We in Congress need to use the tools available to us under the Constitution to help the President honor his commitment to the American people and obey the law that he signed on November 20. Earlier today we voted to bring unpaid Federal employees back to work and to provide them with their back pay. We also helped to fund through September 30 essential programs for seniors. veterans. the needy. unemployed. as well as visa. passport and consular services for American citizens abroad. By passing this continuing resolution before us now. we will also fulfill our responsibility to reopen the Government through January 26. Mr.