David Vitter

Mr. VITTER

Mr. VITTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Catholic schools for their continuing contributions to educating young Americans. Catholic schools impact not only the intellectual life of our Nation's youth but also their moral, physical and social lives and truly are a major component in instilling the proper values in the next generation. This year, more than 2.5 million students in the U.S. will be enriched by their Catholic school education. America's Catholic schools are internationally acclaimed for their academic excellence and can boast a student-to-teacher ratio of 17 to one, but the impact of Catholic schools is far broader and more far reaching than even that. More than 26 percent of 2.5 million school children enrolled in Catholic schools are minorities. More than 13 percent are non- Catholics, and again, it is tremendously important to the moral, the value-based life of our country. My wife, Wendy, and I are both graduates of Catholic schools, and we realize perhaps because of that the special value Catholic schools provide to an education. That is why we chose to enroll our three daughters in Catholic schools and intend to do the same for our young son, Jack, when he is of age. Because I believe so strongly in the value and contribution of Catholic schools, I joined with so many others here and introduce House Resolution 26, which supports the goals of Catholic Schools Week. Again, I congratulate Catholic schools, parents and teachers for their tremendously important role in ensuring a brighter, stronger future for our Nation. I thank them for the hard work and dedication that is put into educating the youth of our country. I thank them, in particular, for instilling important, deep-seated values in the next generation of Americans.

Mr. VITTER

Mr. VITTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of reauthorizing the FEMA Flood Insurance Program. Yesterday, I introduced a similar piece of legislation, HR 215, and I am very thankful to Chairman Oxley for bringing this important bill to the floor so that America's homeowners can have the flood insurance many of them desperately need. I represent a district in southeast Louisiana, a region that is very prone to flooding, perhaps one of the most flood-prone areas in our country. Nearly all of southeast Louisiana falls in flood zones. So, a lapse in this program would be devastating to commerce in Louisiana. Without the flood insurance, banks will not lend mortgage money to prospective home buyers or owners in designated flood zones. Also, any home buyer that was set to close after January 1 would suffer delays without having the required flood insurance coverage. Living under the constant threat of a flood--much less actually experiencing one--is devastating enough mentally and physically without families having to worry about how to recover financially in the aftermath. With the passage of the important legislation, the real estate market will be able to move forward, and millions of homeowners will be assured they are covered in the event of a catastrophe. I thank the House for considering this today, and I urge a yes vote.

Mr. VITTER

Mr. VITTER. Mr. Speaker, it is such an honor and privilege to serve in the United States House of Representatives. This honor and privilege is made all the greater by the people I work with on a day to day basis, particularly my Chief of Staff, Marty Driesler. Marty has toiled for the betterment of her country for more than thirty years by working as the chief of staff of two members of Congress, a campaign consultant, a political fundraiser, and in various high level administrative jobs working with key state and local government officials. For the past three years, I have been fortunate to benefit from her service as my chief of staff. Her profound experience and encyclopedic knowledge of the workings of Congress have aided in my growth as a congressman. Much more importantly, her basis goodness, sound judgment, and wonderful sense of humor have allowed me to grow as a person. For that I am eternally grateful. She is a trusted advisor, skillful tactician, and above all, a dear friend. The benefit of her tutelage has left an indelible impression on all those who have worked with her--and I would put myself at the top of that list. I do not hesitate to say that our country and this august body are much better because of her service. After her many years of dedication and my many attempts to convince her otherwise, Marty has chosen to retire. She has heeded the higher calling as a devoted wife, a caring mother, and a doting grandmother. I never cease to be amazed by her joie de vivre and know that for Marty, this is just the beginning of another purposeful, celebratory stage of her wonderful life. Marty, we love you dearly, and we wish you all the best.

Mr. VITTER

Mr. VITTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Con. Res. 502. Every 3 minutes a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer. Please join me in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month by co-sponsoring H. Con. Res. 502. Breast Cancer Awareness Month provides a special opportunity to provide education about the importance of monthly breast self- examinations and annual mammograms. Early detection greatly increases victims' chances of survival. The facts of breast cancer are grim: This year 182,000 new cases of breast cancer are expected in the United States. Breast cancer is the leading cause of death in women between the ages of 40 and 55. One in eight women who lives to age 85 will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. But there is hope: When breast cancer is found early, the five-year survival rate is 96 percent. Monthly breast self-examinations and mammograms are the key components of early detection. We recognize and salute the more than 2 million breast cancer survivors alive today in the United States. Families across the country are affected by this dreadful disease. Let's help educate people about the important life-saving measures of early detection. Please help me honor victims, survivors, volunteers, and professionals, who combat breast cancer each day. Discharged from the Committee on House Administration and Agreed to H. Res. 536, commending the staffs of members of Congress, the Capitol Police, the Office of the Attending Physician and his health care staff, and other members of the Capitol Hill community for their courage and professionalism during the days and weeks following the release of anthrax in Senator Daschle's office. H. Res. 536 Whereas there are approximately 30,000 legislative branch employees who work on Capitol Hill including approximately 6,200 Senate employees, 11,500 House employees, and 12,800 staff from other entities; Whereas the Capitol Complex consists of approximately 285 acres comprised of 3 Senate office buildings, 3 House office buildings, 2 House annex buildings, 3 Library of Congress buildings, and several other facilities; Whereas on October 15, 2001, a letter containing anthrax spores was opened in Senator Daschle's office; Whereas approximately 6,000 individuals were tested for exposure to anthrax and 28 of those individuals tested positive; Whereas approximately 1,000 individuals received a 60-day supply of antibiotics as a precautionary measure; Whereas the House of Representatives closed the Rayburn and Cannon House Office Buildings for 7 days and the Longworth House Office building for 19 days; Whereas during the closure of the Senate and House Office Buildings, Members and staff were forced to find alternative office space or to work from their homes; Whereas Senate, House, and support staff continued and still continue to perform their duties and serve the public with courage and professionalism in spite of the threat of anthrax exposure; Whereas officers of the Capitol Police have worked 12 hour shifts in response to the September 11, 2001, attacks and have been working additional overtime due to anthrax contamination in the Capitol Complex to ensure the safety of Members, staff, and visitors within the Capitol Complex; and Whereas the release of anthrax in Senator Daschle's office, and the contamination of 2 Senate office buildings and 1 House office building, have further disrupted the daily routines of Members and their staffs and caused frustration due to dislocated offices: Now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the House of Representatives-- (1) commends the staffs of Members of Congress, the Capitol Police, the Office of the Attending Physician and his health care staff, and other members of the Capitol Hill community for their courage, professionalism, and dedication to serving the public in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, attacks and the release of anthrax in Senator Daschle's office; (2) recognizes the Congressional leadership, Congressional employees, the Capitol Police, and the Office of the Attending Physician and the health care professionals in his office, in particular, who by their quick actions and early intervention prevented actual cases of anthrax within the Capitol Complex; and (3) requests that the President recognize the courage and professionalism of Congressional staff, the Capitol Police, and other members of the Capitol Hill community for their public service in continuing to do the public's business in defiance of terrorist attacks. Discharged from the Committee on International Relations and Agreed to H. Con. Res. 479, expressing the sense of Congress regarding Greece's contributions to the war against terrorism and its successful efforts against the November 17 terrorist organization. H. Con. Res. 479 Whereas the United States and Greece, longtime friends and allies, have fought side by side in defense of our shared commitment to freedom and democracy, including in both World Wars I and II, the Korean War, and Operations Desert Storm and Enduring Freedom; Whereas in the immediate aftermath of the tragic events of September 11, 2001, Greece was one of the first countries to express its solidarity with the United States; Whereas Greece, as a NATO ally and a coalition partner in the war against terrorism, has made significant contributions to Operation Enduring Freedom and has provided military personnel and humanitarian assistance to the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan; Whereas President Bush has commended Greece for its ``strong stand against terror''; Whereas Greece, through excellent work and cooperation with United States and international law enforcement agencies, recently arrested key members of the November 17 terrorist organization; Whereas President Bush stated that Greece's ``successful law enforcement operations against a terrorist organization [November 17] responsible for three decades of terrorist attacks underscore the important contributions Greece is making to the global war on terrorism''; and Whereas the arrest of the November 17 terrorists will contribute to a safe and secure environment for staging the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, Greece: Now, therefore, be it Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring), That Congress-- (1) commends Greece for its outstanding contributions to the global war against terrorism, including military support for Operation Enduring Freedom, humanitarian assistance for Afghanistan, and participation in the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan; and (2) recognizes Greece's success in apprehending key members of the November 17 terrorist organization, commends the cooperation between United States and Greek law enforcement agencies, and urges continued efforts to dismantle completely the November 17 terrorist organization, as such efforts will also contribute to a safe and secure environment for staging the 2004 Olympics in Athens, Greece. Discharged from the Committee on International Relations and Agreed to H. Con. Res. 492, welcoming Her Majesty Queen Sirikit of Thailand upon her arrival in the United States. H. Con. Res. 492 Whereas the United States and the Kingdom of Thailand have enjoyed 169 years of peaceful and constructive relations since the signing of the Treaty of Amity and Commerce in 1833; Whereas the aforesaid document was the first such treaty signed between the United States and any Asian nation; Whereas the United States enjoys both a bilateral security agreement and a military assistance agreement with Thailand and conducts several military exercises with the armed forces of Thailand every year, the largest of which is the Cobra Gold exercise; Whereas Her Majesty Queen Sirikit has made major contributions to advancing the social and economic welfare and health of the people of Thailand, most notably as President of the Thai Red Cross Society; Whereas in order to assist the rural poor of Thailand, Her Majesty Queen Sirikit serves as patron and chairperson of the Foundation for the Promotion of Supplementary Occupations and Related Techniques (SUPPORT); Whereas in her capacity as President of the Thai Red Cross Society, Her Majesty Queen Sirikit established the Khao Larn Thai Red Cross Center to provide food, shelter, and medical attention to Cambodian refugees fleeing turmoil in their country; and Whereas Her Majesty Queen Sirikit's contributions to the welfare of Thai citizens and of international refugees have been widely recognized by groups as diverse as the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, and the British Royal College of Physicians: Now, therefore, be it Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring), That the Congress welcomes Her Majesty Queen Sirikit on her visit to the United States, and expresses the hope that her visit will further strengthen the deep historical relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Thailand. Discharged from the Committee on International Relations, Amended, and Agreed to H. Con. Res. 349, calling for an end to the sexual exploitation of refugees. H. Con. Res. 349 Whereas the United Nations and organizations engaged in international humanitarian relief periodically receive reports of sexual exploitation of refugees, particularly women and children; Whereas last year a report commissioned by the United Nations High Commissioner of Refugees and the British organization Save the Children accuses aid workers in Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea of refusing to give food and medicine to young girls unless they perform sexual favors; Whereas in response to this report the Secretary General of the United Nations denounced sexual exploitation of refugees and called for a full investigation of the humanitarian staff from the agencies involved; Whereas the charges against aid workers in West Africa are still being investigated and in recent years there have been reports implicating employees of international nongovernmental organizations, government agencies responsible for humanitarian response, and peacekeeping forces in sexual exploitation of refugees; Whereas many of these reports have involved children, some as young as 10 to 12 years of age; Whereas the insufficiency of food rations in refugee camps has been cited as a primary factor contributing to sexual exploitation; Whereas refugees are often extremely poor and cut off from employment and other ordinary means of income, so that they can be highly susceptible to demands that they exchange sex for food to help their families survive: and Whereas the relationship between refugee workers and refugees is a custodial or caregiving relationship in which the custodian or caregiver can exercise substantial power over the life of the other party, and which carries a corresponding risk of abuse: Now, therefore, be it Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring), That the Congress-- (1) supports the Secretary General of the United Nations in condemning the sexual exploitation of children by humanitarian aid workers; (2) urges the United Nations to conduct a comprehensive worldwide investigation into the extent, if any, of sexual exploitation of refugees by agents or employees of United Nations agencies, of other international nongovernmental organizations, and of governments; (3) urges the President to-- (A) affirm the commitment of the United States to protecting the well-being and human rights of women and children, particularly those in refugee situations; and (B) instruct the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development and the Secretary of Agriculture to review the distribution of food assistance to refugee communities throughout the world to ensure that humanitarian assistance to refugees provided by the United States is respectful of the human rights of women and children and is distributed in such a way as to minimize the risk of sexual exploitation; and (4) urges the Secretary General, the President, and the executive authorities of all governmental and nongovernmental entities engaged in refugee work to adopt codes of conduct for employees, contractors, and other agents of the United Nations, of the United States Government, and of such governmental and nongovernmental entities, respectively, who are engaged in refugee work that strictly prohibit sexual relationships between international refugee workers and those entrusted to their care, and to enforce these prohibitions vigorously. Amend the title so as to read: ``Concurrent resolution calling for effective measures to end the sexual exploitation of refugees.''. Discharged from the Committee on International Relations, Amended, and Agreed To House Concurrent Resolution 437, recognizing the Republic of Turkey for its cooperation in the campaign against global terrorism, for its commitment of forces and assistance to Operation Enduring Freedom and subsequent missions in Afghanistan, and for initiating important economic reforms to build a stable and prosperous economy in Turkey. H. Con. Res. 437 Whereas the United States and the Republic of Turkey have long been allies and share a commitment to preserving global peace and stability; Whereas Turkey has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to the war on terrorism; Whereas Turkey was the first country with a predominantly Muslim population to offer direct military participation in Operation Enduring Freedom; Whereas the use of the Incirlik Air Base in Turkey, from which thousands of United States transport planes have taken off since the beginning of Operation Enduring Freedom, has greatly facilitated the campaign in Afghanistan; Whereas Turkey, the only member nation of NATO with a predominantly Muslim population, has assumed command of the International Security and Assistance Force in Afghanistan; Whereas Turkey faced financial and currency crises and a recession in 2000 and 2001; Whereas Turkey's fiscal discipline and actions to restore confidence in the banking system have laid the foundation for sound economic recovery; Whereas the future growth and prosperity of Turkey depend in large measure on encouraging more foreign investment in Turkey and improving trade relations; and Whereas the United States is interested in building a broader investment and trading relationship with Turkey: Now, therefore, be it Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring), That Congress-- (1) recognizes the Republic of Turkey for its steadfast commitment to, and cooperation in, the war against terrorism, including-- (A) Turkey's immediate condemnation of the terrorist attacks against the United States that occurred on September 11, 2001; (B) Turkey's offers to the United States of troops, the use of air bases, increased force protection for United States military personnel and equipment in Turkey, and diplomatic overflight clearances; (C) Turkey's deployment of hundreds of troops to Afghanistan to participate in the initial phase of the International Security Assistance Force; and (D) Turkey's willingness to participate in and lead the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan and assist the United States in training the new Afghan security forces; and (2) commends Turkey for implementing economic reforms, particularly those which increase privatization and improve the investment climate in Turkey. Amended by Committee Amendment, as Amended, and Passed H.R. 5200, to establish wilderness area, promote conservation, improve public land, and provide for high quality development in Clark County, Nevada, and for other purposes. Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to H.R. 5200, as Reported Offered by Mr. Hansen of Utah Strike all after the enacting clause and insert the following new text:

Mr. VITTER

Mr. VITTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the election reform conference report before us today. I have strongly advocated election reform in my home State of Louisiana in the past and continue to do so here in Congress. I am pleased that this legislation is a strong step toward correcting many of the flaws in the current system. Following the 2000 election, I was incensed that there would be any attempt by political operatives to disenfranchise our brave men and women in the Armed Services overseas. In response I introduced legislation to remedy the situation, and am pleased to see the conference report takes important measures similar to the ones I proposed to ensure military overseas ballots are counted. Our service personnel deserve no less. I applaud the efforts of the conference to address the issue of voter fraud as well. Statewide voting lists, presenting identification when voting, purging names from lists for those that do not vote, and strengthening penalties for those convicted of voting fraud will all help States deal with the problem of vote fraud, which is an assault on our democratic system. Lastly, I would like to commend the conferees for their work in helping ensure that the disabled have access to voting machines in each precinct. Voters should never be disenfranchised because of any sort of disability and I now hope Congress will follow through with funds. I would like to commend Chairman Ney, who met with me on a number of occasions to work on a variety of election reform issues, as well as Ranking Member Hoyer and all the conferees that worked out this compromise. I urge my colleagues to support the election reform conference report.

Mr. VITTER

Mr. VITTER. Mr. Speaker, I thank my friend from Wisconsin for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the resolution granting President Bush the authority he seeks to take decisive action against Saddam Hussein. Clearly, this decision is one of the most sobering I have had to make during my time in public service. It is a decision that no Member of Congress considers lightly. It is also one that I take confidently and with great moral clarity. The President's critics urge dealing with this threat through diplomatic and U.N. efforts, but passage of this resolution is the only way Saddam will take those ongoing efforts at the U.N. seriously. It is, in fact, the only hope for those continuing efforts. Many of those same critics say that our government should have connected the dots and better understood the terrorist threat before September 11. Well, that is exactly what we are doing here now, connecting the dots and better understanding a closely-related threat. Saddam Hussein has proved time and again that his totalitarian regime threatens America, our allies and even his own people. He is a known exporter of terrorism. He causes regional instability. He actively pursues weapons of mass destruction. He has proven he is willing to use them. So inaction, or the mere return to the old frustrated U.N. resolutions, is clearly the riskiest path of all. My constant prayers are for the members of our Armed Forces around the world as they embark on their missions. May God bless them, and may God bless America.

Mr. VITTER

Mr. VITTER. Mr. Speaker, I offer my strong support H.R. 2357, the Houses of Worship Political Speech Protection Act. This bill, a much- needed change in current law, would once again offer First Amendment freedoms to our nation's churches without the fear of a heavy-handed or politicized IRS or federal government. Since 1954, our nation's religious institutions have been silenced. Prior to that time, religious leaders spoke freely about issues. Civil rights had a great moral and religious component to it. Abolition had a great moral and religious component to it. And so issues today continue to have their moral and religious components. Yet churches are told, many times under an inconsistent system that is only selectively enforced, to silence themselves or face losing tax-exempt status. This is the greatest disservice to some of our greatest institutions. Sadly, there has even been an attempt to intimidate churches from speaking out on issues. One liberal organization devoted to their own version of the First Amendment actually mailed over a quarter million letters in 2000 to houses of worship warning them about speaking out on political issues. The chilling effect of this clear attempt to muzzle our nation's pastors, priests, ministers, rabbis and other clergy, must not stand. This legislation has been well thought out and thoroughly reviewed by committees so that new campaign loopholes are not created, and no new avenues of soft money are allowed--both things I would oppose. We are merely asking to go back to the laws that existed for the first one hundred fifty years of our nation, which simply allowed freedom of expression for religious organizations. I strongly urge my colleagues to support and vote for H.R. 2357.

Mr. VITTER

Mr. VITTER. Mr. Speaker, as a Member of the Working Group on Continuity of Congress, I rise in strong support of this resolution. As has been said, it is a simple, straightforward, bipartisan, but very important measure to urge all of the States, with the utmost seriousness and focus, to look at their election laws and ensure that special elections would happen as expeditiously as possible, particularly in the event of a disaster that killed many House Members at once. Of course, this resolution today highlights one of the many issues that our working group has been focused on, and, in fact, the central one, which is how do we replenish the House of Representatives quickly in such a horrible catastrophe. As has been said, the U.S. Constitution is very clear: House vacancies can only be filled, under the present constitutional terms, by an election. Sometimes, as has also been said, in different States where State law applies, that can take a very long time, maybe up to 6 months; so we want all of the State legislatures, all of the Governors, to look at their State law very clearly, in a very focused way, and move as quickly as possible to make sure their State law makes that happen as quickly as possible, particularly in the event of mass deaths. In considering this, I ask all of my colleagues and, in fact, all of the State legislators and Governors around the country to think of all of the work we had to do, and I believe we did do, after September 11: The Committee on the Judiciary moved to protect us here and abroad; the Committee on Appropriations addressed critical emergency funding; the Committee on Armed Services examined our military response. All of that was actually done in a matter of just a couple of weeks beginning with September 11. Nearly every House committee did significant work on the war that was at its infancy planning stage then, or homeland security, or related issues. If we also remember Flight 93 downed in Pennsylvania, brought about by brave passengers, all of that work may have only been possible because of their bravery and the luxury we were afforded by not having an attack on the Capitol. Of course, all of us hope there is never a next time. All of us pray that there will not be a next time. But if there is, we may not be so lucky; so all of that work we did in the very few weeks after September 11, and the specter of Flight 93, makes it clear why we need to think about this issue, and why State legislatures need to act to make sure that the House is replenished as quickly as possible. In closing, I want to say that this is a very important step, but I hope it is a first step, because our working group is thinking about other key issues, quorum issues, incapacity issues, that can be dealt with under rules. These issues are very significant, which I believe can be addressed under our House rules. There are Presidential succession issues, which are significant and related to this, which could clearly be addressed under statute. And, yes, although it would be very difficult politically, I also think we need to debate and think carefully about proposed constitutional amendments. So I think this is a very important, very responsible step, but I am hopeful it will be a first step. I know the working group is continuing its work in a very focused, careful way. I want to particularly thank the chairman of that, the gentleman from California (Mr. Cox), and also the cochairman, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Frost), for all of their work; the other Members of the working group; the House Parliamentarians; the CRS researchers; other staff who have given us invaluable information in our deliberations. Mr. Speaker, I strongly urge all of our colleagues to vote for this resolution.

Mr. VITTER

Mr. VITTER. Mr. Speaker, on September 11, 2001 our people, our democracy, and our values were attacked in a cowardly and reprehensible way. I visited the Pentagon two days after the attacks, and the sheer devastation viewed in person was beyond the imagination. When I made it back home to Louisiana, I hugged my wife and kids and could not help but think of the people who never returned home on September 11. That fateful day introduced us to hundreds of heroes. And it reintroduced us to the wonderful spirit of our nation. I visited Ground Zero for the Commemorative Joint Meeting of Congress one year later and visited the Pentagon on the anniversary of the attacks. These sites--along with the Pennsylvania crash site--stand as reminders of the devastation our country suffered, but they also remind us that America is not devastated. We are unified in the knowledge that democracy and freedom will prevail. People across the country have, over the last year, demonstrated to the world that terrorism can never destroy our way of life. And I am proud of our country, proud of my fellow citizens for the patriotism, spirit, and strength they have shown over the last year. It is a great honor to serve in Congress at this time, and I take very seriously my pledge to protect and defend the United States of America. May God bless us all, and may He continue to bless our great nation.

Mr. VITTER

Mr. VITTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Abortion Non-Discrimination Act, H.R. 4691. The bill before us is, in fact, a much-needed clarification of current law that was meant to provide full conscience protection to health entities, health providers who because of any moral convictions choose not to have anything to do with abortion; but unfortunately today, we will hear a lot of overblown rhetoric from the other side that the sky is falling, that this simple bill is something much more, when it is not, and arguments from people interestingly who say they are pro-choice, yet apparently when a hospital or a clinic or a provider, a doctor makes a choice, the right choice in my opinion, and chooses life, the other side is up in arms. We have statements and they are documented from proabortion groups that they are actively engaged in a project to force all hospitals, often against their will or moral convictions, to provide abortions; and we know that the ACLU files lawsuits to force providers to perform abortions in States across the country, and sadly, sometimes activist courts find in their favor. This really exposes the choice side for what they really believe in, which is not choice at all; and it flies in the face of all of their superficial choice rhetoric. It exposes the real proabortion agenda. Furthermore, it makes this commonsense legislation a necessary response from Congress whose intent in the original legislation was clearly to provide full conscience protection, and that intent clearly has been maligned in significant cases. I want to thank and commend the gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Tauzin), the Committee on Energy and Commerce chairman, as well as the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Bilirakis), the subcommittee chairman, for their tremendous efforts in guiding this valuable legislation to the floor, and I urge adoption.

Mr. VITTER

Mr. VITTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with strong unequivocal support for H.R. 4965, the Partial-Birth Abortion Ban. Passage of this act into law is long overdue, and I hope the American people--who overwhelmingly want this ban enacted--will get their victory in this House today and in this Congress. Time and a gain we hear the myths and propaganda that this barbaric procedure is necessary to somehow protect women. But what do doctors and experts have to say about the procedure? The head of National Coalition of Abortion Providers in 1997 said that the ``vast majority'' of partial-birth abortions are performed on healthy babies and healthy mothers. The American Medical Association, regarding legislation to ban partial-birth abortions, wrote ``Thank you for the opportunity to work with you towards restricting a procedure we all agree is not good medicine.'' The Physicians' Ad Hoc Coalition for the Truth (PHACT) stated, ``Never is the partial-birth procedure medically indicated. Rather such infants are regularly and safely delivered live . . . with no threat to the mother's health or fertility.'' Lastly, former Surgeon General C. Everett Koop issued a statement that not only is the procedure never medically necessary for mother or child but ``on the contrary, this procedure can pose a significant threat to both.'' We also know now that the infant feels tremendous pain, contrary to prior statements by pro-abortion groups. Yet these same organizations would have us believe that this grisly procedure is actually necessary--this same procedure where an infant, in the late second or third trimester, is removed from the mother's uterus save only his or her head, and then an abortionist pierces the skull and vacuums the brain, collapsing the skull. Allowing any procedure as gruesome as this is simply unacceptable to me, and should be so for this Congress. The American people have spoken loudly and clearly on this issue. This ban has passed the House of Representatives in the past, and we should do so here again today. This legislation before us is carefully crafted to address concerns of the Supreme Court. President Bush has indicated that he will sign this much-needed legislation. I urge my colleagues to support passage of the Partial-Birth Abortion Ban, and let's hope that it's the last time we have to fight for this common sense legislation.

Mr. VITTER

Mr. VITTER. Mr. Speaker, I am honored and humbled to stand as an author of H. Con. Res. 439 as a small commemoration to a woman who has given her State and country so much, and that is Lindy Boggs. Louisiana has a rich and colorful history. We have had fierce debates in our State over the politics of north Louisiana versus south Louisiana, Catholics versus Protestants, the LSU Tigers versus the Tulane Green Wave, but we all agree that Louisiana is proud to be home of a true national gem that we call Lindy, and I am proud to have authored this resolution that honors her work, her legacy, and her life. Marie Corinne Morrison Claiborne Boggs is beloved throughout Louisiana, but has an impact on events that affect the entire country and indeed the world. She arrived in Washington at 24 years of age as the wife of a newly elected congressman, Hale Boggs, and the mother of young children. She returns this week to receive the Freedom Award from the Capitol Historical Society. In the meantime, she has served as a congresswoman, as an ambassador, as a chair of political conventions, as someone who has contributed so much to her State and country. In doing so, she pioneered new frontiers for women and has created a true legacy of service, patriotism, and honor. As a congressional spouse, Lindy managed her husband's campaign and congressional office. She chaired the inaugural balls of Presidents Kennedy and Johnson. She accomplished this while raising three wonderful children. She was truly Hale's helpmate, soulmate, and they were a wonderful team that worked together to form a formidable duo. If Hale and Lindy could not convince and charm someone, it could not be done. When tragedy struck in 1972, Lindy found herself widowed and Hale's work left undone, so she stepped in where she saw a need and became a pioneer. She won the special election in 1973 to Hale's old seat and became the first woman from Louisiana to be elected to Congress. She retired from Congress in 1991 after many years of exemplary service, but she did not retire from life, she continued to be very active, most notably, going to the Vatican to serve as ambassador to the Holy See. As we gather to honor Lindy Boggs, I find myself truly awed by the respect and admiration that she garners from such a vast array of people. A friend not only to presidents and the Pope, but really a friend to us all, particularly those of us in Louisiana. Louisiana is proud of Lindy Boggs, a true national gem.

Mr. VITTER

Mr. VITTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in proud support of this Republican prescription drug plan. Prescription drug coverage is absolutely critical for seniors today, and no senior should have to choose between paying for prescription drugs and paying for food or rent. So we are acting and we are producing a plan and we are passing a plan to give seniors choice. They can choose the plan that works best for their needs. It reduces their out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs, gives them a lifetime benefit, and the plan is voluntary. So if seniors have a plan already that they are happy with, they can stay with it. They are not going to get kicked out. But for those without coverage, this bill will help them get that coverage and cover those escalating costs of prescription drugs. Seniors deserve a prescription drug benefit, not just talk, not just debate, and they deserve it today, and that is why we are going to act today, not talk, not debate but act, act responsibly and act within a budget that we can sustain over time.

Mr. VITTER

Mr. VITTER. Madam Speaker, I rise to strongly support American jobs and employment here at home, economic development; and because of those values and because of that focus, I strongly support the Jefferson resolution and active consideration and debate of it. U.S. port authorities, port terminal operators, longshore labor unions, other U.S. port and transportation industry organizations all have opposed President Bush's decision to impose tariffs and quotas on fairly traded steel products imported into the United States, and all of those entities are home to good, viable, important, well-paying American jobs. This is not a one-sided debate about American jobs. I am very sympathetic to U.S. steel producers and their employees, but that is not the only place jobs are impacted in terms of this action. They are impacted even more on the negative side by President Bush's decision with regard to ports and other maritime-related commerce. I know that very well from my home, the New Orleans area. Forty percent of the revenue from the port of New Orleans is directly tied to steel imports. That supports more than 8,600 jobs just within the Greater New Orleans area, and if we look at Louisiana as a whole, there are thousands more, and if we look at the Nation, there are tens of thousands more. There are far more good American jobs that will be cut, that will be hurt because of this decision than those jobs in the domestic steel industry that will be saved, and that is why I strongly support this resolution and believe that we should have full debate and consideration of it.

Mr. VITTER

Mr. VITTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my strong support for this resolution, and commend Majority Leader Tom DeLay and Representative Tom Lantos for their work. Israel should know that this House, this President, and the American people support her while she wages a war against terrorists who would mercilessly kill her citizens. Israel is fighting for nothing less than her right to exist, and today we express our solidarity with them in that fight. I believe that Prime Minister Sharon, along with his united government and the Israeli Defense Forces, is taking the steps necessary to weed out the nest of terrorists that have attacked their citizens for so long. Suicide bombers have no place among people who wish to join the community of nations. Leaders who tolerate their existence should have no welcome and no seat at the table with world leaders. Real peace can only be achieved when the brutality of those who murder innocent men, women and children is halted completely. I encourage all Members to support this resolution, Israel, the President, and all others including the courageous men and women of our own Armed Forces who are together waging the global war against terrorism.

Mr. VITTER

Mr. VITTER. Madam Speaker, I stand to strongly support this bill and particularly the 527 provisions. I support it because I am a strong advocate of reform and have a strong reform record, both in the Congress and in the State legislature. The gentleman from Connecticut (Mr. Shays) made some points, but I think the logical extension of all of his comments is that we should federalize every aspect of disclosure around the country and not have any State systems State by State, because a political action committee only qualifies for this exemption if they do not spend a penny on Federal races. If they have any involvement in any Federal race whatsoever, then they are still obligated to file under Federal law. This exemption only applies to them if they are active purely on the local and State level. Furthermore, even if that is the case, if a Federal official is involved in a meaningful way in their activity, then the exemption still does not apply for them. Duplicative filing is not reform. It is the enemy of reform. Mounds and mounds of useless paper is not productive for disclosure. It is the enemy of disclosure. Therefore, making this corrective action is very much consistent in promoting reform. And duplicative filing, burdensome regulations, federalizing all campaign finance disclosure, that is not reform, that is moving in the wrong direction. That is why I strongly support this corrective legislation, the 527 provisions in this bill.

Mr. VITTER

Mr. VITTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the Girl Scouts of America. In March 1912, Juliette Gordon Low, a visionary from Savannah, GA, formed an organization that has become the world's preeminent organization dedicated solely to girls. Girl Scouting encourages girls to develop their full potential, to believe in themselves, to respect others, and to make a contribution to the world around them. In an accepting and nurturing environment, girls build character and skills for success in the real world. In partnership with committed adults, girls develop qualities that will serve them all of their lives--like strong values, a social conscience and conviction about their own potential and self worth. The Girl Scout Council of Southeast Louisiana provides a positive impact on our entire region by the services and activities they provide. I salute the adult troop leaders who volunteer their time to serve as role models for the thousands of Girl Scouts in our community. As the father of a Brownie, I see first hand the enjoyment and enrichment that Girl Scouting provides. Could Juliette Gordon Low have known in 1912 when she sold her pearls to give Girl Scouting financial backing that millions of girls would benefit from her generosity? She would be proud to know that Girl Scouting is still going strong and shaping lives. Congratulations Girl Scouts on 90 years of wonderful service.

Mr. VITTER

Mr. VITTER. Mr. Chairman, I stand in strong support of the Young-Mica bill, and it is for a very simple reason, because I get on an airplane twice a week and my wife and my kids fly and friends and loved ones and family fly all the time; and in my judgment, which is the best judgment I have to determine my vote, I think this bill is the strongest security measure available. So I just want to make that clear to all of the Members, including the minority leader. It is not because I had some meeting with a lobbyist. It is because I want to protect my family, my friends, my loved ones, and my country. Let me give my colleagues one specific example which I think is a crucial security question that has not been focused on enough in this debate and that is checked baggage. I was, quite frankly, shocked to learn that the FAA, even after September 11, does not demand that baggage of a passenger who does not show up at his gate and board his airplane is removed before the plane takes off. That is the rule for international flights. It is not the mandatory rule for domestic flights, and I find that inexcusable after September 11. Under the Democratic bill, it would still not be the rule. It would not happen. It would never have to happen in every instance at all. That is simply inexcusable. Under the Young-Mica bill and under the manager's amendment, that provision would go into effect the day after the bill was signed into law, and every checked bag of a passenger who did not board his flight would be pulled before the plane took off, and that could only change after a 100 percent screening policy of the luggage was actually implemented; and by the way, that is an absolutely crucial issue that we must address forcefully.

Mr. VITTER

Mr. VITTER. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word. Mr. Chairman, I rise, too, in strong support of the dairy compact concept, the freestanding bill, this amendment which had been offered on the agricultural bill, the farm bill. The opposition to the dairy compact clearly had the right to bring their point of order, and they did that and they did it successfully. But we just do not all have rights, we have responsibilities, too. They have a responsibility, and this whole body has a responsibility, to face and debate and vote on an issue which is so important to so many American communities. This compact legislation has existed for some time with very significant bipartisan support. It goes to the heart, the backbone of so many communities, in the Northeast where there has been a compact, in the Southeast, my part of the world, where we desire a compact, and other parts of the United States. Yet any vote, any vote whatsoever on the entire concept, has been blocked time and time again through procedural hurdles and often the will of single individuals. So we can talk about rights and points of order, but we also must talk about responsibilities. It is all of our responsibility and it is the responsibility of this body to act and vote on this issue of vital importance. In Louisiana, which I represent, dairy farmers are going out of business every week. About 80 percent of all dairies in the State are in my part of the State in my district. And every week they are going out of business. They are going out of business because of the extreme volatility at times of milk prices. What the compact is designed, very well designed, to do is stabilize, do away with those huge peaks and valleys, stabilize that lay of the land, not as we so often do in the area of agriculture with buckets of taxpayer dollars, but within the milk industry itself. And this is not some wild theory, some wild model. This is a plan that has successfully been put in place specifically in the Northeast. We have concrete and specific history and record to go on. And what is that history? It is not some dramatic increase in milk prices. It is either a modest, slight increase or no increase at all, because the price of milk in Boston is lower significantly than in many other parts of the country. So this can work. This can help dairy stabilize their future. This can do all of that without giving any shock to consumers. And it is needed, not just by dairies but by communities, because the dairies, because the agricultural part of those communities are often the backbone, the spirit of those communities, in the Northeast, in the Southeast and elsewhere around the country. Let me end where I began, by asking those opponents of the dairy compact to not just consider their rights to a point of order or anything else but to join us as we all consider our responsibilities. We have a responsibility to debate this issue, and we have a responsibility to have a vote on this issue. We need that vote. We need that debate. We cannot simply go on forever and never have any vote on the issue. That is just flat out ridiculous when there is such wide, significant and bipartisan support for this significant legislation.

Mr. VITTER

Mr. VITTER. Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment to the amendment.

Mr. VITTER. Mr. Chairman, I offer this second-degree amendment to the Sanders amendment to make an improvement and remove one of the concerns that had originally arisen with his proposal. In the Sanders amendment as written, benefits are limited to 230,000 pounds of milk per month. That number really does not reflect the needs of all regions of the country, including my region in the South. Raising that amount to 500,000 pounds per month, which my second-degree amendment does, that would encompass and involve about a 300-cow farm, and would make dairy producers in many regions of the country, including the South, more comfortable with the gentleman from Vermont's underlying amendment. With this new 500,000 pound limit, most of the dairy farmers in Louisiana and many other regions would be properly included. In offering this second-degree amendment, I want to thank the gentleman from Vermont for offering his proposals. Admittedly this is a work in progress. It was only really largely developed and brought out to other Members in the last few days, but it clearly has a lot of potential. It is not everything the compact would offer to many dairy producers, including those in the South, but it is a very good work in progress that I would like to constructively support tonight, so that hopefully we can continue to perfect it as it moves along in the process. I want to thank the gentleman from Vermont for his cooperation and his pledge to work with all regions, including the South, to make sure that all dairy farmers' needs and concerns and questions are fully taken account of as hopefully we move forward in the process.

Mr. VITTER

Mr. VITTER. Mr. Speaker, this week's terrorist attacks against the American people are nothing less than cold-blooded murder and an act of war. I fully support this resolution and urge the President to use any and all means necessary against those nations, organizations, and persons who committed or participated in these heinous acts. These attacks will only strengthen our resolve to defend the United States and our way of life. These attacks are not just an attack against this wonderful land we call America--they are attacks against our people, our democracy, our values, our civilization. As a nation, we will not rest until we have methodically defeated those who use fear as a weapon against the principles for which our country stands. We are coming after them full throttle. Finally, we must not forget that thousands of Americans lost their lives this week, and many thousands more lost mothers and fathers, sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, friends and colleagues. My heart, my prayers, and my condolences go out to them all.

Mr. VITTER

Mr. VITTER. Mr. Speaker, I join all of my colleagues, all of my fellow Americans, in prayer and condolences for the victims of yesterday's horrible tragedies. All of us know someone who was directly hurt by that senseless violence. I talked to a constituent, an older woman, whose son-in-law worked in the World Trade Center, and, as of mid-afternoon yesterday, still did not know his fate. We all keep those victims and families in our deepest prayers. Yesterday was the most horrific attack against our nation in history, period. Today, shock turns to anger, and our challenge is to turn that anger into true resolve. First, we must use all of our collective efforts in the rescue and rebuilding operations. There are heroes in New York and the Pentagon on the front line of that now; and we must give them all of the resources necessary and rebuild, including rebuilding the World Trade Center. Second, at the same time, we must resolve to use all of our efforts to defend against any similar attacks, and our government is doing that. Third, we must hunt down those responsible. History is littered with instances of nations preparing for the last war. Let us all learn that lesson, even if a day late. Let us be clear when we use the phrase ``war,'' it is not a turn-of phrase, it is not a war against drugs, we mean war. I mean identifying the persons and organizations and nation-states involved, formally declaring war on all of those persons and entities, and prosecuting that war to its full conclusion. God bless America.

Mr. VITTER

Mr. VITTER. Mr. Chairman, I am pleased to rise in support of this bill and in support of the manager's amendment, because it is not just about energy security which is crucial, it is not just about economic security which is crucial. It is also about national security. That is exactly why I proposed an amendment that was included in the manager's amendment to mandate us to take all action necessary to decrease our reliance on foreign sources of oil. Specifically, it says that we are going to take every action necessary in the areas of conservation, efficiency, alternative source development, technology development, and domestic production to reduce U.S. dependence on foreign energy sources from 56 percent, where we are today and rising, to 45 percent by January 1, 2012, and to reduce U.S. dependence on Iraqi energy sources in particular from 700,000 barrels per day, where we are now, to 250,000 barrels per day by that same date, January 1, 2012. We need to take a balanced approach that this bill demonstrates and involves if we are going to take the right step forward for national security as well as energy and economic security. Every day we wait, every day we do not act in all areas like conservation and alternative source and domestic production, Saddam Hussein sits back and laughs and collects more money and collects more leverage on our economy. We need to turn that tide around. This bill and this manager's amendment is a crucial and important first step in doing that.

Mr. VITTER

Mr. VITTER. Mr. Speaker, due to a flight cancellation on Tuesday, July 17, 2001, I was unable to be present for the following Roll Call Votes: # 229, the vote on S. 360, a Bill to Honor Paul Coverdell; and # 230, the vote on H. Res. 195, Commending the United States military and defense contractor personnel responsible for a successful in-flight ballistic missile defense interceptor test on July 14, 2001. I ask that the Record show that if I were present, I would have voted ``yea'' on Roll Call # 229 and ``yea'' on Roll Call # 230.