Hon. Michael G. Oxley: “I rise in support of H.R. 1850--the ``Senior Housing Commission Extension Act of 2001.'' The Committee voted unanimously…”

“I rise in support of H.R. 1850--the ``Senior Housing Commission Extension Act of 2001.'' The Committee voted unanimously to support this legislation on June 27, 2001 and reported [House Report 107-147] the bill to the House on July 19, 2001. This legislation makes certain technical corrections to legislation enacted in October 1999 creating the Commission on Affordable Housing and Health Care Facility Needs in the 21st Century. As I understand, it took one year longer than anticipated for Congress to appoint Commission members. As a result, we are extending the Commission's reporting deadline and termination date by one year. We also clarify the Commission's authority to use agency employees as details on a non-reimbursable basis. As many of you know, our population is aging, particularly for low- and moderate-income families and individuals. According to the Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, in July 1999 there were more than 35.5 million Americans over 65 years of age, and the Bureau projects that by the year 2075, more than 55.7 million, or one in eight Americans, will be over 65 years of age. These are purely technical corrections worked-out between the majority and minority staffs along with the Commission's Executive Director--Gerard Holder--that will empower the Commission to provide the type of report and recommendations necessary to assist Congress in addressing elderly housing issues. Mr. Speaker, I urge passage of this legislation.”