Sheila Jackson Lee: “First of all, let me say that I join my colleagues in asking for the James Zadroga bill to be passed in honor and…”

“First of all, let me say that I join my colleagues in asking for the James Zadroga bill to be passed in honor and tribute to our first responders after the tragedy and heinous terrorist act of 9/11. And then, of course, today is World AIDS Day. I want to congratulate my constituents. I join the city of Houston, Harris County, in honoring the President's 2020 initiative, which is to encourage all of us to surge back into education and prevention of HIV/AIDS. So many of us have lost too many. Today in my district as well, the Thomas Street Clinic and a number of other organizations will be acknowledging those who still live with AIDS. It is certainly our responsibility to fight to ensure the stopping of HIV/AIDS in this Nation. I also rise to speak of the intelligence bill that will be on the floor today. What I would like to note is that I am glad that some of the issues have been resolved. Particularly, I am concerned and glad that it will provide critical resources for the fight against ISIL, emphasize collection to monitor and ensure compliance with the Iranian nuclear agreement, which some have been very concerned about, that intelligence is very important, and as well it promotes foreign partner capabilities such as helping our allies in France. Mr. Speaker, as I close, let me say my concern, however, still remains on the authority limited of the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board. It is a bill that we all should consider. ____________________”