Ellen Tauscher

Mrs. TAUSCHER

Mrs. TAUSCHER. Mr. Speaker, today I am introducing the State Infrastructure Banks for Schools Act of 1999. I urge my colleagues to support this important piece of legislation. It is a distressing fact that across our Nation we have nineteenth century schools and libraries for twenty-first century students. In our inner-cities, rural communities, and suburban neighborhoods, children are attending schools where toilets clog, computers cannot link to the Internet, and roofs leak. Public libraries do not fare much better, often lacking adequate space to house their materials or to run after- school reading programs. And it is our kids who suffer as a result. By now we all know that our Nation's schools require an overwhelming $112 billion to repair America's education infrastructure. Behind this glaring statistic is the additional need for library construction. The one source of Federal aid to libraries, the Library Services and Technology Act, no longer covers major construction of libraries. If we do not start investing in our schools and libraries immediately, we will end up paying a much higher price down the road for graduating students who will not be adequately prepared to compete in the New Economy. In fact, studies now reveal the obvious: a direct correlation exists between the condition of school facilities and the academic achievement of our students. That's right, our kids grades are affected by the state of their school. This should come as no surprise. It is difficult to learn when the roof is leaking or blackouts occur because too many computers are on. We also know that 50 percent of a child's intellectual development takes place before the age of four. Our nation's public and school libraries play a critical role in a child's early development because they provide a wealth of books and other resources that can give every child a head start on life and learning. In my state of California, 61 percent of our schools are over 40 years old, and public school enrollment is expected to exceed 6 million students by the turn of the century, yet large numbers of students are already being housed in temporary buildings. As states around the nation, like California, adopt mandated class size reductions, more and more classroom space will be needed. The state already has 1.3 million students in grades one through three who require an astonishing 6,500 additional classrooms to meet class size reduction mandates. The latest statewide library facility needs assessment for California called for $2 billion for approximately 425 projects. In addition, the deplorable state of America's public school libraries' collections has increased the demands on public libraries. In many instances, public libraries substitute for school libraries, thereby creating a higher demand for material and physical space to house literature and educational computer equipment. We know that summer reading programs at public libraries are the most important factor in helping children avoid what educators call ``summer learning loss.'' With this in mind, we need, first and foremost, to find creative ways, in the age of shrinking budgets, to find the necessary dollars to start rebuilding our educational infrastructure. That is why I am re- introducing my State Infrastructure Banks for Schools Act. This common- sense measure would create infrastructure banks at the state level to provide a range of loan and credit options, to help finance locally supported projects. The use of State Infrastructure Banks (SIBS) will provide much-needed and cost-effective financial assistance to our local districts to rebuild, repair or replace their current facilities--without placing a constant strain on the Federal treasury or the American taxpayer. Just as importantly, with SIBs, school districts and counties could avoid bond market pressures to borrow more than they actually need which can often make a project unacceptable to local voters. We have seen this happen several times in my District alone. Our local leaders know how much is needed to fix up their schools and libraries, and they rightly refuse to borrow more than necessary. By supporting this proposal, we are not only wisely utilizing limited federal funds, but we would be saving local taxpayers' money otherwise spent on inflated bond requests, fees, and other administrative costs associated with the for- profit market. Specifically, SIBs will be created with federal seed money and offer a flexible menu of loan and credit enhancement assistance, terms, and maturities--all of which will allow communities to save local taxpayer dollars. As loans are repaid, the SIBs funds would be replenished and the banks could make new loans or loan guarantees to other school and library infrastructure projects. Our children need to feel pride in their schools and libraries. It is my hope that my legislation is one of several first steps that can be made towards addressing this overwhelming issue of school and library construction. It is no secret that we need to educate our kids in a safe and supportive environment if we expect them to achieve in the 21st century.

Mrs. TAUSCHER

Mrs. TAUSCHER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of Occupation Therapy Month and in recognition of the invaluable services that occupational therapists provide to their patients. Occupational therapists provide people with the support, the rehabilitation, and the medical care that enables them to live full lives and function at the highest possible level, despite disability, illness, injury, or other limitations. Occupational therapists work in nursing homes, support individuals with mental illnesses, assist physically disabled individuals in performing ordinary life activities, and help children in our schools learn at the highest level. Occupational therapy is a necessary component of quality medical care in that it allows individuals who face physical challenges to retain their independence and to perform the daily activities that we all take for granted. I know from personal experience that this is true. A number of years ago, my father contracted Guillan-Barre Syndrome, a devastating illness which leaves the individual in temporary paralyzed state. We were truly fortunate that we had the highest quality medical care. The doctors saved my father's life. The therapists gave him his life. Their expertise and specialized knowledge allowed him to resume his daily activities and stay independent. My daughter Katherine is an active, energetic seven-year old who plays soccer and a number of other sports. Seeing her today, you would never guess that as an infant she spent a year of her life in a full body cast because of problems with her hip. Again, we had the most qualified and experienced doctors caring for her, but I believe that it was her therapists who were responsible for assuring that she would remain active and energetic for the rest of her life. Quality medical care is a composite and I would like to recognize the contribution that occupational therapists make in assuring that our medical system not only cures patients, but allows them to live their lives to the fullest.

Mrs. TAUSCHER

Mrs. TAUSCHER. Madam Chairman, I thank the gentleman for those kind words, and I also want to thank him and the ranking member, the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Borski) for all their help. Madam Chairman, I rise in support of H.R. 1480, which has incorporated the Tauscher-Petri amendment to strip the controversial American River water supply provisions from H.R. 1480. I appreciate the work of the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Shuster) and the gentleman from New York (Mr. Boehlert) and the gentleman from California (Mr. Dreier) to self-execute this important amendment as part of the rule. As my colleagues know, H.R. 1480 traditionally funds flood control and port and harbor maintenance projects. This year, however, over $287 million in municipal water supply projects were included in the bill at the last minute which were wrong for the American taxpayer, wrong for the environment and wrong for the development of long-term water policy in my State of California. Over the past 2 weeks I have worked hard with members of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and Members of the House in general to address the implications of this water grab. The Bay-Delta in my district is the largest estuary on the West Coast and serves as the drinking water source for 22 million Californians. Moreover, it serves as a key component of the State's $24 billion agricultural industry. In California, water is a zero-sum game, and these ill-conceived projects that have been stripped out would have had devastating effects for water for two out of every three Californians. In addition, the projects were terribly expensive. I am pleased to have been joined by the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Petri), Taxpayers for Common Sense, Friends of the River and Friends of the Earth, and scores of other taxpayer and environmental organizations in effectively getting that message out. Officials throughout California, including Governor Gray Davis and Attorney General Bill Lockyer expressed extreme apprehension with the projects included in the bill. Once again, I want to thank the gentleman from New York (Mr. Boehlert) and others for urging the removal of those audacious provisions from H.R. 1480. At the same time, however, I must object to the concurrent removal of the much needed flood control for the city of Sacramento. That city currently has only 85 years of flood protection, making it the largest metropolitan area in the country without an adequate flood control system. That is why I urge support for the Oberstar amendment.

Mrs. TAUSCHER

Mrs. TAUSCHER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the resolution to authorize United States involvement in the NATO air operations against Slobodan Milosevic's military force. It is both in our strategic and humanitarian interests to end the vicious ethnic cleansing campaign that Slobodan Milosevic is pursuing in Kosovo. His actions have threatened the stability of southern Europe, jeopardized our efforts to maintain peace in other parts of the Balkans and unleashed a flood of refugees into poor and underequipped nations in the region. It is clear, Mr. Speaker, that we must take action to end this tragedy. A couple of weeks ago I traveled to Brussels with Secretary Cohen. I met with General Clark and the delegates of our NATO allies. The resolve that every person and every country involved in this operation showed then was reinforced this past weekend in Washington. The truth is, our air campaign is working. We are knocking out the infrastructure of Mr. Milosevic's military and isolating his troops in Kosovo. If we continue to take out the four corners of his fighting machine, his whole house of cards will come crashing down. We must make clear to Mr. Milosevic that the bombing campaign will not cease until he withdraws his troops and allows the citizens of Kosovo to return to a life of peace and autonomy. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution.

Mrs. TAUSCHER

Mrs. TAUSCHER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Children's Memorial Flag Project and hope that my colleagues will join me in supporting the establishment of a National Children's Memorial Day where we remember all children who die by violence in our country. The Children's Memorial Flag Project originated in Alameda County, CA, part of which falls in my Congressional district. This project is dedicated to remembering the children who die as a result of abuse, neglect, and homicide. Each time a child dies as a result of violence, the Children's Memorial Flag is flown at half-staff and a young oak tree is planted in the Children's Memorial Grove. This county effort has become a national effort and I would like to acknowledge the efforts of my dear friend, Alameda County Supervisor, Gail Steele, who created the project. Last year, 25 states flew the Children's Memorial flag over their state capitol on the fourth Friday in April which they designated as Children's Memorial Day. I am working with several Bay Area colleagues to introduce legislation that would adopt the Children's Memorial Flag and establish the fourth Friday in April as a national Children's Memorial Day. Tragedies such as the school shooting which occurred recently in Littleton, Colorado, remind us of how precious our children are. We cannot let these children, nor the thousands of other children who die of violence, be forgotten. I urge my colleagues to join me honoring the memory of children lost to violence this Friday, April 23rd and to adopt this day as National Children's Memorial Day. I hope honoring and remembering these children will be the driving impetus for us to work together as a nation to keep America's children safe from violent crime.

Mrs. TAUSCHER

Mrs. TAUSCHER. Mr. Chairman, America's working families, farmers, and businesses know that we must approach the Nation's budget the same way they approach their own, with a balanced view. Our Blue Dog budget alternative is balanced. It protects Social Security, offers targeted tax cuts, reduces the national debt, and most importantly recommits our Nation to educating our children. If America hopes to maintain our status as the world's economic superpower, we cannot continue to send off our kids to schools with inadequate adequate facilities and outdated technology. Our Blue Dog budget provides $10 billion more for education and training than the Republican budget. It allows for an increase in elementary and secondary education without forcing cuts in other education programs. It allows for spending on discretionary and training programs to grow by an average of 3.6 percent a year through 2004. This balanced, fiscally responsible approach to the budget is the same formula for success that American families want. I urge my colleagues to support our Blue Dog budget alternative.

Mrs. TAUSCHER

Mrs. TAUSCHER. I thank the ranking member of the Committee on Armed Services for yielding me this time. Mr. Speaker, I rise to strongly urge my colleagues to vote for this resolution that expresses our support for the troops in the Balkans. We have the finest fighting men and women in the world. Their spirit, commitment and dedication is unrivaled. In December, I visited our troops keeping the peace in Bosnia and Macedonia. I was impressed by the work that they have done to help the people of Bosnia and Macedonia transition to a peaceful society and by the pride that they take in their work. Our men and women in the military are now confronting another great challenge. They have again answered their country's call to service. At this time of great courage and sacrifice, our best thoughts and prayers are with them. The President made the right decision to initiate air strikes against Yugoslavia. Slobodan Milosevic has continually refused efforts to reach a peaceful settlement in Kosovo. It is now time to display the resolve of the international community. Mr. Speaker, let us pass this resolution and show our sailors, soldiers, airmen and marines that they have the support and appreciation of a grateful Nation.

Mrs. TAUSCHER

Mrs. TAUSCHER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this bill. While developing a national defense system should be a priority, we need to ensure that any potential system is dependable, reliable, and fiscally responsible. More importantly, we need to also step up our investment in nuclear nonproliferation programs. Mr. Speaker, the best way to stop a ballistic missile attack is to stop the missiles from being developed and deployed in the first place. We need a balanced approach to protect American families. We need increased investment in nonproliferation programs like nuclear cities and IPP to prevent attack and investment in systems like national missile defense to ensure our survival if prevention programs fail. I will vote for this legislation. But before we spend billions of dollars of American taxpayer money to deploy it, we must have proof that it is going to work.

Mrs. TAUSCHER

Mrs. TAUSCHER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 975, the Steel Import Reduction Act, because the need to protect the vital domestic steel industry is clear. Since the start of the Asian financial crisis two and a half years ago, imports of steel into the United States has risen dramatically--over 24% in 1997 and 30% in 1998. Nationally, at least 10,000 U.S. steel jobs have been lost in the past year. Furthermore, three American steel companies have filed for bankruptcy over the last year, and thousands more jobs are threatened because a steel oversupply remains on the docks from abroad. Import surges have occurred from nations like Japan, Korea, Brazil and Russia, and this is not surprising when one considers that their normal Asian markets are now dry. The steel industries in these countries need a market, and the United States continues to have the strongest economy in the world. Therefore, these nations must, in effect, ``dump'' their steel on our thriving economy to the detriment of our domestic industry. Mr. Speaker, the American steel industry is second to none in the world. Gone are the days when U.S. steel was non-competitive with other nations--the necessary infrastructure investments and facility improvements occurred over a decade ago. Were it not for the current global economic situation, I would not be standing today on the floor of the House urging passage of H.R. 975. At the same time, I have real concerns with the legality of the measure vis-a-vis the World Trade Organization, or WTO. My support for free trade remains uncontested. However, I have always stated that along with free trade principles, fair trade practices must be enforced. This is not occurring as a result of the struggling economies in Asia, Russia, and Brazil. It is my hope that as this bill moves forward in the legislative process, a solution can be developed which will effectively shield American steel while keeping the U.S. out of the WTO dispute settlement system. Finally, I want to express my concerns that imports of specialty steel will not be effected by passage of this bill. Industries in my district in the East Bay of California, for instance, have been importing high strength steel from Japan for many years. This steel is used for the under bodies of passenger vehicles, and it is processed in a way which is not readily available on the domestic market. It is my understanding that these imports would not be effected by the import reductions called for in this legislation, and I appreciate that. Mr. Speaker, I thank you for working toward a solution to this problem of great magnitude to a vital U.S. industry.

Mrs. TAUSCHER

Mrs. TAUSCHER. Mr. Speaker, today I congratulate the Walnut Creek Lions Club as they celebrate their 75th Anniversary. Since its founding in April 1924, the Walnut Creek Lions Club has provided immeasurable services to the citizens of Contra Costa County. I am proud to honor them as they celebrate their 75 years of dedication to the betterment of their community and the world at large. Mr. Speaker, as you may know, Lions are committed to sharing their success by helping those less fortunate than themselves. Created in 1917 by Melvin Jones in Chicago, Lions Clubs International now enjoys over 44,000 clubs worldwide, with a membership of 1.4 million in more than 185 countries. In 1925, Helen Keller challenged the Lions to become ``knights of the blind in the crusade against darkness''. Thus began the Lions Clubs' renown for their sight-related programs, including SightFirst, the world's largest blindness prevention program. The motto of every Lion, however, is simply ``We Serve'', which eloquently expresses the true mission of this community service club. Please join me in recognizing the Walnut Creek Lions Club as they celebrate their 75th anniversary. Their service-minded spirit is inspirational and I am honored that they are a part of my constituency.

Mrs. TAUSCHER

Mrs. TAUSCHER. Mr. Speaker, I had planned to offer two amendments concerning after-school programs for children to H.R. 800, the Education Flexibility Partnership Act. After consultation with Chairman Mike Castle, I have decided against offering the amendments and have agreed to work with the chairman to highlight the importance of after- school activities for schoolchildren and the need for a national discourse on this topic. I believe we should do everything on the Federal level to promote quality, after-school care for students, and after-school educational activities for at-risk juveniles. Every day at 3 p.m., the final school bell rings and hundreds of classrooms across America stand empty until the next day. Numerous studies have shown that between the hours of 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. is when the majority of juvenile crimes occur. It is also the same time period when moms and dads begin to anxiously watch the clock at work, worrying about their children being home alone. Doesn't it make sense for schools to use this readily available space to provide after-school activities rather than send the school kids home alone to an empty house? After school programs will addresses the needs of working parents who want a safe haven for their children during non-school hours. Quality, after-school care can also have tremendous academic benefits. It can overcome learning difficulties created by overcrowded classrooms and high teacher-student ratios which are common problems in America's public schools. After-school child care programs also provide the working parents of the five to twelve million latchkey children in the United States, with the peace of mind that their children are in a safe and supervised environment after school. After-school educational programs for at-risk youth have been shown to reduce the incidence of crime on school campuses and enhance the academic achievements for at-risk juveniles. We must encourage schools to provide quality, after-school activities as a way to complement other programs that are designed to promote academic achievement. Education does not end when the last school bell rings. Let's work together to help children reach their highest potential. I would like to thank Chairman Castle for his leadership on after- school programs. It is a pleasure to collaborate with him on this important issue which has significant implications on our children's future.

Mrs. TAUSCHER

Mrs. TAUSCHER. Mr. Speaker, from the day in early September that the Starr referral was delivered to the House, I have said that the decision to impeach the President called upon me to consider the Constitution, my constituents and my conscience. I have read and reread the Constitution and Federalist papers. I have heard from over 10,000 of my consistent by phone, mail and E-mail. I have searched my conscience. That is why I rise to urge my colleagues to strongly oppose the impeachment of the President. Let me reiterate that the President's behavior has been reckless, wrong and harmful to his family, friends and the American people. His efforts to misled the American people were inappropriate for the leader of our great Nation. But, my review of the Constitution leads me to believe that while what the President did may be indictable, it is not impeachable. The President did not undermine our constitutional form of government, nor did he commit treason or bribery. These are fundamental issues that must be considered when the Congress considers articles of impeachment. Also, I'm very troubled by the tampering with the separation of powers proposed by the House's action against the President. Those who support impeachment speak of the rule of law, but they fail to talk about the framers' clear and explicit delineation of the powers of each branch of our Government. It is the Judicial branch of government that enforces the rule of law and punishes those who violate it. If the President committed perjury, the grand jury can indict him when his is out of office. My constituents and I are searching for a way to strongly but appropriately register our disgust with the President actions. Censure the President and move on, they say, by a 2- to 1 margin. I agree. But, we have been denied a vote on censure in spite of the fact that this is what an overwhelming number of Americans have told us that they want. When I came to Congress 2 years ago I said that while I couldn't agree with anyone 100 percent of the time, it was my responsibility as a Representative of the people to LISTEN 100 percent of the time. My colleagues, we were sent here to be our constituents eyes and ears. Americans want people in their elected Government who know more, not people who think they know better. Colleagues, please stop and listen. The American people say we must strongly censure the President and get back to their business. I urge you to vote no on impeaching the President.

Mrs. TAUSCHER

Mrs. TAUSCHER. Mr. Speaker, from the day that the Starr referral was delivered to the House, I have said that the decision to impeach the President called upon me to consider the Constitution, my conscience and my constituents. I have reread the Constitution and the Federalist papers. I have heard from over 10,000 of my constituents. I have searched my conscience. That is why I rise to urge my colleagues to strongly oppose the impeachment of the President. Let me reiterate that the President's behavior has been reckless and wrong. His efforts to mislead the American people were inappropriate for the leader of our great Nation. But my review of the Constitution leads me to believe that while what the President did may be indictable, it is not impeachable. When I came to Congress 2 years ago, I said that while I could not agree with anyone 100 percent of the time, it was my responsibility as a representative of the people to listen 100 percent of the time. My colleagues, we were sent here to be our constituents' eyes and ears. Americans want representatives that know more, not representatives that think they know better. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to please stop and listen. The American people say we must strongly censure the President and get back to their business. I urge you to vote no on impeaching the President.

Mrs. TAUSCHER

Mrs. TAUSCHER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of President Clinton's decision to order military strikes against Saddam Hussein and especially in support of our troops in action. Since committing at the end of the Persian Gulf War to full and open inspections of his nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons capabilities, Saddam Hussein has repeatedly blocked the work of the United Nations inspectors. Time and again he has refused to turn over key documents and he has continually refused UNSCOM inspectors entry to suspect facilities. On November 14, Saddam asked for one more chance, and we gave it to him. Once again he reneged on his commitment. Military action is now necessary to stop his efforts to produce weapons of mass destruction. Our troops engaged in Iraq are doing good, important, and dangerous work. They deserve our prayers and support. As a member of the National Security Committee, I returned on Tuesday from a trip to visit our troops deployed in the Balkans. I had the opportunity to see first-hand the sacrifices our men and women in uniform make in service to our nation. Americans in the Gulf are now making the ultimate sacrifice and it is our responsibility to be steadfast in our support. This is not a time for partisan bickering. This is a time when we must come together as a nation in support of our men and women fighting for a just cause. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support the resolution and provide their full backing to our fighting men and women in Iraq.

Mrs. TAUSCHER

Mrs. TAUSCHER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a good friend and valued colleague, Jane Harman, whose distinguished career in the House of Representatives will come to a close with the end of the 105th Congress. In my time in Congress, Mr. Speaker, I have developed the greatest respect and admiration for Jane Harman. Her dedication to this institution, her commitment to the people she represents, and her unfailing desire to work for the best interests of this nation set the standards to which all Members of Congress should strive. Whether the issue has been gender equity in the military or establishing a budget lockbox, Jane has been a true leader. When she speaks out on an issue, Mr. Speaker, we all know that she has given it thoughtful consideration and is well informed. Her sincerity and knowledge give her an authority that enables her to persuasively make her case and convince her colleagues of the rightness of her position. This ability has served her constituents and this country very well, and she should be proud of her many accomplishments. As a fellow Californian, I have always admired and respected the work Jane has done for our State. She will be sorely missed not only by her colleagues on the Hill, but by all those Californians who have come to rely on her reasoned and moderate approach to the issues. Mr. Speaker, the House of Representatives and the country are better for the service that Jane Harman has given us. I know that in the future she will continue her commitment to public service and her contributions to our nation will grow. I thank her for her efforts and wish her the best of luck for the future.

Mrs. TAUSCHER

Mrs. TAUSCHER. Mr. Speaker, I am a new Member of Congress. I came here in January of 1997. Unlike many of my colleagues, I had never been elected before. I came out of the business world. I have been very blessed in the past. When I had a seat on the New York Stock Exchange, I remember looking around at all the people down there and trying to find an anchor, trying to find some people that I could emulate, some people that I believed were worthy of having followers. Since I was one of the first women on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange, I did not have a lot of women to emulate. I found a very good gentleman that I followed. When I came here, although I have a lot of wonderful colleagues in California that are women, Nancy Pelosi being one of them, I looked at Vic Fazio and said, God never blessed me with a big brother. I still have my parents. But if I ever had to pick a big brother, it would be Vic Fazio. Vic Fazio's dedication to his constituents, to the State of California and to the golden rule of Congress is legendary, and his dedication to his family I think is even more important. I want to offer you, Vic, and Judy and the rest of your family all the blessings. I know you are not retiring. I know you are going to be there for us. I thank you for all you have done.

Mrs. TAUSCHER

Mrs. TAUSCHER. Mr. Speaker, last night on recorded vote No. 448, I unavoidably missed the vote on the Kennedy Amendment to H.R. 4569 because my beeper did not go off. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye,'' consistent with my cosponsorship of H.R. 611, a bill to close the School of the America's which has graduated many of Latin America's most notorious dictators and human rights violators.

Mrs. TAUSCHER

Mrs. TAUSCHER. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the Pelosi amendment to fully fund the International Monetary Fund. Mr. Chairman, Congress is once again prohibited from moving forward on the incredible important issue of IMF replenishment. Earlier this year, the House Banking Committee supported a bill to fully fund the IMF by a 40-9 vote. This bipartisan measure includes needed reforms of the program to make the Fund more transparent and accountable, improve labor standards in recipient countries, and increase the effectiveness of market-oriented reforms. Unfortunately, since the consideration of this measure in committee, IMF funding has been bogged down by extraneous issues. This must stop. The global economy has been going through a tumultuous time over the past year. First the Asian Tigers slipped, then Russia. Now we are receiving news that Brazil, one of the strongest and largest economies in Latin America, is experiencing economic retraction. We need to stand up and do what's right, not only to bolster the global economy, but to protect American economy, American jobs, and American values. Should our economy falter, the Federal budget surplus will be at risk. How can we, as stewards of our Nation's fiscal house, oppose IMF funding when failure to do so threatens to drag our strong domestic economy along with it? I urge my colleagues to oppose the point of order and support full IMF funding.

Mrs. TAUSCHER

Mrs. TAUSCHER. Mr. Chairman, I rise as a strong advocate of campaign finance reform, a member of the Freshman Bipartisan Campaign Finance Reform bill, and a supporter of the Meehan-Shays reform plan. Eighteen months ago, I joined with 11 of my colleagues to form the Bipartisan Freshman Campaign Finance Reform Task Force. Our goal was to bring the issue of campaign finance reform to the forefront of the Congressional agenda. I am pleased that we were able to achieve that goal. We conducted months of meetings, including two public forums, which effectively served as the only hearings the House of Representatives conducted on this issue. The Task Force committed to developing legislation that would represent a bipartisan effort on campaign finance reform and ultimately a first step in the process of bringing true reform to the political process. I believe that one of the greatest achievements of the freshman Task Force is that it helped build momentum for House consideration of campaign finance reform. When the leadership made it clear that it would not bring Meehan-Shays to the floor of the House for a vote, the Task Force hoped its bill would serve as a starting place for debate on campaign finance reform. Our work has proven to be more than a starting place, it is the platform on which the most comprehensive campaign finance reform legislation has been successfully built. Passage of the Meehan-Shays amendment Monday was an historic moment. If we pass the bill today with the Meehan-Shays language, we will have endorsed the most comprehensive political reform this body has seen in 20 years. So, it is unfortunate the Republican leadership of this House has chosen to use the Freshman bill as a tool in a cynical attempt to block final passage of the Meehan-Shays proposal. The rule dictating debate of campaign finance reform means that a vote for the Freshman bill is a vote against the Meehan-Shays bill. As a result, I will vote ``present'' on the Freshman bill in order to ensure the passage of Meehan-Shays. We owe it to the American people to pass the most comprehensive campaign reform legislation in front of the House. That bill is Meehan- Shays. By passing comprehensive campaign finance reform, we take a much needed step to restore the faith of the American electorate in our political system.

Mrs. TAUSCHER

Mrs. TAUSCHER. Madam Speaker, I thank my colleague for yielding. Madam Speaker, I rise in opposition to reconsidering this bill, and I urge my colleagues to join me in sustaining the President's veto. We all agree that healthy women with healthy fetuses should not have post-viability abortions. But the authors of this bill do nothing to address this issue. Instead by focusing on medical procedures, the Republican leadership's partial birth abortion ban fails to fully address abortions performed post-viability and overreaches by banning abortions pre-viability. The Republican leadership has refused to bring up a bipartisan bill that accomplishes, in fact, what their bill only achieves in nasty rhetoric. H.R. 1032, which was introduced by the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Hoyer) and the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Greenwood) at the beginning of the 105th session, would ban all late-term abortions unless it was necessary to save the life of the mother or to avert serious adverse health consequences. Unfortunately, the House leadership has presented us with the singular option of voting on H.R. 1122, which is believed by many to be unconstitutional. Despite the fact that a modified ban would pass in the House, despite the fact that the President has said that he would sign the modified ban, this body has not even been given the opportunity to consider the Hoyer-Greenwood bill. The House leadership is clearly not interested in passing legislation that would set public policy on the issue of late-term abortion. Instead, they have tried to depict pro-choice Members as radical and out of step with the values of mainstream America. Further, in this debate today, unfortunately, they have chosen to demonize women and to accuse doctors of medical malfeasance. I and other supporters of the Hoyer-Greenwood bill are pro-choice and are willing to vote for a ban on late-term abortions provided that there are health and life exceptions. If the House leadership truly wants to reduce the number of late-term abortions performed, they would bring H.R. 1032, the Hoyer-Greenwood bill, to the floor and allow the House to debate a bill that would actually accomplish something.

Mrs. TAUSCHER

Mrs. TAUSCHER. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for yielding me this time. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of extending normal trade relation status to China and urge my colleagues to oppose the Solomon resolution for two reasons: Vital American interests are at stake, and engagement is working. Over the years, Members of this body have raised numerous reasons why trade relations should be cut off between our countries, and rightly so. China has traditionally had many problems of concern to all Americans. And human rights abuses, weapons proliferation, intellectual property protection and other issues continue to worry me and my constituents. But, Mr. Speaker, things are changing, and President Clinton's recent trip highlights many of those improvements. Perhaps the most important was President Clinton's uncensored broadcast in China of his news conference held with the Chinese leader. Last year I quoted Secretary of State Albright in noting that engagement does not mean endorsement. I stand by that statement, while recognizing that engagement does mean, and has meant, opportunity; opportunity to export our values of free enterprise, personal liberties and democracy, and the opportunity to promote a better and more secure world for our children and the children of China. Just in the past year, Chinese leaders have endorsed accelerated privatization of industry, banking reforms, legal due process, and more open political debate. These improvements, while not complete, are largely due to quiet prodding by the United States. I believe there is no greater opportunity or challenge in American foreign policy today than to secure China's integration into the international system as a fully responsible member. I believe we can better influence China's direction by exposing them to our democratic ideals. We can more effectively move the Chinese to change by increasing their exposure to the United States, because we are the model of democracy and freedom for the world. Revoking NTR would severely damage American interests and undermine our ability to influence China's directions. I urge my colleagues to vote ``no'' on this resolution.

Mrs. TAUSCHER

Mrs. TAUSCHER. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the Lowey amendment to this bill. This language would require that Federal Employee Health Benefit Plans cover prescription contraception, just as they cover other prescription drugs. Prescription contraception is like any other prescription medication or device that is now covered by Federal plans. It is taken or used under the guidance of a physician with the clear purpose of protecting and promoting women's health. Contraception is absolutely essential if a woman wants to prevent unintended pregnancies, and if this Congress is truly committed to reducing the number of abortions in the United States, then the use of and affordable access to contraception is imperative in achieving that goal. Prescription contraception methods have health benefits that go beyond preventing pregnancy. Birth control pills, for example, have been shown to be effective in reducing the risks of disease such as uterine cancer. Yet, despite the clear advantages that prescription contraception offers, women covered under Federal plans are not guaranteed affordable access to them. Mr. Chairman, 81 percent of Federal employee plans do not cover all 5 of the widely used and effective methods of reversible contraception. Ten percent of FEHB plans do not cover any type of contraception. The undue financial burden of preventing pregnancy through contraception is placed on women who now spend 68 percent more in out-of-pocket health care costs than men. This is largely due to the cost of purchasing prescription contraception, because most health insurance companies will not cover the 5 most effective methods of birth control. The Federal Government health plan is a model for all other health plans. Because of the poor example set by this plan, less than 20 percent of traditional indemnity plans and PPOs cover all types of prescription contraception. Less than 40 percent of HMOs cover all types of contraception. Recently, the administration ordered the Medicaid programs in all 50 States to cover the cost of Viagra. This drug has been hailed as the medical miracle for men who have suffered from impotency for years. But if we are going to cover the cost of medication that helps the reproductive functions of men, then it seems ironic that we are not willing to offer the same protection to women. By not requiring FEHB plans to cover prescription contraception, we are essentially placing it in the same category as a drug which has only cosmetic purposes. Women should not be forced to assume total financial responsibility for contraception outside of these plans. We must support the Lowey amendment to this bill and require that all Federal health benefit plans cover the contraceptive methods that women need for their health and well-being.

Mrs. TAUSCHER

Mrs. TAUSCHER. Mr. Chairman, I accept the gentleman's invitation. Mr. Chairman, I rise to strongly support this legislation to reform bankruptcy. This legislation would change bankruptcy laws to promote personal responsibility, ensure that more of the people who file for bankruptcy repay at least a portion of what they owe. If, after accounting for all reasonable household expenses each month, the filer has enough money to pay some of his debt, he will be required to do so. This fair and reasonable test protects the most needy while it insists on repayment by the most irresponsible. The stigma that was once attached to bankruptcy has disappeared. The growing number of filers indicates that people today are less concerned about the social implications of bankruptcy. It is our job to replace that social stigma with legislation that fills the gaps in bankruptcy law and demands responsible behavior by individuals. I urge my colleagues to support this important legislation.

Mrs. TAUSCHER

Mrs. TAUSCHER. Mr. Chairman, I rise to oppose the Scott amendment to strike section 212 of this bill. Under section 212 of H.R. 3150, bankruptcy judges would have the right to deny the termination of contracts with recording artists if it is clear that the bankruptcy filing is a ploy to end the contract. It provides judges with the authority to prevent fraudulent filers from using the bankruptcy system simply to advance other business objectives. At issue in this provision is not who is filing for bankruptcy, but why they are filing for bankruptcy. Regardless of the circumstances, bankruptcy judges should have the authority to prevent fraudulent filings. Mr. Chairman, this provision would not deny anyone access to bankruptcy. It would not deny debtors in genuine economic stress the ability to rehabilitate their finances, and it would not deny or not give recording companies a preferred creditor position. I urge my colleagues to oppose the Scott amendment and support H.R. 3150.

Mrs. TAUSCHER. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to the Nadler substitute. The skyrocketing number of bankruptcies filed in this country make it necessary for us to make real and substantial reform and improvements to our bankruptcy law. This substitute would strip from H.R. 3150 those provisions that promote responsibility and ensure for bankruptcy filers repay some of what they owe. The means test in this bill is a fair and reasonable process that separates those who truly need to have their debts wiped away from those who can afford to repay some of their obligations. It places no undue burdens on sincere bankruptcy filers and requires repayment of debts only if filers can adequately meet their household needs. Mr. Chairman, we cannot be apologists for irresponsible behavior any longer. The stigma that once was attached to bankruptcy must be replaced by laws that hold people accountable for their action. I urge my colleagues to oppose the Nadler substitute and support H.R. 3150.