Debbie Stabenow

Ms. STABENOW

Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the Stupak amendment today and urge my colleagues to support it. Many of us in the Michigan delegation are concerned about the process followed by the Department of Energy (DOE) in choosing the route from Los Alamos, NM, to Chalk River, Canada, for the transportation of Mixed Oxide Fuel. I received notification of this route only 2 days before it was to be announced, and the distribution of an environmental assessment by the DOE to the citizens of Michigan was inadequate, totaling less than 60 families. The Stupak amendment merely requests that a hearing is held for public information purposes before the route is finalized. The purpose of our efforts is not to suggest the route is inherently unsafe, but to ensure that citizens near the route are given enough information about the project. Our constituents have a right to know the details, and a hearing would facilitate this process. Given that the Canadian Government balked at other proposed routes through key Canadian industrial areas, and that this route would pass over three of the Great Lakes, the largest supply of fresh water in the world, it seems only appropriate that the DOE provide a wider forum for information on this issue. I appreciate the opportunity to address this matter, and thank Congressman Stupak for bringing this amendment to the floor today. I again urge my colleagues to vote yes on the Stupak amendment.

Ms. STABENOW

Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Speaker, this weekend women from across the world will gather in Windsor, Ontario to celebrate 300 years of international diversity at the ``Women, Spiritual Midwives of the Millennium'' Conference. This weekend's conference will emphasize the important role women play in breaking down the walls of racism and will celebrate the differences that make each women unique. I would like to extend my enthusiastic support to the conference participants as they unite women from all corners of the world with their healing message of love and understanding. Leading the conference will be two dynamic women whose strong spirituality has defined their careers, Marianne Williamson and Reverend Ortheia Barnes-Kennerly. Marianne Williamson has earned international acclaim for her talents as an author and lecturer. Her words have motivated and inspired. Ms. Williamson co-founded The Renaissance Alliance, a non-profit organization applying spiritual principles to social and political issues, and is committed to causes benefitting people with life- threatening illness. In addition to her other accomplishments, Marianne Williamson is the spiritual leader of the Church of Today, the Unity Church of Warren, Michigan. Ms. Williamson is a role model for young women everywhere and an extraordinary example of the selflessness of the human spirit. Reverend Ortheia Barnes-Kennerly's life has been defined by her commitment to diversity and spirituality. She and her husband, Robert E. Kennerly, founded the SpiritLove Ministries in Detroit. Through both words and song, Reverend Barnes-Kennerly has moved people of all colors and creeds to love and heal. Today I recognize the efforts of Marianne Williamson and the Reverend Ortheia Barns-Kennerly and encourage them to continue to preach their messages of unity and strength.

Ms. STABENOW

Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to explain my vote regarding H. Con. Res. 180, a resolution that expresses the sense of Congress that President Clinton should not have granted clemency to members of the FLAN. During my tenure in Congress, I have supported strong antiterrorism measures. I oppose the actions of the President and oppose the release of these prisoners. These acts of terrorism are obviously deplorable, and I am especially concerned about the lack of remorse shown by these prisoners. But I also oppose taking this vote before hearings are held and evidence is reviewed, given the fact that this resolution challenges the constitutional authority of the President. Thus, I have voted ``present'' on this bill.

Ms. STABENOW

Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Speaker, today Carl J. Latona will retire after 25 years of outstanding leadership and commitment to improving the community through his work with Highfields. During those years, Carl Latona has touched the lives of countless young people and their families--encouraging, advising, inspiring and serving as a role model. As President and Chief Executive Officer of Highfields, Inc., he was actively involved not only in the administration of the many excellent services offered by Highfields, but also program development, fundraising and public policy in the field of child welfare. He has been a tireless advocate for youth and always could be counted on to speak about the importance of prevention. He has served on countless committees and boards and continues to give his time to many community efforts. Carl Latona persevered with his message of caring for youth despite roadblocks along the way. When one door closed, he would look for other doors until he found an opening. I have the utmost respect for his commitment to youth and his belief that any person can turn their life around with the proper support and caring attitude. He has always been an excellent resource whenever I have made public policy decisions on issues involving youth. I would like to thank Mr. Latona personally for his contribution to improving this community and offering support to families in need. It is largely through Mr. Latona's vision and direction that Highfields has grown, constantly developing innovative new ways to reach out to young people through schools, the community and when necessary the courts. On behalf of Michigan families, I thank Carl for his commitment to the community and his service to so many important family organizations. His courage, vision and friendship mean a great deal to me and many others in Michigan

Ms. STABENOW

Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Speaker, I rise this evening to oppose the rule for H.R. 2684, a bill making appropriations for the VA-HUD and Independent Agencies for Fiscal Year 2000, which does not allow a vote on the Edwards/Stabenow/Evans amendment. Mr. Speaker, this amendment would have added $730 million to Veterans Health Care. The VA estimates that the adoption of our amendment would have allowed an additional 140,000 veterans to receive the health care they need. Instead, this budget continues the under funding of critical medical care for those who have served our country in the armed services. Today, there are 20,000 fewer VA medical staff then there were just 5 years ago. What does this mean for our veterans? Due to these staffing shortages, a veteran in Tennessee with multiple sclerosis was forced to wait 4 months to be seen by a doctor. Others have been forced to travel over 300 miles just to receive x-rays. And there are more examples of the problems facing the Veterans Health Care System. In my own state of Michigan, a disabled Korean veteran experiencing fainting spells and no appetite was not able to receive treatment at either a VA inpatient or outpatient facility. In less than a week this man collapsed and was pronounced dead of septic shock and pneumonia. These were qualified facilities that did not have the staff to help this man. Mr. Speaker, I would like to share with you a letter that I received in my office that I feel accurately explains the situation our veterans are facing today. Julianna Smith, the wife of Vietnam veteran John Smith of Milan, MI, told me she continued to have problems getting adequate medical care for her husband who is disabled and requires 24 hour care. She was very upset about the effects that further cuts to the VA medical system would have on her and her husband. She wrote, My husband fought a war overseas, and was then shunned and spit upon by fellow Americans once he returned stateside. He paid his taxes to the government just like everyone else, and he gave part of his life to that same government that now wants nothing to do with him. Mr. Speaker, our veterans deserve better. They kept their promises to us. It's time for our country to keep our promises to them. I urge my colleagues to vote no on this rule, and provide the health care our nation's heros deserve.

Ms. STABENOW

Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Speaker, I rise this evening asking my colleagues to oppose the rule for VA-HUD, because it does not allow a vote on the Edwards-Stabenow-Evans amendment. The VA estimates that the adoption of our amendment would have allowed an additional 140,000 veterans to receive the health care that they need. Instead, this budget continues to underfund these critical services for our veterans. Today, there are 20,000 fewer VA medical staff than there were 5 years ago. The dollars that we are talking about tonight are just attempting to get us back to where we were, and it does not even do that. Due to staffing shortages, for example, a veteran in Tennessee with multiple sclerosis was forced to wait 4 months to be seen by a doctor. We have veterans across this country that travel over 300 miles just to get an X-ray.

Ms. STABENOW

Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to oppose the Commerce, Justice, State appropriations rule and the bill. While there are many reasons to do so, I am especially disappointed in the committee's decision to eliminate totally the funding for the Advanced Technology Program known as ATP. This means that not only is there no money for new research awards, but the research currently being supported will be terminated. In other words, current research contracts, current commitments, will not be kept. And who gets hurt by this cut? The hundreds of small businesses involved with ATP projects. Fifty-five percent of all ATP projects are led by small businesses, and they participate in 70 percent of all of the ATP projects. In fact, small businesses receive about half of all ATP funding, and because Federal funds are limited to know more than 50 percent of the research project's cost, small businesses will be on the hook for the investment dollars. They have committed to the research. Also hurt are more than 100 universities that take part in this important project, including several in Michigan that are very involved in pre-competitive research and technology efforts. This bill will terminate 240 research projects in 30 States representing a private sector investment of $931.5 million in private research dollars to create jobs. This is matched by $926.4 million in Federal funds. In other words, this shortsighted bill wastes almost $2 billion in public-private investment that will lead to real jobs for Americans. This bill is shortsighted at best. We know if we want to keep our strong economy going, we must continue to create cutting-edge technologies for the future. In Michigan we are doing that, and I would rise today to ask for a ``no'' vote on the rule and on the bill.

Ms. STABENOW

Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 25th anniversary of the invasion of the Republic of Cyprus. Since the beginning of this invasion, nearly 20,000 Greek Cypriots have been evicted from their homes and forced from the land where they worked, lived, and raised their families for over 9,000 years. Today, less than 1,000 Greek Cypriots reside in Northern Cyprus, even though a 1975 humanitarian agreement would have allowed 20,000 Greek Cypriots and Maronites to stay in Northern Cyprus. It is truly a tragedy that so few of the original residents of Northern Cyprus remain in their homeland. The basic rights that we take for granted in the United States have been denied to these citizens. Now, 25 years after this tragedy, I hope that a resolution can be found that will reunify this island nation that has been torn apart for so long. I join the call of Glafcos Clerides, the President of the Republic of Cyprus, who on Sunday called upon all in Cyprus to strive for a settlement that will ``heal the wounds of the past.'' Mr. Speaker, I stand before you today in hopes that a settlement will be found, one that will bring lasting peace and unity to the entire Island of Cyprus. After 25 years, we must remember the suffering this invasion has caused, and strive for a peaceful future in Cyprus.

Ms. STABENOW

Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to oppose the irresponsible Republican tax break proposal geared towards the wealthiest Americans, and support the Rangel Substitute. We have a truly historic opportunity in front of us. Today we can vote to build on the fiscal responsibility that has helped balance the federal budget by passing the Rangel Substitute, which will strengthen Social Security and Medicare while paying down the national debt and also provide a pro-family, pro-growth tax cut. Instead, the Republican majority will sacrifice this unique moment in order to give a tax windfall to the wealthiest Americans. Quite simply, the Republican proposal is unfair to the vast majority of taxpayers in my home state of Michigan as well as across the nation. According to the Joint Committee on Taxation, one out of every three families will receive NO tax relief at all under this bill. In addition, Citizens for Tax Justice estimate that families making between $38,000 and $63,000 will receive an average tax cut of $17, while families with annual incomes of $300,000 or more will get an average cut of $8,300. Of course, the decision to push this inequitable plan has opportunity costs. While giving tax breaks to the rich, the Republican legislation does nothing to extend the solvency of the Social Security and Medicare Trust Funds by even one day, and will not allow for Medicare reforms, such as a comprehensive prescription drug benefit and restoring cuts to critical services such as home health care, hospital reimbursements, and nursing homes. Mr. Speaker, if we do not strengthen Social Security and Medicare and pay down the national debt during good economic times, we never will. We must not squander this chance to put our fiscal house in order, but a vote for the Republican plan will do just that. The Rangel Substitute will accomplish the above goals while also extending tax relief to those that need it most--middle class families, small businesses, and family farmers. I urge my colleagues to vote for the Rangel Substitute and oppose the Republican measure.

Ms. STABENOW

Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and accomplishments of Mr. Volney J. Teeple, a life-long Michigan resident, who will be named Chevalier of the National Order of the Legion of Honor this week. This honor was ordered by the President of the French Republic and is the highest civilian award bestowed by the government of France. Mr. Teeple was born in 1897 in Pinckney, Michigan, and enlisted in the armed forces in 1918. During World War I, he was sent to France where he helped assemble and maintain the U.S. air fleet. After the war, Mr. Teeple returned to Michigan, where he married and had three sons. Each of his sons followed in their father's footsteps by serving in the military, and his eldest son, William, died serving his country in World War II. In 1966, he retired after a 28-year career with Union Carbide. He is a member of the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars and played in both the American Legion and World War I drum and bugle corps. Volney Teeple has spent his recent years hunting and fishing in Northern Michigan, and he still enjoys listening to the Detroit Tigers games on the radio. At 102, he very well may be the Tigers longest fan. Today I would like to join the French Ambassador in honoring Volney J. Teeple for his commitment to his country so many years ago. Thank you for your lifelong service and your commitment to the United States of America. Your contributions will not be forgotten.

Ms. STABENOW

Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Speaker, a ceremony will be held tomorrow to recognize Ionia County Police Officer Lieutenant Robert Schutt for his bravery, commitment, and concern for a fellow officer in a harrowing incident that occurred on May 1, 1998. I am proud to join officers from across Michigan in honoring Lieutenant Schutt, a distinguished twenty- five year veteran of the Ionia County Sheriff Department. On the morning of May 1, Lieutenant Schutt and a fellow officer, Deputy Jeff Goss, were pursuing a dangerous suspect who began firing at them. Deputy Goss was wounded in the head, and Lieutenant Schutt was shot in the shoulder. Despite his serious injury, Lieutenant Schutt took several selfless actions that ensured his fellow officer's safety and provided important information on the suspect. He not only relayed information about the suspect, his vehicle, and the incident to a 911 dispatcher, he also went to the aid of his fellow officer. His actions that morning saved his fellow officer's life. Lieutenant Schutt's bravery and selflessness under extraordinary circumstances serves as an inspiration to us all. This year, Lieutenant Schutt was honored with a nomination for Deputy Sheriff of the year. I commend Lieutenant Robert Schutt for his courage and thank him for his twenty-five years of dedicated service.

Ms. STABENOW

Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer a warm welcome home to Beshar Saidi, an American citizen returning to the United States after being held captive for over a year. His story has touched people across the country, and he has remained in the thoughts and prayers of all those who have had the pleasure of knowing him. I would like to recognize Mr. Saidi for his courage in the darkest of moments. On June 25, 1999, Beshar Saidi finally was released. I wish him Godspeed as he reunites with his wife and newborn son and am thankful for the happy ending to this tragic situation.

Ms. STABENOW

Ms. STABENOW. Madam Chairman, I rise today to explain my vote on the Bliley amendment to H.R. 10, the Financial Services Act of 1999. While I support the efforts of my colleague, Mr. Bliley, to add new protections for victims of domestic violence, I object to the second provision in his amendment regarding mutual insurance companies. One of my top priorities as a legislator here in the House and when I served in both the Michigan House and Senate, has been to help the victims of domestic violence. Last year I introduced two bills to help victims of domestic abuse, H.R. 3901, Arrest Policies for Domestic Violence and H.R. 3902, Court Appointed Special Advocates for Victims of Child Abuse. I strongly support the first provision in the Bliley amendment that would prohibit banks from discriminating against victims of domestic violence in providing insurance. This provision expressed the Sense of Congress that all states should enact laws prohibiting such discrimination. This kind of discrimination must be stopped so that victims of domestic violence take the necessary steps toward financial and personal freedom. Had I been given the opportunity to vote on this provision of the amendment separately, I would have voted in favor. Unfortunately, I was compelled to vote against the Bliley amendment due to the language in the second provision regarding mutual insurance companies. This language would permit mutual insurance companies to relocate from one state to another and to reorganize into a mutual holding company or stock company. This would permit some companies to operate outside the important safety net of state regulation. Therefore, in an effort to protect consumers, I voted against the Bliley amendment.

Ms. STABENOW

Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Speaker, Tuesday, July 6 marks the 20th anniversary of the Northwest Michigan Horticulture Research Station. In 1979, cherry farmers, Michigan State University horticulture and Extension faculty, Michigan Department of Agriculture, USDA and fruit industry representatives banded together, sharing information and resources, to form a research station in the hopes of keeping themselves on the cutting edge of agriculture techniques. Today all of the partners in the Northwest Michigan Horticulture Research Station can reflect with pride at what they have accomplished. Northwest Michigan's cheery farming industry is stronger than ever. The research station has helped northwestern farmers address unique cherry farming issues. Farmers have increased their crop yields by using innovative, field-tested agriculture techniques. Faculty have had a real life laboratory to experiment with farming techniques, and Michigan State University horticulture students have benefited from a facility to apply their classroom knowledge. The Northwest Michigan Horticulture Research Station has brought Michigan growers the latest information on the most successful agriculture methods through a broad-based, grassroots network of farmers. Today I would like to recognize the efforts of the Northwest Michigan Horticulture Research Station and thank the station for its continuing to help Michigan agriculture address the challenges of the next century. Through the cooperative efforts of the Northwest Michigan Horticulture Research Station, northwestern Michigan will remain the ``Cherry Capital of the World.''

Ms. STABENOW

Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my deep concern regarding H. Res. 207, ``Community Renewal through Community- and Faith-Based Organizations.'' While there are many statements in the resolution that I support, I oppose this legislation and was very concerned to see it pass on June 22, 1999. We have many wonderful faith-based organizations and nonprofits in Michigan who provide services to people in need. I believe they are an important part of our human service delivery system. My concern arises in this legislation with the language that would allow faith-based organizations receiving Federal funds for charitable services to require that beneficiaries of their services actively participate in religious practices or instruction. This, Mr. Speaker, crosses a very serious line drawn in our Constitution. This legislation violates our individual religious liberties protected by the First Amendment's separation of church and state. Clearly, H. Res. 207, infringes upon the rights and freedoms guaranteed by our Constitution, and I deeply regret that it was passed by this House.

Ms. STABENOW

Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mark an important anniversary. On this date last year, President Clinton signed the Agricultural Research, Extension, and Education Reform Act of 1998 (Pub. L. 105-185) into law. Among the many important programs that were created and improved by the bill, I am most proud of the advances made in federal food safety efforts. I would like to take this opportunity to inform Congress of the progress made by the food safety Crisis Management Team created by the Agricultural Research bill. We all remember the terrible tragedy of the contaminated strawberries served by schools as part of the National School Lunch Program. Some of those contaminated strawberries were eaten by students in my district. Although local and federal officials did an excellent job of responding to the crisis, it became clear to me that there was a need for better coordination of existing federal resources to respond to food safety outbreaks. Shortly thereafter, I introduced the Safe Food Action Plan, H.R. 3148. My bill made food safety a priority for the federal government and created a food safety Rapid Response Team. After working closely with Agriculture Committee leadership, the Rapid Response Team provision was included in the final version of the Agricultural Research bill. I would like to include in the Record, a letter from Ranking Member Stenholm thanking me for my contributions to the bill. Since that time, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has instituted the Food Emergency Rapid Response and Evaluation Team (FERRET). The mission of FERRET is twofold. The team works together to facilitate a prompt, effective and coordinated USDA response to food safety emergencies. Furthermore, the team evaluates emergency episodes and uses what is learned from each crisis to improve long-term strategies to prevent future emergencies. FERRET is chaired by the Under Secretary for Food Safety and its membership includes: the Under Secretary for Food Nutrition and Consumer Services, the Under Secretary for Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services, the Under Secretary for Research, Education, and Economics, the Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs, USDA General Counsel, the USDA Inspector General and the Director of the Office of Communication. During the past year, FERRET has met whenever levels of contaminants pose a threat to human health and safety. In just one year, FERRET has dramatically increased the pace at which USDA responds to public health problems. The new team ensures a swift response by USDA to contamination and provides a greater assurance to American consumers that their food is safe. I am proud of the very positive accomplishments achieved by FERRET in just one year. I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their efforts. I look forward to working with FERRET on future food safety efforts. House of Representatives, Committee on Agriculture, Washington, DC, June 23, 1999. Hon. Debbie Stabenow, House of Representatives, Longworth HOB, Washington, DC. Dear Debbie: One year ago, President Clinton signed the Agricultural Research, Extension, and Education Reform Act of 1998 into law (Pub. L. 105-185). On this anniversary, I would like to take the opportunity to thank you for your important contributions to this bill in the area of food safety. A significant amount of debate on the bill focused on food safety concerns. Your input, based on the expertise of Michigan State University and the National Center for Food Safety and Toxicology research in your district, contributed significantly to the debate. I would particularly like to thank you for your contribution regarding the Food Safety Crisis Management Team. Last year, you introduced the Safe Food Action Plan (H.R. 3148) to create a Food Safety Rapid Response team, at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), to respond to food safety disasters. Your bill helped focus the Committee's attention on this issue, resulting in the inclusion of a similar crisis management team in the final version of the Agriculture Research bill. Through your efforts, the USDA has created the Food Emergency Rapid Response and Evaluation Team (FERRET). During the past year, the team has met whenever levels of contaminants in food threaten to pose a human health hazard. As you know, they have effectively handled a variety of problems ranging from arsenic in peanut butter to lead in baby food. This is an important tool for the USDA to have in the area of food safety. Let me also thank you for your important contributions to the overall issue of food safety. I look forward to our continued friendship and to working together on the Agriculture Committee. With best wishes, I am Sincerely, Charles W. Stenholm, Ranking Member.

Ms. STABENOW

Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of this very important gun safety legislation for America.

Ms. STABENOW

Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Chairman, I rise today to express my support for the amendment offered by Representative Stupak and Representative Wise to H.R. 1501, ``Child Safety and Protection Act.'' This important amendment builds on legislation which I introduced, H.R. 1898, which would authorize a national hotline for reporting school violence. While I offered my bill as an amendment to H.R. 1501, it was not made in order. Therefore, I would like to express my strong support for this amendment. This important initiative will provide tremendous support to our states by authorizing them to develop and operate confidential toll-free telephone hotlines. These hotlines will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week in order to provide students, school officials and others the ability to report specific threats of imminent school violence or other suspicious or criminal conduct by juveniles. These reports would be directed to the state or local authorities to be addressed. Mr. Speaker, with the recent school shootings we must do everything we an to provide our states the tools they need to handle school violence. The amendment offered my colleagues from Michigan takes an important step toward not only addressing violence in our schools, but preventing it. By giving students a direct line to report violence we have the opportunity to intervene before an act of violence occurs in our communities. Mr. Chairman, I believe the best way to confront violence in our schools is to commit the resources we have available at the federal level to our states and local communities. There is no more important issue at stake than the welfare of our children. One way we can ensure their safety is to provide states with tools to confront violence in schools. This hotline is important because it builds on existing programs and calls for partnerships between state and local units of government. While it is unfortunate that I was not able to offer my amendment, I am grateful that this important program was adopted as part of H.R. 1501. Education is the key to a productive future for our children. We need to make sure our schools are safe so that our children have the skills they need to succeed in the competitive global economy of the 21st century, and I believe that this initiative will move us toward this goal.

Ms. STABENOW

Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Chairman, I rise today to address the Bass-DeFazio amendment to the Agricultural Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2000. The Bass-DeFazio amendment sought to reduce the Wildlife Services budget within the U.S. Department of Agriculture by $7 million. I object to the use of Wildlife Services funds in the western states of our nation for the control of predators such as coyotes. I agree with groups like the Humane Society that the practices used in the control of coyotes and other predatory animals are inhumane and a misuse of federal dollars. Unfortunately, I could not support the Bass-DeFazio amendment because the proposed cuts did not specifically target predator control programs in the west. As written, the amendment could have made a $7 million across-the-board cut to Wildlife Services--a crippling blow to a program that is typically funded at a level of $30 million. I would like to include for the record a letter from Secretary Glickman that describes how the proposed $7 million cut would have impeded the public health and safety efforts of Wildlife Services across the nation. Michigan is in the midst of a Bovine Tuberculosis (TB) crisis. A growing number of deer have been discovered with Bovine TB that is being transferred to our state's cattle population. This threatens our state's ``TB Free'' status and could wreak havoc on the cattle and dairy industries in Michigan. Wildlife Services personnel have partnered with the Michigan Department of Agriculture since late 1997 to eliminate Bovine TB in Michigan. The Bass-DeFazio amendment would have severely hindered this partnership would have delayed attention to this agricultural crisis in my state. For this reason, I could not support the Bass-DeFazio amendment. I know that many of my colleagues have similar concerns. They object to the inhumane use of Wildlife Services in the western states, but rely on the useful Wildlife Services funds in their districts. I urge the conferees for the Agricultural Appropriations bill to seek a solution to this conundrum that will eliminate inhumane Wildlife Services practices without hindering such important programs as Bovine TB control. Hon. Joe Skeen, Chairman, Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies, Committee on Appropriations, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Joe: This is to express the Department of Agriculture's concerns about a proposed amendment to the Agriculture appropriations bill that would cut $7 million from the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service for its Wildlife Services (WS) program. The Department urges that this amendment not be passed. While the amendment's supporters contend that the proposed funding reduction would only affect predator control programs for private ranches, in reality significant budget reductions in this program would affect other WS program activities as well. The same wildlife biologists who handle agricultural protection work provide protection against threats to public health and safety, damage to property, and protection of natural resources such as threatened or endangered species. A cut of $7 million in such a personnel-intensive activity would result in a serious weakening of the WS infrastructure through large-scale reductions-in-force. This will result in the elimination of work to protect endangered and threatened species, prevent bird strikes at airports, and control animals that can transmit diseases to humans such as rabies, plague, histoplasmosis, and Lyme disease. Most State and local governments are not in a position to deal with these problems alone. This is why the WS program is largely a cooperative program. In fact, cooperators provide more than $30 million in funding for WS activities. Many cooperators have indicated that they could not fund wildlife management activities alone. Thus, a loss of Federal support for this program could ultimately lead to the loss of State and local funding as well. As you know, the President's budget reduced WS by $1.8 million from the FY 1999 level by assuming that cooperators could be encouraged to cover a larger share of the program. Larger cuts would be extremely difficult for Federal and State officials to manage. The Department also wishes to reiterate its continuing support for predator control work. Protecting agricultural resources is an investment we make on behalf of producers and consumers. The total value of agricultural production in the United States is estimated at about $200 billion annually based on cash receipts at the farm gate. Agricultural losses to wildlife in this country are estimated to range from $600 million to $1.6 billion annually. A disproportionate share of this burden falls on small farmers. The National Commission on Small Farms defines small farms as those with less than $250,000 in gross receipts annually or farms with an average size of less than 1,129 acres. WS estimates that more than 80 percent of its cooperative agreements in the United States are with small farms and ranches. The range and extent of wildlife problems continues to grow each year in response to expanding wildlife populations such as predators, geese, deer, beavers, cormorants, and other animals. There is an increasing need to look at these problems from a national perspective to avoid simply moving the problem from one location to another. WS provides the responsible leadership necessary to bring balance to the equation. The Department urges Congress to reject the proposed amendment. Sincerely, Dan Glickman, Secretary.

Ms. STABENOW

Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Speaker, this week Principal Ken Wensel will retire after a 30-year career at Fenton High School. During those years, Dr. Wensel touched the lives of countless young people--encouraging, advising, inspiring and serving as a role model. I would like to thank Dr. Wensel personally for his commitment to young people and education. Today I join Fenton Area Public Schools in declaring June 12, 1999 Ken Wensel Day. In addition, I would like to read the following resolution into the Congressional Record on behalf of the Fenton Area Public Schools: Whereas Dr. Wensel served the Fenton Area Public Schools with distinction and honor for 30 years and; Whereas Ken Wensel has served in the positions of community education director, athletic director, assistant principal and, for 12 years as principal of Fenton High School and; Whereas Ken Wensel has been an unwavering advocate for young men and women throughout this tenure as an administrator and; Whereas Ken Wensel has taken Fenton High School to great heights in academic and extra curricular achievement unparalleled in the Metro League and; Whereas Ken Wensel has been a constant supporter of high school journalism and was named the Michigan Interscholastic Press Association Administrator of the Year for 1999 and; Whereas Ken Wensel is recognized for his high level of commitment and drive to make Fenton High School the best it could be and; Whereas Fenton High School's accomplishments are in large measure a result of Ken Wensel's talent and commitment and are a source of pride to the community of Fenton. Therefore, the Congress of this United States of America declares June 12, 1999, as Dr. Kenneth Wensel Day in the community, state and nation.

Ms. STABENOW

Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoidably detained on May 24, 1999 and was not able to vote on H.R. 1251 and H.R. 100. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on H.R. 1251. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on H.R. 100.

Ms. STABENOW

Ms. STABENOW. I appreciate my colleague yielding me the time. Mr. Speaker, we all support protecting Social Security. I totally support placing Social Security outside of the budget process. But the larger issue is how we are going to strengthen Social Security and Medicare for the future. Unfortunately, this lockbox becomes a gimmick when it does not add one dime to the Social Security Trust Fund or one day to the solvency of the Social Security Trust Fund, let alone Medicare. It becomes an empty box without a commitment to have the entire surplus focused on strengthening Social Security and Medicare for the future. That is what we are talking about. The motion to recommit really does the job. That is what we really want to have from our colleagues, is a commitment that we will join together to strengthen Social Security and Medicare for the future. Without that commitment, we do not in fact have anything but a gimmick.

Ms. STABENOW

Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Speaker, I rise to reluctantly support this legislation, because I am in favor of its original goal of providing assistance to three important and deserving groups: our troops abroad and at home, our farmers who have endured brutal economic conditions, and hurricane victims in Central America and the Caribbean. Ultimately, I believe these true emergencies still deserve our support, and I will not vote against them. I will vote for the motion to recommit, because I know we can do better. Mr. Speaker, the bill before us is an example of Washington at its worst, of a spending mentality that still pervades, and highlights budget rules that must be amended. We have again seen the conference process lead to excess, with the result being a bill that has become the vehicle for too many pet projects. While many environmental riders were removed, three still remain: an extension of moratoriums on new oil and gas royalties regulations and new mining regulations, and a green light for operations to commence at the ``Crown Jewel'' mine in Washington state. The President requested a $6 billion dollar bill, and we will send him a $15 billion dollar bill that the majority readily admits is being used to dodge the budget caps for fiscal year 2000. In addition, this measure contains funding for numerous items that can with little credibility be defined as emergencies, that will sadly enough be paid for with Social Security surpluses. We must take Social Security off-budget and reform the procedures for emergency spending. Mr. Speaker, as disappointing as they are, these facts do not change the fact that our farmers are hurting, and that they have waited too long to get the relief this bill contains. There are people in the Midwest that are trying to repair their lives after devastating natural disasters, and I believe the federal government should do all it can to assist them. This country currently has young men and women engaged in military actions overseas, and we owe it to them to provide the necessary resources to keep them as safe as possible. At the same time, our troops have for too long lived on substandard wages and we must honor the commitment they made to this country with their service. While I have little good to say about the process that has brought us to this point, these are worthy efforts, and I will support them.

Ms. STABENOW

Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Speaker, today I join with my colleagues to commemorate this day, April 24, as the day of the Armenian genocide carried out by the young Turk government of the Ottoman Empire in 1915. It was on that day in 1915 when 300 Armenian leaders, writers and thinkers were rounded up, deported and killed, and 5000 of the poorest Armenians were killed in their homes. Between 1894 and 1921 there were 1.5 million Armenians in the Ottoman Empire that were killed, and 500,000 were deported. This Armenian genocide was carried out in a tragically inhumane and systematic fashion. First, Armenians in the army were disarmed, placed into labor battalions and then killed. Next, Armenian political and intellectual leaders were rounded up and killed as well. Finally, the remaining Armenians were called from their homes and marched to concentration camps in the desert where they were left to starve to death or were placed on barges and sunk in the Black Sea. During that time Turks who protected Armenians were killed. To this day, Mr. Speaker, the Turkish government denies that there was an Armenian genocide and claims that Armenians were only removed from the eastern war zone. America has benefited in countless ways from the survivors of the genocide who have come to the United States with their families and now their descendants. As a representative from Michigan, we have been blessed by the contributions of the Armenian community in our cities and counties across Michigan. Today I call on the Republic of Turkey to stop being the only country in the world to deny the Armenian genocide. It is time to admit what happened. The Republic of Turkey must show goodwill as well by allowing American aid to present-day Armenians to pass through to their citizens unhampered. This is a day to remember, a day to pause in prayer and a day to commemorate our desire and commitment for this not to happen again.

Ms. STABENOW

Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Speaker, I would like to join my colleagues in recognizing Rosa Parks, whom by her brave action became a catalyst in the Civil Rights Movement. When Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a Montgomery bus on December 1, 1995, no one realized the national impact her actions would have. Rosa Parks was simply one courageous woman who did what she believed was fair and right. She is a testament to the power of one individual willing to fight for her beliefs. ``Ms. Parks' actions set the Civil Rights Movement in motion and set a precedence for protest without violence. I would like to thank Rosa Parks for her contribution to freedom and justice for all men and women in this country. Her actions changed the course of history. Today Rosa Parks will take her rightful place among the legends of history when Congress presents her with the Congressional Medal of Honor.''