Providing For Consideration Of H.R. 5825, Electronic Surveillance Modernization Act

PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION OF H.R. 5825, ELECTRONIC SURVEILLANCE MODERNIZATION ACT -- (Extensions of Remarks - September 29, 2006)

SPEECH OF HON. BETTY McCOLLUM OF MINNESOTA
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2006

* Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise to oppose the previous question. This do-nothing Republican Congress plans to adjourn without taking action on the issues facing American families. It is outrageous that instead of addressing our national security and economic security, Republicans are focused on scoring cheap political points that benefit special interests, further divide this country, and put us at greater risk.

* Families--not big oil companies--need relief from the economic squeeze most are facing. This year we see the cost of health care, energy and education going up while wages stagnate. Our economic growth depends on an investment in our future and on recognizing that hard working, middle class Americans are the engine of our economy. It is also outrageous that 5 years after the tragedy of September 11, Republican leadership has failed to make the necessary investment in Homeland Security, preferring instead to continue to provide unaffordable tax cuts to corporations.

* Democrats have proposed 5 actions that this Congress can take that will make a real difference in the lives of families.

* This Congress should not adjourn without increasing the minimum wage. Republicans voted to increase our pay by $31,600 this year but have refused a pay raise for the 15 million hardworking Americans making the minimum wage.

* We must allow the Federal Government to negotiate for best price for pharmaceutical drugs on behalf of American seniors, persons with disabilities and taxpayers. This will significantly lower the cost of drugs, providing for resources that we use to fill the doughnut hole and finally provide the comprehensive coverage our seniors have been fighting for.

* In order to ensure our global competitiveness, Congress should reverse the raid on student aid by replacing the $12 billion cut earlier this year to pay for tax cuts for the wealthiest.

* This summer gas was over $3 dollars a gallon. And while we are feeling some relief now, clearly it is temporary. At the same time, oil and gas companies are enjoying record profits at the expense of the American taxpayer. It is time that this Congress insist on an energy plan that benefits families and decreases our dependence on foreign oil. Lets roll back tax breaks for Big Oil and invest those dollars in alternative fuels.

* And to keep America safe, Republicans should stop blocking the full implementation of the 9/11 Commission recommendations and commit the resources necessary to secure our borders, ports, airports and chemical facilities. Instead of simply scaring Americans with talk of a terrorist attack, Democrats want to take real steps to keep American families safe.

* Mr. Speaker, America needs a new direction. By voting against the previous question I am voting for initiatives that will promote economic growth and provide real security. I urge my colleagues to reject the politics of cynicism and fear and to work together to move this country forward.

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