It is a privilege to be back here to work on some of the most pressing issues facing our Nation. The first time I ran for office was as grade school vice president in the fifth grade. Back then, I'm not sure what the most pressing issue…

I am truly honored to have had a chance to serve in Congress with my colleague and friend, Representative Jerry Costello. Beloved by his constituents, Congressman Costello has been a staple in southern Illinois for many years. For me…

Traditionally, Members of Congress return to their districts during the month of August to avoid the hottest, muggiest month of the Washington year, but given our current circumstances and the invention of air conditioning, I think we…

On Monday I hosted a jobs fair in the western suburbs of Chicago with several of my colleagues. Over 1,500 jobseekers showed up. I've visited with more than 100 northern Illinois business owners since I entered Congress. In each factory…

I am proud to recognize the remarkable accomplishments of six athletes from Illinois' 14th Congressional District who will represent the United States at the 2012 Olympics in London. Twin brothers Grant and Ross James from DeKalb will both…

Now that the health care law is out of the judicial process, it's back in the hands of the legislature. It's time to face the real consequences of this law. This week, the Ways and Means Committee has started examining the tax effects. The…

Successful agriculture is vital for America and for my home State of Illinois to thrive in the future. The farmers in my district in northern Illinois are saying that they can do without direct payments as long as there is some protection…

It is a tough time to be a student in America. The President's health care bill, if not repealed, will make school health plans much more expensive. According to The Wall Street Journal, some plans that were $440 a year are going up to…

Just briefly, Mr. Chairman, I urge adoption of this amendment. It does make sense. It's a commitment to basic scientific research and fiscal accountability, and I urge support of the amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time.

My amendment would transfer $15 million from the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy research program to the Office of Science. It would also reduce the EERE account by an additional $15 million, which could be put towards deficit…

I have an amendment at the desk. The Acting CHAIR. The Clerk will report the amendment. The Clerk read as follows: Page 20, line 15, after the dollar amount, insert ``(reduced by $30,000,000)''. Page 26, line 2, after the dollar amount…

I want to thank my colleague from New Mexico. I thank you so much. Now I want to yield to my good friend from North Carolina, Mike McIntyre. Mr. McINTYRE. Thank you so much. Mr. Speaker, I share with these dear friends today marking the…