Doris Matsui: “the Visclosky amendment would provide $250 million for a number of ongoing flood projects that are not funded in the…”

“the Visclosky amendment would provide $250 million for a number of ongoing flood projects that are not funded in the bill. It also adds $750 million for research into alternative sources of energy, such as coal, ethanol, and biodiesel, that would reduce or eliminate our dependence on foreign oil. The spending increase in the Visclosky amendment is offset by reducing by 2.4 percent the tax cut received by people earning more than $1 million a year. Mr. Speaker, this amendment deals with two urgent national priorities. It puts our money where our mouth is when we say our country needs to diversify our energy supply, increase energy efficiency, and reduce our addiction to foreign oil. With the hurricane season approaching, it puts more resources into the major flood control projects that would protect our property and our lives. Mr. Speaker, it is important for Members to know that a ``no'' vote will not prevent us from considering the energy and water appropriation bill under an open rule. But a ``no'' vote will allow Members to vote on the Visclosky amendment. Vote ``no'' on the previous question. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.”