Todd Tiahrt

Mr. TIAHRT

Mr. TIAHRT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a former Member of this distinguished body, the late Congressman Garner E. Shriver. Congressman Shriver was born July 6, 1912, in the small Butler County town of Towanda, Kansas. His family later moved to Wichita in 1925 where he attended public schools and graduated from Wichita East. He remained in Wichita to receive his undergraduate degree from the University of Wichita, now Wichita State University, in 1934. Today his congressional papers are kept in the Ablah Library at Wichita State. In 1940, he graduated from Washburn University School of Law in Topeka, Kansas. He put himself both through undergraduate and law school by working odd jobs, including serving as a doorman. In 1941, Garner Shriver married Martha Jane Currier, his wife for the next 50 years of his life. However, before he and Martha had a chance to begin raising a family, World War II pulled him away from home. Mr. Shriver enlisted in the Navy; and after 10 months, he received a commission as lieutenant, leaving the Navy after 3 years as an officer. At the end of the war, Lieutenant Shriver found himself commanding a boat group in the Pacific for the Navy. Not long after the war effort ended, Mr. Shriver made his first attempt at elected office. In 1946, he ran for the Kansas House of Representatives. He entered the race because, as he said, he felt he did not have anything to lose. Representative Shriver etched out a victory by a slim margin of only 222 votes. And so began the long and distinguished career of a great Kansas statesman. After serving 2 terms in the Kansas House, Representative Shriver had greater ambitions and was elected to the Kansas State Senate where he served for two 4-year terms. During his 12 years of service in the Kansas legislature, he championed many worthwhile causes, including education for handicapped and mentally challenged children, keeping reckless drivers off the highways, creating the Kansas State Park Authority, important flood control legislation, and setting up the 4-H livestock show. In 1960, he left State politics to run for Congress. Winning what was characterized as ``a very spirited race,'' Garner Shriver became the new Representative of the Fourth Congressional District. At that time, the district included Sedwick and 14 other counties which are considered to be heavily Democratic. Congressman Shriver went on to win eight consecutive races before losing in a narrow defeat of 3,200 votes in 1976 to former Congressman and former Secretary of Agriculture Dan Glickman. During his 16 years in Congress, Mr. Shriver became an influential voice on significant issues of the day, including health care and education benefits for our Nation's veterans, as well as landmark civil rights legislation. Congressman Shriver served on the committee that drafted the Civil Rights Act of 1964. His family is very proud of the fact that they have one of the pens President Lyndon Johnson used to sign the historic legislation into law. While Congressman Shriver worked on various issues of national concern during his time, he was a relentless advocate of his constituents back in Kansas. As a senior member of the Committee on Appropriations, Representative Shriver was in a unique position to protect the vital interests of the fourth district of Kansas and the State of Kansas. When Representative Shriver left Congress in 1977, he was ranking member of the Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee on Foreign Operations and third ranking Republican on the full committee. In that important capacity, Congressman Shriver was able to make sure Kansas was never overlooked during the Federal budget process. Although he left the House in 1977, he did not leave Congress. He moved over to the Senate and served as minority staff director and general counsel for the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee until 1982 where he made a significant impact on the lives of his fellow veterans. Upon completion of a near-lifetime of public service, Congressman Shriver returned home to Wichita where he practiced law and spent the rest of his life alongside his loving and dedicated wife, Martha Jane, until his death on March 1, 1998. Garner Shriver is survived by his wife and three children, David, Kay and Linda. He also has seven grandchildren and two great grandchildren. During the nearly 30 years of elected public office, the name of Garner Shriver became synonymous with Wichita and south central Kansas. Simply put, Garner Shriver was a political giant. I am honored to succeed him as the current fourth district Representative, and I am pleased to have an opportunity to commemorate his service to our Nation by sponsoring this legislation. Mr. Shriver's beloved wife, Martha Jane Shriver, receives her mail from the United States post office at 9350 East Corporate Hill Drive in Wichita, Kansas; and this is an especially appropriate location to designate the Garner E. Shriver Post Office Building.

Mr. TIAHRT

Mr. TIAHRT. Mr. Speaker, on June 19, I was unavoidably detained and missed rollcall vote No. 296. Rollcall vote No. 296 was on passage of H.R. 660, the Small Business Health Fairness Act of 2003. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on H.R. 660. Also, Mr. Speaker, on June 23, I was unavoidably detained and missed rollcall vote No. 300. Rollcall vote number 300 was on passage of H.R. 2465, the Family Farmer Bankruptcy Relief Act of 2003. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on H.R. 2465.

Mr. TIAHRT

Mr. TIAHRT. Mr. Speaker, in rollcall No. 272 I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted, ``yea.'' Stated against:

Mr. TIAHRT

Mr. TIAHRT. Mr. Speaker, President Chen Shui-bian will soon be marking his third anniversary in office. His performance as leader of Taiwan has received widespread praise around the world. In dealing with China, President Chen has sought to assuage Beijing's anxieties about Taiwan's declaration of independence. Moreover, President Chen has taken major steps to reduce tension in the Taiwan Straits. Travel between Taiwan and the Chinese mainland has been made much easier. We hope that Taiwan and China will soon resume their dialogue on issues affecting both sides. Peace in the Straits is in everyone's interest. President Chen was instrumental in making Taiwan's accession to the World Trade Organization a reality. We hope Taiwan will be successful in joining the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in the not too distant future. We also hope that Taiwan will be successful in gaining observer status at the World Health Assembly this May, especially with SARS affecting so many countries in Asia. As Secretary of State Colin Powell recently said, ``infectious disease knows no borders and requires an effective and coordinated response at local, national, and international levels.'' Taiwan is part of the world that has been severely affected by SARS. Taiwan belongs to the World Health Organization and must be included in all World Health Organization activities in curtailing the spread of SARS. Relations between Taiwan and the United States have been growing stronger everyday. Taiwan is a strong ally of ours. To reduce their trade surplus, Taiwan has bought many types of American agricultural and consumer products. Their tourists choose the United States as their number one destination and many of their students have selected our colleges and universities for advanced study. I am particularly pleased to see Taiwan giving us full support in our campaign against global terrorism and their pledge for humanitarian assistance to post-war Iraq. We must treasure Taiwan's friendship and learn from President Chen's longstanding motto: ``Do your best for whatever the job requires.'' On the eve of President Chen's third anniversary in office, I salute President Chen for his many accomplishments and wish him good luck and good health.

Mr. TIAHRT

Mr. TIAHRT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Jobs and Growth Tax Act of 2003 (H.R. 2). I am supporting this jobs and growth package because that is exactly what my district in Kansas needs right now: new jobs and economic growth. While most of the United States continues to feel the economic after- effects of the September 2001 terrorist attacks, southcentral Kansas is especially struggling to rebound. Wichita is known as the ``Air Capital of the World,'' but with the dramatic drop in demand for new aircraft, many companies have had to ground production work, causing massive layoffs. More than 12,000 aviation workers are out of work in the Wichita area, and several thousand more have been laid off in what has been a trickle-down effect. The local economy is desperate for new growth. The jobs and growth package the House of Representatives is considering today will provide a real boost to the Kansas job market. According to estimates, the Jobs and Growth Tax Act of 2003 is estimated to bring an average of 5,700 new jobs every year to the State of Kansas, over the next five years. More than 8,000 new Kansas jobs would be created in 2004 alone. H.R. 2 is a job-friendly package that will benefit people looking for work. By providing businesses the tools they need to grow, we will see new jobs created in southcentral Kansas. One of the stimulus tools I have strongly supported increases the bonus depreciation rate from 30 to 50 percent, which will allow businesses to recover more costs involved in the expansion of their production capabilities. Companies that have held off purchasing aircraft will now have a strong incentive to buy while the 50 percent bonus depreciation option is available. Companies that purchase new aircraft from Wichita would be allowed to depreciate 66 percent of the aircraft's value the first year. This incentive for companies to buy aircraft now translates to more jobs for Wichita. Another tool H.R. 2 provides is the increase in the amount a small business can deduct from its taxes when it purchases new capital. This economic growth bill will increase the amount a small business can expense from $25,000 to $100,000, and it expands the definition of a small business from $200,000 of capital purchases to $400,000. Another significant element in this jobs and growth package is the reduction of the personal income tax rate on long-term capital gains and dividends. Taxpayers in the lowest two brackets will have their rate on capital gains and dividends lowered to five percent; taxpayers in all other brackets will have their rates lowered to 10 percent for long-term capital gains and dividends. By lowering these rates, investors will be more willing to invest because they will be taxed less on their profits. Businesses will see their costs decline when they invest in new projects. These new investments will boost our economy and create more jobs. Businesses will also benefit from the extension of the net operating loss carryback. This provision will allow small businesses more flexibility in choosing when they can carry back net operating losses to a previous tax year. Generally, these businesses will receive a refund of Federal income tax for that year. Again, this is just another way we can free up resources to help spark the economy. If we expect businesses to create more jobs, we need to help them free up cash flows to expand their production capabilities. H.R. 2 is also pro-family. It increases the child tax credit, expands the lowest 10 percent personal income tax bracket, accelerates marriage penalty relief, accelerates the individual tax rate schedule for millions of American families and small businesses, and saves nearly 10 million taxpayers from having to deal with the alternative minimum tax. By accelerating the increase in the basic standard deduction amount for married joint tax filers, we will bring parity to that of single tax filers. Those who decide to get married should not be taxed more than they would if they were still single. With the enactment of President Bush's 2001 tax cut, we provided a phase-out of the marriage penalty over several years. H.R. 2 immediately phases it out for the next three years. Millions of families will benefit from the child tax credit this year as it is increased from $600 to $1,000 for the next three years. By accelerating the phase-in of this provision from the 2001 tax cuts, we will be providing families with more cash to help pay for things like school supplies, clothes or summer vacations. H.R. 2 is good for seniors. An estimated 10 million American senior citizens who receive dividend income will be able to make their golden years more secure by keeping a larger percent of these payments. Seniors who have worked hard all their lives and have invested for the future will see more money staying in their pockets instead of being sent to Washington. Today I urge my colleagues to join me in sending a positive message to the American people by voting for passage of H.R. 2. This bill will pump an estimated $200 billion into the economy and create 1.2 million new jobs by the end of 2004. The tax rate cut on both dividend income and capital gains will provide relief for the 50 percent of Americans who are invested in the market, as well as the 70 million Americans who own their homes. This is the kind of economic relief America needs.

Mr. TIAHRT

Mr. TIAHRT. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of the United States Leadership Against HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria Act of 2003 and in support of amendments that would strengthen this bill in helping address the AIDS pandemic in Africa. The bill before the House today seeks to prevent 7 million new HIV/AIDS infections, provide care and support for 10 million HIV-infected people and provide antiretroviral therapy for millions of victims over the next 5 years. Africa is a continent far removed from the everyday lives of most Americans, both in its geographic location and in its distinction among the other populations of the world. But it is a continent whose future has profound implications for the future of the United States. Sub-Saharan Africa has approximately 10 percent of the world's population, a remarkable history and numerous natural resources. Unfortunately, it also is plagued with the pandemic known as HIV/AIDS that has caught the attention of the international community. In recent years, more than 21 million Africans have died of AIDS, including more than 2 million in 2001. AIDS has surpassed malaria as the leading cause of death and threatens to cripple and destroy African life. An alarming 70 percent of the world's AIDS victims live in Africa. With far more dying from AIDS in Africa than from all its wars and conflicts, we cannot ignore the perilous state of affairs faced by our fellow men. Of particular concern to me is the fact that 58 percent of those infected with the virus are women who are passing this deadly disease to their children. More than 600,000 infants are HIV infected each year in Africa because of mother-to-child transmission. As one generation passes the deadly virus on to the next, we are witnessing a self- sustaining genocide. The more than 11 million AIDS orphans living in Africa are crying out from malnutrition, and their chances of obtaining an education are severely reduced. These innocent little children are the product of a crisis that is bringing even more severe economic hardship to a land already stranded in poverty. Life expectancy in some African countries has dropped by decades, and agricultural production has declined as workers with AIDS die or become unable to perform their work. With the leadership of President Bush, the United States is stepping up its efforts to deal with this problem. Not only are we reaching out because of moral principle and human compassion, but also because we recognize the national security implications of not engaging with the AIDS crisis in Africa. With radical Islamic terrorist cells thriving in poverty-stricken countries, we must acknowledge and address the AIDS pandemic that can fuel desperation, and ultimately, hospitality toward violent groups that seek destruction of America. With an estimated 55 million Africans who will lose their lives to AIDS by 2020, the United States has both an opportunity and an obligation to help defeat AIDS in order to bring stability to these suffering countries. Already, African militaries are feeling the results of high infection rates among their soldiers. As countries lose their ability to maintain peace, anarchy will take over and deliver further havoc on society. If the problem is ignored, the ability of terrorists to recruit more sympathizers will only multiply. By helping prevent the further spread of this horrible disease, we can help ensure that terrorists are given no safe harbor in Africa. As William J. Bennett and Charles Colson recently stated in the Washington Times, ``Al Qaeda networks operating in Africa remind us that, like it or not, no part of the world can any longer be isolated from any other part. If an entire continent sinks into despair and anarchy, the whole world will be affected.'' While I support H.R. 1298, I want to express my strong support for amended language that would designate funds for prevention and treatment programs that have an outstanding track record of drastically reducing the number of infected individuals. For example, the world has finally acknowledged how effective Uganda's ABC program has been in reducing the number of HIV/AIDS victims. H.R. 1298 is right to commend the ABC program along with the excellent leadership of President Yoweri Museveni. Uganda's ABC program ``Abstain, Be faithful, use Condoms'', in order of priority, has dropped infection rates from 22 percent in 1992 to 7 percent in 2002. This remarkable, yet simple, program first promotes abstaining from sexual relationships until marriage. Rather than blindly pass out condoms, the ABC program promotes a lifestyle of abstinence that guarantees to protect individuals against sexually transmitting the HlV/AIDS virus. Secondly, the Ugandan ABC program encourages partners to remain faithful to each other. In working to promote faithfulness between married couples, this low-cost program encourages fidelity as a means of reducing the spreading of the virus between multiple partners. With the percentage of sexually active youth falling significantly and the increasing number of Ugandans reporting none or one sexual partner in the past decade, the results speak for themselves. Thirdly, use of condoms is encouraged as a means to help reduce the spread of HIV/AIDS for those who choose not to abstain. Congressman Joe Pitts has offered an amendment to HR 1298 that will require 33 percent of AIDS prevention funds be directed to abstinence- until-marriage programs. I stand in full support of this amendment that is supported by both the White House and Chairman Hyde. By supporting pro-family, proven methods that prevent the spread of AIDS, we will most effectively bring an end to this crisis. I also want to voice my support for the amendment offered today by Congressman Chris Smith that would clarify the right of organizations having moral or religious objections to certain prevention methods to remain eligible for this funding. While there is language in H.R. 1298 to prevent such discrimination, the language is vague and might not offer sufficient protection from bias against these fine groups. In Africa, there are organizations offering excellent programs to local communities to fight against the spread of AIDS but who have moral objections to condom promotion. It is important these groups are allowed to compete for funding and continue their successful programs. It is to the advantage of the African people that we have the largest pool from which to choose applicants. As the House of Representatives moves forward with passage of this historic legislation to fight against the HIV/AIDS pandemic in Africa, let us remember the millions who have already lost their lives and the remaining tens of millions who are currently afflicted with this dreadful virus of death. I hope and pray we can unite with our African neighbors to bring an end to the AIDS crisis. It is no longer just their problem--it is particularly ours as well.

Mr. TIAHRT

Mr. TIAHRT. addressed the House. His remarks will appear hereafter in the Extensions of Remarks.)

Mr. TIAHRT

Mr. TIAHRT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a great Kansan and a great American. Garner E. Shriver was born July 6, 1912 in the small Butler County town of Towanda. He attended public schools in Towanda and Wichita, and started an illustrious career of service to our nation by enlisting in the United States Navy following graduation from the University of Wichita and Washburn School of Law. Honorably discharged as an officer after three years in the Navy, Mr. Shriver served in the Kansas Legislature in both the House of Representatives and the State Senate. In 1960, he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives by the people of the 4th District of Kansas, who re-elected him seven times. Congressman Shriver was a relentless advocate for the 4th District of Kansas, and worked tirelessly as a senior member of the powerful House Appropriations Committee on behalf of his constituents. During his 16 years in Congress, Garner became an influential voice on significant issues of the day, including health and education benefits for our Nation's veterans, and landmark civil rights legislation. He served on the committee that drafted the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Although Mr. Shriver left the House in 1977, he didn't leave Congress. He moved over to the Senate and served as minority staff director and general counsel for the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee from 1977 to 1982, where he made a significant impact on his fellow veterans' lives. Mr. Shriver returned home to Wichita where he practiced law until his death, March 1, 1998. Garner Shriver is survived by his wife, Martha Jane, and three children David, Kay, and Linda. He also has seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Garner E. Shriver was a nobel public servant and served the people of the 4th District with distinction. I am honored to succeed him as the current 4th District Representative, and I am pleased to have an opportunity to honor his service to our nation by introducing legislation today that will designate the facility of the United States Postal Service at 9350 East Corporate Hill Drive in Wichita, KS as the ``Garner E. Shriver Post Office Building.''

Mr. TIAHRT

Mr. TIAHRT. Mr. Speaker, on Tuesday, April 1, I was unavoidably detained and missed rollcall vote No. 97. Rollcall vote 97 was on passage of H. Con. Res. 109, legislation calling on all Americans to honor the men and women of the U.S. armed forces and their families, and encouraging them to display the Blue Star Banner or the Gold Star. It also called on the media to recognize the importance and symbolism of the Blue Star Banner. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yes'' on this bill. I ask that my statement appear at the appropriate section in the Congressional Record.

Mr. TIAHRT

Mr. TIAHRT. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of the Federal Deposit Insurance Reform Act of 2003. This much needed, bipartisan legislation will help rural communities in my district, as well as thousands of other small towns across this country. H.R. 522 strengthens the deposit insurance fund and helps address a major funding need for community banks. I have heard from many farm banks in Kansas that continue to have problems increasing their core deposits. These banks are forced to turn to noncore funds to support their asset growth. I am told noncore funds can often be more expensive and volatile than core deposits. This is not good for either the bankers or the customers who are investing their money. The FDIC's Kansas City office noted in their Spring 2003 Regional Outlook report that ``core funding takes on added importance for community banks with a significant presence in rural communities facing long-term negative growth . . .''. This report goes on to say that core funds are the staple of rural banks, but they are increasingly becoming more difficult to attract or even retain. Because of the artificially low deposit insurance cap, rural residents are being forced to send deposits that are not insured with the current $100,000 limit to institutions outside their local communities. I see no good reason to allow this loss of capital from rural areas. It is capital that could be used for loans to diversify our rural communities and create or expand small businesses. At a time when our small towns are really suffering economically, we need all the local investment available. Local investment encourages entrepreneurship and ultimately creates local jobs. H.R. 522 will help ensure that objective is not eroded over time as it has done for more than two decades. A declining rural population leads to a declining deposit base. An increasing rural population tends to create more demand for loans. Either way, this situation indicates we need to increase deposit insurance levels. Local dollars should stay invested in our local communities. The bill today increases the basic coverage level from $100,000 to $130,000. This modest increase is long overdue, especially in context of other changes made to the system in recent years. Higher coverage levels will strengthen depositor confidence in the entire financial services system. H.R. 522 also gives the FDIC flexibility. Right now, the FDIC is mandated to have the ratio of reserves to estimated insured deposits at a hard target of 1.25 percent. This bill we are considering today would allow that ratio to be within a range of 1.15 to 1.4 percent. Finally, H.R. 522 directs the FDIC to study its administrative and managerial processes and alternative means for administering the deposit insurance system. These studies will ensure the deposit insurance fund and the overall insurance system are managed and operated as efficiently and effectively as possible. I encourage my colleagues to join me in supporting the Federal Deposit Insurance Reform Act of 2003. It is good common-sense legislation that will help people in our rural communities.

Mr. TIAHRT

Mr. TIAHRT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 153 and ask my colleagues to join me. This resolution declares the sense of Congress that the President of the United States should designate a national day of prayer, fasting and humility. At a time when many of our young men and women are engaged in a global war on terrorism and a campaign to disarm the Iraqi regime, it is entirely appropriate we should humble ourselves before Almighty God. Throughout American history, both the Congress and the President have called on the American people to acknowledge the Providence of God and to seek his divine wisdom. We have witnessed the benefits of national prayer and fasting in times past, and we are today asking the President to once again proclaim such a day. While the challenges we face in the 21st Century are new, we know the root causes of these difficulties are much the same as they have always been. It is with the hope that good will ultimately triumph that we are asking for all people to collectively acknowledge God and seek guidance, strength and resolve through prayer and fasting. Many families all across this great nation are praying for a quick resolve to the conflict in Iraq. It is fitting that we as a nation join with them in solidarity during this time of war and chaos. As we hear new reports of those killed or missing in action, our hearts go out to the children and families of these brave men and women fighting oversees. Pfc. Patrick Miller, a constituent of mine, is among those Americans being held captive in Iraq. We are once again realizing the high cost of war and what it means to defend liberty. In recent years I think most Americans have been made more aware of just how fragile peace can be, both at home and abroad. America and the world have witnessed the destruction of innocent life and the violation of universal human rights by brutal men. In a time when the President and other leaders are deciding how to respond to these situations, it is vitally important we recognize a higher power than ourselves. Our Founding Fathers understood the necessity of seeking guidance from God, and today we are no less in need of that same Divine Counsel. During the Civil War Abraham Lincoln was asked if God was on his side. His reply was, ``Sir, my concern is not whether God is on my side. My great concern is to be on God's side.'' In the same spirit of humility Abraham Lincoln exhibited during one of our nation's darkest hours, we are asking the President to call for a national day of prayer, humility and fasting. As we examine ourselves before God, we will surely be shown our own failings and will learn how we can do better in our actions. I am confident that as in times past, God will once again provide assistance to our country in our time of need. In 1787 Benjamin Franklin said, ``We need God as our friend not our enemy. We need him to be our ally not our adversary. We need to make sure that we keep God's concurring aid.'' As Mr. Franklin wisely affirmed our need for God more than two centuries ago, once again we need to join together as a country in asking for the ``aid'' of the Almighty.

Mr. TIAHRT

Mr. TIAHRT. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Ney) and the gentleman from Connecticut (Mr. Larson) for moving this legislation quickly. I am pleased to have this opportunity to speak about a resolution that is very important to me. House Concurrent Resolution 84 officially receives on behalf of the United States a statue of General Dwight D. Eisenhower from the people of Kansas. Every day visitors to our Capitol are impressed by the diverse manner in which each of the 50 States has chosen to memorialize their favorite sons and daughters. Each State is permitted to provide two statues for display in the Capitol pursuant to an 1864 act of Congress which created the National Statuary Hall. While new statues have been introduced as each State fills their allotment, prior to this resolution no State has replaced one of their statues. So this is a historical event in our Nation's Capitol. For the past 89 years, the statue of Governor Glick has served as one of Kansas' memorials in our Nation's Capitol. Like other States, Kansas selected individuals it wished to memorialize in the early years of the 20th century. While Governor Glick's contributions to Kansas' political development are notable, many Kansans have long wished for our statues to be replaced by individuals with whom visitors to the Capitol can more readily identify and that reflect Kansas' contributions to the Nation and world. It is in that spirit that I introduced this resolution, which is cosponsored by the entire Kansas delegation. It will provide for the replacement of Governor Glick's statue with a representation of one of our Nation's most prominent figures, a Kansan, General Dwight D. Eisenhower. General Eisenhower is an instantly recognizable international figure and fully embodies what is best about Kansas and the spirit of its people. The statue of Governor Glick will find a new home in a prominent location at the State capital in Topeka, Kansas, where Kansans will appreciate its historical value. Born in 1890, Dwight David Eisenhower grew up in Abilene, Kansas, as the third of seven sons to David Jacob and Ida Elizabeth Stover Eisenhower. He was a capable athlete, and this resulted in his appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point. He was commissioned a second lieutenant in September 1915 and thus began one of the most illustrious military careers in the history of our Armed Forces. Stationed in Texas as a second lieutenant, he met and subsequently married Mamie Geneva Doud. In his early Army career he excelled in staff assignments, serving under Generals John J. Pershing and Douglas MacArthur. After Pearl Harbor, he was called upon by General George C. Marshall to assist in developing the strategy by which the Allies would eventually overcome the Axis Powers. Shortly thereafter he was named the Commander in Chief of the Allied forces in North Africa in November 1942. In December 1943 Eisenhower received the assignment that would eventually secure his place in history when he was appointed the Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force. As Supreme Commander, he oversaw Operation Overlord that brought together the land, air and sea forces of the Allied armies in what became known as the largest invasion force in human history. After leading the Allies to victory, Eisenhower briefly served as president of Columbia University before being named Supreme Allied Commander of NATO. While in Paris, Republican emissaries persuaded him to return home and run for President in the 1952 election, which he won in a landslide. As a two-term President, Eisenhower oversaw the end of the Korean War, sought to contain Communist expansion, ordered the desegregation of the United States Army, and oversaw the development of the interstate highway system, among other major accomplishments. The 1950s are remembered as an idyllic period in American history, in no small part due to Eisenhower's principled leadership. Due to the magnificent example of his life of public service, the great State of Kansas has chosen to honor Dwight D. Eisenhower by having his statue placed in the United States Capitol. General Eisenhower embodied all that was and is great about Kansas and has long been considered Kansas' most revered son. He is also one of our Nation's most revered sons; and in a city that prides itself on honoring our Nation's heroes, I find it regrettable that we have neglected to honor Dwight D. Eisenhower with a memorial in our Nation's capital. This year marks the 50th anniversary year of his inauguration as President. We still like Ike, and it is an appropriate time to commemorate the important contributions he made to our Nation. We have chosen to remember Dwight Eisenhower as a soldier rather than as President and Commander in Chief because of the extraordinary courage he demonstrated in leading our Nation to victory in the Second World War. It is important to note that there is currently no one of that era honored in the United States Capitol; so as much as this statue will honor the life and service of Dwight David Eisenhower, it will also serve as a memorial to an entire generation of men and women who, together, rose to confront a challenge that threatened our civilization. My family, like those of many Americans, includes a number of individuals who served in our Armed Forces during this period. It is only fitting that we remember the sacrifices that the Greatest Generation and their leader, Dwight D. Eisenhower, made on our behalf. Jim Brothers, a native Kansan and the sculptor of the statue, chose to sculpt Eisenhower as he spoke to the troops the day before the D-Day invasion at Normandy, June 6, 1944, a day that he often reflected on as the defining moment in his life and which certainly was the defining moment of the Second World War. General Eisenhower was aware of the tremendous risks involved in an Allied invasion of Europe, and his decision to proceed with Operation Overlord was a true test of his character and leadership. His strength in the face of enormous adversity, willingness to shoulder the burden of responsibility alone, and unflagging determination to succeed galvanized the more than 2 million soldiers under his command and led to the ultimate Allied triumph. The life of Dwight David Eisenhower reminds us that freedom is not free, that it has been bought with blood and sacrifice. When faced with adversity during the Second World War and at other points in his life, Dwight Eisenhower never shirked from his responsibility to the men that he commanded, the obstacles before him, and the Nation that he loved. Given the current challenges facing our great Nation, Dwight David Eisenhower's example is particularly important today. Today we honor Dwight David Eisenhower so that we may demonstrate to our children and to our children's children that courage matters as much today as it did in 1944. Let us celebrate the courage that he never failed to demonstrate over the course of his remarkable life. On a final note, I would like to encourage the American public to visit Abilene, Kansas, where both President Eisenhower and his wife, Mamie, are buried in the Place of Meditation on the grounds of the Eisenhower Center and Presidential Library and Museum, a premier historical institution that is recognized around the world. Announcement by the Speaker Pro Tempore

Mr. TIAHRT

Mr. TIAHRT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to voice my support for H. Con. Res. 36, a resolution encouraging the people of this nation to honor and celebrate the 140th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation and commending President Abraham Lincoln's effort to end slavery. In issuing the Emancipation Proclamation on September 22, 1862, President Lincoln performed one of the most important and far-reaching acts that our nation has ever undertaken. Following the Union's costly victory at the Battle of Antietam, President Lincoln concluded that the emancipation of slaves was not only a military necessity, but more importantly, a moral imperative. Thus, President Lincoln issued his landmark decree. He was aware of the historical significance of this action, but with victory in the war still very much in doubt, was unsure of its ultimate consequences. In closing the Proclamation, Lincoln wrote, ``And upon this Act, sincerely believed to be an act of justice, warranted by the Constitution upon military necessity, I invoke the considerate judgment of mankind and the gracious favor of Almighty God.'' By issuing the Emancipation Proclamation, President Lincoln made it clear to Americans and the rest of the world that the Civil War was not about simply preserving the Union; in fact, the Civil War was now being fought to bring an end to the evil of slavery. Further, the Proclamation reconciled one of the fundamental dichotomies of the early American experience; the self-evident truths outlined in the Declaration of Independence and the existence of the institution of slavery. In closing, it is fitting that we pause to remember this watershed moment in our nation's history. We shouldn't, and I don't believe we ever will, forget the horror of slavery. On the same note, I doubt we will ever forget the lessons of the years that have followed the Emancipation Proclamation and the end of the Civil War--the struggle for equal rights, equal opportunities, and equal treatment under the law for all women and men, regardless of religion, race, or political beliefs. I am grateful for this opportunity to honor President Abraham Lincoln and the brave men who fought to ensure that the Emancipation Proclamation applied to the whole nation. May God continue to bless America and help us spread worldwide the knowledge that all men are created equal and should be treated as such.

Mr. TIAHRT

Mr. TIAHRT. Mr. Chairman, I've been looking forward to today for quite some time. Today we will pass a welfare reform bill that will build upon the successes of our historic 1996 reforms. In the past 7 years I have heard numerous success stories that arose from the 1996 Welfare Reform legislation that touched the lives of millions. Our great former president Ronald Reagan once said, ``We should measure welfare's success by how many people leave welfare, not by how many are added.'' In 1996, there were over 14 million welfare cases. Since then, however, that number has been reduced by 9 million. But this debate is about more than just numbers--it is about people. Statistics don't do justice to the smiling faces of success. I am often asked what I consider my proudest accomplishment as a Congressman. I am extremely proud to have been a Member of the historic 105th Congress that passed the 1996 Welfare Reform Act. Perhaps more than anything else we have accomplished during my time in Washington, reforming welfare has had a positive impact on American families. Families have achieved independence: Welfare caseloads fell by 9 million--from 14 million recipients in 1994 to just 5 million today. Promoting work has delivered results: Employment by mothers most likely to go on welfare rose by 40 percent between 1995 and Child poverty fell dramatically: Since 1996, nearly 3 million children have been lifted from poverty, and the black child poverty rate is now at a record low. The success of the 1996 welfare reform law is beyond dispute. Our challenge and great opportunity now is to build on that success--by putting even more Americans on the path to self-reliance. I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of this bill, and help the most desperate in our society realize their dreams.

Mr. TIAHRT

Mr. TIAHRT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a man who had a tremendous impact on the country music industry, was a strong advocate for Wichita, Kansas, and was a great friend to many, including me. Michael C. Oatman, or Ol' Mike as we all knew him, left this Earth on January 27. Although we wish he could have spent more time with us, he certainly made the most of the time that he had. Mike was born in west Texas where he began a legendary radio career. In 1964 he moved to Wichita and built not only a radio empire but a reputation that earned him love and respect. His morning show of 36 years was popular not because of the music he played but because of the man who played the music. Ol' Mike received just about every award a radio broadcaster could earn. All of those honors pale in comparison, though, to his final reward. Mike accepted Christ as his personal Lord and savior and now is in a much better place. And oh how I wish I could have been at those pearly gates to see St. Peter's response when he was introduced to the tee-legged, toe-legged, bee-legged, bow-legged, curly-haired, pee- williker Ol' Mike. That was Ol' Mike's radio show sign-on and was certainly as unique as the man himself. We will miss you, Mike, but we will keep our old Hank Williams records and look you up when we join you on those streets of gold.

Mr. TIAHRT

Mr. TIAHRT. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 17 I was unavoidably detained and missed the vote. Had I been here I would have voted ``nay.''

Mr. TIAHRT

Mr. TIAHRT. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the bill before us today which will provide as much as 26 weeks of additional unemployment benefits to laid off workers across America in ``high unemployment states'' and will ensure that those workers who still had benefits remaining on the December 28 cutoff date will receive all of their 13 weeks. The Unemployment Insurance Benefits Extension Act, much like the provisions in the American Worker Temporary Relief Act that I introduced yesterday, will allow approximately 800,000 Americans, including nearly 6,000 workers in my state of Kansas, to once again begin receiving benefits. Like my bill, it also allows workers who may in the months ahead exhaust their regular 26 weeks of State unemployment benefits to become eligible for up to 13 weeks of extended benefits. Unfortunately, this bill does nothing for those in my state and other states who have exhausted their 13 week extension and do not live in a state meeting the definition of a ``high unemployment state.'' This legislation is an important step in helping our workers through these tough economic times. Many have suffered from the lingering effects of a recession and the economic impact of the September 11th attacks. Mr. Speaker, we must remember, however, that this is short term aid. The best and most responsible approach Congress can take is to adopt policies designed to get our economy growing again. We can all agree that America's workers would rather earn a paycheck than receive an unemployment benefit. I urge my colleagues to support this bill and approve this new extension in order to avoid a disruption in benefits to our nation's unemployed workers.

Mr. TIAHRT

Mr. TIAHRT. Mr. Speaker, today I am introducing the American Worker Temporary Relief Act, legislation which will extend for 13 weeks unemployment compensation for those Americans whose benefits expired on December 28. If enacted, this bill will enable approximately 800,000 Americans--including 6,000 laid-off workers in my state of Kansas--to begin receiving benefits again. The American Worker Temporary Relief Act is an important step in helping our workers through these tough economic times. Many have been severely affected by a lingering recession and the economic effects of the September 11, and we, as elected representatives of the people, cannot turn our backs on them. While this measure is important for immediate relief, I must emphasize its title, ``The American Worker Temporary Relief Act.'' Make no mistake: This is short term aid. I believe the best and most responsible approach Congress can take is to adopt policies designed to get our economy growing again. We should work to create a climate in which businesses, especially small businesses, can grow and create jobs that America needs. We should work to guarantee that hard-working Americans are able to keep more of their money to spend in our economy. I represent the Fourth District of Kansas, which includes Wichita, the Aviation Capital of the World. In the greater Wichita area, we have had in excess of 10,000 layoffs in the aircraft manufacturing industry as a result of the downturn following the attacks on September 11, and have, by far, the highest unemployment rate of any area in the state. And while many of these laid-off workers will benefit from the bill I am introducing today, they have been unable to qualify for additional unemployment benefits available to other high unemployment states due to the relative economic health of other areas in our state. While I am truly grateful that other parts of my state have been spared the high unemployment which is prevalent in the Wichita-area, I believe we must review the formula for determining the qualifications for more benefits when a particular area has been hard hit. In the coming weeks, I will be introducing legislation to fundamentally change the procedure for dispersing, unemployment benefits. Under the current formula, hard-hit areas of a particular state often do not meet the ``trigger'' for unemployment benefits due to the more robust economic health of the rest of the state. This policy change, if enacted, will guarantee that unemployment assistance will not be contingent on an overall state unemployment rate, but a more localized approach designed to assist areas of greatest need. Mr. Speaker, this change will undoubtedly take time. I look forward to working with my colleagues to correct this unjust method of measuring econonmic hardship and I will seek their support as we work to provide assistance for those areas most in need. In the meantime, I urge my colleagues to support legislation to extend the unemployment benefits of all Americans whose assistance lapsed on December 28. Support the American Worker Temporary Relief Act.

Mr. TIAHRT

Mr. TIAHRT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to encourage my fellow Members of Congress to act to fix the flawed Medicare physician reimbursement rate that is developing into a crisis for our nation's physicians and seniors. Last January, Medicare's flawed formula dictated a 5.4 percent cut in already inadequate reimbursement rates for physicians. Unless we do something today, a second cut of 4.4 percent will go into effect on January 1st. Many physicians around the country have already been forced to refuse new Medicare patients or face bankruptcy. In my state of Kansas--a rural state already medically underserved--physicians have lost money, but of more concern is that one survey of physicians in Kansas showed that 24 percent of them were not taking new Medicare patients. It bothers me to think of how high that number will rise if we do not act. This problem is due to bureaucratic miscalculations when creating the payment formula. The formula needs to be fixed. and we should grant CMS the ability to do so before the second cut goes into effect. 355 of us, on both sides of the aisle, cosponsored Rep. Michael Bilirakis' bill to fix this problem. The White House supports fixing the formula. CMS Director Scully has stated that fixing the formula is a top priority. We have strong support and a ready solution to fix this problem. This is no ``Chicken Little'' story. Without Congressional action, the sky will fall in, doctors will be unable to participate in Medicare and our seniors will be left without care. I urge you not to close the 107th session of Congress without addressing this critical issue.

Mr. TIAHRT

Mr. TIAHRT. Mr. Speaker, today November 14, I was unavoidably detained and missed two rollcall votes numbered 479 and 480. Rollcall No. 479 was a vote on ordering the Previous Question concerning the Rule for H.R. 5063. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.'' Rollcall No. 480 was on passage of H. Res. 609, the ``Rule Providing for Consideration of the Armed Forced Tax Fairness Act of 2002.'' Had I been present I would have voted ``yea'' on H. Res. 609. Conference Report (H. Rept. 107-789) The committee of conference on the disagreeing votes of the two Houses on the amendment of the Senate to the bill (H.R. 4628), to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2003 for intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the United States Government, the Community Management Account, and the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System, and for other purposes, having met after full and free conference, having agreed to recommend and do recommend to their respective Houses as follows: That the House recede from its disagreement to the amendment of the Senate and agree to the same and with an amendment as follows: In lieu of the matter proposed to be inserted by the Senate amendment, insert the following:

Mr. TIAHRT

Mr. TIAHRT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to support H.J. Res. 114, a resolution granting President Bush the authorization to use military force against Iraq. Never in my 8 years as a Member of Congress has there been a vote with as far reaching consequences as this one. I am under no illusions. War is a serious matter with the real possibility of casualties. I have given this decision a great deal of thought, have sought wise counsel and have spent much time in prayer. It is with a heavy heart that I have come to the conclusion that military action against Iraq may be our only option. For more than a decade the United States has been working with the United Nations and the international community to use diplomatic means to bring a peaceful solution to the troubling situation in Iraq. We had all hoped Saddam Hussein and his regime would ultimately comply with what the United Nations has demanded. Instead, he has violated, disregarded and openly flouted the 16 U.N. resolutions. We now know Saddam Hussein is actively seeking nuclear weapons capability, and with fissile material, could build one within a year. A nuclear strike made against us or our allies in the region could result in millions dead. Either Saddam Hussein acquires a nuclear weapon, or we ensure he is stopped. Additionally, Hussein may have the propensity to sell or given nuclear weapons to terrorist organizations one he had acquired them. This could have devastating results. Traditional nuclear deterrence and containment will not be effective with this regime. Hussein has consistently shown no moral concern for the Iraqi people. Instead, he has a record of acting with selfish deeds of violence against his own family and people. He has mortgaged everything in an effort to obtain nuclear weapon capability. In fighting international sanctions, he has forfeited $180 billion in oil revenue, impoverished many of his people and allowed degradation of his military forces. Saddam Hussein has already shown the propensity to use chemical weapons on his neighbors in the region and on his own people, and he continues to possess and develop significant chemical and biological weapons capability. One source indicates that Saddam Hussein has already used chemical and biological weapons 250 times. In addition to these threats, the Iraqi regime continues to aid and harbor international terrorist organizations, including groups that have threatened the lives and safety of American citizens. I have had the opportunity to participate in several classified briefings led by President Bush, National Security Advisor Condoleezza Rice and Deputy Director of Central Intelligence John McLaughlin. I am convinced that Iraq poses an unquestionable and near-term threat to the peace and security of the United States and our allies abroad. We can not allow those who wish harm on the United States, and have the propensity to deliver that harm, to acquire weapons of terror and mass destruction. Inaction on our part could lead to the massive loss of innocent lives. The ten-year cat and mouse game Hussein has played with weapons inspectors must come to an end. There is too much at stake, and time is rapidly dwindling. I believe it is in the national security interest of the United States to prevent Saddam Hussein from obtaining a nuclear weapon and to prosecute the war on terrorism, including Iraq's support for international terrorist groups. President Bush must continue his efforts to get support from the United Nations Security Council and must exhaust all reasonable diplomatic options available in hopes of avoiding war. However, if Saddam Hussein and the Iraqi regime continue to rebuff the international community and threaten the peace and security of the United States, we must take swift and decisive action. To do anything less would be immoral and irresponsible. Mr. Speaker, I support this resolution and urge my colleagues on both sides of the isle to do the same.

Mr. TIAHRT

Mr. TIAHRT. Mr. Speaker, on Monday, October 7th I was unavoidably detained and missed rollcall vote Nos. 442, 443 and 444. These votes were on H.R. 3340 to allow certain catch-up contributions to the Thrift Savings Plan to be made by participants 50 or over, H.R. 5531 the Sudan Peace Act and H. Res. 468, the Transatlantic Security and NATO Enhancement Resolution. Had I been present I would have voted ``aye'' on all three rollcalls.

Mr. TIAHRT

Mr. TIAHRT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support for H.R. 4691, the Abortion Non-Discrimination Act. This is a bill that should be strongly supported by pro-lifers and pro-choicers alike. For it simply clarifies current law to ensure that no health care provider is forced to perform abortions against its will. This body overwhelmingly supported this view in 1996 and President Clinton even signed it into law because we all agreed that those opposed to abortion on religious or moral grounds should not be forced by the government to compromise their beliefs. This debate is not just about abortion, however, it is about health care and access to health care. If states or the federal government are allowed to discriminate against Catholic hospitals or community health centers that do not wish to provide abortion services, it will have drastic effects. Catholic hospitals and community health centers are the backbone of our health care system and serve those most in need. They already struggle financially for they treat every patient regardless of ability to pay. To withhold much needed funds just because they refuse to perform a service that they are fundamentally opposed to is abominable and will only hurt low-income Americans. One of the fundamental principles of our nation is that the government cannot impose religious or philosophical beliefs upon its citizens. We have a rich society of different cultures and beliefs. It is un-American and unconscionable to force health care providers to perform abortions that they believe are morally wrong. Join me in voting in favor of this important legislation to ensure that no American is forced to performed abortions against their will. Mr. TERRY, Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 4691, the Abortion Non-Discrimination Act. In 1996, Congress enacted a law prohibiting discrimination against health care professionals, organizations, and facilities that decline to provide abortions on moral and religious grounds. This was done to prevent health care providers from being forced to act against their conscience by performing, training in, or giving referrals for abortion. Unfortunately, several courts have misinterpreted this law by applying its protections only to individual physicians and training programs. Many hospitals and other health care facilities have been left without sufficient legal protection. For example, in 1997 the Alaska Supreme Court ordered a private hospital to provide abortion even though it went against the ethical standards set by its operating board. H.R. 4691 would uphold the intent of Congress by clarifying the right of all health care providers to follow their conscience. It would also strengthen current law by ensuring providers cannot be forced to pay for abortion services. Forty-six states, including my home state of Nebraska, have similar conscience protection laws. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 4691 to ensure health care providers do not have to perform or pay for abortions they believe are morally wrong.

Mr. TIAHRT

Mr. TIAHRT. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of HR 5005, the Homeland Security Act of 2002. This important legislation will bring more than 100 different security and safety units from around the nation together into a newly created Cabinet department. This new department will work to control movement at the borders, emphasize coordination with state and local emergency responders, merge intelligence units to identify, map threats, and address vulnerabilities, and develop technologies to protect the homeland. The attacks on September 11th changed the everyday lives of Americans. As a result of these attacks, our country is now at war with an invisible enemy that lurks in the shadows. We face the real possibility of additional attacks of a similar or even greater magnitude. Terrorists around the world are conspiring to obtain chemical, biological and nuclear weapons with the express intent of killing large numbers of Americans. We saw on September 11th that terrorist will use unconventional means to deliver their terror. These new times require new thinking. Creating a Department of Homeland Security will give the Government the flexibility necessary to make the right decision that are needed to protect the American people. Consolidating these agencies into one Cabinet-level Department will support the President's National Strategy for Homeland Security, it will facilitate the ability of the private sector to more effectively communicate and coordinate threat and vulnerability management, and it will centralize response and recovery management with the federal government. The Department of Homeland Security will have three mission function. They are (1) to prevent terrorist attacks within the United States, (2) to reduce America's vulnerability to terrorism and, (3) to minimize the damage and recover from attacks that do occur. H.R. 5005 transforms many government functions into a 21st century Department. In order to protect the freedom of our citizens, we must protect America's borders from those who seek to cause us harm. Under this legislation, protection of our borders is a primary function. This legislation will encompass INS enforcement functions, the Customs service, the border functions of the Animal Plant Health Inspections Service and the Coast Guard all together in the new Department of Homeland Security. H.R. 5005 will also ensure that our neighborhoods and communities are prepared to address any threat or attack we may face. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will also be included in the Department of Homeland Security. Thus, if an attack should occur, it will be clear who is responsible for consequence management and whom our first responders can quickly communicate with. Additionally, HR 5005 places a high priority on transportation safety. The Transportation Security Agency is transferred entirely to the Department of Homeland Security. TSA has the statutory responsibility for security of all modes of transportation and it directly employs transportation security personnel. These are just a few of the agencies that will encompass the Department of Homeland Security. Only those agencies whose principal missions align with the Department's mission of protecting the homeland are included in this proposal. The current unfocused confederation of government agencies is not the best way to organize if we are to effectively protect our homeland, as responsibility is too scattered across the federal government. This has led to confusion, redundancy and ineffective communication. Even though this legislation addresses issues concerning personal privacy, government disclosure, and individual rights, lawmakers and citizens alike must be vigilant against government encroachment of traditional liberties. Specifically, this bill prohibits the implementation of the Terrorism Information and Prevention System (TIPS), a national ID card system, guarantees whistle-blower protections, details Freedom of Information provisions, and establishes a Privacy Officer responsible for ensuring privacy rights of citizens. I believe an unaccountable government is an irresponsible government and in addition to a vigilant watch against abuses of individual rights, we must be accountable to taxpayers and not allow the Department to expand beyond its fiscal and bureaucratic parameters. Mr. Chairman, the new Department of Homeland Security will be the one department whose primary mission is to protect the American Homeland. It will be the one department to secure our borders, transportation sector, ports, and critical infrastructure. One department to synthesize and analyze homeland security intelligence. One department to coordinate communications with state and local governments, private industry and first responders, and one department to manage our federal emergency response activities. We owe the American people nothing less than the absolute best to protect its citizens. Reorganization of America's homeland security functions is critical to defeating the threat of terrorism and is vital to the nation's long-term security.

Mr. TIAHRT

Mr. TIAHRT. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the accounting reform and corporate accountability conference report before us today. I commend my colleague, Chairman Oxley, for the outstanding work he has done in crafting a final bill which will fully prosecute those who have violated the law and restore confidence in America's financial markets. Like all Americans, I have been outraged at the revelations which have come to light in recent months concerning the practices of a number of public companies such as Enron and WorldCom, as well as the auditing practices of companies such as Arthur Andersen. While the list of affected companies pales in comparison to the more than 11,000 publicly traded U.S. companies, even a few transgressions are too many. The bill before us would increase the maximum jail terms for mail and wire fraud from five years to 20 years, and create a new 25-year maximum jail sentence for securities fraud. Under the bill, securities fraud is defined as intentionally defrauding an individual in connection with a security or obtaining money from the purchase or sale of a security based on false pretenses. Additionally, the Conference Report strengthens laws which criminalize document shredding and other forms of obstruction of justice by providing a maximum penalty of twenty years for such a violation. Criminal penalties for pension law violations would be increased from a fine of $5,000 to $100,000 and from maximum jail time of one year to ten years. As the recent improprieties have shown, corporate leaders, including CEOs, have been implicated in wrongdoing. Those who have the privilege of leading America's corporations have a responsibility to their investors, employees, and the public, to set ethical standards under which their companies operate. This legislation requires top corporate executives to certify that the financial statements of the company fairly and accurately represent the financial condition of the company and calls for penalties of up to ten years in prison and/or a $1 million fine. In general, willful and criminal violations of securities laws would carry a new maximum fine of $5 million--up from $1 million-- and a new maximum prison-term of 20 years, up from ten years. If the violator is not an American citizen, the fine would increase to $25 million. Any attempts to retaliate against informants would carry a maximum ten-year prison term and/or fines under SEC laws. One important area which this bill does not address is the issue of returning ill-gotten corporate gains to investors. I believe Congress must act to ensure that investors are able to reclaim their losses which are due to corporate fraud. And after the corrupt executives return the hard earned money of employees and investors, they need to get out of their mansions and yachts, and get into a jail cell. Corporate officers who steal the retirement savings of hard-working Americans are no better than common purse snatchers on the street. In fact, they are worse given the position of trust and responsibility with which they are entrusted. If they ``cook the books'' in order to show a better bottom line, there will be a heavy price to pay. I believe this bill sends a strong message to corporations throughout America that those who break the law will be severely punished. By dramatically increasing maximum prison terms and strengthening accountability and oversight, we have begun working toward the goal of reforming corporate America in a way which will enable citizens to have confidence in our financial markets. I urge my colleagues to pass the Sarbanes-Oxley Conference Report.