Bennie Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, might I inquire as to the time remaining.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 866, a resolution commending the dedicated men and women of the Coast Guard on their remarkable drug interdiction efforts, which have resulted in the record seizure of 355,755 pounds of cocaine, valued at more than $4.7 billion. Embodying its motto of Semper Paratus or ``Always Ready'', the Coast Guard has used improved information-sharing and intelligence to anticipate and combat smuggling, piracy and other threats before they reach America's shores. For example, in September, the Coast Guard stopped a vessel loaded with 3,600 gallons of cocaine dissolved in diesel fuel. This liquid cocaine could have been converted into 15,800 pounds of pure cocaine. Earlier last year, the Coast Guard made its largest maritime cocaine seizure when it intercepted a Panamanian vessel carrying approximately 20 tons of the drug. Since the tragic events of 9/11, the Coast Guard's mission has taken on increased significance, as they have added critical homeland security responsibilities to their traditional missions. As chairman of the Committee on Homeland Security, I am well acquainted with the extraordinary job the Coast Guard does in fulfilling these missions on behalf of our Nation. H. Res. 866 affirms our appreciation for the valiant members of the United States Coast Guard, who risk their lives every day to rescue and protect the American people and preserve the Nation's security. I encourage my colleagues to join me in supporting this important legislation.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak in support of Department of Homeland Security FY 2008 Appropriations Bill which is part of the larger omnibus spending package, Amendment to the Senate amendment to H.R. 2764. Specifically, I want to note that the Democrats have done a better job at funding key homeland security programs, but as always, more needs to be done. As the first Democratic chairman of the Committee on Homeland Security, I am happy to note that the appropriated dollars will go a long way to implementing the recommendations of the 9/11 Commission which are codified in a bill I had the distinct honor of developing and steering toward passage--the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007, P.L. 110-53. I am also glad that the fiscal year 2008 appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security are fairly consistent with my eight-point plan--the ``Real Deal on Homeland Security.'' This 8-point plan is what I have used to develop key legislative and oversight initiatives aimed at ensuring that ours is a Nation that can flourish free from fear. In particular, the fiscal year 2008 appropriations reflect the Real Deal in the following way: 1. Improving the Functionality, Governance, and Accountability of the Department of Homeland Security The Department of Homeland Security FY 2008 appropriations bill provides $28.49 million for the Chief Procurement Officer which is $11.5 million above the enacted fiscal year 2007 level. This increase funding can help the office attract and retain experienced staff to manage procurements. The bill also provides a $108.7 million for the Office of Inspector General at the Department of Homeland Security, $6 million above the enacted fiscal year 2007 level. It is also notable that the bill's Joint Explanatory Statement makes clear that Congress favors contracts awarded by full and open competition. The bill also acknowledges the operation of the Small Business Act and therefore does not adversely affect the award of contracts to small, minority and disadvantaged businesses. In addition, the bill requires the Inspector General to review contracts awarded by means other than full and open competition to determine compliance with the law. Finally, I am very pleased that the bill provides no funding for MAX-HR but rather provides $10 million for the Department of Homeland Security to address the issues revealed in the 2006 Federal Human Capital Survey. The bill further requires the Secretary to submit an expenditure plan for the $10 million prior to the obligation of the funds. However, I must point out that the Committee on Homeland Security was disappointed with the decision not to fund the relocation of the headquarters for the Department of Homeland Security at the St. Elizabeths site in Washington, DC. 2. Enhancing Security for All Modes of Transportation I applaud the bill which provides over $4.5 billion to enhance aviation security. That funding makes the bill consistent with meeting aviation security mandates in P.L. 110-53. For example, the bill fully funds the Aviation Security Capitol Fund at $250 million. Furthermore, this bill provides $15 million for a pilot program to screen 100 percent of airport workers. Although the bill does not provide sufficient resources to implement the authorization levels in P.L. 110-53, the Appropriations Committee has provided the foundation to reach that goal. For example, the bill provides $400 million in Public Transportation and Railroad Security Grants. This includes not less than $25 million for Amtrak, $11.5 million over the road bus security grants, and $16 million for trucking security grants. This is in contrast to the authorized amount in P.L. 110-53 which called for $650 million for public transit, $300 million for rail, and $150 million for Amtrak. I also support the bill's provision of $523.5 million for information technology and intelligence for transportation security and the increased funding for Red Teams at $6.26 million--a 50 percent increase over the enacted level of fiscal year 2007. Finally, the bill provides $46 million for surface transportation security, an increase from the $41.4 million enacted in fiscal year 2007. Of the proposed amount for fiscal year 2008, $24.5 million is for staffing and operations, $22.1 million is for inspectors and canines, and another $30 million is provided for security training program, transportation risk assessment, and the development of regulation for name-based immigration screening for public transportation and rail workers. 3. Response, Resilience, and Recovery in the Wake of a National Catastrophe I am pleased that key programs to assist first responders and State, local, and tribal governments have been funded above the President's request. Specifically, the State Homeland Security Grant Program which provides grants to first responders in all 50 States and U.S. Territories to help them prevent, prepare for, and respond to an act of terrorism or other emergency is funded at $950 million. The Urban Area Security Initiative, which addresses the unique planning, operations, equipment, training, and exercise needs of high-threat, high-density urban areas, is funded at $820 million--a $50 million increase in funding over FY 2007 levels. The bill also provides $41 million for the Metropolitan Medical Response System, MMRS; $300 million for Emergency Management Performance Grant, EMPG, program; $560 million for FIRE grants; $190 million for the SAFER Act program; and $32.5 million for the Urban Search and Rescue System, USAR, a $7.5 million increase over the enacted level in fiscal year 2007. I also support the bill for directing FEMA to assist communities by ensuring disaster preparedness and response education materials are developed and distributed to children. The bill also supports the Office of the Disabilities Coordinator and directs the Department of Homeland Security's Inspector General to investigate FEMA's policies and processes regarding formaldehyde in trailers purchased by the agency to house disaster victims in the office created by the Post- Katrina Emergency Management Reform Act of 2006. I will note, however, that it is unfortunate that the splintered oversight jurisdiction of the Department of Homeland Security has resulted in the inclusion of section 541 of the bill which states that ``none of the funds provided by this or previous appropriations Acts shall be used to fund any position designated as a Principal Federal Official, PFO, for any Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act declared disasters or emergencies.'' I am very concerned that this language micromanages Federal emergency response through the appropriation process, interferes with the writing of the National Response Framework which aims to clarify the role of the PFO and does not recognize the situations where the appointment of PFO would be necessary, public health emergencies, cyber attacks, etc. Simply stated, this language unnecessarily reopens a policy question that was settled in the Post-Katrina Emergency Management Reform Act of 2006. 4. Shielding the Nation's Critical Infrastructure from Foreign and Domestic Terrorism I commend the $50 million appropriated for chemical security. The bill also includes preemption language that supports States that have stronger law as it relates to the security of chemical facilities. In addition, the bill directs the Assistant Secretary for Infrastructure Protection to provide semi-annual briefings to the Appropriations Committee on implementing the National Infrastructure Protection Plan. I, too, look forward to being included in such briefing. The bill also provides $10 million for the Office of Bombing Prevention, a legislative initiative from the Committee on Homeland Security, H.R. 4749, with the requirement that the office will develop a national strategy on bombing prevention. 5. Securing the Homeland and Preserving Civil Liberties in Times of Terror I believe strongly that civil liberties guaranteed under the U.S. Constitution need not be compromised to make the Nation more secure. One particular area of concern was the Department of Homeland Security's attempt to skirt congressional oversight by developing and implementing a spy satellite program. After I demanded answers about the program's reach, the Department modified its spy satellite plans. Going forward, the Committees on Homeland Security, Budget, and Appropriations should closely examine the Department's authority to ensure transparency and accountability. 6. Connecting the Dots: Intelligence Information Sharing and Interoperability I am very pleased that the bill includes $50 million to fund the Interoperability Emergency Communications Grant Program which was enacted in P.L. 110-53 and provides for improved emergency communications capabilities for first responders. Also, the bill includes $35.7 million for the Office of Emergency Communications, an $18.7 million increase over the enacted fiscal year 2007. The office, which was established in April 2007, pursuant to the Post-Katrina Emergency Management Reform Act of 2006, is the focal point within the Federal Government to improve national interoperable communication capabilities. 7. Implementing Commonsense Border and Port Security I believe that border and port security must reflect the Nation's commitment to facilitating the flow of commerce and demanding accountability from our Government. That is why we cannot allow fear to drive the discussion of building fences that may wind up disrupting commerce or poor governmental planning that leads to Government waste. I commend the appropriator's for providing $2 million reimbursement to the Defense Acquisition University for a review of Secure Border Initiative procurement; $60 million for reimbursement of State and local law enforcement agencies in U.S.-Mexico border communities; and $225 million for the extension of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. We must remember that border security is fundamentally a Federal responsibility and that we should not pass unfunded mandates to State and local governments that will be burdened by bad public policy. I am especially pleased that the appropriations bill provides $475 million for U.S.-VISIT along with report language that makes clear that at least $13 million is to be used to develop an exit system. The provision also requires a schedule for implementing the exit program. Under my chairmanship, the Committee on Homeland Security has held several hearings examining the exit aspect of the US-VISIT. In fact, on September 5, 2007, I called on Secretary Chertoff to implement the US- VISIT air exit by the end of the calendar year 2008. Simply put, it is folly to speak of security if we rely on a process that tells us who comes into the country but cannot verify if or when individuals leave the country. Other commonsense border security measures in the fiscal year 2008 appropriations bill include the language that amend current law by requiring consultation with the Secretaries of Agriculture and Interior, States, local land owners, and tribes; authorizing programs to study the modernization of ports-of-entry. I also commend the bill's inclusion of $36 million for the implementation of the Electronic Travel Authorization program--a provision that I promoted in P.L. 110- 53. One particular area that reflects sound policy is language that provides ``law enforcement officer'', LEO, status and retirement benefits to Customs and Border Protection officers in order to enhance recruitment and retention. I was pleased to advocate the LEO status during the Committee of Homeland Security's consideration of H.R. 1684, the ``Department of Homeland Security Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008.'' We must do all that we can to retain our trained staff who are the eyes and ears along this Nation's vast borders. I also note that the bill prohibits the use of funds for the planning, testing, piloting, or development of a national ID card and directs CBP to brief the Appropriations committees no later than Jan. 31, 2008 on how it is using the Workload Staffing Model to allocated staffing resources. With regard to port security, I commend the appropriators for requiring improved oversight of the Deepwater Program which is funded at $783 million. Under my chairmanship, the Committee on Homeland Security has closely examined and demanded accountability over Deepwater, particularly in H.R. 2830, the U.S. Coast Guard Reauthorization Act and the SAFE Port Act, P.L. 109-347. Other notable funding is the $2 million for LNG and dangerous cargo suitability assessments; the $3.1 million to develop and finalize SAFE Port Act rulemakings; and the $60 million for Interagency Operational Centers for Port Security, a requirement from the SAFE Port Act; and $400 million for port security grants. I note that the appropriation's bill requires the Transportation Security Administration, TSA and Coast Guard to work closely with terminal operators, local port police, and other law enforcement agencies to develop the operational procedures to ensure the effective implementation of the Transportation Worker Identification Card, TWIC program. I am concerned, however, that while the bill directs TSA to work with the appropriate officials of Florida and other port authorities to resolve differences between TWIC and the State's transportation facility access control programs, the requirement maybe interpreted as indicating that the Federal TWIC program does not pre- empt the Florida program. This is very troubling and counterproductive. Finally, the bill appropriates $13 million for the CBP's Global Trade Exchange, GTX. CBP recently announced the Request for Quotations for the Global Trade Exchange 1 despite significant criticism from industry concerning the lack of transparency with this new initiative. I am concerned that the Department has not fully developed this initiative and that it is premature to fund it until the Department has provided the Committee of Homeland Security and industry with a more in-depth analysis of this new pilot. 8. Inspiring Minds and Developing Technology--The Future of Homeland Security I am very concerned about the emerging threats of a chemical, biological, nuclear, and radiological attack. As chairman of the Committee on Homeland Security, I will continue to conduct oversight into this area to ensure that there is improved coordination between the Departments of Homeland Security and Health and Human Services and State, local, and Tribal governments. I recognize that the appropriation's bill does not provide a large amount of funding for pandemic flu due to the fact that the Department of Health and Human Services has $1.2 billion in unobligated funds from fiscal year 2007. I am pleased that the bill provides $116.5 million to the Office of Health Affairs and includes a provision that would allow agricultural inspectors to stay at CBP and the Transportation Security Lab to recoup fees for testing. With regard to the threat of a cyber security attack, the bill provides $125 million for the Chief Information Officer to improve information technology security at the Department of Homeland Security--a much needed act. I am also glad that the appropriators support the development of technology and the future minds in the field homeland security. For example, the bill provides that the Science and Technology Directorate will be appropriated at $830 million and funds the Third Generation Bio Watch at $5.8 million. The bill also provides $325 million for research and development. With regard to university programs, the bill provides $49.3 million for fiscal year 2008. This amount includes $4 million for the Transportation Security Center of Excellence. While that is far shy of the $18 million authorized in P.L. 110-53, the Committee on Homeland Security remains optimistic that appropriators will support the Centers of Excellence as they are the training grounds for future homeland security experts. The $455 million appropriated to the Domestic Nuclear Detection Office, DNDO, and $90 million for the Radiation Portal Monitor program is critical to tracking loose nuclear weapons. However, I am very concerned, like the appropriators, that there has not yet been certification by the DHS Secretary of Advanced Spectroscopic Portal, ASP, radiation monitors. We must push out the boundaries of technology if we are going to have 21st century security. In closing, I would like to thank the appropriators for funding the vital programs that are critical to securing the Nation. As chairman of the authorizing committee, I will vigilantly monitor the Department of Homeland Security to ensure that it is drawing on the diverse talents of its experts to ensure that it is providing the American people security, accountability, and freedom from fear.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, today I rise to congratulate Ray Brooks High School for winning the Mississippi Class 1A State Football Championship. The Ray Brooks Tigers completed the 2007 season amassing 13 victories and only 1 loss. This State Championship is their second in 3 years. Benoit is a small town in the Mississippi Delta, as of the 2000 census there were 611 residents. As a matter of fact, Ray Brooks is one of the smallest high schools in the State of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, although Benoit may be small in population; it has no shortcomings in regards to its high school football team. What makes this feat more impressive is the fact that Ray Brooks didn't have a football program for 15 years until 2002. The Tigers have been in the playoffs each of the last 6 years they have been back on the football field. During this 6-year period, the tigers have been phenomenal going 62-13 since restarting their football program. Madam Speaker, not only have the Tigers enjoyed success this year but, they have done so dominantly averaging 35.4 points per game during the regular season while only allowing 9.9 points per game this season. Three wins came by the way of a shutout. Madam Speaker, I would like to congratulate the student-athletes, student-body, faculty, staff, administration, and the community of West Bolivar for winning the 2007 Mississippi Class 1A State Championship. I am extremely proud to represent these young men and I look forward to the 2008 season.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I would like to express my support for the House Amendments to Senate Amendment to H.R. 2764-- State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2008, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2008. Specifically, I would like to take this opportunity to highlight and clarify language included in Division E, the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act of 2008 regarding the Secure Handling of Ammonium Nitrate. Farmers who use ammonium nitrate in agriculture production normally obtain their ammonium nitrate from a retail fertilizer dealership. Any retail fertilizer dealership that stores and sells ammonium nitrate would have to register under this legislation. The intent of this legislation is ``track and trace''--to provide law enforcement officials with the ability to know where ammonium nitrate is being stored and the establishment of a pre-screening process before a person can take possession of ammonium nitrate. Retail fertilizer dealerships provide many services for farmers and one of those services is custom application. Many farmers that buy fertilizer never physically take possession of ammonium nitrate. The farmer purchases the services of the dealer who spreads the ammonium nitrate on the farmer's field. These custom application services can be provided by other businesses that would be subject to the registration requirements of the legislation. In Mississippi and southeastern United States, nearly 90 percent of the 41,800 tons of ammonium nitrate purchased is applied by a fertilizer dealer or applicator company to the field. Only 10 percent of the ammonium nitrate fertilizer purchased in the southeastern United States is ever under the direct control and possession of the farm customer. It is not the intent of this legislation to require individuals that use custom application services and do not take possession of ammonium nitrate to be subject to be registered. I believe this bill will enhance the security surrounding ammonium nitrate in agriculture and ammonium nitrate will be kept out of the hands of would-be terrorists. I also ask that a letter submitted by The Fertilizer Institute (TFI), in support of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2008, be inserted in the Congressional Record. Again, I support this legislation that reduces the risk that large quantities of ammonium nitrate could fall into the wrong hands while ensuring access for agriculture professionals and farmers who use this fertilizer for legitimate purposes. The Fertilizer Institute, Washington, DC, December 17, 2007. Hon. Bennie Thompson, Chairman, House Homeland Security Committee, Washington, DC. Dear Mr. Chairman: On behalf of The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) and our ammonium nitrate producers and retailers, I am writing to thank you for your tireless efforts to help secure passage of the ``Secure Handling of Ammonium Nitrate Act of 2007.'' The goal of TFI and our affected membership has been to pass legislation that would require traceability of ammonium nitrate being sold in the United States. By requiring facilities and individuals who possess ammonium nitrate to register with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and keep records of all sales, we believe the security surrounding ammonium nitrate use in agriculture will be greatly enhanced and our beneficial product will be kept out of the hands of those with criminal intent. Ammonium nitrate in many areas of the country is directly applied by retail fertilizer dealers or other custom application businesses. For instance, in many cases, farmers do not physically possess or control the application of ammonium nitrate; the dealer maintains custody and applies the purchased product directly to the field. TFI believes that anyone not taking physical possession of ammonium nitrate should not have to register with DHS as this would be unnecessary and of no added security benefit when the facility having possession of ammonium nitrate is required to register and keep records. Again, thank you, Mr. Chairman. Sincerely yours, Ford B. West, President.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize the life and legacy of Dr. Dennis Frate, a medical anthropologist known for his studies of rural health in the Mississippi Delta. Dr. Frate was a former pharmacy professor at the University of Mississippi. He worked in the School of Pharmacy from 1980 until 2000. He retired June 30, 2007 as a professor of preventative medicine at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, which is in my Congressional District. As we are all well aware, rural areas of this country are vastly underserved. Dr. Frate took this problem head-on through the Rural Health Research Program. Dr. Frate served as the coordinator of the Rural Health Research Program and principal investigator of a National Institutes of Health study to develop community-based programs to control high blood pressure in rural populations. Many of our colleagues here in Congress have espoused the notion of expanding healthcare coverage. Dr. Frate lived it. It is through community efforts as demonstrated by Dr. Frate that we may be able to achieve a reality of accessible and affordable healthcare for all. During his 20-plus years of service, Dr. Frate touched the lives of many, proving that even the simplest ideas can make a big difference. I take great pride in commending the work of Dr. Dennis Frate on a job well done for more than 20 years.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, today I rise to congratulate the West Bolivar Eagles for completing a perfect season and Winning the Class 2A State championship. This is West Bolivar's fourth State title, but their first since 1906--before any of this year's seniors were born. West Bolivar was ranked No. 1 the entire season by the Clarion-Leggert 2A football poll. Madam Speaker, West Bolivar High School has a rich football history. Along with four State championships, they have 17 division championships and 5 appearances in State championship games. Over the last 3 seasons the Eagles are 37-4 and have three consecutive Region 3- 2A championships. Madam Speaker, not only have the Eagles enjoyed success this year, but they have done so dominantly. On the season, the Eagles have outscored their opponents 582-184. In the playoffs, the Eagles have outscored their opponents 177-101. The Eagles have scored 40 or more points 9 times, helping them amass more points that any team in Mississippi 2A football. Madam Speaker, West Bolivar's recent success has come with the leadership of Coach Henry Johnson. Coach Johnson is a former West Bolivar player who played wide receiver and defensive back on the Eagles' last State finalist team under legendary Rosedale coach Leland Young. Madam Speaker, one of the traditions that Coach Johnson restored at his alma mater was running up and down a steep Mississippi River levee. Madam Speaker, I would like to congratulate the student-athletes, student body, faculty, staff, administration, and the community of West Bolivar for winning the 2007 Mississippi Class 2A State Championship.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, today I rise to salute Job Martin. Job, more widely know as Jobie, was recently recognized as Mississippi's Outstanding Older Worker. At the age of 88, Jobie won the honor for his substitute teaching in Jackson Public Schools. The award was given by Experience Works of Mississippi which is part of a national employment and training organization that selects working men and women above 65 from every State who have made continuous contributions to their community and workplace. Madam Speaker, not only has Jobie been a hard worker, but he is also a pioneer. Jobie was a well-known disc jockey, eventually becoming known as ``the Loud Mouth of the South.'' Jobie's radio fame paved the way for him to make Mississippi television history. Jobie Martin was Mississippi's first African-American commercial television show host. The Jobie Martin Show hosted many famous guest including Muhammad Ali, B.B. King, Bill Cosby, Joe Louis, and James Earl Jones. Madam Speaker, Jobie's success was not just limited to mass communication; he was an entrepreneur as well. Jobie operated Jobie's Chicken Restaurant--``where the flavor's locked in and the grease is locked out.'' Located in the historic Lynch Street area, it became a landmark for decades. Later, Martin would open Valerie's, a restaurant named after one of his two children. Martin also became a member of the board of trustees for Hinds Community College. Jobie Martin has worn many hats in his life--disc jockey, television show host, entrepreneur, and educator. Today, Madam Speaker, I take my hat off to him for his many contributions and continuous service to the State of Mississippi.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 1413. H.R. 1413 was introduced by Representatives Lowey and Brown-Waite to establish a pilot program to test the viability of physically screening airport workers at seven (7) airports. I am pleased to report that this bipartisan bill, as amended in Committee, not only requires TSA to test physical screening but also alternative forms of screening, including: biometrics, behavior recognition, and canine teams. Consideration of H.R. 1413 is timely in light of the October 2007 arrest of 10 airline employees for operating a drug smuggling ring at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York. The ring leader allegedly directed JFK airport employees from inside the airport on how to move heroin and cocaine into so-called ``safe areas'' of the airport. Mr. Speaker, most people that work in our nation's airports are hardworking, trustworthy people who pose no threat to the traveling public. However, in a post-9/11 world, we have to address the risk of an ``inside job''--where an attack is planned and executed by an airport worker who exploits security gaps. H.R. 1413 does just that. H.R. 1413 does so in a manner that strives to assure that that people that keep the planes flying are able to do their job. Specifically, H.R. 1413 creates a 180-day pilot program where all the people that access the terminal and the airplanes, not just the American Flying Public, are screened. To those who think this can't be done, I'm here to tell you ``it can be done.'' They do it at London's Heathrow airport. They do it at DeGaulle Airport in Paris. I understand that there are those who don't want us to look at this approach. But in a post-9/11 world, failing to do so is just plain wrong. Under the leadership of Subcommittee Chairwoman Jackson-Lee, H.R. 1413 was agreed to ``as amended,'' on April 24th by voice vote. The full committee considered, voted and reported favorably on August 1. I strongly urge passage of this bill that takes a reasonable approach to exploring how to better secure our airports, airplanes and travelers. Mrs. Lowey and Ms. Brown-Waite are to be commended for their leadership on this critical legislation. I look forward to continuing to work with the bills sponsors and other interested parties to ensure that TSA structures the pilot in a manner that provides Congress with the best guidance on how to address this gap in security. I strongly urge passage on this important homeland security measure.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to introduce the Safe and Healthy Emergency Housing Act, which underscores the Federal Government's obligation to provide safe emergency housing units to disaster victims during times of need. I am glad to be joined today in introducing this bill by the chairman of the Subcommittee on Emergency Communications, Preparedness and Response, Henry Cuellar from Texas, and Representative Gene Taylor, who knows firsthand the importance of providing adequate housing to disaster victims. I would also like to thank Representatives Clarke, Jackson Lee, Christensen, Lofgren, and Al Green for signing on as original cosponsors. Nearly 2\1/2\ years after Hurricane Katrina, we are still learning how we can improve our ability to better prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters. The lessons we have learned cannot be ignored. One of the most striking lessons we learned was that this country was ill-prepared to provide emergency housing to victims during a major catastrophe. To house the number of individuals who lost their homes during Katrina and Rita, FEMA was forced to immediately purchase thousands of travel trailers. By the time the dust settled, FEMA had purchased over 100,000 of these units. At the time, travel trailers appeared to be a logical choice because they can be produced much faster than other housing alternatives. However, as time passed, it became clear that travel trailers may not have been the best option. By now, most of us are well aware that many of the travel trailers provided by FEMA were and remain contaminated with formaldehyde. Many of us, however, do not know why this happened. Tests conducted in 2006 found that the formaldehyde levels in most of the trailers tested exceeded the Environmental Protection Agency's recommended limit. It's also important to note that formaldehyde is classified as a carcinogen by the International Agency for Research of Cancer. I have continually raised concerns over the health impacts of formaldehyde exposure with the Department of Homeland Security, FEMA, and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC. My Committee staff has also interviewed medical officials from the CDC Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry about a February 2007 report that focused on formaldehyde levels present in FEMA trailers. However, the study did not analyze the potential health impacts on travel trailers' residents. After expressing my deep concerns with the DHS chief medical officer over the lack of such a study, FEMA announced that they would be entering into an agreement with the CDC to test the trailers for formaldehyde and to study what associated health impacts may have been encountered. I anxiously await the results of this important study. Madam Speaker, as you may know, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, HUD, regulates formaldehyde emissions in manufactured housing. However, travel trailers are not considered to be ``manufactured housing,'' and are, therefore, exempt from this regulation. This legislation protects disaster victims by requiring that any emergency housing units provided by FEMA meet HUD regulations limiting formaldehyde emissions. This legislation does not force the travel trailer industry to change the way they manufacture their product, it simply makes certain that FEMA will no longer provide formaldehyde-contaminated housing units to disaster victims. While the health implications are still being studied, we do know that research has proven that the negative health effects can range anywhere from respiratory irritation to cancer. According to medical experts, the health impacts are most concerning for children whose lungs are still developing. In closing Madam Speaker, let me say that our citizens' health should be a top priority during times of disaster recovery. I believe this legislation will embrace that priority and make certain that this problem will not be encountered during future disasters.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 3247, the Hurricanes Katrina and Rita Recovery Facilitation Act of 2007. This bill directs the President to increase to 90 percent the amount of Federal contributions for replacing any State or local government property damaged by the hurricanes. Enactment of this bill is critical if we are going to finally rebuild the historic and vital infrastructure in Mississippi and Louisiana. This bill also addresses a variety of other issues of importance toward rebuilding communities in Mississippi and Louisiana including temporary housing for volunteers, debris removal program eligibility for Mississippi and Louisiana, providing for respectful care and interment of human remains damaged during the hurricanes, restoring certain public facilities and providing incentives for certain hazard mitigation projects. All of these are important steps toward rebuilding our vibrant Gulf Coast communities. Madam Speaker, this bill is welcomed, as both Louisiana and Mississippi are still rebuilding from the damages caused by the storms. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) reported in August that some communities are still without basic needs--such as schools, hospitals, and other infrastructure. In addition to these basic community needs, many are still without jobs because the doors of many businesses remain closed. Estimates from the Congressional Budget Office put, capital losses resulting from both hurricanes in the range of $70 to $130 billion. The GAO report further found that a substantial portion of the billions of dollars in assistance to the Gulf Coast was directed to short-term needs, leaving a smaller portion for long-term rebuilding. To date, the Federal government has provided most long-term rebuilding assistance to the Gulf Coast states through two key programs: FEMA's Public Assistance Program and the Department of Housing and Urban Development's Community Development Block Grant program (CDBG). Both States allocated a bulk of their CDBG funds to homeowner assistance, thus, creating a need for supplemental public assistance funds to focus on rebuilding and restoring critical infrastructure, such as government facilities, which funding this bill provides. The increased assistance from the Federal government to Louisiana and Mississippi to rebuild their infrastructure through FEMA's public assistance program will help with the financial burden they face and will allow the process, which has thus far been daunting, to proceed more rapidly. This legislation is a step forward because it increases Federal assistance toward the rebuilding process and provides needed changes to the Stafford Act. And, as we focus on rebuilding infrastructure in Louisiana and Mississippi, we must not forget that many of the child care facilities were damaged and even destroyed, while parents struggled to find a safe place to leave their children while regrouping. Many child care facility owners are still waiting to hear from FEMA about financial assistance. Because I recognize the importance of emergency child care after a disaster, I introduced H.R. 2479, the Emergency Child Care Services Act, which was referred to the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. This bill would amend the Stafford Act to designate emergency child care as a ``critical service'' that is eligible to receive disaster assistance from FEMA. Recently, I have received calls from colleagues who represent areas affected by the California wildfires, inquiring about the bill's status. I am disappointed that the Emergency Child Care bill was not included in the bill debated on the floor today. It is my hope that my bill will be successfully passed out of Committee in the near future. As Chairman of the Homeland Security Committee with oversight of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), of which FEMA is a part, our Committee works diligently to ensure that DHS and all of its components are prepared to respond to acts of terrorism, natural disasters and other emergencies. This bill will help rebuild our communities in both Louisiana and Mississippi and help with preparedness efforts for future incidents. In closing, let me thank my colleagues on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee for their leadership on this legislation, and in particular, Ms. Norton, who is also a member of the Committee on Homeland Security, for spearheading this effort. I look forward to working with Chairman Oberstar, Ms. Norton and others on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee to assure that our Federal disaster and post-terrorism response capabilities are at the level that the American people deserve. I encourage my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 3867, the Small Business Contracting Program Improvements Act. I want to thank Chairwoman Velazquez for introducing this important legislation, and for all of her hard work in getting it to the floor today. This bill is important to all Americans, because small business keeps this country working. The Federal Government has numerous programs to assist America's small businesses, but problems remain, and H.R. 3867 addresses several of them. In particular, I support the bill's efforts to crack down on large firms that masquerade as small businesses. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, we learned about a particular multinational corporation that listed itself as a small business and gained disaster recovery contracts set aside for small businesses. When we checked further, we found that this firm had 17 divisions and had generated $4.5 billion in revenue in its North American operation alone. That surely doesn't look like any small business I've ever seen. Morever, we learned that this was not the first time that this multinational company had been awarded contracts that were set aside for small businesses. In fact, another government agency had given them an award for outstanding ``small business performance''. H.R. 3867 creates penalties for companies that misrepresent themselves as being owned by ``a service-disabled veteran.'' This is a good first step at cracking down on companies that misrepresent themselves to improperly gain government contracts. At the same time, the Small Business Administration needs to step up and do more. SBA must full its responsibility to enforce the laws and allow small businesses the opportunities that Congress has said they should have. Until the laws we pass are truly enforced, small business will never be able to fulfill their economic promise. I urge my colleagues to support it.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to introduce legislation designating the United States Post Office located at 100 W. Percy Street in Indianola, MS, as the ``Minnie Cox United States Post Office''. Minnie M. Geddings Cox, a graduate of Fisk University, was appointed postmistress of Indianola, MS, in 1891, by President Benjamin Harrison, and was reappointed by President William McKinley; thereby, becoming the first Black postmistress of the United States. On January 25, 1900, President McKinley raised the rank of the Indianola Post Office from fourth class to third class and appointed Mrs. Cox for a full 4-year term. However, in the fall of 1902, under the presidency of Theodore Roosevelt, a controversy brought national attention to Mrs. Cox. Jim Crow laws overran Reconstruction in America and whites wanted blacks eliminated from leadership positions. Some of the local whites in Indianola met and drew up a petition requesting Cox's resignation. Increased tension and threats of physical harm caused Cox to submit her resignation to take effect January 1, 1903, and leave Indianola. President Roosevelt believed Mrs. Cox had been wronged, and that the authority of the Federal Government was being compromised and refused to accept her resignation. Instead, he closed Indianola's post office on January 2, 1903, rerouted the mail to Greenville, MS, 30 miles away and Cox continued to receive her salary. For 4 hours in January 1903, the Indianola postal event was debated on the floor of the United States Senate, and appeared on the front pages of newspapers across the country. One year later, at the expiration of Mrs. Cox's term, in February 1904, the post office was reopened, but demoted in rank from third class to fourth class. Minnie Cox and her husband Wayne W. Cox, who had been an employee in the railway mail service, returned to Indianola and organized the ``Delta Penny Savings Bank.'' They had been substantial property owners before 1903, and they bought more land and became successful bankers as well. Minnie Cox died in 1933.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 1955) to prevent homegrown terrorism, and for other purposes, as amended.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks on this bill and include therein any extraneous material.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I yield as much time as she may consume to the gentlelady from California (Ms. Harman), the chairman of the subcommittee, as well as the author of this legislation under consideration today.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Carney), the chairman of our Management and Oversight Committee.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 1955, the Violent Radicalization of Homegrown Terrorism Prevention Act of 2007. In May, six men were arrested for allegedly plotting to attack Fort Dix. Three of those men were United States citizens; the other three had been in the United States since they were small children. Then, again, in June, another four men were charged with plotting to attack JFK Airport by blowing up jet fuel tanks. The alleged mastermind of this plot was a United States citizen. Today, one of the most frequently visited English language Web sites that preaches hate, violence and radicalized views of Islam is operated by a 21-year-old U.S. citizen from the comfort of his parents' home in North Carolina. Some may say these incidents are isolated cases, but I believe that they are indicative of a growing trend of homegrown terrorism in this country. Homegrown terrorists no longer need to travel to Afghanistan or Pakistan to get support and training. They can simply go on the Internet to find violent propaganda and others who share their violent ideology. H.R. 1955 provides us with a strategy for how to address this very challenging Homeland Security issue. I commend Chairwoman Harman for authoring this important legislation and for championing this case. The centerpiece of this bill is the creation of a national commission. It is a step in the right direction. National commissions have a long and successful history in this country. The Gilmore Commission, of which our chairwoman was a member, which functioned from 1993 to 1998, made 164 recommendations regarding the domestic response to terrorism. Of those 164 recommendations, all have been adopted in whole or in part by the Congress and the Federal Government. Another commission, the National Commission on Terrorism, which operated in the early 1990s, was on the cutting edge of the terrorism debate. That commission provided the Nation with the blueprint of how to address the threat of terrorism long before the September 11 attacks. The more recent 9/11 Commission set the tenor of our administrative and legislative response to the September 11 attack. That commission's recommendations were the bedrock of legislation I offered that was enacted into law this summer. The commission established in H.R. 1955 will help build on the work of past commissions and help our Nation come up with strategies for new threats. The bill also requires our government to reach out to other nations that have experienced home grown terrorism. Learning from other nations about what works and what doesn't will better position us to prevent the spread of violent ideology in our country. The bill also creates a center of excellence to conduct research that is desperately needed in determining the root cause of violent radicalization. At the same time, H.R. 1955 also protects simple rights and liberties of U.S. citizens. The bill is mindful of Americans' right to free speech, freedom of association and freedom to worship. H.R. 1955 makes certain that individuals exercising these rights within lawful parameters are not singled out. I urge my colleagues to support this important Homeland Security bill and ask them to vote in favor of passage of this important legislation. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, at this time I would like to yield such time as she may consume to the chairman of the subcommittee, Ms. Harman.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I continue to reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, at this time I have no further requests for time, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Colorado (Mr. Perlmutter).

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I move to lay the resolution on the table.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, as DHS Secretary Michael Chertoff recently said, improvised explosive devices are the weapon of choice for terrorists. And when it comes to making an improvised bomb, regrettably, ammonium nitrate seems to be an easy access to use. That is why I authored the Secure Handling of Ammonium Nitrate Act. It will put safeguards in place to keep ammonium nitrate out of the hands of terrorists while ensuring that farmers can still access it. Ammonium nitrate fertilizer is a popular fertilizer because it is relatively inexpensive and highly effective. In 2005 alone, 1.4 million short tons of ammonium nitrate fertilizer was used to direct application to farmers' fields. Passage of H.R. 1680 will ensure that ammonium nitrate will remain available to those who need to access it for proper purposes. At the same time, passage of this bill is an important step toward ensuring that our Nation is more secure against the threat of improvised explosive devices. I, too, would like to acknowledge the work of the minority committee as well as Colleen O'Keefe, who will be leaving the committee today. Karis Gutter on this side, has worked on the majority side on the committee, and I would like to acknowledge both of them. At an earlier comment, I referred to Ranking Member King's unfortunate tragedy in his family and why he was not here. So I would like to join with the comments of Mr. Lungren in that respect. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in passing this critical homeland security legislation.