Congresswoman Johnson Honors The Legacy Of President Lyndon Johnson

"President Obama, three former presidents and Congressman John Lewis, the only living speaker from the 1963 March on Washington, are in Austin this week to honor former President Lyndon Baines Johnson, whose policies regarding equal rights and health care radically changed the very fabric of our nation. Presidents Bill Clinton, Jimmy Carter and George W. Bush are among those leading a series of lectures and seminars acknowledging the social achievements that were made during Johnson’s tenure.

Lewis, who nearly lost his life in the early 1960s after being viciously attacked by Alabama state troopers while leading a civil rights march, recently was quoted as saying that Johnson’s programs made it possible for millions of African-Americans to register as voters in the 1960s. He said that if Johnson had not acted to eliminate poll taxes and other unjust practices in many Southern states, there “probably would not have been a Barack Obama as president.” I am in total agreement with my colleague.

Johnson, who grew up in Central Texas, is a true American hero who deserves our admiration for all that he did to make this country a better place for all of its citizens.

The tributes in Austin are part of a Civil Rights Summit at the LBJ Presidential Library. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act, which became law when Johnson signed the legislation on July 2, 1964.

The achievements of the Johnson administration were not limited to civil rights. Medicare was one of his major accomplishments. Prior to its enactment, nearly 70 percent of America’s senior citizen population did not have health insurance. All of that changed when Johnson signed Medicare into law on July 30, 1965, bringing mental comfort and security to millions of Americans ages 65 and older.

Prior to that time, those seniors who could afford health care paid for their own coverage, usually with highly inflated age-related premiums.

While many in America in 1968 viewed Johnson only through the lens of the Vietnam War, hundreds of thousands of African-Americans in the Southern United States admired him greatly. After his election as vice president, Johnson contacted some of his allies in the Texas Legislature to assist Barbara Jordan, who had worked as a volunteer in the presidential campaign.

At his urging, Texas legislators created a senatorial district in which Jordan stood a chance of being elected. They followed his orders and she became a state senator, the first African-American elected to such a post since Reconstruction. Later, Jordan became the first southern African-American female elected to the U.S. House of Representatives.

When Johnson decided not to run for a second term, he returned to Texas. I was a member of the Texas Legislature, and on the day he visited the Capitol building in Austin, my son, Kirk, and I were present. Johnson died of a heart attack a week later on Jan. 22, 1973.

His funeral was held on the same day that my son celebrated his birthday. During the services, it rained as if the sky itself was crying. My son and I went to the burial site and spent time with Lady Bird Johnson and her daughters after returning from the cemetery.

Dignitaries from throughout the country and the world were present to pay their final respects to Johnson and to console members of his family. In an obituary that appeared in The New York Times, he was described as the “architect of the Great Society program, who left a legacy of progress” for the American people.

It is more than appropriate that Johnson’s life and accomplishments are celebrated in Austin, as they will be during the course of this year in Washington, D.C., and in other parts of our country. I am deeply devoted to his vision of a “Great Society.” In his spirit, it should exist forever." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Source: Waco Tribune

Congresswoman Johnson Receives "Defender Of Children" Award

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson was honored by the First Focus Campaign for Children with the “Defender of Children” award.  Congresswoman Johnson was presented the award in recognition for her support of policies that advance the well-being of children 

“I am very appreciative of this recognition by First Focus,” Congresswoman Johnson said. “I have spent my entire career making sure we keep children at the forefront. The future of the world is in the hands and minds of our children. I will continue to work to improve the lives and opportunities for all children.”

The First Focus Campaign for Children honors legislators who support by our nation's children. First Focus recognizes Members of Congress with the “Champions of Children” and “Defender of Children” awards for their efforts to ensure children and families a national priority in federal policy and budget decisions.

In selecting the list of Champions and Defenders, the First Focus Campaign for Children took note of leaders who introduced, co-sponsored, and voted for legislation that met the needs of children. Additionally, the organization considered Members who demonstrated extraordinary initiative by spearheading activities such as sponsoring hearings or garnering the support of their colleagues to improve the health and well-being of children.

Congresswoman Johnson Celebrates Women's History Month

"March was celebrated as Women’s History Month. While women have made great strides in this country, there is still much that needs to be done to bring them on par with men in America, particularly in the area of equal pay for equal work.

It is neither fair nor prudent that we live in a society in which women earn approximately 80 percent of what men who are doing the exact same work are paid. In 2010, the last year for which data was compiled, the median income for a woman in America was $36,931 compared to $47,715 for their male counterparts.

This is simply unacceptable and must be changed.

The practice sends an appalling message to young women who are seeking professional careers. Are we saying to them that they are not as good as their male colleagues? As a society, are we suggesting to them that we place greater value on the work of men than we do on their work? This type of thinking is a relic of the past, and it must remain there.

When I was elected to Congress in 1992, I was the only female in the Texas Congressional delegation. In Washington, I became one of 48 women who were members of the House of Representatives. In the Senate, there were seven women.

Today, our numbers have increased, and women chair many of the committees in the House and Senate where much of the work in the Congress is accomplished. There are presently 20 female Senators and 82 women in the House.

Having women in positions of leadership has made a significant difference in the way that the Congress functions. For the most part, women are less aggressive, and approach issues and policy questions with less acerbity than their male counterparts.

Women have made significant strides in business. Some of our largest corporations such as General Motors and Facebook have women in very senior positions. Yet, our corporate boardrooms remain bastions of male dominance.

In his statement proclaiming Women’s History Month, President Obama stated that our nation’s history has been enhanced by the achievements of women. He wrote that women have, “led movements for social and economic justice, enriched our culture and charted bold directions in our foreign policy.”

Iconic women such as Dorothy Height, who led the National Council of Negro Women, Adelfa Callejo, who fought for minority rights in Dallas, Lindy Boggs, who served our country as a distinguished member of the U.S. House of Representatives and as an ambassador, and so many others, have left a legacy of greatness that must be followed and honored.

Our remembrances of these women and others of monumental acclaim that are no longer with us must strengthen our resolve for even greater achievement. Future generations of women must be able to build upon the foundations that will be left for them.

The work for change must continue as long as women are victims of domestic abuse, physical assault in the military and depressed wages. Yes, we must celebrate women, but we must remain cognizant that the struggle for gender equality must not cease." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Hosts Climate Change Panel In Dallas

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson,  Ranking Member of the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology held a panel discussion on climate change at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas.  The event, titled “A Panel Discussion on Climate Change: How Climate Change Affects Texas and How Texas Can Adapt and Prosper”, included experts from industry, academia, and government.

The panel included Dr. Katharine Hayhoe, Associate Professor at Texas Tech University and Director of the Climate Science Center at Texas Tech; Dr. Michael Webber, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering, U.T. Austin and Co-Director of the Clean Energy Incubator; Mr. Gabriel Alonso, CEO EDP Renewables and Chairman of the Board of the American Wind Energy Association; Dr. Robert Haley, Professor of Internal Medicine and Director of Epidemiology Division at UT Southwestern Medical Center; and Ms. Jill A. Jordan, City of Dallas Assistant City Manager.

In her opening remarks Ranking Member Johnson said, “While climate change is an issue that must be addressed by the Federal government, first and foremost, I am a Texan, and climate change’s impacts and effects will be felt locally.  From increased drought in the Panhandle to concerns over extreme flooding along our coasts and rivers, to the increased risk of wild fires across the state, climate change is an issue that we cannot ignore. Not only will climate change affect the Texas economy, it will impact Texans on a personal level. I’ve seen first-hand, Texan families faced with the task of putting their lives back together after a disaster, and that’s something we can ill afford to have happen more often than it already does.”

The event took place on the same day the U.N. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released a report detailing the need for immediate action to address the global impacts of climate change.  The report, titled “Climate Change 2014: Impacts, Adaptation, and Vulnerability”, says the adverse effects of climate change can be seen today and require governments to address current vulnerabilities and adapt to these climate related risks. 

Ms. Johnson concluded her remarks by saying, “I hope that today’s discussion will lead to affirmative steps and concrete actions that we can take to mitigate the damage already done and to adapt to the changes that will occur.  Ultimately, we’re all in this together, and by working together we can achieve our shared goals of a robust economy, a healthier public, and a cleaner environment.” 

Congresswoman Johnson Marks Cesar Chavez Day

“Cesar Chavez was one of America’s greatest champions for civil rights and social justice. His leadership gave rise to a movement that improved the working conditions of all agricultural workers. Chavez used non-violent protest to forge a path to progress. His movement created a lasting legacy not just for Hispanic Americans, but for all Americans.”

“There are many lessons from that we can learn from Cesar Chavez today. His movement continues to inspire us to push for an increase of the minimum wage, push for a renewal of unemployment insurance, and ensure that all Americans have access to affordable healthcare.“ - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Receives SETWG George E. Brown Leadership Award

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson was awarded the SETWG George E. Brown, Jr., Leadership Award at a reception for Members of Congress, their staffs, and SETWG volunteers Tuesday evening in the Rayburn House Office Building. The award recognizes leadership in, advocacy for, and specific actions taken to advance science, engineering, and technology policy.

The reception included an exhibition featuring 15 companies and societies with technology demonstrations and information.

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson Stands with House Democrats to Demand a Vote on Comprehensive Immigration Reform

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson joined dozens of her colleagues in the House of Representatives to sign a “Demand a Vote” petition. The petition would force a vote on H.R. 15, the bipartisan Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act. This legislation will help secure our border, protect our workers, unite our families, provide an earned pathway to citizenship, and create jobs.

“We must bring the issue of immigration reform before the House of Representatives for a vote,” said Congresswoman Johnson.  “It is time for Speaker Boehner to stop blocking this sensible bipartisan reform, and allow a vote to create jobs, empower our small businesses, fuel innovation, reduce the deficit and energize the economy.  Now is the time for us to fix our broken immigration system, and build a system that respects our history and our values as a nation.”

It has been nearly nine months since the Senate passed its own comprehensive immigration reform legislation by an overwhelming bipartisan margin of 68-32.  Comprehensive immigration reform has enjoyed widespread support from law enforcement, faith leaders, the business community and the American people. 

A report from the Congressional Budget Office released on Tuesday found that the House legislation, H.R. 15 would reduce the deficit by $900 billion over the next two decades – including $200 billion in the first decade alone.  The bill has 200 co-sponsors, including 3 Republicans.  Yet Republican leadership continues to prevent the House from holding a vote on this necessary and popular legislation.

Congresswoman Johnson To Host Committee On Science Space & Technology Panel Discussion On Climate Change

On Monday March 31, 2014, Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, will host a panel discussion on climate change and Texas.

Ms. Johnson said of the upcoming event, “Climate change is an issue that will impact everyone on this planet.  I want Texas to be in the best position possible to deal with it.  It is critical our future and to the future of our children and grandchildren that we do not just wait to watch it happen and hope for the best. This event will bring together experts in our area to discuss how climate change affects Texas and how Texas can adapt and prosper.” 

Congresswoman Johnson Hosts 11th Annual Eddie Bernice Johnson Math & Science Lecture Series

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson held the 11^th annual “Eddie Bernice Johnson Math and Science Lecture Series” at the Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Center in Dallas, Texas.  This lecture series was started by the University of Texas at Dallas in an effort to expose Dallas-area high school students to career opportunities, and accomplished professionals in the disciplines of math and science.

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson gave an impassioned address to the more than 300 students in attendance, encouraging them to excel in the study of science and technology because the future of America would be determined by what they decided to do in their academic and professional lives.

“I am here to ask each of you for your commitment to science and math because it is these disciplines that will ensure that our nation will stay globally competitive with our international counterparts,” said Congresswoman Johnson. “The most important aspect in being globally competitive is the development of young scientists. You have the opportunity to be our next generation of global leaders.”

After completing her remarks, Congresswoman Johnson, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, introduced the keynote speaker, Dr. Roosevelt Johnson. Dr. Johnson is the acting associate director for education at NASA. He addressed the students, telling them that they should consider themselves the future explorers of the universe.

“Science is a field that many of you should consider pursuing,” said Dr. Johnson a graduate of Howard University who has spent a large part of his professional life recruiting minority students to study science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) disciplines. “It (science) was not something that had interested me, but it has made a real difference in my life. Many of you in this auditorium are the future scientists that our country needs.”

Ms. Tiffany Huitt, the principal of the science and engineering component at Town View, thanked Congresswoman Johnson for holding the lecture series at the school, and for bringing “illuminating speakers” for students each year. “The lecture series has made a real difference in the lives of our students,” Ms. Huitt said.

Congresswoman Johnson Urges President Obama To Sign ENDA Executive Order

Members of Congress including Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson of Dallas are calling on President Barack Obama to sign an employment nondiscrimination executive order as part of his “Year of Action.”
In his State of the Union address, Obama pledged to enact his policy goals without Congress by issuing executive orders.

Johnson’s office sent Dallas Voice a copy of a letter written by the LGBT caucus circulating on Capitol Hill asking the president to forbid discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. An executive order would ban contractors from receiving federal government contracts unless they have a nondiscrimination policy in place.

The current version of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act working its way through Congress would prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identify among any employer with 15 or more employees. ENDA passed the Senate on Nov. 7 with a bipartisan 64–32 vote. First introduced in 1994, a similar bill passed the House in 2007, but to become law, the 2013 Senate version must pass the House by the end of this session.

The letter asks the president to sign the executive order as ENDA works its way through Congress with strong bipartisan support.

“We urge you to take action now to protect millions of workers across the country from the threat of discrimination simply because of who they are or who they love,” they wrote in the letter.

The letter was signed by more than 150 members of the House and 47 members of the Senate.

“We are committed to doing all that we can in Congress to get ENDA to your desk this year; however, there is no reason you cannot immediately act by taking this important step,” they wrote.

In addition to Johnson, other Texas lawmakers who signed the letter are Joaquin Castro, Lloyd Doggett, Al Green, Ruben Hinojosa, Sheila Jackson Lee, Beto O’Rourke, Marc Veasey and Filemon Vela.

“We’re continuing to get signers,” Brad Jacklin said.

Jacklin is executive director of the House of Representatives’ LGBT Equality Caucus.

He said similar letters have been sent in past years, and the number of signers has increased each year. No Republicans signed, although the House version of ENDA does have Republican co-sponsors.

Obama has been criticized for his use of executive orders, but requiring contractors to protect their employees would be in line with orders that other presidents wrote regarding discrimination.

“In 1941, President Roosevelt prohibited discrimination in defense contracts on the bases of race, creed, color, or national origin,” the letter states. “In subsequent executive orders, Presidents Roosevelt, Truman, Eisenhower, Kennedy, and Johnson expanded these protections to ensure that taxpayer dollars are not used to discriminate.”

At a press conference on March 14, White House Press Secretary Jay Carney said the administration’s position is that Congress should pass ENDA.

“I don’t have any updates for you on possible executive orders. What we’re focused on is a legislative remedy that would be more comprehensive and has already seen progress in Congress,” Carney said. “So, I don’t have a view to express on that particular issue.”
Johnson is a co-sponsor of ENDA.

“I strongly support equality for all people and especially in the workplace,” Johnson said. “President Obama has been one of the biggest presidential supporters of equal rights and of the LGBT community. In my own Congressional office, color, creed or sexual orientation are not considered when people are being hired.

The only consideration is job performance, and whether or not an individual is prepared.”

The letter mentions three government contractors —  Boeing, Raytheon and Lockheed Martin — that have nondiscrimination policies in place.

Local activist Louise Young is a retired senior software engineer at Raytheon and was partially responsible for getting her company to adopt those policies.

“It was a great feeling going to work everyday knowing I was treated equally by my company,” Young said.

She said an executive order would benefit the government because it made it easier to focus on her job. The pride she felt in her company translated into better work.

“I commend Congresswoman Johnson and all those who signed on,” Young said. “I’m very proud of her.”

Source: Dallas Voice

Congresswoman Johnson Discusses Benefits Of Affordable Care Act

Four years after the Affordable Care Act was signed into law, seniors and people with disabilities continue to enjoy lower costs and greater benefits because of the law’s historic reforms. In 2013 alone, 296,015 seniors and people with disabilities in Texas saved $271 million, an average of $916 per beneficiary, on their prescription drug purchases. Because of the Affordable Care Act’s expansion of free preventive services, last year an estimated 2,400,000 Texans with Medicare were able to take advantage of at least one preventive service with no cost-sharing.

“The Affordable Care Act is protecting the well-being and the wallets of seniors and the disabled in Texas,” said Congresswoman Johnson. “In 2013 alone, 4.3 million Medicare beneficiaries, including more than 290,000 beneficiaries in Texas, have seen dramatic savings on their prescription drugs. The annual checkups and other free preventive services available because of this historic law have enabled seniors to look after themselves, without having to look out for their pocketbooks as well.”

The Affordable Care Act makes Medicare prescription drug coverage more affordable by gradually closing the gap in coverage. In the past, beneficiaries had to pay the full cost of their prescriptions out of pocket, before catastrophic coverage for prescriptions took effect—the so-called “donut hole.” The law also made certain preventive services available free of charge, eliminating coinsurance and the Part B deductible for recommended preventive services, including many cancer screenings and other essential benefits.

“Four years after the Affordable Care Act was signed into law, millions of Americans can now feel a new sense of security, both health security and a new security in their budgets as well,” added Congresswoman Johnson. “Republicans should stop trying to tear down the Affordable Care Act, wasting valuable time in Congress by voting more than 50 times to repeal the law rather than tackling issues that can help all Americans, like jobs or immigration reform.”

Congresswoman Johnson Introduces America Competes Reauthorization Act 2014

On March 6, 2014, Representative Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX), Ranking Member of the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, introduced the America Competes Reauthorization Act of 2014 (H.R. 4159). 

The bill would establish, revise, and extend specified science, technology, engineering, and mathematics programs, as well as education, research, and training programs. The bill would reauthorize the National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) "to ensure the United States remains a leader in the development of new technologies and products based on breakthroughs in our understanding of materials at the atomic and molecular level." Under the bill, the National Nanotechnology Coordination Office (NNCO) would develop and maintain a public database of projects funded under at least the environmental, health, and safety (EHS) program component area, or any successor program component area. The database would include a description of each project, its source of funding by agency, and its funding history. The bill states that the National Nanotechnology Program will include research on: (1) the development of instrumentation and tools required for the rapid characterization of nanoscale materials and for monitoring of nanoscale manufacturing processes; and (2) approaches and techniques for scaling the synthesis of new nanoscale materials to achieve industrial-level production rates. On March 6, 2014, the bill was referred to the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology and to the Committee on Education and Workforce. On March 11, 2014, the bill was referred to the Science, Space, and Technology Subcommittee on Research and Technology.

Source: Nanotechnology Now

Congresswoman Johnson To Host 11th Annual Math And Science Lecture Series At Townview

On Monday March 24, 2014 Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson and the University of Texas at Dallas will host the 11^th annual “Eddie Bernice Johnson Math & Science Lecture Series.”

This year’s keynote presenter will be Dr. Roosevelt Johnson, Deputy Associate Administrator for Education at NASA.  Dr. Johnson will be speaking with the students about NASA’s cutting edge projects, their variety of educational programs, and showing students career possibilities that exist at NASA.   

In 2003 the University of Texas at Dallas, in recognition of Congresswoman Johnson’s leadership in the math and science fields,  commenced the Eddie Bernice Johnson Lecture Series in an effort to expose Dallas-area high school students to the best and brightest minds in the fields of mathematics and science. These experts come to the school to discuss their unique careers and expose students to different career possibilities in the STEM fields.

Congresswoman Johnson Introduces Ryan White Patient Equity & Choice Act

The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), the largest global AIDS organization, joined a number of other organizations including HIV/AIDS medical providers, social service organizations, municipalities and local representatives as well as community churches in praising the introduction of the “Ryan White Patient Equity and Choice Act” (HR 4260), a bill to make needed improvement to the Ryan White Comprehensive AIDS Resource Emergency Act (RWCA)program to ensure that funding allocations are evidenced based, and that funding targets interventions that get people in to care and help them stay there. The new bill, introduced in Congress late Friday, is authored and sponsored by Renee Ellmers, (R, NC, 2^nd District) and co-sponsored by Eddie Bernice-Johnson (D, TX, 30^th District) and Bennie Thompson, (D, MS, 2^nd District).

The Act ensures services that directly address the HIV continuum of care are prioritized

• Linkage, retention, and treatment adherence services are clearly defined as “Core Medical Services”.
• Incentives grantees to prioritize the provision of continuum services in their community.
• Ensures that care is coordinated and led by experienced providers.

The Act helps ensure that areas where the epidemic is growing will have the necessary resources to eliminate gaps in the continuum of care

• HRSA is required to examine the level of funding equity between states and eligible areas receiving Ryan White funding, and submit a plan to Congress to ensure that funding does not vary more than 5 percent per person with HIV among each state and area.

The Act supports better treatment adherence and health outcomes by promoting patient-centered care and choice

• Establishes a Special Project of National Significance (SPNS) that will develop a model of patient-centered care. As part of this effort, grantees will assess the extent to which patient centered care is incorporated into in their area, and HRSA will examine how to incorporate patient-centered care throughout the Ryan White program.
• Requires states to implement an ADAP pharmacy network that includes specialty pharmacies that focus on the HIV population. In addition, it protects privacy and supports better adherence by enabling patients to choose whether or not they want to use mail-order pharmacy services.

Source: Fort Mills Times

Congresswoman Johnson Honored By Conference Of Minority Transportation Officials

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

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

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

Congresswoman Johnson Calls For Vote On Emergency Uneployment Compensation Act

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson took action to force a up-or-down vote on key legislation that would extend unemployment insurance for more than 2 million Americans. Congresswoman Johnson joined her colleagues in signing a discharge petition to bring up the Emergency Unemployment Compensation Extension Act. The bill extends emergency unemployment insurance for nearly 5 million Americans looking for work through the end of the year.

"The time is now for action on unemployment insurance. To many Americans and more than 100,000 Texans have been suffering far to long. In this time of recovery, our state cannot afford to lose the $171 million in economic activity that has been lost in the first two months of this year due to the 105,000 Texans that were cut off from unemployment insurance."

"Despite repeated efforts from the Democrats in the House of Representatives, Republicans in Congress have callously refused to restore this vital economic lifeline that helps people support their families and pay their bills while they look for a new job." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson On Women's Issues

"All issues are women's issues, and some are just women's business." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Comments On President Obama's 2015 Budget

“Overall, the President’s budget request is a realistic, yet bold plan for action.  I look forward to further examining the proposals in the President’s budget that fall under the jurisdiction of the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.  The future of American innovation and leadership rest on the investments we make today.  In that regard, I am happy to see the Administration take a more deliberative and transparent approach to our nation’s STEM education efforts.  Preparing our next generation for the jobs of tomorrow should be our top priority.

“Budget increases for some agencies and programs will help maintain U.S. leadership in science and innovation.  However, I am disappointed to see flat or even decreased funding in a number of key areas of the federal government’s R&D budget.  For example, the budget request for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration fails to even meet the 2014 enacted funding level and, if enacted, will hinder the agency’s performance in the coming years. 

“To provide for additional investments, the President included a proposal to Congress titled, Opportunity, Growth and Security Initiative.  I support the goal of increasing our investments in R&D and STEM education and I hope to work with the President and my colleagues to further clean energy technologies and grid modernization, as well as advanced manufacturing initiatives and research on the impacts of climate change.” - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Celebrates Women's History Month

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice joined millions of Americans in marking the annual celebration of March as Women’s History Month – a commemoration that has occurred in America since 1987.  This year’s theme is Celebrating Women of Character, Courage, and Commitment.  

“During Women’s History Month, we celebrate the enormous progress that has been made for American women.  This year’s theme, Celebrating Women of Character, Courage, and Commitment, speaks to the persevering women trailblazers throughout our country’s history who struggled, suffered, and prevailed on behalf of the advancement of women,” Congresswoman Johnson said. “In the last several years, there have also been new gains for women.  For example, there are now a record number of women serving in Congress – with 20 women now serving in the Senate and 82 women in the House of Representatives.”

“Much progress has been made for the women of America, but much more remains to be done,” Congresswoman Johnson points out. “When the average woman still only makes 77 cents for every dollar a man makes and the poverty rate among women is the highest its been in two decades, there is definitely more work to be done.”

“American women have made great strides over the last 100 years – but the fight for equal opportunity is far from over,” Congresswoman Johnson said.  “There is more work to do in Texas and throughout the country to provide women with the economic security and opportunities they deserve and their families need.”  - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Vows To Continue Working For Civil Rights Protection

While addressing a reception hosted by DFW Muslim Chamber of Commerce at Park Plaza in Dallas, she said that she spent her entire life fighting for civil rights of people and has travelled throughout the world for this purpose.

Congresswoman Johnson said personal liberties and freedom is the secret behind American prosperity and progress and this is the reason the immigrants come to US find opportunities and contribute to American society.

She said that this is the reason that immigrants have played a major role in American economic progress which cannot be ignored. She said that people come to US with big dreams and it is my duty as a Congresswoman to protect those dreams and this is why she voted against Patriot Act and subsequent bad laws aimed to curb personal liberties.

The congresswoman said that DFW offers great opportunities to businesses and she is very happy to see a much needed Muslim Chamber of Commerce here like other communities.

Source: International News

Congresswoman Johnson Hosts 21st Annual Interfaith Prayer Breakfast

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson hosted her 21^st annual interfaith prayer breakfast at the Music Hall at Fair Park. The theme of this year’s breakfast was “prayer, the foundation of equality and justice,” and featured a keynote address by civil rights icon, Congressman John Lewis (GA-05).

“The very foundation of my life is prayer,” Congressman Johnson said to a breakfast audience of more than 140 people.  The attendees included members of the clergy, elected officials, business owners and a group of Dallas students that last November retraced routes taken by the “Freedom Riders” who fought to integrate segregated workplaces and public facilities during the 1960s.

Congresswoman Johnson applauded the high school and middle school students for taking the “Freedom Riders” trip. “These young people visited places where Congressman Lewis and others challenged the American government to enact laws that gave full citizenship to every American. I was among those that supported their trip, and we are proud of them.”

While introducing her congressional colleague, Congresswoman Johnson said that his actions as a civil rights leader were directly related to her decision to run for elected office. “He was beaten, but not discouraged,” she said of the Georgia legislator who is also the only living speaker among those who spoke at the 1963 March on Washington.

“There is a sweet spirit of prayer in this place,” Congressman Lewis said as he began his remarks. “I cannot imagine where we would be in this country if our work had not been based on a foundation of prayer.”

“If someone had not prayed for me during the beatings I took that left me unconscious I would not be standing here today,” said Congressman Lewis. “Prayer allows us to never give in and never give up.  Prayer will change things… Even in the Congress we need prayer.”

Reverend Claude Maples, who has been the master of ceremonies of the prayer breakfast since it began two decades ago, introduced members of the clergy representing the Christian, Jewish and Muslim faith. Each of them gave brief remarks after Congressman Lewis gave his address.

Congresswoman Johnson Attends STEM-Genetics Demonstation At West Intermediate School

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson joined students and teachers at Cedar Hill’s West Intermediate School to witness their STEMGenetics demonstrations.  STEMGenetics is an innovative life sciences teaching tool and curriculum that helps students learn the skills they will need to compete for in-demand science and technology jobs. 

Congresswoman Johnson took time to talk to the attending STEM educators and express her thanks for the work they do.  “The work that you all are doing with these young students is crucial to America becoming a global leader in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math,” said Congresswoman Johnson. “We must prepare our students with a sense of analytical thinking that will allow them to solve the problems of the future. It is important that we start teaching these skills at this young age to allow for these students to aspire to be the scientists, engineers, and inventors of the future. ”

As the Ranking Member of the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, Congresswoman Johnson was the featured speaker at a demonstration along with the creators of this cutting edge curriculum, Dr. Michelle Williams of Michigan State University and  Dr. Angela DeBarger, a senior research scientist at SRI International

“STEMGenetics has proven successful in teaching elementary students fundamental life science ideas that will prepare them for advanced learning in high school biology as well as careers in science and technology,” said Dr. Williams. “We help develop teacher capacity, so they can effectively introduce important science concepts in earlier grades, which means our children are better-prepared.”

Research evaluations of the STEMGenetics approach in Texas and Michigan classrooms show that students demonstrate significantly improved understanding of life sciences, biology and genetics concepts, after using STEMGenetics, which features technology that makes it possible for teachers to track student progress and offer feedback throughout the learning process.

Dr. Williams stated that the program was funded by a grant from the National Science Foundation, which Congresswoman Johnson’s work helped to secure. Congressman Marc Veasey, Texas State Senator Royce West, the mayor of Cedar Hill and officials from the city’s public school system were also present.

Congresswoman Johnson Applauds Passage Of National Integrated Information Systems Reauthorization Act

The House of Representatives recently passed H.R. 2431, the National Integrated Drought Information Systems Reauthorization Act.

The NIDIS Act, signed into law in 2006, is a collaborative effort between numerous federal agencies and several state governments to provide a dynamic and accessible drought-risk information system.  NIDIS was created in response to extended drought conditions and is led and implemented by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).  NIDIS has provided a better understanding of how and why droughts affect society, the economy, and the environment, and is improving accessibility, dissemination, and use of early warning information for drought risk management by a variety of stakeholders ranging from farmers to city planners.  NIDIS incorporates the efforts of numerous federal agencies, tribal nations, emergency managers and planners, six Regional Climate Centers, state climatologists, local NOAA Weather Forecast Offices, and Regional Integrated Sciences and Assessments (RISA).

“I rise in support of H.R. 2431, the National Integrated Drought Information System Reauthorization Act of 2013. This vital program was originated by my friend and former Committee Chairman Ralph Hall in 2006.  The program provides critical drought information to communities all across our Nation.

“Over the past three decades it is estimated that droughts have cost our country hundreds of billions of dollars in economic impacts.  Loss estimates from the 2012 drought alone run upwards of 70 billion dollars.  Moreover, the effects of climate change are anticipated to exacerbate this problem in many parts of our country, including in my home state of Texas.  Right now, California is experiencing its driest period in recorded history with 67 percent of the state experiencing extreme or exceptional drought conditions. 

“We all know that farmers and ranchers bear the brunt of these dry conditions.  That hits the pocketbook of every American as food prices go up.  But the damage is not limited to agriculture.  For instance, in the West, conditions are again ripe for extreme wildfires that scarred more than 9 million acres last year putting homes and property in jeopardy. Tourism is suffering as water levels in lakes and rivers plummet and snow packs languish, leaving boats on dry land and skis in the attic; communities are imposing water restrictions; and power plant and grid operators are taking a serious look at emergency plans should water for cooling towers and hydroelectric dams fall short. 

“If you look at the top five most expensive disasters in the United States since 1980, three of those are due to drought. The NIDIS program is intended to help alleviate some of the economic impacts of drought. 

“Notably, one of the program’s goals is to improve drought early warning.  Advanced warning of impending droughts would allow states, localities, and farmers to better plan their activities so that the economic costs associated with droughts could be reduced or mitigated.

“In light of the scope of the economic impacts of drought, and the potential of the NIDIS program to lessen these impacts, I remain concerned about the authorization levels in H.R. 2431.  My Democratic colleagues and I tried to modestly increase the authorization levels, during Committee consideration of the bill, but we were unsuccessful.

“Every witness who has ever testified or spoken to our Committee about this program has highlighted the need to improve the program’s early warning capability. This isn’t a goal that can be accomplished for free.  It will take a sustained investment of additional funds to achieve the results we so desperately need.

“While I wish the authorization numbers in the bill before us today were higher, they are much better than the numbers in the Senate bill which locks the program into a funding cap that is below current spending for the next five years.

“When the Federal government is spending tens of billions of dollars per year to mitigate the effects of drought, I think it makes sense to spend a couple million extra dollars to try and reduce those massive costs to our taxpayers and our communities.  It’s pretty clear that in this instance an ounce of prevention will get us a pound of cure.

“In spite of these concerns, I support H.R. 2431 and the reauthorization of NIDIS, a program which provides crucial information to help our farmers and our communities prepare for and mitigate the impacts of drought.”

Source: Committee On Science Space & Technology - Democrats

Congresswoman Johnson And Health & Human Services Secretary Sebelius Discuss Affordable Care Act At Paul Quinn College

Congresswoman Johnson was joined at Paul Quinn college by Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. They were there to discuss ways we can inform Texans about the many benefits of the new coverage they can get under the Affordable Care Act. Congresswoman Johnson was also joined by Michael Sorrell, the President of Paul Quinn College & top administration officials from Children's hospital . 

Congresswoman Johnson Reacts To President Obama's State Of The Union Address

“Tonight the President laid out a clear vision for America.  His message of opportunity, action, and optimism points to 2014 as being a year of action. His proposals to work with Congress to extend emergency unemployment insurance, to raise the minimum wage, and to provide increased workplace fairness for women are all actions I strongly support. I also could not agree more with the President that the nation that goes all-in on innovation today will own the global economy tomorrow. This is an edge America cannot surrender.

I am supporting his commitment to use executive action to expand job training programs, launch manufacturing innovation institutes, cut the red tape on infrastructure investments, and getting the long term unemployed back to work. The President made it clear that he is committed to strengthening the middle class and creating opportunities for Americans to work their way into the middle class.

The President also emphasized all of the good that the Affordable Care Act is doing around the country. It is very encouraging to know that over 9 million Americans have signed up for health insurance and Medicaid. My guest to the speech, Regina Montoya, Senior Vice President of Dallas’ Children's Hospital, is one of the many healthcare professionals that knows firsthand about the positive impact this law is having.

I look forward to working with the Administration and I sincerely hope that I can work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle. These times are far too important to Texas and to America to let political posturing get in the way of progress." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson To Visit Taiwan

U.S. congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson will visit Taiwan later this week to learn more about the development of bilateral relations, Taiwan's foreign and economic policies and its ties with China, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Wednesday.

She will also call on other government officials and representatives from the private sector to discuss issues related to Taiwan-U.S. ties, the ministry added.Johnson, a Democrat from Texas, is scheduled to arrive in Taiwan Thursday on a four-day visit, during which she will meet with President Ma Ying-jeou, the ministry said in a statement.

Johnson, who is currently ranking member on the Science, Space, and Technology Committee in the U.S. House of Representatives, is a long-time friend of Taiwan's, the ministry said. A member of the Taiwan Caucus of the U.S. House of Representatives, she is supportive of the U.S.' commitment to Taiwan's security and the idea of a bilateral free trade agreement, according to the ministry.

The ministry said it hopes that Johnson, who has visited Taiwan several times, will continue to support the country.

Source: China Post