Linda Sánchez

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. I want to thank my colleague from California (Ms. Woolsey). Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of House Resolution 1029 and support the goals of National School Counseling Week. I want to thank Chairman George Miller and Ranking Member John Kline, as well as Representative Vern Ehlers, for their support of this resolution. I introduced this resolution to recognize the tireless efforts of a group of professionals who have dedicated themselves to children and to their education: school counselors. I wish to take this opportunity to recognize a few of the diligent and hardworking school counselors from California's 39th District. Angela Castellanos of Santa Fe High School in Whittier, California, and Alex Paredes of Southeast High School in South Gate, California, are just two examples of counselors who do exceptional work every single day to help our students reach their highest potential. It is because of their unending dedication and the dedication of counselors like Angela and Alex that children across our country succeed in becoming engineers, doctors and, yes, even Members of Congress. School counselors play a vital role in the development of our students, not just on academic, but on social and personal levels as well. Unfortunately, there simply aren't enough of them. Counselors often find themselves the casualty of budget cuts. In California, for example, the student-to-counselor ratio is a dismal 945 students to one counselor. That's 945 students to one counselor, almost four times the recommended ratio. Our secondary school counselors work vigorously to increase graduation rates, identify problems in our schools, and improve morale by inspiring students to challenge themselves and explore new opportunities. Primary counselors often help identify students with health problems or disabilities that interfere with learning. They also help youngsters to cope with traumatic events, from moving to a new school to the death of a parent. Our counselors do amazing and often unrecognized work. Our communities are strengthened by the students who are championed by their school counselors. I urge my colleagues to support this effort to recognize the outstanding work that counselors do to ensure that our children's future is full of promise. I thank again my colleague.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today for American working men and women who want to work but can't find a job. The Nation's unemployment rate stands at 10 percent, with my home State of California ranking third worst in the country. While I support a stronger safety net to help families survive, in the end, Americans don't want unemployment checks. They want to work. That's why I'm proud to support the Jobs for Main Street Act which will put Americans back to work in the most direct way possible: by hiring them. This bill makes overdue investments in America's rails, roads and schools and in well-paying Davis-Bacon-covered jobs for our workers. The benefits for our economy of encouraging unionized jobs cannot be overstated. As the great Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., said, ``Everyone knows that the labor movement did not diminish the strength of the Nation, but enlarged it. By raising the living standards of millions, labor miraculously created a market for industry and lifted the whole Nation to undreamed of levels of production.'' May this bill continue in that tradition.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 4284, the Andean Trade Preference Extension Act of 2009 (ATPA), which would extend both the General System of Preferences (GSP) and the Andean Trade Preferences for one year. It is important to extend these preference programs, which assist developing countries in their efforts to build up domestic industries, increase exports, and alleviate poverty. In some cases, these programs have worked well. South Korea, Singapore, and other nations have graduated from the GSP program, and no longer qualify for these special trade benefits. Failure to extend these preferences would put even more pressure on impoverished populations in developing nations. Make no mistake, my support for this extension is not an unqualified endorsement of their current structure. To be sure, our preferences programs need improvement. One key improvement that is desperately needed is to change the prevailing view that trade preferences are a development strategy. Instead, we must recognize that trade preferences are only part of a comprehensive development strategy, which must also include investments in education, training, and infrastructure, as well as a consideration of targeted debt relief. In addition, our preferences programs currently have inadequately- enforced labor standards and no environmental standards whatsoever. The rationale for linking trade and labor rights is vital to avoiding a ``race to the bottom.'' For American working families, we need to ensure that developing countries attract investment based on a competitive wage advantage, not by artificially suppressing wages through labor repression. For working families in developing countries, the opportunity to bargain collectively for better wages and working conditions will ensure that some of the benefits of trade go to them, not just to multi-national corporations. This one-year extension will give us the time we need to reform existing programs without disrupting the fragile economies of the lesser-developed nations that our preferences programs are designed to help. Finally, I want to address the issue of Ecuador in particular. Unfortunately, it has come to my attention that Chevron Corporation has been urging Members of Congress and the Administration to punish Ecuador because its government refuses to intervene in a private lawsuit against the oil giant. The plaintiffs in the lawsuit contend that the company is responsible for polluting a vast area of the Amazon Basin, causing serious health and environmental consequences. While I take no position on the lawsuit, I do believe that the plaintiffs should have their day in court. I also believe that, of all the legitimate reasons to oppose the U.S. trade preferences programs, doing the bidding of a single corporation is not one of them. As the editors of the Los Angeles Times wrote in a recent editorial, ``There are other factors for Congress to consider in determining whether to extend Ecuador's trade preferences: workers' rights and trade and investment policy also are important. And there are issues that remain to be negotiated between the two countries. But in each of these areas, Ecuador has demonstrated a willingness to work with the U.S. That should be the test for an extension of trade benefits, not the private interests of one corporation.'' To reiterate, while our trade preferences programs are not perfect, extending them for one year is vital, and I strongly support this legislation.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Con. Res. 160, honoring the American Kennel Club on its 125th anniversary. As someone who is proud to have three loveable four-legged members of my own family, Chavo, Baloo, and Pippin, I was eager to be an original cosponsor of this resolution. The American Kennel Club provides invaluable services to dog owners and breeders across the country. For the past one hundred and twenty-five years, this organization has been counted upon to promote best practices for training, regulation, inspection, and registration. Most Americans know the club for its annual dog shows, but it does much more. The American Kennel Club awards nearly $170,000 in scholarship money per year to veterinary students and has donated nearly $22 million to the Canine Health Foundation. Younger owners also learn proper skills for treatment and care of their dogs through the National Junior Organization. Every dog owner knows the bond that can develop between a family and its four-legged member. The American Kennel Club has worked to cultivate and encourage this relationship. The individuals of the AKC have selflessly worked to achieve high standards in each club function and for this they are to be commended. I want to thank the bill sponsor, Representative Price and my fellow co-sponsors for their strong support of the American Kennel Club.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the Public Lands Rehabilitation and Job Creation Act. The landscape of America is dotted with national treasures, including our national parks, monuments, and forests. From Yosemite National Park in my home state of California to Acadia National Park in Maine, national parks are of recognized for the natural splendor that surrounds us and conserving our precious natural resources for future generations must be a priority. Since 1916, the National Park Service has admirably preserved and protected our natural treasures. In recent years, however, a log jam of maintenance and safety issues has developed. Structures are unsound, trails overgrown, roads impassable, and cabins unusable. A lack of resources, both money and manpower, has contributed to this situation. If we invest in repairing, rebuilding, and rehabilitating these resources now, we will not only have a safer infrastructure and a brighter future, we will employ tens of thousands of people across the nation. Since January 2008, the number of unemployed Americans has grown each month. In some areas, the unemployment rate has reached more than twenty percent. We have taken steps to stimulate the economy and catch people in the social safety net, but we have not done enough. While a stronger safety net helps families survive, in the end, Americans don't want unemployment checks, they want to work. We have people without work and work without people. The solution could not be clearer. We can put people back to work now and restore our national treasures by passing this bill to increase funding for the National Park Service and National Forest Service. Despite almost 8,000 permanent and seasonal employees, nearly every park manager asserts that their current staffing level is woefully insufficient to take on identified maintenance issues. Within four to six months of receiving additional funds, the Park Service can prepare needed plans and complete essential hiring. These new employees will resurface roads; rehabilitate trails; repair visitor centers, museums, and campsites; and restore wild areas to their previous pristine nature. The new opportunities will range from lower-skilled, entry- level work to highly paid, highly skilled, professional and master craftsman jobs. Similarly, the Forest Service can create at least fourteen and a half direct hire jobs in well-paying fields like engineering, design, and construction for every million dollars we invest in road repair and decommissioning. Opportunities to improve roads, buildings, and other infrastructure exist in urban and rural areas across the nation, from the Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace in New York City, to Fort Sumter in South Carolina; and from Cabrillo National Monument in San Diego to the Hiawatha National Forest in Michigan. Without additional investment, our infrastructure problems will continue to grow and hinder use and enjoyment of our nation's natural resources. Theodore Roosevelt once said that we should ensure the mountains and trees and canyons and streams are preserved for our children and our children's children, ``with their majestic beauty all unmarred.'' If we continue to neglect our greatest national treasures, our problems will fester and future generations will have less to enjoy. We can cure this oversight through increased investments that will put more than 50,000 Americans back to work, performing needed, meaningful tasks that our children and grandchildren will enjoy for years to come. Congress rarely has a chance to act on opportunities this well paired. We should put Americans back to work and preserve our public lands for future generations. We cannot let this opportunity slip by. We need these jobs, and we need to pass the Public Lands Rehabilitation and Job Creation Act.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to introduce the ``Sustainable Property Grants Act of 2009,'' legislation that would allow real estate investment trusts (REITs) to fully benefit from the energy grants included in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (the Recovery Act). Congress created REITs in 1960 to enable investors from all walks of life to own professionally managed, income-producing real estate. REITs combine the capital of many investors to benefit from a diversified portfolio of income-producing real estate, including apartments, health care facilities, hotels, offices and warehouses. REITs are required to distribute at least 90 percent of their taxable income. Most distribute their entire taxable income. Buildings represent about 40 percent of all energy use and approximately 70 percent of all electricity consumption in the United States, but REITS, which own 6 billion square feet of commercial real estate, cannot currently access tax incentives designed to reduce their energy use. Providing incentives for REITs to engage in energy efficiency projects could significantly contribute to achieving our energy reduction goals. That is why I am introducing legislation today to amend the Recovery Act to allow REITs to participate fully in the energy grants in lieu of tax credits program. Section 1603 of the Recovery Act provides Energy Grants to companies that invest in qualifying renewable energy projects. These grants are intended to encourage qualifying investments by taxpayers whose tax liability is not sufficient to benefit from existing energy credits. In fact, the Recovery Act Energy Grants were designed as a substitute for energy credits during the current economic downturn since many taxpayers have inadequate tax liability to use the credits. Despite being designed for this purpose, the Energy Grants provision in the Recovery Act have been interpreted to benefit a REIT only to the extent it retains taxable income, which most do not. This legislation would further existing Congressional policy and promote the greatest possible participation in efforts to increase the use of renewable energy. REITs would be afforded the same economic incentives as other property owners to make investments in renewable energy projects. With enough critical mass, these types of investments should help fuel the U.S. economy's growth, create additional jobs and, over time, reduce American reliance on foreign oil. I hope that you will join me in supporting this legislation.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to introduce the Clean Air and Water Investment Act of 2009. This legislation will restore tax exempt bonding for air and water pollution control facilities. Prior to the 1986 revision to the tax code, state authorized agencies and political subdivisions were permitted to administer tax exempt bonds to finance ``air and water pollution control facilities.'' The program proved so effective that even facilities that were grandfathered, and not subject to clean air standards, were proactive participants, providing cleaner air and water for our communities. As we continue to look for ways to assist businesses and local governments in their efforts to reduce pollution, these bonds provide an affordable solution that will put people to work while providing cleaner and healthier communities. This bill would restore a proven incentive for industry to invest in cleaner air and water. Importantly, because it falls under a pre-existing spending cap, this legislation will present no new liability to the U.S. Treasury. Members on opposite sides of the aisle frequently may differ on many issues before this body, but this is not one of them. I am pleased to be working on this bill with Congressman Kevin Brady of Texas, a fellow Congressional baseball aficionado. Congressman Brady has been working on this issue for many years now, and I look forward to collaborating with him and seeing this bill signed into law. I urge my colleagues to consider support this important legislation.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a fallen soldier from my district. Jesus Flores, Jr., 28, from La Mirada, California, was killed in action on October 15 of this year in Afghanistan. He leaves behind his mother, father, four sisters, and one brother. Jesus enlisted in the Navy straight from high school and served for 4 years. In 2003, he enlisted in the Army. He became a combat specialist and was deployed to Iraq from February to May of 2009. He was on his first tour in Afghanistan when he was killed in action. One of his sisters spoke of Jesus in this way: A loving son. A generous brother. A soldier who loved military life. This was apparent in the many medals adorning his uniform. The people of this body and people throughout this country could not exist without the dedication and sacrifices from the soldiers who serve. Soldiers like Jesus. Soldiers who, above all else, want to honor this country, preserve our freedoms, and protect our families. There is nothing that I can say or do to take away the pain his family feels at the loss of Jesus. But I hope they are comforted by knowing the memory of Specialist Jesus Flores will remain, and we will continue to honor his service every day.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend the Water Replenishment District of Southern California on the occasion of its 50th anniversary. The Water Replenishment District of Southern California was created by the voters of California on November 17, 1959. The successful election and creation of the Water Replenishment District was the culmination of a 17-year effort by groundwater producers in the Central and West Coast Basins to devise a system to finance and manage the restoration of dangerously depleted basins, retard and reverse the intrusion of sea water, institute a program of annual replenishment, and adjudicate and protect the rights of groundwater producers. For five decades, the Water Replenishment District of Southern California has pursued this mission, assuring the continued beneficial use of the basins for groundwater production. The programs and projects of the Water Replenishment District have included the pioneering use of recycled water and the capture and use of storm water for replenishment, multiple groundwater contamination cleanup projects in the Central Basin, desalination of brackish water in the West Coast Basin, and the supply of water to the sea water barrier wells in both basins. These successful programs have resulted in the steady reduction of reliance on the expensive and uncertain supply of imported water and a steady increase in the use of locally- developed water. The goal of the Water Replenishment District of Southern California is to eliminate the use of imported water for replenishment by 2015. On the occasion of its 50th anniversary, I want to commend the district for a job well done and to recognize the crucial role the Water Replenishment district plays in the daily lives of Southern California residents.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Madam Speaker, due to illness, I was unable to be present in the Capitol for votes on Thursday, November 5, 2009. However, had I been present I would have voted ``yea'' on: (1) H. Con. Res. 210--providing for the House, upon completion of The Affordable Health Care for America Act, to adjourn until November 16, 2009. (2) H. Res. 893--Congratulating the 2009 Major League Baseball World Series Champions, the New York Yankees. (3) H.R. 3788--To designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 3900 Darrow Road in Stow, Ohio, as the ``Corporal Joseph A. Tomci Post Office Building.'' (4) S. 1211--To designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 60 School Street, Orchard Park, New York, as the ``Jack F. Kemp Post Office Building.'' (5) Thompson Amendment to H.R. 2868 Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Act of 2009. (``aye'') (6) Final Passage of H.R. 2868--Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Act of 2009. Also, I would have voted ``no'' on: (1) Barton Amendment to H.R. 2868 Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Act of 2009. (2) Dent (PA)/Olson (TX) Amendment to H.R. 2868 Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Act of 2009. (3) Dent (PA) Amendment to H.R. 2868 Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Act of 2009. (4) McCaul (TX) Amendment to H.R. 2868 Chemical Facility Anti- Terrorism Act of 2009. (5) Motion to Recommit H.R. 2868 to H.R. 2868 Chemical Facility Anti- Terrorism Act of 2009.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise on behalf of the nearly 50 million Americans who don't have health insurance. On behalf of parents who have to choose between taking their sick child to the doctor and paying the electric bill on time. On behalf of adult children who are slowly losing their parents to Alzheimer's, and yet can't afford the quality care their parents need. In a Nation as prosperous as ours, it is a shame and a tragedy that so many families suffer, watching their loved ones die, when timely tests or early care could have prevented it. American families have waited too long for the freedom and security that universal healthcare can provide. I strongly support H.R. 3962, the Affordable Health Care for America Act because this legislation tells families yes. Yes, they can afford high quality health care. Yes, they can get health insurance even if they have a pre-existing condition. Yes, they can expect to be treated fairly by insurance companies, regardless of their gender or age. Yes, they can keep their health insurance, even if they get sick. And yes, we can pass health reform that protects and strengthens our economy by encouraging development and use of health information technology, generic drugs, and advanced medical devices. It's well past time for Congress to make sure that an unforeseen illness or accident doesn't mean economic ruin for American families. To stop the abuses of health insurance companies, who play games instead of paying for health care. To ensure that Americans have the freedom to change jobs or to become entrepreneurs, instead of being locked into a job they hate because it is the only way they can afford healthcare. I worked to make sure this bill bars insurance companies from charging women more just because they are women. I worked to make sure that this bill creates Collaborative Care Networks, to ensure that doctors, hospitals, and other health care providers work together to provide working families, lower income Americans, and those with chronic conditions the high quality coordinated care they need to stay healthy and out of emergency rooms. I worked to make sure this bill includes, among the choices it offers consumers, a public option that will focus on health care, not profits. I'm proud of my work on this bill, because it means American families and businesses will have the peace of mind that comes with knowing they can access affordable, quality care when they need it. It means that my son Joaquin can grow up in a country that is a little fairer, a little more humane, and a little more secure than the one I grew up in. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to vote for children and families by supporting this bill.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I strongly support H.R. 3962, the Affordable Health Care for America Act, which delivers on a promise Americans have been waiting for since the New Deal, a promise that families can get the health care they need, when they need it, without facing economic ruin. I have previously spoken about the ways that this bill will help ensure access to affordable, high quality health care for American families. But another significant benefit of this legislation which has not received much attention is its promotion of high-paying research, high tech, and manufacturing jobs. Contrary to the claims that this is a ``job killing bill,'' in fact, this bill will create thousands of jobs here in the United States. First, this bill will increase demand for healthcare workers, including doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, home health workers, and more. More affordable insurance means more families getting the primary and chronic care they need instead of waiting until they need an emergency room. And it means more middle class American jobs that can't be exported. Second, this bill will continue the investments begun in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, also known as the stimulus bill, to expand the use of health information technology. Health IT will help better manage the quality and cost of care patients receive by eliminating duplicative tests and ensuring that patients don't receive the wrong medicine or the wrong dose. And investment in health IT creates jobs--jobs in hardware production, software design, and computer training. When we invest in quality health care for all Americans, we are investing in jobs. Finally, this bill will promote more of what America already does so well: medical research. By allowing more Americans access to health insurance, this bill will increase the demand for advanced medical technologies that are manufactured right here in America. And by creating a process for the Food and Drug Administration to approve so-called ``biosimilar'' drugs, this bill will encourage competition in the cutting edge field of biologic drugs. This new class of medicines will help cure and treat more Americans at lower costs. And the promise of protection for intellectual property and an FDA structure to approve bio-similars will result in increased investment in this industry, which already provides thousands of well- paying jobs in California and across the country. I hope to work with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, the Commissioner of the FDA, and like-minded colleagues in Congress to ensure that these important research and manufacturing jobs stay right here in the United States. In sum, this bill preserves and promotes the strength of the American health care system: innovation. And it fixes the shortcomings: spending too much while caring for too few. If we fail to pass this bill, we fail American families, and we fail the American economy. As a champion of both, I strongly support this bill.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to oppose language in the Republican substitute that threatens the well- being of patients in hospitals across the country. The goal of the underlying legislation is to provide affordable, quality healthcare to every American. According to The Institute of Medicine, nearly 100,000 people die every year because of medical errors in America's hospitals. I cannot understand how reducing the accountability of our healthcare practitioners would lower that number or improve the quality of healthcare in this country. The facts are clear. Those states that restrict damage awards and limit access to courts for patients injured by negligent doctors have seen limited or no reduction in healthcare costs. Instead, many have seen an increase in the cost of malpractice insurance. In fact, for every malpractice damage award, 3 to 7 people die due to medical errors. While we all share a goal that doctors practice medicine with confidence and avoid needless tests, we should not limit access to justice where reckless action permanently alters the lives of patients and their families. Make no mistake, that's what the Republican substitute would do. If we want to lower healthcare costs, let us instead cut down on medical error by encouraging adoption of best practices, standardizing safety procedures that are proven to reduce infection, and lowering malpractice premiums by creating more competition in the insurance industry. I listened to the Americans who visited Washington this week. Many spoke about a fear of monopolies and in favor of increased competition. I agree. Let's make the insurance companies comply with antitrust laws and operate on the same competitive playing field as other American businesses. One of the great guarantees the founders provided in our Constitution was the ability to address grievances in a court of law. Our courts remain a great equalizer that allows every American the opportunity to seek justice when wronged. Limiting this guarantee goes against that spirit and leaves grieving and injured families without access to justice. I ask my colleagues to join me in opposing this substitute.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Madam Speaker, due to illness, I was unable to be present in the Capitol for votes on Thursday, November 5, 2009. However, had I been present I would have voted ``yea'' on: 1. Motion on Ordering the Previous Question on the Rule for H.R. 2868--Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Act of 2009; 2. H. Res. 885--Rule providing for consideration of H.R. 2868-- Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Act of 2009; 3. H. Res. 868--Honoring and recognizing the service and achievements of current and former female members of the Armed Forces; 4. Senate Amendments to H.R. 3548--Unemployment Compensation Extension Act of 2009; 5. H. Con. Res. 139--Congratulating the first graduating class of the United States Air Force Academy on their 50th graduation anniversary and recognizing their contributions to the Nation; 6. H.R. 1849--World War I Memorial and Centennial Act of 2009; 7. H.R. 3276--American Medical Isotopes Production Act of 2009; 8. H. Res. 878--Expressing support for the goals and ideals of National Family Literacy Day; And I would have voted ``aye'' on H. Res. 880--Recognizing the efforts of career and technical colleges to educate and train workers for positions in high-demand industries.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Madam Speaker, unfortunately, I was unable to be present in the Capitol for one vote on Thursday, October 29, 2009. However, had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on H. Res. 729, designating a ``National Firefighters Memorial Day'' to honor and celebrate the firefighters of the United States.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Madam Speaker, due to illness, I was unable to be present in the Capitol for votes on Tuesday, November 3, 2009. However, had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on H.R. 3949, Veterans' Small Business Assistance and Servicemembers Protection Act of 2009; ``yea'' on H. Res. 398, Recognizing the 60th anniversary of the Berlin Airlift's success; ``yea'' on H. Res. 866, Expressing support for designation of a National Veterans History Project Week to encourage public participation in a nationwide project that collects and preserves the stories of the men and women who served our Nation in times of war and conflict; yea on H. Res. 867, Calling on the President and the Secretary of State to oppose unequivocally any endorsement or further consideration of the ``Report of the United Nations Fact Finding Mission on the Gaza Conflict'' in multilateral for a; ``yea'' on H.R. 3157, To name the Department of Veterans Affairs outpatient clinic in Alexandria, Minnesota, as the ``Max J. Beilke Department of Veterans Affairs Outpatient Clinic''; and ``yea'' on H. Res. 736, To name the Department of Veterans Affairs outpatient clinic in Alexandria, Minnesota, as the ``Max J. Beilke Department of Veterans Affairs Outpatient Clinic.''

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Madam Speaker, due to illness, I was unable to be present in the Capitol for votes on today, Wednesday, November 4, 2009. However, had I been present, I would have voted the following way: Ordering the Previous Question on H.R. 3639--``yea''; the rule to Debate H.R. 3639--``aye''; H. Res. 858 congratulating the Inter- American Foundation (IAF) on its 40th anniversary--``yea''; H. Res. 839 condemning the illegal extraction of Madagascar's natural resources-- ``yea''; Hensarling (TX) Amendment to H.R. 3639--``aye''; McCarthy (NY) Amendment to H.R. 3639--``aye''; Maffei (NY) Amendment to H.R. 3639-- ``aye''; Sutton (OH) Amendment to H.R. 3639--``aye''; Sutton (OH)/ Stupak (MI) Amendment to H.R. 3639--``aye''; final Passage of H.R. 3639--Expedited CARD Reform for Consumers Act of 2009--``aye''; H. Res. 863--Recognizing November 2 as World Pneumonia Day--``yea''; H. Res. 641--Recognizing the 60th anniversary of the founding of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty--``yea''; H. Res. 711--Calling on the United States Government and the international community to address the human rights and humanitarian needs of Sri Lanka's Tamil--``aye''; H. Res. 856--Recognizing the Commissioning of the USS New York LPD 21--``yea''. I also would have voted ``no'' on the Motion to Recommit H.R. 3639.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to support a Resolution expressing the sense of the House that a ``National Labor History Month'' should be established. Today, most Americans work in clean, well-lit, well-ventilated, air- conditioned workplaces. So it is all too easy to forget the desperate conditions in which our grandparents and their grandparents often toiled. Child labor was commonplace. Workers were subjected to dangerous work environments, and were often forced to put themselves at risk of death or serious injury in order to put food on the table for their families. Women were especially attractive employees--because you could pay them less for the exact same work. The labor movement played a leading role in ending these inhumane and unfair practices. And for this, all modern Americans owe a debt of gratitude. In addition to fighting against the exploitation of workers, labor leaders also played a significant role in the civil rights movement, fighting to end racial discrimination in the workplace. As early as World War II, labor leaders fought to end racial discrimination against African-Americans working in the defense industry. And Cesar Chavez's United Farmworkers Union fought not only for labor rights, but for equal rights for Latinos in countless walks of life. This resolution will help us pay tribute to those who put themselves on the line for all of America's working men and women. What they fought for represents the best of the American character. I urge all my colleagues to support this bi-partisan effort to recognize the importance of the labor movement to America's history.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the resolution to declare October 2009 the twenty-second Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The first Domestic Violence Awareness Month was observed in 1987. Over these last 22 years, we have made major strides in making Americans safer and more secure and ensuring the victims of violence receive the services they need. With the support of federal and state funds, the number of domestic violence shelters, rape crisis centers and service programs has increased significantly. These shelters offer victims a place to turn for help: for emergency shelter and crisis services, and also for legal assistance, transitional housing, and services for their children. Not only have we strengthened our laws and justice system, we have also brought together victims advocates. law enforcement, and health care professionals to ensure more effective treatment for victims of domestic violence. This month is an occasion to recognize dedicated law enforcement officers, special prosecutors, counselors, and shelter programs that understand that ending violence requires the efforts of an entire community. It is also a time to reiterate that domestic violence in any form is a crime. It does not matter whether the abuser is a family member; a current or past spouse, boyfriend, or girlfriend; an acquaintance; or a stranger. It is a crime, and it is wrong. Today, I also commend those who have found the courage to leave an abusive relationship. When individuals get the resources they need, they become strong, and so do their families. Despite all the gains we have made in reducing domestic violence, we must recognize that the work is not complete; too many are still victims, and too many live in fear on a daily basis. It will take all of us to fulfill the promise to end domestic violence and assault.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Madam Speaker, unfortunately, I was unable to be present in the Capitol for three votes on Tuesday, October 13, 2009. However, had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on H.R. 3689, providing for an extension of the legislative authority of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, Inc. to establish a Vietnam Veterans Memorial visitor center; ``yea'' on H.R. 3476, reauthorizing the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area Citizen Advisory Commission; and ``yea'' on H. Res. 659, congratulating Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. on 98 years of serving local communities and enriching the lives of collegiate men throughout the Nation.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Madam Speaker, unfortunately, I was unable to be present in the Capitol for two votes on Wednesday, September 16, 2009. However, had I been present I would have voted ``yea'' on H. Res. 746, a rule providing for consideration of H.R. 3221--the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2009, and ``yea'' on H. Res. 260, supporting efforts to reduce infant mortality in the United States.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise to urge my colleagues to pass comprehensive health reform, not this decade, not next year but this year. Our constituents need help now. My constituents have told me that health care costs are beyond their reach. Some can't afford insurance at all and others have been denied coverage or dropped the minute they got sick. These problems plague our entire population, but disproportionately affect Hispanics. Hispanics have an unbelievable uninsured rate of 31 percent. Our health system must provide essential services to all Americans, including those of Hispanic descent. Hispanic Americans are the fastest-growing demographic group in this country. They are our future workforce. Without health care coverage for all Americans, our country's economic future is at risk. Health care reform means having the peace of mind that if something unexpected should happen, an accident or an unexpected illness, people won't fall into economic ruin. Health care coverage for all Americans means a healthier, more productive America. The time for health care reform is now.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of real health care reform for the American people. As a member of the Committee on Ways and Means, I have been working hard to develop a bill that really makes health care better. What stands out to me the most from my work are the stories I hear from my district in California. Neighbors like Blasa Ochoa, who lost her insurance when her employer went bankrupt, and who has been unable to get another policy because she has a pre-existing condition. Or Denise from Lakewood who told me that doctors treat her special- needs son like a number and not a person. The other night, I spoke to several hundred of my neighbors during a telephone town hall, and they told me about the problems with the current system: high costs, exclusions for pre-existing conditions, and the flat out inability to find a plan for those 60 and older. I'm working so hard on this issue because I know health care reform is what my neighbors back home in California want and need. America's Affordable Health Choices Act will fix these problems and more. But sadly, there are still many misconceptions out there. So let me clear some things up. This bill will put a stop to abusive insurance company practices, so that you can get a policy no matter what your age or whether you have a pre-existing condition. This bill will control skyrocketing health costs and make health insurance more affordable. Its strongest cost-control tool is the public health plan option. We need a strong and stable public option because the private plans, busy seeking profits, have been unsuccessful in controlling the growth in healthcare costs. Their idea of controlling costs is denying care! But a robust public plan, like the one in this bill, will give the private plans real competition and persuade them to change their ways. This makes health care cheaper for you. A strong public plan will show how investing in comprehensive, high- quality care, including preventive care, will make Americans healthier and save money at the same time. An NBC/Wall Street Journal Poll from earlier this year showed that 76 percent of American voters want a public health plan option. And I am proud to have worked on a bill that gives them just that. But the public plan option is not the only standout provision in this bill. This bill will protect small businesses and their employees. This bill is going to help small businesses offer health insurance to their employees--something most small employers want, but can't afford to do right now. Currently, small businesses pay an average of 18 percent more for health coverage than large businesses. But with the America's Affordable Health Choices Act, small businesses will have access to the new Health Insurance Exchange, giving them the benefits of lower rates that only large businesses now enjoy. The exchange will also give small businesses more plans to choose from. The bill also creates a new tax credit--worth up to half the cost of health insurance premiums--to assist small employers who want to offer coverage. Finally, small businesses will be exempt from the ``pay or play'' requirements that will apply to large employers. Small businesses with a total payroll of $250,000 or less--that's $250,000 in employee payroll, and doesn't count the owner's take home pay--will be exempt from ``pay or play.'' Altogether, the bill makes it easier for small businesses and their employees to afford high quality care while protecting their bottom line. I encourage my colleagues in both chambers and on both sides of the aisle to stop the bickering--and stop spreading misconceptions that are delaying this much-needed reform bill. Americans cannot wait any longer. They're counting on us to get this done. We need to pass reform that lowers cost, promotes choice and provides care for all, no matter where they work or how large--or small--their paychecks.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Chair, the Legal Services Corporation exists to promote equal access to justice and to provide high-quality civil legal assistance to low-income Americans. Since its establishment by Congress in 1974, the Legal Services Corporation (LSC) has been the single largest provider of civil legal aid for the poor in the nation. LSC-funded programs serve the most basic civil legal needs of the poor in every state in the nation. The LSC helps people resolve landlord-tenant disputes, assists victims of domestic violence, and protects the elderly and other vulnerable groups from being victimized by unscrupulous lenders. Although the Legal Services Corporation has long garnered bipartisan support, some Members of this body are supporting efforts to decimate this already underfunded program. I am curious--do these Members think that poor people do not deserve access to legal help? At least seven Members of the House submitted amendments that would take valuable dollars away from this invaluable program. One has even offered an amendment to eliminate all funding for the LSC. The message of these amendments is that if you are poor, you should take your lumps. Put your family in uninhabitable housing. Try to escape from domestic violence on your own. Let businesses defraud you with impunity. I say no. I am here as a proud supporter of the Legal Services Corporation. Over 95% of the LSC funding goes directly out to the programs. The Corporation consumes less than 5% in overhead. I commend the Legal Services Corporation for addressing the justice gap that exists between rich and poor. Currently, for every eligible person assisted by LSC, one is turned away. Fifty percent of eligible citizens who seek help are turned away for one primary reason: lack of resources. That is why I am grateful for Chairman Mollohan's leadership in lifting some of the cumbersome restrictions and increasing our investment in the LSC and the people it serves. The truth is that Congress should be moving towards a future where no American will have to surrender her rights because she lacks the funds to pay for a high priced attorney. Instead, these amendments would take us in the wrong direction. I urge my colleagues to support the Legal Services Corporation and oppose efforts to limit the assistance it can provide.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor Ms. Mary Elizabeth Lash, who is currently teaching in Paramount, California, in my Congressional District, and has been teaching for a remarkable 59 years. She is California's longest-serving credentialed teacher. Nearly all of Mary's 59 years of teaching have been in the Paramount Unified School District. In 1950, the Compton Unified School District hired Mary as a Home Economics teacher at Paramount Junior High School. In 1953, when Paramount formed its own unified school district, she took a Home Economics position at Paramount Senior High School, where she continues to teach today. In 1955, Mary began working with the high school youth organization known as the ``Corsairs'' as the assistant to its founder. This service organization remains under Mary's leadership 54 years later. She has influenced many young men and women into a life of service to others through this organization. Mary was also a charter organizer of Future Homemakers of America/ HERO, which is a national service organization whose goal is to develop citizenship, leadership, life skills, and career goals through competition, recognition events, and club-sponsored activities. Paramount High School's chapter of Future Homemakers of America/HERO has earned several Silver and Gold Medals in prepared speech, community involvement, and chapter exhibit events on both the National and State Levels. Madam Speaker, I ask that you join with me today in tribute to Ms. Mary Elizabeth Lash as she is being honored in California for being its longest serving teacher. Mary has shown an enduring commitment to educating the youth of Paramount and providing them with the tools and skills needed to contribute to their communities and prosper in their adult lives. She truly touched the future, reaching many generations of students. Students, both current and past, who had the privilege of being in her class or in an organization she advised, will continue to be influenced by her example of hard work, dedication, and public service.