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Mr. Chairman, let me thank the chairwoman of the Congressional Black Caucus, Ms. Kilpatrick and Mr. Scott, for their efforts in developing the CBC alternative budget that embraces progressive and visionary funding mechanisms motivated by principle and compassion.
I also would like to thank all the members of the CBC and their staff for their help in completing this very important task. I appreciate and applaud their efforts on issues important to all of us.
The CBC alternative budget understands that our Nation's transportation system is the backbone of our economy and our way of life. We cannot afford to shortchange our transportation system, nor ignore the need for greater competitiveness in science and technology.
As a senior member of the Science Committee, I feel the CBC alternative budget supports these initiatives to invest in our children's future. Federal entities such as NASA and the National Science Foundation need funding to inspire today's youth so that we can have a future in research.
The science budget funds our scientific and engineering workforce, supports teacher enrichment programs, and helps inspire future generations of researchers. Our Nation's future depends more and more on the quality of our innovative ideas. The fruits of these investments meet vital national needs and improve the quality of life for all Americans.
The CBC alternative budget also provides funding for minority health initiatives, health insurance for the uninsured, child nutrition programs, job creation programs under the SBA, the extension of unemployment insurance benefits and the elimination of the disabled veteran's tax.
I urge my colleagues to support the CBC budget proposal.
U.S. Representative Eddie Bernice Johnson is the highest-ranking Texan on the House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure. She represents the 30th Congressional District, which includes downtown Dallas, Northeast, East Oak Cliff & Pleasant Grove; all of Balch Springs, De Soto, Lancaster & Hutchins and parts of Cedar Hill, Duncanville, Glen Heights, Wilmer and Ovilla.
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