[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 92 (Friday, June 20, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1319]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   SENSE OF CONGRESS THAT CONGRESS SHOULD PARTICIPATE IN AND SUPPORT 
 ACTIVITIES TO PROVIDE DECENT HOMES FOR THE PEOPLE OF THE UNITED STATES

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                           HON. RAHM EMANUEL

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 17, 2003

  Mr. EMANUEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of S. Con. 
Res. 43, expressing the sense that Congress should participate in and 
support activities to provide decent homes for working Americans.
  As we recognize National Home Ownership Month this June, I believe 
that the ``Congress Building America'' program will go a long way 
toward improving the lives of our constituents. In the spirit of 
President Carter's Habitat for Humanity, this legislation inspires 
volunteerism. When people see their public servants living up to that 
title and building houses side by side with the people who will be 
living in them, they will want to help others provide decent housing 
for those in need.
  My wife, Amy, and I look forward to leading by example and showing 
our children how working together can make a meaningful difference in 
the lives of our fellow Americans. Expanding the ``Congress Building 
America'' program beyond Washington to each of our districts is an 
important goal toward helping Americans find decent shelter and owning 
their own homes.
  My district is home to thousands of historic bungalows, many of 
which, sadly, are in disrepair. I am working with public and private 
agencies to provide bungalow owners with both financial and technical 
assistance to restore their homes. These bungalows are not only a 
national treasure, but also one of few affordable choices for thousands 
of homeowners.
  Mr. Speaker, I strongly encourage my colleagues to vote in favor of 
S. Con. Res. 43 and continue supporting improved access to affordable 
housing in America.

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