CONGRESSWOMAN EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON ISSUES STATEMENT ON THE MORATORIUM OF U.S. POSTAL SERVICE CLOSINGS, UNTIL MAY 15

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson announced that there will be a moratorium on the closing or consolidation of post offices or mail processing facilities in North Texas. On Tuesday, fifteen U.S. Senators and the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) issued a moratorium on the closure of thousands of post offices throughout the country until May 15, 2012. The Postal Service would like to cut costs by consolidating about 3,700 post offices, end Saturday service, and eliminate first class overnight mail.

“While I applaud members of the Senate and USPS leadership for reaching this agreement, I do have some longstanding concerns that I have been seeking resolution on since 2009 when the first Area Mail Processing (AMP) feasibility studies were being conducted. In a series of letters to USPS and meetings with the agency’s leadership, I have been very vocal in my opposition to closing or relocating these mailing centers in my congressional district. In an economy where unemployment runs high and social mobility runs low, there could not be a worse time to close thousands of retail branches and put even more hard working Americans out of work,” stated Congresswoman Johnson.



Since 2009, Congresswoman Johnson has been actively fighting to ensure that Dallas residents, as well as the city’s large business community have access to adequate postal services. She understands that the USPS needs to cut costs to stay competitive, but wants to ensure cuts don’t hinder residents or their businesses. Congresswoman Johnson met with thousands of constituents to gather public input on the best approach to keep post offices open. She has also kept in consistent contact with the Postmaster General on a host of issues related to access to services for the 30th Congressional District and North Texas.





Congresswoman Johnson is a co-sponsor of H.R. 1351, the USPS Pension Obligation Recalculation and Restoration Act, a bipartisan piece of legislation to help the USPS recoup nearly $7 billion in overpayments to its pension fund.



Congresswoman Johnson’s statement can be seen below:







Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Statement on

USPS Moratorium on Facility Closures

------

December 16, 2011



On Tuesday, December 13, fifteen U.S. Senators in conjunction with Postal Service leadership announced a verbal agreement to halt any post office closures until May 15, 2012. This moratorium is intended to give Congress the time it needs to enact comprehensive postal reform without needlessly restructuring the agency at the cost of tens of thousands of jobs. This announcement comes at a time when USPS faces a projected $14.1 billion loss in fiscal 2012 and is evaluating the possibility of closing up to 3,700 local branches and 252 mail-processing facilities. One such facility and a number of retail branches throughout the 30th District of Texas stand to be affected by these proposed changes.



While I applaud members of the Senate and USPS leadership for reaching this agreement, I do have some longstanding concerns that I have been seeking resolution on since 2009 when the first Area Mail Processing (AMP) feasibility studies were being conducted. In a series of letters to USPS and meetings with the agency’s leadership, I have been very vocal in my opposition to closing or relocating these mailing centers. In an economy where unemployment runs high and social mobility runs low, there could not be a worse time to close thousands of retail branches and put even more hard working Americans out of work.



This agreement to delay the closures is a positive sign that Congress and the USPS are able and willing to come to a viable solution in solving the agency’s financial woes. However, at my behest, we have seen such delays before in the 30th District and yet USPS has still not developed a comprehensive plan to streamline its operations and update the agency’s role in the 21st century. I have requested more transparency and availability for public input from the agency when conducting its feasibility studies, yet that has not happened in my opinion. I have met with USPS leadership to discuss the effects these closures would have on jobs for thousands of Americans, and yet their decisions have not reflected a serious consideration of those concerns.



With this announcement, it remains apparent that the bulk of our work remains. I am eager to work with my colleagues in the Senate and USPS leadership in the coming months to find practical and cost-effective solutions to this very serious problem. Nobody is ignoring the fact that USPS mail volume has declined tremendously, however like any business the USPS must evolve with the ever-changing times and redefine itself in a dynamic and unpredictable economy. I have always and will continue to be willing to work with my colleagues to facilitate this change; however it is largely up to the USPS leadership to guide the agency into a prosperous future.

Congresswoman Johnson Discusses Her New Bill And The Role Of Women In The Military

Recently, Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) introduced a bill to recognize General Brigadier Hazel Winifred Johnson-Brown, the first African-American woman to hold rank of General in the U.S. Military Services and the first African American to hold the position of Chief of the Army Nurse Corps. "She played a significant role in the military and I knew her as a nurse," says Johnson.
The resolution, which is sponsored by the American Nurses Association and the National Nursing Network Organization, would recognize Johnson-Brown for her accolades, including the Distinguished Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal and the Army Commendation Medal.

Congresswoman Johnson also shared her thoughts about today's military.

Loop 21: Do you feel like contributions from black women in the military are overlooked?

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson: I'm not so sure that I can say that they are overlooked. I think that there are times when I feel like they aren't celebrated enough. Usually, when they are accomplished, someone knows about them. And it usually takes someone to make an extra effort to make sure others aware.

Loop 21: What are you overall thoughts about the Afghanistan and Iraq war?

Congresswoman Johnson: I think we got into the [Afghanistan] war a little late after we were attacked on 9/11 in 2001. Instead of addressing that first, we went to Iraq, which I think was totally a false and misguided decision have been made...I do think it's time for us to come home.

Loop 21: Can you talk about the state of the military?

Congresswoman Johnson: Our military readiness is changing. We're looking more now at cyber security. Instead of having a number of round weapons, we are also expanding to make sure that we have cyber weapons. I think the whole picture of military is in a state of change.

Loop 21 Article

CONGRESSWOMAN EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON’S STATEMENT ON THE END OF THE IRAQ WAR

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson released the following statement on the end of the Iraq War:

“The Iraq War is over! After nine years of more than one million Americans sacrificing for our safety and bringing democracy to the Middle East, U.S. troops are now able to come home. President Obama kept his commitment to end the Iraq War and bring our troops home by the end of the year, which marks a critical period in our Country.

I want to offer sincere gratitude to our brave Veterans for their loyalty to America and preserving our Nation. Let us not forget the nearly 4,500 soldiers who have not returned home. With the end of the war, we can focus on strengthening our economy and building a stronger America that is worthy of our Veterans’ sacrifice.”

Comgresswoman Johnson introduces a bill along with Congresswoman Edwards that will help create a national safety broadband network

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, Ranking Member of the House Science, Space and Technology Committee introduced a bill Tuesday that would provide $300 million to research the creation of a national public safety broadband network.

The Public Safety Broadband Network Enabling Act from ranking member Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-Texas) and Rep. Donna Edwards (D-Md.) would fund the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) for research, development and standards activities to enable the creation of the public safety network.

The payroll-tax bill approved by the House on Tuesday included spectrum legislation from Rep. Greg Walden (R-Ore.) that would set aside the D Block of spectrum for public safety and use $6.5 billion of spectrum auction revenue to fund the network.

But Edwards and Johnson argued that the Republican measure fails to include any guarantee that important research and development work will take place.

“The proposal considered by the House today falls short of what is needed,” Johnson said. “Any legislation to create a public safety broadband network should include responsible research and development provisions. The failure to include such provisions puts the success of the entire public safety broadband network at risk.”

NIST would be authorized to research and help develop technologies that would improve the safety of the public safety network, document the operational requirements and help develop national, voluntary standards addressing those requirements.

“The creation of a nationwide, interoperable public safety broadband network, as recommended by the 9/11 Commission, is long overdue,” Edwards said. “It is important that we move forward in earnest, but we must ensure that broadband technologies are developed to work seamlessly with and meet the needs of our first responders.”

Walden, chairman of the House Energy and Commerce subcommittee on Communications and Technology, said Tuesday on the chamber floor: “This legislation didn’t just drop out of the sky. It was thoughtfully and creatively crafted and it finds the right balances.” Walden cited five separate public hearings and 11 months of negotiations between both parties, the Federal Communications Commission and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration.

“But at some point the American people say, ‘Stop talking, get it done.’”

The Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee has also approved a bill authorizing spectrum auctions and re-allocating the D Block, but it has yet to come up for a vote on the floor.

CONGRESSWOMAN EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON MEETS WITH EUROPEAN UNION AND UNITED STATES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY MAKERS

Recently, Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, Ranking Member of the House, Science, Space and Technology Committee, attended a joint European Union (EU) – United States (US) conference hosted by the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) on, “Building a Transatlantic Scientific Bridge.” She was invited to participate by Mr. Dominique Ristori, the Director General of the JRC. The purpose of the conference was to foster dialogue and coordination between EU and US policy makers, the scientific community, and standardization bodies. The topics discussed included general science policy, smart grid, science education, health information technology, and the harmonization of international standards.



In addition to participating in the day-long conference, Congresswoman Johnson met with the Ambassador of the US to the EU, Hon.William Kennard. She also met with Ms. Edit Herczog, a Member of the European Parliament who serves on the Industry, Research, and Energy Committee (ITRE).



“I believe that information exchanges such as this one are incredibly important and beneficial to us all, because the vast majority of the challenges we face as policymakers are global in nature. In addition to the important role science and technology can play in helping us to solve big global challenges, science does and must continue to underpin regulatory policies that will ensure our citizens will continue to have clean air to breathe and clean water to drink now and far into the future,” said Congresswoman Johnson in her remarks on the panel “Science for better policies: scientific support to policy making.”



Also participating from the U.S. were representatives from the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory, the National Science Foundation, the American Association for the Advancement of Science, and Ford Motor Company.

Congresswoman Johnson & Labor Secretary Hilda Solis Discuss Programs And Initatives With Local Dallas Labor leaders.

Congresswoman Johnson hosted Labor Secretary Hilda Solis in video teleconference w/ local Dallas Labor leaders. Secretary Solis discussed the Obama Administration’s efforts, programs, and initiatives that are aiming to keep labor unions strong and continue to allow workers a seat at the table.

Joining Congresswoman Johnson and Secretary Solis were: Carlos Marroquin, Dallas Area Director, SEIU; Romero Munoz, President, UAW; Rod Cuevas, Organizer/Assistant Business Representative, Teamsters Local 745; Herb Keener, Chief Steward, CWA Local 6215; Felipe Mendez, Secretary-Treasurer, UFCW Local 540; Yared Wonde, President, APWU Local 732

Throughout her career in public service Congresswoman Johnson has been an outspoken advocate for American workers and American jobs. As a leader in Congress she continues to champion workers rights to organize and to collective bargaining.

CONGRESSWOMAN EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON REINTRODUCES THE HATE CRIMES AGAINST HOMELESS STATISTIC ACT OF 2011

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson has reintroduced the Hate Crimes Against the Homeless Statistics Act in the House of Representatives. This act would include homeless people in hate crime statistics collected by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

“A hate crime is one of the most despicable and prejudicial acts done onto another human being by a human being and surprisingly these acts affect homeless people in great proportions. It is imperative that we give this issue the serious attention that it deserves by including homeless people in hate crime statistics,” said Congresswoman Johnson.

“The true purpose of this act is to create the most reliable and accurate data on hate crimes,” said Congresswoman Johnson.

Congresswoman introduced a similar bill in 2009 and there were thirteen Members of Congress that sponsored the bill.

CONGRESSWOMAN EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON'S COMMENTS SUPPORTING THE PAYROLL TAX CUT

President Obama spoke this afternoon at Scranton High School in Scranton, Pennsylvania to inform the American people on the dire need to extend the payroll tax cut, a section in the American Jobs Act. Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson offered the following statement:

“The President’s payroll tax cut is an important piece of legislation that will benefit 160 million Americans by giving families an extra $1,500 a year. This is a necessary act that will give relief to working families, businesses, and ignite economic growth.

The tax cuts will be paid by implementing a small 3.25 percent surtax on income over $1 million a year. I stand by President Obama and believe that it’s time for the wealthiest Americans to pay their fair share.

If we don’t act now, Americans will feel the weight of owing $1,000 or more in tax increases, at a time when the nation is experiencing 9 percent unemployment and continued financial insecurity.”

CONGRESSWOMAN EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON's STATEMENT ON THE TEXAS VOTER ID LAW

In a letter issued Wednesday, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) told the Texas Secretary of State’s Office that more information will be needed before any decision will be made on the controversial Voter ID law.

“The information provided thus far is incomplete and does not enable us to determine that the proposed changes have neither the purpose nor will have the effect of denying or abridging the right to vote on account of account of race, color or membership in a language minority group, as required under Section 5,” the Department of Justice stated.

In September, the DOJ requested a demographic breakdown of the estimated 605,500 registered voters who do not have state-issued IDs and drivers licenses in Texas. The Voter ID law, if pre-cleared would require all Texas voters to show a picture ID before casting their ballots.

The bill was pushed through under a Republican super-majority in the Texas Legislature and was signed into law by Governor Rick Perry in the spring. However, any law affecting how Texans vote must first be pre-cleared by the DOJ, due to the state’s history of racially discriminating laws.

“I applaud the U.S. Department of Justice’s decision, denying preclearance on the Voter ID Law. This is a win for the Texans fighting to protect their Constitutional Right to Vote. The state’s continued defiance of cooperating with the DOJ, shows that the true intent of this legislation was to disenfranchise certain voters,” stated Congresswoman Johnson.

Congresswoman Johnson Awards Legendary Astronauts The Congressional Gold Medal

Space legends John Glenn, Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins were awarded Congressional Gold Medals, the nation's highest civilian honor.

" 'Hero' is an overused word, but I think that all who are assembled here today would not hesitate to describe our honorees as genuine national heroes," said Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson of Texas, top Democrat on the House Science, Space and Technology Committee.


She said the astronauts have "continued to inspire young and old, even though their path-breaking missions occurred more than four decades ago."

The Capitol Rotunda ceremony was attended by Democratic and Republican congressional leaders, NASA administrator Charles Bolden Jr., retired space shuttle astronaut Mark Kelly, husband of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, the Arizona Democrat who was shot in the head in an assassination attempt in Tucson in January, and five members of the most recent astronaut candidate class.

It was a bittersweet moment for supporters of the space program, coming as Congress takes up a spending bill that would cut NASA’s budget by $648 million.

In accepting the medal, Glenn, 90, reprised a closing line from a speech he delivered to Congress nearly 50 years ago after his flight in Friendship 7: "As our knowledge of the universe in which we live increases, may God grant us the wisdom and guidance to use it wisely."

Armstrong was the first man to walk on the moon. Aldrin, pilot of the lunar module, was the second to step foot on the moon. Collins piloted Apollo 11’s command module. Glenn was the first American to orbit the Earth.


Recipients of the Congressional Gold Medal include Wilbur and Orville Wright, Charles A. Lindbergh, Rosa Parks, the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and Walt Disney.

The presentation ceremony came more than two years after President Obama signed legislation to award the medals to the NASA legends. It was passed by Congress in 2009, the 40th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing.

CONGRESSWOMAN EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON’S STATEMENT ON VETERAN’S DAY

“November 11th is an important and significant day in our nation as we have the opportunity to honor our veterans and offer sincere gratitude to those who’ve valiantly served our country. Our veteran’s commitment to America has provided a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Union, in which we live. I encourage each of you to observe this day by participating in programs and events commemorating their loyal service to our nation.

I wish to express my deepest gratitude and appreciation to all of our nation’s fallen heroes. I also wish to honor the million-plus American servicemen and women who are currently stationed in the United States and around the world. I commend them for their bravery and for the sacrifices they make to keep our nation safe and secure.

I will continue to ensure that our commitment to our troops and their families extends beyond November 11, 2011 and that we regularly honor the brave who’ve shaped our nation into a better country.”

CONGRESSWOMAN EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON HOSTS THE "TEXAS NO KID HUNGRY DALLAS SUMMIT"

On Wednesday November 9, 2011, Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson hosted the “Texas No Kid Hungry Dallas Summit” to help eradicate hunger through policy and education. Hunger thought leaders, key stakeholders, and local community organizations joined together at the Dallas Farmers Market to discuss solutions and make a pledge to combat child hunger in Dallas County.

“It is extremely appalling that Dallas is the fifth worst city for child hunger. What a difference it makes when students start the day with breakfast. We will not stop until we know every child is fed,” Congresswoman Johnson said.

Congresswoman has tirelessly worked on this issue since 1975, while serving in the Texas House of Representatives, by authoring a bill to stop hunger in schools through the School Breakfast Program. This program is now national and has positively impacted the lives of low-income children and families, which has successfully helped improve children’s overall classroom performance.

The Texas No Kid Hungry Dallas Summit was launched in partnership with the Texas Hunger Initiative (THI), Share Our Strength, Feed 3, City Square, and North Texas Food Bank.

Congresswoman Johnson's Floor Statement On The Importance Of Passing the American Jobs Act

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak in support of the President’s American Jobs Act because America’s small businesses need this legislation now to grow and hire new workers.

Creating jobs and strengthening the economy is my highest priority and I strongly urge this Congress to remain focused on these goals because they are the most pressing challenges facing Americans today. I know President Obama is 100 percent committed to creating jobs and I stand with him today in support of the American Jobs Act for the help it will bring to American small businesses.

The President’s American Jobs Act will cut the payroll tax in half for 98 percent of small businesses. These tax cuts will help over one hundred thousand African-American owned small businesses nationwide and countless other non-minority owned business. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimates that the cutting the employer payroll tax is one of the most effective job creating measures Congress can take and this effort has been supported by Republicans and Democrats alike.

In addition, the president’s proposal will completely eliminate payroll taxes for businesses that add new workers or increase wages of existing wages. This incentive is directly targeted to encourage small businesses to hire new workers and enjoys bipartisan support.

These tax incentives and tax reductions for American small businesses are common sense proposals to create jobs and strengthen our economy. I urge my colleagues on both side of the aisle to put partisan politics aside and stand with President Obama in his efforts to pass this legislation now because American families and small businesses need jobs now.

Thank you.

Congresswoman Johnson Discusses STEM Education, President Obama, CBC, and 2012 Plans with Dallas South News

In late September, Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-Texas) hosted a roundtable discussion on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education at the Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Magnet Center in Dallas. The roundtable examined how public and private stakeholders can work together to improve STEM education, especially at the middle and high school levels.
Johnson is the Ranking Member of the U.S. House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. She was joined at the event by Committee Chairman Ralph Hall (R-Texas). Johnson says the political climate in Washington has not been friendly to innovation, as a number of funding cuts have targeted science and technology programs.

Last April NASA’s budget was cut by $241million and Johnson argues that dollars spent on science and research pay big dividends. She cites how federal research spending has helped bring about innovations like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The congresswoman says her defense of investment in technology seems to “fall on deaf ears,” but she presents detailed, knowledge based information in committee meetings to support her positions.

Johnson said a “new element” in Congress has created a challenging work environment. She wouldn’t go so far as to blame the Tea Party, nor would she indict all of her GOP colleagues.

“I can’t say it’s the entire Republican Party,” Johnson says, “some of them say they wish they could do more to help.” But she adds there is a real fear which has divided the GOP. “I don’t think the Speaker (John Boehner) is engrained with this new element,” says Johnson, though she feels House Majority Leader Eric Cantor plays to the group.

CBCand President Obama

In recent months Congressional Black Caucus members have grown increasingly frustrated with President Barack Obama. Some representatives, including Rep. Maxine Waters (D-California) say he hasn’t done enough to help African-Americans navigate the sour economy.

At the Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference in September, the President pushed back against his critics. “Stop complaining, stop grumbling, stop crying,” the President said in a tone and voice many of his supporters have been waiting to hear. “We are going to press on. We’ve got work to do, CBC.”

Congresswoman Johnson said she respects the opinions of her colleagues, but disagrees with many of the claims levied against the President. “I know there are some personal things that have come up with several (CBC) members and the President.”

According to Johnson, the President was very clear about his position the last time he met with the caucus. “He said he understands the concerns but there’s not a lot he can do,” she recounts. The President suggested tapping into stimulus funds that have not yet been spent as well as focusing on Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Community Colleges.

Johnson has been a staunch supporter of the President and has been frustrated by how he’s being treated in recent months. “He’s done a lot with what he’s had to work with,” she says, “he can’t just get a pen and say ‘I’m setting up this program.’”
Jobs

Representative Johnson says the Congressional Black Caucus has introduced more than 40 bills related to jobs. She said the caucus has approached different companies to see what, if anything, they can do to help the situation.

Johnson said she’s found the skills being taught in classrooms don’t always line up with the skills that are needed in the workplace. She asserts that more teachers need to be brought into the work place so they can see what their students will face as they enter the job market.

“If [America is] going to continue to be competitive, we have got to focus on education,” Johnson says, adding an emphasis must be placed on technology education. “We’ve got to rise to the occasion,” she adds.



2012 Election Plans

Rep. Johnson was first elected to the U.S. House in 1992. For the last few cycles, there have been whispers of whether or not she would seek reelection. “I’ve been retiring for the last 10 years,” Johnson says. Last year she easily defeated Republican challenger Stephen Broden

Johnson says she intends to seek reelection next year in large part because of the encouragement she’s received throughout Dallas. She intends to make it official with an announcement at Southwest Center Mall this Friday.
“I’ve had the labor and business community and city and county officials approach me about staying,” Johnson explains. “If I wasn’t in this seat there may not be a Democratic representative from North Texas.”

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson spoke exclusively with Dallas S South News Editor Shawn Williams in her Dallas office. (Photo by Grant Meeks)

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson Announces 2012 Re-Election Bid

On Friday October 28, 2011 Congresswoman announced her candidacy for re-election to the U.S. House of Representatives, 30th Congressional District of Texas.


Speaking to a capacity crowd at Southwest Center Mall, Congresswoman Johnson commented, 'I've received requests from all over District 30 and I am pleased to comply with those requests, I am eager to continue working hard and to get results for the residents of the 30th Congressional District."



Congresswoman Johnson went on to say, "I am running on my record, which can be seen all over North Texas. From the Trinity River Project, which will provide flood protection to Dallas residents and businesses, to the expansion of the DART rail system which has connected the people of our city, to the Woodwall Rogers Deck Park, to the trolley and streetcar systems, to the renovations at Love Field and DFW Airport... I have worked tirelessly to help make Dallas the world class city I believe it is."




Speakers supporting Congresswoman Johnson's announcement included Reverend James Parker, Councilmember Tennell Atkins, Councilmember Pauline Medrano, Councilmember Vonciel Jones Hill, Michael Gonzales, Dr. Charles Ku, Mr. William Tsao, Dr. Tillmann Hein, and Bernice Washington.

CONGRESSWOMAN EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON STATEMENT ON IRAQ WAR COMING TO AN END

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson released the following statement following President Obama's announced full troop withdrawal from Iraq by the end of the year:

“I would like to commend the President for honoring his commitment to bring our troops home by the end of the year. More importantly, I want to thank the men and women serving in our armed forces and our veterans for their years of courage, dedication, and patriotism during this war.

From day one, I strongly disagreed with ill-advised military action against Iraq. We must now focus our attention on our domestic priorities, such as putting Americans back to work and rebuilding our economy. We must also uphold the honor of our veterans by providing them with the medical and financial support they deserve. We can never fully repay our troops for their sacrifice, but it is our duty to try.”

CONGRESSWOMAN JOHNSON ANNOUNCES A $12,000,000 DART GRANT TO REPLACE URBAN TRANSIT BUS FLEET

Transportation has awarded Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) with a $12,000,000 grant to assist with the replacement of their urban transit bus fleet. This project was funded through the DOT’s “State of Good Repair” program and will replace aging, less fuel efficient buses currently operating in the DART fleet.

"I am happy to announce that the Department of Transportation will award DART $12 million to be used for the replacement of buses in the Urban Transit Bus Fleet that have reached or surpassed their useful service period. I could not be happier, because improvements in transit opens up job opportunities to more of the Dallas community,” Congresswoman Johnson said.

Congresswoman Johnson Hosts 19th Annual Community Appreciation Day

Congresswoman Johnson recently hosted her 19th Annual Community Appreciation Day at Dallas’ Main Street Gardens.

She has always been a firm believer in the power of community cohesiveness and Congresswoman Johnson relishes any chance she gets to bring Dallas’ diverse citizenry together.

This year’s event was an immense success thanks to a rich diversity of performers, gracious sponsors, and local volunteers. Turnout ranged from toddlers to longtime citizens of Dallas.

CONGRESSWOMAN EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON ANNOUNCES HUD SECTION 108 LOAN GUARANTEE TO CITY OF DALLAS

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson announced that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has awarded the City of Dallas $8,492,000 in the form of a Section 108 loan guarantee. The Section 108 Loan Guarantee Program is a source of financing allotted for the economic development, housing rehabilitation, public facilities rehab, construction or installation for the benefit of low- to moderate-income persons, or to aid in the prevention of deteriorated living conditions.

“This project will bring a welcomed infusion of jobs and money to the district, all while providing low- and middle-income residents with affordable housing and services. This will help add value to our community and create jobs at a time when they are needed most,” Congresswoman Johnson stated.

The funds will be loaned out to the City Wide Community Development Corporation, which will go toward the development of the Lancaster Corridor to bring an entirely new 226,000-square-foot, four-story, mixed-use commercial and residential development to our district. According to the terms of the loan agreement, this development, known as the Lancaster Urban Village, will contain retail, restaurant, and small office space, as well as hundreds of new residences which will be occupied by at least 51% percent low- and moderate-income individuals.

CONGRESSWOMAN EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON REMEMBERS THE LIFE OF CIVIL RIGHTS PIONEER REV. FRED SHUTTLESWORTH

Congresswoman Johnson presented a Congressional Record Statement on the floor of the House of Representatives to honor the life of a pillar of the Civil Rights Movement, Reverend Fred L. Shuttlesworth, who passed away yesterday at the age of 89.

Reverend Shuttlesworth was a major force in the formation of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), a civil rights organization that helped to mobilize thousands of people to rally and protest in the name of equality. He was one of the primary leaders of the Civil Rights Movement and worked hand in hand with Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Rev. Ralph D. Abernathy. Rev. Shuttlesworth also helped to organize the Freedom Rides through his work with the Congress on Racial Equality (CORE).

Reverand Shuttlesworth shown her in the middle

“Reverend Shuttlesworth was a man of exceptional character. His fierce personality and great sense of personal sacrifice helped him to persevere during a most troubling time in our nation’s history,” Congresswoman Johnson said. “Reverend Shuttlesworth had the vision and understanding to look beyond himself and make great personal sacrifices for the greater cause that was justice and equality. We must honor that sacrifice by continuing to protect that same justice and equality that he and countless others have given so much for.”

CONGRESSWOMAN EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON SPEAKS ON THE HOUSE FLOOR TO SUPPORT CLEAN AIR REGULATION

Congresswoman Johnson spoke on the Floor of the House of Representatives in opposition to the Cement Sector Regulatory Relief Act.

"I rise today in opposition to H.R. 2681 – the ‘Cement Sector Regulatory Relief Act of 2011’."

"As we all know, cement plants are one of the primary sources of mercury pollution in the U.S. In my state of Texas alone, there are 10 cement plants which emitted 225 pounds of mercury in 2009 alone. It takes only one-seventieth of a teaspoon of mercury to contaminate a 25-acre lake and render the fish unsafe to eat. And children are the most vulnerable. "

"Mercury exposure impairs a child’s ability to learn, write, walk, talk, and read. As a registered nurse, I have seen first hand how children are particularly sensitive to emissions of mercury and other air toxins. As a mother and grandmother, I won’t stand by and watch these emissions go unchecked."
"I have always been a strong and proud defender of EPA’s charge to protect public health and the environment. In 2009, I led a letter to EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson calling for even stronger emissions standards to reduce mercury pollution. And last year, I was pleased to see that the EPA finalized standards for cement plant emissions that will reduce mercury and particulate matter pollution by over 90 percent, resulting in health savings up to $18 billion each year."

"Despite the noise that we have heard in recent months, the EPA’s regulations DO NOT kill jobs. As the Ranking Member of the Science, Space, and Technology Committee I know that our nation’s scientific, entrepreneurial and industrial sectors have and will innovate to meet new standard as they always have. We will reduce air pollution in this country while creating thousands of jobs."
"The predictions of widespread economic disruption and collapse of our industrial sector because of what some call an overreaching Clean Air Act have been proven wrong time and again. We should expect that today’s hysteria will be no different."

"Therefore, I stand with the citizens of Texas and impacted communities across the nation in opposing this bill, and not with the big polluters. Congress passed the Clean Air Act 40 years ago, and we have cleaner air today because of it. But we can always do better."

"That is why we must support the purpose and mission of the EPA, and oppose H.R. 2681."

Congresswoman Johnson Greets President Obama As He Arrives In Dallas

"Yesterday I had the privilege of meeting President Obama as he arrived at LOVE Field in Dallas to carry the message of the American Jobs Act to the American people."

The American Jobs Act would include tax credits for companies hiring veterans, aid to state and local governments to prevent the layoffs of police, firefighters and up to 280,000 teachers, the modernization of 35,000 public schools, and a multi-billion dollar infrastructure fund to help modernize roads, bridges, railroads and airports.
“I have always believed that the investments we make in research, education, and innovation today will create the jobs of tomorrow. I support the President’s plan to help our innovators and entrepreneurs create new technologies, rehire quality teachers for our classrooms, and build new companies and create the high-paying, high-skills jobs that will keep our economy strong and continue to improve the standard of living for all of us."

Congresswoman Johnson Leads A Field Hearing In Dallas On STEM Education

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson led the field hearing in Dallas at Townview Magnet School on STEM education. The hearing also featured the Committee Chairman Rep. Ralph Hall. Congresswoman Johnson serves as the ranking member for the Committee on Science, Space, & Technology and has been a leading advocate for the advancement of Science Technology Engineering and Math Education in the United States.



"I brought together a diverse group of participants representing a range of viewpoints to identify strategies to improve STEM education in our country. I am pleased that in the Dallas area, we have many high tech companies that recognize how critical STEM education is to their local workforce needs. These companies also recognize the importance of broadening the STEM pipeline to creating a strong and diverse STEM workforce,” Congresswoman Johnson said.

“On average, our K-12 students are lagging far behind in tests of math and science aptitude. Even more troubling is our persistent achievement gap for historically underrepresented groups. As the first female and first African American Ranking Member of the Committee, I am committed to the task of broadening participation in STEM fields so that all of our Nation’s students are prepared for the jobs of the 21st century,” Congresswoman Johnson concluded.

A distinguished list of panelists included Ms. Lisa Brady Gil (Director, Office of Education Policy & Productivity Solutions Business, Texas Instruments), Mr. Eric Reeves (Founder & Managing Director Highbar Companies), Mr. Gregg Fleisher (National AP Director, National Math & Science Initiative), Ms Dee Chambliss (T-Stem Initiative, Texas High School Project, Communities Foundation of Texas), Mr. John Shellene (President Sherpa Management Partners), Ms. Jovan Wells (Principal, Science & Engineering Magnet School, Townview Center), Ms. Jennifer Stimpson (Science Teacher Hockaday School), Dr. Jean Gerlach (Associate Vice President for K-16 Initiatives and Dean of the College of Education & Health Professions, University of Texas Arlington), Dr Hobson Widenthal (Executive Vice President & Provost University of Texas Dallas)

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson Op/Ed: STEM Education Vital in Tough Budget Times

The United States has begun to lose its status as a scientific and technological leader, and the only way we can hope to compete in the 21st century global economy is if we invest in research and science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education. It is vital that we not lose sight of that, even in these tough budget times.

As we work to pass an FY 2011 appropriations bill and a budget resolution for FY 2012, I urge my colleagues to remember that our long term economic growth and competitiveness are dependent upon the investments in research and education that we make today.

Many high-tech companies cite the availability of a skilled STEM workforce as the number one reason for determining where they locate their facilities. More and more U.S. companies are moving abroad because they can’t find the highly skilled workforce they need here at home. According to 2008 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the professional IT workforce was projected to add a little under a million new jobs between 2008 and 2018.

This represents more than twice the rate of the overall workforce growth between 2008 and 2018. If we want those jobs to stay in the U.S., and in Texas, we must continue to invest in STEM education for our future workforce.
Our best STEM students have no trouble competing with their international peers, but we cannot rely on just the top five percent. On average, our K-12 students continue to lag far behind their international peers in math and science aptitude. Earlier this year, the National Assessment Governing Board released the 2009 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) science scores.

The assessment found that less than half of our nation’s students are demonstrating solid academic performance and proficiency in science. Equally troubling are the significant achievement gaps at every level between White and minority students. The NAEP revealed that, on a zero to 300 scale, Black fourth-graders and eighth-graders scored an average of 36 points lower than their White counterparts and Black 12th-graders scored an average of 34 points lower than their White counterparts.

While this achievement gap was never excusable, as long as our nation overall was still number one, it was easier for our leaders to let year after year pass without taking the hard steps to address it. But now, just as our nation’s leadership is challenged, our demographics are shifting in profound ways. By the year 2050, minorities are predicted to represent 55 percent of the national college population.

According to recently released census data, Whites now account for just 45 percent of the population in Texas, down from 52 percent a decade ago. We simply will not have a sufficient well-trained STEM workforce if we continue to overlook an increasingly significant fraction of the talent pool. We need to do a better job of developing ALL of the STEM talent the nation has to offer.

Many Federal STEM programs, including those supported by the National Science Foundation and the Department of Education, are making a difference in universities, community colleges, and K-12 schools across the nation. One highly successful teacher training program is the National Science Foundation’s Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program, which I helped to expand in the America COMPETES Act legislation.

The Noyce scholarship program helps to prepare future math and science teachers by giving them a solid foundation in both their subject matter and the pedagogy specific to math and science education. The Noyce program was modeled after innovative and highly successful teacher preparation programs, including the UTeach program in Texas. UTeach is a unique four-year program which was initiated at The University of Texas at Austin in 1997 and is now being replicated at 21 universities around the country.

The Teach for America program has also had great success at recruiting outstanding recent college graduates to teach in under-resourced schools. In 2004, Teach for America began their Math and Science Initiative which focuses on recruitment of graduating college seniors, graduate students, and professionals with STEM expertise.
Over the past two years, this approach has increased the number of Teach for America applicants with a math, science, or engineering background. In the 30th Congressional District of Texas, we are fortunate to have 245 Teach for America corps members teaching alongside many excellent veteran teachers.

Programs like these help us out-educate, out-innovate, and out-build the rest of the world. At a time when so many on Capitol Hill are solely focused on cutting programs, regardless of their success or impact, we must not waver in our commitment to our children, their children, and the future of this country. Reckless cuts to STEM education and broadening participation programs will only undermine our economic growth in the long term, and will affect the lives of so many across the country almost immediately.

As Ranking Member of Science, Space and Technology, it is my top priority to identify and support strategies that will bolster American innovation, improve STEM education, promote diversity, and ensure that we are not only competing in the 21st century, but leading.

South Dallas News

Congresswoman Johnson Urges Sustained Support for Renewed Human Space Exploration Program

Today the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology held a hearing entitled, “NASA Human Spaceflight Past, Present, and Future: Where Do We Go From Here?” The purpose of the hearing was to assess NASA’s human space exploration goals, plans and capabilities, and examine related issues affecting the Nation’s leadership in space and the state of the aerospace industrial base.
The last three NASA Authorization Acts exemplify Congress’s longstanding commitment to human space flight. In the NASA Authorization Act of 2005, Congress endorsed the Vision for Space Exploration and established several milestones for its implementation, including returning Americans to the Moon no later than 2020 and eventually exploring Mars and other destinations on a timetable that is technically and fiscally possible. The NASA Authorization Act of 2008 reaffirmed support for a human exploration initiative, as well as affirming the national imperative of having independent access to space. Enacted last year, the NASA Authorization Act of 2010 authorized the development of a heavy-lift launch vehicle and a multipurpose crew exploration vehicle.

Last week, NASA’s Administrator announced that the President had given the agency formal approval to move forward on development of the Space Launch System (SLS). According to NASA, the SLS will be designed to carry the Multiple Purpose Crew Vehicle (MPCV) with its crew of astronauts, as well as important cargo, equipment and science experiments to Earth's orbit and destinations beyond. Additionally, the SLS and MPCV will serve as a backup for commercial and international partner transportation services to the International Space Station.

With agreement now reached between Congress and the Administration on the general architecture of NASA’s new human exploration vehicles, emphasis should be on efficiently implementing that architecture and securing sustained support for the exploration program. In her opening remarks, Committee Ranking Member Eddie Bernice Johnson [D-TX] said, “America’s human space flight program has always been about much more than simply building rockets and space capsules and launching astronauts into space. It is also about inspiring people—both young and old; it is about providing a peaceful and positive demonstration to nations around the world of American technological preeminence; it is about developing cutting edge technologies for our human space missions that also benefit our citizens and create new jobs; it is about motivating our young people to pursue careers in science and engineering by providing them with the challenging future that is inherent to space exploration; and it is about advancing our knowledge.”

Congresswoman Johnson stressed that, “The benefits of investing in human space flight are clear and compelling, and ones that can justify making a sustained commitment to moving forward on our next steps in exploration. Because that is what we should be talking about—determining how much we are willing to commit on an annual basis to maintain a credible and forward-looking human space flight and exploration program—and not continually revisiting the question of whether we should have one at all. Successive Congresses and Presidents from both parties have already answered that question in the affirmative—it’s now time to move on.”



Mr. Neil Armstrong, who was the first human to walk on the Moon, said, “Above all else, a unified sense of purpose is a principal component necessary for success” and stressed that “America cannot maintain a leadership position without human access to space.” Commenting on the recent architecture decision, retired Captain Gene Cernan, who was last to walk on the Moon, stated “Should the development of the SLS go forward as mandated by Congress along with the Orion Spacecraft as just announced by the Administration, I believe we will have the best and perhaps only opportunity within reach to narrow the gap that now exists between the final Shuttle flight and America’s capability to regain access to Earth orbit and the ISS.”

Stating that he was pleased that the decision on an architecture had been made, Space and Aeronautics Subcommittee Acting Ranking Member Jerry Costello (D-IL) said that in moving forward, Congress will need to examine how the program will be implemented, including the objectives and destinations for human exploration beyond low-Earth orbit. Furthermore, while noting that the inspirational value of human space exploration cannot be underestimated, he expressed interest in hearing witnesses’ views on potential objectives and destinations for human space exploration “that would best maximize the use of the MPCV and SLS while continuing to inspire our nation.”

Michael Griffin, Eminent Scholar and Professor at the University of Alabama in Huntsville and former NASA Administrator, expressed his view, “This nation needs a real space program...The current NASA program—development of MPCV and SLS—represents the minimum possible investment in rebuilding the capability needed to begin the establishment of a permanent human presence beyond Earth Orbit.”

Dr. Maria Zuber, Department Head of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, said, “As a space scientist and educator, I am an enthusiastic supporter of the human exploration of space.” Pointing out that as an educator she had learned to “never tell a young person that what they want to do is impossible,” Dr. Zuber offered advice to NASA on carrying out its exploration program: “NASA should do what I do with these students. Start working on those parts of the challenge that are possible to address within the constraints that exist and keep moving forward…”

Congresswoman Johnson Awards Five Female Scientists The Prestigious Women In Science Fellowship Award From Loreal

Five of America’s most promising post-doctoral female scientists received the L’Oréal USA Fellowships For Women In Science Award. This national awards program was created in 2003 to support the advancement of women in science and rewards the most promising post-doctoral female scientists from across the country. This year’s awards presentation ceremony was held at the Kennedy Caucus Room in Washington, D.C. The program featured keynote speaker Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) who is one of the leading congressional supporters of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).



The 2011 Fellowship recipients are working on breakthrough scientific research, which address critical global challenges that could aid millions around the world. Their research fields include stroke rehabilitation, therapeutic prevention for Alzheimer’s, robotics that will improve prosthetic fittings and function, LEDs and colored light creation, and the spread of influenza and other viruses. Each Fellow will receive up to $60,000 to continue their post-doctoral research. Additionally, the L’Oréal USA Fellowships For Women in Science offers professional development workshops for awardees and helps these Fellows build networks with accomplished female leaders in corporate, academic, governmental and scientific fields. The program is facilitated by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS).

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson: "Our Country Cannot Afford To Lose".

Dear Friends:

Our country needs to invest in its future instead of cutting necessary programs for our most vulnerable citizens. The American Job’s Act is the first step in the right direction. I have met with the President’s Council on Jobs and Competitiveness, and we share the belief that North Texans will greatly benefit from this proactive plan.

My republican counterparts believe that the answer is to slash the budget. After 250 days in office, the majority has yet to bring forth legislation that would lead to the creation of jobs. Instead, the republicans have created legislation that could cost hardworking Americans almost 2 million jobs and result in a manufacturing crisis. While criticizing the President’s plan, the same people will be supporting the “Outsourcer’s Bill of Rights,” promoting shipping jobs overseas and weakening the middle class workers.

Our country cannot afford to lose valuable programs like Social Security, Medicaid and Medicare right now or in the future. Congress needs to focus on strengthening the middle class, creating opportunities for employment and making our government more efficient for our citizens. We will survive these strenuous economic times but not on the backs of our most vulnerable citizens.

Sincerely your Congresswoman,

Congresswoman Announces Department of Transportation Grants for DFW and Love Field

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under the U.S. Department of Transportation will award two federal grants for over $7 million to Dallas Love Field and DFW Airports. The funds will be used to purchase low emission air units at Dallas Love Field as well as to improve runway lighting and design runway rehabilitation at DFW airport.







"I am very pleased to announce the FAA will award these funds to Dallas regional airports. Dallas Love Field, which I represent in Congress, will receive $1.978 million for the installation of pre-conditioned air units that will improve air quality at the airport and reduce reliance on conventional fuel as part of the airport's Voluntary Airport Low-Emission (VALE) Project," Congresswoman Johnson said.



"Further, DFW airport will receive $5.026 million for the design of runway lighting and runway rehabilitation to enhance airport visibility and safety for pilots as they are taking off, landing, and taxiing. As the most senior Texan on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and a member of the Aviation Subcommittee, I am proud to make these important announcements which will help ensure that Dallas has the finest and safest air service available,"