I am proud to have played a part in the House consideration and markup of the Honesty in Sweepstakes Act of 1999.

Knowledge is power.

The direct economic cost of health care for kidney failure, stemming largely from the Federal Government, is more than $15 billion per year.

There is no cure for kidney disease. But there is room for hope.

I urge all my colleagues to read through this seminal report and to share copies with their constituents.

I rise to recognize the tremendous work performed by a group of dedicated and tireless professionals: the members of the American Society of Nephrology (ASN).

In 1997, approximately 361,000 Americans suffered from ESRD and required life-saving dialysis or kidney transplants.

It is estimated that 12.5 million Americans have lost at least 50% of their normal kidney function.

I have long supported increased funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Research has found that the progression of the disease can be slowed if diagnosed and managed early.

He returned to his modest farm, but remained a powerful voice for peace and a relentless ambassador for the needs of Africans and the African continent.

He stood tall and spoke up against African strongmen and brutal dictators like Uganda's Idi Amin and the minority rule in South Africa.

As the world mourns the death of President Julius Nyerere, I wish to send the deepest condolences to the people of Tanzania.

For many years, the world has come to know President Julius Nyerere as a pioneer for change.

He was committed to his people and was a leader whose only ambition was to build a strong nation and a solid future for Africa.

I am certain that his legend will live on forever.

It is also vital for Congress to pass meaningful and necessary patient protections that will help give millions of Americans the tools they need to end HMO abuses and hold HMOs accountable.

The justices will review an Illinois case about whether patients can sue HMO plans that give doctors bonuses to keep treatment costs down.