Christopher Shays

Mr. SHAYS

Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Speaker, It is a great pleasure to congratulate the Peace Corps as it celebrates the 40th anniversary of its founding. This truly is a milestone. Founded in 1961, the Peace Corps has sought to meet its legislative mandate of promoting world peace and friendship by sending American volunteers to serve at the grassroots level in villages and towns in all corners of the globe. Living and working with ordinary people, volunteers contributed in a variety of capacities--such as teachers, foresters, farmers, small business advisors--to improving the lives of those they serve. They also seek to share their understanding of other countries with Americans back home. As a returned volunteer, I can attest to the positive impact Peace Corps volunteers have on the lives of people around the world and here in the United States. Volunteers are not high-priced consultants but hands-on workers in the trenches who live in the communities they serve. In many cases, they speak the native language and become a part of the local culture. To date, more than 151,000 volunteers have served in 132 countries. Currently, 7,300 Peace Corps volunteers serve in 76 countries, helping improve the lives of children, their families and their communities. Volunteers also come back to the United States with a commitment to service, as well as the skills and interest in world affairs needed to be leaders in the global community. Many successful Americans served in the Peace Corps; their Peace Corps skills and perspectives shaped their lives and their careers back home. A few of the many notable alumni include Senator Christopher Dodd of Connecticut, who served in the Dominican Republic from 1966 until 1968, Donna Shalala, former Secretary of Health and Human Services, who served in Iran from 1962 until 1964, and Richard Holbrooke, former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, who served as Country Director in Morocco from 1970 until 1972. I believe I would not be a Member of Congress today were it not for my experience in the Peace Corps and know I am a better person for my service. The Peace Corps has played an important role overseas and here at home. And my prayer is that it will do so for many years to come.

Mr. SHAYS

Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of John T. Garnjost who became the 53rd American to receive the Olympic Order from the International Olympic Committee. On September 6, 2000 Mr. Garnjost traveled to Taipei Taiwan where he received the award for his contributions to the development of rowing in Chinese Taipei. The Olympic Order is ``the supreme individual honor accorded'' by the IOC. It was created in 1974 and is awarded to any person who has illustrated the Olympic Ideal through his action, has achieved remarkable merit in the sporting world, or has rendered outstanding services to the Olympic cause, either through his own personal achievement or his contribution to the development of sport. Mr. Garnjost was introduced to rowing during his college days at Columbia University where he decided to explore the sport as an official. Mr. Garnjost has been a rowing official in the United States since 1960, and was licensed as an international official in 1970. He officiated at the Summer Olympics in Atlanta in 1996 and has worked at the World Championships. Domestically, he has worked at the Olympic Trials and the U.S. Nationals. As the president of Bristol Meyers (Taiwan) from 1983 to 1989, he lived in the country and began introducing rowing in Taipei. 1983 marked the first rowing demonstration at the annual Dragon Boat Festival in Taiwan. As an advisor to the Chinese Taipei Amateur Rowing Association, Mr. Garnjost served as a delegate to the 1983 International Rowing Federation (FISA) Congress in Duisburg, Germany, where Chinese Taipei's application for membership was approved. Real progress was made in 1985 when FISA President Thomi Keller inspected the Tung Shan River as a possible rowing site. Today, there is an internationally proven rowing course, two FISA umpires and rowers throughout the country. Since the early days of rowing in Taipei, Mr. Garnjost has worked the Asian Rowing Championships in 1997. He also helped establish the annual I-Lan International Collegiate Invitational Regatta for crews from nine countries, helped bring the sport to two of Taiwan's major universities and was also instrumental in helping get significant funding for equipment. Thirteen years ago few in Taiwan knew of rowing as a sport. Today most of the nation can say they know the sport thanks to John Garnjost. He has been referred to as the ``Father of Rowing'' in Taiwan. His recent award and dedication to the sport and the people of Taiwan is a true testament to this title.

Mr. SHAYS

Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of S. 835, the Estuary Habitat and Chesapeake Bay Restoration Act. I would like to thank Mr. Gilchrest for all his efforts in bringing this bill forward. I am thrilled that we are recognizing the critical importance of estuaries--the diverse, thriving habitats where fresh and salt water mix--and that this legislation will strengthen the all-important partnerships between federal, state, and local interests for estuary habitat restoration. As a co-chair with Nita Lowey of the Long Island Sound Caucus, I am particularly pleased that this legislation includes a title on Long Island Sound Restoration. All of us who live in the Long Island Sound region owe a debt of gratitude to Nancy Johnson, and Rick Lazio for their sponsorship and stewardship of the Long Island Sound Restoration Act. Repubicans and Democrats alike have worked for years on the ongoing local-state-federal effort to restore the Sound, and know just how important this important body of water is. The Sound contributed over $5.5 billion to our regions economy in 1994--and obviously contributes even more today--through water- dependent activities such as commercial and recreational fishing, boating, and tourism. The $40 million annual authorization for the Sound in this legislation will make it possible to continue the progress begun six years ago when New York and Connecticut first signed the Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan (CCMP) for long Island Sound, which in itself was the culmination of 10 years of effort. Since the implementation of the CCMP, our states have spent an extraordinary amount on Long Island Sound. The federal government has played a small, though vital role. Today we have the opportunity to back up the promise of the CCMP with a commitment to fund Long Island Sound restoration in line with the Sound's place as the center of a watershed region encompassing 8 million people, with over 15 million living within 50 miles of the Sound's shores. This is truly an estuary of national significance and one which deserves the support of this body. I urge my colleague to vote for this excellent bill.

Mr. SHAYS

Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 782. This bipartisan, bicameral piece of legislation reauthorizes the Older Americans Act through fiscal year 2004, and makes a number of improvements to serve a rapidly expanding senior population. I commend Chairman Goodling and Representatives McKeon, Barrett, Clay, and Martinez for their hard work on reaching a compromise on this bill and would also like to applaud my colleague from Oregon, Congressman DeFazio. I am particularly pleased H.R. 782 reauthorizes the senior nutrition programs originally authorized under the Older Americans Act. Specifically, under the legislation, states' flexibility to transfer funds between congregate and home-delivered nutrition programs and between supportive services and nutrition services programs is increased. The congregate and home delivered meal programs address both the nutritional and social needs of many seniors. In point of fact, a 1996 evaluation confirmed the senior nutrition program is an important part of ensuring our seniors are healthy. According to the study, participants in the program are among our most vulnerable population--they are older, poorer and more likely to be members of minority groups compared to the total elderly population. The evaluation also indicated that for every federal dollar spent on congregate meals, other funding sources contribute $1.70. Few programs can boast the importance to the elderly and overwhelming success of the elderly nutrition as senior nutrition programs. Because both the congregate and home delivered meal programs were authorized by the Older Americans Act, which expired at the end of FY 95, it is imperative this Congress pass a reauthorization bill. Since its enactment over thirty years ago, the Older Americans Act has enabled millions of older persons to remain independent and productive. Many of these individuals would have been institutionalized were it not for the home and community-based services including meals and transportation provided by this important legislation. Older Americans have also benefitted from research and demonstrations under the Act that enable policymakers to update services based on best practices, and senior community service employment that provide on-the- job training. The Older Americans Act authorizes a wide array of service programs through a nationwide network of 57 state agencies on aging, 657 area agencies on aging and 25,000 service providers. Under the Older Americans Act, states receive funding for supportive services and senior centers, congregate and home-delivered meals, Department of Agriculture commodities or cash-in-lieu of commodities, preventative health services, and in-home services for the frail elderly. These services are available to all seniors but are targeted to those with the greatest economic and social need, particularly low-income, minority seniors. In addition, the Act authorizes services for transportation information and referral, home care, research and recreation, and grants for abuse prevention and outreach counseling. There are few communities within the country where Older Americans Act programs do not exist, and the demands on the programs for the elderly are increasing. Mr. Speaker, it would be irresponsible of this Congress to fail to reauthorize the Older Americans Act, and I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this consensus legislation.

Mr. SHAYS

Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Speaker, as an original cosponsor of the CHIMP Act and a co-chair of the Congressional Friends of Animals Caucus, I rise in strong support of the bill today. The CHIMP Act will provide for a more cost-efficient way of caring for surplus chimpanzees, including those housed by the Coulston Foundation. The bill establishes a public-private partnership so that the cost of caring for these chimpanzees will be shared with private interests. This ensures the federal government saves money and the chimps are kept in a more humane environment. The CHIMP Act also calls for grouping chimpanzees in larger communities than laboratories allow--thereby reducing housing costs. Chimpanzees serve our needs in research that has led to breakthrough medical treatments for AIDS and other diseases. The animals live almost as long as humans and we must work to provide a humane and cost efficient environment for their retirement. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this common sense legislation.

Mr. SHAYS

Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak about the rule proposed by the Securities and Exchange Commission, SEC, that would affect the consulting affiliates of auditing firms. The proposed rule was brought to my attention over a month ago by constituents concerned about its effect on large accounting firms who also perform consulting services for their clients. In response to the concerns raised by some of my constituents, I wrote to SEC Chairman Arthur Levitt and asked that the comment period on the rule be extended past its September 25 deadline and that the rule be modified to address the concerns raised by members of the accounting industry. Under no circumstance was it my desire or intention to delay the ultimate decision to next year and a new commission. I particularly want to go on record as opposing any attempt to require a delay through legislative means. I continue to believe all parties involved, including the accounting industry, should strive to reach a workable and mutually agreeable compromise before a final determination is made. It is my hope as the SEC moves forward with this rule they will remain open to the comments and concerns raised by the accounting industry and the challenges it faces.

Mr. SHAYS

Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Speaker, as an original cosponsor of H.R. 4281, the ICCVAM Authorization Act, I rise in strong support of its passage today. I commend my colleague from California, Ken Calvert, for his work on this important issue and for bringing the bill to the floor. I would also like to recognize the dedication and tireless work of my good friend and colleague, Tom Lantos, who introduced the bill in the 105th Congress and has been a champion of this issue. H.R. 4281 permanently establishes ICCVAM under the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. Under the legislation, federal agencies would be required to review and identify all regulations that require animal use for toxicity tests. The purposes of ICCVAM are to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of federal agency test method review, eliminate unnecessary duplicative efforts and share expertise between federal regulatory agencies, optimize the utilization of scientific expertise outside the federal government, ensure that new and revised test methods are validated to meet the needs of federal agencies, and reduce, refine, or replace the use of animals in testing, where feasible. The bill takes important steps to encourage the use of alternative testing procedures that are of equal value as toxicity indicators and less costly--both in terms of dollars and animal lives. Alternative tests such as the Eytex system, cloned human cells and computer models have been developed, and more alternative tests are expected to be available in the future. Unfortunately, the federal government has stymied the use and development of these technologically advanced procedures by failing to update its regulations and guidelines for testing. Under current procedures, manufacturers find it is easier to have new products approved by relying on outdated testing than through the use of new alternatives. As a Co-chair of the Congressional Friends of Animals Caucus, I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this taxpayer and animal friendly piece of legislation.

Mr. SHAYS

Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 4838, which would permit the Attorney General to waive the oath of renunciation and allegiance in instances when the applicant for naturalization is an individual with a severe disability who is unable to understand or communicate an understanding of the meaning of the oath. This legislation is important to families in Connecticut and across this country. I want to thank Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen for introducing this legislation and Chairman Lamar Smith for working with our offices to bring it to the floor. I also want to thank Connecticut's senior senator, Christopher Dodd, for his work on this legislation in the Senate. Under current law, the Attorney General has the authority to waive for disabled applicants the English and civics tests required for naturalization. It makes little sense that the Attorney General has the discretion to waive these tests but is prohibited from waiving the oath of renunciation and allegiance required of these same disabled applicants. The result is that despite the fulfillment of all other requirements for naturalization, certain disabled individuals are unable to ever become citizens. These instances are rare, but they have terrible implications for the affected families. For example, it is possible under current law for an entire family to be naturalized with the exception of one disabled family member--who then could face possible deportation. The main purpose of the oath requirement is to prevent the naturalization of people who are hostile to the United States Government or the principles of the Constitution. Waiving this requirement for people with severe disabilities does nothing to defeat this purpose or threaten our national security because these individuals lack the capacity to understand the oath and, therefore, cannot form the intent to act against our government. Furthermore, individuals with disabilities who receive a waiver would still have to fulfill other requirements of naturalization, including good moral character and residency. The legislation we are considering today poses no danger and manifests our nation's compassion--a characteristic too often missing from our immigration policy. I urge my colleagues to support its passage.

Mr. SHAYS

Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the conference report. The conference report includes H.R. 1248, which reauthorizes the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) for an additional five years. As a cosponsor of H.R. 1248, I commend my colleagues Mr. Hyde, Mrs. Morella, Mr. Conyers and Mr. McCollum for their tireless efforts to bring this vital piece of legislation to the floor. The scourge of domestic violence must be ended. Perpetrators of these reprehensible crimes must be punished, and victims must have support services available to help them transition to a normal life. VAWA is a piece of legislation this body can be proud of. This law has substantially reduced the levels of violence committed against women and children by their spouses and partners. Since it was signed into law in 1994, VAWA has strengthened criminal laws and provided funding to enhance their enforcement. It has also provided a foundation for a successful long term criminal justice effort to end violence against women. By encouraging collaboration among police, prosecutors and victim service providers, VAWA is building a comprehensive community response to violence against women across the country. VAWA grants have made a difference in the lives of women and their families. Authorization for this critical set of programs expires in four days. It would simply be irresponsible of this body to fail to reauthorize the legislation before adjourning. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support reauthorizing the Violence Against Women Act by voting for H.R. 3244.

Mr. SHAYS

Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Speaker, I can say it in shorter words; I am in awe of what the chairman, the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Regula) and the ranking member, the gentleman from Washington (Mr. Dicks), have done in this legislation. This is landmark legislation that Members seek for years and years to accomplish. Its impact is monumental. To think that in the next 6 years there will be $12 billion for land acquisition, $2.4 of that for coastal management, is extraordinary. There will be unbelievable benefit for years because of this legislation. I want to specifically thank both the chairman, and the ranking member, for honoring and recognizing my predecessor Stewart McKinney for what he attempted to do before he passed away--establish the McKinney Wildlife Refuge, off the coast of Connecticut. Ninety-seven percent of the Connecticut shoreline has been developed, and 10 percent of the population of the United States lives in the immediate vicinity of Long Island Sound. We need to protect our islands and coastal wetlands. I thank my colleagues for setting aside $1.5 million in appropriations for the acquisition of Calves Island for the McKinney Refuge. This is a continual process $2.5 million has already been appropriated, of the $6 million final purchase price, leaving only a $2 million balance for the 26 acre island off the coast of Greenwich. I know my colleague, the gentlewoman from Connecticut (Ms. DeLauro) also appreciates what the committee has done for Calves Island and in the past for the Stratford Salt Marsh. We have worked on a bipartisan basis for that. So I am here to acknowledge the good work the committee has done and to say that I am in awe of what the committee has accomplished. I thank them.

Mr. SHAYS

Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 4365, the Children's Health Act of 2000. In particular, I am pleased the legislation includes S. 976 which reauthorizes the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). S. 976 includes comprehensive standards for the use of restraint and seclusion in all facilities receiving Federal funding. The regulations, authored primarily by my colleague from Connecticut, Senator Christopher Dodd, will go a long way toward ensuring those receiving treatment in federally funded facilities are not subject to potentially life threatening inappropriate restraint and seclusion. I became deeply concerned about the inappropriate use of restraint and seclusion following a series of articles published by the Hartford Courant in October 1998, entitled ``Deadly Restraint.'' The series reported patient deaths related to the use of restraint or seclusion in 142 cases over 10 years, and chronicled the deaths of 23 patients who had died within 11 months--all apparent victims of overuse of seclusion or restraint. Among the deaths the Courant investigated was Andrew McClain's. Andrew was an 11 year old foster child from Bridgeport, CT--in my district--who was a patient at Elmcrest Hospital, a State psychiatric institution, in Portland, CT. On March 22, 1998, Andrew was told to move to a different table than the one where he was seated during breakfast. When he disobeyed, an aide at the hospital forcibly restrained Andrew and placed him in a face-down restraint hold. Andrew's arms were drawn across his chest. The full weight of an adult on his back pinned this 11-year-old child to the ground, making it impossible for him to breathe, and eventually causing his death. Andrew's horrifying death and others like it in the Courant series raised serious questions surrounding the use of restraints in mental health facilities nationwide, and more importantly, it raised public awareness of a very serious issue. It also caused significant concern among members of the Connecticut delegation, who asked the General Accounting Office to study the use of restraint and seclusion among our most vulnerable populations--those with mental illness or mental retardation--who depend on care from others for their well-being. The study, published last September, revealed a number of disturbing facts including at least 24 deaths associated with restraint or seclusion in 1998 alone. The GAO study also found the lack of a comprehensive reporting system to track injuries to both patients and staff resulting from restraint and seclusion, and an inconsistency among Federal and State regulations regarding restraint and seclusion for the mentally ill and disabled. The GAO recommended an improved reporting system and led to conclusions that having regulatory protections and reporting requirements in place would reduce the use of restraint and seclusion and improve safety for patients and staff. The report also highlighted the urgent need to regulate the use of restraint and seclusion in federally funded facilities. As a result of the GAO findings, both Senators Dodd and Lieberman introduced comprehensive legislation to regulate the use of restraint and seclusion in mental health facilities. With the support of other members of the Connecticut delegation, on November 1, I introduced H.R. 3010, the Restraint Safety Act--the House companion to legislation introduced by Senator Lieberman. Provisions from Senator Dodd's bill were included in the Senate- passed SAMHSA reauthorization bill which we are considering today. Mr. Speaker, only strong Federal guidelines will ensure those in all facilities which receive federal funding will be free from unnecessary restraint and seclusion and I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support these life-saving provisions by voting for the underlying bill.

Mr. SHAYS

Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding me the time. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the Violence Against Women Act. This legislation needs to be reauthorized. I commend the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Hyde), the gentlewoman from Maryland (Mrs. Morella), the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Conyers) and the gentleman from Florida (Mr. McCollum) for their tireless efforts to bring this vital piece of legislation to the floor. The scourge of domestic violence must be ended. Perpetrators of these reprehensible crimes must be punished and victims must have support services available to help them transition to a normal life. This law has substantially reduced the level of violence committed against women and children by their spouses, partners and fathers. Since it was signed into law in 1994, the Violence Against Women Act has strengthened criminal laws and provided funding to enhance their enforcement. It has also provided a foundation for a successful long- term criminal justice effort to end violence against women. By encouraging collaboration among police, prosecutors and victims service providers, the Violence Against Women Act is providing a comprehensive community response to violence against women across the country. Violence Against Women Act grants have made a difference in the lives of women and their families. Authorization of this critical set of programs expires in just four days. It would simply be irresponsible of this body to fail to reauthorize this important legislation before adjourning. I urge my colleagues to support the legislation.

Mr. SHAYS

Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding the time to me, and I rise in opposition to the motion of the gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. Graham) and support the motion that will be offered by the gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Frank). If we walked down the National Mall along the Potomac River, we reach the newest memorial in our Nation's Capital. It honors Franklin Delano Roosevelt, the 33rd President of the United States. It was FDR who said ``We must scrupulously guard the civil rights and civil liberties of all citizens, whatever their background. We must remember that any oppression, any injustice, any hatred is a wedge designed to attack our civilization.'' This statement is no less true today than it was back then. I strongly support the Hate Crimes Prevention Act because this legislation respects the fundamental relationship between local law enforcement and the Federal Government. Local law enforcement agencies will continue to have primary responsibility for investigating, prosecuting violent crimes based on hate. But when it comes to violations of civil rights, the Federal Government has historically played an important role in the prosecution and punishment of these violations. And when local authorities request assistance or are unable or unwilling to act, Federal law enforcement agencies must be able to come to their aid. The hate crimes legislation authored by Senators Gordon Smith, a Republican, and Ted Kennedy, a Democrat, creates an important safety net to ensure victims of hate crimes receive the justice to which they are entitled. It will permit the Department of Justice to provide technical, forensic, prosecutorial or any other form of assistance to State and local law enforcement officials in cases of felony crimes that constitute a crime of violence and are motivated by bias based on race, color, religion, national origin, gender, disability, or sexual orientation. Federal hate crimes, therefore, is not a new idea. Mr. Speaker, for 32 years Federal law has covered certain forms of violence based on hate. Unfortunately, under current law, Federal prosecution of a hate crime is permitted only if the crime was motivated by bias based on race, religion, national origin, or color and the assailant intended to prevent the victim from exercising a federally protected right such as voting or attending school. This dual requirement substantially limits the potential for Federal prosecution of hate crimes, even when the crime is particularly heinous. The Hate Crimes Prevention Act removes this restriction, enhancing the ability of Federal law enforcement agencies to assist State and local authorities and in investigating and prosecuting hate crimes of all kinds. I believe violence based on prejudice is a matter of national concern, and I urge my colleagues to pass the Frank motion so we can enact this important legislation this year. I would say I have voted to federalize a number of crimes as have the opponents of this effort. For me, there are times the Federal Government needs to step in.

Mr. SHAYS

Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding me this time. As we work on this very important bill, I rise with some disappointment that she will not be here next year to continue her excellent work. I rise in support of the Preparedness Against Terrorism Act because I think it is an outstanding bill that addresses some real concerns. The Subcommittee on National Security of the Committee on Government Reform held eight hearings on terrorism in this Congress. The issues we looked at included the need for integrated foreign and domestic threat assessments, better coordination of Federal programs to combat terrorism, and a clearer focus on the needs of local and State first responders. The bill we are considering this evening would address the concerns that my subcommittee has heard expressed in testimony. With more than 40 Federal agencies and programs involved, and no clear national strategy to guide program spending, current policy is clearly confused, and there is no way to know if money is being targeted effectively. Currently, only a coordinator on the National Security Council has any responsibility, but no authority over Federal counterterrorism programs. Some have been calling for appointment of a terrorism czar on the model of the Office of National Drug Control Policy. Mr. Speaker, I think this bill strikes the right balance between those options by making one person in the Executive Office of the President responsible to coordinate Federal spending to combat terrorism while keeping the emphasis on the primary response role of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, FEMA, and local police, fire, medical, and National Guard units. This is an outstanding bill, it will do important things, and I urge my colleagues to support this legislation. And I, again, thank the gentlewoman from Florida (Mrs. Fowler) for her fine work on this legislation.

Mr. SHAYS

Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to one of Darien, Connecticut's most notable volunteers and political activists, and my friend, Etta Stanko, who died June 12 at her home. She was 75 and had lived here for more than 40 years. I would like to read into the record excerpts from a news article of June 15, 2000, written by Locker McCarthy of the Darien News-Review, celebrating her life. ``One of her best friends and a fellow former president of the Darien Community Association, Marge Harrington, said she had known Ms. Stanko and her family `since they moved to Noroton Bay, where we were, about 35 years ago. She used to call herself a `professional volunteer,'' recalled Ms. Harrington, `and she certainly did a lot of things. She was everyone's dream volunteer--when she believed in a cause she gave 100 percent. She was a good person and a good friend,' said Ms. Harrington. `We were with her just last Friday and we went to see `Small Time Crooks,' and we all laughed.'' ' ``Just three weeks before her death, Ms. Stanko was notified she was to be the next recipient of the Georgina B. Davis Award for her outstanding fund raising efforts on behalf of the Western Connecticut Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Ms. Stanko became involved in trying to further research into M.S. after another past president of the D.C.A. became afflicted with the disease, and so became one of the original members of the Western Connecticut Chapter's committee that sponsors the annual March into Spring fashion show. `She's been a very good friend since 1978,' said Chapter Director Loretta Weitzel. `She was a wonderful woman, a mentor, and we'll miss her.' '' ``Ms. Stanko was also an ardent leader of town Republicans. For 10 years she served on the Republican Town Committee, and was for two years, a decade ago, its president. She was elected to the Representative Town Meeting every two years from 1986 to 1996, when she did not to run.'' ``She was not a reticent member of the RTM, and with her high, piping voice, reminiscent in tone if not in content to Eleanor Roosevelt's, she was an instantly recognizable member of this town's political class. Former First Selectman Henry Sanders said, `She represented reason and stability and meant a lot to me; she did an awful lot and was a significant person in this town, and shared my Republican vision.' '' ``It wasn't only her GOP cohorts who were expressing sadness about Ms. Stanko's passing. Former Democratic Town Committee Chairman Anne Shaw remembered her work as one of those `instrumental' in the creation of the Senior Center (founded by Ms. Harrington and Caroline Murray). `What a loss,' remarked Ms. Shaw. `I saw her last week and she was really happy and giggly. I haven't seen her looking so well in a long time. I always enjoyed working with her and I think she was a role model for all of us.' '' ``Town Tax Collector and longtime friend of Ms. Stanko's, Robert Locke, said, `I've lost a good friend and a wonderful gal who was a tireless and dedicated volunteer. I said to my wife, `They must need some head volunteers up there!' '' ``Etta Marquardt Stanko was born on December 29, 1924 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the daughter of the late Guy Marquardt and the late Bertha Bloh. Ms. Stanko attended the University of Pennsylvania and worked as an auditor for the Pennsylvania Railroad in the 1940's and 50's before assisting in the family business, Stanko Associates.'' ``Ms. Stanko had volunteered at the Darien Community Association (DCA) since 1961 and served two consecutive terms as president of the DCA from 1977 to 1981. She has also served as Treasurer, Finance Chairman, Thrift Shop volunteer and board member. Among her many accomplishments at the DCA were creating a merit scholarship award for Darien public school graduates, launching a planning and development committee and began glucose screening and a health fair in cooperation with the Darien Lion's Club, opened what became the Darien Nature Center at Cherry Lawn Park and helped promote alcohol education and abuse programs at Darien High School.'' ``She has also spent decades in service to the Salvation Army, of which she was chairman of the service unit at the time of her death, and with Family Children's Agency. She also spent six years on the board of directors for Darien United Way and eight years on the board of the Darien Senior Center. She was a member of the Connecticut Commission on Aging and was on the board of directors for the American Red Cross where she had volunteered for 14 years.'' ``Ms. Stanko was predeceased by her husband, Joseph Stanko. She is survived by one son, Joseph C. Stanko, Jr. of Alexandria, Virginia; one daughter, Alyse Stanko Pleiter of Villa Park Illinois; and two grandchildren.'' `` `She was very proud of her children,' said Ms. Harrington. `Her son is a lawyer and her daughter is a budding writer. And she had wonderful grandchildren she doted on. She recently traveled to Spain and Portugal and had a good time. She did a lot of nice things in the last part of her life.' '' On a more personal note, I would like to add that Ms. Stanko was also on the board of directors of the Bank of Darien, was an active member of St. John's Roman Catholic Church in Darien, and was a wonderful past volunteer for my campaigns for Congress, although this year she supported a challenger for the Republican nomination. Etta Stanko was a great lady who had a powerful impact on her family, friends, and those she served in her extensive volunteer endeavors. We all miss her dearly.

Mr. SHAYS

Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Speaker, on July 10, I was in Connecticut participating in my district's nominating convention and, therefore, missed six recorded votes. I take my voting responsibility very seriously, having missed only a handful of votes in my nearly 13 years in Congress. I would like to say for the record that had I been present I would have voted ``no'' on recorded voted No. 373, ``yes'' on recorded vote No. 374, ``yes'' on recorded vote No. 375, ``yes'' on recorded vote No. 376, ``yes'' on recorded vote No. 377, and ``no'' on recorded vote No. 378.

Mr. SHAYS

Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Speaker, on July 10, I was in Connecticut participating in my district's nominating convention and, therefore, missed six recorded votes. I take my voting responsibility very seriously, having missed only a handful of votes in my nearly 13 years in Congress. I would like to say for the record that had I been present I would have voted no on recorded vote number 373, yes on recorded vote number 374, yes on recorded vote number 375, yes on recorded vote number 376, yes on recorded vote number 377, and no on recorded vote number 378.

Mr. SHAYS

Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of the Greenwood Amendment, which will strike Section 587 of this foreign aid spending bill. Today, we have a chance to help developing nations around the world by correcting an egregious error in U.S. foreign policy: the global gag rule. The gag rule is a shameful policy that punishes developing nations for doing precisely what we consistently encourage them to do: strengthen their democratic institutions by promoting and protecting freedom of speech. The gag rule forbids U.S. foreign assistance from going to organizations that use their own, non-U.S. funds to lobby their government on reproductive issues. The promotion of free speech is a principal goal of U.S. foreign policy and essential to the development of democratic forms of government. The United States--which prides itself on its protection of basic human rights, like freedom of speech--should not restrict these rights in other nations. I hear all the time--and wholeheartedly agree--that opening up trade with China will lead to greater freedoms to speak in that country, which in turn will promote democracy. But when it comes to family planning, we suddenly want to stifle voices within developing nations. We want to limit their right to speak out. We force them to relinquish their right to free speech in order to participate in U.S.-supported family planning programs. We force on these NGOs restrictions that would be unconstitutional were they imposed on U.S. organizations. Mr. Chairman, intentional family planning programs worldwide save the lives of mothers and children, profoundly benefit women's social and economic situations, and dramatically reduce the incidence of abortion. The global gag rule on international family planning stifles the ability of these programs to operate, placing the lives of mothers and their children at stake. These misguided restrictions were included as part of the FY 2000 Consolidated Appropriations bill and they are again included in Section 587 of the bill we are considering today. If we do not remove this provision, we will defund organizations that help reduce the number of abortions worldwide. These organizations provide voluntary, preventative family planning services. They help prevent a number of serious global problems, including: mother and infant mortality, unemployment, illiteracy and Third World debt. According to the U.S. Agency for International Development, every day approximately 1,600 women die of complications stemming from pregnancy and childbirth. That is about 600,000 women dying each year from pregnancy-related causes. And complications from pregnancy and childbirth are the leading cause of death and disability for women in developing countries aged 15 to 49. Studies show family planning and reproductive health services can help prevent one in four of those needless deaths. And, in addition to preventing maternal deaths, family planning can reduce the millions of long-term illnesses and disabilities that result each year from pregnancy-related complications. Family planning also helps women space births, which is critical to improving the health of their children. Just by increasing the time between births or the age of first motherhood, family planning can reduce infant and child mortality by up to 25 percent. Mr. Chairman, we need to repeal the global gag rule. Let's pass this amendment, and let's put an end to this annual debate.

Mr. SHAYS

Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of the DeFazio-Bass Amendment, which funds the Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services' program for fiscal year 2001 (FY 01) at the level requested by the President, and prohibits funds in the bill from being used for lethal predator control methods. Put briefly, the Wildlife Services' methods of predator control are ineffective, wasteful and inhumane. Despite increased spending and increased killing between 1983 and 1993, there was no decrease in the number of livestock lost to predators. Clearly, this is a program in need of serious re-evaluation. Further, as a co-chair of the Congressional Friends of Animals Caucus, I would be remiss if I did not point out the killing methods currently employed by the Wildlife Services' program are excessively cruel and unselective--commonly capturing both wild and domestic non- target animals alike. These methods--including the use of indiscriminate aerial gunning, steel-jawed leghold traps, poisonous gas, gasoline, smoke and fire--are both inhumane and brutal. The existence of alternative methods of predator control--including the use of guard dogs, sound and light devices, fencing, carcass removal and night penning--make these practices largely unnecessary. In those instances where lethal control practices are necessary, namely to protect threatened or endangered species, and to protect human health, the DeFazio-Bass amendment allows Wildlife Services to carry out lethal predator control. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this balanced, common sense amendment which is endorsed by taxpayer, environmental and humane organizations around the country.

Mr. SHAYS

Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the requisite number of words. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of the Stupak-Boehlert amendment to H.R. 4461, because I believe the Congregate and Meals on Wheels programs are in need of additional funds. There are few communities within the country where a senior nutrition program does not exist, and the demands on nutrition programs for the elderly is increasing. Few programs can boast the importance to the elderly and overwhelming success as the senior nutrition programs. I became deeply involved in this issue last November, when I became aware that the Agency on Aging in my district began cutting back the Congregate Meals program after having exhausted their reserve funds. In the face of a potential crisis, the State of Connecticut and local governments agreed to make up the financial shortfall for this year. The additional State and local funds are allowing the Agency to temporarily overcome the financial shortfall and enabling providers to serve the same number of meals this year as were served in 1999. While this financial contribution is significant and speaks volumes about the importance of the Congregate Meal program to seniors in Connecticut, it does nothing to prevent similar funding shortfall from occurring next year and the year after that. This body has an obligation to ensure that senior nutrition programs are adequately funded. I hope we can all recognize that Congregate and home delivered meals programs need assistance, and that this House has the good sense to act favorably on this amendment.

Mr. SHAYS

Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of the Sherwood-Barton-Markey amendment to replace section 606 of this bill with the text of H.R. 2884, which passed the House by a vote of 416 to 8 on April 12. Among its provisions, H.R. 2884 authorized the creation of a two million barrel home heating oil reserve in the Northeast. Winter is a perennial event. It is sensible to prepare for the cold weather, regardless of external circumstances. We can help ensure stable home heating oil, diesel fuel, and jet fuel prices by creating a two million barrel reserve of home heating oil that can be drawn down when fuel prices rise dramatically, as they did last winter. The recent increase in oil prices led fuel costs in some areas of the Northeast to reach their highest point since the Gulf War. This winter it cost some Connecticut residents as much as $2 for a gallon of home heating oil, approximately double the cost of a year ago. We should not force families to choose between heating their homes and buying food during the winter months. Establishing a home heating oil reserve in the Northeast, much like the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, to help stabilize prices when fuel costs rise dramatically, will ensure consumers have access to home heating fuel at predictable, affordable prices. I commend my colleagues for their hard work and leadership on this issue. Many industry experts agree an influx of home heating oil into the market would drive prices down and allow families access to affordable home heating oil in times of drastic price increase. According to a 1998 Department of Energy report, the creation of a home heating oil reserve will be an effective method of stabilized home heating oil prices in the future, and the use of a Government-owned reserve in the Northeast would provide benefits to consumers in the Northeast and to the Nation at large. Mr. Chairman, I hope we move forward with this amendment. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this effort to ensure consumers have an adequate supply of home heating fuel at reasonable, predictable prices throughout the year.

Mr. SHAYS

Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the National and Community Service Amendments Act of 2000 which I have introduced today with my colleague from New Jersey, Mr. Andrews. As a strong fiscal conservative, I believe National Service is one of the wisest and least costly investments our government can make. Every $1 spent on AmeriCorps generates $1.66 in benefits to the community; every full-time AmeriCorps member generates an average of 12 additional volunteers. AmeriCorps is one of the most successful experiments in state and local control the federal government has ever embarked upon: two-thirds of AmeriCorps funding goes directly to Governor-appointed state commissions which then make grants to local non-profits. Through service, Americans of all ages gain a sense of commitment to their community and their country which will prove valuable for their entire lives. Since 1994 more than 150,000 Americans have served as AmeriCorps members in all 50 states. They have taught, tutored, or mentored more than 2.5 million students; recruited, supervised, or trained more than 1.6 million volunteers; built or rehabilitated more than 25,000 homes; provided living assistance to more than 208,000 senior citizens; and planted more than 52 million trees. National Service is a powerful force in every state in the Union. This year, my state alone has nearly 14,000 National Service members solving problems and helping people. Of that total, AmeriCorps is providing 790 people the opportunity to dedicate a year to community service, Learn and Serve America creates the opportunity for 6,500 students from kindergarten through college to dedicate their time, and the National Senior Service Corps brings together 6,300 seniors to contribute their time as Foster Grandparents, Senior Companions or Retired and Senior Volunteers. The National and Community Service Amendments Act of 2000 reauthorizes the Corporation for National Service and the programs it administers: the National Senior Service Corps, AmeriCorps, and Learn and Serve America. This bill has been drafted in close consultation with more than 200 community service groups. It is a simple extension of the existing program, with a few key improvements. This bill codifies the cost-cutting Grassley agreement reached in 1996 under which the Corporation lowered its average cost per AmeriCorps member to $15,000 for Fiscal Year 1999, including a $4,725 education award to finance college or repay student loans, and a mere $7,421 for a living allowance. The reauthorization expands the cost-cutting ``Education Award Only'' model, through which the Corporation provides only the education award, and the sponsoring organization provides all other support. It also codifies the existing prohibition on AmeriCorps grants to federal agencies and expands the type of student loans that may be repaid with the education award. This bill broadens the scope of the National Senior Service Corps by lowering the minimum age from 60 to 55 so more volunteers may participate, and by increasing the definition of ``low income'' from 125 to 150 percent of the poverty line so more can be served by Foster Grandparents and Senior Companions. These improvements will make National Service better than it has ever been. AmeriCorps members are not only helping meet the immediate needs in our communities, they are also teaching, through their example, the importance of serving and helping others. As a former Peace Corps volunteer, I know the significance of this long-lasting lesson. Our youth want so desperately to take hold of their destiny and work to ensure a brighter and more prosperous future. There is so much they can do--all they need is the opportunity.

Mr. SHAYS

Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Chairman, I recognize the budgetary constraints under which Chairman Walsh is working, and commend him for doing an admirable job under difficult circumstances. I am, however, deeply concerned about several programs reduced or eliminated in this bill. This legislation fails to fund EPA's Office of Long Island Sound Programs. On May 9, the House voted 391 to 29 to reauthorize the program at an $80 million level. Over the past decade, the Long Island Sound Office has been an essential partner with Connecticut and New York. Together we have made enormous progress in the cleanup of Long Island Sound. But, we still have much work to do and many challenges to face. It is critical the Long Island Sound Office funding be restored and increased significantly so we may succeed in cleaning up, preserving and protecting Long Island Sound for future generations. This bill also eliminates additional Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funding for disaster relief--providing only $300 million, a decrease of $2.4 billion from FY 00. It is fiscally irresponsible for this House to neglect to appropriate money for disaster relief. Natural disasters cannot be prevented, and the federal government has a responsibility to assist communities respond to emergencies. Relying on emergency spending appropriations bills to respond to inevitable disasters is simply not good budgeting. It is my hope the Conference Committee will work to restore FEMA funds and permit the agency to adequately prepare for natural disasters in a timely manner and fulfill its responsibility to those whose lives are affected. I plan to vote for final passage of this legislation because I want to keep the process moving forward, but I would like to make clear I will not vote for a Conference Report that fails to restore the Office of Long Island Sound Programs.

Mr. SHAYS

Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Chairman, will the gentleman yield?

Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Chairman, I appreciate the gentleman from New York for yielding, and I rise in support of this amendment, as well, and on behalf of the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Cummings) and the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Foley), who are also cosponsors of this amendment. I know the gentlewoman from New York (Mrs. Maloney) as well has expressed support of this. We are prepared to vote.