Joe Wilson

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. I thank the gentleman from California for yielding. As the ranking member of the Military Personnel Subcommittee, there are a few issues I would like to highlight with regard to this year's National Defense Authorization Act. I am pleased the act adopted the Military Personnel Subcommittee mark in full and adopted some important amendments. Of note in the mark was a 1.9 percent basic pay raise for the military, as proposed in my bill, H.R. 4427. Concerning amendments, first is my amendment to ensure that the Secretary of Defense retains sole authority over TRICARE, the Department of Defense's health care system. This ensures that the health care system of our servicemen and women and families will not be overwhelmed in the health care takeover. I do have concerns about a few other issues that are not in the NDAA. First is the proposal that we would have allowed military personnel retired with disabilities to receive both their full military disability retirement pay and VA disability pay. The concurrent receipt issue has been addressed numerous times by the committee led by Congressman Jeff Miller of Florida, and while we have been making inroads, there are still many veterans who need our help. Additionally, it was not allowed to eliminate the widow's tax that results because surviving spouses are required to forfeit their survivor benefit pension annuity. This is a real burden to widows and children of servicemembers. I am also concerned about the retroactive retirement credit for Guard and Reserve soldiers who served after 9/11. These soldiers have answered the call to duty and deserve no less for their honorable service than their active duty counterparts. As we bring this act to the floor, it is important to keep the servicemember in the forefront of our mind. It is crucial to consider the repeal of the military's Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy. The service chiefs, as represented by the fighting men and women of our country, have again and again urged us not to change the law until they have sufficient time to conduct their study. We are a Nation at war, and, as such, we should follow the wishes of our war fighters.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, benefits for our military men and women, as explained in the Army Times, should not be used as props in political games. The process of the final version of the ``tax extenders'' bill is Washington shenanigans at its worst. Combining tax increases and unrelated spending with legitimate needs for our military men and women is insulting. I am confident the American people will see straight through these games. I am a long-time supporter of concurrent receipt and finally ending the disability tax on retirees eligible for military and veterans benefits. There are over 153 lawmakers who are supportive of eliminating this inequity, and yet the political trap has been added with this tax increase, causing a ``no'' vote. As the ranking member on the Military Personnel Subcommittee, I know that our military personnel deserve more from their lawmakers than these political games. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, Republicans are leading the charge on creative interactive initiatives that give the American people a seat in Congress. Hardworking taxpayers are rightfully frustrated by business as usual in Washington, particularly when it comes to liberals dragging their feet on job creation bills while continuing to rack up government spending. AmericaSpeakingOut.com, launched yesterday by Chief Deputy Whip Kevin McCarthy, will provide a forum for concerned Americans to make their voices heard and share policy concepts. I believe that this online forum will have more job creation proposals and more concepts on how to cut spending in just 1 day than the Washington liberals have presented all year. I encourage South Carolina residents and Americans across the country to go to AmericaSpeakingOut.com to amplify your proposals on fiscal accountability, national security, American jobs, and values. It is time for you to speak out and speak up. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September 11th in the Global War on Terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. When it comes to addressing the budget, competition is key. This principle applies to everything from produce to clothing items to defense procurement. As the House considers the National Defense Authorization Act this week and an amendment impeding competition between fighter engines, it is important that we keep the merits of this principle in mind in order to continue to protect thousands of jobs and save taxpayers billions of dollars. History shows that competing fighter engines significantly reduce program costs while improving safety, reliability, and contractor responsiveness. Controlling costs, spurring innovation, and accelerating weapons systems readiness and performance are just a few major reasons why we must continue the F-136 program. Without competition, we would rely on a single engine, which could lead to unnecessary operational risk and the potential for grounding of the entire fleet if a glitch is found. The F-136 prevents this troubling scenario. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of House Resolution 1385, to recognize and honor the courage and sacrifice of the members of the Armed Forces and of the veterans of our wars. Next week, we will be celebrating Memorial Day, and it is fitting that we take time to remember all those who have served this Nation in uniform so honorably and selflessly. I look forward to being with the Navy League of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, at the Veterans Memorial Park next Monday. Last year, I was inspired to be with fellow members of the American Legion in Hampton, South Carolina. We stand here today enjoying the fruits of freedom because good men and women from the Revolutionary War to present day have put the support of America and the ideals for which she stands above personal desires and preferences. While estimates vary, it is certain that more than 1 million Americans have died in defense of this Nation. You may have known some of them. If you did, you should count yourself among the privileged. I hope you were as touched by their sacrifices as I have been by those I have known, people like Marine Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Trane McCloud--a military fellow in the congressional office I represent. He was killed in Iraq on December 3, 2006. To Lieutenant Colonel Trane McCloud and to so many others like him over the years of our history, we owe so much. It is a debt that we can never really repay to extraordinary military families and widows, such as Maggie McCloud. The only way I know how to even begin to express our thanks is to continue to support to the fullest extent possible those who now serve, to step forward and to publicly acknowledge their dedication and sacrifices for America. We should recognize and be grateful that, due to the sacrifices of American servicemembers, there is a broader spread of democracy and freedom today than in the history of the world, with dozens of new democracies, upon the defeat of Communism in the Cold War, from Poland to Mongolia and Bulgaria to Cambodia. Iraq and Afghanistan have been liberated from totalitarian despots in the global war on terrorism. That's why what we are doing in this resolution and what we will do next week on Memorial Day is so important. As the son of a World War II Flying Tiger who served in China, as a 31-year veteran of the Army Reserve and the Army National Guard, and as one with four sons currently serving in the military, I especially appreciate military service. I want to thank Armed Services Committee Chairman Ike Skelton and Ranking Member Buck McKeon for cosponsoring this resolution, and I urge my colleagues to support it. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September 11th.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. House Concurrent Resolution 137 expresses the sense of Congress regarding adequate housing options for persons with HIV-AIDS. Studies show that the rates of HIV infection are 3 to 16 times higher among persons who are homeless or unstably housed, and 70 percent of all persons living with HIV-AIDS report a lifetime experience of homelessness. Currently, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, through its Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS, HOPWA, provides grants to eligible States and cities to provide housing assistance and related supportive services to meet the housing needs of low-income persons with HIV-AIDS and their families. I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. House Concurrent Resolution 137 expresses the sense of Congress regarding adequate housing options for persons with HIV-AIDS. Studies show that the rates of HIV infection are 3 to 16 times higher among persons who are homeless or unstably housed, and 70 percent of all persons living with HIV-AIDS report a lifetime experience of homelessness. Currently, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, through its Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS, HOPWA, provides grants to eligible States and cities to provide housing assistance and related supportive services to meet the housing needs of low-income persons with HIV-AIDS and their families. I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, it is clear the American people are tired of business as usual in Washington, particularly when it comes to out-of-control spending. The images of the riots in Greece caused in part by overspending that led to an economic collapse should concern every single American. Between the $1 trillion government health care takeover, the $789 billion so-called stimulus, and the bankrupt cash-for-clunkers programs, America could be headed down the same path. There is clearly no better time to get serious about the spending spree in Washington. I applaud Republican Whip Eric Cantor for launching YouCut, an easy, interactive way for all Americans to vote, both online and via cell phone on spending cuts they want Congress to enact. In the first week of this program, over 280,000 people cast their votes to cut the new Non-Reformed Welfare Program that cost $2.5 billion a year. Please visit JoeWilson.house.gov or RepublicanWhip.house.gov to see this week's new options and cast your votes. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, it is clear the American people are tired of business as usual in Washington, particularly when it comes to out-of-control spending. The images of the riots in Greece caused in part by overspending that led to an economic collapse should concern every single American. Between the $1 trillion government health care takeover, the $789 billion so-called stimulus, and the bankrupt cash-for-clunkers programs, America could be headed down the same path. There is clearly no better time to get serious about the spending spree in Washington. I applaud Republican Whip Eric Cantor for launching YouCut, an easy, interactive way for all Americans to vote, both online and via cell phone on spending cuts they want Congress to enact. In the first week of this program, over 280,000 people cast their votes to cut the new Non-Reformed Welfare Program that cost $2.5 billion a year. Please visit JoeWilson.house.gov or RepublicanWhip.house.gov to see this week's new options and cast your votes. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, today I rise in support of House Resolution 584, recognizing the importance of manufactured and modular housing in the United States. Manufactured housing is a good source of affordable housing in this country not only for home ownership but for rental housing as well. Currently, the manufactured housing and modular housing industries generate over $6 billion in annual revenues and employ over 70,000 people. As a result of this extensive industry, approximately 18 million people in the United States, representing all segments of the population, live in manufactured or modular homes. I was educated on the importance of manufactured housing in South Carolina by Tom Lloyd of the Manufactured Housing Association. I know firsthand of the housing opportunities made possible by Leonard Sanford in Orangeburg, South Carolina. Manufactured and modular housing provides a critical solution to our country's supply of affordable housing. And due to the factory production process involved, manufactured and modular housing brings technological advances, value, and customization options for consumers seeking quality housing and sustainable home ownership. The legislation before us recognizes and fully supports the goals and ideals of Manufactured Housing Week, and I urge my colleagues to support the resolution. Madam Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, as we are recognizing Mental Health Month, I would also like to commend the National Alliance for Mentally Ill, NAMI. I was honored earlier this month to participate in the Mental Health Walk at the Riverwalk in West Columbia in the Midlands of south Carolina. The walk itself was organized by Buddy Wier. It was amazing to see hundreds of persons participate. There was competition between different businesses and the businesses participating. It was just really heartwarming to see such an outpouring of community support. I look forward in October. The Mental Health Walk by NAMI will be on the beaches at Hilton Head Island, South Carolina; and I look forward to participating at that time, again raising awareness of mental health issues and how communities and civic organizations and individuals can help persons who have mental health issues. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of House Resolution 1258, acknowledging the month of May as National Mental Health Month because it has helped raise awareness in our communities, which has contributed to removing the stigma associated with mental illness. I would like to express my thanks to the organizations working to promote awareness of mental health and to educate families affected by mental illness. As a former president myself of the Mid Carolina Mental Health Association, I know firsthand of its success and significance. I also appreciate my oldest son, Alan Wilson, has served on the Mental Health Association State Board. Your work is critical to increasing the quality of life for those with mental illness. I am grateful to also work with Hidden Wounds, founded by Ann Bigham, a volunteer organization in Columbia, South Carolina, which provides services for our military and veterans who are successfully defeating terrorism overseas. I would like to thank the author of the resolution, Congresswoman Grace Napolitano of California, for her leadership in helping Americans' well-being and addressing mental disorders. I encourage all of my colleagues to vote in favor of this resolution. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, today I rise in support of House Resolution 584, recognizing the importance of manufactured and modular housing in the United States. Manufactured housing is a good source of affordable housing in this country not only for home ownership but for rental housing as well. Currently, the manufactured housing and modular housing industries generate over $6 billion in annual revenues and employ over 70,000 people. As a result of this extensive industry, approximately 18 million people in the United States, representing all segments of the population, live in manufactured or modular homes. I was educated on the importance of manufactured housing in South Carolina by Tom Lloyd of the Manufactured Housing Association. I know firsthand of the housing opportunities made possible by Leonard Sanford in Orangeburg, South Carolina. Manufactured and modular housing provides a critical solution to our country's supply of affordable housing. And due to the factory production process involved, manufactured and modular housing brings technological advances, value, and customization options for consumers seeking quality housing and sustainable home ownership. The legislation before us recognizes and fully supports the goals and ideals of Manufactured Housing Week, and I urge my colleagues to support the resolution. Madam Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, as we are recognizing Mental Health Month, I would also like to commend the National Alliance for Mentally Ill, NAMI. I was honored earlier this month to participate in the Mental Health Walk at the Riverwalk in West Columbia in the Midlands of south Carolina. The walk itself was organized by Buddy Wier. It was amazing to see hundreds of persons participate. There was competition between different businesses and the businesses participating. It was just really heartwarming to see such an outpouring of community support. I look forward in October. The Mental Health Walk by NAMI will be on the beaches at Hilton Head Island, South Carolina; and I look forward to participating at that time, again raising awareness of mental health issues and how communities and civic organizations and individuals can help persons who have mental health issues. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of House Resolution 1258, acknowledging the month of May as National Mental Health Month because it has helped raise awareness in our communities, which has contributed to removing the stigma associated with mental illness. I would like to express my thanks to the organizations working to promote awareness of mental health and to educate families affected by mental illness. As a former president myself of the Mid Carolina Mental Health Association, I know firsthand of its success and significance. I also appreciate my oldest son, Alan Wilson, has served on the Mental Health Association State Board. Your work is critical to increasing the quality of life for those with mental illness. I am grateful to also work with Hidden Wounds, founded by Ann Bigham, a volunteer organization in Columbia, South Carolina, which provides services for our military and veterans who are successfully defeating terrorism overseas. I would like to thank the author of the resolution, Congresswoman Grace Napolitano of California, for her leadership in helping Americans' well-being and addressing mental disorders. I encourage all of my colleagues to vote in favor of this resolution. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, last night, members of the House Armed Services Committee completed the markup of the 2011 National Defense Authorization Act. I want to thank Chairman Ike Skelton and Ranking Member Buck McKeon for working to ensure America's heroes and military families are recognized for their service. I am grateful for the ``Defend America Plan'' comprised of several amendments that include: labeling the Fort Hood and Little Rock shootings as part of the Global War on Terrorism; preventing the transfer of detainees from Guantanamo Bay; and demanding strategies to deal with Iran's missile and nuclear threat. I want to thank my colleagues for supporting my amendment to ensure TRICARE is protected from the health care takeover. Their support is also appreciated on my Yucca Mountain amendment to help examine the reckless decision to close the waste repository and my amendment to promote the State Guard. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September 11th in the Global War on Terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I applaud the National Federation of Independent Business, better known as NFIB, for standing up for small businesses in the State of South Carolina, like OCS Doors of Beaufort, led by Jay Halloway, and the Sunset Grill of West Columbia, established by Betty Jackson. Employees at small businesses like these all across America are concerned about the impact of the job-killing mandates of the government health care takeover. The NFIB estimates the takeover will kill 1.6 million jobs. The NFIB stood up for small business employees last week when they joined 20 States, including South Carolina, in a lawsuit to overturn this government monstrosity. There are health care alternatives that Congress should consider, like the SWAP Act, which continues to cover preexisting conditions but will repeal the tax hikes and unaffordable mandates on individuals and small business owners. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September 11th in the Global War on Terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, more costly disclosures continue to come out about the government health care takeover. And why should we be surprised, when Speaker Pelosi told the American people that we need to--and I quote--``pass the bill so we can find out what is in it''? The more we find out, the worse it looks. The latest analysis by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office reveals that the health care takeover will cost at least $115 billion more than originally estimated. This follows last month's CMS report that highlighted health care costs will increase by $311 billion over the next 10 years, and will force millions of seniors off their current Medicare coverage. Washington must stop promising one thing and delivering another, particularly when it comes to price tags. If Congress continues to drag its feet, runaway deficits and unsustainable debt are sure to cripple our economy and would lead us down the same path as Greece. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September 11th in the Global War on Terrorism. My sympathy to the family of Betty Jackson Mack of Gaston, South Carolina.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, first there was a government scheme that offered financial incentives to upgrade to more energy efficient cars--Cash for Clunkers--and that program came in over budget--by 300 percent. Now Congress is trying to do the same thing again with Cash for Caulkers, a program designed to encourage you to make your home more energy efficient. I support the bill's intent to encourage energy efficiency, but I believe there are other ways to achieve our energy goals without borrowing money we can't afford. This is the people's money, not the government's money. Almost $5 billion has already been spent on weatherization programs in the spending bill, and there is plenty of evidence that the funds have not been spent as they should. Despite the evidence, Congress decided last week to pile on another $6.6 billion at a time when Washington must get serious about spending. The American people cannot afford for Congress to pass another multibillion-dollar bill we can't afford. Tough choices are needed to curb Washington's spending habits and Cash for Caulkers is one such easy choice to forgo. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September 11th in the Global War on Terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, while they are courageously serving our great Nation overseas, America's brave men and women in uniform are receiving sweet treats from South Carolina's Ms. Janet Cram, the Cookie Lady. Ms. Cram, a Hilton Head Island resident, has organized Treat the Troops, a baking program to send delicious cookies to troops in harm's way. She doesn't act alone in this endeavor. Her friends, also known as Crumbs, help her prepare the packages and batter. Baking over 2 million cookies for our troops, Jeanette and her Crumbs started this process in 1990 during the gulf war. America is in a new era in which our soldiers are working around the world protecting American families at home by preventing additional acts of terrorism. It is uplifting to know that individuals like Jeanette and her Crumbs are doing their part to help our troops and sweeten their days. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the Global War on Terrorism. Congratulations on the success of the National Day of Prayer. Welcome, Franklin Graham, to Capitol Hill.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, Congress should be considering job creation policies to get America's economy rolling once again. A proven method has been the research and development tax credit to stay competitive in the global marketplace and to keep high value research and development jobs. This tax credit is only available for certain qualified research performed in the United States, and 70 percent or more of the benefits will go straight to the salaries of workers performing U.S.-based research. In South Carolina alone, more than 600 firms participate in research and development activity, spending more than $1.3 billion a year. If Congress will increase the rate from 14 percent to 20 percent, we can promote more R&D jobs in the United States and ensure that South Carolina and America remain competitive for research-intensive companies. The United States now ranks 17th in the world when compared to incentives for private sector research, and I urge Congress to offer more support. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September 11th in the Global War on Terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, longtime South Carolina resident Ms. Elise Jones Martin is a leader throughout the communities in our State, particularly in the capital of Columbia. It was on Washington Street that she opened a thriving beauty salon. It was at South Carolina State University that she furthered her education by taking teacher training courses. This eventually led to her teaching position at Booker T. Washington High School, where she enriched the lives of many young students. Ms. Elise Jones Martin has many passions: teaching, politics, and philanthropy. Her contributions in each of these areas are extensive. But it was Ms. Martin's lifetime dedication of fighting for viable neighborhoods that recently culminated in the launch of the Elise Jones Martin Place. This housing community carries Ms. Elise Jones Martin's name because of her work to improve neighborhoods by establishing solid foundations for America's young citizens. It is my honor to celebrate the contributions of Elise Jones Martin today and thank her for making Columbia a stronger city and inspiring people of all ages to give back to their communities. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September 11th in the Global War on Terrorism. God bless Duane Jackson for stopping the terrorist attack on New York City.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to be removed as a cosponsor of H.R. 2927.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, as a trusted ally, Israel and the United States have enjoyed a strategic partnership based on shared mutual values and respect. This relationship has continued to strengthen over the last 62 years, and it's critical that America continues to promote this friendship. Fostering this important relationship means beginning the process of relocating the U.S. Embassy in Israel to Jerusalem and celebrating reunification. That is why I am introducing legislation today with over 20 cosponsors that commemorates the 43rd anniversary of the reunification of Jerusalem and supports locating the United States Embassy in Israel to Jerusalem. In my visits to Israel, I have been impressed by its dynamic multicultural citizens, inspired by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. America must ensure that Jerusalem, led by Mayor Nir Barkat, continues to be a shrine open for all cultures. Also, congratulations to Patricia Lobb of Aiken as she becomes a U.S. citizen this morning. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September 11th in the Global War on Terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, Americans living abroad continue to face unnecessary roadblocks not only to U.S. banks, but increasingly at foreign banks as well. The requests from expats continue to come in at a startling rate. I want to thank Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney for helping to bring these banking roadblocks to the attention of the Treasury Department. We are hoping that the Financial Services Committee will soon hold hearings to review current U.S. banking laws and regulations that may prevent Americans living overseas from accessing U.S. banking services. International Herald Tribune reporter Brian Knowlton recently highlighted that ``amid mounting frustration over taxation and banking problems, small but growing numbers of overseas Americans are taking the weighty step of renouncing their citizenship.'' I encourage the Financial Services Committee to read Knowlton's article and schedule a hearing in the very near future. In conclusion, God bless our troops and we will never forget September 11th in the Global War on Terrorism.