STATEMENT
of the
Honorable Nydia M. Velázquez, Ranking Member
Floor Statement on H. Res. 130, "National Indoor
Cooling Week"
April 20, 2005
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself as much time as I may consume.
We are here today to consider legislation
honoring the contributions of the heating, ventilation,
air conditioning and refrigeration industries - a large
segment of our small business constituency.
Although we often fail to think about
their relevance to our everyday lives, the impact of
these industries and firms can be seen in every household
across the nation. This resolution honors the men and
women that strive to improve the lives of Americans
by providing quality services on a daily basis.
This industry has helped to drive the
economy by creating thousands of good-paying jobs every
year. In 2002, heating, air conditioning and refrigeration
mechanics and installers held nearly 250,000 jobs -
and approximately 15 percent of these workers were classified
as self-employed.
The heating and cooling industry has also
set the standard for creating innovative, environmentally-safe
products that help to preserve and strengthen our environment
for future generations to enjoy. New technologies are
constantly developed to ensure efficient energy use,
so that we can keep indoor environments safe and comfortable,
while protecting our outdoor environments.
Without the modern conveniences and environmental
advances the industry has developed, Americans would
not have the means to enjoy the quality of life as we
know it today. Clearly, given the unique contributions
of the small businesses in this industry, it is only
fitting that we find ways to recognize the exceptional
work of these servicemen and women.
In recognizing what they have brought to the table,
we must also strive to equip the indoor cooling industries
with the resources they need to succeed - including
access to capital, reduction of regulatory burden, affordable
health care, business development and technical assistance.
Entrepreneurs in service industries across the board
deserve our full support in ensuring that these programs
and initiatives are utilized to their fullest potential.
I would like to take a moment to recognize
Tim Slattery and Allyson Ivins, of the House Small Business
Committee minority staff, and Piper Largent, of the
majority staff, for their work on the legislation. I
would also like to commend the Air Conditioning Contractors
of America. This organization has been instrumental
over the years in demonstrating how vital their industry
is to communities across the country.
I am pleased to offer my support in designating
the week of April 17-23, 2005, as National Indoor Comfort
Week. The heating, ventilation, air conditioning and
refrigeration industries are deserving of our attention.
I cannot overstate the important role that the small
businesses in these industries have played in improving
our health, safety, and overall quality of life.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I yield back the
balance of my time.
