Mike Simpson

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Mr. David Guzman, who recently concluded his tenure as President of the National Association of Veterans' Program Administrators (NAVPA) after holding this position from October of 1998 to October of 2002. Mr. Guzman also recently retired as the University Registrar at Washington State University and now moves to the position of NAVPA Legislative Director. I am grateful that we will retain his leadership abilities in this small way. Long before Mr. Guzman served this nation's veterans, he had a distinguished career in the United States Air Force. He served at assignments throughout the world for 30 years before retiring in 1987, with his last assignment at Hickam Air Force Base in Hawaii where he was Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Commanding General of the Pacific Air Forces. He served two tours in the Republic of Vietnam. Mr. Guzman has testified before the Veterans' Affairs Committee frequently on Montgomery GI Bill enhancements. He brought first-hand knowledge on veterans' education policy to his testimony from working with veterans at Washington State University. Thank you, Mr. Guzman, for your dedication to America's servicemembers and veterans. You are leaving a lasting legacy of dedicated service to America and those who protect our freedoms.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor one of Idaho's finest. With a zip code of 83422, Driggs, Idaho was recently featured in National Geographic Magazine ZIPUSA section entitled, ``Billionaires, Mormon potato farmers and skateboarders share an uncommon home in 83422.'' The town was featured in the publication because of its pristine location, nestled at the foot of one of the most photographed mountains in the world--the Grand Tetons. Driggs, Idaho is also one of the fastest growing towns per capita in the U.S. It's easy to see why. With friendly folks and beautiful scenery, Driggs is becoming a destination town. From Internet start up companies to third generation farmers, people flock and stay in Driggs. My wife Kathy and I are among them. We enjoy spending our weekends and holidays at our home with an incredible view of the Grand Tetons. Driggs is reminiscent of small-town, USA. The town's idea of a traffic jam is waiting for a tractor to go by. It's well known that in Driggs, the drivers you pass will wave at you, with one hand still on the steering wheel. It's like feeling you're home, even if you've never been there. There are no strangers in Driggs, Idaho. Main Street resembles the ideals of the past. You'll see the neighborhood malt shop, locally owned grocery store and the town bookstore, ``Dark Horse Books.'' The town is surrounded by fields of seed potatoes and gently sloping hills that roll to the foot of the mammoth Grand Teton Mountains. Perhaps Driggs' most famous attraction, other than the Grand Tetons, is the Spud Drive-in Theater. Locals like the old-time atmosphere of a drive in movie theater and the businesses' mascot, a giant cement potato in the back of a flat bed truck. I'm proud to represent and live in Driggs, Idaho. It's a place worthy of National Geographic praise and attention.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight the success of the Idaho State University English and Professional Development Program in partnership with the Taiwan Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This unique program, the only program of its kind in the United States, provides a language and cultural education program for junior diplomatic officers in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Over 40 students have completed the program since its inception in the early 1990's, and many of these graduates now serve their country in diplomatic postings throughout the world. The program enables these junior officials to increase their knowledge of the American political system, enhance their language skills, and gain a greater understanding of U.S. culture. Instead of just learning about America in textbooks they have the unique opportunity to experience and participate in the American system by way of local internships and interactions with elected officials. Additionally, they can experience Idaho's natural beauty and participate in numerous outdoor activities. Not only does this program benefit these officials, but it also benefits the students of Idaho State University who are exposed to a different culture and perspective, broadening their world view and understanding. Recently, I had the opportunity to meet the current group of junior diplomats studying at Idaho State University. They are an intelligent, energetic group who are eager to serve their country. We had a healthy exchange of ideas and a good discussion regarding the American political system and current events in Taiwan. They are very interested in gaining as much knowledge and insight as possible during their stay in America and look forward to using what they have learned as they progress in their diplomatic careers. I congratulate the 2002-2003 participants of this very worthwhile program. Chen Sy-yun, Fu Yu-min, Huang Chien-tsai, Chin Tsung-kai, and Hsiao Kuang-wei are very able representatives of their country and I am sure that like their predecessors they will serve their country with honor and distinction. I wish them success in all their future endeavors. This exchange of ideas serves both countries well and reinforces the democratic bond between the United States and Taiwan. Positive associations such as this strengthen the tie between our two countries and further reinforce the importance of Taiwan as a trusted ally. I am honored to have this program in my congressional district and look forward to a continued successful relationship with Taiwan. I would like to thank the Honorable C. J. Chen, Taiwan's chief representative in the United States, for his contribution to the close and friendly relationship between our two countries. I would also like to thank Mr. Anthony Chung Yi Ho, Senior Assistant to the Honorable C. J. Chen, for his expertise and leadership in working with my staff, and Michelle Lewis, Director of the Idaho State University English and Professional Development Program, for her dedication and commitment to this unique program.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize and congratulate Albertsons Corporation for receiving the State Chairman Award from the Employer Support for Guard and Reserve. Who puts their lives on the line for us? Who provides the combat ready forces that will help protect our national security interests? With the support of their employers, members of the National Guard and Reserve are there when we need them. The National Guard and Reserve provide half of our nation's uniformed military forces. In fact, some military skills are found only in the Reserve components. The Secretary of Defense will call Reserve forces to serve along side their Active duty counterparts anytime the United States is conducting a significant military operation. Now, more than ever, we as a nation are relying on our Reserve Members. Because they are Reserve and this is not their regular, full- time job, it is essential that employers support them. That's why I am so proud of Albertsons. Albertsons has gone beyond the letter and the spirit of the law. After September 11th terrorist attacks, Albertsons implemented an enhanced military leave policy. Albertsons now provides wage differentials; continued health care coverage and retirement plan participation. Albertsons even set up a ``hot line'' to support impacted employees and their families. The company is a leader in reinforcing and enhancing its corporate policies in support of National Guard activities. Because of this voluntary, proactive action that Albertsons took to assist our Reserve, they are receiving the State Chairman Award. This award is presented on behalf of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs in recognizing ``outstanding'' contributions in support of Reserve Forces made by individuals, organizations or employers. Each award signifies extraordinary endowments that materially affect the Reserves. Albertsons deserves this award and I'm proud to acknowledge them for receiving it. Thank you, Albertsons, for supporting your country in such a patriotic manner.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the beauty and value of persistence. Ten years ago, a group of artists along with the Mayor and City Council of Idaho Falls had the idea of creating an area art museum. This huge undertaking would take thousands of volunteer hours and many fundraising efforts to become a reality. Today, I'm proud to say through the hard work of those dedicated volunteers and public servants, the Eagle Rock Art Museum opened its doors. The Eagle Rock Art Museum showcases eastern Idaho artists. As someone who occasionally dabbles in artistic endeavors, I value the cultural significance art plays in our society. Visitors to this wonderful facility can now marvel at stone sculptures, oil and watercolor pictures, tiles painted by children and other compelling works of art. Children can enter the doors of the Eagle Rock Art Museum and be inspired by the work it showcases. There's even a children's art gallery to display the work of our youngest citizens. In civilization, art transcends age. The works of Michelangelo, Leonardo DaVinci, Claude Monet and modern day artists like Norman Rockwell breathe light into culture. The works of artists live on forever through museums like the Eagle Rock Art Museum. I'm proud of the community of Idaho Falls for working to make the Eagle Rock Art Museum a reality. The selfless efforts of many illustrate the powerful principle of working together for a common cause. I compliment Idaho Falls Mayor Linda Milam, Council members Ida Hardcastle and Mel Erickson, artists Gloria Miller Allen and John Griffith and the hundreds of other artists, individuals, and businesses that helped create the art museum. Thanks to their efforts generations of Idahoans will have a lasting appreciation for the importance of art in our world.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support for S. 2237, the Veterans Benefits Act of 2002. This sweeping measure encompasses enhancements to veterans' compensation, pension, insurance and home loan benefits, among other matters. The Veterans Benefits Act of 2002 compromises provisions included in S. 2237 and five House bills previously considered in this body. I will highlight a few of the provisions: I am especially pleased that we are able to extend VA health care eligibility to surviving spouses who remarry after age 55. Under current law, a surviving spouse is not entitled to this benefit while married. As I explained to Ms. Blackwell following her testimony before our subcommittee, I wish we had the means at this time to be more generous to these deserving spouses. However, as the chairman has indicated, this is a first step in restoring entitlement to the host of benefits these women and men must give up when they remarry later in life. I thank Mike Bilirakis for his leadership on this issue. The bill also includes modest increases in funding for State approving agencies given the additional statutory duties SAAs now perform in maintaining the integrity of servicemember and veterans' education and training programs. These new funding levels are $14 million for fiscal year 2003, $18 million for fiscal year 2004, $18 million for fiscal year 2005, $19 million for fiscal year 2006, and $19 million for fiscal year 2007. I especially look forward to an aggressive initiative by SAAs in seeking out and approving for veterans' training, employer-based on-job training, and apprenticeship opportunities across the country. Our veterans use of VA educational assistance programs for OJT and apprenticeship is very limited. Lastly, I agree with Chairman Smith; VA's OJT apprenticeship program largely is still based on the original World War II model. Congress has some serious work to do in updating this program next year. S. 2237, as amended, provides coverage under the Soldiers' and Sailors' Civil Relief Act to members of the National Guard who are called to active service for more than 30 consecutive days to respond to a national emergency. I recognize Lane Evans for his work on this proposal. The bill also increases the Medal of Honor special pension from $600 to $1,000 per month. I am pleased we are able to recognize, albeit in a small way, our nation's real heroes. S. 2237, as amended, authorizes the Secretary of the Army to place a new memorial at Arlington National cemetery in honor of veterans who fought in the Battle of the Bulge of World War II, one of the greatest land battles of that war. In addition, S. 2237 provides enhancements to existing authorities which provide compensation to women veterans and veterans with hearing loss. Mr. Speaker, we have worked with the Senate on this bill for many months, and I'm proud of the outcome. Many veterans and their survivors will indeed benefit. I must give due recognition to the Chairman and Ranking Member, Chris Smith and Lane Evans, respectively, for their unwavering leadership. During the 107th Congress, this committee has brought to the floor 23 bills, all of which passed the House overwhelmingly. I must also thank my good friend, the Ranking Member of the Benefits Subcommittee, Silvestre Reyes. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support S. 2237, this final veterans package of the 107th Congress.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Mr. Speaker, we all agree that our fellow Americans who have served in our military represent a unique national resource. We need to ensure we fulfill our obligation to them. H.R. 4015, as amended, the ``Jobs for Veterans Act,'' provides us the opportunity to approve legislation that will help our former servicemembers obtain long-term, sustained employment. The Jobs for Veterans Act essentially creates a new Department of Labor delivery system for veterans' employment and training services in light of the Government Performance and Results Act, the new One-Stop career centers under the Workforce Investment Act of 1998, and the availability of self-service job assistance by way of the Internet. H.R. 4015, as amended, can be described in four words: incentives, results, flexibility, and accountability in the delivery of employment and training services for veterans through individual states and counties. The Subcommittee on Benefits has worked on this legislation for the past two and one-half years, and I applaud the hard work of Jack Quinn, Bob Filner, and J.D. Hayworth on earlier versions of the bill. I also want to recognize the Ranking Member of the Benefits Subcommittee, Silvestre Reyes, for his leadership on this issue, as well as the Chairman and Ranking Member of the full Committee, Chris Smith and Lane Evans, for their support. I very much appreciate the support of the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs in approving the compromise agreement on this legislation. Indeed, Committee Chairman Rockefeller and Ranking Member Specter have played a leadership role in both strengthening the bill, and in Senate passage of it. Mr. Speaker, about 215,000 servicemembers are estimated to separate from the Armed Forces this fiscal year; I believe this bill is a win- win situation for both our veterans and our economy. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 4015.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Mr. Speaker, I want to take just a few minutes to outline my thoughts on the Resolution before the House today and the reasons why I have decided I must vote in its favor. Throughout the past few months, I have been supportive of efforts that would allow our nation to first pursue Iraq's compliance with existing U.N. resolutions and eventually engage our allies in a united effort to force a regime change in Iraq. Early discussions and versions of the Congressional Resolution on which we are about to vote had very broad authorities for the President associated with the threat posed by Iraq--something that caused concern for me and many of my colleagues on both sides of the political aisle. As more evidence of Iraq's growing ability to develop and deliver weapons of mass destruction has emerged, I think it is clear that the patience required to avoid armed conflict must be balanced against the severe and catastrophic consequences of waiting too long to act. We simply cannot wait to act, either with the United Nations or unilaterally, until Iraq actually uses its weapons of mass destruction against its enemies or completes its development of a working nuclear weapon. I believe a recent dossier on Iraq, written by the British Government, clearly illustrates the threat posed by Saddam Hussein. Among its findings were the following: Iraq has continued to develop chemical and biological weapons, including anthrax, mustard gas, sarin nerve gas, and VX nerve gas; Iraq has military plans for the use of chemical and biological weapons, some of which are deployable within 45 minutes; Iraq has developed mobile laboratories for the production of biological weapons; Iraq has tried to covertly acquire technology and materials for use in the production of nuclear weapons; Iraq has sought uranium from South Africa despite having no active civil nuclear power program that might need it; Iraq is in various stages of development and deployment of a number of missile systems capable of delivering weapons of mass destruction over vast distances; and Iraq has learned a great deal from past experiences with weapons inspections and has undertaken an aggressive program to conceal sensitive equipment and documentation in the event weapons inspectors return in the future. To even the most cynical critic of armed conflict, these realities have to represent a clear and present danger to the security of the middle-east and an undeniable threat to the security interests of the United States. I think it is also important to note that the development and possession of these weapons of mass destruction by Iraq are in direct violation of international law. Iraq, under a variety of U.N. resolutions, is required to destroy its vast inventory of these weapons under the supervision of the United Nations. Sadly, this is not the only way in which Iraq has violated its international obligations. In 2002 alone, Iraqi forces have fired on U.S. and British pilots 406 times and continue this hostility every day. In addition, recently released classified photos shows Iraq rebuilding its weapons factories and U.S. National Security Advisor Condoleezza Rice recently revealed that Iraq provided training to al-Qaida in chemical weapons development and trained terrorists--information corroborated in the British Dossier. I want to commend President Bush and leaders of both parties of Congress, including House Speaker Dennis J. Hastert and House Minority Leader Richard Gephardt, for working together, setting political differences aside, and drafting the Resolution before us today. I firmly believe this Resolution provides the President the authority he needs to protect the American people and the rest of the world from Saddam Hussein's growing appetite for weapons of mass destruction-- including nuclear weapons. At the same time, the Resolution leaves open the possibility for a peaceful end to this international crisis and places the responsibility for avoiding armed conflict directly on Saddam Hussein. His actions over the coming weeks will determine whether the United States, Great Britain, and a number of our allies are forced to act to protect the world from his own aggression. Specifically, the Resolution: Authorizes the President to defend the U.S. by military force against threats from Iraq, and enforce existing U.N. Security Council resolutions; Requires the President to determine that further diplomacy initiatives will not adequately protect our national security; Requires a report to Congress at least every 60 days on the status of efforts to protect the U.S.; Authorizes action by the President consistent with the War Powers Resolution; and Contains a sense of Congress resolution supporting the President's efforts to obtain a U.N. Security Council resolution to ensure that Iraq immediately complies with all relevant Security Council resolutions. I want to report that this Resolution is not the blank check for war that some of its opponents are portraying it to be. In fact, this Resolution leaves plenty of room for a peaceful resolution to this conflict, urges cooperation with the United Nations and our allies, and ensures Congress's constitutional role is protected. While I have been a proponent of seeking the participation of our allies in any action we might take against Iraq, I think it is important to remember that we have the right to act unilaterally in the defense of our nation and its interests. This resolution protects that right while recognizing the importance of securing the cooperation of the international community. Although I feel it is regrettable that we are now at a point where we must consider armed conflict with Iraq to protect the world from its aggression, it is impossible to ignore any longer the devastating risks of continued inaction. Saddam Hussein is solely responsible for bringing the United States and the international community to this point. While I remain hopeful we can find a peaceful resolution to this dispute, the overwhelming body of evidence points to only one conclusion--Saddam Hussein must be disarmed immediately through either his actions or our own. For that reason, Mr. Speaker, I will vote in support of the Resolution before us today and stand behind President Bush in his efforts to protect our nation from the horrors Saddam Hussein seems committed to unleashing on his enemies and the world.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Mr. Speaker, as the autumn nights get crisp and fall descends in eastern Idaho, the harvest of potatoes begins. So today, I rise to honor an Idaho tradition: Shelley Spud Days. Shelley, Idaho, located in Bingham County, produces more potatoes than any other place in the world. Idaho farmers harvest 400,000 acres of spuds each year equaling more than 14 billion pounds. With worldwide fame, it's only fitting that Idaho's most famous commodity is commemorated each year in the heart of potato country USA. So, for 74 years the closeknit community of Shelley has celebrated the harvest season with Shelley Spud Days. What started in 1927 when a handful of farmers gathered for a harvest party has transcended to one of Idaho's largest community celebrations. With only 3,500 residents, Shelley puts on a premier party. This year more than 10,000 people took in a day's worth of activities including wrestling in a mashed potato pit, shaking hands with Mr. Potato Head and eating a free baked potato with sour cream and butter. As any non-profit organization understands, these events could never function without dedicated volunteers who spend countless hours ensuring its success. I especially want to thank Raylene Johnson, coordinator for the event, for her hard work. I'm proud Shelley has continued this community event to celebrate what Idaho is famous for--potatoes. It's a celebration that hopefully will continue for years to come.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Mr. Speaker, the people of Idaho are fortunate to have the incredible resources of the public lands for work and play. Our public lands provide forest, mineral, and grazing resources, as well as access to a wide variety of outdoor recreation pursuits. The beauty of Idaho's mountains and rivers draw thousands of tourists to our state, injecting millions of dollars into our state's economy and supporting thousands of small businesses. So it is fitting to draw attention to an expedition that recently passed through Idaho. American Frontiers: A Public Lands Journey is drawing attention to America's public lands legacy through a two month, 3,000 mile journey entirely on public lands and waters. Two teams of adventurers, including teachers, a firefighter, a nurse, a reporter, and several outdoor enthusiasts began this trek on August 1, one team starting from the Canadian border, the other from the Mexican border. The two teams will join together on September 28, 2002 in Salt Lake City on National Public Lands Day. The northern group journeyed into Idaho while they were on the Continental Divide Trail, and hit the halfway point in their journey in the Targhee National Forest. We all treasure the special moments spent in awe of the natural wonders around us, and stand to gain from a better understanding of America's public lands legacy. My thanks go to the Public Lands Interpretive Association and the many sponsors and partners organizing this special journey. I encourage you to read more about this incredible journey on America's public lands by visiting the interactive website www.americanfrontiers.net.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank you for considering H.R. 4708, the Freemont Madison Conveyance Act. Under H.R. 4708, the Cross-cut Diversion Dam, Cross-cut Canal and five wells with associated water rights would be owned and operated by the FMID. The district has operated and maintained these facilities since they were constructed. In July the Resources Committee held a hearing on H.R. 4708. During this hearing the Bureau of Reclamation expressed concern over capping the costs for the required NEPA study and administrative costs associated with the transfer. After the hearing I worked with the Bureau and Freemont Madison Irrigation District to find a solution that is acceptable. The Resources Committee marked up an amended version of H.R. 4708. The amendment in the nature of the substitute was agreed up by all interested parties and was subsequently reported out of the Committee by unanimous consent. This bill is the culmination of many years of hard work by the members of the Freemont-Madison Irrigation District. In fact, it is one of the first issues I was approached with when I was elected to my first term in the House almost four years ago. I know the members of the Freemont-Madison will continue to provide quality service and remain the good stewards of the natural resources that are at their disposal upon transfer of this title and I look forward to the passage of H.R. 4708.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to condemn the absurd logic of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in its decision regarding the Pledge of Allegiance and renew my call for much needed reform to stop the unchecked abuses of this court. We in the West have long known the Ninth Circuit is a court out of touch with reality. Yesterday's ruling, however, marks a new low for this court and is an affront to the principles on which our nation was founded. The Ninth Circuit, without question, is the most overturned appeals court in the nation. The 1996-1997 session alone saw 95 percent of its cases reviewed by the Supreme Court overturned--and the wholesale rejection of this court's decision continues to this day. I call upon my colleagues in the House to support legislation I put forward last year that would split the Ninth Circuit into two courts and put an end to this cycle of wasteful and irresponsible rulings. My constituents deserve better, the people of the nation deserve better, and the constitution deserves better. Mr. Speaker, yesterday the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that the Pledge of Allegiance is unconstitutional. This is an outrage to me, to Congress, to the man on the street, and to the children who will be told they can no longer say the pledge in school! I am livid over the court's brainless decision. I pledge to support every effort to overturn this horrible decision. The court's decision stating that the words ``under God'' amounts to a government endorsement of religion shows just how out of step these liberal judges are with the American people. They state that saying God is akin to saying Jesus, Vishnu, or Zeus. This is blatantly nearsighted because the term God refers to God in the concept that is personal to every single person and does not refer to any certain idea of deity. Furthermore, the Pledge of Allegiance is not a prayer or a religious practice and thus the recitation of the pledge is not a religious exercise but rather it is an expression of support and loyalty for the United States. In Justice Brennan's concurring opinion in School District of Abington Township v. Schempp, 374 U.S. 203, 304 (1963) he stated, ``the reference to divinity in the revised pledge of allegiance . . . may merely recognize the historical fact that our Nation was believed to have been founded `under God.' Thus reciting the pledge may be no more of a religious exercise than the reading aloud of Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, which contains an allusion to the same historical fact.'' And Justice Blackmun writing for the Court in County of Allegheny v. American Civil Liberties Union Greater Pittsburgh Chapter, 109 S. Ct. 3086, 3106 (1989) stated. ``Our previous opinions have considered in dicta the motto and the Pledge characterizing them as consistent with the proposition that government may not communicate an endorsement of religious belief.'' Even before Congress added ``under God'' in 1954 to the pledge, the Supreme Court had ruled no one could be forced to recite the pledge. The court's decision yesterday said simply having to hear it every day violates the First Amendment ban on the establishment of religion. However, as Judge Fernandez points out in his dissenting opinion, ``in West Virginia Board of Education v. Barnette the Supreme Court did not say that the Pledge could not be recited in the presence of Jehovah's Witness children; it merely said that they did not have to recite it. That fully protected their constitutional rights by precluding the government from trenching upon `the sphere of intellect and spirit. As the Court pointed out, their religiously based refusal' to participate in the ceremony would not interfere with or deny rights of others to do so.'' Essentially this court has with this opinion developed the idea of a coercive environment. However, the law doesn't normally condition ones behavior on how it will affect others around them. Instead, we are told to avert our eyes and turn our heads away from something we find objectionable. In Cohen v. California, the Court found that epithets on the back of a war protestor's jacket, worn in public places, was constitutionally protected speech--the rights of unwilling viewers do not outweigh the speaker's. With this decision, the court gives any statement which may appear to be religious, no matter how innocuous, less protection than any other speech. Religion should be a more highly protected value, not a less protected value. At the very least it deserves equal protection. If this case is allowed to stand what will be next? Our national motto ``In God We Trust'' which is emblazoned on our money and above the Speaker of the House's chair? Or the singing of songs such as ``God Bless America'' or ``America the Beautiful'' in public? Or how about congressional prayers or the president's periodic invocation of the deity? Or maybe even the crosses at Arlington National Cemetery and our national military cemeteries across the country? The Pledge, like the National Anthem, is one of few remaining vestiges of the old idea of civic inculcation. It reminds us that despite the fact that we are all from diverse ethnic, religious, and racial backgrounds we remain a part of the same republic. The key to our unity is a shared commitment to the republican ideas of liberty and justice. The sanctioning of our oath under God is not merely an assertion of religious belief, but an appeal for divine blessing of this rather strange and mysterious grand experiment. Out Pledge, National Anthem, national motto and civic prayers help remind our citizens that there are more spiritual ties that bind us than natural affinities that divide us.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise to support H.R. 4858, introduced by my good friend Representative Jerry Moran of Kansas. This legislation will extend for two years the J-1 visa waiver program for states and increase each state's allotment from 20 to 30. The J-1 visa waiver program allows foreign medical students to remain practicing in the U.S. without having to return to their home countries for two years, as the J-1 visa requires. International Medical Graduates are a thriving part of the physician population in the U.S. It is estimated that close to 24% of practicing physicians are foreign nationals. In addition, in 1999 over 2,000 foreign medical graduates were practicing in health professional shortage areas or medically underserved areas, where waiver recipients are required to work. I am a strong supporter of the J-1 visa waiver program and disagree with USDA's decision to withdraw as an Interested Government Agency. Since 1994, California has received 229 J-1 visa waiver physicians to practice in underserved areas. Five states--Texas, Louisiana, Michigan, California and Florida account for 45% of USDA J-1 recommendations. USDA's withdrawal has left states with nowhere else to turn but to the state waiver programs, often referred to as Conrad-20 programs. Since the USDA began its program in 1994, the agency has recommended over 3,000 physicians for J-1 visa waiver status. As USDA will not longer make these recommendations, the states now will have to fill this vital role. Hospitals and clinics needing a foreign doctor that would have turned to USDA, which did not have a waiver recommendation limit, will now relay on the states to fulfill their needs. However, the states have been limited to only twenty recommendations per year. Without USDA involvement the 20 slots are simply not enough to fill the void for most states. I am in support of increasing the number of slots to 30, as this will help the problem, but I am worried that this number is insufficient for many states. A recent survey by the Texas Primary Care office found that 23 states could recommend more than 20. Although increasing the limit to 30 will help, it will not address all of the states' needs, especially in California. In this same survey, 15 states indicated that they could use over 31 waivers. Seven of those states said they could use more than 51 waivers. This J-1 visa waiver program is essential to ensuring that our rural health clinics and medical practices can remain in business serving our rural constituencies. These areas cannot attract American doctors despite aggressive recruitment procedures. Foreign doctors fill this significant role. I strongly support continuing this important state program and endorse increasing the number of slots to thirty as a first step to providing much needed medical personnel in underserved areas across the country.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Mr. Speaker, I want to introduce to the House of Representatives the Pastor Kenneth Wilde. Pastor Wilde is the founder and executive director of the National Prayer Center headquartered in Washington, D.C. This important facility's primary function is to be a place of prayer for our Nation and its leaders. The center is open to Members of Congress and their staffs for times of prayer, devotion and spiritual encouragement. Pastor Wilde is also the senior pastor at Capital Christian Center in Meridian, Idaho, where he and his wife Connie have served for over 18 years. The Capital Christian Center is one of the largest churches in the State of Idaho. In addition, he has served as the Chaplain of the Idaho State Senate. Pastor Wilde is a graduate of Idaho's Northwest Nazarene College where he received a bachelor's degree in political science and history. He has a passion to see churches and believers of all denominations rally together in unified prayer for a revival in our Nation. Mr. Speaker, I want to commend Pastor Wilde for his thoughtful words this morning and let him know that I am honored to have a fellow Idahoan share his faith and wisdom with the House of Representatives during these trying times in our Nation's storied history.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from New Jersey for yielding me this time and for his unwavering support of our veterans. Mr. Speaker, many veterans and their survivors will be served as a result of the enhancements included in H.R. 4085, the Veterans' and Survivors' Benefits Expansion Act of 2002. Section 2 provides an annual cost-of-living adjustment effective December 1, 2002, to service-connected veterans as well as those survivors receiving dependency and indemnity compensation. The Congress has approved a COLA every fiscal year since 1976; and as in the past, the percentage increase will mirror the COLA the Social Security recipients receive. Section 3 would allow surviving spouses who remarry after age 65 to retain their dependency and indemnity compensation, death compensation, VA health insurance, and education and home loan benefits. Additionally, those spouses who remarry after age 65, but prior to enactment of this bill, will have 1 year to reapply for their benefits. DIC is the only Federal survivor annuity that terminates when the spouse remarries. It is important, as the chairman stated, that I reiterate that this is the first step in enhancing the benefits for these spouses. The Subcommittee on Benefits considered a number of ways to enhance these benefits, including lowering the age at which spouses could remarry and retain benefits; but with the budget constraints we are working under, we just could not do more at this time. I want to thank the vice chairman of the committee, the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Bilirakis), for his leadership on this provision. Section 4 would lower the home loan fees that members of the Selected Reserve pay to equal the fees paid by the active duty veterans. Again, because of budget constraints, we have had to sunset this provision in fiscal year 2005. We will reexamine the policy at that time. Section 5 would increase coverage from $90,000 to $150,000 under the Veterans' Mortgage Life Insurance program, as well as permit coverage of this insurance to veterans beyond age 70. Currently, the coverage is terminated after the veteran's 69th birthday. Lastly, section 6 would increase the funding for State approving agencies from $14 million to $18 million for the next 3 fiscal years. Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize the subcommittee's ranking member, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Reyes), for the opportunity to work with him in writing this bill. I also want to thank the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Evans) and the gentleman from California (Mr. Filner) for their input on the home loan insurance provisions and, again, the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Bilirakis) for his support for the Gold Star Wives. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 4085.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Mr. Speaker, we all agree our veterans are a unique national resource. H.R. 4015 provides us the opportunity to approve legislation that helps them get jobs. That is the bottom line of this legislation. The Jobs for Veterans Act essentially creates a new Department of Labor delivery system for veterans' employment and training services in light of the Government Performance and Results Act, the new One-Stop Career Centers under the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 and the availability of self-service job assistance by way of the Internet. H.R. 4015 can be described in four words: Incentives, results, flexibility and accountability in the delivery of employment and training services for veterans through individual States and counties. The bill we are considering will (1) give the States more program delivery flexibility and a new performance incentive program, (2) create a 3-year phase in period for the new funding formula, (3) create a ``hold harmless'' provision for small States with respect to the funding formula, (4) clarify intent regarding the hiring of veterans for Disabled Veteran Outreach Specialists and Local Veterans Representatives, (5) create the President's National Hire Veterans Committee, and (6) create a one-stop, full-service job service office on the Internet for service members and veterans. The Subcommittee on Benefits of the Committee on Veterans' Affairs has been working on this veterans' employment legislation for 2 years now, and I applaud the hard work of the gentleman from New York (Mr. Quinn), the gentleman from California (Mr. Filner) and the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Hayworth) on earlier versions of this bill. I also want to recognize the ranking member of the Subcommittee on Benefits of the Committee on Veterans' Affairs, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Reyes), for his leadership on this issue, as well as the chairman and the ranking member of the full committee, the gentleman from New Jersey (Chairman Smith) and the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Evans) for their support. Mr. Speaker, with about 215,000 service members estimated to separate from the armed forces in fiscal year 2003, this bill is a win-win situation for both our veterans and the economy. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 4015.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, H.R. 2818 is a simple, straightforward bill that would convey approximately 10.23 acres of public land located within the Bureau of Land Management Sand Mountain Wilderness Study Area, located near St. Anthony in southeast Idaho, to the owner of the Sand Hills Resort. The Sand Hills Resort will pay fair market value for the land as valued by an appraisal. In 1971, Mr. Williams, the current owner of the Sand Hills Resort, purchased the 5-acre resort and existing developments and over the ensuing 31 years has added numerous improvements to the property. The resort is a gateway to the St. Anthony Sand Dunes, a popular recreational area in southeast Idaho. Unfortunately, the 5-acre resort and a small strip of land containing roads, camping sites and power lines was inadvertently included in BLM's Sand Mountain Wilderness Study Area boundary, which was established in 1981. Mr. Williams successfully operated the resort until the early 1990s, when the BLM began to question the location of the resort and several facilities located on the resort. In 1995, a survey was initiated confirming that the majority of the resort's facilities, including a portion of Mr. Williams' house, were encroaching on public land. Since June of 1998, the resort has operated under a Special Land Use Permit, which temporarily authorizes Mr. Williams' use of the public land in question and allows the BLM to collect a fair market rent. In June of 1997, the BLM began working to sell Mr. Williams 10 acres of land in order to resolve the encroachment issue. In September of 1997, the BLM published A Notice of Intent to Prepare a Land Use Plan Amendment, the first step in the process that would have adjusted the boundary of the Sand Mountain Wilderness Study Area and allowed the BLM to sell approximately 10 acres to the Sand Hills Resort. Unfortunately, the local BLM office was not able to move forward with the plan amendment due to concerns that the proposed sale violated the BLM's Interim Management Policy for Wilderness Study Area Management. Until the encroachment issue is resolved, Mr. Williams cannot gain clear title to his property, preventing him from obtaining a loan against the property or making improvements to the property. Furthermore, this prevents Mr. Williams or his family from selling the resort, placing an undue financial hardship on Mr. Williams and his family. H.R. 2818 is a win-win solution to this longstanding issue. The Resources Committee and the administration support it, and I urge my colleagues to support this bipartisan, common sense legislation. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. SIMPSON

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

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, Resident Commissioner Acevedo-Vila introduced and amended H.R. 3954, the Caribbean National Forest Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 2002. The purpose of this Act is to designate three rivers within the Caribbean National Forest as Wild and Scenic Rivers. These three rivers were recommended for wild and scenic designation in the Revised Land and Resource Management Plan for the Caribbean National Forest. This act is supported by the Committee on Resources and the administration. I urge my colleagues to favorably support this legislation. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume to also commend the gentleman from Puerto Rico. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 3954) to designate certain waterways in the Caribbean National Forest in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico as components of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System, and for other purposes, as amended.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 3908) to reauthorize the North American Wetlands Conservation Act, and for other purposes, as amended.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the three bills just considered, H.R. 3908, H.R. 2818, and H.R. 3954.