the lengthy wait and can seize the opportunity to invest in land that has been in their family and tribe for generations. Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to join me in voting for this critical legislation. This is a bill we can all support as it will improve the efficiency of one of our federal bureaus while simultaneously improving housing opportunities for Native American populations. Home ownership is an important part of the American dream, and the HEARTH Act will help hard-working American families achieve that goal.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Res. 568, ``Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives regarding the importance of preventing the Government of Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapons capability.'' As a member of the Homeland Security Committee and a proud cosponsor of this resolution, I believe it is of critical importance to American security to continue dialogue with Iran. However, we must also take a clear stance that the United States will take the necessary steps to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. H. Res. 568 rejects the possibility of containing a nuclear Iran. If Iran is able to develop nuclear weapons, Tehran will be able to leverage its new capabilities to secure its own agenda at the expense of broader American interests. Such a program would also likely spur other Middle Eastern countries to develop their own nuclear capabilities, leading to an arms race and massive instability. The development of these weapons is not just bad for the region. It is dangerous to the global community. The United States has always maintained a strong relationship with the State of Israel and is committed to its security and prosperity. I was particularly alarmed to hear of top Iranian officials threatening to ``wipe Israel off the map,'' and I urge my colleagues not to take this threat lightly. The United States has a demonstrated history of supporting democracy, human rights, and peace throughout the Middle East. A nuclear arms race would be an affront to this ideal. Mr. Speaker, I also stand with the people of Iran and strongly advocate for their rights and security. The United Nations' General Assembly has condemned Iran for failing to meet international human rights standards and expressed concern over a high frequency of executions and violations of minority groups' rights. As the United States exercises sanctions against Tehran, I would like to highlight the message that we are not seeking to punish the Iranian people and that we wish for them a responsive and stable government. Mr. Speaker, we cannot afford to watch this situation continue to escalate while we sit idly by. President Obama, Secretary of Defense Panetta, and other American leaders have united and pledged to prevent Iran's nuclear weapons capability at any cost. I am proud to be a cosponsor of H. Res 568 and hope that Congress can also unite to become another powerful voice against Iranian aggression.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my appreciation to Chairman Wolf and Ranking Member Fattah for working together to ensure that the Debbie Smith DNA Backlog Grant Program is adequately funded in the Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2013. Given these difficult economic times, difficult choices must be made as to where scarce funds are to be allocated. Given the importance of the DNA Backlog Grant program to law enforcement agencies in my congressional district, I would have liked for the program to have received even more funding. But I am very pleased that the bill provides funding at the amount requested by the Administration, the sponsor of the authorizing legislation and my good friend, Congresswoman Maloney from New York, and is more than eighty percent of the amount of funding I requested the Committee to provide. The DNA Backlog Grant program provides funding to help reduce and eliminate the backlog of DNA evidence in state and local labs across the Nation. The ``Justice For All Act'' (P.L. 108 405) expanded the use of DNA technology to convict the guilty and free the innocent. In 2008, Congress again showed its overwhelming bipartisan support for this initiative by passing ``The Debbie Smith Reauthorization Act'' which extends this program through FY 2014. There is an ever-present need to continue robust funding for programs such as the Debbie Smith DNA Backlog Grant Program in order to make sure victims do not fall through the cracks of the system. Women who have been raped have a right to expect police to thoroughly investigate the case and prosecute the offenders; however, many rape kits across the country are never even tested, and the perpetrators never face justice. Nowhere is this problem greater than in Los Angeles County, where there is a backlog of more than 12,000 rape kits sitting untested in storage facilities. Of those kits, 499 are attached to cases past the 10-year statute of limitations for rape in California, meaning that even if those kits are tested, the offenders cannot be tried for their crimes. The current fiscal crisis has already hindered efforts to eliminate the backlog, as Los Angeles city officials have been denied the funds necessary for hiring crime laboratory analysts. Continued cuts, however small, will continue a trend of neglecting this pursuit of justice, and thousands of women and their families will be denied their basic security and peace of mind. DNA evidence is critical in sexual assault cases, and I would like to highlight one recent success story from my district in Long Beach. The alleged crime occurred in August of 2003, when a 17-year-old student was sexually assaulted by a stranger on her high school campus. The DNA collected at the scene went untested for 7 years due to the laboratory's backlog, but in 2011 Redondo Beach police arrested the attacker. The DNA match showed the chance of the DNA belonging to someone else was one in a trillion, providing nearly irrefutable proof of his guilt. I ask for unanimous consent to include in the Record copies of newspaper stories that discuss in greater detail the importance of robust funding for the DNA initiative to reduce the backlog in Los Angeles, California. Mr. Speaker, the DNA Initiative is an invaluable tool for law enforcement today, and it will continue to be a legislative priority of mine. That is why I am pleased that funding for this vitally important program was not reduced as so many other worthwhile programs have been. I commend my colleagues on the Committee for funding the program at the level requested by the President and those of us in this body that strongly support the program.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 2072, the ``Securing American Jobs Through Exports Act of 2011.'' This legislation reauthorizes for three years the charter and lending authority of the Export-Import Bank of the United States. In addition, the legislation contains several financial reforms that will help ensure the ``Ex-Im Bank'' remains fiscally sound so it may continue its outstanding record supporting American business increase export sales, which is perhaps the best way to preserve and increase high value manufacturing and service jobs. As the representative of the congressional district that adjoins the Ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles, the largest port complex in the nation, I know first-hand the important role the Ex-Im Bank plays for U.S. exporters, and the thousands of jobs created by increased international trade. The Ex-Im Bank is the official export credit agency of the United States and provides financial assistance for the export of American goods and services to international markets. In Fiscal Year 2011 alone the Bank supported 290,000 export-related American jobs by providing more than $32 billion in financing to facilitate more than $40 billion in export sales by more than 3,600 American businesses. Since 1934, the Ex-Im Bank has served as the principal government agency responsible for aiding the export of American goods and services, thereby creating and sustaining U.S. jobs. With its 75 year track-record, the Ex-Im Bank is projected to inject $900 million into the U.S. Treasury by facilitating the sale abroad of hundreds of billions of dollars of American made goods, which in turn will create or preserve hundreds of thousands of American jobs. In 2011 alone, the Ex-Im Bank facilitated sales supported 290,000 American jobs. The United States must stay competitive in the emerging and competitive global market. The Ex-Im Bank assists U.S. manufacturers, small and large, in selling their products abroad. The Bank facilitates financing for foreign buyers who wish to purchase American manufactured goods, thus increasing sales, which translates into more good-paying American jobs. Reauthorization of the Ex-Im Bank's charter will have a positive impact on job preservation and creation in the United States, and in the 37th Congressional District in California which I represent. My district is home to more than a dozen companies that export millions of dollars of products annually. Mr. Speaker, exporters in my congressional district include a diverse group of small and large businesses as well as businesses that are minority or women owned. In the aggregate they generate about $100 million dollars in export sales annually. I ask unanimous consent to include in the record a list of local businesses in California's 37th Congressional District that have directly benefited from financing by the Ex-Im Bank. The Ex-Im Bank is self-sustaining and does not cost taxpayers a dime. Rather, the money it generates is returned to the U.S. Treasury, nearly $2 billion over the past five years, and helps reduce the deficit. Moreover, since its inception, less than 2 percent of the Bank's loans have ever defaulted, and even in those cases, loss is minimized because the borrower's manufactured goods are pledged as part of the collateral for the loan. Mr. Speaker, exports are increasingly critical to the economic growth and job creation, economy and job recovery. The Ex-Im Bank is an indispensable tool in the national effort to increase export sales. That is why I am a proud and enthusiastic supporter of H.R. 2072, which enjoys broad support from business and labor and the Obama Administration. I urge my colleagues to join me in voting to pass this important legislation.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Mothers' Day and to thank our nation's mothers, grandmothers, and aunts, as well as all the women who mentor and nurture future generations. On this holiday, I thank these incredible women by recommitting myself to the effort to preserve Medicare and to protect their health and wellbeing. My mother was a true inspiration to me, and she taught me the importance of a solid work ethic and compassion for others in the community. She took on the challenge of raising two children by herself, which meant work during the day and school at night. Life certainly was not easy for her, but she always provided for my family and is one of the strongest women I have ever known. Today, many families in my district and across the country are also coping with limited resources while demonstrating the same determination and compassion that my mother instilled in me. Many are seniors who cannot afford the exorbitant cost of treatments for chronic medical conditions and preventative care. Medicare program is a vital lifeline for so many and should be protected at all costs. The proposed Republican plan to end Medicare as we know it would distribute vouchers for beneficiaries to purchase health insurance. Under the plan, the voucher would not grow as fast as health care costs, shifting the burden of the costs onto seniors. It would repeal the free preventive services benefit in Medicare, increasing seniors' out-of-pocket costs for preventive care by over $110 million in 2012 alone. The Republican plan would have a particularly damaging effect on women, who, on average, live longer than men, have lower incomes than men, and have more chronic health conditions than men--making Medicare even more vital to their wellbeing. 57 percent of women on Medicare live below 200 percent of the federal poverty line, compared to 45 percent of men. Additionally, 49 percent of women on Medicare have three or more chronic health conditions, compared to 38 percent of men. As a representative of the 37th Congressional District of California, this issue is of particular importance to me. In California alone, there are nearly 2.7 million female Medicare beneficiaries, more than any other state in the country. Mr. Speaker, I stand in solidarity with these women--America's mothers and grandmothers--as I reaffirm my support of the Medicare program. I will not support legislation that balances our budget on the backs of our nation's most vulnerable citizens, and I encourage my colleagues to join me in this critical fight. Mr. Speaker, I wish a happy Mothers' Day to all the mothers of the 37th district and across the country.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to one of our greatest American success stories. Today let us all pause to recognize the United States Department of Agriculture's 150th Birthday. President Abraham Lincoln established the USDA 150 years ago, on May 15, 1862. That act helped ground our nation's agriculture industry in science, and helped give our nation the ability to lead the world in feeding the globe. One of the first responsibilities delegated to the USDA was the Homestead Act. The Homestead Act gave pre-approved U.S. citizens undeveloped federal land at no cost if they agreed to develop that land. This act led to the settling of the Great Plains; today those lands are the world's largest producers of wheat and corn. Our nation's agriculture industry has, throughout our history, been a significant force in our economy. One out of every twelve Americans is employed in an agriculture-related industry. So it is important to recognize that agriculture is not just a nostalgic notion of the past but remains a foundation of the American economy. The influence of American farmers and ranchers not only reaches every state and household within the United States, but it can be felt all around the world. The Port of Long Beach, in my district, exports millions of metric tons of agricultural cargo to our vital Asian trade partners every year. American consumers spend on average less than ten percent of their disposable income on food. That ten percent represents the lowest percentage in the history of the world. By comparison, most European consumers spend more than double that and in developing countries the percentage is often higher than 50 percent. Our nation's advanced system of production agriculture is evidence of how successful the USDA has been in ensuring a safe, affordable and abundant food supply. Today, the United States is the world leader in the development and use of agricultural biotechnology, contributing to our positive balance of agricultural trade. We must continue supporting policies that promote the smart use of research, science and biotechnology that has enabled production agriculture to thrive. We must embrace the importance of agricultural innovation in the same way we endorse innovation in fields such as health care or communications. Mr. Speaker, our producers remain a critical source of jobs and innovation. Maintaining a strong agriculture industry is vital to the present and future U.S. economy and is critical to the economic and political stability. It is with great pride and respect that I honor our nation's farmers and ranchers and extend birthday wishes to the USDA.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to H.R. 5652, ``Sequester Replacement Reconciliation Act of 2012,'' which slashes $238 billion over 10 years and cancels the discretionary sequestration scheduled for 2013 to exempt defense spending from the cuts agreed upon by the Republican majority in the Budget Control Act of 2011. This bill is unfair to children, seniors, women, and working families. This abomination is unworthy of a civilized nation. Little wonder that so many faith-based and leading national organizations, from the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops to the National Education Association oppose this bill. I stand with them in strong opposition to this assault on working and middle class families. My Democratic colleagues and I agree that the scheduled sequester, with its indiscriminate, across-the-board cuts, should be replaced with a balanced deficit reduction package that includes both spending cuts and additional revenues. Republicans disagree and would let the burden and cost of deficit reduction fall on the shoulders of children, seniors, working families, and the middle class rather than close even one special interest tax loophole or ask any sacrifice of the truly wealthy. This bill makes cuts to critical safety-net programs that millions of people rely on, all while returning to policies that sparked the recession in the first place. They are choosing the wrong programs to cut in order to reduce the deficit. Let me highlight a few examples to illustrate just how extreme and unfair this legislation is. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 5652 makes cuts in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the program formerly known as food stamps) that would result in reducing benefits for all 46 million SNAP participants--one million of whom live in Los Angeles County--and terminate assistance for at least two million. Low-income households who do not lose benefits altogether will face monthly reductions of $50, $60, or even $90 a month. In 2010, SNAP kept 4.4 million people from being poor, 1 million of whom were lifted out of poverty just from the increase in SNAP benefits that began in 2009. You cannot make a nation's economy healthy by impoverishing its people. A 9-year panel study conducted by the Department of Agriculture showed that the federal food assistance program alone was responsible for lifting low-income persons purchasing power by six percent. This is a program that is proven to work, and yet the this Republican bill seeks to slash it $33.2 billion. With cuts of this magnitude, eligibility for the program will have to be scaled back dramatically, and benefits will be cut deeply for those who still qualify. This will have serious effects on millions of low-income families who rely on the program just to get by. The bill also proposes to end the Prevention and Public Health Fund. Since the Affordable Care Act was passed in 2010, the Department of Health and Human Services has awarded more than $90.6 million in Prevention Fund grants to my home state of California. These grants are used to combat obesity, tobacco use, unhealthy nutrition practices, and to fund other programs that promote good health. If the Republican sequestration replacement were to become law, these essential programs will have to be scaled back or cut entirely. Mr. Speaker, we need get our fiscal house in order but I will not vote to balance the budget on the backs of the poor, the vulnerable, or the middle class. My Democratic colleagues and I supported a balanced approach to the current fiscal challenge that preserves Medicare. House Republicans favor ending Medicare as we know it, along with gutting the Children's Health Insurance Program and the Child Tax Credit. The Republican approach is unfair, unwise, and short-sighted. For example, childhood immunizations are among the most cost effective preventative health measures available. On average each dollar invested in children's immunization saves $16.50 in medical and societal costs down the road. Given the persistent rise in the cost of treating serious health problems it makes absolutely no sense to cut programs that will lead to substantial cost reductions in the future. Mr. Speaker, this bill would leave our most vulnerable citizens exposed and unprotected. I cannot and will not support legislation inflicts such grave hardship on the most vulnerable of our citizens while asking nothing of those who benefited most from the reckless economic policies of the previous administration. We cannot have a serious conversation about getting our budget under control when House Republicans are taking large items like revenue and defense off the table, all while repealing programs like the Social Services Block Grant. This unique grant allows states to help their citizens become more self-sufficient by providing child care, preventing and addressing child abuse, and supporting care for the elderly and disabled. Slashing the Social Services Block Grant program in an effort to avoid the defense cuts reflects poorly upon those who propose do so. Mr. Speaker, if House Republicans are unwilling to abide the agreement they made just last year, how can they be trusted to keep faith with promises made to seniors, children, the poor and weak, that bind us together as a nation? What we need right now is for responsible leaders to work together to come to an agreement on a balanced long-term approach to resolve our fiscal challenges. As legislators, our constituents are looking to us to get on with, and serious about, the work that must be done to get our fiscal house in order and make the needed investments that will grow our economy and position our people to compete and with in an increasingly globalized world. That is what they sent us here to do and they deserve no less. Mr. Speaker, my constituents did not send me to Congress to make the wrong choice for our nation. That is why I cannot support the legislation before us. It places the burden for the nation's financial crisis squarely on the shoulders of the middle class and the poor, while failing to ask anything of those most able to contribute toward economic recovery. For these reasons, I stand in strong opposition to H.R. 5625, the Sequester Replacement Reconciliation Act of 2012, and urge my colleagues to join me in rejecting this radical and dangerous proposal.

Ms. RICHARDSON

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Honorable Jacqueline H. Nguyen of California, whom the Senate confirmed yesterday to the United States Court of Appeals for The Ninth Circuit by a vote of 91 3. Judge Nguyen becomes the first woman of Asian descent to serve on the federal bench. What a wonderful way to begin Asian Pacific Islander Heritage Month! Mr. Speaker, Judge Nguyen is a testament to this truly being the land of opportunity. She was born in Dalat, Vietnam and at the age of nine, she fled Vietnam with her family during the fall of Saigon. Upon arriving in the United States, her family lived for a time in a refugee tent city at Camp Pendleton before settling in the Los Angeles area. She helped her family operate a doughnut shop in North Hollywood, where she studied between helping customers. At a very young age she was put in a difficult situation but her circumstances did not deter her from her dreams. Judge Nguyen received her A.B. from Occidental College in 1987, and her J.D. from UCLA School of Law in 1991. From 1995 to 2002, she worked in the United States Attorney's Office in the Central District of California. Serving in the criminal division as an Assistant United States Attorney, she worked as a federal prosecutor in the General Crimes section from 1995 1996 and in the Public Corruption and Government Fraud section from 1996 1999. She took on the role of the General Crimes section's Deputy Chief from 2000 2002. In 2002, she was appointed to serve on the state bench as a Judge of the Superior Court of the County of Los Angeles, becoming the first female Vietnamese-American judge in California's history. In July 2009, President Obama nominated Judge Nguyen for a seat on the bench of the United States District Court for the Central District of California. After being confirmed 97 0 she became the first Vietnamese-American to serve on the federal bench. Judge Nguyen brought to the federal bench substantial civil and criminal experience both as a lawyer and as a judge. Like many other great Americans, she has followed in the American tradition of giving back. She is a founding member of the Asian Pacific American Bar Association. She is the recipient of numerous awards from legal associations, including the Women's Leadership Award, National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (2010), and the Trailblazer Award from both the National Conference of Vietnamese American Attorneys (2009) and the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (2006). I congratulate Judge Nguyen on her appointment and looking forward to having this exceptional jurist serve with distinction for many years to come.