[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 37 (Thursday, March 20, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E539]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    MRS. FLAHERTY GOES TO WASHINGTON

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                           HON. HENRY J. HYDE

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 20, 1997

  Mr. HYDE. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to the House's attention 
a stirring anecdote about the triumph of the little gal, and of 
Congress' ability to improve substantially the lives of constituents. 
This story should be characterized as ``Mrs. Flaherty goes to 
Washington.'' Mrs. Flaherty discovered a flaw in the law governing VA 
employees' ability to earn money at a second job, and with the help of 
Representative Jim Sensenbrenner, this little lady made a difference.

                    Civics 101: Making a Difference

                         (By Mary Flaherty, RN)

       During last year's presidential campaign, much of the 
     debate focused on the role the federal government should play 
     in the lives of the average citizen. Many believe there is 
     nothing we can do individually to change things. I confess I 
     once shared that view, but something happened to me that 
     disabused me of that notion. Indeed, it has convinced me that 
     one truly can make a difference.
       Several years ago, as a senior professional nurse at the VA 
     Hospital in Milwaukee County, I sought permission from my 
     superiors to work after hours in a private nursing facility. 
     My family's economic situation dictated the need for such a 
     ``moonlighting'' job. However, my VA bosses denied my 
     request, noting that type of work was prohibited by law. 
     Incredibly, I learned this same statute allowed professional 
     nurses to ``moonlight,'' but not in their chosen profession. 
     Yet, in a remarkable demonstration of inconsistency, other VA 
     personnel--pharmacists, speech pathologists and licensed 
     practical nurses--enjoyed exemptions from this restriction.
       Initially, after my request was rejected, I felt frustrated 
     and embittered. But then I began to contemplate what courses 
     of action could be taken to amend this obviously unfair and 
     discriminatory law.
       Among other things, I sought the advice of an old 
     Washington friend, wise in the ways of Congress. 
     Surprisingly, I got a positive reaction. I was told the 
     merits of my case were unassailable. What you must do, he 
     said, is make Congress aware of the law's inequitable and 
     unreasonable restrictions. Reminded of former House Speaker 
     Tip O'Neill's famous adage that ``all politics are local,'' I 
     was urged to contact the Congressmen representing districts 
     in the metropolitan Milwaukee area.
       With that advice, I attended a town meeting hosted by 
     Representative James Sensenbrenner and, at the appropriate 
     time, I seized the microphone and the moment. The Congressman 
     listened sympathetically as I explained my problem. He then 
     asked me to furnish him with additional details, and promised 
     to do whatever he could to help me upon his return to the 
     nation's capital.
       Not long thereafter, Congressman Sensenbrenner was able to 
     persuade his colleagues in the House of Representatives to 
     adopt legislation that would permit me and all other VA 
     nurses to engage in ``after hours nursing.'' Many months 
     later, the Senate approved the same measure, and with the 
     President's signature, it became law.
       This very personal triumph exemplifies what one person can 
     do, even when the odds for success appear insurmountable. The 
     lesson here is: Don't get mad or give up, but instead get 
     involved in the political process and pursue your objective 
     with bull-doggish tenacity. My own experience graphically 
     illustrates that the so-called little guy or gal can make a 
     big difference when properly motivated.
       In short, the next time you feel moved to change the world, 
     give it a go. You may be astounded at what you accomplish.

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