Congresswoman Johnson = NOH8 On The Hill

"Discrimination in any realm is still inequality. I stand with NOH8 because we share a vision that America was founded on the promise of equality for all. I am here to continue to fight on all fronts because I know at the end change will follow." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Praises The Supreme Court's Decision To Strike Down The Defense Of Marriage Act

“The Supreme Court’s decision to overturn the Defense of Marriage Act is a monumental victory for marriage equality in this country.  As we celebrate LGBT Pride Month, the Court’s decision is a timely affirmation of our commitment to preserve equal rights for all Americans. Discrimination in all of its forms is still inequality, and I am proud that the highest court in our land has taken a strong stance in favor of equal rights for all Americans.

I was proud to join with 211 of my House and Senate colleagues to file an amicus brief, urging the Court to uphold the lower court’s ruling in U.S. v. Edith Schlain Windsor that DOMA is unconstitutional. With this landmark decision, same-sex couples will now have access to more than 1,100 federal laws, programs, and benefits that were traditionally afforded only to opposite-sex couples. Today’s decision moves our country forward as we continue to fight for equal rights for all American citizens.  ” - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johns

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Congresswoman Johnson Stresses The Need For Continued Scientific Research Funding

"What do the Internet, magnetic resonance imaging, Doppler radar, bar codes, genetic advancements, nanotechnology, and fiber optics have in common? The research that led to their development was supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF).

Congress established NSF in 1950 “to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national defense...” The taxpayers’ investments in NSF since 1950 have achieved all these goals to the great benefit of all Americans.

NSF currently funds research and education activities at more than 2,000 universities, colleges, K-12 schools, businesses, and other research institutions throughout the United States. Every grant, cooperative agreement, and contract approved by NSF undergoes a competitive merit review process. Merit review fosters the process of discovery, the means by which researchers can identify emerging challenges and innovative approaches for addressing them.  It is this process that has helped our country become the world leader in science. Grant support, the primary funding mechanism used by NSF, is provided through a peer-review process in which proposals are evaluated by both external experts and NSF program officers for how well they satisfy two main criteria: 1) intellectual merit; and 2) the broader impacts of the proposed research. Through the peer-review process, NSF ensures that proposals submitted are reviewed in-depth by experts in the relevant fields. NSF’s peer-review process is an effective and fair funding approach that has won praise from some of the toughest critics of government spending and is considered the “gold standard” for research funding throughout the world. 

Although NSF’s research and development budget accounts for only about 4 percent of all federally funded research, the role of NSF in promoting fundamental research is vital to the nation’s scientific enterprise. This basic research, which is generally considered too risky to be undertaken by the private sector, provides the essential foundation for technology development and innovation. Economists have estimated that these technological advancements are responsible for at least half of the gains in gross domestic product since World War II. As the late Dr. Allan Bromley, science advisor to former President George H.W. Bush, put it, “No science, no surplus. It’s that simple.”

Though NSF is primarily known for its role in science and engineering research, NSF is the premier STEM education research organization in the country. For decades, NSF has been a leader in improving our collective understanding of how students learn, and how we can develop the most effective and inspiring curriculum and train the most effective and inspiring teachers. This isn’t about the federal government taking over curriculum or teacher certification. It is about researchers contributing their deep expertise to making sure our teachers are well prepared and our students are really learning. We need to ensure that the U.S. continues to produce the world’s best scientists, mathematicians, and engineers and to make sure that every student is prepared for the highly technical, high-paying jobs of the future. 

The unique role NSF plays in supporting research with yet unknown applications across all fields of science and engineering has had a profound impact on the course of this country. I can think of no better example of this fact than Larry Page and Sergey Brin’s prototype Internet search engine, PageRank, which arose directly from their NSF-funded work. PageRank is still used in their search engine service, now known as Google. Today, Google has over 50,000 employees and is worth over $100 billion.  

I hate to think of all the discoveries that would not have been made without NSF. Its mission, vision and goals are designed to maintain and strengthen the vitality of the U.S. science and engineering enterprise and to ensure that Americans benefit fully from all of the activities that NSF supports. As Congress moves to reauthorize NSF this year, I intend to continue to remind Members of the important role NSF plays in our national R&D enterprise. It is truly a national treasure." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Source: Physics Frontline Op Ed

Congresswoman Johnson Reacts To The Supreme Court's Decision To Strike Down Section 4 Of The Voting Rights Act Of 1965

“Today, the Supreme Court dealt a devastating blow to those who have fought to restore the integrity of the electoral process.  The Court’s decision will turn back decades of sacrifice by civil rights leaders and legislators who have continuously fought to preserve equal voting rights for minorities.  Despite much progress, there is still a mountain of evidence to suggest that present-day disenfranchisement and suppressive tactics are still being used at polling places.  During the 2012  election cycle, many states enacted oppressive voting laws that aimed to alienate, intimidate, and ultimately discourage minorities from exercising their right to cast their ballots at the polls.  In the state of Texas, the strictest voter ID laws in the country were struck down because of the protection under the Voting Rights Act.

Now is the time for Congress to put aside partisan politics, and truly work in a bipartisan manner to ensure we are protecting all American citizens’ voting rights.  As we move forward, I will continue to work with my colleagues, on both sides of the aisle, to develop an updated formula for determining which states must seek preclearance. We must not delay on something so crucial as protecting the inalienable American right to vote.” - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Marks World Refugee Day

Congresswoman Johnson recently held an event to shed light on the plight of refugees around the world during World Refugee Day.

"Thank you to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees & international bestselling author and UNHCR Goodwill Envoy Khaled Hosseini for speaking at the event. Mr. Hosseini has used his books “The Kite Runner” & “A Thousand Splendid Suns” and celebrity to help refugees around the globe." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Discusses The Benefits Of Investment In Science With Bill Nye The Science Guy and Karen Finney on MSNBC

Congresswoman Johnson and Bill Nye 'the Science Guy' recently joined MSNBC Disrupt's Karen Finney to discuss the importance of investing in science and research, and the problem in Congress right now when some leaders refuse to accept basic scientific facts.

"There has not been a single dollar of investment that did not bring back $3 or $4." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

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Congresswoman Johnson On Gender Pay Gap

"Equal pay is not simply a woman’s issue – it’s a family issue.  With a significant pay gap still existing between men and women, let us all vow to work together until we have achieved an America where women are truly paid equal pay for equal work." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Supports NOH8 On The Hill Campaign

"I am proud to support the NOH8 campaign. I took a great photo to go along with this national campaign of photographic silent protest created by celebrity photographer Adam Bouska and partner Jeff Parshley in direct response to the passage of Proposition 8. Photos feature subjects with duct tape over their mouths, symbolizing their voices being silenced by Prop 8 and similar legislation around the world, with "NOH8" painted on one cheek in protest. Many members of Congress participated today." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Pressures GOP To Prevent Spike In Student Loan Rates

Student loan interest rates are about to double for 7 million students unless Democrats and Republicans on Capitol Hill can reach agreement on a bipartisan deal.

But there is one point of agreement across party lines: Members of the Texas delegation say they want to make college more affordable.

On July 1, interest rates will double from 3.4 percent to 6.8 percent unless Congress agrees to some sort of bipartisan deal. Undergraduates with subsidized loans receive aid based on financial need and increased interest rates could be a heavy burden on these students.

Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson has been leading the charge on social media to draw attention to the potential increase in student loan rates and to demonstrate how a large number of students  are already struggling with massive debt.

The Dallas Democrat voiced her concerns via Twitter: The clock is ticking: the GOP has 19 days left to keep college affordable for America's students and middle class families. Hardworking families already carry $1 trillion in student loan debt – and we must act to ease, not exacerbate, that burden. — US Rep E.B.Johnson

Source: Houston Chronicle - Texas On The Potomac

Congresswoman Johnson Calls for an End to the Gender Pay Gap

“Fifty years ago today, President John F. Kennedy signed the Equal Pay Act of 1963 into law. The Act has been instrumental in advancing women’s right to equal pay in the workplace, but our work is not over.

According to a new report from the American Association of University Women, women in Texas earned just 82 cents for every dollar earned by men. That is why we need the Paycheck Fairness Act, which would update and strengthen the Equal Pay Act. The Paycheck Fairness Act would provide remedies to women who are not being paid equal wages for equal work, and it would protect employees who share salary information with their colleagues.

This legislation is a crucial next step in our efforts to combat wage disparities. I urge my Republican colleagues to bring this bill to floor, so we can finally achieve equality in pay for American women.” - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Honors Dorie Miller The Hero Of Pearl Harbor

"While I was growing up in Waco, Texas, Doris Miller, who was known as “Dorie,” was a local hero. Residents of the town were proud of him and the contributions that he made to the nation during World War II as he risked his life aboard a naval vessel that was being attacked by Japanese piloted war planes on December 7th, 1941 in Pearl Harbor.

Mr. Miller, who attended A.J. Moore High School, worked on his family’s farm before he enlisted in the Navy when he was twenty years old. He received his training in Norfolk, Virginia and was assigned to the battleship West Virginia where he eventually became chief cook.

My father, Edward Johnson, was a personal friend to Mr. Miller and took me door to door as he solicited funds to purchase a silver bracelet for the war hero who was awarded the Navy Cross. I can still recall the proud look on my father’s face as the bracelet was presented to Mr. Miller at a celebration in Waco.

I also remember the sadness that engulfed the large Miller family, and the entire community when we learned that Waco’s “hero” had perished when the ship that he was sailing on was attacked by a Japanese submarine.

The proposed monument to Mr. Miller on the banks of the Brazos River is crucial not only to a community but to a country. I agree with Baylor Senior Lecturer David A. Smith who recently wrote an editorial stating that the monument must capture the spirit and humanity of Mr. Miller.

Today, children in Waco are collecting funds in containers that display a caricature of Mr. Miller. Local foundations and community groups have gotten involved to raise the necessary funding for the project.

While a member of Congress I have attempted to have our nation award Mr. Miller the Congressional Medal of Honor for his war heroics. I believe that he is more than deserving, and that the future of our nation may well have been altered had it not been for his decision to place his cooking duties to the side, and operate an anti-artillery weapon that significantly limited the attack, while giving many of his fellow sailors, some seriously wounded, the opportunity to take shelter.

Too often those who have served our nation with distinction, and without any thought of self, have been forgotten. We must not allow that to be Mr. Miller’s fate. The proposed monument is crucial to that objective." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Source: Dallas Weekly

Congresswoman Johnson Recognized As A Voice For Nursing In Congress

40 years of advocacy: Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson a voice for nursing in Congress

Since she was elected to public office more than 40 years ago, Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-Texas) has championed nursing and advocated for better access to healthcare for her constituents.

"Whatever discussion I am a part of, I never miss the opportunity to talk about the value of professional nurses, the value of investment in the profession and the value of attempting to look at the full potential of nurses’ abilities," Johnson said.

Johnson, who has sponsored National Nurses Week legislation and supported federal funding for nursing education, which she called essential to addressing the nursing shortage, recently reintroduced the National Nurse Act of 2013 (HB 485). The act would establish the position of a National Nurse for Public Health and lift the profile of the profession to the level of Surgeon General, she said. Similar bills have not passed in other years, but she remains hopeful.

"Nurses have to push for the respect they deserve," Johnson said. "In this environment, it’s difficult to do most anything, but if you give up and don’t try, you lose ground. You have to keep pushing forward."

A graduate of St. Mary’s College in Notre Dame, Ind., Johnson received a BSN in 1967 from Texas Christian University, in Fort Worth, Texas, and a master’s degree in public administration in 1976 from Southern Methodist University, in Dallas.

Johnson specialized in psychiatric nursing, which she said has helped her with interpersonal relationships. Nursing also gave her the experience of working with different people, building organizational and communication skills and being cognizant of making decisions that you can stand behind, she said.

Johnson served as chief psychiatric nurse at the Dallas VA Hospital until she was elected to Congress in 1972, when she became the first nurse elected to that office. She attributes her early success in politics, in part, to the trust people generally have in nurses.

"One of the things I could offer people to relate to was a positive image," she said. "I’m upfront and straightforward with people, not to say something they are going to like but to be truthful."

Johnson said she bases her decisions on the best information available at the time, but acknowledges that "politics is not a perfect science."

During her tenure, she has advocated for women, children and families, and President Jimmy Carter appointed her to serve as regional director of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare in 1977. She later became a business consultant and was elected to Congress in 1992, after serving in the Texas Senate since 1986.

Johnson served on a healthcare task force and, along with fellow nurses, helped colleagues understand the Affordable Care Act, the effect insurance companies have on healthcare costs, and the expense and lack of follow-up associated with treating primary care patients in EDs.

"There are aspects [of the ACA] I would like to see improved, but it was the best we could do at the time and a step in the right direction," said Johnson, who supported the bill and expects it will offer opportunities for nurses. "If we fully utilize the skills of nurses, we’d have much better care outcomes." 

Johnson indicated she agrees with the Institute of Medicine’s "The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health" recommendation that nurses practice to the full extent of their knowledge and experience. She views the opportunities open to all registered nurses, not just advanced practice nurses, since the need for home healthcare, telehealthcare and care coordination will grow in the days ahead. 

"This is nurses’ day, the day nurses can shine the greatest," Johnson said. "We have more people in need of healthcare and fewer physicians."

Source: Nurse.com 

Congresswoman Johnson Discusses Women's Health & Breast Cancer

"While a clinical student and professional nurse, I witnessed the suffering that breast cancer causes in the lives of so many people, particularly women. Each year, according to the World Health Organization, nearly 500,000 women lose their lives to the condition.

According to health professionals, some risk factors associated with breast cancer include smoking, poor diets, obesity, elevated hormone levels and, in some cases, genetics. A lump in the breast tissue that is noticeably different can be a symptom of breast cancer and should be examined by a doctor. Women should perform regular breast self-examinations.

While breast cancer in women is more than one hundred times more common than in men, the survival rate for women is greater because men tend to suspect the disease at much later ages than women, usually between sixty and seventy. Some unsuspectingly ill men think that it is "only a woman’s disease.” And they are quite surprised when given a breast cancer diagnosis.

When it comes to matters of health, women have always been courageous, always thinking of others and not just themselves. In 1974 the nation’s First Lady, Betty Ford, revealed that she had breast cancer and urged other women to have breast exams.

Recently, the actress, Angelina Jolie, announced that she had surgery to lessen the possibility of dying from the disease. She urged other women to pay attention to their health status.

In Dallas numerous medical professionals and institutions are dedicated to battling the disease. The Baylor T. Boone Pickens Cancer Hospital was the first devoted solely to cancer treatment in North Texas. Two years ago, Baylor opened the Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center. The 467,000 square foot facility is the second largest cancer treatment program in Texas.

U.T. Southwestern opened the Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center in 1989.

The institution has a number of cancer treatment programs, including one devoted to breast cancer. Professionals at the institution strive to meet the "individual needs” of patients, working with them and their families.

At Texas Oncology, a part of the Methodist Health System, the educational, financial, emotional and health needs of patients are addressed.

The nutritional needs of patients dealing with breast cancer are given significant attention.

The Cancer institute of Dallas focuses on state of the art medical treatment and environmental concerns.

The patient facilities were designed to lessen the emotional concerns of cancer patients who are surrounded by massive windows, trees and fields which are a part of their therapy.

Continued research and medical discoveries will lead to decreasing numbers of breast cancer deaths.

Until then we need to make certain that women and men are vigilant in protecting their health.

While physicians and institutions perform a pivotal role in fighting the disease, there is much more that we as individuals can do to ensure longer and more productive lives." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson 

Source: Focus Daily News

Congresswoman Johnson Hosts Panel Discussion On Israeli / Palestinian Peace Process

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson hosted a panel discussion entitled, “Moving Forward: Addressing the Challenges in Israeli/Palestinian Peace”.  The purpose of the discussion was to understand the challenges those on both sides of the conflict face, as well as to advocate for peace and the peaceful negotiation of conflict.

“After seeing the remnants of war, I know that war is not the answer,” said Congresswoman Johnson. “Women must be included in peace negotiations, and while progress is difficult, we all must continue to do our part in the process.”

The panel discussion included :  Salwa Duaibis, Women’s Centre for Legal Aid Counseling; Lior Finkel, The Peace NGO Forum; Tania Hary, Gisha; and Betty Herschman, Ir Amim.

Clean Energy Advocates Praise Congresswoman Johnson's Call To Release Long-overdue "Road Map" For Water Implications Of U.S. Energy Policy

Leaders of the Committee for the American Clean Energy Agenda praised Congresswoman Johnson for publicly urging U.S. Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz to release a long-overdue "road map" of how to manage the development of U.S. energy resources without harming the quality and supply of water supplies. These water-related recommendations were required by the Energy Policy Act of 2005 and have yet to be submitted to Congress.

The Committee for an American Clean Energy Agenda (www.americancleanenergyagenda.org) is comprised of 120 citizen organizations with nearly 2 million members in 33 states and the District of Columbia. In particular, the coalition is concerned about the link between energy development and a clean, safe water supply.

Pam Solo, president and founder of the Civil Society Institute, said: "Without this information, Congress is flying blind when it comes to developing an energy policy so reliant on the availability of fresh water. As we enter the summer months when the impacts of droughts on agriculture and water shortages are felt across the country, access to these recommendations become all the more crucial. We should have an energy policy where people matter and that includes having access to clean and safe water."

Heather White, executive director of the Environmental Working Group said: "This letter from lawmakers echoes the sentiment of the American people that we must better understand how our energy policy impacts this country's precious water resources. The Department of Energy cannot afford to delay any longer the release of the 'Water Nexus' roadmap when energy production increasingly threatens water quality across the country, as well as quantity in places where water is scarce."

A January 2013 ACEA national opinion survey found that 92 percent of Americans think "U.S. energy planning and decision making" should be based on "a comprehensive understanding of what our national water resources are" -- a national water roadmap that Congress asked for, but which was never produced. The national water roadmap attracts the support of 92 percent of Republicans, 89 percent of Independents, and 94 percent of Democrats. For more information about the full survey, go to http://www.americancleanenergyagenda.org/poll-water-is-high-priority-for -bipartisan-majority-of-americans/ on the Web.

The news release about the letter from U.S. House Members to Moniz is available online at http://democrats.science.house.gov/press-release/ranking-member-johnson- congratulates-secretary-moniz-requests-information-department.

In the US Energy Policy Act of 2005, Congress instructed the Secretary of Energy submit a report assessing the state of water supply and demand and recommending future actions. DOE split the report into two parts: a general review of the connections between water and energy in the US and recommendations to offer Congress guidance in policy making.

The general review portion was submitted to Congress in 2007. However, the recommendations part, called the "Roadmap" has still not been released, though it was prepared some time ago.

Below is the full text of the letter:

"Dear Secretary Moniz:

We would like to congratulate you on your confirmation and look forward to working with you this Congress.

We are writing to ask that the Department of Energy fulfill the Congressional mandate of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 and prepare a comprehensive analysis of the impact of current energy production on our nation's water quality and water supply. Water shortages and the availability of clean drinking water are real concerns to millions of

Americans.    The recent and prolonged droughts affecting much of the country, underscore the urgent need for a national inventory and water impact assessment of US energy policies. This comprehensive analysis would give policymakers the information we need to develop new energy sources that require less water and result in lower water pollution. 

In Section 979 of the 2005 Energy Policy Act, 42 U.S.C. -- 16319, Congress directed the Energy Department to document the impact of our national energy choices on our nation's water cycle.

Specifically, the 109(th) Congress requested that the Energy Secretary submit a report describing the state of "planning, analysis, and modeling of energy and water supply and demand," which should provide "recommendations for future actions."

The DOE's Office of Environmental Management (EM) was eventually tasked with producing the report and shepherding it through the review process. EM contracted Sandia National Lab to write the report in two parts. The first part, called "Energy Demands on Water Resources," was submitted to Congress in January 2007. It describes the interconnectedness of energy and water resources and the inherent risks of managing them independently of one another.

Part two of the report, known as the "Roadmap", would outline specific recommendations to Congress about how to overcome these challenges using the best science, management strategies, and appropriate technologies. Now, eight years after the initial request, policymakers and the public still need facts about how our energy portfolio affects water quality and water quantity in the United States. While we understand that various drafts of the Roadmap exist, we are more concerned about having an up-to-date report that builds upon the advice of expert stakeholders to guide policymakers on the impact of energy choices on water quality and access.

Our energy choices are water intensive and may have profound impacts on water quality and water availability. This information is critical for a range of stakeholders, from city planners to farmers, electric grid operators to the sportsmen and recreational industries

We believe that a comprehensive analysis and data that catalogues the impact of current energy production on our access to clean water will help Congress make responsible decisions on energy policy. U.S. energy planning and decision making should be based on a comprehensive understanding of our national water resources. The national water roadmap that we are once again requesting is thus essential to our work on both energy policy and stewardship of America's water resources.

We urge you to act quickly and assess the impact our energy choices have on American water quality and quantity. We believe this information will be critical as we debate a balanced approach to energy production in the future."

Source: Wall Street Journal

Congresswoman Johnson Thanks Veterans In Memorial Day Message

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson released the following statement today honoring our veterans and their families on Memorial Day:

“Each year on Memorial Day,  we pause to honor the sacrifices of the brave men and women in our Nation’s Armed Forces, who have fought and died to protect our country. I deeply respect our
servicemen and women for their devotion to this country and their dedication to defending our freedom.

On this day and every day, we must recommit to addressing the challenges that our military families face. As a nation, we must ensure that all veterans receive the benefits they have earned, from healthcare to educational assistance and job training services.

This Memorial Day, I ask that we all take the time to thank our veterans and active duty members for their unwavering service to this great country.” - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

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Congresswoman Johnson Launches Bipartisan Congressional Texas Maritime Caucus

Congresswoman Johnson has created the bipartisan Texas Maritime Caucus:

“This caucus is an opportunity to examine and strengthen the economic impact that Texas has on the national economy.  Maritime transportation is an integral part of the Texas economy, and Texas is the artery through which commerce flows throughout the U.S.  I believe this caucus will allow my colleagues, on both sides of the aisle, to foster and generate ideas on how to expand the reach of our ports and waterways.  As the Congress turns its attention to authorization of the Water Resources Development Act, it is important to have a  bipartisan effort to ensure our ports are part of the national conversation.” 

Congresswoman Johnson and Congressman Blake Farenthold are the founding co-chairs of the caucus.  Members of the caucus include: Reps. Carter, Conaway, Culberson, Flores, Gene Green, Hinojosa, Jackson Lee, McCaul, Olson, Vela, Weber, and Williams.

The bipartisan caucus will work to:

• Educate Congressional members and staff on how ports and waterways affect their districts. 

• Highlight how Texas ports and waterways facilitate goods movement throughout the country.

• Support a robust Water Resources Development Act that includes provisions to:

• Protect and spend down the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund (HMTF) for its intended purpose.  Create a firewall for the fund and require use of annual receipts.
• Streamline both feasibility studies and projects.  Provisions should mirror the streamlining changes included in the last surface transportation reauthorization bill, MAP-21.  Streamline the Corps of Engineer’s processes.
• Dredge and maintain the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway (GIWW) to its authorized depth of 12 feet.

Ranking Member Johnson Congratulates Secretary Moniz, Requests Information from the Department of Energy

Congresswoman Johnson, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Science, Space, & Technology, sent a letter to U.S. Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz congratulating him on his recent confirmation, as well as urging the Department to release a long-overdue “roadmap” outlining recommendations about how to develop U.S. energy resources without harming the quality and supply of water supplies.

“I look forward to working with the Secretary in my role as Ranking Member on the full range of federal energy and environmental issues that the Committee oversees,” said Ms. Johnson. “As a first step, I would like to call his attention to the development and release of this Roadmap, which is a key missing link of information that can guide Congress so that our policies can lead to better management of energy and water trade-offs.”

In the Energy Policy Act of 2005, Congress instructed the Secretary of Energy to submit a report assessing the state of water supply and demand and recommending future actions. DOE submitted a general review of the connections between energy and water in the U.S. in 2007, but has still not released the recommendations, otherwise known as the “roadmap”.

According to the Congressional Research Service, the energy sector has been the fastest growing water consumer in the United States in recent years and is projected to account for 85 percent of the growth in domestic water consumption between 2005 and 2030.  In September 2012, GAO released a report at the request of Ms. Johnson, identifying key energy-water nexus issues that Congress and federal agencies need to consider when developing and implementing national policies for energy and water resources.

Congresswoman Johnson Hosts Capitol Hill Briefing on Homelessness in America

The Congressional Caucus on Homelessness, in conjunction with the National Center on Family Homelessness, hosted a congressional briefing entitled “Homelessness in America: Experiences & Solutions in the 113^thCongress.” Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson serves as co-chair and co-founder of the Caucus.  

“I have worked extensively with national organizations and federal agencies in this field and what we have found is that the biggest hurdle to combating this issue is raising awareness of homelessness in our communities, and poor access to consistent and reliable data,” said Congresswoman Johnson.

The purpose of the briefing was to educate members of Congress and their staff on the issues currently facing our homeless population and increase awareness among stakeholders.

“There are many reasons people become homeless. Though lack of affordable housing and poverty are the leading causes, other factors cluster together, such as domestic violence, trauma, depression, and low wages,”  said Dr. Carmela DeCandia, Director of The National Center on Family Homelessness.  “A combination of housing and services are needed to end homelessness for youth, families, individuals, and veterans.”

In an effort to address the lack of reliable data, Congresswoman Johnson has introduced H.R. 1136, the Violence Against the Homeless Accountability Act.  This legislation would authorize the comprehensive collection of information on attacks against homeless individuals.

The panelists included: Carmela J. DeCandia, Psy.D., Director of the National Center on Family Homelessness; Brian Carome, Executive Director for Street Sense; Maria Foscarinis, Founder and Executive Director of the National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty; and Devin Johnson, a high school student from Prince George’s County, Maryland.

Congresswoman Johnson Hosts 21st Annual Military Academy Day

Congresswoman Johnson recently hosted her 21^st Annual Military Academy Day at Duncanville High School. The program provides high school students with the opportunity to hear from representatives from the armed service academies.

“As a Nation, we must meet the challenges of today and prepare for the future,” said Congresswoman Johnson. “We look to you and future generations to work hard and engage in your communities.  You are our country’s future leaders.”

Beverly D. Johnson, a West Point alumni, and Jae Yu, an Air Force alumni, both offered remarks on life after the academy and how to be the ideal candidate. Five students were honored for their appointment to attend U.S. Service Academies this fall.

Over 200 Dallas area high school students were in attendance, along with Dallas ISD superintendent, Mike Miles, and Duncanville ISD superintendent Dr. Alfred Ray.

Congresswoman Johnson Supports International Inland Port In Dallas

"The international inland port in the city’s southern sector will create, once fully completed, more than 30,000 jobs according to officials centrally involved in the project. It is one of the most significant projects that regional leaders and governments are engaged in, and I fully support it.

The port is possible because of the region’s superior transportation infrastructure which includes five interstate highways and two world-class railroad lines. The port currently services the needs of companies such as Whirl Pool, Unilever, Home Depot, American Standard and Kohl’s. that store products in the facility and later ships them to other destination.

Companies such as BMW, Ace Hardware, Quaker Oaks and L’Oreal should be operational in the port by the end of this year. It is anticipated that the port will become one of the major distribution centers within a 24 hour drive of Dallas.

Goods from Mexico, Central America and South America and Asia are shipped to the port, which is located two miles from where highways I- 20 and I- 45 intersect. The idea was conceived in 2005. The projected completion date is 2038.

The concept of inland ports has gained popularity over the years and they are seen as prudent alternatives to intermodal transfers at coastal ports where goods are placed directly on trucks and in railroad cars. In its early years I was able to secure federal funding for infrastructure development.

As global trade expands many American coastal ports have become congested, shippers have lost time and costs have escalated. Many business owners now prefer taking their goods directly to inland ports rather than having them delayed in coastal areas.

Increased international activity at the Port of Houston and the expansion of the Panama Canal are seen as bonuses for the Dallas inland port. Goods can be transported from Houston on I-45 and taken directly to the port. During my international travels, particularly in China, I speak to business leaders about the port and urge them to use its facilities.

The facility receives four to six trains daily from the Long Beach/Los Angeles area. Currently, products from China that enter the U.S. come through California. They are then shipped to ports in the eastern portion of the country. Good from the inland port will be shipped to sites within a twenty-four hour trucking distance from Dallas." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

source: North Dallas Gazette

Congresswoman Johnson Congratulates The Winner & Entrants Of The Congressional Art Competition

Each spring, the Congressional Institute sponsors a nationwide high school visual art competition to recognize and encourage artistic talent in the nation and in each congressional district. Since the competition began in 1982, more than 650,000 high school students have participated. This year’s art competition was held on Friday, May 10th, at the Morton H.Meyerson Symphony Center. Art students from the Dallas area had their submissions critiqued by a panel of judges from area colleges and the South Dallas Cultural Center. 

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson announced that Crystal Hernandez, a junior at Skyline High School, was selected as the winner of the 2013 Congressional Art Competition for the 30th Congressional District. Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson announced that Crystal Hernandez, a junior at Skyline High School, was selected as the winner of the 2013 Congressional Art Competition for the 30th Congressional District.

 

Congresswoman Johnson Responds To National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration Report

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recently reported that carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere have reached an average daily level above 400 parts per million, a concentration not seen for at least three million years. 

“We know that the Earth is warming, sea ice is disappearing, the glaciers are receding, the oceans are acidifying, and sea levels are rising. We know all of this from climate science research and monitoring. And, we now know that we have reached this carbon dioxide milestone of 400 parts per million thanks to a NOAA observatory on top of the volcano Mauna Loa in Hawaii that has been continuously monitoring and collecting data related to atmospheric change since the 1950s. The research being done at NASA, NOAA and other agencies is providing the crucial data that will enable us to assess, adapt to, and move forward on this critical issue. We must continue investing in this work.” - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Honored By City Of Waco

The city of Waco and the Waco Independent School District honored Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson as one of its most outstanding citizens who attended Waco public schools.

Members of the Waco business community, school administrators, teachers and residents presented Congresswoman Johnson with a plaque acknowledging her as a “distinguished alumni” of the school system at a luncheon attended by approximately two hundred people.

Congresswoman Johnson graduated from Moore High School with honors.  After graduating, she left Waco to study nursing at St. Mary’s College in South Bend, Indiana.

“I had a strong academic foundation at Moore,” said Congresswoman Johnson.  “My teachers prepared me for the future, and the lessons I learned helped me excel in my professional career.”  Bonny Cain, the superintendent of Waco ISD, said “We are honored to recognize Congresswoman Johnson for her many achievements. We are proud that she is a graduate of Waco ISD.”

Congresswoman Johnson Speaks About Her Annual Peace Conference & The Need For Peace

"This past weekend I convened my 13^th annual peace conference in Dallas entitled “A World of Women for World Peace”. More than one hundred fifty peace activists from the Dallas area and peace advocates from throughout the world attended the event which was held at the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas.

The central theme of the nearly three hour session was that a more peaceful world was a reality if  people from different cultures and backgrounds engaged in serious dialogue, and were more tolerant of differences.   We do not have to lose hundreds of thousands of lives because people dislike one another or disagree with the policies of other nations.

At the conference an Israeli peace activist, Ronny Edry, explained how through the creation of posters promulgating peace people from Israel and Iran were building more harmonious relationships. He said that it was shameful that neighbors in the region of the world where he lived could not visit one another’s countries.

The executive director of the Texas Muslim Women’s Foundation, Dr. Hind Jarrah, said her organization collaborates with others of different faiths and beliefs. She said that it was possible for people to work together, although they spoke different languages and held different political positions.

Dr. Jarrah is a proponent of interfaith dialogue. Much of her life is spent attempting to eradicate misconceptions about Islam and people of Muslim faith, many having been the victims of racial discrimination as a result of the events of September 11^th, 2001.

Nazanin Boniadi, an actress born in Iran, who is also the official spokesperson for Amnesty International, spoke about her efforts to create democracy in parts of the world where a free press and freedom of speech were not tolerated by those in power. She has enlisted prominent Hollywood movie directors and actors to support her work.

The conference focused on the particular role that women perform in creating a world of peace. The idea was launched in 2001 to give greater visibility to women who were the victims of war and aggression.  Another objective was to highlight those women who have been peacemakers in their communities and countries.

In this country, women created the Female Peace Society in 1820. One of the very first international women’s peace groups had its roots in 1854 when a Swedish woman started the European Women’s Peace League.

American women have played a fundamental role in peace movements. As a legislator and as a citizen I will work tirelessly to bring attention to those in the forefront of global peace movements.

I will continue to lift the collective voices of women and others in support of peace, and the empowerment of women around the world." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Urges Congress To Pass Comprehensive Gun Control Legislation

Congresswoman Johnson  recently gave a speech on  floor of the House of Representatives to stand up against gun violence and encourage Congress to act on background check legislation. The fight for sensible gun laws is not over, but instead just beginning. 

"It has been more than twenty weeks since the tragic shooting at the Sandy Hook school.  Yet, Congress has still been unable to pass comprehensive legislation to curb gun violence in this country. While an overwhelming majority ofAmericans support expanding background checks, Senate Republicans last month blocked an important measure that would have expanded background checks to many types of private firearm sales.

 Every day that Republicans in Congress choose to block critical measures to reduce gun violence, more innocent lives will be lost or severely impacted by senseless violence at the hands of criminalswith deadly firearms.

We owe it to the American people to respond immediately to this violence. I strongly urge my Republican colleagues to end their blockade on the timely passage of comprehensive gun control legislation." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Honored By Texas Alliance For Retired Americans

Congresswoman Johnson was recently honored by the Texas Alliance for Retired Americans (TARA) for her work on issues affecting seniors and working Americans. TARA representative Ms. Judy Bryant presented Congresswoman Johnson with the award as the evening’s distinguished honoree. Also pictured are Gene Lantz, Linda Chavez Thompson, Tony Padilla and Congressman Mark Veasey.