Congresswoman Johnson Calls For End To Gender Bias In Publicly Funded Research

With the release of a study that found gender bias in federal agencies that fund Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) research, Congresswomen Louise Slaughter (D-NY), Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX), and Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) are demanding immediate action to ensure gender equality in publicly funded research. 

The year-long study, which the congresswomen requested in 2013 from the independent Government Accountability Office (GAO), led to the calls to immediately address the shortcomings found by the study, including improving data collection and performing compliance reviews that are legally required under Title IX—the federal law that bans discrimination in publicly funded research and education.

The GAO study found deficiencies at the federal agencies which collectively award 90% of the nearly $25 billion in federal STEM grants awarded annually. The deficient agencies are the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Defense (DOD), Department of Energy (DOE) and NASA.

Two of the three agencies responsible for $17.1 billion of federal STEM funding fail to conduct legally required Title IX compliance reviews to ensure the universities they fund are addressing gender bias within their research programs. The Congresswomen also requested that the Attorney General revive an inter-agency task force focused on Title IX gender discrimination issues to better coordinate efforts among the federal agencies involved in STEM grant-making. The congresswomen will be requesting briefings with DOE and NASA to discuss plans to improve their data collection systems to allow for a more complete study of possible gender discrimination at the agencies to be completed.

All three are critical of current American science output, claiming that existing research efforts are falling short because some are being left behind due to bias at the universities the administration funds.

“Right now, two agencies overseeing more than $17 billion in federal grants have not implemented legally required compliance reviews with the universities that use public money for research, while three other agencies fail to collect even the most basic demographic information needed to determine if bias exists in their grant-making processes. These are taxpayer dollars going to important research that will improve the lives of Americans – it’s vital that we know the best science is being funded by the best researchers, free of gender bias," said Rep. Louise Slaughter. 

“As Ranking Member of the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, I will be closely following progress in implementing the GAO recommendations at those agencies under my committee's jurisdiction, and continuing to work with my colleagues to ensure that the remaining agencies also move forward on the recommendations," said Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson.

“Collectively, the six agencies in the GAO report are responsible for more than 90% of the $25 billion in federal STEM grants awarded annually. These agencies must do more to guarantee that the recipients of federal grants are the nation’s brightest and most promising scientists, regardless of gender," said Rep. Rosa DeLauro.

Source: Science 2.0

Congresswoman Johnson Hosts Panel On Syrian Refugee Crisis

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson hosted “A World of Women for World Peace” for the fifteenth time in her congressional career. This year’s event included an expert panel on the Syrian Refugee Crisis and took place in the Rayburn Gold Room of the Rayburn House Office Building.

During the conference, Congresswoman Johnson said, “Today’s conference, focusing on the Syrian Refugee Crisis, will allow us to build upon the past success of the “A World of Women for World Peace” initiative and help shape the dialogue as we welcome Syrian refugees into our communities. Though today’s discussion centers on the international community’s response, we must also think of what we can do domestically and locally. I am fully committed to welcoming Syrians into the Dallas community in any way I can. I sincerely hope that my colleagues will join me in tempering the hateful rhetoric and providing the necessary services for those displaced by war and conflict. Thank you to our expert panelists for providing such vital information to us today.”

The expert panel consisted of: Manal Omar, the Acting Vice President for the Middle East and Africa at the United States Institute of Peace; Mona Yacoubian, Deputy Assistant Administrator for the Middle East at the United States Agency for International Development; Chiara Cardoletti-Carroll, Deputy Regional Representative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees; Tim Eydelnant, Syrian Coordinator of the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration at the U.S. Department of State; and Ghada Mukdad, Founder of the Zain Foundation, Board Member of the Syrian Civil Coalition, and current Dallasite.

The expert speakers widely agreed that the Syrian Refugee Crisis is colossal in scope—the biggest humanitarian crisis since World War II and the most expensive aid and resettlement process in the modern era. This panel addressed the nature of this crisis, including the plight of child refugees who lack access to education; the suffering of women who are forced into unwanted marriages or into practicing survival sex; the need for development in and respect for countries that host refugees; the need for a more uniformed response across Europe, as well as the complicated and escalating violence in Syria that causes these refugees to leave.  Across the board, the panelists agreed that the international community, as a whole, needs to act swiftly and decisively to help these victims.

Congresswoman Johnson began the “A World of Woman for World Peace” initiative in 2001 to recognize and empower women to facilitate peace-building, peacemaking, and peace-keeping activities across the world. Today's conference helps us to re-emphasize the necessity of peace and diplomacy across the globe.

Congresswoman Johnson's Op-Ed On Mental Health System In Crisis

"You cannot watch the news for very long without seeing some new tragedy where the perpetrator is reported to have a mental illness. More than 13 million Americans have schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or major depression, and the majority of them are going without treatment. You only need to look at the most recent mass shootings or the overpopulated prison systems to see that our current mental health system is broken, and the time for action is now.

When these tragedies strike, politicians, media and victims cry out about the state of mental healthcare in our country, and how we must do something to solve it. But what do we do? How do we do it? As politicians fail to come to an agreement, people suffer further every day. One thing we can agree on — our current mental health system is in a crisis that demands swift and effective action.

As a member of Congress, I have heard this call to action, and I am doing something about it. I am a non-practicing registered nurse who once served as the Chief Psychiatric Nurse at the Veterans Affairs Hospital in Dallas. My background and work on this issue motivated me to join forces with Congressman Tim Murphy, R-Pa., to offer our voices and push for reform through the Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act.

Congressman Murphy spent a year investigating our country's mental health system on the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations. He is also a psychologist in the Navy Reserve Medical Service Corps. Together we bring firsthand, expert knowledge from the field of mental healthcare to this bill. We know the people this bill will help, and we know how important this bill is to patients, families and the community as a whole.

While working as the chief psychiatric nurse for the Veterans Affairs hospital in Dallas, I saw the inadvertent harm caused by federal mental health policies. For example, the Institutions for Mental Diseases exclusion, which prevents Medicaid from paying for care received in a mental health facility if the hospital has more than sixteen psychiatric beds. This outdated policy is a major cause of increased homelessness and incarceration. People who need treatment are turned away because of this rule, day after day. This bill would allow more available beds in care facilities.

Along with repealing the IMD Exclusion, there are several other policies that would help patients access the treatment they deserve. Small and targeted changes to the Health Information Portability and Accountability Act, expanding Assisted Outpatient Treatment and restructuring the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration were the other large federal policies we decided to tackle.

We have heard countless stories of caregivers or family members who were denied access to life-saving information regarding an adult child's medical condition that ended tragically. Clarifying HIPAA so that those situations do not arise, based on strict criteria and the discretion of the physician, is vital for health and safety purposes. While we must respect patients' rights, we cannot leave families helpless because of an outdated and frequently misinterpreted law.

Assisted Outpatient Treatment, which has been established in 45 states and the District of Columbia, is a proven and successful jail diversion program that directs treatment in the community for patients with serious mental illness who are difficult to treat. AOT has been shown to reduce homelessness, incarceration and emergency room visits by about 70 percent for participants. Our legislation offers support to the states that have implemented AOT programs and encourages the remaining states to adopt AOT laws. This bill is an important first step to get people out of jail, off the streets and into the care they deserve.

While SAMHSA implements many successful programs across the behavioral wellness spectrum, individuals with severe mental illness continue to subsist without basic care. A recent Government Accountability Office report showed that SAMHSA's approach to interagency coordination is lacking.

Our bill refocuses and revamps SAMHSA to be the preeminent federal agency that mental illness deserves, led by a newly created assistant secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder under the secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services. A crisis this serious requires a professional position committed to it.

Our mental health system is in crisis. There are recurring cries from across the nation calling for the government to do something about it. The Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act responds to those cries, but more importantly, it offers real, sustained help to those who have been neglected by the current system." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Source: Washington Examiner

Congresswoman Johnson Votes In Favor Of Highway Reauthorization Act

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson voted for the bi-partisan adoption of the conference report on Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act (FAST Act)– a measure that reauthorizes highway, bridge, transportation safety, and public transit projects for the next five years. The measure provides guaranteed funding for five years, including an increase of more than $1.6 billion over current funding levels for the state of Texas.  The FAST Act also reauthorizes the critically important Export-Import Bank for four years, which helps American workers and businesses compete in the global economy.

“As both a conferee on the bill and the senior Texan on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I can say with strong confidence that this legislation is a good-faith effort to make the important investments in our transportation infrastructure our nation desperately needs,” said Congresswoman Johnson.
 
“While there are some shortcomings in the bill, and some of us would like to have higher levels of investments be included, this bill will help to further new and existing projects for the long-term. This bill creates needed jobs both in my state of Texas and throughout the country.  I am also pleased to see that this bill supports research and development, including expanding university transportation center outreach to women and under-represented populations.  Going forward, I hope that we can do more to elevate our nation as a leader in multi-modal transportation innovation.”

The conference report included several key provisions:
·        It provides long-term funding by designating $281 billion from the Highway Trust Fund over five years for highway, transit, and highway safety programs;
·        It boosts funding for railway-highway grade crossings, motor carrier safety grants, and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration grants;
·        It ensures higher standards for transit safety; protects bus driver safety, and encourages states to provide mental health
and substance abuse treatment to those charged with Driving Under the Influence;
·        It creates American jobs by increasing manufacturing jobs through strengthening Buy America requirements and raising the domestic content threshold of transit buses and rail cars from 60-percent to 70-percent; and
·        It connects communities by injecting $3.7 billion over five years into the bus program.

Congresswoman Johnson Introduces Legislation To Re-Instate Year Round Pell Program

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, D-Texas, recently co-sponsored legislation Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-Willsboro, introduced to reinstate the federal "Year Round Pell" program to provide supplemental Pell grants for summer semester, according to the Library of Congress government information website.

The legislation -- HR 3180 -- had 26 co-sponsors, as of Friday -- 16 Republicans and 10 Democrats.

Source: Post Star

Congresswoman Johnson Honors Rosa Parks

Congresswoman Johnson delivered the keynote address at the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) celebration honoring the 60th anniversary of Rosa Parks powerful demonstration. 

"We are all intimately familiar with the legacy of Rosa Parks, widely regarded as the “mother of the Civil Rights Movement.” Sixty years ago tomorrow, Rosa Parks was arrested for refusing to give up her seat to a white passenger on a public bus in Montgomery, Alabama. This single act unwittingly helped build the foundation for a nationwide movement to end the discriminatory policies of segregation." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Marks The 22nd Anniversary Of The Brady Bill

"Today marks the 22nd anniversary of the signing of the Brady Handgun Violence Protection Act, an important piece of legislation that today still serves to reduce gun violence. We must continue to push for responsible gun ownership in America." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Obama Endorses Congresswoman Johnson For Re-Election

In his first endorsement of the 2016 election season, President Barack Obama has endorsed Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson for her 13th term in office.

In a statement, Obama wrote:

"Eddie Bernice Johnson has demonstrated exemplary service in the U.S. Congress representing the people of Texas’ 30th Congressional District. I’ve been proud to work with Congresswoman Johnson to grow the economy through investments in transportation, science, innovation, technology, and trade. Together, we have extended the security of health care to working families in North Texas, and fought for a cleaner environment for all our kids. Her experience is necessary to ensure that we continue on a path of creating jobs, closing the income gap and reforming the government for the 21st century – all with the hope to create better opportunities for Americans from all walks of life.

Congresswoman Johnson is somebody who gets up every day, and works hard to improve the lives of her constituents. That’s her priority. She has the right vision of what America ought to be and she is putting us on the right path to move forward. I am proud to stand with Congresswoman Johnson and support her re-election." - President Barack Obama

Source: Dallas Voice / David Taffet

Congresswoman Johnson Urges Compassion On Syrian Refugee Crisis

“As a result of horrific terrorist attacks in Paris, France and Beirut, Lebanon last week, many elected officials in the United States are demanding that we stop admitting refugees fleeing Syria. While this rhetoric is disheartening and disappointing, we are facing a global refugee crisis that requires a global response. With 60 million people displaced, the United States must do its part to help protect and resettle vulnerable families and children who are fleeing violence and persecution.

“In Dallas, we have always shown our compassion to those who seek safety. I refuse to slam the door on a small fraction of the world’s Syrian refugees. In fact, 184 Syrian refugees have already been placed in Texas and we will certainly welcome more. While we must continue to ensure that screening procedures are able to properly vet those seeking political asylum in this country. I refuse to turn my back on the children and families who are fleeing the atrocities in their homeland and that is not the answer to defeating terrorism. Instead, we must show compassion by promoting peace and diplomacy.” - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Source: Dallas Voice

Congresswoman Johnson Named As Conferee On Transportation Bill

Lawmakers in the House moved quickly to appoint conferees to a potential conference on highway funding with the Senate after passing a $325 billion transportation package on Thursday morning. 

Both chambers are hoping to meet ahead of a Nov. 20 deadline for renewing federal road funding that is currently set to expire on that date. 

Leaders in the House appointed 16 Republicans and 12 Democrats to sit in on the forthcoming negotiations with the Senate, including Rep. Bill Shuster (R-Pa.) and Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-Ore.), who are the top ranking lawmakers on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. 

“This is an outstanding, hard-working group of Members,” Shuster said in a statement.  “I am confident that we will be able to take the strong House bill approved today, resolve any differences we have with the Senate’s position, and produce a final measure that improves our nation’s infrastructure and reforms our transportation programs.”

The highway bill that was approved by the House on Thursday calls for spending $261 billion on highways and $55 billion on transit over six years. The legislation authorizes highway funding for six years, but only if Congress can come up with a way to pay for the final three years. The bill was approved in a 363-64 vote.

The Senate passed a similar piece of legislation that contained three years' worth of guaranteed highway funding in July, and lawmakers in the upper chamber have said they are eager to get to conference. 

"Today the House of Representatives gave strong bipartisan support for a long-term surface transportation bill, which enables us to move forward to conference so we can work out our differences and get this legislation to the President’s desk by Thanksgiving," said Sens. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) and Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.), who are the top ranking Republican and Democrat, respectively, on the Senate's Environment and Public Works Committee. 

"Businesses, labor, states, and local communities are depending on us to pass a consensus-based, bipartisan bill which provides funding certainty that will enable them to modernize our nation’s highways, bridges, and transit systems," the Senate duo continued. "We are also pleased that this bill provides the opportunity for increased investment in our aging infrastructure.”

Other Republican highway bill conferees announced on Thursday by the House include Reps. John J. Duncan, Jr. (R-Tenn.); Sam Graves (R-Mo.); Candice Miller (R-Mich.); Rick Crawford (R-Ark.); Lou Barletta (R-Pa.); Blake Farenthold (R-Texas); Bob Gibbs (R-Ohio); Jeff Denham (R-Calif.); Reid Ribble (R-Wis.); Scott Perry (R-Pa.); Rob Woodall (R-Ga.); John Katko (R-N.Y.); Brian Babin (R-Texas); Cresent Hardy (R-Nev.) and Garret Graves (R-La.). 

Source: The Hill

Congresswoman Johnson's and Congressman Murphy's Op-Ed On Their "Helping Families In Mental Health Crisis Act"

It is a cycle we all know too well: a breaking news alert of an incident of mass violence in a small town or on a college campus, closely followed by reports of the perpetrator's history of mental illness. Political leaders are quick to tweet prayers to the victims' families, and rail over laws on mental health or gun control. But no tangible commitments are made or action taken, and the legislative effort is soon forgotten. A month or two later, CNN cuts into programming to go live to the scene of another tragedy. In the meantime, American families wonder if their children are even safe - at school or in any other public place. They want to know why lawmakers aren't taking action.

While the vast majority of individuals with serious mental illness are non-violent, we have learned that many individuals who committed mass violence lacked the treatment they needed and deserved. In many instances, perpetrators of mass violence sought mental health treatment prior to turning to aggression. But oftentimes, because of federal barriers and archaic regulations, access was either denied or even unavailable, and their illness went untreated.

Federal policy is to blame for the shortage of psychiatric beds, leaving individuals with serious mental illness nowhere to go. These men and women in need of medical care are cast aside, left alone on a park bench, locked up in a jail cell or left in the shadows of a homeless shelter, where their illness only worsens.

Our mental health system is in crisis, and it has been for several decades. To say otherwise is offensive to the millions of American families and caregivers who have been trapped in a cruel system that shut them out as their loved ones deteriorate. While the federal government spends approximately $130 billion each year on mental health, basic services are not available for patients in need of care. Further, despite a decrease in the number of lives lost to HIV/AIDS, stroke, heart disease and cancer, suicides and suicide attempts are climbing.

Together, we have worked on a bipartisan crisis mental health bill to provide millions of Americans treatment before tragedy. As a psychologist in the Navy Reserve Medical Service Corps and a nonpracticing registered nurse who specialized in psychiatry, we have authored H.R. 2646, the Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act, a critical piece of legislation that reforms our broken mental health system so that our population with serious mental illness can access critical psychiatric care in a time of crisis. This bill would make the necessary criminal justice and health-care system reforms to enable these individuals to access treatment before they become violent.

The Helping Families In Mental Health Crisis Act empowers parents and caregivers to access care before a mental health condition becomes a mental health crisis; fixes shortages of inpatient beds; helps reach underserved and rural populations; expands the mental health workforce; drives evidence-based care; provides alternatives to institutionalization; integrates primary and behavior care; increases physician volunteerism; advances critical medical research; and puts teeth into the existing parity laws that require health insurers to cover mental health and substance abuse care in the way they cover physical health care.

Quite simply, this legislation provides us the needed tools to save lives. Every person has a right to treatment, and a right to be well. Our bill not only has widespread bipartisan support, it has also garnered endorsements from nearly every police and mental health organization in this country. Expressing our grief and condolences are important and should happen, but millions of Americans deserve more than these gestures. In moments like this, leaders take action. We urge every congressman and congresswoman to join us in supporting the Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act. The time is now.

Source: Houston Chronicle

Congresswoman Johnson Applauds Release Of Research On Innovative Programs To Address Mental Health System

“As the nation continues to realize the tragic consequences of a deficient mental health care system, NIMH has been diligently searching for solutions for patients with schizophrenia. Innovative programs and key research at NIMH are being utilized across the country to transition from a crisis-centered model to an approached focused on early psychiatric intervention. The results clearly demonstrate that patients not only benefit from these programs, but they are more likely to recover and live a highly fulfilling life.”

The briefing presented results from the NIMH-funded Recovery After Initial Schizophrenia Episode (RAISE) study and called for our nation to move from a crisis-driven mental health system to an early response system. Researchers, physicians, and patients involved in the RAISE program shared their findings and stories on the benefits of treating patients through a coordinated array of evidence-based specialty care early in the course of their illnesses.

Given the current state of our mental health care system, early preventative care is critical to ensure that our population’s mental health needs are met and that future tragedies are avoided. The Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act, a bi-partisan bill co-sponsored by Congresswoman Johnson and Congressman Tim Murphy (R-PA), will allow effective preventative care like RAISE to be implemented in communities across the country.

Congresswoman Johnson Receives 100% Score From Humane Society Of America

“I am honored to have received a score of ‘100’ from the Humane Society Legislative Fund and the Humane Society of the United States for the votes I have submitted in favor of animal welfare during the first session of the 114th Congress. I am committed to putting policies in place that protect animals from all forms of abuse and cruelty, and will continue to advocate for the ethical treatment of animals for the rest of this Congress and beyond.”

The preview scorecard analyzes members’ votes on key legislation affecting animal welfare thus far in the 114th Congress, including, but not limited to, House Resolution (H.R.) 3268, the Prevent All Soring Tactics (PAST) Act, and H.R. 2822, an amendment to the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The PAST Act allows for harsher punishments for “soring,” a painful process used on Tennessee horses to give them higher gaits for horseshows, and H.R. 2822 removes political riders from the ESA, thus ensuring endangered species are protected because of sound science, not ignored because of political disagreements.

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson has voted for every piece of legislation identified by the Humane Society Legislative Fund thus far in the 114th Congress. The official scorecard will be released in January, after the first session of this Congress concludes.

Congresswoman Johnson Supports EPA's Efforts To Cut Methane Emissions

"The EPA recently proposed to reduce methane emissions from one of its largest sources -- the oil and gas industry. Methane is more than 20 times more potent than carbon dioxide in its greenhouse gas effects and as such, cutting methane emissions is critical to addressing climate change. This proposal is one piece of the broader effort we need to ensure our children and grandchildren have a healthy environment and vibrant future in the face of climate change.  

As a Texan, I know both the importance and the impact of oil and natural gas development in this country.  Our economy has relied on fossil fuels to power our manufacturing base, our transportation and agricultural sectors, and more.  And, for the foreseeable future, the country will continue to develop these resources and technologies to achieve our energy, economic, national security, and, in some cases, our environmental objectives. However, we must acknowledge that the development of any fossil fuel resource can have significant negative environmental impacts. Those impacts affect the very oceans we fish, the air we breathe, and the water we drink.  These too have real economic value that needs to be protected.  While few people get rich from clean air and water, as a former nurse I know that everyone benefits from a healthier environment.   

Some will say that EPA regulations are killing the economy and jobs, and that this proposal won’t make any real difference in addressing climate change, and that industry and the state of Texas do not need the federal government to tell them how to protect public health and the environment.  As much as some might wish for a world where big environmental issues are addressed voluntarily by industry or through the workings of the free market, or through individual state regulations, it just does not work that way.  

These methane regulations will not only benefit our public health and environment, but they will be a boon for industry as well. Currently, the oil and gas industry emits enough methane pollution into the air to heat more than 6 million homes each winter. Once implemented, these regulations will curb and prevent this waste, allowing the oil and gas industry to capture and sell more of its own product. 

Tackling methane pollution will also create high-quality jobs in a growing domestic manufacturing and service sector supporting common sense and cost effective methane control technologies. States like my home state of Texas, which has the highest concentration of facilities in the country, stand to benefit from future growth associated with this industry. 

As the ranking member of the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology I have heard from countless experts about the risks associated with climate change. Record temperatures, an increase in heavy rain events, and rising seas are a few examples of what Americans are confronting now and can expect to see more frequently in the coming years. The scientific evidence shows we cannot afford to wait, but must act now if we are to stand a chance of lessening the impacts of climate change.  

Leaders in the faith community have also been calling on us to address climate change. In his recent encyclical, Pope Francis noted that climate change “represents one of the principal challenges facing humanity” and that the poor will be disproportionately affected by its impacts. Pope Francis also stated that “there is an urgent need to develop policies so that, in the next few years, the emission of carbon dioxide and other highly polluting gases can be drastically reduced.” 

We need to listen to our scientists, to our religious leaders, and to the American people by supporting broad-based national policies that will cut greenhouse gas emissions, because acting on climate change is not only an environmental imperative, but both a near-term and long-term public health and economic imperative as well." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Johnson has represented Texas’s 30th Congressional District since 1993. She is ranking member on the Science, Space and Technology Committee, and sits on the Transportation Committee.

SOURCE: THE HILL

Congresswoman Johnson Votes To Avoid Government Shutdown

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson voted to pass a 10-week continuing resolution that will keep the federal government funded until December 11, 2015. This stop-gap measure included funding for Planned Parenthood and was supported by all the Democrats in the House of Representatives. Upon the passage of this resolution, Congresswoman Johnson made the following statement:

“While I am pleased that we avoided a complete shutdown of the federal government that would have cost our economy billions of dollars as it did in 2013, these recurring short-term funding measures are not cause for celebration. My Republican colleagues are bracing to put this country through another unnecessary crisis in December. This is unacceptable. We must have a long-term budget solution that allows for all the government agencies, employees, and contractors to continue to work and be compensated for their dedicated service to the citizens of America. The Republican leadership in Congress must stop jumping from man-made crisis to man-made crisis. We are putting our economy and the wellbeing of this country at unnecessary risk. Enough is enough.”

SOURCE: Focus Daily News

Congresswoman Johnson Remarks On Resignation Of Speaker Boehner

I find little joy in the announced resignation from the U.S. House of Representatives, as a member and as its speaker, of Congressman John Boehner, who for the last five years has been third in line to the presidency.

A decent and honorable individual, Speaker Boehner and I have worked together during our shared tenure in Congress. Over the years we have developed a close, productive working relationship. We worked together to benefit the American people, not simply special-interest groups.

Speaker Boehner announced his departure one day after a joint session of Congress warmly received a message from Pope Francis. During his address, Francis talked about the shallowness of human conflict and outlined the damage that it does to individuals, to families, to nations and to the world.

Those watching Speaker Boehner during the address could see that he followed each word that the pope uttered and was deeply moved by the substance of his argument and the magnanimity of his presence.

He said he was resigning because he had grown increasingly weary of the infighting and bickering in his own party and that he wanted to avoid another period of “prolonged leadership turmoil.” Those in his party who oppose the speaker, many of them relatively new to Washington, have repeatedly challenged his conservatism. His voting record clearly demonstrates that he is a passionate conservative.

Unlike Speaker Boehner and other reasonable members of Congress, his opponents (mostly supported by the tea party) do not understand that good politics has been and shall continue to be the result of prudent political compromise. This is something the speaker understands and has attempted to convey to those who stood in the shadow of his leadership.

In the end, Speaker Boehner decided that it was better to engage in thoughtful reflection and prayer than in constant and divisive political fratricide. Deeply moved by the pope’s request that he stop and pray for the pontiff, Speaker Boehner has chosen a higher road than those who would take great delight in his personal and professional destruction.

I extend my best wishes to Speaker Boehner and his family as he leaves the halls of Congress. The American people owe him a tremendous debt of gratitude for his service to our country.

SOURCE: Dallas Morning News

Congresswoman Johnson's Op-Ed On Clean Power Plan

It is often forgotten that the Clean Air Act was signed into law in 1970 after passing Congress by a strong bipartisan vote. By enacting this landmark legislation, the federal government took a stand for public health and against air pollution, a move that was heralded on both sides of the aisle and applauded by the American people because it put the public’s interests first. In the decades that followed, we saw substantial economic growth while enjoying a cleaner environment. The fight to protect our environment didn’t end in 1970 though. President Obama is continuing this effort with the Clean Power Plan, which aims to transform the way we produce energy. Unfortunately, just as has been the case with the Clean Air Act, the Clean Power Plan is not short on detractors.

The same cast of characters that cried foul and predicted the end of American competitiveness in 1970 is making the same exaggerated cries today about the Clean Power Plan. This posturing is both shortsighted and ill-founded.

I hear from some of my Republican colleagues that if the United States cuts its carbon emissions, it will have no impact on the global temperature or sea level rise. Yet, that is not the reality. Any effort to reduce emissions will have an impact, and through our leadership we can challenge other nations to do the same. As we heard from Chinese President Xi Jinping, China has accepted this challenge and is introducing a cap-and-trade program that will undoubtedly spur innovation and economic growth from one of our key competitors. The world’s top carbon emitter is now stepping up along with many others around the world. We are not alone. Rather, we are leading the effort to solve the greatest environmental challenge of this generation.

I am proud of the work the Environmental Protection Agency is doing. The agency’s top priority is to protect the health of the public and the planet, and I commend them for staying true to their mission in the face of unfounded and hyperbolic criticism.

So what are the facts? The Clean Power Plan is projected to save American families nearly $85 on their annual energy bill in 2030. It will grow the solar and wind energy industries and make major advancements in energy efficiency across our economy. A notable co-benefit of the Clean Power Plan comes in the form of lives saved. A cleaner energy sector will reduce premature deaths due to power plant emissions by 90 percent in 2030. In addition, fewer asthma attacks in children, fewer missed school days and fewer sick days at work will ultimately lead to a more productive workforce and population.

Scientists have made it abundantly clear to lawmakers and industry leaders alike that climate change is here and we must work together to deal with it. Without transforming our energy sources or reducing our reliance on fossil fuels, we will not be able to address the looming challenge of climate change. The issue of addressing climate change should not be relegated to partisan bickering on the campaign trail or be restricted to academic discussions. This will affect us all, and we all should be concerned.

Leaders in the faith community have also been calling on us to address climate change. When Pope Francis spoke before a joint session of Congress last week, he called for “a courageous and responsible effort to redirect our steps and to avert the most serious effects of the environmental deterioration caused by human activity.” He went on to state, “I am convinced that we can make a difference, and I have no doubt that the United States — and this Congress — have an important role to play.”

The Clean Power Plan is one piece of the broader effort we need to undertake to ensure a healthy environment and vibrant future for our children and grandchildren. We need to listen to our scientists, to our religious leaders and the American people and support broad-based national policies that will cut carbon pollution, because acting on climate change is not only an environmental imperative, but a public health and economic one as well.

SOURCE: The Hill

Congresswoman Johnson Marks The Anniversary Of The 16th Street Bombing

Today marks the anniversary of the 16th Street Baptist Church Bombing in Birmingham, Alabama, a tragedy Martin Luther King Jr. called “one of the most vicious and tragic crimes ever perpetuated against humanity.” This day in history holds particular weight in the wake of the recent Charleston shooting and racial violence of the past year. Today, we honor all victims of racially motivated violence and reflect on the progress we have made in this country.

Congresswoman Johnson Cuts Ribbon At Paul Quinn College Student Run Agricultural Farm

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson participated in the ribbon cutting ceremony at the student run agricultural farm at Paul Quinn College in South Dallas.

"I am proud of Paul Quinn and the initiative of these students," said Congresswoman Johnson. "This farm will supply the students and the community with many necessary fresh fruits and vegetables, and allow students to have a direct hand in uplifting their local community" she said to a gathering of university officials, students, community members and students.

Paul Quinn College President Michael Sorrell applauded the Congresswoman for helping the college to secure funding from the U S Department of Agriculture to expand the farm which is located on the college's former football field. Joe Leonard, the USDA Assistant Secretary of Civil Rights, noted that the farm was an important part of the government 's interest and promotion of urban farming. This farm expansion by Paul Quinn is part of a larger national push to increase the availability of locally grown fruits and vegetables to urban communities that have decreased access to these fresh food alternatives.

The farm already supplies local restaurants and community residents with fresh fruits and vegetables, said Elizabeth Wattley, the farm's manager. "Our students and community residents work together to make it a success. Among the farm's many customers are the Dallas Cowboys.”

Congresswoman Johnson Urges Support Of Nuclear Weapons Agreement With Iran

"After careful consideration I am in full support of the historic nuclear weapons agreement between the United States, China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, Germany and Iran. The agreement is in the best interests of our country, our major allies in the Middle East, and the global community.

The agreement, which will face Congressional scrutiny, has won support from more than one hundred former American diplomats. These experienced Republicans and Democrats describe the deal, negotiated by Secretary of State John Kerry and Secretary of Energy Dr. Ernest J. Moniz, as a "landmark agreement." It would be irresponsible to reject this diplomatic movement towards stability and peace.

"Once properly implemented, this comprehensive and rigorously negotiated agreement can be an effective instrument in arresting Iran's nuclear program and prevent the spread of nuclear weapons in the volatile and vitally important region of the Middle East," the former diplomats wrote in a letter to the White House.

Twenty-nine top American scientists have also endorsed the deal, noting that it will "advance the cause of peace and security in the Middle East and can serve as a guidepost for future nonproliferation agreements." The group of scientists includes six Noble Laureates. In a letter to President Barack Obama, these experts pointed out that Iran was only "a few weeks away" from having fuel for nuclear weapons. The agreement would stop Iran's nuclear program, the scientists wrote.

Under the agreement, Iran agrees that it will not develop or acquire a nuclear weapon. The deal also includes a permanent ban on Iran's development of key nuclear weapon components and is based on four clear objectives, blocking the highly enriched uranium route, allowing no path to plutonium, intensive monitoring, and incentives for compliance.

Without the agreement there will be no restraints on Iran's nuclear program. There would more than likely be an arms race to acquire and develop nuclear weapons by various nations in the Middle East. Such a climate would not be in the best interest of our country, and certainly not in the best interests of the global community.

Currently 80 members of the House of Representatives and 34 members of the Senate have voiced their support for the deal. Lawmakers have nearly 60 days to review the agreement. If Congress votes to kill the deal, President Obama will use his veto power.

A two-thirds majority vote in the Senate is required to override a Presidential veto. It is my firm belief that if this deal is not implemented the world risks devastating military conflict. I urge my Congressional colleagues to support the agreement."

Congresswoman Johnson Honors Labor Day & The American Worker

"Traditionally, Labor Day is a time in our country when we acknowledge the contributions to our economy and our way of life made by the American worker.  For some, it is a time of large parades, family picnics, football games and rest.

Congress recognized the necessity of having a holiday during which the activities of laborers were highlighted. In June of 1928, legislation was passed in Washington that signaled out the first Monday in September as a national holiday.

Labor Day has its origins in the late 1800s with the activities of union members and their leadership that demanded better working conditions, increased wages and union representation. More than twenty states recognized a day to “honor labor” before the Congress acted.

During Labor Day forums and meetings, a number of issues are considered by members of organized labor.  They include the unemployment rate, providing workers with a “livable wage” and closing the gap between the wages paid to women and those paid to men.

As a member of Congress, I have fought for the American worker. I have proposed legislation designed to close the “gender gap” in wages and have backed legislation that would increase the number of jobs in our economy and job training.

This year, Labor Day comes at a time marked by significant progress. According to the Department of Labor, there are approximately 138 million people who are employed in our country.  In July of this year, our economy created 215,000 new jobs.

The job growth in our economy has been steady.  July marked the 58^th consecutive month of job growth. The economy, according to many experts, is as healthy as it has been during the last 15 years. Yet, we still face a number of challenges.

It is vitally important that during our celebration, we remember those men and women who have not been able to find jobs due to a lack of opportunity or a lack of training. We must do all that we can to work collectively address the problems that impede the ability of every American to secure jobs that offer a livable wage and make it possible for families to feed and provide schooling for their children.

We must also remember that we have an obligation to prepare our young people for a 21^stcentury world of work, where an emphasis is placed on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM-related) academic disciplines.  To do less would be to fail them, and ourselves.

I will continue the fight to secure funding for STEM-related programs, just as I have done in the past.

I will continue to support legislation and policies that close the gender-based pay gap, support families and offer better training programs. I will continue my efforts to secure a “livable wage” for all American workers and honor the dignity and sacrifices of American workers." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

SOURCE _ DALLAS VOICE

Congresswoman Johnson Receives 'Friends Of The National Parks Award'

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson received the Friend of the National Parks Award from the nonpartisan National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA). The award recognizes Congresswoman Johnson’s votes during the 113th Congress that contributed to the protection and enhancement of America’s national parks. At a confirmed 100 voting record, Congresswoman Johnson voted favorably for all five legislative measures related to National Parks during the 113th Congress.

“It’s an honor to recognize Congresswoman Johnson for supporting our national parks on the floor of the House during the 113th Congress,” said NPCA President and CEO Clark Bunting. “As the 114th Congress works on policies and funding levels impacting our national parks, I look forward to working with Ms. Johnson to ensure national parks have safe roadways, are well maintained, and have the resources they need to thrive for their upcoming centennial.”

NPCA’s Friend of the National Parks Award was established in 1999 to track and publicize congressional members’ votes on significant park issues. This year, NPCA tracked votes for three national park-related votes in the Senate and five in the House of Representatives. To receive the award, senators needed to vote in favor of national parks on at least two scored bills and representatives on at least three scored bills.

“It is an honor to receive the Friend of the National Parks Award, said Congresswoman Johnson. With sixteen national parks located throughout the state of Texas, I have first-hand knowledge of the tremendous benefits these pieces of infrastructure bring.  Moving forward, as it remains in the best interest of the American people, I will continue to support national park legislation in the 114th Congress.” 

Congresswoman Johnson Receives Lifetime Infrastructure Champion Award

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson was presented with the “Lifetime Infrastructure Champion Award” at the Irving Transportation & Water Summit, an event hosted by the City of Irving on Aug. 20. The Summit was attended by approximately 300 state officials, infrastructure administrators, business leaders and private citizens from throughout the state of Texas.

“North Texas has become a model for infrastructure and transportation in our country,” said Congresswoman Johnson. “I learned early in my congressional career the importance of a strong infrastructure and transportation system. I know how much, not only the people in District 30, but those throughout the state of Texas, rely on well-maintained highways and bridges. I also know how important it is for the state of Texas to meet the demands of businesses and residents, who rely on various modes of transportation.  As a member of Congress, I will continue to fight for the funding required to meet the needs of the people of Texas. Good highways lead to good jobs for people, and better jobs lead to a better economy for Texas.”

During the presentation of the award, Michael Morris, the Director of Transportation for the North Central Texas Council of Governments noted: “Congresswoman Johnson has done more to promote quality transportation and infrastructure than anyone else in North Texas…The work of Congresswoman Johnson has improved the lives of all people who reside in North Texas. Our quality of life exists because of her efforts.” 

The DFW Metropolitan Area is the largest regional economy in Texas, representing roughly 25 percent of the State’s economy.  By the year 2025, the region is expected to attract nearly three million new residents and over two million new jobs.  Congresswoman Johnson emphasized that securing adequate transportation funding to ensure the North Texas region will be able to sustain its economic growth will remain a top priority.

Congresswoman Johnson has been a champion for Texans throughout her distinguished career as a Member of Congress.  Since her election to Congress in 1992, she has been widely recognized in Washington as a skillful and effective legislator.  Because of her seniority in the U.S. Congress, she has been able to leverage her experience to benefit the 30th Congressional District.  She is the senior Texan on the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee and has fought hard to ensure that North Texas’ transportation system is responsive to all residents. She has championed the development of an efficient and integrated transportation (multimodal, intermodal, pedestrian, and bicycle) system that is critical in maintaining the region’s quality of life and economic vitality.

Source: North Dallas Gazette

Congresswoman Johnson Announces 23 Million Grant For DFW Airport

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson announced that DFW Airport was awarded $23 million in grant funds by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The funds granted will be used for necessary taxiway/runway rehabilitation and maintenance efforts during an upcoming phase of structural updates to DFW Airport.

“The announcement of this grant award is great news for DFW Airport and the Dallas region,” said Congresswoman Johnson. “These much needed updates are vital to airport infrastructure, and will have long-term benefits for the economy and the DFW community at large. As one of the busiest airports in the world, federal grants like these are important for preserving this airport’s reputation as a global gateway and securing its rightful place as a leader in providing transportation worldwide.”

Following Congresswoman Johnson’s announcement Sean Donohue, CEO of DFW Airport shared congratulatory remarks. “Congresswoman Johnson has been instrumental in the growth and development of DFW,” said Mr. Donohue. “She understands that DFW Airport is a major asset for our region. She continues to be an advocate.”

Congresswoman Johnson is the senior member from the state of Texas on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and serves on the Aviation Subcommittee.