Linda Sánchez

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Madam Speaker, the House farm bill calls for draconian cuts that hurt our most vulnerable Americans. I'll be blunt and just get straight to the point. The House-proposed cuts are completely unacceptable. The SNAP program puts healthy food on the table for 46 million Americans every month. In my home State of California, close to 6\1/2\ million people struggle to put food on the table. An even worse statistic--and one that really breaks my heart: almost 2\1/2\ million children each year in California have had to go to bed hungry, and it's simply because their families couldn't afford food. These proposed cuts to SNAP would quite literally take food out of the mouths of children. In my district, SNAP helps provide food for seniors, kids, veterans, and working families. About 20 percent of my constituents report that at some point last year, they couldn't buy food for themselves or their family. I don't understand why in good conscience Congress would ask millions of struggling Americans to go hungry in order to subsidize big agribusiness. As a country, we cannot afford to turn our backs on those who need us most now.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Madam Speakers, I rise in support of H.R. 4223, the Safe Doses Act. I am proud to join my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in supporting this important legislation. H.R. 4223 addresses a difficult issue in the pharmaceutical supply chain: the theft of medical products. While this body last week passed important legislation to protect consumers from counterfeit drugs, there remains a real risk from stolen medical goods. This is a not a hypothetical exercise, it is a real problem. Criminal organizations who steal medical products are not concerned with storing these materials properly, or ensuring that they are only sold with a doctor's prescription. Let me give one brief, but telling example: In 2009, 128,000 vials of insulin were stolen in North Carolina. Beyond the $11 million monetary cost of this theft, there was a human cost as well. These vials were reintroduced into the supply chain after being improperly stored. The vials found their way to pharmacies in 17 different states, and at least two individuals suffered potentially fatal blood sugar levels before the FDA was able to alert the public to this danger. H.R. 4223 is a simple and sensible way to give law enforcement and prosecutors a stronger set of tools to go after criminal organizations that are brazenly stealing vital medication and devices. I further note that, beyond the bipartisan support this measure has received, the Safe Doses Act passed both the House Judiciary and Senate Judiciary Committees unanimously. I encourage all of my colleagues to support this legislation, clean up the pharmaceutical supply chain, and protect their constituents.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 3668, the Counterfeit Drug Penalty Enhancement Act. I have worked with Representative Meehan, worked for quite a while on this issue and it's rewarding to see that bipartisan, practical ideas still have a place in this body. H.R. 3668 will raise the penalties for counterfeit medicines, a unique consumer health and safety problem. This legislation is needed, bipartisan, and non-controversial. Counterfeit drug enterprises jeopardize the public's safety and I believe perpetrators should be held accountable. Unlike other consumer goods, counterfeit medicines pose a significant public health and safety threat to the innocent, sick patients who receive them. H.R. 3668 will help protect seniors and children, who are uniquely vulnerable, as well as anyone who could be harmed by fraudulent medicines. We must have tougher penalties for crimes that are a threat to public safety. H.R. 3668 ensures this and I encourage my colleagues to support this straightforward, reasonable approach.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Ted Martinez, Jr. as the eighth Superintendent/President of Rio Hondo College. A Texas native, Dr. Martinez has dedicated himself to education and been a strong role model for Latinos in academia. Dr. Martinez has worked throughout his career to insure that all students have access to quality higher education. In his capacity as Superintendent/President of Rio Hondo College he has been committed to maintaining fiscal stability while enabling student success, high-level learning outcomes, and the completion of the $245 million building program. His leadership provided a new platform for Rio Hondo College to utilize its resources in partnering with community and business leaders. While at Rio Hondo College, he established a community advisory committee that includes local school and government officials, service agencies, religious groups, small businesses and veteran's groups. Our community is especially grateful for the strong and vibrant Mathematics, Engineering, Science, Achievement (MESA) program and outstanding Veterans Service Center that were established under his watch at Rio Hondo College. In 2010, Under Dr. Martinez' leadership, in 2010 Rio Hondo College launched the award-winning South Whittier Educational Center (SWEC) partnership that provides students from underserved areas with a historically low college attendance a real pipeline to college. Dr. Martinez's commitment to education has not gone unnoticed. Among many other honors and awards, Ted has been distinctly honored with the Outstanding President Award from the California Community College Council for Staff Development, the District 6 Pacesetter of the Year Award from the National Council for Marketing and Public Relations, and the Phi Theta Kappa Alumni Key Award from the International Honorary Society for students in two-year colleges.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to oppose this Republican bill that dangerously leaves victims of domestic violence worse off than they are under current law. To say that this legislation builds on current law is patently false. Our Senate colleagues passed a strong version of the Violence Against Women Act with broad bipartisan support. Every Republican woman in the Senate voted in favor of it. Instead of crafting a bill of similar strength, my Republican friends in this body have insisted on taking back crucial protections for abused victims throughout our country. This Republican bill makes it more difficult for immigrant victims to work with law enforcement to report and help prosecute serious and violent criminals. This Republican bill pretends the LGBT community doesn't exist and would allow victim service organizations to discriminate against LGBT victims when they seek help. This Republican bill would further endanger the lives of Native American women who suffer abuse in epidemic proportions in this country. This Republican bill doesn't expand protections for women; it puts more women at risk by weakening current protections. America's women deserve better. I encourage all of my colleagues to reject this Republican bill and support the Democratic alternative.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Res. XXX, expressing support for ``Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans' Day 2012.'' We do not have to walk far from the doors of this building to be reminded of the bravery that so many of our young men and women have shown in defense of this country over the last 236 years. Statues, monuments, and other symbols of American freedom color our horizon and tell the stories of the veterans who served, sacrificed, and gave so much for the country they loved. As a nation, we honor those who defend us with memorials, holidays, and parades. But, as a people, we have not always fulfilled our duty to properly recognize those fellow citizens who put themselves in harm's way to keep us safe and protect our freedoms. Unfortunately, we failed in this duty to our Vietnam veterans. They came home to a time of civil unrest and social turmoil--a time when opposition to the war too easily turned into opposition against those young men and women who served in that war. Too many service members returned from the brutality of war, not recognized for their courage, their honor, and their sacrifice. The harsh greeting that met too many veterans in addition to the life changing trials of war, made an already difficult transition to civilian life even harder. The communities that could have supported those who were reeling from the trauma of loss were not always available. When these veterans needed someone to lend an ear, or a helping hand, too many found a cold shoulder. By encouraging Americans to observe ``Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day,'' my resolution seeks to provide these heroes the welcome home that they always deserved, but too many never received. ``Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day'' is the culmination of years of effort on the part of my constituent Jose Ramos, himself a Vietnam veteran. As an Army Combat Medic in Vietnam, Jose Ramos was victim to the indifferent and often hostile public reaction when he returned home. It was his personal experiences, and those of his fellow GIs, that motivated him to work toward establishing a national day of recognition. His work inspired many, including me, to help give Vietnam veterans their long overdue ``welcome home.'' While today's resolution may seem like a small gesture--and when compared to what our soldiers and their families sacrificed, it certainly is--it will serve to remind us of their service to our country. Although there may be differing opinions on foreign policies and the popularity of certain military actions may vary, all American voices should rise in unison when it comes time to thank those who risk everything for the defense of the American people. I urge my colleagues, on both sides of the aisle, to join in honoring Vietnam veterans by participating in Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day events in their communities next year.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the legacy of civil rights leader and labor organizer Cesar Chavez. On the anniversary of what would have been his 85th birthday, I stand before you to pay tribute to a man who sacrificed and dedicated his life to championing the rights of farm workers and all working families. A true pioneer and hero, Cesar Chavez inspired a nation by organizing immigrant and minority farm workers to courageously fight for fair pay, fair benefits and fair working conditions. His legacy serves as a testament that every worker deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. As a child, I too learned about the significance of the movement he began. When my brothers and sisters begged our mother for grapes, she refused. It was her way of standing in solidarity with Americans across the country who were supporting the grape pickers' strike led by Chavez' United Farm Workers Union. Almost 50 years after the creation of the United Farm Workers Union, Chavez' contributions to our country live on. Thanks to him, thousands of Latinos and farm workers can now work with the dignity and respect they deserve. He inspired a generation of labor leaders to use non- violent protest to accomplish powerful things. As a proud union member myself, I am honored to commemorate and celebrate the memory and work of Cesar Chavez.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor my good friend Sandy Thorstenson for her leadership and dedication as Superintendent to the Whittier Union High School District. Born and raised in Whittier, CA, Sandy has served as Superintendent of the Whittier Union High School District for 10 years. She is a graduate of Whittier High School and Whittier College with her Master's Degree in Education from California State University, Fullerton. Sandy started her 34-year career in the Whittier Union High School District as a teacher and quickly ascended to Assistant Principal, Principal, Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services, and ultimately Superintendent. Under her leadership, Sandy has spearheaded Whittier Union's transformation into a high-achieving district with five comprehensive high schools serving 13,400 students from socio-economically diverse backgrounds. Sandy's ``whatever it takes'' attitude has ensured student achievement for all students, resulting in state and national recognition. Whittier Union High School District has demonstrated remarkable gains in student achievement at every school, becoming one of the top school districts in Los Angeles County. Sandy is an active advocate for quality and equity in public education at the local, state, and national level as a member of many professional and community organizations. She currently serves on the California State Superintendents' Council, the Pivot Learning Partners Board and is the current President of California City Superintendents Association. She is also a member of the Soroptimist International of Whittier, Whittier College Corporate Council, and a past member of the Whittier Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Due to these outstanding achievements for the school district and beyond, Sandy has been selected as California's National Superintendent of the Year by the Association of California School Administrators. Mr. Speaker and distinguished colleagues, please join me in honoring this extraordinary woman whose love and dedication to our students is overwhelmingly obvious. Let us congratulate her on her many accomplishments to the Whittier Union High School District and our community.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, former New York Governor Mario Cuomo, a man who saw the duality in being a legislator and a man of faith, once noted that ``all religiously based values don't have an a priori place in our public morality.'' I think my colleagues have forgotten that message in recent days when it comes to women's health, ignoring the important impacts that access to contraceptives can mean for women. Contrary to what some of my colleagues may believe, contraception is not a cheap, easily accessible solution for all women. An objective, nonpartisan panel developed recommendations for contraceptive coverage paid for by religiously affiliated employers. The Obama administration adopted new regulations based on these recommendations. These regulations were not designed to jeopardize anyone's religious freedom. These regulations were designed to protect the health needs of women, period. We should be doing everything possible to support women's health, not attacking women for demanding better health care.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Steve Helvey for his public service to the people of Whittier, California. Steve began with the City of Whittier in 2000 as the city's sixth City Manager. After 12 productive years of service to Whittier and its residents, Steve is retiring. Steve and his wife Paula are long-time Whittierites. He attended Sierra High School from 1964-1968, Rio Hondo College from 1968-1970, and graduated from California State University in Fullerton in 1972. Steve came to the City of Whittier after serving the City of Burbank for 17 years as its Financial Services Director and Assistant City Manager. Prior to that, Steve was the Finance Director in the City of Alhambra and the Chief of the Tax Division for the Los Angeles County Auditor-Controller's Office. During his tenure with the City of Whittier, Steve always provided strong and knowledgeable leadership and direction for major projects. Those numerous projects included the Whittier Utility Authority Finance Plan, Pio Pico State Historic Park renovation, Parnell Park Community and Senior Center construction, Whittier Greenway Trail acquisition and development, new Whittier Police Headquarters Building, Uptown Whittier Specific Plan, Whittier Boulevard Specific Plan, Whittwood Town Center redevelopment, release of Fred C. Nelles property for development, and the Mineral Extraction Project. Over the past decade, Steve has worked tirelessly to ensure Whittier operates on firm financial footing and never outside its fiscal means. While the struggling economy has impacted many cities throughout Southern California, Whittier has managed to maintain funding for all city services and capital improvement projects and Steve is a big reason why. As an active civic member he has served as a member of the California City Management Association, California Society of Municipal Finance Officers, and the San Gabriel Valley City Managers Association. From one public servant to another, I praise Steve Helvey and commend him on his many years of outstanding public service and dedication to the City of Whittier and the community. Whittier would not be the community it is today without him.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Res. 525 and support the goals of ``National School Counseling Week.'' I introduced this resolution to recognize the tireless efforts of a group of professionals who have dedicated themselves to our children and their education. I wish to take this opportunity to recognize the diligent and hardworking school counselors throughout our country. Counselors like Sue Im, in my home district, at Gahr High School in Cerritos. Every day counselors do exceptional work to help our students reach their highest potential. It is because of their unending dedication-- children across our country succeed in becoming engineers, doctors, and even Members of Congress. School counselors play a vital role in the development of our students on academic, social, and personal levels. Unfortunately, there aren't enough of them. Counselors often find themselves the casualty of budget cuts. The average student-to-counselor ratio in America's public schools, 459-to-1, is almost double the 250-to-1 ratio recommended by the American School Counselor Association and the National Association for College Admission Counseling. Those numbers are even worse in California where the student to counselor ratio is a dismal 810 students to one counselor-- one of the worst ratios in the country. 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 work that often goes unrecognized. 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.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate the Artesia-Cerritos Lions Club for their 65th anniversary. This is a remarkable milestone that deserves our recognition and praise. For 65 years, the Artesia-Cerritos Lions Club has maintained the reputation of being a keystone in local communities due to their steadfast response of donations and services to residents in need. The Lions Club has been at the forefront of health and safety, offering their services to local public safety fairs and Relay for Life events. They have also organized support efforts for the needy by arranging food and toy drives. In addition, the Lions Club has been vital in building the morale and closeness of the community by hosting the Miss Artesia Royal Court Contest, the Miss Cerritos Scholarship Contest, Flag Day events, and annual Easter Egg Hunts. The Artesia-Cerritos Lions Club has provided life changing services and opportunities for youth of Artesia and Cerritos. The Lions Club has provided eyeglasses for children in the ABC Unified School District, sponsored the annual track meet for all of the elementary schools in the school district, and have hosted a student speaker contest for local high schools. In addition, The Lions Club has been a sponsor of the Cerritos High School Leos Club, a youth volunteer group, which has inspired young people to assume leadership roles by giving them a chance to learn, grow, and serve by participating in community service projects. The Artesia-Cerritos Lions Club, driven by their motto ``We Serve'', has been a model for organizing and empowering volunteers in Artesia and Cerritos to serve their community. The contributions and achievements of the Lions Club members are far too many to count, but the enrichment and sense of community they have created is something to be acknowledged. For that reason, I would like to recognize the Artesia-Cerritos Lions Club for 65 years of honorable deeds and good work.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 2158, a bill which would designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 14901 Adelfa Drive in La Mirada as the Wayne Grisham Post Office. We could not be honoring a more deserving member of the Southern California community. Wayne Grisham dedicated his life to our country and to southern California. He valiantly served as a fighter pilot during World War II and was held as a prisoner of war when his plane was shot down over Germany. Mr. Grisham was awarded the Purple Heart and Air Medal for his courageous service. After the war, Wayne returned home to Whittier College, where he earned a bachelor's degree in economics and went on to teach elementary school in Long Beach. Eventually, an entrepreneurial spirit led Mr. Grisham to open his own realty business in La Mirada, which he maintained for much of his life. A self-described ``conservative do-gooder,'' his dedication to our local community was truly remarkable. Mr. Grisham proudly served the city of La Mirada for over two decades, beginning in 1970 when he was elected to the city council. He later went on to be the mayor of that city. Wayne once said, ``I think of myself as an average guy, and I think it was the average guy who elected me.'' It was that connection with the community that guided Wayne throughout his career. Mr. Grisham continued his service to the community with his election to Congress in 1978 and the California State Assembly in 1984. He also lent his talents to the Peace Corps, serving as director in Kenya. More important than his dedication to our local community was Wayne's life as a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather. He married his high school sweetheart, Millie Watt, in 1944 and had three beautiful children--Cathy, Randy, and Kellie. Wayne was also blessed with seven grandchildren. Wayne's daughter Kellie recently remembered her father this way: ``He was always smiling and always had a kind word. He loved when he could help people. He took great pride in the work he did for the city of La Mirada, the State of California, and the United States of America. He was a genuinely sincere person with great integrity. He believed in treating everyone with respect.'' Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring the service and memory of this dedicated civic leader.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Chair, I rise today in opposition to H.R. 3094, the Republican plan to crush workers' rights and destroy any glimmer of hope our working families have at economic recovery. The Republicans designed this bill to destroy 75 years of National Labor Review Board case law in their attempt to dismantle the middle class. Collective bargaining and the right to organize helped build a strong American middle class. It doesn't cost the federal government one dime in real money. Instead of taking steps to create jobs and strengthen working families, Republicans are dismantling key worker protections. All workers should have the ability to negotiate with their employer about salary and benefits, whether they're in a union or not. Organized labor is great for business. Thousands of companies across the country thrive with a unionized workforce. Those businesses recognize that their employees deserve to have a safe workplace and fair wages and benefits. That's just good business. This bill encourages corporations to stall NLRB elections while they mount a one-sided, anti-union campaign. At its core, this is an undemocratic bill that undermines our values. We have a long established process for workers to attempt to form a union and collectively bargain with employers. Employers and employees should stay on equal ground in the process. There is no need to deny workers their right to a free and fair union election. Many of my Republican friends like to talk about the issue of Tort Reform. They like to tell us that we have to prevent frivolous lawsuits--they cost taxpayers millions and millions of dollars and they drag down the economy. I have news for my Republican friends: the Election Prevention Act encourages frivolous litigation. This bill will mean mountains of litigation before union elections can be held. The result is a massive backlog. Guess who picks up the tab? The American taxpayer! We have important issues facing our country and it boggles my mind that we are taking up yet another bill that does nothing to get our friends and neighbors back to work. We need to focus on lowering the unemployment rate and creating jobs--not taking away the rights of hardworking Americans. I urge my colleagues to recognize this veiled attempt to destroy the rights of American working families.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition to H.J. Res. 2, the Republican plan to amend the Constitution to reduce government investments and codify economic stagnation. We can all agree that it's important to get the Federal deficit under control. However, the amendment Republicans are proposing is absolutely the wrong way to do it. It should all be very familiar to anyone who has experienced California's budget problems or who has even observed them from afar. It should be familiar because, just like in California, this legislation would require that a supermajority of both the House of Representatives and the Senate agree to any bill which raises Federal revenues. This not only means potential tax increases but also any bill that allows tax cuts to expire. In effect, the Republican majority is insisting that the only way the Federal Government can tackle its deficit is by reducing programs like Pell Grants, unemployment benefits, and infrastructure projects like Federal highways. These are the very programs that help people keep their heads above water during tough economic times or help them achieve the American Dream; and time and time again, the American people have said that cutting these programs is unacceptable. I agree that we should look at ways to cut waste. However, it's foolish to insist on severe cuts to vital programs which help people during an economic downturn. Furthermore, the California experience has shown that it is practically impossible for 60 percent of a political body to agree on revenue increases, no matter how limited they are or how much sense they might make. California has tried this flawed plan; and guess what, it doesn't work. California's fiscal situation becomes increasingly difficult each year because of this supermajority requirement. Do we really want the same at the Federal Government level? I cannot and will not support legislation which would impose California's flawed fiscal system on the Federal Government. I urge my colleagues to learn from history, from a real-life example, my home State of California, and reject this crushing and foolish amendment.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce a bill, the American Microturbine Manufacturing and Clean Energy Deployment Act of 2011. This bill builds on the great American tradition of innovation and manufacturing. It will help our country create new high-paying jobs, promote investment in the clean energy economy, and reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. The bill would accomplish these goals by establishing a 30 percent investment tax credit for microturbines, thereby granting parity with other renewable and fuel cell technologies. Microturbines, which have been supported by research and development funding from the Department of Energy, are small, ultra low emission gas turbines that produce usable efficient thermal energy and clean electrical power. While used most often in commercial buildings, microturbines have a wide range of applications, including renewable power, hybrid electric buses, trucks, and cars. Over 90 percent of the world's microturbines are manufactured right here in the United States by American workers for American companies. And of the U.S. manufacturers, one is located in Southern California and employs a number of my constituents. Another manufacturing facility is located in New England. American microturbine companies enjoy a robust export market, which means customers across the globe are increasing energy efficiency and reducing pollution and their carbon footprint. But sadly, the domestic market is weak. Why? Because our incentive structure has failed to encourage the adoption of this readily available clean energy solution. This must change, and my bill will help increase deployment in our own country. Where microturbines are deployed in the United States, there are numerous success stories. In the spirit of bi-partisanship, let me highlight one in my home state. The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, which many of us have visited, deploys sixteen 65-kilowatt microturbines that provide onsite electricity. In addition, the waste exhaust from the turbines heat the facility's water supply and is then run through an absorption chiller to provide air conditioning to the Air Force One Pavilion. This innovative approach not only enhanced the environment around the library by eliminating the need to construct additional power lines, but it also saves the facility over $300,000 per year in utility bills. We have the opportunity to help businesses and families across the nation save energy and preserve the environment. And, by enacting the American Microturbine Manufacturing and Clean Energy Deployment Act, we will create thousands of jobs. According to a recent survey of the microturbine industry, estimates are that the enactment of a 30 percent tax credit could immediately create over 2,000 new jobs. During the first year of the new tax credit, enough new microturbines could be deployed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 170,000 tons of CO2. These numbers will only increase the years after the tax credit is enacted. While the potential of this energy technology is huge--eventually representing tens of thousands of jobs in the U.S. alone--deployment has been held back by the lack of incentive support. Mr. Speaker, two of the most overarching public policy goals of the Congress and the country are to create jobs and promote energy efficiency and independence. I strongly believe that microturbine technology is a key component in our efforts to meet these challenges. This is an American-invented technology and an American-dominated industry. We should keep it that way. I urge our colleagues to join me in supporting this clean, innovative American industry.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce a bill the Vet Success Enhancement Act of 2011. This bill renews and extends the solemn promise we have made to our veterans. It will allow our wounded warriors a greater chance to prepare for, find and keep suitable jobs through apprenticeships, vocational counseling and general career services. Currently, many veterans miss their window of opportunity to enroll in the VetSuccess program. Many veteran service organizations have come before the Committee on Veterans Affairs and testified that the current cut-off period does not adequately provide disabled veterans sufficient time to enroll in the program. Therefore, I am introducing this legislation to extend the eligibility period by 3 years. It is my hope that this additional time will allow our disabled veterans the time they need to complete training that allows them to reenter the workforce. Disabled veterans have paid a steep price in their service to our country. The least we can do is fix a legislative technicality which would ensure that our service men and women are able to benefit from this important program that allows them to return to productive civilian life. Mr. Speaker, it is our duty to ensure that our wounded warriors are given the opportunity to succeed here at home. I strongly believe that participation in the VetSuccess program can help put veterans on a meaningful path to success. I urge our colleagues to join me in supporting our veterans.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce a bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the Department of Veterans Affairs demonstration projects on adjustable rate mortgages and hybrid adjustable rate mortgages. My bill would ensure we continue to provide affordable mortgages for our veterans, who put their lives on the line protecting our freedom. This VA-backed mortgage program is currently set to expire next year. In contrast to traditional Adjustable Rate Mortgages (ARMs), VA- guaranteed ARMs limit the annual interest rate adjustment to a maximum increase or decrease of one percent. Over the life of the loan, the interest rate is limited to a maximum increase of five percent. For VA- backed hybrid ARMs, the interest rate adjustment is limited to two percent each year, with a maximum increase of six percent over the life of the loan. Compared to a conventional mortgage, VA-backed ARMs and hybrid ARMs make it easier for veterans to obtain affordable financing. If interest rates drop, veterans can save thousands of dollars in mortgage payments. This legislation would make mortgages more affordable and would play an important role in combating veteran homelessness. The Department of Veterans Affairs estimates that over 100,000 veterans are homeless, while 1.5 million veterans are considered ``at risk'' of homelessness due to poverty and substandard housing arrangements. These mortgage extensions encourage veterans to pursue the American Dream of homeownership and ensure that they are not living on the streets due to the volatility and exposure of traditional mortgages. Mr. Speaker, one of the most overarching public policy goals of the Congress and our country is to take care of our veterans. I strongly believe that providing affordable mortgage rates is a key component in our effort to meet this goal. I urge our colleagues to join me in supporting this successful and necessary program.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Madam Speaker, today I rise in strong opposition to H.R. 358, the Protect Life Act. Instead of focusing on creating jobs, the House majority has decided instead to continue their relentless assault on women's rights and limit access to fair and adequate health care. Despite its name, this bill is not about protecting life. In fact, it is far from it. One provision in this bill would put women's lives in danger by allowing hospitals to refuse to provide life-saving abortion care even when a woman's life is in critical danger. This bill would also allow states to ostensibly deny critical non- abortion services to women. The Protect Life Act has the potential to undermine laws guaranteeing health care services well beyond those in the reproductive-health area. This could result in the denial of mental health care, HIV counseling, and other vital services. Current law is clear: Federal funding of abortion is forbidden except under very limited circumstances. This bill would impose unprecedented limitations on abortion coverage and restrict access to abortion services and contraceptives for all women. I urge my colleagues to reject this dangerous assault on women and I urge the majority to work on legislation that will put Americans back to work.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Madam Speaker, I would like to insert into the Record a resolution from the League of United Latin American Citizens expressing opposition to the free trade agreement. To Support a Fair Trade Model and Opposing the Colombia, Panama and South Korea Free Trade Agreements Whereas, the League of United Latin American Citizens is this nation's oldest and largest Latino organization, founded in Corpus Christi, Texas on February 17, 1929; and Whereas, LULAC throughout its history has committed itself to the principles that Latinos have equal access to opportunities in employment, education, housing and healthcare; and Whereas, LULAC supports a new U.S. trade policy that creates living-wages, sustainable jobs for people in the U.S. and trade partners countries while promoting democracy, human rights, labor standards, a healthy environment, and access to essential services; and Whereas, LULAC opposes the U.S. Korea Free Trade Agreement (FTA), U.S. Colombia FTA and U.S. Panama FTA, and it has in the past opposed the U.S. Peru FTAs and the Central America FTA (CAFTA) because these pacts did not meet these goals; and Whereas, LULAC has succeeded in bringing to national attention how agriculture provisions in the North American FTA (NAFTA) and CAFTA have forced rural Latin Americans to leave their countries and families, risking their lives crossing the U.S. border to be able to support their loved ones back home; and Whereas, since NAFTA the U.S. has lost over 5 million family-supporting manufacturing jobs and whereas the country cannot sustain further job loss of this magnitude, especially when unemployment disproportionately affects Latino families and other people of color; and Whereas, the foreign investor provisions and their private enforcement included in pacts like NAFTA and CAFTA threaten the sovereignty and the environment of Latin American nations, and their control of their natural resources; and Whereas, President Obama committed during his campaign to create a new American trade model that could deliver benefits to more people and remedy these problems, but to date has not implemented these commitments; and Whereas, a comprehensive, bipartisan reform bill--the Trade Reform, Accountability, Development and Employment (TRADE) Act--that would deliver on Obama's commitment by addressing agricultural displacement, job loss and other past trade deal problems was supported by LULAC and over 150 members of Congress; and Whereas, the Obama administration has announced that it will send to Congress three NAFTA-style trade deals with Colombia, Panama and South Korea; and Therefore be it resolved, that the League of United Latin American Citizens will continue to fully and actively support a new fair trade model based on the TRADE Act; and Be it further resolved, opposes ratification of FTAs with Colombia, Panama and South Korea leftover from the Bush administration; and Be it further resolved, that a copy this resolution be provided to the President of the United States, the Members of the appropriate Congressional committees, the U.S. Trade Representative, the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of Labor, the Secretary of Agriculture and the Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Approved this 1st day of July 2011. Margaret Moran, LULAC National President.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to speak in opposition to this fatally flawed trade agreement. During a time when our top priority should be job creation, Congress is instead considering free trade agreements that will ship more American jobs overseas. Making matters worse, we need to make sure that our current trade laws are being enforced. This Korea FTA will allow China to dump even more cheap goods into the U.S. without paying proper duties. And we're not talking about just a couple of dollars here either. Chinese companies fraudulently labeled many of their products as ``Made in Korea'' to the tune of $153 million last year. This fraud will mean lost jobs and lost revenue here in the United States. If this agreement passes, more Chinese companies will ignore our trade laws. I think we can all agree that we should be working toward supporting our manufacturing sector, not making it easier for China to cheat us. Working families in this country deserve better than this flawed agreement. For that reason, I'm urging my colleagues to vote against it.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize October as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. To raise awareness for breast cancer prevention, I want to stress the importance of regular mammograms and following recommended screening guidelines. Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed form of cancer in women worldwide. Every two minutes a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer in the U.S. alone. Every thirteen minutes, a woman dies of breast cancer. While these statistics are shocking, there is hope. The 2.5 million breast cancer survivors in the U.S. today have shown that early detection and timely treatment are the keys to fighting the disease. The five-year survival rate for women who are diagnosed at the early stage of the disease's development has risen to 98 percent. It is undeniable that early detection saves lives. Unfortunately, despite what we already know, the number of women receiving regular mammograms has declined in the past ten years. A recent study discovered that fewer than 50 percent of women over the age of 40 with health insurance had received a recommended annual mammogram. This must change. In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I want to encourage women to follow the recommended screening guidelines. I hope this message reaches every woman, and together we can commit to ending breast cancer forever.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate the Whittier Elks Lodge 1258 on their 100th Anniversary. This is a remarkable milestone that deserves our recognition and praise. For 100 years, the City of Whittier has benefited from the generous contributions and selfless acts of members of the Elks Lodge 1258. Beginning with about two dozen members in 1911, Lodge 1258 grew alongside Whittier and helped it become the prosperous and welcoming city it is today. The Elks Foundation, driven by local lodges such as 1258, has been a model of organized civic engagement, sharing with communities' their ideals of charity, justice, brotherly love and fidelity. These cardinal virtues are the keystone philosophies the Elks Foundation were founded upon. The Elks Lodge 1258 has not only helped bring Whittier together, it has also served as a second home for many of the city's residents. The Elks Foundation, with help from Lodge 1258, contributes more than $80 million yearly to benevolent education and patriotic community-minded programs, while actively advocating on behalf of physically and mentally challenged children and veterans. Due in large part to the generous financial support of the Elks, countless Whittier parents have seen their children attend and graduate from college, fostering future generations of service-oriented, civically engaged Whittier residents. The contributions and achievements of the Elks Lodge are far too many to count, but the enrichment and sense of community they have created have greatly benefited the city of Whittier. For that reason, I would like to recognize Whittier's Elks Lodge 1258 for a century's worth of honorable deeds and good work. I am certain the next 100 years will be as successful.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I would like to discuss an important issue that affects too many young people across this country. As many students look forward to the new school year, there are too many who fear returning because their school environment is made unsafe by bullying. Bullying is not a rite of passage and no child should be afraid to go to school. An unsafe school environment, including one made unsafe by daily bullying and harassment, leads to increased absences and decreased graduation rates. A majority of parents, students, and educators report that bullying and harassment are issues of major concern. To combat this problem, I have introduced the Safe Schools Improvement Act which would help schools and school districts develop and improve anti-bullying and anti-harassment initiatives. Fortunately, others are also beginning to address this issue and are seeking ways to address bullying and make schools safer. One effort to combat bullying in our schools is the ``be a STAR (Show Tolerance And Respect) program'' being led by World Wrestling Entertainment, WWE, in collaboration with the Creative Coalition, the National Education Association's Health Information Network, NEA HIN, Stomp Out Bullying, the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation, and the National School Climate Center amongst others. This program provides teachers across America with a comprehensive toolset to teach children an anti-bullying message. `be a STAR' is providing an easily accessible teaching aid written by the NEA HIN and educator Dr. Fran Prolman that meets National Education Standards. This teaching aid is available at no cost to educators and is designed to promote positive and equitable social environments for students within and beyond the classroom setting. The alliance is also offering a ``Start Your Own Be a STAR'' Chapter toolkit encouraging students to spread the anti- bullying message in their schools and communities. The be a STAR Alliance has also been instrumental in encouraging students to seek out resources or proper intervention to help protect victims of bullying and other forms of intolerance through its `be a STAR' pledge. I had the opportunity to participate in anti-bullying events with WWE Superstars Rey Mysterio and Eve, Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, American Idol Winner Jordan Sparks, actor Tim Daly, Dancing with the Stars' Chelsie Hightower and many more. I joined them at the Algin Sutton Community Center to discuss with children the issue of bullying and to deliver a strong anti-bullying message of tolerance and respect. The reaction from the more than 500 children and families that participated was very positive. Through its participation and leadership in the alliance, WWE has demonstrated a real commitment to raise awareness about bullying, and is working in local communities around the country and overseas to combat bullying in our schools. The anti-bullying movement has a new champion in the `be a STAR' Alliance, co- founded by WWE and The Creative Coalition and I want to commend them for the great work they are doing to promote equality for all people regardless of age, race, religion and sexual orientation.