Congresswoman Johnson Applauds NASA's Successful Test Of The Orion Exploration Crew Vehicle

NASA conducted its Exploration Flight Test-1 of the Orion exploration crew vehicle, which launched this morning aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida. The unmanned flight test lasted approximately four and a half hours and ended with a successful splashdown of Orion in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of California. The test, which sent the Orion capsule more than 3,600 miles above the surface of the Earth, will provide valuable data that will allow NASA to validate key design features of the spacecraft and test its performance in the unforgiving environment of space. Orion, along with the Space Launch System, will provide America with new deep space exploration capabilities that will take astronauts far beyond the International Space Station. Orion’s next flight will be an uncrewed mission around the moon, and is scheduled to launch aboard the SLS during Exploration Mission-1 by 2018.

Ranking Member Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) said, “I want to congratulate NASA, the United Launch Alliance, and the Orion contractor team led by Lockheed Martin on an outstanding flight test of the Orion crew capsule. The Orion spacecraft will be an essential element of America’s human space flight capabilities and will allow our astronauts to explore far beyond low Earth orbit. Today’s test flight was a critical step in the development of Orion, and the invaluable data it yields will help us continue to develop the technology and infrastructure necessary to land a human on Mars. It was the hard work and devotion of NASA employees and contractors from hundreds of businesses across the country that made today's success possible, and it demonstrates that America's best days in space exploration still lie ahead of us."

Congresswoman Johnson Supports EPA's Proposed New Standard For Ozone

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released a proposed new standard for ozone, the pollutant that causes smog. The proposal would lower the current standard of 75 parts per billion to a standard in the range of 65-70 parts per billion, while taking public comment on a level as low as 60. According to the EPA analysis, “strengthening the standard to a range of 65 to 70 ppb will provide significantly better protection for children, preventing from 320,000 to 960,000 asthma attacks and from 330,000 to 1 million missed school days. Strengthening the standard to a range of 70 to 65 ppb would better protect both children and adults by preventing more than 750 to 4,300 premature deaths; 1,400 to 4,300 asthma-related emergency room visits; and 65,000 to 180,000 missed workdays.”

Ranking Member Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) said the following.

“Scientific evidence supports a lower standard for ozone than we currently have and as a country, we need to ensure that we have clean air to breathe. As someone who has been in the public health field, I am keenly sensitive to the problem poor air quality can have on the health of our citizens, especially the young and the infirm.  Air quality-related illnesses have very real and destructive effects on the economy – on the order of hundreds of billions of dollars annually - and the benefits for reducing those effects will be seen throughout the country. As someone from Texas, I am acutely aware that this is a very complex and contentious regulatory issue.  However, I want to point out that for almost every major environmental action we have heard from opponents that it will decimate the American industrial base and result in irreparable economic disruption, only to see the power of American innovation quickly leave these cynics and pessimists in the dust.  In fact, there is much more evidence showing that jobs are created and the economy expands following the passage of major reforms.  For example, the U.S. economy grew by 64 percent in the years following passage of the Clean Air Act. I also want to emphasize that the Clean Air Act provides states with time to meet the standards. Depending on the severity of their ozone problem, areas would have between 2020 and 2037 to meet the standards. I look forward to working with the Administration and the public to guarantee we have a healthy environment and a healthy economy for years to come.”

Congresswoman Johnson Observes World AIDS Day.

“Today marks the 26th annual observance of World AIDS Day. Over the years, countless lives, both foreign and domestic, have been lost as a result of this illness. AIDS is a global epidemic which requires a global response in order to ensure better lives and access to care and treatment. In memory of the lives lost and in honor of those living with HIV and AIDS, we must reflect upon and acknowledge the ongoing work that is required to combat this epidemic across the globe.

As a member of Congress and registered nurse committed to the advancement of modern medicine and better access to healthcare despite origin or income level, I believe this can be achieved through the following:

•Increased access to the full range of healthcare services;

•Robust support for domestic and global health programs – including those that focus on HIV/AIDS, family planning, and reproductive healthcare;

•Greater investment in sex education in the U.S. and around the world;

•Protection of the Affordable Care Act; and

•Advancing the health and human rights of all people.

The world we want is possible and I will continue to make these issues a priority during my time in Congress. December 1st marks World AIDS Day, in light of this year’s theme ‘Focus, Partner, Achieve: An AIDS-free Generation,’ I encourage my colleagues and each of our communities to stand in support of an AIDS-free world.” - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

World AIDS Day, designated 1 December every year since 1987, is dedicated to raising awareness of the AIDS pandemic caused by the spread of HIV infection, and mourning those who have died of the disease. Government and health officials, non-governmental organizations and individuals around the world observe the day, often with education on AIDS prevention and control.

Congresswoman Johnson Reelected As Ranking Member Of House Committee On Science Space & Technology

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson was elected by her colleagues in the Democratic Caucus to continue as Ranking Member of the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology for the 114th Congress. 

Ranking Member Johnson said the following.

“It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as Ranking Member of the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology over these past two Congresses, and I am eager to continue to work with my colleagues on the Committee. Though the 113th has been a tough Congress for the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, I truly hope that we can find room for bipartisan agreement on many of the issues the Committee will face in the 114th.

“I firmly believe it is time that this Committee recommit to ensuring that the United States remains the global leader in science and innovation. Our investments in R&D and STEM education, whether in basic research, energy technology innovation, aeronautics and space exploration, manufacturing, climate science, or any of the other important elements of our nation’s R&D and innovation enterprise are far too important to let them fall victim to partisan bickering.”

Ms. Johnson was first elected Ranking Member in December 2010, becoming the first African-American and the first female Ranking Member of the Committee.  She joined the Science, Space, and Technology Committee as a freshman Member of Congress in 1993.

Committee Members are expected to be assigned in January.

Congresswoman Johnson Highlights National Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week

Congressional Homelessness Caucus Co-Chairs Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) and Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) made the following statement highlighting National Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week, which is held the week before Thanksgiving. 

“Homelessness is a multifaceted issue that can affect individuals and families of all backgrounds,” said Congresswoman Johnson. “It is an issue that transcends all Congressional districts or political boundaries, and can severely impact the lives of individuals and families indefinitely. In addition to the difficulties homeless individuals face on a daily basis, homelessness has also put tremendous financial pressure on municipalities all across the United States, as the state provides police and medical assistance to individuals left to fend for themselves on the streets. While steps taken by the Federal Strategic Plan have been extremely positive, there is more that Congress can do.”

“This Thanksgiving as many of us prepare to spend the holiday with family let us not forget the millions homeless individuals and families that will go hungry with no home to call their own,” said Congressman Hastings. “Each year, we set aside the week before the Thanksgiving to mark National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week. Though progress has been made in reducing hunger and homelessness, we must remain diligent to ensure that every American has access to the most basic human needs. The issue of homelessness is exacerbated by the high rate home foreclosure and socio-economic difficulties faced by many of our working poor. I will continue to work to bring renewed attention to the ending hunger and homelessness in America, through outreach, advocacy and creation of public policy to protect this venerable population. Collectively, the Congressional Homeless Caucus will continue to make progress in ensuring that all Americans have food to eat and permanent shelter over their heads.”

ABOUT: National Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week is held each year the week before Thanksgiving. This is a time for us all to start to think about what we are thankful for, and a perfect time to share our compassion with our neighbors who are experiencing homelessness. This year, National Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week is held from November 15-23, 2014.

Congresswoman Johnson Defends The Environmental Protection Agency

"Over the past few years, the Republican party has engaged in an unrelenting partisan attack on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). They have harassed the administrator, attempted to delay every new regulation, questioned the integrity of academic and EPA scientists, and sided with industrial polluters over the American people. Later this week, the Republican Majority in the House will continue this assault by considering H.R. 4012 and H.R. 1422.

H.R. 4012, the Secret Science Act of 2014, is an insidious attack on the EPA’s ability to use the best science to protect the health of Americans and the environment. Republicans will claim that H.R. 4012 increases EPA’s transparency, but in reality it is an attempt to prevent EPA from using the best science to protect public health and the environment. This bill would prohibit EPA from relying on scientific studies that involve personal health information or other data that is legally protected from public disclosure.

Any effort to limit the scope of science that can be considered by EPA does not strengthen scientific integrity, but instead undermines it. It would also increase the likelihood of litigation because EPA’s actions would be based on inadequate and incomplete science, leaving any regulation open to legal challenges which would delay the implementation of important public health protections. The true intent of H.R. 4012 is to delay EPA action because that is what industrial polluters want. H.R. 4012 is not only bad for public health, but it is also bad for the taxpayer. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates that the bill as reported would cost American taxpayers as much as $1 billion dollars over four years.

H.R. 1422, the EPA Science Advisory Board Reform Act of 2013, paves the way for industry to have a greater influence over EPA by distorting the process for selecting members of the Science Advisory Board (SAB) in favor of industry-affiliated “experts.” It actually prohibits scientists who have relevant subject matter expertise from providing their expert advice to the EPA, increasing the likelihood that industry experts—those with obvious financial conflicts of interest—will be able to skew the recommendations of the Board. The bill also favors industry by creating unnecessary procedural hurdles that will delay EPA actions to protect the health and safety of every American.  

These bills are the culmination of one of the most anti-science and anti-health campaigns I’ve witnessed in my 22 years as a member of Congress. As someone who worked in public health before I entered politics, I can think of no mission of the federal government that is more important or noble than EPA’s mission to “protect human health and the environment.”  I am hopeful that Congress can get past this misguided and disingenuous war on the dedicated scientists and public servants of the EPA, and that we can come together to advance our economy and to support a cleaner environment and healthier public." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Source: The Hill

Congresswoman Johnson Breaks Ground On DART Blue Line Extension

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson recently attended a ground breaking ceremony for DART’s South Oak Cliff (SOC-3) Blue Line Extension along with Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings, Mayor Pro Tem Tennell Atkins, State Senator Royce West and the State Representative Helen Giddings.

The new “SOC-3” is a 3-mile extension of DART’s Blue Line from Ledbetter Station south to the University of North Texas Dallas (UNT).  Within this extension, new “at-grade” stations will be added in South Dallas. One station will be located at Camp Wisdom and the other on UNT’s campus. During the ground breaking ceremony, Congresswoman Johnson gave the following remarks:

“Projects like these are vital to Dallas. They bring a competitive economic edge to our area, ultimately drawing in new businesses and residents. With service set to begin in 2016, we can also expect that some of the congestion caused by our region’s ever growing population will be eased.

DART’s extensive network of light rail, the Trinity Railway Express (TRE) and busses are integral to the recent success our area has seen. In fact, I believe that the effectiveness of our region’s growing public transportation system is one of the reasons why DFW is one of the fastest growing areas in the country. This project is a great leap forward for both the region and the DART agency.”

Since its establishment in 1983, DART has grown to serve over 100 million passenger trips a year in 13 different cities within 700 square miles. With additions like that of the Blue Line Extension in South Oak Cliff, these numbers continue to grow each year.

Congresswoman Johnson Hosts 22nd Annual Science & Technology Brain Trust

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson served as the Honorary Host of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s Science and Technology Brain Trust during the 2014 Annual Legislative Conference (ALC) held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in D.C. This year’s Brain Trust was attended by over 300 guests, where much of the program was limited to “standing room only.” Event attendees included ALC registrants from around the country, and representatives from various governmental and non-governmental organizations, in addition to 150 students from Dallas, Houston and D.C. area schools. 

The program was split into two separate panels with a demonstration from NASA’s robotic arm during intermission. Panel One titled “A Day in the Life,” designed to outline the life of a STEM professional from academia to professionalism, included participation from: Nina Davuluri, Miss America 2014; Dr. Michael Drake, President of Ohio State University; The Honorable LaDoris Harris from the Office of Economic Impact and Diversity at the Department of Energy; and Dr. Craig Brown, Vice President of the Black Data Processors Association.

Panel Two titled “Diversifying Silicon Valley” included participation from: Dr. Johnny Taylor, President and CEO of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF); Aaron Moses, Community Engagement Manager at Facebook; Damien Hooper-Campbell, Diversity Strategist at Google; Stephanie Peters, Director of Federal Government Affairs at Microsoft; Stephanie Childs, Vice President of Cognizant; and Chanelle Hardy, Senior Vice President for Policy at the National Urban League

During the Q & A sessions, student attendees posed questions of competency and preparation for future generations of STEM students. One student from the Howard University Math and Science Middle School gave a statement on the importance of being “proactive,” encouraging adults and peers “to begin taking action for change rather than simply holding discussions.”

After the Q & A sessions ended, Congresswoman Johnson left student attendees with this message “You can do things to make others happy, but the most important thing is to do what makes yourself happy." These sentiments were echoed by panelists and attendees through a round of applause as the program came to its close.

Congresswoman Johnson Highlights The Importance Of Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Congresswoman Johnson joined millions of Americans in marking October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The country has recognized October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month since 1987.

“During this year’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Americans should join together in rededicating ourselves to eradicating from our society the scourge of domestic violence,” Congresswoman Johnson. “The domestic violence cases within the National Football League have begun a national conversation and we should use this conversation to focus on ensuring all victims of domestic violence get the services they need and on promoting strategies that can prevent domestic violence.”

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the landmark Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). Before VAWA, domestic violence was seen by many as a lesser offense. But the passing of VAWA changed these societal ideals. VAWA treats domestic violence as the violent crime that it is -- providing resources to state and local law enforcement agencies to address violent crimes against women and funding training for over 500,000 law enforcement officers, prosecutors, judges and other personnel every year.

“Domestic and sexual violence are forms of abuse that have plagued communities both foreign and domestic. Women who fall victim to domestic and sexual violence should not feel ashamed of their situation.

By standing strong in support of Women’s Rights, VAWA empowers victims by providing a voice for issues that have historically laid silent.” said Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson. “We must continue to strengthen our response to these crimes and deepen our commitment to all survivors.”

The current prevalence of domestic violence in our society should be unacceptable to everyone – men and women,” Congresswoman Johnson concluded. “As we mark Domestic Violence Awareness month, let us stand together as one nation and proclaim zero tolerance for domestic violence and work to end it in our society.”

Source: Focus Daily News

Congresswoman Johnson Supports Obama Administration's Climate Initiative

"Acting on climate change is not only an environmental imperative, but a public health and economic one as well. We're facing some of these consequences now and they affect every American." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Marks 20th Anniversary Of Violence Against Women Act

September 13, marks the 20th anniversary of President Bill Clinton signing the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) into law. The landmark legislation created critical protections for victims of domestic violence and dramatically strengthened our nation's criminal justice response to violence against women. Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson released the following statement recognize the 20th anniversary of this historic legislation:

"As a member of the United States Congress, and more importantly as a woman, it is crucial to remember the positive ramifications of VAWA. Domestic and sexual violence are forms of abuse that have plagued communities both foreign and domestic. Women who fall victim to domestic and sexual violence should not feel ashamed of their situation.

By standing strong in support of Women's Rights, VAWA empowers victims by providing a voice for issues that have historically laid silent." said Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson.  "We must continue to strengthen our response to these crimes and deepen our commitment to all survivors."

House Democrats are committed to continuing to strengthen domestic violence programs.  As part of the Middle Class Jumpstart, House Democrats will strengthen VAWA and make increased investments in shelters and other life-saving domestic violence services.

VAWA has been critical landmark legislation.  According to a statement issued by the White House, between 1993-2010 the rate of intimate partner violence has declined by 67%, in addition to increased reporting of domestic and sexual violence to the police since its passing.  VAWA has instituted stricter sentencing guidelines for repeat federal sex crime offenders and provides resources to tribal, local, and state law enforcement communities to address violent crimes against women.  In addition, the National Domestic Violence Hotline, which responds to more than 22,000 urgent calls for help every month, was also created under this legislation. Overall these measures in addition to countless others will contribute to protecting the rights of women across the country for years to come." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Honors Those Lost On 9/11

“ It has been 13 years since the terrorist attacks of extremist organization, Al-Qaeda, plagued our great nation. From that day forward, our nation would be forever changed. Each year on 9/11, we mourn the more than 3,000 lives lost in New York, Pennsylvania and at the Pentagon. Yet, amidst our sadness we remain strong. Despite the numerous attempts to shake our resolve, we remain resilient.

9/11 will always be remembered as the most heinous act of terrorism committed against the United States. During the aftermath Americans banded together by volunteering and assisting heroically in rescue attempts.  I am thankful for the sense of unity created amongst Americans. Whether affected directly or indirectly, we all mourned and offered support to survivors, forgetting even if for a moment our racial, gender, and socioeconomic differences, instead highlighting the humanity of the American people more than ever before.

Leaders across the country acted swiftly. They shared resources and Congress, through unprecedented legislative resolve, collaborated across party lines to develop bipartisan measures, some of which resulted in the death of terrorist Osama Bin Laden and ended large scale troop presence in both Iraq and Afghanistan. These measures contributed to the protection and safety of our nation.

As a Member of Congress, and more importantly as a U.S. citizen, it is my duty to remember and celebrate the memories of the lives lost on 9/11. Though, they are no longer with us, their legacy will continue now and in the future.  God Bless America.” - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson: Lessons From The Unrest And Tragedy In Ferguson

"The shooting of a young African American teenager, Michael Brown, by a white Ferguson, Missouri law enforcement officer last month pushed that St. Louis suburban area to the boiling point. Today it offers up many lessons for the rest of the country and an opportunity for change.

In the nights that followed the shooting, groups of protesters displayed frustration and anger. They were confronted by local police officers who were armed as if they were about to do battle with foreign terrorists, not American citizens engaged in peaceful protest.

The problems in Ferguson, however, are far deeper than the tragic shooting of Michael Brown. They reflect patterns of racial injustice and political imbalance in a city whose elected leaders and citizens — at least those concerned with justice and prudence — must work even harder to correct.

In the city of Ferguson, 67 percent of the residents are African American. Yet the city’s police force is 95 percent white. Five of the six members of the City Council are white. And in 2013, 92 percent of all police searches of individuals in Ferguson, 86 percent of all stops made by the police and 93 percent of all arrests involved African Americans, according to official reports. These disparities, no doubt, led to the unrest that occurred in Ferguson.

The leadership of the city must do more to recruit minority candidates to become members of the police force. At the same time, members of the minority community must do all that they can to identify and support worthy candidates for elected office.

The leadership of Ferguson must also insist upon the implementation of community policing, a policy developed in Texas in which police and citizens work together to protect communities from crime and violence. Under community policing, members of the police force are not viewed as enemies. Rather, they are perceived as protectors of citizens and their property. A partnership is formed with residents and business owners interacting closely with law enforcement officials.

Perhaps if community policing were in effect in Ferguson, the officer accused of killing Michael Brown would have called him over to his police car so the two could talk rather than engage in confrontation, as some witnesses to the incident have alleged.

We must never again witness the types of military hardware displayed on the streets of Ferguson, with SWAT team snipers poised to shoot at protesters. This is not the American way. We must also understand that the conditions that precipitated tragedy and unrest in Ferguson exist in other cities throughout our country. And we must take steps to rectify those conditions before we witness a repeat of what most Americans found revolting in a city located in the American heartland." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson


A Waco native who graduated from A.J. Moore High School, Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson represents a district in Dallas County.

Source: Waco Tribune

Congresswoman Johnson Leads Congressional Delegation In Egypt

Egypt's Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukri had talks Thursday with a US congressional delegation over the developments in the Middle East and Egypt's stance towards the Palestinian issue and Syrian crisis.

Talks also tackled the situation in Iraq and Libya, terrorism and relations between Egypt and the US, said Foreign Ministry Spokesman Badr Abdel Atti.

The delegation, led by Eddie Bernice Johnson (Texas), includes four congressmen of African origin and their aides.

Shoukri reviewed Egypt's initiative over the Libyan crisis that was floated at the ministerial meeting of Libya's neighbors in Cairo lately as well as efforts to form a national government in Iraq, the spokesman said.

The two sides underlined the importance of boosting US-Egyptian efforts against terrorism.

The US delegation lauded the role played by Egypt to achieve stability and development in the region, underlining the importance of promoting Egyptian-US relations to serve interests of both countries.

Source: www.allafrica.com

Congresswoman Johnson Marks Women's Equality Day And The Passage Of The 19th Amendment

Congresswoman Johnson recently celebrated the anniversary of the passage of the 19th amendment giving women the right to vote in America.

"Today is Women’s Equality Day! Today we commemorate the 1920 passage of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution, granting women the right to vote. The observance of this day is important because it calls attention to women’s continuing efforts toward full equality." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Is Honored By North Texas Toll Authority For Her Leadership In Congress On Transportation Issues

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson was honored in Plano, Texas by the North Texas Tollway Authority (NTTA). The NTTA honored Congresswoman Johnson with the Drive to Excellence Award for  the “creation of a robust and thriving transportation network serving one of the fastest growing regions in the country.”   

“ I want to thank the NTTA for this great honor. I have spent my career in the Congress securing as many federal resources as possible for the improvement of Texas’ infrastructure and highways,” said Congresswoman Johnson. “North Texas is a transportation hub for the entire country.  We have so many goods flowing through our state, and so many people who are dependent on our highways and tollways to get their services to destinations around the country. We must continue to invest in Texas tollways to ensure that we remain a thriving transportation hub for generations to come.”

Congresswoman Johnson is currently the highest ranking Texan on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.  She has served on the Committee for 22 years and has directed billions of dollars of federal investment into Texas infrastructure projects.

The chairman of the NTTA praised Congresswoman Johnson’s forward thinking and commitment to improving the transportation sector.  “North Texas has a unique and enviable position in Texas transportation – projects are getting done and people are moving here.  These accomplishments are made possible by forward-thinking individuals and organizations who find solutions to promote transportation as an economic driver and quality of life enterprise for all North Texans,” said Chairman Kenneth Barr.

The North Texas Tollway Authority is a political subdivision of the state of Texas that is authorized to acquire, construct, maintain, repair and operate turnpike projects in the North Texas region. NTTA serves Collin, Dallas, Denton, Tarrant and Johnson counties; it owns and operates the Dallas North Tollway, President George Bush Turnpike, Sam Rayburn Tollway, Addison Airport Toll Tunnel, Lewisville Lake Toll Bridge, the Mountain Creek Lake Bridge and the Chisholm Trail Parkway.

Congresswoman Johnson Hosts 8th Annual Dallas Youth Summit & Diversity Dialogue

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson hosted dozens of Dallas-area high school students for the 8th annual Youth Summit and Diversity Dialogue held at the Southern Methodist University’s Owens Art Center. The Youth and Diversity Summit was designed to bring about greater understanding and working relationships between young people of different faiths, ethnicities, and countries of origin in the Dallas area.

“It is important that as a society we celebrate diversity,” Congresswoman Johnson said to the students. “In our city, we have young people from all over the world who contribute to bringing a culture of peace and brotherhood. Together, we can share our cultural differences and make our world a better place for all people.”

Farrukh Valliani, president of the Aga Khan Council for the Central United States, addressed the students, highlighting that cultural diversity was crucial in today’s world. “Bringing people together for dialogue will create a more peaceful world,” he said. The Aga Khan Council worked in conjunction with Congresswoman Johnson’s office to make this year’s event happen.

Dr. Lori White, the Vice President for Student Affairs at SMU spoke to the students, noting that they were the future leaders of the world. “It is important that different people have respect for each other, and one another’s cultures,” she said. “The world will need your talents.”

During the summit students participated in four regional workshops exploring the cultures of different parts of the world. The workshops were led by experts in the fields of international relations and education. Tim Livingston of Dallas’ Channel 5 news served as the summit’s master of ceremonies.

Congresswoman Johnson Remembers Congressman Mickey Leland On The 25th Anniversary Of His Death

“It is hard to believe that it was 25 years ago today that my friend and mentor, Mickey Leland, passed away. He was a steadfast and caring leader from whom I learned so much, He made a lasting impact on Congress that has helped shaped our country’s focus to aid parts of the world that were suffering from extreme hunger. His legacy can be felt today through young leaders that are being trained in the Mickey Leland International Hunger Fellows Program at the Congressional Hunger Center in the nation’s capital. He died as he lived; bringing attention to the plight of refugees in a part of the world that sorely needed our help.

Congressman Mickey Leland was a transformative leader, not only in Texas but throughout the world. He began his political career by being elected to the Texas State Legislature from the city of Houston. Soon after his term began, Congressman Leland traveled to Africa and found the calling to which he would dedicate his life, ending hunger throughout the world.

Congressman Leland was elected to Congress in 1978 to represent the 18th Congressional District of Texas, filling the seat vacated by Congresswoman Barbara Jordan when she retired. He was a progressive leader that twice chaired the Congressional Black Caucus.  He also took his life’s mission to the halls of Congress where he helped to form the House Select Committee on World Hunger in 1984.

With the support of anti-hunger organizations, Congressman Leland was able to overcome opposition in the House of Representatives that argued that the Select Committee would be a waste of money, or would infringe upon the duties of existing committees. 

The Select Committee generated awareness within Congress regarding national and international hunger, and prompted a bipartisan effort to find solutions to end hunger in the U.S. and around the world. Congressman Leland also led numerous humanitarian trips with his Congressional colleagues, allowing them to witness firsthand the hunger crisis that was plaguing Sub-Saharan Africa. Due to his efforts, Congressman Leland was frequently called the “conscience of the House” by colleagues.

Congressman Leland made a lasting impact that can be felt today through the Congressional Hunger Center.  Former Democratic Congressman Tony Hall, a close friend of Congressman Leland and former chair of the House Select Committee on Hunger, joined Republican Representative Bill Emerson to form the bi-partisan Congressional Hunger Center in 1993. Soon after its formation, the Congressional Hunger Center established the Mickey Leland International Hunger Fellows Program to serve as a living legacy to Congressman Leland and his world-changing work to end hunger. The Mickey Leland International Hunger Fellows Program trains emerging leaders during a two-year period to eradicate hunger worldwide. " - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Celebrates The 49th Anniversary Of The Voting Rights Act

"Today is the 49th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act, the landmark federal legislation signed in to law by President Lyndon B. Johnson that prohibits racial discrimination in voting. The Voting Rights Act is the perpetuation of our democracy. We are a great country because all of our citizens have the right to exercise the right to vote without fear of intimidation. The right to vote is at the very core of our democracy. As American citizens, we possess the inalienable right to cast our vote, and to do so without the threat of voter intimidation." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Joins Her Colleagues Urging Peace In South Sudan

House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD-5) and Rep. Barbara Lee (CA-13) led a letter sent to Secretary Kerry today, signed by seven other House Democrats, thanking him for his efforts to achieve a peaceful settlement between South Sudanese President Kiir and Vice President Machar and updating him on their recent meeting with diplomats from the region.  

The letter was signed by Whip Hoyer and Reps. Barbara Lee, Karen Bass (CA-37), Eddie Bernice Johnson (TX-30), Sheila Jackson-Lee (TX-18), Gregory Meeks (NY-5), Jim Moran (VA-8), Donald Payne Jr. (NJ-10), and Chris Van Hollen (MD-8). 

"We are writing to apprise you of a meeting we recently hosted with diplomats from Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, and South Sudan on the crisis in South Sudan," the letter states. "One message was clear from the meeting: the role of the United States is critical in bringing the parties together and reaching any peace deal."

The letter continues: "The crisis in South Sudan continues to spiral downwards.  Just last month we heard reports of patients being executed in hospitals, among other atrocities.  More than one million people have been displaced from their homes since December, and the current rainy season will further exacerbate the misery inflicted upon South Sudan's civilian population. This misery may likely include famine in parts of South Sudan.  The role of the United States has never been more critical, and we look forward to working with you to bring the full weight of the United States to bear in re-establishing South Sudan on a path toward stability and prosperity for its people and the region."

July 18, 2014

The Honorable John Kerry Secretary of State U.S. Department of State 2201 C Street NW Washington, DC 20515

Dear Mr. Secretary:

We are writing to apprise you of a meeting we recently hosted with diplomats from Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, and South Sudan on the crisis in South Sudan.  The purpose of the gathering was to gain the insights of regional players on the ongoing conflict and to affirm specific actions these countries can take to encourage both sides to stop fighting, such as freezing the assets of those providing material support to combatants.

One message was clear from the meeting: the role of the United States is critical in bringing the parties together and reaching any peace deal.  Several ambassadors singled out your contribution in maintaining pressure on President Kiir and former Vice President Machar to stay at the negotiating table and implement agreements to which they have committed.

We wholeheartedly agree with their praise and urge you to continue your efforts to facilitate the parties committing to a long-term agreement that will end the current hostilities.  We also commend the Department on its July 10th announcement regarding $22 million in additional humanitarian assistance for refugees and internally displaced persons in South Sudan and the region.  The crisis in South Sudan continues to spiral downwards.  Just last month we heard reports of patients being executed in hospitals, among other atrocities.  More than one million people have been displaced from their homes since December, and the current rainy season will further exacerbate the misery inflicted upon South Sudan's civilian population. This misery may likely include famine in parts of South Sudan.  The role of the United States has never been more critical, and we look forward to working with you to bring the full weight of the United States to bear in re-establishing South Sudan on a path toward stability and prosperity for its people and the region.

Recently, Assistant Secretary Anne C. Richard announced nearly $22 million in additional humanitarian assistance for refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) in South Sudan and South Sudanese refugees in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda. With this latest funding, the United States is providing more than $456 million in humanitarian assistance in fiscal year 2014 to refugees, IDPs, and other conflict-affected populations impacted by the crisis in South Sudan. Since the outbreak of the current crisis, more than 400,000 refugees have fled from South Sudan, seeking refuge in Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya, and Sudan. Hundreds continue to flee the country daily, and more than one million South Sudanese remain internally displaced.

This latest U.S. contribution will allow both international and non-governmental organizations to provide refugees and IDPs with basic life support such as access to clean water; food, health care, and essential household items; employment training; gender-based violence prevention; and programs for child protection, including efforts to restore family links severed as a result of displacement.

The United States strongly supports the efforts of humanitarian organizations to meet needs in South Sudan. This aid can only be effective if the Government of South Sudan, opposition forces, and all other parties to the conflict stop fighting and remove obstacles to the delivery of life-saving assistance. It is crucial that President Salva Kiir and former Vice President Riek Machar implement their May 9 agreement to end the violence and allow immediate, full and unconditional access for the United Nations Mission in South Sudan and humanitarian organizations to reach those in need.

Sincerely,

STENY H. HOYER BARBARA LEE KAREN BASS EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON SHEILA JACKSON-LEE GREGORY MEEKS JIM MORAN DONALD PAYNE JR. CHRIS VAN HOLLEN

Source: National Journal

Congresswoman Johnson Leads Briefing On Institutions For Mental Diseases Exclusion To Medicaid

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson and Congressman Tim Murphy, in conjunction with the Congressional Homelessness Caucus and hosted by the Treatment Advocacy Center, led a congressional briefing on the Institutions for Mental Diseases (IMD) Exclusion to Medicaid.  

“The IMD exclusion has inadvertently caused our jails and prisons to become warehouses for the severely mentally ill,” Congresswoman Johnson said to the gathered crowd. “Unfortunately, the consequences of non-treatment are visible in our communities. People with untreated psychiatric illness now make up one-third of our estimated 600,000 homeless population; and in 2012, there were an estimated 356,268 inmates with severe mental illness in prisons and jails across the nation. Patients with mental illness need increased access to psychiatric beds to have a real chance of recovery. They don’t need to be left out on the street or incarcerated, because their illness is never treated. We must work to eliminate barriers to better mental health treatment for our underserved minority communities.”

The briefing was moderated by Doris Fuller, the Executive Director of the Treatment Advocacy Center.  Attendees engaged in a fruitful discussion with leading experts in the mental health field. The gathered professionals and lawmakers were told of the different effects of the IMD exclusion by panelists: Bob Davison, Executive Director of the Mental Health Association of Essex County, NJ; Dr. Ray Patterson, a Prince George’s County Psychiatrist; Steve Baron, Director of the District of Columbia Department of Behavioral Health; and Bill Bailey, President of the Cenikor Foundation.

Congresswoman Johnson And House Committee On Science, Space & Technology Hold Live Downlink With Astronauts Aboard International Space Station

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson and the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology hosted a live communications "downlink" with the two U.S. astronauts currently aboard the International Space Station (ISS), current ISS Commander Dr. Steve Swanson and Commander (USN) Reid Wiseman.

Ranking Member Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) said in her opening statement, "This past weekend marked the 45th anniversary of the first humans landing on the Moon.  It was a bold achievement, as was the more recent assembly of the International Space Station.  The success of both of these ventures depended on the dedication and bravery of past and present members of the astronaut corps in spite of the risks they willingly face in the name of science and exploration.  I know that all Members join me in saluting them. While the road to its completion was a long one, the ISS stands as one of the engineering marvels of the modern age, and a testament to American ingenuity and perseverance." 

Members had the opportunity to speak with the astronauts for about twenty minutes.  They covered a number of topics, including those pertinent to policy and those lighter in nature.  The policy related topics dealt with how the ISS deals with orbital debris; what work the astronauts are doing on the ISS that will enable missions to take us beyond low-earth orbit and specifically to Mars; how their work helps the U.S. maintain leadership in science and technology and how it inspires young people to enter STEM fields; and why the U.S. needs to support the ISS. 

Dr. Swanson said, "Again, it goes back to what do we provide for the taxpayer? One, we provide research and development. That's what we get out of this. We get new products, new ideas, new science, and new research which always help the country in the future. And that creates new companies which helps the economy. We also inspire a new generation which hopefully gets them to be productive and help out and make our country stronger. And, we are explorers, which helps the whole human race."

Members also asked the astronauts a number of questions provided by children in their Districts including if anyone has had a birthday in space and how it was celebrated; what they pack in their suitcases; their favorite space foods; if they think we will find life in space; what a student needs to do in order to become an astronaut; and what inspired them to become astronauts.

Commander Wiseman described his inspiration, "I think back to my childhood when the space shuttle was just being developed and launched back in 1981. I was around six years old at the time, and I definitely remember a 747 flying over Maryland when I was in Towson with my parents. We had gone up to the top of a hill for the simple act of watching a space shuttle fly over on the back of a 747 as they were transporting it and that image is burned into my mind, and that probably started the course that I was on to become not only a Navy pilot, a test pilot, and then an astronaut. So, to me, we never know, that little thing that's going to spark the imagination of a child's mind and for me it was a simple airplane with a space shuttle flying--or, wait, that's not simple--but it was that simple act of being with my parents, and that was what sparked my imagination. So, as much as we can from up here and at NASA on the ground, we reach out to kids and just expose them to this world, this STEM world that's in motion. I think you never know when you're going to spark their imagination and I'm sure that we're doing it every day."

Ms. Johnson also expressed her hope that the Committee will hold a formal hearing in order to further examine the International Space Station, its utilization in support of exploration and basic and applied research, and the plan to extend the life of the ISS until 2024.

Source: www.spaceref.com

Congresswoman Johnson Comments On Court Rulings On Affordable Care Act's Premium Tax Credits

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson released the following statement on the rulings on the Affordable Care Act’s premium tax credits from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 4th Circuit, and the U.S Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit:

“Today’s D.C. Circuit Court’s ruling that subsidies and tax credits under the Affordable Care Act are only available to qualifying enrollees who accessed health insurance coverage through a state-run exchange creates uncertainty for the tens of thousands Texans who have been able to receive healthcare coverage under the Affordable Care Act through the federal health insurance marketplace. This decision, if upheld, proves to be another example of the importance of expanding Medicaid coverage in the state of Texas and highlights the need to create a state exchange,” said Congresswoman Johnson as she reviewed the D.C. Circuit’s ruling.

The Congresswoman was confident that the more prudent decision by the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals, which held that subsidies were permissible in either state- or federally-run exchanges, would be upheld. She noted that: “The unanimous decision by the 4^th Circuit Court reflects the true legislative intent behind the law, which is to end discriminatory practices and enable millions of Americans to access affordable health care” said Congresswoman Johnson.  “I am glad that this court acted to protect the right to affordable healthcare for citizens of every state, even in those instances where the state failed to do so.”

Congresswoman Johnson Joins CSPAN's Washington Journal To Discuss Immigration And Highway Trust Fund

Congresswoman Johnson recently joined CSPAN's Washington Journal and spoke about the impact of the influx of unaccompanied immigrant children from Central America on her state and the nation. She discussed the bipartisan, bicameral bill that two fellow Texans were working on that would allow these children to be sent back to their countries of origin, and President Obama’s $3.7 billion request to deal with the situation. Other topics included the House-passed deal to fund the Highway Trust Fund.

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Congresswoman Johnson Leads Bicameral Effort To Resolve International Adoption Crisis

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson led the House and Senate in a bipartisan effort to involve the Obama administration in more than 900 adoption cases that are currently suspended by the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).  Congresswoman Johnson, along with House colleagues, Michelle Bachmann (R-MN), Collin Peterson (D-MN), Trent Franks (R-AZ), and Senators Mary Landrieu (D-LA) and James Inhofe (R-OK), have sent President Obama a letter detailing this crisis and urging the President to intervene directly with the DRC.

“We must do everything we can to unite these children with their adopted families,” said Congresswoman Johnson. “While many American families have completed all of the necessary legal processes, they are still unnecessarily separated from their adopted children. The decision by the DRC is devastating to the American families and the children, many in poor living conditions and medically fragile, while stuck in the DRC.”

In September 2013, the DRC suspended the issuance of exit permits for children adopted by any foreign parents, reportedly due to concerns about suspected malfeasance in the local DRC adoption process and lack of information about the well-being of adopted children after they arrived in their new homes. In advance of the first ever U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit in August, the letter urges President Obama to use this event and the time leading up to it as an opportunity to press DRC President Kabila for a just and expeditious resolution for these children and their American families.

Congresswoman Johnson Honored By Conference Of Minority Transportation Officials

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson was honored by the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO) for her years of work to improve transportation nationwide.  During this third annual “Women Who Move the Nation Awards” ceremony, she was recognized as the “United States Legislator Honoree.”  The event brought hundreds of minority transportation officials together to discuss the future of  the transportation industry in this country and what COMTO can do to ensure maximum participation in the transportation industry for minority individuals.

“The movement of goods and services is the lifeblood of this country.  It is so vital that we have all the brightest minds and hardest workers at the table to help push the transportation industry forward,” said Congresswoman Johnson. “I am doing everything I can to make sure America regains its innovation edge in transportation.”

COMTO was founded in 1971 on the campus of Howard University to provide a forum for senior-level minority professionals in the transportation industry. The organization encompasses individuals, organizations, transportation agencies, and non-profits that represent every facet of the transportation sector with chapters all over the country.   The “Women Who Move the Nation Awards” was moderated by MSNBC’s Karen Finney and featured a keynote address by Rev. Jesse Jackson.    

Congresswoman Johnson Meets With President Obama To Discuss Border Crisis

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson met with President Barack Obama and a group of local elected and religious leaders to discuss the recent humanitarian crisis spurred by the influx of more than 52,000 unaccompanied children along the border during the President’s visit to Dallas today. Congresswoman Johnson offered the following statement after leaving her meeting with the President:

“I want to thank President Obama for taking the time to address this pressing issue with us.  We all had a very productive conversation with the President regarding this recent increase of unaccompanied children crossing our southwestern border.  He has assured us that he is concentrating the full power of his Administration behind finding the correct solution for this growing humanitarian crisis.

President Obama is in constant communication with authorities on the ground along the entire border and understands the gravity of this situation.  He has asked us in Congress to work with him by approving emergency aid to deal with this mass migration and its effects.  I applaud Dallas leaders and the wonderful citizens from my district who have responded compassionately to the vulnerability of these unaccompanied children and recognized the urgent need to provide safety, food and shelter to these children to combat the dangers of wide-spread physical and sexual exploitation of children from these countries.  I look forward to working with the president and city leaders as we join forces to ensure these children are treated humanely while they are in within our borders while simultaneously seeking a permanent solution that aims to reunite these children with their families while still respecting our laws.”