E PL UR UM IB N U U S Congressional Record United States th of America PROCEEDINGS AND DEBATES OF THE 115 CONGRESS, SECOND SESSION

Vol. 164 WASHINGTON, THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2018 No. 46 House of Representatives The House met at 10 a.m. and was new tariffs. Their stock prices go down If there is nothing to hide in this called to order by the Speaker. a lot. deal, then the investigation will be f So I guess you could say that Carl quick and that will be that, but simply Icahn was lucky to unload his shares, saying this multimillion-dollar stroke MORNING-HOUR DEBATE valued at, at least, $31 million, just be- of luck was just a coincidence is not The SPEAKER. Pursuant to the fore the President made his announce- flying; not with me, anyway. order of the House of January 8, 2018, ment, but I suspect that luck had noth- Do you know the rigorous reporting the Chair will now recognize Members ing to do with it. of assets that we as House Members from lists submitted by the majority Here is a Trump insider making a gi- have to do to fully disclose our debts and minority leaders for morning-hour gantic decision on tens of millions of and investments? debate. dollars, and we are just supposed to be- And all those disclosures are avail- The Chair will alternate recognition lieve it is a coincidence. able to the public, and the press goes between the parties. All time shall be Sorry, but I am not buying it. over them with a fine-tooth comb. equally allocated between the parties, So I wrote the chairman of the SEC Every time a Member of Congress buys and in no event shall debate continue to request that he investigate. I have or sells a security over $1,000, we have beyond 11:50 a.m. Each Member, other not heard back from him, but I hope to file a form, and then that gets than the majority and minority leaders after he hears this speech, he might shared with the public. And if we are and the minority whip, shall be limited have a change of mind. late with the filing of the paperwork, to 5 minutes. In the letter, I said: ‘‘The announce- we have to pay a fine. f ment of tariffs on the heels of Mr. This may seem burdensome, but the Icahn’s stock sale is highly suspicious. important goal here is transparency SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COM- The close relationship between the and to ensure that Members are not MISSION SHOULD INVESTIGATE President and Mr. Icahn adds to the ap- using insider information they have ac- ILLEGAL INSIDER TRADING BY pearance of wrongdoing.’’ cess to to personally enrich them- CARL ICAHN So I think the SEC has an obligation selves. The SPEAKER. The Chair recognizes to investigate, because it looks bad. We If I was as lucky as Carl Icahn to the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. are talking about the President of the make a stock trade that my friend had GUTIE´ RREZ) for 5 minutes. United States, and the people have a the power to tell me the inside infor- Mr. GUTIE´ RREZ. Mr. Speaker, last right to know that things are on the up mation on and it resulted in me mak- week I wrote a letter to Jay Clayton, and up. ing millions of dollars or avoiding los- the chairman of the Securities and Ex- Let’s remember that Mr. Icahn left ing millions of dollars, well, let’s see, change Commission, asking him about as an adviser to Trump at the White there would be investigative reporters, this guy. House because, we are told, it would hearings, an Ethics Committee report, This is Carl Icahn, the billionaire, raise difficult conflicts of interest, and maybe even criminal charges. But for financier, and buddy of our President presumably, just like the President, Mr. Icahn and his buddy, the President, Donald Trump. Mr. Icahn was not interested in selling nothing; at least not yet. It seems that he had a massive off part of his empire just so he could Let’s demand that the friends who amount of stock in a company that appear impartial and demonstrate core circle the White House and the Trump sells cranes and equipment, which, in integrity to the American people. businesses provide the American people case you didn’t know, are made of a lot The President, who many of us think with answers and transparency. That is of steel. Then all of a sudden, Mr. Icahn is profiting illegally from the office— all we ask so that we can have greater sold his position in the crane and and we have filed Articles of Impeach- confidence in our President and his equipment maker; and 1 week later, his ment because of it—seems to attract a family that they are not running a friend, buddy, pal, and fellow billion- lot of people with deep pockets and kleptocracy like we see in Russia, aire, Donald Trump, announced he was shallow reserves of judgment to his where those who govern are simply proposing import tariffs on steel and side. governing to make money. aluminum. Mr. Icahn, who was a notorious cor- Mr. Speaker, no tax returns; very lit- Now, we all know what happens to porate raider and vulture capitalist tle in the way of disclosure; recusals the stock of companies heavily depend- during the Clinton boom years of the that don’t seem to actually be recusals; ent on steel and aluminum when the 1990s, appears to me and a lot of others hotel and business conflicts of interest; President announces he will impose to fit this mold. and the strong odor of something fishy;

b This symbol represents the time of day during the House proceedings, e.g., b 1407 is 2:07 p.m. Matter set in this typeface indicates words inserted or appended, rather than spoken, by a Member of the House on the floor.

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VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:07 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A15MR7.000 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H1612 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 15, 2018 those close to the President who are WE SHOULD DEBATE A NEW AUMF with insurgent spokesman Zabiullah making millions, apparently because of REGARDING AMERICAN TROOPS Mujahid, was primarily aimed at a U.S. audi- the proximity to the President; those IN AFGHANISTAN ence. Unlike previous statements issued by the Taliban, it used statistics and logical ar- people demand scrutiny from watchdog The SPEAKER pro tempore. The guments—not just ideological harangues—to agencies; and, in this case, it requires Chair recognizes the gentleman from convince Americans that their government’s an investigation of Carl Icahn by the North Carolina (Mr. JONES) for 5 min- investment in the war has been a dire mis- SEC. utes. take. Mr. JONES. Mr. Speaker, 1 week ago, ‘‘Prolonging the war in Afghanistan and Mr. Speaker, I include in the RECORD maintaining American troop presence is nei- BARBARA LEE and TOM COLE sent a let- my letter to the Honorable Jay Clay- ther beneficial for America nor for anyone ton, the chairman of the U.S. Securi- ter to the Speaker of the House that else,’’ the document said, calling on U.S. ties and Exchange Commission, of last was signed by 100 Members of Congress, citizens, legislators and others to ‘‘read this week. including myself, asking the Speaker letter prudently’’ and evaluate the costs and to authorize the committees of juris- benefits of continuing to fight. ‘‘Stubbornly CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES, seeking the protraction of this war;’’ it HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, diction to bring an AUMF—that is an added, ‘‘will have ‘‘dreadful consequences’’ Washington, DC, March 8, 2018. Authorization for Use of Military for the region and the ‘‘stability of America Hon. JAY CLAYTON, Force—so that we can have a debate. herself.’’ Chairman, U.S. Securities and Exchange Com- The last time we had a policy debate The letter, sent under the banner of ‘‘The mission, Washington, DC. on Afghanistan was 2001, 17 years ago. Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan,’’ was issued DEAR CHAIRMAN CLAYTON: I write to re- I have been on the floor for the last just weeks after a blitz of deadly insurgent quest that you and your agency immediately 5 years because I am frustrated that we attacks in the Afghan capital have left the investigate possible illegal insider trading by can’t get a debate. It is our constitu- government struggling to cope with in- Mr. Carl Icahn, a longtime friend of Presi- tional duty. And our young men and creased public anxiety and anger. It also dent Donald Trump, who according to his women are around the world in dif- came as the Trump administration is SEC filings sold $31.3 million worth of stock ferent locations, half we don’t even ramping up a new military strategy, involv- ing thousands of additional troops, to expand in a company heavily dependent on steel just know about, yet we can’t debate an days before the President announced plans to the Afghan security forces and train them to impose import tariffs on steel and alu- issue of war when young men and defend their country independently. minum. women go and die for this country. While insisting that ‘‘our preference is to That 5 years included calling on John solve the Afghan issue through peaceful dia- According to Securities and Exchange Boehner to authorize an AUMF. Now logues,’’ the letter also warned that Taliban Commission (SEC) filings submitted in Feb- we are calling on PAUL RYAN. I think forces ‘‘cannot be subdued by sheer force’’ ruary, Mr. Icahn disclosed that he sold near- and that seeking a peaceful solution does not ly 1 million shares of Manitowoc Company, my name has been on 15 letters going back to the days of John Boehner. mean ‘‘that we are exhausted or our will has Inc., which is heavily dependent on steel to been sapped.’’ manufacture cranes and lifts. Approximately In the 17 years, we have spent over $1 This combination of outreach and threat seven days later, his good friend President trillion, over 2,300 Americans have has been a hallmark of Taliban statements, Trump announced plans to impose steep tar- died, and over 20,000 wounded; yet we in including a shorter one issued shortly after iffs on steel imports. On that news, Congress are not meeting our constitu- the spate of attacks last month that killed Manitowoc stock plunged and lost 6% of its tional responsibility. more than 150 people in urban population value, but Mr. Icahn had already cashed out. I have Camp Lejeune in my district. centers. The insurgent group has said it The announcement of tariffs on the heels I have talked to many Active Duty ma- would not revive peace talks unless foreign of Mr. Icahn’s stock sale is highly suspicious. troops leave the country, and it has rejected rines who have been there five, six, feelers from the administration of President The close relationship between the President seven times. It is so chaotic now, that and Mr. Icahn adds to the appearance of Ashraf Ghani. the Russians are working with Karzai wrongdoing. This is also not the first time A spokesman for Ghani, Shah Hussain Mr. Icahn has been suspected of using his re- and trying to get back in with the Murtazawi, responded sharply to the letter, lationship with the President for his per- Taliban. saying, ‘‘We never negotiate with groups who sonal benefit. It was widely reported that It is a no-win situation. It is time to resort to crime and the brutal killing of peo- Mr. Icahn stepped down from his role as have a debate and let Members vote ple and then claim responsibility for it. The ‘‘special adviser’’ to the President because of whether they want to stay or come door of peace is shut to them, but the door of potential conflicts of interest. peace is open to those groups who have ex- home. pressed their hatred for such crimes.’’ As a member of the House of Representa- Mr. Speaker, to make things worse The letter’s talking points included a list tives I am required to report my assets and than ever, on February 15, Pamela Con- of goals that the U.S. government had set liabilities yearly and to report within 30 stable wrote an article in The Wash- out to achieve in entering the war, including days of a transaction any securities I buy or ington Post titled, ‘‘Taliban appeals to eliminating terrorism, establishing the rule sell. The purpose of these rules is to ensure American people to ‘rationally’ rethink of law and eradicating drugs. It then system- transparency and to help prevent personal war effort.’’ atically presented arguments, backed up profiteering from insider information that They are our enemy, but it is not bad with international statistics but also exag- Members of Congress may have access to gerated for effect, to show that these efforts while serving. In other words, if I were to advice, to be honest with you. had failed or had extremely negative con- dump a stock a week before Congress took Pamela Constable mentions many sequences. action that would impact that stock’s price, portions of a longer letter written by ‘‘As confirmed by your own military au- I would most certainly be investigated re- the Taliban to the United States. I thorities, 3546 American and foreign soldiers sulting in possible sanctions, removal from have a copy of this article and I read it have been killed, more than 20,000 American office or jail time. yesterday. forces injured and tens of thousands more are suffering mentally,’’ the letter said, as- It is hard to believe Mr. Icahn’s actions Mr. Speaker, I include in the RECORD serting that the actual casualty figures were with regard to unloading voluminous shares the article written by Pamela Con- much higher but were being ‘‘concealed’’ by of Manitowoc stock right before the Presi- stable. U.S. leaders. The casualty figures track with dent’s is just a coincidence. It undoubtedly [From the Washington Post, Feb. 14, 2018] those provided by the U.S. military. warrants a federal investigation. Thank you A second argument said reports by the U.S. TALIBAN APPEALS TO AMERICAN PEOPLE TO for your attention in this matter and I look Office of the Special Inspector General for ‘RATIONALLY’ RETHINK WAR EFFORT forward to your agency taking swift action Afghan Reconstruction estimated that and your response to this request. To contact (By Pamela Constable) ‘‘sixty percent of Afghan territory is now me about this request, please call me at my KABUL.—Taliban insurgents on Wednesday under the control of Taliban.’’ The figure is Washington DC office. issued an extraordinary, 17,000-word appeal actually much lower, but the inspector gen- Sincerely, to the ‘‘American people,’’ asking them to eral and other agencies have said that insur- LUIS V. GUTIE´ RREZ, pressure U.S. officials to end the 16-year-old gents control or influence more territory Member of Congress. conflict in Afghanistan and asserting that than at any previous time in the war and the protracted American ‘‘occupation’’ had that the area continues to widen. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. brought only death, corruption and drugs to The letter also said that there had been 751 MARSHALL). Members are reminded to the impoverished country. U.S. airstrikes in September, which appears refrain from engaging in personalities The letter, whose authenticity was con- to be an accurate figure. ‘‘You should ask toward the President. firmed by a brief telephone conversation your generals that despite using such force,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:09 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.002 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1613 have you retaken even a single inch of land through the longest blackout in mod- As a father of four, when I dropped from the Taliban,’’ the letter suggested. ern history. each of my kids off at Jefferson Ele- A third assertion was that previous U.S. While parts of the island are recov- mentary School in Great Bend, Kansas, administrations had cited the ‘‘prevention ering, it is the rural, far-flung portions I felt confident that they were going to and eradication of narcotics’’ as a justifica- tion to ‘‘invade’’ Afghanistan, an inaccurate of the island that continue to suffer have a safe place where they could claim. But the letter correctly cited figures the most and where aid has been slow- learn and grow; but, today, we have from the U.N. Office on Drugs and Crime est to reach. For example, if you go to seen time and time again that we need showing that opium poppy cultivation has my hometown of Yabucoa, where Hur- to revisit how we are protecting our ‘‘skyrocketed’’ in the 16 years since the mili- ricane Maria made landfall, it looks children. tary intervention and that the number of Af- like the hurricane struck yesterday. The STOP School Violence Act will ghan drug addicts has reached more than 3 Two-thirds of the residents living there train students, teachers, faculty, and million. are without electricity. local law enforcement on ways to iden- The overall message of these arguments was that the American people should make a For decades, Yabucoa’s baseball sta- tify threats and report them. It goes ‘‘rational’’ assessment of the war effort, real- dium stood as an important symbol of back to the message we have been re- ize that it is backfiring and prevail upon that town’s community. The people laying for ages: see something, say their leaders to withdraw. there love baseball, and the stadium something. ‘‘You proclaim to be a developed and civ- was a community anchor, a symbol of b 1015 ilized nation,’’ the letter said. ‘‘We leave it the town and its people. Those who live to your judgment to decide’’ whether the in Yabucoa are proud of their baseball This bill recognizes that sometimes prevailing conditions of ‘‘insecurity, chaos’’ diamond, as this town fielded Puerto our children and educators often do not and soaring drug problems in Afghanistan Rico’s team in the 2017 Junior League have the training to spot some of the constitute ‘‘reforms or crimes against hu- warning signs, and that is why it is manity.’’ World Series. Today, the baseball stadium sits critical that we provide training so Mr. JONES. Mr. Speaker, it is ironic empty, now a symbol of how the people students and personnel can recognize because many of us in the House of of Yabucoa struggle daily to survive. and report threats before they occur. Representatives do think and would Meanwhile, basic services are hard to We also looked at ways to better our agree with the Taliban: It is time to come by, with hospitals relying on gen- reporting process so that, when a rethink the policy in Afghanistan. erators to provide lifesaving treat- threat is made, we have an effective Mr. Speaker, I must have at least 35 ment. Older, rural parts of Puerto Rico way to log and intervene. To do so, this or 40 posters that I have been using on continue to suffer immensely. bill provides funding for States to up- the floor of the House for the last num- Thirty miles east of Yabucoa’s coast grade their technology and develop an ber of years. This one is of a woman sits the island of Vieques. As an island anonymous reporting system through a who lost her husband, in tears, and the off an island, Vieques also has been ne- mobile app, hotline, and website. Not little baby girl sitting in her lap. She glected, waiting for the U.S. Army only does it allocate funds for violence, doesn’t know why there is a man in a Corps of Engineers to restore power. prevention training, and modernize our uniform kneeling before her mother Just a few weeks ago, I was there and reporting protocols, it also allocates with a folded flag. I saw this on the road: power poles dan- funds to improve school security equip- There is just so much that we are gling from electric wires, just waiting ment. missing as Members of Congress be- to snap. The STOP School Violence Act, cou- cause we won’t debate the war in Af- Can you imagine seeing that in the pled last night with the Securing Our ghanistan. mainland United States? Schools Act, grants funds for schools Afghanistan is a graveyard of em- Again, this is not 1 week or 2 weeks to install panic buttons and further pires. I think one day that Afghan after the hurricane. It is close to 6 hardening and protection of our graveyard is going to have a headstone months later. Meanwhile, the island’s schools. These are steps forward that that says, ‘‘USA,’’ because we are going connection to the main power grid has approach the issue of school safety broke trying to fix a country that been cut off, and some workers think it from several angles, and I am proud to couldn’t care less about our values and will take years to fully restore the un- have cosponsored both pieces of legisla- our system. But that is the way it dersea cables. tion. works around here. You can’t even get Those are just two towns in a com- I want to make sure that my message a debate on sending young men and monwealth of 3.3 million American to everyone back home today is clear. women to die for this country. citizens, but all across Puerto Rico The House of Representatives is listen- Mr. Speaker, I ask Mr. RYAN to there are rural areas that have been hit ing, and our school grounds should no please let us have this debate. Members hard and are still suffering today. longer be soft targets. After last of Congress in both parties want to de- We cannot afford to forget what has night’s vote, the STOP School Violence bate. You can vote for staying in Af- happened there. These are fellow Amer- Act and the Securing Our Schools Act ghanistan, or you can vote for getting ican citizens. For 120 years they have joins the Fix NICS Act that has been out of Afghanistan, but let us meet our fought, shed blood, and died in our waiting on a vote from the Senate constitutional responsibility. wars, defending our freedoms. Now since last December. Fix NICS would I ask God to bless our men and they need our help to recover from a strengthen background checks and women in uniform, and God to bless humanitarian crisis. close critical loopholes. America. I implore my colleagues, we must not Today I urge my friends in the Sen- f forget Puerto Rico. We must allocate ate to pass these bills so that our Na- additional aid and help. We must re- tion’s schools and children can be YABUCOA AND VIEQUES, PUERTO build Puerto Rico stronger and better safer. RICO than ever before. Until we do, we will RECOGNIZING RESILIENCY OF KANSANS The SPEAKER pro tempore. The be failing the people of Puerto Rico, we Mr. MARSHALL. Mr. Speaker, as Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from will be failing our fellow Americans. droughts continue to worsen across ´ Puerto Rico (Ms. VELAZQUEZ) for 5 min- f Kansas, now impacting all 105 counties, utes. we are again at the point of seeing Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, as we SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING wildfires whip across the State of Kan- speak today, the people of Puerto Rico The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. sas. While so far none of them have continue to suffer. Currently, 200,000 KUSTOFF of Tennessee). The Chair rec- come close to the size of last year’s families and businesses, 16 percent of ognizes the gentleman from Kansas Starbuck fire, there is reason to be the island, remain without power. That (Mr. MARSHALL) for 5 minutes. concerned. is not 6 days after the hurricane or 6 Mr. MARSHALL. Mr. Speaker, last Today I want to recognize the resil- weeks. We are talking about 6 months. night, 406 of my colleagues and I voted iency of Kansans who have been com- For those still without power in to pass the STOP School Violence Act ing together to help neighbors and Puerto Rico, they are now living and the Securing Our Schools Act. strangers alike, as well as soldiers from

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:07 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A15MR7.002 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H1614 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 15, 2018 the Kansas National Guard. These her investment in her students opened what we are talking about: kids who go guardsmen work in cooperation with doors to achievement for these Seattle to sleep at night wondering if they are local firefighters and emergency per- public school students. going to cower in the corners of their sonnel to combat fires and save people, Another story comes from Shorewood classrooms the next day because some- property, and animals. High School in Shoreline, Washington. body has a gun because Congress has I stand today to commend their hard Emily, a leader on her school’s robotics not done our job. work and thank them for their service. team, wasn’t interested in STEM until The Trump administration and Sec- These fires are a stark reminder of the she got to high school because no one retary DeVos have demonstrated that devastation created by wildfires last encouraged her to pursue it when she they want to make sure that the year and provide a reminder of the im- was younger. It wasn’t until she money is what prevails. And, Mr. portance in standing together in the learned about the lack of representa- Speaker, today as we honor our public face of difficulties. tion of women and girls in STEM that schools, we also need to honor the re- f she realized that something needed to sponsibility of Congress to protect our change. And last summer, Emily students and protect our public edu- RECOGNIZING PUBLIC SCHOOLS IN launched the Full STEAM Ahead Club, cation. WASHINGTON’S SEVENTH DIS- an all girls’ mentoring group that en- TRICT f courages middle school girls to pursue The SPEAKER pro tempore. The science, technology, engineering, arts, HONORING THE LIFE OF ANDREW Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from and math. The youth mentors showed KISTLER Washington (Ms. JAYAPAL) for 5 min- girls how important it is to engage in The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. utes. STEM fields early, and they work MARSHALL). The Chair recognizes the Ms. JAYAPAL. Mr. Speaker, I rise every day to expand girls’ perceptions gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. today in recognition of our wonderful of what they can achieve, which is to THOMPSON) for 5 minutes. public schools across the country. say, anything. Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Every child, Mr. Speaker, has the And at Evergreen High School, a Mr. Speaker, today in Franklin, Penn- right to pursue opportunity, and youth-led group called FEEST is work- sylvania, an American hero will be laid through our public schools our country ing to combat food injustice in public to rest. Mr. Andrew A. Kistler, past makes that opportunity a reality every schools. One of their campaigns re- commander of the Disabled American day. Education imparts practical and cently made waves when youth leaders Veterans, died on March 9 in Erie, invaluable skills that kids carry with created the first student advisory com- Pennsylvania. He was 88 years old. them for the rest of their lives, teaches mittee with the district’s nutrition Andy Kistler was a tireless advocate our children to become engaged mem- services director. They provided the di- for disabled veterans not only in Penn- bers of our society and our democracy, rector with feedback on how to in- sylvania, but nationally. A Korean war and public education is a great equal- crease fresh and culturally relevant veteran who was almost mortally izer, having remained a means of mo- food items on school menus. And last wounded Christmas week in 1952, he bility for generations of families. I month, they successfully got one of the lost both of his legs, a finger, and a know this firsthand, Mr. Speaker. I recipes they created onto the district concussion put him into a deep coma. came to the United States when I was menu. Mr. Speaker, I would like to share 16 years old by myself to go to college Through their work, these young with you the words of the late Korean and take advantage of all the opportu- people have developed relationships war medic and journalist Chris nities that an American education had with their classmates, with decision- Farlekas. He helped save Andy Kistler, to offer. makers at the school district level, and a 21-year-old baseball player from For much of our Nation’s history, our they are building power and using their Franklin who arrived at the 11th Evac- public schools have served this essen- own innate intelligence about the uation Hospital for care. I quote from tial purpose of helping students and issues that matter to create change in this letter: their families to thrive. And public their schools and communities. ‘‘The ward was crammed with casual- schools, which serve all students, re- Mr. Speaker, I share these stories ties, and every helicopter that landed gardless of who they are, are the only today to highlight how critical public outside the tent brought even more. institutions where the vast majority of schools are to my constituents and all The doctor said Andy was too far gone, our kids can access these benefits. Members. And as Members of Congress, that he would die. It is those schools and the teachers, we have a responsibility to ensure that ‘‘But something inside me said no. professionals, and staff who serve in we continue supporting our public ‘‘I still don’t completely understand them—and I use ‘‘serve’’ very delib- schools. For example, public money my ferocity in needing Andy to live. erately, because it is a service to be in should go to public schools. It should Maybe it was because I’d seen so much our public schools, where teachers not be used to bankroll private entities death already in the 4 months that I’d could earn so much more elsewhere but and corporations that don’t deliver ex- been in the war, holding frightened, choose to be in the public schools be- cellent, inclusive, equitable instruc- dying young men as they talked about cause that is the place where they can tion. home. Andy was my test case with God. help the most kids. It is those schools Our public schools are under attack If he lived, I’d believe. If not, tough. and those amazing successes in my own right now from the Secretary of Edu- ‘‘So for 3 days I sat with Andy, will- district that I want to celebrate today. cation and the Trump administration. ing him to live. Monserrat is a teacher at Concord Our public schools and public money ‘‘On Christmas Eve, several of the International Elementary School should not be used to generate a profit. nurses, doctors, and corpsmen went where almost 80 percent of the students And teachers, Mr. Speaker, should be through the 11th Evac, singing Christ- are from low-income families and more teaching and not carrying guns to try mas carols. At exactly midnight, they than half are English language learn- to protect their students. came to the shock ward and sang ‘Si- ers. Last year, Monserrat created a As tens of thousands of students lent Night.’ It may have sounded a lit- writing lesson using both Spanish and across our country and here in the cap- tle ragged, off-pitch, but to me it was English. Before this lesson, most of the ital have rallied and called for atten- absolutely beautiful, angelic. kids wrote at a kindergarten or a first tion to safety in our public schools by ‘‘As I listened, Andy came out of the grade level, but by the end of that les- passing sensible gun reform legislation, coma, opened his eyes, grabbed my son, every single one of her students Mr. Speaker, unfortunately, this body hand, and softly sang, ‘All is calm, all was able to write a complex complete has yet to address the issue of guns and is bright.’ The doctors said it was a sentence. And over the next year safety in our schools and in our class- miracle.’’ Monserrat’s second graders became am- rooms. Andy and Chris spoke about that glo- bassadors for Concord International, And if we want to support education rious moment in the PBS documen- giving tours of their school in both for our kids, we should make sure that tary, ‘‘Korean War Stories,’’ produced Spanish and English. It is clear that they have the right to live. That is in 2002.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:07 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.006 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1615 Andy, a double amputee, went on to member Joel Orgill, a friend of mine PRAYER be a major force for the American vet- and a great west Tennessean who Reverend Dom Elias M. Carr, All erans as head of the Disabled American passed away this week at the age of 80. Saints Regional Catholic School, Glen Veterans, a nonprofit that provides a Joe was a lifelong Memphian who in- Cove, New York, offered the following lifetime of support for veterans and spired so many with his business prow- prayer: their families. With almost 1,300 chap- ess, his strong faith, and, most impor- O God, beyond all praising, source of ters and more than a million members tantly, his kindness and commitment light, sustainer of life, significance of across the country, DAV empowers our to giving back to his community. liberty, we come before You. Nation’s heroes and their families by Through the years, Joe was always With hearts filled with wonder, we helping to provide the resources they very nice to me and offered great ad- thank You for every gift You send, for need and ensuring our Nation keeps the vice and counsel. blessings without number, and mercies promises that were made to them. Like most Memphians, I knew Joe as without end. Mr. Speaker, Andy said he sometimes an astute businessman who started in Turn to us as we lift our hearts be- found himself humming or singing ‘‘Si- the family business as a salesman and lent Night’’ in odd moments, ‘‘like fore You, and wait upon Your word, worked his way up to president and honoring and adoring You, our good when I’m shaving,’’ he told Chris. I chairman of the board. Joe played a know that as friends and family say and gracious Lord. major role in growing Orgill, Inc., the Then hear us, O God, accepting the good-bye to a true American hero company as it is known today, into one today in Franklin, all is calm, all is love we bring, that we, who know Your of the largest hardware distributors of favor, may serve You, our unimagi- bright. its kind in the entire world and the May God bless Andy Kistler, whose nable king. longest running business in Memphis Look kindly upon these Representa- service to this Nation will be long re- history. membered, and may he rest in peace. tives and their staffs, showering upon Joe Orgill was a real titan in the them the spirit of wisdom, charity, and f hardware industry. Besides leading one justice. HONORING THE NATION’S TEACH- of the major privately held companies And whether our tomorrows be filled ERS DURING PUBLIC SCHOOL in the Memphis area, Joe was a real with good or ill, let us triumph WEEK people person. He had the rare ability through our sorrows and rise to bless The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. to connect and to interact with people You still: to marvel at Your beauty LANCE). The Chair recognizes the gen- of all types and, more importantly, and glory in Your ways and make a tleman from West Virginia (Mr. MCKIN- treated everyone the same way. joyful duty our sacrifice of praise. But much more importantly, Joe was LEY) for 5 minutes. f Mr. MCKINLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise a philanthropist who always gave back today to honor our Nation’s dedicated to his community. Joe Orgill dedicated THE JOURNAL an incredible amount of his time and teachers during this year’s Public The SPEAKER pro tempore. The resources to charitable organizations School Week. Chair has examined the Journal of the throughout the Midsouth: the United When I think back to my teachers in last day’s proceedings and announces Way, Meals on Wheels, Church Health public school, one in particular stands to the House her approval thereof. Center, Rhodes College, the Dixon Gal- out: Ms. Eleanor Ball, my eighth grade Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Jour- lery and Gardens, and many more. English teacher. In addition to instill- nal stands approved. ing in me a love and respect for the I mentioned Meals on Wheels. Joe English language, she was a teacher took great pleasure in stopping what- f who went above and beyond the call of ever he was doing, whatever meetings, PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE duty and gave each of us youngsters a to personally deliver these meals to The SPEAKER pro tempore. Will the sense of confidence to face the chal- those most needy. To me, that really gentleman from New York (Mr. SUOZZI) lenges that would lie ahead in our soci- personifies Joe Orgill. come forward and lead the House in the ety. But most importantly, Joe enjoyed But who are the Ms. Balls of today? spending time with his family. Pledge of Allegiance. Perhaps they are like Cristina Stout, a Roberta and I send our condolences Mr. SUOZZI led the Pledge of Alle- 4th grade teacher at Leading Creek El- to Joe’s wife, Irene, as well as his four giance as follows: ementary School in Gilmer County, daughters—Adele, Irene, Anne, and I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the West Virginia. Ms. Stout is known for Kate—and to the entire family. United States of America, and to the Repub- lic for which it stands, one nation under God, her compassion for her students. She While we mourn the loss of Joe, I indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. often buys school supplies and winter know that his spirit lives on in his coats for kids whose families can’t af- wonderful family and in the Memphis f ford them. One year she gave up every community, and I have no doubt that WELCOMING REVEREND DOM lunch break, every day, so that just Joe Orgill’s legacy will inspire genera- ELIAS M. CARR one of her students who suffers with a tions to come. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Without sensory issue could eat in her class- objection, the gentleman from New room with her and avoid the over- f York (Mr. SUOZZI) is recognized for 1 stimulating cafeteria. Most days, she RECESS minute. stays late to tutor students who need There was no objection. the extra care, help, and assistance to The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Mr. SUOZZI. Madam Speaker, I am ensure that they don’t fall behind. ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair These are just two of countless exam- declares the House in recess until noon here to welcome Father Elias to the ples of our Nation’s teachers going today. Chamber. He is from my hometown of above and beyond the call of duty Accordingly (at 10 o’clock and 31 the city of Glen Cove. every day across America. minutes a.m.), the House stood in re- Father Elias, as was mentioned, is a To Ms. Ball, Ms. Stout, and teachers cess. canon regular of St. Augustine from everywhere, we thank you, from the Klosterneuburg, Austria, and he and bottom of our hearts. f three of his colleagues from Klosterneuburg have been assigned to f b 1200 my parish, St. Rocco’s, and our neigh- HONORING JOE ORGILL boring parish of St. Patrick’s since The SPEAKER pro tempore. The AFTER RECESS 2011. Chair recognizes the gentleman from The recess having expired, the House He is joined here today by his parents Tennessee (Mr. KUSTOFF) for 5 minutes. was called to order by the Speaker pro as well as his brother, who is also a Mr. KUSTOFF of Tennessee. Mr. tempore (Ms. JENKINS of Kansas) at priest, Father Richard from Annan- Speaker, I rise today to honor and re- noon. dale, Virginia.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:07 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.007 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H1616 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 15, 2018 I just wanted to say that we are so Good Friday Agreement brought peace The elected sheriff of Edgecombe honored to have him here today. He to Catholics and Protestants after 700 County, my friend, Sheriff Clee Atkin- has made such a dramatic difference in years of armed conflict. son, informed me that this loss has re- our community, along with his col- This peace belongs to the people of sulted in tremendous sadness for the leagues, Father Daniel, Father Am- Northern Ireland and to the world. Manning family and the entire law en- brose, and Father Gabriel; and a great Sinn Fein leaders Gerry Adams and forcement community, an emotion difference in my family’s life as well. the late Martin McGuinness, along that we all certainly understand. We are so grateful to you for your with the Democratic Unionist Party’s On behalf of the United States House service to our community and to your Reverend Ian Paisley took a coura- of Representatives and the 750,000 citi- faith, and to our faith, and for making geous step no one believed was possible zens of North Carolina’s First Congres- such a difference in our lives. 20 years ago. They denounced violence sional District, we honor the life and and committed themselves to a peace- service of Deputy David Lee’Sean Man- f ful power-sharing and reconciliation to ning. ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER live in peace together. May God continue to embrace Da- PRO TEMPORE Madam Speaker, let this St. Pat- vid’s biological family, embrace his law rick’s Day and the 20th anniversary of enforcement family in the weeks and The SPEAKER pro tempore. The the Good Friday Agreement stand as a months to come, and give them the sol- Chair will entertain up to 15 further re- shining light of hope for a gentler ace that they need to continue with quests for 1-minute speeches on each America and a more peaceful world. their lives. side of the aisle. f f f CIVIL WAR IN SYRIA PUBLIC SCHOOLS WEEK WORKERS AND FAMILIES ARE OP- (Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana asked and (Mr. LANCE asked and was given per- TIMISTIC ABOUT THE NEW TAX was given permission to address the mission to address the House for 1 CUT LAW House for 1 minute.) minute.) (Mr. WALBERG asked and was given Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Madam Mr. LANCE. Madam Speaker, I rise permission to address the House for 1 Speaker, I rise today to shine light on in honor of Public Schools Week to rec- minute.) the ongoing tragedy in Syria. ognize the incredible work in public Mr. WALBERG. Madam Speaker, as I Today marks 7 years of civil war in education done every day in every travel to each corner of my district, I Syria, 7 years of indiscriminate killing State in our Union. hear from workers and families who of women and children, 7 years of inter- I have the honor of representing some of the finest public schools in the are optimistic about the new tax cut mittent chemical attacks on civilians Nation. This did not happen by acci- law and what it means for their pock- by the Assad regime, 7 years of bomb- dent. Our public schools lead the coun- etbooks. ings, of people thrown out of their try because of the tremendous work of There is a momentum in our econ- homes, of children whose youth has our public educators. omy, and the latest jobs report from been stolen from them. I attended public schools, I respect The ongoing tragedy in eastern February is another piece of positive our teachers, and I proudly support our Ghouta is just the most recent of hor- news. Last month, the economy added public schools here in Congress. 313,000 jobs, far exceeding expectations; rific events perpetrated by the Assad I know the work of educators can be the unemployment rate remained at a regime and their Iranian-backed mili- difficult, but the life of a teacher is a 17-year low for the fifth consecutive tia. vocation, not an occupation. Educators month; and labor force participation The White Helmets group reports give their lives in service to future increased by more than 800,000 workers, that 800 civilians have been killed in generations of leaders, thinkers, writ- the biggest surge in 15 years. the past 2 weeks as the Assad regime ers, doctors, scientists, and visionaries. Earlier this week, the National Fed- continues to pound the rebel-held area, We need teachers, and we need the eration of Independent Business re- despite the ongoing humanitarian public education system to remain leased a survey that found small-busi- cease-fire. strong in the United States. Public ness owners’ confidence in the economy The blatant disregard regime forces schools are where our students realize is soaring, and they are prepared to have for civilian life is nothing short of their talents and their potential. hire and raise wages without a govern- despicable. We need good educators to continue ment mandate. Imagine that. We must continue to be engaged in offering encouragement and advice and Madam Speaker, these are encour- efforts to support the Syrian Demo- to be champions and mentors. aging signs that our policies of reduc- cratic Forces and other allies that be- Let us celebrate this Public Schools ing excessive red tape and cutting lieve in a free, democratic, and inde- Week by thanking the teachers and taxes are working. pendent Syria. educators in our lives. Without U.S. leadership, the carnage Let’s build on these results and con- f tinue to advance solutions that im- will continue and we will be left with meaningless U.N. resolutions. We must PUTTING PENSIONS BACK ON prove the lives of the people we rep- SOLID GROUND resent. stand with our allies to stop this dev- astating carnage that is tearing apart (Mr. CICILLINE asked and was given f families and ruining countless lives. permission to address the House for 1 CELEBRATING 20TH ANNIVERSARY f minute.) OF GOOD FRIDAY AGREEMENT Mr. CICILLINE. Madam Speaker, HONORING DEPUTY DAVID many pension plans across America are (Mr. HIGGINS of New York asked and LEE’SEAN MANNING on the brink of failure and threatened was given permission to address the (Mr. BUTTERFIELD asked and was by massive cuts. If nothing is done, 200 House for 1 minute.) given permission to address the House multiemployer plans are projected to Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Madam for 1 minute.) fail, many within the next 10 years, Speaker, this weekend, Irish Ameri- Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Madam Speak- and the impacts will be felt by Ameri- cans will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day er, it is with sadness that I rise today cans in every State in our country. with parades and parties of every level to honor the life and work of a young Cuts to these pensions would be eco- of exuberance, including in my home- 24-year-old deputy sheriff from nomically devastating for 1.5 million town of Buffalo, New York. Edgecombe County, North Carolina, people who have earned their livings as Buffalo’s St. Patrick’s Day celebra- who was tragically killed during a traf- carpenters, truck drivers, iron and tion is one of the most spirited in fic stop in his community on Sunday, steel workers, bricklayers, and paint- America. March 11, 2018. ers. This year is a special celebration as Deputy David Lee’Sean Manning lost They paid into these plans. After a it marks the 20-year anniversary of his life when his patrol vehicle crashed lifetime of hard work, they deserve to peace in Northern Ireland. The 1998 while engaged in the traffic stop. retire with dignity and peace of mind.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:07 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.010 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1617 If these plans fail, taxpayers could Bob worked for the less fortunate everything we can to protect you.’’ But have to pay billions of dollars if the throughout his community, and he was for too long, this institution has re- Federal Government’s Pension Benefit a friend to everybody he met. fused to do just that. We are not con- Guaranty Corporation fails. Bob was also the first Native Amer- sidering legislation to pass universal That is why Democrats have pro- ican candidate to run for Congress in background checks. We have not de- posed A Better Deal to save our pen- Orange County in 1992, and he came bated restricting the sale of military sions that provides financing to put close to winning. He changed Orange assault weapons, bump stocks, and failing pension plans back on solid County politics forever. high-capacity magazines, or even lift- ground to ensure that they can meet I am saddened by his passing. He de- ing the ban on preventing our govern- their commitments to retirees today voted his life to making Orange County ment from researching gun safety solu- and workers for decades to come, pre- a better place for everybody to live. We tions. vents a single dollar of cuts to benefits will all miss him, and we will never for- Yesterday we did pass a bill with im- retirees have earned, and it puts safe- get him. portant resources for school safety, in- guards in place so that pension plans f cluding a bipartisan provision I intro- remain strong in order to be there for duced with Representative MIKE BOST today’s workers when they retire. CONGRATULATING THE UNIVER- to help schools install panic buttons. We need to bring these proposals to SITY OF MONTANA MEN’S BAS- That is an important first step, but the floor so we can work together to KETBALL TEAM really protecting our children is not protect the pensions that American (Mr. GIANFORTE asked and was possible without concrete measures to workers have earned. given permission to address the House reduce gun violence. f for 1 minute and to revise and extend I urge my colleagues to listen to the his remarks.) wisdom of the young people in our dis- CELEBRATING FIVE GENERATIONS Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I tricts, and let’s all find the courage to AND 125 YEARS OF VARNS AND rise today to congratulate the Univer- pass sensible gun safety laws and, fi- HOOVER HARDWARE sity of Montana men’s basketball team nally, to save lives. (Mrs. WALORSKI asked and was for an outstanding season and to wish f given permission to address the House them success in the 2018 NCAA Tour- HONORING VETERAN HOMER for 1 minute and to revise and extend nament. VAUGHN WAGNON, JR. her remarks.) The Grizzlies were regular season Mrs. WALORSKI. Madam Speaker, I champions of the Big Sky Conference, (Mr. PITTENGER asked and was rise today to celebrate Varns and Hoo- going 16 to 2 in conference play. given permission to address the House ver Hardware, which has been a fixture Last weekend, the squad won the Big for 1 minute and to revise and extend in the Middlebury community for more Sky Tournament. his remarks.) than 125 years. They begin their journey in the Mr. PITTENGER. Madam Speaker, I The success and longevity of this NCAA Tournament tonight with a rise in memory of Homer Vaughn family-owned business lies in the fam- first-round game in Wichita, Kansas. Wagnon, Jr., a veteran of World War II ily’s dedication to serving their neigh- The Grizzlies will be strong con- who left this world on November 29, bors and providing high-quality prod- tenders. Their defense is relentless, having ‘‘just satisfied his life’s ambi- ucts with a friendly smile. leading the Big Sky Conference this tions,’’ per the obituary provided for Small businesses like this are the year. Every player on the floor contrib- him. backbone of the American economy, utes to their offense. They represent Mr. Wagnon served our country in and it is a privilege to represent a fam- the spirit of Montana. the infantry, fighting his way across ily so devoted to the prosperity of their Congratulations also to Montana France, Belgium, Holland, and Ger- community for so many years. head coach Travis DeCuire, who was many as he and his fellow members of To honor Varns and Hoover Hardware named Coach of the Year in the Big the Greatest Generation pushed back is to honor what it means to achieve Sky Conference. In his fourth season at against tyranny. the American Dream. the helm, he guided the Grizzlies to a He continued his service to our coun- With ownership now being passed 26–7 record and their first NCAA Tour- try in private business, helping to build down to the fifth generation family nament appearance since 2013. a post-World War II incredible econ- member, Nathan Miller, I am grateful I know the folks in the Treasure omy as a mechanical engineer. His to be able to recognize such a pivotal State will join me in saying: ‘‘Up With range of new products included me- moment in the history of this Hoosier Montana.’’ chanical rubber goods, radio and TV family, their small business, and the equipment, and items for naval ships f community that they serve. and aircraft applications. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues b 1215 Mr. Wagnon leaves behind the love of to join me in congratulating Varns and GUN VIOLENCE his life, Darlene Raitt Wright, and Hoover Hardware and in wishing them Wagnon’s 6 children, 11 grandchildren, the best in all the years to come. (Mr. SCHNEIDER asked and was and 5 great-grandchildren. His grand- given permission to address the House f son Tariq Bokhari followed his grand- for 1 minute and to revise and extend father’s example: In distinction, he REMEMBERING BOB BANUELOS his remarks.) now serves as an outstanding member (Mr. CORREA asked and was given Mr. SCHNEIDER. Madam Speaker, of the Charlotte City Council. permission to address the House for 1 yesterday marked 1 month since the Madam Speaker, please join me in minute.) gunman at Marjory Stoneman Douglas expressing condolences to the Wagnon Mr. CORREA. Madam Speaker, I rise High School cut short the lives of 17 family. students and teachers. These tragedies in honor of a remarkable member of f my staff and a remarkable member of have become so common that the re- my community, Bob Banuelos, who sponse of this Congress is practically TRUMP IN SAN DIEGO passed away suddenly last week. routine: thoughts and prayers are of- (Mrs. DAVIS of California asked and Bob spent over 30 years working for fered, moments of silence held, and was given permission to address the the people of Orange County. Before then we move on with no specific ac- House for 1 minute.) joining my team, he also worked for tion on gun violence. Mrs. DAVIS of California. Madam my predecessor, Congresswoman Loret- Madam Speaker, this is not enough. Speaker, President Trump was in my ta Sanchez. We need to heed the call of thousands hometown of San Diego this week. He Bob had deep roots in our commu- of students across the country who or- went to inspect prototypes for his pro- nity. He grew up on a small family ganized walkouts and events with a posed border wall, a wall California farm in Fountain Valley and was a simple message for us: It is time to act. doesn’t want, doesn’t need, and is an long-time member of the Orange Coun- We need to be able to look these stu- overly simplistic approach to a com- ty political environment. dents in the eye and say: ‘‘We are doing plex issue.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:13 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.012 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H1618 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 15, 2018 The President was in San Diego for 4 feet? What is the structure that we The bill, as amended, shall be considered as just a few hours and missed a real op- can utilize to allow people to come out read. All points of order against provisions portunity to hear from locals about of hotels and get into housing when in the bill, as amended, are waived. The pre- what Americans in California actually they don’t have a down payment or vious question shall be considered as ordered on the bill, as amended, and on any further need. Had he taken the time to actu- they don’t have the first month’s rent? amendment thereto, to final passage without ally listen, he might have learned how This is a holistic approach. We need intervening motion except: (1) one hour of connected Mexico and the United to reform FEMA from the perspective debate equally divided and controlled by the States are and how important the of housing and the Stafford Act. We chair and ranking minority member of the cross-border economy is to our region. need to structure FEMA in the rescue Committee on Financial Services; and (2) He might have learned about our infra- part and the recovery part. We need an- one motion to recommit with or without in- structure needs, about the contribu- swers, and my constituents need an- structions. SEC. 2. Upon adoption of this resolution it tions of our immigrant communities, swers now regarding the many, many shall be in order to consider in the House the or the environmental issues facing our denials that have stopped them from bill (H.R. 4293) to reform the Comprehensive region. proceeding with their lives. Capital Analysis and Review process, the Instead, he flew 3,000 miles on the f Dodd-Frank Act Stress Test process, and for taxpayers’ dime for a photo-op for his other purposes. All points of order against political base, that achieved very lit- ORONO HOCKEY CHAMPS consideration of the bill are waived. In lieu tle. Something is wrong when a Presi- (Mr. PAULSEN asked and was given of the amendment in the nature of a sub- dent doesn’t listen to the American permission to address the House for 1 stitute recommended by the Committee on people. minute and to revise and extend his re- Financial Services now printed in the bill, an amendment in the nature of a substitute f marks.) consisting of the text of Rules Committee Mr. PAULSEN. Madam Speaker, I Print 115-63, modified by the amendment CHEERING ON SETON HALL rise today to congratulate the Orono PIRATES printed in part B of the report of the Com- High School boys hockey team on win- mittee on Rules accompanying this resolu- (Mr. PAYNE asked and was given ning the Minnesota State champion- tion, shall be considered as adopted. The bill, permission to address the House for 1 ship, their very first State champion- as amended, shall be considered as read. All minute and to revise and extend his re- ship in school history. Their win came points of order against provisions in the bill, marks.) against Alexandria under the lights in as amended, are waived. The previous ques- Mr. PAYNE. Madam Speaker, today tion shall be considered as ordered on the the Xcel Energy Center. bill, as amended, and on any further amend- begins the best time of the year. March Orono took the lead early in the ment thereto, to final passage without inter- Madness is in full effect as of noon first, but their advantage was very vening motion except: (1) one hour of debate today, and I am here to support a team short lived. Alexandria’s Cardinals equally divided and controlled by the chair that I have followed for 50 years in col- came back to tie it up in very little and ranking minority member of the Com- lege basketball, the Seton Hall Pirates time. Despite outshooting the Car- mittee on Financial Services; and (2) one from South Orange, New Jersey. dinals 11 to 1 in the second period, motion to recommit with or without instruc- Thirty years ago, Madam Speaker, Orono just couldn’t connect, which tions. they played for the championship in made the winning shot, taken midway The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- the Final Four against a Michigan through the third period, all the more tleman from Colorado is recognized for team and lost by 1 point. Today we exciting. 1 hour. have another team that has the poten- Madam Speaker, the student athletes Mr. BUCK. Madam Speaker, for the tial of going all the way. brought home more than just a state- purpose of debate only, I yield the cus- I would just like to acknowledge the wide trophy. They set the example for tomary 30 minutes to the gentleman Seton Hall Pirates as they start their their classmates because of their work from Florida (Mr. HASTINGS), pending journey for a national championship in the classroom and managing other which I yield myself such time as I against the North Carolina State Wolf- activities. may consume. During consideration of pack and ask that we honor seniors Congratulations again to the coach- this resolution, all time yielded is for Ismael Sanogo, Khadeen Carrington, es, the players, the parents, and all of the purpose of debate only. Angel Delgado, and Desi Rodriguez as the fans of the Orono High School boys GENERAL LEAVE they start their trek. hockey team. Mr. BUCK. Madam Speaker, I ask Go, Pirates. f unanimous consent that all Members f have 5 legislative days to revise and ex- PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION tend their remarks. CALLING FOR FEMA REFORM OF H.R. 4061, FINANCIAL STA- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there (Ms. JACKSON LEE asked and was BILITY OVERSIGHT COUNCIL IM- objection to the request of the gen- given permission to address the House PROVEMENT ACT OF 2017, AND tleman from Colorado? for 1 minute.) PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION There was no objection. Ms. JACKSON LEE. Madam Speaker, OF H.R. 4293, STRESS TEST IM- Mr. BUCK. Madam Speaker, I rise it is 8 months since Hurricane Harvey PROVEMENT ACT OF 2017 today in support of the rule and the un- devastated parts of the State of Texas Mr. BUCK. Madam Speaker, by direc- derlying legislation. The rule makes in and the United States. tion of the Committee on Rules, I call order two bills reported favorably by We are engaged in an assessment, and up House Resolution 780 and ask for its the Committee on Financial Services. I will tell you, after 88 people died, peo- immediate consideration. Both bills were the subject of multiple ple are still in hotels, houses are still The Clerk read the resolution, as fol- hearings before the Committee on Fi- in disrepair, and we are still in need. lows: nancial Services. Each bill was re- We are a strong State and a resilient H. RES. 780 ported favorably by a bipartisan major- city with great leaders who work very Resolved, That upon adoption of this reso- ity without amendment. The rule hard. lution it shall be in order to consider in the adopts the only two amendments that But I think it is important that, as House the bill (H.R. 4061) to amend the Fi- were offered to these bills. we try to recover, we work to restruc- nancial Stability Act of 2010 to improve the Madam Speaker, yesterday I had the ture FEMA, as we are assessing right transparency of the Financial Stability privilege of being here on the floor de- now in a hearing, so that we can ad- Oversight Council, to improve the SIFI des- bating three financial services bills, dress the questions that 300-plus of my ignation process, and for other purposes. All and I am back with two more today. constituents on March 5 in Kashmere points of order against consideration of the Last night, the Senate took a signifi- Gardens—heavily hit, along with bill are waived. An amendment in the nature cant step toward joining the House in of a substitute consisting of the text of Rules northeast Houston—asked the ques- Committee Print 115-64, modified by the producing a banking reform bill. The tions: Why were there so many FEMA amendment printed in part A of the report of negative impacts of Dodd-Frank are denials? Why did the inspectors see 4 the Committee on Rules accompanying this enough to finally overcome even the inches of rain in your house and it was resolution, shall be considered as adopted. Senate’s inertia.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:13 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.014 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1619 Last year, the House Republicans business activities that would result in narios on which a bank may be tested, passed our own plan to reform our too much risk. while ensuring that banks are still banking system and regulate financial So life insurers and others were left tested on whether they are able to institutions in a smarter way. Ever wondering how to avoid the important withstand a seriously adverse scenario. since Dodd-Frank became law, our designation. Being designated would Dodd-Frank was born out of an effort small town and community lenders not only increase compliance costs and to prevent another collapse of our fi- have been hamstrung by regulations consume resources that could not be nancial institutions like we experi- intended for large Wall Street banks. invested into the business, it also enced in 2008. Unfortunately, the broad As is usually the case, Washington would have forced the financial com- brush stroke regulatory regime that it did not regulate in a manner that fo- pany to limit the options they made produced has had many unintended cused on bad actors or that differen- available to their customers. consequences. tiated between diverse financing insti- So we see the vicious cycle of over- Hardest hit were our small commu- tutions. Instead, Federal regulators regulation play out again: less growth nity banks and credit unions. However, stamped out one-size-fits-all regula- and fewer choices. there were also unforeseen negative tions that have had negative impacts Fortunately, in the case referenced impacts on larger financial institutions on our local community banks and above, the courts stepped in early and as well. credit unions. halted the process. However, we have The bills made in order by this rule Under the House Republican plan, we the opportunity now to bring about re- restructure portions of Dodd-Frank correct this wrongheaded approach by forms to the designation process that that have resulted in unreasonable reg- forcing regulators to take into account protect Americans from losing access ulation of our financial institutions. the size and risk profiles of smaller in- to financial products that serve them They preserve consumer protections stitutions. The Financial CHOICE Act well. while providing the certainty needed to ensures the security of our financial in- When we talk about Washington reduce compliance costs and expand the ability of these organizations to stitutions without creating a too-big- picking winners and losers, look no fur- provide the best and safest financial to-fail government support system and ther than Dodd-Frank and the system- ically important financial institution services to Americans. encouraging local banks and credit Madam Speaker, I urge my col- unions to invest in our communities. designation. Let’s put an end to these opaque regulatory decisions and allow leagues to pass this rule and the under- Over the past few months, we have lying legislation, and I reserve the bal- put various components of the Finan- light to shine on financial regulators. Madam Speaker, the second bill that ance of my time. cial CHOICE Act on the floor in order Mr. HASTINGS. Madam Speaker, I this bill makes in order is H.R. 4293, to demonstrate to the Senate that yield myself such time as I may con- the Stress Test Improvement Act. there is a bipartisan pathway forward sume. on many of our proposals. We continue The Federal Reserve determines the I thank the gentleman from Colorado that effort today. ability of bank holding companies to for yielding me the customary 30 min- The first bill that is made in order by withstand certain types of economic utes for debate. this rule is H.R. 4061, the Financial turmoil. These determinations have be- Madam Speaker, today’s bills would Stability Oversight Council Improve- come known as stress tests. roll back important consumer and fi- ment Act. This bill enhances trans- These stress tests have become noto- nancial protections by undermining parency and procedural equity of the rious for their vague rules and the se- the effectiveness of financial regu- nonbank systemically important finan- crecy by which the regulators conduct lators’ ability to conduct important cial institution designation process. the tests. Bank compliance officers are stress tests, create unnecessary hurdles Under Dodd-Frank, systemically im- often stuck trying to figure on what for regulators to contend with in the portant financial institutions were in- exactly their bank is going to be exam- future, and limit the Federal Reserve tended to be large banks whose col- ined. Banks not only do not know what Board’s flexibility in determining the lapse would bring about enormous fi- they are going to be tested on, they health and stability of our financial in- nancial upheaval; however, in the often never know what they were test- stitutions. hands of regulators, certain insurance ed on after the stress test is conducted. Madam Speaker, including these two companies and asset managers were Frankly, technocrat regulators play- measures, the Rules Committee will designated as systemically important. ing ‘‘hide the ball’’ from Americans have considered 30 Financial Services This was not Congress’ intent when al- that they are regulating seems like a bills this Congress, 15 of which were lowing regulators to designate system of government wholly unlike considered under closed rules. Those 15 nonbanks as systemically important. our own. are part of a much larger closed proc- The bill before us today will not roll A professor from Columbia Univer- ess that Republican leadership has back the ability of regulators to deter- sity testified before the House Com- wielded with brute force to push mine that a large nonbank financial in- mittee on Financial Service that: ‘‘It is through the legislative priorities of stitution is systemically important, hard to believe that the stress tests’ powerful special interests. Indeed, this but it will ensure the process for desig- current structure could occur in a week, we witnessed the 73rd closed rule nating the nonbank as transparent. It country like the United States, which for this Congress, a style of legislating also forces regulators to consider other prizes the rule of law and adherence to that is as brazen as it is broken. possible regulatory fixes before desig- due process.’’ This critique of the majority’s reli- nating a nonbank as systemically im- Former Senator Phil Gramm testi- ance on a closed process is not just portant. fied before a Senate panel and said the some technical point, but, rather, an following: ‘‘What does the stress test important one; because when you close b 1230 test? Not only does no one know, but out those on your side of the aisle who Well, this is all well and good. But the regulators see that as a virtue. The are not in leadership and those on our what does this mean for Coloradans Fed’s vice chairman has stated that side of the aisle from offering amend- and other Americans? giving banks a clear road map for com- ments, you do not simply silence us, In 2014, the life insurer MetLife was pliance might make it ‘easier to game you silence the American people. designated as a systemically important the test.’ But isn’t the fact that com- And what has this process wrought financial institution by regulators. By pliance is easier when you know what for the American people? 2016, MetLife had prevailed in court the law says the whole point of the rule Well, let’s take a look. Bear with me and had their designation overturned. of law?’’ because it is a doozy. What was revealed was how arbitrary The Stress Test Improvement Act in- First, we witnessed the majority—in and capricious the designation process serts much-needed transparency into what I believe was the most chaotic seemed to be. Regulators never clari- the testing process. It alters current and convoluted process during my 25 fied what level of risk would be accept- regulations to make the internal, com- years in the House of Representatives— able, nor did they clearly identify par- pany-run test an annual exercise. It try to take away healthcare from 23 ticular types of financial products or also streamlines the number of sce- million Americans.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:13 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.016 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H1620 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 15, 2018 When they couldn’t get that done, Hook massacre. Regardless of your For starters, we could work together the majority then honed in on a tax views on this subject, please let that to end our country’s gun violence epi- giveaway to corporate America and the number sink in: 7,000 pairs of shoes. demic, bring relief to DACA recipients, ultrawealthy not only at the expense of Madam Speaker, we should not be and bring thought-out and serious leg- the middle class, but also to the det- considering a bill to reform the Finan- islation to the floor that will invest in riment of future generations, as that cial Stability Oversight Council. We our infrastructure. should not be considering a measure bill will explode our national debt by b 1245 an estimated $1.5 trillion over the next that limits the frequency of stress 10 years. tests on our financial institutions. Now, I am sure that my friend is ei- Just last week, we watched as our What we should be doing is consid- ther thinking or likely to say that we Republican friends attacked Clean Air ering a ban on bump stocks. We should are here about financial services meas- Act protections to give a handout to be considering a ban on weapons of ures, and he is correct. That is what specified industries to emit more pollu- war. We should be considering protec- these rules call for. But what these tion into the air. tive orders allowing people to petition rules are about, in the final analysis, is Is this what my Republican friends a court to temporarily remove firearms a diversion from things that we know were sent here to do: To take away from an individual in crisis. are more critical. healthcare from millions of people? To We should be considering a measure Why, then, are we not dealing with remove important environmental pro- to provide for comprehensive back- prioritized matters that we know that tections that keep America’s air and ground checks, and maybe this time the American people want, rather than water safe? To limit the amount of try not to sabotage it by attaching a those that the corporate greedy, needy, stress tests the Federal Reserve Board controversial concealed carry provision big old businesses want? should run on our biggest financial in- to the measure. Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- Madam Speaker, the Republican ma- stitutions so that we can avoid another ance of my time. jority is also ignoring the plight of financial meltdown? Mr. BUCK. Madam Speaker, I yield 5 22,000 Dreamers who have lost their Footnote right there. If these stress minutes to the gentleman from New protected status since President Trump tests are so bothersome to these big old York (Mr. ZELDIN), the sponsor of H.R. ended DACA, and the other hundreds of banks, how is it that they are making 4293. thousands of Dreamers who remain in all of this big old money? Mr. ZELDIN. Madam Speaker, I legal limbo. Every day, 120 of them lose They don’t seem to have any hin- thank the gentleman from Colorado their status. drance when it comes to sopping up the (Mr. BUCK) for yielding to me. Madam Speaker, 25 times—25 times— Madam Speaker, I rise in strong sup- resources of this country. House Republicans blocked a vote on Madam Speaker, my constituents port of this important rule and in sup- the bipartisan Dream Act, which pro- haven’t been calling me or writing or port of the two underlying bipartisan tects innocent Dreamers from this emailing my office asking that we con- bills that will improve our banking cruel Republican inaction. Every day sider or pass any of the measures the system and help grow our Nation’s of inaction on the part of my friends economy: H.R. 4293, the Stress Test Im- House will consider this week. On the across the aisle means another day other hand, they have written to my provement Act of 2017; and H.R. 4061, that families are needlessly made to the Financial Stability Oversight office asking what Republican leader- live under the threat of being torn ship is going to do about addressing the Council Improvement Act of 2017. apart. These are two essential pieces of leg- gun violence epidemic ravaging our Madam Speaker, all across America, islation that cleared the Committee on country. I was meeting in my office our infrastructure is in need of repair Financial Services with bipartisan sup- just an hour ago with officials from and greater investment. Every Member port. Tamarac, Florida, and we received an in the House of Representatives likely I am the sponsor of the Stress Test alert that two schools near the Park- received a visit from members of the land school were on lockdown. National League of Cities around the Improvement Act, alongside the gen- My constituents have asked about United States of America, and every tleman from Georgia (Mr. DAVID what Republican leadership will do to one of them is talking about infra- SCOTT), my Democratic colleague. ensure that the DACA recipients have structure needs. Every one of them. Stress tests are one of the aspects of a pathway to citizenship. They have Yet the Republican majority has current law that are contributing to asked what Republican leadership will stalled on presenting a single infra- the climate of legal and regulatory un- do to address our Nation’s needs for se- structure bill. certainty because the Federal Reserve rious and sustained investments in our Even President Donald John Trump’s has failed to provide the necessary infrastructure. Unfortunately, the an- infrastructure plan faces an obstacle: transparency around this process. swer is little to nothing. his own budget cuts. This bipartisan bill will inject trans- Footnote right there. When I came to President Trump claimed the Federal parency, consistency, and fairness into this Congress 25 years ago, there were Government was investing $1.5 trillion the stress testing process. Without 14,000 bridges in the United States of to our infrastructure, but, in reality, needed reform, rather than ensuring fi- America in need of a repair. Today, the White House’s plan actually only nancial stability, the Federal Reserve’s there are 56,000 bridges in this country proposed $200 billion in Federal fund- stress tests are likely missing real in need of repair. ing. At the same time, he proposed risks while constraining the competi- Madam Speaker, since 2014, there slashing critical infrastructure funding tive flow of financial services that is have been over 1,360 mass shootings in to the Department of Transportation critical to increasing economic oppor- America. Let me let that soak in. by nearly 20 percent, and the Army tunity. Since 2014, there have been over 1,360 Corps of Engineers’ budget by 22 per- While a valuable resource, stress test mass shootings in America. cent. results may be creating a false sense of In 2018 alone, nearly 500 teens and How does that work, Madam Speak- security, while at the same time sow- over 100 children have been killed or er? ing the seeds of financial instability. In injured by guns. Last month, 14 stu- The truth is, it doesn’t. order to succeed, a stress test must dents and 3 teachers were gunned down Madam Speaker, we stand here today build from an accurate forecast of the at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High with a to-do list a mile long and an next macroeconomic storm; and even School by a former student using an ocean wide. I suggest the following: the best forecasts tend to be wrong. AR–15 that he bought legally. that we stop being forced to spend our This is a bipartisan bill that was And just 2 days ago, American citi- time checking off items on the wish amended in the committee markup zens took to the grounds of this Capitol lists of powerful corporate special in- with unanimous support of every com- and placed 7,000 pairs of shoes on the terests, and we turn to the business of mittee member, including the ranking front lawn here at the Capitol. Citizens the American people—Republican and member. The amendment offered by placed a pair of shoes for every child Democrat, independent, conservative, the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. killed by gun violence since the Sandy and liberal American people. DAVID SCOTT) that we accepted focused

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:13 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.018 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1621 the bill on core reforms to the stress sponsored scientific research on causes portive of improving the background testing process that will make the of gun violence. check system, but no amount of im- rules more transparent, effective, and Let me send a message to gun owners provement will protect the American fair. in this country. I own a gun. I believe people if all the loopholes are allowed We are not gutting standards, but in the Second Amendment. I don’t to exist. making them work for the real world. want anybody to take anybody’s gun; For almost 3 years, the people of This bill is a bipartisan team effort to but nobody can persuade me that any- Charleston, South Carolina, and across accomplish those goals. So is the other body, other than military and police the country have been demanding a bill covered by this rule, the FSOC Im- officers, are deserving of having in vote from this House on closing the provement Act. their possession automatic weapons. I Charleston loophole. They have yet to Madam Speaker, I urge adoption of believe every American feels the same get one. this rule, and I urge the passage of way. I urge my colleagues to allow this both of these important bills. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous body to take a vote on closing this Mr. HASTINGS. Madam Speaker, I consent to insert the text of my loophole and giving the American peo- yield myself such time as I may con- amendment in the RECORD, along with ple the protections they need and de- sume. extraneous material, immediately serve. I urge a ‘‘no’’ vote on the pre- Madam Speaker, it has been one prior to the vote on the previous ques- vious question and a ‘‘no’’ vote on the month since the tragic events at Mar- tion. rule. jory Stoneman Douglas High School in The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Mr. BUCK. Madam Speaker, I yield 5 Parkland, Florida. The district that I objection to the request of the gen- minutes to the gentleman from Florida am privileged to serve is adjacent to tleman from Florida? (Mr. ROSS), the sponsor of H.R. 4061. that school, and I have two of my re- There was no objection. Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, I thank Mr. HASTINGS. Madam Speaker, I maining cousins in life that live in my friend from Colorado for yielding. yield 4 minutes to the gentleman from Madam Speaker, I rise in support of Parkland, and I live within 30 minutes South Carolina (Mr. CLYBURN), my very the rule and my underlying legislation, of where that school is situated. A gunman killed 17 innocent students good friend that I knew before we came H.R. 4061, the Financial Stability Over- to Congress together, and the distin- and teachers. Since that heartbreaking sight Council Improvement Act of 2017. guished assistant Democratic leader. Madam Speaker, when folks back day, Americans from coast to coast Mr. CLYBURN. Madam Speaker, I home save for retirement, college, or a have raised their voices and said: thank my good friend for yielding me down payment on a house, they expect Enough is enough. the time. that the system is both safe and geared Yesterday, thousands of students Madam Speaker, this rule fails to towards maximizing their benefit. from across our country walked out of make in order four significant meas- A beautiful thing about America’s their classrooms to protest this body’s ures to address the gun violence epi- free enterprise system is how anyone inaction. Two days ago, as I said ear- demic that is plaguing our Nation. can participate in the marketplace, lier, 7,000 empty pairs of children’s In addition to closing the gun show strengthen the economy, and earn a shoes were laid on the Capitol lawn to and internet sale loopholes in the back- dividend of the American Dream. That commemorate all the children who ground check system, lifting the prohi- opportunity, however, is not guaran- have been tragically killed by gun vio- bition on Federal research into gun vi- teed, and, as lawmakers, we have a lence since the 2012 Sandy Hook Ele- olence, and creating a process to pre- duty to protect it. mentary School shooting. I might add, vent dangerous individuals from having My bill will help us do just that by not only at schools, but in Nevada, in firearms, the amendment includes my improving the Financial Stability California, in Texas, in South Carolina, legislation to close the Charleston Oversight Council’s process for review- in churches, in Orlando bars, these loophole, which allows gun sales to be ing nonbank financial institutions for mass shootings are occurring. People completed even if FBI investigations potential systemic threats. We must be don’t think it is an epidemic. are still going on to determine the out- clear that simply designating more My friends on the other side of the come of a background check. companies as systemically important aisle did bring a bill to the floor yester- The tragic consequences of this loop- financial institutions doesn’t make our day that I voted for that was also co- hole were demonstrated on June 17, system safer. joined by my friend, TED DEUTCH, 2015, when a hate-filled gunman opened The FSOC can better serve the Amer- whose district is where the Parkland fire at the historic Emanuel A.M.E. ican people by working with prudential school is. He, too, was involved with Church in Charleston, South Carolina, regulators and the private sector to ad- that legislation, but it was done to im- killing nine and injuring three others. dress threats to our economy before prove school security. Much more In that fateful instance, the shooter at- they transform into calamities. needs to be done, and it needs to be tempted to buy a firearm on April 11 Would you say it is sufficient for fire- done now. and was initially delayed due to pos- fighters just to identify a house that is So, today, I offer my colleagues yet sible red flags in his criminal record. on fire? another opportunity to show the Amer- Despite the investigation not being Of course not. The key is preventing ican people that they value their safety completed in 3 days, he was allowed to the fire in the first place. and the safety of their children over purchase the weapon. The FBI later This is the problem that we face with the lobbying of the National Rifle As- discovered the shooter would not have the FSOC’s oversight of nonbank finan- sociation and the gun manufacturers. been allowed to purchase the firearm cial institutions. The FSOC may be If we defeat the previous question, I due to his documented history of drug able to identify tinderboxes, but fails will offer an amendment to the rule to abuse had they been able to complete to explain how they might be made less bring up four commonsense gun safety the background check. flammable, and, instead, the Council bills: H.R. 4240, the Public Safety and Madam Speaker, the consequences defaults to what should be the heavy- Second Amendment Rights Protection are too great to allow loopholes like handed regulations of last resort. Act; H.R. 3464, the Background Check these to persist. We have laws on the To be sure, the FSOC has begun to Completion Act; H.R. 2598, the Gun Vi- books to prohibit dangerous individ- recognize the benefits of leveraging the olence Restraining Order Act; and H.R. uals like the shooter in Charleston expertise of prudential regulators, as 1478, the Gun Violence Research Act. from buying weapons, but these loop- well as providing increased trans- These bills would close the dangerous holes prevent them from being en- parency. In recent years, they have gun show and internet sale background forced. Thousands of weapons are sold taken steps to improve the designation check loopholes, prevent the sale of each year through the Charleston loop- process, including the February 2015 guns without a completed background hole alone. In fact, I read that over guidance providing increased trans- check, ensure that people who are a 6,000 such weapons have been sold parency in the nonbank SIFI designa- danger to themselves or to others can through this loophole. tion process. be prevented from possessing a gun, I appreciate that many of my col- These 2015 reforms were welcome, and lift the prohibition on government- leagues have signaled they are sup- and this legislation will codify many of

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:13 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.019 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H1622 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 15, 2018 them into law, as well as provide a after the shooting at UCSB’s Isla that federally sponsored research on path for a nonbank financial company Vista. And now Florida is considering ways to reduce gun violence has come to eliminate risk rather than be des- similar legislation in the wake of the to a grinding halt. ignated. Parkland shooting. I introduced a bipartisan bill to re- Importantly, our legislation will en- Only a handful of States currently peal the Dickey amendment, and it sure a company’s primary regulator have legal processes to temporarily re- currently has 170 cosponsors. There are has a meaningful role in the SIFI des- move those firearms. The GVRO Act many steps that we can take right now ignation process. After 8 years, if we encourages other States to follow their to protect our communities and our don’t take steps to address the obvious lead to empower family members or children, while respecting the Second shortcomings of the FSOC, like the law enforcement officials to petition a Amendment. nonbank designation process, the regu- judge to temporarily remove firearms One of these steps should be to em- lator intended to protect financial sta- from an individual in crisis. No one law power our Nation to fund independent, bility could very well become a liabil- will be a panacea, but that is not an ex- unbiased gun violence research that ity. cuse for inaction. will lead to policies that save lives. It The American Action Forum has Since its introduction, the GVRO Act is the right and patriotic thing to do. found that additional capital require- has gained significant support from my Mr. BUCK. Madam Speaker, I reserve ments resulting from a SIFI designa- colleagues in the majority. Madam the balance of my time. Mr. HASTINGS. Madam Speaker, I tion of asset management firms could Speaker, we are calling on Speaker yield myself the balance of my time. RYAN to bring the bipartisan GVRO affect American retirees in the amount Madam Speaker, I would advise the Act to the floor for a vote. Our chil- of at least $100,000 in potential savings previous speaker that I knew Jay dren’s lives depend on it. over the lifetime of their investments. Dickey, I served with him here, as did Mr. BUCK. Madam Speaker, I reserve That is why these reforms included many other Members; and my under- the balance of my time. in H.R. 4061 are critical to the more standing is that, before his death, he Mr. HASTINGS. Madam Speaker, I than 90 million investors who rely on indicated that he thought that his yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman the services of asset management firms measure that has carried forth was a from Florida (Mrs. MURPHY), my col- to achieve their most important finan- mistake. cial goals. league who represents my home area Madam Speaker, my friends across Companies must have a chance to de- that I was born in, a member of the the aisle have clearly demonstrated risk before the FSOC can saddle their Armed Services and Small Business where their priorities lie. And for the customers with such extraordinary Committees. benefit of the American public, if it losses. This bill will give them that op- Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Madam looks like we are ships passing in the portunity. I am proud to have worked Speaker, I thank the gentleman from night, then doubtless we are when it with my colleague and friend across Florida for yielding me time. comes to priorities. the aisle, Representative JOHN Madam Speaker, America has always I would ask anyone in this country DELANEY, on this strongly bipartisan been a nation of problem-solvers. When and anyone in this House: Which do piece of legislation. I want to thank our country is confronted with a seem- you think should be a priority? Ad- Chairman HENSARLING for his support ly impossible challenge, we tackle it dressing the gun epidemic in this coun- and leadership in moving this bill head-on. We conduct research, we ex- try or bailing out big old banks with through our committee and onto the amine evidence, and we perform stud- more opportunities to potentially House floor. ies, and we don’t quit until we have carry us to yet another financial dis- This bill has 58 original cosponsors: made meaningful progress. aster by simply disallowing them hav- 29 Democrats, 29 Republicans. Our bill From reducing automobile and avia- ing to undergo the stress test that they demonstrates that there can be broad tion deaths to eradicating deadly dis- need? bipartisan support for increased trans- eases, we always rise to the challenge. I listened to my friend when he parency of the FSOC designation proc- In each case, a serious problem was talked about stress tests, that they ess. claiming too many lives; and American don’t know how they are going to be Madam Speaker, I urge my col- determination, based on rigorous re- tested or what part they are going to— leagues to vote in favor of this rule and search, helped solve or mitigate that well, my goodness gracious. Kids in the underlying bill. problem. school don’t know what is going to be However, there is one place where we on the test; so why should the bank b 1300 have deviated from this proud Amer- know what is going to be on the test? Mr. HASTINGS. Madam Speaker, I ican tradition and abandoned an evi- But in the deal, when it goes down, yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from dence-based approach to addressing our whether they know or not, they still California (Mr. CARBAJAL), a member Nation’s most pressing challenges, and are making a ton of money; and, there- of the Armed Services and Budget that is when it comes to the problem of fore, the regulations aren’t affecting Committees of this House of Represent- gun violence. them in the way that we make it sound atives. Homicides in this country occur as a here. And there again, I ask the ques- Mr. CARBAJAL. Madam Speaker, I part of the daily drumbeat of violence tion: Which is your priority, America? urge my colleagues to support the bi- in our communities. They also take Whether we address gun violence in partisan Gun Violence Restraining place in the context of mass shootings, this country and the epidemic that it is Order Act. like the recent tragedies at Pulse and or whether we address these financial After the Parkland, Florida shooting Parkland, where a single individual services regulatory measures that are tragically took the lives of 17 students transformed a place of life into a war more for corporate America than they and educators, students across the zone. are for you? country have stood up and said: Let me be clear. Gun violence is a Americans working hard to make Enough is enough. They have de- plague upon this Nation and must be ends meet need answers—working hard manded that Congress act to prevent treated like the public health crisis it to get their kids off to school, working these horrific acts of violence. is. hard to make sure they can put food on Since Parkland, NRA officials, Re- Instead of confronting this problem the table at the end of the day, work- publican lawmakers, and even the with courage and candor, Congress has ing hard to ensure that they can put a President have repeatedly said that we cowered in fear. For over 20 years, a little money aside for their child’s edu- need to disarm individuals who pose a single sentence, known as the Dickey cation, working hard to ensure that threat to themselves or their commu- amendment, has been added to the an- they can put some retirement money nity—those posting on social media or nual bill that funds the CDC and other aside. telling friends and family that they Federal agencies. Footnote there. What are we doing to plan to take lives with a gun. We can debate the exact meaning of protect the pensions of people in this GVRO laws do just that. That is why the Dickey amendment, what it does country? We are not addressing that. California passed these protections and does not allow, but the reality is We are addressing big banks.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:13 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.021 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1623 That they don’t have to keep work- House with such amendments as may have vision that in practice prohibits the Depart- ing two or three jobs for the rest of been adopted. The previous question shall be ment of Health and Human Services from their lives, that is what Americans are considered as ordered on the bill and amend- sponsoring research on gun violence in fiscal looking for. ments thereto to final passage without inter- year 2017, and for other purposes. The first vening motion except one motion to recom- reading of the bill shall be dispensed with. Well, if they are working hard, then mit with or without instructions. If the All points of order against consideration of we need to be working hard, and we Committee of the Whole rises and reports the bill are waived. General debate shall be need to be working hard for them. It is that it has come to no resolution on the bill, confined to the bill and shall not exceed one with their interests in mind that we then on the next legislative day the House hour equally divided and controlled by the are sent here, and we do a disservice to shall, immediately after the third daily chair and ranking minority member of the them and to our country when we order of business under clause 1 of rule XIV, Committee on the Energy and Commerce. abandon that responsibility and con- resolve into the Committee of the Whole for After general debate the bill shall be consid- further consideration of the bill. sider bills like those put before us ered for amendment under the five-minute SEC. 4. Immediately after disposition of rule. All points of order against provisions in today rather than addressing the H.R. 4240 the Speaker shall, pursuant to the bill are waived. At the conclusion of con- many, many needs that this country clause 2(b) of rule XVIII, declare the House sideration of the bill for amendment the has. resolved into the Committee of the Whole Committee shall rise and report the bill to Madam Speaker, I urge a ‘‘no’’ vote House on the state of the Union for consider- the House with such amendments as may on the rule, and I yield back the bal- ation of the bill (H.R. 3464) to prohibit fire- have been adopted. The previous question ance of my time. arms dealers from selling a firearm prior to shall be considered as ordered on the bill and Mr. BUCK. Madam Speaker, I yield the completion of a background check. The amendments thereto to final passage with- first reading of the bill shall be dispensed myself the balance of my time. out intervening motion except one motion to with. All points of order against consider- recommit with or without instructions. If Madam Speaker, I want to thank my ation of the bill are waived. General debate friend for his support of the STOP the Committee of the Whole rises and re- shall be confined to the bill and shall not ex- ports that it has come to no resolution on School Violence Act yesterday, along ceed one hour equally divided and controlled the bill, then on the next legislative day the with 406 of our colleagues; that passed by the chair and ranking minority member House shall, immediately after the third overwhelmingly. of the Committee on the Judiciary. After daily order of business under clause 1 of rule general debate the bill shall be considered Madam Speaker, Dodd-Frank un- XIV, resolve into the Committee of the for amendment under the five-minute rule. leashed a torrent of regulation on our Whole for further consideration of the bill. All points of order against provisions in the SEC. 7. Clause 1(c) of rule XIX shall not financial institutions. While it is un- bill are waived. At the conclusion of consid- apply to the consideration of H.R. 4240, H.R. derstandable that people reacted eration of the bill for amendment the Com- 3464, H.R. 2598, or H.R. 1478. strongly after the 2008 crisis, most of mittee shall rise and report the bill to the the Federal response heaped needless House with such amendments as may have THE VOTE ON THE PREVIOUS QUESTION: WHAT been adopted. The previous question shall be red tape onto our banks and credit IT REALLY MEANS considered as ordered on the bill and amend- unions. This vote, the vote on whether to order the Much of this red tape has, at best, ments thereto to final passage without inter- vening motion except one motion to recom- previous question on a special rule, is not done nothing to improve the security mit with or without instructions. If the merely a procedural vote. A vote against or- of financial customers and, at worst, Committee of the Whole rises and reports dering the previous question is a vote deprived Americans of crucial capital that it has come to no resolution on the bill, against the Republican majority agenda and and financial products. then on the next legislative day the House a vote to allow the Democratic minority to It is important that we rein in the shall, immediately after the third daily offer an alternative plan. It is a vote about Federal Government and allow our fi- order of business under clause 1 of rule XIV, what the House should be debating. nancial institutions to invest their re- resolve into the Committee of the Whole for Mr. Clarence Cannon’s Precedents of the further consideration of the bill. House of Representatives (VI, 308–311), de- sources in our communities. scribes the vote on the previous question on These two bills today continue the SEC. 5. Immediately after disposition of H.R. 3464 the Speaker shall, pursuant to the rule as ‘‘a motion to direct or control the regulatory reforms that the House has clause 2(b) of rule XVIII, declare the House consideration of the subject before the House advanced since last year. resolved into the Committee of the Whole being made by the Member in charge.’’ To Madam Speaker, I thank Chairman House on the state of the Union for consider- defeat the previous question is to give the HENSARLING and Chairman SESSIONS ation of the bill (H.R. 2598) to provide family opposition a chance to decide the subject be- for bringing these bills to the floor members of an individual who they fear is a fore the House. Cannon cites the Speaker’s today. I urge support of the rule and danger to himself, herself, or others new ruling of January 13, 1920, to the effect that the underlying bills. tools to prevent gun violence. The first read- ‘‘the refusal of the House to sustain the de- The material previously referred to ing of the bill shall be dispensed with. All mand for the previous question passes the points of order against consideration of the control of the resolution to the opposition’’ by Mr. HASTINGS is as follows: bill are waived. General debate shall be con- in order to offer an amendment. On March AN AMENDMENT TO H. RES. 780 OFFERED BY fined to the bill and shall not exceed one 15, 1909, a member of the majority party of- MR. HASTINGS hour equally divided and controlled by the fered a rule resolution. The House defeated At the end of the resolution, add the fol- chair and ranking minority member of the the previous question and a member of the lowing new sections: Committee on the Judiciary. After general opposition rose to a parliamentary inquiry, SEC. 3. That immediately upon adoption of debate the bill shall be considered for asking who was entitled to recognition. this resolution the Speaker shall, pursuant amendment under the five-minute rule. All Speaker Joseph G. Cannon (R–Illinois) said: to clause 2(b) of rule XVIII, declare the points of order against provisions in the bill ‘‘The previous question having been refused, House resolved into the Committee of the are waived. At the conclusion of consider- the gentleman from New York, Mr. Fitz- Whole House on the state of the Union for ation of the bill for amendment the Com- gerald, who had asked the gentleman to consideration of the bill (H.R. 4240) to pro- mittee shall rise and report the bill to the yield to him for an amendment, is entitled to tect Second Amendment rights, ensure that House with such amendments as may have the first recognition.’’ all individuals who should be prohibited been adopted. The previous question shall be The Republican majority may say ‘‘the from buying a firearm are listed in the Na- considered as ordered on the bill and amend- vote on the previous question is simply a tional Instant Criminal Background Check ments thereto to final passage without inter- vote on whether to proceed to an immediate System, and provide a responsible and con- vening motion except one motion to recom- vote on adopting the resolution . . . [and] sistent background check process. The first mit with or without instructions. If the has no substantive legislative or policy im- reading of the bill shall be dispensed with. Committee of the Whole rises and reports plications whatsoever.’’ But that is not what All points of order against consideration of that it has come to no resolution on the bill, they have always said. Listen to the Repub- the bill are waived. General debate shall be then on the next legislative day the House lican Leadership Manual on the Legislative confined to the bill and shall not exceed one shall, immediately after the third daily Process in the United States House of Rep- hour equally divided and controlled by the order of business under clause 1 of rule XIV, resentatives, (6th edition, page 135). Here’s chair and ranking minority member of the resolve into the Committee of the Whole for how the Republicans describe the previous Committee on the Judiciary. After general further consideration of the bill. question vote in their own manual: ‘‘Al- debate the bill shall be considered for SEC. 6. Immediately after the disposition of though it is generally not possible to amend amendment under the five-minute rule. All H.R. 2598, the Speaker shall, pursuant to the rule because the majority Member con- points of order against provisions in the bill clause 2(b) of rule XVIII, declare the House trolling the time will not yield for the pur- are waived. At the conclusion of consider- resolved into the Committee of the Whole pose of offering an amendment, the same re- ation of the bill for amendment the Com- House on the state of the Union for consider- sult may be achieved by voting down the pre- mittee shall rise and report the bill to the ation of the bill (H.R. 1478) To repeal the pro- vious question on the rule.... When the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:13 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.023 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H1624 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 15, 2018 motion for the previous question is defeated, tion of adopting amendment No. 1 regulatory agency by providing written no- control of the time passes to the Member printed in part B of House Report 115– tice to the institution and the Independent who led the opposition to ordering the pre- 595 to H.R. 4545 may be subject to post- Examination Review Director describing vious question. That Member, because he ponement as though under clause 8 of with particularity the reasons that a longer then controls the time, may offer an amend- period is needed to complete the examina- ment to the rule, or yield for the purpose of rule XX. tion. amendment.’’ The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there ‘‘(b) EXAMINATION MATERIALS.—Upon the In Deschler’s Procedure in the U.S. House objection to the request of the gen- request of a financial institution, the Fed- of Representatives, the subchapter titled tleman from Texas? eral financial institutions regulatory agency ‘‘Amending Special Rules’’ states: ‘‘a refusal There was no objection. shall include with the final report an appen- to order the previous question on such a rule dix listing all examination or other factual [a special rule reported from the Committee f information relied upon by the agency in on Rules] opens the resolution to amend- support of a material supervisory determina- ment and further debate.’’ (Chapter 21, sec- FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS EXAM- tion.’’. tion 21.2) Section 21.3 continues: ‘‘Upon re- INATION FAIRNESS AND REFORM jection of the motion for the previous ques- ACT SEC. 4. INDEPENDENT EXAMINATION REVIEW DI- RECTOR. tion on a resolution reported from the Com- Mr. HENSARLING. Madam Speaker, mittee on Rules, control shifts to the Mem- The Federal Financial Institutions Exam- ber leading the opposition to the previous pursuant to House Resolution 773, I ination Council Act of 1978 (12 U.S.C. 3301 et question, who may offer a proper amendment call up the bill (H.R. 4545) to amend the seq.), as amended by section 3, is further or motion and who controls the time for de- Federal Financial Institutions Exam- amended by adding at the end the following: bate thereon.’’ ination Council Act of 1978 to improve ‘‘SEC. 1013. OFFICE OF INDEPENDENT EXAMINA- Clearly, the vote on the previous question the examination of depository institu- TION REVIEW. on a rule does have substantive policy impli- tions, and for other purposes, and ask ‘‘(a) ESTABLISHMENT.—There is established cations. It is one of the only available tools in the Council an Office of Independent Ex- for those who oppose the Republican major- for its immediate consideration in the amination Review (the ‘Office’). ity’s agenda and allows those with alter- House. native views the opportunity to offer an al- The Clerk read the title of the bill. ‘‘(b) HEAD OF OFFICE.—There is established ternative plan. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- the position of the Independent Examination Review Director (the ‘Director’), as the head Mr. BUCK. Madam Speaker, I yield ant to House Resolution 773, an amend- of the Office. The Director shall be appointed back the balance of my time, and I ment printed in part A of House Report by the Council and shall be independent from move the previous question on the res- 115–595 is adopted, and the bill, as any member agency of the Council. olution. amended, is considered read. ‘‘(c) TERM.—The Director shall serve for a The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mrs. The text of the bill, as amended, is as term of 5 years, and may be appointed to WALORSKI). The question is on ordering follows: serve a subsequent 5-year term. the previous question. H.R. 4545 ‘‘(d) STAFFING.—The Director is authorized The question was taken; and the to hire staff to support the activities of the Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- Office. Speaker pro tempore announced that resentatives of the United States of America in the ayes appeared to have it. Congress assembled, ‘‘(e) DUTIES.—The Director shall— Mr. HASTINGS. Madam Speaker, on ‘‘(1) receive and, at the Director’s discre- SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. tion, investigate complaints from financial that I demand the yeas and nays. This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Financial The yeas and nays were ordered. institutions, their representatives, or an- Institutions Examination Fairness and Re- other entity acting on behalf of such institu- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- form Act’’. ant to clause 8 of rule XX, further pro- tions, concerning examinations, examination SEC. 2. AMENDMENT TO DEFINITION OF FINAN- practices, or examination reports; ceedings on this question will be post- CIAL INSTITUTION. ‘‘(2) hold meetings, at least once every poned. Section 1003(3) of the Federal Financial In- three months and in locations designed to f stitutions Examination Council Act of 1978 encourage participation from all sections of (12 U.S.C. 3302(3)) is amended to read as fol- the United States, with financial institu- MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE lows: tions, their representatives, or another enti- A message from the Senate by Ms. ‘‘(3) the term ‘financial institution’— ty acting on behalf of such institutions, to Lasky, one of its clerks, announced ‘‘(A) means a commercial bank, a savings discuss examination procedures, examina- that the Senate has passed without bank, a trust company, a savings associa- tion practices, or examination policies; amendment a bill of the House of the tion, a building and loan association, a ‘‘(3) in accordance with subsection (f), re- homestead association, a cooperative bank, following title: view examination procedures of the Federal or a credit union; and financial institutions regulatory agencies to H.R. 2154. An act to rename the Red River ‘‘(B) for purposes of sections 1012, 1013, and ensure that the written examination policies Valley Agricultural Research Center in 1014, includes a nondepository covered person of those agencies are being followed in prac- Fargo, North Dakota, as the Edward T. subject to supervision by the Bureau of Con- tice and adhere to the standards for consist- Schafer Agricultural Research Center. sumer Financial Protection under section ency established by the Council; The message also announced that the 1024 of the Consumer Financial Protection ‘‘(4) conduct a continuing and regular re- Senate has passed a bill of the fol- Act of 2010 (12 U.S.C. 5514).’’. view of examination quality assurance for all lowing title in which the concurrence SEC. 3. TIMELINESS OF EXAMINATION REPORTS. examination types conducted by the Federal of the House is requested: The Federal Financial Institutions Exam- financial institutions regulatory agencies; S. 2155. An act to promote economic ination Council Act of 1978 (12 U.S.C. 3301 et ‘‘(5) adjudicate any supervisory appeal ini- growth, provide tailored regulatory relief, seq.) is amended by adding at the end the fol- tiated under section 1014; and and enhance consumer protections, and for lowing: ‘‘(6) report annually to the Committee on other purposes. ‘‘SEC. 1012. TIMELINESS OF EXAMINATION RE- Financial Services of the House of Rep- The message also announced that the PORTS. resentatives, the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs of the Senate, Senate agrees to the amendments of ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.— ‘‘(1) FINAL EXAMINATION REPORT.—A Fed- and the Council, on the reviews carried out the House to the bill (S. 188) ‘‘An Act eral financial institutions regulatory agency pursuant to paragraphs (3) and (4), including to amend title 31, United States Code, shall provide a final examination report to a compliance with the requirements set forth to prohibit the use of Federal funds for financial institution not later than 60 days in section 1012 regarding timeliness of exam- the costs of painting portraits of offi- after the later of— ination reports, and the Council’s rec- cers and employees of the Federal Gov- ‘‘(A) the exit interview for an examination ommendations for improvements in exam- ernment, and for other purposes.’’. of the institution; or ination procedures, practices, and policies. ‘‘(B) the provision of additional informa- ‘‘(f) STANDARD FOR REVIEWING EXAMINATION f tion by the institution relating to the exam- PROCEDURES.—In conducting reviews pursu- PERMISSION TO POSTPONE PRO- ination. ant to subsection (e)(4), the Director shall CEEDINGS ON AMENDMENT NO. 1 ‘‘(2) EXIT INTERVIEW.—If a financial institu- prioritize factors relating to the safety and TO H.R. 4545, FINANCIAL INSTITU- tion is not subject to a resident examiner soundness of the financial system of the TIONS EXAMINATION FAIRNESS program, the exit interview shall occur not United States. AND REFORM ACT later than the end of the 9-month period be- ‘‘(g) REMOVAL.—If the Director is removed ginning on the commencement of the exam- from office, the Council shall communicate Mr. HENSARLING. Madam Speaker, ination, except that such period may be ex- in writing the reasons for any such removal I ask unanimous consent that the ques- tended by the Federal financial institutions to the Committee on Financial Services of

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A15MR7.006 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1625 the House of Representatives and the Com- Director’s decision with the Council within any request, notice, or application that oth- mittee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Af- 10 days of receiving the Director’s decision. erwise would have been approved, but for the fairs of the Senate not later than 30 days be- ‘‘(2) STANDARD OF REVIEW.—In making a de- exercise of the institution’s or credit union’s fore the removal. termination under this subsection, the Coun- rights under this section.’’; ‘‘(h) CONFIDENTIALITY.—The Director shall cil shall conduct a review to determine (3) in subsection (e)(2)— keep confidential all meetings with, discus- whether there is substantial evidence that (A) in subparagraph (B), by striking ‘‘and’’ sions with, and information provided by fi- the Director’s decision would pose an immi- at the end; nancial institutions.’’. nent threat to the safety and soundness of (B) in subparagraph (C), by striking the pe- SEC. 5. RIGHT TO INDEPENDENT REVIEW OF MA- the financial institution. riod and inserting ‘‘; and’’; and TERIAL SUPERVISORY DETERMINA- ‘‘(3) FINAL DETERMINATION.—A determina- (C) by adding at the end the following: TIONS. tion by the Council shall— ‘‘(D) ensure that appropriate safeguards The Federal Financial Institutions Exam- ‘‘(A) be made not later than 30 days after exist for protecting the insured depository ination Council Act of 1978 (12 U.S.C. 3301 et the filing of the notice pursuant to para- institution or insured credit union from re- seq.), as amended by section 4, is further graph (1); and taliation by any agency referred to in sub- amended by adding at the end the following: ‘‘(B) be deemed a final agency action and section (a) for exercising its rights under ‘‘SEC. 1014. RIGHT TO INDEPENDENT REVIEW OF shall bind the agency whose supervisory de- this subsection.’’; and MATERIAL SUPERVISORY DETER- termination was the subject of the review (4) in subsection (f)(1)(A)— MINATIONS. and the financial institution requesting the (A) in clause (ii), by striking ‘‘and’’ at the ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—A financial institution review. end; shall have the right to obtain an independent ‘‘(f) RIGHT TO JUDICIAL REVIEW.—A finan- (B) in clause (iii), by striking ‘‘and’’ at the review of a material supervisory determina- cial institution shall have the right to peti- end; and tion contained in a final report of examina- tion for review of final agency action under (C) by adding at the end the following: tion. this section by filing a Petition for Review ‘‘(iv) any issue specifically listed in an ‘‘(b) NOTICE.— within 60 days of the Director’s decision or exam report as a matter requiring attention ‘‘(1) TIMING.—A financial institution seek- the Council’s decision in the United States by the institution’s management or board of ing review of a material supervisory deter- Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia directors; and mination under this section shall file a writ- Circuit or the Circuit in which the financial ‘‘(v) any suspension or removal of an insti- ten notice with the Independent Examina- institution is located. tution’s status as eligible for expedited proc- tion Review Director (the ‘Director’) within ‘‘(g) REPORT.—The Director shall report essing of applications, requests, notices, or 60 days after receiving the final report of ex- annually to the Committee on Financial filings on the grounds of a supervisory or amination that is the subject of such review. Services of the House of Representatives and compliance concern, regardless of whether ‘‘(2) IDENTIFICATION OF DETERMINATION.— the Committee on Banking, Housing, and that concern has been cited as a basis for an- The written notice shall identify the mate- Urban Affairs of the Senate on actions taken other material supervisory determination or rial supervisory determination that is the under this section, including the types of matter requiring attention in an examina- subject of the independent examination re- issues that the Director has reviewed and the tion report, provided that the conduct at view, and a statement of the reasons why the results of those reviews. In no case shall issue did not involve violation of any crimi- institution believes that the determination such a report contain information about in- nal law; and’’. is incorrect or should otherwise be modified. dividual financial institutions or any con- (b) FEDERAL CREDIT UNION ACT.—Section ‘‘(3) INFORMATION TO BE PROVIDED TO INSTI- fidential or privileged information shared by 205(j) of the Federal Credit Union Act (12 TUTION.—Any information relied upon by the financial institutions. U.S.C. 1785(j)) is amended by inserting ‘‘the agency in the final report that is not in the ‘‘(h) RETALIATION PROHIBITED.—A Federal Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection,’’ possession of the financial institution may financial institutions regulatory agency may before ‘‘the Administration’’ each place such be requested by the financial institution and not— term appears. shall be delivered promptly by the agency to ‘‘(1) retaliate against a financial institu- (c) FEDERAL FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS EXAM- the financial institution. tion, including service providers, or any in- INATION COUNCIL ACT OF 1978.—The Federal ‘‘(c) RIGHT TO HEARING.— stitution-affiliated party (as defined under Financial Institutions Examination Council ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Director shall deter- mine the merits of the appeal on the record section 3 of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act of 1978 (12 U.S.C. 3301 et seq.) is amend- or, at the financial institution’s election, Act), for exercising appellate rights under ed— shall refer the appeal to an Administrative this section; or (1) in section 1003, by amending paragraph Law Judge to conduct a confidential hearing ‘‘(2) delay or deny any agency action that (1) to read as follows: pursuant to the procedures set forth under would benefit a financial institution or any ‘‘(1) the term ‘Federal financial institu- sections 556 and 557 of title 5, United States institution-affiliated party on the basis that tions regulatory agencies’— Code, which hearing shall take place not an appeal under this section is pending under ‘‘(A) means the Office of the Comptroller of later than 60 days after the petition for re- this section. the Currency, the Board of Governors of the view was received by the Director, and to ‘‘(i) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—Nothing in Federal Reserve System, the Federal Deposit issue a proposed decision to the Director this section may be construed— Insurance Corporation, and the National based upon the record established at such ‘‘(1) to affect the right of a Federal finan- Credit Union Administration; and hearing. cial institutions regulatory agency to take ‘‘(B) for purposes of sections 1012, 1013, and enforcement or other supervisory actions re- 1014, includes the Bureau of Consumer Finan- ‘‘(2) STANDARD OF REVIEW.—In rendering a determination or recommendation under lated to a material supervisory determina- cial Protection;’’; and this subsection, neither the Administrative tion under review under this section; or (2) in section 1005, by striking ‘‘One-fifth’’ Law Judge nor the Director shall defer to ‘‘(2) to prohibit the review under this sec- and inserting ‘‘One-fourth’’. the opinions of the examiner or agency, but tion of a material supervisory determination SEC. 7. REDUCTION OF SURPLUS FUNDS OF FED- shall conduct a de novo review to independ- with respect to which there is an ongoing en- ERAL RESERVE BANKS. ently determine the appropriateness of the forcement or other supervisory action.’’. (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 7(a)(3)(A) of the agency’s decision based upon the relevant SEC. 6. ADDITIONAL AMENDMENTS. Federal Reserve Act (12 U.S.C. 289(a)(3)(A)) is statutes, regulations, and other appropriate (a) RIEGLE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND amended by striking ‘‘$7,500,000,000’’ and in- guidance, as well as evidence adduced at any REGULATORY IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 1994.— serting ‘‘$7,324,285,000’’. hearing. Section 309 of the Riegle Community Devel- (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—Subsection (a) shall ‘‘(d) FINAL DECISION.—A decision by the Di- opment and Regulatory Improvement Act of take effect on June 1, 2018. rector on an independent review under this 1994 (12 U.S.C. 4806) is amended— The SPEAKER pro tempore. The bill, section shall— (1) in subsection (a), by inserting after ‘‘ap- as amended, shall be debatable for 1 ‘‘(1) be made not later than 60 days after propriate Federal banking agency’’ the fol- hour equally divided and controlled by the record has been closed; and lowing: ‘‘, the Bureau of Consumer Financial ‘‘(2) subject to subsection (e), be deemed a Protection,’’; the chair and ranking minority mem- final agency action and shall bind the agency (2) in subsection (b)— ber of the Committee on Financial whose supervisory determination was the (A) in paragraph (2), by striking ‘‘the ap- Services. subject of the review and the financial insti- pellant from retaliation by agency exam- After 1 hour of debate, it shall be in tution requesting the review. iners’’ and inserting ‘‘the insured depository order to consider the further amend- ‘‘(e) LIMITED REVIEW BY FFIEC.— institution or insured credit union from re- ment printed in part B of House Report ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—If the agency whose su- taliation by the agencies referred to in sub- 115–595, if offered by the Member des- pervisory determination was the subject of section (a)’’; and ignated in the report, which shall be the review believes that the Director’s deci- (B) by adding at the end the following sion under subsection (d) would pose an im- flush-left text:Q02 considered read, shall be separately de- minent threat to the safety and soundness of ‘‘For purposes of this subsection and sub- batable for the time specified in the re- the financial institution, such agency may section (e), retaliation includes delaying port equally divided and controlled by file a written notice seeking review of the consideration of, or withholding approval of, the proponent and an opponent, and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A15MR7.005 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H1626 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 15, 2018 shall not be subject to a demand for a Many of our community financial in- independent examination review board. division of the question. stitutions have felt a very, very heavy This will allow for uniformity among The gentleman from Texas (Mr. HEN- hand of burdensome Federal regula- regulatory agencies, again, while mak- SARLING) and the gentleman from Mis- tions that were intended—or so we ing the overall exam process more fair souri (Mr. CLEAVER) each will control were told—for the largest and most and more efficient. 30 minutes. complex institutions; and regulators, The bill does not prevent a regu- The Chair recognizes the gentleman unfortunately, seem to ignore congres- latory agency from conducting exami- from Texas. sional directive and apply each one of nations or imposing restrictions on fi- GENERAL LEAVE these standards to our smallest institu- nancial exams, but, again, it will re- Mr. HENSARLING. Madam Speaker, tions. Thus, yesterday, Madam Speak- store fairness, due process, and ac- I ask unanimous consent that all Mem- er, we voted on the TAILOR Act, also countability for the sake of our com- bers may have 5 legislative days within authored by the gentleman from Colo- munity banks and credit unions; and, which to revise and extend their re- rado, that would also help ensure these more importantly, for the sake of those marks and include extraneous material regulations are tailored to the size and who still have the American Dream of on the bill under consideration. complexity of the institution. either buying their own home, starting The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Without having due process and fair- their own business, or sending that objection to the request of the gen- ness in this exam review, the result has first kid to college, it is imperative tleman from Texas? been catastrophic. This regulatory bur- that we enact H.R. 4545. There was no objection. den, of which this is a part, has been Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- Mr. HENSARLING. Madam Speaker, resulting in the closing or merger of ance of my time. I yield myself such time as I may con- one community bank or credit union Mr. CLEAVER. Madam Speaker, I sume. per day, on average. And again, they yield myself such time as I may con- Madam Speaker, I rise today in very are not being lost to natural causes. sume. strong support of H.R. 4545, the Finan- Our community financial institu- Madam Speaker, I rise in opposition cial Institutions Examination Fairness tions serve as the backbone of our to H.R. 4545. American economy, and we simply can- and Reform Act. Today we are considering yet another not afford to lose them. As chairman of It is a strongly bipartisan bill, hav- measure that would weaken our system the Financial Services Committee, in ing come out of our committee by a of financial regulation and bog down my sixth year, my colleagues on both vote of 50–10. It is authored by the gen- regulators in their important work. It sides of the aisle are all too familiar tleman from Colorado (Mr. TIPTON), would ultimately take us right back to with this problem. I hear from credit who serves as the vice chairman of our some of the problems that led to the unions and community banks every Subcommittee on Oversight and Inves- largest financial crisis since the Great day. tigations and is, indeed, one of the Depression. The bill puts financial in- I heard from West Community Credit leaders in the House in bringing regu- stitutions’ profits before the protection Union in Missouri, who wrote: ‘‘This latory relief to our community finan- of consumers and the best interests of one-size-fits-all approach is simple- cial institutions. I want to thank him the American public. for his leadership on this very, very im- minded and has real consequences. We I rise, Madam Speaker, to say to portant issue. are beginning to make changes that Members of both sides of the aisle that H.R. 4545 creates transparency and will negatively impact our ability to we must remember the past as we cre- accountability among regulators by continue to serve members in meeting ate policies. I was here during that en- improving the timeliness of examina- their home equity lending needs.’’ tire period, and it created a very, very tions, while also creating a new more In fact, Madam Speaker, we know heavy darkness over this entire coun- independent examination appeals proc- that a number of banks and credit try. ess. unions have had to leave mortgage lending because of the regulatory bur- In the years preceding the financial b 1315 den. crisis, the Federal Reserve failed to Madam Speaker, this is about, again, Then there is County-City Credit write rules stopping predatory, risky transparency. It is about due process. Union in Wisconsin, who said: ‘‘Small mortgage loans. The OCC and OTS pre- The Office of Independent Examination credit unions are dropping every day. empted State regulators from reining Review created under this bill will en- Unless we get immediate relief, there in mortgage abuses. The Federal Re- sure accountability and fairness for fi- won’t be any left. That would be tragic serve Bank of New York and other reg- nancial institutions during their super- for our members and the very fabric of ulators failed to stem excesses at large visory examinations. It does so by pro- our country. Please help us, and help companies and did not downgrade trou- viding the right for these institutions us right now.’’ bled companies until it was too late. to obtain an independent review of a I have good news. Help is on the way Legislation such as H.R. 4545 sets the material supervisory determination if we can get a good, solid vote this stage to return us to an ineffective reg- contained in a final examination re- afternoon. ulatory system. port. The CEO of Commonwealth National Republicans have made it a habit to The creation of this independent re- Bank in Tennessee wrote: ‘‘The fact re- falsely claim that their legislation is view process is particularly important mains that there are fewer community designed to benefit small community for our Nation’s community banks and banks today than there were several banks and credit unions. There are credit unions that will now be able to years ago, a trend that will continue some things that could be changed to appeal their examination decisions until rational changes’’—for example, improve Dodd-Frank and to provide re- without fear of reprisal from their reg- like the ones we are speaking of today, sponsible relief for small community ulator. Madam Speaker—‘‘are made that will institutions, which I believe we all rec- By reforming the process for exam- provide some relief to America’s home- ognize did not cause the financial cri- ining financial institutions to ensure it town banks.’’ sis. is fair and consistent, Congress will in- Again, we are hearing this plea every I have said in our committee and I deed enhance the safety and soundness single day. So there is good reason why will say openly in any other place, in- of the financial system overall while H.R. 4545 was reported by this com- cluding on the floor here, that there ensuring Main Street businesses can mittee with a strong bipartisan vote, are some things we can repair in Dodd- access the liquidity and capital re- 50–10, including a majority support of Frank. But what this bill would do is sources they need to grow and create the Democrats on the committee. give all regulated financial institutions jobs. Again, Madam Speaker, this is Again, the bill is strongly bipartisan, an additional way to appeal and, there- why this is so important. Ultimately, it is practical, and it is necessary. H.R. by, postpone material supervisory de- this is about ensuring a free flow of 4545 will allow financial institutions, terminations of their prudential regu- credit to Main Street businesses and again, to have supervisory determina- lator and of the Consumer Financial families. tions reviewed by a newly established Protection Bureau.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.027 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1627 In other words, messy megabanks could appeal dozens or hundreds of ma- recourse in the appeals process of ex- and other big financial firms could ap- terial findings from every examination amination decisions. These institutions peal and delay adverse determinations creating enormous roadblocks to super- often lack the experience, capacity, such as a downgrade of a bank’s credit vision. The bank supervision process and resources needed to effectively re- rating for capital asset quality man- has been the first line of regulatory de- solve challenges to Federal financial agement, earnings, liquidity, and sensi- fense against threats to bank safety regulators’ examination determina- tivity to the market risk. It would also and soundness for a century or more. tions as each regulator has its own dif- enable them to appeal significant defi- H.R. 4545 creates unprecedented road- ferent rules and standards for the ap- ciencies of their anti-money laundering blocks to the effectiveness of bank su- peals process. programs, findings related to the viola- pervisory determinations and could be Under the current examination ap- tions of various rules, or a downgrade devastating to effective regulatory peals framework, appeals of material of their Community Reinvestment Act oversight in areas ranging from basic supervisory determinations, which are ratings. prudential oversight to key consumer decisions of significant consequence Let’s think about this for just a protections that make our financial that can have serious impact on the fi- minute. Some banks would be allowed, markets fairer.’’ nancial institution’s future, run under this bill, to appeal the OCC’s his- In addition, the nonpartisan Congres- through the agency that handed down toric and well-deserved double down- sional Budget Office found that H.R. the decision in the first place. grade of its CR rating. Under this bill, 4545 would increase the deficit by hun- b 1330 Wells Fargo, for example, would be al- dreds of millions of dollars—by hun- Mr. Speaker, that is like asking an lowed to unleash its army of lawyers to dreds of millions of dollars. It would in- arresting police officer to also be the not only fight against the rating, but crease by hundreds of millions of dol- judge and the jury when a case goes to to tie the OCC up in proceedings. We lars. Hundreds of millions of dollars it trial. all know that when the banks who would increase. Millions of dollars Put simply, this legislation will spend millions on legal teams each would be increased because banks move away from that framework and year deploy those resources, they de- would be more likely to fail and need establish an independent office of re- ploy them to win; and if they win, then government assistance. view to address appeals of serious con- American consumers lose. In sum, H.R. 4545 would weaken our sequence, and harmonize and consoli- But let’s focus on CRA. CRA was in- Nation’s system of financial regula- date the appeals process across the var- tended to ensure that institutions were tion, and, in so doing, it would reck- ious Federal regulators so that the re- making loans and providing services in lessly set the stage for a return to the view process is fair and predictable. the lower-income and moderate-income captive, hamstrung regulatory system One banker in Colorado put it to me neighborhoods in which they were lo- that existed in the years before the 2008 this way: ‘‘The Dodd-Frank Act has cated to address the problems of red- financial crisis that enabled the risky added complexity and uncertainty to lining. profit-fueled activities of large, com- the entire exam process and to the As highlighted in the recent report plex, messy megabanks and other ti- bank’s ability to serve its customers by the Center for Investigative Report- tans on Wall Street to go unchecked. I confidently and in full compliance of ing, redlining is not just some relic of therefore urge my colleagues to oppose regulations.’’ the past. Sadly, painfully, and embar- H.R. 4545. He continues: ‘‘For instance, overlap rassingly, redlining appears to be still Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- between the OCC and CFPB is an ongo- very much an ongoing, troubling prob- ance of my time. ing issue. The OCC lost regulatory lem that continues to harm many mi- Mr. HENSARLING. Madam Speaker, oversight with the Dodd-Frank Act and nority mortgage loan borrowers in cit- I yield myself 30 seconds just to say to the foundation of the CFPB, especially ies all across the United States of my friend from Missouri, as he re- in the fair lending world. When the America. counts his parade of horribles, that CFPB made it clear they were not This bill will make redlining worse, this bill was supported by a majority of going to examine the banks over $10 and that will happen because, instead Democrats on the committee, includ- billion on fair lending the way that the OCC had historically done it, the OCC of improving their ratings and trying ing Mr. CRIST of Florida, Democrat; started expanding the way that they to end discriminatory lending prac- Mr. DELANEY of Maryland, Democrat; assessed a bank’s Compliance Manage- tices, bank executives will simply chal- Mr. FOSTER of Illinois, Democrat; Mr. ment Program to add questions about lenge these rates and bully their own GONZALEZ of Texas, Democrat; Mr. fair lending, including transaction regulators into submission. GOTTHEIMER of New Jersey, Democrat; sampling and testing. It creates a very Now, this may be unintentional, as I Mr. HECK of Washington, Democrat; burdensome environment as well as du- would presume to believe, but this bill and Mr. HIMES of Connecticut, Demo- plication and the risk of double jeop- ignores the fact that prudential regu- crat. ardy.’’ lators and the Consumer Bureau each I think my 30 seconds is winding Mr. Speaker, an examination envi- already have an agency ombudsman down, but perhaps I can share the rest ronment that runs the risk of duplica- and an intra-agency formal review and of the Democratic Members who sup- tion and double jeopardy between agen- appeals process. What’s more, messy ported this excellent piece of legisla- cies isn’t tenable and puts our commu- megabanks already have existing ave- tion. nity institutions at risk of being exam- nues to bring a court challenge to any Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the ined into extinction. form of regulatory enforcement act. gentleman from Colorado (Mr. TIPTON), This environment is further com- Thus, what this bill would actually who is back with us again today. He is plicated by the reality that, currently, do is create unprecedented barriers to the vice chairman of the Financial institutions that want to appeal double the effective, prudential, and consumer Services Subcommittee on Oversight jeopardy examination results would protection supervision of the messy and Investigations and is the author of have to appeal through two regulators megabanks. It will give messy H.R. 4545. who likely aren’t communicating with megabanks and predatory lenders, in- Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I appre- one another about the other’s exam de- cluding payday lenders, an additional ciate the opportunity today to be able terminations. way to resist corrective actions to to advance an important piece of bipar- The Examination Fairness bill before avoid violations of law or safety and tisan legislation. The Financial Insti- the House today would solve this prob- soundness risk. As a result, the bill tutions Examination Fairness and Re- lem by establishing an Office of Inde- would allow these financial institu- form Act seeks to bring fairness to the pendent Examination Review, which tions to bog down agencies with frivo- Federal financial regulators’ examina- would function as a consolidated, sober lous appeals. tion appeals process by instituting a judge of the examination appeals proc- In a letter opposing H.R. 4545, the Na- uniform framework free from examina- ess. This newly created office under the tional Consumer Law Center wrote tion retaliation. Federal Financial Institutions Exam- that the effective bill ‘‘would be most Our community banks and credit ination Council would provide a com- pronounced at the largest banks who unions currently have no independent munity bank or credit union an avenue

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.029 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H1628 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 15, 2018 for independent recourse to appeal a The lack of consistency and quality process can be both opaque and secre- material supervisory determination in the bank examination process has tive. Coupling this with overburden- where fairness, transparency, and time- created serious problems for financial some regulations and increased compli- liness are paramount. Because this new institutions and their customers. Mr. ance costs have forced many commu- review process only applies to material TIPTON’s legislation aims to remedy nity banks and credit unions to close supervisory determinations, the new many of the issues we have heard about up shop or reduce their ability to pro- process is limited in scope and reserved from the banks and credit unions in vide for consumers. only for the most serious appeals. our congressional districts. Look no further than my State, This legislation is also careful not to H.R. 4545 will allow financial institu- North Carolina, which has lost about 50 constrain the power of the regulators tions to have supervisory determina- percent of its banks since the financial to pursue enforcement actions or to tions reviewed by a newly established crisis. In my own city of Charlotte, a prevent them from issuing a further independent examination review board. decade ago, we had six community material supervisory determination. In This will create uniformity among reg- banks. Today, we only have one be- fact, enforcement actions resulting ulatory agencies, while making the cause of the burdensome and costly from a determination would continue overall exam process fair and efficient. compliance requirements. to be enforced under this new appeals The legislation includes several other Mr. TIPTON’s legislation creates a fair process until the independent office ei- key reforms, such as imposition of a and impartial process for financial in- ther agrees with the finding of the reg- reasonable time limit on examiners to stitutions to appeal their examina- ulator or overturns a determination of provide exam results to institutions. It tions, which gives the necessary clarity the regulator. may seem like a simple request in the for banks and credit unions to provide Mr. Speaker, by creating consist- bill, a simple provision, but, today, in- services to their customers, leading to ency; instituting timeline expectations stitutions may wait as much as a year a job creation and economic prosperity of examinations and appeals; increas- or more—in some cases, several years— environment. ing transparency; and adding inde- to get the results of a single exam. That is why I want to thank the gen- pendent, sober review of appeals to the How can you be expected to comply tleman from Colorado for working on rights of the financial institutions, with regulations if the regulators don’t this bipartisan piece of legislation. It H.R. 4545 will go a long way to usher in get back to you in a timely fashion is long past time that we provide com- a new environment of fairness in the with their feedback? monsense reforms in a transparent ap- examination appeals process for small I myself spent several years as a proach regarding regulators’ decision- banks and credit unions. Giving these bank examiner. The relationship be- making during the examination proc- institutions independent recourse in tween banker and examiner was a col- ess. the appeals process will create greater legial one. Examiners would work with Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I re- certainty that they won’t have to re- bankers to make sure they understood serve the balance of my time. duce their financial service product of- their rules and address the issues that Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I ferings because of an unfair or un- manifested themselves during the yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from timely review. course of the examination. If an insti- Pennsylvania (Mr. ROTHFUS), the vice Mr. Speaker, that translates to tution failed to fix those issues, it then chairman of the Financial Service Sub- greater assurances for communities faced appropriate repercussions. committee on Financial Institutions across the country that their small Today’s exam environment is com- and Consumer Credit. banks and credit unions will be able to pletely different. Financial regulators Mr. ROTHFUS. Mr. Speaker, I thank provide a mortgage for their home, a seem to play a constant game of the chairman for yielding. loan for their car, and capital for their ‘‘gotcha.’’ The only recourse for a fi- Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the small businesses to be able to grow. nancial institution is to turn to an ap- Financial Institutions Examination This measure passed out of the Fi- peals process that, quite frankly, has a Fairness and Reform Act. nancial Services Committee with predetermined outcome. As the vice chairman of the Finan- strong bipartisan support, with a ma- Mr. Speaker, something has to cial Institutions and Consumer Credit jority of our Democrat colleagues join- change. Subcommittee, and as a longtime advo- ing with us to be able to support exam To be clear, this bill does not prevent cate for examination and review re- fairness. I would like to thank the gen- regulatory agencies from conducting forms, I commend my colleague, Rep- tlewoman from New York (Mrs. CARO- exams or imposing restrictions on fi- resentative TIPTON, for his hard work LYN B. MALONEY), for her support of nancial institutions. What it does is re- on this issue. this measure’s consideration here store order to the exam process, which, As we all know, our financial regu- today. for far too long, has been politicized latory agencies are not without their Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I yield and abused. flaws. From time to time, examiners myself such time as I may consume. This is an incredibly important offer decisions that are misguided, and Mr. Speaker, the inimitable chair of measure and one that I hope will re- these decisions deserve to be chal- our committee is absolutely right: ceive support from all my colleagues. lenged. Managers of financial institu- there are Democrats. This is a bipar- Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman tions that believe that the decisions tisan piece of legislation. But it proves from Colorado for his work. passed down by their examiners are what I was trying to say earlier, and Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I re- wrong deserve a chance to challenge that is that I and many other people serve the balance of my time. those decisions at an independent believe that we need to make some Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I forum and, if necessary, in the courts. changes to Dodd-Frank. This is just yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from We are all better served by a financial not one of them. North Carolina (Mr. PITTENGER), who is supervisory structure that subjects de- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of the vice chairman of the Financial cisions to the scrutiny of further re- my time. Services Subcommittee on Terrorism view. Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I and Illicit Finance. I know community bankers in west- yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Mr. PITTENGER. Mr. Speaker, I ern Pennsylvania who have struggled Missouri (Mr. LUETKEMEYER), the would like to convey my deep apprecia- with their examiners for years to get chairman of the Financial Institutions tion to my colleague on the Financial flawed determinations changed. In and Consumer Credit Subcommittee. Services Committee, Mr. TIPTON, for many cases, these individuals were Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I his efforts to improve and reform the doing the right thing for their compa- thank Chairman HENSARLING for his examination process for our Nation’s nies and their communities. Without tireless work in bringing this and so financial institutions. the benefit of a clear timeline, this many other commonsense bills to the H.R. 4545 is designed to address en- process has been allowed to drag on. floor. I also want to thank the gen- during concerns about the lack of con- Without a truly independent review tleman from Colorado (Mr. TIPTON) for sistency and quality in the bank exam- process and protection against retalia- his commitment to this issue. ination process. The current exam tion, these men and women working in

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.030 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1629 our community financial institutions regulators to review their own deci- keting, billing, administration of add- understand that they are facing an up- sions, and to do so in a timely fashion on products; and foreclosure abuses. hill battle. The current system is not to limit the impact to our community Bank of America, also mortgage independent and it is not sufficiently financial institutions. abuses, deficient mortgage servicing transparent. This is unfair. It is bad for As we all can agree, our community and foreclosure processing practices, our community financial institutions banks and credit unions are best credit monitoring abuses, deceptive and it is detrimental to the integrity of equipped to work with communities in marketing for add-on products, viola- our regulatory system. which they serve. tions of the Servicemembers Civil Re- I again urge my colleagues to support The SPEAKER pro tempore. The lief Act. Representative TIPTON’s work. time of the gentleman has expired. Now, we find that these banks have Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I yield Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I determined—they act in ways that we the balance of my time to the gentle- yield an additional 30 seconds to the know that fighting is just the cost of woman from California (Ms. MAXINE gentleman. doing business. It is a slap on the wrist. WATERS), and I ask unanimous consent Mr. KUSTOFF of Tennessee. This And they are going to continue to be that control she may control that legislation provides a system of checks able to get away with this. And if they time. and balances by establishing clear are saying that the bank examiners The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. standards to ensure the consistency who come in and find these adverse MCCLINTOCK). Is there objection to the and transparency of all examinations. conditions somehow will be ignored request of the gentleman from Mis- I want to thank Chairman HEN- and they can literally get around them, souri? SARLING and the Financial Services then we are going to add to the prob- There was no objection. Committee for their hard work. I urge lems of our consumers in this country. Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. all of my colleagues to support this Mr. Speaker, I am certainly asking Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of legislation. for a ‘‘no’’ vote on this bill, and I re- my time. serve the balance of my time. b 1345 Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. yield myself 2 minutes to say that I Tennessee (Mr. KUSTOFF), a hard- Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time just find some of the comments of the working member of the Financial Serv- as I may consume. ranking member curious. ices Committee. This is a very important bill that I I know if she continues this attack Mr. KUSTOFF of Tennessee. Mr. am asking the Members of Congress to on the so-called Wall Street Speaker, I rise today in support of the vote ‘‘no’’ on because we don’t want to megabanks, I just continue to be so cu- Financial Institutions Examination empower the megabanks and huge con- rious why she supports bailing them Fairness and Reform Act. I also want glomerates to be able to skirt adverse out? She voted against the Financial to thank Representative TIPTON for supervisory decisions about regulators. CHOICE Act that would have ended bringing this fine legislation. The bill would give all financial in- bailouts to these megabanks. And so In the Financial Services Committee, stitutions, regardless of their size, an she supports a bailout fund in Dodd- we often focus on relieving the regu- additional method to appeal, thereby Frank to continue to bail out these latory burdens our smaller financial in- significantly delaying adverse deter- banks. stitutions face. While larger banks minations by creating a new inde- Second of all, if she continues to at- have the bandwidth, if you will, to pendent review office to conduct de tack them, I guess I am curious also comply with various regulations, our novo reviews without concern for the why she supports the Federal Reserve’s smaller financial institutions have institution’s safety and soundness or program to pay interest on excess re- their hands tied with onerous regula- the protection of consumers. serves. She supports taking taxpayer tions and high compliance costs. Too This bill goes far beyond relief for money to pay the so-called Wall Street often, this strains the ability for our community banks and credit unions by megabanks not to loan money to Main smaller banks and credit unions to enabling megabanks and nonbanks, Street, something that I have opposed loan money to people who rely on them like payday lenders and Equifax, to as have many other Republicans on for capital. pursue limitless challenges to the this side of the aisle. The legislation that we are dis- agency’s actions in court. And then to make matters worse, Mr. cussing today creates more trans- If you take a look at the examples Speaker, on this interest on excess re- parency and certainty for community that we have prepared for you, take a serves, these banks are getting almost banks and credit unions undergoing look at Wells Fargo. Wells Fargo has 10 to 15 times what our constituents each regulators’ examination process. been at the center of attention in this are getting on their savings accounts. Currently, each of the four regulators country for the fraudulent accounts In many cases, it is the difference be- has its own appeals process. As we that it established using their cus- tween 0.07 percent, versus 1.5 percent. know, each regulator has their own tomers’ accounts and information to And so I understand, again, she attacks rules about what decisions can or can- create more accounts without inform- them, but then I am just curious, why not be repealed. ing their customers; and then they had does she find so many ways to support In many instances, this exam process the illegal student loan servicing prac- them? can take months and is conducted se- tices that we have all been so con- So personally, I think in this econ- cretively, often leaving the institution cerned about; and even after the fraud- omy, there is a need for community in the dark about the possible viola- ulent accounts were exposed and a fine banks and credit unions. There is a tions. If an unfavorable determination was made because of the harm that need for regional banks, and there is a results from the exam, the financial in- they had caused to their customers, we need for global banks as well. What we stitution is then forced to limit its then found that they had inappropriate want is accountability. We want less ability to open new branches or from force-placed insurance, which means Federal control, and what we want is offering certain financial products. that people who were already paying more private capital. We want to en- Folks in every community across the for their insurance were forced to pay sure that there are never more tax- country rely on these financial institu- again because the bank basically payer bailouts. tions to access credit, grow a business, forced them to have additional insur- And again, as I said earlier, as this purchase a new car, or pay for an unex- ance. so-called parade of horribles was pected expense. This important legisla- And then there is J.P. Morgan with brought to the attention of the House, tion restores some of the transparency illegal credit card practices and dis- why is it that a majority of Democrats to the examination process and pre- criminatory lending, sale of bad credit on her committee support this legisla- vents regulators from being the cop, card debt, and illegal robo-signing. tion? Sixteen of them support the leg- the judge, and the jury. And Citi with deficient mortgage islation. In addition, this legislation will re- servicing and foreclosure processing Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of store accountability on the part of the practices; inappropriate fees, mar- my time.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.031 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H1630 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 15, 2018 Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. Council Act of 1978, a long time ago, by as to whether the appeal is heard on I yield myself such time as I may con- updating the definition of financial in- the record will be left to the petitioner. sume. stitutions, establishing new require- Again, you are getting due process. We Mr. Speaker, I always have these ments for the final examination report want due process. That is something lively debates with my chairman, and process, and creating an office of inde- we all fight for. No one disagrees on he never fails to point out that I voted pendent examination review, giving that. Why can’t we offer that to our for the bailout. And, of course, often- some independence here, some common small community banks and credit times when he comes with one of these sense. unions that oftentimes feel victimized? deregulation bills, he talks about bi- These updates are critical because, in This is a bipartisan bill. partisan and how he had Democrats. 1994, Congress directed Federal regu- This is common sense, and I would Well, I want you to know the bailout lators to establish an independent encourage my good friend, the ranking was a bipartisan thing. It was ap- intra-agency appellate process for in- member—who I like so much—to join pointed by both Democrats and Repub- stitutions to seek the review of exam- us and let’s get something done for licans at a time when we were in great ination ratings, adequacy of loan loss small community banks. difficulty in this country. reserve, and clarifications on loans. Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. It was the Bush bailout, and it was I agree that these entities should be Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time Mr. Paulson, appointed by Mr. Bush, reviewed to ensure that they are finan- as I may consume. who was the Secretary who led it and cially sound. We want to make sure Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the offer gave us the advice and had us partici- that we prevent failure so we don’t from my good friend to join him, but I pate in saving our economy based on have folks across the aisle voting for don’t think I will be doing that today. the information that he had uncovered bailouts. However, we are hearing from Mr. Speaker, I include in the RECORD about the risk that was now proposed our community financial institutions, organizations that have sent us infor- for our country. the ones that serve most of my district mation in opposition to this bill. It in- So I am not for bailing out big banks in Wisconsin, that the avenues needed cludes the National Consumer Law at all. We had an emergency situation to appeal these determinations are lim- Center, AFSCME, the Center for Amer- in this country where, again, it was the ited. The process is secretive, and the ican Progress, and Americans for Fi- Bush bailout that we had to deal with regulators are overempowered. nancial Reform. the fact that we were in great danger. The intra-agency review process has NATIONAL CONSUMER LAW CENTER, But let me just also say this: we have also been criticized as not being inde- Washington, DC, March 8, 2017. something now that we put into Dodd- pendent because the regulatory deter- Re Oppose S. Amdt. 2140 (Moran), HR 4545, Frank reform called the Orderly Liq- minations are reviewed, not by a third The Financial Institutions Examination uidation Authority scenario that we party, but by the employees of the Fairness Act; creates roadblocks to bank are able to look at banks, and, because same regulator handing down the ver- supervision for safety and soundness, of the stress testing that they have dict. So this is the judge, the jury, and consumer protection. gone through, if there is a need for an the executioner. SENATOR, orderly resolution because there are I was a prosecutor, and when I pre- U.S. Senate, Washington, DC. problems with the bank, we cannot sented a case to a jury and they found On behalf of our low income clients, I urge someone guilty, I didn’t make the de- you to oppose Senate Amendment 2140 to S. only recommend breaking off parts of 2155, which incorporates HR 4545 (Tipton), the bank, but reordering parts of the fendant appeal the verdict to the same The Financial Institutions Examination bank and doing what is necessary to jury that found him guilty. They have Fairness Act. The bill would create unprece- ensure that the bank does not get into got to go to a third-party appellate dented barriers to effective prudential and a situation where it fails and triggers process, independent reviewers. That is consumer protection supervision of banks, the failures of others in our economy. the way the American system works allowing banks to resist corrective actions So it is the Orderly Liquidation Au- and should work in this scenario as to address law violations or safety and thority that I am referring to, and I do well. soundness risks, bogging down agencies with not support bailing out big banks. This Our community bankers explained frivolous appeals. that they feel victimized. They feel HR 4545 would grant regulated banks the is one thing that I join with my chair- right to appeal any supervisory determina- man on. We both agree that we should retribution for challenging the out- tion made by any prudential banking agency not be bailing out these big banks. comes of these exams, and that is a bad or by the Consumer Financial Protection Bu- And, of course, that is what Dodd- thing. Add to the fear the fact that reau (CFPB) to a new ‘‘Office of Independent Frank is helping us to avoid. these examinations lack transparency, Examination Review’’ established in the Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of and now we have real problems to con- Federal Financial Institutions Examinations my time. tend with which is why the solution is Council (FFIEC). Upon appeal by a super- Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I so bipartisan. The chairman mentioned vised bank, this new office would be required am very pleased now to yield 3 minutes 16 Democrats on the committee voted to undertake a repetitive de novo review of to the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. the agency’s supervisory decision. No def- for this commonsense piece of legisla- erence to the initial examination findings or DUFFY), the chairman of the Financial tion. the agency’s judgment would be required in Services Committee Subcommittee on That is why the bill is so important. this review. Housing and Insurance. It will embolden our community banks This new process is duplicative to appeals Mr. DUFFY. Mr. Speaker, I thank by creating an independent auditor to processes and ombudsmen already present. the chairman for yielding. ensure fairness and transparency. The CFPB, FDIC, OCC, Federal Reserve, and Mr. Speaker, I would just note that The SPEAKER pro tempore. The National Credit Union Administration each the Orderly Liquidation Authority is time of the gentleman has expired. already have an agency ombudsman and an an authority to bail out big banks, con- Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I intra-agency formal review and appeals proc- sistent with the bailout that the rank- yield an additional 30 seconds to the ess. In addition, banks may bring a court challenge to any formal regulatory enforce- ing member voted for in, I believe, 2008, gentleman from Wisconsin. ment action. that the chairman, I believe, voted Mr. DUFFY. Mr. Speaker, this bill HR 4545 would enormously increase the against. ensures that there is an open forum for ability of banks to resist supervisory deci- When we talk about those who use these institutions to discuss the exam- sions. This effect would be most pronounced rhetoric to say they don’t support big ination procedures, practices, and poli- at the largest banks, who could appeal doz- banks, but then actually vote for them, cies without fear of reprisals. It gives ens or hundreds of material findings from I think that is a hard note to take. them a little bit of freedom. every examination, creating enormous road- But I rise today to support H.R. 4545, Importantly, the office would also re- blocks to supervision. The bank supervision the Financial Institutions Examina- view regulators’ procedures to make process has been the first line of regulatory defense against threats to bank safety and tion Fairness and Reform Act, a bipar- sure that their written examination soundness for a century or more. HR 4545 cre- tisan measure introduced by Mr. TIP- policies are being followed and adhered ates unprecedented roadblocks to the effec- TON. to. tiveness of bank supervisory determinations This bill would amend the Federal Lastly, the bill would provide a right and could be devastating to effective regu- Financial Institutions Examination to a hearing upon appeal. The decision latory oversight in areas ranging from basic

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.033 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1631 prudential oversight to key consumer pro- should not weaken these protections. Rather an increase in the correlation of bank bal- tections that make our financial markets than rolling back Dodd-Frank protections, ance sheets across the banking sector, mak- fairer. we should improve protections for working ing the financial system in general more vul- I urge you to oppose HR 4545 and any families from the abuses of large banks like nerable to certain shocks. amendment that incorporates the bill. Wells Fargo, and take steps to penalize large H.R. 4293’s requirements that CCAR be con- Yours very truly, data companies like Equifax for breaches of ducted no more often than once every two LAUREN K. SAUNDERS, its consumer data. years and that the Fed cannot object to a Associate Director. AFSCME opposes this harmful risky bill bank’s capital plan if the bank fails the qual- because it increases the likelihood that itative portion of CCAR are also deeply mis- AFSCME, banks, both large and small, will continue guided. A lot can change in two years. Risks Washington, DC, March 13, 2018. harming working families and consumers can build up and capital positions can dete- House of Representatives, and trigger new systemic economic prob- riorate quickly. CCAR must remain a rig- Washington, DC. lems. AFSCME urges you to vote against orous, forward looking, and annual exercise. DEAR REPRESENTATIVE: On behalf of the 1.6 H.R. 4545. The qualitative element of CCAR, which ap- million members of the American Federation Sincerely, plies to banks with over $250 billion in assets of State, County and Municipal Employees SCOTT FREY, or $10 billion in foreign exposure, is also cru- (AFSCME), I urge you to oppose the Finan- Director of Federal Government Affairs. cial for improving and maintaining robust cial Institutions Examination Fairness and capital planning processes and procedures at Reform Act (H.R. 4545), which would under- CENTER FOR AMERICAN PROGRESS, the largest banks in the country. Taking the mine the federal government’s enforcement Washington, DC, March 12, 2018. teeth out of the qualitative portion of CCAR of bank regulations and related systemic Hon. PAUL RYAN, would take a tool away from the Fed and risk protections by granting every bank—of Speaker, House of Representatives, have a negative impact on the risk manage- any size—a new right to appeal and postpone Washington, DC. ment capacity at these massive, complex in- existing banking regulators’ adverse super- Hon. NANCY PELOSI, stitutions. visory determinations. Now is not the time Democratic Leader, House of Representatives, H.R. 4545, the Financial Institutions Exam- to undermine these protections. Washington, DC. ination Fairness and Reform Act, would give AFSCME strongly opposes H.R. 4545 be- DEAR SPEAKER RYAN AND LEADER PELOSI: financial institutions the authority to ap- cause it would undermine bank regulators’ The Center for American Progress (‘‘CAP’’) peal any material examination decision ren- existing authority and related systemic safe- is writing today to express opposition to the dered by the federal banking regulators or guards that protect our economy from risky following bills impacting the regulation of Consumer Financial Protection Bureau practices of banks. This would impose added financial institutions: H.R. 4293, the Stress (CFPB) to the Office of Independent Exam- costs and risks on working families and con- Test Improvement Act of 2017; H.R. 4545, the ination Review—a new office created by the sumers. Specifically, H.R. 4545 would grant Financial Institutions Examination Fairness bill. Financial regulators already have inter- regulated banks the right to appeal a pru- and Reform Act; H.R. 4566, the Alleviating nal appeals processes in place through their dential banking agency’s material super- Stress Test Burdens to Help Investors Act; respective Ombudsman offices and financial visory determination. H.R. 4545 installs the H.R. 1116, the TAILOR Act of 2017; and H.R. institutions can pursue legal remedy for new appeals process in a not yet created Of- 4061, the Financial Stability Oversight Coun- flawed examination decisions through the ju- fice of Independent Examination Review cil Improvement Act of 2017. These bills may dicial system. This new office and review (OIER) located within the Federal Financial be considered on the floor of the House of process is simply an additional hurdle for Institutions Examinations Council (FFIEC) Representatives in the near-term, so we wel- regulators to contend with when supervising and would require OIER to initiate a de novo come the chance to share our concerns re- financial institutions and an additional review of the appealed supervisory decision garding this series of bills with you and your point at which institutions can slow down or with zero deference to the regulators’ prior Members. avoid punishments. H.R. 4545 would under- pre-appeal review, findings, or determina- H.R. 4293, the Stress Test Improvement Act mine the examinations process at a time tions. By creating a de novo appeals process, of 2017, would require the Federal Reserve when supervisory authority and penalties for H.R. 4545 further incentivizes banks to chal- Board to open up its Dodd-Frank Act Stress financial sector malfeasance should be lenge every supervisory decision and allows Testing (DFAST) and Comprehensive Capital strengthened. banks to more easily circumvent and delay Analysis and Review (CCAR) scenarios, H.R. 4566, the Alleviating Stress Test Bur- penalties. Furthermore, H.R. 4545 also would methodologies, loss models, and other infor- dens to Help Investors Act, would repeal the grant these appeal rights to any nonbank mation to public notice and comment prior Federal Reserve Board’s discretionary au- under supervisory authority of the Consumer to conducting the stress tests. This is a simi- thority to subject nonbank financial compa- Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and re- lar policy proposal to what was included in nies, that have not been designated by the quire OIER de novo review. Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin’s bank- Financial Stability Oversight Council as sys- Unlike the current process with existing ing report released in June 2017. H.R. 4293 temically important, to annual stress test- prudential regulators, OIER would not be re- would also limit the frequency of the CCAR ing. The bill would also repeal the Dodd- sponsible for our banking system’s safety process to no more than once every two Frank Act requirement that a federal pri- and soundness, and thus OIER’s decision- years and would prohibit the Fed from ob- mary regulator subject nonbank financial making would be narrower in purpose and jecting to a firm’s capital plan when a firm companies with more than $10 billion in as- thereby increase risk to America’s economy. fails the qualitative portion of CCAR. sets to company-run stress testing. The 2007– We do not need H.R. 4545’s appeals process These proposed changes to the Fed’s stress 2008 financial crisis made it clear that sub- because a formal review and appeals process testing framework would severely undermine stantial risk can build up outside of the tra- along with ombudsmen already exist at af- the effectiveness of the stress tests. Stress ditional banking sector. The failure or near- fected banking agencies, such as CFPB, testing is arguably the most important new failure at nonbank financial companies like FDIC, the Federal Reserve, National Credit prudential tool implemented by the Fed fol- AIG, Bear Stearns, Merrill Lynch, and Leh- Union Administration, and OCC. Further- lowing the 2007–2008 financial crisis. The an- man Brothers helped bring the global econ- more, banks already can bring a court chal- nual stress tests help ensure that banks fund omy to the brink of collapse. Workers, home- lenge to any formal regulatory enforcement themselves with enough capital to withstand owners, and savers all felt the immense eco- action. losses from a severe negative shock and eco- nomic pain from that unchecked risk in the H.R. 4545’s scope is huge and not merely nomic downturn, while continuing to provide financial sector. limited to small, community depository the credit and financial services the real Eliminating the Federal Reserve Board’s banks. At committee mark-up, an amend- economy needs to grow sustainably. H.R. authority to require stress testing at certain ment to narrow H.R. 4545’s scope to commu- 4293’s requirement that the Fed open DFAST nonbank financial companies would need- nity financial institutions below $10 billion and CCAR to public notice and comment lessly prevent the Fed from acting when nec- in assets was rejected clarifying the intent would essentially give the tests to the banks essary. The ability to test a nonbank finan- that H.R. 4545 would benefit enormous banks, in advance. cial firm’s balance sheet to ensure it has including Wells Fargo. The tax bill enacted If a bank knows what the stress testing enough capital to withstand a financial just months ago in December 2017 grants scenarios are and has the Fed’s loss models, shock and economic downturn, while con- many of these same large banks tens of bil- it can tailor its balance sheet to limit its tinuing to provide the financial services the lions of dollars in new tax breaks. Moreover, projected losses—and in turn limit its re- real economy depends on, is a necessary au- many are already earning record profits. quired capital buffer. Opening up the stress thority. The same can be said about the com- We are nearing the 10th anniversary of the tests to this type of gaming and window pany-run stress testing that a primary fed- 2008 financial crisis, which triggered U.S. and dressing would be a dangerous deviation eral regulator will no longer be required to global recessions, America’s multiyear un- from post-crisis best practices. It runs implement if H.R. 4566 is enacted. derwater mortgage crises, and bankruptcies counter to the purpose of stress testing, H.R. 1116, the TAILOR Act of 2017, places for many companies that nearly sank the which is to mimic a financial shock—inher- new requirements on federal financial regu- U.S. economy. The subsequent Dodd-Frank ently a surprise that the bank doesn’t get a lators to further ‘‘tailor’’ their respective financial reform protections added essential chance to comment on or influence in ad- rules to the riskiness and business models of safeguards that stabilized our economy. We vance. Moreover, this change could lead to financial institutions. While a laudable goal,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A15MR7.008 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H1632 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 15, 2018 this bill ignores the existing tailoring of reg- The bank examination process has been to appeal them, would create an enor- ulation by institution type and size. The in- the first line of regulatory defense against mous new barrier to effective super- tent of this bill is to force regulators to min- threats to bank safety and soundness since vision of big banks.’’ imize regulatory costs without due concern at least the 1930s. The ‘‘Examination Fair- In essence, Mr. Speaker, what we are for the significant societal benefits of strong ness Act’’ would create unprecedented new saying is, we have our bank examiners financial regulations. The bill would also barriers to the effectiveness of bank exam- give big banks, and small banks alike, ample iners by empowering banks to delay, resist, who are going in and looking for ways footing to constantly object to regulations or overturn their decisions. In a practical to strengthen the banks and hoping in court—delaying the implementation of sense, this would make bank regulation even that they will not find these adverse important rules on the back-end, or putting weaker than it was before the 2008 crisis. It conditions, but, if they do, they have a pressure on regulators to not even undertake would be harmful to effective regulatory responsibility to the consumers to try rulemakings on the front-end. Moreover, by oversight in areas ranging from basic safety and get them corrected or to try and mandating a seven-year lookback period and soundness supervision to enforcement of get changes made. under which regulators would be required to key consumer protections that make our fi- reconsider existing rules, the bill completely nancial markets fairer. b 1400 undermines the regulations enacted under The ‘‘Examination Fairness Act’’ thus goes This bill says, despite adverse condi- the Dodd-Frank Act, the Credit CARD Act, beyond overturning post-financial crisis reg- tions that are discovered, we don’t and other laws. ulations to make bank oversight even weak- want to have to comply; we don’t want Separately, CAP sent a detailed letter on er than it was prior to 2008. As we reach the H.R. 4061 to you and your Members outlining 10th anniversary of the greatest economic to have to change; we don’t want to our strong opposition to the bill—which and financial crisis since 1929, it should be have to correct. We want to fight you. would render the Financial Stability Over- obvious that this is completely the wrong di- We want to use our vast resources to sight Council’s authority to designate rection for Congress to take. Since the crisis, say your examiners didn’t know what nonbank financial companies as system- fresh scandals like those at Wells Fargo have they were doing. ically important, nearly useless. continued to remind us that we need effec- They are not so much concerned For these reasons, CAP recommends that tive supervision to prevent pervasive and about the consumers; rather, they are Members vote ‘‘NO’’ when these bills are harmful abuse of consumers. more concerned about just being a part considered on the floor. We urge you to vote against H.R. 4545. Sincerely, of the bureaucracy. Thank you for your attention to this mat- It doesn’t make good sense what they GREGG GELZINIS, ter. Research Associate, Economic Policy, Sincerely, are saying about the examiners and Center for American Progress. AMERICANS FOR FINANCIAL REFORM. why they are not important. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. AMERICANS FOR FINANCIAL REFORM, my time. Washington, DC, March 12, 2018. Mr. Speaker, let me just read one of Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I DEAR REPRESENTATIVE: On behalf of Ameri- the paragraphs from the Center for yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from cans for Financial Reform, we are writing to American Progress that I think is so Oklahoma (Mr. LUCAS), a senior mem- urge you to vote in opposition to H.R. 4545, profound. the ‘‘Financial Institutions Examination ber of the Financial Services Com- ‘‘The Financial Institutions Exam- mittee and the former chairman of the Fairness and Reform Act,’’ which is being ination Fairness and Reform Act, considered on the House floor this week. House Agriculture Committee. ‘‘Examination fairness’’ may sound innoc- would give financial institutions the Mr. LUCAS. Mr. Speaker, I am uous, but make no mistake—this legislation authority to appeal any material ex- pleased to be here for the second time would put unprecedented new limits on the amination decision rendered by the in as many days to discuss a bill from powers of bank examiners. The impact of Federal banking regulators or Con- Mr. TIPTON, my friend and our col- this legislation in weakening bank super- sumer Financial Protection Bureau, league from Colorado. I commend his vision would be especially great at the na- CFPB, to the Office of Independent Ex- tion’s largest banks. Its effect would be to dedication to find ways to bring more amination Review—a new office cre- credit options to more Americans. This substantially increase the risk of systemic ated by the bill. Financial regulators problems, and of unfair and predatory treat- bill is no exception to that, and I thank ment of consumers. already have internal appeals processes him for sponsoring it. H.R. 4545 would grant banks the right to in place through their respective om- This Nation is founded on the idea appeal any supervisory determination made budsman offices and financial institu- that those who enforce the law are not by any bank regulatory agency, including tions can pursue legal remedy for those who ultimately judge those laws. the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau flawed examination decisions through This idea of due process is something (CFPB), to a new ‘‘Office of Independent Ex- the judicial system. all Americans respect and we enjoy, amination Review’’ that is outside of any ‘‘This new office and review process regulatory agency. Upon appeal by a super- but in the case of financial institu- vised bank, this new office would be required is simply an additional hurdle for regu- tions, there has been a noted lack of to undertake a de novo review of the agen- lators to contend with when super- such process during appeals. If a bank cy’s supervisory decision. No deference to vising financial institutions and an ad- or credit union today is assessed a the initial examination findings or the su- ditional point at which institutions postinspection penalty that they feel is pervisory agency’s judgment would be re- can slow down or avoid punishments. based on inaccurate or incomplete in- quired in this review. H.R. 4545 would undermine the exami- formation, the only recourse is back to This new appeals process is an addition to nations process at a time when super- formal appeals processes and ombudsmen al- the regulator that performed the in- ready present at the banking agencies. The visory authority and penalties for fi- spection in the first place. Such an ar- agencies affected by this legislation—includ- nancial sector malfeasance should be gument turns the concept of proper ing the CFPB, FDIC, OCC, Federal Reserve, strengthened.’’ process upside down. and National Credit Union Administration— In addition to that, there is another At the very least, I think we would each already have an agency ombudsman and paragraph in the letter from Americans all agree with a number of my col- an intra-agency formal review and appeals for Financial Reform that I think is ex- leagues who have noted that the judge, process. In addition, banks are already free tremely important in explaining why the jury, and the executioner should be to bring a court challenge to any formal reg- this bill should be opposed. separate. There has to be a better way. ulatory enforcement action. By layering an entirely new appeals proc- It says: ‘‘By layering an entirely new This bill provides that better way by ess on top of existing processes, this bill appeals process on top of existing proc- giving these institutions a new re- would greatly increase the ability of banks esses, this bill would greatly increase course so they can be assured of fair to resist supervisory oversight and ignore or the ability of banks to resist super- treatment. We all know this could be delay changes called for by supervisors. The visory oversight and ignore or delay an expensive and time-consuming proc- impact would be most pronounced at the changes called for by supervisors. The ess for a bank or credit union, which is largest banks, which can receive dozens or impact would be most pronounced at all the more reason to provide fair hundreds of material findings from every ex- the largest banks, which can receive treatment. Smaller banks and credit amination. The ability to appeal every one of those material supervisory findings, or just dozens or hundreds of material findings unions that go through this appeal to threaten to appeal them, would create an from every examination. The ability to process are possibly running the risk of enormous new barrier to effective super- appeal every one of those material su- losing an appeal that will severely vision of big banks. pervisory findings, or just to threaten limit their ability to offer credit.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A15MR7.009 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1633 For that reason, a newer, fairer proc- To get tough on megabanks that re- ‘‘(2) the term ‘community financial insti- ess will help all Americans by increas- peatedly engage in practices that harm tution’ means a financial institution with ing access to credit. I am not pulling consumers, Congress should be focused total consolidated assets of $10,000,000,000 or that idea out of thin air. The National on measures that strengthen consumer less;’’. Strike ‘‘financial institution’’ each place Bankers Association, which represents protections, provide tailored, respon- such term appears and insert ‘‘community fi- minority bankers, supports the legisla- sible relief for community banks, and nancial institution’’. tion. That should tell us how this bill ensure that abusive megabanks are Page 6, line 5, strike ‘‘financial institu- will benefit every American who relies held accountable. This bill, which tions’’ and insert ‘‘community financial in- on the financial services and on credit. would help megabanks and predatory stitutions’’. Finally, Mr. TIPTON’s bill does not lenders get off the hook when they Page 6, line 12, strike ‘‘financial institu- change the fact that some banks and break the law, should be rejected. tions’’ and insert ‘‘community financial in- Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance stitutions’’. credit unions will lose their appeals. Page 8, line 3, strike ‘‘financial institu- No one is saying that bad actors should of my time. tions’’ and insert ‘‘community financial in- go unpunished. The point of the bill, Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I stitutions’’. however, is to make that process as yield myself the balance of my time. Page 9, line 14, strike ‘‘financial institu- fair as possible. By consolidating the Mr. Speaker, again, this is a very tion’s’’ and insert ‘‘community financial in- appeals process into one office that is commonsense bill, which is one of the stitution’s’’. separate from the four main banking reasons it is strongly bipartisan. I am Page 12, beginning on line 4, strike ‘‘finan- regulators, that fairness can be sorry that the ranking member has not cial institutions’’ and insert ‘‘community fi- chosen to be part of that bipartisan- nancial institutions’’. achieved. Page 12, line 6, strike ‘‘financial institu- Again, Mr. Speaker, this bill not only ship, but over half of the committee tions’’ and insert ‘‘community financial in- supports the concept of due process, Democrats on our committee support stitutions’’. but it will also expand credit opportu- it. Why? Because they understand that Page 15, beginning on line 21, strike ‘‘— nities for all Americans. it is part of our American DNA to have (A)’’. I again commend the bill and the au- due process. Page 16, line 2, insert a period and a thor, and I urge my colleagues to vote When we continue to lose a credit quotation mark before the semicolon. in favor. union or a community bank every day Page 16, strike lines 3 through 5. Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. in America, on average, with their loss, The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Mr. Speaker, may I inquire as to how we are losing home ownership opportu- ant to House Resolution 773, the gen- much time I have left. nities, opportunities to grow busi- tlewoman from California (Ms. MAXINE The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- nesses. WATERS) and a Member opposed each tlewoman has 13 minutes remaining. Because of that regulatory burden, will control 5 minutes. Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. these exams can mean the difference The Chair recognizes the gentle- Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance between a credit union being open and woman from California. of my time. not being open. They can mean the dif- Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4545 is yet another ference between a community bank Mr. Speaker, my amendment is fairly harmful bill that would help out Wall being open or not open. Thus, it means straightforward. It would limit the ap- Street and predatory lenders. It has be- the difference in our constituents get- plicability of the exam reforms under come a theme for the majority to ting homes and small business loans H.R. 4545 to only depository institu- claim that their legislation is meant to and auto loans. tions with assets less than $10 billion. provide relief for small community This is common sense. It simply says I have only heard about community banks, when, in fact, the legislation you ought to be able to appeal an banks and credit unions with respect to plainly benefits the Nation’s largest exam, have a third party take a look at concerns regarding their exam process banks, including abusive megabanks it. and the ability to enhance the oppor- like Wells Fargo and even payday lend- Everybody deserves due process in tunity to appeal exam findings. As Ms. ers. This bill is yet another example. America, including our community Maloney made clear, when the com- The bill would allow any bank as well banks and credit unions, so that is why mittee marked up this bill, the sole as any nonbank supervised by the Con- it is so important that we enact H.R. purpose of the bill was to help commu- sumer Financial Protection Bureau to 4545. It came out of our committee nity banks and credit unions, so my appeal negative supervisory determina- with a huge bipartisan vote. Let’s amendment seeks to narrow the scope tions made by regulators in the exam- make sure credit continues to flow of the bill’s relief to these small firms. ination process. throughout America. Congress used a similar $10 billion H.R. 4545 makes it more likely that Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my col- asset threshold in Dodd-Frank to ex- bad actors, including predatory leagues to support H.R. 4545, and I yield empt small banks and credit unions megabanks like Wells Fargo, would back the balance of my time. from the Consumer Bureau’s super- avoid or delay accountability when The SPEAKER pro tempore. All time vision, so applying a similar threshold they break Federal law. It takes our for debate on the bill has expired. for the purpose of appealing bank su- system of financial regulation in ex- AMENDMENT NO. 1 OFFERED BY MS. MAXINE pervisory findings makes sense. actly the wrong direction. WATERS OF CALIFORNIA Today, 98 percent of all banks and Megabanks like Wells Fargo already The SPEAKER pro tempore. It is now 99.8 percent of all credit unions have treat the fines they are required to pay in order to consider amendment No. 1 less than $10 billion in assets. While I for violations of the law as simply the printed in part B of House Report 115– am in favor of sensible relief for small- cost of doing business. They don’t need 595. er financial institutions, I believe that more escape routes to avoid account- Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. the 2007–2009 financial crisis showed the ability for their wrongdoing. Mr. Speaker, I have an amendment at dangers of weak oversight of these big I have made it clear many times that the desk made in order under the rule. banks, including a $30 billion bank like abusive megabanks with egregious pat- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The IndyMac. The bank’s costly failure was terns of harming consumers should Clerk will designate the amendment. the fourth largest in the history of the face steep penalties from regulators. The text of the amendment is as fol- United States and contributed to the Last year I introduced H.R. 3937, the lows: most damaging financial crisis in gen- Megabank Accountability and Con- Amend section 2 to read as follows: erations. sequences Act, which would require the SEC. 2. AMENDMENT TO DEFINITIONS. As the largest firms pose the greatest Federal prudential banking regulators Section 1003 of the Federal Financial Insti- risk to the country’s economy and the to fully utilize existing authorities, tutions Examination Council Act of 1978 (12 safety and soundness of our financial U.S.C. 3302) is amended— such as the ability to shut down a (1) by redesignating paragraphs (2) and (3) system, it is only prudent to apply a megabank and ban culpable executives as paragraphs (3) and (4), respectively; and stringent supervisory approach for the and directors from working in the (2) by inserting after paragraph (2) the fol- largest institutions. In fact, the GAO banking industry. lowing issued a report last year criticizing the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.036 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H1634 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 15, 2018 Federal Reserve’s large bank super- nancial institutions with taxpayer H.R. 4263 vision program, underscoring there is funds. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- more work that must be done. I don’t believe in too-big-to-fail insti- resentatives of the United States of America in I have been pushing bank regulators tutions, but if I did, Mr. Speaker, if I Congress assembled, to deploy the full suite of their enforce- did, it would be limited to maybe eight SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. ment tools against megabanks like or nine banks in America. It certainly This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Regulation Wells Fargo that repeatedly and care- wouldn’t be applicable to any commu- A+ Improvement Act of 2017’’. lessly break the law and harm millions nity bank, credit union, or regional SEC. 2. JOBS ACT-RELATED EXEMPTION. bank. Section 3(b) of the Securities Act of 1933 (15 of consumers. That is why I intro- U.S.C. 77c(b)) is amended— duced, again, H.R. 3937, the Megabank We have to remember, regardless of (1) in paragraph (2)(A), by striking Accountability and Consequences Act. the size of the bank, it is their capital ‘‘$50,000,000’’ and inserting ‘‘$75,000,000, ad- So, no, I do not think it is appro- that is helping to capitalize our busi- justed for inflation by the Commission every priate to let megabanks like Wells nesses. 2 years to the nearest $10,000 to reflect the Fargo hijack what should be regu- b 1415 change in the Consumer Price Index for All latory relief for community banks so Urban Consumers published by the Bureau of that they can challenge their exams. I am from Dallas, Texas. One of our Labor Statistics’’; and Nonbanks regulated by the Consumer major employers is American Airlines. (2) in paragraph (5)— I wish they could do business with (A) by striking ‘‘such amount as’’ and in- Bureau, like Equifax or payday lenders, serting: ‘‘such amount, in addition to the ad- do not need this kind of regulatory re- First State Bank of Athens, but I sus- pect they do not. And so sometimes, justment for inflation provided for under lief either. such paragraph (2)(A), as’’; and yes, global banks are necessary to our My amendment narrows the scope of (B) by striking ‘‘such amount, it’’ and in- the bill on what should garner broad economy, regional banks are necessary serting ‘‘such amount, in addition to the ad- bipartisan support: sensible relief for to our economy, community banks and justment for inflation provided for under the community banks and credit credit unions are necessary to our such paragraph (2)(A), it’’. unions that need it. economy. They are suffering under the The SPEAKER pro tempore. The bill, Mr. Speaker, I would urge my col- sheer weight, load, volume, com- as amended, shall be debatable for 1 leagues who truly want to help commu- plexity, and expense of the regulatory hour equally divided and controlled by nity banks and credit unions rather burden, which the examination process the chair and ranking minority mem- than Wall Street megabanks to support is part of it. ber of the Committee on Financial my amendment. Let’s give them due process. Let’s Services. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance give them fairness and ensure that The gentleman from Texas (Mr. HEN- of my time. credit can flow to every small business, SARLING) and the gentlewoman from Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I every household that is worthy in California (Ms. MAXINE WATERS) each rise in opposition to the amendment. America. Let’s reject the ranking will control 30 minutes. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- member’s amendment, and let’s sup- The Chair recognizes the gentleman tleman from Texas is recognized for 5 port the underlying bill, H.R. 4545. from Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance minutes. GENERAL LEAVE Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, of my time. Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. again, what we are talking about here ask unanimous consent that all Mem- RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois). Pursuant to is fundamental due process: due process bers have 5 legislative days to revise the rule, the previous question is or- for every American, due process for and extend their remarks and submit dered on the bill, as amended, and on every institution regardless of its size, extraneous material on the bill under the amendment offered by the gentle- regardless of its geography. This is consideration. woman from California (Ms. MAXINE about due process. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there WATERS). As Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes objection to the request of the gen- The question is on the amendment wrote: ‘‘Whatever disagreement there tleman from Texas? offered by the gentlewoman from Cali- may be as to the scope of the phrase There was no objection. fornia (Ms. MAXINE WATERS). ‘due process of law,’ there can be no Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I The question was taken; and the doubt that it embraces the funda- yield myself such time as I may con- Speaker pro tempore announced that mental conception of a fair trial, with sume. the noes appeared to have it. opportunity to be heard.’’ He is one of Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise in very strong the most famous jurists in all of Amer- Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas support of H.R. 4263, the Regulation A+ ican history. and nays. Improvement Act. We are trying to ensure, again, that a The yeas and nays were ordered. I want to thank the sponsor of this bank examiner or a credit union exam- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- bipartisan legislation, the gentleman iner is not tantamount to judge, jury, ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the order from New Jersey (Mr. MACARTHUR). He prosecutor, cop on the beat, and execu- of the House of today, further pro- has been a huge leader on all capital tioner all rolled into one. There is no ceedings on this question will be post- formation issues within our committee due process if your only practical ap- poned. and in this Congress. He is a real asset. peal is to the person who rendered the His business acumen is well positioned f judgment in the first place. to help serve us, and his leadership on So, number one, it is important that REGULATION A+ IMPROVEMENT this bill should be commended. all Americans, all institutions receive ACT OF 2017 Mr. Speaker, although small compa- due process, which is perhaps why even Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, pur- nies are at the forefront of techno- over half of the Democrats on the Fi- suant to House Resolution 773, I call up logical innovation and job creation, nancial Services Committee chose to the bill (H.R. 4263) to amend the Secu- they often face significant obstacles in support H.R. 4545. rities Act of 1933 with respect to small obtaining funding in our capital mar- The ranking member’s amendment company capital formation, and for kets. These obstacles generally stem would set a threshold here, but her other purposes, and ask for its imme- from the disproportionately larger bur- threshold, as she talks about these so- diate consideration in the House. den that securities regulations, written called megabanks, at $10 billion, that is The Clerk read the title of the bill. principally for large public companies, one-half of 1 percent of the size of J.P. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- instead place on small companies when Morgan. ant to House Resolution 773, the they seek to go public. So, Mr. Speaker, I don’t believe in amendment printed in part D of House In 2012, the Jumpstart Our Business too-big-to-fail banks. I know my Report 115–595 is adopted, and the bill, Startups Act, known as JOBS Act, friends on the other side of the aisle do. as amended, is considered read. sought to modernize and better tailor That is why they voted for the bailout The text of the bill, as amended, is as some of these regulations, including fund to support these too-big-to-fail fi- follows: Reg. A, under our securities law. Reg.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:02 Mar 20, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD18\MARCH\H15MR8.REC H15MR8 March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1635 A is a longstanding exemption from offerings. In other words, by utilizing and report its reasons for not raising it SEC registration that permits public Reg. A+, small businesses can raise sig- to Congress. On April 5, 2016, the SEC offerings without formal registration nificant capital while saving more than sent Congress its report, stating: as long as certain conditions are met. $2 million—$2 million that can be in- ‘‘Given the short period of time that Prior to the JOBS Act, a small com- vested in jobs and research and other the final rules have been in effect and pany seeking to use Reg. A was limited growth opportunities. This is why Reg. in light of the limited number of Regu- to raising $5 million of securities in a A+ is so important: it provides a more lation A+ offerings qualified and com- 12-month period. As you can imagine, cost-effective way to raise equity cap- pleted to date, the Commission does over time, Mr. Speaker, Reg. A offer- ital early on in the growth stages of not believe that the information cur- ings became increasingly rare due to these companies. rently reported by companies on the the relatively small offering size that Additionally, Reg. A offerings enjoy amount of capital raised pursuant to was available and a requirement that preemption from State securities laws. Regulation A+ is sufficient to deter- Reg. A securities still comply with 50 Mr. Speaker, I hope every Member pays mine whether it would be appropriate different State securities law registra- close attention to this. They may not to propose an increase in the Tier 2 $50 tion and qualification requirements. know it. million offering limit.’’ Title IV of the JOBS Act attempted In 1980, when a startup computer If my Republican colleagues think to address the antiquated Regulation A company, by the way, called Apple de- that the SEC should be doing more, by directing the SEC to update it, cided to go public, the Commonwealth they only have to wait a few more which the SEC did in 2015, under the of Massachusetts decided the stock was weeks for the SEC’s next review and re- moniker Reg. A+, by creating two tiers too risky and barred its sale to indi- port on the Regulation A+ offering of Regulation A offerings and allowing vidual investors in the State. Today, limit. There is no reason why Congress certain securities to qualify for pre- Apple’s market valuation is almost $1 shouldn’t acknowledge the SEC’s exist- emption from State securities law. trillion. It is an American iconic brand ing efforts to study the empirical evi- Under the second tier, the SEC in- and one of the largest companies in the dence instead of making arbitrary deci- creased the amount companies can world. And it is, again, potentially sions devoid of any real analysis. offer from $5 million to $50 million. Mr. going to be the first public company Finally, and most importantly, the bill may harm retail investors and our MACARTHUR’s legislation only pertains with a trillion-dollar market cap. If markets. What my Republican col- to the Tier 2 limit. you had bought 45 shares of Apple when leagues fail to acknowledge is that the Since Reg. A+ was implemented in it was offered at its IPO, by the end of purpose of Regulation A+ is to provide 2015, small businesses have increas- last year you would have over $394,000. small private businesses with access to ingly been able to use this tool to raise That is hardly crumbs, Mr. Speaker. financing from mom-and-pop investors, much-needed capital to expand their In short, I strongly urge my col- many of whom are in their community, businesses and create new jobs in our leagues to support this legislation. It is so that they can grow and eventually economy. According to the SEC Office a very smart but modest improvement enter the public markets as full SEC of Small Business Policy, as of Novem- in a popular JOBS Act provision. ber 2017, 69 completed Reg. A+ offerings Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of reporting companies traded on a na- tional securities exchange. had raised a total of $611 million. my time. As public companies, they are subject Unfortunately, the $50 million cap Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. to the full set of investor protections leaves significant opportunity on the Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time under the securities laws, but also gain table for our startups, opportunity that as I may consume. access to much deeper sources of cap- could be better realized if the limit Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4263, the so-called ital. Indeed, under the current system, were increased to $75 million, which Regulation A+ Improvement Act, is a eight Regulation A+ issuers have al- the Treasury Department has rec- solution in search of a problem that ready listed their shares on an ex- threatens to undermine protections for ommended as a potentially less costly change, becoming true public compa- mom-and-pop investors and the integ- alternative for startups to raise cap- nies. This positive development sug- rity of our capital markets. The bill ital. Moreover, increasing the Reg. A+ gests that Regulation A+ is working as limit will better position companies would arbitrarily and prematurely in- Congress intended, and expanding it that want to use the exemption as an crease the maximum amount of securi- could discourage companies from be- on-ramp to list publicly to bear the ties that private companies can sell coming truly public. corresponding compliance burdens and each year to the public from $50 mil- However, it is also clear that addi- still invest in jobs and growth. lion to $75 million under the Securities tional study of the existing Regulation Mr. Speaker, more and more, we have and Exchange Commission’s Regula- A+ exemption is warranted. A series of seen IPOs of companies with products tion A+ exemption from registration. recent press articles highlight the high that we use every day—Uber, Mr. Speaker, such a change makes no risk of loss that investors face in in- Facebook, Spotify, Snapchat—come sense. First, the SEC only recently im- vesting in companies that have used after the company is already valued plemented Regulation A+ pursuant to Regulation A+ even when those compa- over $1 billion. For everyday investors, the Jumpstart Our Business Startups, nies later list their securities for trad- this often means missing out on some the JOBS Act. Effective June 19, 2015, ing on an exchange. of the most dynamic growth stages of that rule now allows private companies According to a February 2018 article the company that would provide the to raise either $20 million under Tier 1 in The Wall Street Journal, seven out highest rate of returns for them and or $50 million under Tier 2 from the of the eight companies that listed their their family, all while the wealthy, ac- public with less investor protections securities for trading on an exchange credited investors and venture capital and oversight than a public securities in 2017 following a Regulation A+ offer- firms can invest early, and they get to offering registered with the SEC. ing are trading an average of 42 percent rake in the better rates of return. What little data we have since it be- below their offering prices. By com- With regulations disproportionately came effective suggests that there is no parison, companies that engaged in a stacked against them, it isn’t sur- need to raise that $50 million limit. As traditional initial public offering, or an prising that small companies so often of December 31, 2017, only 39 percent of IPO, in 2017 are trading an average of are choosing to stay private. Many the 172 companies using Tier 2 of Regu- 22 percent above their offering prices. have no other choice. Again, after all, lation A+ sought the maximum Moreover, those Regulation A+ compa- the SEC has estimated that the costs amount of $50 million; and only three nies were trading lower, even as the of going public, on average, are $2.5 issuers, or 5 percent, of the 61 issuers S&P 500, which tracks 500 large pub- million in regulatory costs for under- that have reported proceeds in Tier 2 licly traded companies, has risen 18 going an IPO and annual compliance offerings actually raised the maximum percent since the start of 2017. costs averaging $1.5 million thereafter. amount. Congress should better understand Those costs stand in stark contrast Second, in the JOBS Act, Congress why Regulation A+ companies that to the $111,000 the SEC says is the aver- specifically directed the SEC to review have gone public fared so poorly com- age legal and auditing cost for Reg. A+ the Regulation A+ limit every 2 years pared to the rest of the market before

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.042 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H1636 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 15, 2018 we go ahead and expand Regulation A+ was effective 2015. It was raised to $50 The JOBS Act has proven to be wild- through legislation like H.R. 4263. million, and it has been helpful. It has ly successful, and this program has Now, Mr. Speaker, I joined with my created growth. It has created new proven itself successful as well. Yet it friends on the opposite side of the aisle, jobs. can be even more so with this modest and Mr. MCHENRY in particular, and This bill is a modest improvement, increase. supported the JOBS Act, and of course raising that $50 million to $75 million. So, specifically, the legislation fur- I had some questions about the risk This was contemplated in the original ther strengthens the ability for small- that would be involved with our mom- JOBS Act, where we raised it to $50 to mid-sized companies to attract more and-pop investors. I wasn’t sure, but I million. In that law, the SEC was re- traditional underwriters and more so- decided to support the JOBS Act and quired to either increase the $50 mil- phisticated investors into the Reg. A+ Mr. MCHENRY even with my concerns lion or to explain to us why they process. because I certainly wanted the oppor- weren’t doing it. Their deadline for Reg. A+ has been termed a ‘‘Mini tunity for these small businesses to doing that expired at the end of 2017. IPO’’ or an ‘‘IPO to go,’’ and for good have access to capital that perhaps So this is an overdue increase, and I reason. While the cost of doing a full- they would not be able to get other- think it is high time that we do it. blown IPO has skyrocketed, and the wise. I could offer a lot of anecdotes of how crowdfunding industry has been adopt- this benefits companies. I thought I ing Reg. A+ and leveraging it to raise b 1430 would offer the one that is closest to growth capital for a fraction of what a Along with that bill, we talked about home, my own story. traditional full-blown IPO would be, the review that would be done to deter- I was fortunate enough to buy a fair- would cost, while still having access to mine whether or not we should be in- ly small business in 2002. I did three the capital markets. creasing, particularly, Tier 2, that capital raises in the years that fol- Like the chairman, I and many oth- would expand the ability for the small lowed. The first was for $12 million, the ers on the committee have been con- businesses to have access to more than second was for $75 million, the third cerned about the decrease in these ini- $50 million. So I don’t know why we was for $500 million. And those capital tial public offerings, or IPOs, over the just don’t stick with what we did. raises continued during my period of last number of years. Reg. A+ has been I think that, despite whatever we are ownership of the company. able to step in and help fill that gap. It learning about the A+ regulation, we I can tell you, without any question, provides much greater flexibility and need to understand thoroughly what the smallest capital raises were the marketing to potential investors, both the advantages are, what the disadvan- hardest for me. It is much harder to accredited and non-accredited, while tages are, and what the risks are to in- raise this much money than it is to maintaining important consumer pro- vestors, et cetera. raise this much. When I was raising a tections that everybody agrees needs So I am going to ask my colleagues lot of money, I had a lot of interested to be there. to oppose this legislation. parties. When I was raising the smaller Despite Reg. A+ being cheaper and Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of amount, it was difficult. faster, however, major underwriters my time. What this bill does is allow growing and broker dealers have been slow to Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I companies to have another point in the fully adopt Reg. A+ because the size of yield 5 minutes to the gentleman from market where they can raise money. It the increase up to that $50 million has is not just banks or private equity New Jersey (Mr. MACARTHUR), the really been minimal compared to a tra- sponsor of this legislation and a hard- funds; it is regular, Main Street inves- ditional IPO. tors. working member of the Financial Serv- Raising the Reg. A+ limit to $75 mil- I heard the remarks that this creates ices Committee. lion is certainly a step in the right di- risk. I can tell you that there are doz- rection to alleviate this problem, as it Mr. MACARTHUR. Mr. Speaker, I am ens of people in my old company who proud to advance this bill—this bipar- opens Reg. A+ to larger companies that became shareholders, who are living a may be considering doing a full-blown tisan bill. I am grateful for my Demo- better life today, them and their fami- cratic cosponsor, Congresswoman traditional IPO. lies, because they had an opportunity Additionally, this increased limit SINEMA; Democratic Congressman to buy stock in a growing company. will have a positive impact for smaller GOTTHEIMER; and Republican Congress- Mr. Speaker, this bill is good for companies because it can attract some man HOLLINGSWORTH, for joining me in businesses. It is good for employees. It of the more traditional underwriters to this effort. is good for Main Street investors. It is the process. The purpose of this bill is pretty sim- a win, win, win. And, ultimately, it is So, again, I want to congratulate my ple and pretty narrow. Seven out of ten good for the American economy. I urge friend from New Jersey on his work on new jobs in this country come from our my colleagues to support it. Let’s not this, and the chairman for really try- Nation’s 28 million small businesses. be afraid of making a commonsense ing to push this issue forward. It is an When we help those businesses grow, change. I urge my colleagues to sup- important piece that we have been we help them create new jobs. port it. dealing with on the capital markets as I think of the biopharmaceutical Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. we are trying to maintain and make companies in my home State of New Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of sure that our markets are the most liq- Jersey as an example of companies my time. uid and deep in the world, and that that desperately need capital to con- Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I maintains that. tinue to grow, and that growth creates yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from So I urge my colleagues to support new jobs. The Federal Government can- Michigan (Mr. HUIZENGA), the chair- this important bill. not do everything, but we can surely man of the Capital Markets, Securi- Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. help these companies grow in our coun- ties, and Investments Subcommittee. Mr. Speaker, I continue to reserve the try. Mr. HUIZENGA. Mr. Speaker, I want balance of my time. The 1933 Securities Act laid the to commend my friend from New Jer- Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I groundwork that all interstate secu- sey and the work that he has put into yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from rity offerings have to be registered this. Illinois (Mr. HULTGREN), the vice chair- with the SEC. It was cumbersome, it I rise today in support of this much- man of the Financial Services Sub- was expensive, so that Congress made needed legislation that would increase committee on Capital Markets, Securi- some exceptions. Regulation A allowed the limit that small companies looking ties, and Investments. a limited amount of offerings for Main for additional investments and inves- Mr. HULTGREN. Mr. Speaker, this is Street investors, and Regulation D al- tors can solicit under Reg. A+. These an exciting, important debate. I rise lowed unlimited offerings for accred- deals would increase from $50 million today to speak in support of H.R. 4263, ited investors. This bill is working at to $75 million. This will enhance cap- the Regulation A+ Improvement Act. Regulation A. ital formation for growing small com- Congressman MACARTHUR’s bipar- Over time, those limits have gone up panies that are exploring crowdfunding tisan legislation would increase the of- periodically. The last time it was lifted as a method to raise capital. fering amount that companies can offer

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.043 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1637 under Tier 2 of Reg. A from $50 million tion, let’s make sure we remember it is sharing that equity with investors to $75 million, adjusted for inflation by simply an inflation adjustment for the through their exchange-traded fund, the SEC every 2 years. amount of shares that can be issued through their pension plan, through This type of legislation, modeled under this exemption. Congressman their 401(k) plan. We want more oppor- after the bipartisan JOBS Act, typi- MACARTHUR is simply proposing to tunities to share our Nation’s pros- cally enjoys strong bipartisan support make this financing tool available to perity. in Congress. I hope that will be the more startup companies and their in- I thank my friend, Mr. MACARTHUR, case again today. vestors. This should not be controver- for his thoughtful work, and I thank Title IV of the JOBS Act directed the sial. our chairman for his leadership on the SEC to issue rules to update Reg. A, I urge support for Congressman MAC- committee. which exempts small offerings of up to ARTHUR’s bipartisan legislation. Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. $5 million within a 12-month period Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. Mr. Speaker, I continue to reserve the from Federal registration. The updated Mr. Speaker, I continue to reserve the balance of my time. exemption, now known as Reg. A+, in- balance of my time. Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I creased the amount companies could Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from offer from $5 million to $50 million yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Maine (Mr. POLIQUIN), from the land of within a 12-month period of time, and Arkansas (Mr. HILL), the majority whip moose and maple syrup, a hardworking preempts State registration and quali- of the committee. member of the Financial Services Com- fication requirements to make it easier Mr. HILL. Mr. Speaker, I, too, want mittee. Mr. POLIQUIN. Mr. Speaker, I appre- for small- and medium-sized businesses to add my congratulations to Mr. MAC- ciate this opportunity very much. You to undertake Reg. A+ offerings by ARTHUR for continuing to find ways to notice, Mr. Speaker, those who do not avoiding the oftentimes prohibitively improve Mr. Obama’s and this commit- live in the great State of Maine are expensive complexities of complying tee’s excellent work on the JOBS Act very envious of those who do; so I take with up to 50 State regulators, all pro- from some 8 years ago. We have learned full advantage of the moose, bear, and viding different regulations. a lot. We have seen the benefits of the other critters that we have in the Some opponents of this legislation JOBS Act, and today we have a chance State of Maine. have argued that it is unnecessary be- to make it even better by improving Right now, today, Mr. Speaker, I am cause the SEC is required to review Reg. A+. talking about H.R. 4263, the Regulation this threshold and has the authority to I appreciate Mr. MACARTHUR’s per- A+ Improvement Act, and I want to increase it. sonal story about his entrepreneurship congratulate the gentleman from New On April 5, 2016, SEC staff informed and how this is an opportunity for Jersey (Mr. MACARTHUR) for the great the Financial Services Committee that more investors in our country and work he has done on this bill, and I the $50 million threshold would remain more capital for our entrepreneurs. want to thank Chairman HENSARLING in place throughout 2018 because of a Mr. Speaker, this week I attended a for bringing this bill to the floor. It is lack of information available on Reg. meeting where people asked: Why do very important for all of us to consider A+ offerings since the rule was final- we need more public companies? this. ized in 2015. Gosh, that is an easy rhetorical ques- Now, Mr. Speaker, we all know what However, during the comment period tion. we want in this country, which are for implementing Reg. A+, the SEC re- Because we have half the number of more opportunities and more jobs for ceived a significant number of com- public companies we had during the our kids—better opportunities for our ments that Reg. A+ should be expanded Reagan administration, and we need kids so they will have better lives and beyond the $50 million threshold. Fur- them for our young people to invest in. more freedom. This cannot happen, Mr. thermore, since the amendment to Reg. We need them for our union workers to Speaker, unless our businesses are able A became effective, the rate of Reg. A+ have an earning asset in their pension to grow and hire more individuals and securities offerings has increased. fund. pay them more. Last year, the U.S. Chamber of Com- So we need more public companies in Now, that mostly can only happen, merce testified before the Capital Mar- this Nation to share the growth and Mr. Speaker, if businesses are able to kets, Securities, and Investments Sub- prosperity of this Nation. That is what more easily borrow money. The chair- committee, noting this legislation ‘‘is this legislation is all about. man and I both know that the govern- a way to help make it easier for a I thank Mr. MACARTHUR for his very ment’s job is to help our economy small business to access capital to get straightforward, bipartisan, common- grow, not get in the way. deals done. To do that, even with the sense increase in the authority from That is why Reg. A+ cuts through the bump up to $50 million, people are still $50 million to $75 million for young, red tape such that more small- and me- finding their sea legs. But in terms of growing companies to raise money dium-sized businesses are able to ac- driving liquidity, we thought the $75 under Reg. A+. cess capital, grow their operations, and million number was important.’’ Former SEC Commissioner Dan Gal- hire more people. In a sense, Reg. A+ Former SEC Commissioner Dan Gal- lagher advocated the increase in the of- has implemented, Mr. Speaker, billions lagher has stated: ‘‘The SEC should fering threshold to even $100 million of dollars of new financing and has led have exercised our clear authority before the SEC adopted their final rule. economic growth in small to medium under the JOBS Act to raise the offer- b 1445 businesses to grow and present more ing limit to $75 million.’’ opportunities for their workers. So Hester Peirce, now an SEC Commis- Mr. GALLAGHER expressed his dis- Reg. A+ works. We know that because sioner, testified during a hearing of the appointment that this offering thresh- the evidence is there. Financial Services Committee that, old was not raised in the final rule With that, Mr. Speaker, I would like ‘‘Prior to the JOBS Act’s changes to from that original statutory cap of $50 to close by saying, Mr. MACARTHUR’s Regulation A, that provision lan- million. bill is a commonsense technical adjust- guished unused by companies, so it is We have support through the com- ment to a bill—a rule, rather, that important to revisit different avenues mission and through the staff for rais- works. It simply increases the amount for raising capital frequently to ensure ing this amount, Mr. Speaker, to help that companies are able to borrow their continued usefulness.’’ our entrepreneurs. Expanding Reg. A+ under this rule that works. Congressman MACARTHUR’s legisla- to include offerings up to $75 million Please, everybody, Republicans and tion will help ensure that the SEC fo- will allow private companies to con- Democrats, support Mr. MACARTHUR’s cuses on its mission of capital forma- sider a mini-IPO under Reg. A+. This bill. tion, especially for small businesses. will give us more competition for cap- Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. This is vital if we are going to continue ital, driving down cost of capital, driv- Mr. Speaker, I continue to reserve the on the course of economic growth. ing up the number of opportunities for balance of my time. And at the end of the day, after all of people to take advantage of going pub- Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I our debate on the merits of this legisla- lic, growing a prosperous company, and yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.045 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H1638 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 15, 2018 Ohio (Mr. DAVIDSON), a hardworking the cap as it deems appropriate. More- current threshold, which they examine member of the Financial Services Com- over, the SEC is required to review the on a biannual basis. . . . mittee. offering limit every 2 years, with its ‘‘Seven of the eight companies with Mr. DAVIDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise next analysis expected to be released Regulation A+ offerings in 2017 are today to offer my support for H.R. 4263, next month. . . . A vote for this bill, down 42 percent from their offer prices, the Regulation A+ Improvement Act. I before the SEC has had a chance to as compared to conventional offerings greatly appreciate my colleague, Rep- complete its analysis, is a vote against made during the same period, which resentative MACARTHUR, for this bill evidence-based policymaking. are up 22 percent from offer prices. and for our chairman for moving it ‘‘If Congress were to take the time to This is to be expected, given that Regu- through our committee, and, frankly, consider the research that the SEC has lation A+ permits companies to avoid my colleagues from across the aisle conducted on the Regulation A mar- requirements such as disclosures that who came together to recognize the kets since the Regulation A+ rules were designed to protect investors. If it need for this bill. were adopted, it would find that there expanded such exemptions, Congress As has already been stated, this has currently is no need to raise the limit would facilitate increased harm to in- broad implications for small capital . . . data suggest that issuers generally vestors. companies. I spent the past 15 years, are not clamoring for more capital ‘‘Members should also take notice prior to coming to Congress, growing than is currently allowed to them that with the blockchain and small manufacturing companies, and I under the rules. . . . cryptocurrency fever, SEC filing and can greatly appreciate the challenge of ‘‘The market’s tepid reaction to Reg- disclosure exemptions like Regulation raising capital. This is another means ulation A offerings is surely also re- A+ are becoming a popular avenue for of doing that, but I want to highlight lated to the largely abysmal perform- initial coin offerings, ICOs. . . . another area that it might be suitable. ance of Regulation A offerings to date. ‘‘In the middle of this SEC crack- With approximately $4 billion of cap- . . . A recent Barron’s article provided down on fraudulent ICOs, H.R. 4263 ital raised worldwide in 2017, it is fair an in-depth review of the Regulation A would potentially expose a larger num- to say that initial coin offerings are market, describing the ‘woeful per- ber of investors—including nonaccred- just another great way for startups to formance’ of the few dozen companies ited, unsophisticated investors—to raise capital and grow their businesses. that are currently exchange-listed and shady companies, Ponzi schemes, and ICOs in Regulation A+ could work the difficulty trading or getting a price exit scams. ‘‘The widespread use of private offer- great together, and with Mr. MAC- quote for the vast majority of compa- ings reduces transparency and investor ARTHUR’s bill, they can work even bet- nies that aren’t exchange listed. The protections in capital markets. Raising ter. Barron’s article further described how capital under Regulation A+ should be An example of this harmonization is ‘most Reg. A+ businesses haven’t got- used as an on-ramp to a true public of- the investor-based Reg. A+ allows in- ten beyond the startup phase known as fering and not as an end in itself for vestors of any wealth to participate. the pipedream.’ Some examples that larger issuers. Increasing the annual This Democratic process is a pillar for the article cites include businesses threshold for exempted Regulation A+ ICOs in terms of the premise behind seeking capital for cannabis para- offerings goes in the opposite direc- distributed ledger technology. phernalia, flying cars, studying UFOs, tion.’’ Another provision is anti-money telepathy, and light-speed travel. We Public Citizen had this to say: laundering. Reg. A+ requires the vali- wonder why the backers of this legisla- ‘‘Evidence shows little demand for dation of investors, as well as back- tion would spend so much time and ef- this measure. A study by the SEC of ground checks on the principles of of- fort seeking to artificially prop up Regulation A+ offerings found that the fering companies. This goes hand in businesses of this sort. average issuer sought only $18 million. hand with improving the credibility of ‘‘And while Regulation A’s sup- Moreover, these firms pose risk for in- ICO business practices and reducing porters have touted Regulation A’s job vestors, as the issuers had only an av- the risk of loss. creating potential, the Barron’s article erage of $50,000 in cash; no property, Compliance with Reg. A+ would states that the only people Regulation plants, and equipment; no revenues; mean a disclosure memorandum, not A clearly has created jobs for are Regu- and no net income. Increasing access to just a white paper. Reg. A+ provides lation A underwriters and promoters capital with no additional investor pro- ICO entrepreneurs and their startups on Wall Street, many of whom have tections exacerbates the problem.’’ with a viable path to compliance with ‘checkered stock market histories.’’’ And so, yes, I do oppose the bill. Let SEC security regulation. So it is im- Are these really the sort of jobs Con- me just say this. I would like small portant that we have guardrails estab- gress is intending to promote? businesses to do well. I would like our lished in this explosive new industry, ‘‘In conclusion, because this bill arbi- small businesses to have access to the while not hampering the ability to trarily increases the offering limit capital that they need to support, you grow the business. I urge my colleagues without evidence that doing so is ei- know, good ideas that have been given to support this vital legislation. ther necessary or beneficial, and in the the kind of research that is necessary Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. face of evidence that Regulation A of- to determine the potential for some of Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time ferings to date largely have been mar- these businesses. as I may consume. ket failures, we urge you to vote ‘no.’’’ You just heard this information from Mr. Speaker, I have extensive infor- Let me just continue to quote. Amer- the Barron report. This is serious. mation here about what is happening icans for Financial Reform: ‘‘This is an What we have seen, despite the fact with Regulation A+. At first, I decided unwarranted increase in the threshold. what we want to happen, is that it is that some of this information I Most fundamentally, Congress should not happening. The fact that we would wouldn’t share because I am so anxious not be undermining public securities like very much—and we have done ev- for these small businesses to be able to markets by expanding the ability of erything that we could do with the access capital, but I think that, you larger companies to make offerings JOBS Act to give support to our small know, some of my earlier concerns, while being exempt from core disclo- businesses because we want them to perhaps, may have been justified. sure and investor protection require- thrive. We believe that they are job in- H.R. 4263, the so-called Regulation ments. Private offerings were designed tensive, if they can get up and get A+ Improvement Act, is opposed by to permit early stage capital raising going. It is not happening. consumer and investor advocates. I from sophisticated investors by small What we are doing is we are exposing would like to take a moment to read companies, but the current cap of $50 these little mom-and-pop investors to some of their statements in opposition million per year in private capital rais- situations where they are going to lose to this bill. ing already permits fairly large compa- what small amounts of money they are Consumer Federation of America: nies to take advantage of this route. investing. So let’s just be cool, let’s be ‘‘This bill would increase the offering Additionally, the Securities and Ex- calm, and let’s give the SEC the oppor- limit, despite the fact that the SEC al- change Commission, SEC, already has tunity to do its analysis. There is no ready has unlimited authority to raise regulatory authority to increase the reason to push this now.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.046 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1639 I would ask my Members on the op- Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. one who brings years and years of expe- posite side of the aisle to rethink and Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance rience in capital formation of building to join with me, oppose the bill so that of my time. a business to help grow jobs and our we can give the SEC the opportunity, Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4263 is just another economy. again, to do the kind of analysis it reckless partisan bill that could harm H.R. 4263, again, is, in part, an expan- needs to do, and let’s think about what mom-and-pop investors and weaken the sion of the JOBS Act, something that else can we do to help small businesses, integrity of the U.S. capital markets. was signed into law by President rather than continue down the road of It continues the efforts to repeal or Barack Obama. I didn’t agree with that failure, because this is exactly what is weaken important regulatory protec- particular President on many occa- being exposed. tions under the guise of supporting sions, but he got this right, and this Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of jobs. has been something good for the Amer- my time. Not only have my Republican col- ican economy. leagues failed to come up with any real b 1500 But what I fear is that, if we don’t go data or analysis to support this claim, forward, we end up going backwards. Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I but they also completely substitute And what we hear from our friends on yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman their own judgment for that of the the other side of the aisle is: Let’s keep from New York (Ms. TENNEY), a hard- SEC, the agency with the expertise the status quo. working member of the Financial Serv- over these issues. But, Mr. Speaker, the status quo is ices Committee. As I have already said, we only have what brought us a 1.6 percent economy. Ms. TENNEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank to wait a few more weeks to see if the the chairman for yielding me time. The status quo is what brought pay- SEC decides to expand the Regulation checks to become stagnant. The status Mr. Speaker, I rise to support this bi- A+ exemption and to understand its ra- partisan legislation, H.R. 4263, the Reg- quo ensured that Americans did not re- tionale for the decision. But I suppose cover their savings from the great fi- ulation A+ Improvement Act, intro- a few weeks is a few weeks too long for duced by my colleague from New Jer- nancial crisis. my friends on the opposite side of the Now we have the Tax Cuts and Jobs sey (Mr. MACARTHUR). aisle who are currently pushing for as Congratulations to Mr. MACARTHUR Act, and now we have 3 percent eco- many of these kinds of bills as possible nomic growth; now we have the lowest and the chairman for bringing this to be included in the Senate’s Dodd- great legislation to the floor. unemployment rate in 17 years; now we Frank rollback. have seen the greatest growth in pay- This legislation would increase, from Those bad bills would cause further checks in almost a decade; now we are $50 million to $75 million, the offering harm to investors by allowing newly seeing 90 percent—90 percent—of wage exemption amount that companies can public companies to avoid audits of earners seeing a bigger paycheck, bet- offer under the Securities and Ex- their controls over financial reporting ter take-home pay, because of the eco- change Commission’s, the SEC, Tier 2 for a decade; by hampering investors’ nomic policies of this Republican Con- of Regulation A, an amendment to the ability to get independent, reliable in- gress and of the Trump administration. 2012 JOBS Act. formation ahead of a shareholder meet- So the gentleman from New Jersey As the owner of a small business, I ing; and by making it easier for has brought us, really, in some re- understand firsthand the vital impor- fraudsters to swindle unsophisticated spects, an important but modest propo- tance of making our Nation’s business investors into buying stock in a fake or sition: that we ought to increase the climate competitive at all levels. failing company. Small businesses create nearly 70 per- It should come as no surprise that threshold for Reg A+ to $75 million. cent of the new jobs in our country. these same harmful provisions show up Again, we don’t know where the next Yet small businesses are only starting in the CHOICE Act, which is 10 times Uber is coming from. We don’t know to see a resurgence from the struggling worse than the Senate’s deregulatory where the next Spotify is coming from. ecosystem created in the last Presi- bill. We don’t know where the next Apple is dential era. Thanks to the recent tax Mr. Speaker, both Democrats and Re- coming from. But do you know what, cuts and regulatory changes, we have publicans want to help small busi- Mr. Speaker? We all know they need seen continued growth. nesses grow and create jobs, but as capital. And this is a valuable alley, H.R. 4263 would be the next step to- Members of Congress, we also have the chain, path in order to bring capital ward helping small companies raise responsibility to protect investors, par- into our startup businesses. necessary equity capital to enable ticularly retail investors, who are Now, a constant theme we hear from them to grow and compete in a chang- looking to save for retirement, to buy our friends on the other side of the ing and dynamic marketplace. This a house, or to support our children’s aisle is consumer protection. Do you will result in more jobs and more op- education. know what? Back in the 1980s, the portunities for our communities. As I have repeatedly said, any regula- Commonwealth of Massachusetts de- This bill would expand the SEC’s tion must strike the right balance be- cided to protect their people from this Regulation A+ from $50 million to $75 tween capital formation in our securi- fly-by-night company called Apple, million, and it would allow companies ties markets and investor protection. which now is looking at an almost $1 to consider mini IPOs or mini initial This bill fails to do that, and that is trillion market cap valuation, and had public offerings at a less costly alter- why it is opposed by consumer and in- you invested at the IPO, you would native to raising capital. vestor advocates like Americans for Fi- have a 45,000 percent rate of return. In my district, it is difficult to raise nancial Reform, Consumer Federation You could buy a home; your children capital and secure a steady line of cred- of America, and Public Citizen. could buy a home; your great-grand- it for developing and sustaining small Mr. Speaker, I would urge all Mem- children could buy a home. You could businesses. I have experienced this very bers to join me in standing up for in- achieve your American Dream. But a difficulty and struggle with clients I vestors and vote ‘‘no’’ on H.R. 4263, and government decided: No, you are too have represented in my own legal prac- I yield back the balance of my time. stupid to make this investment deci- tice. Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, sion on your own. We must protect This bill would help tremendously in may I inquire as to how much time I you. improving access to capital for small have remaining. Nothing—nothing—in the bill from companies that ultimately are the The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. the gentleman from New Jersey alters drivers of job growth in New York and FERGUSON). The gentleman from Texas the vast, vast array of consumer pro- across the Nation. has 51⁄2 minutes remaining. tection laws that are already on the Mr. Speaker, I want to again thank Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I books. Nothing in H.R. 4263 prevents Mr. MACARTHUR and the bipartisan yield myself the balance of my time. the Department of Justice from pur- group of cosponsors for their hard Mr. Speaker, I again want to thank suing criminal prosecutions of fraud. work, and I urge my colleagues to sup- the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Nothing in the bill impacts the SEC’s port this great legislation. MACARTHUR), an entrepreneur, some- ability to pursue civil actions for those

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:54 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.047 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H1640 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 15, 2018 who engage in fraud, negligent mis- There was no objection. They went on to highlight some of representations, negligent trans- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- the companies and the products actions. ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from availing themselves of the lightly regu- Nothing in this bill prevents the SEC Ohio is recognized for 5 minutes in sup- lated Regulation A+ offering, which in- from entering into cease and desist or- port of her motion. cluded companies trying to make can- ders and imposing civil liabilities for Mrs. BEATTY. Mr. Speaker, this is nabis paraphernalia, flying cars, guns, those who violate SEC rules. Investors the final amendment to the bill, which and my personal favorite, the founder get to pursue Federal civil actions will not kill the bill or send it back to of a rock band seeking to raise money against those who defraud them, those committee. If adopted, the bill will im- to study UFOs and light-speed travel. who make untrue statements. So there mediately proceed to final passage, as Now, I am not trying to persuade are plenty of very important laws that amended. Members that all companies seeking to are on our books. Mr. Speaker, this motion to recom- raise money through Regulation A+ What we shouldn’t do, though, is pro- mit is simple and should be able to gar- are Wolf of Wall Street or UFO chasers, tect our hardworking constituents ner the support of every Member of because back in my home district, a from the ability to make decisions for this body who seeks to enhance our ro- Scottish-based company successfully themselves and participate in these bust public and private markets while, used Regulation A+ to open their first early growth companies that now are at the same time, ensuring there are brewery and restaurant in the United only restricted to accredited investors. adequate safeguards in place for the States. That example is exactly what It is only the wealthiest who get to benefit of Main Street investors. Congress had in mind when it called for make these decisions. Well, in the land Specifically, this motion will accom- the creation of Regulation A+, and it is of the free, maybe a few more should, plish two simple things: one, it will precisely the type of opportunity for and maybe we ought to have a few strike the increase in the offering limit investors that the law was intended to more Apples, a few more Ubers, a few to $75 million; and, two, it will require create. more Spotifys. the SEC to review and revise their bad I want to thank, again, the gen- actor disqualification regulations prior b 1515 tleman from New Jersey (Mr. MAC- to future increases in the offering This is why we need to ensure that ARTHUR), who has been a great leader threshold. we maintain the integrity of the Regu- in capital formation and job creation Unfortunately, as currently written, lation A+ offering and that we prevent on our committee and in this Congress, with all due respect to my Republican bad actors from using it in a way to rip and I want to urge all Members to colleagues, raising the offering thresh- off and scam all of our constituents. adopt H.R. 4263. old is a solution in search of a problem. That is why I urge Congress to adopt I yield back the balance of my time. Congress designated the SEC with reg- this motion, to stand up for strong pub- The SPEAKER pro tempore. All time ulating the offering. Congress decided lic and private markets, to wait the 30 for debate has expired. the SEC would administer the offering. days when the SEC can come back to Pursuant to House Resolution 773, The SEC is the expert on Regulation us, and to stand up for strong protec- the previous question is ordered on the A+, and it should be the one to raise tions for Main Street investors. bill, as amended. the offering threshold, assuming the Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance The question is on the engrossment data supports such an increase. of my time. and third reading of the bill. Under the law, the SEC will be re- Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I The bill was ordered to be engrossed porting to Congress whether or not rise in opposition to the motion to re- and read a third time, and was read the they will raise the threshold just next commit. third time. month. This bill is premature, and for The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- MOTION TO RECOMMIT the lawyers in the room, it is not ripe tleman from Texas is recognized for 5 Mrs. BEATTY. Mr. Speaker, I have a for review. So why wouldn’t we wait? minutes. motion to recommit at the desk. Right now there is zero data to sug- Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is the gest Congress needs to raise the thresh- when I have said something incorrect, I gentlewoman opposed to the bill? old, and it seems prudent to wait until wish to correct myself in front of my Mrs. BEATTY. Mr. Speaker, I am op- next month to see what the SEC has to colleagues in the public. I earlier said posed to it in its present form. say before rushing to increase it. that my colleagues were trying to give The SPEAKER pro tempore. The The majority argues this bill will us status quo. I wish to correct myself. Clerk will report the motion to recom- allow companies to raise more money. This motion to recommit is worse than mit. I say this bill is a solution in search of status quo. It would take us back even The Clerk read as follows: a problem because only less than a further. Mrs. Beatty moves to recommit the bill handful of companies have ever actu- The gentlewoman from Ohio should H.R. 4263 to the Committee on Financial Services with instructions to report the ally raised the current maximum admit when she is wrong. She is wrong same back to the House forthwith with the amount of $50 million. when she says this will not kill the following amendment: With regard to updating the bad bill. This will kill it. It will gut it. It Page 3, line 10, strike ‘‘$75,000,000’’ and in- actor disqualification regulation, will bury it 6 feet under. I think she sert ‘‘$50,000,000’’. Bloomberg recently published an arti- knows that. So she is entitled to her Page 3, line 23, insert the following new cle on Regulation A+ and the compa- opinion about what Reg. A+ should be, section: nies using the offering and found one but she absolutely eviscerates the bi- SEC. 3. EFFECT OF INCREASE IN OFFERING LIMIT. executive of a company was convicted partisan bill that is before the House. The amendments made by this Act shall for filing false tax returns, another for Because many who are watching this take effect on the date that the Securities obstructing justice, and another was may somehow think, ‘‘Oh, my Lord, and Exchange Commission revises regula- accused of selling unregistered stock. there are no consumer protections for tions promulgated pursuant to subpara- For the sake of time, these are just a Reg. A+ offerings,’’ the basic require- graphs (B) through (G) of paragraph (2) of few examples. Are these really the ments that are applicable to both Tier subsection (b) of section 3 of the Securities types of individuals we want selling se- 1 and tier offerings include company Act of 1933 (15 U.S.C. 77c) as necessary to pro- tect investors before increasing the aggre- curities to Main Street mom-and-pop eligibility requirements, bad actor dis- gate offering amount described in subpara- investors? qualification requirements, issuer dis- graph (A) of such paragraph to an amount Another article, appearing in Bar- closure requirements, ongoing report- that is greater than $50,000,000. ron’s, studied the hundreds of compa- ing requirements. Mrs. BEATTY (during the reading). nies that have used Regulation A+ to And then for Tier 2 offerings, addi- Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent raise funds, and I quote them: ‘‘We tional requirements: providing audited to dispense with the reading of the mo- were supposed to get new jobs and new financial statements; requirement to tion. industries. Instead, we’ve gotten file annual, semiannual, and current The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there GoFundMe-style websites hawking event reports; and limitation on the objection to the request of the gentle- penny stocks and professional wres- amount of security nonaccredited and woman from Ohio? tlers shilling shares on TV.’’ accredited investors can purchase.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:54 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.049 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1641 Then those that are offered on an ex- A motion to recommit on H.R. 4545, if DeSantis King (IA) Rogers (KY) DesJarlais King (NY) Rohrabacher change have to adhere to the ex- ordered; Diaz-Balart Kinzinger Rokita change’s listing standards, including Passage of H.R. 4545, if ordered; Donovan Knight Rooney, Francis corporate governance requirement, Ordering the previous question on Duffy Kustoff (TN) Rooney, Thomas background checks on the management Duncan (SC) Labrador J. House Resolution 780; and Dunn LaHood Rosen and board, shareholder approval of cer- Adoption of House Resolution 780, if Emmer LaMalfa Roskam tain corporate actions, and the list ordered. Estes (KS) Lamborn Ross goes on. The vote was taken by electronic de- Farenthold Lance Rothfus Mr. Speaker, I think there is a good Faso Latta Rouzer vice, and there were—yeas 182, nays Ferguson Lewis (MN) Royce (CA) case here. Anybody who picked up a 235, not voting 13, as follows: Fitzpatrick LoBiondo Russell newspaper recently would find out Fleischmann Long Rutherford [Roll No. 109] that, yesterday, the SEC charged Flores Love Sanford YEAS—182 Fortenberry Lucas Scalise Theranos with raising more than $700 Foxx Luetkemeyer Schweikert Adams Gallego Napolitano million from investors through exag- Frelinghuysen MacArthur Scott, Austin Aguilar Garamendi Neal Gaetz Marchant Sensenbrenner gerated and false statements about the Barraga´ n Gomez Nolan Gallagher Marino Sessions company’s technology. Bass Gottheimer Norcross Garrett Marshall Shimkus Beatty Green, Al Guess what. In announcing the en- O’Halleran Gianforte Massie Shuster Bera Green, Gene forcement decision, here is what the O’Rourke Gibbs Mast Simpson Beyer Grijalva Pallone Gohmert McCarthy Sinema SEC noted: Bishop (GA) Gutie´rrez Panetta Gonzalez (TX) McCaul Smith (MO) Blumenauer Hanabusa The charges make clear that there is no Pascrell Goodlatte McClintock Smith (NE) Blunt Rochester Hastings exemption—no exemption—from the anti- Payne Gosar McHenry Smith (NJ) Bonamici Heck fraud provisions of the Federal securities Pelosi Gowdy McKinley Smith (TX) Boyle, Brendan Higgins (NY) laws simply because a company is nonpublic, Perlmutter Granger McMorris Smucker F. Himes Peters Graves (GA) Rodgers Stefanik development-stage, or the subject of exuber- Brady (PA) Hoyer Pingree Graves (LA) McSally Stewart ant media attention. Brown (MD) Huffman Graves (MO) Meadows Stivers Brownley (CA) Jackson Lee Pocan In other words, the SEC was thor- Griffith Meehan Taylor Bustos Jayapal Polis Grothman Messer Tenney oughly able to do their job, and they Butterfield Jeffries Price (NC) Guthrie Mitchell Thompson (PA) were ready and willing to investigate Capuano Johnson (GA) Quigley Handel Moolenaar Thornberry Carbajal Johnson, E. B. Raskin and bring enforcement actions, as they Harper Mooney (WV) Tipton Ca´ rdenas Jones Richmond well should. This is part of their job, Harris Mullin Trott Carson (IN) Kaptur Roybal-Allard Hartzler Newhouse Turner investor protection. But guess what. So Cartwright Keating Ruiz Hensarling Noem Upton is capital formation. Capital formation Castor (FL) Kelly (IL) Ruppersberger Herrera Beutler Norman Valadao Castro (TX) Kennedy Rush is part of the mission of the SEC. That Hice, Jody B. Nunes Wagner Chu, Judy Khanna Ryan (OH) is why it is so important that we not Higgins (LA) Olson Walberg Cicilline Kihuen Sa´ nchez Hill Palazzo Walden protect our constituents against great Clark (MA) Kildee Sarbanes Holding Palmer Walker Clarke (NY) Kilmer investment opportunities, like Apple, Schakowsky Hollingsworth Paulsen Walorski Clay Kind like Uber, and like Spotify. Schiff Hudson Pearce Walters, Mimi Cleaver Krishnamoorthi Schneider Huizenga Perry Weber (TX) So when we have so many Americans Clyburn Kuster (NH) Schrader Hultgren Peterson Webster (FL) who are still living paycheck to pay- Cohen Langevin Scott (VA) Hunter Pittenger Wenstrup Connolly Larsen (WA) check, when they finally get a little Scott, David Hurd Poe (TX) Westerman Cooper Larson (CT) savings together, shouldn’t they be Serrano Issa Poliquin Williams Correa Lawrence Sewell (AL) Jenkins (KS) Posey Wilson (SC) able to invest in great opportunities of Courtney Lawson (FL) Shea-Porter Jenkins (WV) Ratcliffe Wittman Crist Lee early growth companies? Shouldn’t Sherman Johnson (LA) Reed Womack Crowley Levin these early growth companies have ac- Sires Johnson (OH) Reichert Woodall Cuellar Lewis (GA) Smith (WA) Johnson, Sam Renacci Yoder cess to capital? Davis (CA) Lieu, Ted Soto Jordan Rice (SC) Yoho I think so. DeFazio Loebsack Speier Joyce (OH) Roby Young (AK) You can’t have capitalism without DeGette Lofgren Suozzi Kelly (MS) Roe (TN) Young (IA) Delaney Lowenthal capital. Let’s get more capital circu- Swalwell (CA) Kelly (PA) Rogers (AL) Zeldin DeLauro Lowey lating in the system. The Tax Cuts and Takano DelBene Lujan Grisham, NOT VOTING—13 Jobs Act has done so much good, but Demings M. Thompson (CA) Carter (TX) Katko Slaughter DeSaulnier Luja´ n, Ben Ray Thompson (MS) we need so much more. We need capital Costa Lipinski Walz Deutch Lynch Titus circulating the system, particularly for Cummings Loudermilk Dingell Maloney, Tonko Wilson (FL) Davis, Danny Rice (NY) our startups and our early growth Doggett Carolyn B. Torres Ellison Ros-Lehtinen stage companies. Doyle, Michael Maloney, Sean Tsongas We need to reject the MTR, and we F. Matsui Vargas 1548 Veasey b need to vote in support of H.R. 4263. Duncan (TN) McCollum Engel McEachin Vela Messrs. OLSON, RUTHERFORD, Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance Eshoo McGovern Vela´ zquez ABRAHAM and STEWART changed of my time. Espaillat McNerney Visclosky their vote from ‘‘yea’’ to ‘‘nay.’’ Wasserman The SPEAKER pro tempore. Without Esty (CT) Meeks Messrs. LARSEN of Washington, objection, the previous question is or- Evans Meng Schultz Foster Moore Waters, Maxine Mses. SHEA-PORTER and BLUNT dered on the motion to recommit. Frankel (FL) Moulton Watson Coleman ROCHESTER changed their vote from There was no objection. Fudge Murphy (FL) Welch ‘‘nay’’ to ‘‘yea.’’ The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Gabbard Nadler Yarmuth So the motion to recommit was re- question is on the motion to recommit. NAYS—235 jected. The question was taken; and the Abraham Blackburn Coffman The result of the vote was announced Speaker pro tempore announced that Aderholt Blum Cole as above recorded. the noes appeared to have it. Allen Bost Collins (GA) The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Mrs. BEATTY. Mr. Speaker, on that I Amash Brady (TX) Collins (NY) question is on the passage of the bill. demand the yeas and nays. Amodei Brat Comer Arrington Bridenstine Comstock The question was taken; and the The yeas and nays were ordered. Babin Brooks (AL) Conaway Speaker pro tempore announced that The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Bacon Brooks (IN) Cook the ayes appeared to have it. ant to clause 8 and clause 9 of rule XX, Banks (IN) Buchanan Costello (PA) Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, on and the order of the House of today, Barletta Buck Cramer Barr Bucshon Crawford that I demand the yeas and nays. this 15-minute vote on the motion to Barton Budd Culberson The yeas and nays were ordered. recommit will be followed by 5-minute Bergman Burgess Curbelo (FL) The SPEAKER pro tempore. This is a votes on: Biggs Byrne Curtis 5-minute vote. Passage of H.R. 4263, if ordered; Bilirakis Calvert Davidson The vote was taken by electronic de- Bishop (MI) Carter (GA) Davis, Rodney Adoption of the amendment to H.R. Bishop (UT) Chabot Denham vice, and there were—yeas 246, nays 4545; Black Cheney Dent 170, not voting 14, as follows:

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:54 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.052 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H1642 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 15, 2018 [Roll No. 110] Connolly Kelly (IL) Payne This will be a 5-minute vote. Cooper Kennedy Pelosi The vote was taken by electronic de- YEAS—246 Courtney Khanna Pingree Abraham Goodlatte Palmer Crist Kihuen Pocan vice, and there were—yeas 184, nays Aderholt Gosar Paulsen Crowley Kildee Price (NC) 233, not voting 13, as follows: Davis (CA) Kilmer Allen Gottheimer Pearce Quigley [Roll No. 111] Amash Gowdy Perlmutter DeFazio Kind Raskin Amodei Granger Perry DeGette Krishnamoorthi Richmond YEAS—184 Delaney Kuster (NH) Arrington Graves (GA) Peters Roybal-Allard Adams Gonzalez (TX) O’Halleran DeLauro Langevin Babin Graves (LA) Peterson Ruiz Aguilar Gottheimer DelBene Larsen (WA) O’Rourke Bacon Graves (MO) Pittenger Ruppersberger Barraga´ n Green, Al Demings Larson (CT) Pallone Banks (IN) Griffith Poe (TX) Bass Green, Gene DeSaulnier Lawrence Rush Panetta Barletta Grothman Poliquin Beatty Grijalva Deutch Lawson (FL) Ryan (OH) Pascrell Barr Guthrie Polis ´ Bera Gutie´rrez Dingell Lee Sanchez Payne Barton Handel Posey Beyer Hanabusa Doggett Levin Sarbanes Pelosi Bergman Harper Ratcliffe Bishop (GA) Hastings Doyle, Michael Lewis (GA) Schakowsky Perlmutter Biggs Harris Reed Blumenauer Heck F. Lieu, Ted Schiff Peters Bilirakis Hartzler Reichert Blunt Rochester Higgins (NY) Engel Loebsack Schrader Peterson Bishop (MI) Hensarling Renacci Bonamici Himes Espaillat Lofgren Scott (VA) Pingree Bishop (UT) Herrera Beutler Rice (SC) Boyle, Brendan Hoyer Esty (CT) Lowenthal Scott, David Pocan Black Hice, Jody B. Roby F. Huffman Evans Lowey Serrano Polis Blackburn Higgins (LA) Roe (TN) Brady (PA) Jackson Lee Foster Lujan Grisham, Sewell (AL) Price (NC) Blum Hill Rogers (AL) Brown (MD) Jayapal Frankel (FL) M. Shea-Porter Quigley Bost Holding Rogers (KY) Brownley (CA) Jeffries Fudge Luja´ n, Ben Ray Sherman Brady (TX) Hollingsworth Bustos Johnson (GA) Raskin Rohrabacher Gabbard Lynch Brat Hudson Sires Butterfield Johnson, E. B. Richmond Rokita Gallego Maloney, Bridenstine Huizenga Smith (WA) Capuano Kaptur Rooney, Thomas Rooney, Francis Gomez Carolyn B. Brooks (AL) Hultgren Soto Carbajal Keating J. Rooney, Thomas Gonzalez (TX) Matsui Brooks (IN) Hunter Swalwell (CA) Ca´ rdenas Kelly (IL) Rosen J. Green, Al McCollum Buchanan Hurd Takano Carson (IN) Kennedy Roybal-Allard Rosen Green, Gene McEachin Buck Issa Thompson (CA) Cartwright Khanna Ruiz Roskam Grijalva McGovern Bucshon Jenkins (KS) Thompson (MS) Castor (FL) Kihuen Ruppersberger Ross Gutie´rrez McNerney Budd Jenkins (WV) Titus Castro (TX) Kildee Rush Rothfus Hanabusa Meeks Burgess Johnson (LA) Tonko Chu, Judy Kilmer Ryan (OH) Rouzer Hastings Meng Byrne Johnson (OH) Torres Cicilline Kind Sa´ nchez Royce (CA) Heck Moore Calvert Johnson, Sam Clark (MA) Krishnamoorthi Russell Higgins (NY) Moulton Tsongas Sarbanes Carter (GA) Jordan Clarke (NY) Kuster (NH) Rutherford Himes Murphy (FL) Vargas Schakowsky Chabot Joyce (OH) Clay Langevin Sanford Hoyer Nadler Veasey Schiff Cheney Kelly (MS) Cleaver Larsen (WA) Schneider Huffman Napolitano Vela Schneider Coffman Kelly (PA) Clyburn Larson (CT) Schweikert Jackson Lee Neal Vela´ zquez Schrader Cole King (IA) Cohen Lawrence Scott, Austin Jayapal Nolan Visclosky Scott (VA) Collins (GA) King (NY) Connolly Lawson (FL) Sensenbrenner Jeffries Norcross Wasserman Scott, David Collins (NY) Kinzinger Cooper Lee Sessions Johnson (GA) O’Halleran Schultz Serrano Comer Knight Correa Levin Shimkus Johnson, E. B. O’Rourke Waters, Maxine Sewell (AL) Comstock Kustoff (TN) Courtney Lewis (GA) Shuster Jones Pallone Watson Coleman Shea-Porter Conaway Labrador Crist Lieu, Ted Simpson Kaptur Panetta Welch Sherman Cook LaHood Crowley Loebsack Sinema Keating Pascrell Yarmuth Sinema Correa LaMalfa Davis (CA) Lofgren Costello (PA) Lamborn Smith (MO) Sires Smith (NE) NOT VOTING—14 DeFazio Lowenthal Smith (WA) Cramer Lance DeGette Lowey Smith (NJ) Carter (TX) Katko Slaughter Soto Crawford Latta Delaney Lujan Grisham, Smith (TX) Costa Lipinski Speier Cuellar Lewis (MN) Speier DeLauro M. Smucker Cummings Rice (NY) Suozzi Culberson LoBiondo Walz DelBene Luja´ n, Ben Ray Stefanik Davis, Danny Ros-Lehtinen Swalwell (CA) Curbelo (FL) Long Wilson (FL) Demings Lynch Stewart Ellison Scalise Takano Curtis Loudermilk DeSaulnier Maloney, Stivers Davidson Love Deutch Carolyn B. Thompson (CA) Suozzi ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE Davis, Rodney Lucas Dingell Maloney, Sean Thompson (MS) Taylor Denham Luetkemeyer The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Doggett Matsui Titus Tenney Dent MacArthur the vote). There are 2 minutes remain- Doyle, Michael McCollum Tonko Thompson (PA) DeSantis Maloney, Sean F. McEachin Torres Thornberry ing. DesJarlais Marchant Engel McGovern Tsongas Tipton Diaz-Balart Marino b 1555 Eshoo McNerney Vargas Trott Donovan Marshall Espaillat Meeks Veasey Turner Duffy Massie So the bill was passed. Esty (CT) Meng Vela Duncan (SC) Mast Upton The result of the vote was announced Evans Moore Vela´ zquez Duncan (TN) McCarthy Valadao as above recorded. Foster Moulton Visclosky Wagner Dunn McCaul A motion to reconsider was laid on Frankel (FL) Murphy (FL) Wasserman Emmer McClintock Walberg Fudge Nadler Schultz Eshoo McHenry Walden the table. Gabbard Napolitano Waters, Maxine Estes (KS) McKinley Walker f Gallego Neal Watson Coleman Farenthold McMorris Walorski Garamendi Nolan Welch Faso Rodgers Walters, Mimi FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS EXAM- Gomez Norcross Yarmuth Ferguson McSally Weber (TX) INATION FAIRNESS AND REFORM Fitzpatrick Meadows Webster (FL) NAYS—233 Wenstrup ACT Fleischmann Meehan Abraham Brooks (IN) Curtis Flores Messer Westerman The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Aderholt Buchanan Davidson Fortenberry Mitchell Williams finished business is the question on Allen Buck Davis, Rodney Foxx Moolenaar Wilson (SC) Amash Bucshon Denham Frelinghuysen Mooney (WV) Wittman agreeing to amendment No. 1 printed Amodei Budd Dent Gaetz Mullin Womack in part B of House Report 115–595, of- Arrington Burgess DeSantis Gallagher Newhouse Woodall Babin Byrne DesJarlais Garamendi Noem Yoder fered by the gentlewoman from Cali- fornia (Ms. MAXINE WATERS), to the bill Bacon Calvert Diaz-Balart Garrett Norman Yoho Banks (IN) Carter (GA) Donovan Gianforte Nunes Young (AK) (H.R. 4545) to amend the Federal Finan- Barletta Chabot Duffy Gibbs Olson Young (IA) cial Institutions Examination Council Barr Cheney Duncan (SC) Gohmert Palazzo Zeldin Act of 1978 to improve the examination Barton Coffman Duncan (TN) Bergman Cole Dunn NAYS—170 of depository institutions, and for Biggs Collins (GA) Emmer Adams Boyle, Brendan Cartwright other purposes, on which the yeas and Bilirakis Collins (NY) Estes (KS) Aguilar F. Castor (FL) nays were ordered. Bishop (MI) Comer Farenthold Barraga´ n Brady (PA) Castro (TX) The Clerk will redesignate the Bishop (UT) Comstock Faso Bass Brown (MD) Chu, Judy Black Conaway Ferguson Beatty Brownley (CA) Cicilline amendment. Blackburn Cook Fitzpatrick Bera Bustos Clark (MA) The Clerk redesignated the amend- Blum Costello (PA) Fleischmann Beyer Butterfield Clarke (NY) ment. Bost Cramer Flores Bishop (GA) Capuano Clay The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Brady (TX) Crawford Fortenberry Blumenauer Carbajal Cleaver Brat Cuellar Foxx Blunt Rochester Ca´ rdenas Clyburn question is on agreeing to the amend- Bridenstine Culberson Frelinghuysen Bonamici Carson (IN) Cohen ment. Brooks (AL) Curbelo (FL) Gaetz

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:54 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A15MR7.014 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1643 Gallagher Lewis (MN) Rooney, Francis The vote was taken by electronic de- Westerman Womack Young (AK) Garrett LoBiondo Roskam vice, and there were—yeas 283, nays Williams Woodall Young (IA) Gianforte Long Ross Wilson (SC) Yoder Zeldin Gibbs Loudermilk Rothfus 133, not voting 14, as follows: Wittman Yoho Gohmert Love Rouzer Goodlatte Lucas Royce (CA) [Roll No. 112] NAYS—133 Gosar Luetkemeyer Russell YEAS—283 Adams Gabbard Napolitano Gowdy MacArthur Rutherford Barraga´ n Gallego Neal Abraham Gibbs Mooney (WV) Granger Marchant Sanford Bass Garamendi Nolan Aderholt Graves (GA) Marino Schweikert Gohmert Moore Beatty Gomez Aguilar Norcross Graves (LA) Marshall Scott, Austin Goodlatte Mullin Blumenauer Gonzalez (TX) Allen Pallone Graves (MO) Massie Sensenbrenner Gosar Murphy (FL) Bonamici Green, Al Amash Pascrell Griffith Mast Sessions Gottheimer Newhouse Boyle, Brendan Green, Gene Amodei Payne Grothman McCarthy Shimkus Gowdy Noem F. Grijalva Arrington Pelosi Guthrie McCaul Shuster Granger Norman Brady (PA) Gutie´rrez Babin Pingree Handel McClintock Simpson Graves (GA) Nunes Brown (MD) Hastings Bacon Pocan Harper McHenry Smith (MO) Graves (LA) O’Halleran Brownley (CA) Higgins (NY) Banks (IN) Harris McKinley Smith (NE) Graves (MO) O’Rourke Butterfield Hoyer Polis Barletta Hartzler McMorris Smith (NJ) Griffith Olson Capuano Huffman Price (NC) Barr Hensarling Rodgers Smith (TX) Grothman Palazzo Carbajal Jackson Lee Quigley Barton Herrera Beutler McSally Smucker Guthrie Palmer Carson (IN) Jayapal Raskin Bera Hice, Jody B. Meadows Stefanik Hanabusa Panetta Cartwright Jeffries Richmond Bergman Higgins (LA) Meehan Stewart Handel Paulsen Castor (FL) Johnson (GA) Roybal-Allard Beyer Hill Messer Stivers Harper Pearce Castro (TX) Jones Rush Biggs Holding Mitchell Taylor Harris Perlmutter Chu, Judy Kaptur Ryan (OH) Bilirakis Hollingsworth Moolenaar Tenney Hartzler Perry Cicilline Keating Sa´ nchez Bishop (GA) Heck Peters Hudson Mooney (WV) Thompson (PA) Clark (MA) Kelly (IL) Sarbanes Bishop (MI) Hensarling Peterson Huizenga Mullin Thornberry Clarke (NY) Kennedy Schakowsky Bishop (UT) Herrera Beutler Pittenger Hultgren Newhouse Tipton Clay Khanna Schiff Black Hunter Noem Trott Hice, Jody B. Poe (TX) Cleaver Kildee Blackburn Scott (VA) Hurd Norman Turner Higgins (LA) Poliquin Clyburn Kind Blum Serrano Issa Nunes Upton Hill Posey Cohen Langevin Blunt Rochester Shea-Porter Jenkins (KS) Olson Valadao Himes Ratcliffe Courtney Larsen (WA) Bost Sires Jenkins (WV) Palazzo Wagner Holding Reed Crist Larson (CT) Brady (TX) Smith (WA) Johnson (LA) Palmer Walberg Hollingsworth Reichert Crowley Lawrence Brat Speier Johnson (OH) Paulsen Walden Hudson Renacci Davis (CA) Lee Bridenstine Swalwell (CA) Johnson, Sam Pearce Walker Huizenga Rice (SC) DeFazio Levin Brooks (AL) Takano Jones Perry Walorski Hultgren Roby DeGette Lewis (GA) Brooks (IN) Thompson (CA) Jordan Pittenger Walters, Mimi Hunter Roe (TN) DeLauro Lieu, Ted Buchanan Thompson (MS) Joyce (OH) Poe (TX) Weber (TX) Hurd Rogers (AL) Demings Lofgren Buck Kelly (MS) Poliquin Webster (FL) Issa Rogers (KY) DeSaulnier Lowenthal Titus Bucshon Kelly (PA) Posey Wenstrup Jenkins (KS) Rohrabacher Deutch Lowey Tonko Budd King (IA) Ratcliffe Westerman Jenkins (WV) Rokita Dingell Luja´ n, Ben Ray Torres Burgess King (NY) Reed Williams Johnson (LA) Rooney, Francis Doggett Lynch Tsongas Bustos Kinzinger Reichert Wilson (SC) Johnson (OH) Rooney, Thomas Doyle, Michael Matsui Vela´ zquez Byrne Knight Renacci Wittman Johnson, E. B. J. F. McCollum Visclosky Calvert Kustoff (TN) Rice (SC) Womack Johnson, Sam Rosen Engel McEachin Wasserman Ca´ rdenas Labrador Roby Woodall Jordan Roskam Eshoo McGovern Schultz Carter (GA) LaHood Roe (TN) Yoder Joyce (OH) Rothfus Espaillat McNerney Waters, Maxine Chabot LaMalfa Rogers (AL) Yoho Kelly (MS) Rouzer Evans Meng Watson Coleman Cheney Lamborn Rogers (KY) Young (AK) Kelly (PA) Royce (CA) Frankel (FL) Moulton Welch Coffman Lance Rohrabacher Young (IA) Kihuen Ruiz Fudge Nadler Yarmuth Latta Rokita Zeldin Cole Kilmer Ruppersberger Collins (GA) King (IA) Russell NOT VOTING—14 NOT VOTING—13 Collins (NY) King (NY) Rutherford Carter (TX) Katko Scalise Comer Kinzinger Sanford Carter (TX) Katko Slaughter Costa Lipinski Comstock Knight Schneider Slaughter Costa Lipinski Walz Cummings Rice (NY) Conaway Krishnamoorthi Schrader Walz Cummings Rice (NY) Wilson (FL) Davis, Danny Ros-Lehtinen Connolly Kuster (NH) Schweikert Wilson (FL) Davis, Danny Ros-Lehtinen Ellison Ross Ellison Scalise Cook Kustoff (TN) Scott, Austin Cooper Labrador Scott, David ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE Correa LaHood Sensenbrenner The SPEAKER pro tempore (during The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Costello (PA) LaMalfa Sessions Cramer Lamborn Sewell (AL) the vote). There are 2 minutes remain- the vote). There are 2 minutes remain- Crawford Lance Sherman ing. ing. Cuellar Latta Shimkus Culberson Lawson (FL) Shuster b 1610 b 1603 Curbelo (FL) Lewis (MN) Simpson Mr. TROTT changed his vote from Curtis LoBiondo Sinema So the bill was passed. Davidson Loebsack Smith (MO) ‘‘yea’’ to ‘‘nay.’’ The result of the vote was announced Davis, Rodney Long Smith (NE) as above recorded. So the amendment was rejected. Delaney Loudermilk Smith (NJ) The result of the vote was announced DelBene Love Smith (TX) A motion to reconsider was laid on Denham Lucas Smucker the table. as above recorded. Dent Luetkemeyer Soto Stated against: DeSantis Lujan Grisham, Stefanik f Mr. THOMAS J. ROONEY of Florida. Mr. DesJarlais M. Stewart PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION Speaker, I incorrectly voted. I had intended to Diaz-Balart MacArthur Stivers Donovan Maloney, Suozzi OF H.R. 4061, FINANCIAL STA- vote ‘‘nay’’ on rollcall No. 111. Duffy Carolyn B. Taylor BILITY OVERSIGHT COUNCIL IM- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Duncan (SC) Maloney, Sean Tenney PROVEMENT ACT OF 2017, AND question is on the engrossment and Duncan (TN) Marchant Thompson (PA) PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION third reading of the bill. Dunn Marino Thornberry Emmer Marshall Tipton The bill was ordered to be engrossed OF H.R. 4293, STRESS TEST IM- Estes (KS) Massie Trott PROVEMENT ACT OF 2017 and read a third time, and was read the Esty (CT) Mast Turner third time. Farenthold McCarthy Upton The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Faso McCaul Valadao finished business is the vote on order- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Ferguson McClintock Vargas question is on the passage of the bill. Fitzpatrick McHenry Veasey ing the previous question on the reso- The question was taken; and the Fleischmann McKinley Vela lution (H. Res. 780) providing for con- Speaker pro tempore announced that Flores McMorris Wagner sideration of the bill (H.R. 4061) to Fortenberry Rodgers Walberg the ayes appeared to have it. Foster McSally Walden amend the Financial Stability Act of Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, on Foxx Meadows Walker 2010 to improve the transparency of the that I demand the yeas and nays. Frelinghuysen Meehan Walorski Financial Stability Oversight Council, The yeas and nays were ordered. Gaetz Meeks Walters, Mimi to improve the SIFI designation proc- Gallagher Messer Weber (TX) The SPEAKER pro tempore. This Garrett Mitchell Webster (FL) ess, and for other purposes, and pro- will be a 5-minute vote. Gianforte Moolenaar Wenstrup viding for consideration of the bill

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:54 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A15MR7.015 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H1644 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 15, 2018 (H.R. 4293) to reform the Comprehen- NAYS—182 A recorded vote was ordered. sive Capital Analysis and Review proc- Adams Garamendi Neal The SPEAKER pro tempore. This is a ess, the Dodd-Frank Act Stress Test Aguilar Gomez Norcross 5-minute vote. ´ process, and for other purposes, on Barragan Gonzalez (TX) O’Halleran Bass Gottheimer O’Rourke The vote was taken by electronic de- which the yeas and nays were ordered. Beatty Green, Al Pallone vice, and there were—ayes 235, noes 177, The Clerk read the title of the resolu- Bera Green, Gene Panetta not voting 18, as follows: tion. Beyer Grijalva Pascrell Bishop (GA) Gutie´rrez [Roll No. 114] The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Payne Blumenauer Hanabusa Pelosi AYES—235 question is on ordering the previous Blunt Rochester Hastings Perlmutter Bonamici Heck Abraham Goodlatte Nunes question. Peters Boyle, Brendan Higgins (NY) Aderholt Gosar Olson Peterson This will be a 5-minute vote. F. Himes Allen Gottheimer Palazzo Pingree Brady (PA) Hoyer Amash Gowdy Palmer The vote was taken by electronic de- Pocan vice, and there were—yeas 232, nays Brown (MD) Huffman Amodei Granger Paulsen Brownley (CA) Jackson Lee Polis Arrington Graves (GA) Pearce 182, not voting 16, as follows: Bustos Jayapal Price (NC) Babin Graves (LA) Perry [Roll No. 113] Butterfield Jeffries Quigley Bacon Graves (MO) Pittenger Capuano Johnson (GA) Raskin Banks (IN) Griffith Poe (TX) YEAS—232 Carbajal Johnson, E. B. Richmond Barletta Grothman Poliquin Abraham Gohmert Noem Ca´ rdenas Kaptur Rosen Barr Guthrie Posey Aderholt Goodlatte Norman Carson (IN) Keating Roybal-Allard Barton Handel Ratcliffe Allen Gosar Nunes Cartwright Kelly (IL) Ruiz Bergman Harper Reed Amash Gowdy Olson Castor (FL) Kennedy Ruppersberger Biggs Harris Renacci Amodei Granger Palazzo Castro (TX) Khanna Rush Bilirakis Hartzler Rice (SC) Arrington Graves (GA) Palmer Chu, Judy Kihuen Ryan (OH) Bishop (MI) Hensarling Roby Babin Graves (LA) Paulsen Cicilline Kildee Sa´ nchez Bishop (UT) Herrera Beutler Roe (TN) Bacon Graves (MO) Pearce Clark (MA) Kilmer Sarbanes Black Hice, Jody B. Rogers (AL) Banks (IN) Griffith Perry Clarke (NY) Kind Schakowsky Blackburn Higgins (LA) Rogers (KY) Barletta Grothman Pittenger Clay Krishnamoorthi Schiff Blum Hill Rohrabacher Barr Guthrie Poe (TX) Cleaver Kuster (NH) Schneider Bost Holding Rokita Barton Handel Poliquin Clyburn Langevin Schrader Brady (TX) Hollingsworth Rooney, Francis Bergman Harper Posey Cohen Larsen (WA) Scott (VA) Brat Hudson Rooney, Thomas Biggs Harris Ratcliffe Connolly Larson (CT) Scott, David Bridenstine Huizenga J. Bilirakis Hartzler Reed Cooper Lawrence Serrano Brooks (AL) Hultgren Roskam Bishop (MI) Hensarling Renacci Correa Lawson (FL) Sewell (AL) Brooks (IN) Hunter Ross Buchanan Hurd Bishop (UT) Herrera Beutler Rice (SC) Courtney Lee Shea-Porter Rothfus Buck Issa Rouzer Black Hice, Jody B. Roby Crist Levin Sherman Bucshon Jenkins (KS) Royce (CA) Blackburn Higgins (LA) Roe (TN) Crowley Lewis (GA) Sinema Budd Jenkins (WV) Russell Blum Hill Rogers (AL) Cuellar Lieu, Ted Sires Davis (CA) Loebsack Burgess Johnson (LA) Rutherford Bost Holding Rogers (KY) Smith (WA) DeFazio Lofgren Byrne Johnson (OH) Sanford Brady (TX) Hollingsworth Rohrabacher Soto DeGette Lowenthal Calvert Johnson, Sam Schneider Brat Hudson Rokita Speier Delaney Lowey Carter (GA) Jones Schweikert Bridenstine Huizenga Rooney, Francis Suozzi DeLauro Lujan Grisham, Chabot Jordan Scott, Austin Brooks (AL) Hultgren Rooney, Thomas Swalwell (CA) Brooks (IN) Hunter DelBene M. Cheney Kelly (MS) Sensenbrenner J. Takano Buchanan Hurd Roskam Demings Luja´ n, Ben Ray Coffman Kelly (PA) Sessions Thompson (CA) Buck Issa Ross DeSaulnier Lynch Cole King (IA) Shimkus Thompson (MS) Bucshon Jenkins (KS) Rothfus Deutch Maloney, Collins (GA) King (NY) Shuster Titus Budd Jenkins (WV) Rouzer Dingell Carolyn B. Collins (NY) Kinzinger Simpson Tonko Burgess Johnson (LA) Royce (CA) Doggett Maloney, Sean Comer Knight Sinema Torres Byrne Johnson (OH) Russell Doyle, Michael Matsui Comstock Kustoff (TN) Smith (MO) Calvert Johnson, Sam Rutherford F. McCollum Tsongas Conaway Labrador Smith (NE) Carter (GA) Jones Sanford Engel McEachin Vargas Cook LaHood Smith (NJ) Chabot Jordan Schweikert Eshoo McGovern Veasey Correa LaMalfa Smith (TX) Cheney Joyce (OH) Scott, Austin Espaillat McNerney Vela Costello (PA) Lamborn Smucker Coffman Kelly (MS) Sensenbrenner Esty (CT) Meeks Vela´ zquez Cramer Lance Stefanik Cole Kelly (PA) Sessions Evans Meng Visclosky Crawford Latta Stewart Collins (GA) King (IA) Shimkus Foster Moore Wasserman Culberson Lewis (MN) Stivers Collins (NY) King (NY) Shuster Frankel (FL) Moulton Schultz Curtis LoBiondo Suozzi Comer Kinzinger Simpson Fudge Murphy (FL) Waters, Maxine Davidson Long Taylor Comstock Knight Smith (MO) Gabbard Nadler Watson Coleman Davis, Rodney Loudermilk Tenney Conaway Kustoff (TN) Smith (NE) Gallego Napolitano Yarmuth Denham Love Thompson (PA) Dent Lucas Thornberry Cook Labrador Smith (NJ) NOT VOTING—16 Costello (PA) LaHood Smith (TX) DeSantis Luetkemeyer Tipton Cramer LaMalfa Smucker Carter (TX) Lipinski Slaughter DesJarlais MacArthur Trott Crawford Lamborn Stefanik Costa Nolan Walz Diaz-Balart Marchant Turner Culberson Lance Stewart Cummings Reichert Welch Donovan Marino Upton Curbelo (FL) Latta Stivers Davis, Danny Rice (NY) Wilson (FL) Duffy Marshall Valadao Curtis Lewis (MN) Taylor Ellison Ros-Lehtinen Duncan (SC) Massie Wagner Davidson LoBiondo Tenney Katko Scalise Duncan (TN) Mast Walberg Davis, Rodney Long Thompson (PA) Dunn McCarthy Walden Denham Loudermilk Thornberry ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE Emmer McCaul Walker Dent Love Tipton The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Estes (KS) McClintock Walorski DeSantis Lucas Trott the vote). There are 2 minutes remain- Farenthold McHenry Walters, Mimi DesJarlais Luetkemeyer Turner Faso McKinley Weber (TX) Diaz-Balart MacArthur Upton ing. Ferguson McMorris Webster (FL) Donovan Marchant Valadao b 1617 Fitzpatrick Rodgers Wenstrup Duffy Marino Wagner Fleischmann McSally Westerman Duncan (SC) Marshall Walberg So the previous question was ordered. Flores Meadows Williams Duncan (TN) Massie Walden The result of the vote was announced Fortenberry Meehan Wilson (SC) Dunn Mast Walker Foxx Messer Wittman Emmer McCarthy Walorski as above recorded. Frelinghuysen Mitchell Womack Estes (KS) McCaul Walters, Mimi Stated against: Gaetz Moolenaar Woodall Farenthold McClintock Weber (TX) Mr. WELCH. Mr. Speaker, had I been Gallagher Mooney (WV) Yoder Faso McHenry Webster (FL) present, I would have voted ‘‘nay’’ on rollcall Garrett Mullin Yoho Ferguson McKinley Wenstrup Gianforte Newhouse Young (AK) Fitzpatrick McMorris Westerman No. 113. Gibbs Noem Young (IA) Fleischmann Rodgers Williams The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Gohmert Norman Zeldin Flores McSally Wilson (SC) question is on the resolution. NOES—177 Fortenberry Meadows Wittman The question was taken; and the Foxx Meehan Womack Adams Bishop (GA) Brown (MD) Frelinghuysen Messer Woodall Speaker pro tempore announced that Aguilar Blumenauer Brownley (CA) Gaetz Mitchell Yoder the ayes appeared to have it. Barraga´ n Blunt Rochester Bustos Gallagher Moolenaar Yoho RECORDED VOTE Bass Bonamici Butterfield Garrett Mooney (WV) Young (AK) Beatty Boyle, Brendan Capuano Gianforte Mullin Young (IA) Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I de- Bera F. Carbajal Gibbs Newhouse Zeldin mand a recorded vote. Beyer Brady (PA) Ca´ rdenas

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:54 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.061 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1645 Carson (IN) Jackson Lee Pascrell The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there ward to seeing these Wildcat fans on Castor (FL) Jayapal Payne objection to the request of the gen- the sidelines for years to come. Castro (TX) Jeffries Pelosi Chu, Judy Johnson (GA) Perlmutter tleman from California? f Cicilline Johnson, E. B. Peters There was no objection. Clark (MA) Kaptur Peterson RUSSIAN CHEMICAL ATTACK IN Clarke (NY) Keating Pingree f THE UNITED KINGDOM Clay Kelly (IL) Pocan (Mr. LANGEVIN asked and was given Cleaver Kennedy Polis REMOVAL OF NAME OF MEMBER Clyburn Khanna Price (NC) AS COSPONSOR OF H. RES. 774 permission to address the House for 1 Cohen Kihuen Quigley Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I ask minute and to revise and extend his re- Connolly Kildee Raskin Cooper Kilmer unanimous consent that the gentleman marks.) Richmond Mr. LANGEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise Courtney Kind Rosen from Texas (Mr. CULBERSON) be re- Crist Krishnamoorthi Roybal-Allard to strongly condemn the March 4 Crowley Kuster (NH) moved as a cosponsor of H. Res. 774. Ruiz chemical attacks conducted by the Cuellar Langevin The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Ruppersberger Davis (CA) Larsen (WA) Kremlin in Salisbury, England, against Rush objection to the request of the gen- DeFazio Larson (CT) former Russian intelligence officer Ryan (OH) tleman from California? DeGette Lawrence Sa´ nchez Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia. Delaney Lawson (FL) There was no objection. Sarbanes Detective Sergeant Nick Bailey, the DeLauro Lee f DelBene Levin Schakowsky first on the scene, has also been hos- Demings Lewis (GA) Schiff pitalized. Schrader PERMISSION FOR MEMBER TO BE DeSaulnier Lieu, Ted Mr. Speaker, Vladimir Putin con- Deutch Loebsack Scott (VA) CONSIDERED AS PRIMARY SPON- Dingell Lofgren Scott, David SOR OF H.R. 138 tinues to display a pattern of inter- Doggett Lowenthal Serrano fering with and undermining the demo- Doyle, Michael Lowey Sewell (AL) Mr. NORCROSS. Mr. Speaker, I ask cratic processes and institutions in Shea-Porter F. Lujan Grisham, unanimous consent that I may here- contravention of the rules-based inter- Engel M. Sherman after be considered to be the primary Eshoo Luja´ n, Ben Ray Sires national order. We have seen that in Espaillat Lynch Smith (WA) sponsor of H.R. 138, a bill originally in- Russia’s frequent disruptive cyber op- Esty (CT) Maloney, Soto troduced by Representative Conyers of erations and now chemical warfare. Evans Carolyn B. Speier Michigan, for the purposes of adding Swalwell (CA) How far will they push things? Foster Maloney, Sean cosponsors and requesting reprintings Frankel (FL) Matsui Takano Mr. Speaker, that is why I, along Fudge McCollum Thompson (CA) pursuant to clause 7 of rule XII. with Representatives MEEKS, WILSON, Thompson (MS) Gabbard McEachin The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there COLE, HOLDING, and SIRES, introduced a Gallego McGovern Titus objection to the request of the gen- Garamendi McNerney Tonko resolution this afternoon condemning Gomez Meeks Torres tleman from New Jersey? this attack, calling for accountability Gonzalez (TX) Meng Tsongas There was no objection. for this and all chemical and biological Green, Al Moore Vargas attacks and standing in firm partner- Green, Gene Moulton Veasey f ship with our friends and allies in the Grijalva Murphy (FL) Vela FRANKLIN-SIMPSON SPORTS Gutie´rrez Nadler Vela´ zquez United Kingdom. Hanabusa Napolitano Visclosky ANNOUNCERS Mr. Speaker, I hope my colleagues Hastings Neal Wasserman Heck Norcross Schultz (Mr. COMER asked and was given will join me in cosponsoring this im- Higgins (NY) O’Halleran Waters, Maxine permission to address the House for 1 portant statement of solidarity in con- Himes O’Rourke Watson Coleman minute and to revise and extend his re- demnation and also in praying for the Hoyer Pallone Welch marks.) health of Sergei, Yulia, and Nick. Huffman Panetta Yarmuth Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise f NOT VOTING—18 today to recognize Mr. James b 1630 Carter (TX) Ellison Rice (NY) Mooneyhan and Mr. Steve Thurmond Cartwright Joyce (OH) Ros-Lehtinen THANKING PENN STATE STU- Costa Katko Scalise for their contributions to Simpson Cummings Lipinski Slaughter County in the First Congressional Dis- DENTS FOR THEIR FIGHT Curbelo (FL) Nolan Walz trict of Kentucky. AGAINST PEDIATRIC CANCER Davis, Danny Reichert Wilson (FL) These two community leaders have (Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE not only served as ambassadors for asked and was given permission to ad- The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Franklin-Simpson High School dress the House for 1 minute and to re- the vote). There are 2 minutes remain- throughout their careers and collec- vise and extend his remarks.) ing. tively witnessed over 33 years of sports Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. b 1623 history, but have contributed to the Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank economic development and well-being So the resolution was agreed to. Penn State students for their fight The result of the vote was announced of their fellow citizens during their ca- against pediatric cancer. as above recorded. reers in public service. THON, a 46-hour dance marathon, A motion to reconsider was laid on Off air, Steve Thurmond is the execu- took place February 16 through 18, and the table. tive director of the Franklin-Simpson students raised $10,151,663 for the Four PERSONAL EXPLANATION Chamber of Commerce, and James Diamonds Fund at Penn State Chil- Mr. SCALISE. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoid- Mooneyhan has served as Simpson dren’s Hospital. Four Diamonds en- ably detained. Had I been present, I would County’s jailer. From state champion- sures that families that are battling have voted ‘‘yea’’ on rollcall No. 110, ‘‘nay’’ on ship titles to their children’s successes, pediatric cancer are not faced with any rollcall No. 111, ‘‘yea’’ on rollcall No. 112, their commentary continually show- costs, allowing them to fully focus on ‘‘yea’’ on rollcall No. 113, and ‘‘yea’’ on rollcall cased the fervent pride Simpson the needs of their child. No. 114. Countians hold for their community. THON is the largest student-run stu- The excitement and spirit resulting dent philanthropy in the world, but it f from the unique blend of their person- all began in 1973 by a group of students ADJOURNMENT FROM THURSDAY, alities will be extremely difficult to re- looking to add excitement to a dreary MARCH 15, 2018, TO MONDAY, place, and their retirement marks the February in central Pennsylvania and MARCH 19, 2018 end of an era for this storied program. for a way to give back to the commu- Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I ask Although the voices of Franklin- nity. Today, THON engages more than unanimous consent that when the Simpson athletics will soon be broad- 15,000 students each year and has in- House adjourns today, it adjourn to cast throughout the region for the last spired other university, high school, meet on Monday, March 19, 2018, when time, I join with the entire community middle school, and elementary school it shall convene at noon for morning- to thank them for the laughs and un- students across the Nation to start hour debate and 2 p.m. for legislative forgettable memories they have pro- dance marathons of their own, all in business. vided over the last 25 years. I look for- hopes of conquering pediatric cancer.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:54 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A15MR7.020 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H1646 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 15, 2018 Mr. Speaker, I am in awe of the ness tax rates in the industrialized MAPLE WEEKEND power of our Penn State students and world. Now this law is removing this (Ms. TENNEY asked and was given their care and concern for others, and I economic choke hold, putting Amer- permission to address the House for 1 thank them for this outstanding con- ican businesses at a more favorable minute and to revise and extend her re- tribution to the community. corporate tax rate than their foreign marks.) f competitors, and also allowing compa- Ms. TENNEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise nies to write off the full cost of new today to recognize an exciting spring OUR FAILURE TO STOP THE equipment when it is purchased. tradition in upstate New York and, SLAUGHTER IN SYRIA IS SHAME- America is gaining its competitive particularly, the 22nd Congressional FUL edge, and the manufacturing industry District. (Mr. MCGOVERN asked and was is at the forefront of this success story. Vernon-Verona-Sherrill School Dis- given permission to address the House trict, or VVS, is holding its Maple for 1 minute and to revise and extend f Weekend this coming weekend. Maple his remarks.) Weekend is run for two weekends each HONORING THE LIFE OF CHRIS Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, today, year by the Future Farmers of Amer- the brutal conflict in Syria enters its HAZENCOMB ica, also known as FFA. This FFA or- eighth year. As we meet, safe and se- (Mr. KIHUEN asked and was given ganization has approximately 125 mem- cure in this Chamber, the Syrian re- permission to address the House for 1 bers, and its success has been recog- gime, with the support of its principal minute and to revise and extend his re- nized both on the State and national ally, Russia, is pulverizing Eastern marks.) levels. Ghouta. Mr. KIHUEN. Mr. Speaker, today I Despite the two nor’easters that New On February 24, the U.N. Security rise to remember the life of Chris York has received in March alone, Council unanimously passed a resolu- Hazencomb. Chris attended the Route VVS’ FFA organization has worked tion demanding a 30-day cease-fire 91 festival in Las Vegas on October 1. tirelessly to prepare for the upcoming across Syria. This was supposed to per- Chris was a sports junkie who loved maple season. This weekend, VVS will mit a ‘‘durable humanitarian pause’’ so the Angels, Raiders, and Lakers. He join 170 other local organizations that aid could be delivered and people worked at the local Walmart and is re- across New York to prepare demonstra- who are critically sick and wounded membered by all of his customers as tions on how to harvest and produce could be evacuated. being very friendly. maple syrup products, host pancake It hasn’t worked. Instead, a brutal Chris was close to his mother, breakfasts which feature our award- campaign of airstrikes, shelling, and Maryanne, and even had a gift for her winning syrup, and provide tours of the ground offensives has intensified. Pop- with him while at the festival. Chris mouthwatering ‘‘sugar shack,’’ where ulated areas remain under siege. The died shielding his friend, Nikki, from maple products are created. targeting of civilians continues, and gunfire with his own body. He is re- Last year, VVS’ Maple Weekend ex- hundreds more men, women, and chil- membered for his love of helping people travaganza drew more than 2,000 visi- dren have been killed. and his constant need to put others be- tors. I am thrilled to attend each year In the words of the U.N. Secretary fore himself. and to take part in this educational General: ‘‘Syria is bleeding inside and I would like to extend my condo- and delicious local event that is out.’’ lences to Chris’ family and friends. expertly organized each year by high Mr. Speaker, our failure to stop this Please know that the city of Las school students from FFA. terrible slaughter is shameful. It is un- Vegas, the State of Nevada, and the These same FFA members from VVS acceptable. We must urgently work whole country grieve with you. travel throughout New York State, with our allies, put an end to this from Buffalo to New York City, using nightmare, and find a path forward. f their Maple Syrup Trailer to educate other high school students across our f HONORING THE LIFE OF STEPHEN State, teaching them how to produce CONGRATULATING JOHNSTOWN’S HAWKING maple syrup and to produce maple ENVIRONMENTAL TANK AND (Mr. YOHO asked and was given per- candies and other delicious maple prod- CONTAINER COMPANY mission to address the House for 1 ucts. (Mr. ROTHFUS asked and was given minute and to revise and extend his re- New York State still produces the permission to address the House for 1 marks.) very best maple syrup in the world and minute and to revise and extend his re- Mr. YOHO. Mr. Speaker, yesterday is continually winning the award for the best maple syrup. marks.) our world lost the beloved Stephen I would like to congratulate these Mr. ROTHFUS. Mr. Speaker, I want Hawking, a man who spent his life outstanding VVS and FFA students on to congratulate Johnstown’s Environ- defying all obstacles and pursuing the their hard work, and I wish them and depths of human knowledge. He is the mental Tank and Container Company, the hundreds of other maple producers epitome of proving your circumstances a division of JWF Industries, for being across the State the best of luck during named Manufacturer of the Year at the don’t define you. this very difficult season for maple Sixth Annual 2018 Oil & Gas Awards. Hawking faced being told in his early production. The Manufacturer of the Year Award twenties that he only had a few years recognizes the outstanding contribu- to live. Fearlessly, he went on to not f tions that a manufacturer has made to only beat those odds, but, along the CELEBRATING THE 106TH BIRTH- the industry in the region, such as ad- way, demonstrated the beginning and DAY OF THE GIRL SCOUTS OF vances made in environmental steward- the end of our universe as we know it THE UNITED STATES OF AMER- ship, efficiency, innovation, commu- today. ICA nity leadership, and health and safety, Hawking taught us that, if you dare (Mr. CARTER of Georgia asked and and I am proud of ETC’s achievement. to dream and work hard, you can suc- was given permission to address the Manufacturing is a key to a nation’s ceed; and I know he is responsible for House for 1 minute and to revise and prosperity and drives the American inspiring many of our scientific minds, extend his remarks.) economy. As America competes on a both young and old alike. Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speak- global scale, it is critical that this in- As we celebrate his life, let us re- er, I rise today to honor the Girl dustry continues to grow, creating a member not only his accomplishments, Scouts of the USA on their 106th birth- wealth of job opportunities for all academic and otherwise, but his fight- day and to commend the organization Americans. Over 500,000 people in Penn- ing spirit. We are grateful for all he for helping girls become leaders in sylvania rely on the strength of the taught us and the legacy he left our their communities and in our Nation. manufacturing sector. world. Let us all remember him by em- It is fitting that the Girl Scouts’ birth- Before the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, bracing his steadfast determination day falls during Women’s History the United States had the highest busi- and lead lives of action, as he did. Month.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:54 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.067 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1647 In 1912, Juliette Gordon Low founded But I want to start, Mr. Speaker, erty that gives rise to faction, but the first Girl Scout troop, with 18 girls, with a basic question of political that, of course, plunges us into in Savannah, Georgia. 106 years later, science, which is: Why does it seem as authoritarianism, monarchy dictator- more than 50 million women are Girl if it is so hard for us to get the people’s ship. One way you get rid of all the dif- Scout alums, and the program reaches business done in Congress these days? ferent views is you go to one party. nearly 2 million girls. Today, Girl Why does it seem so difficult that, You create a one-party state like they Scout alums launch rockets into space, even when we have a vast consensus on have got in North Korea, and then serve as CEOs of international compa- what to do about a particular issue, we there is no conflicts because everybody nies, sit on academic boards, and more. still can’t get it done? does what the one party says. As we celebrate the Girl Scouts’ Why is it that the approval rating of So Madison dismisses that and says 106th birthday this week and Women’s our institution, according to the most that is not going to work. We are not History Month, I applaud the Girl recent Rasmussen poll, is at 15 percent, going to be able to remove the sources Scout councils that serve girls in my which I think most people would agree of faction, but why don’t we try to con- State for building girls of courage, con- is a pretty dismal showing for the peo- trol the effects of faction. And the way fidence, and character, who make the ple’s Congress and here in the people’s you do that, he said, is that if—in order world a better place. House. to control the effects of a majority tyr- I am proud that this program was Well, I want to talk about this prob- anny is you have a bill of rights that founded in the First Congressional Dis- lem in some historical and constitu- defends the rights of the minority so trict of Georgia and in my hometown tional perspective, and I hope that it that people in the majority can imple- of Savannah, Georgia. opens up some roots of thinking and ment their policy preferences, but they can’t extinguish the rights of the mi- f feeling that might enable us to tran- scend some of the paralysis that now nority, the right to speak, the right of TERMINALLY ILL PATIENTS besets the United States Congress. press, the right to dissent, the right to DESERVE THE RIGHT TO TRY Of course, the simple explanation vote, and so on. (Mr. LAMALFA asked and was given that is often given colloquially is that But also, Madison said, if you extend permission to address the House for 1 everybody in Washington is just fight- the size of the republic, if you create a minute and to revise and extend his re- ing, and you have got the two parties big country, then even if you get a ma- marks.) at each others’ throats, and everybody jority on one particular issue, the ma- Mr. LAMALFA. Mr. Speaker, I rise is so divided that nothing happens. jorities are shifting because then you today to voice my displeasure that the This explanation, although it turns will have a different majority on an- House was unable to pass the Right to out to be wrong, of course, has a long other issue and a different majority on Try Act this week. This bill would have lineage to it. In fact, the Founders another issue and so on. But what happens, he says, if you allowed very sick or terminally ill pa- wrote very widely at the time our Con- have a faction that is tyrannizing the tients to request access to drugs and stitution was adopted about the prob- society, but it is not a majority fac- treatments that have yet to be ap- lem of faction, and they said, if you tion, it is a minority faction? What if proved by the FDA. look at James Madison in Federalist you have a small group that is able to For any patient dealing with a seri- No. 10, for example, he identifies fac- hijack the process and prevent the ma- ous, life-threatening illness, a sliver of tion as the central problem in the po- jority from having its way? Well, he hope can go a long way. Yet, for some litical life of a democracy. But he says reason, even after the Senate, of all thought, there, democratic processes that the latent causes of faction are and Republican government would take places, passed this proposal nearly sewn in the nature of man, and we see unanimously, some of my colleagues on care of it. them everywhere. He says this: ‘‘If a faction consists of the other side of the aisle blocked this Madison cites a zeal for different less than a majority’’—a minority of measure from passing. opinions concerning religion, con- people—‘‘relief is supplied by the re- Sick patients deserve the right to cerning government, and many other publican principle, which enables the utilize every possible tool at their dis- points, as well as speculation as a prac- majority to defeat its sinister views by posal, even if it is still experimental. tice. He cites, also, an attachment to regular vote.’’ The government really has no business different leaders ambitiously con- The minority ‘‘may clog the adminis- telling a terminally ill patient they tending for preeminence and power; tration, it may convulse the society, cannot pursue a certain avenue of and he invokes the human passions but it will be unable to execute and treatment, and, as its name suggests, that have divided mankind into par- mask its violence under the forms of this legislation gives them the right to ties, inflaming them with mutual ani- the Constitution.’’ try. mosity. In other words, Madison is assuming I thank Mr. RUTHERFORD for his work So strong is this propensity of man- that, when it comes to public policy, on this legislation. I urge the House to kind to fall into mutual animosities, the majority will eventually get its bring this back to the floor and pass it Madison writes, ‘‘that where no sub- way if the governmental process is as quickly as possible. stantial occasion presents itself, the working correctly. f most frivolous and fanciful distinctions Now, let’s fast-forward to 2018. I am taking three issues where the vast ma- THE PARALYSIS THAT BESETS have been sufficient to kindle their un- jority of the American people agree as THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS friendly passions and incite their most violent conflicts.’’ to what should be done to deal with The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. this serious, serious public policy prob- b 1645 COMER). Under the Speaker’s an- lem. nounced policy of January 3, 2017, the In other words, even when there is Let’s start with the problem of high gentleman from Maryland (Mr. RASKIN) not something real and big to be fight- prescription drug prices. Now, Congress is recognized for 60 minutes as the des- ing about, people will find something passed a law saying that the govern- ignee of the minority leader. small, trivial, and petulant to fight ment could not negotiate for lower pre- Mr. RASKIN. Mr. Speaker, I am de- about. And those of you with little scription drug prices in the Medicare lighted to have the opportunity to brothers and sisters might agree that program with the big pharmaceutical share some thoughts with you during is just the way it is. Sometimes it is in companies, and it will not surprise you this Special Order hour at the request human nature for people to fight. to learn that the big pharmaceutical of the minority leader. But the Founders understood that companies who invest a lot of money I am a professor of constitutional faction was something that would arise and campaign contributions also paid law, as those of you who watch our pro- in a democratic society where people for a lot of lobbyists to go and lobby ceedings here may know by now, and I have the liberty of thought and expres- for that provision to be put into the would like to talk about the Constitu- sion. In fact, Madison said one of the law. tion, and I will get there before this is ways that you could deal with the So the Federal Government can nego- over. problem of faction is to destroy the lib- tiate for lower prescription drug prices

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:54 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.068 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H1648 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 15, 2018 in the Medicaid program, it can nego- Let’s look at case number three. An- Well, there are a couple of reasons I tiate for lower prescription drug prices other thing that has been very much on want to identify, and then I want to in the VA program, but for Medicare, the mind of the public and in the public call on all of us in Congress to try to because this provision got slipped into policy debate, 83 percent of Americans take us to a higher ground. The young the law, we can’t negotiate; and it is favor continuing the DACA program people who are protesting about the costing the taxpayers $25 billion to $30 and passing the Dream Act and allow- nightmare of gun violence, which billion a year, and, of course, driving ing the Dreamers a path to citizenship makes America an absolute outlier up everybody’s prescription drug in the United States. These, of course, state—in terms of industrialized coun- prices. The majority of Americans have are 800,000 young people who were tries, our rate of homicide and suicide at least one prescription drug, and one- brought to America with their families by gun violence is simply off the charts fifth of Americans have four or more when they were kids, grew up here, when you compare it to other industri- prescription drugs. know this as their country, are in the alized countries like the United King- Well, 92 percent of Americans support armed services, are working here, are dom or Canada or France or Japan. It allowing the Federal Government to in school. And we have 83 percent of is not even close. We are losing tens of negotiate free-market style with the the American people who say, quite thousands of people a year. prescription drug companies for lower logically, exercising their common The point I was making here is that prices in Medicare—92 percent of Amer- sense, let’s create a pathway for those we have this puzzlement about why we icans support that. All right. So that is people if they are in school, if they are can have massive popular agreement case number one. Hold that in mind. working, if they are in the armed serv- and consensus, political consensus as Case number two. This is something ices, to stay here and to become Amer- to what to do, yet a bottleneck in Con- that should be familiar to you, in the ican citizens, yet, again, nothing hap- gress where we get this paralysis and wake of the discussion about the Park- pening in Congress. Okay. this inaction. land massacre that took place. I tried Now, why not? What is it that is The young people who have ignited a not to lapse into calling it a tragedy. going on? So we go back to the problem revolution across the country against Romeo and Juliet, that is a tragedy. of faction. Obviously, people are going political complacency with respect to Hamlet, that is a tragedy. Macbeth, to have different views. That is the ox- gun massacres in public places like that is a tragedy. What happened in ygen of democracy. There is nothing schools and movie theaters and con- Parkland, Florida, was a massacre. It wrong with that. We are not ashamed certs and churches and so on, they are was terrorism that took place in a pub- of that. We have different political par- focused very heavily on the problem of lic school. It was a preventable public ties here. It is much better to have two money and politics, and I think that parties or more than that, than to have policy debacle that that young man the vast majority of the American peo- one party, a one-party system. could walk into a gun store and pur- ple exercising their common sense You know, Thomas Jefferson, in his chase an AR–15 and that AR–15s are so first inaugural address, said: ‘‘We are would agree that money and politics available that people can get them all republicans, we are all federalists.’’ distorts the public agenda. We know that the NRA has put tens even when they are not qualified to Lincoln tried to strike the same note of millions of dollars into our politics, possess even a handgun. when he first took office, and Lincoln In any event, after Parkland and just as we know the prescription drug said: ‘‘We are not enemies, but friends. after the Pulse massacre, and after the manufacturers have put tens of mil- We must not be enemies. Though pas- Las Vegas massacre, and after the San lions of dollars into our politics, so I sion may have strained, it must not Bernardino County massacre, and after break our bonds of affection.’’ think the right to identify that is one the Sandy Hook massacre, and after So our greatest Presidents and our strand of the problem. the Virginia Tech massacre, guess greatest leaders have understood we But even with that, I think here, in what, 95 percent of American voters— fight like cats and dogs in elections. Congress, there is a major failure of po- 95 percent support a universal criminal That is how it works in a democratic litical leadership, Mr. Speaker, and I and mental background check on all society. There is a political contest. think it goes to something that, at firearm purchases in the United States. But once we are in, we try to stand for least, used to be called the Hastert That is more than 9 out of 10 Ameri- the whole public, the whole common Rule. Well, the former speaker has cans—19 out of 20 Americans. good. We try to remember that we are been discredited, but the rule, unfortu- If you include the margin of error, it not just here to represent one party. nately, is still operational. And the might be 98 percent. It might be almost Washington reminded people that the Hastert Rule is a rule that has been everybody except for the leadership of word ‘‘party’’ comes from the French adopted by the majority caucus, which the NRA and the CEOs of gun manufac- word ‘‘fete’’, a part, one part of the says that no legislation will be brought turers who support a universal back- whole. You represent a party. You are to the floor of the House of Representa- ground check. just representing a part of the whole. tives unless it passes the Republican If you go to a licensed gun dealer and We have got to try to aspire to rep- caucus first. you can’t purchase a gun because you resent everybody. Yet, given the Now, think about what that means. If failed the background check, why human condition, given the nature of you have got legislation like the should you be able to go to a gun show political passions and moral passions Dream Act or like a universal criminal/ and buy one? Why should you be able that Madison discusses in Federalist 10, mental background check act, which to go to the internet or the parking lot we know that parties are inevitable. has unanimous support by the Demo- of a 7–Eleven and buy one? It doesn’t Okay. We accept that in a democratic crats and substantial support by the make any sense. society. We cherish the fact that people Republicans, such that it would pass So the common sense of the Amer- can form political parties that articu- overwhelmingly in this body, it never ican people, 95 percent of American late different agendas and different sees the light of day on the floor of the voters favor universal background values. So that is not the problem. So House of Representatives because their checks, yet nothing is happening. Just what is the problem? Why is it the case rule is they won’t bring it out of the like with giving the government the that the United States Congress cannot GOP caucus to the floor for a vote un- power to lower prescription drug even bring to a vote three measures less it can get a majority within the prices, despite the fact that more than, that have overwhelming public sup- caucus. you know, 9 out of 10 Americans sup- port: to allow the government to nego- This means that the majority will, port it. The President of the United tiate for lower prescription drug prices; not just of the country, but the major- States, President Trump, called for it to pass a universal criminal and men- ity will of this body is thwarted and in both of his two State of the Union tal background check; and to pass the frustrated by the Hastert Rule, which I Addresses. I think the vast majority of Dream Act to help deal with the crisis wish Speaker Hastert had taken with the Members of Congress would vote of these young people who have been him when he left the House of Rep- for it if it were brought up for vote, yet thrown into a limbo because of Presi- resentatives, because it is fundamen- nothing happening. So that is case dent Trump’s action last year? Why tally undemocratic, and we are seeing number two. can’t we do it? right now the cost of this rule, which

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:54 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.070 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1649 enshrines minority preferences and mi- in the first place. But they gave us a FURTHER MESSAGE FROM THE nority control against majority public structure within which we could im- SENATE opinion. prove things, reform things, and make A further message from the Senate Now, I hasten to say, of course, we things better. by Ms. Lasky, one of its clerks, an- Yet, the Members of Congress who have got a bill of rights, so what we are nounced that the Senate has passed are now in charge, in the driver’s seat, talking about is not allowing the ma- with an amendment in which the con- are blocking off the hall. They are jority to trample the constitutional currence of the House is requested, a thwarting progress across the board on rights of the minority. What is hap- bill of the House of the following title: pening here is that a political minority everything from prescription drug H.R. 3210. An act to require the Director of is trampling the policy rights of the prices to the ban on assault weapons and a universal criminal/mental back- the National Background Investigations Bu- majority so that the majority policy reau to submit a report on the backlog of preferences of the American people and ground check, and to the Dreamers. personnel security clearance investigations, of Congress are being stymied by virtue The American people are increasingly and for other purposes. of minority control in this body. unsatisfied and frustrated with this sit- A message also announced that the uation. Senate has passed a bill of the fol- b 1700 So I come back, finally, to the re- lowing title in which the concurrence Now, this is something that our dis- sponsibility of each one of us who has of the House is requested: tinguished and thoughtful colleagues been entrusted with the high honor and on the other side of the aisle can fix. responsibility of coming to Congress. S. 1869. An act to reauthorize and rename They can say they are no longer going Madam Speaker, the original demo- the position of Whistleblower Ombudsman to cratic philosophers distinguished be- be the Whistleblower Protection Coordi- to abide by that rule. They will allow nator. us to have a hearing on a universal tween sovereignty and government. criminal background check. They will Government is just the people who go f allow us to have a hearing on whether to do the job. Sovereignty belongs al- ENROLLED BILL SIGNED ways with the people. We the people. the government can negotiate for lower Karen L. Haas, Clerk of the House, prescription drug prices. They will That is why the right of free speech and protest and assembly are so crit- reported and found truly enrolled a bill allow us to have a hearing on the of the House of the following title, Dream Act, and they will allow us to ical. That is where the people come to- gether and tell us what they want; the which was thereupon signed by the have a vote on it. Speaker: We are not saying everybody has got right to come to the town meetings, to H.R. 1177. An act to direct the Secretary of to agree. They have got the right to call us up, to email us, and so on. But we have got a high responsi- Agriculture to release on behalf of the vote against it. But doesn’t the minor- United States the condition that certain ity at least have a right to a vote on bility. Those of us who aspire and at- tain to public office are nothing but lands conveyed to the City of Old Town, those issues which reflect the massive Maine, be used for a municipal airport, and policy preferences of the American peo- the servants of the people. There are no for other purposes. kings here. There are no queens here. ple? f Don’t we think that has got some- There are no titles of nobility in the thing to do with the very low esteem United States of America. It is in the SENATE ENROLLED BILLS SIGNED within which we are held by the Amer- Constitution. We have no slaves here. The Speaker announced his signature We have no serfs here. Just equal citi- ican people today? That, when it is to enrolled bills of the Senate of the zens, all of us. Those of us who get into very clear what almost all Americans following titles: public office are acting as the servants want, we cannot legislate their pref- of those people we are sent here to rep- S. 188. An act to amend title 31, United erences into law? States Code, to prohibit the use of Federal resent. Mr. Speaker, in Federalist Paper No. funds for the costs of painting portraits of Madam Speaker, our people want us officers and employees of the Federal Gov- 10, Madison told us that the problem of to get past all of the procedural obsta- democracy is the problem of faction. ernment, and for other purposes. cles and choke holds that have been S. 324. An act to amend title 38, United And right now we have got a tiny mi- put up here at the behest of big money States Code, to improve the provision of nority faction driving the entire train and big special interests, and they adult day health care services for veterans. of government, and there is not enough want us to get a job done. f space, there is not enough room, for Let us start with these three things, the will of the people to govern. which the vast overwhelming majority BILLS PRESENTED TO THE That is why America is disenchanted of the American people—Democrats, PRESIDENT with the leadership of Congress and Republicans, Independents alike, ev- Karen L. Haas, Clerk of the House, what is happening here. We are seeing erybody—agree we need: reported that on March 13, 2018, she it in election results around the coun- A universal criminal/mental back- presented to the President of the try. We are seeing it in public opinion ground check on firearm purchases in United States, for his approval, the fol- polls. We are seeing it in marches and America. We need to give the govern- lowing bills. rallies and walkouts all over the coun- ment the power to negotiate in Medi- H.R. 3893. To designate the facility of the try, and that is good. care for lower drug prices for our peo- United States Postal Service located at 100 Because in their wisdom, the Found- ple so our mothers and fathers and Mathe Avenue in Interlachen, Florida, as the ers also gave us the First Amendment, grandparents can get the prescription ‘‘Robert H. Jenkins, Jr. Post Office’’. which gave the people a right to peti- drugs they need at affordable prices. H.R. 4042. To designate the facility of the tion for redress of grievances, a right We need to pass a Dream Act so we can United States Postal Service located at 1415 to assemble, as the young people as- West Oak Street, in Kissimmee, Florida, as deal with the crisis situation of hun- the ‘‘Borinqueneers Post Office Building’’. sembled yesterday on the lawn of the dreds of thousands of young people Capitol building and in front of the H.R. 4285. To designate the facility of the whose lives have been thrown into United States Postal Service located at 123 White House. limbo over the last year. Bridgeton Pike in Mullica Hill, New Jersey, It gives us the right of free press so We can do those things. We can make as the ‘‘James C. ‘Billy’ Johnson Post Office we can write about what is actually that happen. Building’’. taking place here in Congress. It gives Madam Speaker, I would invite you H.R. 3821. To designate the facility of the us a right against establishment of re- or any other Member of Congress to re- United States Postal Service located at 430 ligion and for free exercise of religion. spond. I reach out in a spirit of open- Main Street in Clermont, Georgia, as the It gives everybody the right of free ness, affection, and, as much as pos- ‘‘Zack T. Addington Post Office’’. speech so we can talk about what is H.R. 3638. To designate the facility of the sible, transpartisanship to say: We United States Postal Service located at 1100 going on. have got to get America moving in the Kings Road in Jacksonville, Florida, as the The Founders never guaranteed us right direction again. ‘‘Rutledge Pearson Post Office Building’’. perfection. Madison said, if people were Madam Speaker, I yield back the bal- H.R. 3655. To designate the facility of the perfect, we wouldn’t need government ance of my time. United States Postal Service located at 1300

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:54 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR7.071 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H1650 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 15, 2018 Main Street in Belmar, New Jersey, as the (NOP); Organic Livestock and Poultry Prac- mitting the Office’s Annual Report for fiscal ‘‘Dr. Walter S. McAfee Post Office Building’’. tices [Document Number: AMS-NOP-15-0012; year ending September 30, 2017; to the Com- H.R. 3369. To designate the facility of the NOP-15-06] (RIN: 0581-AD75) received March mittee on House Administration. United States Postal Service located at 225 14, 2018, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); 4282. A letter from the Deputy AA for Reg- North Main Street in Spring Lake, North Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to ulatory Programs, Office of Protected Re- Carolina, as the ‘‘Howard B. Pate, Jr. Post the Committee on Agriculture. sources, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Office’’. 4273. A letter from the Acting Adminis- Administration, transmitting the Adminis- H.R. 3109. To designate the facility of the trator, Rural Housing Service, Department tration’s final rule — Taking and Importing United States Postal Service located at 1114 of Agriculture, transmitting the Depart- Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals North 2nd Street in Chillicothe, Illinois, as ment’s direct final rule — Truth in Lending Incidental to Testing and Training Activities the ‘‘Sr. Chief Ryan Owens Post Office Build- — Real Estate Settlement Procedures (RIN: Conducted in the Eglin Gulf Test and Train- ing’’. 0575-AD11) received March 14, 2018, pursuant ing Range in the Gulf of Mexico [Docket No.: H.R. 2815. To designate the facility of the to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, 170831846-8105-02] (RIN: 0648-BH21) received United States Postal Service located at 30 Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on March 14, 2018, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. East Somerset Street in Raritan, New Jer- Financial Services. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 sey, as the ‘‘Gunnery Sergeant John 4274. A letter from the Secretary, Depart- Stat. 868); to the Committee on Natural Re- Basilone Post Office’’. ment of Education, transmitting the Depart- sources. H.R. 2873. To designate the facility of the ment’s final priorities and definitions — Sec- 4283. A letter from the Assistant Attorney United States Postal Service located at 207 retary’s Final Supplemental Priorities and General, Office of Legislative Affairs, De- Glenside Avenue in Wyncote, Pennsylvania, Definitions for Discretionary Grant Pro- partment of Justice, transmitting a report as the ‘‘Staff Sergeant Peter Taub Post Of- grams [Docket ID: ED-2017-OS-0078] (RIN: titled, ‘‘Department of Justice Activities 1894-AA09) received February 28, 2018, pursu- fice Building’’. Under the Civil Rights of Institutionalized ant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104- H.R. 2464. To designate the facility of the Persons Act Fiscal Year 2017’’, pursuant to 28 121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee United States Postal Service located at 25 U.S.C. 522(a); Public Law 89-554, Sec. 4(c) (as on Education and the Workforce. New Chardon Street Lobby in Boston, Massa- 4275. A letter from the Director, Regula- amended by Public Law 94-273, Sec. 19); (80 chusetts, as the ‘‘John Fitzgerald Kennedy tions Policy and Management Staff, Depart- Stat. 615); to the Committee on the Judici- Post Office’’. ment of Health and Human Services, trans- ary. H.R. 2672. To designate the facility of the mitting the Department’s final rule — Food 4284. A letter from the Acting Director, Of- United States Postal Service located at 520 Additives Permitted in Feed and Drinking fice of Surface Mining Reclamation and En- Carter Street in Fairview, Illinois, as the Water of Animals; Silicon Dioxide as a Car- forcement, Department of the Interior, ‘‘Sgt. Douglas J. Riney Post Office’’. rier for Flavors [Docket No.: FDA-2017-F- transmitting the Department’s final rule — H.R. 2254. To designate the facility of the 5528] received March 14, 2018, pursuant to 5 Civil Monetary Penalty Inflation Adjust- United States Postal Service located at 2635 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. ments [Docket No.: OSM-2017-0012; S1D1S Napa Street in Vallejo, California, as the 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on En- SS08011000 SX064A000 189S180110; S2D2S ‘‘Janet Capello Post Office Building’’. ergy and Commerce. SS08011000 SX064A00 18XS501520] (RIN: 1029- H.R. 2302. To designate the facility of the 4276. A letter from the Deputy Bureau AC75) received March 9, 2018, pursuant to 5 United States Postal Service located at 259 Chief, Public Safety and Homeland Security U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. Nassau Street, Suite 2 in Princeton, New Bureau, Federal Communications Commis- 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on the Jersey, as the ‘‘Dr. John F. Nash, Jr. Post sion, transmitting the Commission’s final Judiciary. Office’’. rule — Wireless Emergency Alerts [PS Dock- 4285. A letter from the Deputy General H.R. 1858. To designate the facility of the et No.: 15-91]; Amendments to Part 11 of the Counsel, Office of General Counsel, Small United States Postal Service located at 4514 Commission’s Rules Regarding the Emer- Business Administration, transmitting the Williamson Trail in Liberty, Pennsylvania, gency Alert System [PS Docket No.: 15-94] Administration’s final rule — Civil Monetary as the ‘‘Staff Sergeant Ryan Scott Ostrom received February 28, 2018, pursuant to 5 Penalties Inflation Adjustments (RIN: 3245- Post Office’’. U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. AG96) received March 9, 2018, pursuant to 5 H.R. 1988. To designate the facility of the 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on En- U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. United States Postal Service located at 1730 ergy and Commerce. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on the 18th Street in Bakersfield, California, as the 4277. A letter from the Deputy Chief, Legal Judiciary. ‘‘Merle Haggard Post Office Building’’. Policy, Auctions and Spectrum Access Divi- 4286. A letter from the Acting Adminis- H.R. 1208. To designate the facility of the sion, Wireless Telecommunications Bureau, trator, Federal Aviation Administration, De- United States Postal Service located at 9155 Federal Communications Commission, trans- partment of Transportation, transmitting Schaefer Road, Converse, Texas, as the ‘‘Con- mitting the Commission’s final rule — Con- the Department’s report to Congress titled, verse Veterans Post Office Building’’. nect America Fund Phase II Auction Sched- ‘‘Assistance Provided to Foreign Aviation H.R. 294. To designate the facility of the uled for July 24, 2018; Notice and Filing Re- Authorities for FY 2017’’, pursuant to 49 United States Postal Service located at 2700 quirements and Other Procedures for Auc- U.S.C. 40113(e)(4); Public Law 103-272, Sec. Cullen Boulevard in Pearland, Texas, as the tion 903 [AU Docket No.: 17-182] [WC Docket 1(e) (as amended by Public Law 112-95, Sec. ‘‘Endy Nddiobong Ekpanya Post Office No.: 10-90] received March 14, 2018, pursuant 207); (126 Stat. 39); to the Committee on Building’’. to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Transportation and Infrastructure. H.R. 452. To designate the facility of the Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on 4287. A letter from the Reg. Policy Dev. United States Postal Service located at 324 Energy and Commerce. Coord., Office of Regulation Policy and Man- West Saint Louis Street in Pacific, Missouri, 4278. A letter from the Associate General agement, Office of the Secretary (00REG), as the ‘‘Specialist Jeffrey L. White, Jr. Post Counsel, Department of Agriculture, trans- Department of Veterans Affairs, transmit- Office’’. mitting two (2) notifications of a nomina- ting the Department’s final rule — Revise tion, and an action on nomination, pursuant f and Streamline VA Acquisition Regulation to 5 U.S.C. 3349(a); Public Law 105-277, 151(b); to Adhere to Federal Acquisition Regulation ADJOURNMENT (112 Stat. 2681-614); to the Committee on Principles (VAAR Case 2014-V002) (RIN: 2900- Oversight and Government Reform. AP82) received February 28, 2018, pursuant to Mr. RASKIN. Madam Speaker, I 4279. A letter from the Deputy White House 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. Liaison, Department of Education, transmit- move that the House do now adjourn. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Vet- ting eighteen (18) notifications of a federal The motion was agreed to; accord- erans’ Affairs. ingly (at 5 o’clock and 7 minutes p.m.), vacancy, designation of acting officer, nomi- under its previous order, the House ad- nation, action on nomination, change in pre- f viously submitted reported information, or REPORTS OF COMMITTEES ON journed until Monday, March 19, 2018, discontinuation of service in acting role, at noon for morning-hour debate. pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 3349(a); Public Law 105- PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS f 277, 151(b); (112 Stat. 2681-614); to the Com- Under clause 2 of rule XIII, reports of mittee on Oversight and Government Re- EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS, committees were delivered to the Clerk form. for printing and reference to the proper ETC. 4280. A letter from the Chairman, National calendar, as follows: Under clause 2 of rule XIV, executive Transportation Safety Board, transmitting Mr. HENSARLING: Committee on Finan- communications were taken from the the Board’s FY 2017 No FEAR Act report, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 2301 note; Public Law cial Services. H.R. 4566. A bill to amend the Speaker’s table and referred as follows: 107-174, 203(a) (as amended by Public Law 109- Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Con- 4272. A letter from the Acting Adminis- 435, Sec. 604(f)); (120 Stat. 3242); to the Com- sumer Protection Act to provide relief to trator, National Organic Program, Agricul- mittee on Oversight and Government Re- nonbanks from certain stress test require- tural Marketing Service, Department of Ag- form. ments under such Act; with an amendment riculture, transmitting the Department’s 4281. A letter from the Acting Director, (Rept. 115–601). Referred to the Committee of final rule — National Organic Program U.S. Government Publishing Office, trans- the Whole House on the state of the Union.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:17 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A15MR7.025 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1651 PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS Ms. SHEA-PORTER, Mr. JOHNSON of By Ms. ADAMS (for herself, Mr. DAVID Under clause 2 of rule XII, public Georgia, Mr. COLE, Mr. PETERSON, SCOTT of Georgia, Mr. LUETKEMEYER, Mr. PEARCE, Ms. LOFGREN, Ms. JACK- and Mr. KELLY of Mississippi): bills and resolutions of the following SON LEE, Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ, Ms. H.R. 5309. A bill to amend the Second Mor- titles were introduced and severally re- GABBARD, Ms. ROSEN, Ms. PINGREE, rill Act to authorize the transmission to ferred, as follows: Ms. ESTY of Connecticut, Mr. TIPTON, Congress of annual reports prepared by col- By Mr. SOTO (for himself, Mr. VELA, Mr. COURTNEY, Mr. KENNEDY, Mr. leges endowed under such Act; to the Com- Mrs. TORRES, Mr. PAYNE, Ms. ROSEN, KILMER, Ms. WILSON of Florida, Mr. mittee on Agriculture. Ms. SA´ NCHEZ, Ms. BARRAGA´ N, Mr. CAPUANO, and Mrs. ROBY): By Mr. BABIN (for himself, Mr. AGUILAR, Mr. VARGAS, Mr. CORREA, H.R. 5301. A bill to amend title 38, United HUIZENGA, Mr. NORMAN, Mr. HIGGINS Mr. GRIJALVA, Mr. SABLAN, Mr. States Code, to prohibit the Secretary of of Louisiana, Mr. WEBER of Texas, LAWSON of Florida, Mrs. NAPOLITANO, Veterans Affairs from requiring a surviving Mr. DUNCAN of South Carolina, Mr. Mr. CA´ RDENAS, Mr. CARBAJAL, Ms. spouse of a veteran to return certain pay- YODER, Mr. SESSIONS, Mr. WEBSTER of JUDY CHU of California, Mr. COSTA, ments for a month in which the veteran dies; Florida, Mr. PERRY, Mr. SANFORD, to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Ms. NORTON, and Ms. CLARKE of New and Mr. CHABOT): York): By Mr. DEFAZIO (for himself, Mr. H.R. 5310. A bill to waive certain procure- H.R. 5292. A bill to establish a task force to BRADY of Pennsylvania, Mr. COHEN, ment provisions for a project that receives review new decennial census questions and Mr. MCNERNEY, Ms. NORTON, Mr. GRI- funds from certain Federal agencies; to the their impact on response rates for minori- JALVA, Mr. TONKO, Mr. GENE GREEN Committee on Transportation and Infra- ties, the accuracy of the census, redis- of Texas, and Mr. NADLER): structure, and in addition to the Committees tricting, costs and funding distribution, and H.R. 5302. A bill to amend title II of the So- on Science, Space, and Technology, Agri- for other purposes; to the Committee on cial Security Act to provide that an individ- culture, and Energy and Commerce, for a pe- Oversight and Government Reform. ual’s entitlement to any benefit thereunder riod to be subsequently determined by the shall continue through the month of his or By Mr. TED LIEU of California (for Speaker, in each case for consideration of her death (without affecting any other per- himself and Mr. GOODLATTE): such provisions as fall within the jurisdic- H.R. 5293. A bill to make technical amend- son’s entitlement to benefits for that month) tion of the committee concerned. ments to update statutory references to cer- and that such individual’s benefit shall be By Mrs. BLACKBURN (for herself, Mr. payable for such month only to the extent tain provisions that were formerly classified RYAN of Ohio, Ms. KUSTER of New proportionate to the number of days in such to title 50, Appendix, United States Code; to Hampshire, and Mr. MACARTHUR): month preceding the date of such individ- the Committee on the Judiciary. H.R. 5311. A bill to reauthorize and expand ual’s death; to the Committee on Ways and By Mr. BARLETTA (for himself, Ms. the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Means. TITUS, and Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky): Act of 2016; to the Committee on Energy and By Mr. BISHOP of Utah (for himself, H.R. 5294. A bill to amend title 40, United Commerce, and in addition to the Commit- Mrs. LOVE, Mr. STEWART, and Mr. States Code, to address the impact of drug tees on the Judiciary, and Education and the CURTIS): abuse on economic development in Appa- Workforce, for a period to be subsequently H.R. 5303. A bill to amend title 13, United lachia, and for other purposes; to the Com- determined by the Speaker, in each case for States Code, to provide for the more accu- consideration of such provisions as fall with- mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- rate and complete enumeration of certain in the jurisdiction of the committee con- ture. overseas Americans in the decennial census, cerned. By Mr. NADLER (for himself and Mr. and for other purposes; to the Committee on By Ms. BONAMICI (for herself and Mr. GOODLATTE): Oversight and Government Reform. KILMER): H.R. 5295. A bill to make technical amend- By Mr. RASKIN (for himself, Mr. ments to update statutory references to pro- H.R. 5312. A bill to amend the Higher Edu- COHEN, Ms. JAYAPAL, Ms. MCCOLLUM, visions classified to chapters 44, 45, 46, and 47 cation Act of 1965 to reauthorize the Federal Mrs. LAWRENCE, and Mr. BRENDAN F. of title 50, United States Code; to the Com- work-study program, and for other purposes; BOYLE of Pennsylvania): to the Committee on Education and the mittee on the Judiciary. H.R. 5304. A bill to prohibit Federal agen- Workforce. By Mr. NADLER (for himself and Mr. cies from using Government funds to pay for GOODLATTE): the lodging of agency employees at estab- By Mr. BROOKS of Alabama (for him- H.R. 5296. A bill to make technical amend- lishments that are owned by or employ cer- self, Mr. MEADOWS, Mr. LABRADOR, ments to update statutory references to cer- tain public officials or their relatives; to the Mr. SANFORD, and Mr. HARRIS): H.R. 5313. A bill to provide for automatic tain provisions classified to title 2, United Committee on Oversight and Government States Code; to the Committee on the Judici- Reform. continuing appropriations, and for other pur- ary. By Mr. HARPER (for himself, Mr. poses; to the Committee on Appropriations, and in addition to the Committee on the By Mr. NADLER (for himself and Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania, Mr. RODNEY Budget, for a period to be subsequently de- GOODLATTE): DAVIS of Illinois, Mrs. COMSTOCK, Mr. H.R. 5297. A bill to make technical amend- termined by the Speaker, in each case for WALKER, Mr. LOUDERMILK, Ms. LOF- ments to update statutory references to cer- consideration of such provisions as fall with- GREN, and Mr. RASKIN): tain provisions classified to title 52, United H.R. 5305. A bill to amend title 44, United in the jurisdiction of the committee con- States Code; to the Committee on the Judici- States Code, to ensure the availability of no- cerned. ary. fee public access to government information, By Mr. CARTWRIGHT (for himself, Mr. By Mr. ROE of Tennessee (for himself to reform the Federal Depository Library CONNOLLY, Mr. NEAL, Mr. PETERS, and Mr. SUOZZI): Program, to authorize the activities of the Ms. ESHOO, Mr. DEUTCH, Mr. DEFAZIO, H.R. 5298. A bill to amend the Controlled Superintendent of Documents, and for other Mr. KILMER, Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHN- Substances Act to deem drugs or other sub- purposes; to the Committee on House Admin- SON of Texas, Mr. JONES, Mrs. stances that act as opioid mu receptor istration, and in addition to the Committee NAPOLITANO, Mr. KILDEE, Mr. RUSH, agonists to be in schedule I, subject to excep- on Oversight and Government Reform, for a Mr. RYAN of Ohio, Mr. GRIJALVA, Ms. tions for substances intended for legitimate period to be subsequently determined by the KELLY of Illinois, Ms. WILSON of Flor- medical or research use, and for other pur- Speaker, in each case for consideration of ida, Mr. O’ROURKE, Mr. HECK, and Ms. poses; to the Committee on Energy and Com- such provisions as fall within the jurisdic- MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New merce, and in addition to the Committee on tion of the committee concerned. Mexico): the Judiciary, for a period to be subse- By Mr. GUTHRIE (for himself and Mrs. H.R. 5314. A bill to amend title 38, United quently determined by the Speaker, in each DINGELL): States Code, to provide for unlimited eligi- case for consideration of such provisions as H.R. 5306. A bill to reauthorize the Money bility for health care for mental illnesses for fall within the jurisdiction of the committee Follows the Person Demonstration Program; veterans of combat service during certain pe- concerned. to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. riods of hostilities and war; to the Com- By Mr. HARPER: By Mr. KNIGHT: mittee on Veterans’ Affairs. H.R. 5299. A bill to direct the Secretary of H.R. 5307. A bill to require that certain By Mr. DONOVAN (for himself and Mr. Agriculture to transfer to Scenic Rivers De- Federal education funds be used for the im- COHEN): velopment Alliance certain National Forest provement of security at elementary and H.R. 5315. A bill to direct the Adminis- System land in the State of Mississippi; to secondary schools; to the Committee on Edu- trator of the Federal Aviation Administra- the Committee on Agriculture. cation and the Workforce. tion to promulgate regulations to prohibit By Mr. PALMER: By Ms. LEE (for herself and Mr. the storage of live animals in overhead com- H.R. 5300. A bill to provide agencies with POLIQUIN): partments of airplanes; to the Committee on discretion in securing information tech- H.R. 5308. A bill to amend title 31, United Transportation and Infrastructure. nology and information systems; to the Com- States Code, to require the Secretary of the By Mr. FASO: mittee on Oversight and Government Re- Treasury to mint and issue quarter dollars in H.R. 5316. A bill to authorize appropria- form. commemoration of the Nineteenth Amend- tions for the seniors farmers’ market nutri- By Mr. DEFAZIO (for himself, Mr. ment, and for other purposes; to the Com- tion program for fiscal years 2019 through JONES, Mr. TURNER, Mr. WITTMAN, mittee on Financial Services. 2023; to the Committee on Agriculture.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:54 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\L15MR7.100 H15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H1652 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 15, 2018 By Ms. HERRERA BEUTLER (for her- 166. The SPEAKER presented a memorial By Mr. ROE of Tennessee: self, Mr. KILMER, Mr. YOUNG of Alas- of the General Assembly of the State of New H.R. 5298. ka, Mr. HECK, and Mr. COLE): Jersey, relative to Senate Concurrent Reso- Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 5317. A bill to repeal section 2141 of lution No. 176, urging Congress and the lation pursuant to the following: the Revised Statutes to remove the prohibi- President of the United States to enact a Article 1, Section 8, Clause 1, with respect tion on certain alcohol manufacturing on In- long-term reauthorization of the Children’s to the power to ‘‘lay and collect Taxes, Du- dian lands; to the Committee on Natural Re- Health Insurance Program; to the Com- ties, Imposts, and Excises,’’ and to provide sources. mittee on Energy and Commerce. for the ‘‘general Welfare of the United By Mr. HUFFMAN: 167. Also, a memorial of the Senate of the States.’’ H.R. 5318. A bill to establish State infra- State of California, relative to Senate Reso- By Mr. HARPER: structure banks for education; to the Com- lution 73, urging the President and the Con- H.R. 5299. mittee on Education and the Workforce. gress of the United States to permanently Congress has the power to enact this legis- By Mr. MAST (for himself, Mr. HAS- safeguard and protect the Pacific Coast’s lation pursuant to the following: TINGS, and Mr. DEUTCH): Outer Continental Shelf from new oil and gas Article IV, Section 3, clause 2 (Property H.R. 5319. A bill to transfer Coast Guard leasing, and declaring the Senate’s unequivo- Clause) property in the Town of Jupiter Island, Flor- cal support for the current federal prohibi- By Mr. PALMER: ida, for inclusion in Hobe Sound National tion on new oil or gas drilling in federal H.R. 5300. Wildlife Refuge; to the Committee on Trans- waters offshore of the Pacific coast, its oppo- Congress has the power to enact this legis- portation and Infrastructure, and in addition lation pursuant to the following: to the Committee on Natural Resources, for sition to the proposed 5-year National Off- shore Oil and Gas Leasing Program on the The Congress shall have Power To . . . a period to be subsequently determined by make all Laws which shall be necessary and the Speaker, in each case for consideration Outer Continental Shelf or any attempts to modify that prohibition, and its determina- proper for carrying into Execution the fore- of such provisions as fall within the jurisdic- going Powers, and all other Powers vested by tion of the committee concerned. tion to consider any appropriate actions to this Constitution in the Government of the By Mr. MEADOWS (for himself and maintain the current prohibition; to the United States, or in any Department or Offi- Mrs. BUSTOS): Committee on Natural Resources. cer thereof. H.R. 5320. A bill to amend title 10, United 168. Also, a memorial of the General As- States Code, to prohibit the Secretary of a sembly of the State of New Jersey, relative By Mr. DEFAZIO: military department from entering into a to Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 111, H.R. 5301. lease of real property for the use of the de- memorializing the United States Congress to Congress has the power to enact this legis- partment unless the Secretary first certifies enact legislation to reduce the risk of harm lation pursuant to the following: that facilities of real property owned by the from firearm sales; to the Committee on the Article I, Section 8, Clause 18 (relating to United States may not be reconfigured to Judiciary. the power to make all laws necessary and proper for carrying out the powers vested in support the purpose of the proposed lease in f an appropriate and cost-effective manner, to Congress) require the Secretary of the Defense to pro- CONSTITUTIONAL AUTHORITY By Mr. DEFAZIO: vide more accurate information on the costs STATEMENT H.R. 5302. Congress has the power to enact this legis- incurred in leasing real property for the use Pursuant to clause 7 of rule XII of of the Department of Defense, and for other lation pursuant to the following: purposes; to the Committee on Armed Serv- the Rules of the House of Representa- Article I, Section 8, Clause 18 (relating to ices. tives, the following statements are sub- the power to make all laws necessary and By Mr. MOULTON (for himself, Mr. mitted regarding the specific powers proper for carrying out the powers vested in MEADOWS, and Mr. LOEBSACK): granted to Congress in the Constitu- Congress) H.R. 5321. A bill to improve communication tion to enact the accompanying bill or By Mr. BISHOP of Utah: H.R. 5303. from Federal agencies to individuals by re- joint resolution. quiring clear instructions, and for other pur- Congress has the power to enact this legis- poses; to the Committee on Oversight and By Mr. SOTO: lation pursuant to the following: Government Reform. H.R. 5292. Clause 3 of Section 2 of Article I of the By Ms. NORTON: Congress has the power to enact this legis- Constitution H.R. 5322. A bill to amend the Public lation pursuant to the following: By Mr. RASKIN: Health Service Act to provide for a national Article 1, Section 8, of the United States H.R. 5304. program to conduct and support activities Constitution. Congress has the power to enact this legis- toward the goal of significantly reducing the By Mr. TED LIEU of California: lation pursuant to the following: number of cases of overweight and obesity H.R. 5293. Article I, Section 8 (Necessary and Proper among individuals in the United States; to Congress has the power to enact this legis- Clause) the Committee on Energy and Commerce. lation pursuant to the following: By Mr. HARPER: By Mr. BARLETTA (for himself and U.S. Constitution, Article I, Section 8, H.R. 5305. Ms. TITUS): Clause 18 Congress has the power to enact this legis- H. Con. Res. 115. Concurrent resolution au- By Mr. BARLETTA: lation pursuant to the following: thorizing the use of the Capitol Grounds for H.R. 5294. Artilce 1, Section 8: ‘‘To make all laws the National Peace Officers Memorial Serv- Congress has the power to enact this legis- which shall be necessary and proper for car- ice and the National Honor Guard and Pipe lation pursuant to the following: rying into execution the foregoing powers, Band Exhibition; to the Committee on Article I, Section 8 of the United States and all other powers vested by this Constitu- Transportation and Infrastructure. Constitution, specifically Clause 1 (relating tion in the government of the United States, By Mr. CONAWAY: to providing for the common defense and or in any department or officer thereof.’’ H. Res. 785. A resolution expressing support general welfare of the United States) and By Mr. GUTHRIE: for continued cooperation between Israel and Clause 18 (relating to the power to make all H.R. 5306. the United States to ensure adequate capa- laws necessary and proper for carrying out Congress has the power to enact this legis- bilities to counter Iran’s destabilizing activi- the powers vested in Congress) and Article I, lation pursuant to the following: ties and support shared interests, including Section 10, Clause 3 (relating to interstate Article I, Section 8 stability and safety in the Middle East, and compacts). By Mr. KNIGHT: for other purposes; to the Committee on For- By Mr. NADLER: H.R. 5307. eign Affairs. H.R. 5295. Congress has the power to enact this legis- By Mr. LANGEVIN (for himself, Mr. Congress has the power to enact this legis- lation pursuant to the following: COLE, Mr. WILSON of South Carolina, lation pursuant to the following: Article I, Section 8, Clause 3 Mr. MEEKS, Mr. SIRES, and Mr. HOLD- U.S. Constitution, Article I, Section 8, and ING): Clause 18. Article I, Section 8, Clause 18 H. Res. 786. A resolution condemning the By Mr. NADLER: By Ms. LEE: chemical weapons attack on Sergei Skripal, H.R. 5296. H.R. 5308. a former Russian intelligence officer, and his Congress has the power to enact this legis- Congress has the power to enact this legis- daughter on March 4, 2018, and extending its lation pursuant to the following: lation pursuant to the following: sympathies to those affected by the attack, U.S. Constitution, Article I, Section 8, Article I, Section 8. and for other purposes; to the Committee on Clause 18, The Congress shall have power to lay and Foreign Affairs. By Mr. NADLER: collect taxes, duties, imposts and excises, to f H.R. 5297. pay the debts and provide for the common MEMORIALS Congress has the power to enact this legis- defense and general welfare of the United lation pursuant to the following: States; but all duties, imposts and excises Under clause 3 of rule XII, memorials U.S. Constitution, Article I, Section 8, shall be uniform throughout the United were presented and referred as follows: Clause 18. States;

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To borrow money on the credit of the By Mr. MEADOWS: H.R. 4099: Mr. BERGMAN and Mr. WITTMAN. United States; H.R. 5320. H.R. 4106: Mr. O’ROURKE. To regulate commerce with foreign na- Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 4257: Mr. GARAMENDI and Mr. CURTIS. tions, and among the several states, and with lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 4265: Mr. DUNCAN of Tennessee. the Indian tribes; Article 1, Section 8, Clause 14 states ‘‘The H.R. 4311: Mr. CRAWFORD, Mr. SMITH of Mis- To establish a uniform rule of naturaliza- Congress shall have Power To . . .make souri, Mr. THORNBERRY, and Mr. COOPER. tion, and uniform laws on the subject of Rules for the Government and Regulation of H.R. 4342: Mr. MICHAEL F. DOYLE of Penn- bankruptcies throughout the United States; the land and naval Forces. . .’’ sylvania and Mr. HASTINGS. To coin money, regulate the value thereof, By Mr. MOULTON: H.R. 4343: Mr. SOTO and Mr. HASTINGS. and of foreign coin, and fix the standard of H.R. 5321. H.R. 4344: Mr. HASTINGS. weights and measures; Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 4392: Mr. CALVERT. H.R. 4548: Ms. CLARKE of New York, Mr. To provide for the punishment of counter- lation pursuant to the following: HASTINGS, Mr. LEVIN, Mr. GARAMENDI, Mr. feiting the securities and current coin of the Article 1, Section 8, Clause 1 of the Con- CROWLEY, Mr. NOLAN, Mrs. TORRES, Mr. GENE United States stitution of the United States GREEN of Texas, Mr. RUSH, and Ms. By Ms. ADAMS: By Ms. NORTON: BROWNLEY of California. H.R. 5309. H.R. 5322. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 4575: Mrs. MCMORRIS RODGERS. Congress has the power to enact this legis- lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 4584: Mr. GAETZ. lation pursuant to the following: Article I, Section 8 H.R. 4605: Mr. DUNCAN of South Carolina. clause 3 of section 8 of article I of the Con- By Mr. BABIN: H.R. 4606: Mr. DUNCAN of South Carolina. stitution. H.R. 5310. H.R. 4647: Mr. MCNERNEY, Ms. LOFGREN, Congress has the power to enact this legis- f Ms. DELBENE, Ms. SHEA-PORTER, Mr. lation pursuant to the following: HUFFMAN, Ms. ESHOO, Mr. SCHRADER, Mr. Article 1, Section 8 ADDITIONAL SPONSORS JOHNSON of Georgia, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. By Mrs. BLACKBURN: GARAMENDI, Mr. LOWENTHAL, Mr. O’ROURKE, H.R. 5311. Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors were added to public bills and resolu- Mr. KILDEE, Mr. FITZPATRICK, Mr. GENE Congress has the power to enact this legis- GREEN of Texas, Mr. LONG, Mr. TIPTON, Mr. lation pursuant to the following: tions, as follows: ROUZER, Mr. MOULTON, Mr. HILL, Mr. POLIS, Article I, Section 8, Clause I: The Congress H.R. 113: Mr. CASTRO of Texas. Mr. HUDSON, Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania, shall have Power To lay and collect Taxes, H.R. 291: Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. MULLIN, Mr. MARINO, Ms. STEFANIK, and Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the H.R. 303: Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Debts and provide for the common Defence New Mexico. H.R. 4681: Mr. SHERMAN. and general Welfare of the United States; but H.R. 539: Ms. CLARKE of New York. H.R. 4706: Mr. RYAN of Ohio and Ms. LOF- all Duties, Imposts and Excises shall be uni- H.R. 750: Ms. JAYAPAL. GREN. form throughout the United States H.R. 785: Mrs. HANDEL. H.R. 4710: Mr. ROE of Tennessee. By Ms. BONAMICI: H.R. 795: Mr. MARSHALL, Mr. CONNOLLY, H.R. 4732: Mr. TAKANO. H.R. 5312. Mr. PETERSON, Ms. BARRAGA´ N, and Mr. H.R. 4747: Mr. GARAMENDI and Mr. BISHOP Congress has the power to enact this legis- O’ROURKE. of Michigan. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 823: Mr. FOSTER and Ms. KUSTER of H.R. 4770: Ms. TENNEY. Article 1 Section 8 New Hampshire. H.R. 4775: Mrs. NAPOLITANO. By Mr. BROOKS of Alabama: H.R. 881: Ms. LOFGREN. H.R. 4886: Mr. MESSER. H.R. 5313. H.R. 4940: Mr. KEATING. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 930: Mr. JOHNSON of Ohio, Mrs. HARTZLER, Mr. LOBIONDO, Mr. AUSTIN SCOTT H.R. 4963: Ms. DELBENE and Mr. CAPUANO. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 5011: Mr. SCHRADER, Mr. SIRES, Mr. Article 1, Section 8 of the United States of Georgia, Mr. BROWN of Maryland, Mr. TED LIEU of California, Mr. BUTTERFIELD, Constitution CRAWFORD, and Mr. RICHMOND. Mr. MCEACHIN, Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ, Ms. By Mr. CARTWRIGHT: H.R. 1071: Mr. CONNOLLY. MOORE, Mr. COHEN, Mr. ESPAILLAT, Mr. RUSH, H.R. 5314. H.R. 1120: Mr. DUNCAN of Tennessee. and Mr. TONKO. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 1239: Mr. PANETTA and Mr. FORTEN- H.R. 5031: Ms. KUSTER of New Hampshire lation pursuant to the following: BERRY. and Mr. COSTELLO of Pennsylvania. Article I; Section 8; Clause 1 of the Con- H.R. 1318: Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois, H.R. 5034: Ms. BONAMICI, Mr. SCHIFF, Mr. stitution states The Congress shall have Mr. MEEHAN, Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of BROWN of Maryland, Mr. CARBAJAL, Mrs. Power To lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Im- New York, Mr. TONKO, Mr. CULBERSON, Mrs. BEATTY, Mr. KILMER, Mr. BEYER, Mr. MI- posts and Excises, to pay the Debts and pro- DINGELL, Mr. O’HALLERAN, Mr. DENT, and CHAEL F. DOYLE of Pennsylvania, and Mr. vide for the common Defence and general Mr. KHANNA. SCHNEIDER. Welfare of the United States. . . H.R. 1507: Mr. MACARTHUR. H.R. 5047: Mr. CALVERT. By Mr. DONOVAN: H.R. 1563: Mr. SCHNEIDER. H.R. 5105: Mr. BUDD. H.R. 5315. H.R. 1818: Mrs. BEATTY, Mr. HIGGINS of New H.R. 5108: Mr. TAKANO, Mr. KHANNA, and Congress has the power to enact this legis- York, Mr. SMUCKER, and Mr. NORCROSS. Mr. MCGOVERN. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 1828: Mr. O’HALLERAN. H.R. 5121: Mr. LOBIONDO, Mr. PETERSON, Article I, Section 8, Clause 3 and/or Article H.R. 1876: Mr. MESSER and Mr. KELLY of and Mr. KING of Iowa. I, Section 8, Clause 18. Pennsylvania. H.R. 5138: Mr. SMITH of Missouri. By Mr. FASO: H.R. 1928: Mrs. LAWRENCE. H.R. 5141: Mr. KUSTOFF of Tennessee, Mr. H.R. 5316. H.R. 1957: Mr. PRICE of North Carolina and PAULSEN, Mr. VARGAS, Ms. ROSEN, Mr. ROE of Congress has the power to enact this legis- Mr. BERA. Tennessee, Mr. JOYCE of Ohio, Mr. GRAVES of lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 2024: Mr. RATCLIFFE. Missouri, Mr. DESANTIS, Mr. HUDSON, Mrs. Article I, Section 8 of the United States H.R. 2212: Mr. BRAT and Mr. THOMPSON of BLACKBURN, Mrs. NOEM, Mrs. MURPHY of Constitution Mississippi. [Page H132] Florida, Mr. KNIGHT, Mr. DELANEY, Mr. H.R. 2598: Mr. KENNEDY, Mr. TONKO, and By Ms. HERRERA BEUTLER: KELLY of Pennsylvania, Ms. TENNEY, Mr. Mr. UPTON. H.R. 5317. GROTHMAN, Mr. LATTA, Mr. VALADAO, Mr. H.R. 2841: Mr. HASTINGS. Congress has the power to enact this legis- PETERSON, Mr. WILSON of South Carolina, H.R. 2902: Mr. KILMER and Mrs. TORRES. lation pursuant to the following: Mrs. MIMI WALTERS of California, Mrs. LOVE, H.R. 2913: Mr. TONKO. Article I, Section 8 of the United States Mr. DUNCAN of South Carolina, Mr. BURGESS, H.R. 2938: Mr. SCHNEIDER. Constitution Mr. LOBIONDO, Mr. HENSARLING, and Ms. H.R. 3032: Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. By Mr. HUFFMAN: MENG. H.R. 3111: Mr. CROWLEY. H.R. 5318. H.R. 5142: Mr. SANFORD and Mr. DAVIDSON. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 3170: Mr. MARSHALL. H.R. 5143: Mr. SANFORD and Mr. DAVIDSON. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 3378: Mr. POLIS. H.R. 5153: Mr. MESSER. Article I, Section 8, clause 3 H.R. 3528: Mr. SCHNEIDER. H.R. 5173: Ms. LOFGREN. To regulate Commerce with foreign Na- H.R. 3566: Mr. SEAN PATRICK MALONEY of H.R. 5180: Mr. CAPUANO, Mr. CUMMINGS, Ms. tions, and among the several States, and New York. LEE, Mr. KEATING, Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD, and with the Indian Tribes; H.R. 3605: Mr. GALLAGHER. Ms. ROSEN. By Mr. MAST: H.R. 3617: Ms. JACKSON LEE. H.R. 5202: Ms. STEFANIK and Mrs. HANDEL. H.R. 5319. H.R. 3733: Mr. VELA. H.R. 5243: Ms. TENNEY. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 3845: Mr. MCNERNEY. H.R. 5272: Mr. LATTA. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 3941: Ms. KUSTER of New Hampshire. H.R. 5275: Mr. HOLLINGSWORTH. The Necessary and Proper Clause in Arti- H.R. 3988: Mr. MCKINLEY. H.R. 5278: Mr. CURBELO of Florida. cle I, Section 8, Clause 18 of the United H.R. 4044: Mr. DUNCAN of Tennessee, Mr. H.R. 5281: Mr. MOONEY of West Virginia and States Constitution. LAMBORN, and Mr. ROHRABACHER. Mr. POSEY.

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Vol. 164 WASHINGTON, THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2018 No. 46 Senate The Senate met at 10 a.m. and was a crucible of character, where a brave streamline the Dodd-Frank Act so reg- called to order by the President pro patriot was tested and grew into a gen- ulations intended for Wall Street place tempore (Mr. HATCH). erational leader. less of a crushing burden on Main f Here in the Senate, we are not only Street. grateful that JOHN MCCAIN was wel- PRAYER Next up is legislation to combat sex comed home, we are especially grateful trafficking. Debate on this issue will The Chaplain, Dr. Barry C. Black, of- that he answered yet another call to begin today. fered the following prayer: serve, bringing that leadership to this It might be easy to imagine sex traf- Let us pray. body for more than 30 years. His lead- ficking doesn’t happen here. It would Eternal God, as we join our hearts in ership and his example are as impor- be easy to pretend it is only a problem prayer, we praise You for protecting tant today as they have ever been. in other parts of the world, but that is and preserving this land we love. f dead wrong. Remind our lawmakers that by them- selves, they aren’t sufficient for the APPOINTMENT OF LARRY KUDLOW Trafficking is a crisis right here in challenges of our times. Give them the AND NOMINATION OF KEVIN the United States. From 2010 to 2015, wisdom to solve the problems that re- MCALEENAN the National Center for Missing and quire more than human ingenuity. May Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, on Exploited Children saw reports of sus- they never fail to do the very best they another matter, yesterday the Presi- pected child sex trafficking increase can, striving to please You in their dent named Larry Kudlow as the next more than eightfold—an eightfold in- every endeavor. Lord, when they are head of the National Economic Coun- crease. Last year alone, more than perplexed, provide them with the clar- cil. 8,500 cases of human trafficking were ity of Your guidance. May Your will be Larry is well known as a happy war- reported to the National Human Traf- done and Your purposes carried out rior for pro-growth economics and ficking Hotline. above party and personality. widely respected for his expertise in As Senator PORTMAN has been in- We pray in Your strong Name. Amen. fiscal policy. The country will be lucky forming us throughout his tireless to have Larry serving in this role. I f work on this issue, sex trafficking has look forward to continued engagement moved from the street corner to the PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE with the White House team that will smartphone. That is, in large part, be- The President pro tempore led the now benefit from his insight. cause a 1996 law meant to protect on- Pledge of Allegiance, as follows: Speaking of highly qualified per- line speech is now misused as a shield I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the sonnel, here in the Senate yesterday to stop sex traffickers and those who United States of America, and to the Repub- afternoon, we voted to advance Kevin profit from their crimes from facing lic for which it stands, one nation under God, McAleenan’s nomination to serve as the rightful consequences. indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Commissioner of U.S. Customs and I am as strong a defender of the First f Border Protection. This is an essential Amendment as you will find. I was in post, and Mr. McAleenan is an excel- RECOGNITION OF THE MAJORITY the Congress in 1996. I voted for the lent nominee. Telecommunications Act that included LEADER I urge everyone to join me in voting this provision, as did the vast majority The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. for his confirmation when we return on of my colleagues. Let me assure you, YOUNG). The majority leader is recog- Monday. nized. not one of us intended to create a spe- f cial protection for platforms that f ALLOW STATES AND VICTIMS TO knowingly allow sex traffickers to ex- TRIBUTE TO JOHN MCCAIN FIGHT ONLINE SEX TRAF- ploit children. Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, this FICKING BILL The legislation we will consider week marks an important anniversary Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, yes- would ensure that institutions that for an exceptional American. Forty- terday, the Senate took a big step for- knowingly facilitate sex trafficking five years ago yesterday, our friend and ward for community banks, credit can be held accountable for their ac- colleague JOHN MCCAIN was released unions, and other small lenders on tions. after more than 51⁄2 years as a prisoner which communities across America There is a reason why 67 Senators of war in Vietnam. rely for access to credit. have joined Senator PORTMAN in sup- The ‘‘Hanoi Hilton’’ was the site of On a strong bipartisan vote, we port of legislation to accomplish this. unspeakable brutality, but it was also passed Senator CRAPO’s legislation to There is a reason why the White House

∑ This ‘‘bullet’’ symbol identifies statements or insertions which are not spoken by a Member of the Senate on the floor.

S1741

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VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:38 Mar 15, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A15MR6.000 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S1742 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 15, 2018 is strongly supportive. American chil- across the aisle to create section 529 in helping corporate CEOs, helping share- dren should not be sold—online or any- the first place. Five years later, I spon- holders—80 percent of the shares are where else. America’s families should sored legislation to let families tap held by the top 10 percent, so it doesn’t not be victimized by such evil, and into 529 plans tax-free. It ended up in really help average Americans, and America’s laws should not be misused the 2001 tax cuts—again, a bipartisan that is including 401(k)s—but it doesn’t to protect those who perpetrate these affair, but this time was different. help the worker. crimes or those who, according to the No Democrats in the House or the We have heard many claims from our stunning subcommittee report, know- Senate—not a single one—voted for Republican friends: Pass this tax bill, ingly give them space and tools to op- this historic tax reform law. They tried and the workers will benefit. Well, un- erate while profiting in the process. to block this law to help families fortunately, now we see who is really Several of us have worked hard on across America afford schooling of benefiting. Just as we predicted, it is this issue for a number of years. It is their choice. This time, Republicans the corporate CEOs and the wealthiest now past time to take this additional had to do it all by themselves. Fortu- of Americans. step. When we vote next week, that nately, we got it done for American Just recently, the total amount of time will have come. families. share buybacks surpassed $220 billion this year. According to the market f f data firm, TrimTabs, share buybacks TAX REFORM RESERVATION OF LEADER TIME in 2018 averaged $4.8 billion a day—a Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, on The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under day—double the pace for the same pe- one final matter, few subjects are clos- the previous order, the leadership time riod last year. For a few weeks, right after the er to the heart of parents than their is reserved. President passed his tax bill, what hap- children’s education. That is why Re- f publicans made sure the historic tax pened? They had these companies an- reform we passed last year included a CONCLUSION OF MORNING nounce bonuses for average workers. provision, championed by Senator BUSINESS Very few Americans saw those bo- nuses—a lot of hoopla, but not much CRUZ and others, that will help parents The PRESIDING OFFICER. Morning else. The bonuses—not wage increases, choose an education for their children business is closed. not new hires, but one-time annual bo- that makes sense for their family. f A recent article in the Courier-Jour- nuses—anyone who gets them, God nal in Louisville, KY, shared the story ALLOW STATES AND VICTIMS TO bless them; there have just been so few. of one family whose second grade son FIGHT ONLINE SEX TRAF- Those bonuses are being overwhelmed had struggled with an undiagnosed FICKING ACT OF 2017—MOTION TO by a deluge of corporate share learning disability. He had trouble PROCEED buybacks, which do not benefit the av- erage worker, but benefit the CEOs and keeping up with his public school class. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under So like many parents facing similar the heads of the companies. the previous order, the Senate will re- According to an analysis by JUST challenges, his family decided to send sume consideration of the motion to Capital, only 6 percent of the capital him to a private school with smaller proceed to H.R. 1856, which the clerk allocated by companies from the tax classes and more individual attention, will report. bill has gone to employees, while near- but that was a tough financial deci- The senior assistant legislative clerk ly 60 percent has gone to share- sion. Even though both parents read as follows: holders—again, to the corporate CEOs worked, affording tuition was a strug- Motion to proceed to Calendar No. 339, who own those shares, the wealthiest gle. H.R. 1865, a bill to amend the Communica- of Americans who own the vast major- Families like this are why Repub- tions Act of 1934 to clarify that section 230 of ity of shares. Ten times more capital is lican tax reform gave parents more such Act does not prohibit the enforcement against providers and users of interactive going to shareholders than to workers. flexibility in paying educational ex- So this bill, which is poorly struc- penses. The law builds the foundation computer services of Federal and State criminal and civil law relating to sexual ex- tured and aimed at the wealthy, ain’t for important expansions of the tax-ad- working. The more Americans see it— vantaged college savings accounts ploitation of children or sex trafficking, and for other purposes. you know, there was an initial thrust: known as 529 plans. As a result of tax RECOGNITION OF THE MINORITY LEADER Oh, we like the tax bill. At first, it was reform, we are empowering families to unpopular as we talked about it here use these tax-exempt accounts not only The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Democratic leader is recognized. on the floor. Then, with these bonuses for college expenses but also for tuition and the stock market going up, popu- REPUBLICAN TAX BILL at private and religious schools, K–12. larity went up a little. Now it is flat- The philosophy here is simple: More Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, since tening out and even heading down. In choice is better than less. That really the Republicans jammed through a the last three polls, fewer people liked is the moral of the story on tax re- massive corporate tax cut in December, this tax plan, and that is going to keep form—getting government out of the hardly a day goes by that we don’t read happening, my Republican friends, be- way, letting families keep more of about a corporation using the savings cause they know what it was aimed at their own income, and empowering to purchase its own stock. The average and you know what it was aimed at— Americans to make the economic citizen may ask: What is that all the corporate CEOs who came to lobby choices that make sense for them. about? you and the wealthy individuals who Parents know best what works for Well, when a company purchases its came to lobby you. It is no wonder the their children. So if we can get govern- own stock, it is sort of artificially American people are starting to turn ment out of the way so the IRS takes making less stock, buying it back, and on the Republican tax bill. Polls have less from families and parents, and par- raising the price of the shares. Why do shown its popularity is underwater and ents get more control over their kids’ they do that? There are two reasons, trending downward, not up. education, we ought to do it. both to benefit the corporate CEOs but This idea that tax cuts would be a po- The young man from Louisville is in not the workers. First, corporate CEOs litical panacea for Republicans come the fifth grade now. His new private have a lot of the stock themselves, so November is losing altitude fast. Re- school was able to properly diagnose they make money; second, they look member, that is what our Republican and approach his dyslexia. He is thriv- better when the stock price goes up. friends said: Well, maybe people are ing. Now, thanks to tax reform, school But the stock price isn’t going up be- upset with the President’s tweets, and choice will soon become more afford- cause the company has sold more maybe this and that are not going so able for families like his. goods, been more productive, bought well; maybe they are not accom- Historically, helping families save new machinery, or found a new prod- plishing that much, but now, with the for schooling costs has been a bipar- uct. The stock simply goes up because tax bill, we will win the election. tisan priority. In 1996, I worked with they have decreased the number of Well, look at the Pennsylvania elec- Senator Bob Graham and other friends shares. It is a scam in a certain sense, tion where a Democrat won the district

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:38 Mar 15, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G15MR6.001 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1743 that Trump carried by 20 points. This Cohn—and now he is putting in as his fortunately, it doesn’t look like the is the kind of district that our Repub- economic adviser Larry Kudlow, who Supreme Court is doing it. lican friends need to carry. These are has favored the wealthy, Club for The rhetoric of Republicans: Help Republican suburbs in blue-collar Growth policies—help the wealthy and working people. The policies of Repub- Southwest Pennsylvania. all of America will benefit—throughout licans: Help the wealthy corporations Early in the race, what did Repub- his whole career. That is not how and the rich. As we have seen in poll licans do? They tried running ads Trump ran. That is not what he tells after poll and in recent elections, the about the tax bill to help their can- working people when he goes to a big American people are waking up to that didate, Rick Saccone, during the first tent in Pennsylvania. But that is what reality. few weeks of February. These were the he is doing. Sooner or later, it catches It is hard to make a tax cut unpopu- super PACs, the Koch brothers, and all up with you. The Pennsylvania elec- lar, but Republicans have managed to the others who will benefit hugely from tion showed it is catching up faster do it by designing a bill that will direct the tax bill. Somehow they believe that than our Republican friends would like. 83 percent of the benefits to the top 1 because they will benefit, everyone is The President talks like a populous but percent and $1.5 trillion to the deficit going to think they have benefited. governs like a plutocrat. and then threaten to cut Medicare and They ran these ads, often paid for by President Trump said that his tax Social Security to make up the dif- the Kochs. Two-thirds of the ads men- bill would be a middle-class miracle, ference. My colleagues, that is a toxic tioned taxes—two-thirds of all but the actual legislation is a miracle combination, and Republicans will not Saccone’s ads, both by the Koch-like for the wealthy corporations and the be able to run on it because only a very few wealthy Americans support that super PACs and by Saccone himself. richest 1 percent. As I said, part of the agenda. The next week, 36 percent mentioned problem is that the President sur- taxes. Guess what. After 2 weeks of rounds himself with the wealthy elite. RUSSIA Mr. President, now on a different these tax ads, our Republican friends Those are his advisers. These wealthy matter—Russia. A little more than a tested it out, and they got rid of taxes elites push for tax cuts for the rich and week ago, our friends in the United as an issue. It wasn’t working. It rhapsodize failed economic orthodoxies Kingdom—England, Great Britain—suf- wasn’t working with fairly well-off like trickle-down. That applies to fered an attack on two individuals by a middle-class Pittsburgh suburbanites Larry Kudlow. Here is a man who is a nerve agent. In a joint statement or blue-collar workers in Greene Coun- cheerleader for Bush-era economics. He today, the leadership of the United ty and Westmoreland County and ignored the housing bubble and actu- States, the UK, France, and Germany Washington County in Southwest PA, ally recommended—Larry Kudlow, the agreed that Putin was behind it. To her which are areas where people had voted man who is now going to give the great credit, Prime Minister May de- for Trump. President economic advice—that manded an immediate response from It is eerily similar, folks, to the Gov- Americans buy stock in the fall of 2008 Putin and promised appropriate coun- ernor’s race in Virginia—the same when everyone else saw that the econ- termeasures. She has already expelled thing. That was before the bill passed, omy was about to collapse. Does any- 23 Russian diplomats, and I hope she but still, Republican candidate Ed Gil- one think Larry Kudlow is going to takes additional action. Expelling 23 lespie started his campaign on a tax bring a renewed focus on improving the diplomats is strong action, but we need plan similar to the Republican tax middle class? Forget it. He believes in more. plan. He had to give it up because it the plutocracy. He has his whole ca- Mr. Putin—he is a bully. I grew up in wasn’t getting traction. reer. That is who President Trump Brooklyn. There are a lot of bullies The American people are smart about picked. He is getting rid of one and around Brooklyn. You have to stand up this. They know what is going on. They putting in another, like going from the to them, or they will keep taking ad- know the vast majority of this goes to frying pan into the fire. vantage of you. That is how a bully the wealthy. They know the amount By the way, I think the President works. that is going to them is small. They loves having the big crowds of working- Let’s compare Prime Minister May’s know their tax break is temporary and class people in those tents, but who are action to President Trump’s. It is a the corporate tax break is permanent. his real friends? They are the very study in contrast when it comes to Most of all, they know we have created wealthy. That is who he hung out with Russia. Prime Minister May was quick a huge deficit. And how are some of our in New York. He cares what they and decisive about countering Russia’s Republicans friends saying we pay for think, and that is why his policies are aggression. President Trump can hard- the deficit? Cut Medicare. Cut Social so aimed at them. ly seem to utter a peep in criticism of Security. Cut healthcare. That is not My Republican friends, in a nutshell, President Putin—a man who is trying what the American people want. this is the problem you face. Your rhet- to undermine the power of the United Poll after poll shows healthcare is far oric is all about helping working peo- States, a man who is trying to under- more important to the American peo- ple, but your policies and the people mine the very democracy of the United ple than tax cuts. Do you know why? If developing them are all about helping States, the beauty of America. It was you get a break on your taxes of $20 a corporations and the rich. on full display this week when, instead week and your premiums go up several I am not against the rich or corpora- of personally defending our ally Brit- thousand dollars in a month or even tions. God bless them. Let’s hope they ain, President Trump didn’t say a word several hundred dollars in a month, do well. But average Americans need about the attack, directing everything that little increase is wiped away. Our far more help than the top 1 percent through aides or statements. Republican colleagues, even in their and wealthy corporations. Give it to President Trump warns all the time tax bill, caused premiums to go up by average folks. They need it. They are that ‘‘we need to get smart’’ about monkeying around with healthcare. still struggling with paying for college, other countries taking advantage of The Republican Party needs to wake affording a vacation, helping their el- the United States. I agree. I tend to up and realize that by giving massive derly mom and dad through a agree with the President on China. benefits to corporations and the healthcare problem. They are who need China is taking advantage of us, and wealthy, it is never going to be a pop- the help, not the top 1 percent. But our President Trump, to his credit, is doing ular issue for them in the election be- Republican colleagues aim everything more than the Bush or Obama adminis- cause it is a terrible policy for the av- at that top 1 percent. trations did. But guess who is taking erage middle-class and working Ameri- If we would only get rid of Citizens advantage of us even more than China. cans. It gets to the contradiction at United, that awful decision that allows Russia. They meddle in our elections, the core of the Presidency. The Presi- the wealthy to have such huge influ- continue to sow division on social dent talks like a populous but governs ence on the Republican Party, the media through Russia-linked bots or like a plutocrat. Let me repeat that. super PACs—individual Members have building an intelligence machine to The President talks like a populous but super PACs funded by the wealthy. I meddle in our elections again later this governs like a plutocrat. He just got wish we could get rid of it on both year. Putin constantly attacks our al- rid of a Wall Street executive—Gary sides, Democratic and Republican. Un- lies, our friends.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:38 Mar 15, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G15MR6.003 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S1744 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 15, 2018 President Trump, when are you going this horrific situation where, in this tion and have helped us put this legis- to get smart about the threat Russia country, in this century, we actually lation together in a way that addresses poses to the United States and our al- have an increase in the trafficking of the issue in a very focused and targeted lies? human beings—specifically women and way, so we are going to actually have We in Congress, 98 to 2, the Demo- children being trafficked online. I the result we are looking for but with- crats and Republicans together—Lead- thought the speech earlier by Majority out affecting what some were con- er MCCONNELL and I worked this out. Leader MITCH MCCONNELL laid this out cerned about, which was the freedom of We voted to implement mandatory very well. He talked about the fact the internet. We all believe in the free- sanctions against Russia. Guess what, that there has been an eightfold in- dom of the internet, but we also know America. President Trump hasn’t even crease, in the most recent data from that committing these kinds of horrific implemented them. What is he afraid the National Center for Missing and crimes on the internet has to be some- of? What is he hiding? Exploited Children; that is, between thing people are held accountable for. Hopefully, we will get an announce- 2010 and 2015, there was an eightfold in- I want to take a moment to recognize ment today that maybe he is imple- crease in the incidence of trafficking. a couple of other leaders in this effort, menting sanctions after what Russia He also talked about the fact that this one of whom is a Senator, and the did, but that is not enough. As my is growing because of this growth of other is his spouse, and that is Cindy friend from New Jersey has suggested, the internet, that the internet—specifi- and JOHN MCCAIN. I hope they are the President should further sanction cally this one website—has caused this watching these proceedings over the Putin and anyone else involved under increase that Congress has the ability next week as we take up this legisla- the Biological Weapons Control and to address through a change in a Fed- tion, debate it, and I hope pass it on Warfare Elimination Act for this hei- eral law that can be targeted and fo- the floor of the Senate, because they nous attack in the UK. cused and can make a huge difference have been very involved. We are still waiting for President in the lives of those who would be traf- JOHN MCCAIN from the start, as one Trump to direct our intelligence agen- ficked and undergo the intense trauma of the leaders on this issue here in the cies and the State Department to use that results. Senate, helped us put together the leg- the resources we have provided them to I am very pleased we are taking up islation. He was with me on the Perma- combat Russian cyber attacks. We this legislation. I thank Majority Lead- nent Subcommittee on Investigations have heard from officials who are in er MCCONNELL for putting the bill on as we looked into this matter. JOHN charge of cyber security. They have the floor. can’t be with us here on the floor, but gotten no direction from the White I know we have an important omni- I know his presence is felt. I will tell House, no orders to do anything. We bus spending bill coming up, and I my colleagues that it is felt by me, as are still waiting for actions to harden know the Senate needs to focus on well as the influence he has had on this our election security, and we are still that, but first let’s get this common- legislation and on many of us in bring- waiting for President Trump to utter sense legislation passed. Let’s take this ing up this issue. one word of public criticism for what opportunity to do something that is ac- One reason he brings up this issue a Putin is doing to the United States and tually going to help immediately on lot is that he has a spouse who is pas- democracies around the world. this issue of sex trafficking. sionate about it and has spent a lot of I say to President Trump: Your si- I also thank Senator JOHN THUNE. He time working on it. The McCain Insti- lence speaks on this issue. Your silence is the chairman of the Commerce Com- tute has specialized on this issue of speaks volumes to the Russian Govern- mittee, which had the hearings and human trafficking, and Cindy McCain ment and America’s other adversaries, marked up this legislation. I also has been a tireless advocate globally on as well as our friends and allies. Fi- thank his colleague, Ranking Member this issue. So I thank both Cindy and nally, it speaks volumes to the Amer- BILL NELSON, for his work on this. We JOHN for their inspiration. Again, I am ican people. More and more Americans held a powerful hearing. I had a chance confident that as we get it across the are asking: Why is President Trump so to testify there and testify about the finish line here, they will be cele- afraid to take on probably our No. 1 work we had done in another com- brating with us. menace, Russia? What is he hiding? mittee investigating this issue. We We have 68 cosponsors of this legisla- What is going on? Why? heard from victims, and we heard from tion now, and, again, for those who fol- It is ringing in America’s ear. The experts. At the end of the day, that low scorecards around here, that is un- President is not going to escape it. vote in the Commerce Committee was usual. We have a majority of Repub- I yield the floor. unanimous—Republicans and Demo- licans, and we have a majority of The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- crats alike saying: We get it. We need Democrats. We have a situation here ator from Ohio. to address this issue. where everybody is affected by it in Mr. PORTMAN. Mr. President, I rise We have had a lot of collaboration on their States. They get it, and they un- today to talk about the issue before this over the last couple of years. I derstand that this is a Federal respon- the Senate, and I am very pleased the would say it has been a truly non- sibility to change this law because it is Senate is finally taking up this legisla- partisan effort, not just a bipartisan ef- a Federal law that creates this opening tion. It has to do with stopping sex fort, which is rare around this place. In for websites to engage in this kind of trafficking specifically—a growing particular, I would like to thank the behavior without accountability. They scourge in our country and really a coauthor of the legislation we are deal- are effectively shielded from prosecu- stain on our national character—which ing with, and that is RICHARD tions or from lawsuits. This legislation is girls, women being sold online. BLUMENTHAL, who, as a former pros- takes away that shield. The legislation is called the Allow ecutor, understands these issues be- We have heard from the FBI, the Na- States and Victims to Fight Online Sex cause he prosecuted sex trafficking tional Center for Missing and Exploited Trafficking Act. It includes the Stop cases. Children; we have heard from Polaris, Enabling Sex Traffickers Act, or I also thank Senator CLAIRE MCCAS- which runs the national tip line on SESTA. That has gone through a proc- KILL because it was Senator MCCASKILL human trafficking. All kinds of experts ess here in the Senate. We had hearings and I who headed up the Permanent have told us that trafficking is not just on it. We had a markup. This is an Subcommittee on Investigations, increasing, but it is increasing because issue many of us have been working on which looked into this issue. We spent of the ruthless efficiency of the inter- for many months—in fact, for the last a year and a half studying it, and we net. couple of years—doing the investiga- were able to find out shocking informa- One website—backpage.com—is in- tions to come up with how to deal with tion about what is going on online. volved in the majority of online sex this problem. I also thank Senator JOHN CORNYN, trafficking. One anti-trafficking orga- I am very pleased that we now have Senator HEIDI HEITKAMP, Senator AMY nization has said that backpage is in- the opportunity here in the Senate to KLOBUCHAR, and Senator TED CRUZ. volved in about 75 percent of the online take up this legislation and begin the They are a group of Senators who were trafficking reports it receives from the process of turning the tide, changing the initial cosponsors of this legisla- public. Another organization, Shared

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:38 Mar 15, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G15MR6.005 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1745 Hope International, says it is even and helping us to pass this legislation. tors, there is a Good Samaritan provi- more than that. So think about that. I appreciate her challenge and her sion: If you want to clean up your We have this increase in trafficking. It grief. But she is also sure that this leg- website and get the offensive material is primarily being caused by this move- islation is the thing that would have off, you are protected. ment from the street corner to the kept girls like her daughter from get- Second, it does allow for the State smartphone, as victims have told me ting involved in this, because when she prosecutors to go after these websites, back home, and there is one website went after backpage to try to hold which they can’t do now. So it takes that has the majority of this activity. them accountable, she was told: I am the Federal standard—it is not a new That is what we studied. sorry; they have immunity under Fed- standard; it is Federal law, which is al- As we looked into it further, Senator eral law. ready a criminal act—and says, allow MCCASKILL and I were shocked to find That Federal law, by the way, is these State prosecutors, these State out that not only is this activity going called the Communications Decency attorneys general, to prosecute these on on this website, but they were Act. It was put in place with good in- websites that violate these Federal complicit in the sense that they know- tentions to help protect the freedom of laws. ingly facilitated criminal sex traf- the internet. It protects websites from It is incredibly important to pass ficking, including coaching users—peo- liability when users put something on this. We did it narrowly. We have a ple who were placing ads with them—to their site, but it was never meant to knowing standard here; in other words, post clean ads so that they wouldn’t in- protect criminal activity. It has been to be affected by this, you have to dicate—which was very obvious in the misinterpreted, in my view, by the knowingly be facilitating, supporting, initial ads that were presented—that courts, but it also needs to be clarified, or assisting sex trafficking. We did these were underage girls. As an exam- because it is not as clear as it should that because we wanted to be sure it ple, taking out words like ‘‘schoolgirl’’ be, and that is what our legislation was focused on this issue and not af- or ‘‘cheerleader’’—they told them to do does. fecting the broader freedom of the that so they could still place the ads; This legislation, by the way, was en- internet. in other words, get the money for the acted back in 1996—22 years ago, when We have a lot of support now. A cou- ads. As you can imagine, this is a very the internet was in its infancy. There ple of weeks ago the White House an- lucrative business. So they were saying needed to be something to help provide nounced its support for this legislation. that they needed to clean it up. That protection from liability. But, unfortu- I mentioned that 68 Senators are now practice covered up evidence of these nately, it has been used as a shield by supporting it. It passed in the House of crimes. It actually also made it harder these criminals to be able to sell Representatives about 10 days ago with for law enforcement to follow up on women and children online without ac- over 300 votes. these cases. They did it for a very sim- countability. It has support from around the coun- ple reason. They wanted the ads be- The same law that was actually writ- try, most importantly. All of the cause they increased their profits, but ten back then was also focused, in part, groups are focused on this issue of how obviously they had an incredibly detri- on keeping indecent material—pornog- to avoid women and children from get- mental impact, and still do, on women raphy—from going to children, iron- ting caught in this web of human traf- and children around our country. ically, and now it is being used to ficking and then how to help them I spoke earlier this week on the floor shield these traffickers. I know Con- when they get out to provide for the about Kubiiki Pride because she testi- gress did not intend that broad immu- important recovery efforts that are fied before us and she is also part of a nity, and I know we need to fix it. needed from the trauma of this. Those documentary called ‘‘I Am Jane Doe.’’ By the way, the district attorneys groups, of course, are strongly sup- If you are interested in this issue, around the country agree with us on portive. check it out. It is on Netflix. this—prosecutors. They have asked us Law enforcement has been terrific. Kubiiki Pride told us this alarming to change this law. Their associations The Fraternal Order of Police stepped story of a mom whose daughter goes have even been involved in this issue. up early on in strong support of this missing. She can’t find her. She was Fifty State attorneys general have legislation. So have all of the other law told to look on this site called written to us, asking us to do this, in- enforcement groups represented here in backpage. She does, and she sees her cluding, by the way, some former State Washington through their national of- daughter’s photographs there—sexually fices. We appreciate their help. explicit photographs. attorneys general who are now Mem- We appreciate the fact that parents She calls backpage and says: That is bers of this body. have been willing to come forward and my daughter; she has been missing. In the most blatant call on Congress She is 14 years old, and she is on your yet, we had a court in Sacramento, CA, tell these difficult stories, as was the website. Thank you for taking down say: You have to fix this law because, case of Kubiiki Pride, as was the case the ad. otherwise, we can’t do anything to of Yvonne Ambrose, whom I talked Their response: Did you pay for the keep people from exploiting women and about earlier, and her daughter, ad? children online. A number of courts Desiree. They told their stories from She said: No, of course I didn’t pay have said this and basically have called their heart in order to get Congress to for it. I am the mother. on Congress—welcomed us to enter wake up and do the right thing. We They said: We can’t take down the ad into it. The one in California said: ‘‘If now need to do that. because you didn’t pay for it. and until Congress sees fit to amend This legislation is now before this That story tells us how evil these the immunity law, the broad reach of body. We expect to have a vote next websites are. the Communications Decency Act even week on it. We need to do all we can to Let me tell you another story about applies to those alleged to support the address this stain on our national char- Yvonne Ambrose. Yvonne testified be- exploitation of others by allowing traf- acter. We need to do all we can to pro- fore the Commerce Committee, and ficking.’’ vide these victims the justice they de- you could have heard a pin drop when In other words, they are asking Con- serve. We need to do all we can to en- she was telling her story. Her daughter gress to step in and do something. sure that we stop the selling of women was 16 years old and she was trafficked That is what this does. It allows on- and children online. on backpage.com. She was sold for sex line sex trafficking victims to get the Thank you. on backpage.com at 16 years old. justice they deserve and it allows pros- I yield the floor. Yvonne got a call on Christmas Eve ecutors to hold these websites account- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- 2016, the call no parent ever wants to able. ator from Michigan. get. The call was from law enforcement We do it with two very narrow FARM SERVICE AGENCY LOAN FLEXIBILITY BILL saying that her daughter, Desiree, who changes. First, allowing these victims Mr. PETERS. Mr. President, I rise was being trafficked at the time on to get the justice they deserve by re- today to honor Michigan’s farmers. Ag- backpage.com, had been murdered. moving the broad liability protections riculture is a vital part of Michigan’s Yvonne is honoring Desiree’s mem- for a narrow set of bad actors. In fact, economy. Our State is home to more ory by getting engaged in this issue we actually say that for the good ac- than 51,000 farmers who contribute

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:38 Mar 15, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G15MR6.006 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S1746 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 15, 2018 over $100 billion to the Nation’s econ- FSA program to increase its loan au- ergy, and taxes. I am happy to tell you, omy. thority in years when the demand for this body collectively agreed, and we Michigan is also the second most di- loans unexpectedly exceeds the supply got those things done. We reversed 860- verse farm State in the Nation, grow- of funding. some rules and regulations last year. ing more than 300 commodities, includ- The legislation would enable FSA to We unleashed our energy potential, as ing a significant portion of our Na- increase the available loan funding by the Presiding Officer knows very well. tion’s milk, corn, cherries, cucumbers, up to 25 percent for the fiscal year for Late last year, we passed an earth- and much more. self-funding loans and guarantees that shattering, historic tax cut and tax Michigan farmers and farmers across do not require appropriation. It would modification bill that will unleash our our country feed the Nation and the also authorize FSA to increase the loan potential and make us competitive world, and we must do what we can to cap by up to 25 percent for FSA direct with the rest of the world. support them. Our agricultural busi- loans that require budget authority Why was all that necessary? Well, we nesses rely on the ability to access the and would allow FSA to draw stopgap had gone through an experiment where resources they need to keep growing, funding for these direct loans from the Big Government—more regulation and creating jobs, and contributing to our Commodity Credit Corporation. more control—was the call of the day, national economy. I am proud to have the support of the and we saw the result of that. So what Access to these resources can be es- Michigan Farm Bureau, the Michigan we have been doing is, in a measured pecially challenging for new farm oper- Agri-business Association, the Amer- way, reversing many of those onerous ations that are just getting started, in- ican Bankers Association, and the Na- fiscal policies that kept the monetary cluding small farms that make up 82 tional Farmers Union, among many policy from igniting the economy percent of Michigan’s agricultural pro- others. again. That is all this is. ducers. Small farms that are just start- Like our small businesses, students, At the beginning of last year, some $7 ing out and are facing tough economic and families, America’s farmers de- trillion almost was not at work in our conditions sometimes struggle to have serve to have affordable loan options. $20 trillion economy. That is historic. access to affordable credit. These busi- They deserve our attention and they That is unbelievable. You can’t even nesses rely upon important services deserve our support. describe that to people outside this provided by the Farm Service Agency, I urge my colleagues to support the country. There was some $2 trillion on which works with lenders to guarantee Farm Service Agency Loan Flexibility the balance sheets of the Russell 1000. and deliver small-dollar loans to the Act to help meet the financial needs of That is now being employed. We see an- small farmers who need it most. our farming communities as they sup- nouncements every week where compa- Farm Service Agency loans and guar- port and sustain us each and every day. nies are announcing capital plans, cap- antees can help farmers cover urgent Thank you. ital expenditure plans, for the next few operating costs like feed, seed, and fer- I yield the floor. years largely as a result of the pull- tilizer to get them through the season. I suggest the absence of a quorum. back on regulations last year. Without these loans, farmers could lose The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Second, we see that by eliminating their ability to purchase equipment clerk will call the roll. our archaic repatriation tax that was and other necessities for the planting The senior assistant legislative clerk part of the tax bill, there is some $3 season and could be forced to curtail proceeded to call the roll. trillion of unrepatriated U.S. profits their operations. Mr. PERDUE. Mr. President, I ask Currently, more than 2,300 farms in overseas, and most of that will be com- unanimous consent that the order for Michigan have Farm Service Agency ing back. The banking bill we just did the quorum call be rescinded. loans, totaling more than $630 million. that reverses some of the more onerous The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. SUL- Across the country last year, the Farm provisions of Dodd-Frank on small LIVAN). Without objection, it is so or- Service Agency made and guaranteed banks and community banks will free dered. almost 40,000 loans, totaling over $6 bil- up some $2 trillion potential in lending lion. ECONOMIC GROWTH, REGULATORY RELIEF, AND capacity. I think this is historic. This program is in such high demand CONSUMER PROTECTION BILL After Dodd-Frank, we created a two- that in 2016, the Farm Service Agency Mr. PERDUE. Mr. President, it is not street economy: We had Wall Street ran out of money to finance operating often I get to come to the U.S. Senate and we had Main Street. I have a chart loans. This included more than 1,000 with an uplifted heart, but today I do. here that explains. This happens so loans that have already been approved. Yesterday, two-thirds of this body got often in Washington, where well-in- This led to a backlog, and farmers were together on an issue that is so impor- tended people who have very little ex- forced to wait for months until Con- tant to Main Street America and perience in the free enterprise system gress passed emergency funding to get agreed. make decisions that have unintended the loans they needed for their day-to- After weeks of negotiation and going consequences—and this is one. Dodd- day operations. back and forth, we passed a bipartisan Frank was intended to rein in and con- Access to capital is critical across a banking bill, and I believe historians trol the big banks. Yet what it did in- range of businesses, but it is incredibly will look back on this week and this advertently was penalize the small important for our small farmers. They bill as being a watershed event. It was banks and make big banks better busi- can lose out on an entire growing sea- a measured bill. It didn’t blow up Dodd- ness. son if they can’t buy the equipment Frank; it didn’t do away with it. It This chart calls out—the way I would and the supplies they need while they didn’t go as far as some people wanted; measure this is the lending activity. wait on Congress to fund the Farm it did more than others wanted, but The dark blue line here shows, since Service Agency. two-thirds of us put the national inter- the 2008 crisis, large business loans This year the FSA loan programs are ests above our own self-interests and coming out of the major money-cen- again on track to exceed available passed a bill that will change the face tered banks have increased dramati- funding, and if that happens, farmers of lending for small community banks cally. Even that hasn’t driven the re- will again be stuck waiting on Con- and regional banks across our country. covery we talk about because a lot of gress to receive the loan they deserve Last year, when President Trump be- the job creation comes in smalltown and need. came President, he said: Job one is America and small companies. That is why I introduced bipartisan growing the economy. After 8 years of This light-blue line is small business legislation this week with my col- the lowest economic performance in loans, less than $1 million. We are not league, Senator DAVID PERDUE of Geor- our history, he knew that if you are even back to where we were in 2008. We gia, to provide greater flexibility to ever going to deal with the long-term will be, now that this bill just passed, the FSA loan program to continue debt crisis we have, you have to first because it releases or changes the re- serving farmers during periods of high grow the economy. He was right. His serve requirements for small and com- demand. instincts were exactly right on. munity banks and regional banks. It My bill—the Farm Service Agency So what did we focus on? The Presi- also changes the definition of what is a Loan Flexibility Act—would allow the dent had us focus on regulations, en- regional bank and increases it to $250

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:38 Mar 15, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G15MR6.008 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1747 billion from $50 billion. That lowers the the Presiding Officer ran. We didn’t I am proud to be a Member of the regulatory burden and the cost of com- come up here to not get anything and U.S. Senate today. I haven’t said that pliance for these small banks. That to just get reelected. The American many times here. I am proud because gets translated into money flow— people are fed up. That is how Donald we took action, we put our self-inter- cashflow—into businesses that create Trump got elected President. That is ests aside, and this is exactly the kind jobs. how I got elected. of result the American people want us This is an innovation economy. We I would dare say, the American peo- to deliver. know how to create jobs. We just need ple have the right idea about the future This rollback—which I believe is very to get the Federal Government out of of America, if we would just listen to measured—combined with last year’s the way. One-size-fits-all regulations them. Nobody has all the right an- regulatory rollback, President Trump’s do not work. Yesterday, we pulled back swers, but freeing up capital right now steps to unleash our energy potential on a blunt instrument law—Dodd- to put to work in our economy is the and, yes, our historic tax bill, go a long Frank—done with a supermajority, by only way we are going to grow this way to be a big win for our economy. It the way. Dodd-Frank was totally inef- economy north of 3 percent, and I be- sends a message to the rest of the fective and got the opposite result of lieve we can breathe life back into our world. what they really wanted. rural communities. I am hopeful the House is going to Those small banks and community I had lunch yesterday with the Sec- pass this bill as soon as possible and banks did nothing to cause the 2008 and retary of Agriculture. They are focused that President Trump is going to be 2009 crisis, but since Dodd-Frank was on redeveloping our rural communities able to sign it into law very soon. enacted, over 1,700 small banks, pri- that have been ignored for the last dec- President Trump has a vision for marily, have gone out of business— ade. These communities share the val- America. It is born out of Main Street 1,700—many because they were unable ues that built America. Yet they have America. I believe this puts us back on to cope or afford to comply with the been ignored by past administrations the track to greatness and leadership 2,319 pages and 390 new regulations im- that led to big city, big urban focus. I in the world economically, socially, po- posed by Dodd-Frank. Let me say that think this bill, more than anything litically. It is the right thing to do for again: 390 new regulations were im- else we have done since I have been in our country. It is the right thing to do the Senate, will actually breathe life posed by Dodd-Frank. My goodness. for every person in America. These small banks had nothing to do back into those rural communities. I yield the floor. I applaud our Democratic partners with the crisis of 2008. Many of these I suggest the absence of a quorum. across the aisle. Seventeen of them banks were community and regional The PRESIDING OFFICER. The took the heat from their own party and banks that actually support small busi- clerk will call the roll. from K Street and from the vested lob- nesses on Main Street, give small busi- The legislative clerk proceeded to byists who did not want this to happen. nesses the needed capital, and sponsor call the roll. I applaud them for their courage and Little League baseball parks. I grew up Mr. KAINE. Mr. President, I ask for standing up for the people back in a Little League baseball park spon- unanimous consent that the order for home. That is what we are here to do. sored by the three banks in my home- the quorum call be rescinded. It doesn’t always work out this way, town. My father was a board member of The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without but sometimes 15 or 16 of our Repub- objection, it is so ordered. one of those small banks. I remember lican Party will work with them and those days. They were involved in the GUN SAFETY get a bill they want to do. That is what Mr. KAINE. Mr. President, I rise community. When you borrowed money this Senate body is supposed to do. today to talk about gun ownership and from them, they knew you personally. I know there are some on the other gun safety in Virginia and in the What we have done is created an envi- side of the aisle who really want a one- ronment that just shut down lending size-fits-all bigger government and United States. I speak as a gun owner, activity in these small banks. more intrusion. We heard the speeches and I speak as a strong Second Amend- Small business lending—which we all this week: It is going to be so draco- ment supporter. I want to do a couple know is a driver in every recovery nian. They just don’t understand how of things in this speech, but one thing since World War II—took nearly 8 this bill will breathe life back into cap- I want to do is put to rest the idea that years to barely get back to where we ital formation, which is the corner- gun owners, gun ownership, and the were in 2008, and I am not sure we are stone of a capitalistic society, but I be- Second Amendment are incompatible totally there, if you go across the lieve most people in America have seen with reasonable gun safety rules. board, entirely. the dark side. They have seen the puni- I accept the ruling, the holding, and I am so glad to stand here and say tive nature of large regulatory bodies the principle announced by the Su- that finally the U.S. Senate took ac- by a Federal Government that wants to preme Court in the Heller decision that tion. I am also proud to say, even dominate every aspect of our life, and the Second Amendment conveys an in- though it didn’t go as far as I would Dodd-Frank was one of the ramifica- dividual right to bear arms and con- like, that we got to a measured ap- tions of that—accomplished, as I said, veys that right to the American public. proach here that both sides could only during a supermajority. There was, and there remains, some agree. The irony of Dodd-Frank is that it is controversy over the ruling. Some have I remind everybody in this body that just another example of Washington argued that the text of the amendment two-thirds of us agreed to this. I can’t overreach that hurts the very people it discusses only the right to bear arms in think of another issue that has come claims to champion and fails to help the context of participating in a mili- before this body. I think we had one the working middle class. We see from tia, which in 1787 was a necessary vote, 98 to 2, to allow the head of the this chart, large businesses had no strategy for defending the Nation dur- VA to run his human resources prac- problem getting loans, but the small ing a time when we had no standing tices the way people in the real world startup entrepreneur is having trouble Army. For years, many scholars and do, and we have seen over 1,500 people today, and that is what this bill goes a courts accepted that notion and argued now replaced at the VA to clean that long way toward helping to alleviate. that the Second Amendment was sort place up. I can’t think of another thing Small businesses should look at this of different from the others in that that has brought us together like this and say: We are back in business. We way. In Heller, the Supreme Court because we all know small banks have are open for business. I believe this will ruled that the Second Amendment, like been inappropriately affected by Dodd- breathe life back into many commu- all the other amendments, conveys an Frank. nities around our country. individual right, and I accept and be- Republicans and Democrats proved Community and regional banks and, lieve that interpretation. this week, and over the past several by extension, communities and small But the Heller decision came with an weeks, that we can put our self-inter- businesses across the country have important caveat. The Second Amend- ests aside and get to the better good. I been unduly punished for something ment is the only amendment that uses am proud to be a part of this. That is they had nothing to do with. It is time the phrase ‘‘well regulated.’’ The why I ran for the Senate. That is why to correct that, and this bill does that. amendment may convey a personal

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:38 Mar 15, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G15MR6.009 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S1748 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 15, 2018 right to gun ownership, and it does, but explicitly contemplated by the amend- dangerous individuals but resist a uni- it explicitly acknowledges that regula- ment and constitutionally allowable. versal background check system that tions are part of what may be nec- It is important to recognize that we would be necessary to enforce that pro- essary. Courts subsequent to Heller all tolerate reasonable limits on gun hibition? Why won’t Congress enact have frequently held that the par- use. One common use of firearms in the same kinds of magazine limitations ticular regulations are well within the Virginia and Alaska—I know from my on weapons used to kill people that we scope of the Second Amendment. one visit to Alaska that this is the embrace on weapons used to kill deer? The NRA and other organizations case—is hunting. In Virginia, the vot- Why won’t Congress ban weapons of often pretend that the phrase ‘‘well ers of our State, by referendum, war—weapons of war that are used by regulated’’ doesn’t even appear in the amended our State constitution in 2000 trained officials, as was the case with amendment. Often, they will print a to guarantee to all a right to hunt, the Presiding Officer in his military copy of the Second Amendment or the fish, and gather game subject to rules service or my son in military service, text, and they will have only the sec- prescribed by our general assembly. I but why won’t we ban those weapons of ond clause, omitting the ‘‘well regu- was legal counsel for this effort, before war from the streets of our country? lated’’ phrase. While that phrase, like I was in State office, arguing the valid- Self-defense, sport, hunting are all the text of the amendment itself, is set ity of the amendment when a citizens protected and encompassed within the in the context of a militia, it is clear group sued to try to keep it off the bal- broad protections of the Second from its usage that the Framers knew lot. We prevailed in the litigation, and Amendment. There is not, there has firearms were dangerous, though nec- the amendment passed overwhelm- never been, and there never will be an essary, and there needed to be rules to ingly, with more than 60 percent of the effort to confiscate all weapons in the ensure their safe use. In other words, vote. That vote showed our population country because of their popular ac- the phrase ‘‘well regulated’’ in the text both embraced the right to hunt but ceptance and because of the clear com- is not there to refer to the kind of uni- also embraced the acceptance of the mands of the Constitution. But why form that a militia member would notion that this right should be subject can’t we have reasonable safety rules? America’s children—so many of them wear, whether they should have a beard to reasonable rules imposed by the leg- appeared here yesterday, children from or not. It is there to refer to the need islature. a middle school in Northern Virginia, for discipline and training to keep We have many State-imposed rules some high schoolers from Thomas Jef- those people who bear arms behaving on hunting in Virginia, just as I am ferson High School; I visited with stu- in a reasonable and safe manner. sure is the case in Alaska. The State Even if the phrase ‘‘well regulated’’ determines the seasons in which hunt- dents from Florida—posed some even did not appear in the text of the Sec- ing can occur—those seasons can differ starker questions to us. Does Congress care more about its ond Amendment—and that phrase depending on what you are hunting— children or more about contributions ‘‘well regulated’’ appears in no other where it can occur, the license you from the NRA and gun manufacturers? amendment, only the second—it would need, the training you must complete, Can adults act like adults and try to still be pretty clear that the Second which days of the week are open for keep children safe? Those were the Amendment right, just like other con- hunting, what kinds of weapons can be questions that I heard from the stu- stitutional rights, is not absolute and used in hunting, and even the size of a dents on the Capitol steps yesterday. free from any governmental rules. The magazine in any automatic or repeat- I applaud the children of the country Heller decision, authored by Justice ing weapon that can be used in hunt- who are asking these questions. They Scalia, stated this very clearly: A rul- ing. stand together with an overwhelming ing of individual ownership and use of For example, in Virginia, by statute, majority of Americans who believes we firearms does not restrict the govern- you can hunt with a repeating shotgun, can do better and we need to do better. ment from imposing reasonable rules but the magazine can contain no more I have seen the tragedy of gun violence, on their use. Many subsequent cases than three rounds. If the magazine on a but I have also seen that we can do bet- have affirmed these reasonable rules weapon is larger than that—a larger ter and that part of that is having bet- over time. magazine—you are required to have a ter rules on guns. The First Amendment, for example, plug or filler in the magazine that will When I was elected to the city coun- guarantees the right to free speech and reduce its capacity to no more than cil in Richmond in 1994, we had the sec- makes clear that no law infringing three total rounds, as measured either ond highest homicide rate in the upon such a right is constitutional. in the magazine or in the chamber United States. That was the only top 10 But the Supreme Court has long held itself. list we were on. That is not the one you that government agencies can place The bottom line for these regula- want to be on. I went to too many fu- reasonable limits on the time, place, tions, which are well accepted and un- nerals and too many wakes and too and manner of speech, so long as the derstood in Virginia, is clear. Even the many crime scenes, and I was in too limits don’t discriminate on the con- use of firearms for hunting, protected many church basements with support tent of the idea that is expressed. An by the Virginia Constitution as well as groups of homicide victims’ families, easy example is, a city can ban sound by the Second Amendment, is subject and I don’t want to do those kinds of trucks with megaphones from driving to safety rules that society fully ac- things again. through neighborhoods blaring ads in cepts. The clear constitutionality of Yet, through the pain of that—mul- the middle of the night while people gun safety rules and the public accept- tiple efforts by multiple people—we are sleeping. The right to free speech is ance of these rules pose stark questions helped reduce our violent crime rate subject to reasonable limitation. to Congress. risk. We dropped the homicide rate by Similarly, the First Amendment Why, in the face of escalating trag- 60 percent. We dropped the aggravated guarantees freedom of the press, but edy, are we so unwilling to adopt com- assault/violent crime rate by nearly States punish civil libel through their monsense gun safety rules designed to the same number. We did a number of civil litigation and court processes. A reduce gun violence? Why does Con- things, but one of the things we did was newspaper trashing somebody through gress shield gun manufacturers from li- to recognize that we had a problem a knowingly false statement can be ability with a Federal protection that with guns. It was not just about people subjected to civil liability, and that we don’t give to the manufacturers of or just about mental health. Those paper can’t claim the right to free other products? Why does Congress were issues, sure, but we had a high press to shield it from accountability. limit the Centers for Disease Control gun carry rate in Richmond. The gun The Second Amendment, in this way, and Prevention from using its re- carry rate means: In 100 stops that the is similar to the First Amendment, and sources to research gun violence? Why police would make, what percentage of I could go through other examples. does Congress limit the ability of law the time were people carrying weap- While the right to ownership, to bear enforcement to fully trace the use of ons? In Richmond, we just had an un- and use arms—not just ownership but guns that are used to commit crimes? usually high percentage compared to using arms—may not be infringed, rea- Why does Congress prohibit weapon use other cities for a variety of the rea- sonable rules regarding gun usage are and ownership by certain classes of sons.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:38 Mar 15, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G15MR6.011 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1749 What we decided to do is, if we could tain both Republican and Democratic outside of Anchorage, AK, and ends in bring down the gun carry rate, we may proposals for reducing the scourge of Nome. It is about 1,000 miles. I think not make bad people good people, but gun violence. There will be different this year’s southern route was 998 we could avoid an argument’s breaking kinds of proposals, and that is as it miles to be exact. It is one of the long- bad and then turning into a homicide should be. est sled dog races on Earth, and it trav- or an aggravated assault. We were able It is just like the debate we had els over some pretty interesting ter- to do things that brought the gun carry about Dreamers a few weeks ago. There rain. ‘‘Interesting’’ is a choice word to rate down, that made people leave were different proposals put on the use as you cross mountains and frozen their guns at home, if they were leav- table that were going in different di- tundra and forests and the frozen ice. ing their homes, instead of putting rections. We know in this body that we The Iditarod is, truly, a race for only them in their pockets. By doing that, need to get 60 votes to get anything the most hardy, only the best. we helped to bring down gun violence. passed, which means nothing will pass The Iditarod, itself, commemorates We found that you could take concrete unless there is some bipartisan sup- the deadly 1925 diphtheria outbreak steps to make people safer. port. Yet we shouldn’t be afraid of hav- that happened in Nome. There was no I was the Governor at the time of ing that debate. We have been afraid to way to get the diphtheria antitoxin what was the worst shooting in the his- have the debate, but our children are from the coastal area, down in Seward tory of the United States. The weird afraid for their lives. If they are show- at the time, all the way up to Nome. thing to say about my own State is ing the courage to speak out for This was before we had air transport as that I wish it had always been the change, the least we can do is show a viable option. So the real question worst shooting—the tragedy at Vir- that we are listening. was, How do you move this? How do ginia Tech in April of 2007, when 32 peo- I yield the floor. you move this quickly? It was the mid- dle of the winter. This was not a race. ple were killed. It has now been The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- This was a lifesaving mission to move eclipsed by shootings in Orlando and ator from Florida. serum, again, 1,000-plus miles to the Las Vegas and Newtown. So many THE FIRST SAINT PATRICK’S DAY north to save a community. They re- other tragedies have happened since Mr. NELSON. Mr. President, before the Senator from Virginia leaves, since sorted to a relay of dog sleds, of dog then that even some of the particulars teams, to move that serum. of the Virginia Tech shooting start to he is the cochairman of the United States-Spain Council, I want him to Today, the Iditarod is no longer a recede in memory as new tragedies relay. It is a race of individual sled dog happen. hear my very brief remarks. As will be officially announced today teams. Again, it is about a 1,000-mile It was painful. I interacted with the race. It is a test of determination, cer- 32 families who had lost their kids and at 4 o’clock on the new website, La Florida, the following has been discov- tainly, of the K–9 mushers, and it is who had lost their parents who were ered by historian Dr. Michael Francis, tough. It is always in the first weekend professors, and I have continued to of the University of South Florida at of March. At this time of year in Alas- interact with them over the years and St. Petersburg, who is one of the emi- ka, sometimes conditions can be pretty to learn what went wrong that day, and nent Spanish colonial scholars in the good—above zero. Sometimes they can a lot of things went wrong. Vowing to world: The first St. Patrick’s Day was be 30 degrees or 40 degrees below zero. the families that we would try to fix not in Boston in 1737. Neither was the Sometimes you can have a ground bliz- them has been a cause of my life for first St. Patrick’s Day parade in New zard and wind conditions that move the last 11 years. York in 1762. As discovered by Dr. close to 80, 90, 100 miles an hour, and We also learned through the pain Francis in the Spanish archives in Se- when you want to talk about windchill, some things we could do to make our ville, the first St. Patrick’s Day was out there, it is real; it is extreme. communities safer. In this particular celebrated by an Irish priest, Richard This 46th annual running of the case, there were problems with mental Arthur, better known as Ricardo Iditarod hasn’t been that challenging health, and there were problems with Arturo, in St. Augustine in 1600, to be in terms of the cold, in terms of what privacy rules, and there were problems followed by the first St. Patrick’s Day they have seen in the past, but there is with campus safety protocols. Yet a parade in the New World, in St. Augus- always some bump. There is always significant problem was that we had a tine, in 1601. something that causes the race to be a flaw in the background record check Needless to say, it is not going to little bit different. This year, the system. A young individual who had make our friends in Boston and New mushers had a scheduled checkpoint on been adjudicated mentally ill and dan- York happy to hear that they have Eagle Island. This is a place where they gerous and was prohibited from owning been eclipsed by well over a century take a mandatory 8-hour break. The a weapon was able to slip through the and a half. However, it shows the game changer in the race this year was cracks in the system to get a weapon strong roots of the Irish people in in the snow conditions. Because of the that he shouldn’t have had. So the les- America all the way back to Saint ceiling, planes could not drop food for son we learned is, with a better back- Patty’s Day in 1600 in St. Augustine, the mushers, so they had to take this ground check system, you reduce the FL. very critical checkpoint off of the risk of tragedy. I thank the Presiding Officer. board. The mushers plan all of this out Whether it is a common street crime The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- in advance of the trip. They kind of of the kind that occurs every day and ator from the great State of Alaska. know where they are going to be along may not get the attention on the week- Ms. MURKOWSKI. Mr. President, I the way. They plan their moves. So ly news or whether it is a mass shoot- enjoyed that little bit of history there. this was a pretty unanticipated event ing that gets the attention on the I am sure that the Irish everywhere— at the end and could have impacted it. weekly news, I have had some scar tis- and those who are, perhaps, not quite Yet you had mushers who were pretty sue over this, but at least the scar tis- as Irish—will find good reason to cele- versatile, pretty adaptable. They took sue has taught me a few things. One of brate on March 17 whether one is in the news in stride and continued up the the things I have learned is you can Florida or in the Northeast or in Alas- Yukon River toward other rest stops take meaningful steps, and if you do ka, as the Presiding Officer certainly there. so, you make communities safer. If you knows. Nicolas Petit, who had arrived in know that you can take steps to make THE IDITAROD Anvik, was the frontrunner at the people safer, then you must. You must. Mr. President, I am here to share a time. He was, like, ‘‘Ah, no big deal. I will conclude and just say this. little bit of Alaska. I know that the My strategy is an evolving thing.’’ Yet We need a debate on the floor of this Presiding Officer will also appreciate that evolving thing allows for, again, Chamber about how to reduce gun vio- the update on an event that we in Alas- curve balls that get in the way. In the lence and promote gun safety. We ka celebrate every year and have for instance of Nicolas Petit, the haven’t had one since April of 2013. It the past 46 years—the annual Iditarod frontrunner—a Girdwood musher from has been 5 years, and the list of trage- race. a place that the Presiding Officer and I dies is getting longer and longer and This is a sled dog race of inter- frequent often and I call home—every- longer. We shouldn’t be afraid to enter- national fame, a race that begins just one was quite excited. Long story

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:38 Mar 15, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G15MR6.012 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S1750 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 15, 2018 short, he lost the trail and lost the I wish all the competitors, many of an Alaska gasline, and to expand the lead. whom are still out on the trail, success use of renewable resources, such as hy- You think to yourself: Wait a and safety as they compete in this dropower, marine hydrokinetic, and minute. How can you lose the trail? truly ‘‘Last Great Race on Earth.’’ geothermal. Chuck was involved with This is not a NASCAR race, where you TRIBUTE TO CHUCK KLEESCHULTE all of it. just go around the same track here. Mr. President, I want to recognize a He has been involved in so many sig- This is 1,000 miles. If it is windy, if it longtime member of my staff, Chuck nificant accomplishments for our is blowing, if there is ground cover that Kleeschulte, who recently retired from State, but what is equally impressive is you can’t see through, things happen— the Senate. If you are from Alaska and the work Chuck did very quietly and things truly happen. On top of the you have ever had any dealings with just every day for Alaskans all over the harsh climate conditions that the the Alaska delegation, you have met or State. Whether it was a bridge that mushers face, there are occasionally have dealt with Chuck Kleeschulte. He needed repair, a light pole that had chance encounters with some wildlife. is held in great respect in our State as toppled over in bad weather, land use You have moose, caribou, bears, and a result of the work he did for so many fees that had been miscalculated by a porcupines out there, and they are all people back home. Federal agency, a land exchange for a potential rendezvous for mushers It is an understatement to say we remote community, Chuck was always around the trail. miss him already. He hasn’t been gone there. No matter how small the prob- One of the interesting headlines to that long, but we miss him already. lem, no matter how complicated it may come out of the Iditarod this year was Let me share a little bit of his biog- be, Chuck was there to work on it. a headline that read: ‘‘Iditarod Musher raphy for those who were not fortunate Chuck has only been retired now for Chases off Bison with Ax’’—an ax, yes. enough to know and work with Chuck. a few weeks, and the people I talk to Marcelle Fressineau and her 14-sled He is an Alaskan not by birth but by are all asking: How is Chuck doing? dogs were between Rohn and Nikolai, choice. He moved from Ohio to Alaska Where is Chuck? They all say they are and they came face-to-face with a in 1976 to work as a reporter at the Ju- going to miss him, and I say how much mother bison and her calf. What do you neau Empire in our capital. A few I already do. do? You don’t want your dogs to be in years later, he became press secretary It is a comfort to know that Chuck is danger, so the tough Alaskan woman for then-Governor Jay Hammond. He not going too far. He is retiring from takes her ax and charges the bison and followed that with a stint at the De- Washington, DC, and he is moving to a says, ‘‘Go away. Go away.’’ Long story partment of Environmental Conserva- beautiful little farm in Floyd, VA. Ap- short, they ran away, and she contin- tion and then he returned to reporting parently there is only one stoplight in ued her journey to Nome. You have to for a few more years. Chuck’s new town, but I think Chuck is admit that people like this are ready Chuck first came to the Senate in going to keep busy. His better half Tori for adventure and are full of grit and 1991. He was convinced by my father says she wants a cow. They want to grow a little bit of hay, and there is determination to succeed. Frank Murkowski, who was a Senator Of course, it is not just the mushers. at the time, to move to Washington, grass to mow. There is a half-acre pond It is the K–9 athletes. It is these dogs DC, to be his press secretary. So he did. that apparently is stocked with fish. that, truly, are the inspiration to He made the move, and now 27 years There is a barn we all volunteered to watch along the journey. This year’s later, Chuck is still part of the family help him paint this summer. We will figure out time to do the barn painting. Iditarod kicked off with 67 talented, re- here. He served as my father’s commu- To the people of Floyd, congratula- silient competitors from all over Alas- nications director, a legislative assist- tions on bringing Chuck into the fold. ka and the world—67 dog teams. ant in my personal office, and most re- We know the barn, the cow, the hay, This year, Joar Ulsom was the first cently as a senior adviser for the En- the pond, the single stoplight, and the musher to arrive in Nome. He came in ergy and Natural Resources Com- community are all very lucky to have just after 3 a.m. on Wednesday morn- mittee. him. I certainly was. ing. He is originally from Norway, and Chuck, I think it is fair to say, is an He spent 27 years in Congress and he has been dreaming of being an institution within our institution. He near double that working on behalf of Iditarod racer since he was a kid. In has an encyclopedic knowledge of all Alaska in some fashion or another. 2011, he relocated to Willow, AK, which things Alaska. If someone wanted to Chuck’s guidance and work have not is kind of our dog mushing capital of know what the vote was on a measure only benefited me but the State and the world, and he really has made this back in 1993 that related to the Trans- people of Alaska and the rest of our dream a reality. He is a seasoned racer. Alaska Pipeline or whatever, Chuck country. He first completed the Yukon Quest in would be able to recall that without My favorite part, what I loved best 2012 and has completed other races any notes, without any prodding, with- about Chuck is, after all he has done since then. He completed—he won the out any background. Chuck is extraor- and all he has accomplished, he is still race in 9 days 12 hours. Again, this is dinary. He has a work ethic that is sec- one of the most humble guys you will not a recordbreaking time. Snow ond to none. ever meet. I told him that recently, slowed things down, but think about We have a phrase that has been and he said: ‘‘Oh, yeah, it’s easy to be standing on the back of a sled for 9 around for about 30 years now, and it is humble when you have a lot to be hum- days 12 hours, minimal sleep, constant ‘‘Check with Chuck.’’ Just check with ble about.’’ attention to the dogs in front of you. It Chuck because you don’t need to do Chuck was just that way. He is al- is just an extraordinary story. any fact-checking. He is it. ways modest, but the example he set as The newspapers are telling the story His legislative achievements are al- a true public servant is one to emulate. of Joar crossing the finish line in most too many to name. Let me talk He worked hard every day—every day. Nome. Thousands of people had gath- about some of the big-ticket Alaska He made our office a better place. He ered under the burled arch to congratu- items that Chuck was involved with. helped people, and in doing so, he left late him. It was about 4 degrees, 3 a.m., He was involved with responsible en- some truly enormous shoes to fill. with thousands of people out in the ergy development in the 1002 area. He Should anybody doubt that Chuck street. My brother and sister-in-law led this fight for us for decades as we left a lasting impression, all we have to came all the way from Brazil to be sought to open up ANWR. He has been do is look at the single space, 50-page there on the other end. It was my sis- the lead on a lifesaving road for the exit memo he wrote to give the rest of ter-in-law’s dream of a lifetime—buck- good people of King Cove that we just, my staff, giving them updates on ev- et list—to be there at the end of the again, have been successful with. He erything he had been working on, the Iditarod. has been working to build out a safer status, whom to contact, what to do Joar and his team are happy, and we route on the Sterling Highway, a much next. Chuck left the guidebook. He is are very pleased for him. I offer hearty needed timber supply in the Tongass incredibly thorough, amazingly im- congratulations to our 2018 Iditarod National Forest. He wrote legislation pressive, and always appreciated. champion and his team of amazing to ensure the transfer of lands owed to So I want to thank Chuck dogs. Alaska, to promote the construction of Kleeschulte. Thank you. Thank you for

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:38 Mar 15, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G15MR6.014 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1751 everything you did for me, for Alaska, one who might be between jobs, that if sharing subsidies pay for the reinsur- and for our Nation. You will always be the Congress will act, we can lower ance. Cost-sharing subsidies are pay- a part of our Senate family and a be- their rates next year for up to as much ments that are made to insurance com- loved member of Team Murkowski. as 40 percent—40 percent. That is ac- panies to pay for the copays and the After 27 years, and on behalf of those cording to Oliver Wyman, one of the deductibles for low-income people, and who knew him, I wish Chuck the abso- leading healthcare consulting firms in that allows the companies to reduce lute best as he begins his very well-de- this country, which announced on Mon- the premiums. When you reduce the served retirement. day that a set of policies which we premiums, you reduce the ObamaCare With that, I yield the floor. call Alexander-Murray-Collins-Nelson, subsidies. I suggest the absence of a quorum. which President Trump supports, According to conversations we have The PRESIDING OFFICER. The which Congressman WALDEN, who is had with the Congressional Budget Of- clerk will call the roll. the chairman of the House committee fice, if we do 3 years of cost-sharing The bill clerk proceeded to call the in this area, supports, which Senator subsidies and 3 years of reinsurance at roll. MCCONNELL supports, which I support— $10 billion, the cost-sharing subsidies Mr. ALEXANDER. Mr. President, I we have broad support for this. This more than pay for the reinsurance, if ask unanimous consent that the order policy we have been working on for you base it on reality, which is, if Con- for the quorum call be rescinded. months, according to Oliver Wyman, gress passes a law that costs $30 billion The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without over the next 3 years, assuming States over 3 years for reinsurance and 3 years objection, it is so ordered. take full advantage of all the options of cost-sharing subsidies, the cost-shar- HEALTH INSURANCE we are giving them, could lower rates ing subsidies pay for the reinsurance Mr. ALEXANDER. Mr. President, I by 40 percent. and leave $2 billion over to reduce the want to talk for a moment about some- What does that mean? That means Federal debt. thing that is on the minds of anybody that if you are paying $20,000 for your The third part is a set of proposals in this country who is making $60,000, health insurance—you are that $60,000- that would give States more flexi- $70,000, $80,000, $90,000 too much to have a-year plumber—that is 40 percent of bility. This streamlines the section a subsidy to pay for your healthcare in- $20,000, which, by my math, is $8,000. So 1332 waiver in the Affordable Care Act. surance and maybe are paying $15,000, that would cut your insurance to It makes some changes that permit the $20,000, $25,000 of that salary for your $12,000, and you get down toward some- agency we call CMS to approve waivers insurance this year and who has heard thing you might be able to afford. Can from States, like the State of Alaska from a lot of people that on October 1, you imagine anything more frightening or Nebraska or Tennessee, which may the insurance companies are going to than approaching next year knowing say: We would like to spend our announce that your premium is going that you might not be able to afford ObamaCare subsidy money in a dif- up. That is whom I would like to talk health insurance for your family? You ferent way, and we would like to add with today. are thinking: Well, look, I am doing ev- some of this reinsurance money to it. Specifically, let me use the example erything I am supposed to. The govern- By doing that, that is how you achieve of a woman named Marty in Tennessee. ment has not gotten me on any kind of the 40-percent savings for the Nebraska She came up to me before Christmas at subsidy to buy health insurance. I am self-employed farmer or the Nashville the Chick-fil-A on Charlotte Road in out here working. I am paying my songwriter in their insurance policies. Nashville, and she stopped me while I taxes. Maybe I got a little tax cut that So that is the set of proposals, plus was getting my mac and cheese at the Republicans put through last year, within there is a provision for what we Chick-fil-A, and she said: My name is but the thing that is really a problem call a catastrophic policy, which is a Marty. I am a self-employed farmer. A for me is my health insurance. If I am policy that has somewhat higher few years ago, my health insurance was making $60,000, $70,000, $80,000 a year, I deductibles but lower premiums, which $300 a month, today it is $1,300 a cannot afford $15,000, $20,000, or $25,000 people may choose to buy. month, and I cannot afford that. a year. All of that policy has broad bipar- Well, in Tennessee, prices for health If you are a farmer in Iowa or a tisan support. I think the reinsurance insurance for people who work and miner in Alaska or a songwriter in provision—in the Republican discus- don’t get any subsidy to help them buy Nashville, you can’t afford that, and sions we have had in the Senate, al- their insurance and don’t get insurance you shouldn’t have to, and you won’t most everybody seems to agree that on the job, they don’t get it from Medi- have to if Congress will act next week the only way we can have an individual care or Medicaid, people who work, the to accept the set of policies that I am market, which is the market for people self-employed farmer, the contractor, about to briefly describe. who buy insurance on their own—peo- the plumber, the songwriter, somebody There are three things we propose to ple who don’t get it from Medicare, who might be making $60,000, say—they do. The most important is 3 years of re- people who don’t get it from Medicaid, are like Marty. They are paying $20,000 insurance or the invisible risk pool. people who don’t get it on the job— for their health insurance, and they This is an idea that House Republicans let’s say you are between jobs or you cannot afford that. have strongly supported and that Sen- are self-employed. You are the song- I told Marty: I think we have a ator COLLINS and Senator NELSON have writer. You are the plumber. Those are Christmas present for you. I think Con- strongly supported here. It would allow the people whom we are focused on gress, when we pass the omnibus spend- more States to do what the State of here. There are about 11 million in the ing bill, is going to include in it a set Alaska has done. The Presiding Officer United States, but there could be a lot of policies we have that is going to is from Alaska. Alaska took the very more because all of us know what it is lower your rates when they are an- sickest people in Alaska and put them like to think, well, I might lose my job, nounced on October 1 of next year, in one pool and called that the reinsur- or, I might change jobs, and what do I which is 2018. ance pool and paid for their health in- do for insurance in the interim? I have Well, unfortunately, we had a con- surance. When they did that, it so re- the so-called COBRA available, but it tinuing resolution at the end of the duced the cost for everybody else that is very expensive. If I suddenly find I year, and Marty didn’t get her Christ- it lowered the rates for everybody else am losing my job or if I am changing mas present. Then I thought she might by 20 percent. What we are talking jobs and I am worrying about insur- get a Valentine’s present, and we went about is lowering the rate for every- ance—that is the person we are talking by Valentine’s Day and did another CR, body else by 40 percent if States take about. a continuing resolution. full advantage of what we are pro- Where did these ideas come from? Did Now we have until the end of next posing next week. So reinsurance is the we just write them on the back of an week to fund the government for the first thing—3 years of reinsurance at envelope and give them to Congress? year we are halfway through. I am on $10 billion a year. No. We went through a very serious the floor today, and I can say to Marty The second thing is 3 years of cost- process here in the Senate. Senator and to every plumber, songwriter, self- sharing subsidies. You have to stop and MURRAY, the ranking Democrat on the employed person in this country, some- think about it a minute, but the cost- Senate HELP Committee—I am the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:36 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G15MR6.015 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S1752 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 15, 2018 chairman—and I held four hearings last Much of this started when the Presi- this protection, combined with CSR funding, fall after Republicans failed to repeal dent called me last August and said: would bring more people into the individual and replace the ObamaCare law. We in- Between now and the time we make a market and lower premiums by over 20 per- vited all Senators to participate. We final decision on what to do about the cent. had more than half the Senate come to More recent congressional attention is fo- Affordable Care Act, or ObamaCare, I cusing on a proposal that includes an exten- our hearings and to our meetings with want to make sure that people aren’t sion of CSRs and a reinsurance program in the witnesses. Out of that came the hurt. So he asked me if I would work 2019, 2020, and 2021, funded with a $10 billion proposals to streamline the 1332 waiv- with Senator MURRAY and see if we appropriation in each year, with federal fall- er—that is flexibility for States—and could come up with a bipartisan set of back option available to states in 2019. The the need to pay for the cost-sharing proposals that would stabilize the indi- federal fallback option would likely be based subsidies temporarily, because people vidual market. He called me several on—and use the federal infrastructure built began to understand that they don’t times about that, and we have worked to administer—the Transitional Reinsurance Program in place from 2014 through 2016. cost money, but they save taxpayer together since then. That is when we money because they reduce the need Our healthcare microsimulation model, came together with the original Alex- used to understand this package’s likely ef- for Federal taxpayer subsidies. So that ander-Murray proposal. fects on the market, assumed states would is where that came from. Then we had a big disagreement here use federal pass-through savings under Sec- The single most important idea that within the Senate, and we had our tax tion 1332 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to was not a part of the original Alex- bill wherein we repealed the individual supplement and leverage the $10 billion the ander-Murray proposal was reinsur- mandate in the Affordable Care Act. considered legislation would authorize and ance. In the House, they call it the in- Republicans thought that was a good appropriate each year. Pass-through savings visible risk pool. Senators COLLINS and result from the fact that the premium sub- idea. It made people buy insurance NELSON have championed it here. Rep- sidies available under the ACA cover the dif- they didn’t want, and it was a tax on resentative COSTELLO, Representative ference between the second lowest cost silver low-income people, so we got rid of it. MEADOWS, and other people cham- plan available in a rating area and a fixed pioned it over there. It was part of the Democrats didn’t like that at all. percentage of a household’s income, varying only by federal poverty level (FPL). Lower Republican repeal-and-replace legisla- It is true that taking the individual mandate out, even though States could premiums result directly in lower premium tion in the House of Representatives. subsidies, and under a Section 1332 waiver, So the idea of 3 years of reinsurance add it back if they want to, does in- crease the cost of insurance in the indi- these savings from lower premiums may be really has come from both bodies and used to provide additional reinsurance. from both sides of the aisle. It is the vidual market. Despite that, this set of In our modeling, we are presuming that most essential part of any long-term policies that I have described—State states will take advantage of these pass- policy to create an individual market flexibility, the 3 years of cost-sharing through savings in 2019. In reality, states where people can buy insurance if they subsidies, and the 3 years of reinsur- that have not already begun working on a don’t get it on the job or from the gov- ance/invisible risk pools—those three waiver will be challenged to get a 1332 waiver policies, according to Oliver Wyman filed and approved under the current regu- ernment. latory regime in time to impact 2019 pre- This would give States half a billion consulting, which is one of the leading health consulting firms in America, miums. The current regulatory regime in- dollars in the current year, 2018, to cludes a requirement that a state enact ena- plan for their reinsurance pools. It could lower rates to 40 percent lower bling legislation, develop an application, would then create $10 billion over 3 than they otherwise would be. Accord- hold public hearings during a 30-day public years that States could use to help pay ing to the Congressional Budget Office, comment period, and submit the application for their reinsurance pools, and they a nonpartisan agency that looks at to the US Health and Human Services (HHS). would use their 1332 streamlined waiver things for us, it will lower them 10 per- HHS then undertakes a two-step review proc- in the second and third year. So they cent in 2019 and as much as 20 percent ess that can span up to 225 days—up to 45 could have a combination of State in the next 2 years after that. Even if days for a completeness determination fol- it is only 20 and not 40, 20 percent of lowed by up to 180 days for review. But even money, reinsurance Federal money, those states unable to get a waiver in place and ObamaCare subsidy money and $20,000 is $4,000 for Marty, the self-em- for 2019 would still benefit from that year’s hopefully, in that process, create their ployed farmer in Nashville who stopped federal fallback program. own way of helping to pay for the needs me at Chick-fil-A and said her insur- Therefore, we estimate, under the assump- of the very sickest people in the State ance had gone from $300 to $1,300, $1,400 tions described above, that an additional 3.2 and, by taking them out of the insur- a month. million people will be covered in the non- ance pool, lower the rates for every- I ask unanimous consent to have group market, and the proposal would result body else over that 4-year period, ac- printed in the RECORD the report of the in premiums that are at least 40 percent Oliver Wyman consulting company lower than they would have been without the cording to the Oliver Wyman con- proposal in place, across all metal levels. In sulting firm, by as much as 40 percent. that says that the combination of poli- those states that are not able to obtain a The Congressional Budget Office has cies I just described—reinsurance, cost- 1332 waiver and take advantage of pass- also reviewed the set of proposals I sharing subsidies, and the section 1332 through savings for 2019, we estimate that have just described. My staff has been waiver, which is the State flexibility— premium would decline by more than 20 per- working closely with them because we that those three policies will reduce cent across all metal levels. Those estimates want to know what it costs if we are rates by up to 40 percent. include an average 10 percent reduction due going to put it in the omnibus bill, and There being no objection, the mate- to the funding of CSRs, with the remaining the preliminary feedback from the rial was ordered to be printed in the reduction coming from the reinsurance pro- Congressional Budget Office is more gram. RECORD, as follows: As a note, our modeling reflects elimi- conservative than the Oliver Wyman OLIVER WYMAN REPORT: A PROPOSAL TO nation of the mandate penalty, but does not estimate. The Congressional Budget Of- LOWER ACA PREMIUMS BY MORE THAN 40% consider the proposed regulation’s likely ef- fice says that it would reduce pre- AND COVER 3.2 MILLION MORE fects on association health plans or on short- miums by an average of 10 percent in (By Tammy Tomczyk, FSA, FCA, MAAA, term, limited duration coverage. 2019 and 20 percent in 2020 and 2021 if Partner, Oliver Wyman Actuarial Con- States take full advantage of the 1332 sulting, and Kurt Giesa, FSA, MAAA, REPORT: INDIVIDUAL INSURANCE PREMIUMS waiver they have. Practice Leader, Oliver Wyman Actuarial NEXT YEAR 40% LOWER UNDER ALEXANDER- As you can imagine, State Governors Consulting) MURRAY, COLLINS-NELSON THAN IF CON- and State insurance commissioners are In our December 9, 2017 article, we ana- GRESS DOESN’T ACT delighted with this package. First, lyzed the effects of a proposal the US Senate WASHINGTON, March 12.—Health care ex- they like to see us do something in a was considering to fund cost-sharing reduc- perts at Oliver Wyman released an analysis bipartisan way to stabilize the health tion (CSR) payments and appropriate $5 bil- today showing that the passage of a proposal lion in 2019 and 2020 for states to establish re- based on the Alexander-Murray Bipartisan insurance market so people aren’t insurance programs to stabilize their indi- Health Care Stabilization Act and the Col- scared to death that they may not be vidual insurance markets. We discussed how lins-Nelson Lower Premiums Through Rein- able to buy a policy next year, but sec- pass-through savings could provide reinsur- surance Act will lower premiums, compared ond, they think it is sound policy. It is ance coverage equal to roughly $15 billion in to what people in the individual market will sound policy. protection for high-cost claimants, and how pay if Congress doesn’t act, by more than 40

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:47 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G15MR6.018 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1753 percent in the individual market and provide son set of policies, which has broad bi- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without insurance coverage to an additional 3.2 mil- partisan support in the House and the objection, it is so ordered. lion individuals. Senate and the support of the Presi- DEFERRED ENFORCED DEPARTURE FOR LIBERIAN Oliver Wyman based its analysis on a pro- dent, if we do that next week, Marty, REFUGEES posal that would fund CSRs—temporary pay- ments to reduce out-of-pocket costs for low- the self-employed farmer in Tennessee, Mr. REED. Madam President, I rise, income Americans in the individual mar- will be able to see on October 1 that as I have many times for nearly two ket—and provide $10 billion annually for in- her rates will go down and that, if Oli- decades, to shed light on the long visible risk pool/reinsurance funding in 2019, ver Wyman is correct, instead of her struggle of Liberian refugees in the 2020, and 2021. It also factored in increased rates going up 58 percent the way they United States, and to make the case flexibility for states that seek to use waivers did this year, they will go down 40 per- for this administration to extend De- under Section 1332 of the Affordable Care cent over the next 2 or 3 years. That ferred Enforced Departure, or DED, for Act. The analysis applies to ACA-compliant means she could afford insurance. this population before they face poten- plans in the individual market, both on and If we don’t do it, rates will go up, and tial separation from their jobs and off the exchange. ‘‘This analysis from the experts at Oliver the individual market will probably families when their current DED des- Wyman further demonstrates that our bipar- collapse. It was near collapse a year ignation expires on March 31. tisan proposals will help drive down pre- ago. By collapsing, I mean there will be I also call on my colleagues to take miums in the individual market and make counties where people can’t buy insur- up and pass the Liberian Refugee Im- health insurance more affordable for mil- ance at all. There will be 11 million migration Fairness Act, which I offered lions of Americans,’’ said Senators Lamar people who are between jobs, who are in some form for as long as I have Alexander, the Chairman of the HELP Com- self-employed, or who are working who served in this body, to end nearly 30 mittee, and Susan Collins. literally cannot afford insurance, and years of uncertainty by finally giving From the experts at Oliver Wyman: ‘‘Therefore, we estimate . . . that an addi- they are not going to be very happy these Liberians the opportunity to tional 3.2 million people will be covered in campers. They are going to blame apply for permanent residency and a the non-group market, and the proposal every one of us, and they should. They pathway to citizenship. would result in remiums that are at least 40 are going to blame the President, they I also would like to take a moment percent lower than they would have been are going to blame Republicans, they to express my gratitude to those advo- without the proposal in place . . .’’ are going to blame Democrats, and cates who have stood with me as I have The analysis found that the lower rates they are going to blame insurance com- worked for a solution for Liberians in would benefit all plan levels on the ex- panies because we have an opportunity America, including my Rhode Island changes. colleague, Senator SHELDON WHITE- The analysis was performed by consulting next week to solve that problem in a firm Oliver Wyman. On its website, Oliver bipartisan way, developed through a bi- HOUSE, as well as our colleagues from Wyman describes itself as ‘‘a global leader in partisan process, incorporating ideas Minnesota, Senators KLOBUCHAR and management consulting. With offices in 50+ that virtually everyone who looks at SMITH. cities across nearly 30 countries, Oliver them says make very good policy The case of these Liberians is a trag- Wyman combines deep industry knowledge sense. ic and historically unique situation. In with specialized expertise in strategy, oper- We have a couple of things to work 1989, a seven-year civil war broke out ations, risk management, and organization through on ancillary issues, but those in Liberia that would claim the lives of transformation. The firm has more than 4,700 shouldn’t cloud the fact that we can re- over 200,000 people and displace more professionals around the world who help cli- duce rates by up to 40 percent for the than half of the Liberian population. ents optimize their business, improve their This conflict devastated Liberia—halt- operations and risk profile, and accelerate working Americans who can’t afford their organizational performance to seize the insurance—the insurance companies ing food production, collapsing the na- most attractive opportunities.’’ will announce that on October 1—or we tion’s economy, and destroying its in- Mr. ALEXANDER. Finally, I would can do nothing, and we can let the frastructure. By 1991, an estimated ask the question, What if we don’t do markets falter. 14,000 Liberians fled to the United this? I am generally a very optimistic There will be some counties where States seeking refuge from the con- flict. In March of that year, the Attor- person. I am results-oriented, and you you can’t buy insurance at all, some ney General granted them the oppor- don’t get results if you don’t work counties where you can’t afford insur- tunity to register for temporary pro- across party lines and if you don’t ance at all, and we will have people look at us and say: My goodness, why tected status, or TPS. think you are going to succeed. So I al- did we send them up there to do noth- Every subsequent administration has ways think we will succeed. This has ing about that? renewed TPS for Liberians each year been more difficult to do than it should I am optimistic. I think we can do it. until the end of the first civil war, but have been. I appreciate the hard work on both the prospects for a safe return ended I would like to suggest to my col- sides of the aisle. In many respects, it when Liberia plunged into a second leagues and to the American people has been a very difficult negotiation. I civil war from 1999 to 2003. This horrific that we should focus on October 1 of appreciate the President’s consistency conflict ended with the departure from this year because that is the date when over the past couple of months in sup- power of former President Charles Tay- insurance rates for next year, 2019, will porting this and the Vice President’s lor, who is currently serving a fifty- be announced all across the country. work. Senator MCCONNELL has been year prison sentence, issued by the Insurance companies are working with very supportive of this, which makes it Special Court for Sierra Leone, for war insurance commissioners in every very helpful in terms of getting it into crimes. State to try to figure out what is going the bipartisan agreement next week. In 2014, Liberia’s still poverty-strick- to happen, what the rates will be. They I look forward to being able to say to en and recovering infrastructure faced will be announcing rates on October 1, my songwriters, self-employed business the challenge of responding to the which is about a month before the next men and women, plumbers, and Marty, Ebola virus outbreak in West Africa. election. the farmer, that if they are making Liberia had fewer than 200 licensed doc- There a lot of people who are going $60,000 or $70,000 in Tennessee, we put tors to contend with the outbreak to be looking at that because, in my in place something that will lower among the country’s population of over State of Tennessee, rates were up 58 their rates by 40 percent over the next 4 million people. percent this year, and that is for the 3 years. Throughout this succession of con- plumber who makes $60,000 a year; the I yield the floor. flict and tragedy, Liberians who sought songwriter; Marty, the farmer; and the I suggest the absence of a quorum. refuge in the United States have had people I have been describing. There The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mrs. the option to remain here lawfully was a 58-percent increase. So they are FISCHER). The clerk will call the roll. under TPS or DED while conditions re- going to be looking on October 1 to see The bill clerk proceeded to call the mained unstable in Liberia. whether they can even afford any in- roll. This is not amnesty. In order to par- surance in 2019. Mr. REED. Madam President, I ask ticipate, these Liberians are required If we do what we are proposing here unanimous consent that the order for to pass periodic background investiga- in the Alexander-Murray-Collins-Nel- the quorum call be rescinded. tions, pay hundreds of dollars in fees,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:47 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A15MR6.001 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S1754 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 15, 2018 and stay out of trouble with the law. dency when their stays in the United The senior assistant legislative clerk Many of these Liberians who have been States were prolonged by dangerous proceeded to call the roll. through this process for decades are conditions in their home countries. In Ms. KLOBUCHAR. Madam President, perhaps among the most vetted and 1988, Congress passed a law offering I ask unanimous consent that the order rigorously examined individuals in the permanent residency to temporary for the quorum call be rescinded. United States today. residents from Poland, Uganda, Af- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without They have also received work author- ghanistan, and Ethiopia. Following the objection, it is so ordered. izations, enabling them to work and events in Tiananmen Square in China, Ms. KLOBUCHAR. Madam President, start businesses, pay taxes, and raise Congress permitted over 52,000 Chinese I come to the floor today for a number families. Many have full-grown Amer- nationals to apply for permanent resi- of reasons, but first and most pressing ican citizen children who attend Amer- dency. The Nicaraguan Adjustment and is to call on and ask the administra- ican schools and serve in our military. Central American Relief Act, or tion to extend deferred enforced depar- At the same time, they have not been NACARA, permitted the same for ture status for a group of Liberians. afforded earned benefits available to 259,000 nationals of Nicaragua, Cuba, El This is a unique situation. Senator American citizens, so they are respon- Salvador, and Guatemala. The Syrian JACK REED was on the floor in the last sible for paying their taxes, they are Adjustment Act permitted 2,000 Syrian hour talking about it as well. Both the State of Rhode Island and responsible to conduct themselves as Jews to obtain permanent residency. the State of Minnesota have a number law-abiding citizens, but they are not The list goes on. The fact is that there of Liberians who didn’t just come to building up any type of Social Security is ample precedent for providing relief this country—they didn’t come to this benefits or any other benefits like for this relatively small Liberian popu- country illegally—they came to this other American workers are. In the lation. Like past Congresses, this Con- country decades ago. They came be- years since 1989, they have become our gress must acknowledge the simple cause of a civil war in their country of neighbors, our friends, and an impor- fact that the United States is now Liberia, and then after that war was tant community that contributes a home to these law-abiding and tax- basically resolved, they were allowed great deal to the diversity and pros- paying Liberians. To ignore them or to to stay. So they are all registered in perity of States like Rhode Island. say otherwise not only threatens to this country, they are working legally Today, Liberia has only just com- break up American families, but also in this country, and they are in a spe- pleted its first democratic transfer of to turn away a group whose story is cial status called deferred enforced de- power in decades, and there are still se- quintessentially American. They fled parture. rious concerns about the Nation’s abil- violence and disease to come here. Ever since George H.W. Bush, Presi- ity to maintain peace and deliver es- They worked hard and raised families dents—Democrats and Republicans; sential services to its population. here. They followed our laws and sub- George Bush, of course, President Clin- If the Trump administration fails to jected themselves to rigorous screening ton, and President Obama—every one extend the DED deadline for Liberians, and vetting. They deserve the oppor- has allowed them to stay. hundreds of Liberian American fami- tunity to make their own decision on As my colleagues can imagine, since lies could be separated and uprooted whether to stay here or return to Libe- this happened back in 1991, these are from their jobs and homes, and forced ria. people who have been working in our to return to a country that is unrecog- I can say with confidence that Rhode country for decades now. I met one who nizable to them. Moreover, at best, it is Island will feel their absence if this Li- is 65 years old. Some of them are now unclear how Liberia’s recovery could berian community were forced to leave 70 years old. They have obeyed the law. be affected by a sudden and unexpected after contributing to our communities They have paid their taxes. They tend influx of newcomers from the United for so long, and our country would be to be working in a lot of—of course, States. poorer for their loss. consistently—working in our assisted This is why, each time Congress has There are many examples I could dis- living facilities in Minnesota. They are taken up comprehensive immigration cuss of how the Liberian community working in our hospitals. Some of them reform—and more recently discussed has enriched our State, but I will name had healthcare experience in Liberia these issues in the context of the De- two: Lance Corporal Abraham Tarwoe before they came to Minnesota. They ferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or of the U.S. Marines and Providence Po- are a thriving community that has in- DACA, Program—I have worked to en- lice Sergeant Maxwell Dorley. Both tegrated well into our State and into sure that any adjustment of status pro- came to Rhode Island from Liberia to Rhode Island. We are a State where the vision includes relief for Liberians who start their own chapters of the Amer- unemployment rate is somewhere have become Americans in every way ican dream. They both led exemplary around 3 percent and even lower in except on paper. Congress continues to lives and endeavored to give back to some of the areas where this commu- debate the best path forward for their newfound homes through public nity is working. It would literally be a Dreamers, TPS recipients, and com- service in the form of military service big jolt to our economy—and not to prehensive immigration reform, but Li- and as a member of our local police mention immoral—if they were sud- berians cannot wait another month or force in Providence. Both of them denly deported and lost the legal status another year. They have just over 2 served with distinction, and our State they have had for literally decades. weeks before their time is up. tragically lost both of them in the line Unlike some of the other things we At the very least, the Trump admin- of duty in 2012. They are emblematic of talk about with people who maybe just istration should extend DED for this the extraordinary contributions that came here—and I worked so hard on population for 3 additional years while Liberians have made to my State, and the Dreamers, to get them a path to Congress debates a path forward on no fulsome discussion of what Libe- citizenship—this is a pretty unique sit- comprehensive immigration reform. rians have meant to us is complete uation. We hope the administration In my view, with each year that has without mentioning both of these gen- will be practical about this. That is passed since the first of these Liberians tlemen by name. why Senator REED and I are working arrived, the case has grown stronger I strongly urge President Trump to on this issue. We hope to get it re- that they should have the option to ad- do the right thing and extend DED to solved quickly since their status is just their status and remain in the Liberians living legally in the United ending on March 31, which is just a few communities where they have made States. I also urge my colleagues to weeks from now. their homes and raised their families. take up and pass the Liberian Refugee Liberians are the only group of peo- We have long since reached the point Immigration Fairness Act and put an ple and it is the only country with de- where simple justice requires that Con- end to uncertainty for this population ferred enforced departure—or DED, as gress extend this option to these Libe- after decades of displacement. it is known—which is a temporary rians. Madam President, I yield the floor. legal status that requires the President On several occasions, Congress has I suggest the absence of a quorum. to reauthorize it every 18 months. granted temporary residents the oppor- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The One idea is that the President could tunity to apply for permanent resi- clerk will call the roll. reauthorize it, and then they could

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:47 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G15MR6.020 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1755 look into it more. As we know, there is duced this week that would help reduce enough to protect ourselves from fu- a lot going on in our country. There the burden of relocation for military ture attacks. There is no longer any are a lot of changes right now within families. doubt that our elections will continue the Office of the Secretary of State and When servicemembers relocate to to be a target for foreign adversaries. other things. So one idea would be that comply with military orders, they and Intelligence reports make it clear that they could simply allow the program to their families make sacrifices to help Russia used covert cyber attacks, espi- continue for 18 months and then come protect our Nation. Right now, there is onage, and harmful propaganda to at- to a conclusion on what they think a problem with the way the law treats tack our political system. they should do about it. some military spouses who make fre- Trump administration officials—not As I mentioned, in 1991, President quent moves, and the law, ironically, Obama officials, Trump intelligence of- George H.W. Bush first issued tem- makes it even harder on them rather ficials—continue to sound the alarm porary protected status to Liberians in than easier on them. that Russia is continuing its efforts to response to the nation’s civil war. Current law allows Active-Duty serv- attack our democracy. The CIA Direc- Since 1991, Presidents on both sides of icemembers to maintain one State of tor said that he has seen no signs that the aisle have extended legal protec- legal residence for tax and voting pur- Russia has decreased its activity and tion to Liberians in the United States poses even when military orders re- that Russia is currently working to under either TPS or DED—deferred en- quire them to relocate. That makes disrupt the upcoming 2018 elections. forced departure—because of civil wars, moving a lot easier. Unfortunately, National Intelligence Director Coats, the Ebola outbreak, and other instabil- this convenience does not apply to a who was once a Senator here, said that ities in their country. All Liberians servicemember’s spouse unless they Russia is bolder. covered by DED have been living in the were living together at the same resi- It would be a mistake to think the United States since 2002. This isn’t, as dence before they got married. In other sanctions passed today are all we need I said, new people coming in under that words, if you were not living with your to do to address these warnings. They status; these are people who have been servicemember before you got married, will no doubt help because if you do living here with that status for dec- you have to establish residency every nothing, then you just embolden them ades. As I mentioned, some are now in single time your family gets moving to do more. It is the policy of the their seventies, and all of them have orders from the military. From filing United States to defend against and re- lived here legally. They have paid their taxes to registering to vote, a military spond to cyber threats to our demo- taxes and contributed to our commu- family then has double the paperwork cratic system, and we need to start nities and worked at our employers. If and stress each time they move. acting like it. We need to be as sophis- DED is not extended by March 31, they This is a loophole that must be fixed. ticated as those who are trying to do us will lose their legal status and work Why would we make it harder for the harm. authorization and face deportation. spouses of those who are making a sac- We know that Russia attempted to Minnesota, as I mentioned, has one of rifice by having their loved one serve hack into 21 States’ election systems. the largest Liberian populations in the overseas and not make it easier for In Illinois, they actually got into the country. Many of these people are busi- them to vote and to pay their taxes voter data system. That is why Senator ness owners. They are teachers. They and to basically be the citizen they de- LANKFORD and I have led a bill to take are healthcare workers. According to serve to be? That is why, on Tuesday, an amount of money which is just 3 one organization, nearly 40 percent of Senators CORNYN, KAINE, KENNEDY, percent of one aircraft carrier and in- Liberians in Minnesota work in our MANCHIN, and I introduced the Support vest it in our States, to let them, on a nursing homes as nursing assistants Our Military Spouses Act—legislation decentralized basis, make their own de- and other support staff. Imagine if we that would ensure that spouses have cisions about the kind of equipment took thousands of people away just the same residency protections regard- they want and to be able to upgrade it. like that on March 31, because they less of their living arrangements before Forty of our States have not upgraded wouldn’t have legal status to work at marriage. From titling a car, to filing their equipment in 10 years. Ten of our the nursing homes where they have taxes, to registering to vote, every- States do not even have backup paper worked for decades. thing is a little easier when the law en- ballots. What would happen if they I have also called for action on the sures that you can stay a resident of were hacked, as they got so close the Liberian Refugee Immigration Fair- one State and that it is the same State last time? There would be no way to ness Act—a bill that Senator REED has as your spouse’s. That is just common prove what actually happened. You introduced every Congress since 1999— sense, and it cuts out a lot of redtape would have to vote again. and I have cosponsored this bill. The for military families. That is why we have Democrats and bill would actually provide permanent The bill has the support of the Mili- Republicans supporting this effort. protected status, including a path to tary Spouses Network, the Military Of- Representative MARK MEADOWS, the citizenship, for those Liberians who ficers Association of America, and the head of the Freedom Caucus, is leading have obeyed the law and have been Council of State Governments. This the bill that Senator GRAHAM and I here in this temporary status for dec- bill passed the House in July of 2017 have—which is similar to the one I ades. with bipartisan support, and I am have with Senator LANKFORD—over in That is not what we are asking for going to work with my cosponsors to the House. Senator COONS from the Ap- today. We understand and we hope that get it done in the Senate. propriations Committee has been a negotiations are ongoing so that we We ask a lot of our military members strong supporter of this effort, as have can have a more comprehensive immi- and their families. When we can make Senator KAMALA HARRIS, Senator GRA- gration bill. We are simply asking the life easier for them, we should. This is HAM, and a number of other people. administration to continue with the 18- one simple thing we can do. This is a truly bipartisan effort be- month status that was started back in HONEST ADS ACT cause people understand that it is no 1991 by a Republican President. Finally, Madam President, I would longer going to be only traditional I met with a number of members of like to mention the sanctions that ways of warfare when we are attacked; our Liberian community yesterday. were just announced against Russia for it is going to be cyber. It is not going They are experiencing extreme fear interfering in the 2016 election. It took to be just election infrastructure. It is right now that their livelihoods will be 14 months, multiple indictments, and a not going to be just government infra- lost and their families will be ripped poisoning in Britain, but the adminis- structure. It is going to be our busi- apart. I am hopeful that we will be able tration is finally imposing sanctions— nesses, power companies—you name it. to resolve this, at least for that tem- the same sanctions that were passed by That is why we need to upgrade our porary 18-month period. the Senate 98 to 2 and 419 to 3 in the cyber protection. SUPPORT OUR MILITARY SPOUSES ACT House last year. The last thing I would mention on Secondly, Madam President, on a dif- Sanctioning Russia for undermining this front, as we look to the next elec- ferent topic, I want to take a moment our democracy is what we should do, tion and how we are going to protect to discuss a bipartisan bill that I intro- but we must remember that it is not our democracy, is the Honest Ads Act.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:47 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G15MR6.021 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S1756 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 15, 2018 This is a bill I have with Senator I think Americans deserve something Unemployment reached 19 percent in MCCAIN, also cosponsored by Senator better, and I ask my colleagues to sup- Toledo in the early Reagan years when WARNER, the ranking member of the port the Honest Ads Act. MARCY first ran for office. She said it Senate Intelligence Committee. This is Madam President, I yield the floor. was ‘‘the condition of working people based on the fact that we know Russia The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- that drove me to change my life and spent millions of dollars buying ads. ator from Ohio. run for office.’’ She has lived up to that That was reflected in the indictment of Mr. BROWN. Madam President, I par- ideal, fighting for working families in 13 Russians and what they did and how ticularly appreciate, in light of my Ohio for every one of the nearly 13,000 they plotted to disrupt elections and to comments in a moment, Senator KLO- days she has served in Congress. spend money on political ads. A num- BUCHAR’s service. She has been a pio- In my first year in the House, MARCY ber of these ads were even purchased in neer as the first woman Senator from was a mentor to me. I worked with her rubles. Minnesota. And I believe the Presiding to fight against the North American What Senator MCCAIN and Senator Officer, Senator FISCHER, is the first fe- Free Trade Agreement. She showed me WARNER and I are trying to do is sim- male Senator from Nebraska. the way in understanding these trade ply apply the same rules already in TRIBUTE TO MARCY KAPTUR agreements because she knew they place to protect Americans in our elec- Madam President, I rise today to would mean job losses in Ohio. She tions by making sure that we know honor my colleague and my longtime knew these trade agreements would who is paying for the ads and what close friend, MARCY KAPTUR. MARCY push down wages. That is sort of the those ads are. Who is paying for the KAPTUR serves down the hall on the untold story—something I don’t think ads—those are the simple disclaimers other side of the building. She has dedi- the President quite understands when you see on the ads where they say, cated her life to serving the people of he talks about NAFTA even though he whoever the candidate is, I paid for Toledo and northern Ohio. is right that NAFTA was bad for our this ad. Who discloses the ads—that is This Sunday, she will make history. country. What NAFTA has done, which simply when any radio station or TV She will officially become the longest MARCY explained to me and understood station—you can go into the station or serving woman in the history of the for 25 years, is NAFTA also pushed see it online and see what the ads are. U.S. Congress in either House. On Sun- down wages and is one of the reasons That is not true right now of some of day, she will have served in the House working-class Americans, whether they the most sophisticated companies, if of Representatives for 35 years, 2 are in Omaha or Cleveland, so often not the most sophisticated companies, months, and 18 days, breaking a record don’t get a raise. Unfortunately, in America, companies like Facebook that was set in 1960 by I believe a Mas- MARCY was right. and Twitter, which have made millions sachusetts Congresswoman. For 31⁄2 Since then, as we have fought bad and billions of dollars, companies that decades, she has been principled and trade deal after bad trade deal, MARCY are profiting off of political ads. she has been passionate about her fam- has been a reliable ally and leader in It is no different from when a news- ily, her community, and our country, our fight for a trade policy that puts paper or a TV station allows someone and she has advocated for Ohioans. She workers in Toledo and everywhere else to buy an ad. They make money off it, serves like nobody else. in this country first. so it is their duty to protect the citi- She is the granddaughter of Polish We have also worked together to pro- zens, to make sure that the ads don’t immigrants. That is important to her. tect another very important love of contain falsehoods, that the ads are She comes from a working-class fam- MARCY KAPTUR’s, and that is our great- not criminal, that the ads are known ily. That is important to her. She is a est natural resource, Lake Erie. We to everyone. That is all we are trying practicing Roman Catholic. That is im- fought for the Great Lakes Restoration to do, is to apply the same rules of the portant to her. That describes much of Initiative. We joined with Senator game to what you see when you see po- who MARCY is—Polish immigrant, PORTMAN on a bipartisan basis to stop litical ads on issues or candidate ads. working-class family, Catholic faith. the President’s all but elimination of The FEC did something just yester- Her father was a trucker and auto- the—why would the President of the day—but it was very narrow—about worker who became a small business- United States want to stop our cleanup candidate ads. So what you see on can- man. Her mother worked at the Cham- of Lake Erie? That is why MARCY steps didate ads and issue ads—that you also pion spark plug factory, where, of up. She works to protect the lake from see those same disclaimers and, most course, she helped to organize a union. invasive Asian carp; she works with importantly, the disclosure on ads that I say ‘‘of course’’ because of MARCY’s farmers to prevent runoff into Lake are on social media companies. And I not just understanding of the impor- Erie—all to protect the lake. It is what use those words carefully—‘‘media tance of the labor movement but her the lake means to us in terms of drink- companies.’’ Newspaper print and feeling it in her bones, that a unionized ing water, jobs, commercialism, com- radio—we love them—are media com- workforce is good for those workers, mercial development, and people just panies. Facebook and Twitter—we love good for the company, and good for the enjoying the beauty of the lake. them—are media companies. We are community, and we need more of that. She has gone to bat time and again not talking about recipes and cat vid- MARCY’s story echoes that of so for the auto industry. When some eos. We are not talking about free stuff many of our generation. Her parents called the auto industry dead, she that people put up. We are talking worked hard. With the help of a union fought back. Never bet against Amer- about paid political ads that need to be card, they earned their way to a better ican workers. Never bet against the treated the same. life for MARCY and her brother. She be- American auto industry. Never bet While we are pleased that these sanc- came the first in her family to grad- against MARCY KAPTUR. That scrappy, tions have been put in place, while it is uate from high school and then college, fighting spirit is one of the qualities I good that the FEC is narrowly trying and then she ended up in the U.S. Con- love most about Ohio, and you find it to do something within their jurisdic- gress. What a great country we live in. in abundance in MARCY KAPTUR. tion about disclaimers on candidate MARCY has never forgotten those No one fights harder for people in her ads, we must pass the Honest Ads Act, roots. If you want to know one thing district. Because of absurd redis- because if we think it was bad last about MARCY KAPTUR—who, as I said, tricting, her district now goes from To- election when $1.4 billion was spent on works down the hall at the other end of ledo all across northern Ohio, only a election ads, try this next one out: the building—know that she has never few miles wide along the lake, all the Forecasts are that $3 billion to $4 bil- forgotten her roots. That is what way to the city of Cleveland. In only 5 lion is going to be spent on social drives her. That is who she is. That is years, the people of Cleveland have media ads against candidates on issues, why she is such a terrific public serv- gained the same affection for MARCY as and there is no way to track it. It is ant. That is why she is going to break the people from Toledo have. You can just going to go out to your Facebook the record of 35 years, 2 months, and 15 see the love and respect they have. page. You are not going to know if it is days. She remembers her roots in I remember once going to a rally in true, you are not going to know who Ohio’s Polish and Ukrainian commu- Toledo for President Obama. People paid for it, and the ads will just vanish. nities and how much they matter. were excited to see him, of course. I

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:47 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G15MR6.022 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1757 guess a few people may have noticed I She is leaving our office to, of course, Calvin was a member of a close-knit was there too. But when MARCY walked return to her home State of Ohio. She family who spent time playing games in, someone screamed ‘‘Marcy,’’ and has been a joy to work with. She has together. Whether it was card games or there was pandemonium. Everyone got been a pleasure to work with. She is so board games, the competitive spirit to their feet as if a rock star had just smart and so committed, with an in- would always come out in the Allen taken the stage, because in Toledo, a credible work ethic. I am honored that boys. They loved to compete. rock star had taken the stage. she has spent part of her life working After graduating from Bellevue East She fights for the people of Ohio. She with me in our office in Washington, in 1998, Calvin enrolled at Northeastern fights for her district. She fights. She DC, and I thank her for her service. Junior College in Sterling, CO, to is known, more than anything, as a I suggest the absence of a quorum. study criminal justice. He long envi- fighter for working families. It is so The PRESIDING OFFICER. The sioned a career in law enforcement and fitting that she reaches this milestone clerk will call the roll. thought this would be a good starting during Women’s History Month. When The senior assistant legislative clerk point for him to launch his career. she first joined the House, there were proceeded to call the roll. After completing 2 years at North- fewer than two dozen women serving. Mrs. FISCHER. Mr. President, I ask eastern, Calvin enrolled at Colorado She helped blaze a trail for others. She unanimous consent that the order for State to finish his criminal justice de- even told the stories of the women who the quorum call be rescinded. gree. Soon after enrolling at Colorado The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. paved the way for her in her book State, however, he returned home to SASSE). Without objection, it is so or- ‘‘Women of Congress: A Twentieth Cen- Bellevue. Calvin’s vehicle had been in- dered. tury Odyssey.’’ volved in a wreck, which left him with- Having MARCY in Congress matters HONORING NEBRASKA’S SOLDIERS WHO LOST out any means of transportation. Due for so many reasons. It mattes for the THEIR LIVES IN COMBAT to this, he enlisted in the Army as a hundreds of thousands of Ohioans she Mrs. FISCHER. Mr. President, I rise way to pay for a new vehicle, while serves. It matters for the perspective today to continue my tribute to Ne- also pursuing his law enforcement ca- she brings as the daughter of working- braska’s heroes: the current generation class parents. As I said, she was first in of men and women who lost their lives reer while serving his country. Sallie her family not just to go to college; she defending our freedom in Iraq and Af- still laughs about the fact that Calvin was first in her family to graduate ghanistan. Each of these Nebraskans returned to Nebraska due to a wrecked from high school, right in the industri- has a special story to tell. car. Although many expected he would follow in his dad’s footsteps by enlist- alized heartland. SERGEANT LONNIE ‘‘CALVIN’’ ALLEN, JR. As in Nebraska, Madam President, it Today, Mr. President, I will recall ing in the Air Force, Sallie knew bet- matters to the little girls in Toledo, the life and service of Sergeant Lonnie ter. Calvin wanted to pave his own road who for 35 years—do you know how, ‘‘Calvin’’ Allen, Jr., a native of Belle- in the Army. Following his enlistment, Calvin when you are in school, there is often a vue, NE. map or a chart of the Presidents? Calvin grew up in a military family. soon shipped off to Fort Benning to There was a calendar in Brinkerhoff His father, Lonnie Allen, Sr., was a complete his One Station Unit Train- Grade School when I was a little kid in senior master sergeant in the Air ing for the infantry. Shortly after Mansfield, OH. Every year, there was a Force. When Lonnie Sr. was assigned graduation, he was assigned to a sta- calendar with all the Presidents’ pic- to Offutt Air Force Base in Bellevue, tion in Germany. It was in Germany tures on it. When I was in school, all both he and his wife Sallie thought where Calvin met his wife, Brigit, a the Presidents looked alike. Some had they would be there only for a short German native. After dating for some whiskers; some didn’t. But they all time. However, they enjoyed ‘‘the good time, Calvin was assigned to Fort looked alike because they were all life,’’ and soon after the birth of their Drum in New York as part of the 2nd White guys. Right? That changed in two sons, Nuru and Calvin, they de- Battalion, 22nd Infantry, 1st Brigade 2008. I was hoping it would change in cided to stay. Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division. 2016. It didn’t. That is beside the point. As a young child, Calvin spent much Brigit came with him to New York, MARCY KAPTUR—because she is the of his time in the kitchen. His mother where they wed in 2004. Congresswoman for Toledo, little girls still talks about how Calvin learned to Shortly after their marriage, Calvin growing up in Toledo since 1982 have cook at the age of 5. Sallie has vivid served in Iraq for the first time, and realized there is someone to look up to. memories of Calvin in the kitchen in Brigit moved to Bellevue to be closer In Scottsbluff and in Lincoln and in the early mornings or on the weekends, to Calvin’s family while he was de- Kearny, NE, they will now look up to experimenting with new recipes or ployed. After a brief stint at home, he having a woman Senator from Ne- dishes. There were times when she deployed to Iraq for a second time. In braska. Ohio has never had a woman would still be in bed and Calvin would August of 2005, Calvin was stationed Senator or woman Governor, but they bring her food or a new dish to try. She near Baghdad. have had MARCY KAPTUR. That has said that he was always open to trying During Sergeant Allen’s second de- mattered to little girls for 35 years, as new things, whether it was in the ployment, patrols became increasingly they see a picture of their Representa- kitchen or elsewhere. This also per- dangerous. At the time, the Baghdad tive in the local paper, the Toledo tained to sports, where Calvin played area experienced a large increase in Blade. It is not just another man in a basketball and football, ran track, and suicide bombings and sectarian fight- suit but someone who looks more like wrestled. ing. On May 18, 2006, while on patrol in them, someone they can grow up to be. Calvin also had a caring attitude, Baghdad, Sergeant Allen’s Humvee was I want to thank MARCY. She is not in which extended to church on Sundays. struck by an improvised explosive de- the building now, but I want to thank Calvin was widely known amongst the vice, killing him and three other serv- MARCY for her service to Ohio. I hope congregation at Mount Carmel Baptist icemembers. we get to keep working with MARCY Church in Bellevue. He often volun- Sergeant Allen’s memorial service KAPTUR for another couple of decades. teered to be an usher and displayed his was held at the Capehart Chapel in The voters would have to approve that, musical talent in the choir. Calvin had Bellevue. Over 500 people attended the but I am hopeful that we will. a personal and very open relationship standing-room-only ceremony to pay TRIBUTE TO RACHEL PETRI with God, and he happily shared it with their respects, including over 200 Pa- Madam President, I also want to talk everyone he met. triot Riders, who lined up with Amer- about somebody else who is sitting in Throughout his high school years at ican flags. Calvin was laid to rest on this Chamber who will continue, as her Bellevue East, Calvin spent much of his May 30, 2006, in Arlington National career advances, to be a role model for time with friends and family. Sallie re- Cemetery—the day after Memorial the people of this country and the peo- called many video game parties and Day. ple of her community. A daughter of sleepovers at their house, which would Fellow friend and Air Force Capt. Eastern Ohio, Rachel Petri has done end with many of Calvin’s friends Bill Eckley talked about how Calvin communications work for me for a sprawled out on the Allen living room was a man of honor. Bellevue also hon- number of years. floor. ored him by naming a street after him,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:47 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G15MR6.027 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S1758 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 15, 2018 and his high school established the Sgt. great rapport with the President, and I Force—to upload felony convictions Lonnie Calvin Allen, Jr. Scholarship. think he will make an excellent Sec- and convictions for domestic violence Sgt. Lonnie ‘‘Calvin’’ Allen, Jr., re- retary of State. into the background check system, no ceived the Bronze Star and Purple NOMINATION OF GINA HASPEL derogatory information was reported, Heart posthumously. Mr. President, finally, I want to state and ultimately the gunman in Suther- I join Nebraskans and Americans my utmost confidence in Gina Haspel, land Springs took the life of 26 inno- across our country in saluting his will- Director Pompeo’s Deputy, who has cent people and shot 20 more. ingness and his family’s sacrifice to been nominated to take over after he The reason I keep talking about this keep us free. I am honored to tell his leaves as Director of the CIA. As a ca- legislation is, it is just too important story. reer intelligence professional, she is to let up on. We cannot, and we never I thank the Presiding Officer. tough, she is direct, but she is colle- should, just move on after another I yield the floor. gial, too, and much beloved by the peo- tragedy like that which occurred in I suggest the absence of a quorum. ple who work out at the Central Intel- Parkland, FL, and Sutherland Springs, The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ligence Agency. TX, or what happened in Las Vegas, clerk will call the roll. As my colleague, the senior Senator NV, where 58 people were killed and 851 The legislative clerk proceeded to from California, has previously stated, others injured by a gunman using a call the roll. Ms. Haspel has great experience acting bump stock, which essentially turned a Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I ask as Deputy Director, and she has the semiautomatic weapon into an auto- unanimous consent that the order for confidence of the Central Intelligence matic weapon. We can’t just move on the quorum call be rescinded. Agency, which is no small feat. when lives hang in the balance. We The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without I support Ms. Haspel’s nomination have to do our duty and do our part to objection, it is so ordered. and look forward to working hard to save lives. We have to fix our criminal TRIBUTE TO REX TILLERSON ensure her confirmation. background check system so dangerous Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, 2 days Of course, there will be groups who felons do not lie their way into obtain- ago, the President of the United States will waste no time trying to tarnish ing firearms to use to slaughter inno- announced his decision to replace Sec- her reputation over efforts she made cent people. retary of State Rex Tillerson with CIA doing her part to keep our Nation safe To do that, we have to get this bill to Director Mike Pompeo. I respect and after the terrible tragedy of 9/11, but I the President as soon as possible. The admire both of these men immensely. think it is more telling that those who President will sign this legislation I just want to take a moment to talk know her best commend her in the once it passes the House and the Sen- about Secretary Tillerson’s public serv- strongest of terms. Take, for example, ate. I am grateful that today 72 Mem- ice. I know his entering government President Obama’s former Director of bers of the U.S. Senate have signed on after his long and illustrious career in National Intelligence, James Clapper, as cosponsors to the bill. It is not just the lawmakers here in the private sector was quite a transi- who has called her tremendous, and Washington who support it; the coun- tion, but he provided able leadership to President Obama’s CIA Director Leon try is asking for it too. I have a Thurs- the Department of State during a pe- Panetta has expressed his support and day morning coffee for my constituents riod of transition from one Presidency said he is glad the nominee is Ms. from Texas and a number of them—stu- to the next and a period of diplomatic Haspel because she knows the CIA in- turbulence. He worked hard to dents—came to talk to me about their side out. concerns about gun violence and par- strengthen and, in some cases, repair So in the days ahead, we will be dis- ticularly the feeling that not only par- our global alliances. cussing Ms. Haspel, but let’s not just ents have, and worry about for their I have known Secretary Tillerson for buy into the phony narratives that children, but that students have them- a long time. He is a man of character other people will give about her public selves about whether they are going to who has led the Boy Scouts, which con- service. The views of those who doubt continue to be safe in their schools. tinues to be one of his abiding pas- her qualifications and who question her sions—developing young men as per- Yesterday, a broad coalition of vic- experience will continue to attack and tims’ rights advocates, law enforce- sons of character, and I respect that. denigrate Ms. Haspel, no doubt, in the At the same time, he advanced his own ment officers, and gun violence preven- open debate. Ultimately, their argu- tion groups and prosecutors sent me a career as the head of one of the largest ments, if believed and accepted, would letter, along with to the majority and businesses in the world at the pinnacle make the country less safe and less se- minority leaders, asking them for a of success, as we count success. I wish cure. clean vote on the Fix NICS legislation him the best, and I hope his statesman- We have to remember that right after before the upcoming Easter recess. ship, professionalism, and deep and the terrible events of 9/11, we didn’t They said it would improve key ele- abiding friendships spanning the globe have the luxury of hindsight. Our lead- ments of the background check system, are remembered and maintained after ers were worried about follow-on at- particularly domestic violence, crimi- he is gone from public life. tacks following the terrible tragedy in nal history, and protective order NOMINATION OF MIKE POMPEO New York and the plane crashing into records. Mr. President, I also want to say a the Pentagon. Public fears regarding Let me just pause there. One of the few good words about my friend Mike another attack were at an alltime most frequent victims of shootings are Pompeo. After graduating first in his high, and tough calls had to be made. domestic violence victims—family dis- class at West Point and then grad- That is what leadership is all about. putes, custody disputes, divorces, and uating from Harvard Law School, he So I look forward to continuing to the like. One of the purposes of the had a successful career in law and busi- make the case for why Ms. Haspel is background check system is to make ness before transitioning into public the person the country needs to lead sure nobody who has been convicted of service. As a Member of the House of the Central Intelligence Agency. a domestic violence assault can legally Representatives, he represented Kan- FIX NICS BILL purchase or possess a firearm. sas’s Fourth Congressional District and Mr. President, I admit to sounding These same groups call this bill bi- served on the Permanent Select Com- like a broken record. I am here again partisan, bicameral, commonsense, and mittee on Intelligence. Then he was to talk about the Fix NICS bill, a bill noncontroversial. Again, they made a named by President Trump, as we I introduced with the junior Senator point to note in their letter that the know, to lead the Central Intelligence from Connecticut. Just as a refresher, vote should be clean—in other words, Agency. Fix NICS is about fixing the broken not conditioned on other controversial Director Pompeo is a terrific guy, background check system that is used measures. Well, they are absolutely smart and well respected by all. He has when somebody purchases a firearm, right, and I would ask the minority a keen sense of the delicate nature of but in the case of my constituents in leader to listen to the 80 percent of his global diplomacy and the crucial role Sutherland Springs, TX, because of the conference that backed this bill and be- America and American intelligence failures of the Federal Government— lieve in its promise to help stem the agencies have to play. I know he has a notably, in this case, the U.S. Air tide of violence and help save lives.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:47 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G15MR6.028 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1759 I would ask those who are objecting vision programs which glorify violence in better by each other, to see the dignity to us considering this legislation on a order to sell toys to our children. in one another, and to put our values clean up-or-down vote to reconsider. Yet the gross national product does not first. I believe we can make Robert allow for the health of our children, the Many of them say: Well, there are quality of their education or the joy of their Kennedy’s legacy a reality, and I am other things we want to vote on. Well, play. It does not include the beauty of our proud to fight for it. I would be happy to have that happen, poetry or the strength of our marriages, the Thank you. but none of these ideas, at this point, intelligence of our public debate or the in- I yield the floor. have achieved the sort of consensus the tegrity of our public officials. It measures I suggest the absence of a quorum. Fix NICS bill has. They are waiting for neither our wit nor our courage, neither our The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. impossible outcomes, insisting on votes wisdom nor our learning, neither our com- PERDUE). The clerk will call the roll. passion nor our devotion to our country. The bill clerk proceeded to call the on other measures, when we know It measures everything, in short, except those votes will fail, but worst of all, that which makes life worthwhile. And it roll. conditioning their willingness to vote can tell us everything about America except Mr. BLUNT. Mr. President, I ask on Fix NICS for those other votes, why we are proud that we are Americans. unanimous consent that the order for which we know will not succeed and Consider three stats: corporate prof- the quorum call be rescinded. will fail. its, the stock market, and unemploy- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without So I implore those standing in the ment. objection, it is so ordered. way of a rollcall vote on this consensus Today, corporate profits are up—cor- Mr. BLUNT. Mr. President, in the piece of legislation to lift their objec- porate profits that count gun sales for next few days, we will begin to debate tions and join us. Their current strat- manufacturers whose weapons are used this important bill on sex trafficking. egy will guarantee failure, and failure to massacre children in our schools and This is something that, for whatever on this issue, more than others, we ab- our streets. Corporate profits that reason, the country turned its back on solutely cannot afford. count revenues from drug companies for too long. As the ways to commu- I yield the floor. when they quadruple prices for the sick nicate and the ways to offer so-called The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- and the desperate. Corporate profits adult services grew, the government ator from Massachusetts. that count revenues of banks like Wells and law enforcement didn’t have the 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF ROBERT F. KENNEDY’S Fargo as they rip off millions of Amer- new tools they needed to fight back. CAMPAIGN FOR PRESIDENT ican consumers. This is a bill that Senator PORTMAN Ms. WARREN. Mr. President, I am The stock market is up as giant com- and others have worked so hard on, on here to commemorate the 50th anniver- panies pocket trillions in taxpayer this side of the building. We are actu- sary of Robert F. Kennedy’s monu- money stolen from middle-class fami- ally taking up the House bill. The prin- mental campaign for President. Ken- lies. The market is up as CEOs shut cipal sponsor of the House bill is Mis- nedy’s brief, tragic run at the Presi- down plants and factories in the United souri Congresswoman ANN WAGNER, dency has had an enduring impact on States and move them overseas. The with whom I have worked closely and so many generations of Americans. The market is up as business leaders, flush who has been a good friend of mine— reason, I think, is because Robert Ken- with cash, turn their backs on workers she and her family—for a long time. nedy had the courage to challenge a di- while they plow millions and even bil- When the House passed this bill over- vided nation to face up to its failings, lions into stock buybacks to goose in- whelmingly, ANN WAGNER said that to challenge a divided people to ac- vestors’ returns and CEOs’ bonuses. they ‘‘sent a clear message to traf- knowledge their own contributions to Unemployment is down, but wages ficking victims: you are not alone, and our Nation’s ills, to challenge us to have barely budged in a generation. justice is no longer out of reach.’’ It is step back from the stale, cheap politics Unemployment is down, but for mil- hard to imagine a more lonely place, I of the moment, to challenge us to do lions of people, the exploding costs for would think, than someone who is better by each other. housing, healthcare, and childcare being trafficked, some young woman, History may not repeat, but it often mean it now takes two jobs to do what young child, boy or girl, who has fallen rhymes. Conditions are different now, one job covered a generation ago. Un- into the hands of traffickers and who, but a lot of the anxiety that swept employment is down, but the numbers for drugs or whatever reason, has been through the country in 1968 echoes the fail to represent the millions living in sold into this or become dependent in a anxiety of today, especially the eco- rural and urban American communities way that put them into this. nomic anxiety felt by millions of alike that have given up on the search Congresswoman WAGNER went on to Americans who are working harder for a job. say about this bill that ‘‘FOSTA will than ever but feel opportunity slipping These statistics on corporate profits, produce more prosecutions of bad actor away from themselves and from their the stock market, and unemployment websites and more convictions and put children. tell us everything about the American more predators behind bars.’’ She said: Too often, our political and business economy, but they tell us very little ‘‘It will give victims a pathway to jus- leaders refuse to see this. Instead they about the lived experience of today’s tice and provide a meaningful criminal hide behind macroeconomic statistics, Americans. They do not speak to the deterrent, so that fewer businesses will using them as a shield to dismiss the citizen who fears police violence or the ever enter the sex trade and fewer vic- concerns of the American people as police officer who fears gang violence tims will ever be sold.’’ faulty, wrongheaded, or even as non- or the immigrant who cannot speak The whole idea that people are being existent. out about sexual assault at the hands sold to be used in whatever terrible Robert Kennedy understood that of her boss or the toxic rhetoric flow- way someone else wants to use them is America’s national economy is not the ing through our politics seeking to so offensive. The idea that we have same as the economic well-being of its turn neighbor against neighbor. They websites that people can go to that people. In 1968, in a speech at the Uni- do not account for our devotion to our have some description of some person versity of Kansas, he spoke eloquently communities, to our churches, and to who is helplessly in this system and about the differences between them, our children. They tell us virtually how they would be used—that is some- and here is what he said: nothing about our trials, our chal- thing Congress should stand up on. By [Our] Gross National Product counts air lenges, our hopes, or our principles. voting for Congresswoman WAGNER’s pollution and cigarette advertising, and am- Robert Kennedy understood this. He bill, the House has already done that. bulances to clear our highways of carnage. It knew we cannot simply run an econ- On our side of the building, Senator counts special locks for our doors and the omy for those at the top and assume it PORTMAN and others have worked so jails for the people who break them. It will solve America’s problems. In the hard to draw attention to the fact that counts the destruction of the redwood and we need to find time to get this bill on the loss of our natural wonder in chaotic intervening 50 years since his speech, sprawl. It counts napalm and counts nuclear America ran that experiment anyway the floor. Now we have a bill that has warheads and armored cars for the police to and watched it fail miserably. already passed the House, and all we fight the riots in our cities. It counts Whit- It is time to try something different. have to do is pass that bill and send it man’s rifle and Speck’s knife, and the tele- It is time to challenge each of us to do right to the President, or we can make

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:47 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G15MR6.030 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S1760 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 15, 2018 some changes that Senator PORTMAN the money to be appropriated of the fective money to spend than they have and others may want to suggest, and discretionary money. Senator MURRAY, had for over a decade. So hopefully then we can send the bill back to the my counterpart on the other side, and that 22 percent—our goal would be to House, where hopefully it can be dealt I have worked hard on this committee get most of that 22 percent back in 3 with in the same overwhelming way for 3 years now. In the House, Chair- years. We have also already restored 13 they passed it the first time. Then we man COLE and Congresswoman percent of it. I hope we have a big num- can get this bill on the President’s DELAURO, the chair and the ranking ber next week that gets us back to desk and do exactly what Congress- member on that side, have worked hard where we are—at least back to where woman WAGNER said this bill will do. It as well. we were in 2005 or so. is time for us to do everything we can These are big decisions to be made. We made a commitment at the end of to end this. These programs matter, but some of the last century to double, in a short We would be foolish to think that one them matter more than others, and period of time, the National Institutes piece of legislation will end this prob- part of our job should be and needs to of Health funding, and then somehow lem. By working with law enforcement, be setting priorities, doing things that we thought we were done. We would be looking at trafficking, looking at loca- increase the commitment to the pro- done anytime there is no more research tions like the intersections of major grams that are working and eliminate to be done. We will be done as soon as interstate highways, where it is easy to the programs or change the programs we have developed a cure for cancer bring people, to pass people along to that don’t work. Hopefully, we will and found out what to do about Alz- somebody else, to get them to where continue to do more of that this year heimer’s and determined what we can not only are they disoriented, but your and even more of that next year. do to lessen heart attack risks and actual contact with that person doesn’t Some of the programs touch the lives found the answer to every orphan dis- last very long before you give them to of so many Americans, such as appren- ease, diseases that only a few people somebody else or sell them to some- ticeship programs. Medical research have. Let me tell my colleagues, we are body else who could use them in a ter- clearly touches the life of virtually a long way from doing that. In the last rible way—this needs to stop. I am con- every American and every American 3 years, we have tripled the amount of fident the Senate will pass this next family. What we could do to develop a dollars going to Alzheimer’s research. week, and I will just say that it is flu vaccine that actually hits the mark Without a cure for Alzheimer’s or a about time. every year instead of misses the mark way to slow down the onset of Alz- FUNDING THE GOVERNMENT often, things we can do in special edu- heimer’s, the projection is that by 2050, Mr. President, also next week we are cation—these are all parts of this one we will be spending twice as many tax going to move forward on an appro- part of the bill that Senator MURRAY dollars on Alzheimer’s-related care and priating process that has gotten way and I and Congressman COLE and Con- dementia-related care as we are spend- out of control. I am glad the leaders gresswoman DELAURO have been work- ing now to defend the country. If I had have decided to appoint a special com- ing on. said we would spend $1.1 trillion, I mittee to look at this. The Presiding Frankly, everybody should have had don’t know about everybody who is lis- Officer and I are on that committee. a chance to work on this. I think we tening, but in my case, it is pretty hard We will be looking at the budgeting know a lot about these topics. I think to get a handle on that. What does that process and looking at what has hap- that our debate is a good debate, but it really mean? How much bigger is that pened. Instead of bringing these bills to is not nearly as good of a debate as if than $1.1 billion? Well, $1.1 trillion is the floor one at a time and letting every single Senator got to be a part of twice what we spend to defend the every Member of the Senate have an working on this, not just the three country. Every military base every- opportunity to amend any bill in any dozen or fewer Senators who are on the where in the world, every ship, every way they want to as long as it deals Appropriations Committee. plane, every paycheck for every sol- with spending and as long as you don’t There are a wide variety of programs dier, sailor, airman, marine; the Na- add new money—every amendment you here that need to be funded. I want to tional Guard, the Coast Guard; train- want to come up with where you want spend just a few minutes talking about ing dollars—that is about $500-and- to take some money here and spend it some of the priorities that we are look- some billion, approaching $600 billion. here instead and have a debate about ing at that need to be part of this bill We would be spending twice that in to- why that should happen—that is what and create a sense that this is really a day’s dollars, in tax dollars—not what the Congress did for a couple of hun- process that matters. families would spend to try to deal dred years, and it is time we did it First, we are on track to increase the with the tragedy of Alzheimer’s but again. This idea that all the bills come third straight year of significant in- twice that in just tax dollars if we together in one big, what we call an creases for the National Institutes of don’t find something to do. A cure omnibus—‘‘ominous’’ might be a better Health and health research. What do would be great. Just figuring out how word—an omnibus spending bill that they do? In the last decade, we failed we could determine early, in an effec- includes everything, plus all the legis- most of the time to make any increase tive way, that you were likely to get lation that it can possibly carry, is not at all. In fact, 2 years ago, when I Alzheimer’s and try to begin to delay the way this process should work. It is started chairing this committee and the onset of Alzheimer’s so it either the way this process is going to have to Congressman COLE started chairing the doesn’t affect you at all because some work this year because we missed all of committee on the other side of the other health concern does or you get it those opportunities that are now be- building, it had been 12 years since a few years later. If we could delay the hind us. there had been a one-penny increase in onset of Alzheimer’s by 5 years on the As soon as we get this done, we need health research. During that 12 years, average, that $1.1 trillion in today’s to start on this year’s process. We we figured out so much more about the dollars—in 2015—would be reduced by know what the top-line spending num- human genome. We figured out so almost half, by 46 percent. So knowing ber is going to be. There is every rea- many more ways to figure out how I how to detect this—there have been son to believe that this year’s process am different from you and how you are some great studies going on that have could be a big step in the right direc- different from me and how that makes been funded in better ways over recent tion, but some guidelines from that a difference and how whatever is at- years. This has continued. special House and Senate committee tacking my system we can fight back. I think what we are looking at in the will do even more. There was not one penny of an in- Brain Initiative—the Cancer Moonshot, I would like to say, as the chairman crease in 12 years. In fact, the research as Vice President Biden referred to it— of one of those appropriating commit- people said that we were 22 percent diabetes—again, these diseases that tees—the Labor, Health and Human below, in research buying power 3 years maybe not very many people get are Services, and Education Sub- ago, where we had been 12 years ear- particularly the diseases that the Na- committee—that one bill of the 11 left lier. Young researchers who had never tional Institutes of Health needs to be after the Defense bill is decided on— gotten a research grant before weren’t doing research on because there is not that one bill has about a third of all of likely to get one when they had less ef- much of an economic driver for private

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:47 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G15MR6.033 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1761 sector research on a disease that al- that puts you to work in a job you love ECONOMIC GROWTH, REGULATORY RELIEF, AND most nobody has. So a lot of the money quicker than you can get a college de- CONSUMER PROTECTION BILL that we put into NIH research we spe- gree that maybe doesn’t do those two Mr. HATCH. Mr. President, I rise in cifically try to put in there without things—we ought to be thinking about support of the Economic Growth, Regu- any specific category, where we are whether our post-high school dollars latory Relief, and Consumer Protection saying: You take this money, and you are equally available to both college Act, which passed the Senate yester- do what you think needs to be done, and other kinds of training. day. This bipartisan bill protects and and we are going to have oversight to We need to see that people have ac- boosts the U.S. economy. I commend talk about what you did. A bunch of cess to higher education. We are doing Chairman CRAPO, members of the Members of the Senate and the House that by increasing funding for the Pell Banking Committee, and my col- aren’t going to try to become the re- grant—this is not a loan; it doesn’t leagues on both sides of the aisle for search deciders for the United States of have to be paid back—given specifi- the hard work in getting this par- America—and, by the way, for the cally based on economic need and per- ticular bill proposal across the finish world—when you do that. formance in school. You have to stay line. In this bill, we are also looking at in school; you have to get passing Making the rules simpler and fairer the crucial fight on the opioid epi- grades. But in many colleges in my for small and midsized financial insti- demic. The President says it is a crisis, State of Missouri—in community col- tutions is a commonsense idea that has and he is right. It is the No. 1 cause of lege and in several of our 4-year garnered broad bipartisan support. accidental death in the country today. schools—if you qualify for the full Pell That is because, done right, it helps It has exceeded car accidents as a cause grant, that is more than enough to pay hardworking Americans who aspire to of death in the country and in Missouri tuition, books, and fees. invent things, start businesses, and and in many other States. If you are putting yourself through manufacture goods and services—ex- The last two funding bills have put school or if you are returning to school actly the kind of entrepreneurship and almost an additional $1 billion into as an adult, if you are the first person growth America needs more of. opioids from where we were just 3 years in your family to graduate from col- There are plenty of people with dif- ago, but the Presiding Officer will re- lege, year-round Pell means that if you ferent viewpoints on how to improve member that in the last continuing have something working, you need to the financial system. Some, however, resolution, some specific money—about stick with it as long as you can, as say that almost any modification to $3 billion more—was given to this quickly as you can. the 849-page Dodd-Frank Act equates Summer break is always well-in- cause, and it is the job of our com- to a bonfire financial regulation, a gift tended. For 10 years Pell didn’t pay for mittee and then the Congress to decide to Wall Street, and so on. I think we school in the summer; it does now, how to spend that $3 billion. need to cut through such patronizing, We need more resources. There is no starting last year. This will be the first derisive mudslinging, and instead focus reason to think that the opioid addic- year that students and colleges and on commonsense solutions for the universities can really prepare for sum- tion epidemic, leading to heroin and American people. mer Pell. But if you don’t break the other drugs, is slowing down, so we Let me tell you a plain truth: The rhythm you are in where things are need to do things that improve treat- bill the Senate passed yesterday is the working for you, you are much more ment and prevention efforts. Preven- result of sensible debate, reasonable likely to graduate from college than tion, obviously, is better than treat- compromise, and hard policy choices. you would otherwise. Without compromising the safety and ment, but if prevention fails, we need We need to be sure we prioritize fund- soundness of our financial system, it better treatment systems than we have ing for elementary and secondary edu- provides regulatory relief to small and now. cation grant programs so that they are midsized banks, credit unions, and fi- We need to look for alternative pain fair across the country, so that we are nancial institutions—the kind most fa- medications that aren’t addictive. I not only supporting STEM education, miliar on Main Street in my home will say that in the 1970s and 1980s, I but we are also supporting IDEA for State of Utah. am told, in medical schools, they students with learning disabilities, an Our constituents deserve regulatory thought opioids weren’t addictive. So obligation the Federal Government has relief. Between 2010 and 2016, compli- we need to be sure that when we have taken on itself. an alternative that seems to be non- We are going to have a chance next ance with Dodd-Frank cost $36 billion addictive, that it really isn’t addictive. week to deal with this important, long- and required 73 million paperwork We need to think of the workforce awaited bill on trafficking. I think hours. Dodd-Frank alone enacted more needs and what happens when people there will probably be one vote that than five times as many restrictions as become addicted to pain medicine and covers more things than it should on any other law passed by the Obama ad- their pain doesn’t go away, probably funding the government for the year ministration and more than 22,000 because their addiction doesn’t go we are already in. But, as I have talked pages of regulations. With their vast resources, large away. Then there is behavioral health about today, there are many reasons banks could stomach these regulations that impacts so many families and so for Americans and American families mainly through automation, but small- many communities. to be focused on the job we do. Frank- er banks could not. Saddled with extra If you are going to recover from ly, we need to spend our time figuring compliance requirements and no mate- opioid addiction, you have to have a out how, in the future, the American rial benefit to resilience, many buckled place to go. Too many programs and people can watch the Congress more under the weight of these burdensome policies say: We will work with you for closely and watch the Congress openly regulations. 14 days. A lot of them say: We will debate the priorities of the govern- Consider that there are 1,736 fewer work with you for 28 days—4 weeks. ment, which the government sets no- community banks today than when Not many people get this behind them where else quite the way it does when Dodd-Frank was signed into law. Since in 28 days. So we are doing that. it decides how to spend the money we In this bill, we are also looking at 2010, the number of FDIC-insured com- have been entrusted with. ways to support students and parents I yield the floor. mercial banks in Utah dropped from 53 and teachers. Obviously, a safe envi- I suggest the absence of a quorum. to 42. In a similar timespan, the num- ronment—what can we do to provide The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ber of NCUA-insured credit unions in more flexibility to schools to spend the clerk will call the roll. my home State fell from 94 to 66. Over money they currently have from the The senior assistant legislative clerk the past decade, the percentage of Federal Government to create a safer proceeded to call the roll. small business and commercial loans environment, and what can we do to in- Mr. HATCH. Mr. President, I ask dropped more than 15 percent. crease the money available for that? unanimous consent that the order for Indeed, 8 years since the passage of We need to be doing things that pre- the quorum call be rescinded. Dodd-Frank, it is high time for Con- pare people not just for college but for The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without gress to reflect and make adjustments, careers. If you can get a certificate objection, it is so ordered. as necessary, to improve our financial

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:47 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G15MR6.034 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S1762 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 15, 2018 regulatory system. Let’s focus on resil- CONFIRMATION OF GREGG DOUD Morocco, Panama, and Peru. Obvi- ience and efficiency. This bill does just Mr. ROBERTS. Mr. President, I want ously, he has been everywhere. that. to speak today on the confirmation of Gregg’s background and experience I would like to briefly highlight three Mr. Gregg Doud, the President’s nomi- give him a leg up in the challenge of reforms in the bill that benefit our na- nee for the Chief Agricultural Nego- serving as the Chief Agriculture Nego- tional and local economies. First, the tiator at the Office of the United tiator at USTR. He understands what bill provides relief and flexibility to States Trade Representative. In the trade means to the agriculture indus- small financial institutions. More Senate, we often say, or I hope we try, and he has the experience to help small bank holding companies will be often say, that we are only as good as maintain U.S. agriculture’s role as a able to raise capital, which will help our staff. I have been blessed with the reliable supplier around the world. It is bank lending opportunities for fami- very best. Gregg is one example of why certainly a big challenge today. lies, businesses, and startups. This pol- that is true. At a time when the agriculture econ- icy was based on a bipartisan bill, the Gregg served as senior professional omy is in a rough patch—fourth year of Community Bank Relief Act, that I in- staff on the Senate Agriculture Com- prices below the cost of production troduced along with Senators King, mittee for me during my time as rank- pretty much across the board, all Nelson, and Perdue. It is common sense ing member, 2011 through 2013. We like across the country—and commodity to know that Utah’s community banks to say in Kansas that congressional prices still falling, farmers and ranch- are different from Wall Street banks, staff are bucket toters. During those ers now depend on trade more than but too often regulations treat them few years, we toted a lot of buckets to- ever. We need continued focus on ex- the same. gether. porting not just what we make but also Second, the bill increases the bank From the early days of the supercom- what we grow. Let me repeat that. We asset threshold for enhanced standards mittee and sequestration, multiple need to export not just what we from $50 billion to $250 billion. I have iterations of farm bills, animal disease make—there is a lot of focus on that long supported raising or recalibrating scares, and the oversight of the MF with regard to trade policy now coming the asset threshold. It makes little Global mess, or situation, Gregg han- out of the White House and this admin- sense that regional banks undergo dled everything that was thrown at istration—but also what we grow. stress tests and capital reviews similar him—and all while wearing his cowboy Kansas farmers and ranchers work to some of the largest, most complex boots with the pointed toes. Capitol hard. On a regular basis, they have to global financial institutions. Similar Hill certainly isn’t where Gregg started make sacrifices to overcome the to the unrealistic expectations put on cutting his teeth in agriculture. weather, overcome obstacles, and make community banks, this one-size-fits-all He hails from Mankato, KS, where he commonsense decisions that have sig- approach negatively affected regional was raised on a dryland wheat, grain nificant consequences. That is why I banks. sorghum, soybean, swine, and cow-calf know Gregg will be successful in the Third, the bill eases the regulatory operation. Talk about diversified agri- job of Chief Agricultural Negotiator. burden on 5,000 community banks that culture. He attended my alma mater, He is a Kansas cowboy who knows how make up about 98 percent of financial Kansas State University, home of the to roll up his sleeves and certainly get institutions. For small banks and cred- ever-fighting and always optimistic things done. it unions, this legislation provides re- Wildcats. Good luck to them tonight. Gregg understands why strong trad- lief from some of the requirements Just last September, Gregg was back ing relationships are absolutely crit- from the qualified mortgage rule, al- in Manhattan, KS, where he was hon- ical to agriculture. I am glad he is at lowing them to devote more resources ored as the 2017 Kansas State Univer- the USTR, where he can get to work to serving their members rather than sity Department of Agriculture Eco- with Ambassador Bob Lighthizer and spending hours complying with regu- nomics Distinguished Alumni Award. lead the charge in advancing the U.S. latory overreach. From K-State, Gregg went on to trade agenda. Along with partners at In today’s era of extreme partisan- work for the U.S. Wheat Associates, the Department of Agriculture—like ship, this bill is a breath of fresh air. which is tasked with developing mar- our champion there, Secretary Sonny What the Senate has been able to ac- kets for U.S. wheat all around the Perdue—and the Undersecretary for complish this week is based on prac- world. Eventually, he became the chief Trade and Foreign Agriculture Affairs, tical, consensus-led policy choices. economist for the National Cattlemen’s Ted McKinney, Gregg will ensure that While there remain other reforms that Beef Association. agriculture has a seat at the table and could relieve stress of burdensome reg- One of the very first trials that that our farmers and ranchers are ulations, this bill is a much needed Gregg faced at NCBA was ‘‘the cow being heard. start, which is why I wholeheartedly that stole Christmas,’’ when just before The U.S. agriculture industry has support this legislation. Christmas, in 2003, a case of mad cow worked long and hard to increase our Members on both sides of the aisle disease was confirmed in the United competitiveness and markets around agree that the broad scope of Dodd- States, resulting in a devastating blow the world, but their work is never fin- Frank created some harmful, unin- to U.S. beef exports. ished, and they cannot do it alone. I tended consequences. Let’s make the Gregg worked on behalf of the beef know that with Gregg riding point, the rules simpler and fairer, as appropriate industry with the U.S. Trade Rep- voices of the hard-working farmer and but not at the expense of safety. This resentative, the U.S. Department of rancher will be well represented all bipartisan bill does just that, and the Agriculture, and the State Department around the world. American people would be better off to rebuild the reputation and reli- Congratulations to you, Gregg, on because of it. ability of U.S. beef exports. Kansas your confirmation as the Chief Agricul- I yield the floor. currently ranks as the third highest tural Negotiator at the USTR. I look The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- U.S. State exporter of beef to the glob- forward to continuing to work with ator from Kansas. al market. you on behalf of U.S. ag. Mr. ROBERTS. Mr. President, I want U.S. trade policy has been a very hot One more admonition, one more to associate myself with the remarks topic in the last year, and it is one that piece of advice. When you are riding of the distinguished chairman of the Gregg certainly experienced and is point, just make sure you look over Finance Committee, a committee I feel well-versed. He served as a ‘‘cleared ad- your shoulder once in a while to see if very privileged to serve on with our visor’’ and later chairman of the the herd is still there, and if it isn’t, distinguished chairman. He has a mes- USDA/USTR Animal and Animal Prod- don’t worry about it, we have your sage that I think should be required ucts Agriculture Trade Advisory Com- back. reading for everybody on this side, and mittee. It is a lot of words but a very I yield my time. more especially on the other side, and important committee. It was during After careful inspection, I suggest I really appreciate his remarks and his the negotiations of a variety of trade the absence of a quorum. leadership. agreements, including Australia, Bah- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Mr. HATCH. I thank my colleague. rain, Colombia, CAFTA, South Korea, clerk will call the roll.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:47 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G15MR6.036 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1763 The senior assistant legislative clerk standing service of Mark Booth on his out any prior experience as a proceeded to call the roll. retirement after 31 years of public serv- businessowner and took a chance. Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I ice at the Congressional Budget Office. Working together with the former ask unanimous consent that the order Mark’s expertise as a forecaster and owner to make a smooth transition, for the quorum call be rescinded. modeler has made him an invaluable Kelli was able to ensure that the com- The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. CAS- contributor to CBO’s analysis of the munity’s favorite staples would still be SIDY). Without objection, it is so or- budget outlook. Since 2003, Mark has available as she stocked the shelves dered. been chief of the revenue estimating with new and exciting items as well. f unit of CBO’s tax analysis division, Her work has paid off. The family busi- MORNING BUSINESS overseeing its forecasts of tax revenues ness is growing as folks have more and cost estimates of legislative pro- money in their paychecks following the Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I posals. recent tax cuts and the community is ask unanimous consent that the Sen- Mark came to CBO in 1986 from the ate be in a period of morning business, eager to support the new management. with Senators permitted to speak private sector, where he began his ca- Thank you, Kelli, and the rest of the therein for up to 10 minutes each. reer as a forecaster and analyst. He Lohr family. Your dedication to main- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without took over responsibility for CBO’s cor- taining a community business is appre- objection, it is so ordered. porate income tax projections and ciated by the people of Toole County quickly demonstrated his analytic and the surrounding area. It is busi- f skills. As a result, Mark’s portfolio nesses like yours that make Montana TRIBUTE TO MARK PETERSON continuously expanded, as he soon also the ‘‘Last Best Place.’’∑ Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, I want became the lead analyst for CBO’s pro- f to join with Members of Congress and jections of individual income taxes and congressional staff in celebrating Mark Federal Reserve System’s earnings. In MESSAGES FROM THE HOUSE Peterson’s 30 years of service and re- addition, Mark joined the tax analysis At 10:58 a.m., a message from the tirement from the town of Normal. division’s cost-estimating team, over- House of Representatives, delivered by Mark has honorably served the people seeing assistant analysts to produce Mrs. Cole, one of its reading clerks, an- of Normal, IL, since 1988 and as its city timely estimates of legislative pro- nounced that the House has passed the manager since 1998. posals. Over those years, Mark won the following bills, in which it requests the He has served on the governing CBO Director’s Award for Exceptional concurrence of the Senate: boards for a variety of public and com- Service, the agency’s highest recogni- munity organizations, including the H.R. 506. An act to amend title 18, United tion for work by a CBO staffer, twice. States Code, to provide an additional tool to MetCom Emergency Communications In recognition of Mark’s abilities and prevent certain frauds against veterans, and Center, the Bloomington-Normal Eco- breadth of experience, he was promoted for other purposes. nomic Development Council, the Cen- to the position of unit chief for revenue H.R. 1116. An act to require the Federal fi- tral Illinois Regional Broadband Net- estimating in 2003, and he has overseen nancial institutions regulatory agencies to work, the McLean County Regional the division’s projections and cost esti- take risk profiles and business models of in- Planning Commission Executive Com- mates ever since. As head of the rev- stitutions into account when taking regu- latory actions, and for other purposes. mittee, the Community Development enue estimating unit, Mark has led his Corporation, the BN Advantage Lead- H.R. 3249. An act to authorize the Project staff in providing high-quality and Safe Neighborhoods Grant Program, and for ership Council, and Connect Transit. timely projections of revenues and Mark was instrumental in the plan- other purposes. analysis of budget issues. Mark has ning and successful redevelopment of H.R. 3996. An act to amend title 28, United made valuable contributions to numer- States Code, to permit other courts to trans- Uptown Normal, including the Chil- ous reports, testimonies, and cost esti- fer certain cases to United States Tax Court. dren’s Discovery Museum, as well as H.R. 4909. An act to reauthorize the grant Uptown Station and its new rail plat- mates in just about every subject area covered by CBO, including the econ- program for school security in the Omnibus form, waiting area, bus bays, and re- Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968. lated development at the Marriott omy, energy, transportation, and healthcare. He also has served a crucial ENROLLED BILL SIGNED Hotel and Conference Center and the At 12:34 p.m., a message form the Hyatt Place Bloomington-Normal role in trying to make CBO’s analysis more transparent, preparing several House of Representatives, delivered by Hotel. Mr. Novotny, one of its reading clerks, Under the administration of Mark background papers that describe CBO’s announced that the Speaker has signed Peterson, the Shoppes at College Hills methods of forecasting revenues and the following enrolled bill: grew into a thriving modern retail cen- evaluate the agency’s projections ter. The Constitution Trail also grew record. H.R. 1177. An act to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to release on behalf of the to nearly 50 miles of recreational trail I know my colleagues join me in ex- tending our thanks and appreciation to United States the condition that certain through the cities of Normal and lands conveyed to the City of Old Town, Bloomington, providing the commu- Mark for his service to our Nation. We Maine, be used for a municipal airport, and nity with an outstanding linear park. wish him well in his retirement from for other purposes. CBO and hope he will continue in fu- Mark oversaw a period of tremendous The enrolled bill was subsequently ture years to lend his expertise to the growth in the town of Normal, while signed by the President pro tempore maintaining an AAA bond rating and analysis of important tax policy issues. (Mr. HATCH). serving as independent confirmation of f the town’s fiscal health and stability. f ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS He also cultivated fruitful partnerships MEASURES REFERRED with members of the Illinois congres- The following bills were read the first sional delegation, but most impor- TRIBUTE TO KELLI LOHR tantly, Mark has been a loyal leader and the second times by unanimous ∑ and community servant for the resi- Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, this consent, and referred as indicated: dents of Normal and will continue to be week I have the honor of recognizing H.R. 506. An act to amend title 18, United an admired citizen of the community. Kelli Lohr, the new owner of the Prai- States Code, to provide an additional tool to Mark’s commitment to the town of rie Peddler in Shelby. The Prairie Ped- prevent certain frauds against veterans, and Normal can be seen in every corner of dler has been a community business for for other purposes; to the Committee on the the city, and that work will not be for- over two decades. Families throughout Judiciary. H.R. 1116. An act to require the Federal fi- gotten. the years have come to indulge in scones, cookies and coffee, and shop for nancial institutions regulatory agencies to f take risk profiles and business models of in- household decor and gifts. TRIBUTE TO MARK BOOTH stitutions into account when taking regu- When Kelli saw that the notable com- latory actions, and for other purposes; to the Mr. ENZI. Mr. President, today I munity establishment may close with- Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban wish to honor and recognize the out- out a new owner, she stepped up with- Affairs.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:47 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G15MR6.037 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S1764 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 15, 2018 H.R. 3249. An act to authorize the Project titled ‘‘Approval of Implementation Plans; EC–4595. A communication from the Dep- Safe Neighborhoods Grant Program, and for State of Iowa; Elements of the Infrastruc- uty Chief, Wireless Telecommunications Bu- other purposes; to the Committee on the Ju- ture SIP Requirements for the 2010 Nitrogen reau, Federal Communications Commission, diciary. Dioxide National Ambient Air Quality transmitting, pursuant to law, the report of H.R. 3996. An act to amend title 28, United Standard (NAAQS); Final Rule’’ (FRL No. a rule entitled ‘‘Connect America Fund States Code, to permit other courts to trans- 9975–69–Region 7) received in the Office of the Phase II Auction Scheduled for July 24, 2018; fer certain cases to United States Tax Court; President of the Senate on March 14, 2018; to Notice and Filing Requirements and Other to the Committee on the Judiciary. the Committee on Environment and Public Procedures for Auction 903’’ ((AU Docket No. H.R. 4909. An act to reauthorize the grant Works. 17–182 and WC Docket No. 10–90) (FCC 18–06)) program for school security in the Omnibus EC–4586. A communication from the Direc- received in the Office of the President of the Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968; tor of the Regulatory Management Division, Senate on March 14, 2018; to the Committee to the Committee on the Judiciary. Environmental Protection Agency, transmit- on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. ting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule en- EC–4596. A communication from the Assist- f titled ‘‘Approval of Implementation Plans; ant General Counsel for Regulatory Affairs, EXECUTIVE AND OTHER State of Iowa; Elements of the Infrastruc- Consumer Product Safety Commission, COMMUNICATIONS ture SIP Requirements for the 2012 Particu- transmitting, pursuant to law, the report of late Matter (PM2.5) National Ambient Air a rule entitled ‘‘All-Terrain Vehicles’’ ((16 The following communications were Quality Standard (NAAQS); Final Rule’’ CFR Part 1420) (Docket No. CPSC–2017–0032)) laid before the Senate, together with (FRL No. 9975–68–Region 7) received in the received in the Office of the President of the accompanying papers, reports, and doc- Office of the President of the Senate on Senate on March 14, 2018; to the Committee uments, and were referred as indicated: March 14, 2018; to the Committee on Environ- on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. EC–4597. A communication from the Acting EC–4579. A communication from the Assist- ment and Public Works. Chairman of the Office of Proceedings, Sur- ant Secretary of Defense (Special Operations EC–4587. A communication from the Direc- face Transportation Board, Department of and Low Intensity Conflict), transmitting, tor of the Regulatory Management Division, Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to pursuant to law, a report relative to the re- Environmental Protection Agency, transmit- law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Ex Parte port on activities of the National Guard ting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule en- Communications in Informal Rulemaking Counterdrug Schools for fiscal year 2017; to titled ‘‘Revisions to Method 301: Field Vali- Proceedings’’ ((RIN2140–AB39) (Docket No. the Committee on Armed Services. dation of Pollutant Measurement Methods EP 739) received in the Office of the Presi- EC–4580. A communication from the Direc- from Various Waste Media’’ (FRL No. 9975– dent of the Senate on March 14, 2018; to the tor of the Regulatory Management Division, 62–DAR) received in the Office of the Presi- Committee on Commerce, Science, and Environmental Protection Agency, transmit- dent of the Senate on March 14, 2018; to the Transportation. ting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule en- Committee on Environment and Public EC–4598. A communication from the Dep- titled ‘‘Trinexapac-ethyl; Pesticide Toler- Works. EC–4588. A communication from the Assist- uty Assistant Administrator for Regulatory ances’’ (FRL No. 9973–20) received in the Of- ant Secretary, Legislative Affairs, Depart- Programs, Office of Protected Resources, De- fice of the President of the Senate on March ment of State, transmitting, pursuant to partment of Commerce, transmitting, pursu- 14, 2018; to the Committee on Agriculture, law, the Millennium Challenge Corporation’s ant to law, the report of a rule entitled Nutrition, and Forestry. Annual Report for fiscal year 2017; to the ‘‘Taking and Importing Marine Mammals; EC–4581. A joint communication from the Committee on Foreign Relations. Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Test- Secretary of Energy and the Secretary of the EC–4589. A communication from the Chair- ing and Training Activities Conducted in the Interior, transmitting, pursuant to law, a re- man of the Council of the District of Colum- Eglin Gulf Test and Training Range in the port relative to the certification of the sum bia, transmitting, pursuant to law, a report Gulf of Mexico’’ (RIN0648–BH21) received in of moneys deposited in the Treasury in rela- on D.C. Act 22–270, ‘‘Office of Employee Ap- the Office of the President of the Senate on tion to environmental cleanup and infra- peals Hearing Examiner Classification March 14, 2018; to the Committee on Com- structure costs; to the Committee on Energy Amendment Act of 2018’’; to the Committee merce, Science, and Transportation. and Natural Resources. on Homeland Security and Governmental Af- f EC–4582. A communication from the Direc- fairs. tor of the Regulatory Management Division, EC–4590. A communication from the Chair- EXECUTIVE REPORTS OF Environmental Protection Agency, transmit- man of the Council of the District of Colum- COMMITTEE ting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule en- bia, transmitting, pursuant to law, a report The following executive reports of titled ‘‘Air Plan Approval; Vermont; Non- on D.C. Act 22–271, ‘‘Public Employee Rela- attainment New Source Review and Preven- tions Board Term Limit Amendment Act of nominations were submitted: tion of Significant Deterioration Permit 2018’’; to the Committee on Homeland Secu- By Mr. GRASSLEY for the Committee on Program Revisions; Infrastructure Require- rity and Governmental Affairs. the Judiciary. ments for National Ambient Air Quality EC–4591. A communication from the Chair- Joel M. Carson III, of New Mexico, to be Standards’’ (FRL No. 9975–16–Region 1) re- man of the Council of the District of Colum- United States Circuit Judge for the Tenth ceived in the Office of the President of the bia, transmitting, pursuant to law, a report Circuit. Senate on March 14, 2018; to the Committee on D.C. Act 22–272, ‘‘Extension of Time to Colm F. Connolly, of Delaware, to be on Environment and Public Works. Dispose of 8th & O Streets, N.W., Temporary United States District Judge for the District EC–4583. A communication from the Direc- Amendment Act of 2018’’; to the Committee of Delaware. tor of the Regulatory Management Division, on Homeland Security and Governmental Af- William F. Jung, of Florida, to be United Environmental Protection Agency, transmit- fairs. States District Judge for the Middle District ting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule en- EC–4592. A communication from the Chair- of Florida. Maryellen Noreika, of Delaware, to be titled ‘‘Approval and Promulgation of State man of the Council of the District of Colum- United States District Judge for the District Air Quality Plans for Designated Facilities bia, transmitting, pursuant to law, a report of Delaware. and Pollutants; City of Philadelphia; Control on D.C. Act 22–257, ‘‘Relieve High Unemploy- Ryan T. Holte, of Ohio, to be a Judge of the of Emissions from Existing Hospital/Medical/ ment Tax Incentives Act of 2018’’; to the United States Court of Federal Claims for a Infectious Waste Incinerator Units’’ (FRL Committee on Homeland Security and Gov- No. 9975–33–Region 3) received in the Office of term of fifteen years. ernmental Affairs. Jonathan F. Mitchell, of Washington, to be the President of the Senate on March 14, EC–4593. A communication from the Chair- Chairman of the Administrative Conference 2018; to the Committee on Environment and man of the Council of the District of Colum- of the United States for the term of five Public Works. bia, transmitting, pursuant to law, a report years. EC–4584. A communication from the Direc- on D.C. Act 22–258, ‘‘City Innovation Fund William M. McSwain, of Pennsylvania, to tor of the Regulatory Management Division, Re-Establishment Amendment Act of 2018’’; be United States Attorney for the Eastern Environmental Protection Agency, transmit- to the Committee on Homeland Security and District of Pennsylvania for the term of four ting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule en- Governmental Affairs. years. titled ‘‘Approval and Promulgation of State EC–4594. A communication from the Im- Matthew D. Harris, of Utah, to be United Air Quality Plans for Designated Facilities pact Analyst, Office of Regulation Policy States Marshal for the District of Utah for and Pollutants; City of Philadelphia; Control and Management, Department of Veterans the term of four years. of Emissions from Existing Sewage Sludge Affairs, transmitting, pursuant to law, the Johnny Lee Kuhlman, of Oklahoma, to be Incineration Units’’ (FRL No. 9975–38–Region report of a rule entitled ‘‘Electronic Submis- United States Marshal for the Western Dis- 3) received in the Office of the President of sion of Certain Servicemembers’ Group Life trict of Oklahoma for the term of four years. the Senate on March 14, 2018; to the Com- Insurance, Family Servicemembers’ Group Joseph D. McClain, of Indiana, to be mittee on Environment and Public Works. Life Insurance, and Veterans’ Group Life In- United States Marshal for the Southern Dis- EC–4585. A communication from the Direc- surance Forms’’ (RIN2900–AP98) received in trict of Indiana for the term of four years. tor of the Regulatory Management Division, the Office of the President of the Senate on David A. Weaver, of Colorado, to be United Environmental Protection Agency, transmit- March 14, 2018; to the Committee on Vet- States Marshal for the District of Colorado ting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule en- erans’ Affairs. for the term of four years.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:47 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A15MR6.003 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1765 (Nominations without an asterisk S. 2565. A bill to amend title 38, United (Mr. LEAHY) was added as a cosponsor were reported with the recommenda- States Code, to require the Secretary of Vet- of S. 936, a bill to designate certain Na- tion that they be confirmed.) erans Affairs to provide child care assistance tional Forest System land and certain to veterans receiving certain training or vo- public land under the jurisdiction of f cational rehabilitation, and for other pur- the Secretary of the Interior in the INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND poses; to the Committee on Veterans’ Af- States of Idaho, Montana, Oregon, JOINT RESOLUTIONS fairs. By Mr. MERKLEY (for himself and Ms. Washington, and Wyoming as wilder- The following bills and joint resolu- BALDWIN): ness, wild and scenic rivers, wildland tions were introduced, read the first S. 2566. A bill to require that any trade recovery areas, and biological con- and second times by unanimous con- agreement eligible for expedited consider- necting corridors, and for other pur- sent, and referred as indicated: ation by Congress include enforceable stand- poses. ards requiring paying adequate wages and By Mr. KENNEDY (for himself and Ms. maintaining sustainable production meth- S. 943 CORTEZ MASTO): ods, and for other purposes; to the Com- At the request of Ms. HEITKAMP, the S. 2556. A bill to direct the Administrator mittee on Finance. name of the Senator from Wisconsin of the Federal Aviation Administration to (Ms. BALDWIN) was added as a cospon- promulgate regulations to prohibit the stor- f sor of S. 943, a bill to direct the Sec- age of live animals in overhead compart- ADDITIONAL COSPONSORS ments of airplanes; to the Committee on retary of the Interior to conduct an ac- Commerce, Science, and Transportation. S. 177 curate comprehensive student count By Mrs. ERNST (for herself, Mr. At the request of Mr. LEE, the name for the purposes of calculating formula BROWN, Mr. GRASSLEY, and Mr. of the Senator from Colorado (Mr. allocations for programs under the CASEY): GARDNER) was added as a cosponsor of Johnson-O’Malley Act, and for other S. 2557. A bill to amend the Food Security S. 177, a bill to provide for congres- purposes. Act of 1985 to improve conservation pro- sional review of the imposition of du- grams, and for other purposes; to the Com- S. 1091 mittee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and For- ties and other trade measures by the At the request of Ms. COLLINS, the estry. executive branch, and for other pur- name of the Senator from Maine (Mr. By Mr. COCHRAN (for himself and Mr. poses. KING) was added as a cosponsor of S. WICKER): S. 292 1091, a bill to establish a Federal Task S. 2558. A bill to direct the Secretary of At the request of Mr. REED, the name Force to Support Grandparents Raising Agriculture to transfer to Scenic Rivers De- of the Senator from Alabama (Mr. Grandchildren. velopment Alliance certain National Forest JONES) was added as a cosponsor of S. S. 1106 System land in the State of Mississippi; to the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, 292, a bill to maximize discovery, and At the request of Mr. MERKLEY, the and Forestry. accelerate development and avail- name of the Senator from New Hamp- By Mr. GRASSLEY (for himself, Mrs. ability, of promising childhood cancer shire (Ms. HASSAN) was added as a co- FEINSTEIN, Mr. CORKER, Mr. MENEN- treatments, and for other purposes. sponsor of S. 1106, a bill to designate DEZ, Mr. HATCH, Ms. HARRIS, and Mr. S. 422 the same individual serving as the LEAHY): At the request of Mrs. GILLIBRAND, Chief Nurse Officer of the Public S. 2559. A bill to amend title 17, United the name of the Senator from New Health Service as the National Nurse States Code, to implement the Marrakesh Treaty, and for other purposes; to the Com- Hampshire (Mrs. SHAHEEN) was added for Public Health. mittee on the Judiciary. as a cosponsor of S. 422, a bill to amend S. 1113 By Mr. RISCH: title 38, United States Code, to clarify At the request of Mrs. FEINSTEIN, the S. 2560. A bill to authorize the Secretary of presumptions relating to the exposure name of the Senator from New Hamp- the Interior to establish a program to facili- of certain veterans who served in the shire (Mrs. SHAHEEN) was added as a co- tate the transfer to non-Federal ownership of vicinity of the Republic of Vietnam, sponsor of S. 1113, a bill to amend the appropriate reclamation projects or facili- and for other purposes. Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act ties, and for other purposes; to the Com- S. 428 mittee on Energy and Natural Resources. to ensure the safety of cosmetics. By Mrs. FEINSTEIN (for herself and At the request of Mr. GRASSLEY, the S. 2076 Mrs. CAPITO): name of the Senator from Washington At the request of Ms. COLLINS, the S. 2561. A bill to authorize the Attorney (Ms. CANTWELL) was added as a cospon- name of the Senator from Vermont General to suspend a controlled substances sor of S. 428, a bill to amend titles XIX (Mr. SANDERS) was added as a cospon- registration if there is a likelihood of a and XXI of the Social Security Act to sor of S. 2076, a bill to amend the Pub- threat of diversion of a controlled substance, authorize States to provide coordi- lic Health Service Act to authorize the and for other purposes; to the Committee on nated care to children with complex the Judiciary. expansion of activities related to Alz- By Mr. MENENDEZ (for himself and medical conditions through enhanced heimer’s disease, cognitive decline, and Ms. COLLINS): pediatric health homes, and for other brain health under the Alzheimer’s Dis- S. 2562. A bill to posthumously award a purposes. ease and Healthy Aging Program, and Congressional Gold Medal to Alice Paul in S. 479 for other purposes. recognition of her role in the women’s suf- At the request of Mr. BROWN, the S. 2135 frage movement and in advancing equal name of the Senator from Washington At the request of Mr. CORNYN, the rights for women; to the Committee on (Ms. CANTWELL) was added as a cospon- Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. name of the Senator from Hawaii (Mr. By Mr. FLAKE (for himself, Mr. sor of S. 479, a bill to amend title XVIII SCHATZ) was added as a cosponsor of S. MCCAIN, Mr. GARDNER, and Mr. BAR- of the Social Security Act to waive co- 2135, a bill to enforce current law re- RASSO): insurance under Medicare for garding the National Instant Criminal S. 2563. A bill to improve the water supply colorectal cancer screening tests, re- Background Check System. and drought resilience of the United States, gardless of whether therapeutic inter- S. 2269 and for other purposes; to the Committee on vention is required during the screen- At the request of Mr. CASEY, the Energy and Natural Resources. ing. names of the Senator from Maryland By Mr. TILLIS (for himself, Mr. COR- S. 636 AN OLLEN NYN, and Mr. GRASSLEY): (Mr. V H ) and the Senator S. 2564. A bill to amend title 11, United At the request of Mrs. MURRAY, the from Indiana (Mr. YOUNG) were added States Code, to promote the investigation of name of the Senator from Nevada (Ms. as cosponsors of S. 2269, a bill to reau- fraudulent claims against certain trusts, to CORTEZ MASTO) was added as a cospon- thorize the Global Food Security Act amend title 18, United States Code, to pro- sor of S. 636, a bill to allow Americans of 2016 for 5 additional years. vide penalties against fraudulent claims to earn paid sick time so that they can S. 2398 against certain trusts, and for other pur- address their own health needs and the At the request of Mr. HOEVEN, the poses; to the Committee on the Judiciary. health needs of their families. By Ms. DUCKWORTH (for herself, Ms. name of the Senator from South Da- HIRONO, Mr. BLUMENTHAL, Ms. KLO- S. 936 kota (Mr. THUNE) was added as a co- BUCHAR, Mrs. GILLIBRAND, Ms. HAS- At the request of Mr. WHITEHOUSE, sponsor of S. 2398, a bill to amend title SAN, Ms. SMITH, and Mr. NELSON): the name of the Senator from Vermont 31, United States Code, to provide that

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:32 Jun 10, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD18\MARCH\S15MR8.REC S15MR8 bjneal on DSKBBX8HB2PROD with CONG-REC-ONLINE S1766 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 15, 2018 activities relating to the training and uals by providing, with appropriate sure could prevent millions of prescrip- readiness of the reserve components of safeguards, that copyright protection tion opioid pills from ending up on the the Armed Forces during a lapse in ap- should not impede the creation and dis- black market. propriations shall constitute voluntary tribution of accessible format copies, Unfortunately, current law has inad- services that may be accepted by the including the exchange of such copies vertently created a standard that is United States. internationally. too high for DOJ to meet in order to S. 2500 The Marrakesh Treaty Implementa- take immediate action against those At the request of Mr. CASEY, the tion Act represents a consensus ap- who fail to make these disclosures to name of the Senator from Oregon (Mr. proach developed by the Senate Judici- the DEA or who fail to adequately pro- WYDEN) was added as a cosponsor of S. ary and Foreign Relations Committees tect against diversion. 2500, a bill to award a Congressional with stakeholders within the pub- For instance, the DEA has told my Gold Medal, collectively, to the women lishers, libraries and print disabilities staff that under current law, in order in the United States who joined the communities, in consultation with the to immediately stop a drug manufac- workforce during World War II, pro- U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and turer or distributor from distributing viding the vehicles, weaponry, and am- the U.S. Copyright Office as well as opioids, a pharmacy from dispensing munition to win the war, that were re- other interested industry and public in- opioids, or a practitioner from pre- ferred to as ‘‘Rosie the Riveter’’, in terest stakeholders. I particularly scribing opioids, it must prove that the recognition of their contributions to want to commend the National Federa- distribution, dispensation, or prescrip- the United States and the inspiration tion of the Blind, the Association of tion of the drugs directly resulted in an they have provided to ensuing genera- American Publishers and the Library immediate and substantial likelihood tions. Copyright Alliance for working with us that death, serious bodily harm, or abuse of a controlled substance oc- S. 2507 in reaching an agreement on legisla- tive text and proposed legislative his- curred. At the request of Mr. BARRASSO, the For this reason, the bill Senator CAP- name of the Senator from Mississippi tory. We would not be here today with- out their efforts. ITO and I are introducing today would (Mr. WICKER) was added as a cosponsor change the standard in current law to of S. 2507, a bill to require short-term I look forward to working with my make it easier to immediately stop po- limited duration insurance issuers to colleagues on the Foreign Relations tentially dangerous shipments of pre- renew or continue in force such cov- Committee, Chairman CORKER and scription opioids. It would allow DOJ erage at the option of the enrollees. Ranking Member MENENDEZ, on ratifi- cation of the Marrakesh Treaty in the to take action when it can demonstrate S. CON. RES. 7 Senate, and with Judiciary Committee that an opioid manufacturer or dis- At the request of Mr. ROBERTS, the Ranking Member FEINSTEIN on passing tributor’s lack of control over a pre- name of the Senator from Iowa (Mr. the Marrakesh Treaty Implementation scription opioid would likely result in GRASSLEY) was added as a cosponsor of Act. the drugs winding up in the hands of S. Con. Res. 7, a concurrent resolution someone other than the intended re- expressing the sense of Congress that By Mrs. FEINSTEIN (for herself cipient or on the black market. tax-exempt fraternal benefit societies and Mrs. CAPITO): This change will compel opioid man- have historically provided and con- S. 2561. A bill to authorize the Attor- ufacturers and distributors to be more tinue to provide critical benefits to the ney General to suspend a controlled vigilant in their efforts to report and people and communities of the United substances registration if there is a stop the delivery of suspicious orders of States. likelihood of a threat of diversion of a opioids as well as to protect against di- S. RES. 434 controlled substance, and for other version. In the absence of such vigi- At the request of Mr. COONS, the purposes; to the Committee on the Ju- lance, our bill would allow DOJ to im- name of the Senator from New Mexico diciary. mediately stop the delivery of opioids. (Mr. UDALL) was added as a cosponsor Ms. FEINSTEIN. Mr. President, I rise Our bill further ensures that bad ac- of S. Res. 434, a resolution recognizing today with my colleague, Senator CAP- tors are held accountable by estab- the contributions of AmeriCorps mem- ITO, to introduce the Stopping Sus- lishing backstops and consequences for bers and alumni to the lives of the peo- picious Orders of Opioids Act. when opioid manufacturers, distribu- ple of the United States. In 2016, the opioid epidemic caused tors, dispensers, and prescribers fail to f more than 42,000 deaths in the United take corrective action. States. Under current law, if there is no im- STATEMENTS ON INTRODUCED In 2017, this epidemic was declared a mediate threat to the public health or BILLS AND JOINT RESOLUTIONS public health emergency. safety, opioid manufacturers, distribu- By Mr. GRASSLEY (for himself, Now, more than 400 State, local, and tors, dispensers and prescribers can Mrs. FEINSTEIN, Mr. CORKER, Tribal governments have filed suits submit a corrective action plan to DOJ Mr. MENENDEZ, Mr. HATCH, Ms. (some consolidated, some individual) before their registrations can be re- HARRIS, and Mr. LEAHY): against opioid manufacturers and dis- voked or suspended. DOJ does not have S. 2559. A bill to amend title 17, tributors for their alleged roles in fuel- to accept this plan, but if it does, cur- United States Code, to implement the ing and perpetuating this devastating rent law does not outline a timeframe Marrakesh Treaty, and for other pur- crisis. The U.S. Justice Department, or by which the plan must be fully imple- poses; to the Committee on the Judici- DOJ, has filed a statement of interest mented or consequences for failure to ary. in these lawsuits, which are currently do so. Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, I rise pending. Given the magnitude of the opioid today to introduce legislation that As our Nation struggles to effectively epidemic, this is unacceptable. would implement the Marrakesh Trea- address the opioid epidemic, one thing That is why our bill would require ty to Facilitate Access to Published is clear: there is no silver bullet. those who manufacture, distribute, dis- Works for Persons Who are Blind, Vis- Yet, it is also clear that law enforce- pense or prescribe opioids to fully im- ually Impaired, or Otherwise Print Dis- ment can play a critical role in pre- plement any plan that is accepted by abled (‘‘Marrakesh Treaty’’). I’m venting and reducing overdose deaths. DOJ within 30 days. Failure to do so pleased that Senators FEINSTEIN, That is why we must ensure that law will result in the immediate suspension CORKER, MENENDEZ, HATCH, HARRIS and enforcement has and uses the nec- of a registration until the reinstated LEAHY are joining me as original co- essary tools to hold opioid manufactur- proceedings to deny, revoke, or suspend sponsors. ers, distributors and others account- the registration permanently have con- The Marrakesh Treaty was signed by able when they fail to properly disclose cluded. the United States in October 2013. It to the Drug Enforcement Administra- Mr. President, I have been struck by seeks to help address the global ‘‘book tion, or the DEA, opioid orders that are the seemingly countless examples of famine’’ and facilitate access to print- suspicious because of their size, fre- opioid manufacturers and distributors ed works for visually impaired individ- quency, or patterns. This simple disclo- that have done little to safeguard

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:47 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A15MR6.008 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1767 against diversion that have been raised sonnel security clearance investigations at a single Government-wide background inves- in hearings, roundtables, and in the the Bureau for the most recent full calendar tigations enterprise. news over the last several years. quarter, which shall include— SEC. 6. REPORTS ON CONTINUOUS EVALUATION, The example most often cited is that (1) the size of the backlog of personnel se- RECIPROCITY, AND TIMELINESS curity clearance investigations of the Bu- MEASURES. of Kermit, West Virginia, where, over a reau, including, for each sensitivity level— Not later than 120 days after the date of two year period nine million opioids (A) the number of interim clearances enactment of this Act, the Director shall were delivered to a single pharmacy. granted; submit to Congress reports that provide— Between 2007 and 2012, 780 million (B) the number of initial investigations for (1) the status of implementing continuous oxycodone and hydrocodone pills were Federal employees; evaluation Government-wide, including— delivered to pharmacies throughout (C) the number of periodic reinvestigations (A) the number of agencies with contin- that state. This resulted in 1,728 fatal for Federal employees; uous evaluation programs and how many of overdoses that were largely prevent- (D) the number of initial investigations for those programs are currently conducting employees of Federal contractors; automated records checks of the required able. (E) the number of periodic reinvestigations data sources as identified by the Director; We cannot allow this to happen for employees of Federal contractors; and again. (F) the number of initial investigations for (B) a discussion of the barriers for agencies The bill Senator CAPITO and I are in- employees of, and employees of contractors to implement continuous evaluation pro- troducing today will strengthen cur- of, the Department of Defense; grams, including any requirement under a rent law by providing law enforcement (G) the number of periodic reinvestigations statute, regulation, Executive Order, or with the additional tools it needs to for employees of and employees of contrac- other administrative requirement; better and more proactively combat tors of the Department of Defense; (2) a detailed explanation of efforts by (H) the number of employees of the Bureau agencies to meet requirements for reciprocal the opioid epidemic and hold bad ac- conducting background investigations for recognition to access classified information, tors accountable. the Bureau; and including— I hope my colleagues will join us in (I) the number of employees of contractors (A) the range of the length of time for supporting this important legislation. of the Bureau conducting background inves- agencies to grant reciprocal recognition to Thank you, Mr. President. I yield the tigations for the Bureau; access classified information; floor. (2) the average length of time, for each sen- (B) additional requirements for reinves- sitivity level, for the Bureau to carry out an tigations or readjudications, by agency; and f initial investigation and a periodic reinves- (C) any other barriers to the timely grant- AMENDMENTS SUBMITTED AND tigation; ing of reciprocity, by agency, including any PROPOSED (3) a discussion of the factors contributing requirement under a statute, regulation, Ex- to the average length of time to carry out an ecutive Order, or other administrative re- SA 2210. Mr. MCCONNELL (for Mr. JOHN- initial investigation and a periodic reinves- quirement; and SON (for himself and Mrs. MCCASKILL)) pro- tigation; (3) a review of whether the schedule for posed an amendment to the bill H.R. 3210, to (4) a backlog mitigation plan, which shall processing security clearances under section require the Director of the National Back- include— 3001 of the Intelligence Reform and Ter- ground Investigations Bureau to submit a re- (A) the identification of the cause of, and rorism Prevention Act of 2004 (50 U.S.C. 3341) port on the backlog of personnel security recommendations to remedy, the backlog at should be modified. clearance investigations, and for other pur- the Bureau; SEC. 7. REVIEW AND UPDATE OF POSITION DES- poses. (B) the steps the Director of the Bureau IGNATION GUIDANCE. SA 2211. Mr. MCCONNELL (for Mr. GRASS- shall take to reduce the backlog; (a) DEFINITIONS.—In this section— LEY) proposed an amendment to the bill S. (C) process reforms to improve efficiencies (1) the term ‘‘agency’’ has the meaning 1869, to reauthorize and rename the position in, and the quality of, background investiga- given the term in Executive Order 13467 (73 of Whistleblower Ombudsman to be the Whis- tions by the Bureau; and Fed. Reg. 38103), or any successor thereto; tleblower Protection Coordinator. (D) a projection of when the backlog at the (2) the term ‘‘appropriate congressional f Bureau will be sufficiently reduced to meet committees’’ means— required timeliness standards; and (A) the Committee on Homeland Security TEXT OF AMENDMENTS (5) a description of improvements in the in- and Governmental Affairs and the Select formation and data security of the Bureau. SA 2210. Mr. MCCONNELL (for Mr. Committee on Intelligence of the Senate; SEC. 4. REPORT ON SECURITY CLEARANCE IN- JOHNSON (for himself and Mrs. MCCAS- and VESTIGATIONS OF PERSONNEL OF (B) the Committee on Oversight and Gov- KILL)) proposed an amendment to the THE EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE ernment Reform and the Permanent Select bill H.R. 3210, to require the Director of PRESIDENT. Not later than 90 days after the date of en- Committee on Intelligence of the House of the National Background Investiga- Representatives; tions Bureau to submit a report on the actment of this Act, the Director of the Of- fice of Administration of the Executive Of- (3) the term ‘‘background investigation’’ backlog of personnel security clearance fice of the President, in coordination with means any investigation required for the investigations, and for other purposes; the Director and the Director of the Office, purpose of determining the— as follows: shall submit to Congress a report that ex- (A) eligibility of a covered individual for logical and physical access to Federally con- Strike all after the enacting clause and in- plains the process for conducting and adjudi- trolled facilities or information systems; sert the following: cating security clearance investigations for (B) suitability or fitness of a covered indi- SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. personnel of the Executive Office of the President, including personnel of the White vidual for Federal employment; This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Securely Ex- House Office. (C) eligibility of a covered individual for pediting Clearances Through Reporting access to classified information or to hold a Transparency Act of 2018’’ or the ‘‘SECRET SEC. 5. REPORT ON COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH BI- FURCATED BACKGROUND INVES- national security sensitive position; or Act of 2018’’. TIGATION SYSTEMS. (D) fitness of a covered individual to per- SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS. Not later than 120 days after the date of form work for or on behalf of the United In this Act— enactment of this Act, the Director of the States Government as a contractor em- (1) the term ‘‘Bureau’’ means the National Office, in consultation with the other mem- ployee; and Background Investigations Bureau of the Of- bers of the Suitability and Security Clear- (4) the term ‘‘covered individual’’— fice; ance Performance Accountability Council es- (A) means a person who performs work for (2) the term ‘‘Director’’ means the Director tablished under Executive Order 13467 (73 or on behalf of the executive branch or seeks of National Intelligence acting as the Secu- Fed. Reg. 38103) and the Under Secretary of to perform work for or on behalf of the exec- rity Executive Agent; and Defense for Intelligence, shall submit to utive branch; (3) the term ‘‘Office’’ means the Office of Congress a report on the cost of maintaining (B) is not limited to Federal employees; Personnel Management acting as the Suit- comprehensive background investigations (C) includes all persons, not excluded under ability and Credentialing Executive Agent. capability within the Office under the con- subparagraph (D), who require eligibility for SEC. 3. REPORT ON BACKLOG OF PERSONNEL SE- trol or direction of the Bureau and a back- access to classified information or eligibility CURITY CLEARANCE INVESTIGA- ground investigations capability for Depart- to hold a sensitive position, including, but TIONS. ment of Defense personnel under the control not limited to, contractors, subcontractors, Not later than 90 days after the date of en- or direction of the Department of Defense for licensees, certificate holders, grantees, ex- actment of this Act, and quarterly thereafter implementation of the plan referenced in perts, consultants, and government employ- for 5 years, the Director of the Bureau, in co- section 925 of the National Defense Author- ees; and ordination with the Director, shall submit to ization Act for Fiscal Year 2018 (Public Law (D) does not include— Congress a report on the backlog of per- 115–91), as compared to the cost of sustaining (i) the President;

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:47 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A15MR6.012 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S1768 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 15, 2018 (ii) employees of the President under sec- Thursday, March 15, 2018, at 10 a.m. to SEC. 2. REPORT ON BACKLOG OF PERSONNEL SE- tion 105 or 107 of title 3, United States Code conduct a hearing. CURITY CLEARANCE INVESTIGA- (except to the extent otherwise directed by TIONS. COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN RELATIONS the President); Not later than 90 days after the date of enact- (iii) the Vice President; or The Committee on Foreign Relations ment of this Act, and quarterly thereafter for 5 (iv) employees of the Vice President under is authorized to meet during the ses- years, the Director of the National Background section 106 of title 3, United States Code, or sion of the Senate on Wednesday, Investigations Bureau of the Office of Personnel an annual legislative branch appropriations March 14, 2018, at 10 a.m. to conduct a Management shall submit to Congress a report Act (except to the extent otherwise directed hearing entitled, ‘‘Review of the FY on the backlog of security clearance investiga- tions that includes, for the most recent full cal- by the Vice President). 2019 State Department Budget.’’ (b) REVIEW AND UPDATING.— endar quarter— THE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH, EDUCATION, (1) INITIAL REVIEW AND UPDATE OF GUID- (1) the size of the personnel security clearance LABOR, AND PENSIONS ANCE.—Not later than 180 days after the date investigation process backlog, including, for of enactment of this Act, the Director and The Committee on Health, Edu- each sensitivity level— the Director of the Office shall review and cation, Labor, and Pensions is author- (A) the number of interim clearances granted; make recommendations to Congress and the ized to meet during the session of the (B) the number of initial investigations for President as appropriate to issue guidance to Federal employees; Senate on Thursday, March 15, 2018, at (C) the number of periodic reinvestigations for assist agencies in determining— 10 a.m. to conduct a hearing entitled (A) position sensitivity designation; and Federal employees; ‘‘Perspective on the 340B Drug Pricing (D) the number of initial investigations for (B) the appropriate background investiga- employees of Federal contractors; tion to initiate for each position designation. Program.’’ (E) the number of periodic reinvestigations for (2) REVIEWS AND REVISIONS OF POSITION DES- COMMITTEE ON THE JUDICIARY employees of Federal contractors; IGNATIONS.—Not less frequently than every 4 The Committee on the Judiciary is (F) the number of initial investigations for em- years, the President, acting through relevant authorized to meet during the session ployees of, and employees of contractors of, the agencies (as determined by the President) of the Senate on Thursday, March 15, Department of Defense; and in accordance with the guidance de- 2018, at 9:30 a.m., to conduct a hearing. (G) the number of periodic reinvestigations for scribed in paragraph (1), shall review and, if COMMITTEE ON VETERANS’ AFFAIRS employees of and employees of contractors of the necessary, revise the position designation of Department of Defense; positions within agencies. The Committee on Veterans’ Affairs (H) the number of Federal employees con- (c) REPORTS TO CONGRESS.—Not later than is authorized to meet during the ses- ducting background investigations; and 30 days after completing a review under sub- sion of the Senate on Wednesday, (I) the number of employees of Federal con- section (b)(2), the President shall submit to March 14, 2018, at 10 a.m. to conduct a tractors conducting background investigations; the appropriate congressional committees a joint hearing. (2) the average length of time, for each sensi- report on— tivity level, to carry out an initial investigation SELECT COMMITTEE ON INTELLIGENCE (1) any issues identified in the review; and and a periodic reinvestigation; (2) the number of position designations re- The Select Committee on Intel- (3) a discussion of the factors contributing to vised as a result of the review. ligence is authorized to meet during the average length of time to carry out an initial (d) NO CHANGE IN AUTHORITY.—Nothing in the session of the Senate on Wednes- investigation and a periodic reinvestigation; this section limits or expands the authority day, March 14, 2018, at 10 a.m. to con- (4) a backlog mitigation plan, which shall in- of any agency to designate a position as sen- duct a hearing on nomination of Lieu- clude— sitive or as requiring its occupant to have (A) the identification of the cause of, and rec- access to classified information. tenant General Paul M. Nakasone, to be Director of the National Security ommendations to remedy, the backlog; (B) the steps the Director shall take to reduce SA 2211. Mr. MCCONNELL (for Mr. Agency, Department of Defense. the backlog; GRASSLEY) proposed an amendment to f (C) process reforms to improve efficiencies in, the bill S. 1869, to reauthorize and re- PRIVILEGES OF THE FLOOR and the quality of, background investigations; name the position of Whistleblower and Ombudsman to be the Whistleblower Ms. MURKOWSKI. Mr. President, I (D) a projection of when the backlog will be Protection Coordinator; as follows: ask unanimous consent that Kennis sufficiently reduced to meet required timeliness standards; and On page 6, strike lines 1 through 3 and in- Brady, a member of my staff, be grant- ed floor privileges for the remainder of (5) a description of improvements in informa- sert the following: tion and data security. EPEAL OF UNSET the day. (d) R S .— SEC. 3. REPORT ON SECURITY CLEARANCE INVES- (1) IN GENERAL.—Subsection (c) of section The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without TIGATIONS OF PERSONNEL OF THE 117 of the Whistleblower Protection En- objection, it is so ordered. EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESI- hancement Act of 2012 (Public Law 112–199; f DENT. 126 Stat. 1475) is repealed. Not later than 90 days after the date of enact- (2) RETROACTIVE EFFECTIVE DATE.—The SECURELY EXPEDITING CLEAR- ment of this Act, the Director of the Office of amendment made by paragraph (1) shall take ANCES THROUGH REPORTING Administration of the Executive Office of the effect on November 26, 2017. TRANSPARENCY ACT OF 2017 President shall submit to Congress a report that f explains the process for conducting and adjudi- Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I cating security clearance investigations for per- AUTHORITY FOR COMMITTEES TO ask unanimous consent that the Sen- sonnel of the Executive Office of the President, MEET ate proceed to the immediate consider- including White House personnel. Mrs. FISCHER. Mr. President, I have ation of Calendar No. 264, H.R. 3210. SEC. 4. REPORT ON DUPLICATIVE COSTS. 7 requests for committees to meet dur- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Not later than 120 days after the date of en- clerk will report the bill by title. actment of this Act, the Director of the Office of ing today’s session of the Senate. They Management and Budget, in consultation with have the approval of the Majority and The legislative clerk read as follows: A bill (H.R. 3210) to require the Director of the other members of the Suitability and Secu- Minority leaders. rity Clearance Performance Accountability Pursuant to rule XXVI, paragraph the National Background Investigations Bu- reau to submit a report on the backlog of Council established under Executive Order 13467 5(a), of the Standing Rules of the Sen- personnel security clearance investigations, (73 Fed. Reg. 38103), shall submit to Congress a ate, the following committees are au- and for other purposes. report on the cost of duplicating resources under thorized to meet during today’s session the control or direction of the National Back- There being no objection, the Senate of the Senate: ground Investigations Bureau for implementa- proceeded to consider the bill, which tion of the plan referenced in section 951(a)(1) of COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES had been reported from the Committee the National Defense Authorization Act for Fis- The Committee on Armed Services is on Homeland Security and Govern- cal Year 2017 (10 U.S.C. 1564 note). authorized to meet during the session mental Affairs, with an amendment to SEC. 5. REPORT ON CONTINUOUS EVALUATION of the Senate on Thursday, March 15, strike all after the enacting clause and AND RECIPROCITY. 2018, at 9:30 a.m. to conduct a hearing. insert in lieu thereof the following: Not later than 120 days after the date of en- actment of this Act, the Director of National In- COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND NATURAL SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. telligence and the Director of the Office of Per- RESOURCES This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Securely Expe- sonnel Management shall submit to Congress a The Committee on Energy and Nat- diting Clearances Through Reporting Trans- report that provides— ural Resources is authorized to meet parency Act of 2017’’ or the ‘‘SECRET Act of (1) the status of implementing continuous during the session of the Senate on 2017’’. evaluation Governmentwide, including—

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:09 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A15MR6.015 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1769 (A) the number of agencies with continuous (A) position sensitivity designation; and (G) the number of periodic reinvestigations evaluation programs and how many of those (B) the appropriate background investigation for employees of and employees of contrac- programs are currently meeting the investigative to initiate for each position designation. tors of the Department of Defense; standards; (2) REVIEWS AND REVISIONS OF POSITION DES- (H) the number of employees of the Bureau (B) a risk assessment of replacing current re- IGNATIONS.—Not less frequently than every 4 conducting background investigations for investigation requirements with continuous years, the President, acting through relevant the Bureau; and evaluation programs by 2020; agencies (as determined by the President) and in (I) the number of employees of contractors (C) a discussion of the barriers for agencies to accordance with the guidance described in para- of the Bureau conducting background inves- implement continuous evaluation programs, in- graph (1), shall review and, if necessary, revise tigations for the Bureau; cluding any requirement under a statute, regu- the position designation of positions within (2) the average length of time, for each sen- lation, Executive Order, or other administrative agencies. sitivity level, for the Bureau to carry out an requirement; and (c) REPORTS TO CONGRESS.—Not later than 30 initial investigation and a periodic reinves- (D) plans, including timelines, for imple- days after completing a review under subsection tigation; menting continuous evaluation Governmentwide (b)(2), the President shall submit to the appro- (3) a discussion of the factors contributing and phasing out periodic reinvestigations; priate congressional committees a report on— to the average length of time to carry out an (2) a detailed explanation of efforts by agen- (1) any issues identified in the review; and initial investigation and a periodic reinves- (2) the number of position designations revised cies to meet requirements for reciprocal recogni- tigation; as a result of the review. tion to access classified information, including— (4) a backlog mitigation plan, which shall (d) NO CHANGE IN AUTHORITY.—Nothing in (A) the range of the length of time for agen- include— cies to grant reciprocal recognition to access this section limits or expands the authority of any agency to designate a position as sensitive (A) the identification of the cause of, and classified information; recommendations to remedy, the backlog at (B) additional requirements for reinvestiga- or as requiring its occupant to have access to classified information. the Bureau; tions or readjudications, by agency; and (B) the steps the Director of the Bureau (C) any other barriers to the timely granting Mr. MCCONNELL. I ask unanimous shall take to reduce the backlog; of reciprocity, by agency, including any require- consent that the committee-reported (C) process reforms to improve efficiencies ment under a statute, regulation, Executive amendment be withdrawn; that the in, and the quality of, background investiga- Order, or other administrative requirement; tions by the Bureau; and (3) recommendations, including timelines, to Johnson-McCaskill substitute amend- (D) a projection of when the backlog at the improve the background investigation process ment be considered and agreed to; that Bureau will be sufficiently reduced to meet to— the bill, as amended, be considered (A) simplify the Questionnaire for National read a third time and passed; and that required timeliness standards; and Security Positions (Standard Form 86) and in- the motion to reconsider be considered (5) a description of improvements in the in- formation and data security of the Bureau. crease customer support for applicants com- made and laid upon the table. pleting such questionnaire; The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without SEC. 4. REPORT ON SECURITY CLEARANCE IN- (B) use remote and virtual techniques and VESTIGATIONS OF PERSONNEL OF objection, it is so ordered. THE EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE centralized locations during field investigation The committee-reported amendment PRESIDENT. work; in the nature of a substitute was with- Not later than 90 days after the date of en- (C) use secure and reliable digitization of in- actment of this Act, the Director of the Of- formation obtained during the clearance proc- drawn. The amendment (No. 2210) in the na- fice of Administration of the Executive Of- ess; and fice of the President, in coordination with (D) build the capacity of the background in- ture of a substitute was agreed to, as the Director and the Director of the Office, vestigation labor sector; and follows: shall submit to Congress a report that ex- (4) a review of whether the schedule for proc- (Purpose: In the nature of a substitute) plains the process for conducting and adjudi- essing security clearances under section 3001 of Strike all after the enacting clause and in- cating security clearance investigations for the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Preven- sert the following: personnel of the Executive Office of the tion Act of 2004 (50 U.S.C. 3341) should be modi- SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. President, including personnel of the White fied. This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Securely Ex- House Office. SEC. 6. REVIEW AND UPDATE OF POSITION DES- pediting Clearances Through Reporting SEC. 5. REPORT ON COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH BI- IGNATION GUIDANCE. Transparency Act of 2018’’ or the ‘‘SECRET FURCATED BACKGROUND INVES- (a) DEFINITIONS.—In this section— Act of 2018’’. TIGATION SYSTEMS. (1) the term ‘‘agency’’ has the meaning given SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS. Not later than 120 days after the date of the term in Executive Order 13467 (73 Fed. Reg. In this Act— enactment of this Act, the Director of the 38103), or any successor thereto; (1) the term ‘‘Bureau’’ means the National Office, in consultation with the other mem- (2) the term ‘‘appropriate congressional com- Background Investigations Bureau of the Of- bers of the Suitability and Security Clear- mittees’’ means— ance Performance Accountability Council es- (A) the Committee on Homeland Security and fice; tablished under Executive Order 13467 (73 Governmental Affairs and the Select Committee (2) the term ‘‘Director’’ means the Director Fed. Reg. 38103) and the Under Secretary of on Intelligence of the Senate; and of National Intelligence acting as the Secu- (B) the Committee on Oversight and Govern- rity Executive Agent; and Defense for Intelligence, shall submit to ment Reform and the Permanent Select Com- (3) the term ‘‘Office’’ means the Office of Congress a report on the cost of maintaining mittee on Intelligence of the House of Represent- Personnel Management acting as the Suit- comprehensive background investigations atives; ability and Credentialing Executive Agent. capability within the Office under the con- (3) the term ‘‘background investigation’’ SEC. 3. REPORT ON BACKLOG OF PERSONNEL SE- trol or direction of the Bureau and a back- means any investigation required for the pur- CURITY CLEARANCE INVESTIGA- ground investigations capability for Depart- pose of determining the— TIONS. ment of Defense personnel under the control (A) eligibility of a covered individual for log- Not later than 90 days after the date of en- or direction of the Department of Defense for ical and physical access to Federally controlled actment of this Act, and quarterly thereafter implementation of the plan referenced in for 5 years, the Director of the Bureau, in co- facilities or information systems; section 925 of the National Defense Author- (B) suitability or fitness of a covered indi- ordination with the Director, shall submit to ization Act for Fiscal Year 2018 (Public Law vidual for Federal employment; Congress a report on the backlog of per- 115–91), as compared to the cost of sustaining (C) eligibility of a covered individual for ac- sonnel security clearance investigations at a single Government-wide background inves- cess to classified information or to hold a na- the Bureau for the most recent full calendar tigations enterprise. tional security sensitive position; or quarter, which shall include— SEC. 6. REPORTS ON CONTINUOUS EVALUATION, (D) fitness of a covered individual to perform (1) the size of the backlog of personnel se- RECIPROCITY, AND TIMELINESS work for or on behalf of the United States Gov- curity clearance investigations of the Bu- MEASURES. ernment as a contractor employee; and reau, including, for each sensitivity level— Not later than 120 days after the date of (4) the term ‘‘covered individual’’ means an (A) the number of interim clearances enactment of this Act, the Director shall individual who— granted; submit to Congress reports that provide— (A) performs work for or on behalf of an agen- (B) the number of initial investigations for (1) the status of implementing continuous cy; or Federal employees; evaluation Government-wide, including— (B) seeks to perform work for or on behalf of (C) the number of periodic reinvestigations (A) the number of agencies with contin- an agency. for Federal employees; uous evaluation programs and how many of (b) REVIEW AND UPDATING.— (D) the number of initial investigations for those programs are currently conducting (1) INITIAL REVIEW AND UPDATE OF GUID- employees of Federal contractors; automated records checks of the required ANCE.—Not later than 180 days after the date of (E) the number of periodic reinvestigations data sources as identified by the Director; enactment of this Act, the President shall review for employees of Federal contractors; and and, if appropriate, update the guidance the (F) the number of initial investigations for (B) a discussion of the barriers for agencies President issues to assist agencies in deter- employees of, and employees of contractors to implement continuous evaluation pro- mining— of, the Department of Defense; grams, including any requirement under a

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:09 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A15MR6.019 S15MRPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S1770 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 15, 2018 statute, regulation, Executive Order, or (B) the appropriate background investiga- tor General, the Office of Special Counsel, other administrative requirement; tion to initiate for each position designation. the Merit Systems Protection Board, and (2) a detailed explanation of efforts by (2) REVIEWS AND REVISIONS OF POSITION DES- any other relevant entities; and agencies to meet requirements for reciprocal IGNATIONS.—Not less frequently than every 4 ‘‘(bb) general information about the time- recognition to access classified information, years, the President, acting through relevant liness of such cases, the availability of any including— agencies (as determined by the President) alternative dispute mechanisms, and ave- (A) the range of the length of time for and in accordance with the guidance de- nues for potential relief.’’; and agencies to grant reciprocal recognition to scribed in paragraph (1), shall review and, if (E) by adding at the end the following: access classified information; necessary, revise the position designation of ‘‘(ii) assist the Inspector General in pro- (B) additional requirements for reinves- positions within agencies. moting the timely and appropriate handling tigations or readjudications, by agency; and (c) REPORTS TO CONGRESS.—Not later than and consideration of protected disclosures (C) any other barriers to the timely grant- 30 days after completing a review under sub- and allegations of reprisal, to the extent ing of reciprocity, by agency, including any section (b)(2), the President shall submit to practicable, by the Inspector General; and requirement under a statute, regulation, Ex- the appropriate congressional committees a ‘‘(iii) assist the Inspector General in facili- ecutive Order, or other administrative re- report on— tating communication and coordination with quirement; and (1) any issues identified in the review; and the Special Counsel, the Council of the In- (3) a review of whether the schedule for (2) the number of position designations re- spectors General on Integrity and Efficiency, processing security clearances under section vised as a result of the review. the øagency¿ establishment, Congress, and 3001 of the Intelligence Reform and Ter- (d) NO CHANGE IN AUTHORITY.—Nothing in any other relevant entity regarding the rorism Prevention Act of 2004 (50 U.S.C. 3341) this section limits or expands the authority timely and appropriate handling and consid- should be modified. of any agency to designate a position as sen- eration of protected disclosures, allegations of reprisal, and general matters regarding SEC. 7. REVIEW AND UPDATE OF POSITION DES- sitive or as requiring its occupant to have IGNATION GUIDANCE. access to classified information. the implementation and administration of whistleblower protection laws, rules, and (a) DEFINITIONS.—In this section— The amendment was ordered to be regulations.’’; (1) the term ‘‘agency’’ has the meaning engrossed and the bill to be read a (2) in paragraph (2), by striking ‘‘Ombuds- given the term in Executive Order 13467 (73 third time. man’’ and inserting ‘‘Coordinator’’; Fed. Reg. 38103), or any successor thereto; The bill was read the third time. (3) by redesignating paragraph (3) as para- (2) the term ‘‘appropriate congressional graph (4); and committees’’ means— The bill (H.R. 3210), as amended, was passed. (4) by inserting after paragraph (2) the fol- (A) the Committee on Homeland Security lowing: and Governmental Affairs and the Select f ‘‘(3) The Whistleblower Protection Coordi- Committee on Intelligence of the Senate; WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTION nator shall have direct access to the Inspec- and tor General as needed to accomplish the re- (B) the Committee on Oversight and Gov- COORDINATION ACT quirements of this subsection.’’. ernment Reform and the Permanent Select Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I (b) RESPONSIBILITIES OF CIGIE.—Section Committee on Intelligence of the House of ask unanimous consent that the Sen- 11(c) of the Inspector General Act of 1978 (5 Representatives; U.S.C. App.) is amended by adding at the end (3) the term ‘‘background investigation’’ ate proceed to the immediate consider- the following: means any investigation required for the ation of Calendar No. 286, S. 1869. ‘‘(5) ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES RELATING purpose of determining the— The PRESIDING OFFICER. The TO WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTION.—The Council (A) eligibility of a covered individual for clerk will report the bill by title. shall— logical and physical access to Federally con- The legislative clerk read as follows: ‘‘(A) facilitate the work of the Whistle- trolled facilities or information systems; A bill (S. 1869) to reauthorize and rename blower Protection Coordinators designated (B) suitability or fitness of a covered indi- the position of Whistleblower Ombudsman to under section 3(d)(C); and vidual for Federal employment; be the Whistleblower Protection Coordi- ‘‘(B) in consultation with the Office of Spe- (C) eligibility of a covered individual for cial Counsel and Whistleblower Protection nator. access to classified information or to hold a Coordinators from the member offices of the national security sensitive position; or There being no objection, the Senate Inspector General, develop best practices for (D) fitness of a covered individual to per- proceeded to consider the bill, which coordination and communication in pro- form work for or on behalf of the United had been reported from the Committee moting the timely and appropriate handling States Government as a contractor em- on Homeland Security and Govern- and consideration of protected disclosures, ployee; and mental Affairs, with an amendment, as allegations of reprisal, and general matters (4) the term ‘‘covered individual’’— follows: regarding the implementation and adminis- (A) means a person who performs work for tration of whistleblower protection laws, in or on behalf of the executive branch or seeks (The part of the bill intended to be accordance with Federal law.’’. to perform work for or on behalf of the exec- stricken is shown in boldface brackets (c) REPORTING.—Section 5 of the Inspector utive branch; and the part of the bill intended to be General Act of 1978 (5 U.S.C. App.) is amend- (B) is not limited to Federal employees; inserted is shown in italics.) ed— (1) in subsection (a), by amending para- (C) includes all persons, not excluded under S. 1869 subparagraph (D), who require eligibility for graph (20) to read as follows: Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- access to classified information or eligibility ‘‘(20)(A) a detailed description of any in- resentatives of the United States of America in to hold a sensitive position, including, but stance of whistleblower retaliation, includ- Congress assembled, not limited to, contractors, subcontractors, ing information about the official found to licensees, certificate holders, grantees, ex- SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. have engaged in retaliation; and perts, consultants, and government employ- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Whistle- ‘‘(B) what, if any, consequences the estab- ees; and blower Protection Coordination Act’’. lishment actually imposed to hold the offi- (D) does not include— SEC. 2. REAUTHORIZATION. cial described in subparagraph (A) account- (i) the President; (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 3(d) of the Inspec- able;’’; and (ii) employees of the President under sec- tor General Act of 1978 (5 U.S.C. App.) is (2) in subsection (b)— tion 105 or 107 of title 3, United States Code amended— (A) in paragraph (3)(D), by striking ‘‘and’’ (except to the extent otherwise directed by (1) in paragraph (1)(C)— at the end; the President); (A) by redesignating clauses (i) and (ii) as (B) by redesignating paragraph (4) as para- (iii) the Vice President; or subclauses (I) and (II), respectively, and ad- graph (5); and (iv) employees of the Vice President under justing the margins accordingly; (C) by inserting after paragraph (3) the fol- section 106 of title 3, United States Code, or (B) by striking ‘‘Ombudsman who shall lowing: an annual legislative branch appropriations educate agency employees—’’ and inserting ‘‘(4) whether the establishment entered Act (except to the extent otherwise directed the following: ‘‘Coordinator who shall— into a settlement agreement with the offi- by the Vice President). ‘‘(i) educate agency employees—’’; cial described in subsection (a)(20)(A), which (b) REVIEW AND UPDATING.— (C) in subclause (I), as so redesignated, by shall be reported regardless of any confiden- (1) INITIAL REVIEW AND UPDATE OF GUID- striking ‘‘on retaliation’’ and inserting tiality agreement relating to the settlement ANCE.—Not later than 180 days after the date ‘‘against retaliation’’; agreement; and’’. of enactment of this Act, the Director and (D) in subclause (II), as so redesignated, by (d) REPEAL OF SUNSET.—Subsection (c) of the Director of the Office shall review and striking the period at the end and inserting section 117 of the Whistleblower Protection make recommendations to Congress and the the following: ‘‘, including— Enhancement Act of 2012 (Public Law 112– President as appropriate to issue guidance to ‘‘(aa) the means by which employees may 199; 126 Stat. 1475) is repealed. assist agencies in determining— seek review of any allegation of reprisal, in- Mr. MCCONNELL. I ask unanimous (A) position sensitivity designation; and cluding the roles of the Office of the Inspec- consent that the committee-reported

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Without and allegations of reprisal, to the extent lowing: objection, it is so ordered. practicable, by the Inspector General; and ‘‘(4) whether the establishment entered The committee-reported amendment ‘‘(iii) assist the Inspector General in facili- into a settlement agreement with the offi- was agreed to. tating communication and coordination with cial described in subsection (a)(20)(A), which The amendment (No. 2211) was agreed the Special Counsel, the Council of the In- shall be reported regardless of any confiden- spectors General on Integrity and Efficiency, to, as follows: tiality agreement relating to the settlement the establishment, Congress, and any other agreement; and’’. (Purpose: To modify the repeal of sunset relevant entity regarding the timely and ap- (d) REPEAL OF SUNSET.— provision) propriate handling and consideration of pro- (1) IN GENERAL.—Subsection (c) of section On page 6, strike lines 1 through 3 and in- tected disclosures, allegations of reprisal, 117 of the Whistleblower Protection En- sert the following: and general matters regarding the imple- hancement Act of 2012 (Public Law 112–199; (d) REPEAL OF SUNSET.— mentation and administration of whistle- 126 Stat. 1475) is repealed. (1) IN GENERAL.—Subsection (c) of section blower protection laws, rules, and regula- (2) RETROACTIVE EFFECTIVE DATE.—The 117 of the Whistleblower Protection En- tions.’’; amendment made by paragraph (1) shall take hancement Act of 2012 (Public Law 112–199; (2) in paragraph (2), by striking ‘‘Ombuds- effect on November 26, 2017. 126 Stat. 1475) is repealed. man’’ and inserting ‘‘Coordinator’’; (2) RETROACTIVE EFFECTIVE DATE.—The (3) by redesignating paragraph (3) as para- f amendment made by paragraph (1) shall take graph (4); and effect on November 26, 2017. (4) by inserting after paragraph (2) the fol- ORDERS FOR MONDAY, MARCH 19, 2018 The bill (S. 1869), as amended, was or- lowing: dered to be engrossed for a third read- ‘‘(3) The Whistleblower Protection Coordi- Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I nator shall have direct access to the Inspec- ask unanimous consent that when the ing, was read the third time, and tor General as needed to accomplish the re- passed, as follows: quirements of this subsection.’’. Senate completes its business today, it S. 1869 (b) RESPONSIBILITIES OF CIGIE.—Section adjourn until 3 p.m., Monday, March Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- 11(c) of the Inspector General Act of 1978 (5 19; further, that following the prayer resentatives of the United States of America in U.S.C. App.) is amended by adding at the end and pledge, the morning hour be Congress assembled, the following: deemed expired, the Journal of pro- ‘‘(5) ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES RELATING SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. ceedings be approved to date, the time TO WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTION.—The Council This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Whistle- shall— for the two leaders be reserved for their blower Protection Coordination Act’’. ‘‘(A) facilitate the work of the Whistle- use later in the day, and morning busi- SEC. 2. REAUTHORIZATION. blower Protection Coordinators designated ness be closed. Finally, I ask that fol- (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 3(d) of the Inspec- under section 3(d)(C); and lowing leader remarks, the Senate re- tor General Act of 1978 (5 U.S.C. App.) is ‘‘(B) in consultation with the Office of Spe- sume consideration of the motion to amended— cial Counsel and Whistleblower Protection proceed to H.R. 1865 and that notwith- (1) in paragraph (1)(C)— Coordinators from the member offices of the (A) by redesignating clauses (i) and (ii) as standing rule XXII, the cloture vote on Inspector General, develop best practices for that motion occur following disposi- subclauses (I) and (II), respectively, and ad- coordination and communication in pro- justing the margins accordingly; moting the timely and appropriate handling tion of the McAleenan nomination. (B) by striking ‘‘Ombudsman who shall and consideration of protected disclosures, The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without educate agency employees—’’ and inserting allegations of reprisal, and general matters objection, it is so ordered. the following: ‘‘Coordinator who shall— regarding the implementation and adminis- f ‘‘(i) educate agency employees—’’; tration of whistleblower protection laws, in (C) in subclause (I), as so redesignated, by accordance with Federal law.’’. ADJOURNMENT UNTIL MONDAY, striking ‘‘on retaliation’’ and inserting (c) REPORTING.—Section 5 of the Inspector MARCH 19, 2018, AT 3 P.M. ‘‘against retaliation’’; General Act of 1978 (5 U.S.C. App.) is amend- (D) in subclause (II), as so redesignated, by ed— Mr. MCCONNELL. If there is no fur- striking the period at the end and inserting (1) in subsection (a), by amending para- ther business to come before the Sen- the following: ‘‘, including— graph (20) to read as follows: ate, I ask unanimous consent that it ‘‘(aa) the means by which employees may ‘‘(20)(A) a detailed description of any in- stand adjourned under the previous seek review of any allegation of reprisal, in- stance of whistleblower retaliation, includ- cluding the roles of the Office of the Inspec- ing information about the official found to order. tor General, the Office of Special Counsel, have engaged in retaliation; and There being no objection, the Senate, the Merit Systems Protection Board, and ‘‘(B) what, if any, consequences the estab- at 3:29 p.m., adjourned until Monday, any other relevant entities; and lishment actually imposed to hold the offi- March 19, 2018, at 3 p.m.

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RECOGNIZING CAPTAIN NANCY It has been said that a man is a product of who still suffer within our country, whether GOMEZ-FERNANDEZ IN HONOR his time. they be white or whether they be black.’’ OF WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH I remember the 1960s; it was a time when Two months later, on June 4, 1968, Robert America was divided and riven by social un- Kennedy would himself be felled by an assas- HON. MARIO DIAZ-BALART rest and civil upheaval and facing global dan- sin’s bullet at the Ambassador Hotel in Los OF FLORIDA gers threatening the post-World War II inter- Angeles, after winning the California Demo- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES national order. cratic Primary. Thursday, March 15, 2018 But as I reflect back on that time, it is clear In the days immediately following his assas- that Bobby Kennedy was not just merely a sination, the full measure of the country’s loss Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, in recogni- man of his time, but he was a man whose became apparent. tion of Women’s History Month, I rise today to spirit, ideals, beliefs, and moral clarity tran- Over two million people assembled along honor Captain Nancy Gomez-Fernandez, who scend time and place. the train tracks as his funeral cortege made its has been serving the Miami-Dade community Robert Kennedy stood for equality, dignity, way from the funeral mass at New York City’s as a law enforcement officer for a number of fairness, humanity, empathy, and moral clarity. St. Patrick’s Cathedral to Union Station in years. Robert Kennedy lived these ideals during a Washington, D.C. for his interment at Arlington Captain Gomez-Fernandez began her ca- time when they were in short supply in our so- National Cemetery. reer in law enforcement in 2001 with the City ciety. When the cortege reached Philadelphia, of Pinecrest Police Department, where she Robert Kennedy loved America which he ‘‘estimates of 20,000 people, mostly African- was a member of the School Resource Unit, knew to be good but could and must be made American . . . began to sing ‘The Battle Field Training Officer, and Honor Guard. In better. Hymn of the Republic’ with such force that in- 2007, she became a Sergeant with the newly ‘‘What is right, keep it right; what is wrong, side, passengers began to weep.’’ formed Doral Police Department and helped make it right.’’ When America lost Bobby Kennedy, it lost a recruit and process background checks for of- That pretty much sums up the belief system big heart and a guiding hand and a generation ficers. Captain Gomez-Fernandez quickly rose of Bobby Kennedy. of Americans lost its innocence. through the ranks and achieved the promotion I think of Robert Kennedy marching with The words used to eulogize Robert Ken- of Captain in 2015, which she currently holds. Cesar Chavez, with whom he met almost 50 nedy by his brother, the late Senator Edward Captain Gomez-Fernandez’s service ex- Kennedy, are as applicable today as they tends beyond her obligations as a police offi- years ago on this day, as Cesar Chavez was ending his consequential hunger strike in sup- were in the hectic days of his legendary cam- cer. In 2017, she was awarded the Life Saver paign for President: Medal for saving the life of an individual who port of migrant farm workers. When Robert Kennedy announced his can- ‘‘My brother need not be idealized, or en- suffered a cardiac attack. This award speaks larged in death beyond what he was in life; to volumes to the level of dedication she has to didacy for president—from the same spot in the Senate Caucus Room as had his brother be remembered simply as a good and decent serve and protect the people of Doral. man, who saw wrong and tried to right it, saw Mr. Speaker, I am privileged to know Cap- 8 years before—he remarked that he was run- suffering and tried to heal it, saw war and tried tain Gomez-Fernandez and I greatly admire ning ‘‘not to oppose any man, but to propose to stop it.’’ her service to the community. Her willingness new policies.’’ The life of Robert Francis ‘‘Bobby’’ Kennedy to risk her life on a daily basis to protect and Robert Kennedy also provided a roadmap teaches us at least three important lessons serve the constituents of Doral has made and for those of us in public service when he said: when it comes to the question of justice: will continue to make a difference in the lives ‘‘I don’t think we have to shoot each other, to Words have power, actions matter, moral of many. I ask my colleagues to join me in beat each other; I think that we can do better courage is indispensable. recognizing this remarkable individual. in this country.’’ Many persons have one of these qualities f But, for me, Robert Kennedy’s lasting leg- acy are his contributions advancing equality of but much rarer are those who possess two, let THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF ROB- opportunity, civil rights, and human dignity for alone all three in the abundance and to the ERT F. KENNEDY’S ANNOUNCE- all Americans. degree possessed by Robert Kennedy. MENT OF CANDIDACY FOR Robert Kennedy’s presidential platform em- Is it any wonder then that we still revere PRESIDENT phasized racial equality, economic and social Bobby Kennedy after all these years and still justice, and civic engagement and tolerance. miss him so much? The 1968 folk classic, ‘‘Abraham, Martin, HON. SHEILA JACKSON LEE Robert Kennedy’s appeal was universal, and John,’’ by Dion and the Belmonts still OF TEXAS and knew no racial bounds because his vision sums up the feelings of countless millions, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES for America included everyone; whites and here in America and around the world: Thursday, March 15, 2018 blacks and browns, rural and urban dwellers, the poor and working and middle-class. Has anybody here seen my old friend Bobby? Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, 50 years Can you tell me where he’s gone? ago this Friday, March 16, 1968, Senator Rob- Robert Kennedy’s message—of decency, I thought I saw him walkin’ up over the hill ert Francis Kennedy announced his candidacy respect, compassion, and humility—appealed With Abraham, Martin and John. for President of the United States and to the good in Americans and was in turn em- Has anybody here seen my old friends? launched the legendary, whirlwind, wondrous braced by people of goodwill in every region Can you tell me where they’ve gone? 82-day campaign that captured the imagina- of the country. They freed a lot of people, tion of millions and inspired a generation. Next month, when we mark the 50th anni- But, it seems the good they die young. Much has been said about Robert F. Ken- versary of a terrible day in Memphis when the You know, I just looked around and they nedy, affectionately known to family and mil- Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was were gone. lions of loved ones as ‘‘Bobby.’’ slain, let us remember the words of Robert The mortal presence of Robert Kennedy We know of Bobby the brother; we know of Kennedy as he broke the news of Dr. King’s may be gone but his immortal spirit lives on Robert the passionate Senator and crusading death to an assembled crowd in an African and we will always remember those joyous, vi- Attorney General; we know him the tireless American neighborhood in Indianapolis: brant, and wondrous 82 days that were his and determined champion of civil rights; and, ‘‘What we need in the United States is not legendary 1968 presidential campaign. sadly, we know of Robert Francis Kennedy the division; what we need in the United States is I ask the House to observe a moment of si- martyr. not hatred; what we need in the United States lence in memory of the late Robert Francis These different sides of Robert Kennedy is not violence and lawlessness, but is love, Kennedy, the former U.S. Senator from New came into sharp focus during the last 11 and and wisdom, and compassion toward one an- York and Attorney General of the United a half weeks of his time on this Earth. other; and a feeling of justice toward those States.

∑ This ‘‘bullet’’ symbol identifies statements or insertions which are not spoken by a Member of the Senate on the floor. Matter set in this typeface indicates words inserted or appended, rather than spoken, by a Member of the House on the floor.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:01 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR8.001 E15MRPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with REMARKS E318 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 15, 2018 RECOGNIZING THE RICHWOODS the protection of civilians. As a prolific writer edge her remarkable work for Everglades City. GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAM ON and leader, Ambassador Hof has hosted Syr- I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing WINNING THE ILLINOIS 3A ian experts, activists, political leaders, and hu- this remarkable individual. STATE TITLE manitarians in high level discussions per- f taining to the U.S.-Syria policy and geopolitical implications of the Syrian conflict. Through his IN MEMORIAM: TEXAS STATE HON. DARIN LaHOOD SENATOR JACK OGG OF ILLINOIS efforts, he has led the discussions on securing a stable and legitimate government in Syria IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and what role the United States should have. HON. TED POE Thursday, March 15, 2018 After taking on the role of director at the Rafik OF TEXAS Mr. LAHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today, I would Hariri Center for the Middle East, Ambassador IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Hof continued his efforts to bring attention to like to recognize Peoria, Illinois’ Richwoods Thursday, March 15, 2018 High School girls basketball team on winning the Syrian conflict and its ongoing destabiliza- the 2018 Class 3A state title. tion to the region at large. Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, today we Returning to the state title game for the sec- Mr. Speaker, as the seventh anniversary of honor the life and memory of longtime Texas ond straight year, the Lady Knights capped off the Syrian uprising approaches, I ask my col- lawmaker and my friend, Jack Ogg of Hous- the 35–1 season with a 55–46 win over La- leagues to join me in thanking Ambassador ton, Texas who recently passed away at the Grange Park Nazareth. In a back and forth Hof for his tireless efforts to bring attention to age of 84. game, the fourth quarter proved pivotal with the Syrian conflict and its ongoing destabiliza- Jack Ogg was a political icon who had a 52- Richwoods going on a 17–0 run to start the tion to the region at large. His service to this year career in Texas politics and law. He rep- quarter. Over the course of the game, the great nation is deeply appreciated and is a resented the Houston area for 16 years, first Richwoods’ Knights had an amazing team ef- testament to the greatness and opportunity as a State Representative and then as a State fort on both offense and defense, with Senior that these United States of America holds for Senator. His love for the State of Texas and Kourtney Crane led the Knights with 19 points. freedom-loving people. the law prompted him to further serve with a Richwoods’ win is the 1,001st in school his- f run for Texas Attorney General. After an un- successful race, Jack returned to his re- tory and they will add a fourth Class 3A state RECOGNIZING DOTTIE JOINER IN title to their trophy case, becoming only the nowned law practice in Houston. HONOR OF WOMEN’S HISTORY When I was a criminal court judge in Hous- third high school in Illinois history to achieve MONTH this milestone. Richwoods’ continued success ton, Senator Ogg practiced in my court. on the hardwood is a testament to the leader- Jack was also the father of Harris County ship of Coach Todd Hursey and the deter- HON. MARIO DIAZ-BALART District Attorney Kim Ogg. Kim worked along- OF FLORIDA mination of the young women he coaches. side her father at the Ogg Law Firm and re- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES The Richwoods girls basketball team serves members her father not only as a great states- as a reminder to the people of our community Thursday, March 15, 2018 man, but a wonderful father who kept his fam- that when we believe in ourselves and dedi- Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, in recogni- ily as his top priority. Kim said her father, ‘‘was cate our time and effort to the goals that we tion of Women’s History Month, I rise today to my closest confidante.’’ Mr. Speaker, when I set, we can achieve even the most daring out- honor Dorothy ‘‘Dottie’’ Joiner, the City Clerk saw Jack recently at the funeral of our friend, comes. These young women exemplify the for Everglades City. the late Texas Governor Mark White, you strong work ethic rooted in Central Illinois and Ms. Joiner has been serving Everglades could tell he was beaming with pride for Kim we could not be prouder. Again, congratula- City for twenty-three years and has proved to and how she was carrying on the Ogg tradi- tions to Coach Todd Hursey and the be loyal, passionate, and driven. She began tion of public service. Richwoods girls basketball team their remark- her career as a purchasing agent, then Those who served in the legislature along- able state championship win. transitioned into a water billing clerk. In 2002 side Jack said he did what he thought was f she was promoted to City Clerk. In her capac- best for his district and worked inside the rules ity as City Clerk, Dottie oversees the official of the legislature instead of concerning himself IN RECOGNITION OF AMBASSADOR City records, ranging from the financial state- with partisan fights. He did what was right and FREDERIC C. HOF ments to the meeting minutes. As such, she is stuck to his principles. known as the go-to person if an issue needs Jack told friends he was proud of authoring HON. ADAM KINZINGER to be resolved. the bilingual education act in Texas; the bill to OF ILLINOIS Dottie has been crucial in supporting the create Metro in Harris County; and a measure IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES City in times of crisis. She played a key role re-instating the death penalty in the state. in 2005 when Hurricane Wilma destroyed City Jack’s friend Houston attorney Robert Pelton Thursday, March 15, 2018 Hall, resulting in the call for the building to be described Ogg as, ‘‘one of the finest human Mr. KINZINGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today condemned. She worked tirelessly with the beings I’ve ever met in my life’’ who did many to recognize Ambassador Frederic C. Hof on City leadership and myself to showcase the good things for the state of Texas. his retirement from the Atlantic Council. Am- importance of saving the historic building; and I admired Jack’s adventurous spirit and de- bassador Hof has had an impressive career was a big part of making sure it happened. termination. He suffered from congestive heart as a diplomat at the United States Department More recently, in the aftermath of Hurricane failure for many years, but that didn’t stop him of State, a private sector CEO, and an officer Irma, she selflessly looked after the wellbeing from being active not only in Houston, but of the United States Army. He is a Vietnam of the residents of Everglades City, ensuring across the globe. Just a few months ago, Mr. veteran and Purple Heart recipient. As a mili- that necessary resources were there quickly, Speaker, he took a cruise to Spain and Italy. tary officer, he served on the commission that despite having lost her own home. Dottie’s His family said he was born with an explorer’s investigated the 1983 bombing of the U.S. Ma- selflessness during this difficult time and the heart and he traveled to more than 225 coun- rine Corps headquarters at the Beirut Inter- support she has given our community tran- tries and islands, and visited all seven con- national Airport. In 2001, he served as chief of scends her official responsibilities. tinents. staff on the Sharm al-Sheikh Fact-Finding Her dedication to Everglades City extends Senator Ogg was born in 1933 during the Commission, headed by former Senate Major- beyond her responsibilities as the City Clerk. Depression. His family moved to Houston in ity Leader George Mitchell, and was the prin- She also serves on the board of the 4th of the 1950s. He graduated from Robert E. Lee cipal drafter of the Commission’s report. Dur- July Committee, the Betterment Association of High School in Baytown, Texas then worked ing his time at the State Department, Ambas- the Everglades Area, as well as the Reach his way through the University of Houston, sador Hof took the lead in an effort to mediate Out and Cops Program. Dottie has always where he was twice elected class president. Syrian-Israeli peace and was given the rank of placed her community first, even before her- He went to law school at night at South Texas Ambassador in his capacity as special adviser self. We are fortunate to have leaders such as College of Law and was admitted to the State to the Secretary of State for transition in Syria. Dottie in Everglades City and Florida’s 25th Bar of Texas in 1962. He lost his beloved wife After joining the Atlantic Council, as the Congressional District, and I and my wife Tia of more than 50 years, philanthropist Connie leading Syria fellow in the Rafik Hariri Center are lucky to be able to call her a friend. Harner Ogg, to cancer in 2010. for the Middle East, Ambassador Hof devoted Mr. Speaker, I am honored to know Ms. Mr. Speaker, those who worked with Jack in his time to furthering the Syrian cause through Joiner and to have the opportunity to acknowl- the State Legislature and at his law practice

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:01 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A15MR8.002 E15MRPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with REMARKS March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E319 agree he was larger than life with a sharp proud parents of seven children. They also IN RECOGNITION OF FONA’S mind and keen craft. Today, I salute Senator have eighteen grandchildren and three great- WORKPLACE EXCELLENCE Ogg’s many contributions to our state and the grandchildren. Gilligan’s three sons, city of Houston. My prayers are with District grandsons, and great-grandson are members HON. RANDY HULTGREN Attorney Ogg, her brother Jon Ogg, their of the Greater Pittston Friendly Sons of St. OF ILLINOIS spouses, Jack’s three grandchildren, as well Patrick, a long-standing family tradition. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES as his brothers Larry and Jim Ogg. Thursday, March 15, 2018 We will dearly miss Senator Jack Ogg. They It is an honor to recognize John Gilligan as don’t make ’em like Jack Ogg anymore. he accepts the Greater Pittston Friendly Sons’ Mr. HULTGREN. Mr. Speaker, It’s not every And that’s just the way it is. ‘‘Man of the Year’’ Award. I am grateful to him day that long-term sustained excellence can f for his service to our country and for pro- be duly recognized. tecting the people of Wyoming Borough and FONA International of Geneva, Illinois, pro- TRIBUTE TO ANN AND REX vides just such an opportunity, however. I am Luzerne County. I wish him all the best this St. WALTERS privileged to extend my enthusiastic congratu- Patrick’s Day. lations to Joe Slawek and the employees of FONA International for being named a Na- HON. DAVID YOUNG f OF IOWA tional Best & Brightest Company to Work For by the National Association of Business Re- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES RECOGNIZING GLORIA PADILLA IN sources-for the seventh year in a row. Thursday, March 15, 2018 HONOR OF WOMEN’S HISTORY FONA International creates and produces Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise MONTH flavors for many of the largest food, beverage, today to recognize and congratulate Ann and and nutritional companies in the world. It has Rex Walters of Beaconsfield, Iowa, on the been doing this for 30 years—a testament to very special occasion of their 60th wedding HON. MARIO DIAZ-BALART its sustained excellence and commitment to anniversary. They were married on January OF FLORIDA serving customers through cutting-edge tech- 26, 1958 in Mount Ayr, Iowa. nology and personal attention. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Ann and Rex’s lifelong commitment to each CEO and Founder Joe Slawek calls this the other and their family truly embodies our Iowa Thursday, March 15, 2018 ‘‘high-tech, high touch’’ approach. He founded values. As they reflect on their 60th anniver- FONA International in 1987 on these prin- sary, may their commitment grow even strong- Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, in honor of ciples. He built a business that could compete er, as they continue to love, cherish, and Women’s History Month, I rise today to recog- with the largest flavor companies but stay con- honor one another for many years to come. nize Gloria Padilla, whose dedication to the nected with customers and his family of em- Mr. Speaker, I commend this great couple people of Immokalee and the Redlands Chris- ployees in a way that only a small business on their 60th year together and I wish them tian Migrant Association (RCMA) has had a can. The honor of this award speaks to that success. many more. I ask that my colleagues in the major impact in our community. United States House of Representatives join FONA International has been cited by For- me in congratulating them on this momentous RCMA was established in 1965 and pro- tune magazine as one of the top fifty best occasion and in wishing them both nothing but vides childcare and education services for low places to work for medium-sized businesses continued success. income and rural families. It has grown from nationwide. Fortune also named FONA Inter- f two centers to seventy-one and is active in national as the Number 1 workplace in twenty-one counties in Florida. A lifelong resi- Chicagoland. IN RECOGNITION OF JOHN dent of Immokalee, Mrs. Padilla has been a To be selected just once as a National Best GILLIGAN, GREATER PITTSTON & Brightest Company would be a distinguished proven leader in our community. She joined FRIENDLY SONS’ MAN OF THE honor. To receive this award seven years in a the RCMA after graduating high school, be- YEAR row is nothing less than a spectacular coming the youngest area coordinator in agen- achievement. HON. MATT CARTWRIGHT cy history. Gloria is currently tasked with over- I congratulate Joe Slawek and the employ- seeing seven childcare centers and twenty- OF PENNSYLVANIA ees of FONA International for this remarkable four childcare homes, collectively serving 483 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES recognition. I thank FONA International for its children. years of service to the local community and Thursday, March 15, 2018 When Hurricane Irma struck in September, for its leadership in the flavor production in- dustry. I wish them continued success in the Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise she offered the RCMA Immokalee Community today to recognize John Gilligan, who will re- future. School as a shelter for thousands of families ceive the Greater Pittston Friendly Sons’ ‘‘Man f of the Year’’ Award. Mr. Gilligan will be hon- displaced by the storm. Additionally, she PERSONAL EXPLANATION ored on March 17, 2018, during the Friendly helped organize with my office the opening of Sons’ annual St. Patrick’s Day Celebration. Horizon Village as temporary living spaces for John was born in Wyoming, Pennsylvania to constituents who lost their homes as a result HON. ALCEE L. HASTINGS Bernard J. and Rosari Gilligan. He is a grad- of Irma. I find myself fortunate to have had the OF FLORIDA uate of Wyoming High School. He enlisted in opportunity to collaborate with such a dedi- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the Air Force after graduation, serving one cated individual who cares so deeply about Thursday, March 15, 2018 year in Da Nang, Vietnam. After four years in her community. Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I mistakenly the Air Force, John joined the Wyoming Bor- voted no, when I meant to vote yes on Roll ough Police Department. He served on the In addition to her impressive work at the Call No. 108, H.R. 1116—the TAILOR Act of force for thirty-two years and retired in 2004 RCMA, Gloria serves on the board of the One 2017. as Chief of Police. He worked in the private by One Leadership Foundation and assists the sector until his appointment by Governor Ed- community through outreach programs with f ward Rendell to the post of Luzerne County her church. Through her professional and so- RECOGNIZING MS. JANET TAYLOR Sheriff. His appointment was unanimously ap- cial capacity, Gloria’s dedication to the people IN HONOR OF WOMEN’S HISTORY proved by the Pennsylvania Senate. of Immokalee has improved the lives of many. MONTH Gilligan is a Fourth Degree Knight of the Mr. Speaker, I am privileged to know Mrs. John F. Kennedy Council No. 372 Knights of HON. MARIO DIAZ-BALART Columbus and a past Grand Knight of the Wy- Padilla and I greatly admire her service to Immokalee. Gloria is an exemplary citizen who OF FLORIDA oming Area Council No. 8598. He is a past IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES president of the Greater Pittston Friendly Sons has chosen to use her many talents in service of St. Patrick. of those around her. I ask my colleagues to Thursday, March 15, 2018 John has been married to Karen Zofcin join me in recognizing this remarkable indi- Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, in honor of Gilligan for thirty-two years, and they are the vidual. Women’s History Month, I rise today to honor

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:01 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A15MR8.004 E15MRPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with REMARKS E320 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 15, 2018 former Hendry County Commissioner Janet RECOGNIZING BRAIN AWARENESS Statewide Founders Day Celebration in Green Taylor. Her service in this capacity, as well as WEEK Bay, Wisconsin. With over 700 members com- many others, has had a major impact on our mitted to public service, the Wisconsin chap- community. HON. TIM WALBERG ters of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority are a Born in Louisiana, Ms. Taylor moved to OF MICHIGAN significant part of our community and I am Florida at a young age and very quickly be- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES proud to honor them. For over 100 years, the Delta Sigma Theta came involved in her community. She received Thursday, March 15, 2018 her Bachelor’s degree in political science from Sorority has created programs and initiatives Palm Beach State College. In 1978, she Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to that focus on academic excellence, community joined the Clewiston Police Department and recognize Brain Awareness Week, a critical service, economic development, and health became the department’s first female African moment to discuss the impact of brain dis- and fitness, with a focus on the African-Amer- American officer. She quickly rose through the orders on our nation and the urgent need for ican community. ‘‘The Healthy Lifestyle Initia- ranks and reached Sergeant and Field Train- brain research and discovery. tive—The Total Woman: Mind, Body, and Spir- ing Officer. She dedicated twelve years to Neurodegenerative disorders like Alz- it’’ is one of the national programs led by Delta serving and protecting those in Hendry County heimer’s and Parkinson’s disease have tre- Sigma Theta that focuses on improving phys- before retiring from the force. mendous, devastating impact on individuals ical and mental health for its members and and families. My dad had Parkinson’s, so I their communities. This program is just one Ms. Taylor was appointed Hendry County know firsthand the physical and financial toll it example of how the women in the Sorority Commissioner in 1994 and served in this posi- takes on patients and caregivers. work to empower and support their commu- tion for twenty-two years. As Commissioner, These diseases also pose a serious finan- nities. she represented the citizens of Hendry County cial burden for the nation. Today, neurological From Friday, March 23, 2018 to Sunday, and the State of Florida with passion and diseases cost the United States an estimated March 25, 2018, Green Bay, Wisconsin is dedication. Her impressive resume includes $800 billion a year. And that figure is projected proud to host the statewide Delta Sigma Theta serving as Chairperson of the Florida Associa- to increase dramatically over the coming Founders Day Celebration. This event will tion of Counties for twelve years as well as years. bring hundreds of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority being a member of the National Association of An estimated 5.5 million Americans are cur- members together to celebrate the organiza- Black County Commissioners. Ms. Taylor’s rently living with Alzheimer’s disease. In my tion’s history and its numerous contributions public service extends beyond her work as home state of Michigan, 180,000 people age since its founding on January 13, 1913. Commissioner for Hendry County, as she pre- 65 and older have Alzheimer’s. That is pro- Mr. Speaker, I urge all members of this viously served as a Government Liaison for jected to increase more than 20 percent— body to join me in applauding the Delta Sigma Congressman Alcee Hastings. 220,000 Michiganders—by 2025. And barring Theta Sorority and the organization’s commit- Mr. Speaker, I am privileged to recognize medical breakthroughs, the number of Ameri- ment to support communities across the coun- Ms. Taylor for her remarkable service to cans age 65 and older with Alzheimer’s is esti- try and the world. Hendry County. Her dedication to the better- mated to reach 16 million by 2050. Between ment of our community is admirable and has now and 2050, the cumulative cost of caring f touched the lives of many. I ask my col- for people with Alzheimer’s is projected to ex- leagues to join me in recognizing this remark- RECOGNIZING WEBSTER, FLORIDA ceed $20 trillion. AS A PURPLE HEART CITY able individual. Parkinson’s disease is the second-most common neurodegenerative disorder in the f United States. Each year, 60,000 Americans HON. DANIEL WEBSTER are diagnosed with Parkinson’s. The current OF FLORIDA TRIBUTE TO WILLIAM ‘‘BILL’’ total economic burden of the disorder is esti- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES BALLENGER mated to be about $14.4 billion a year in the Thursday, March 15, 2018 United States. And by 2040, the prevalence of HON. DAVID YOUNG Parkinson’s is expected to more than double. Mr. WEBSTER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, it is Thanks to advances in brain research, we my privilege to recognize Webster, Florida as OF IOWA have a deeper understanding of Alzheimer’s a Purple Heart City and honor the men and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and Parkinson’s, and researchers recently women who have selflessly served our country identified possible environmental and genetic in the United States Armed Forces. It is with Thursday, March 15, 2018 risk factors for Parkinson’s. deep respect that I pause today to honor the brave men and women who were wounded in Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise However, further research is required to un- combat or gave their last full measure and today to recognize and congratulate Bill ravel the complexities of these neurological made the ultimate sacrifice on our behalf. Ballenger of Council Bluffs, Iowa for his lead- disorders. Without breakthroughs, we will not Created by General George Washington on ership and vision in helping organize 13 honor be able to develop new, more effective treat- August 7, 1782 to recognize a soldier’s meri- flights that have taken nearly 3,500 Iowa vet- ments. Currently available treatments provide torious action, the Purple Heart is our nation’s erans to Washington, D.C. to visit memorials relief from some Parkinson’s symptoms, but oldest decoration. Every person that serves in that were built in their honor. do not halt the progression of Parkinson’s. Alzheimer’s is the only disease in the top 10 the United States Armed Forces makes great Bill and his son Jeff saw a need to honor causes of death in the U.S. that cannot be sacrifices for our country and our freedoms. our country’s aging veterans from World War prevented, slowed or cured. Many have endured combat wounds as they II, the Korean War, and Vietnam War. The This Brain Awareness Week, I extend my fought for the freedoms of complete strangers, Ballengers have partnered with HyVee, Inc., gratitude to the great scientific minds who are for individuals they had never met. Casey’s General Stores, and others to raise advancing our understanding of brain dis- We owe our veterans a debt that we can more than $3 million to fund this special en- orders. And let’s redouble our efforts to find never repay. For more than two centuries the deavor. Carol Hagberg’s father, the late new breakthroughs in brain research and bring United States military has protected Ameri- James Snook, who was a World War II vet- a healthier future in reach for our nation. cans against our enemies and the enemies of eran said, ‘‘Dad felt so honored and privileged. our friends. Throughout this time, the valor, f We heard about the wonderful time he had dignity, and courage of our men and women over and over on the flight. He was very proud DELTA SIGMA THETA SORORITY in uniform has remained strong. It is due to to have served his country.’’ FOUNDERS DAY CELEBRATION countless lives selflessly lived and lost in de- Mr. Speaker, I applaud and congratulate Bill fense of our country that we can stand today, on his incredible efforts to organize and fund HON. MIKE GALLAGHER free and grateful. the 13 honor flights for our veterans. I am OF WISCONSIN I congratulate Mayor Carrie Davis, Mayor proud to represent him in the United States IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Pro-Tem Michael T. Foote, Commissioners Congress. I ask that my colleagues in the Bobby Yost, Ana Vigoa, and Mike Harris, and United States House of Representatives join Thursday, March 15, 2018 most of all, the men and women of Webster me in congratulating Bill and in wishing him Mr. GALLAGHER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today who have served our great nation. It is truly an nothing but the very best. to recognize the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority honor to serve the residents of Webster.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:01 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K15MR8.004 E15MRPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with REMARKS March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E321 HONORING THE MEMORY OF KAHU tion in which we chatted about how Tiger prediabetes are unaware of their condition and MELVIN KAUILA CLARK Woods’s success was influencing Kauila’s susceptibility to developing diabetes. sons towards golf and away from football. Whether it is a parent, child, sibling, grand- HON. COLLEEN HANABUSA Kauila was the grounding for his family, and it parent, or neighbor, we all know someone OF HAWAII was always apparent to me that his kids came who struggles daily with the medical upkeep of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES first in his heart and in everything he did. living with diabetes. That is why I join the Much can be said of the art, wisdom, and Thursday, March 15, 2018 American Diabetes Association in strongly en- leadership that Kauila shared with the world. couraging all Americans to take the time today Ms. HANABUSA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today He will be fondly remembered and deeply to learn more about Type 2 diabetes, its wide- to honor an extraordinary man, Melvin Kauila missed by the people whom he encouraged, ranging impact upon our nation and its citi- Clark, who passed away on Sunday, Decem- counseled, inspired, and healed. With cher- zens, and the susceptibility to this disease. ber 24, 2017. A talented artist, Native Hawai- ished memories of Kauila in our hearts, we will Testing can take only 60 seconds and results ian traditional healer, celebrated leader of the continue his life’s work for a better, kinder can make a lifetime of difference. community health center movement, and a world. I applaud the American Diabetes Associa- personal friend of mine, Kauila will be deeply f missed by the many people whose lives he tion, for raising awareness about the poten- has touched. 90TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE tially life-threatening complications associated Kauila grew up in Wahiawa on the island of AMERICAN GOLD STAR MOTHERS with diabetes, and their advocacy to promote Oahu and graduated from Leilehua High a healthy lifestyle. School in 1963. Kauila went on to earn a HON. FRANCIS ROONEY f bachelor’s degree in drawing and painting OF FLORIDA from Graceland University and a master’s de- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HONORING THE RETIREMENT OF gree in clay and sculpture from the University COLONEL JAMES D. DIGNAN of Puget Sound. He became an internationally Thursday, March 15, 2018 acclaimed artist and potter, with his works ex- Mr. FRANCIS ROONEY of Florida. Mr. hibited in 53 countries and museums, includ- Speaker, I rise today to honor the 90th anni- HON. TIM RYAN ing in the Smithsonian here in Washington. I versary of the founding of the American Gold always admired Kauila’s pottery because they Star Mothers. American Gold Star Mothers OF OHIO reflected who he was so well. His pieces were dates to 1928 and was founded under the Wil- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES big but also delicate, reflecting both the son Administration by Grace Darling Seibold. strength of his character and the gentle kind- In 1917, during WWI, families hung banners Thursday, March 15, 2018 ness of his heart. Kauila’s willingness to share displaying a blue star for each loved one serv- Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, today I rise and donate his pieces to raise money for the ing overseas and a gold star for each of those to recognize and honor the recent retirement communities around him demonstrated his loved ones that made the ultimate sacrifice. of Colonel James Dignan from the United wonderful generosity of spirit. Today, the American Gold Star Mothers orga- States Air Force and to congratulate him on In Hawaii, Kauila will be fondly remembered nization continues to aid and comfort the fami- his new role as President and Chief Executive as a Native Hawaiian traditional healer who lies of men and women who died while serv- Officer (CEO) of the Youngstown/Warren Re- shared his wisdom with all who sought it. He ing their country. gional Chamber in Ohio. Colonel Dignan con- rightfully believed that the diverse communities On March 24th the Southwest Florida Gold cluded his service in the Air Force working in of the United States could learn much from Star Mothers Chapter will hold an event com- the office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of traditional indigenous knowledge of balance memorating the 90th anniversary of the Amer- Defense for force readiness. and harmony. Unsurprisingly, even though ican Gold Star Mothers and the 2nd observ- Colonel Dignan received his commission Kauila was a kahuna, a ‘‘keeper of secrets,’’ ance of the National Vietnam War Veterans through the Naval Aviation Cadet (NAVCAD) one of the select few certified to hold that title, Day. We honor those mothers and families program at the Aviation Officer Candidate he preferred to be called kahu, or ‘‘priest.’’ who have lost sons and daughters in recent School at NAS Pensacola, Florida, and he re- A passionate advocate of the community conflicts around the world, and thank the ceived his ‘‘Wings of Gold’’ at NAS Corpus health center movement, Kauila has dedicated Southwest Florida chapter for all they do for Christi, Texas. He has served as an officer much of his life towards ensuring that Ameri- our fallen heroes and our community. and pilot in the United States Navy, Air Na- cans of all backgrounds across the country re- f ceive culturally competent, patient-centered tional Guard, and Air Force Reserve. Colonel health care. Kauila and I got to know each RECOGNIZING DIABETES ALERT Dignan was a command pilot with more than other over the course of his work on DAY 6,500 hours in trainer, patrol, reconnaissance, healthcare with the Waianae community, since and airlift aircraft. He has flown more than 100 Kauila and I were both part of the ha¯nai family HON. JOHN KATKO hurricane penetration missions in the WC–130 and has flown combat-support missions of Auntie Agnes ‘‘Aggie’’ Kalaniho’okaha OF NEW YORK throughout the Balkans, the Horn of Africa, Cope, who first founded the Waianae Coast IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Comprehensive Health Care Center. Kauila and Southwest Asia. Colonel Dignan was also Thursday, March 15, 2018 continued Auntie Aggie’s work by serving as the commander of the 910th Airlift Wing at the board director of the Waianae Coast Com- Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to Youngstown Air Reserve Station in Youngs- prehensive Health Center for twenty-seven recognize the American Diabetes Association town, Ohio. Under his leadership, he oversaw years. Alert Day. Observed annually on the fourth more than 1,300 personnel and was in charge Kauila dedicated much of the past nineteen Tuesday in March, this is a day to inform the of operations which provided support for near- years to the National Association of Commu- American public about the seriousness of ly 2,000 Air Force, Navy, and Marine Reserv- nity Health Centers (NACHC). Over the course Type 2 diabetes, particularly when left ists. of his distinguished service, he served on the undiagnosed or untreated. Now, Dignan will begin his new role as Consumer/Board Member, Finance, Farm- I would like to thank the American Diabetes President and CEO of the Youngstown/Warren worker Health, Membership, Health Center Association, as well as numerous other orga- Regional Chamber. He wanted to remain in Governance, Nominating, and Screening Com- nizations and researchers, who work to raise Youngstown, Ohio with his wife and three mittees at various points in time. Between awareness of this far-reaching disease and daughters who also desired to stay in the 2005 and 2008, Kauila was treasurer for seek an eventual cure. Youngstown area. His new role will allow him NACHC. Kauila became chair-elect of NACHC Diabetes affects over 30 million Ameri- to continue serving the Mahoning Valley re- in 2009, board chair in 2011, and immediate cans—almost 10 percent of the U.S. popu- gion alongside the people he loves. Dignan’s past chair in 2015, the first Native Hawaiian to lation—and nearly 1 in 4 adults are unaware managerial skills along with his past associa- hold those positions in NACHC. that they have this disease. What’s more, an- tion as a Chamber board member dem- In everything he did, Kauila thought about other 84 million Americans have prediabetes, onstrated his ability to hit the ground running. his sons, whom he loved deeply. We used to a condition in which blood glucose levels are He will be an influential voice and leader with- talk about his sons and how they were grow- higher than normal, but not high enough to be in the community, and I am enthused to work ing up. I especially remember one conversa- diagnosed as diabetes. 9 out of 10 adults with with him in his new role.

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HON. DAVID E. PRICE HON. FRANCIS ROONEY HON. BRENDAN F. BOYLE OF PENNSYLVANIA OF FLORIDA OF NORTH CAROLINA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Thursday, March 15, 2018 Thursday, March 15, 2018 Thursday, March 15, 2018 Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, today marks the start of the Mr. PRICE of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, Mr. FRANCIS ROONEY of Florida. Mr. I rise today to honor the life and legacy of eighth year for the Syrian crisis. We are no Speaker, I rise today to not only congratulate closer to a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Millie Dunn Veasey, a World War II veteran, the Florida SouthWestern State College men’s civil rights pioneer, and community leader, Arguably, the situation has only gotten worse, basketball team as they head to the NJCAA particularly in Eastern Ghouta where the who passed away this past Friday at the age tournament for the first time in only their sec- of 100. My wife Lisa and I extend condolences Assad regime is doubling down on its bomb- ond season of competition, but also to wish to her family and her extensive network of ings and chemical attacks on civilians. The them continued success throughout the tour- friends and admirers as we celebrate her re- International Committee of the Red Cross pro- nament. markable life. claims that suffering in Eastern Ghouta has reached a ‘‘critical point,’’ stating that ‘‘ordinary Born and raised in Raleigh as one of six The Bucs clinched the Suncoast Conference people are once again trapped in a situation children, Millie graduated from Washington Title and head to Kansas with a 29–2 overall where life slowly becomes impossible and High School in 1942 and enlisted in the ‘‘six- record on the season. They are seeded sixth where goods and aid are severely limited.’’ triple-eight’’ battalion, the only all-female and in the tournament. I congratulate Coach Marty Before the war, the country was, by Arab all-black battalion to serve overseas during Richter and all of the players for their hard standards, solidly middle income with vibrant World War II. She was stationed in England work this season—best of luck and continue to communities. Today, Syria’s development has for four months before transferring to France make us proud. regressed by nearly four decades, and the where she served as a supply officer, rising to Syrian economy has contracted by an esti- the rank of Staff Sergeant. At the end of the f mated 40 percent. The majority of Syrians war in 1945, she was selected for Officer Can- have lost their livelihoods. School attendance didate School, but decided instead to continue HONORING THE CAREER OF has dropped over 50 percent with more than her education. STEPHEN A. ROGERS two million children now out of school. An esti- Millie returned to Raleigh to attend Saint mated 13.5 million people, including six million Augustine’s College on the G.I. Bill. She grad- HON. JOHN KATKO children, are in need of serious humanitarian uated in 1953 with a degree in business ad- assistance. 4.5 million of these people are in ministration and later obtained a master’s de- OF NEW YORK hard-to-reach areas, including 540,000 people gree at N.C. Central University. She taught IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES in eleven besieged areas. The numbers are business education and eighth grade English staggering. And we all know the images are for four years in Matthews, Virginia, before re- Thursday, March 15, 2018 beyond words. turning to Raleigh to serve as secretary to Meanwhile, Assad and Putin continue to in- then-President of Saint Augustine’s College, Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to discriminately target civilians in all locations, James Boyer. honor the distinguished career of Stephen A. as well as civilian hospitals, despite a late In addition to her secretarial duties, Millie Rogers, longtime chairman of Advance Media February UN resolution calling for a cessation joined the NAACP and eventually became the New York, publisher of The Post-Standard, of hostilities to enable humanitarian access to first African American female president of the Syracuse.com, and NYup.com, who recently those in need of aid. Wake County chapter. In that role, she came retired after 58 years in the news business. These atrocities led me to introduce H. Res. to know and work with local and national civil A graduate of Syracuse University, Steve 632, which condemns Assad and Putin for rights leaders such as Dr. Martin Luther King Rogers began working part time at The Post- their attacks on hospitals and medical per- Jr. and Thurgood Marshall and hosted Dr. Standard and The Herald-Journal in 1960 as sonnel in Syria, and calls on our Secretary of King for his 1966 visit to Raleigh. In addition a beat reporter covering crime. Seeking inde- State to work with the international community to her work in the NAACP, she served in lead- pendence from his father, Stephen Rogers, to conduct investigations into these serious ership roles in her sorority, Zeta Phi Beta, and then-editor and publisher of The Post-Stand- violations of international humanitarian law. was active in the National Federation of ard, Rogers went to work for The Miami Her- The United States must send a clear mes- Democratic Women and the American Legion. ald as a general assignment reporter. Deter- sage to Assad and Putin that the international She and her husband, Warren Veasey, had mined, Rogers worked hard to become The community is watching and we will hold them two children, Juanita and Warren, Jr. Miami Herald’s managing editor for news. In accountable. As the fighting enters its eighth Mrs. Veasey retired from St. Augustine’s in 1977, he returned to Syracuse to become edi- year, I urge this administration to complete a 1986 as director of career planning and place- torial director of The Post-Standard and The comprehensive U.S. strategy for Syria that ment. She continued to serve her community Herald-Journal. Four years later, in 1981, specifically addresses civilian protection and by teaching Sunday school at St. Ambrose Steve succeeded his father as editor and pub- these attacks on humanitarian service pro- Episcopal Church and was a mainstay of the lisher of both newspapers. viders. Raleigh veterans’ community. I have fond f memories of visiting with her at community During his time leading the company, the HAPPY 90TH BIRTHDAY BEVERLY events around Veterans’ Day. ‘‘It’s something newspapers won recognition for reporting on GOLDFINE about the group,’’ she said of her fellow vet- state government failures, Syracuse University erans. ‘‘Regardless of where you are, there is basketball NCAA violations, and the Pan Am a bond there that one can never break.’’ Flight 103 bombing over Lockerbie, Scotland. HON. RICHARD M. NOLAN Under Rogers’ leadership, The Post-Standard OF MINNESOTA In an interview in the Raleigh News & Ob- has consistently ranked as one of the best- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES server, Mrs. Veasey offered sage advice for read newspapers in the country. living a meaningful life: ‘‘Keep busy and do Thursday, March 15, 2018 something for somebody.’’ She exemplified For the first time in 63 years, the name of Mr. NOLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to a this maxim through her decades of dedicated Rogers or his late father, Stephen Rogers, distinguished member of the Duluth commu- service and effective leadership, inspiring who preceded him as publisher, will no longer nity, Beverly Goldfine, who will soon be cele- many to follow in her path. We join with Mrs. appear on The Post-Standard’s masthead. As brating her 90th birthday. Beverly is an activ- Veasey’s family, her many friends and admir- a lifelong Central New Yorker, I join many in ist, volunteer, and mother who made it her ers, and members of the communities she our community in thanking Steve for his lead- mission early on in life to support and improve served, in mourning her passing and honoring ership and passion for journalism. I am proud the Duluth community she loves so much. her extraordinary life of leadership and serv- to congratulate him on his much deserved re- Beverly has been active in many Duluth ice. tirement. area organizations which help those in need

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:01 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A15MR8.013 E15MRPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with REMARKS March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E323 such as the Townview Improvement Corpora- Congress, hailing from my hometown of Low- cases. He currently serves as the Criminal tion and the Duluth-Superior Community Foun- ell, Massachusetts and serving the district I Court Division Administrator and has pre- dation. She made it her goal to help Duluth- now represent. viously served as the Co-Civil Court Division ians find a place to call home regardless of Edith Nourse Rogers became the sixth Administrator. their income. Additionally, her husband and woman to serve in the House of Representa- He is married to Cindy Forlenza Vough, and she established the Beverly and Erwin tives when she was elected in 1935. She was they have four children, Michael, Matthew, Goldfine Scholarship for Academic Excellence one of only 17 upon her death in 1960. Today, Nicholas and Jessica. to help students at the University of Minnesota MARCY KAPTUR is one of 84 women in the It is an honor to recognize Judge Michael T. Duluth reach their full potential. House, and odds are that number is sure to Vough as he accepts the Greater Pittston It is an honor to recognize Beverly’s many grow in November. Friendly Sons’ Achievement Award. I am accomplishments and contributions to the This historic moment is significant because grateful to him for his service to the people of community she loves so much. There is no of the remarkable commitment to public serv- Pennsylvania. I wish him all the best this Saint doubt her activism and selfless efforts to help ice that MARCY KAPTUR has demonstrated Patrick’s Day. those in need have improved the lives of over the past 35 years, but also because of f countless people. I ask my colleagues in Con- the model of service she represents to the gress to join me in wishing Beverly a very thousands of women who have been moti- HONORING SOMERSET HIGH happy 90th birthday. What an incredible mile- vated to run for office in recent years. SCHOOL SENIOR JUSTIN RIVARD stone. I am grateful that MARCY has brought a f woman’s voice to so many critical debates HON. SEAN P. DUFFY over the course of her tenure, and I think it is OF WISCONSIN RECOGNIZING THE OUTSTANDING worth pointing out that she has never run un- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ACHIEVEMENT OF ROBERT G. opposed. She’s earned every vote she’s re- Thursday, March 15, 2018 STANKIEWICZ ceived in 18 consecutive elections. I want to congratulate the gentlewoman Mr. DUFFY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to HON. DONALD S. BEYER, JR. from Ohio on this remarkable achievement. honor a remarkable young man from Som- OF VIRGINIA May it inspire continued courage and con- erset, Wisconsin named Justin Rivard. Justin IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES fidence in women who seek to follow in her is a senior at Somerset High School and is fin- ‘‘persistent’’ footsteps. ishing up his final semester. But rather than Thursday, March 15, 2018 f just spending that time preparing for his own Mr. BEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to of- graduation, Justin has gone out of his way to ficially recognize the outstanding public IN RECGNITION OF THE HONOR- help others. He recently invented a device, achievement of Robert G. Stankiewicz. Mr. ABLE MICHAEL T. VOUGH, RE- aptly titled the ‘‘JustinKase,’’ that protects stu- Stankiewicz has been in public service for CIPIENT OF THE GREATER dents and teachers inside their classrooms. close to twenty five years, the past ten with PITTSTON FRIENDLY SONS’ The steel device slips underneath a classroom the United States Capitol Police (USCP). As ACHIEVEMENT AWARD door and latches to the door’s jam, locking the the Telecommunications Manager, Mr. door in place. This prevents anyone with intent Stankiewicz was instrumental in the implemen- HON. MATT CARTWRIGHT to commit violence against students or teach- tation of the new USCP Radio System, built OF PENNSYLVANIA ers from accessing the room. the USCP Radio Team now better known as IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES A teacher at Somerset High recently de- CapCom and developed the first USCP mobile scribed Justin as having ‘the special combina- Thursday, March 15, 2018 radio system that provides much needed com- tion of motivation and brains and has a motor munications for DPD motorcades. Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise that just keeps going.’’ Indeed, these skills will He laid the foundation and brought in a very today to recognize the Honorable Michael T. serve Justin well as he continues to use his highly skilled and diversified group of techni- Vough, who will receive the Greater Pittston gifts in the service of others as a soldier in the cians that will serve the United States Capitol Friendly Sons of Saint Patrick’s Achievement United States Army. Everyone in Wisconsin is Police well for many years to come. Mr. Award. He will be honored by the Friendly proud of Justin’s ingenuity. And we are grate- Stankiewicz’s retirement marks the end of an Sons during their annual Saint Patrick’s Day ful for his decision to enter the military and de- era at USCP. He is the last of the originals. celebration on March 17, 2018. fend our nation. His dedication and commitment to the depart- Judge Vough is the only son of the late f ment cannot be measured. Even more impor- Henry and Mary Noci-Vough. He is a graduate tant though are the friendships he developed of Pittston Area High School and the Univer- TRIBUTE TO BILL PAVKOV that will last a life time. While his time at the sity of Scranton. In May 1989, he received his United States Capitol Police has ended with Juris Doctorate from the University of Dayton HON. DAVID YOUNG his retirement, I know he will be just as suc- School of Law. OF IOWA cessful in his future endeavors. I thank him for In 1991, Judge Vough founded the Law Of- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES fice of Vough & Associates, which served over his dedicated service. Thursday, March 15, 2018 f three thousand clients throughout the Com- monwealth of Pennsylvania and employed a Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise IN HONOR OF MARCY KAPTUR staff of ten. today to recognize and congratulate Bill MAKING HISTORY AS THE LONG- From 1992 to 2012, Judge Vough worked Pavkov of Hastings, Iowa for his dedicated EST SERVING CONGRESSWOMAN as an Assistant District Attorney for Luzerne service to our country in World War II and the County. As Assistant DA, he prepared, evalu- Korean War. Bill turned 90 in 2017 and has HON. NIKI TSONGAS ated, and prosecuted all criminal cases from the rare distinction of serving his country in OF MASSACHUSETTS commission of the crime through sentencing. two wars. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES He prosecuted over 1,500 cases resulting in Bill was born and raised in Doylestown, plea or trial; represented the Commonwealth Ohio. He left school in the l0th grade to join Thursday, March 15, 2018 in over 150 jury trials; and had a 100 percent the U.S. Army Transport Service in 1944. He Ms. TSONGAS. Mr. Speaker, today I want conviction rate in seventy homicide cases. Of was only 17 years old and his father had to to recognize my colleague, Congresswoman these seventy homicide cases, nine resulted in give his permission in order for Bill to serve. MARCY KAPTUR, who is making history as the first degree murder convictions. He partici- Bill was aboard Army Transport ships that de- longest serving female member of the House pated in three death penalty jury selection livered both troops and supplies around the of Representatives. cases and had an overall 99.8 percent convic- world. After his service to our country, Bill re- This is especially momentous for my district, tion rate in his twenty years of service with the turned to Ohio, married and began his career as she now surpasses Edith Nourse Rogers, Luzerne County District Attorney’s Office. as an over-the-road semi-truck driver. In 1960, who served in Congress for 35 years and pre- On January 3, 2012, Judge Vough was Bill and his family moved to Iowa where he viously held the record of the longest serving sworn in as judge of the Luzerne County started farming and continued driving trucks. female member. Representative Rogers was Court of Common Pleas. Since 2012, he has He served his community as a volunteer fire- the first woman to represent Massachusetts in presided over thousands of criminal and civil fighter and as Mayor of Hastings. When Bill

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:01 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K15MR8.012 E15MRPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with REMARKS E324 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 15, 2018 retired in the 1990s he had logged 52 years Through these programs, CAUSE has de- the Iranian people are still in the streets de- as a truck driver and 30 years as a farmer. veloped a network of over 200 alumni. CAUSE manding their rights, whether they be eco- Mr. Speaker, I commend and congratulate is also especially dedicated to advocating for nomic opportunity, access to water, religious Bill for his many years of dedicated and de- more women to rise to positions of power. The freedom, or gender equality. The United voted service to the United States of America, CAUSE Women in Power program serves States must support these dissidents fighting his family, and his community. It is with great over 400 women annually through leadership for freedom and basic human rights. honor that I recognize him today. I ask that my conferences to discuss issues women leaders In response, the regime has murdered doz- colleagues in the United States House of Rep- face while exploring strategies to overcome ens and locked-up thousands as it has done resentatives join me in applauding his service them. This program inspires women to reach so many times before without punishment as a veteran and in wishing him and his family their full potential. from the outside world. In perhaps one of the nothing but the best. CAUSE has been a primary source of infor- most egregious cases, in 1988 the Iranian re- f mation for foreign and native-born APAs. gime initiated a systematic massacre of thou- sands of political dissidents. The barbaric CELEBRATING THE 25TH ANNIVER- CAUSE’s Voter Outreach, Training & Edu- mass executions by hanging and firing squad SARY OF THE CENTER FOR cation (VOTE) Initiatives provide voters with included teenagers and pregnant women who ASIAN AMERICANS UNITED FOR valuable access to voter education and reg- refused to renounce their political affiliations, SELF EMPOWERMENT (CAUSE) istration workshops, candidate debates and fo- rums, and community issue town halls. With including many from the MEK—today’s leading over 200 volunteers, the VOTE Initiatives work Iranian dissident group. HON. LUCILLE ROYBAL-ALLARD to increase APA turnout and voter registration, It’s important to remember and emphasize OF CALIFORNIA the understanding of candidates and propo- who exactly were the victims of this bloody IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES sitions, and discussion of politics and commu- massacre. Iranian security officials would ask Thursday, March 15, 2018 nity issues. detainees ‘‘What is your political affiliation?’’ Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise Today, the APA community is the fastest Those who said ‘‘MEK’’ would be immediately with my colleague, Congresswoman JUDY growing community in the U.S. and is pro- placed on execution lists. So horrific was the CHU, to recognize the Center for Asian Ameri- jected to be the largest immigrant group in the act that the deputy to Ayatollah Khomeini at cans United for Self Empowerment (CAUSE), country by 2055. APA voters increased from the time called it ‘‘the greatest crime com- a nonprofit organization based in the Greater more than 2 million voters across the country mitted during the Islamic Republic, for which Los Angeles area. CAUSE has played a piv- in 2000 to 3.9 million voters in 2012. In addi- history will condemn us.’’ otal role in the promotion of civic engagement tion, there has been a growth of over 600,000 Their day of reckoning is fast approaching. and leadership development within the local new APA voters nationwide within the last It has taken 30 years to condemn and inves- Asian Pacific American (APA) community for three election cycles. However, only about half tigate this horrific massacre. The United the last 25 years. of eligible voters were registered in 2016, and States must act swiftly to ensure that the CAUSE began in 1993 as the Chinese there is still a lack of representation in political Mullahs in Tehran are finally held accountable. Americans United for Self Empowerment. The leadership roles. The APA community is sure Our government must work with international organization has been chaired since its incep- to see increased voter activity and voter en- partners to also investigate other major human tion by Charlie Woo. In 2003, due to the APA gagement under CAUSE’s stewardship. rights abuses such as the dozens more killed community’s diversifying population, CAUSE Under the leadership of CAUSE’s Executive during protests in 1999, 2009, and 2017. In all expanded its mission to serve the larger APA Director, Kim Yamasaki, the organization’s cases, the families of those murdered by the community, and changed its name accordingly budget for programs and staff has increased regime were never told what happened to their to the Center for Asian Americans United for by more than 50 percent. CAUSE is better po- loved ones’ remains. The United States gov- Self Empowerment. sitioned than ever to fully activate and engage ernment and our allies must make it a priority CAUSE was created with the mission to ad- the APA community in politics and the world to pressure the Iranian regime to disclose vance the political and civic empowerment of around them. where the final resting place of the missing is the APA community through nonpartisan voter On April 5, 2018, CAUSE celebrates its sil- so that their families may have a small bit of outreach, training, education, and leadership ver anniversary at an event in Downtown Los peace. development. By providing a greater under- Angeles with several hundred supporters in at- Another horrific violation of human rights standing of APA issues, access to resources, tendance. Mr. Speaker, we ask our colleagues and decency is taking place today on the and a large and thriving network, CAUSE has to please join us in celebrating CAUSE’s first shores of Libya. In 2011, our government self- played a pivotal role in empowering the next 25 years of success. We look forward to its righteously intervened in Libya to topple the generation to vote, participate, and lead. next 25 years with great anticipation. regime of Muammar al-Gadhafi and then CAUSE has created a pipeline of leadership f turned its back on that country. It is now a full- development programs that cultivates leaders blown failed state where human trafficking is for the APA community. The oldest of these PERSONAL EXPLANATION taking place. programs is the Leadership Academy, an un- Human trafficking is modern day slavery. dergraduate internship program, which has HON. LOIS FRANKEL We are seeing thousands of desperate refu- graduated 26 classes and has exposed stu- OF FLORIDA gees attempting to cross the war-torn country to the freedom and opportunity of Europe only dents to decision makers, policy makers, and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES issues of the day. The program’s young lead- to end up being exploited by slave traders. Es- ers have developed a deeper awareness of Thursday, March 15, 2018 timates indicate there are about 500,000 to a the political issues the APA community faces Ms. FRANKEL of Florida. Mr. Speaker, on million migrants bottled up in Libya that could in California and in Washington, D.C. roll call vote 104, I was not present because be fodder for this despicable slave trade. Evil CAUSE’s Leadership Institute, a six-month I was unavoidably detained. Had I been men, whether they be criminal opportunists or fellowship, trains mid-career professionals to present, I would have voted NAY. terrorists, are subjugating those in the most become greater advocates for the APA com- f need for their own profit. You cannot put a munity. The fellowship is comprised of intimate price on human life. policy roundtable discussions, civic leadership HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSES The fact remains that we simply do not skill development, and access to political lead- know enough about what exactly is going on ers who speak at leadership luncheons. HON. TED POE in Libya today. The U.S. government and Con- The CAUSE Leadership Council & Network OF TEXAS gress should further investigate this tragic de- is comprised of preeminent next-generation IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES velopment of human slavery in Libya so we leaders, who are selected to participate by in- can get to the bottom of what is actually going vitation only. Members move the APA commu- Thursday, March 15, 2018 on. nity forward through education, networks, and Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, the mullahs We must know who is exploiting migrants advancement into leadership positions. They in Tehran are among the world’s worst human for profit, where the money is going, and com- also look to ensure equal opportunities for rights abusers. This year we have witnessed pel Libyan authorities and the international leadership representation by building key con- their brutality again on display as they merci- community to respond decisively. It is our nections and skills necessary to advance and lessly crushed political dissent from their own moral duty to fight for the voiceless who are empower emerging leaders. people. International attention has faded but being sold as chattel on the shores of Libya.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:01 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A15MR8.016 E15MRPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with REMARKS March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E325 And that’s just the way it is. REMEMBERING MR. WARREN a passion for law at a very early age. He ‘RHUBARB’ JONES moved to Washington, D.C., to work as a f judge with the Army Judge Advocate Gen- HON. BARRY LOUDERMILK eral’s Corps and as an associate at the law HONORING CONGRESSWOMAN OF GEORGIA firm Arent Fox. In 1974, he joined the Federal MARCY KAPTUR IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Communications Commission as chief of the cable television bureau, but later became an Thursday, March 15, 2018 associate general counsel there. John Clay HON. JIM JORDAN Mr. LOUDERMILK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today Smith, Jr. was named interim chair of the OF OHIO to pay tribute to Mr. Warren ‘Rhubarb’ Jones EEOC in 1978. It was also during this time IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES of Tallapoosa, Georgia, who passed away on that he was elected as the first African Amer- April 2, 2017. ican national president of the Federal Bar As- Thursday, March 15, 2018 Rhubarb’s love of music and strong work sociation. Mr. JORDAN. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to ethic led him to become one of the most tal- As the first female to chair the EEOC, I join my colleagues from Ohio and across the ented and decorated radio personalities in the served alongside John to reform it and to de- nation in paying tribute to the dean of the Ohio State of Georgia. In his 48 years as a disc velop and implement guidelines related to delegation, Congresswoman MARCY KAPTUR, jockey—23 of them in the Atlanta market—he workplace sexual harassment. Once John as she becomes the longest-serving woman in earned many well-deserved accolades, includ- stepped down from his post at the EEOC, he the history of the House of Representatives. ing 1983 CMA and ACM DJ of the Year, 1987 went on to serve as Dean of Howard Univer- Large Market CMA DJ of the Year, 1991 At- sity School of Law from 1986 to 1988, obtain- Congresswoman KAPTUR has been tireless lanta Country Music Hall of Fame, and 2001 ing updated equipment and increased funding in her promotion of Toledo and the people of Country Music Disc Jockey Hall of Fame. for faculty members not only to raise the Ohio’s Ninth Congressional District. I am He was one of the founding members of the school’s profile, but also to assist in it main- grateful to my colleagues who have already Georgia Radio Hall of Fame, contributing taining its accreditation. In addition, John spoken about her many accomplishments on greatly to their organization. He was inducted helped raise scholarship funds for the law behalf of her constituents throughout her con- into their inaugural class in 2007. At the time school. During his time at the law school, he gressional career. of his death, he was the longest-running morn- also served as president of the National Bar I want to especially highlight her advocacy ing radio personality in the Atlanta radio mar- Association and the Washington Bar Associa- work on behalf of Lima’s Joint Systems Manu- ket. For the last couple years, he hosted mid- tion. In 2004, John retired from Howard. facturing Center in my district, which is the days on Great Classics 98.9 in West Georgia. John graduated in 1964 from Creighton Uni- only facility in the nation capable of producing In 2008, Rhubarb joined the Kennesaw versity, where he paid his tuition through large combat vehicles for the Department of State University family as Senior Director of scholarships and part-time jobs, and grad- Defense. MARCY has used her seniority on the Special Projects in the Office of Development uated from Howard University School of Law House Appropriations Committee to stave off and Distinguished Lecturer in the Department in 1967, where he was class president. He cuts to JSMC programs that would have dev- of Communication. He was one of the most later went on to receive master’s and doctoral astated military readiness and destroyed the popular professors among their communica- degrees in law from George Washington Uni- plant’s supplier base. I thank her for her long- tions students and a passionate supporter of versity. standing bipartisan work to save money for the school, even helping launch their football Mr. Speaker, I ask the House of Represent- the taxpayer while keeping the skilled workers program. atives to join me in remembering the life and of JSMC on the job building modem, safer ve- Rhubarb was passionate about the Leu- legacy of John Clay Smith, Jr. as interim hicles on which our servicemembers rely. kemia & Lymphoma Society, and helped start chairman of the EEOC and as Dean of How- On behalf of the people of Ohio’s Fourth the March Across Georgia in 1990. During the ard University School of Law. Congressional District, I congratulate Con- month of June every year, he would make f gresswoman KAPTUR on achieving this mile- stops all over the state of Georgia, collecting PERSONAL EXPLANATION stone. Her decency and civility are a model for pennies everywhere he went. Over 18 years all who commit their lives to public service. ago, he began running a celebrity golf tour- nament to advocate and raise money for their HON. PETER A. DeFAZIO f research. Through his efforts, he helped to OF OREGON raise over $3.5 trillion. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRIBUTE TO BONNIE AND DARYL On behalf of Georgia’s 11th Congressional Thursday, March 15, 2018 HAYNES District and the United States House of Rep- Mr. DEFAZIO. Mr. Speaker, on March 13, resentatives, I offer my heartfelt condolences 2018, I was not present for votes due to flight HON. DAVID YOUNG to Mrs. Donna Jones and their daughters, delays. If I had been present, I would have Presley and Callie. Mr. Jones will be fondly re- voted: OF IOWA membered by all of Georgia for his strong On Roll Call vote 102, on the Motion to Sus- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES dedication to his community and his kind spirit. pend the Rules and Pass H.R. 5247, I would He is greatly missed. Thursday, March 15, 2018 have voted No. f On Roll Call vote 103, on the Motion to Sus- Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise HONORING JOHN CLAY SMITH, JR. pend the Rules and Pass H.R. 4465, I would today to recognize and congratulate Bonnie have voted Aye. and Daryl Haynes of Prescott, Iowa on the f very special occasion of their 70th wedding HON. ELEANOR HOLMES NORTON anniversary. They celebrated their anniversary OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA TRIBUTE TO DAN FLORES on January 18, 2018. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Bonnie and Daryl’s lifelong commitment to Thursday, March 15, 2018 HON. DAVID YOUNG OF IOWA each other and their family truly embodies Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Iowa values. As they reflect on their 70th anni- ask the House of Representatives to join me versary, may their commitment grow even in recognizing John Clay Smith, Jr. for his Thursday, March 15, 2018 stronger, as they continue to love, cherish, years of service as interim chair of the Equal Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise and honor one another for many years to Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) today to recognize and congratulate Dan Flo- come. and as Dean of Howard University School of res of Council Bluffs, Iowa, on his recent re- Mr. Speaker, I commend this great couple Law. John passed away on February 15, tirement as a Lieutenant with the Council on their 70th year together and I wish them 2018, due to complications from Alzheimer’s Bluffs Police Department after 36 years of many more. I ask that my colleagues in the disease. My thoughts are with John’s family service. Dan began his career with the Council United States House of Representatives join during this difficult time. Bluffs Police Department in 1981. me in congratulating them on this momentous John Clay Smith, Jr. was born in 1942 just Dan said he could sum up his career by occasion. outside of Omaha, Nebraska. He knew he had using one word, ‘‘service’’, and said it has

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:01 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A15MR8.019 E15MRPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with REMARKS E326 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 15, 2018 been an honor and privilege to be part of the longevity of Varns and Hoover Hardware lies organization based in Durham, just two years Council Bluffs Police Department. Dan grew in the family’s dedication to serving their ago. Through Warren’s visionary leadership up in northern Iowa and attended Minnesota neighbors and providing high-quality products and the work of dedicated board members State University where he received his Bach- at a friendly and convenient location. and volunteers, AYA currently supports twen- elor’s Degree. Council Bluffs Police Chief Tim The store always addressed the specific ty-two students attending flight simulation Carmody said, ‘‘the scope of Dan’s career is needs of the town with products that served training, five students presently flying, and two a testament of how officers have a true invest- family farmers, small businesses, the large who will take their flight tests to qualify for ment in their communities. It’s been a heart- Amish community, and the growing manufac- their pilot’s licenses within the next few warming experience and an adventure.’’ turing industry. Now more than a century later, months. Mr. Speaker, I applaud and congratulate it remains a central stop for the small town’s On behalf of the people of the Fourth Con- Dan on his retirement and career. Dan has residents to get the products they need as gressional District of North Carolina, I applaud made a difference by helping and serving oth- well as catch up with their neighbors. Its the work of the Airolina Young Aviators Pro- ers. It is with great honor that I recognize him charm and character come from its welcoming gram for empowering young members of our today. I ask that my colleagues in the United and personal feel and the friendly smiles that community and helping move the Research States House of Representatives join me in greet you when you walk in. Triangle toward a future in which all our stu- honoring his accomplishments and in wishing Small businesses are the backbone of the dents can pursue and achieve their dreams. him nothing but the best in his retirement. American economy, and it is a privilege to rep- For these students, the sky truly is the limit. f f resent a family so devoted to the prosperity of their community for so many years. To honor IN RECOGNITION OF THE INSTAL- CENTENNIAL OF THE YEE SHAN Varns and Hoover Hardware is to honor what LATION OF DR. DENNIS FRISCH BENEVOLENT SOCIETY, INC. it means to achieve the American Dream. With AS PRESIDENT OF THE AMER- ´ ownership now being passed down to fifth- ICAN PODIATRIC MEDICAL ASSO- HON. NYDIA M. VELAZQUEZ generation family member Nathan Miller, I am CIATION OF NEW YORK grateful to be able to recognize such a pivotal IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES moment in the history of this Hoosier family, HON. BRIAN J. MAST their small business, and the community they Thursday, March 15, 2018 OF FLORIDA serve. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me to recognize and congratulate the Yee Shan in congratulating Varns and Hoover Hardware Thursday, March 15, 2018 Benevolent Society, Inc. on its centennial cele- and in wishing them the best in all the years Mr. MAST. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to rec- bration on March 18, 2018. to come. ognize Dr. Dennis Frisch, a podiatric physician Since 1918, the Yee Shan Benevolent Soci- f who practices in his hometown of Boca Raton, ety has been sharing fellowship, support, Fla., for his installation on March 18, 2018, as friendship, benevolence and hope with immi- HONORING THE AIROLINA YOUNG President of the American Podiatric Medical grants from the Pan Yu County of the Canton AVIATORS PROGRAM Association. Province in China. Over the course of a cen- Dr. Frisch has dedicated his life to service tury, it has expanded its services to include HON. DAVID E. PRICE in his profession and his community. After fundraising for local hospitals, health centers, OF NORTH CAROLINA graduating from Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine and completing his resi- non-profits and other initiatives. Today, the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Society is a beloved cornerstone organization dency at the Franklin Boulevard Community Thursday, March 15, 2018 that continues to provide social and commu- Hospital in Chicago, Ill., Dr. Frisch went into nity enrichment to Chinese Americans in New Mr. PRICE of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, private practice in Boca Raton. 30 years later, York City and the greater NY region. I rise today to recognize and commend the ac- he continues to provide podiatric care in that I am proud that the constituents of my dis- complishments of the Airolina Young Aviators community. trict continue to support the traditions and val- (AYA) Program of Durham, North Carolina. He has been board certified in podiatric sur- ues of this esteemed fraternity along with its Established in 2016, AYA provides opportu- gery by the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons for nearly 25 years and is a partners, the Chinese Consolidated Benevo- nities for high school students—often from dis- founding member of the American Society of lent Association and Lin Sing Association. My advantaged communities—to receive profes- Podiatric Surgeon. Dr. Frisch has also served district is enriched and indebted to them for sional introductory flight training and as president of the Florida Podiatric Medical their service to advance the betterment of the mentorship, engaging them in STEM edu- cation projects and offers classes and pre- Association, winning the FPMA Podiatrist of Chinatown and Lower East Side community. the Year Award and its President’s Award. In Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate the paring them for flight examinations and pilot li- censes. These credentials, enriched by the addition, he has twice been named one of the Yee Shan Benevolent Society in New York for top 150 Most Influential Podiatrists in America guidance of AYA mentors, equip students with its commendable and exemplary work and and was appointed by Governor Charlie Crist valuable experience, achievements, skills, and wish it many years of continued success. to the Florida Board of Podiatric Medicine, references as they begin to apply to jobs, col- f serving for 6 years. leges, and aviation university programs. CELEBRATING FIVE GENERATIONS Dr. Frisch has also been an active member The AYA program was founded by Captain of the American Podiatric Medical Association. AND 125 YEARS OF VARNS AND Warren Wheeler, a Durham native who estab- HOOVER HARDWARE He was elected to its Board of Trustees in lished the first African American-owned and 2007 before becoming Treasurer. He is also a -operated air service in the United States. An member of APMA’s Annual Meeting Com- HON. JACKIE WALORSKI entrepreneur, aviator, and businessman, War- mittee and Scholarship Committee, as well as OF INDIANA ren paved the way for African Americans and serving as the APMA Barry University liaison. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES others who wished to pursue careers in the Dr. Frisch is also active in the Boca Raton field of aviation. In 1979, he became the first Thursday, March 15, 2018 community. He has served two terms as presi- airline owner to use government employment dent of the Boca Raton Rotary Club and Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today training programs such as the federal Com- served for eight years as a Commissioner for to celebrate Varns and Hoover Hardware, a prehensive Employment Training Act to train the Greater Boca Raton Beach and Parks Dis- family-owned business that has been a fixture unemployed and low-income people of color trict. Currently, he is an appointed Board in the Middlebury community for more than who sought careers in the airline industry. In member to the City of Boca Raton Parks and 125 years and that will soon be passed down addition to providing his students with practical Recreation Department Advisory Board. And to the fifth generation. instruction, Wheeler served as their employ- last, but most importantly, Dr. Frisch is a In the late 1800s, Ellwsorth Varns moved ment negotiator with regional and national car- proud husband to his wife Jennifer, father to his hardware store to the heart ofMiddlebury, riers to help advance their careers. his two children, Ashley and Daniel, and Pa Indiana, from Michigan. The store started out Captain Warren continued his mission to ex- Pa of two grandchildren. serving farmers and families in this sinall town, pand and support the number of certified mi- Mr. Speaker, I wish Dr. Frisch great success but over time it grew and adapted to the nority pilots by establishing AYA as part of as he takes the helm of the American changing economic times. The success and Airolina Flight & Music Support, a non-profit Podiatric Medical Association.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:01 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A15MR8.025 E15MRPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with REMARKS March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E327 TRIBUTE TO DR. ROBERT FRYZEK the diagnosis and cure of many diseases. Commerce; the Georgia Science and Tech- Thanks to the dedication and perseverance of nology Executive Committee; the Public Policy HON. DAVID YOUNG this Wisconsin company, consumers will have Committee for the Metro Atlanta United Way, OF IOWA access to the first domestic supply of this and is a policy adviser for the Technology As- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES much needed medicine. sociation of Georgia. f Through his work and civic engagement, his Thursday, March 15, 2018 lovely wife, Mary Kay Davis McCutchen, has Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise TRIBUTE TO MR. JOSEPH KELLY been a dedicated companion. Kelly and Mary today to recognize and congratulate Dr. Rob- MCCUTCHEN III Kay live in Atlanta, as Kelly tells the rest of ert Fryzek of Glenwood, Iowa on his retire- Georgia, ‘‘So you don’t have to!’’ Married ment as a practicing physician. Dr. Fryzek has HON. BARRY LOUDERMILK since 1994, the McCutchens have a son, served the Glenwood area for the past 54 OF GEORGIA Kelly, and a daughter, Caroline, both in col- years, practicing general family medicine and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES lege; Caroline is the family’s fourth-generation received the respect, trust, and loyalty of his Thursday, March 15, 2018 attendee of Georgia Tech. patients who called him ‘‘a working man’s doc- On behalf of Georgia’s 11th Congressional tor.’’ Mr. LOUDERMILK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today District and the United States House of Rep- Dr. Fryzek graduated from Central High to pay tribute to my friend, Mr. Joseph Kelly resentatives, I commend Kelly McCutchen for School in Omaha, Nebraska in 1952. He re- McCutchen III, a man who has dedicated his his many years of outstanding, dedicated and ceived his bachelor’s degree from Creighton life to serving the people of the state of Geor- effective service. University in Omaha and earned his medical gia. f degree from the University of Nebraska in Kelly was born in Ellijay, Georgia, to Joe HONORING CONGRESSWOMAN 1960. Dr. Fryzek served his internship at Wes- and Betty McCutchen. He graduated from MARCY KAPTUR, THE LONGEST ley Hospital in Wichita, Kansas and spent two Gilmer High School and became the third gen- SERVING WOMAN IN THE HIS- years at the Western Shoshone Duck Valley eration in his family to attend the Georgia In- TORY OF THE UNITED STATES Indian Reservation in Owee, Nevada before stitute of Technology, where he graduated HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES moving to Glenwood, Iowa in 1963 to start his with the highest honors. He began his career in the Trust Department of Trust Company local practice. Dr. Fryzek offered weekend SPEECH OF hours, treated patients at the local nursing Bank in Atlanta, where he was a vice presi- home on his days off, served as the County dent before he joined the Georgia Public Pol- HON. EDWARD R. ROYCE Medical Examiner, and volunteered as the icy Foundation in 1993. For many years, he OF CALIFORNIA team doctor for Glenwood High School. He is offered the state guidance and counsel on IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES a one-of-a-kind doctor who went above and issues including education, tax, health care Wednesday, March 14, 2018 and economic policy. beyond for his patients and community. Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise Kelly became president and CEO of the Mr. Speaker, I commend and congratulate today to celebrate my good friend from Ohio, Georgia Public Policy Foundation in 2010. He Dr. Fryzek on his retirement and thank him for Congresswoman MARCY KAPTUR. resigned from GPPF recently, after nearly 25 his many years of dedicated and devoted On this historic occasion—as MARCY be- service to the citizens of Glenwood. I am years providing Georgia’s policymakers and comes the longest-serving woman in the his- proud to represent him in the United States lawmakers with the intellectual ammunition to tory of this House—I am honored to stand by Congress and I ask that my colleagues in the embrace policy over politics. He remains ac- her side. United States House of Representatives join tive in Foundation policy as part of the think As Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs me in congratulating him for his many accom- tank’s network of Senior Fellows. Committee, I have seen firsthand the personal plishments and in wishing him and his family At the Georgia Public Policy Foundation, his passion MARCY brings to protecting democracy nothing but the best. service to the state and its people has been and freedom around the globe. exemplary. Kelly helped create the Civic Re- f Nowhere is this more evident than in her newal Project that highlights the work of out- work on behalf of the people of Ukraine and FIRST DOMESTIC PRODUCTION OF standing community-based organizations, the the diaspora here in America. MOLY99 BY NORTH STAR NU- ‘‘No Excuses’’ program to recognize and study As co-chair of the Congressional Ukrainian CLEAR MEDICINE high achieving and high poverty public Caucus, she has been a tireless advocate for schools, and award-winning statewide report the democratic transition in Ukraine—and es- HON. MARK POCAN cards on education, crime and taxes. During pecially championing the rights of Ukrainian OF WISCONSIN his tenure, the Foundation was named First women. She has sponsored legislation sup- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES place for highest integrity and Third place for porting freedom and human rights in Ukraine, most knowledgeable among business organi- in addition to promoting the important role that Thursday, March 15, 2018 zations or state associations in Georgia, by women play in Ukraine’s economy. Mr. POCAN. Mr. Speaker, on February 8, James magazine (2004) and, in January 2018, This is because MARCY understands the crit- 2018, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration one of the Best Independent Think Tanks in ical role that Ukrainian women can and must (FDA) approved the first domestic production the 2017 Global Go-To Think Tank Index Re- play in their country’s future—as educators, of Moly99 by North Star Nuclear Medicine, port. leaders, entrepreneurs, and peacemakers. which is located in Beloit, Wisconsin. Moly99 A tireless fundraiser for GPPF and numer- Likewise, she wants to see more opportunity is the key substance used in 50,000 daily pro- ous nonprofit organizations, Kelly was also a for women all around the world. I am particu- cedures using nuclear medicine to diagnose a member of the Leadership Georgia Class of larly grateful for her support for my Commit- variety of illness. 200l. He served on the boards of Leadership tee’s efforts to ensure that women and girls For many years, the United States has been Georgia, the Georgia Tech Alumni Associa- are empowered by, and included in, U.S. dip- dependent on foreign sources using nuclear tion, and the Conservative Policy Leadership lomatic efforts abroad, including legislation to fission offshore. These reactors, located in Institute. He was a founder and Governing promote the inclusion of women in peace ne- Canada, the Netherlands, South Africa, and Board Chair of Tech High, a math, science gotiations and peacekeeping efforts. MARCY Australia, are old and have been the subject and technology-focused public charter school has also long been supportive of the Commit- of many disruptions of supply causing short- in Atlanta. tee’s efforts to promote girls’ access to edu- ages. He co-founded the Georgia Warrior Alliance, cation. Working with help from the U.S. Department a nonprofit with the mission to make Georgia Here in the United States, of course, MARCY of Energy and the cooperation of the FDA, the national Leader in programs supporting has proven her commitment to promoting North Star has developed a system to produce military veterans and their families. He served women’s rights. I am proud to join her in spon- Moly99 without any use of uranium, resulting on the board of the Georgia Chamber of Com- soring the Smithsonian Women’s History Mu- in little waste and no nuclear waste. merce and chaired the board of the seum Act, aptly numbered, H.R. 19. Alongside I want to congratulate George Messina, Healthcare Institute for Neuro-Recovery and our good friend from New York, CAROLYN North Star’s CEO, and his 130 employees, lo- Innovation Foundation. He served on the Edu- MALONEY, we are, as MARCY put it, seeking ‘‘to cated in the cities of Beloit and Madison, on cation Policy Committee and the Health Care record the history of over half of our citizenry their achievement. Nuclear medicine is vital to Policy Committee for the Georgia Chamber of in a way that brings them into full view.’’

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:01 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A15MR8.030 E15MRPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with REMARKS E328 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 15, 2018 I have no doubt that when we succeed in city. Clarinda City Manager Gary McClarnon patience’’ allowed Russia to get a foothold in building the first National Women’s History said, ‘‘Gordon has been a very good leader for the Middle East by propping up the brutal dic- Museum, MARCY KAPTUR will be prominently the city and will be remembered as a great tatorship of Syrian President Bashar al Assad represented. leader for the city during his time as a City and obstructing peace efforts by the UN Secu- MARCY is an inspiration to women and girls Councilman and Mayor.’’ rity Council. Putin is knowingly allied with mur- across the country who aspire to lead—who Mr. Speaker, I applaud and congratulate derers. aspire to participate in their democracy. Gordon for taking an active role in his commu- That is why I am a co-sponsor of H.R. 1677, I am proud to have partnered with her on nity. Gordon’s commitment is not only for the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act of these and so many other issues, and am Clarinda but for all of Southwest Iowa. I am 2017, which would sanction anyone respon- thankful for her years of service. proud to represent him in the United States sible for hindering access to humanitarian re- f Congress and I ask that my colleagues in the lief in Syria as well as any person who know- House of Representatives join me in congratu- ingly provides support to the Syrian Govern- CALLING FOR THE END OF THE lating him for his service and wishing him ment in their attempt to acquire ballistic mis- SYRIAN CIVIL WAR AND FOR nothing but continued success. siles. The House passed H.R. 1677 last year, PRESIDENT BASHAR AL-ASSAD f and I urge the Senate to pass this bill as well. TO STEP ASIDE In conclusion, God Bless our Troops, and HONORING THE LIFE OF MAR- we will never forget September 11th in the GARET PERKINS, CONGRES- HON. STEVE CHABOT Global War on Terrorism. SIONAL GOLD MEDAL RECIPIENT OF OHIO f IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HON. ELISE M. STEFANIK HONORING CARLOS CHAIREZ Thursday, March 15, 2018 OF NEW YORK Mr. CHABOT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HON. J. LUIS CORREA mark the seventh anniversary of the Syrian Thursday, March 15, 2018 OF CALIFORNIA people’s demand for democracy, which began IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES on March 15, 2011. Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to As a senior Member of the House Foreign honor the life of Margaret Perkins, a Civil Air Thursday, March 15, 2018 Affairs Committee, I have watched President Patrol volunteer from New York’s 21st District Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to Bashar al-Assad commit a catalogue of the who is being honored with the Congressional honor Carlos Chairez for his exceptional serv- most barbaric crimes during seven years of Gold Medal. ice to his community and his country. Margaret was born on November 17, 1917, civil war. These include his use of chemical Mr. Chairez valiantly served his country dur- and attended Rochester Institute of Tech- weapons against civilians, his mass imprison- ing World War II as a Private First Class in the nology, Skidmore College, ahd Columbia Uni- ment and murder of his own citizens, and his United States Army. Mr. Chairez served in the versity. After training to fly aircraft at the Lewis deliberate shelling of noncombatants. His vio- European Theater of war as a member of Lavery Air School in Round Lake, New York, lence has created a catastrophic refugee cri- General Patton’s Third Army, Fourth Armored Margaret received her pilot’s license from the sis, and the death toll from his brutal war is in Division. As the war came to a close, his divi- Civil Aeronautics Authority in 1943 at only the hundreds of thousands. sion was converted into the peacekeeping twenty-four years old, and became the first fe- Worse, Russia and Iran have been keen to constabulary force. With great confidence and male licensed pilot in Saratoga County. As a expand their influence in Syria—no matter the great strength, Mr. Chairez helped create vic- member of the Civil Air Patrol during World human cost. Not only has Vladimir Putin tory and a better world. War II, Margaret flew anti-sabotage missions propped up Assad militarily, but he has pro- Mr. Chairez embraced his country in a time to ensure the security of dams and other vided diplomatic cover for Assad’s crimes. of great need. He went into a perilous domain structures. She also shuttled single-engine Further, Tehran has entrenched itself in Syria and fought to preserve democracy and install military observation aircraft between airports at by mobilizing and training numerous proxy freedom. He helped to bring peace to a region the request of the U.S. Government. fighters. This expanded influence undermines torn apart by the ravages of war. In gratitude and recognition of her service in American interests, threatens Israel, and fur- Mr. Chairez has been happily married for al- the Civil Air Patrol during World War II, Mar- ther destabilizes the Middle East. most 70 years to his wife Margarita, has 4 garet is being honored with the Congressional I encourage the Administration to work with children, and 7 grandchildren. His love for his Gold Medal. The Medal is the highest civilian Congress and our allies to bring this war to a family and country is unparalleled and I deeply award presented by the U.S. Congress as its needed conclusion; one that transitions Syria admire his dedication, charisma, and will- highest expression of national appreciation for into a post-Assad future. power. He is an outstanding role model for us outstanding contributions. f It is no doubt that Margaret contributed sig- all. I am honored and privileged to thank such an extraordinary man. I hope he continues to TRIBUTE TO GORDON KOKENGE nificantly to U.S. success in World War II, and I am extremely proud to rise today in honor of be a reminder to us all to never forget no sac- her achievements. New York’s 21st District is rifice is too great or small. HON. DAVID YOUNG forever grateful for Margaret’s courageous f OF IOWA service to her country. INTRODUCTION OF THE LIFELONG IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES f IMPROVEMENTS IN FOOD AND Thursday, March 15, 2018 THE SYRIAN SLAUGHTER MUST EXERCISE ACT OF 2018 Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise END today to recognize and congratulate Gordon HON. ELEANOR HOLMES NORTON Kokenge of Clarinda, Iowa who recently re- HON. JOE WILSON OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA tired after twenty-eight years of service to the OF SOUTH CAROLINA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES City of Clarinda as a member of the City IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Council and as Mayor. Gordon was elected in Thursday, March 15, 2018 l988 to the City Council and as Mayor in 2005. Thursday, March 15, 2018 Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to Gordon has served Clarinda with honor, Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speak- reintroduce the Lifelong Improvements in Food dedication, and with determination to improve er, the past few weeks has brought an unfor- and Exercise Act, authorizing a national initia- the lives of every citizen. During his tenure he tunate intensification of the Syrian Civil War as tive to attack a major health problem in the has been a leading force in economic devel- the Syrian government, aided by Russia, con- United States that cannot be remedied opment in Clarinda to help develop new indus- tinues to bomb rebel-held towns and cities in through the health care system alone. Increas- tries and help save local companies that have Syria—including targeting hospitals. This wors- ing rates of overweight and obesity are now now prospered and expanded. Many citizens ening crisis puts even more innocent civilians found in Americans of every age, race and in Clarinda supported Gordon because of his at risk as the fighting moves closer to heavily other major demographic groups, and threaten insight, knowledge, commitment to the city, populated areas. the health of Americans like no other disease and his concern for the city’s budget. He has We should not make the same mistakes as or condition. In fact, the key to eliminating a reputation of working for the good of the the Obama administration, whose ‘‘strategic many of the most serious health conditions is

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:01 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A15MR8.033 E15MRPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with REMARKS March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E329 not only to reduce overweight and obesity, but He will be deeply missed by the entire State ice Award from the Salvation Army. Greg is a also to encourage exercise of all kinds. of New Jersey, particularly our brothers and 2010 graduate of Leadership Wilkes-Barre’s The LIFE Act would provide $25 million to sisters in labor for whom he tirelessly advo- Executive Leadership Program and a 4th-de- the Centers for Disease Control and Preven- cated throughout his entire life. gree member of the Knights of Columbus. tion (CDC) for a coordinated national effort to Bob was committed to fighting for the work- It is an honor to recognize Greg Collins as reverse increasingly sedentary lifestyles and ing men and women of New Jersey. For twen- he accepts the ‘‘Man of the Year’’ Award from diets that are high in fat and sugar. Specifi- ty-five years, Bob served as President and the Wilkes-Barre Friendly Sons. I am grateful cally, my bill seeks to provide the first national Business Manager of Local 399 of the Inter- to him for his forty years of service to the peo- strategy to combat the overweight and obesity national Association of Bridge, Structural and ple of Northeastern Pennsylvania, and I thank epidemic by directing the CDC to do three Ornamental Ironworkers in South Jersey. As him for his continued leadership in his commu- things: train health professionals to recognize the longest-serving business manager in the nity. I wish him all the best on this Saint Pat- the signs of obesity early and to educate peo- history of the ironworkers, Bob fought vigor- rick’s Day. ple concerning healthy lifestyles, such as ously to defend the labor movement and New f proper nutrition and regular exercise; conduct Jersey’s dedicated workforce. Bob’s unflinch- public education campaigns about how to rec- ing values and passionate leadership continue TRIBUTE TO JEFF BALLENGER ognize and address overweight and obesity; to live on through the steadfast work of his and develop intervention strategies to be used sons—Robert Sweeney, New Jersey Senate HON. DAVID YOUNG by the states in everyday life, such as in the President Stephen Sweeney, and New Jersey OF IOWA workplace and in community settings. This AFL–CIO Vice President Richard Sweeney. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. Speaker, I am deeply grateful for Bob legislation, however, meets the bare minimum Thursday, March 15, 2018 for what is needed to address our most impor- Sweeney’s invaluable contributions to our tant health crisis. community and our state, and I am confident Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise In 2010, estimates from the CDC National that his memory will serve as an inspiration for today to recognize and congratulate Jeff Center for Health Statistics showed that since our future generations. Ballenger of Council Bluffs, Iowa for his lead- 1980, the percentage of children who are f ership and vision in helping organize 13 honor overweight has more than doubled, and the flights that have taken nearly 3,500 Iowa vet- percentage of adolescents who are overweight IN RECOGNITION OF GREG COL- erans to Washington, D.C. to visit memorials has tripled. The CDC also reports that Type 2 LINS, GREATER WILKES-BARRE built in their honor. Diabetes, once considered an adult disease, is FRIENDLY SONS’ MAN OF THE Jeff and his father, Bill Ballenger, saw a now widespread among children. The rising YEAR need to honor our country’s aging veterans cost of the health care system, including insur- from World War II, the Korean War, and Viet- ance premiums, reflects this epidemic. Today, HON. MATT CARTWRIGHT nam War. The Ballengers have partnered with chronic diseases, many of which are caused OF PENNSYLVANIA HyVee, Inc., Casey’s General Stores, and oth- or exacerbated by overweight and obesity, ac- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ers to raise more than $3 million to fund this special endeavor. Jeff said, ‘‘It takes nearly count for 70 percent of all deaths in the U.S., Thursday, March 15, 2018 and 86 percent of U.S. medical care costs. 200 volunteers to help make each honor flight A focused national health initiative would Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise a success. Dad and I might be the front, but provide guidance to the states to engage in today to recognize Greg Collins, who will re- we could not do it without the volunteers who similar programs, as mayors of some cities ceive the ‘‘Man of the Year’’ Award from the are so important in turning the plans into a re- have done. A national focus could lead to Wilkes-Barre Friendly Sons. He will be hon- ality.’’ changes, such as full participation in high ored during the Friendly Sons annual Saint Mr. Speaker, I applaud and congratulate school physical education classes, which Patrick’s Day celebration on Friday, March 16, Jeff on his dedication and diligence to pro- dropped from 42 percent in 1991 to 33 per- 2018. Greg has forty years of finance experi- mote, organize, and fund the 13 honor flights cent in 2005. Changes in nutrition are equally ence and is the former senior vice president for our Veterans. I am proud to represent him critical because more than half of all young and area president of Wells Fargo Bank. in the United States Congress. I ask that my people consume too much fat, a factor in the Greg is a native of Kingston, Pennsylvania. colleagues in the United States House of Rep- doubling of the percentage of overweight After graduating from West Side Central resentatives join me in congratulating Jeff and youth. Data also show an increase in Catholic, he began his career as a teller at in wishing him nothing but continued success unhealthy eating habits for adults and no Wyoming National Bank. While working as a in all his endeavors. change in physical activity. teller, Greg attended night classes at f According to a 2017 study conducted by the Misericordia University, majoring in business IN RECOGNITION OF THE 7TH AN- American College of Sports Medicine, the Dis- administration. While working for Wyoming NIVERSARY OF THE START OF trict of Columbia is one of the fittest cities in National Bank and its successors, Greg took THE SYRIAN WAR the United States and, yet, even here, obesity on more responsibility, taking management continues to be a severe problem. Most of the positions and eventually advancing to senior obesity epidemic is exercise-and-food-related. leadership roles. From 2009 until his retire- HON. ADAM KINZINGER Approximately one-fifth of District residents are ment in September 2017, Greg served as OF ILLINOIS considered obese. Wells Fargo’s community bank area president IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES for Northeastern Pennsylvania. He led more I urge my colleagues to join me in support Thursday, March 15, 2018 of this important legislation to mobilize the than three hundred team members and country now before entirely preventable health oversaw the operations of thirty-seven Wells Mr. KINZINGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today conditions, which often begin in childhood, Fargo branch banking offices across nine to mark the 7th anniversary of the beginning overwhelm the nation’s health care system. counties. of the Syrian War. Greg remains an active member of the com- Since the conflict began in 2011, over f munity in his retirement. He is a member of 500,000 Syrians have been killed, including HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY the board of trustees at Misericordia Univer- 50,000 children by the murderous dictator OF ROBERT C. SWEENEY sity, a board member of the Greater Wilkes- Bashar al-Assad and his Russian and Iranian Barre Chamber of Business and Industry, backers. These brutal regimes not only target HON. JOSH GOTTHEIMER Leadership Wilkes-Barre, the Wilkes-Barre civilians with their artillery strikes, but the OF NEW JERSEY YMCA, the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital, Assad regime continues to use chemical IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and the United Way of Wyoming Valley. In weapons, including chlorine gas, to kill his 2015, he chaired the American Heart Associa- own citizens with impunity. Thursday, March 15, 2018 tion Gala for Northeastern Pennsylvania. He Over the last 7 years, over 30 chemical Mr. GOTTHEIMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise was the recipient of the 2015 North Star weapons attacks have taken place in Syria. today to honor the life and legacy of Robert C. Award from the Northeastern Pennsylvania Bashar al Assad has used these chemical Sweeney—a bold and courageous community Council Boy Scouts of America, the 2015 Dis- weapons in clear violation of international law, leader, a pioneer for New Jersey workers, and tinguished Leadership Award from Leadership and against countless resolutions by the a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Wilkes-Barre, and the 2015 Community Serv- United Nations Security Council. The world

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:01 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A15MR8.039 E15MRPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with REMARKS E330 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 15, 2018 has seen the heartbreaking images of children the community. These acknowledgements in- Cora’s career is marked by many ‘‘firsts.’’ gasping for their lives, body bags lining the clude the J. C. Penny Golden Rule Award; the She served as the first African American streets, and horrific videos of these chemical Department of the Air Force Service Award; woman to lead a department in the City of weapon attacks. We cannot turn a blind eye to the Legendary Educator Award; the Humani- Durham and the first African American woman the genocide before us. tarian of the Year Award; an Honorary Doc- to be named the city’s Mayor Pro Tempore. The situation in Syria today is devastating torate from the City of Macon in 2002; and ap- She was also the first recipient of the City of with no signs of immediate improvement. As I pointments as Lieutenant Colonel, Aide-De- Durham’s Diversity Change Agent Award, have said before, in order to prevent the rise Camp, and to the Governor’s Staff by then which is now named in her honor. of the next generation of terrorists and killers, Governor Jimmy Carter in 1991. In her seventeen years in the Durham City we must ensure that Bashar al-Assad is re- In conjunction with her professional accom- Council and as Mayor Pro Tempore, Cora was moved from power. I believe the United States plishments, Lillie became the first African- a tenacious advocate for safe and affordable of America was put on this Earth to be an ex- American to be appointed as President of the housing, accessible healthcare, and empow- ample of self-governance and order in a world Democratic Women’s Party and the first Afri- ering youth in the Durham community. She drowning in strongmen, oppression, and pov- can-American woman to serve as Chair of the championed the City of Durham Youth Com- erty. Democratic Party of Macon-Bibb County. mission’s representation at the first-ever Youth Mr. Speaker, it is time for the United States Lillie’s distinguished achievements have Summit sponsored by the North Carolina to exert leadership in Syria. If we fail to act been mirrored by her extensive involvement in League of Cities. She helped spur the creation and if we fail to lead, we are failing humanity. civil rights. After witnessing several racial in- of a local teen center, and constantly sought Failing to act in Syria is a failure on us all. We justices against African-Americans, Lillie de- ways to serve disadvantaged youth. must learn from history, learn from past mis- cided to get involved in the Civil Rights Move- Cora has served in various leadership posi- takes, and take action as a global leader for ment. She marched locally and throughout tions in the Durham community, including the freedom and hope. Stopping Assad’s genocide Georgia alongside Hosea Williams, William P. NAACP, the Housing Appeals Board, the in Syria is part of our mission statement, and Randall, and Tyrone Brooks to advocate for Homeless Services Advisory Committee, the I will continue to do what I can in support of civil rights and equal treatment of African Joint City-County Planning Committee, and that mission. I urge my colleagues to join me Americans. the Mayor’s Committee for Persons with Dis- in doing the same. Lillie’s faith has always instilled within her a abilities. She has also served on the board of f desire to positively shape the community in the National League of Cities and has been which she lives. As a member of New Pleas- IN RECOGNITION OF MRS. LILLIE active in the North Carolina League of Munici- ant Grove Missionary Baptist Church, she reg- RUTH GANTT-EVANS palities. Although she is retiring from public of- ularly incorporates her faith into her commit- fice, no one doubts that Cora will find ways to HON. SANFORD D. BISHOP, JR. ment to public service by serving as an active express her love of the people of the Bull City participant in the Gospel Choir, the Nurse’s and continue to serve. OF GEORGIA Guild, and the Trustee’s Ministry. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES I am personally indebted to Cora Cole- Dr. Benjamin E. Mays often said: ‘‘You McFadden for years of good advice and loyal Thursday, March 15, 2018 make your living by what you get, you make support—from the time I first learned my dis- Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise your life by what you give.’’ We are so grateful trict was being redrawn to include Durham today to recognize the work and service of a that Lillie has dedicated her time and talents right up to the present. She is quick with a dedicated community activist, engaged citizen, to improve the quality of life for others. A smile and a word of encouragement, even in and dear friend of longstanding Mrs. Lillie woman of great integrity, her efforts, her dedi- difficult times. Her energy and optimism are in- Ruth Gantt-Evans. She will be honored by cation, and her expertise are unparalleled. fectious—you know you can do the job and South Macon Arts Revitalization Technology Middle Georgia shines a little brighter because you certainly don’t want to let her down. (SMART), Inc. at the International Cherry of Lillie Gantt-Evans. Lisa and I, along with constituents in the Blossom Gospel Extravaganza in Macon, Lillie has accomplished much throughout Fourth District and colleagues in the North Georgia on Friday, March 23, 2018. her life, but none of this would have been pos- Carolina congressional delegation, want to Lillie is a native of Macon, Georgia and a sible without the love and support of her hus- thank Cora Cole-McFadden for her generous product of the Bibb County School System. band, Benjamin; her children, Merita, Chandra, and inclusive spirit and her dedicated service. After graduating from high school, she went Gregory, and Jimmy (deceased); her grand- We wish her and her family the very best as on to attend Crandall Business College, com- children; and the countless others positively she begins the next chapter of her life. who impacted her life over the years . plete nursing training at Hemlock School of f Nursing and Spirometry training through Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join my Marshfield Clinic at St. Joseph’s Hospital. She wife Vivian and me, along with the more than TRIBUTE TO JESS AND CHASE also studied Early Childhood Education at Fort 730,000 constituents of the Second Congres- WELLER Valley State University. sional District, in extending our sincerest con- Once she received her nursing degree, she gratulations and appreciation to Mrs. Lillie HON. DAVID YOUNG Ruth Gantt-Evans for her dedicated service to began working as a nurse at Macon Hospital OF IOWA the people of Middle Georgia. (now The Medical Center). Lillie was one of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the first African-American nurses to work in f Thursday, March 15, 2018 the intensive care unit. After five years at HONORING CORA COLE-MCFADDEN Macon Hospital, she transferred to Robins Air Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise Force Base Hospital where she worked as a today to recognize and congratulate Jess and nurse. for twenty-five years. Beyond her duties HON. DAVID E. PRICE Chase Weller, of Weller Farms. They were re- OF NORTH CAROLINA and responsibilities as a nurse, she has also cently awarded the Iowa Farm Environmental IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES dedicated her personal life to helping people Leader Award by the Iowa Department of Agri- from all walks of life in her community. In Thursday, March 15, 2018 culture and Land Stewardship, Iowa Depart- 1968, during her tenure at Robins Air Force Mr. PRICE of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, ment of Natural Resources, and the Iowa Gov- Base Hospital, Lillie opened Gantt’s Preschool I rise today to honor the career of a devoted ernor’s office. and G and J Adult Day Care. Once she retired public servant, community leader, and friend, They were nominated for this award be- from Robins Air Force Base Hospital in 1986, Cora Cole-McFadden, who has recently con- cause of their implementation of soil health she opened M.A. Evans School to help stu- cluded her service on The Durham City Coun- and conservation practices on their farming dents whose birthday delayed their enrollment cil and as the city’s Mayor Pro Tempore. operation. They have recognized improved in school. She kept the school running for 52 A native of Durham, North Carolina, Cora water quality and soil sustainability is impor- years without requiring government funding. developed her organizational skills and tant for not only their business but also for the She renamed G and J Adult Day Care to L showed a keen sense of justice as early as farmers working and living near them and the and J Adult Day Care to pay tribute to her late her teenage years. She and three other class- citizens of Iowa. mother, who helped to run her businesses mates desegregated Hillside High School, a Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize while she worked as a nurse. defining event that began her lifelong commit- Jess and Chase Weller for this award, and for Throughout her career, Lillie has been rec- ment to fighting for equal rights for all mem- working hard to make sure Iowa is a quality ognized for her commitment and leadership in bers of the Durham community. place to farm and live for many years to come.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:01 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A15MR8.043 E15MRPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with REMARKS March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E331 I am proud to represent them in the United the San Francisco Department of Public the basis of race, color, religion, gender, na- States Congress and ask that my colleagues Health, and would go on to achieve repeated tional origin, age, medical condition, veteran in the United States House of Representatives success and advancement over the course of status, marital status, disability, ancestry, sex- join me in congratulating the Wellers and 24 years, finishing that chapter of his profes- ual orientation, or any other characteristic pro- wishing them nothing but continued success. sional life as the Director of Marin County’s tected by law. Department of Health and Human Services. f A respected community leader and cham- In 1998, Dr. Peters became the President pion for equity, he frequently offers the com- HONORING THOMAS (TOM) and CEO of the Marin Community Foundation munity a moral compass for taking action on PETERS, PH.D. (MCF). Combining his clinical and philan- important matters, like breaking down barriers thropic careers to head one of the largest to academic achievement and raising the bar community foundations in the country, Dr. HON. JARED HUFFMAN for underserved communities, working to pro- Peters has become a leading national voice OF CALIFORNIA tect public lands and the environment, secur- for community philanthropy, advocating for IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ing affordable housing where supply has been and facilitating the dedication of private re- Thursday, March 15, 2018 historically elusive, and fighting for com- sources for the public good. MCF has distrib- prehensive immigration reform. Mr. HUFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in uted more than $1.3 billion in grants to non- recognition of Thomas (Tom) Peters, Ph.D., profits working in critical community issues, Mr. Speaker, Dr. Peters has been a cham- for his twenty years of stellar leadership and ranging from education, healthcare, and the pion of champions on a wide array of critical exemplary public service as President and environment, to economic opportunity and ac- issues, and has led the Marin Community CEO of the Marin Community Foundation. cess to the arts. Foundation to take actions that have produced A native of San Francisco, Dr. Peters fin- Under his leadership, Marin Community positive impacts throughout the region. There- ished his undergraduate degree at San Fran- Foundation became the first community foun- fore, please join me in expressing my deep cisco State University, before going to the Uni- dation to approve a non-discrimination policy appreciation and praise for his indomitable versity of Minnesota, where he completed a for its donor advised funds. He set the exam- leadership on the occasion of his 20th anni- Doctorate in Psychology and Health Science. ple for others to say NO to organizations, versary as President and CEO of the Marin He began his public health career in 1974 at projects, and programs that discriminate on Community Foundation.

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HIGHLIGHTS See Final Re´sume´ of Congressional Activity (including the History of Bills) for the First Session of the 115th Congress. Senate motion to proceed to consideration of the bill; and Chamber Action that notwithstanding Rule XXII, the vote on the Routine Proceedings, pages S1741–S1771 motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed Measures Introduced: Eleven bills were introduced, to consideration of the bill occur following disposi- as follows: S. 2556–2566. Page S1765 tion of the nomination of Kevin K. McAleenan, of Hawaii, to be Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Measures Passed: Border Protection, Department of Homeland Secu- SECRET Act: Senate passed H.R. 3210, to re- rity. Page S1771 quire the Director of the National Background In- Messages from the House: Page S1763 vestigations Bureau to submit a report on the back- log of personnel security clearance investigations, Measures Referred: Pages S1763–64 after withdrawing the committee amendment in the Executive Communications: Page S1764 nature of a substitute, and agreeing to the following Executive Reports of Committees: Pages S1764–65 amendment proposed thereto: Pages S1768–70 McConnell (for Johnson/McCaskill) Amendment Additional Cosponsors: Pages S1765–66 No. 2210, in the nature of a substitute. Statements on Introduced Bills/Resolutions: Pages S1769–70 Pages S1766–67 Whistleblower Protection Coordination Act: Sen- Additional Statements: Page S1763 ate passed S. 1869, to reauthorize and rename the position of Whistleblower Ombudsman to be the Amendments Submitted: Pages S1767–68 Whistleblower Protection Coordinator, after agreeing Authorities for Committees to Meet: Page S1768 to the committee amendment, and the following Privileges of the Floor: Page S1768 amendment proposed thereto: Pages S1770–71 McConnell (for Grassley) Amendment No. 2211, Adjournment: Senate convened at 10 a.m. and ad- to modify the repeal of sunset provision. journed at 3:29 p.m., until 3 p.m. on Monday, March 19, 2018. (For Senate’s program, see the re- Pages S1770–71 marks of the Majority Leader in today’s Record on Measures Considered: page S1771.) Allow States and Victims to Fight Online Sex Trafficking Act—Agreement: Senate continued consideration of the motion to proceed to consider- Committee Meetings ation of H.R. 1865, to amend the Communications Act of 1934 to clarify that section 230 of such Act (Committees not listed did not meet) does not prohibit the enforcement against providers and users of interactive computer services of Federal DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION REQUEST AND and State criminal and civil law relating to sexual FUTURE YEARS DEFENSE PROGRAM exploitation of children or sex trafficking. Committee on Armed Services: Committee concluded a Pages S1742–63 hearing to examine United States Pacific Command A unanimous-consent agreement was reached pro- in review of the Defense Authorization Request for viding that at approximately 3 p.m., on Monday, fiscal year 2019 and the Future Years Defense Pro- March 19, 2018, Senate resume consideration of the gram, after receiving testimony from Admiral Harry D276

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:55 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D15MR8.REC D15MRPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with DIGEST March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D277 B. Harris, Jr., USN, Commander, United States Pa- Jung, to be United States District Judge for the cific Command, Department of Defense. Middle District of Florida, Ryan T. Holte, of Ohio, to be a Judge of the United States Court of Federal 340B DRUG DISCOUNT PROGRAM Claims, Jonathan F. Mitchell, of Washington, to be Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions: Chairman of the Administrative Conference of the Committee concluded a hearing to examine perspec- United States, and William M. McSwain, to be tives on the 340B Drug Discount Program, after re- United States Attorney for the Eastern District of ceiving testimony from Bruce Siegel, America’s Es- Pennsylvania, Matthew D. Harris, to be United sential Hospitals, and Lori M. Reilly, Pharmaceutical States Marshal for the District of Utah, Johnny Lee Research and Manufacturers of America, both of Kuhlman, to be United States Marshal for the West- Washington, D.C.; Sue Veer, Carolina Health Cen- ern District of Oklahoma, Joseph D. McClain, to be ters, Inc., Greenwood, South Carolina, on behalf of United States Marshal for the Southern District of the National Association of Community Health Cen- Indiana, and David A. Weaver, to be United States ters; and Joseph Hill, American Society of Health- Marshal for the District of Colorado, all of the De- System Pharmacists, Bethesda, Maryland. partment of Justice. BUSINESS MEETING NOMINATION Committee on the Judiciary: Committee concluded a Select Committee on Intelligence: Committee concluded a hearing to examine the nominations of Joel M. Car- hearing to examine the nomination of Lieutenant son III, of New Mexico, to be United States Circuit General Paul M. Nakasone, to be Director of the Judge for the Tenth Circuit, Colm F. Connolly, and National Security Agency, Department of Defense, Maryellen Noreika, both to be a United States Dis- after the nominee testified and answered questions in trict Judge for the District of Delaware, William F. his own behalf. h House of Representatives Regulation A+ Improvement Act: The House Chamber Action passed H.R. 4263, to amend the Securities Act of Public Bills and Resolutions Introduced: 31 pub- 1933 with respect to small company capital forma- lic bills, H.R. 5292–5322; and 3 resolutions, H. tion, by a yea-and-nay vote of 246 yeas to 170 nays, Con. Res. 115; and H. Res. 785–786 were intro- Roll No. 110. Pages H1634–42 duced. Pages H1651–52 Rejected the Beatty motion to recommit the bill Additional Cosponsors: Pages H1653–54 to the Committee on Financial Services with instruc- Report Filed: A report was filed today as follows: tions to report the same back to the House forthwith H.R. 4566, to amend the Dodd-Frank Wall Street with an amendment, by a yea-and-nay vote of 182 Reform and Consumer Protection Act to provide re- yeas to 235 nays, Roll No. 109. Pages H1640–41 lief to nonbanks from certain stress test requirements Pursuant to the Rule, the amendment printed in under such Act, with an amendment (H. Rept. part D of H. Rept. 115–595 shall be considered as adopted. Page H1634 115–601). Page H1650 H. Res. 773, the rule providing for consideration Recess: The House recessed at 10:31 a.m. and re- of the bills (H.R. 4545), (H.R. 1116), and (H.R. convened at 12 noon. Page H1615 4263) was agreed to yesterday, March 14th. Guest Chaplain: The prayer was offered by the Financial Institutions Examination Fairness and Guest Chaplain, Reverend Dom Elias M. Carr, All Reform Act: The House passed H.R. 4545, to Saints Regional Catholic School, Glen Cove, NY. amend the Federal Financial Institutions Examina- Page H1615 tion Council Act of 1978 to improve the examina- Unanimous Consent Agreement: Agreed by unan- tion of depository institutions, by a yea-and-nay vote imous consent that the question of adopting amend- of 283 yeas to 133 nays, Roll No. 112. ment number 1 printed in part B of H. Rept. Pages H1624–34, H1642–43 115–595 to H.R. 4545 may be subject to postpone- Pursuant to the Rule, the amendment printed in ment as though under clause 8 of rule 20. part A of H. Rept. 115–595 shall be considered as Page H1624 adopted. Page H1624

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:55 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D15MR8.REC D15MRPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with DIGEST D278 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST March 15, 2018 Rejected: APPROPRIATIONS—DEPARTMENT OF Maxine Waters (CA) amendment (No. 1 printed VETERANS AFFAIRS in part B of H. Rept. 115–595) that sought to nar- Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Mili- row the applicability of the bill’s additional appeal tary Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related process from applying to all financial institutions re- Agencies held a budget hearing on the Department gardless of their size, including megabanks and pay- of Veterans Affairs. Testimony was heard from David day lenders, to only small, community banks and J. Shulkin, Secretary, Department of Veterans Af- credit unions with less than $10 billion in assets (by fairs. a yea-and-nay vote of 184 yeas to 233 nays, Roll APPROPRIATIONS—DEPARTMENT OF No. 111). Pages H1624–25, H1642–43 ENERGY H. Res. 773, the rule providing for consideration of the bills (H.R. 4545), (H.R. 1116), and (H.R. Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Energy 4263) was agreed to yesterday, March 14th. and Water Development, and Related Agencies held a budget hearing on the Department of Energy. Tes- Financial Stability Oversight Council Improve- timony was heard from Rick Perry, Secretary, De- ment Act and Stress Test Improvement Act— partment of Energy. Rule for Consideration: The House agreed to H. Res. 780, providing for consideration of the bill APPROPRIATIONS—DEPARTMENT OF (H.R. 4061) to amend the Financial Stability Act of HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES 2010 to improve the transparency of the Financial Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Stability Oversight Council, to improve the SIFI des- Health and Human Services, Education, and Related ignation process, and providing for consideration of Agencies held a budget hearing on the Department the bill (H.R. 4293) to reform the Comprehensive of Health and Human Services. Testimony was heard Capital Analysis and Review process, the Dodd- from Alex Azar, Secretary, Department of Health Frank Act Stress Test process, by a recorded vote of and Human Services. 235 ayes to 177 noes, Roll No. 114, after the pre- APPROPRIATIONS—OFFICE OF THE vious question was ordered by a yea-and-nay vote of INSPECTOR GENERAL, DEPARTMENT OF 232 yeas to 182 nays, Roll No. 113. AGRICULTURE Pages H1618–24, H1643–45 Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Agri- Meeting Hour: Agreed by unanimous consent that culture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Admin- when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet istration, and Related Agencies held a budget hear- at 12 noon on Monday, March 19th for Morning ing on the Office of the Inspector General of the De- Hour debate. Page H1645 partment of Agriculture. Testimony was heard from Senate Referrals: S. 2155 was held at the desk. S. the following Department of Agriculture officials: 1869 was held at the desk. Phyllis K. Fong, Inspector General; Gil H. Harden, Senate Messages: Messages received from the Senate Assistant Inspector General for Audit; and Ann today appear on pages H1624 and H1649. Coffey, Assistant Inspector General for Investiga- tions. Quorum Calls—Votes: Five yea-and-nay votes and one recorded vote developed during the proceedings SECURITY CHALLENGES IN EUROPE AND of today and appear on pages H1641, H1641–42, POSTURE FOR INTER-STATE COMPETITION H1642–43, H1643, and H1644–45. There were no WITH RUSSIA quorum calls. Committee on Armed Services: Full Committee held a Adjournment: The House met at 10 a.m. and ad- hearing entitled ‘‘Security Challenges in Europe and journed at 5:07 p.m. Posture for Inter-state Competition with Russia’’. Testimony was heard from General Curtis M. Scaparrotti, Commander, U.S. European Command. Committee Meetings FISCAL YEAR 2019 BUDGET REQUEST ON AIR FORCE AIRBORNE INTELLIGENCE, APPROPRIATIONS—U.S. ARMY SURVEILLANCE, AND RECONNAISSANCE Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Defense (ISR) PROGRAMS held a budget hearing on the U.S. Army. Testimony Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Tac- was heard from Mark T. Esper, Secretary of the tical Air and Land Forces held a hearing entitled Army; and General Mark A. Milley, Chief of Staff ‘‘Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Request on Air Force Air- of the Army. borne Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance

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FY 2019 DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS ministration and the Board of Veterans’ Appeals’’. AFFAIRS BUDGET REQUEST FOR THE Testimony was heard from Cheryl L. Mason, Chair- VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION man, Board of Veterans’ Appeals, Department of Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: Subcommittee on Veterans Affairs; and public witnesses. Health held a hearing entitled ‘‘FY 2019 Depart- ment of Veterans Affairs Budget Request for the Veterans Health Administration’’. Testimony was Joint Meetings heard from Carolyn M. Clancy, M.D., Executive in No joint committee meetings were held. Charge, Veterans Health Administration, Depart- f ment of Veterans Affairs; Rachel Mitchell, Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Veterans Health Administra- COMMITTEE MEETINGS FOR MONDAY, tion, Department of Veterans Affairs; and public MARCH 19, 2018 witnesses. (Committee meetings are open unless otherwise indicated) U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS Senate FISCAL YEAR 2019 BUDGET: VETERANS BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION AND THE No meetings/hearings scheduled. BOARD OF VETERANS’ APPEALS House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: Subcommittee on Dis- Committee on Rules, Full Committee, hearing on H.R. ability Assistance and Memorial Affairs; and Sub- 4566, the ‘‘Alleviating Stress Test Burdens to Help In- committee on Economic Opportunity held a joint vestors Act’’; and H.R. 5247, the ‘‘Trickett Wendler, hearing entitled ‘‘U.S. Department of Veterans Af- Frank Mongiello, Jordan McLinn, and Matthew Bellina fairs Fiscal Year 2019 Budget: Veterans Benefits Ad- Right to Try Act of 2018’’, 5 p.m., H–313 Capitol.

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Final Re´sume´ of Congressional Activity

FIRST SESSION OF THE ONE HUNDRED FIFTEENTH CONGRESS The first table gives a comprehensive re´sume´ of all legislative business transacted by the Senate and House. The second table accounts for all nominations submitted to the Senate by the President for Senate confirmation.

DATA ON LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITY DISPOSITION OF EXECUTIVE NOMINATIONS January 3, 2017 through January 3, 2018 January 3, 2017 through January 3, 2018 Senate House Total Civilian nominations, totaling 594, disposed of as follows: Days in session ...... 195 192 . . Confirmed ...... 322 ′ ′ Time in session ...... 1,166 hrs., 34 858 hrs., 32 .. Unconfirmed ...... 146 Congressional Record: Withdrawn ...... 36 Pages of proceedings ...... 8,289 10,434 . . Returned to White House ...... 90 Extensions of Remarks ...... 1,769 . . Public bills enacted into law ...... 33 67 100 Other Civilian nominations, totaling 1,211, disposed of as follows: Private bills enacted into law ...... Confirmed ...... 1,200 Bills in conference ...... Unconfirmed ...... 2 Measures passed, total ...... 438 668 1,106 Returned to White House ...... 9 Senate bills ...... 114 30 . . House bills ...... 67 441 . . Air Force nominations, totaling 5,978, disposed of as follows: Senate joint resolutions ...... 8 6 . . House joint resolutions ...... 17 20 . . Confirmed ...... 5,899 Senate concurrent resolutions ...... 10 9 . . Unconfirmed ...... 76 Withdrawn ...... 1 House concurrent resolutions ...... 8 16 . . Returned to White House ...... 2 Simple resolutions ...... 214 146 . . Measures reported, total ...... * 271 *476 747 Army nominations, totaling 6,617, disposed of as follows: Senate bills ...... 211 2 . . House bills ...... 28 370 . . Confirmed ...... 6,604 Senate joint resolutions ...... 1 . . . . Unconfirmed ...... 12 House joint resolutions ...... 2 . . Withdrawn ...... 1 Senate concurrent resolutions ...... 2 . . . . House concurrent resolutions ...... 4 . . Navy nominations, totaling 4,285, disposed of as follows: Simple resolutions ...... 29 98 . . Confirmed ...... 4,273 Special reports ...... 14 6 . . Unconfirmed ...... 11 Conference reports ...... 1 2 . . Returned to White House ...... 1 Measures pending on calendar ...... 174 114 . . Measures introduced, total ...... 2,713 5,619 8,332 Marine Corps nominations, totaling 1,314, disposed of as follows: Bills ...... 2,265 4,724 .. Confirmed ...... 1,314 Joint resolutions ...... 51 124 . . Concurrent resolutions ...... 31 97 . . Summary Simple resolutions ...... 366 674 . . Quorum calls ...... 3 1 . . Total nominations carried over from the First Session ...... 0 Yea-and-nay votes ...... 325 354 . . Total nominations received this Session ...... 19,999 Recorded votes ...... 355 . . Total confirmed ...... 19,612 Bills vetoed ...... Total unconfirmed ...... 247 Vetoes overridden ...... Total withdrawn ...... 38 Total returned to the White House ...... 102 * These figures include all measures reported, even if there was no accom- panying report. A total of 198 written reports have been filed in the Senate, 484 reports have been filed in the House.

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(115th Cong., 1st Sess.)

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Law No. Law No. Law No. Law No. Law No. S. 84 ...... 115–2 S. 1616 ...... 115–60 H.R. 339 ...... 115–53 H.R. 1362 ...... 115–16 H.R. 3819 ...... 115–62 S. 114 ...... 115–46 S. 1617 ...... 115–81 H.R. 353 ...... 115–25 H.R. 1370 ...... 115–96 H.R. 3823 ...... 115–63 S. 178 ...... 115–70 S. 1766 ...... 115–107 H.R. 366 ...... 115–38 H.R. 1545 ...... 115–86 H.R. 3949 ...... 115–89 S. 190 ...... 115–78 S. 1866 ...... 115–64 H.R. 374 ...... 115–49 H.R. 1616 ...... 115–76 H.R. 4374 ...... 115–92 S. 305 ...... 115–15 S. 2273 ...... 115–100 H.R. 375 ...... 115–39 H.R. 1679 ...... 115–87 H.R. 4661 ...... 115–98 S. 327 ...... 115–66 H.R. 381 ...... 115–109 H.R. 1927 ...... 115–104 S. 371 ...... 115–94 S.J. Res. 1 ...... 115–18 H.R. 510 ...... 115–50 H.R. 2142 ...... 115–112 S. 419 ...... 115–36 H.J. Res. 37 ...... 115–11 S.J. Res. 30 ...... 115–27 H.R. 518 ...... 115–115 H.R. 2210 ...... 115–47 H.J. Res. 38 ...... 115–5 S. 442 ...... 115–10 S.J. Res. 34 ...... 115–22 H.R. 534 ...... 115–32 H.R. 2228 ...... 115–113 S. 496 ...... 115–33 H.J. Res. 40 ...... 115–8 S. 504 ...... 115–79 S.J. Res. 35 ...... 115–28 H.R. 560 ...... 115–101 H.R. 2266 ...... 115–72 H.J. Res. 41 ...... 115–4 S. 544 ...... 115–26 S.J. Res. 36 ...... 115–29 H.R. 601 ...... 115–56 H.R. 2288 ...... 115–55 H.J. Res. 42 ...... 115–17 S.J. Res. 49 ...... 115–58 H.R. 609 ...... 115–9 H.R. 2331 ...... 115–114 S. 583 ...... 115–37 H.J. Res. 43 ...... 115–23 S. 585 ...... 115–73 H.R. 624 ...... 115–59 H.R. 2430 ...... 115–52 H.R. 1 ...... 115–97 H.R. 657 ...... 115–40 H.R. 2519 ...... 115–65 H.J. Res. 44 ...... 115–12 S. 652 ...... 115–71 H.J. Res. 57 ...... 115–13 S. 782 ...... 115–82 H.R. 39 ...... 115–1 H.R. 699 ...... 115–110 H.R. 2611 ...... 115–117 H.R. 72 ...... 115–3 H.R. 863 ...... 115–111 H.R. 2810 ...... 115–91 H.J. Res. 58 ...... 115–14 S. 810 ...... 115–67 H.J. Res. 66 ...... 115–35 S. 920 ...... 115–80 H.R. 194 ...... 115–85 H.R. 873 ...... 115–51 H.R. 2989 ...... 115–77 S. 1083 ...... 115–42 H.R. 228 ...... 115–93 H.R. 954 ...... 115–116 H.R. 3031 ...... 115–84 H.J. Res. 67 ...... 115–24 S. 1094 ...... 115–41 H.R. 244 ...... 115–31 H.R. 1117 ...... 115–69 H.R. 3110 ...... 115–61 H.J. Res. 69 ...... 115–20 S. 1141 ...... 115–68 H.R. 255 ...... 115–6 H.R. 1228 ...... 115–19 H.R. 3218 ...... 115–48 H.J. Res. 76 ...... 115–54 S. 1266 ...... 115–95 H.R. 267 ...... 115–108 H.R. 1238 ...... 115–43 H.R. 3243 ...... 115–88 H.J. Res. 83 ...... 115–21 S. 1393 ...... 115–105 H.R. 274 ...... 115–34 H.R. 1242 ...... 115–102 H.R. 3298 ...... 115–45 H.J. Res. 99 ...... 115–30 S. 1532 ...... 115–106 H.R. 304 ...... 115–83 H.R. 1306 ...... 115–103 H.R. 3364 ...... 115–44 H.J. Res. 111 ...... 115–74 S. 1536 ...... 115–99 H.R. 321 ...... 115–7 H.R. 1329 ...... 115–75 H.R. 3732 ...... 115–57 H.J. Res. 123 ...... 115–90

BILLS VETOED

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:55 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 0669 Sfmt 0669 E:\CR\FM\D15MR8.REC D15MRPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with DIGEST D288 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST March 15, 2018 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 No. 115– proved 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 Jan. 20, Jan. 20, Jan. 31, Feb. 14, Feb. 16, Feb. 28, Feb. 28, Feb. 28, Mar. 13, Mar. 21, Mar. 27, Mar. 27, Mar. 27, 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 Jan. 17, Jan. 12, Jan. 17, Feb. 3, Feb. 2, Feb. 14, Feb. 14, Feb. 15, Feb. 17, Feb. 17, Mar. 6, Mar. 7, Mar. 9, House Senate Date ap- Date House Senate 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 115– Senate 115– ...... 0 Jan. 13, ...... 0 Jan. 10, 0 Jan. 10, 2017 2017 2017 AS ...... Jan. 12, AS ...... Jan. Committee Date Reported Report No. Date of passage Public Law House Senate House Senate House House Senate House OGR ...... Jan. 11, 1, OGR ...... Jan. 1, OGR HS&GA FS ...... Feb. 2, NR ...... 4, ...... SST CST Feb. Jan. 1, SST CST Feb. 1, 7, Jud ...... Feb...... 2, Feb. VA 7, SST ...... OGR ...... Mar...... 7, ...... 13, Feb...... NR ...... Feb...... Feb. E&W ...... Feb. Date intro- duced 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 H.R. 39 Jan. 3, 10, Jan. Jan. H.R. 39 3, S. 84 Jan. H.R. 72 Jan. 30, H.J. Res. 41 4, Jan. 30, Jan. H.J. Res. 38 5, Jan. H.R. 255 H.R. 321 Jan. 30, 23, H.J. Res. 40 17, Jan. Feb. H.R. 609 S. 442 Jan. 30, H.J. Res. 37 Jan. 30, H.J. Res. 44 Feb. 1, H.J. Res. 57 Title Bill No. Title Bill codify the Presidential Innovation Fellows Program, and for other purposes. against appointment of persons as Secretary of Defense within seven years relief from active duty as a regular commissioned offi- cer of the Armed Forces. Office has adequate access to information. chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, a rule submitted by the Securities and Ex- change Commission relating to ‘‘Disclosure of Payments by Resource Extraction Issuers’’. partment of the Interior known as Stream Protection Rule. to support entrepreneurial programs for women. field, including science, technology, engi- neering, and mathematics, through mentorship and outreach. chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, the rule submitted by Social Security Administration relating to Implementation of the NICS Improvement Amendments Act of 2007. fairs health care center in Center Town- ship, Butler County, Pennsylvania, as the ‘‘Abie Abraham VA Clinic’’. Aeronautics and Space Administration, for other purposes. partment of Defense, the General Services Administration, and the National Aero- nautics and Space Administration relating to the Federal Acquisition Regulation. partment of the Interior relating to Bureau of Land Management regulations that es- tablish the procedures used to prepare, re- vise, or amend land use plans pursuant to the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976. chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, the rule submitted by Department of Education relating to accountability and State plans under the Elementary and Sec- ondary Education Act of 1965. To amend title 5, United States Code, to To provide for an exception to a limitation To ensure the Government Accountability Providing for congressional disapproval under Disapproving the rule submitted by De- To authorize the National Science Foundation To inspire women to enter the aerospace Providing for congressional disapproval under To designate the Department of Veterans Af- To authorize the programs of National Disapproving the rule submitted by De- Disapproving the rule submitted by De- Providing for congressional disapproval under

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:55 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 0668 Sfmt 0668 E:\CR\FM\D15MR8.REC D15MRPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with DIGEST March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D289 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 Mar. 27, Mar. 28, Mar. 31, Mar. 31, Mar. 31, Apr. 3, Apr. 3, Apr. 3, Apr. 3, Apr. 13, Apr. 13, 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 Mar. 8, Feb. 3, Mar. 15, Mar. 14, Mar. 8, Mar. 21, Mar. 21, Mar. 22, Mar. 23, Mar. 30, Mar. 30, 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 ENR ...... 15, ...... Mar. CST ...... 28, ...... Mar. E&W ...... Feb. 7, 21, E&W ...... 15, Feb. Jud ...... Mar. VA 15, WM ...... 16, ...... Feb. 7, ...... HA ...... Mar...... 1, ...... Mar. NR ...... Feb. E&W ...... 16, ...... Mar. 15, EC ...... Feb. E&W ...... Feb. 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 S. 305 Feb. 3, Feb. 1, H.J. Res. 58 Feb. 6, S. 305 Mar. H.R. 1362 Jan. 30, H.J. Res. 42 Jan. 3, 27, S.J. Res. 1 Feb. H.R. 1228 Feb. 7, H.J. Res. 69 21, Feb. H.J. Res. 83 Mar. 7, S.J. Res. 34 Jan. 30, H.J. Res. 43 Feb. 7, H.J. Res. 67 chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, the rule submitted by Department of Education relating to teacher preparation issues. courage the display of flag United States on National Vietnam War Veterans Day. community-based outpatient clinic in Pago Pago, American Samoa, the Faleomavaega Eni Fa’aua’a Hunkin VA Clinic. partment of Labor relating to drug testing of unemployment compensation applicants. commemorate and honor the members of the Armed Forces who served on active duty in support of Operation Desert Storm or Operation Desert Shield. of the Board Directors Office Compliance to replace members whose terms expire during 2017, and for other purposes. chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, the final rule of Department In- terior relating to ‘‘Non-Subsistence Take of Wildlife, and Public Participation Clo- sure Procedures, on National Wildlife Ref- uges in Alaska’’. partment of Labor relating to ‘‘Clarification of Employer’s Continuing Obligation to Make and Maintain an Accurate Record of Each Recordable Injury and Illness’’. chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, the rule submitted by Federal Commu- nications Commission relating to ‘‘Pro- tecting the Privacy of Customers Broadband and Other Telecommunications Services’’. chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, the final rule submitted by Secretary of Health and Human Services relating to compliance with title X requirements by project recipients in selecting subrecipi- ents. partment of Labor relating to savings ar- rangements established by qualified State political subdivisions for non-governmental employees. Providing for congressional disapproval under To amend title 4, United States Code, to en- To name the Department of Veterans Affairs Disapproving the rule submitted by De- Approving the location of a memorial to To provide for the appointment of members Providing for congressional disapproval under Disapproving the rule submitted by De- Providing for congressional disapproval under Providing for congressional disapproval under Disapproving the rule submitted by De-

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:55 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 0668 Sfmt 0668 E:\CR\FM\D15MR8.REC D15MRPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with DIGEST D290 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST March 15, 2018 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 No. 115– proved 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 Apr. 18, Apr. 19, Apr. 19, Apr. 19, Apr. 19, Apr. 28, May 5, May 8, May 12, May 16, May 17, June 2, June 2, 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 Mar. 29, Apr. 3, Mar. 27, Mar. 27, Mar. 27, Apr. 28, Mar. 21, May 4, Mar. 8, May 2, May 3, May 16, May 16, House Senate Date ap- Date House Senate 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 115– Senate 115– ...... 0 Apr. 25, ...... 31 Jan. 10, ...... 0 May 17, 0 May 17, 2017 2017 2017 2017 VA ...... 5, ...... Apr. 9, Jud ...... Mar. 11, Jud ...... May Committee Date Reported Report No. Date of passage Public Law House Senate House Senate House House Senate House SST ...... Jan. 9, SST ...... Jan. 28, HA RAdm HA RAdm HA RAdm App ...... 6, ...... VA HEL&P ...... Apr. Apr. 6, ...... FA FR Apr. 6, ...... 3, ...... 15, Apr. TI BHUA May 13, ...... Feb. OGR HS&GA 24, 27, E&W ...... Apr...... Apr. Feb. Date intro- duced 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 H.R. 353 Jan. 6, Jan. H.R. 353 7, Mar. S. 544 Mar. 2, S.J. Res. 30 Mar. 8, S.J. Res. 35 Mar. 8, 4, S.J. Res. 36 Jan. 13, 26, Apr. H.J. Res. 99 2, Jan. H.R. 244 Mar. H.R. 534 4, S. 496 Jan. 16, H.R. 274 8, Feb. Feb. 7, H.J. Res. 66 Mar. S. 419 S. 583 Title Bill No. Title Bill pheric Administration’s weather research through a focused program of investment on affordable and attainable advances in observational, computing, and modeling capabilities to support substantial improve- ment in weather forecasting and prediction of high impact weather events, to expand commercial opportunities for the provision of weather data, and for other purposes. Accountability Act of 2014 to modify the termination date for the Veterans Choice Program, and for other purposes. Case as a citizen regent of the Board Re- gents of the Smithsonian Institution. Govan as a citizen regent of the Board Regents of the Smithsonian Institution. Ferguson as a citizen regent of the Board of Regents the Smithsonian Institution. fiscal year 2017, and for other purposes. ing September 30, 2017, and for other purposes. actions as may be necessary for the United States to rejoin the Bureau of International Expositions, and for other purposes. Highway Administration and the Federal Transit Administration entitled ‘‘Metro- politan Planning Organization Coordina- tion and Planning Area Reform’’. modern travel services by Federal employ- ees traveling on official Government busi- ness, and for other purposes. partment of Labor relating to savings ar- rangements established by States for non- governmental employees. Safety Officers’ Benefits program, and for other purposes. Safe Streets Act of 1968 to authorize COPS grantees to use grant funds hire veterans as career law enforcement officers, and for other purposes. To improve the National Oceanic and Atmos- To amend the Veterans Access, Choice, and Providing for the reappointment of Steve Providing for the appointment of Michael Providing for the appointment of Roger W. Making further continuing appropriations for Making appropriations for the fiscal year end- To require the Secretary of State to take such To repeal the rule issued by Federal To provide for reimbursement the use of Disapproving the rule submitted by De- To require adequate reporting on the Public To amend the Omnibus Crime Control and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:55 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 0668 Sfmt 0668 E:\CR\FM\D15MR8.REC D15MRPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with DIGEST March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D291 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 June 6, June 6, June 14, June 23, June 27, June 30, Aug. 2, Aug. 4, Aug. 12, Aug. 16, Aug. 16, Aug. 18, 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 May 2, May 24, May 25, June 6, May 11, May 24, July 27, July 27, May 25, Aug. 1, Aug. 2, Aug. 3, 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 67 ...... May 1, 42 ...... Mar. 22, ...... 32 Jan. 31, ...... 0 June 13, 2017 2017 ...... 23 ...... Mar. 7, ...... July 25, ...... 247 ...... July 24, 2017 2017 2017 2017 July 24, VA ...... May 24, VA ...... May 16, HS&GA Mar. TI Mar. 7, HS HS&GA 24, Apr. TI Mar. 29, Mar. OGR HS&GA OGR HS&GA HS EC Agr 25, ...... FA Int May Jud OGR AS FS R WM TI HA RAdm 17, VA 24, ...... 30, ...... VA ...... July ...... July 28, ...... VA AS ...... July NR ...... Jan. 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 H.R. 366 Jan. 6, Jan. H.R. 366 9, Jan. 24, H.R. 375 11, Jan. May 10, H.R. 657 May S. 1094 28, S. 1083 Feb. H.R. 1238 24, July H.R. 3364 19, July 12, H.R. 3298 Jan. S. 114 27, Apr. 13, H.R. 2210 July 9, H.R. 3218 Jan. H.R. 374 2002 to direct the Under Secretary for Management of the Department Home- land Security to make certain improve- ments in managing the Department’s vehi- cle fleet, and for other purposes. States courthouse located at 719 Church Street in Nashville, Tennessee, as the ‘‘Fred D. Thompson Federal Building and United States Courthouse’’. tend certain protections against prohibited personnel practices, and for other purposes. improve the accountability of employees the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. States Code, to provide for stays during a period that the Merit Systems Protection Board lacks a quorum. 2002 to make the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security for Health Affairs re- sponsible for coordinating the efforts of Department of Homeland Security related to food, agriculture, and veterinary defense against terrorism, and for other purposes. counter aggression by the Governments of Iran, the Russian Federation, and North Korea, and for other purposes. make payments from the United States Capitol Police Memorial Fund to employ- ees of the United States Capitol Police who have sustained serious line-of-duty injuries, and for other purposes. priate amounts for the Veterans Choice Program of the Department Veterans Affairs, to improve hiring authorities of the Department, to authorize major med- ical facility leases, and for other purposes. the Department of Veterans Affairs in But- ler Township, Butler County, Pennsyl- vania, as the ‘‘Sergeant Joseph George Kusick VA Community Living Center’’. make certain improvements in the laws ad- ministered by the Secretary of Veterans Af- fairs, and for other purposes. 203 of Public Law 105-384, and for other purposes. To amend the Homeland Security Act of To designate the Federal building and United To amend title 5, United States Code, to ex- To amend title 38, United States Code, to To amend section 1214 of title 5, United To amend the Homeland Security Act of To provide congressional review and to To authorize the Capitol Police Board to To authorize appropriations and to appro- To designate the community living center of To amend title 38, United States Code, to To remove the sunset provision of section

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:55 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 0668 Sfmt 0668 E:\CR\FM\D15MR8.REC D15MRPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with DIGEST D292 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST March 15, 2018 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 No. 115– proved 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 Aug. 18, Aug. 18, Aug. 18, Aug. 22, Aug. 22, Aug. 23, Sept. 8, Sept. 12, Sept. 14, Sept. 15, 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 Aug. 1, Aug. 3, Aug. 3, Aug. 1, Aug. 4, Aug. 1, Aug. 1, Sept. 11, Sept. 11, Sept. 6, House Senate Date ap- Date House Senate 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 115– Senate 117 ...... May 16, 135 ...... May 23, 115– ...... 0 Jan. 24, 2017 ...... 264 ...... July 28, ...... 201 ...... July 12, ...... 227 ...... July 17, ...... Sept. 11, ...... 150 ...... May 24, 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 ...... Sept. 12, May 23, ENR ...... Jan. 30, ENR ...... Jan. Committee Date Reported Report No. Date of passage Public Law House Senate House Senate House House Senate House NR July 28, 11, May Jud 11, NR July 17, EC July NR Jud Jud July 19, May VA FA FR 5, WM Bud June OGR WM Date intro- duced 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 H.R. 510 Jan. 12, Jan. 6, H.R. 510 Feb. 16, H.R. 873 May 5, H.R. 2430 Jan. H.R. 339 16, Feb. H.J. Res. 76 2, May 23, H.R. 2288 Jan. 11, H.R. 601 Sept. H.R. 3732 6, Sept. S.J. Res. 49 24, Jan. H.R. 624 Title Bill No. Title Bill DNA instruments for use by law enforce- ment to reduce violent crime and the current DNA analysis backlog. morial Foundation to establish the Na- tional Global War on Terrorism Memorial as a commemorative work in the District of Columbia, and for other purposes. metic Act to revise and extend the user-fee programs for prescription drugs, medical devices, generic drugs, and biosimilar bio- logical products, and for other purposes. the Northern Mariana Islands. gress for the Commonwealth of Virginia, the State of Maryland, and District Columbia to enter into a compact relating to the establishment of Washington Metrorail Safety Commission. form the rights and processes relating to appeals of decisions regarding claims for benefits under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. cal year ending September 30, 2018, and for other purposes. Act to provide authority for increased fiscal year 2017 and 2018 payments for tem- porary assistance to United States citizens returned from foreign countries. rorist attack that took place during events between August 11 and 12, 2017, in Charlottesville, Virginia, recognizing the first responders who lost their lives while monitoring the events, offering deepest condolences to the families and friends of those individuals who were killed and deepest sympathies and support to those individuals who were injured by the vio- lence, expressing support for the Char- lottesville community, rejecting White na- tionalists, White supremacists, the Ku Klux Klan, neo-Nazis, and other hate groups, and urging the President President’s Cabinet to use all available re- sources to address the threats posed by those groups. count numbers on Federal documents sent by mail, and for other purposes. To establish a system for integration of Rapid To authorize the Global War on Terror Me- To amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cos- To amend Public Law 94-241 with respect to Granting the consent and approval of Con- To amend title 38, United States Code, to re- Making continuing appropriations for the fis- To amend section 1113 of the Social Security Condemning the violence and domestic ter- To restrict the inclusion of social security ac-

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:55 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 0668 Sfmt 0668 E:\CR\FM\D15MR8.REC D15MRPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with DIGEST March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D293 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 Sept. 15, Sept. 27, Sept. 29, Sept. 29, Sept. 29, Oct. 6, Oct. 6, Oct. 6, Oct. 6, Oct. 18, Oct. 18, Oct. 18, Oct. 26, 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 Aug. 3, Sept. 19, Sept. 27, Sept. 28, Sept. 26, Sept. 28, Sept. 11, Aug. 3, Aug. 3, Oct. 4, Aug. 1, Sept. 6, Sept. 27, 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 31 158 Mar. 27, Mar. 31 158 130 ...... May 17, ...... 0 Sept. 27, ...... 142 Sept. 25, ...... 93 Sept. 25, ...... 9 Oct...... 3, 0 Oct. 3, 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 ...... 293 ...... Sept...... 5, ...... Sept. 25, ...... Sept. 28, Sept. 18, 2017 2017 2017 ...... Sept. 28, BHUA ...... Mar. 13, BHUA ...... Mar. 8, FR ...... June 23, Jud Mar. FS Sept. 5, FS BHUA FS Sept. VA 5, Bud ...... AS ...... Sept. WM TI EC FS Bud 25, FS ...... Sept. TI EPW 2, 9, Aug. Mar. TI HS&GA Jud EC EC HEL&P 1, 17, May May Jud 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 S. 1616 July 24, July 29, S. 1616 June 25, H.R. 3110 Sept. 25, H.R. 3819 Sept. 26, H.R. 3823 Sept. S. 1866 18, 7, May Feb. 4, H.R. 2519 16, Apr. S. 327 May S. 810 16, S. 1141 20, Feb. H.R. 1117 15, Jan. Mar. S. 178 S. 652 1, May H.R. 2266 Bob Dole, in recognition for his service to the nation as a soldier, legislator, and statesman. to modify the term of independent member of the Financial Stability Over- sight Council. extend certain expiring provisions of law administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. extend authorizations for the airport im- provement program, to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend the fund- ing and expenditure authority of the Air- port and Airway Trust Fund, to provide disaster tax relief, and for other purposes. waiver authority for the reallocation rules and authority to extend the deadline by which funds have to be reallocated in the campus-based aid programs under the Higher Education Act of 1965 due to Hurricane Harvey, Irma, and Hurricane Maria, to provide equitable serv- ices to children and teachers in private schools, and for other purposes. mint commemorative coins in recognition of the 100th anniversary The American Legion. mission to provide a safe harbor related certain investment fund research reports, and for other purposes. tain property in Christian County, Mis- souri, and for other purposes. the meaningful participation of women in mediation and negotiation processes seek- ing to prevent, mitigate, or resolve violent conflict. Emergency Management Agency to submit a report regarding certain plans assistance to applicants and grantees during the response to an emergency or disaster. improve the justice system’s response to victims in elder abuse and exploitation cases. reauthorize a program for early detection, diagnosis, and treatment regarding deaf and hard-of-hearing newborns, infants, young children. tions for disaster relief requirements the fiscal year ending September 30, 2018, and for other purposes. To award the Congressional Gold Medal to To amend the Financial Stability Act of 2010 To amend title 38, United States Code, to To amend title 49, United States Code, to To provide the Secretary of Education with To require the Secretary of Treasury to To direct the Securities and Exchange Com- To facilitate construction of a bridge on cer- To ensure that the United States promotes To require the Administrator of Federal To prevent elder abuse and exploitation To amend the Public Health Service Act to Making additional supplemental appropria-

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:55 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 0668 Sfmt 0668 E:\CR\FM\D15MR8.REC D15MRPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with DIGEST D294 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST March 15, 2018 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 No. 115– proved 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 Oct. 26, Nov. 1, Nov. 2, Nov. 2, Nov. 2, Nov. 2, Nov. 2, Nov. 2, Nov. 2, Nov. 2, Nov. 17, Nov. 17, Nov. 21, Nov. 21, 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 May 25, Oct. 24, Oct. 25, Oct. 2, Oct. 18, Aug. 1, Sept. 26, Sept. 6, Aug. 3, June 15, Oct. 24, Nov. 6, Nov. 8, Nov. 15, House Senate Date ap- Date House Senate 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 115– Senate 66 176 May 17, May 66 176 134 ...... May 23, 144 ...... May 23, 115– ...... 44 Oct. 12, ...... 76 Oct. 11, ...... 140 Oct...... 23, 0 Oct. 11, ...... 0 Oct. 3, 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 ...... 340 ...... Oct. 11, ...... 343 ...... Oct. 11, Oct. 19, 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 HS&GA May 4, HS&GA May 16, Jud ...... May 24, ENR ...... May HS&GA ...... 1, Aug. HEL&P ...... 1, 9, May HEL&P ...... Jan. Committee Date Reported Report No. Date of passage Public Law House Senate House Senate House House Senate House FS ...... July 25, OGR VA FS ...... 19, ...... July May VA 5, Jud HS OGR Oct. TI HS&GA 10, Jud 10, 8, EC ...... Jud ...... June Oct. OGR Oct. 29, Mar. 22, OGR HS&GA May VA Date intro- duced 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 S. 585 Mar. 8, Mar. S. 585 July 20, H.J. Res. 111 2, Mar. H.R. 1329 17, 23, Mar. 21, H.R. 1616 June Jan. 2, H.R. 2989 S. 190 24, Mar. 24, Apr. S. 504 July 30, S. 920 S. 1617 Mar. 5, Jan. S. 782 23, H.R. 304 June 3, H.R. 3031 Jan. 15, Mar. H.R. 194 H.R. 1545 Title Bill No. Title Bill for Federal employees, increased awareness of Federal whistleblower protections, and increased accountability and required dis- cipline for Federal supervisors who retaliate against whistleblowers, and for other pur- poses. chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, the rule submitted by Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection relating to ‘‘Arbitra- tion Agreements’’. the rates of compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities and the rates of dependency and indemnity compensa- tion for the survivors of certain disabled veterans, and for other purposes. 2002 to authorize the National Computer Forensics Institute, and for other purposes. nial Commission. under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of nonapplication No-Load Mode energy efficiency standards to certain secu- rity or life safety alarms surveillance sys- tems, and for other purposes. Economic Cooperation Business Travel Card Program. mission. States Border Patrol located on United States Highway 77 North in Sarita, Texas, as the ‘‘Javier Vega, Jr. Border Patrol Checkpoint’’. Against Children Task Force Program, and for other purposes. with regard to the provision of emergency medical services. vide for flexibility in making withdrawals from a Thrift Savings Plan account, and for other purposes. Federal agencies, and for other purposes. clarify the authority of Secretary Veterans Affairs to disclose certain patient information to State controlled substance monitoring programs, and for other pur- poses. To provide greater whistleblower protections Providing for congressional disapproval under To increase, effective as of December 1, 2017, To amend the Homeland Security Act of To establish the Frederick Douglass Bicenten- To provide for consideration of the extension To permanently authorize the Asia-Pacific To establish a National Clinical Care Com- To designate the checkpoint of United To reauthorize the National Internet Crimes To amend the Controlled Substances Act To amend title 5, United States Code, to pro- To ensure the effective processing of mail by To amend title 38, United States Code, to

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:55 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 0668 Sfmt 0668 E:\CR\FM\D15MR8.REC D15MRPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with DIGEST March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D295 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2018 Nov. 21, Nov. 21, Nov. 21, Dec. 8, Dec. 12, Dec. 12, Dec. 18, Dec. 18, Dec. 20, Dec. 22, Dec. 22, Jan. 3, 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 Nov. 13, Nov. 8, Nov. 15, Dec. 7, Sept. 18, Nov. 16, Nov. 29, May 1, Nov. 9, Nov. 6, Dec. 2, Dec. 21, 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 107 159 May 2, May 107 159 143 ...... May 23, 2017 ...... 344 ...... Oct. 11, ...... 398 ...... Nov. 7, ...... 200 ...... July 14, ...... Nov. 15, ...... 409 ...... Nov. 16, Sept. 18, 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 HS&GA May 22, HS&GA May TI HS&GA May 2, 10, May TI HS&GA 7, OGR Oct. 7, 6, VA Nov. App ...... AS July ...... 27, Dec. EC AS NR ...... Feb. FA FR VA 13, 18, HS Jud 28, ...... July 6, ...... WM Nov...... Dec. SST ...... Dec. 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 H.R. 1679 Mar. 22, Mar. 14, H.R. 1679 July H.R. 3243 4, Oct. H.R. 3949 7, June Dec. 4, H.J. Res. 123 H.R. 2810 13, Nov. 3, H.R. 4374 Jan. 14, H.R. 228 25, Feb. May S. 371 6, S. 1266 Mar. 2, H.R. 1370 Nov. 15, H.R. 1 Dec. H.R. 4661 agement Agency’s current efforts to mod- ernize its grant management system in- cludes applicant accessibility and trans- parency, and for other purposes. eliminate the sunset of certain provisions relating to information technology, amend the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015 to extend the sunset relating to the Federal Data Center Consolidation Initiative, and for other pur- poses. provide for the designation of State approv- ing agencies for multi-State apprenticeship programs for purposes of the educational assistance programs of the Department Veterans Affairs. fiscal year 2018, and for other purposes. 2018 for military activities of the Depart- ment of Defense, for military construction, and for defense activities of the Depart- ment of Energy, to prescribe military per- sonnel strengths for such fiscal year, and for other purposes. metic Act to authorize additional emer- gency uses for medical products to reduce deaths and severity of injuries caused by agents of war, and for other purposes. and Related Services Demonstration Act of 1992 to facilitate the ability of Indian tribes to integrate the employment, train- ing, and related services from diverse Fed- eral sources, and for other purposes. provements to the Department of State Authorities Act, Fiscal Year 2017. to enter into contracts with nonprofit orga- nizations to investigate medical centers of the Department of Veterans Affairs. 2002 to require the Secretary of Homeland Security to issue Department of Homeland Security-wide guidance and develop train- ing programs as part of the Department Homeland Security Blue Campaign, and for other purposes. tles II and V of the concurrent resolution on the budget for fiscal year 2018. istration, the Assistance to Firefighters Grants program, the Fire Prevention and Safety Grants program, and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grant program, and for other purposes. To ensure that the Federal Emergency Man- To amend title 40, United States Code, to To amend title 38, United States Code, to Making further continuing appropriations for To authorize appropriations for fiscal year To amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cos- To amend the Indian Employment, Training To make technical changes and other im- To authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs To amend the Homeland Security Act of To provide for reconciliation pursuant to ti- To reauthorize the United States Fire Admin-

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:55 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 0668 Sfmt 0668 E:\CR\FM\D15MR8.REC D15MRPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with DIGEST D296 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST March 15, 2018 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 No. 115– proved 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 Jan. 3, Jan. 3, Jan. 8, Jan. 8, Jan. 8, Jan. 8, Jan. 8, Jan. 8, Jan. 8, Jan. 8, Jan. 10, Jan. 10, Jan. 10, Jan. 10, 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 Sept. 14, Dec. 21, Dec. 21, Dec. 21, Dec. 21, Dec. 21, Sept. 14, Sept. 14, Oct. 23, Dec. 21, Dec. 21, Dec. 21, Dec. 21, Dec. 21, House Senate Date ap- Date House Senate 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 115– Senate 241 ...... July 26, 115– ...... 177 Dec. 19, ...... 51 Jan. 30, ...... 161 Dec...... 21, 188 Dec. 21, ...... 0 Dec. 21, ...... 49 Mar. 15, 111 Jan...... 30, 59 Feb. 27, ...... 70 Feb. 27, 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 ...... 105 ...... May 1, 204 ...... July 11, ...... 317 ...... Oct. 24, 2017 2017 2017 2017 ...... Dec. 22, CST ...... Aug. 3, CST ...... Aug. Committee Date Reported Report No. Date of passage Public Law House Senate House Senate House House Senate House TI CST 3, Aug. 1, NR ENR 11, 9, May OGR May 24, NR July July NR ENR TI CST 3, Aug. Jud NR ENR 28, 9, NR ENR Sept. 21, May 14, NR ENR June 9, NR ENR May 16, HS Sept. May Date intro- duced 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 S. 1536 July 12, July 21, S. 1536 Dec. 13, S. 2273 Jan. H.R. 560 28, Feb. 2, H.R. 1242 Mar. 5, 21, H.R. 1306 Apr. 12, June H.R. 1927 July S. 1393 6, S. 1532 Sept. 4, Jan. 9, S. 1766 Jan. 24, H.R. 267 Jan. H.R. 381 3, H.R. 699 Feb. 25, H.R. 863 Apr. H.R. 2142 Title Bill No. Title Bill coordinator and to expand the scope of ac- tivities authorized under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s outreach and education program to include human trafficking prevention activities, and for other purposes. that are shorter than 79 feet in length and fishing vessels are not required to have a permit for discharges incidental to the nor- mal operation of the vessel. Recreation Area Improvement Act to pro- vide access to certain vehicles serving resi- dents of municipalities adjacent to the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, and for other purposes. ican History Commission, and for other purposes. eral land in the State of Oregon, and for other purposes. tablish within the National Park Service the African American Civil Rights Net- work, and for other purposes. duty military, reservists, and veterans re- ceive commercial driver’s licenses. motor vehicle for life an individual who uses a commercial motor vehicle in com- mitting a felony involving human traf- ficking. for other purposes. ior, National Historic Site in the State of Georgia, and for other purposes. Wilderness of the Sierra National Forest as ‘‘Sky Point’’. ment Act of 2009 to modify provisions re- lating to certain land exchanges in the Mt. Hood Wilderness in the State of Oregon. tion at the Coltsville National Historical Park, and for other purposes. Border Protection to interdict fentanyl, other synthetic opioids, and narcotics and psychoactive substances that are ille- gally imported into the United States, and for other purposes. To designate a human trafficking prevention To extend the period during which vessels To amend the Delaware Water Gap National To establish the 400 Years of African-Amer- To provide for the conveyance of certain Fed- To amend title 54, United States Code, to es- To streamline the process by which active To disqualify from operating a commercial To reauthorize the SAFER Act of 2013, and To redesignate the Martin Luther King, Jun- To designate a mountain in the John Muir To amend the Omnibus Public Land Manage- To facilitate the addition of park administra- To improve the ability of U.S. Customs and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:55 Mar 16, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 0668 Sfmt 0668 E:\CR\FM\D15MR8.REC D15MRPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with DIGEST March 15, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D297 113 114 115 116 117 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 Jan. 10, Jan. 10, Jan. 12, Jan. 12, Jan. 12, Technology Entrepreneurship Infrastructure 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 Dec. 21, Dec. 21, Dec. 21, Dec. 21, Dec. 21, SST Space, and ...... Science, Business SB ...... Small and Business SBE ...... Small and TI ...... Transportation Affairs VA ...... Veterans’ WM and Means ...... Ways 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 428 ...... Nov. 28, Government Reform Administration IA ...... Indian Affairs IA ...... Indian Int ...... Intelligence Jud ...... Judiciary Resources NR ...... Natural and OGR ...... Oversight R ...... Rules R ...... Rules and RAdm ....Rules ...... 406 ...... Nov. 15, ...... 203 ...... July 11, 290 ...... Sept. 12, 2017 2017 2017 2017 Labor, and Pensions Governmental Affairs Fin ...... Finance Fin ...... Finance Services FS ...... Financial Affairs FA ...... Foreign Relations FR ...... Foreign Education, HEL&P ..Health, Security HS ...... Homeland and Security HS&GA ..Homeland Administration HA ...... House OGR Nov. 13, 28, Nov. Jud OGR Nov. 11, EC ENR 5, NR July 23, ...... NR Sept...... Jan. TABLE OF COMMITTEE ABBREVIATIONS 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 Transportation Workforce Resources Public Works H.R. 2228 Apr. 28, Apr. 3, H.R. 2228 13, May Jan. H.R. 2331 H.R. 518 7, Feb. 23, May H.R. 954 H.R. 2611 CST Science and ...... Commerce, the and E&W ...... Education Commerce and EC ...... Energy Natural and ENR ...... Energy and EPW ...... Environment Eth ...... Ethics and Forestry Urban Affairs cy efforts to protect the mental health and well-being of law enforcement officers, and for other purposes. that is intended for use by the public to be mobile friendly, and for other purposes. tion Act to exclude power supply circuits, drivers, and devices designed to be con- nected to, and power, light-emitting di- odes or organic light-emitting diodes pro- viding illumination from energy conserva- tion standards for external power supplies, and for other purposes. transferred to Rockingham County, Vir- ginia, and for other purposes. Central High School National Historic Site, and for other purposes. To provide support for law enforcement agen- To require a new or updated Federal website To amend the Energy Policy and Conserva- To remove the use restrictions on certain land To modify the boundary of Little Rock AG ...... Aging AG ...... Aging Agr ...... Agriculture Nutrition, ANF ...... Agriculture, App ...... Appropriations Services AS ...... Armed and Housing, BHUA ....Banking, Bud ...... Budget

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Next Meeting of the SENATE Next Meeting of the HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 3 p.m., Monday, March 19 12 noon, Monday, March 19

Senate Chamber House Chamber Program for Monday: Senate will resume consideration Program for Monday: To be announced. of the motion to proceed to consideration of H.R. 1865, Allow States and Victims to Fight Online Sex Trafficking Act. At 5:30 p.m., Senate will vote on confirmation of the nomination of Kevin K. McAleenan, of Hawaii, to be Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Department of Homeland Security. Following disposition of the nomination of Kevin K. McAleenan, Senate will vote on the motion to invoke clo- ture on the motion to proceed to consideration of H.R. 1865, Allow States and Victims to Fight Online Sex Trafficking Act.

Extensions of Remarks, as inserted in this issue

HOUSE Hastings, Alcee L., Fla., E319 Price, David E., N.C., E322, E326, E330 Huffman, Jared, Calif., E331 Rooney, Francis, Fla., E321, E322 Beyer, Donald S., Jr., Va., E323 Hultgren, Randy, Ill., E319 Roybal-Allard, Lucille, Calif., E324 Bishop, Sanford D., Jr., Ga, E330 Jackson Lee, Sheila, Tex., E317 Royce, Edward R., Calif., E327 Boyle, Brendan F., Pa., E322 Jordan, Jim, Ohio, E325 Ryan, Tim, Ohio, E321 Cartwright, Matt, Pa., E319, E323, E329 Katko, John, N.Y., E321, E322 Stefanik, Elise M., N.Y., E328 Chabot, Steve, Ohio, E328 Kinzinger, Adam, Ill., E318, E329 Tsongas, Niki, Mass., E323 Correa, J. Luis, Calif., E328 LaHood, Darin, Ill., E318 ´ DeFazio, Peter A., Ore., E325 Loudermilk, Barry, Ga., E325, E327 Velazquez, Nydia M., N.Y., E326 Diaz-Balart, Mario, Fla., E317, E318, E319, E319 Mast, Brian J., Fla., E326 Walberg, Tim, Mich., E320 Duffy, Sean, P., Wisc., E323 Nolan, Richard M., Minn., E322 Walorski, Jackie, Ind., E326 Frankel, Lois, Fla., E324 Norton, Eleanor Holmes, The District of Columbia, Webster, Daniel, Fla., E320 Gallagher, Mike, Wisc., E320 E325, E328 Wilson, Joe, S.C., E328 Gottheimer, Josh, N.J., E329 Pocan, Mark, Wisc., E327 Young, David, Iowa, E319, E320, E323, E325, E325, E327, Hanabusa, Colleen, Hawaii, E321 Poe, Ted, Tex., E318, E324 E328, E329, E330

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