Congressional Record United States Th of America PROCEEDINGS and DEBATES of the 115 CONGRESS, FIRST SESSION

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

Vol. 163 WASHINGTON, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2017 No. 186 House of Representatives The House met at 10 a.m. and was Congress works, what we achieved in lies. That is not what the Speaker said called to order by the Speaker pro tem- 1986 may, in hindsight, appear to have it was going to do. He said he would pore (Mr. JODY B. HICE of Georgia). been easy. It wasn’t. give everybody a tax cut. That was not f It was difficult because it required true, and is not true. 36 million middle compromise; it was difficult because it class American households will see DESIGNATION OF SPEAKER PRO required trust; and it was difficult be- their taxes go up over the next 10 years TEMPORE cause it required both parties to make as a result of this Republican plan. The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- tough choices and share the burden of And third, the Republican plan will fore the House the following commu- taking responsibility, along with the explode the debt by more than $1.7 tril- nication from the Speaker: benefit of claiming victory. lion over the next decade. This bill is WASHINGTON, DC, Somewhere along the way, Mr. the granddaddy of all debt creators. November 14, 2017. Speaker, it seems that many in the Re- This means that those tax cuts, more I hereby appoint the Honorable JODY B. publican Party lost sight of this truth. than half of which benefit only the top HICE to act as Speaker pro tempore on this First on healthcare, and now on taxes, 1.5 percent, will be paid for by a huge day. they have decided that it would be tax increase on our children and on our PAUL D. RYAN, easier not to work with Democrats at grandchildren. Speaker of the House of Representatives. all, so they have chosen a partisan The late Senator Russell Long from f path, where the only ones with whom Louisiana liked to cite an old ditty MORNING-HOUR DEBATE they have to compromise are them- about who gets stuck with the pain of selves. It is ‘‘going to be easy,’’ they tax increase. He said: ‘‘Don’t tax you, The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- said. don’t tax me, tax that fellow behind ant to the order of the House of Janu- And the result: We now expect, on the tree,’’ meaning, of course, that ary 3, 2017, the Chair will now recog- this floor, a bill so dangerous and so none of the voters want a tax increase, nize Members from lists submitted by reprehensible to the taxpayers of this so if you raise taxes, make sure it is the majority and minority leaders for country that nearly every major orga- someone else who is out of sight and morning-hour debate. nization representing taxpayers, small out of mind. The Chair will alternate recognition businesses, workers, farmers, seniors, In this case, sadly, Mr. Speaker, that between the parties. All time shall be home builders, realtors, teachers—and fellow behind the tree is a child. This is equally allocated between the parties, I could go on—oppose this bill. a tax increase on all those children. It and in no event shall debate continue There are more serious problems is a child who can’t vote and doesn’t beyond 11:50 a.m. Each Member, other with the Republican tax bill than time have a voice in this debate. than the majority and minority leaders to address them on this floor, so I want The Republican plan asks Members and the minority whip, shall be limited to highlight the three that make it so to pile $1.7 trillion or more of debt onto to 5 minutes. utterly dangerous to our economy and our children and grandchildren and put f to the middle class. the fiscal sustainability of our country First, most of the benefits of the tax at further risk. When confronted with GOP TAX BILL cuts Republicans are proposing will this fact, we heard only the same argu- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The benefit only those at the very top 1 ments we heard in 2001 and 2003, before Chair recognizes the gentleman from percent; the 99 percent left behind. Ac- the last major Republican effort to cut Maryland (Mr. HOYER) for 5 minutes. cording to the nonpartisan Tax Policy taxes precipitated the worst recession Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I was here Center’s latest analysis, under the Re- in our memory and a period of severe when Democrats and Republicans came publican plan, 47 percent of the tax budget tightening that led to disinvest- together to enact bipartisan tax reform cuts will benefit that top 1 percent, ment in our country under the threat in 1986. We paid for our tax overhaul just 1.2 million households making of sequestration. and never once asked future genera- more than $900,000 a year. That argument, flawed and false, is tions to foot the bill. Let me repeat: the top 1 percent will that these tax cuts will grow the econ- President Trump said in July that get nearly half of all the tax cuts in omy so much that the ensuing growth tax reform is, and I quote, ‘‘going to be this bill, and 50 percent for the 99 per- will magically erase all the deficits we easy.’’ I will admit that, to someone cent. know their plan will accrue. like him who is new to government and Second, the Republican plan raises So easy, Mr. Speaker, so easy. The who may not understand fully how taxes on 36 million middle class fami- cuts will simply pay for themselves, we

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 01:18 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A14NO7.000 H14NOPT1 H9182 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 are told. We have been told that before, Rural communities also face unique As we celebrate National Rural of course. The cycle repeats: Repub- healthcare concerns, a lack of pro- Health Day this Thursday, it is my lican promises that tax cuts will pay viders, accessibility issues, particu- hope that we continue to strive for a for themselves, followed by massive larly in terms of transportation and 21st century healthcare system that deficits, 189 percent increase in the def- technology, and affordability issues as works for everyone in America. With icit under Ronald Reagan, followed by a result of larger percentages of unin- technology today, we have the oppor- Republicans insisting that we respond sured and underinsured citizens and tunity to expand services, regardless of with austere cuts to investments in our greater out-of-pocket health costs. where one resides, particularly for people and in our opportunity. So eas- Mr. Speaker, before I was elected to those in rural regions where the need is ily they forget. serve in the House of Representatives, great and the services are scarce. But middle class Americans will not I spent nearly 30 years in the nonprofit f forget who is responsible when their healthcare field, assisting those with taxes go up, when their tax increases life-changing diseases and disabilities. PRESIDENT TRUMP’S AMERICA pay for tax cuts for the top 1 percent, I am acutely aware of the challenges FIRST DOCTRINE and when, in the years ahead, more and many face when it comes to obtaining The SPEAKER pro tempore. The more investments need to be cut to pay reasonably priced healthcare. It is es- Chair recognizes the gentleman from the interest on the debt under which pecially critical for rural America, like Illinois (Mr. QUIGLEY) for 5 minutes. this plan will bury the children and much of the Fifth Congressional Dis- Mr. QUIGLEY. Mr. Speaker, last grandchildren of America. trict of Pennsylvania. week, the President visited Asia for the And all because my colleagues across We are facing a healthcare crisis in first time as Commander in Chief, and the aisle wanted to skip out on doing our Nation’s rural areas. These often took the opportunity, while on foreign what they knew would be hard, just as disadvantaged populations are still soil, to reiterate his America First doc- they did when former Ways and Means struggling to access affordable, quality trine. Committee Chairman Dave Camp in- care. Many remain uninsured. Most are I rise today because an America First troduced his comprehensive tax reform underinsured; however, access to qual- doctrine mentality will not lead to suc- that was responsibly paid for. That is ity care remains the largest challenge. cess for the United States or the world. Even when people gain access to Dave Camp, Republican, State of This way of thinking is an outdated, health insurance, it doesn’t equal ac- Michigan. He is retired now, but he of- obsolete, and dangerous form of isola- cess to care. Rural hospitals across the fered a responsible bill, and it was not tionism. It will not keep us safe. It will country are closing, leaving patients even considered by his committee. not make us stronger economically. without access to their emergency He asked his colleagues to do some- Ironically, this phrase paints a pic- rooms and long-term healthcare facili- thing hard, of course, but they dis- ture that is blatantly un-American. ties. America First sends a signal to the missed it, dismissed it out of hand, be- Eighty rural hospitals in the United global community that the United cause it would have required hashing States have closed since 2010. One in States no longer wants to carry the out a difficult compromise. But easy is three rural hospitals are financially no synonym for successful. vulnerable. At the current closure rate, torch of freedom and democracy which President Kennedy told us that we more than 25 percent of rural hospitals shines brighter through inclusion and choose these things, that is, tackling will close in less than a decade. collaboration. our greatest challenges, ‘‘not because In addition to hospital closures, a On the national security front, the they are easy, but because they are workforce shortage plagues rural United States has the strongest mili- hard.’’ America. Seventy-seven percent of tary the world has known. For decades, So I ask my Republican friends—no, I more than 2,000 rural counties in the allies have counted on the U.S. to step urge them, set aside this dangerous, United States are designated as having up to the plate to work with them to reckless, and irresponsible bill. In- a shortage of healthcare professionals. protect the shared values we hold dear. stead, let’s choose the hard path that Recruitment and retention of experi- As we face numerous international involves hard choices and trust and all enced professionals, including primary challenges, both old and new, we need of those things that made tax reform care physicians, is an ongoing chal- to put more faith and investment into successful in 1986, which are the miss- lenge. our international and diplomatic insti- ing elements in this flawed bill. Furthermore, the opioid crisis that is tutions, not weaken them. The United Mr. Speaker, Democrats are ready to sweeping the Nation has ravaged our States did not earn its reputation as sit down with you and work on this rural communities, leaving even more leader of the free world by standing challenge, together. It won’t be easy, of the population in need of crucial back and allowing darker forces to pre- that is a promise, but if we do it to- health services. Adolescents and young vail. gether, if we do it in a way that doesn’t adults living in rural areas are more As oppressive regimes like Russia balloon the debt or raise taxes on the vulnerable to opioid abuse than their seek to undermine democracies, includ- middle class, we have a chance to do it urban counterparts. ing our own, America’s commitment to right. Let’s take that chance. The prevalence of fatal drug democracy must be stronger than ever. f overdoses has skyrocketed in rural The President’s threats to NATO and areas. High unemployment and a great- the U.N. have caused our trusted allies RECOGNIZING RURAL HEALTH er rate of the types of injuries that re- to question our commitment to collec- WEEK sult in prescriptions for opioid medica- tive defense. We know that when coun- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The tions have contributed to this. But tries work in concert, the chance of Chair recognizes the gentleman from there are ways to increase treatment conflict decreases. Pennsylvania (Mr. THOMPSON) for 5 options. minutes. Just last week, the House approved a b 1015 Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. bill that I introduced that would ex- Despite its challenges, globalization Mr. Speaker, this week is Rural Health pand healthcare access for our veterans has led to one of the most peaceful and Week in the Commonwealth of Penn- through telemedicine. The bill allows productive times in world history. sylvania. It is a time to promote VA-credentialed healthcare providers Adopting protectionist policies would awareness of the full range of issues to practice telemedicine across State stifle this progress, and certainly won’t that impact rural health throughout lines. put America first. the State and the health status of rural Mr. Speaker, our veterans should re- Our efforts to address difficult do- Pennsylvanians. ceive the best care possible, no matter mestic and international challenges Nationally, Pennsylvania ranks as where they are located. With advances are not mutually exclusive. In fact, one of the States with the highest in technology, we see new opportuni- they can and should happen simulta- number of rural residents, with 23 per- ties for veterans to obtain coverage neously. We defeated communism, in cent of Pennsylvanians residing in through telemedicine, especially in part, by showing the world that a com- rural areas. some of our most rural areas. mitment to democracy and expanding

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:18 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.002 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9183 economic opportunity makes peoples’ The CAP’s pace of operations is ex- coordination for these CAP missions, lives better and nations more secure. traordinary when one considers that which comprise about 80 percent of the Meeting our commitments overseas these missions are flown by volunteer First Air Force weekly operational fly- also makes us stronger and safer here professionals who pay dues to belong to ing. at home. the CAP, and they must take time I was privileged recently to fly with Standing up against the isolationist from their work or use their vacation the CAP Congressional Squadron on a tide sweeping the globe is critical to times to actually fly these missions. Fertile Keynote mission. This mission preserving our leadership role. Take Vital for communities and for every is unusual, as it provides CAP aircraft the President’s decision to pull out State are the CAP’s disaster relief op- as a slow-moving target for its Air from the Paris climate agreement as erations. The mission is best high- Force pilots to practice interception another example. By abandoning our lighted by the CAP’s massive volunteer techniques. The Congressional Squad- partnership with every other country response to the three recent rapid-fire ron is unique, as it includes Members in the world, the President has put our hurricanes—Harvey, Irma, and Maria— of Congress and congressional staff who credibility and our Earth at risk. We that made U.S. landfall from Texas to fly with CAP airmen. are now the only nation not partici- the Virgin Islands. Our mission that day was to simulate pating in this historic climate pact. While additional flight hours are still a general aviation aircraft that was in To reassert our integrity for global expected, 2,800 hours have already been controlled airspace without permis- leadership, we must lead by example. flown and nearly half a million photo- sion. Two F–16 Vipers scrambled from This includes recalling lessons learned graphs have been taken for FEMA, Joint Base Andrews to find and defi- from earlier periods of isolationism. Texas, Louisiana, Florida, South Caro- nitely intercept us. These missions pro- Relinquishing ground in this area cre- lina, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin vide excellent training at a fraction of ates a vacuum which less friendly, less Islands. These photos are being used to the cost to the government, and they democratic actors are prepared and ca- assess damage and to focus on recovery are very valuable in training our great pable to fill. efforts. men and women who wear Air Force Abdicating global leadership, prais- To do this, the CAP has used 118 air- uniforms. ing authoritarian regimes, and belit- craft and over 1,000 personnel from 44 Another key mission is to help train tling allies has been a hallmark of this wings—there is a wing for every State ground combat soldiers who are about Presidency. This does not put America and Puerto Rico and D.C.—and region to deploy overseas. Two CAP squadrons or our interests first. Our U.N. and headquarters across the Nation. For are tasked with providing this support. Mr. Speaker, I will certainly con- NATO partnership should not just be large-scale operations, such as long- tinue this discussion later. honored and preserved, but strength- term hurricane support, the CAP often ened. We are serious about taking on depends on the assistance of these adja- f terrorism, cybersecurity treats, and cent wings in different States and dif- THE REPUBLICAN TAX PLAN other dangers that jeopardize the peace ferent regions of the country. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The of our planet. Instead of distinguishing I was able to view up close and per- Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from sonal hurricane recovery operations between winners and losers and sowing the District of Columbia (Ms. NORTON) division where it need not exist, we when I flew several sorties during Hur- for 5 minutes. must acknowledge our shared goals and ricane Harvey. On one mission, I was Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, it usually values with our allies around the responsible for taking full-motion takes time to uncover a tax scam, but world, because our commitment to de- video of three dams along the Texas- this graph tells the whole story of the mocracy and diplomacy is what has al- Louisiana border to help establish that Republican tax bill in a glance. ways made our Nation great. they were in good condition and safe If the House bill passes, in 2018, taxes f for those living in surrounding areas. will probably go down, taxes for indi- Those assessments could mean the dif- viduals; and that is the blue line. In- THE CIVIL AIR PATROL’S PACE OF ference between life and death for OPERATIONS IS EXTRAORDINARY come taxes will probably go down. So many communities. far so good. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The In California, where fast-moving But follow the blue line for average Chair recognizes the gentleman from wildfires destroyed over 8,900 homes, U.S. taxpayers after 2019 and you will Louisiana (Mr. ABRAHAM) for 5 min- the CAP continues to fly photographic see income taxes from 2020 to 2027, the utes. missions in support of FEMA and Cali- end of the time frame for this bill, go Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise fornia. Hundreds of sorties have been up. In fact, from 2019 to 2027, we see tax today to recognize the exceptional flown and 13,586 photos taken. These increases for average taxpayers. There emergency and operational contribu- photos are being used to help emer- is the blue line, and we see these in- tions of the Civil Air Patrol and its gency managers analyze the damage creases take off steeply for average 58,000 volunteers. In the near future, I and assess the assistance needed by taxpayers. hope to also talk about two other pri- those whose homes and businesses have Now follow the red line for business mary missions of the CAP: youth de- been damaged or destroyed. income taxes. Business income taxes, velopment and aerospace/STEM edu- In addition to conventional photog- like individual taxes, start off by going cation. raphy, the CAP’s California operations down, too. That means tax cuts. There Literally every day, the CAP re- have included testing a new leading- they go. By 2020, business taxes, like sponds to life-threatening emergencies, edge tactical aerial imagery system, individual income taxes, are still most- homeland security requests, and a wide which helped eliminate distortion in ly level or going down. range of missions for States and the photos, making it easier for FEMA to Then at 2020, business income taxes Federal Government with over 500 sin- analyze the data and making them a increase—the same with individual in- gle-engine aircraft in every State and more effective tool for damage assess- come taxes. Both go up. in Puerto Rico. As an active member ments. The CAP is pleased to be part of Then comes 2024. This is the divide since 2004, I have had the privilege of this test program, and it is expected to line; the great divide between business flying many of these missions, so I help improve wildfire damage assess- income taxes and individual income speak from personal experience. ments. taxes. Business income taxes turn Over the past 15 months, the CAP has Operational missions for the Air abruptly down—there they go; there is responded to four hurricanes, major Force and other government agencies the red line—while individual income wildfires in the West, dozens of other occur daily and without fanfare. These taxes, just as abruptly, turn steeply up. emergencies, including search and res- include, among others, being a target There is the blue line. Individual tax cues, in addition to vital military mis- for Air Force interceptors, helping to increases. sions on a daily basis. The high oper- train combat ground forces, and escort- The graph showing individual income ational tempo has helped ensure that ing military remotely piloted aircraft taxes going up is this blue line, but it the CAP, for a second year in a row, for training. Air Combat Command’s represents what is happening in blue has flown over 100,000 hours. First Air Force provides operational States and red States alike.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:18 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.005 H14NOPT1 H9184 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 The bottom line for individual tax- can bring about real and positive and work on practical solutions to payers—less than half of taxpayers get change in a community. mitigate its effects and build a more anything approaching a permanent tax Dr. Padron’s efforts and strong resilient nation. cut, and an additional one-third have record of service have helped transform f their tax liability changed by $100 or the lives of many in my community of REJECT THE TAX BILL less. That adds up for most Americans south Florida, and I am confident that to tax increases. his tenure at the Urban Institute will The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Business taxes go down. Here is the be a successful one. Chair recognizes the gentleman from red line. Individual taxes, your taxes, Once again, Dr. Padron, Texas (Mr. DOGGETT) for 5 minutes. you pay more, they go up, your taxes ‘‘felicidades,’’ ‘‘congratulations.’’ Mr. DOGGETT. Mr. Speaker, after a treacherous extended game of hide- and mine. b 1030 The Republican plan is a tax increase and-seek, Republicans this week are bill for average Americans. Defeat the RECOGNIZING STANLEY TATE FOR HIS PUBLIC rushing through this House a wretched Republican tax bill to keep taxes from SERVICE tax bill. The future of this sneak at- going up for average Americans who Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I tack on America depends upon how pay taxes in our country today. rise today to pay recognition to a true quickly the truth can catch up with so Florida icon, Mr. Stanley Tate. f many lies. Hailing from Miami, Stanley is a This bill is just a way to curry favor IN RECOGNITION OF man committed to public service and with Washington’s special interests, TRANSGENDER AWARENESS WEEK helping those who need it most. He has awarding tax windfalls to large multi- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The dedicated his life to serving as a voice national corporations and the fortu- Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from for the voiceless and has never ceased nate few who sit way up atop the eco- Florida (Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN) for 5 min- to put the needs of others before his nomic ladder. utes. own. ‘‘Don’t worry,’’ Republicans say. Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I I am proud to have had the oppor- ‘‘What middle class people lose to pay rise to recognize Transgender Aware- tunity to have worked extensively with for this unbalanced tax cut, will even- ness Week to bring attention to the Mr. Tate throughout my time in the tually trickle down. With a little fairy challenges that transgender individuals Florida State Legislature. Together, dust magically, it will appear in your still face today. we pioneered many great initiatives, pocket, and you will get more than Our great country was founded on the including the creation of the Florida ever.’’ values of opportunity and freedom. Un- Prepaid College Plan that is our Na- This is a massive corporate tax break fortunately, we hear about bills and a tion’s premier savings plan to improve where the tail is wagging the dog of a public discourse that only seek to di- opportunities in the Sunshine State corporate tax break. The Republican vide and discriminate against this vul- and advance higher education. gimmick that Americans are being nerable population. In addition to his many accomplish- asked to swallow is the same experi- Transgender individuals are active ments, Stanley has remained a strong ence we have had previously. The mid- members of our community. They are advocate for our Nation’s leading and dle class will not enjoy the benefits of our friends, our neighbors, and our closest ally, the democratic Jewish this bill. Both history and arithmetic children. State of Israel. He has remained stead- tell us that. As the mother of a transgender son, I fast in his commitment to fight issues First, they are borrowing this know that there is a great need for like BDS and anti-Semitism, and I join money—much of it—to finance this tax public understanding of gender iden- him in his fight toward equality and break from the Chinese and the Saudis, tity. These are Americans who have acceptance for all. and others whom we have looked to to the same hopes, the same dreams as ev- Mr. Speaker, I wish Stanley Tate the pay for our immense national debt in erybody else, and should not be treated best in his future endeavors, and I the past. differently from their peers. thank him for his tireless service to Second, we know from experience Mr. Speaker, the reality is that our community. that tax breaks like this do not create transgender Americans around the ISSUES ASSOCIATED WITH CLIMATE CHANGE lasting jobs. But it is even worse than country work hard and want to succeed Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I all of that because Republicans are cre- and provide for themselves and their rise today to renew my commitment to ating a special new loophole for out- families. They deserve to be fully pro- addressing the many issues associated sourcing so many more American jobs. tected under our laws. with climate change and to urge my Candidate Trump, last year, made a We must come together as a country colleagues to help be part of the answer central theme about protecting Amer- to say no to prejudice, no to discrimi- by joining the bipartisan Climate Solu- ican jobs and stopping outsourcing, but nation, and no to harassment. That be- tions Caucus. he has endorsed a tax bill that does gins by respecting, by accepting, and My home district of Miami has expe- just the opposite. It creates a gaping by embracing each individual. rienced the impact of climate change new loophole to encourage greater out- CONGRATULATIONS TO DR. EDUARDO PADRON firsthand. In Miami Beach, my con- sourcing of our jobs and our profits Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I stituents experienced ever-more fre- abroad. Here is how it all works: would like to congratulate Dr. Eduardo quent king tides that flood the streets A multinational investor has a Padron on being selected into the with saltwater. Across all of south choice to make. Do I invest with new board of trustees of the Urban Insti- Florida, beaches and coastlines con- manufacturing in San Antonio, or do I tute. tinue to erode away. These are just a choose Stuttgart or Shanghai? If I in- The Urban Institute is among our Na- few of the examples of the real con- vest in America under their proposal, tion’s leading public policy think sequences of sea level rise, which is a it will be a 20 percent tax on my prof- tanks, with a mission to open minds, to direct consequence of climate change. its; but if I invest abroad in Shanghai shape decisions, and to offer solutions. These facts cannot be ignored. or in Stuttgart, the most I pay is 10 It is not hard to see why it selected I would like to thank our colleagues cents on the dollar, and more likely, I Dr. Padron as its board member. Dr. Congressmen CARLOS CURBELO and TED don’t pay anything because of the way Padron serves as the president of my DEUTCH, the founders and co-chairs of this bill is constructed. The bill will alma mater, Miami Dade College, and this important caucus, for recognizing create some new jobs, no doubt, but it he has dedicated his life and his career that we cannot afford to ignore climate is a mighty long commute to Europe or to advocate on behalf of underserved change any longer. It is not just a Flor- Asia to get one of those jobs. populations. ida issue. It impacts our entire coun- With the help of Washington’s special Throughout his presidency, Miami try. I am proud to be a part of this di- interests, they have rigged up an even Dade College has been propelled into a verse group of Members seeking to an- more complex international tax-dodg- position of national prominence, and it swer some of the most difficult ques- ing system that pretends to tax foreign is a shining example for how a college tions associated with climate change investment at half the U.S. rate. In

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:18 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.013 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9185 fact, it permits many of these compa- ton VA into our community to serve Amina and wounded her husband, but nies to funnel even more of their prof- our veterans in a way that it hadn’t in her spirit endures larger than life its into tax havens where their liabil- several decades. Director Costie’s time itself. ity in America will end up being zero, at the VA has been dedicated to Amina is one of many fallen victims and much of their profit will not be bettering the lives of our veterans. to Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine taxed anywhere, by anybody. I was very honored to work with Di- and its clandestine efforts to snuff out Whatever happened to making Amer- rector Costie on the issue of bringing championships of freedom. The list in- ica great? creative housing options for Dayton’s cludes Nikolai Andrushchenko, Nikolai For Republicans, it is not enough to veterans, a place known as Lyons Place Volkov, Denis Voronenkov, and numer- reward future tax dodging. No. They II. We also worked together on the suc- ous other valiant souls who placed want to go back and reward tax dodg- cessful campaign to bring the VA Na- their lives forward in liberty’s strug- ing from the past. And we sure have tional Archives to Dayton. gle. had plenty of that because, for years, Director Costie’s leadership and ex- I include in the RECORD an extensive large multinational firms have expertise will be deeply missed at the list of lives purged by Kremlin-related ploited these island tax havens, setting Dayton VA. I wish to thank him, give assassinations. up artificial offices in the Bahamas or him all the best, and look forward to LIST OF KREMLIN-RELATED ASSASSINATIONS the Caymans to get their tax bill down what he will be doing in his leadership OR ATTACKS to little or nothing, leaving working in the future in our community, and I ‘‘Two common causes of death for contem- families and those American-oriented thank him again for everything he has porary Russians are heart attacks and falling to one’s end from great heights. In some businesses, small businesses, large do- done for Dayton veterans. mestic-oriented businesses, to pay the cases, these fatal events actually even have f bill for our national security that they something to do with high cholesterol or PAYING TRIBUTE TO AMINA tragic mishaps.‘‘—journalist Michael Weiss, decline to pay. Daily Beast The recent revelations of the Panama OKUYEVA 2017 Papers and, more recently, the Para- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The April 19—Nikolai Andrushchenko, a 73- dise Papers, have exposed how these Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from year-old Russian journalist who openly criti- companies use these tax laws. Ohio (Kaptur) for 5 minutes. cized President Vladimir Putin’s administra- How did the Republicans respond? By Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, I rise tion died just over a month after he was at- granting multinationals with hoards of to pay tribute to a freedom fighter, a tacked and beaten by unknown aggressors. taxes that they hold in separate ac- beloved mother of her embattled coun- The Novy Peterburg founder died in a St. Pe- counts they call offshore but sit right tersburg hospital from injuries attributed try, Ukraine, Amina Okuyeva. the 9 March 2017 attack. Andrushchenko, a there on Wall Street, by letting them Amina Okuyeva was killed on Octo- pay less than half of what they owe at former St. Petersburg city council member, ber 30 in a cowardly act. Hitmen fired was placed in a medical coma after suffering a rate much lower than most middle- on Amina and her husband, Adam major blunt trauma to his head, but never class families pay. It is another Repub- Osmayev, from behind bushes as they recovered. lican myth meant to convince working drove by. Amina was struck in the March 27—Nikolai Volkov, head of the families to go along with this proposal. head. The world lost a brave and beau- Russian Interior Ministry’s construction department was shot dead in Moscow in a resi- Many of these profits come from those tiful soul, but her loss will not be in companies that claim they are trapped dential neighborhood near his home at vain. 10.30pm. A man was seen grabbing Vokov’s offshore, but it is only the American Born in the southern Ukrainian city people who are trapped by this pro- bag and then shooting him before fleeing. of Odessa, Amina was a mother, a med- Police, who stated that the body was riddled posal. ical surgeon, a Ukrainian police lieu- with bullets, also stated that they believed Goldman Sachs, itself, has said repa- tenant, and a Muslim activist known the motive to be robbery, further suggesting triation is likely to have a limited ef- for her stance on equal rights for men that they did not ‘‘believe’’ that the killing fect because repatriated earnings are ‘‘was directly related’’ to Volkov’s job. already working here for domestic ac- and women in uniform. March 23—Denis Voronenkov, 45, Russian She was a born leader. At the start of tivities. There is nothing patriotic politician who fled to Ukraine gunned down the Euromaidan movement, Amina about repatriation. This is a tax bill outside hotel in Kyiv. March 21—Nikolai Gorokhov, 53, was borne by the middle class to benefit the joined the peaceful protest in Ukraine in the bitter cold, a protest against re- thrown/pushed head first from fourth story wealthy few and these multinationals, window. Russian security services claim, ‘‘he to reward them for what they have pression. To show solidarity, she lived with her husband on the streets in a fell’’ trying to move a bathtub that was been doing in the past, and it must be being lifted over a balcony. Experts have re- rejected. tent. plied that when people ‘‘fall’’ from a balcony When Russia illegally invaded Cri- f accidentally, it is almost never headfirst. mea in eastern Ukraine, Amina was the Unidentified workers were on the balcony. CONGRATULATING DIRECTOR first woman to join the Kyiv-2 volun- Gorokhov represented Sergei Magnitsky, a GLENN COSTIE teer battalion. She was awarded the fellow Russian lawyer who exposed Russia’s largest ever tax fraud. Gorokhov was set to The SPEAKER pro tempore (Ms. ROS- Hero of Ukraine Medal to honor her testify in Moscow against investigator in LEHTINEN). The Chair recognizes the bravery at the battle of Debatsevo in the grizzly fight against Russian ag- Magnitsky case. He was also consultant for gentleman from Ohio (Mr. TURNER) for Preet Bharara’s anti-Russian mob case in 5 minutes. gression. New York. He remains in intensive care, in a Mr. TURNER. Madam Speaker, today She fought valiantly towards coma, with severe head injuries. I rise to thank and honor an integral progress and against oppression. Her March 16—Yevgeny Khamaganov, 35, died member of my community, Director bravery symbolizes the extraordinary in Buryatia from injuries (blunt force head Glenn Costie of the Dayton VA Medical strength of Ukrainian women as the trauma) suffered from when he was attacked Center, and congratulate him on his re- fountainhead of that society, holding on March 10 after reporting on corruption in the country together during significant Siberia. tirement. March 2—Alex Oronov, 69, died of unex- Director Costie turned the Dayton duress. plained circumstances, apparently a heart VA into one of the top medical facili- With her assassination, the world has attack. His daughter is married to brother of ties for our veterans in the country. yet again witnessed how the enemy of Michael Cohen, Trump’s longtime Director Costie’s success as a director democracy will stop at nothing to si- ‘‘consigliere.’’ Ukrainian parliamentarian of the VA Medical Center in Dayton lence those who stand for freedom and Andrii Artemenko asked Oronov to set up a has gained him national recognition. justice. Amina had been a target before meeting in late January with Michael Cohen, He has been sent throughout the coun- due to her unyielding patriotism. A where they were joined by former Trump Or- failed attempt occurred in June when ganization employee Felix Sater, a known try to save multiple VA medical facili- mobster and supposed FBI informant. ties plagued with issues, particularly an assassin, pretending to be a jour- Oronov/Artemenko presented Mr. Cohen with including veteran patient backlogs. nalist, shot at her. Tragically, evil per- a peace plan for settling territorial disputes Furthermore, Director Costie has sisted, and on Monday, October 30, it between Russia and Ukraine, giving full con- worked tirelessly to integrate the Day- succeeded in snuffing out the beauty of trol of Crimea to Putin, as well as allegedly

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:18 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.022 H14NOPT1 H9186 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 compromising information on Petro death was likely an accident and had noth- dental due to extreme inebriation. Lesin Poroshenko, that they hoped would force ing to do with his official government duties. founded the television network Russia Today Poroshenko’s resignation. Mr. Cohen took November 8—Sergei Krivov, 63, Russian of- (RT). The Daily Beast reports that before his their plan and their compromising informa- ficial in NYC dies on U.S. Election Day. death, Lesin was considering making a deal tion and forwarded to then-National Secu- Kirvov worked for the FSB, his cover in the with the FBI to protect himself from corrup- rity Advisor Michael Flynn. U.S. at the Russian consulate was ‘‘security tion charges. Lesin had been at the heart of February 20—Amb. Vitaly Churkin, 64, guard.’’ On November 8, NYC police received political life in Russia and would have Russia’s ambassador to the United Nations, a 911 call from the Russian consulate. Emer- known a lot about the inner workings of the died of an apparent heart attack; autopsy gency responders declared him dead at the rich and powerful. proved inconclusive. scene. Krivovhad served in the consulate as May—Vladimir Kara Marza, opposition February 2—Journalist and opposition pol- duty commander involved with security af- journalist, deputy of Open Russia poisoned itician Vladimir Kara Murza became vio- fairs. Russian consular officials first said for the first time. lently ill and temporarily paralyzed for 2nd Krivov fell from the roof. Then, they said he February—Boris Nemtsov—just hours after time in less than two years due to poisoning. died of a heart attack. The initial police re- urging the public to join a march against VKM father, in an apparent effort to save his port filed on the day of the incident said Russia’s military involvement in Ukraine, son from Russian authorities, continues to Krivov was found ‘‘with an unknown trauma Nemtsov was shot four times in the back by deny that he was poisoned. However, VKM to the head.’’ After conducting an autopsy, an unknown assailant within view of the and VKM wife state that it was purposefully New York City Medical Examiner ruled that Kremlin. Putin took ‘‘personal control’’ of effort to poison. VKM wife stated that in 2015 Krivov died from bleeding in the chest area. the investigation into Nemtsov’s murder, after murder of Nemtsov, a VKM colleague, August—The World Anti-Doping Agency but the killer remains at large. Russian special services did not want to out- (WADA) announced that Russian runner 2013 right kill her husband with the first poi- Yulia Stepanova’s online doping manage- March 23—Billionaire Boris Berezovsky, soning did not want to kill him, only ment account had been illegally accessed. instrumental in Putin’s rise to power, had a ‘‘frighten him and destroy him slowly with The doping scandal, for which she blew off falling out with Putin which led to his self- illness.’’ However, now they believe they did the lid, rocked sport and cost over 100 Rus- exile in the United Kingdom, where he vowed want to kill him and effort failed since VKM sians their place at the Rio Games. The Rus- to bring down the president. Berezovsky was was taken to doctor immediately after show- sian runner says she fears for her life and has found dead inside a locked bathroom at his ing symptoms. VKM left Russia on Feb. 19 been forced to move after hackers tried to home in the United Kingdom, a noose around and is now in the U.S. Recently testified at find her location. Stepanova has been in hid- his neck, in what was at first deemed a sui- a congressional hearing on the Russian oppo- ing in the United States with her husband cide. However, the coroner’s office could not sition. Vitaly, a former Russian anti-doping official, determine the cause of death. January 26—Amb. Alexander Kadakin, 67, after giving evidence that the Russian gov- Russian envoy to India, died after a short ill- ernment for years facilitated widespread 2012 ness. There was nothing ‘‘special or extraor- cheating across nearly all Olympic sports. Alexander Perepilichny, 44, a former mem- dinary’’ about the circumstances that led to July—Interfax news agency reported that ber of the Klyuev Group, dropped dead while his death said his assistant. Aleksandr Poteyev, 64, an intelligence offi- jogging in his adoptive home of Surrey, Eng- January 25—Russian newspaper cer accused of defecting and betraying a ring land. There was no cause of death stated, but Kommersant reported the arrests of three of Russian spies living undercover in Amer- the assumption by the British coroner’s ini- men: Sergei Mikhailov, who heads the Cen- ican suburbs, had died in the United States. tial finding was that nothing looked sus- ter for Information Security, an arm of the However, the U.S. has not confirmed these picious, even though Perepilichny was a Russian intelligence agency FSB; and Ruslan reports. Poteyev exposed Anna Chapman and healthy 44-year-old with no known chronic Stoyanov, a senior researcher with gang of 10, after defecting and entered wit- or debilitating ailments. Then Monique Kaspersky Lab, the computer security com- ness protection. Simmonds, a researcher at the Royal Bo- pany. Both men were last seen the first week February 14—Nikita Kamaev, 52, a former tanic Gardens at Kew, hired by the coroner of December when in a Stalin-style touch, a executive director of the Russian anti-doping at the behest of Perepilichny’s life insurance bag was suddenly thrown over Mikhailov’s agency died suddenly apparently of a heart company, uncovered traces of a rare and head during a meeting of fellow intelligence attack according to TASS. He planned to toxic plant, gelsemium, in the victim’s stom- officers, and he was dragged out. Mikhailov write a book on drug use in sports Britain’s ach. Gelsemium, as it turns out, does not has not been seen since. And is now almost Sunday Times newspaper reported. grow in the verdant climes of Surrey. It is certainly dead. Sergei Mikhailo was believed February 3—Vyacheslav Sinev, 52, a former only found in China, where it is a favored to have been a U.S. intelligence asset within general director, Russian anti-doping agency poison of assassins. Russian hitmen, too, the Russian government. The third arrest died suddenly. Official cause of death was have been known to access the flower’s was of Dmitry Dokuchayev, a hacker known never released. quiet, lethal capability. At the time of his by the name ‘‘Forb.’’ January 14—Grigory Rodchenkov, 58, the death, Perepilichny had been helping the January 9—Amb. Andrey Malanin, 54, Rus- director who ran the laboratory that handled Swiss government locate and freeze chunks sian envoy in Greece, was found dead in his testing for thousands of Russian Olympians of the missing $230 million, some of which, apartment in Athens on bedroom floor. and who developed a three-drug cocktail of the U.S. government concluded, wound up in Greek police stated that ‘‘at first sight’’ it banned substances that he mixed with liquor Manhattan real estate and American banks. appears he died suddenly from natural and provided to dozens of Russian athletes, 2009 causes. No autopsy was performed, although helping to facilitate one of the most elabo- November 16—Sergei Magnitsky, anti-cor- that is standard procedure when a diplomat rate—and successful—doping ploys in sports ruption attorney died in police custody in dies. history, fled to the U.S., seeking asylum and Moscow detention center after allegedly protective custody. Within the next month, 2016 being brutally beaten, then denied medical two of his colleagues died. December 26—Oleg Erovinkin, 61, Russian care. He had been working for British-Amer- January 4—Col. Gen. Igor Sergun, 59, the intelligence official found dead in the back- ican businessman William Browder to inves- head of the GRU (Russia’s military intel- seat of his car parked on the streets of Mos- tigate a massive tax fraud case. Magnitsky ligence directorate), who has long done se- cow. Russian government agencies have not was allegedly arrested after uncovering evi- cretive dirty work at the order of the Krem- released an official cause of death. He was a dence suggesting that police officials were lin in the war against Ukraine died suddenly. former general in the FSB and served as behind the fraud. No information provided as to cause of chief-of-staff to Igor Sechin, the president of July 15—Natalya Estemirova was kid- death. state-owned oil giant Rosneft. Russia watch- napped outside her home, shot several ers have speculated that he might have been 2015 times—including a point-blank shot in the a source of information in the 35-page dossier December 27—Major General Aleksandr head—and dumped in the nearby woods. A that detailed alleged links between the Shushukin, 52, deputy chief of staff of the journalist who investigated abductions and Trump campaign and Russia. Russian paratrooper forces and who led the murders that had become commonplace in December 20—Amb. Andrey Karlov, 62, Russian military invasion in Crimea died Chechnya where pro-Russian security forces Russian ambassador to Turkey, fatally shot suddenly. Blood clots to the heart, Kremlin waged a brutal crackdown against Islamic in the back in Ankara. The shooter, a Turk- announced. militants. Like fellow journalist Anna ish police officer, shouted ‘‘do not forget November 5—Mikhail Lesin, 57, found dead Politkovskaya, Estemirova reported on ci- Syria’’ during the assassination. in his Dupont Circle hotel room in Wash- vilians who often got caught between these December 20—Petr Polshikov, 56, a senior ington DC. A year later, in October 2016, the two violent forces. Nobody has been con- Russian diplomat, was shot to death in his Washington DC medical examiner’s office victed of her murder. Moscow home, Polshikov’s wife came home confirmed that former Russian press min- January 19—Stanislav Markelov a human and found him in their bedroom with a pil- ister died of ‘‘blunt force trauma to the rights lawyer known for representing low over his face. Underneath the pillow, po- head’’ and also suffered injuries to his neck, Chechen civilians in human rights cases lice found Polshikov with a head wound. torso, arms and legs caused by falls, however again the Russian military. He also rep- Russian Foreign Ministry said Polshikov’s determined the cause of death to be acci- resented journalists who found themselves in

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:45 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A14NO7.004 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9187 legal trouble after writing articles critical of bombings in 1999. He was shot three times in Mrs. HARTZLER. Madam Speaker, I Putin, including Novaya Gazeta reporter the back by a single assailant using a pistol rise today in support of an important Anna Politkovskaya, slain in 2006. Markelov with a silencer, police said. It was the 10th bill that could help so many families was shot by a masked gunman near the killing of a member of parliament since 1994. with loved ones struggling with life- Kremlin. INTERNATIONAL PRESS INSTITUTE FIGURES ON January 19—Anastasia Baburova, a jour- threatening diseases. I am talking RUSSIAN JOURNALISTS WHO WERE MURDERED about the Right to Try Act which nalist from Novaya Gazeta, was fatally shot OR DIED IN SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES as she tried to help Stanislav Markelov. Rus- would allow terminally ill patients to sian authorities said a neo-Nazi group was 2011—three Russian journalists dead (in- request access to experimental drugs behind the killings, and two members were cluding newspaper editor Khadzhimurad after all other available treatment op- convicted of the deaths. Kamalov, shot 14 times as he left his office); 2010—two dead; 2009—five dead (including a tions have been exhausted as well as 2008 young reporter from Novaya Gazeta, caught prevent the Federal Government from Semyon Korobeinikov, allegedly a clothing in a hail of bullets); 2008—four dead; 2007— interfering with States that have al- salesman, lost his footing on a balcony and one killed; 2006—two killed, including Anna ready passed such laws. tumbled to his demise. A year later, Politkovskaya, and Yevgeny Gerasimenko— While Missouri passed a right-to-try Korobeinikov was named as the purchaser of found in his Saratov flat with a plastic bag law in 2014, I was reminded of the im- Universal Savings Bank, a dubious financial pulled over his head and computer missing; portance of this bill just last year. As institution that had been fingered by inves- 2005—two died; 2004—three, including Paul I was returning to my office one morn- tigators as a way-station for stolen Russian Klebnikov; 2003—three more; 2002—eight edi- ing after votes on the House floor, I money. Only he didn’t buy the bank. It was tor (including Valery Ivanov, editor, shot in part of a government ruse to exonerate the the head); 2001—one; 2000—six dead reporters was stopped by a little boy, Zack true owner, an ex-convict called Dmitry and editors. Mongiello, who ran after me to catch Klyuev, implicated in a series of massive tax my attention. Zack, who is only 11 Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, it is frauds that cost Russian citizens $1 billion. years old, is one of the most effective hard for people of goodwill to imagine Korobeinikov might have therefore borne advocates for the right-to-try cam- witness against Klyuev, if he wasn’t conven- the depth of depravity that Russia’s paign. His father, Frank, was diagnosed iently dead. malevolent dictators will stoop to to with ALS a few years ago. 2006 serve the narrow, pecuniary, and polit- This devastating disease has an aver- November 23—Alexander Litvinenko, a ical interests of the few at the price of age life expectancy of 2 to 5 years, with former KGB agent, died three weeks after the many. half of those diagnosed surviving for drinking a cup of tea laced with deadly polo- Dr. Timothy Snyder, in his extraor- only 3 years. Ever since that life- nium-210 at a London hotel. A British in- dinary book, ‘‘Bloodlands,’’ recounts changing diagnosis, Zack’s family, inquiry found that Litvinenko was poisoned by the intergenerational human tragedy cluding his mother and five siblings, Russian agents Andrei Lugovoi and Dmitry wrought by Russian dictators, citing Kovtun, who were acting on orders that had have been doing all they can to ensure ‘‘probably been approved by President the 14 million civilians, women, chil- passage of this important bill. Putin.’’ Russia refused to extradite them, dren, and families, who were murdered When Zack came running up to me and in 2015 the Russian president granted at Russia’s hand in eastern and central that day last year, his message was Lugovoi a medal for ‘‘services to the mother- Europe. clear and powerful: ‘‘My dad is dying,’’ land.’’ After leaving the Russian Federal Se- Vladimir Putin is the latest dictator he said. ‘‘Please help.’’ I was incredibly curity Service, Litvinenko became a vocal in a long line of them, and, sadly, this moved by this, as I think anyone would critic of the agency, which was run by Putin, dark history from Stalin to Putin con- be. Here is his picture. This precious and later blamed the security service for or- tinues today. It is instructive that chestrating a series of apartment bombings little boy, whose family is dealing with in Russia in 1999 that left hundreds dead. Putin, himself, has written that his the unimaginable, convinced me and October 7—Anna Politkovskaya, a Russian grandfather was a trusted cook for Jo- numerous other legislators of the ur- reporter for Novaya Gazeta whose book, seph Stalin, working inside the belly of gency of this legislation. We must act ‘‘Putin’s Russia,’’ accused the Kremlin lead- the beast of tyranny. now. er of turning the country into a police state. That is the cocoon from which Rus- I want Congress to help Zack’s fam- She wrote extensively about abuse in sia’s Putin has emerged. And now add ily and other families who have no Chechnya. She was shot at point-blank range to those millions of deaths over 10,000 other options. Washington should not in an elevator in her building. Ukrainian soldiers killed by Russia, stand in the way of Americans with 2004 with thousands upon tens of thousands life-ending illnesses who want to try to July 9—Paul Klebnikov, chief editor of the more wounded and over 2 million peo- save themselves and have no other Russian edition of Forbes. He had written ple displaced inside Ukraine, a country available options. about corruption and dug into the lives of that simply wants to be free. That is why I am a proud cosponsor wealthy Russians. He was killed in a drive- of the Right to Try Act and was glad to by shooting in an apparent contract killing. As co-chair of the bipartisan House see the Senate pass their version of 2003 Congressional Ukrainian Caucus, I can attest our Members are committed to this bill. It is now time for the House October—Mikhail Khodorkovsky jailed for to act, and I call on my colleagues to ten years. holding Russia accountable for tyran- Sergei Yushenkov, the affable former army nical and malevolent activity in support this potentially lifesaving leg- colonel, had just registered his Liberal Rus- Ukraine, and even here in the United islation. Please join me so that we can sia movement as a political party when he States. give families like Zack’s more options was gunned down outside his home in Mos- Madam Speaker, I rise in pursuit of and hopefully more time. cow. Yushenkov was gathering evidence he justice for Amina Okuyeva and in soli- f believed proved that the Putin government darity with other freedom fighters in was behind one of the apartment bombings IMPEACHMENT PROCESS UPDATE Ukraine. Let her bravery in life serve in 1999. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The as an inspiration to us all, and let the July 3—Yuri Shchekochikhin, a Duma dep- Chair recognizes the gentleman from uty, journalist and author who wrote about international community stand with Texas (Mr. AL GREEN) for 5 minutes. crime and corruption in the former Soviet Ukraine, shoulder to shoulder, as we Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Madam Union. He was investigating the 1999 apart- continue to fight back against Russia’s ment bombings for Novaya Gazeta when he Speaker, it is always an honor to speak invasion of a sovereign nation fighting here in the well of the House of the contracted a mysterious illness in July 2003. for a future free of state-sponsored He died suddenly, a few days before he was Congress of the United States of Amer- murder and occupation. supposed to depart for the United States. His ica. I do want to compliment you, medical documents were deemed classified f Madam Speaker. I heard your state- by Russian authorities. b 1045 ments earlier, and I would like to asso- April 17—Sergiey Yushenkov, 52, the affa- ciate myself with the portion of your ble former army colonel, who had just reg- GIVE THEM A CHANCE istered his Liberal Russia movement as a po- statement that dealt with transgender litical party was gunned down outside his The SPEAKER pro tempore. The persons. home in Moscow. Yushenkov was gathering Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from Madam Speaker, I stand before the evidence he believed proved that the Putin Missouri (Mrs. HARTZLER) for 5 min- world today with an impeachment up- government was behind one of the apartment utes. date. I have previously indicated that

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:40 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A14NO7.005 H14NOPT1 H9188 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 there will be a vote on an impeachment On November 7, 1967, Lieutenant PRAYER resolution before Christmas. I stand by McNulty was serving as an artillery Reverend Dr. Anthony K.R. Gibson, this. To this end, I will be meeting forward observer when his unit was at- African Methodist Episcopal Zion with appropriate members of House tacked. Lieutenant McNulty called in Church, Indianapolis, Indiana, offered leadership this week to discuss the no- accurate fire on multiple enemy posi- the following prayer: tification process. I want people to un- tions, while also directing friendly On this day and before this august derstand how this process works. units. Even after being seriously body, we pause to prayerfully acknowl- I will have the opportunity to read wounded, Lieutenant McNulty contin- edge Your presence in this place as the the Articles of Impeachment from the ued to fight. As the enemy began to re- living God. There is none like You. treat, Lieutenant McNulty organized well of the House. After this is done, Your dominion will never recess, and the effort to provide aid to his wounded there will be a time set for me to Your will will never end. comrades. Lieutenant McNulty’s ac- present them again before the House. It On this day, O God, saturate this tions saved lives. must be done twice. When that time is place with Your presence and fill this set, I will have to be notified of the Lieutenant McNulty returned home to his wife and raised his children. He House with Your spirit. You have not time. I don’t set the time. I have to re- given us the spirit of fear. You have spond at the appropriate time. For me purchased a home in Sellersville where he has now lived for 46 years. He earned given us the spirit of love, the spirit of to respond at the appropriate time, ap- compassionate authority, and the spir- propriate notice has to be given to me. an MBA from Temple University, worked for the Ford Motor Company, it of godly judgment. This is why I will be meeting with Holy Spirit, touch the hearts of our House leadership so that we can discuss and has been an active member of our community. His story continues to in- elected officials. Let everything done the means by which appropriate notice in this Chamber be for Your glory and will be given to me. We want to make spire us all. Madam Speaker, I offer to this body for Your praise. We bless You in ad- sure there is no confusion about this vance for the mercy and truth that will process and no confusion as to how the Patrick’s personal motto, the same as Navy Seabees: ‘‘The difficult we do permeate from this House on this day notice is to be accorded to me. and reach all areas of these United I will meet with leadership to ascer- now, the impossible takes a little longer.’’ States and, indeed, the uttermost parts tain how the appropriate notice will be of the world. accorded to me so that I may present HONORING THE LIFE AND MEMORY OF BERNIE LENS In Jesus’ name we pray. the Articles of Impeachment a second Amen. time so that, thereafter, there will be a Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and mem- f vote on these Articles of Impeachment. Because the system is such that it ory of Bernie Lens, who passed away in THE JOURNAL can be difficult to understand how peo- May. In his 96 years, Bernie lived a life that impacted a great number of people The SPEAKER. The Chair has example have actually voted, I want you to in our community. Today, months ined the Journal of the last day’s pro- know that those who vote with me and after his passing, his impact is still ceedings and announces to the House those who are supportive of advancing felt. his approval thereof. the cause of impeachment, I will be In 1939, Bernie enlisted in the Army Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Jour- proud to announce who they are, and I to fight the war in Europe. During his nal stands approved. will give Members further updates as time there, serving in Patton’s Third Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. to how this will take place. Army, he helped to liberate Dachau Speaker, pursuant to clause 1, rule I, I But I want to assure every American concentration camp. demand a vote on agreeing to the that this vote on Articles of Impeach- After the war, he returned home and Speaker’s approval of the Journal. ment will take place before Christmas, went about his life, rarely talking The SPEAKER. The question is on and that this vote will be about the in- about what he had seen, until one day the Speaker’s approval of the Journal. citement of hate, about how the coun- he began to share his story. He was The question was taken; and the try is being pushed back, and how known in our community for his talks Speaker announced that the ayes ap- America is better than the direction with students in schools and commu- peared to have it. that someone seeks to push us forward nity centers working to ensure the hor- Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. into. rors of what he saw at Dachau were not Speaker, on that I demand the yeas This is a great country, and we can- forgotten and would never happen and nays. not tolerate hate. This may be one of again. People gravitated toward him The yeas and nays were ordered. the few times in the history of the due to his quick wit and his warm de- The SPEAKER. Pursuant to clause 8, country that persons will be given the meanor. rule XX, further proceedings on this opportunity to take a stand against He worked closely with the Holo- question will be postponed. hate by casting the appropriate vote in caust Remembrance Program of Post f the Congress of the United States of 697 of the Jewish War Veterans in America. Levittown, Bucks County, which con- PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE I will give future updates on im- tinues his work today. The SPEAKER. Will the gentleman peachment from this podium. I am al- Bernie found incredible purpose from from Oregon (Mr. SCHRADER) come for- ways honored to stand in the well of a dark experience in his life, a lesson ward and lead the House in the Pledge the United States House of Representa- that we can all benefit from. of Allegiance. tives. f Mr. SCHRADER led the Pledge of Al- f RECESS legiance as follows: RECOGNIZING FIRST LIEUTENANT I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- United States of America, and to the Repub- PATRICK J. MCNULTY, JR. ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair lic for which it stands, one nation under God, The SPEAKER pro tempore. The declares the House in recess until noon indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Chair recognizes the gentleman from today. f Pennsylvania (Mr. FITZPATRICK) for 5 Accordingly (at 10 o’clock and 54 minutes. minutes a.m.), the House stood in re- WELCOMING REVEREND DR. Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, cess. ANTHONY K.R. GIBSON I rise today to recognize First Lieuten- f The SPEAKER. Without objection, ant Patrick J. McNulty, Jr., one of my b 1200 the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. CAR- constituents who, on Friday, November SON) is recognized for 1 minute. 3, received the Silver Star Medal, AFTER RECESS There was no objection. which is our Nation’s third highest The recess having expired, the House Mr. CARSON of Indiana. Mr. Speak- award for heroism in combat during was called to order by the Speaker at er, I am pleased to welcome my con- the Vietnam war. noon. stituent as our guest chaplain today,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:40 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.011 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9189 Reverend Dr. Anthony Gibson. He is a The FSA plays a vital role in the Conquest says at least 20 million and, lifelong Hoosier and a bright young Commonwealth’s agriculture under- likely, as many as 30 million died in leader from Indiana’s faith community. takings. Just last year, the agency was the Great Terror. Reverend Gibson is the presiding responsible for more than $330 million Ed Feulner continued: ‘‘Its legacy is elder of the Indiana Conference of the of payments and loans to Kentucky also one of grinding poverty. Most of African Methodist Episcopal Zion farmers. the 88 countries that score ‘repressed’ Church and the former pastor of the I am grateful our new director brings or ‘mostly unfree’ on the Heritage Saint Mark Temple AME Zion Church with him a wealth of experience in ag- Foundation’s Index of Economic Free- in Indianapolis, Indiana. The AME Zion riculture, and I am confident he will dom are either communist, former Church is a 221-year-old denomination serve Kentucky’s farmers well. I look communist, or some type of socialist founded in New York City in 1796 that forward to working with Director economy. They are also the world’s spread across the country, including Brian Lacefield in the years to come poorest nations.’’ the Indiana church that was estab- and continuing to serve Kentucky’s ag- Americans still hope for democratic lished in 1907. riculture community. reform in Russia, which, with its ex- Dr. Gibson was born in Gary, Indiana. traordinary culture and limitless re- He later attended Indiana University in f sources, should be one of the wealthiest Bloomington, where he completed a TAX CUTS HAVE NEVER PAID FOR nations on Earth. double major in journalism and Afri- THEMSELVES In conclusion, God bless our troops, can-American Studies. He furthered his (Mr. HIGGINS of New York asked and and we will never forget September the education at the Presbyterian Theo- was given permission to address the 11th in the global war on terrorism. logical Seminary in Louisville, Ken- House for 1 minute.) tucky, with a master’s of divinity de- Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. f gree, and he earned his doctorate of Speaker, the White House Council of LET’S GET REAL philosophy in theology from Trinity Economic Advisers issued a report re- Bible College and Seminary. He most (Mr. SCHRADER asked and was cently asserting that, by cutting the recently graduated from Strayer Uni- given permission to address the House corporate rate from 35 to 20 percent, versity with a master’s degree in for 1 minute and to revise and extend every American household will see human resource management, with a his remarks.) their income increase by $4,000 to $9,000 specialization in organizational devel- Mr. SCHRADER. Mr. Speaker, $1.5 next year and those years after. opment. trillion—no, I guess it is actually clos- The U.S. Treasury Secretary also Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank er to $2.3 trillion with interest—that is said that these tax cuts would pay for Reverend Dr. Gibson for his willingness the amount this partisan tax reform themselves and produce $2 trillion in to travel to Washington, D.C., to share plan plans to add to our debt and def- growth over the next decade. In fact, his spiritual love and guidance with icit. Mr. Speaker, tax cuts have never paid the House today. I have had a few folks say: ‘‘Well, we for themselves—not once or ever—in I pray, Mr. Speaker, that his words have had $10 trillion added to the debt human history. warm the hearts of my colleagues as over the last 8 years.’’ With all due re- The White House has a problem in we work together to carry out the peo- spect, Republicans controlled Congress that nobody believes them, not the ple’s business with compassion and during 6 of those 8 years. Congressional Budget Office, not the courage. Where are my conservative Repub- Tax Policy Center, not the University f lican friends who railed for 8 years on of Pennsylvania Wharton Business the deficits? Was that just while a ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER School, and not even Goldman Sachs, Democrat was in the White House? Are PRO TEMPORE from which both the Treasury Sec- we such shallow, political, hypocritical The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. retary and the National Economic Ad- people that we now ignore the greatest BOST). The Chair will entertain up to 15 viser came to the White House. threat to our country, our national further requests for 1-minute speeches In fact, each of these nonpartisan in- debt and deficit, just because a Repub- on each side of the aisle. stitutions that studies and reports on lican is in the Oval Office? f tax and economic policy have stated Furthermore, the idea that we will explicitly that these corporate tax cuts CONFIRMATION OF BRIAN grow our way out of that $2 trillion will have near zero impact on future LACEFIELD AS KENTUCKY FARM hole is fantasy. Let’s look at the economic growth and add at least $1.5 SERVICE AGENCY DIRECTOR growth rate after the last big tax cut trillion in new deficit over the next at the end of 2015. (Mr. COMER asked and was given decade. permission to address the House for 1 Once again, Mr. Speaker, this is Since we have passed that tax cut, minute.) fraud being perpetrated against middle the growth rate remains steady at 1.5 Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise America. to 2 percent, no change, that huge tax today to congratulate Mr. Brian cut financed with $650 billion in debt to Lacefield, who was recently confirmed f our kids. by President Trump as Kentucky’s new COMMUNISM’S CENTURY OF The Wharton School of Business, not Farm Service Agency director. I am DEVASTATION exactly a liberal bastion of theology, thrilled to recognize such a prolific (Mr. WILSON of South Carolina now estimates that growth factor from member of the agriculture community asked and was given permission to ad- this tax reform bill to be less than 1 as Kentucky’s new FSA director. percent. Brian Lacefield was a successful area dress the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.) Let’s get real. Vote against this agriculture banker and agribusiness package. Let’s do real tax reform that leader, most recently serving as mar- Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, last week, in a column by is deficit neutral at least—for our kids’ ket president of FNB Bank in Cadiz, sake. Kentucky. A Hopkinsville native, Heritage Foundation President Ed Lacefield previously served as director Feulner in The Washington Times, it f of Commonwealth Agri-Finance with sadly identified November 7, 1917, as a day of infamy. This day marks the RECOGNIZING MAGLOCLEN AND Hopkinsville Elevator, and he cur- THE REGIONAL INFORMATION rently serves on the Kentucky Corn overthrow of the Russian Government SHARING SYSTEMS PROGRAM Growers board of directors, the Ken- by the Bolsheviks, led by Lenin, and tucky FFA Foundation, and the Ken- the establishment of the murderous (Mr. FITZPATRICK asked and was tucky Agricultural Leadership Pro- communist dictatorship 100 years ago. given permission to address the House gram. This revolution led to horrific for 1 minute and to revise and extend I commend President Trump’s selec- deaths. Ed Feulner notes historians es- his remarks.) tion of Lacefield to serve in such an timate that, according to Richard Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I important capacity. Pipes, 9 million were deceased. Richard rise today to recognize MAGLOCLEN,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:40 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.014 H14NOPT1 H9190 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 the Middle Atlantic-Great Lakes Orga- Ms. ADAMS. Mr. Speaker, today I tigious honor and thank her for mak- nized Crime Law Enforcement Net- rise for the people of North Carolina’s ing her community a better place to work, and the Regional Information 12th Congressional District, to stand live and work. Sharing Systems Program. up for the opportunities our commu- f Last month, I had the opportunity to nity needs, and to reject the ‘‘billion- tour the MAGLOCLEN site in my dis- aires first’’ Republican tax plan. b 1215 trict in Newtown, Bucks County, Penn- This tax plan fails to hear the Amer- UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE COL- sylvania. As one of six regional cen- ican people. It gives tax cuts to cor- LEGE OF LAW’S LEGAL CLINIC ters, they serve Delaware, Indiana, porations on the backs of the middle CELEBRATES 70TH ANNIVER- Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New class. SARY York, Ohio, the District of Columbia, Last week, I sent a letter to the and Pennsylvania, as well as England Ways and Means chair and to Speaker (Mr. DUNCAN of Tennessee asked and was given permission to address and parts of Canada. Their work is in- RYAN outlining the 12th District’s tax tegral to keeping local, State, and Fed- priorities and urging the inclusion of the House for 1 minute and to revise eral law enforcement agencies in- education-related deductions. and extend his remarks.) formed and equipped with the tools Republicans refused to hear the call, Mr. DUNCAN of Tennessee. Mr. they need to do their jobs and to keep so this week I announced my education Speaker, I rise today to congratulate us safe. tax package. This series of amend- the University of Tennessee College of MAGLOCLEN and Regional Informa- ments includes reinstating the tax-ex- Law’s Legal Clinic on its 70th anniver- tion Sharing Systems have supported empt status of private-use bonds used sary. The UT Legal Clinic is a national law enforcement agencies for a com- to build infrastructure and affordable leader in clinical education. bined 40 years. In 2016 alone, in Penn- housing; reinstating the State and The clinic has been ranked one of the sylvania, MAGLOCLEN saw 299 re- local tax deduction, protecting the top 10 legal clinical programs among quests for criminal investigative republic universities and 19th among all search assistance. funds used to pay for schools, community development, and public safety; U.S. law schools. The UT Legal Clinic MAGLOCLEN’s holistic approach em- was founded in 1947, by Professor bodies the best of what an integrated reinstating the student loan interest tax deduction; repealing the tax on tui- Charles Miller, and is the longest, con- information sharing system can offer tinually existing legal clinic in the to other local, State, and Federal law tion waivers and student stipends; and incentivizing investments in STEM country. enforcement agencies. The clinic provides law students Mr. Speaker, we are proud of the education. Communities across the Nation need many opportunities to learn by doing. work MAGLOCLEN does operating on This approach prepares students for behalf of the Regional Information the increased access to upward mobil- both the practice of law and providing Sharing Systems Program in my dis- ity, and education, the great equalizer, legal services to the underprivileged. trict. We are here to support them and is the place to start. The work at the clinic has further ad- their mission to support our law en- I urge my colleagues to support my vanced the cause of justice by serving forcement community. amendments to make education accessible for all students. thousands of indigent clients who can- f not afford legal representation. f HONORING WORLD WAR II HEROES I want to honor and congratulate the (Mr. PITTENGER asked and was RECOGNIZING TRACY BECKER FOR UT College of Law’s Legal Clinic on its given permission to address the House RECEIVING THE KEYSTONE 70th anniversary and thank it for its for 1 minute and to revise and extend AWARD honorable service to the legal profes- his remarks.) (Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania sion, the people of the State of Ten- Mr. PITTENGER. Mr. Speaker, on asked and was given permission to ad- nessee, and to the entire Nation. I wish Saturday, I had the privilege of hon- dress the House for 1 minute and to re- only the best for the Legal Clinic in fu- oring six World War II heroes at VFW vise and extend his remarks.) ture years training and educating out- Post 2423 in Indian Trail, North Caro- Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. standing law students. lina. Each hero was awarded the Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize f French Legion of Honor Medal by the Tracy Becker on being awarded the French consul. They were: 2017 Keystone Award, which is the THE MEDIA CAUSE POLITICAL Charles Richardson, who flew 35 com- highest honor bestowed by the Penn- DYSFUNCTION bat missions aboard a B–17 over sylvania Association of Chamber Pro- (Mr. SMITH of Texas asked and was France, the Netherlands, and Germany. fessionals. Tracy Becker is executive given permission to address the House Andrew McMahon received the Pur- director of the Clarion Area Chamber for 1 minute and to revise and extend ple Heart while fighting to liberate of Business & Industry. his remarks.) France. The Keystone Award was established Mr. SMITH of Texas. Mr. Speaker, a William Rachui helped liberate Rome in 1963 to recognize outstanding service recent Washington Post University of and southern France while earning five in and contributions to the profession Maryland poll asked Americans whom Bronze Service Stars. of chamber management in Pennsyl- they blame for causing dysfunction in James Crump landed at Omaha Beach vania. The award is not presented an- the U.S. political system. on D-day and received two Bronze nually but only when an individual has It is no surprise that 88 percent of re- Stars and three Purple Hearts. spondents said the news media caused Aster Rider landed at Omaha Beach merited such recognition. Tracy is just the 24th person to re- some or a lot of the dysfunction. Given on D-day. As a rifleman on the front that the liberal media unfairly blames lines, he was one of only a handful of ceive this award since its inception 54 President Trump for nearly all the soldiers to survive. years ago. She was nominated by her Harold Granger landed at Utah Beach staff, the Clarion Chamber board mem- problems in our country, they bear the on D-day. He helped save lives by find- bers, and fellow members of the Penn- burden of this dysfunction. ing and disarming landmines. sylvania Association of Chamber Pro- Months of liberal biased reporting Mr. Speaker, I ask all of my col- fessionals. have shredded the media’s credibility leagues to join me in thanking these Tracy began her chamber career in in the eyes of most Americans. The brave patriots for their service to the 1987, and she has dedicated her life to media should report the facts objec- United States and the cause of liberty. the betterment of the community. She tively. That begins with fair coverage of the President and his administra- f has been with the Clarion Area Cham- ber of Business & Industry for more tion. So far this year, the media has REPUBLICAN TAX PLAN than 30 years, 13 of those as executive been anything but fair. (Ms. ADAMS asked and was given director. According to a new Harvard study, permission to address the House for 1 Mr. Speaker, I wholeheartedly con- media coverage of the President’s first minute.) gratulate Tracy Becker on this pres- 100 days was 80 percent negative, a

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:40 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.016 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9191 record for recent Presidents. Until the for military activities of the Department of Members whose constituents, such as media becomes less slanted, they will Defense, for military construction, and for mine, rely very heavily upon the NFIP continue to be a source of dysfunction defense activities of the Department of En- to address concerns we raised about the in our political system. ergy, to prescribe military personnel initial version of the bill that passed strengths for such fiscal year, and for other f purposes. All points of order against the con- out of committee. All in all, this bill is a positive step COMMUNICATION FROM THE ference report and against its consideration are waived. The conference report shall be toward reauthorizing our Nation’s CLERK OF THE HOUSE considered as read. The previous question flood insurance program, which is cur- The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- shall be considered as ordered on the con- rently set to expire on December 8. We fore the House the following commu- ference report to its adoption without inter- must take action to ensure coastal nication from the Clerk of the House of vening motion except: (1) one hour of debate; homeowners and others in flood-prone Representatives: and (2) one motion to recommit if applicable. areas have access to affordable insur- SEC. 3. The Clerk shall not transmit to the OFFICE OF THE CLERK, Senate a message that the House has adopt- ance. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, ed the conference report to accompany H.R. Mr. Speaker, I look forward to work- Washington, DC, November 14, 2017. 2810 until notified by the Speaker or by mes- ing with my colleagues in the Senate Hon. PAUL D. RYAN, sage from the Senate that the Senate has to get a long-term reauthorization The Speaker, House of Representatives, passed H.R. 4374 without amendment. across the finish line and signed into Washington, DC. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- law by President Trump. DEAR MR. SPEAKER: Pursuant to the per- House Resolution 616 also allows for mission granted in Clause 2(h) of Rule II of tleman from Alabama is recognized for the Rules of the U.S. House of Representa- 1 hour. consideration of the final version of the tives, the Clerk received the following mes- Mr. BYRNE. Mr. Speaker, for the National Defense Authorization Act sage from the Secretary of the Senate on No- purpose of debate only, I yield the cus- that was conferenced between the vember 14, 2017, at 9:39 a.m.: tomary 30 minutes to the gentlewoman House and the Senate, reconciling the That the Senate passed without amend- from New York (Ms. SLAUGHTER), pend- differences between two different ment H.R. 1679. ing which I yield myself such time as I versions. With best wishes, I am, may consume. During consideration of Mr. Speaker, before I go into the sub- Sincerely, this resolution, all time yielded is for stance of the bill, I would like to take KAREN L. HAAS. the purpose of debate only. a minute to commend the open and f GENERAL LEAVE regular order process that has taken PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION Mr. BYRNE. Mr. Speaker, I ask place from start to finish. OF H.R. 2874, 21ST CENTURY unanimous consent that all Members As a member of both the Armed Serv- FLOOD REFORM ACT, AND PRO- may have 5 legislative days within ices Committee and the Rules Com- VIDING FOR CONSIDERATION OF which to revise and extend their re- mittee, I have followed this bill THE CONFERENCE REPORT ON marks. throughout the legislative process and H.R. 2810, NATIONAL DEFENSE The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there think we should all be proud of the reg- AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FIS- objection to the request of the gen- ular order and the fact that a wide CAL YEAR 2018 tleman from Alabama? range of members played a role in crafting the final product. Mr. BYRNE. Mr. Speaker, by direc- There was no objection. I applaud Chairman THORNBERRY, tion of the Committee on Rules, I call Mr. BYRNE. Mr. Speaker, House Res- olution 616 provides for consideration Ranking Member SMITH, and the entire up House Resolution 616 and ask for its Armed Services Committee staff for immediate consideration. of H.R. 2874, the 21st Century Flood Re- form Act, and the conference report to their dedication to an open process. I The Clerk read the resolution, as fol- also appreciate the countless hours lows: accompany H.R. 2810, the National De- fense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year they have poured into this conference H. RES. 616 2018. report. Resolved, That upon adoption of this reso- H.R. 2874, the 21st Century Flood Re- Just as a quick reminder, we consid- lution it shall be in order to consider in the form Act, reauthorizes the National ered 275 amendments during the House House the bill (H.R. 2874) to achieve reforms Flood Insurance Program for 5 years, Armed Services Committee back in to improve the financial stability of the Na- June, and another 210 amendments tional Flood Insurance Program, to enhance introduces great private market com- the development of more accurate estimates petition, and provides additional re- when the NDAA was considered by the of flood risk through new technology and forms to benefit policyholders and tax- full House in July. In total, 485 amend- better maps, to increase the role of private payers. ments have been considered in the markets in the management of flood insur- Mr. Speaker, the Office of Manage- House, and, just as important, there ance risks, and to provide for alternative ment and Budget has said that the Na- was a clear bipartisan split between methods to insure against flood peril, and for tional Flood Insurance Program, or the number of majority and minority other purposes. All points of order against NFIP, is not fiscally sustainable in its amendments. consideration of the bill are waived. In lieu The conference committee continued of the amendment in the nature of a sub- current form. The 21st Century Flood stitute recommended by the Committee on Reform Act helps transition it to a this bipartisan and collaborative proc- Financial Services now printed in the bill, more sustainable program. ess under the leadership of four chair- the amendment printed in part A of the re- Importantly, the bill will help foster men and ranking members. Once again, port of the Committee on Rules accom- a robust product market for flood in- this year’s NDAA is truly a bipartisan panying this resolution, modified by the surance, which allows private insurers and bicameral bill that provides the amendment printed in part B of that report, to compete, in turn, driving down the best for our military and national secu- shall be considered as adopted. The bill, as price of policies while creating greater rity. amended, shall be considered as read. All Mr. Speaker, this NDAA follows points of order against provisions in the bill, consumer choice. This is a win for pol- as amended, are waived. The previous ques- icyholders and taxpayers alike. through on our promise to our service- tion shall be considered as ordered on the Representing Alabama’s Gulf Coast, men and -women and our constitu- bill, as amended, and on any further amend- it is important to me and my constitutional duty to provide for the common ment thereto, to final passage without inter- ents that they have access to afford- defense of the United States of Amer- vening motion except: (1) one hour of debate able flood insurance through the Na- ica. equally divided and controlled by the chair tional Flood Insurance Program or a The FY18 NDAA conference report and ranking minority member of the Com- private insurer. authorizes a 10 percent increase in mittee on Financial Services; and (2) one I appreciate the inclusion of provi- total military spending, reminiscent of motion to recommit with or without instruc- the Reagan era defense buildup. The tions. sions in the 21st Century Flood Reform SEC. 2. Upon adoption of this resolution it Act to protect current policyholders bill authorizes $626 billion for base shall be in order to consider the conference while making the program sustainable. budget requirements, $66 billion for report to accompany the bill (H.R. 2810) to I also appreciate Chairman HEN- overseas contingency operations, and authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2018 SARLING’s willingness to work with $8 billion for other defense activities.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:40 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.018 H14NOPT1 H9192 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 That adds up for a total national de- of the underlying bills, and I reserve Unfortunately, this package will fense top line of $700 billion. the balance of my time. cause more harm than good for the I am incredibly proud to support a Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I communities already struggling to re- top-line number high enough to begin want to thank the gentleman from Ala- build. It will make flood insurance reversing the readiness crisis that has bama for yielding me the customary 30 more expensive for families by increas- endangered the lives of our service- minutes, and I yield myself such time ing premiums. members and made it harder to defend as I may consume. It also exempts businesses from the our country. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 2810, the Fiscal requirement to purchase flood insur- Over the past 8 years, and under se- Year 2018 National Defense Authoriza- ance even though the vast majority of questration, our military has suffered. tion Act, takes important steps to- policyholders with this insurance only We have planes that can’t fly, ships wards strengthening our national secu- purchase it because they are required that can’t sail, and soldiers who can’t rity and supporting our troops. to by law. This change would take ef- deploy, all while the number of threats The conference report authorizes a fect beginning in January 2019. around the world keep rising. total of $692 billion in discretionary The Independent Community Bank- I want to acknowledge that this top- budget authority, $26 billion more than ers and a number of other groups op- line number is significantly higher the administration requested. pose this provision. As businesses pull than the Budget Control Act cap for I am pleased that it raises military out of the insurance market and the defense. I look forward to continued pay by 2.4 percent, an increase from number of participating dwindles, re- dialogue with the Appropriations Com- the President’s request of 2.1 percent. sponsible businesses that stay in the mittee to raise this cap that has crip- b 1230 market will be forced to bear the bur- pled necessary defense spending in re- den of greatly increased premiums. I cent years. It also strengthens our efforts to think these are shortsighted changes Every day we operate under a con- counter Russia’s campaign to under- that will be felt all across the insur- tinuing resolution or the BCA caps is mine our democracy by fully funding ance market. another day we are failing our men and cybersecurity and cyberspace oper- Additionally, the legislation doesn’t women in uniform. The FY18 NDAA ations at $8 billion and it drops harm- do enough to update the often out-of- fulfills the authorization side of the ful restrictions on funding the New date flood insurance rate maps being equation, and I am hopeful the appro- Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty ex- used in communities across the coun- priations side will follow. tension between the United States and try and in my district. Accurate flood The FY18 NDAA increases the size of Russia. This treaty continues a bipar- insurance maps prepared with the most the Army, Navy, Air Force, Army tisan tradition that began under Presi- recent mapping technologies would Guard and Reserve, Naval and Air Re- dent Reagan, verifiably reducing both help constituents in all of our districts serve, and Air Guard to repair and re- countries’ nuclear arsenals. better prepare and protect themselves store readiness. Mr. Speaker, there is one glaring against flooding. Some current maps The bill also authorizes construction problem with this measure, and that is are so outdated that the maps don’t re- of 13 new Navy ships, including three that the Budget Control Act imposes a flect changing landscapes and critical littoral combat ships, as we work to $549 billion cap on defense spending for flood mitigation improvements. This grow toward a 355-ship fleet. fiscal year 2018. This bill blows past bill simply falls short in helping home- In a well-deserved benefit for our that by more than $143 billion. Unless owners who want to do the right thing troops, the NDAA provides for a 2.4 per- the Senate, the House, and the Presi- based off the best available informa- cent pay increase for servicemembers, dent come to an agreement on lifting tion. which is the amount our troops are en- or modifying the budget caps, there is We are in the wake of some of the titled to under current law. no way that these spending levels can worst hurricanes our Nation has ever Another small but important provi- become law. So far, that agreement is experienced, and more of them. We are sion in this bill eliminates the so- not in the offing and it is past time for seeing how vital, affordable, and read- called widow’s tax, which requires sur- a bipartisan compromise on realistic ily available flood insurance is to so viving spouses of servicemembers spending levels for defense and non- many communities. It is unconscion- killed in action to forfeit the survivor defense spending alike. able that the majority is moving for- benefit pension annuity. The financial While I am glad to see this pay in- ward with this partisan package of burden of this tax is something our crease for our troops, this legislation bills, unlikely to ever pass the Senate, military families should not bear. does not exist in a vacuum. Later this because this will only further delay the The bill also continues to advance week, the Republicans plan to bring to extension of the program with 1 month Chairman THORNBERRY’s priority of re- the floor a disastrous tax bill that left before it expires. forming and strengthening the mili- would force military families and vet- As the majority lurches from crisis tary’s acquisition process to make it erans to finance tax cuts for corpora- to crisis and fritters away precious leg- more effective and efficient. tions and the superwealthy. The bill re- islative time with this partisan ap- Importantly, the legislation takes peals tax credits that help veterans proach, we will likely find ourselves into account the Trump administra- find employment. It makes education right back here doing this over again tion’s $6 billion budget amendment to more expensive for veterans and under- in December. authorize more funding for missile de- mines the GI Bill. It makes it more ex- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of fense threats against North Korea, pensive for military families to sell my time. Navy ship repairs, and more troops in their homes. It eliminates tax relief for Mr. BYRNE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 Afghanistan. veterans suffering from chronic ill- minutes to the gentleman from Wis- Our men and women in uniform all nesses. consin (Mr. DUFFY), the sponsor of H.R. over the world are on a mission to pro- Veterans Day was just a few days 2874. tect and defend the freedoms we hold ago, Mr. Speaker, and it is no way for Mr. DUFFY. Mr. Speaker, I want to dear. The way I see it, our mission in the majority to thank them for their thank the gentleman from Alabama for Congress is to give these brave men service. yielding. and women the resources they need to Also before us today is H.R. 2874, First, I want to make a comment succeed. The FY18 NDAA does exactly which is known as the 21st Century about how this process has gone in that and is another step in a multiyear Flood Reform Act. Now, everybody in coming up with this compromise with process of restoring our military this Chamber recognizes the National the amendment on the flood insurance strength to further protect our na- Flood Insurance Program is badly in package. We have worked in the Finan- tional security. Ultimately, this bill is debt, to the tune of $25 billion. The cial Services Committee with outside about keeping the American people hurricanes this year, together with the groups, whether it was the home build- safe and secure. flooding across Louisiana last year, ers or the realtors or the insurance in- Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to have stretched the program beyond its dustry. We have worked with Members support House Resolution 616 and both breaking point. of Congress from the Gulf States and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:40 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.020 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9193 from the East Coast and from the West My goodness, I am going to have and a medical exam. Then, and only Coast. We worked with Democrats. We some people come up in a second and after then, for a few more years, you had a number meetings with the rank- say: But you could cherry-pick, and can apply for citizenship. ing member of the committee, all tak- that could jeopardize the solvency of Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to ing in their consideration, which has the program. vote against the previous question so brought us to a compromise that I The program is insolvent. It is $25 that we can immediately bring the don’t know that anybody loves, but ev- billion in debt—actually, $41 billion, if Dream Act to the floor and provide cer- eryone says is a pretty darn good bill you include that $16 billion. It is not a tainty, hope, and opportunity for that strives to make needed reforms in solvent program. 800,000 talented young people. Our a program that hasn’t been working Just think if in Houston and in Flor- country needs them and we cannot af- well. When we have programs that ida we had people who had bought in- ford to wait another day. don’t work well, let’s try to fix them. surance in the private market, we Mr. BYRNE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 We have a program that, as was just would be saving taxpayers money. This minutes to the gentleman from South mentioned, is $25 billion in debt, but is a commonsense bill that makes the Carolina (Mr. NORMAN). that doesn’t include the $16 billion we program better, that helps families, Mr. NORMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise just gave the program and forgave. So that empowers communities. Let’s today to speak in favor of H.R. 2874, the 21st Century Flood Reform Act. really, it is $41 billion in debt. stand together. A little bit of reform This act is near and dear to my So when do we think through the might go a long way in making govern- policies of a program that continues to heart. That is how I make my liveli- ment actually work, so I would encour- hood. I am a real estate developer. We run deficits, number one, but, number age all of my colleagues on both side of two, continues to incentivize people to build houses. We build commercial the aisle to vote ‘‘yes’’ for common projects. All that stops unless reform is live in harm’s way? sense. I was down in Houston and I got to made in the Flood Insurance Program. Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, if we This bill proposes major reforms to one see a family who was talking about defeat the previous question, I will their next-door neighbor whose house of the Federal Government’s most bro- offer an amendment to the rule to ken programs, the National Flood In- was burning down. He was telling the bring up H.R. 3440, the Dream Act. This story about his neighbor, and as the surance Program. bipartisan, bicameral legislation would The Government Accountability Of- house started on fire, he sent the kids help thousands of young people who are outside—like you would because your fice has labeled the NFIP a high-risk Americans in every way except on program mainly because policyholders house is burning—as the flood waters paper. are rising. The dad went to go put out often pay premiums well below the ac- Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous con- tual risk of flooding on their prop- the fire, and as he was putting out the sent to insert the text of my amend- fire, he looked out the window and saw erties. ment in the RECORD, along with extra- H.R. 2874 requires FEMA to conduct his kids were being swept away by a neous material, immediately prior to an annual actuarial review of the sta- flood. The current was too strong, so the vote on the previous question. tus of the NFIP that will allow FEMA he ran outside to save his kids and let The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there to adjust rates appropriately and help his house burn. objection to the request of the gentle- maintain the program’s financial sta- What are we going to do in that woman from New York? bility. neighborhood that had been flooded There was no objection. Currently, there are 4.92 million three times in the last 10 years? Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I NFIP policies providing $1.23 trillion in We are going to rebuild houses in the yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from coverage to Americans. Many of these same flood plain. This doesn’t make New York (Mr. ESPAILLAT) to discuss properties are what this bill defines as sense. Let’s think about a reform that our proposal. multiple loss properties, where NFIP is going to improve the program, that Mr. ESPAILLAT. Mr. Speaker, I claims have been filed repeatedly. helps people get out of dangerous areas thank the gentlewoman from New This bill requires FEMA to raise pre- and get into better areas that don’t York for yielding. miums on multiple loss properties by flood. Having a flooding house isn’t a Mr. Speaker, there are 2,400 DACA re- 15 percent annually if the premiums do pleasant place to live. not reflect the full risk. This is just an- Not only that, first responders risk cipients in my district. ‘‘We are not one,’’ ‘‘no somos uno.’’ There are 30,000 other step toward FEMA improving the their lives to go save people, and they financial stability of the NFIP. die. We are incentivizing through this DACA recipients in my home State of New York. ‘‘We are not 100,’’ ‘‘no somos Often, with the Federal Government, policy to allow people to live in these there are changes and agreements dangerous areas. I don’t have a lot of cien.’’ There are 800,000 DACA recipients in the country. As of this year, made behind closed doors with little or time left, but the reforms are going to, no public comment. H.R. 2874 requires yes, gently increase some of the pre- there were more than 10,000 noncitizens serving in the U.S. military and an ad- FEMA to publish an explanation and to miums for the most highly subsidized hold public hearings in regards to any ditional 12,000 noncitizens under Re- properties called the pre-FIRM prop- changes to premiums on policies. This serve status. ‘‘We are millions, count erties. We offer over $1 billion in miti- is an excellent example of making the us well,’’ ‘‘somos millones, cuentanos gation to help families flood-proof government more transparent and bien.’’ their home or get out of their home helping policyholders more account- DREAMers are veterans, teachers, and go to a better place to live because able. this improves the solvency of flood in- nurses, college students; and DREAM- Lastly, the 21st Century Flood Re- surance. We are helping them with ers are also MacArthur genius fellows. form Act requires the Government Ac- mitigation. Cristina Jimenez is a MacArthur ge- countability Office to conduct a study We are helping them with mapping, nius fellow, a powerhouse champion- on how we can simplify the NFIP. With allowing communities that haven’t ship for immigrant youth, and, like our country being battered by hurri- been mapped to actually map them- me, she is also a CUNY alum and she canes and heavy rainfall, we need to selves, to pay for it, to take care of grew up undocumented. ensure that the NFIP is placed in their own future and destiny instead of This is why I urge my colleagues to sound financial footing for future gen- waiting for the Federal Government. bring a clean Dream Act to the House erations. We allow for a private market to come floor. H.R. 3440, the Dream Act, would Mr. Speaker, for these reasons, I urge in and offer you a premium that might not provide automatic amnesty, as I my colleagues to support this all-im- be lower than the Federal Government. have heard some of my colleagues in- portant legislation. God forbid we offer a family a choice correctly say. The Dream Act has an 8- Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I am to let the private sector compete with year conditional basis of permanent pleased to yield 3 minutes to the gen- a public offering. My God, if you get a residency status. You have to either tleman from New Jersey (Mr. PAL- lower price, that is great. If you don’t work for 3 years, serve in the Armed LONE), the distinguished ranking mem- get a lower price, you can stay in the Forces, or study. You have to keep a ber of the Committee on Energy and Federal plan. clean record, get a background check, Commerce.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:59 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.023 H14NOPT1 H9194 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 b 1245 isiana, affected by Katrina; and Mr. about what we are going to say to our Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I want PASCRELL and I, who went through children and our grandchildren one day to thank my colleague from New York, Superstorm Sandy. if they say to us: Why didn’t you do all the ranking member of the Rules Com- It is incredible to me that we had a you could to ensure for the defense of mittee, for yielding. number of Democrats and Republicans this Nation? Why didn’t you do all you Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposi- who really wanted to reform the flood could when you were in a position to tion to the bill and also to the rule. insurance program in an effective way provide the resources? Just a few weeks ago, we observed the based on their experiences—not some Mr. Speaker, one of the reasons we fifth anniversary of Superstorm Sandy. ideology—based on their experiences in don’t do all we can is because we en- New Jersey’s recovery from that trau- the superstorms that we saw that im- able the Senate rules. We have gotten matic event has been prolonged in part pacted our districts, and the Rules ourselves in a situation, through the by issues facing the National Flood In- Committee denied every one of those Budget Control Act and through the surance Program. Too many of my con- amendments. way that we do budgeting in this stituents are still dealing with high Mr. BYRNE. Mr. Speaker, I just House, where we enable the dysfunc- premiums and inaccurate flood maps or would point out to the gentleman that tion of the United States Senate, and are still waiting for their Sandy claims the Democrats have highlighted the we let the United States Senate be in a appeals to be decided. number of amendments not made in position where, in fact, they prevent us We need a long-term NFIP reauthor- order during the first session of the from doing what we know is right from ization that focuses on increasing af- 115th Congress; however, in the 111th a policy perspective. fordability, investing in mitigation, Congress, their majority blocked near- I am very proud of this piece of legis- capping the profits of flood insurance ly 3,000 amendments, with roughly 2,400 lation, Mr. Speaker, because what this companies, and comprehensively re- of those occurring in the first session. does, in a bipartisan fashion, is begin structuring the claims process—and So, far be it from the case that Repub- to fix that. It begins to remedy the situation. It begins to allow our military this bill fails these tests. licans have blocked an inordinate num- H.R. 3823 would undermine the NFIP ber of amendments. We blocked far less to get out from under the burden, the by allowing the development of a pri- amendments than our Democratic col- hole that they have been in for the last vate flood insurance market, opening leagues did when they were in control 8 years. Funds authorized in this NDAA will the door to allowing insurance compa- of the House. ensure that we are able, for example, to nies to cherry-pick low-risk properties Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the modernize our strategic forces. It will while leaving high-risk ones in the gentlewoman from Wyoming (Ms. CHE- also ensure, Mr. Speaker, that we are NFIP. This bill does not do enough to NEY), who is my fellow colleague on the able to begin to provide funding for the address affordability issues and actu- Rules Committee and the Armed Serv- kind of missile defense that we know ally increases rates for some policy- ices Committee. Ms. CHENEY. Mr. Speaker, I would we need in a situation in which our ad- holders. It will allow commercial prop- versaries have gained tremendous erties to opt out of mandatory cov- also like to thank my colleague, Mr. BYRNE, for his hard work, both on the ground. erage even if they are in a high-risk Mr. Speaker, when we have the Armed Services Committee and on the zone, which will further decrease the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs come be- Rules Committee, on this important pool and weaken the program. fore the committee and tell us in pub- rule. Finally, this bill simply does not do lic session that, if we continue on the Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong enough to improve transparency and path we are on, within 5 years we will support of the rule that will allow for reform the claims process. Enactment not be able to project our power, every consideration of the National Defense of this legislation would make flood in- Member of this body needs to stop ev- Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018. surance more expensive and less avail- erything else they are doing and listen Mr. Speaker, as elected Members of able, while not actually addressing the to that warning. If we can’t project our this body, we have no higher obligation program’s many problems. power, then we cannot defend this Na- or responsibility than to provide for I have actually introduced legislation. tion to tackle NFIP’s issues head-on. the support and the defense of our Na- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The The bill is the bipartisan SAFE NFIP tion. No matter what else we do in this time of the gentlewoman has expired. Reauthorization Act, which would re- body—and we debate very big, impor- Mr. BYRNE. Mr. Speaker, I yield the authorize the program, cap premium tant issues. We debate tax cuts, we de- gentlewoman from Wyoming an addi- rate increases, authorize funding for bate healthcare, and these are crucial tional 30 seconds more accurate flood mapping, reform issues, but none of those issues matters Ms. CHENEY. There are many Mem- the appeals process, and cap the com- if we fail to get the resources necessary bers of this body, Mr. Speaker, on both pensation of flood insurance compa- to defend this Nation from our adver- sides, who like to quote a former Chair- nies. saries. man of the Joint Chiefs that the debt is I also offered amendments to the For far too long, Mr. Speaker, we the biggest national security threat we Rules Committee that would improve have failed to do that. Over the last 8 face. That is only half of his quote. The this bill, including a 10 percent cap on years, we have seen policies that have second half of his quote was that the premium increases, increasing the in- failed to provide the kind of resources debt is the most significant threat we creased cost of compliance from $30,000 our Defense Department needs. We face because it prevents us from being to $100,000, capping the profits of flood have also seen, Mr. Speaker, legisla- able to resource our military. insurance companies, and other pro- tion from this body—in particular, the So, Mr. Speaker, I am proud to be policyholder provisions, but none of Budget Control Act—that has caused here today to stand in support of this these amendments were accepted by significant damage to the military. rule and to stand in support of the Na- the Rules Committee. We have heard on the Armed Services tional Defense Authorization Act and I hear my Republican colleagues talk Committee, week after week, briefings the important progress that it allows about transparency. In fact, this is the from every layer of the military—from us to begin to make to rebuild our 50th closed rule of the year, an all-time the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, from military and undo the damage of the record for closed rules. They blocked the Secretary of Defense, and from the last 8 years. both Democratic and Republican combatant commanders—briefings Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I amendments. The Rules Committee about the extent to which there is a yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from says in its report this is a closed rule. gap that is growing between our abili- New York (Mr. ENGEL). If it is a closed rule, then how can they ties and the abilities of our adver- Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I thank talk about transparency or process? saries. Now, this is a gap that people the ranking member for yielding. Some of my Republican colleagues seem to want to ignore, Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to this record- who offered amendments that were de- but we do so at our own peril. breaking closed rule, the 50th closed nied were Mr. DONOVAN of New York, I think that we need, as Members of rule in a year, which is more than any affected by Sandy; Mr. GRAVES of Lou- this body, to think very carefully time in any yearly period previously.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:59 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.026 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9195 I think our rules should be open. I Mr. BYRNE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 flawed. It is fundamentally flawed. You think closed rules are not good for this minutes to the gentleman from Lou- can’t charge people for things over institution regardless of who does it, isiana (Mr. GRAVES). which they have no control. You can’t and I would urge the majority party to Mr. GRAVES of Louisiana. Mr. charge people whenever they stepped think about open rules so that the leg- Speaker, I want to thank the gen- up and did exactly what the govern- islature can truly work its way. tleman from Alabama for yielding. ment told them to do when they built The legislation itself includes a Mr. Speaker, there are fundamental a home or built a business. handful of measures that I authored—I problems with flood insurance. We all These things aren’t portable struc- am happy about that—to require re- know that. The program, by some esti- tures. You can’t just pick up a home porting on Russia’s role in the Bal- mates, has a debt, recently, of up to $24 and say, ‘‘I am going to move it.’’ You kans, including Serbia’s defense rela- billion, and it is going to be com- can’t pick up a business and say, ‘‘I am tionship with Russia; to enhance con- pounded by Hurricanes Maria, Irma, going to move it.’’ gressional oversight of changes made and Harvey and the other disasters But that is exactly what this bill to policies and legal interpretations that we have had this year. We have does. It increases the premiums and, in that govern security operations; a had extraordinary damages this year. some cases, even kicks them out of strategy to improve transparency and But what is being missed is that this their homes and businesses, these civilian protection in Nigeria; and a re- legislation really doesn’t even fix the dream homes and these lifesaving in- quirement for a Defense Department problem. You can look back over the vestments. official to protect cultural heritage, last 37 years. Since 1980, we have had Mr. Speaker, I urge opposition to the the looting and trafficking of which is 218 disasters that have exceeded $1 bil- underlying bill. Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, let a funding source for terrorism. We lion. We have spent $1.3 trillion re- me yield myself 30 seconds because I voted on that here on the floor and it sponding to these disasters. was very impressed, yesterday, with has passed. This bill is projected to, perhaps, Mr. GRAVES and the thoughtful work I am also pleased that we have in- save $18 million a year—$18 million, I that he had done. I am sorry his cluded continued support for Israel’s will say it again. We have spent $1.3 amendments were not made in order, missile defense. This system is critical trillion since 1980. There are funda- but I appreciate very much his home- to Israel’s security, considering the mental problems that need to be ad- work on this bill, and I agree with him. threats that Israel faces from Iran, dressed. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the Hamas, and Hezbollah. Mr. Speaker, 40 percent of this Na- gentleman from Oregon (Mr. BLU- Mr. Speaker, even though I am rank- tion’s population lives in just 10 per- MENAUER). cent of the land area adjacent to the ing member of the House Foreign Af- Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, I coast—10 percent. Forty percent of the fairs Committee, I am glad to see these appreciate the gentlewoman’s cour- population lives there, and it is grow- measures in this bill because they all tesy. belong in this bill. They are related to ing. It is going up. We have got to get I was listening to our friend from our national security. Indeed, I strong- good at resiliently living in these Louisiana, and I sympathize with much ly support the measures in this bill coastal areas. of what he was saying. I have been that provide authorities and resources Now, let me show you something, and working on flood insurance reform for necessary for our military to carry out this is what is happening in Louisiana. 20 years. its missions. Louisiana drains, literally, from Mon- But, as we have seen again and again tana to New York, and the Canadian b 1300 in recent years, this defense authoriza- Provinces are all coming down. We are caught in a dynamic here tion continues an unsettling trend to- Mr. Speaker, as we get additional de- where it is never really good enough ward involving the Defense Depart- velopment in the United States, what and there are challenges for people who ment in activities outside its core com- happens with that water? It comes played by the rules at the time. petencies. In my view, we need to pre- down to us. The problem is that we are not doing serve and strengthen the important So let me give you a scenario. a good job of evaluating, moving for- roles of the State Department and Somebody builds their dream home ward, and making the changes. It is USAID. or somebody starts a small business, true that some of this has an impact on We wouldn’t ask our diplomats or our and they fully comply with the regula- Louisiana. I am sensitive to that. But development experts to do the jobs of tions that are in place at the time for at the same time, there are policies our men and women in uniform, so we baseline elevation. They build a home that have been resisted by some of shouldn’t be asking our servicemem- or business exactly where it is sup- those same state leaders. bers to do the work that has tradition- posed to be. They start getting addi- We must swallow hard and under- ally resided in our civilian foreign pol- tional water down from this watershed stand that we are on a path here that icy agencies. or maybe from the coast because the impacts people all across the country. I want to caution against continuing Corps of Engineers has caused 2,000 We do not have accurate flood maps, down this road, and I hope that, in the square miles of the coast of this Nation and people resist updating them. We years ahead, we can work to support to erode. have many people who are paying far our diplomatic and development efforts So, yes, we are more vulnerable. We less than the actuarial costs for their in the same way we support our na- are getting more water down or we flood insurance. There are millions tional defense. After all, America’s se- have the Gulf of Mexico encroaching on more who are subsidizing all this be- curity depends on all these efforts our citizens. cause they are paying unfair pre- working together. Why should our citizens be respon- miums. We do not invest in pre-dis- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The sible for that? They have no control aster mitigation. We will save $4 in dis- time of the gentleman has expired. over what is happening. They have aster relief for each dollar we invest Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I complied with the regulations and upfront to protect property and lives. yield the gentleman from New York an complied with the guidelines at the I am prepared to support the under- additional 1 minute. time of construction. lying bill. It is not perfect. There are Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Speaker, I view this as a tax. If changes that I would make. I under- the gentlewoman for yielding to me. our citizens are being burdened with stand some of the challenges that peo- Let me say, in conclusion, I hope additional fees or expense as a result of ple are going to suggest in terms of the that, in the years ahead, we can work the government’s inability to do its job impact on some lower-income citizens. to support our diplomatic and develop- to properly manage resources and I sympathize with that, but the answer ment efforts in the same way we sup- water, then that is not a premium in- is not to continue to keep people in port our national defense. After all, crease; that is a tax, Mr. Speaker. harm’s way. The answer is not to re- America’s security depends on all of While I commend people for working build people’s homes right back where these efforts working together, and it on this bill and trying to address this, they are going to be putting their prop- is important to remember that. the fundamental premise of the bill is erty and their families at risk. We

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:59 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.027 H14NOPT1 H9196 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 should not continue to resist reform, sonable and responsible conversation in this bill, including a pay raise for because it is hard. Ultimately, that about fixing this problem before it gets our military and investments to fill adds to the price tag and it adds to the worse. Americans deserve better than a the genuine readiness gaps in our dislocation. Big Government insurance monopoly Armed Forces. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. POE that is unable to pay for the risk it in- I want to point out that they are the of Texas). The time of the gentleman sures. result of something that is all too has expired. The 21st Century Flood Reform Act often nonexistent under the majority, Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I will usher in a new era of consumer and that is regular order. I agree with yield an additional 1 minute to the choice, competition, and affordability what my colleague said, to see a bill gentleman. by empowering policyholders to pur- under regular order is a downright joy. Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, it chase the insurance products that best I hope we do more of it. is important that we don’t lose an op- meet their needs. A hearing and a markup were held portunity to start changing this situa- We are getting rid of the top-down, for this bill and colleagues from both tion. single-payer approach to insurance sides of the aisle were consulted. That When the floods came in Houston, I where we pretend there is no danger is how the Chamber was designed to got calls from some reporters because I until there is a tragedy. function, but, today, it hardly func- had been dealing with problems in Giving consumers choice in a com- tions like that at all. Houston going back 20 years. This is an petitive marketplace will not only It is a shame that we don’t also see example of where we failed to deal with drive down costs, but will also help re- the majority put this model to use for repetitive flood loss and where we have duce the unacceptable number of other major legislation like healthcare watched unchecked sprawl put millions homes that are not protected by flood and tax reform, which we will be rush- of people at risk for greater harm. insurance. ing through to get to tomorrow. This bill isn’t perfect, but I hope that The NFIP can be an important tool This is a process that we didn’t see it starts the process where we can for mitigating flood risks and helping for the other measure before us today, come together as it goes through the families recover from disasters after which is H.R. 2874. No hearing was ever legislative process. I hope we can make they strike, but it cannot be the only held on the package in its entirety. It adjustments to start us along that tool. A Federal program that conceals was changed right up until it was considered by the Rules Committee earlier path, and that we start swallowing actual risk through artificially low this week in an effort not to get Demo- hard, making sure that everybody rates is neither compassionate nor re- crat support, but to get enough support gives up a little. sponsible. from Members of the majority so that The Federal Government needs to in- People deserve to know when they it could pass on a party-line vote. vest more. People need to stop building are in danger. When the Federal Gov- That is what we see under this lead- in harm’s way. We need to do a better ernment provides them with informa- ership: no hearings and rarely any job of flood recovery and pre-disaster tion that suggests otherwise, we do markups. mitigation. I think this bill represents more harm than good. Legislation to repeal the Affordable a good faith start along that path, and We cannot expect to have educated, Care Act, which would impact one- I hope we can use it as a foundation for thoughtful consumers if we deprive sixth of our economy, was passed with- further progress. them of the market information that is out so much as a score from the non- Mr. BYRNE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 needed to make the smart decisions. partisan Congressional Budget Office minutes to the gentleman from Florida By putting policyholders on a slow outlining its impacts and its costs. (Mr. ROSS), a very happy Auburn Ti- path to sound premium rates, we are This Congress has broken the record gers fan. stepping towards a future where the for the use of closed rules, which pre- Mr. ROSS. Mr. Speaker, I am proud threats of major floods are confronted vents any amendments from being of- to rise in support of the rule and the before they are realized. fered by either side on the House floor. underlying bill, H.R. 2874. I think we all agree that more needs It is now the most closed Congress Homeowners deserve choice; they de- to be done to mitigate flood risks and ever. serve competition; and, above all, they incentivize investments in resiliency. In fact, one of the rules before us need to know the true risk their homes We can take the first steps by elimi- right now is closed. We are even likely face from floods, the most costly of all nating the false security that inocu- to consider the majority’s bipartisan natural disasters. lates our society to the dangers of tax plan this week—actually, tomor- I believe the underlying bill allows flooding. row—which would increase the deficit the freedom to insure against obvious Let’s remove the blindfold we have by $1.5 trillion, yet under another danger that imperils people’s homes placed over the public’s eyes. Let’s closed rule and without scoring. and their wallets. I am particularly en- gradually walk back the subsidies that The United States Congress has been thusiastic about the inclusion of my bi- conceal a homeowners risk. It is time called the greatest deliberative body in partisan legislation to facilitate the for this Nation to confront this threat the world. I think it is time the major- development of a robust private flood with clear eyes and a vision for the fu- ity change course and actually allow insurance marketplace. ture. This bill is the first step in the the great debates about the issues that After months and even years of nego- right direction. we face. The legislation we consider tiations, we have produced legislation In closing, I want to thank Chairman would certainly be better for it. that appropriately balances the need HENSARLING and Housing and Insurance Mr. Speaker, I urge a ‘‘no’’ vote on for affordable flood insurance with our Subcommittee Chairman DUFFY for the previous question, the rule, and the responsibility to act as faithful stew- their tenacity and commitment to pav- bill; and I yield back the balance of my ards of taxpayer dollars. ing the way for a safer and more afford- time. Everyone knows that the National able system for managing flood risks in Mr. BYRNE. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- Flood Insurance Program is broken. We this country. Flood insurance is one of self the balance of my time. should act accordingly. We need to fix those rare issues that transcends polit- Mr. Speaker, I represent a coastal it. But before we do that, we must ical boundaries. area of Alabama, and flood insurance is agree to proceed. I once again urge my colleagues to extremely important to many of my Less than a month ago, many of us vote ‘‘yes’’ on the rule and also on the constituents. It is very important to voted to bail out this floundering pro- underlying bill. me to fulfill my job on their behalf to gram, forgiving $16 billion of its debt. Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I make sure that we have a Flood Insur- But we knew that it would be irrespon- yield myself the balance of my time. ance Program that is there for many sible to merely kick the can down the Mr. Speaker, the National Defense years to come. But we know that it is road. This is the opportunity to make Authorization Act isn’t perfect. Most actuarially insolvent. So we have to things right. notably, it blows past the caps imple- make changes in the program. I believe we need to proceed with the mented under the Budget Control Act. As the gentleman from Oregon said, debate because we need to have a rea- But there are areas of common ground change is hard and reforms are hard.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:59 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.041 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9197 But the gentleman from Florida and, AN AMENDMENT TO H. RES. 616 OFFERED BY Process in the United States House of Rep- before him, the gentleman from Wis- MS. SLAUGHTER resentatives, (6th edition, page 135). Here’s consin, the sponsor of the bill, made At the end of the resolution, add the fol- how the Republicans describe the previous very good points. The reforms we are lowing new sections: question vote in their own manual: ‘‘Al- SEC. 4. Immediately upon adoption of this though it is generally not possible to amend making in this bill for the Flood Insur- the rule because the majority Member con- ance Program will allow it to be suc- resolution the Speaker shall, pursuant to clause 2(b) of rule XVIII, declare the House trolling the time will not yield for the pur- cessful for years to come and also pro- resolved into the Committee of the Whole pose of offering an amendment, the same re- tect the taxpayers of America. I think House on the state of the Union for consider- sult may be achieved by voting down the pre- we have a responsibility to do that. ation of the bill (H.R. 3440) to authorize the vious question on the rule.... When the The other bill under this rule, the cancellation of removal and adjustment of motion for the previous question is defeated, conference report on the National De- status of certain individuals who are long- control of the time passes to the Member fense Authorization Act, represents a term United States residents and who en- who led the opposition to ordering the pre- very important inflection point. tered the United States as children and for vious question. That Member, because he We are now moving to repair the other purposes. The first reading of the bill then controls the time, may offer an amend- damage we have done to our military shall be dispensed with. All points of order ment to the rule, or yield for the purpose of amendment.’’ these last several years. This is a 10 against consideration of the bill are waived. General debate shall be confined to the bill In Deschler’s Procedure in the U.S. House percent increase for our military so and shall not exceed one hour equally di- of Representatives, the subchapter titled that we can help them rebuild their vided and controlled by the chair and rank- ‘‘Amending Special Rules’’ states: ‘‘a refusal readiness and the equipment they need ing minority member of the Committee on to order the previous question on such a rule to defend us with this ever-increasing the Judiciary. After general debate the bill [a special rule reported from the Committee matrix of threats, not the least of shall be considered for amendment under the on Rules] opens the resolution to amend- which is North Korea. We put even five-minute rule. All points of order against ment and further debate.’’ (Chapter 21, sec- more money in this authorization to provisions in the bill are waived. At the con- tion 21.2) Section 21.3 continues: ‘‘Upon re- clusion of consideration of the bill for jection of the motion for the previous ques- defend against a missile attack from tion on a resolution reported from the Com- North Korea. amendment the Committee shall rise and report the bill to the House with such amend- mittee on Rules, control shifts to the Mem- We are at the beginning of something ments as may have been adopted. The pre- ber leading the opposition to the previous historic here with this bill, and that is vious question shall be considered as ordered question, who may offer a proper amendment rebuilding the United States military, on the bill and amendments thereto to final or motion and who controls the time for de- much like it was done 30-plus years ago passage without intervening motion except bate thereon.’’ when President Reagan was in office. one motion to recommit with or without in- Clearly, the vote on the previous question Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my col- structions. If the Committee of the Whole on a rule does have substantive policy impli- leagues to support House Resolution rises and reports that it has come to no reso- cations. It is one of the only available tools 616 and the underlying bills. lution on the bill, then on the next legisla- for those who oppose the Republican majority’s agenda and allows those with alter- Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank tive day the House shall, immediately after the third daily order of business under clause native views the opportunity to offer an al- Ranking Member SLAUGHTER for her tremen- 1 of rule XIV, resolve into the Committee of ternative plan. dous leadership on so many of these very crit- the Whole for further consideration of the Mr. BYRNE. Mr. Speaker, I yield ical issues. bill. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to back the balance of my time, and I SEC. 5. Clause 1(c) of rule XIX shall not move the previous question on the res- this rule and to H.R. 2810, the Fiscal Year apply to the consideration of H.R. 3440. 2018 National Defense Authorization Act. This olution. bill authorizes $700 billion in defense spending THE VOTE ON THE PREVIOUS QUESTION: WHAT The SPEAKER pro tempore. The for our already out-of-control Pentagon budg- IT REALLY MEANS question is on ordering the previous et. It would also increase funding by $66 bil- This vote, the vote on whether to order the question. lion for wars that Congress has never debated previous question on a special rule, is not The question was taken; and the or voted on. And once again, my Republican merely a procedural vote. A vote against or- Speaker pro tempore announced that dering the previous question is a vote the ayes appeared to have it. colleagues have used off-the-books spending against the Republican majority agenda and gimmicks to further expand the already-bloat- Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, on a vote to allow the Democratic minority to that I demand the yeas and nays. ed Pentagon budget. offer an alternative plan. It is a vote about Mr. Speaker, enough is enough. what the House should be debating. The yeas and nays were ordered. Instead of writing blank checks to the Pen- Mr. Clarence Cannon’s Precedents of the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- tagon, Congress needs to live up to its con- House of Representatives (VI, 308–311), de- ant to clause 8 and clause 9 of rule XX, stitutional obligation to debate matters of war scribes the vote on the previous question on this 15-minute vote on ordering the and peace. We need to rip up the 2001 blank the rule as ‘‘a motion to direct or control the previous question will be followed by 5- check for endless war. We need to stop fund- consideration of the subject before the House minute votes on: being made by the Member in charge.’’ To ing wars without end. Adopting the resolution, if ordered; defeat the previous question is to give the and Simply put, Mr. Speaker, we need to do our opposition a chance to decide the subject be- job. fore the House. Cannon cites the Speaker’s Agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of And this Defense Authorization Act does ruling of January 13, 1920, to the effect that the Journal. just the opposite. It allows Congress to kick ‘‘the refusal of the House to sustain the de- The vote was taken by electronic de- the can down the road AGAIN, while funding mand for the previous question passes the vice, and there were—yeas 234, nays wars with no debate on the costs and con- control of the resolution to the opposition’’ 189, not voting 10, as follows: sequences to our troops or to the American in order to offer an amendment. On March [Roll No. 626] 15, 1909, a member of the majority party of- people. YEAS—234 Mr. Speaker, I do have to say that I am fered a rule resolution. The House defeated the previous question and a member of the Abraham Bost Collins (NY) pleased by the passage of my amendment, opposition rose to a parliamentary inquiry, Aderholt Brady (TX) Comer which I co-authored with my good friend Con- asking who was entitled to recognition. Allen Brat Comstock gressman BURGESS, to report on the audit- Amash Brooks (AL) Conaway Speaker Joseph G. Cannon (R–Illinois) said: Amodei Brooks (IN) Cook readiness of the Pentagon. This is a good first ‘‘The previous question having been refused, Arrington Buchanan Costello (PA) step, but much work remains to bring some the gentleman from New York, Mr. Fitz- Babin Buck Cramer accountability to Pentagon spending. gerald, who had asked the gentleman to Bacon Bucshon Crawford So I call on Speaker RYAN to act to actually yield to him for an amendment, is entitled to Banks (IN) Budd Culberson Barletta Burgess Curbelo (FL) audit bloated Pentagon spending and to bring the first recognition.’’ The Republican majority may say ‘‘the Barr Byrne Curtis forth an authorization so Congress can vote Barton Calvert Davidson vote on the previous question is simply a Bergman Carter (GA) Davis, Rodney up or down on these wars. vote on whether to proceed to an immediate I urge my colleagues to vote ’NO’ on the Biggs Carter (TX) Denham vote on adopting the resolution . . . [and] Bilirakis Chabot DeSantis Rule and the underlying bill and reject this has no substantive legislative or policy im- Bishop (MI) Cheney DesJarlais wasteful spending. plications whatsoever.’’ But that is not what Bishop (UT) Coffman Diaz-Balart The material previously referred to they have always said. Listen to the Repub- Blackburn Cole Donovan by Ms. SLAUGHTER is as follows: lican Leadership Manual on the Legislative Blum Collins (GA) Duffy

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:45 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.030 H14NOPT1 H9198 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 Duncan (SC) Kinzinger Rohrabacher Lowenthal Payne Sinema LaHood Paulsen Smith (MO) Duncan (TN) Knight Rokita Lowey Perlmutter Sires LaMalfa Pearce Smith (NE) Dunn Kustoff (TN) Rooney, Francis Lujan Grisham, Peters Slaughter Lamborn Perry Smith (NJ) Emmer Labrador Rooney, Thomas M. Peterson Smith (WA) Lance Pittenger Smith (TX) Estes (KS) LaHood J. Luja´ n, Ben Ray Pingree Soto Latta Poe (TX) Smucker Farenthold LaMalfa Ros-Lehtinen Lynch Polis Speier Lewis (MN) Poliquin Stefanik Faso Lamborn Roskam Maloney, Price (NC) Suozzi LoBiondo Posey Stewart Ferguson Lance Ross Carolyn B. Quigley Swalwell (CA) Long Ratcliffe Stivers Maloney, Sean Raskin Fitzpatrick Latta Rothfus Takano Loudermilk Reed Suozzi Fleischmann Lewis (MN) Matsui Rice (NY) Love Reichert Rouzer Thompson (CA) Taylor McCollum Richmond Flores LoBiondo Royce (CA) Thompson (MS) Lucas Renacci McEachin Rosen Tenney Fortenberry Long Russell Titus Luetkemeyer Rice (SC) Foxx Loudermilk McNerney Roybal-Allard MacArthur Roby Thompson (PA) Rutherford Tonko Franks (AZ) Love Meeks Ruiz Marchant Roe (TN) Thornberry Sanford Torres Tiberi Frelinghuysen Lucas Scalise Meng Ruppersberger Marino Rogers (AL) Tsongas Tipton Gaetz Luetkemeyer Schweikert Moore Ryan (OH) Marshall Rogers (KY) ´ Vargas Trott Gallagher MacArthur Scott, Austin Moulton Sanchez Mast Rohrabacher Murphy (FL) Sarbanes Veasey Turner Garrett Marchant Sensenbrenner McCarthy Rokita Gianforte Marino Nadler Schakowsky Vela Upton Sessions McCaul Rooney, Francis Gibbs Marshall Napolitano Schiff Vela´ zquez McClintock Rooney, Thomas Valadao Shimkus Gohmert Massie Neal Schneider Walz McHenry J. Shuster Wagner Goodlatte Mast Nolan Schrader Wasserman McKinley Ros-Lehtinen Simpson Walberg Gosar McCarthy Norcross Scott (VA) Schultz McMorris Rosen Smith (MO) Walden Gowdy McCaul O’Halleran Scott, David Waters, Maxine Rodgers Roskam Smith (NE) Walker Granger McClintock O’Rourke Serrano Watson Coleman McSally Ross Smith (NJ) Walorski Graves (GA) McHenry Pallone Sewell (AL) Welch Meadows Rothfus Smith (TX) Walters, Mimi Graves (LA) McKinley Panetta Shea-Porter Wilson (FL) Meehan Rouzer Smucker Weber (TX) Graves (MO) McMorris Pascrell Sherman Yarmuth Messer Royce (CA) Stefanik Webster (FL) Griffith Rodgers Mitchell Russell Stewart Wenstrup Grothman McSally NOT VOTING—10 Moolenaar Rutherford Stivers Westerman Guthrie Meadows Black McGovern Visclosky Mooney (WV) Sanford Taylor Williams Handel Meehan Bridenstine Pelosi Woodall Mullin Scalise Tenney Harper Messer Dent Pocan Murphy (FL) Schneider Wilson (SC) Thompson (PA) Harris Mitchell Johnson, Sam Rush Newhouse Schweikert Wittman Hartzler Moolenaar Thornberry Noem Scott, Austin Womack Tiberi Hensarling Mooney (WV) b 1337 Norman Sensenbrenner Yoder Herrera Beutler Mullin Tipton Nunes Sessions Yoho Hice, Jody B. Newhouse Trott So the previous question was ordered. Olson Shimkus Young (AK) Higgins (LA) Noem Turner The result of the vote was announced Palazzo Shuster Young (IA) Hill Norman Upton Palmer Simpson Zeldin Holding Nunes Valadao as above recorded. Hollingsworth Olson Wagner The SPEAKER pro tempore. The NAYS—187 Hudson Palazzo Walberg question is on the resolution. Walden Adams Doyle, Michael Lowey Huizenga Palmer The question was taken; and the Hultgren Paulsen Walker Aguilar F. Lujan Grisham, Hunter Pearce Walorski Speaker pro tempore announced that Amash Ellison M. ´ Hurd Perry Walters, Mimi the ayes appeared to have it. Barraga´ n Engel Lujan, Ben Ray Eshoo Lynch Issa Pittenger Weber (TX) Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, on Bass Jenkins (KS) Poe (TX) Webster (FL) Beatty Espaillat Maloney, Jenkins (WV) Poliquin Wenstrup that I demand the yeas and nays. Bera Esty (CT) Carolyn B. Johnson (LA) Posey Westerman The yeas and nays were ordered. Beyer Evans Maloney, Sean Johnson (OH) Ratcliffe Williams Bishop (GA) Foster Massie The SPEAKER pro tempore. This is a Frankel (FL) Matsui Jones Reed Wilson (SC) 5-minute vote. Blumenauer Jordan Reichert Wittman Blunt Rochester Fudge McCollum Joyce (OH) Renacci Womack The vote was taken by electronic de- Bonamici Gabbard McEachin Katko Rice (SC) Yoder vice, and there were—yeas 233, nays Boyle, Brendan Gallego McNerney Garamendi Meeks Kelly (MS) Roby Yoho 187, not voting 13, as follows: F. Kelly (PA) Roe (TN) Young (AK) Brady (PA) Gomez Meng King (IA) Rogers (AL) Young (IA) [Roll No. 627] Brown (MD) Gonzalez (TX) Moore Gottheimer King (NY) Rogers (KY) Zeldin Brownley (CA) Moulton YEAS—233 Green, Al Nadler Bustos Abraham Conaway Granger Green, Gene Napolitano NAYS—189 Butterfield Aderholt Cook Graves (GA) Grijalva Neal Capuano Adams Costa Grijalva Allen Costello (PA) Graves (LA) Gutie´rrez Nolan Carbajal Aguilar Courtney Gutie´rrez Amodei Cramer Graves (MO) Hanabusa Norcross Ca´ rdenas Barraga´ n Crist Hanabusa Arrington Crawford Griffith Hastings O’Halleran Carson (IN) Bass Crowley Hastings Babin Culberson Grothman Heck O’Rourke Cartwright Beatty Cuellar Heck Bacon Curbelo (FL) Guthrie Higgins (NY) Pallone Castor (FL) Bera Cummings Higgins (NY) Banks (IN) Curtis Handel Himes Panetta Castro (TX) Beyer Davis (CA) Himes Barletta Davidson Harper Hoyer Pascrell Bishop (GA) Davis, Danny Hoyer Barr Davis, Rodney Harris Chu, Judy Huffman Payne Blumenauer DeFazio Huffman Barton Denham Hartzler Cicilline Jackson Lee Perlmutter Blunt Rochester DeGette Jackson Lee Bergman DeSantis Hensarling Clark (MA) Jayapal Peters Bonamici Delaney Jayapal Biggs DesJarlais Herrera Beutler Clarke (NY) Jeffries Peterson Boyle, Brendan DeLauro Jeffries Bilirakis Donovan Hice, Jody B. Clay Johnson (GA) Pingree F. DelBene Johnson (GA) Bishop (MI) Duffy Higgins (LA) Cleaver Johnson, E. B. Polis Brady (PA) Demings Johnson, E. B. Bishop (UT) Duncan (SC) Hill Clyburn Kaptur Price (NC) Brown (MD) DeSaulnier Kaptur Blackburn Duncan (TN) Hollingsworth Cohen Keating Quigley Brownley (CA) Deutch Keating Blum Dunn Hudson Connolly Kelly (IL) Raskin Bustos Dingell Kelly (IL) Bost Emmer Huizenga Conyers Kennedy Rice (NY) Butterfield Doggett Kennedy Brady (TX) Estes (KS) Hultgren Cooper Khanna Richmond Capuano Doyle, Michael Khanna Brat Farenthold Hunter Correa Kihuen Roybal-Allard Carbajal F. Kihuen Brooks (AL) Faso Hurd Costa Kildee Ruiz Ca´ rdenas Ellison Kildee Brooks (IN) Ferguson Issa Courtney Kilmer Ruppersberger Carson (IN) Engel Kilmer Buchanan Fitzpatrick Jenkins (KS) Crist Kind Ryan (OH) Cartwright Eshoo Kind Buck Fleischmann Jenkins (WV) Crowley Krishnamoorthi Sa´ nchez Castor (FL) Espaillat Krishnamoorthi Bucshon Flores Johnson (LA) Cuellar Kuster (NH) Sarbanes Castro (TX) Esty (CT) Kuster (NH) Budd Fortenberry Johnson (OH) Cummings Langevin Schakowsky Chu, Judy Evans Langevin Burgess Foxx Jones Davis (CA) Larsen (WA) Schiff Cicilline Foster Larsen (WA) Byrne Franks (AZ) Jordan Davis, Danny Larson (CT) Schrader Clark (MA) Frankel (FL) Larson (CT) Calvert Frelinghuysen Joyce (OH) DeFazio Lawrence Scott (VA) Clarke (NY) Fudge Lawrence Carter (GA) Gaetz Katko DeGette Lawson (FL) Scott, David Clay Gabbard Lawson (FL) Carter (TX) Gallagher Kelly (MS) Delaney Lee Serrano Cleaver Gallego Lee Chabot Garrett Kelly (PA) DeLauro Levin Sewell (AL) Clyburn Garamendi Levin Cheney Gianforte King (IA) DelBene Lewis (GA) Shea-Porter Cohen Gomez Lewis (GA) Coffman Gibbs King (NY) Demings Lieu, Ted Sherman Connolly Gonzalez (TX) Lieu, Ted Collins (GA) Gohmert Kinzinger DeSaulnier Lipinski Sinema Conyers Gottheimer Lipinski Collins (NY) Goodlatte Knight Deutch Loebsack Sires Cooper Green, Al Loebsack Comer Gosar Kustoff (TN) Dingell Lofgren Slaughter Correa Green, Gene Lofgren Comstock Gowdy Labrador Doggett Lowenthal Smith (WA)

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A14NO7.006 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9199 Soto Torres Wasserman Love O’Rourke Shuster Welch Wittman Yoho Speier Tsongas Schultz Lowenthal Olson Simpson Wilson (FL) Yoder Young (AK) Swalwell (CA) Lowey Palmer Smith (MO) Vargas Waters, Maxine ANSWERED ‘‘PRESENT’’—1 Takano Veasey Watson Coleman Lucas Perlmutter Smith (NJ) Thompson (CA) Vela Welch Luetkemeyer Pingree Smith (TX) Tonko Thompson (MS) ´ Lujan Grisham, Polis Smith (WA) Velazquez Wilson (FL) NOT VOTING—18 Titus Walz Yarmuth M. Posey Speier Tonko Luja´ n, Ben Ray Quigley Stefanik Black Gohmert Pocan Maloney, Ratcliffe Stewart NOT VOTING—13 Bost Hoyer Rush Carolyn B. Reichert Takano Brat Johnson, Sam Smith (NE) Black Holding Rush Marino Renacci Taylor Bridenstine Larson (CT) Turner Bridenstine Johnson, Sam Visclosky Massie Rice (SC) Thornberry Dent McGovern Visclosky Cole McGovern Woodall McCarthy Roby Tiberi Garrett Pelosi Woodall Dent Pelosi McCaul Rogers (KY) Titus Diaz-Balart Pocan McClintock Rohrabacher Trott ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE McCollum Rooney, Francis Tsongas The SPEAKER pro tempore (during ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE McEachin Roskam Wagner the vote). There are 2 minutes remain- McHenry Ross Walden The SPEAKER pro tempore (during ing. the vote). There are 2 minutes remain- McMorris Rothfus Walker Rodgers Royce (CA) Walorski b 1350 ing. McNerney Ruppersberger Walters, Mimi Meadows Russell Walz So the Journal was approved. 1344 b Meng Rutherford Wasserman The result of the vote was announced So the resolution was agreed to. Messer Scalise Schultz Mooney (WV) Schneider Waters, Maxine as above recorded. The result of the vote was announced Moore Schweikert Webster (FL) Stated for: as above recorded. Moulton Scott (VA) Wenstrup Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Mr. Speaker, I was A motion to reconsider was laid on Mullin Scott, Austin Westerman unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I Murphy (FL) Scott, David Williams the table. Nadler Sensenbrenner Wilson (SC) would have voted ‘‘yea’’ on Rollcall No. 628. Stated for: Napolitano Sessions Womack f Mr. HOLDING. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoid- Noem Shea-Porter Yarmuth DESIGNATING THE DEMOCRATIC ably detained. Had I been present, I would Norman Sherman Young (IA) Nunes Shimkus Zeldin CLOAKROOM IN THE HALL OF have voted ‘‘yea’’ on rollcall No. 627. THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTA- NAYS—190 f TIVES AS THE ‘‘GABRIELLE GIF- Aguilar Gosar O’Halleran FORDS-LEO J. RYAN CLOAK- THE JOURNAL Amash Gottheimer Palazzo ROOM’’ The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Barr Graves (GA) Pallone Barraga´ n Graves (LA) Panetta finished business is the question on Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Speaker, I ask Bass Graves (MO) Pascrell unanimous consent that the Com- agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of Bera Green, Al Paulsen the Journal, on which the yeas and Bergman Green, Gene Payne mittee on Transportation and Infra- Beyer Grijalva nays were ordered. Pearce structure, the Committee on Foreign Biggs Grothman Perry ´ Affairs, and the Committee on House The question is on the Speaker’s ap- Bishop (GA) Gutierrez Peters Bishop (MI) Herrera Beutler Administration be discharged from fur- proval of the Journal. Peterson Blackburn Hice, Jody B. Pittenger ther consideration of House Resolution This is a 5-minute vote. Blum Hill Poe (TX) 615, and ask for its immediate consider- The vote was taken by electronic de- Blunt Rochester Holding Poliquin Boyle, Brendan Hudson ation in the House. vice, and there were—yeas 224, nays Price (NC) 190, answered ‘‘present’’ 1, not voting F. Huizenga The Clerk read the title of the resolu- Brady (PA) Hurd Raskin tion. 18, as follows: Reed Brownley (CA) Issa The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there [Roll No. 628] Buck Jackson Lee Rice (NY) Burgess Jayapal Richmond objection to the request of the gen- YEAS—224 Capuano Jeffries Roe (TN) tleman from Pennsylvania? Abraham Courtney Granger Carbajal Jenkins (KS) Rogers (AL) There was no objection. Adams Cramer Griffith Ca´ rdenas Jenkins (WV) Rokita The text of the resolution is as fol- Aderholt Crawford Guthrie Carter (GA) Johnson (OH) Rooney, Thomas Allen Crist Hanabusa Castor (FL) Jones J. lows: Amodei Cuellar Handel Clark (MA) Jordan Ros-Lehtinen H. RES. 615 Arrington Culberson Harper Clarke (NY) Joyce (OH) Rosen Whereas Gabrielle Giffords was elected to Babin Cummings Harris Cleaver Katko Rouzer Bacon Curtis Hartzler Clyburn Kelly (IL) Roybal-Allard the House of Representatives to represent Banks (IN) Davidson Hastings Coffman Khanna Ruiz the 8th district of Arizona in 2006 and served Barletta Davis (CA) Heck Collins (GA) Kihuen Ryan (OH) from January 2007 to January 2012; Barton Davis, Danny Hensarling Comer Kilmer Sa´ nchez Whereas Giffords has served the public for Beatty DeGette Higgins (LA) Conaway Kind Sanford over 15 years; Bilirakis DeLauro Higgins (NY) Connolly Kinzinger Sarbanes Whereas Giffords was the youngest person Bishop (UT) DelBene Himes Conyers Knight Schakowsky Blumenauer Demings Hollingsworth Correa LaHood ever elected to the Arizona State Senate, Schiff serving from 2000 to 2005; Bonamici DesJarlais Huffman Costa Lance Schrader Whereas Giffords was the third woman in Brady (TX) Deutch Hultgren Costello (PA) Langevin Serrano Brooks (AL) Dingell Hunter Crowley Lawson (FL) Sewell (AL) Arizona history elected to Congress; Brooks (IN) Doggett Johnson (GA) Curbelo (FL) Lee Sinema Whereas Congresswoman Giffords was Brown (MD) Donovan Johnson (LA) Davis, Rodney Levin Sires widely known for her middle-of-the-road po- Buchanan Duncan (SC) Johnson, E. B. DeFazio Lewis (GA) Slaughter litical views, problem solving ethos, and Bucshon Duncan (TN) Kaptur Delaney Lieu, Ted Smucker Budd Dunn Keating Denham LoBiondo commitment to bipartisanship and coopera- Soto Bustos Ellison Kelly (MS) DeSantis Loebsack tion; Stivers Butterfield Emmer Kelly (PA) DeSaulnier Lofgren Whereas Congresswoman Giffords’s many Suozzi Byrne Engel Kennedy Diaz-Balart Lynch achievements and inspirational service in Swalwell (CA) Calvert Eshoo Kildee Doyle, Michael MacArthur Congress included contributions to the Carson (IN) Estes (KS) King (IA) F. Maloney, Sean Tenney Thompson (CA) strength of our armed forces, the security of Carter (TX) Farenthold King (NY) Duffy Marchant our nation, the health and welfare of our vet- Cartwright Ferguson Krishnamoorthi Espaillat Marshall Thompson (MS) Castro (TX) Fleischmann Kuster (NH) Esty (CT) Mast Thompson (PA) erans, our progress toward a clean energy Chabot Fortenberry Kustoff (TN) Evans Matsui Tipton economy, and the interests of her constitu- Cheney Foster Labrador Faso McKinley Torres ents in her beloved southern Arizona dis- Chu, Judy Frankel (FL) LaMalfa Fitzpatrick McSally Upton trict; Cicilline Franks (AZ) Lamborn Flores Meehan Valadao Whereas Giffords prided herself on being Clay Frelinghuysen Larsen (WA) Foxx Meeks Vargas accessible to her constituents; Veasey Cohen Gabbard Latta Fudge Mitchell Whereas on January 8, 2011, while listening Cole Garamendi Lawrence Gaetz Moolenaar Vela Collins (NY) Gianforte Lewis (MN) Gallagher Neal Vela´ zquez to her constituents at a ‘‘Congress on your Comstock Gibbs Lipinski Gallego Newhouse Walberg Corner’’ event in Tucson, a gunman at- Cook Goodlatte Long Gomez Nolan Watson Coleman tempted to assassinate Congresswoman Gif- Cooper Gowdy Loudermilk Gonzalez (TX) Norcross Weber (TX) fords;

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:45 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A14NO7.010 H14NOPT1 H9200 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 Whereas Congresswoman Giffords was shot others, including Congresswoman Jackie The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there and wounded along with 12 others while an Speier, were wounded; objection to the request of the gen- additional 6 people were killed, including her Whereas Congressman Leo Ryan was the tleman from Texas? Congressional aide, Gabriel Zimmerman; first Member of Congress to be assassinated There was no objection. Whereas in 2013 Congresswoman Giffords overseas while performing his Congressional Mr. THORNBERRY. Mr. Speaker, I formed an organization to promote gun vio- duties; lence prevention and responsible gun owner- yield myself 3 minutes. Whereas Congressman Ryan stated, ‘‘I Mr. Speaker, for 55 straight years ship; learned that if you give in to fear you can’t Whereas Congresswoman Giffords con- do your job’’; and under both parties, Congress has come tinues to serve the American public by being Whereas Congressman Ryan went above together to pass a defense authoriza- an outspoken advocate for solutions to gun and beyond to provide service to his con- tion bill to support our troops and our violence; stituents and to the people of the United country’s security. Along with my Whereas Congressman Leo Ryan was an States, exhibiting courage and resilience: partner on the Armed Services Com- elected member of the House of Representa- Now, therefore, be it mittee, Mr. SMITH, I am pleased to tives for the 11th district of California from Resolved, That— bring a conference report that will do 1973 through 1978, championing causes re- (1) the House of Representatives honors the lated to equality, freedom, human rights and so again. work and public service of Congresswoman Mr. Speaker, I want to acknowledge the protection of our democratic institu- Gabrielle Giffords; tions, and represented an unwavering exam- (2) the House extends its condolences to and thank all the Members on both ple of dedication to public service; the family, friends, and all those affected by sides of the aisle who contributed to Whereas Congressman Ryan’s life was the mass shooting on January 8, 2011; this product, and especially the mem- marked by his service, in the Navy during (3) the House of Representatives honors the bers and staff of the House Armed World War II, as a teacher, a school adminis- legacy of Congressman Leo J. Ryan for his Services Committee. trator, South San Francisco city councilman lifelong commitment to objective fact-find- I also want to thank the conferees and mayor, and California assemblyman, being and for his extraordinary commitment to from the 14 other committees of the fore serving three terms in the House of Rep- advancing freedom and basic human rights House who were appointed to the con- resentatives; at home and abroad; Whereas in his more than 40 years in elect- ference, and I appreciate their con- (4) the House honors the bravery of Con- tributions. ed office, Congressman Ryan worked to en- gressman Ryan and his team members for sure equal treatment of all, including the undertaking a dangerous yet essential fact- Finally, I want to express my appre- least fortunate and those without a voice, finding mission in Guyana; ciation for the opportunity to work and won the widespread respect of his col- (5) the House extends its condolences to with Mr. SMITH and with our colleagues leagues and the people he served; Congressman Ryan’s family and all those af- in the Senate, Senator MCCAIN and Whereas Congressman Ryan took a hands- fected by the Jonestown tragedy; and Senator REED. on approach to combat injustice, from tak- (6) the Democratic Cloakroom in the Hall We do not always agree among the ing a job as a teacher in Watts to gain in- of the House of Representatives (room H–222 sight into the causes of the Watts riots, or four of us; in fact, we disagree some- of the United States Capitol) is designated as posing as an inmate at Folsom Prison to in- times energetically, but I have no the ‘‘Gabrielle Giffords-Leo J. Ryan Cloak- vestigate conditions, or going to Newfound- doubt that each of them is committed room’’. land to see for himself about the slaughter of to doing the right thing for our troops baby seals; The resolution was agreed to. and the right thing for our country. Whereas in 1978 House Majority Leader A motion to reconsider was laid on Each of them is a patriot whom I ad- James Wright described Congressman Ryan the table. mire. as having an ‘‘ever-ready willingness to go Mr. Speaker, I know that I speak for where suffering was’’; f Whereas when asked to describe his col- all Members when we wish Senator league, Rep. Robert Drinan of Massachusetts CONFERENCE REPORT ON H.R. 2810, MCCAIN the best in dealing with his said in 1978 that ‘‘He was a gutsy, courageous NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZA- current health challenges. guy,’’ and ‘‘When he believed in something TION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2018 Members and the public were given a he just pressed and pressed.’’; Mr. THORNBERRY. Mr. Speaker, summary of this conference report last Whereas Reverend Jim Jones’ Peoples week, so I will simply say that I be- Temple was based in San Francisco, Cali- pursuant to House Resolution 616, I call up the conference report on the bill lieve the priorities in this bill are, fornia, and had recruited people from Con- number one, our people; number two, gressman Ryan’s nearby San Mateo district; (H.R. 2810) to authorize appropriations Whereas following negative press reports, for fiscal year 2018 for military activi- the readiness; number three, missile to avoid exposure cult leader Jim Jones trav- ties of the Department of Defense, for defense; and number four, reform to see eled to Guyana with his followers; military construction, and for defense that we are more capable of meeting Whereas in 1974 an agricultural project was activities of the Department of Energy, the security challenges our country established in Guyana by the Peoples Temple faces in the future and today. which would be known as Jonestown; to prescribe military personnel strengths for such fiscal year, and for In that regard, I especially want to Whereas in 1978 several stories began to commend the work of Mr. ROGERS and surface over relatives being held in Guyana other purposes, and ask for its imme- Mr. COOPER and the Strategic Forces against their will and some constituents diate consideration. from Congressman Ryan’s district began to The Clerk read the title of the bill. Subcommittee on space. They initiated contact his office with concerns over their The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- deep, far-reaching reforms based on a relatives in Jonestown; ant to House Resolution 616, the con- real sense of urgency, and they are in Whereas Congressman Ryan left for Guy- ference report is considered read. this bill. Their work exemplifies the ana on November 14, 1978, accompanied by (For conference report and state- work of our committee: bipartisan, two congressional staffers, nine journalists, really nonpartisan, on the national se- and 18 relatives of Jonestown residents; ment, see proceedings of the House in Book II of November 9, 2017, at page curity challenges the U.S. faces today. Whereas the delegation arrived at Jones- Mr. Speaker, unfortunately, as the town November 17, 1978, and several Jones- H8701.) world grew more dangerous, we cut our town inhabitants expressed a desire to re- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- defense budget and we added to the turn to the United States; tleman from Texas (Mr. THORNBERRY) burden borne by the men and women Whereas the original delegation along with and the gentleman from Washington 15 Jonestown inhabitants attempted to board who serve us. (Mr. SMITH) each will control 30 min- planes at Port Kaituma airstrip but were We will not rebuild and fix our prob- fired upon by a Jones loyalist and other gun- utes. lems in 1 year or one bill, even when it men; The Chair recognizes the gentleman is matched by an appropriations bill, Whereas an additional 40 Jonestown inhab- from Texas. which this will need to be, but we can itants were also awaiting transport to leave GENERAL LEAVE head in the right direction. That is Jonestown; Mr. THORNBERRY. Mr. Speaker, I what this conference report does, and I Whereas Congressman Ryan, one Jones- ask unanimous consent that all Mem- town inhabitant (Patricia Parks), and three hope Members will support it. journalists (NBC news reporter Don Harris, bers have 5 legislative days in which to Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of NBC photographer Bob Brown, and San Fran- revise and extend their remarks and in- my time. cisco Examiner photographer Greg Robinson) sert extraneous material on the con- Mr. SMITH of Washington. Mr. were shot to death at the airstrip and nine ference report to accompany H.R. 2810. Speaker, I yield myself 5 minutes.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:45 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A14NO7.012 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9201 Mr. Speaker, first and most impor- the United States Congress, to ac- look, they have a reason for everything tantly, I want to concur with the re- knowledge climate change and the im- that they spend. They have a plan in marks of Mr. THORNBERRY. We have pact that it is going to have on our na- place. Right now, we don’t have the had a great many people work together tional security, and Representative funds to match those plans. to produce a very important product. LANGEVIN was tireless in making sure The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. The staff, the Members, House and Sen- that that was part of this bill. ROGERS of Kentucky). The time of the ate, have all done an outstanding job. So this is a good product. I am proud gentleman has expired. On the Armed Services Committee, of it. I am proud of the work that we Mr. SMITH of Washington. Mr. we are very proud of the fact that we have done together to produce a legis- Speaker, I yield myself an additional 1 produce a legislative product every lative product that, as Mr. THORN- minute. year. We actually do legislation the BERRY says, none of us like everything That is a huge problem. So going for- way it is supposed to be done. We work that is in it, but we reached a com- ward, while we do need to provide more it through committee. Chairman promise to produce a product on an im- resources and more stability, I also THORNBERRY often outlines the number portant issue. think we need to take a look at that of different provisions that were asked The challenge that we have going for- National Security Strategy and say: for at the committee level, at the full ward is what the chairman mentioned Where are we spending money that we House level and the Senate level, and at the end there: This bill funds, I shouldn’t be? What part of our strategy we worked through those, reached com- think it is right around $696 billion in do we not need? promise where we could, and produced defense spending. It goes $80 billion, If we can’t do that, if we can’t cut a product that is truly a legislative roughly, over the budget caps, and the back, we are never going to be in a po- product. bill can’t do that on its own. Unless the sition to provide adequate funds to our budget caps are lifted and appropri- troops, and, to me, that is the absolute b 1400 ators pass the appropriations bill, that worst result. That is testimony to the great work, doesn’t happen; and we haven’t made a Whatever the strategy is, the one first and foremost, of our staff. Both lot of progress on that. thing that it absolutely ought to do is the House and Senate do an out- I was thinking, today, back to 2011, fund our troops sufficiently to meet it. standing job with hundreds of complex in August, when we first passed the To have a big idea of what we ought to issues and working with all the Mem- Budget Control Act. We were about 2 be able to do and then to underfund the bers, and I thank them very much. days short of not being able to meet men and women whom we are asking to It is also a testimony to the Mem- our debt ceiling obligations when we do it, I believe, has led to some of the bers, both House and Senate, to their passed that; and at that time, the hope accidents and deaths that we have had commitment to make sure that we pass was that we would come together on a recently with our ships and with our the National Defense Authorization compromise to deal with our deficit planes. Act, understanding how important it is and our debt to get us on a fiscally re- We need to adequately fund readiness to support our troops and meeting our sponsible path. to meet a mission that is achievable. national security needs. Well, over 6 years later, I can’t say That, we still need to get to; but, over- I also want to thank our colleagues that we have made an enormous all, this is a good policy bill. in the Senate. Mr. THORNBERRY and I amount of progress on that, and that is Again, I thank the chairman. I appre- oftentimes say those are some of our a huge threat to our troops and our na- ciate the partnership and really en- most contentious debates—not between tional security. I would also say that it joyed working with him to produce this us, but between us and the Senate. But is a threat to the nondefense discre- product. they are handled, I think, with great tionary budget and the rest of the Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of dignity and intelligence, and I enjoy budget as well. my time. working with Senator MCCAIN and Sen- But without question, one of the Mr. THORNBERRY. Mr. Speaker, I ator REED. They are great partners in greatest challenges the Pentagon yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from this final product. faces—they don’t know from one South Carolina (Mr. WILSON), chairman I am proud of this final product. month to the next how much money of the Subcommittee on Readiness. There is a lot of very good policy in they are going to have. Is this going to Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. here. Mr. THORNBERRY mentioned sev- be the number? Is this bill going to Speaker, I thank Chairman MAC eral of the keys: acquisition reform, work? THORNBERRY for his leadership. basically getting more out of the I hope so, but we don’t know. We The extraordinary, controversial money we spend, making sure the sys- have got to resolve that issue. We have issue that should be addressed of the tem works better. got to figure out how to have a fiscally widows’ tax has been solved with his I particularly want to thank Chair- responsible budget so we can pass ap- leadership and will be so meaningful to man THORNBERRY. He has taken a lead propriations bills every year so all as- military families. on this issue for a number of years. I pects of the discretionary budget can I am grateful to support H.R. 2810, think we have made significant im- have some predictability. the National Defense Authorization provements, even while acknowledging It is absolutely true, as the chairman Act for Fiscal Year 2018. that we still have a long way to go to and others have said, we have a readi- Throughout this past year, as chair- get the efficiency that we need out of ness shortfall. What that means is we man of the Readiness Subcommittee, the Pentagon budget, but that is an are not providing the equipment and we heard testimony from each of the important change. the training to our troops necessary to Joint Chiefs about the critical neces- I also think that this bill does a fully prepare them to do the missions sity to address the military’s alarming great job of supporting our troops and we are asking them to do. I have no readiness shortfalls across all domains: their families. As the chairman men- doubt that part of that is under- air, land, sea, cyber, and space. tioned yesterday, it is basically the funding. Sadly, the recent, tragic deaths of 17 case that you recruit a servicemember But another part of it is we have a sailors in two avoidable collisions in but you retain the family, and that National Security Strategy that is un- the Indo-Pacific region provided un- means that you have to provide for clear and, as it is presented, is far mistakable evidence that readiness has them. We fully fund the 2.4 percent pay greater than we would ever have the fallen to a dangerous level. We can no raise in this bill and support our troops resources to match. I had a meeting longer delay the maintenance and and their families in many other ways. with a Pentagon official who told me sustainment problems that plague the This is a very good product. that they were very concerned because military, and we can no longer defer I will also say, I want to particularly they were way short of having the critical training and modernization thank Representative LANGEVIN for funds necessary to meet their 2012 Na- that directly impact the ability to re- working on this issue. This bill states tional Security Strategy. spond rapidly to emerging threats that climate change is a national secu- And make no mistake about it. As worldwide. There are numerous impor- rity threat. We make that the policy of big and confusing as the Pentagon may tant readiness provisions in the bill.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.039 H14NOPT1 H9202 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 I also appreciate the gentlewoman ated with, the realignment of military The bill authorizes strike fighter ca- from Guam (Ms. BORDALLO), my friend, forces to Guam. Additionally, the pability and capacity shortfalls and au- colleague, and Readiness Sub- agreement authorizes $354.6 million for thorizes over $3 billion in additional committee ranking member, for her military construction projects in funding to procure new fifth-generation tireless efforts and participation in Guam. aircraft and modernize our fourth-gen- this process. The creation of the NDAA As Guam’s representative, I will con- eration fleet. These projects address was truly bipartisan and represents tinue to work with the DOD and the unfunded requirements for the Air real emphasis for readiness recovery ef- USCIS to provide relief for healthcare Force, Navy, and Marine Corps. forts and the enhanced defense of our and other industries that support our The bill also continues to address the Nation to promote peace through military on Guam. While I support the needs of the National Guard and Re- strength, protecting American fami- progress that we made in this bill, serve components by authorizing an lies, as we recognize freedom is not without further relief, our inadequate additional $250 million for their equip- free. workforce will negatively impact our ment and modernization. I strongly support the NDAA for Fis- national security. This bill prevents the Air Force from cal Year 2018 and encourage my col- So again, Mr. Speaker, I reiterate my reducing critical ISR capabilities. leagues in the House to support it as appreciation for the work by our com- I urge my colleagues to support this well. mittees and our exceptional staff. The bill. Mr. SMITH of Washington. Mr. FY18 NDAA provides the resources that Mr. SMITH of Washington. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gen- our military requires for its missions Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Rhode Island (Mr. LAN- tlewoman from Guam (Ms. BORDALLO), in this very, very dangerous world, so I the ranking member of the Sub- urge support for the bill. GEVIN), the ranking member of the committee on Readiness. Mr. THORNBERRY. Mr. Speaker, I Subcommittee on Emerging Threats Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from and Capabilities. Mr. LANGEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I in support of the conference report to Ohio (Mr. TURNER), the chair of the would first like to begin by thanking accompany the National Defense Au- Tactical Air and Land Forces Sub- Chairman THORNBERRY and Ranking thorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018. committee. Mr. TURNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in Member SMITH and Chairwoman I commend Chairman THORNBERRY, support of H.R. 2810, the National De- STEFANIK for their tireless work on Ranking Member SMITH, and I would also like to thank the gentleman from fense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year this bill. It is a good work product, and 2018. I am very proud to be associated with South Carolina (Mr. WILSON), the Read- I strongly support this bill, and I iness Subcommittee chairman, and the it and be supporting it. want to personally thank our chair- I would also like to thank the Armed committee staff who worked many, man, MAC THORNBERRY, for his work in Services Committee staff for their con- many long nights on this bill. I am es- trying to get a higher top line for de- tributions for another successful and pecially thankful for the spirit of co- fense. This bill comes in higher than bipartisan NDAA, in particular, Lind- operation that enables us to pass an the President’s budget request, but it say, Pete, Kevin, and Neve. I want to act that directly impacts the young is in line with both the appropriations recognize Kathryn Mitchell, my MLA men and women who defend our coun- and the budget document that came on my staff, along with my two fellows, try. out of the House. The conference report authorizes $3.6 Sean and John, for their contributions This bill authorizes $634.2 billion in and support during the time we put to- billion in additional operations and the base budget, a much-needed in- maintenance funds to increase train- gether this mark. crease over the original budget request, I am extremely pleased with the ing, spare parts, facility and equipment and fully supports many of the un- Emerging Threats and Capabilities por- maintenance, and other readiness funded requirements identified by the tion of the NDAA. I want to congratu- enablers. This is a very important step Department that totaled more than $30 late Chairwoman STEFANIK. This is her to support the recovery of readiness in billion. The $634.2 billion authorization first NDAA as chairwoman, and it was areas that have been adversely im- is essential. Anything less dramati- a pleasure working with her in a strong pacted by high operational tempos and cally handicaps our ability to restore bipartisan way. made worse by numerous continuing military readiness over nearly a decade The conference agreement preserves resolutions and the effects of seques- of neglect. important steps forward when it comes tration. However, Congress must go This increased base budget funding to cyber, information operations, and further and provide the Department for fiscal year 2018 begins the long advanced technologies, and it provides with budget stability by repealing se- process to rebuild our military’s full support to our special operators and questration so that we can continue to spectrum readiness from years of de- their families. support the training, the maintenance, ferred modernization brought on by the When it comes to cyber, the bill re- and the modernization needs of our failed assumptions from the previous quires the Department of Defense to forces. administrations’s Budget Control Act conduct a cyber posture review to en- The conference agreement also in- and sequestration. sure we have appropriate authorities cludes a number of provisions to sup- Within the Tactical Air and Land and policies in place to allow our forces port military readiness, such as pro- Forces Subcommittee’s jurisdiction, to operate successfully in cyberspace. viding authorities and flexibility for this bill authorizes over $12 billion in investments in infrastructure, extend- additional funds to address unfunded b 1415 ing direct hiring authorities, pro- modernization requirements and crit- It also reinvigorates the DOD’s cyber tecting training ranges from encroach- ical capabilities gaps. scholarship program, which provides ment, and continuing to support the If we do not begin, with this budget, scholarships and grant opportunities at Asia-Pacific Rebalance. to set favorable conditions to start to colleges and universities to boost the The Rebalance is critical to security reverse the high-risk defense posture Nation’s cyber forces and to bring their and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific we currently have, we will signifi- expertise into the Department after region and a matter of most impor- cantly jeopardize our military’s advan- they graduate. tance to me because of the recent tage that we have taken for granted in Additionally, the finalized language threats against the United States and, past conflicts and steady-state oper- includes a provision that I wrote in specifically, my home district of ations. conjunction with Chairman THORN- Guam. As such, the bill recognizes the im- BERRY, Ranking Member SMITH, and Critically, for my constituents, this portance of land forces in current and Chairwoman STEFANIK to require time- agreement provides authority for U.S. future operations and authorizes over ly notifications for sensitive cyber Citizenship and Immigration Services $2 billion to accelerate armored bri- military operations outside areas of ac- to approve H–2B visas for Guam that gade combat team modernization, to tive hostilities, ensuring Congress is support construction projects directly include additional Abrams tanks and able to conduct appropriate oversight connected to, as well as those associ- Bradley Fighting Vehicles. in this new domain.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.043 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9203 The bill makes important invest- Also, in this bill, we are authorizing I thank the chairman of the sub- ments in advanced technologies that more interceptors, accelerating re- committee for his strong leadership in will be game changers for our search and development for advanced this effort and for making this a bipar- warfighters, such as the electro- technologies, and improving acquisi- tisan process. magnetic railgun. We never want to tion authorities for missile defense sys- I would also like to thank the Deputy send our servicemembers into a fair tems. Secretary of Defense for his engage- fight, and transitioning critical tech- And let’s also not forget about what ment on this important issue. We will nologies like these will ensure that we the bill does for our nuclear deterrent. continue to hold the Department ac- avoid the valley of death and provide All three legs of the triad will age out countable during this transition pe- them with the very best tools that are and begin retiring over the next dec- riod. available. ade, but this bill ensures the replace- I am also pleased that the bill begins Finally, I am very pleased with the ment programs remain on schedule. to counter the vulnerability of our final conference report preserving my On space launch, we continue the GPS systems in space which underpin amendment expressing the sense of committee’s dedication to the develop- many defense and civilian systems. We Congress that climate change is a na- ment of a domestic replacement for the increase the resiliency and alternatives tional security challenge and requiring RD–180 engines and to appropriately to GPS, including thinking outside the the department to report its effects. scoping the DOD investment in devel- box, by relying on our allies and per- This important bipartisan provision opment of current or planned launch haps even exploiting Russian or Chi- represents one of the most significant vehicles. nese signals as a means to deter attack legislative actions Congress has taken Finally, I am very pleased with the on our systems. on this issue, and this shift in policy progress we have made toward getting The conference also dropped restric- will better prepare our Armed Forces, some of the surplus 1911 pistols into tions on extending the new START ensure mission resiliency, and improve the hands of collectors and off the gov- Treaty, which verifiably limits the our readiness to face the changing cli- ernment dime for storage costs. number of nuclear weapons that Russia Mr. Speaker, I urge support of this mate. or the United States can deploy. legislation. Again, I want to thank the Armed The bill, more effectively, holds Rus- Mr. SMITH of Washington. Mr. sia accountable for violating the Inter- Services Committee for their excellent Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gen- work on this critical bill, particularly mediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty tleman from Tennessee (Mr. COOPER), by imposing increasing sanctions re- Chairman THORNBERRY, Ranking Mem- who is the ranking member of the Sub- lated to those violations rather than ber SMITH, Chairwoman STEFANIK, and, committee on Strategic Forces. again, all the members of both the Mr. COOPER. Mr. Speaker, I thank prematurely nullifying the treaty. The conference report also encour- committee staff and my staff as well. It Ranking Member SMITH, Chairman ages a dialogue with Russia and China was a pleasure working on this very bi- THORNBERRY, Chairman MCCAIN on the partisan bill in support of all of our Senate side, and Ranking Member to reduce risks of miscalculations that warfighters, who we want to make sure Reid. could lead to an unintended nuclear that we provide the very best tools It is very important that Congress war in a crisis. Pressuring Russia, that they need to do their job safely continue this great tradition of passing while avoiding an unnecessary nuclear and effectively. I thank them for all a Defense Authorization Act. This will arms race or a precipitous nuclear war, that they do for our Nation. be the 57th year. My constituents back should be top priorities for our defense Mr. THORNBERRY. Mr. Speaker, I home want nothing more than for us to in the current, more volatile environ- yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from cooperate in a bipartisan fashion for ment. Alabama (Mr. ROGERS), the chair of the the good of the country. This bill, H.R. In this context, I support the in- Subcommittee on Strategic Forces. 2810, does that. creased focus on modernizing our nu- Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Mr. Speak- In particular, I would like to thank clear command and control system, er, I rise in strong support of this the Chairman of the Strategic Forces which has been too long over-cost and year’s NDAA and commend the chair- Subcommittee, MIKE ROGERS, who has delayed. man for his outstanding leadership in been a great partner, as we do several Finally, the bill ends years of waste- getting us to the point we are today. very important things: ful spending on the unaffordable and This year’s bill takes the first step to Number one, modernize our nuclear failed MOX project in South Carolina fixing the broken national security forces and keep the effort going on nu- by allowing the Department of Energy space enterprise within the Air Force. clear nonproliferation; we fund critical to terminate it and move to a solution In this bill, we streamline the current missile defense needs in the face of ris- at a fraction of the cost. fragmented leadership structure, elimi- ing threats from North Korea and Mr. Speaker, I support this bill. nating over 20 unnecessary internal Air other countries; we support U.S.-Israeli Mr. THORNBERRY. Mr. Speaker, I Force boxes on the Air Force acquisi- missile defense; and we also strength- yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from tion organization chart. en, dramatically, our capabilities in Virginia (Mr. WITTMAN), the chairman The bill empowers the commander of space. of the Subcommittee on Seapower and the Air Force Space Command with This Defense Authorization bill takes Projection Forces. sole authority to organize, train, and a decisive first step to address the frag- Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in equip space forces. It terminates dupli- mentation and lack of focus on na- support of the National Defense Au- cative and ineffective offices like the tional security space issues that the thorization Act of 2018. Principal DOD Space Advisor, the De- Air Force has shown by reorganizing This bill fully funds our Armed fense Space Council, and the Air space within the Air Force and within Forces, increases troop end-strength, Force’s A–11 office. the Department of Defense. and sets in earnest the modernization Most importantly, it is a step in a While it does not create the Space of our military and ensures that our long path to getting space right for the Corps that we preferred, it achieves soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines betterment of our warfighters. many of the goals that we set out to are properly compensated for the sac- Hopefully, over the coming year, the achieve. Notably, it consolidates acqui- rifices they make for a grateful nation Senate will focus on the chronic prob- sition, operations, and training of on a daily basis. lems facing national security space and space forces under the Air Force Space In my role as the Seapower and Pro- work with us to establish a separate Command and eliminates ineffective or jection Forces chairman, I vowed Space Corps. redundant authorities across the De- months ago to set the conditions for On missile defense, the bill ensures partment. Our assets in space, unfortu- the Navy to grow to 355 ships, in ac- that we stay ahead of the threat, nately, are increasingly vulnerable to cordance with the Navy’s own force which, as we have seen over the last attack. This reorganization will begin structure assessment. I am proud to few years from North Korea and their to provide the focus and coordination say that this bill sends the signal to two dozen missile tests, they are ad- necessary to effectively address these our Navy, the industrial base, and our vancing rapidly. growing threats. adversaries that a 355-ship Navy is not

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.045 H14NOPT1 H9204 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 just a theoretical idea, but rather an today. Their support and work were in- ference report for the National Defense achievable reality. valuable in terms of getting the Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018. The bill expands on the eight ships seapower portion of the bill to the real- The conference report contains sig- requested by the administration by ly solid place that it is today. nificant policy and funding initiatives adding an additional five ships. The Again, last year, 2016, the Navy came that continue our commitment to our bill also recommends additional ad- forward with a force structure assess- troops and their families, all while vanced procurement for the Virginia- ment that said: Based on national secu- maintaining military readiness and ad- class attack submarines, while fully rity needs around the world, our fleet dressing important military personnel funding the Columbia-class ballistic size needs to grow. When the Presi- issues. missile submarine program. dent’s budget came over last May, un- The provisions contained in this bill As to aircraft, the bill fully funds the fortunately, there were only eight new provide our warfighters, retirees, and B–21 Raider bomber program, a critical ships in that budget; but our com- their families the necessary pay and component of the future nuclear triad. mittee, again, showing its independ- benefits to sustain them in today’s This bill also recommends an expan- ence as a coequal branch of govern- highly stressed force. sion of KC–46A aerial refuelers, C–130J ment, produced a seapower mark that To that end, this bill establishes a airlift, and P–8 submarine aircraft. Fi- boosted that build rate to 15 and, fully funded by-law pay raise for all nally, the bill delivers expanded au- again, has us now on a pathway to our servicemembers. After years of thorities that will save the taxpayers achieve the goal that the Navy identi- lower than by-law pay raise requests, it billions of dollars. fied last year. is critical that we continue to give our Now, some of our colleagues have In particular, in terms of the under- troops and their families the pay in- suggested that our defense budget is sea fleet, our combatant commanders, creases they have earned. excessive and that additional moneys whether it is an Asia-Pacific or a Euro- b 1430 should be provided towards other ef- pean command, have been loudly warn- forts. Mr. Speaker, this thought is not ing Congress that we should not allow It increases the end-strengths of the only misguided, but it is dangerous. We the decline in the fleet size to occur. Active National Guard and Reserve have a constitutional responsibility to This bill, again, authorizes $5.9 bil- Forces, thereby increasing mission provide for the common defense of our lion for the Virginia-class submarine readiness while reducing the stress and Nation. We will not shrink from that program and provides multiyear pro- strain on the force and their families. responsibility, and I hope none of my curement authority to enter into a It permanently preserves special sur- colleagues undermine the efforts to de- contract for 13 Virginia-class, allowing vivor indemnity allowance payments liver the $634 billion base moneys that for a build rate to move from two a and closes the gap in the ‘‘widows tax’’ are required for our national security. year to three fast-attack submarines in to surviving military spouses. Finally, I want to recognize Ranking 2020, 2022, and 2023. It also continues to improve sexual Member JOE COURTNEY. He has been The National Sea Based Deterrence assault prevention and response by and continues to be a true partner in Fund, which, again, our committee cre- adding a new provision to the Uniform ensuring the Seapower and Projection ated in 2014, extends continuous pro- Code of Military Justice, specifically Forces of our Nation are properly duction authorities which the Navy has prohibiting nonconsensual sharing of resourced. I do not think that we would told us will save $383 million in the Co- intimate images; expanding Special be anywhere close to delivering the 355- lumbia-class program, which, again, is Victims’ Counsel training; and expand- ship Navy or providing for our Air about smart procurement, which Mr. ing the annual Sexual Assault Preven- Force’s deep-strike capability without SMITH referred to at the beginning. tion and Response Report. his steadfast resolve and sincere efforts Again, there are other provisions in Finally, spouses of servicemembers to realize bipartisan solutions. the bill that I would just note. There are challenged by varying State licen- Mr. Speaker, I also want to reflect was no BRAC that is authorized in this sure and certification requirements that with the chairman and the rank- bill. We also gave authority to the when forced to move to a new State by ing member and their leadership, and I United States as part of the Ukraine military orders. Rather than imposing urge my colleagues to support the Na- Security Assistance Initiative to pro- a single Federal standard on the tional Defense Authorization Act for vide medical treatment to wounded States, we provide a $500 reimburse- Fiscal Year 2018. Ukrainian soldiers, as well as training ment to defray these costs. We ask Mr. SMITH of Washington. Mr. to Ukrainian healthcare specialists, States to work with the Secretary of Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gen- which our allies desperately need. Defense to develop common standards tleman from Connecticut (Mr. COURT- Again, it is a very, I think, smart move where possible. NEY), the ranking member of the Sub- by the committee. In conclusion, I want to thank the committee on Seapower and Projection Mr. Speaker, as has been noted, this ranking member, Ms. SPEIER, and her Forces. is the 57th year in a row that we have staff for their contributions to this re- Mr. COURTNEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise produced an NDAA. It is because we port. in strong support of H.R. 2810, and I follow regular order. It is because we Of course, we were joined by an ac- want to begin by congratulating Chair- respect both sides of the aisle in terms tive, informed, and dedicated group of man THORNBERRY and Ranking Member of the contribution that they make. subcommittee members. Their rec- SMITH for their really skillful bipar- We still have meat left on the bone to ommendations and priorities are clear- tisan guidance of this measure. get the 2018 spending bill done, and ly reflected in the conference report for The vote that took place last sum- hopefully the example that Mr. THORN- the National Defense Authorization mer when the House passed it the first BERRY and Mr. SMITH set in terms of al- Act for Fiscal Year 2018. time through was the largest bipar- lowing the process to breathe is the Mr. Speaker, I strongly urge my col- tisan vote, since 2008, for an NDAA, and way we are going to get to a successful leagues to support the passage of this that didn’t happen by accident. It was result, just as we did with 2017. conference report. because of their great work. Again, I want to congratulate the Mr. SMITH of Washington. Mr. I also want to thank my colleague, leadership of our committee, and I Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gen- Mr. WITTMAN, on the Seapower and strongly urge all the Members on both tlewoman from Massachusetts (Ms. Projection Forces Subcommittee. It is sides of the aisle to support passage of TSONGAS), the ranking member of the a very bipartisan effort, and the result, this measure. Subcommittee on Tactical Air and I think, really demonstrates that, Mr. THORNBERRY. Mr. Speaker, I Land Forces. when you do it that way, you get good yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Ms. TSONGAS. Mr. Speaker, I thank results. Colorado (Mr. COFFMAN), the chairman Ranking Member SMITH and Chairman I also want to congratulate the staff, of the Subcommittee on Military Per- THORNBERRY for their leadership. I Dave Sienicki, Phil MacNaughton, and sonnel. would also like to thank Chairman also Lieutenant Commander Dominic Mr. COFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in TURNER for his partnership and leader- Kramer, a Navy fellow who is here strong support of H.R. 2810, the con- ship this year on the Tactical Air and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.046 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9205 Land Forces Subcommittee and for training accidents. These accidents ing for on Syria policy for a long time, maintaining the spirit of bipartisan- demonstrate severe readiness shortfalls requiring the President to submit a ship that is the tradition of this com- across the services. We cannot stand by comprehensive Syria strategy, includ- mittee. as our men and women in uniform con- ing diplomatic, military, and humani- Mr. Speaker, the fiscal year 2018 tinue to suffer. Now is the time to in- tarian assistance initiatives. NDAA takes significant steps to sup- vest, and this bill does just that. Too often, big bills like this forget port and protect military members and The NDAA authorizes a 2.4 percent the troops on the ground, but this bill their families. However, I share Rank- pay increase for our troops; authorizes raises military pay by 2.5 percent and ing Member SMITH’s concerns that this 24 additional F–18 Super Hornets to takes action on specific concerns year’s bill authorizes a level of defense help fill the Navy’s strike fighter raised to me and my team by requiring funding that is wholly unrealistic. shortfall; and it fully funds the B–21 a study on improving opioid prescrip- The numbers included in this bill are bomber, a critical platform needed to tion practices as well as additional well above caps placed on defense deter and defeat future aggression mental healthcare for those spending by the Budget Control Act, around the world. transitioning out of Active Duty. and prioritize defense spending at a I am proud to represent Missouri’s The bill includes a provision I sup- devastating cost to important Federal Fourth Congressional District, which is ported for our critical allies in the agencies and other investments that home to Whiteman Air Force Base and fight against terror. The Afghan Spe- are critical to maintaining our na- Fort Leonard Wood. This bill funds cial Immigrant Visa program affords tional competitiveness and the future modernization programs for the B–2 Afghan interpreters who have risked of our country. They are being put for- bomber, authorizes $50 million in the their lives—not only for their country, ward at the same time that we are con- DOD impact aid for military-connected but for ours—the ability to resettle in sidering a tax reform bill that will sig- schools, and fully authorizes a new hos- the U.S. due to threats that they and nificantly cut revenues and, by the lat- pital facility and blood processing cen- their families face on a daily basis be- est estimate, add $1.7 trillion to the ter at Fort Leonard Wood. cause they work with U.S. troops. Federal deficit. Accordingly, the in- As chairwoman of the Oversight and Here at home, our military families creased spending included in this bill Investigations Subcommittee, I am selflessly support our men and women are hollow numbers and we are failing proud of the provisions in the con- in harm’s way and provide the back- to deliver a credible or sensible long- ference report that will improve the bone so important to military commu- term plan to the Defense Department. foreign military sales process and pro- nities across our country. That is why Throughout my tenure on this com- vide the National Nuclear Security Ad- I led an effort to include a requirement mittee, I have been guided by our ministration with much-needed flexi- for the DOD to examine a new Military moral obligation to ensure that the bility to address the crippling infra- Family Service Corps to support volun- men and women that we send into structure of the U.S. nuclear security teer efforts surrounding spousal career harm’s way are properly equipped and enterprise. support, career transition assistance, the best protected in the world. I would I want to thank Ranking Member community integration for military never deny them the tools they need to SETH MOULTON for his support in work- families, support for liaison programs defend themselves and our Nation, ing on these important issues in a bi- with schools, as well as families with which is why I will be voting for this partisan fashion. children of special needs. By building compromise. Mr. Speaker, our troops deserve this on these efforts, we can ensure our I understand the necessity of many of bill and they deserve the funding that servicemembers and their families are the programs that are funded each year this bill authorizes. Thanks to the supported to the fullest extent pos- in this bill and believe its passage is leadership of Chairman THORNBERRY, sible. needed to maintain American military this conference report increased de- Despite the important provisions in- superiority against a variety of threats fense spending to meet the needs of to- cluded in this bill, it does come at a while supporting our men and women day’s warfighter. I am proud of this time when we as a Congress have in uniform. But ongoing budget nego- critical bill, and I urge my colleagues forced the Department of Defense to tiations need to get realistic. We owe it to support its passage. operate under yet another continuing to our servicemembers to find a respon- Mr. SMITH of Washington. Mr. resolution in the absence of a full-year sible, balanced path forward that Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gen- budget; and we are authorizing an un- works for both our national and eco- tleman from Massachusetts (Mr. precedented $692 billion in defense nomic security. MOULTON), the ranking member on the spending, blowing past the budget cap Mr. THORNBERRY. Mr. Speaker, I Subcommittee on Oversight and Inves- set by the Budget Control Act, by over yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman tigations. $80 billion. from Missouri (Mrs. HARTZLER), the Mr. MOULTON. Mr. Speaker, I thank All the while, Republicans are push- distinguished chairwoman of the Sub- the gentleman for yielding. ing one of the most aggressive tax cut committee on Oversight and Investiga- Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak on packages in history, set to cost our tions. the National Defense Authorization country at least $1.7 trillion. Simply Mrs. HARTZLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise Act. I must say that I am so proud to put, Republicans don’t know how to in strong support of the conference re- be a member of a committee so known balance a checkbook. Ultimately, it is port for the National Defense Author- for its bipartisanship. I am particularly our servicemembers and their families ization Act for Fiscal Year 2018. proud to serve on the Oversight and In- who will pay the price. I would like to thank Chairman vestigations Subcommittee with my As Admiral Mike Mullen, the former THORNBERRY, Ranking Member SMITH, colleague, VICKY HARTZLER, from Mis- Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, all of the conferees, and the committee souri. said in 2010 and again in 2016: staff for their hard work on this impor- I am concerned that this administra- Our Nation’s long-term debt is the single tant piece of legislation. tion is failing to confront the threats greatest threat to our national security. We As Members of Congress, it is our re- our country faces, like Russia, so I am ought to balance the budget because it is the sponsibility to provide support for our encouraged that this bill includes a right thing to do for the troops. men and women in uniform while they package of measures to deter Russia, Mr. THORNBERRY. Mr. Speaker, I selflessly serve our Nation. This bill including U.S. training and support for yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman authorizes a much-needed $634 billion our European allies; a plan for addi- from New York (Ms. STEFANIK), the dis- in base budget requirements for our national sanctions on Russia linked to tinguished chairwoman of the Sub- tional security. This number is the treaty violations; as well as a require- committee on Emerging Threats and minimum requirement needed to even ment for the administration to develop Capabilities. begin the process of restoring our mili- a strategy to counter Russia over the Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise tary’s readiness. long term. today in strong support of the con- Tragically, this year alone, we have The bill also forces the same type of ference report for the National Defense heard report after report of deadly accountability that I have been push- Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.048 H14NOPT1 H9206 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 I strongly believe that this bipartisan Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to Mr. Speaker, I urge the full House to bill puts us on a course towards readi- support this bill and to vote ‘‘yes’’ on vote in favor of the NDAA. ness recovery, ensuring that our mili- the conference report. Mr. SMITH of Washington. Mr. tary is fully equipped, trained, and sup- Mr. SMITH of Washington. Mr. Speaker, may I inquire as to how much ported. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gen- time each side has remaining. As the chairwoman of the Sub- tleman from California (Mr. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- committee on Emerging Threats and CARBAJAL), a member of the Armed tleman from Washington has 6 minutes Capabilities, I am especially proud of Services Committee. remaining. The gentleman from Texas our contributions to ensure proper Mr. CARBAJAL. Mr. Speaker, I has 12 minutes remaining. resourcing and authorities for cyber would like to thank Ranking Member Mr. SMITH of Washington. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gen- warfare, safeguarding our techno- SMITH, Chairman THORNBERRY, and the logical superiority and defense innova- committee staff for working with me tleman from Texas (Mr. VEASEY), who tion, enabling Special Operations to include language that brings atten- is a member of the Armed Services Committee. Forces to counter terrorism and irreg- tion to the threat of nuclear prolifera- Mr. VEASEY. Mr. Speaker, the ular warfare threats around the world, tion. House and Senate Armed Services and energizing programs and activities Currently, nine countries possess Committees have demonstrated admi- that counter the spread of weapons of over 15,000 nuclear weapons, and the rable bipartisanship in completing this mass destruction. United States plans to spend $1.2 tril- year’s NDAA. I would specifically like to highlight lion over the next 30 years to upgrade This past weekend, as I celebrated what our subcommittee has achieved and expand its nuclear stockpile. As we Veterans Day in the Dallas/Fort Worth this year in the areas of cyber warfare build up our nuclear arsenal, we are in- area by honoring local veterans, we and cyber operations. Our emphasis on creasing the risk of these destructive spoke about the importance of taking cyber has carried three broad themes: weapons ending up in the hands of ter- care of our servicemembers, and I First, we increase congressional over- rorists. think this year’s NDAA does a good job sight of cyber operations by including The language I included in this bill in doing that. H.R. 2807, a bill introduced by myself, stresses the importance of addressing I am very proud of the assistance to Ranking Member LANGEVIN, Chairman this danger and requires the Secretary legal permanent residents who serve in THORNBERRY, and Ranking Member of Defense to explain how the Depart- our Armed Forces in understanding SMITH, which will ensure Congress is ment of Defense is responding to this their naturalization options. I am also kept fully informed of sensitive mili- threat. When Secretary Mattis testi- very happy about investments we made tary cyber operations. We also require fied before our committee, I asked him in improving diversity, such as the a cyber posture review to clarify U.S. about this ongoing threat and he told DOD Cyber Scholarship Program, cyber deterrence policy and strategy. me that nuclear proliferation has not grants for women and minorities in Second, we bolster international received enough attention over quite a STEM, and funding for HBCUs. I think partnerships for cyber warfare to few years. that these investments will yield a di- counter aggressive adversaries such as This amendment is a welcome first verse and stronger national defense Russia, China, and North Korea. This step in the development of a robust workforce for our country’s future. includes support for our NATO part- strategy against nuclear proliferation. I am also happy that we have contin- ners and those within the Asia-Pacific ued support for the tactical aircraft b 1445 region to enhance partnered cyber ca- that are manufactured in the Dallas/ pabilities and information sharing, and Mr. THORNBERRY. Mr. Speaker, I Fort Worth area, which are very crit- to counter and mitigate adversarial yield 1 minute to the gentleman from ical to our local economy and our Na- propaganda efforts and information Ohio (Mr. WENSTRUP), who is a very tion’s defense. warfare campaigns. valued member of our committee. I am very happy to have been a con- Third, the bill continues to build and Mr. WENSTRUP. Mr. Speaker, pro- feree, and I am very proud of the hard enhance our U.S. cyber warfare capa- viding for the common defense, that is work that the committee staff has bilities and activities—principally a constitutional duty that this gov- done to help complete this vital piece within U.S. Cyber Command, but also erning body was tasked with. By pass- of legislation. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to across our government—with the serving the NDAA, we are working to en- vote ‘‘yes’’ on this conference report, ices and within the intelligence com- sure that our country keeps faith with and I want to respectfully remind my munity. This includes resiliency of De- those who bravely serve and their fami- colleagues on both sides of the aisle partment of Defense networks, weap- lies. how critical this funding is to our na- ons systems, and supply chains. While the world has grown more dangerous, our military has grown small- tional security. Furthermore, Mr. Speaker, this bill Mr. THORNBERRY. Mr. Speaker, I er. Our men and women in uniform and reinforces counterterrorism and uncon- yield 1 minute to the gentleman from ventional warfare capabilities by fully their equipment have been stretched Mississippi (Mr. KELLY), who is another thin after years of war, billions in resourcing U.S. Special Operations valuable member of our committee. Command’s programs and activities, budget cuts, downsizing, and continued Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. funding uncertainty. The 2018 NDAA including ongoing efforts in Iraq, Speaker, I thank Chairman THORN- reverses these trend lines. Syria, Afghanistan, Yemen, Somalia, BERRY for his continued leadership in and Eastern Europe. Passing this bill fully funds the 2.4 rebuilding and reforming the Depart- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The percent pay raise our troops have ment of Defense. time of the gentlewoman has expired. earned so we can support our troops Today I rise in strong support of H.R. Mr. THORNBERRY. Mr. Speaker, I and they can support their families. 2810, the National Defense Authoriza- yield an additional 30 seconds to the This legislation brings attention to tion Act for Fiscal Year 2018. gentlewoman from New York. maximizing our military health sys- As a 32-year veteran of the Mis- Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, we also tems and includes a study on safe sissippi Army National Guard and two include a new 2-year authority to opioid prescribing practices for our Iraq deployments, I know the national counter irregular warfare and uncon- troops so our warfighters receive the security challenges facing our country ventional threats, such as those being best possible treatment. firsthand. posed by Russia and other adversaries. Rebuilding our readiness along with This year’s NDAA makes important Before I conclude, I would like to acquisition reform, equipment mod- strides toward achieving equipment thank Chairman MAC THORNBERRY for ernization, and increased end strength and benefits parity for our armed serv- his leadership, as well as my sub- will better prepare our men and women ices’ Reserve component. The enemies committee ranking member, JIM LAN- as they put on the uniform and fight of this country do not distinguish be- GEVIN, from Rhode Island, for his con- for us. Our troops serve so that we can tween the Active component and Re- sistent bipartisan leadership on all of sleep well at night, and they ask for serve component of our military, and these issues. nothing in return. neither should we.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.049 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9207 I am happy to report that this year’s From my visit to Guam last year, I American people that national security NDAA increases the size of both our have seen the tremendous military must be and will be a national priority Active component and our Reserve buildup and military value of Guam, for this Congress. component. It also increases benefits and I understand that more is needed As a member of the Armed Services parity to our Reserve component sol- as Guam remains a strategic fixture in Committee and a conferee, I am proud diers by authorizing those deployed on ensuring peace and stability in the of the strong, bipartisan consensus we title X orders to receive preactivation Indo-Asia-Pacific region. have forged in both Chambers to re- and postactivation TRICARE coverage Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield an versing our dangerous decline in mili- when on 12304a and 12304b orders. Addi- additional 30 seconds to the gentle- tary readiness. Yet we must temper tionally, the FY18 NDAA will allow for woman from Guam if she would con- any pride we feel with the sober reality procurement of much-needed equip- tinue to yield to me. of the state we are in today: defense ment for our Reserve component. Ms. BORDALLO. I yield to the gen- spending as a percent of GDP is at his- Finally, I would like to thank my tleman from Texas. toric lows, operational tempo is at his- subcommittee chairmen—Mr. COFF- Mr. THORNBERRY. I agree with the toric highs, and threats are growing MAN, Mr. WILSON, and Mr. TURNER—for gentlewoman’s understanding of the more stark. their leadership and hard work through provision. There have been 31 CRs in 10 years, this process. Further, I support efforts to ensure which is a disgrace: a decade of de- Mr. Speaker, I encourage my col- that Guam has the workforce needed to ferred maintenance and modernization, leagues to join me in supporting this maintain its strategic posture and aircraft that don’t fly, ships that don’t legislation. military presence necessary to the na- sail, and vehicles that can’t move, Mr. SMITH of Washington. Mr. tional security of the United States. I shoot, or communicate on the modern Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gen- look forward to continuing to work battlefield. Mishap rates are rising, fa- tlewoman from Guam (Ms. BORDALLO), with the gentlewoman from Guam to- talities are rising, and training is at an who is the ranking member of the Sub- ward that end. all-time low. We have got to fix this. committee on Readiness, for purposes Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I Despite the lessons of history, we are of a colloquy with the chairman. thank the chairman very much and ap- simply unprepared to fight a modern Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I preciate his great support and look for- war in space, cyberspace, in the air, on thank the gentleman for yielding and ward to continuing to work with him land, and at sea. wish to engage the gentleman from on the implementation of this provi- I served in uniform under the past Texas, the chairman of the Armed sion and to address future workforce five Presidents and witnessed this ero- Services Committee, in a colloquy. needs on Guam in support of the mili- sion of battle readiness firsthand. For Let me first start by thanking Chair- tary realignment. me, this is personal. man THORNBERRY, Ranking Member Mr. THORNBERRY. Mr. Speaker, I This NDAA repairs the damage. The SMITH, and the committee staff for yield 1 minute to the gentleman from additional funding authorized in this working diligently with us to address Indiana (Mr. BANKS), who is a valuable bill makes a credible down payment in the workforce issues impacting the member of our committee. preserving the common defense and military realignment on Guam. Mr. BANKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, sends a message to both our adver- The conference agreement includes a it is a great honor of my time in Con- saries and our military of peace provision to remedy the H–2B visa de- gress to serve on the House Armed through strength. nial issue, particularly affecting con- Services Committee with Chairman Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to struction projects on Guam, by grant- THORNBERRY, and I am grateful for his vote for this conference report. ing USCIS the authority to approve leadership. Mr. THORNBERRY. Mr. Speaker, I temporary workers for construction Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support yield 1 minute to the gentleman from work directly connected to or associ- of the fiscal year 2018 National Defense Wisconsin (Mr. GALLAGHER), who is an- ated with the military realignment oc- Authorization Act conference report. other valuable member of our com- curring on Guam through 2023. As the most recently deployed vet- mittee. Providing for this small, temporary eran serving in Congress, I have seen Mr. GALLAGHER. Mr. Speaker, I workforce is very important, given the the national security challenges facing rise today to urge my colleagues in the strategic importance of Guam as the our country, firsthand. While these House to support the 2018 NDAA con- sole U.S. territory in the western Pa- challenges are not easily solved, this ference report. cific capable of basing significant joint legislation represents a significant step This body has no higher or more ur- force capabilities and the reality that forward. gent priority than providing for the exceedingly few U.S. mainland workers Whether it is giving our troops a common defense and restoring our are willing to travel to Guam to per- well-deserved raise, significantly in- military readiness. I am proud of the form this temporary work. creasing end strength numbers for each final text that my colleagues in the My understanding is that the intent of the services, allowing for the contin- House and Senate worked together on behind the inclusion of the phrase ‘‘as- ued transfer of excess defense articles so diligently. sociated with’’ is to allow for approval to allies abroad who are in need, or Not only does this legislation author- of visas for individuals performing funding our vital missile defense pro- ize a total of nearly $700 billion in de- work not only on military-funded fa- grams, this legislation begins the long fense spending, a $26 billion increase cilities and infrastructure, but also for process of rebuilding and reforming our above the President’s budget request, civilian infrastructure projects outside military so we are ready for whatever but it also provides the largest pay the gate, for example, infrastructure comes next. raise for our troops in 8 years. projects funded by the Federal Govern- Mr. Speaker, my gratitude goes out This NDAA also gets us closer to the ment, the government of Guam, or to those serving both here at home and critical goal of a 355-ship Navy and in- nongovernmental sources that are abroad, and I urge my colleagues to cludes funding for three littoral com- being done, in part, because of the in- support this important bipartisan leg- bat ships, helping to meet the Navy’s creased number of military personnel islation. urgent and enduring requirement for and military families moving to Guam. Mr. THORNBERRY. Mr. Speaker, I more small surface combatants. Is that the chairman’s understanding yield 1 minute to the gentleman from I want to thank Chairman THORN- of the intent behind the provision? Nebraska (Mr. BACON), who is a valu- BERRY for his leadership and my col- Mr. THORNBERRY. Will the gentle- able member of our committee. leagues in the House and Senate who woman yield? Mr. BACON. Mr. Speaker, I rise in fought tooth and nail to give our Ms. BORDALLO. I yield to the gen- support of the 2018 National Defense warfighters the resources they need to tleman from Texas. Authorization Act and commend Chair- deter threats, support our allies, and, Mr. THORNBERRY. Mr. Speaker, I man THORNBERRY for his exemplary above all, keep the American people want to thank the ranking member of leadership in our national defense. safe. the Readiness Subcommittee for her I join my House colleagues in sending Mr. THORNBERRY. Mr. Speaker, I work on this issue. a strong, bipartisan message to the yield 1 minute to the gentleman from

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.051 H14NOPT1 H9208 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 Pennsylvania (Mr. ROTHFUS), who is a The only issue I want to raise in clos- people want to fund over the next 10 strong proponent of a strong national ing is the money. That is the sticking years, they are wildly beyond the defense. point and the difficulty that we have. amount of money that we have. Mr. ROTHFUS. Mr. Speaker, I thank This bill, as it is currently con- We need a national security strategy the chairman, Mr. THORNBERRY, and structed, is $80 billion above the budget that has an honest look at how much the committee for their diligent work caps. In the 6 years since the budget money we are going to have. Other- on this legislation. caps passed, we have been unwilling to wise, we are not serving our troops. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support raise those. I know the comeback is: How can you of this NDAA conference report. I ap- But we have a larger problem. We put a price on national security? They plaud this bill’s goal to improve the have a $20 trillion debt. Our deficit is should get whatever they need. readiness level of our military which close to $700 billion. It has no prospect The only problem with that is that has been depleted of critical resources of going down anytime soon. At the they don’t. If we have a national secu- after many years of defending this same time, we have other needs. rity strategy that exceeds the amount country. During this debate, we focused like a of money we have, the ones left holding Not only does this legislation begin laser on armed services and the needs the bag are our troops. They are the to rebuild our forces, it includes a long of national security and our troops, as ones who are asked to do missions that overdue pay raise for our troops. well we should. Those needs are incred- they are not adequately trained to per- I applaud the bill’s reforms to im- ibly important. I don’t doubt that for a form. They are the ones who are asked prove the military healthcare system second. But you have to look at the to train without the adequate re- and make sure taxpayer resources are whole or we are not going to be able to sources to train properly. used appropriately. meet the needs of our national security That is what we must fund. To do I especially want to highlight the and our troops. The amount of revenue that, we need to do more than just pass current situation in Afghanistan, that we take in as a country, this bill. We need to have a fiscally re- which needs drastic improvement. unsurprisingly, impacts—or should im- sponsible approach to the overall budget. Shoring up Afghani security forces is pact—the amount of money that we Mr. Speaker, I urge passage of the only part of a short-term solution. We can spend. bill, and I yield back the balance of my need a long-term strategy that brings We are having this debate now. We time. stability to Afghanistan as well as the are talking about how underfunded the entire region. The NDAA directs Sec- Mr. THORNBERRY. Mr. Speaker, I military is and how badly we need to yield myself the balance of my time. retary Mattis to develop such a 5-year shore up our readiness. I agree with all strategy. This is a good step, and I urge Mr. Speaker, I, again, want to thank that. The rest of this week we are all the Members who have participated the military to continue thinking long going to figure out how to make sure in this debate, and even more impor- term. that our government takes in trillions Mr. Speaker, I urge all my colleagues tantly, all the Members who have con- of dollars in less money. That is wildly tributed to this product, especially the to support this report. inconsistent. If we believe we have Mr. THORNBERRY. Mr. Speaker, I members of the Armed Services Com- these needs, we ought to be able to pay mittee. Truthfully, Members from both yield 1 minute to the gentleman from for them. Colorado (Mr. LAMBORN), who is a valu- sides of the aisle throughout the House Then there are the other aspects of have contributed to it. able member of our committee. the budget. I know we are not supposed Mr. LAMBORN. Mr. Speaker, I thank We have spent several moments here to talk about that during the Armed the chairman for his great work talking about a lot of the details that Services Committee debate on the Na- throughout this whole process leading are in this bill. Mr. Speaker, it is a tional Defense Authorization Act, but the committee and getting this to the rather large bill. It covers everything the needs for infracture and education finish line, but we need to push it over from how much we pay our troops to are things that also make our country the finish line. how many ships and tanks and planes Mr. Speaker, for 56 years, this bill strong, not to mention the Department and bullets we buy, as well as what we has been the primary way in which of Homeland Security, the intelligence research and various policies of the De- Congress executes its Article I con- agencies, and other aspects of our na- partment of Defense. So there is a lot stitutional duty to provide for the tional security, which are all part of in here. common defense. This year’s bill fi- the same whole. Let me take a moment just to step If we are going to get to a fiscally re- nally begins to rebuild our military back and remind everybody what this sponsible place, we can’t just say de- after a half decade of cuts which is all about. Our Constitution says one fense gets whatever it wants and then slashed nearly one-quarter of the de- of the reasons we have a Federal Gov- let the chips fall where they may else- fense budget. For 6 years, we have just ernment is to provide for the common where. been barely getting by: cutting re- defense. As a matter of fact, I think On the Armed Services Committee, if sources as the world becomes more that is the first job of the Federal Gov- we truly care about making sure that dangerous, asking more and more of ernment: to defend the country, to de- our troops have enough money, we those who serve, and putting off tough fend our lives, and to defend our free- need to do two more things in addition choices. We are at a key decision point. doms. This bill will continue to save bil- to this bill. As a matter of fact, Article I, section Number one, we need to argue that lions of taxpayer dollars while cutting 8 of the Constitution says specifically we shouldn’t do a massive tax cut to wasteful bureaucracy and streamlining it is this Congress’ responsibility to undermine our ability to fund defense acquisition, but it will also strengthen build and support, provide and main- and national security. missile defense and, in many ways, tain the military forces of the United Number two, we need to take a hard make our military more focused on its States of America. That is our job. look at our national security strategy By passing this bill, that is how we core mission of preparing to fight and and figure out where we can save fulfill that job. But as we have talked win wars. There are so many good things in the money. about, what has happened in recent If we keep looking at every single bill, I can’t go over all of them. I sin- years is the world has grown more dan- section—it is too short here; it is too cerely ask my fellow Members to sup- gerous. Yet we have cut the defense short here—we do not have enough port this NDAA. budget. money. Even if we had a fit of fiscal re- As a matter of fact, we are spending b 1500 sponsibility and decided to make cuts 18 percent less now on defense than was Mr. SMITH of Washington. Mr. elsewhere—which hasn’t happened, by spent in 2010, if you measure it in real Speaker, I am prepared to close, and I the way—and we decided to raise rev- terms, apples to apples. I cannot think yield myself the balance of my time. enue instead of cutting it, even if we of another significant Federal program As has been mentioned, this is an ex- did that, we are still looking at needs that has been cut nearly 20 percent cellent bill that a lot of people did very within the national security budget. over the last 7 years, yet that is what good work on. I thank them for that. When you look at the programs that has happened in defense.

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What has happened as a result of Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I am out- the bill (H.R. 2874) to achieve reforms that? raged that for the third consecutive year, an to improve the financial stability of Our troops have borne the burden. We amendment to create a service medal for our the National Flood Insurance Program, are 2,000 pilots short in the Air Force Atomic Veterans has been dropped from the to enhance the development of more today. Sixty percent of the F–18s in the NDAA Conference Report. I find this particu- accurate estimates of flood risk Navy and Marine Corps cannot fly larly shocking as this amendment, which I of- through new technology and better today. fered with my Republican colleague, Con- maps, to increase the role of private As Mr. WILSON said, we have just gressman TOM EMMER, was approved by the markets in the management of flood seen tragic accidents in the Pacific, House unanimously by a vote of 424–0. insurance risks, and to provide for al- where 17 soldiers have lost their lives. It is unclear to me why our colleagues in the ternative methods to insure against We have had other accidents where Senate are determined to deprive our Atomic flood peril, and for other purposes, and others have lost their lives and other Veterans this most basic recognition of their ask for its immediate consideration in accidents where they have not. honorable service. the House. The point I am trying to make is Between 1945 and 1962, about 225,000 The Clerk read the title of the bill. that part of the responsibility for all of members of our Armed Forces participated in The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- that happening rests here with the hundreds of nuclear weapons tests. These GIs ant to House Resolution 616, in lieu of Congress of the United States not ful- were placed in extremely dangerous areas the amendment in the nature of a sub- filling adequately, in my view, its job and were constantly exposed to potentially stitute recommended by the Com- under the Constitution. dangerous levels of radiation in performance mittee on Financial Services printed in I would say one more thing, Mr. of their duties. They were sworn to secrecy, the bill, the amendment printed in part unable to even talk to their doctors about their Speaker. I agree with virtually all of A of House Report 115–408, modified by what the ranking member said about past exposure to radiation. Thankfully, Presidents Bill Clinton and the amendment printed in part B of the the importance of having a strategy George H.W. Bush recognized the Atomic Vet- report, is adopted and the bill, as and then resourcing that strategy. It is erans’ valiant service, and acted to provide amended, is considered read. true. specialized care and compensation for their The text of the bill, as amended, is as We have not had—and there is some harrowing duty. follows: responsibility with administrations of In 2007, our allies Great Britain, New Zea- H.R. 2874 both parties—a coherent strategy that land and Australia enacted their versions of Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- holds together and resources that flow this amendment by authorizing a medal to resentatives of the United States of America in from that. We should. honor their Atomic Veterans who served with Congress assembled. The fundamental issue is that it is the United States. SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE AND TABLE OF CON- morally wrong to send men and women Regrettably, the Pentagon remains silent on TENTS. out on missions with our military for (a) SHORT TITLE.—This Act may be cited as honoring the service of our Atomic Veterans, the ‘‘21st Century Flood Reform Act’’. which they are not fully supported, arguing that to do so would diminish the serv- fully trained, and equipped with the (b) TABLE OF CONTENTS.—The table of con- ice of other military personnel who are tasked tents for this Act is as follows: best equipment our country can pro- with dangerous missions. Mr. Speaker, this is Sec. 1. Short title and table of contents. vide. It is wrong for us to do it, and a pitiful excuse. that is exactly what has been hap- TITLE I—POLICYHOLDER PROTECTIONS Tragically, more than 75 percent of Atomic AND INFORMATION pening. Veterans have already passed away, never As I mentioned at the beginning, we Sec. 101. Extension of National Flood Insur- having received this recognition. They served ance Program. are not going to turn this around in a honorably and kept a code of silence that Sec. 102. Annual limitation on premium in- single bill or a single year, but we can most certainly led to many of these veterans creases. make a start. This bill makes a start. passing away prematurely. Sec. 103. Flood insurance affordability pro- I will absolutely agree with the gen- Past Administrations and Congresses have gram. tleman from Washington and others dealt with the thornier issues of legality and Sec. 104. Disclosure of premium method- that we can’t really start to turn this compensation. What remains is recognizing ology. around without an appropriations bill these veterans’ duty, honor and faithful service Sec. 105. Consideration of coastal and inland that follows it, that matches it, and locations in premium rates. to our nation. And time is running out. Sec. 106. Monthly installment payment of that really does repair our ships and I thank my colleagues here in the House for premiums. planes, increases our end-strength, and supporting this amendment. With their contin- Sec. 107. Enhanced clear communication of provides the training that I believe we ued support, I hope we can convince the Sen- flood risks. deserve to give to the men and women ate or the Pentagon to finally do the right Sec. 108. Availability of flood insurance in- who serve. thing, before it’s too late. We owe it to our vet- formation upon request. Finally, Mr. Speaker, I would just re- erans to honor them for their selfless service Sec. 109. Disclosure of flood risk informa- mind everyone that there are really to our nation. tion upon transfer of property. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Sec. 110. Voluntary community-based flood two reasons we do this bill. One is that insurance pilot program. DUNCAN of Tennessee). All time for de- we owe it to the people who risk their Sec. 111. Use of replacement cost in deter- lives to defend us. Secondly, for the na- bate has expired. mining premium rates. tional security of the United States. Pursuant to House Resolution 616, Sec. 112. Cap on premiums. The challenges to our Nation’s secu- the previous question is ordered on the Sec. 113. Premium rates for certain miti- rity have grown more ominous in re- conference report. gated properties. cent years, certainly more complex The question is on the conference re- Sec. 114. Study of flood insurance coverage than at any time in our lifetimes. This port. for units in cooperative hous- The question was taken; and the ing. is, I believe, a real opportunity on a bi- Speaker pro tempore announced that Sec. 115. Pilot program for properties with partisan basis to show the troops that the ayes appeared to have it. preexisting conditions. we support them and to show adver- Mr. THORNBERRY. Mr. Speaker, on Sec. 116. Federal Flood Insurance Advisory saries and allies alike that the United that I demand the yeas and nays. Committee. States is going to stand up and defend The yeas and nays were ordered. Sec. 117. Interagency guidance on compliance. ourselves by passing this piece of legis- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- lation and by following it up with a Sec. 118. GAO study of claims adjustment ant to clause 8 of rule XX, further pro- practices. budget agreement and an appropria- ceedings on this question will be post- Sec. 119. GAO study of flood insurance cov- tions bill that follows. poned. erage treatment of earth move- That is what I think the Constitution f ment. requires of us. I hope my colleagues Sec. 120. Definitions. will agree and support this conference 21ST CENTURY FLOOD REFORM TITLE II—INCREASING CONSUMER report. ACT CHOICE THROUGH PRIVATE MARKET Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, pur- DEVELOPMENT of my time. suant to House Resolution 616, I call up Sec. 201. Private flood insurance.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0655 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.054 H14NOPT1 H9210 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 Sec. 202. Opt-out of mandatory coverage re- Sec. 608. Reserve Fund amounts. ‘‘(B) a State may not exclude a household quirement for commercial prop- Sec. 609. Sufficient staffing for Office of from eligibility in a fiscal year solely on the erties. Flood Insurance Advocate. basis of household income if such income is Sec. 203. Elimination of non-compete re- Sec. 610. Limited exemption for disaster or less than 110 percent of the poverty level for quirement. catastrophe claims adjusters. the State in which such household resides. Sec. 204. Public availability of program in- TITLE I—POLICYHOLDER PROTECTIONS ‘‘(2) STATE VERIFICATION OF INCOME ELIGI- formation. AND INFORMATION BILITY.—In verifying income eligibility for Sec. 205. Refund of premiums upon cancella- SEC. 101. EXTENSION OF NATIONAL FLOOD IN- purposes of paragraph (1), the participating tion of policy because of re- SURANCE PROGRAM. State may apply procedures and policies con- placement with private flood (a) FINANCING.—Section 1309(a) of the Na- sistent with procedures and policies used by insurance. tional Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. the State agency administering programs Sec. 206. GAO study of flood damage savings 4016(a)) is amended by striking ‘‘September under part A of title IV of the Social Secu- accounts. 30, 2017’’ and inserting ‘‘September 30, 2022’’. rity Act (42 U.S.C. 601 et seq.), under title XX Sec. 207. Demonstration program for flood (b) PROGRAM EXPIRATION.—Section 1319 of of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1397 et damage savings accounts. the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 seq.), under subtitle B of title VI of the Om- TITLE III—MAPPING FAIRNESS U.S.C. 4026) is amended by striking ‘‘Sep- nibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 (42 tember 30, 2017’’ and inserting ‘‘September Sec. 301. Use of other risk assessment tools U.S.C. 9901 et seq.; relating to community 30, 2022’’. in determining premium rates. services block grant program), under any Sec. 302. Appeals regarding existing flood SEC. 102. ANNUAL LIMITATION ON PREMIUM IN- other provision of law that carries out pro- CREASES. grams which were administered under the maps. Section 1308(e) of the National Flood Insur- Sec. 303. Appeals and publication of pro- Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 (42 U.S.C. ance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4015(e)) is amend- jected special flood hazard 2701 et seq.) before August 13, 1981, or under ed— other income assistance or service programs areas. (1) in paragraph (1), by striking ‘‘18 per- Sec. 304. Communication and outreach re- (as determined by the State). cent’’ and inserting ‘‘15 percent’’; and garding map changes. ‘‘(3) CERTIFICATION BY STATE OF ELIGIBILITY (2) in paragraph (2)— Sec. 305. Sharing and use of maps and data. HOUSEHOLDS.—For each fiscal year, each par- (A) by striking ‘‘5 percent’’ and inserting Sec. 306. Community flood maps. ticipating State shall certify to the Adminis- ‘‘6.5 percent’’; and TITLE IV—PROTECTING CONSUMERS trator compliance of households who are to (B) by inserting before the semicolon at be provided assistance under the State pro- AND INDIVIDUALS THROUGH IM- the end the following: ‘‘, except that (A) dur- PROVED MITIGATION gram during such fiscal year with the in- ing the 12-month period on the date of the come requirements under paragraph (1). Sec. 401. Provision of Community Rating enactment of the 21st Century Flood Reform ‘‘(e) ELIGIBLE PROPERTIES.—Assistance System premium credits to Act this paragraph shall be applied by sub- under the program under this section may be maximum number of commu- stituting ‘5 percent’ for ‘6.5 percent’, (B) dur- provided only for a residential property— nities practicable. ing the 12-month period beginning upon the ‘‘(1) that has 4 or fewer residences; Sec. 402. Community accountability for re- expiration of the period referred to in clause ‘‘(2) that is owned and occupied by an eligi- petitively flooded areas. (A), this paragraph shall be applied by sub- ble household; Sec. 403. Increased cost of compliance cov- stituting ‘5.5 percent’ for ‘6.5 percent’, and ‘‘(3) for which a base flood elevation is erage. (C) during the 12-month period beginning identified on a flood insurance rate map of TITLE V—PROGRAM INTEGRITY upon the expiration of the period referred to the Administrator that is in effect; Sec. 501. Independent actuarial review. in clause (B), this paragraph shall be applied ‘‘(4) for which such other information is Sec. 502. Adjustments to homeowner flood by substituting ‘6.0 percent’ for ‘6.5 per- available as the Administrator considers insurance affordability sur- cent’ ’’. necessary to determine the flood risk associ- charge. SEC. 103. FLOOD INSURANCE AFFORDABILITY ated with such property; and Sec. 503. National Flood Insurance Reserve PROGRAM. ‘‘(5) that is located in a community that is Fund compliance. Chapter I of the National Flood Insurance participating in the national flood insurance Sec. 504. Designation and treatment of mul- Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4011 et seq.) is amended program. tiple-loss properties. by adding at the end the following new sec- ‘‘(f) TYPES OF ASSISTANCE.—Under the pro- Sec. 505. Elimination of coverage for prop- tion: gram under this section, a participating erties with excessive lifetime ‘‘SEC. 1326. FLOOD INSURANCE AFFORDABILITY State shall elect to provide financial assist- claims. PROGRAM. ance for eligible households in one of the fol- Sec. 506. Prohibition of new coverage for ‘‘(a) AUTHORITY.—The Administrator shall lowing forms: structures with high-value re- carry out a program under this section to ‘‘(1) LIMITATION ON RATE INCREASES.—By es- placement costs. provide financial assistance, through State tablishing a limitation on the rate of in- Sec. 507. Pay for performance and stream- programs carried out by participating creases in the amount of chargeable pre- lining costs and reimburse- States, for eligible low-income households miums paid by eligible households for flood ment. residing in eligible properties to purchase insurance coverage made available under Sec. 508. Enforcement of mandatory pur- policies for flood insurance coverage made this title. chase requirements. available under this title. ‘‘(2) LIMITATION ON RATES.—By establishing ‘‘(b) PARTICIPATION.—Participation in the Sec. 509. Satisfaction of mandatory purchase a limitation on the amount of chargeable program under this section shall be vol- requirement in States allowing premiums paid by eligible households for untary on the part of a State or consortium all-perils policies. flood insurance coverage made available of States. Sec. 510. Flood insurance purchase require- under this title. ‘‘(c) STATE ADMINISTRATION.—Each partici- ments. ‘‘(g) NOTIFICATION TO FEMA.—Under the pating State shall delegate to a State agency Sec. 511. Clarifications; deadline for ap- program under this section, a participating or nonprofit organization the responsibilities proval of claims. State shall, on a fiscal year basis and at the for administrating the State’s program Sec. 512. Risk transfer requirement. time and in the manner provided by the Ad- under this section. Sec. 513. GAO study of simplification of Na- ministrator— ‘‘(d) ELIGIBLE HOUSEHOLDS.— tional Flood Insurance Pro- ‘‘(1) identify for the Administrator the eli- ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—During any fiscal year, gram. gible households residing in the State who assistance under the program under this sec- are to be provided assistance under the State Sec. 514. GAO study on enforcement of man- tion may be provided only for a household datory purchase requirements. program during such fiscal year; and that has an income, as determined for such ‘‘(2) notify the Administrator of the type TITLE VI—ADMINISTRATIVE REFORMS fiscal year by the participating State in and levels of assistance elected under sub- Sec. 601. Penalties for fraud and false state- which such household resides, that is less section (f) to be provided under the State ments in the National Flood In- than the income limitation established for program with respect to such eligible house- surance Program. such fiscal year for purposes of the State holds residing in the State. Sec. 602. Enhanced policyholder appeals program by the participating State, except ‘‘(h) AMOUNT OF ASSISTANCE.—Under the process rights. that— program under this section, in each fiscal Sec. 603. Deadline for approval of claims. ‘‘(A) assistance under the program under year the Administrator shall, notwith- Sec. 604. Litigation process oversight and re- this section may not be provided for a house- standing section 1308, make flood insurance form. hold having a income that exceeds the great- coverage available for purchase by house- Sec. 605. Prohibition on hiring disbarred at- er of— holds identified as eligible households for torneys. ‘‘(i) the amount equal to 150 percent of the such fiscal year by a participating State pur- Sec. 606. Technical assistance reports. poverty level for such State; or suant to subsection (e) at chargeable pre- Sec. 607. Improved disclosure requirement ‘‘(ii) the amount equal to 60 percent of the mium rates that are discounted by an for standard flood insurance median income of households residing in amount that is based on the type and levels policies. such State; and of assistance elected pursuant to subsection

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A14NO7.013 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9211 (f) by the participating State for such fiscal any State, the income poverty line as pre- ance Program to implement the amendments year. scribed and revised at least annually pursu- made by this section. ‘‘(i) BILLING STATEMENT.—In the case of an ant to section 673(2) of the Community Serv- SEC. 106. MONTHLY INSTALLMENT PAYMENT OF eligible household for which assistance under ices Block Grant Act (42 U.S.C. 9902(2)), as PREMIUMS. the program under this section is provided applicable to such State. (a) AUTHORITY.—Subsection (g) of section with respect to a policy for flood insurance ‘‘(4) STATE.—The term ‘State’ shall include 1308 of the National Flood Insurance Act of coverage, the annual billing statement for a consortium of States established for pur- 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4015(g)) is amended— such policy shall include statements of the poses of administrating the program under (1) by striking the subsection designation following amounts: this section with respect to the member and all that follows through ‘‘With respect’’ ‘‘(1) The estimated risk premium rate for States of the consortium. and inserting the following: the property under section 1307(a)(1). ‘‘(5) STATE PROGRAM.—The term ‘State pro- ‘‘(g) FREQUENCY OF PREMIUM COLLECTION.— ‘‘(2) If applicable, the estimated risk pre- gram’ means a program carried out in com- ‘‘(1) OPTIONS.—With respect’’; and mium rate for the property under section pliance with this section by a participating (2) by adding at the end the following: 1307(a)(2). State in conjunction with the program under ‘‘(2) MONTHLY INSTALLMENT PAYMENT OF ‘‘(3) The chargeable risk premium rate for this section of the Administrator. PREMIUMS.— the property taking into consideration the ‘‘(m) REGULATIONS.—The Administrator ‘‘(A) EXEMPTION FROM RULEMAKING.—Until discount pursuant to subsection (h). shall issue such regulations as may be nec- such time as the Administrator promulgates ‘‘(4) The amount of the discount pursuant essary to carry out the program under this regulations implementing paragraph (1) of to subsection (h) for the property. section.’’. this subsection, the Administrator may ‘‘(5) The number and dollar value of claims SEC. 104. DISCLOSURE OF PREMIUM METHOD- adopt policies and procedures, notwith- filed for the property, over the life of the OLOGY. standing any other provisions of law and in property, under a flood insurance policy Section 1308 of the National Flood Insur- alignment and consistent with existing in- made available under the Program and the ance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4015) is amended dustry escrow and servicing standards, nec- effect, under this Act, of filing any further by adding at the end the following new sub- essary to implement such paragraph without claims under a flood insurance policy with section: undergoing notice and comment rulemaking respect to that property. ‘‘(n) DISCLOSURE OF PREMIUM METHOD- and without conducting regulatory analyses ‘‘(j) FUNDING THROUGH STATE AFFORD- OLOGY.— otherwise required by statute, regulation, or ABILITY SURCHARGES.— ‘‘(1) DISCLOSURE.—Six months prior to the Executive order. ‘‘(1) IMPOSITION AND COLLECTION.—Notwith- effective date of risk premium rates, the Ad- ‘‘(B) PILOT PROGRAM.—The Administrator standing section 1308, for each fiscal year in ministrator shall cause to be published in may initially implement paragraph (1) of which flood insurance coverage under this the Federal Register an explanation of the this subsection as a pilot program that pro- title is made available for properties in a bases for, and methodology used to deter- vides for a gradual phase-in of implementa- participating State at chargeable premium mine, the chargeable premium rates to be ef- tion. rates that are discounted pursuant to sub- fective for flood insurance coverage under ‘‘(C) POLICYHOLDER PROTECTION.—The Ad- section (f), the Administrator shall impose this title. ministrator may— and collect a State affordability surcharge ‘‘(2) ALIGNMENT WITH INDUSTRY PRAC- ‘‘(i) during the 12-month period beginning on each policy for flood insurance coverage TICES.—The disclosure required under para- on the date of the enactment of this subpara- for a property located in such participating graph (1) shall, to the extent practicable, be graph, charge policyholders choosing to pay State that is (A) not a residential property aligned with industry patterns and practices premiums in monthly installments a fee for having 4 or fewer residences, or (B) is such a and shall include information and data rec- the total cost of the monthly collection of residential property but is owned by a house- ommended by the State insurance commis- premiums not to exceed $25 annually; and hold that is not an eligible household for sioners guidelines on rate filings. ‘‘(ii) after the expiration of the 12-month purposes of such fiscal year. ‘‘(3) PUBLIC MEETINGS.—The Administrator period referred to in clause (i), adjust the fee ‘‘(2) AMOUNT.—The amount of the State af- shall, on an annual basis, hold at least one charged annually to cover the total cost of fordability surcharge imposed during a fiscal public meeting in each of the geographical the monthly collection of premiums as de- year on each such policy for a property in a regions of the United States, as defined by termined by the report submitted pursuant participating State shall be— the Administrator for purposes of the Na- to subparagraph (D). ‘‘(A) sufficient such that the aggregate tional Flood Insurance Program, for the pur- ‘‘(D) REPORT.—Not later than six months amount of all such State affordability sur- pose of explaining the methodology de- after the date of the enactment of this Act, charges imposed on properties in such par- scribed in paragraph (1) and answering ques- the Comptroller General shall submit a re- ticipating State during such fiscal year is tions and receiving comments regarding such port to the Committee on Financial Services equal to the aggregate amount by which all methodology. The Administrator shall proof the House of Representatives and the policies for flood insurance coverage under vide notice of each such public meeting in Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban this title sold during such fiscal year for advance, in such manner, and in using such Affairs of the Senate, that sets forth all of properties owned by eligible households in means as are reasonably designed to notify the costs associated with the monthly pay- the participating State are discounted pursu- interested parties and members of the public ment of premiums, including any up-front ant to subsection (f); and of the date and time, location, and purpose costs associated with infrastructure develop- ‘‘(B) the same amount for each property in of such meeting, and of how to submit ques- ment, the impact on all policyholders includ- the participating State being charged such a tions or comments.’’. ing those that exercise the option to pay surplus. SEC. 105. CONSIDERATION OF COASTAL AND IN- monthly and those that do not, options for ‘‘(k) TREATMENT OF OTHER SURCHARGES.— LAND LOCATIONS IN PREMIUM minimizing the costs, particularly the costs The provision of assistance under the pro- RATES. to policyholders, and the feasibility of adopt- gram under this section with respect to any (a) ESTIMATES OF PREMIUM RATES.—Sub- ing practices that serve to minimize costs to property and any limitation on premiums or paragraph (A) of section 1307(a)(1) of the Na- policyholders such as automatic payments premium increases pursuant to subsection (f) tional Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. and electronic payments. for the property shall not affect the applica- 4014(a)(1)(A)) is amended— ‘‘(E) ANNUAL REPORTS.—On an annual bility or amount of any surcharge under sec- (1) in clause (i), by striking ‘‘and’’ at the basis, the Administrator shall report to the tion 1308A for the property, of any increase end; and Committee on Financial Services of the in premiums charged for the property pursu- (2) by adding at the end the following new House of Representatives and the Committee ant to section 1310A(c), or of any equivalency clause: on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs of fee under section 1308B for the property. ‘‘(iii) the differences in flood risk for prop- the Senate the ongoing costs associated with ‘‘(l) DEFINITIONS.—For purposes of this sec- erties impacted by coastal flood risk and the monthly payment of premiums.’’. tion, the following definitions shall apply: properties impacted by riverine, or inland (b) IMPLEMENTATION.—Clause (ii) of section ‘‘(1) PARTICIPATING STATE.—The term ‘par- flood risk; and’’. 1307(a)(1)(B) of the National Flood Insurance ticipating State’ means, with respect to a (b) ESTABLISHMENT OF CHARGEABLE PRE- Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4014(a)(1)(B)(ii)) is fiscal year, a State that is participating in MIUM RATES.—Paragraph (1) of section 1308(b) amended by inserting before ‘‘any adminis- the program under this section for such fis- of the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 trative expenses’’ the following: ‘‘the costs cal year. (42 U.S.C. 4015(b)(1)) is amended by inserting associated with the monthly collection of ‘‘(2) ELIGIBLE HOUSEHOLD.—The term ‘eligi- ‘‘due to differences in flood risk resulting premiums provided for in section 1308(g) (42 ble household’ means, with respect to a fiscal from coastal flood hazards and riverine, or U.S.C. 4015(g)), but only if such costs exceed year and a participating State, a household inland flood hazards and’’ after ‘‘including the operating costs and allowances set forth that has an income that is less than the differences in risks’’. in clause (i) of this subparagraph, and’’. amount of the income limitation for the fis- (c) REVISED RATES.—Not later than the ex- SEC. 107. ENHANCED CLEAR COMMUNICATION OF cal year established for purposes of the State piration of the two-year period beginning on FLOOD RISKS. program of such participating State pursu- the date of the enactment of this Act, the (a) IN GENERAL.—Subsection (l) of section ant to subsection (g)(1). Administrator of the Federal Emergency 1308 of the National Flood Insurance Act of ‘‘(3) POVERTY LEVEL.—The term ‘poverty Management Agency shall revise risk pre- 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4015(l)) is amended to read as level’’ means, with respect to a household in mium rates under the National Flood Insur- follows:

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‘‘(l) CLEAR COMMUNICATIONS.— ‘‘(B) prior insurance claims for losses cov- 180-day period beginning on the date of the ‘‘(1) NEWLY ISSUED AND RENEWED POLI- ered under the National Flood Insurance enactment of this Act and the program shall CIES.—For all policies for flood insurance Program or private flood insurance with re- terminate on September 30, 2022. coverage under the National Flood Insurance spect to such property; (e) DEFINITION OF COMMUNITY.—For pur- Program that are newly issued or renewed, ‘‘(C) any previous notification regarding poses of this section, the term ‘‘community’’ the Administrator shall clearly commu- the designation of the property as a multiple means any unit of local government, within nicate to policyholders— loss property; and the meaning given such term under the laws ‘‘(A) their full flood risk determinations, ‘‘(D) any Federal legal obligation to obtain of the applicable State. regardless of whether their premium rates and maintain flood insurance running with SEC. 111. USE OF REPLACEMENT COST IN DETER- are full actuarial rates; and the property, such as any obligation due to a MINING PREMIUM RATES. ‘‘(B) the number and dollar value of claims previous form of disaster assistance under (a) STUDY OF RISK RATING REDESIGN FLOOD filed for the property, over the life of the the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and INSURANCE PREMIUM RATING OPTIONS.— property, under a flood insurance policy Emergency Assistance Act received by any (1) STUDY.—The Administrator of the Fed- made available under the Program and the owner of the property; and eral Emergency Management Agency shall effect, under this Act, of filing any further ‘‘(3) is delivered by or on behalf of the sell- conduct a study to— claims under a flood insurance policy with er or lessor to the purchaser or lessee before (A) evaluate insurance industry best prac- respect to that property.’’. such purchaser or lessee becomes obligated tices for risk rating and classification, including practices related to replacement cost (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—Subsection (l) of sec- under any contract for purchase or lease of value in premium rate estimations; tion 1308 of the National Flood Insurance Act the property.’’. of 1968, as added by subsection (a) of this sec- (b) AVAILABILITY OF FLOOD INSURANCE COV- (B) assess options, methods, and strategies tion, shall take effect beginning upon the ex- ERAGE.—Subsection (c) of section 1305 of the for including replacement cost value in the piration of the 12-month period that begins National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 Administrator’s estimates under section on the date of the enactment of this Act. U.S.C. 4012(c)) is amended— 1307(a)(1) of the National Flood Insurance Such subsection (l), as in effect immediately (1) in paragraph (1), by striking ‘‘and’’ at Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4014(a)(1)); before the amendment made by paragraph the end; (C) provide recommendations for including (1), shall apply during such 12-month period. (2) in paragraph (2), by striking the period replacement cost value in the estimate of SEC. 108. AVAILABILITY OF FLOOD INSURANCE at the end and inserting ‘‘; and’’; and the risk premium rates for flood insurance INFORMATION UPON REQUEST. (3) by adding at the end the following new under such section 1307(a)(1); Section 1313 of the National Flood Insur- paragraph: (D) identify an appropriate methodology to ance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4020) is amended— ‘‘(3) given satisfactory assurance that by incorporate replacement cost value into the Administrator’s estimates under such sec- (1) by inserting ‘‘(a) PUBLIC INFORMATION September 30, 2022, property flood hazard dis- tion 1307(a)(1); AND DATA.—’’ after ‘‘SEC. 1313.’’; and closure requirements will have been adopted (E) develop a feasible implementation plan (2) by adding at the end the following new for the area that meet the requirements of and projected timeline for including replace- subsection: section 1326.’’. ‘‘(b) AVAILABILITY OF FLOOD INSURANCE IN- ment cost value in the estimates of risk pre- SEC. 110. VOLUNTARY COMMUNITY-BASED FLOOD mium rates for flood insurance made avail- FORMATION UPON REQUEST.—Not later than 30 INSURANCE PILOT PROGRAM. able under the National Flood Insurance days after a request for such information by (a) ESTABLISHMENT.—The Administrator of the current owner of a property, the Admin- the Federal Emergency Management Agency Program. istrator shall provide to the owner any infor- (in this section referred to as the ‘‘Adminis- (2) REPORT.— mation, including historical information, trator’’) may carry out a community-based (A) REQUIREMENT.—Not later than the expi- available to the Administrator on flood in- flood insurance pilot program to make avail- ration of the 12-month period beginning on surance program coverage, payment of able, for purchase by participating commu- the date of the enactment of this Act, the claims, and flood damages for the property nities, a single, community-wide flood insur- Administrator shall submit to the Com- at issue, and any information the Adminis- ance policy under the National Flood Insur- mittee on Financial Services of the House of trator has on whether the property owner ance Program that— Representatives and the Committee on may be required to purchase coverage under (1) covers all residential and non-residen- Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs of the the National Flood Insurance Program due tial properties within the community; and Senate a report that contains the results and to previous receipt of Federal disaster assist- (2) satisfies, for all such properties within conclusions of the study required under para- ance, including assistance provided by the the community, the mandatory purchase re- graph (1). Small Business Administration, the Depart- (B) CONTENTS.—The report submitted ment of Housing and Urban Development, or quirements under section 102 of the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973 (42 U.S.C. under subparagraph (A) shall include— the Federal Emergency Management Agen- (i) an analysis of the recommendations re- cy, or any other type of assistance that sub- 4012a). (b) PARTICIPATION.—Participation by a sulting from the study under paragraph (1) jects the property to the mandatory pur- community in the pilot program under this and any potential impacts on the National chase requirement under section 102 of the section shall be entirely voluntary on the Flood Insurance Program, including cost Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973 (42 part of the community. considerations; U.S.C. 4012a).’’. (c) REQUIREMENTS FOR COMMUNITY-WIDE (ii) a description of any actions taken by SEC. 109. DISCLOSURE OF FLOOD RISK INFORMA- POLICIES.—The Administrator shall ensure the Administrator to implement the study TION UPON TRANSFER OF PROP- recommendations; and ERTY. that a community-wide flood insurance policy made available under the pilot program (iii) a description of any study rec- (a) IN GENERAL.—Chapter 1 of the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4011 et under this section incorporates the following ommendations that have been deferred or seq.), as amended by the preceding provisions requirements: not acted upon, together with a statement of this Act, is further amended by adding at (1) A mapping requirement for properties explaining the reasons for such deferral or the end the following new section: covered by the policy. inaction. (2) A cap on premiums. (b) USE OF REPLACEMENT COST VALUE IN ‘‘SEC. 1327. DISCLOSURE OF FLOOD RISK INFOR- PREMIUM RATES; IMPLEMENTATION.— MATION UPON TRANSFER OF PROP- (3) A deductible. ERTY. (4) Certification or accreditation of mitiga- (1) ESTIMATED RATES.—Paragraph (1) of ‘‘(a) REQUIREMENT FOR PARTICIPATION IN tion infrastructure when available and ap- section 1307(a) of the National Flood Insur- PROGRAM.—After September 30, 2022, no new propriate. ance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4014(a)(1)) is flood insurance coverage may be provided (5) A community audit. amended, in the matter preceding subpara- under this title for any real property located (6) The Community Rating System under graph (A), by inserting after ‘‘flood insur- in any area (or subdivision thereof) unless an section 1315(b) of the National Flood Insur- ance’’ the following: ‘‘, which shall incor- appropriate body has imposed, by statute or ance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4022(b)). porate replacement cost value, and’’. regulation, a duty on any seller or lessor of (7) A method of preventing redundant (2) CHARGEABLE RATES.—Subsection (b) of improved real estate located in such area to claims payments by the National Flood In- section 1308 of the National Flood Insurance provide to any purchaser or lessee of such surance Program in the case of a claim by an Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4015(b)) is amended, in property a property flood hazard disclosure individual property owner who is covered by the matter preceding paragraph (1), by in- which the Administrator has determined a community-wide flood insurance policy serting after ‘‘Such rates’’ the following: meets the requirements of subsection (b). and an individual policy obtained through ‘‘shall incorporate replacement cost value ‘‘(b) DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS.—A prop- the Program. and’’. erty flood hazard disclosure for a property (8) Coverage for damage arising from flood- (3) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments shall meet the requirements of this sub- ing that complies with the standards under under paragraphs (1) and (2) of this subsection only if the disclosure— the National Flood Insurance Program ap- section shall be made upon the expiration of ‘‘(1) is made in writing; propriate to the nature and type of property the 12-month period beginning on the date of ‘‘(2) discloses any actual knowledge of the covered. the enactment of this Act. seller or lessor of— (d) TIMING.—The Administrator may estab- (4) APPLICABILITY AND PHASE-IN.—The Ad- ‘‘(A) prior physical damage caused by flood lish the demonstration program under this ministrator of the Federal Emergency Man- to any building located on the property; section not later than the expiration of the agement Agency shall apply the amendments

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STUDY OF FLOOD INSURANCE COV- 31, 2022. (B) after the expiration of such period re- ERAGE FOR UNITS IN COOPERATIVE ‘‘(5) FINAL REPORT.—Not later than March ferred to in subparagraph (A), such amend- HOUSING. 31, 2023, the Administrator shall submit a ments shall apply to all flood insurance cov- The Administrator of the Federal Emer- final report regarding the pilot program erage made available under the National gency Management Agency shall conduct a under this section to the Committee on Fi- Flood Insurance Act of 1968. study to analyze and determine the feasi- nancial Services of the House of Representa- SEC. 112. CAP ON PREMIUMS. bility of providing flood insurance coverage tives and the Committee on Banking, Hous- Paragraph (1) of section 1308(e) of the Na- under the National Flood Insurance Program ing, and Urban Affairs of the Senate. The re- tional Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. under the National Flood Insurance Act of port shall include any findings and rec- 4015(e)(1)) is amended— 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4001 et seq.) for individual ommendations of the Administrator regard- (1) by striking ‘‘except —’’ and inserting dwelling units in cooperative housing ing the pilot program.’’. projects. Not later than the expiration of the ‘‘except as provided in paragraph (4); and’’; SEC. 116. FEDERAL FLOOD INSURANCE ADVISORY (2) by striking subparagraphs (A) and (B); 24-month period beginning on the date of the COMMITTEE. (3) in subparagraph (C)— enactment of this Act, the Administrator (A) in clause (ii), by redesignating sub- shall submit a report to the Committee on (a) ESTABLISHMENT.—There is established clauses (I) and (II) as items (aa) and (bb), re- Financial Services of the House of Rep- an advisory committee to be known as the spectively; resentatives and the Committee on Banking, Federal Flood Insurance Advisory Com- (B) by redesignating clauses (i) through Housing, and Urban Affairs of the Senate re- mittee (in this section referred to as the (iii) as subclauses (I) through (III), respec- garding the findings and conclusions of the ‘‘Committee’’). tively; and study conducted pursuant to this section, (b) MEMBERSHIP.— (C) by striking ‘‘(C) in the case of a prop- which shall include a plan setting forth spe- (1) MEMBERS.—The Committee shall con- erty that—’’ and inserting the following: cific actions to implement the development sist of— ‘‘(B) The limitations under clauses (i) and of such flood insurance coverage. (A) the Administrator of the Federal Emer- (ii) of subparagraph (A) shall not apply in SEC. 115. PILOT PROGRAM FOR PROPERTIES gency Management Agency (in this section the case of— WITH PREEXISTING CONDITIONS. referred to as the ‘‘Administrator’’), or the ‘‘(i) a property identified under section Section 1311 of the National Flood Insur- designee thereof; 1307(g); or ance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4018) is amended (B) the Secretary of the Treasury, or the ‘‘(ii) a property that—’’; by adding at the end the following new sub- designee thereof; and (4) by striking ‘‘under this title for any section: (C) additional members appointed by the property’’ and inserting the following: ‘‘(c) PILOT PROGRAM FOR INVESTIGATION OF Administrator or the designee of the Admin- ‘‘under this title— PREEXISTING STRUCTURAL CONDITIONS.— istrator, who shall be— ‘‘(i) for any property’’; ‘‘(1) VOLUNTARY PROGRAM.—The Adminis- (i) two representatives of the property and (5) by inserting ‘‘(A) subject to subpara- trator shall carry out a pilot program under casualty insurance sector; graph (B),’’ after the paragraph designation; this subsection to provide for companies par- (ii) one individual who served in the past, and ticipating in the Write Your Own program or is currently serving, as an insurance regu- (6) by inserting before subparagraph (B), as (as such term is defined in section 1370(a) (42 lator of a State, the District of Columbia, so redesignated by the amendment made by U.S.C. 4121(a))) to investigate preexisting the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, paragraph (3)(C) of this section, the following structural conditions of insured properties the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana new clause: and potentially insured properties that could Islands, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, ‘‘(ii) for any residential property having 4 result in the denial of a claim under a policy or any federally-recognized Indian tribe; or fewer residences and for which there is for flood insurance coverage under this title (iii) one representative of the financial or elevation data meeting standards of the Ad- in the event of a flood loss to such property. insurance sectors who is involved in risk ministrator, may not exceed $10,000 in any Participation in the pilot program shall be transfers, including reinsurance, resilience single year, except that such amount (as it voluntary on the part of Write Your Own bonds, and other insurance-linked securities; may have been previously adjusted) shall be companies. (iv) one actuary with demonstrated high- adjusted for inflation by the Administrator ‘‘(2) INVESTIGATION OF PROPERTIES.—Under level knowledge of catastrophic risk insur- upon the expiration of the 5-year period be- the pilot program under this subsection, a ance; ginning upon the date of the enactment of Write Your Own company participating in (v) two insurance professionals with dem- the 21st Century Flood Reform Act and upon the program shall— onstrated experience with the sale of flood the expiration of each successive 5-year pe- ‘‘(A) provide in policies for flood insurance insurance under the National Flood Insur- riod thereafter, in accordance with an infla- coverage under this title covered by the pro- ance Program; tionary index selected by the Adminis- gram that, upon the request of the policy- (vi) two representatives of catastrophic trator.’’. holder, the company shall provide for— risk insurance programs; SEC. 113. PREMIUM RATES FOR CERTAIN MITI- ‘‘(i) an investigation of the property cov- (vii) one insurance claims specialist; GATED PROPERTIES. ered by such policy, using common methods, (viii) one representative of a recognized (a) MITIGATION STRATEGIES.—Paragraph (1) to determine whether preexisting structural consumer advocacy organization; of section 1361(d) of the National Flood In- conditions are present that could result in (ix) one individual having demonstrated surance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4102(d)(1)) is the denial of a claim under such policy for expertise in the challenges in insuring low- amended— flood losses; and income communities; (1) in subparagraph (A), by striking ‘‘and’’ ‘‘(ii) if such investigation is not determina- (x) one representative from an academic at the end; tive, an on-site inspection of the property to institution who has demonstrated expertise (2) in subparagraph (B), by striking ‘‘and’’ determine whether such preexisting struc- in insurance; and at the end; and tural conditions are present; (xi) such other recognized experts in the (3) by inserting after subparagraph (B) the ‘‘(B) upon completion of an investigation field of insurance as the Administrator con- following new subparagraphs: or inspection pursuant to subparagraph (A) siders necessary. ‘‘(C) with respect to buildings in dense that determines that such a preexisting (2) QUALIFICATIONS.—In appointing mem- urban environments, methods that can be de- structural condition is present or absent, bers under paragraph (1)(C), the Adminis- ployed on a block or neighborhood scale; and submit a report to the policyholder and Ad- trator shall, to the maximum extent prac- ‘‘(D) elevation of mechanical systems; ministrator describing the condition; and ticable, ensure the membership of the Com- and’’. ‘‘(C) impose a surcharge on each policy de- mittee has a balance of members reflecting (b) MITIGATION CREDIT.—Subsection (k) of scribed in subparagraph (A) in such amount geographic diversity, including representa- section 1308 of the National Flood Insurance that the Administrator determines is appro- tion from areas inland or with coastline Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4015(k)) is amended— priate to cover the costs of investigations identified by the Administrator as at high (1) by striking ‘‘shall take into account’’ and inspections performed pursuant to such risk for flooding or as areas having special and inserting the following: ‘‘shall— policies and reimburse Write Your Own com- flood hazards.

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(c) DUTIES.—The Committee shall review, (3) identification of any incentives under area that has been identified by the Adminis- and make recommendations to the Adminis- such policies and practices that affect the trator as an area having special flood haz- trator, upon request, on matters related to speed with which such adjustments are con- ards and in which the sale of flood insurance the insurance aspects of the National Flood ducted; and has been made available under the National Insurance Program, including ratemaking, (4) identification of the affects of such poli- Flood Insurance Act of 1968, unless the build- technology to administer insurance, risk as- cies and practices on insureds submitting ing or mobile home and any personal prop- sessment, actuarial practices, claims prac- such claims for losses. erty to which such financial assistance re- tices, sales and insurance delivery, com- SEC. 119. GAO STUDY OF FLOOD INSURANCE COV- lates is covered by flood insurance: Provided, pensation and allowances, generally and ERAGE TREATMENT OF EARTH That the amount of flood insurance (1) in the based on the complexities of the program, MOVEMENT. case of Federal flood insurance, is at least and best insurance practices. The Comptroller General of the United equal to the development or project cost of (d) CHAIRPERSON.—The members of the States shall conduct a study of the treat- the building, mobile home, or personal prop- Committee shall elect one member to serve ment, under flood insurance coverage made erty (less estimated land cost), the out- as the chairperson of the Committee (in this available under the National Flood Insur- standing principal balance of the loan, or the section referred to as the ‘‘Chairperson’’). ance Act, of earth movement and subsidence, maximum limit of Federal flood insurance (e) COMPENSATION.—Members of the Com- including earth movement and subsidence coverage made available with respect to the mittee shall receive no additional compensa- caused by flooding, which shall include— particular type of property, whichever is tion by reason of their service on the Com- (1) identification and analysis of the ef- less; or (2) in the case of private flood insur- mittee. fects of such treatment on the National ance, is at least equal to the development or (f) MEETINGS AND ACTIONS.— Flood Insurance Program and insureds under project cost of the building, mobile home, or (1) IN GENERAL.—The Committee shall the program; personal property (less estimated land cost), meet not less frequently than twice each (2) an assessment of the availability and the outstanding principal balance of the year at the request of the Chairperson or a affordability of coverage in the private in- loan, or the maximum limit of Federal flood majority of its members, and may take ac- surance market for earth movement and sub- insurance coverage made available with re- tion by a vote of the majority of the mem- sidence caused by flooding; spect to the particular type of property, bers in accordance with the Committee’s (3) an assessment of the effects on the Na- whichever is less: Provided further, That if charter. tional Flood Insurance Program of covering the financial assistance provided is in the (2) INITIAL MEETING.—The Administrator, earth movement and subsidence caused by form of a loan or an insurance or guaranty of or a person designated by the Administrator, flooding; and a loan, the amount of flood insurance re- shall request and coordinate the initial (4) a projection of the increased premiums quired need not exceed the outstanding prin- meeting of the Committee. cipal balance of the loan and need not be re- that would be required to make coverage for (g) STAFF OF FEMA.—Upon the request of quired beyond the term of the loan. The re- earth movement losses actuarially sound and the Chairperson, the Administrator may de- quirement of maintaining flood insurance not fiscally detrimental to the continuation tail, on a nonreimbursable basis, personnel shall apply during the life of the property, of the National Flood Insurance Program. of the Federal Emergency Management regardless of transfer of ownership of such Agency to assist the Committee in carrying SEC. 120. DEFINITIONS. property.’’. (a) NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE ACT OF out its duties. (2) REQUIREMENT FOR MORTGAGE LOANS.— (h) POWERS.—In carrying out this section, 1968.—Subsection (a) of section 1370 of the Subsection (b) of section 102 of the Flood the Committee may hold hearings, receive National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 Disaster Protection Act of 1973 (42 U.S.C. evidence and assistance, provide informa- U.S.C. 4121(a)) is amended— 4012a(b)) is amended— tion, and conduct research, as it considers (1) in paragraph (14), by striking ‘‘and’’ at (A) by striking paragraph (7); appropriate. the end; (B) by redesignating paragraph (6) as para- (i) REPORTS TO CONGRESS.—The Adminis- (2) in paragraph (15), by striking the period trator, on an annual basis, shall report to graph (7); at the end and inserting a semicolon; and (C) by striking the subsection designation the Committee on Financial Services of the (3) by adding at the end the following new House of Representatives, the Committee on and all that follows through the end of para- paragraphs: graph (5) and inserting the following: Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs of the ‘‘(16) the term ‘Write Your Own Program’ Senate, and the Office of Management and ‘‘(b) REQUIREMENT FOR MORTGAGE LOANS.— means the program under which the Federal ‘‘(1) REGULATED LENDING INSTITUTIONS.— Budget on— Emergency Management Agency enters into (1) the recommendations made by the Com- Each Federal entity for lending regulation a standard arrangement with private prop- (after consultation and coordination with mittee; erty insurance companies to sell contracts (2) actions taken by the Federal Emer- the Financial Institutions Examination for flood insurance coverage under this title Council established under the Federal Finan- gency Management Agency to address such under their own business lines of insurance, recommendations to improve the insurance cial Institutions Examination Council Act of and to adjust and pay claims arising under 1974) shall by regulation direct regulated aspects of the national flood insurance pro- such contracts; and gram; and lending institutions not to make, increase, ‘‘(17) the term ‘Write Your Own company’ extend, or renew any loan secured by im- (3) any recommendations made by the means a private property insurance company Committee that have been deferred or not proved real estate or a mobile home located that participates in the Write Your Own Pro- or to be located in an area that has been acted upon, together with an explanatory gram.’’. statement. identified by the Administrator as an area (b) BIGGERT-WATERS FLOOD INSURANCE RE- having special flood hazards and in which SEC. 117. INTERAGENCY GUIDANCE ON COMPLI- FORM ACT OF 2012.—Subsection (a) of section ANCE. flood insurance has been made available 100202 of the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance under the National Flood Insurance Act of The Federal entities for lending regulation Reform Act of 2012 (42 U.S.C. 4004(a)) is (as such term is defined in section 3(a) of the 1968, unless the building or mobile home and amended by striking paragraph (5) and in- any personal property securing such loan is Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973 (42 serting the following new paragraph: U.S.C. 4003(a))), in consultation with the Ad- covered for the term of the loan by flood in- ‘‘(5) WRITE YOUR OWN.—The terms ‘Write ministrator of the Federal Emergency Man- surance: Provided, That the amount of flood Your Own Program’ and ‘Write Your Own insurance (A) in the case of Federal flood in- agement Agency, shall update and reissue company’ have the meanings given such the document entitled ‘‘Interagency Ques- surance, is at least equal to the outstanding terms in section 1370(a) of the National principal balance of the loan or the max- tions and Answers Regarding Flood Insur- Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. ance’’ not later than the expiration of the 12- imum limit of Federal flood insurance cov- 4121(a)).’’. month period beginning on the date of the erage made available with respect to the par- enactment of this Act and not less fre- TITLE II—INCREASING CONSUMER ticular type of property, whichever is less; or quently than biennially thereafter. CHOICE THROUGH PRIVATE MARKET (B) in the case of private flood insurance, is SEC. 118. GAO STUDY OF CLAIMS ADJUSTMENT DEVELOPMENT at least equal to the outstanding principal PRACTICES. SEC. 201. PRIVATE FLOOD INSURANCE. balance of the loan or the maximum limit of The Comptroller General of the United (a) MANDATORY PURCHASE REQUIREMENT.— Federal flood insurance coverage made avail- States shall conduct a study of the policies (1) AMOUNT AND TERM OF COVERAGE.—Sec- able with respect to the particular type of and practices for adjustment of claims for tion 102 of the Flood Disaster Protection Act property, whichever is less. losses under flood insurance coverage made of 1973 (42 U.S.C. 4012a) is amended by strik- ‘‘(2) FEDERAL AGENCY LENDERS AND MORT- available under the National Flood Insur- ing ‘‘Sec. 102. (a)’’ and all that follows GAGE INSURANCE AND GUARANTEE AGENCIES.— ance Act, which shall include— through the end of subsection (a) and insert- ‘‘(A) FEDERAL AGENCY LENDERS.—A Federal (1) a comparison of such policies and prac- ing the following: agency lender may not make, increase, ex- tices with the policies and practices for ad- ‘‘SEC. 102. (a) AMOUNT AND TERM OF COV- tend, or renew any loan secured by improved justment of claims for losses under other in- ERAGE.—After the expiration of sixty days real estate or a mobile home located or to be surance coverage; following the date of the enactment of this located in an area that has been identified by (2) an assessment of the quality of the ad- Act, no Federal officer or agency shall ap- the Administrator as an area having special justments conducted and the effects of such prove any financial assistance for acquisi- flood hazards and in which flood insurance policies and practices on such quality; tion or construction purposes for use in any has been made available under the National

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Flood Insurance Act of 1968, unless the build- Urban Development, the Government Na- ‘‘(D) PRIVATE FLOOD INSURANCE.—The term ing or mobile home and any personal prop- tional Mortgage Association, and the Sec- ‘private flood insurance’ means— erty securing such loan is covered for the retary of Agriculture shall develop and im- ‘‘(i) an insurance policy that— term of the loan by flood insurance in ac- plement requirements relating to the finan- ‘‘(I) is issued by an insurance company cordance with paragraph (1). Each Federal cial strength of private insurance companies that is— agency lender may issue any regulations from which such entities and agencies will ‘‘(aa) licensed, admitted, or otherwise ap- necessary to carry out this paragraph. Such accept private flood insurance, provided that proved to engage in the business of insurance regulations shall be consistent with and sub- such requirements shall not affect or conflict in the State in which the insured building is stantially identical to the regulations issued with any State law, regulation, or procedure located, by the insurance regulator of that under paragraph (1). concerning the regulation of the business of State; or ‘‘(B) OTHER FEDERAL MORTGAGE ENTITIES.— insurance. ‘‘(bb) eligible as a nonadmitted insurer to ‘‘(i) COVERAGE REQUIREMENTS.—Each cov- ‘‘(5) APPLICABILITY.— provide insurance in the home State of the ered Federal mortgage entity shall imple- ‘‘(A) EXISTING COVERAGE.—Except as pro- insured, in accordance with sections 521 ment procedures reasonably designed to en- vided in subparagraph (B), paragraph (1) through 527 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street sure that, for any loan that— shall apply on the date of enactment of the Reform and Consumer Protection Act (15 ‘‘(I) is secured by improved real estate or a Riegle Community Development and Regu- U.S.C. 8201 through 8206); mobile home located in an area that has latory Improvement Act of 1994. ‘‘(II) is issued by an insurance company been identified, at the time of the origina- ‘‘(B) NEW COVERAGE.—Paragraphs (2) and that is not otherwise disapproved as a sur- tion of the loan or at any time during the (3) shall apply only with respect to any loan plus lines insurer by the insurance regulator term of the loan, by the Administrator as an made, increased, extended, or renewed after of the State in which the property to be in- area having special flood hazards and in the expiration of the 1-year period beginning sured is located; and which flood insurance is available under the on the date of enactment of the Riegle Com- ‘‘(III) provides flood insurance coverage National Flood Insurance Act of 1968, and munity Development and Regulatory Im- that complies with the laws and regulations ‘‘(II) is made, insured, held, or guaranteed provement Act of 1994. Paragraph (1) shall of that State; or by such entity, or backs or on which is based apply with respect to any loan made, in- ‘‘(ii) an agreement with a mutual aid soci- any trust certificate or other security for creased, extended, or renewed by any lender ety for such society to cover expenses arising which such entity guarantees the timely from damage to property of the members of payment of principal and interest, supervised by the Farm Credit Administra- tion only after the expiration of the period such society caused by flooding, unless the the building or mobile home and any per- State in which the property to be insured is sonal property securing the loan is covered under this subparagraph. ‘‘(C) CONTINUED EFFECT OF REGULATIONS.— located has— for the term of the loan by flood insurance in ‘‘(I) determined that the specific mutual the amount provided in paragraph (1). Notwithstanding any other provision of this subsection, the regulations to carry out aid society may not provide such coverage or ‘‘(ii) DEFINITION.—For purposes of this sub- provide such coverage in such manner; or paragraph, the term ‘covered Federal mort- paragraph (1), as in effect immediately before the date of enactment of the Riegle ‘‘(II) specifically provided through law or gage entity’ means— regulation that mutual aid societies may not ‘‘(I) the Secretary of Housing and Urban Community Development and Regulatory provide such coverage or provide such cov- Development, with respect to mortgages in- Improvement Act of 1994, shall continue to erage in such manner. sured under the National Housing Act; apply until the regulations issued to carry ‘‘(E) STATE.—The term ‘State’ means any ‘‘(II) the Secretary of Agriculture, with re- out paragraph (1) as amended by section State of the United States, the District of spect to loans made, insured, or guaranteed 522(a) of such Act take effect. Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto under title V of the Housing Act of 1949; and ‘‘(6) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—Except as Rico, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, ‘‘(III) the Government National Mortgage otherwise specified, any reference to flood the Virgin Islands, and American Samoa.’’. Association. insurance in this section shall be considered (b) EFFECT OF PRIVATE FLOOD INSURANCE ‘‘(C) REQUIREMENT TO ACCEPT FLOOD INSUR- to include Federal flood insurance and pri- COVERAGE ON CONTINUOUS COVERAGE RE- ANCE.—Each Federal agency lender and each vate flood insurance. Nothing in this sub- QUIREMENTS.—Section 1308 of the National covered Federal mortgage entity shall ac- section shall be construed to supersede or limit the authority of a Federal entity for Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4015), cept flood insurance as satisfaction of the as amended by the preceding provisions of lending regulation, the Federal Housing Fi- flood insurance coverage requirement under this Act, is further amended by adding at the nance Agency, a Federal agency lender, a subparagraph (A) or (B), respectively, if the end the following: covered Federal mortgage entity (as such flood insurance coverage meets the require- ‘‘(o) EFFECT OF PRIVATE FLOOD INSURANCE term is defined in paragraph (2)(B)(ii)), the ments for coverage under such subparagraph COVERAGE ON CONTINUOUS COVERAGE RE- and the requirements relating to financial Federal National Mortgage Association, or QUIREMENTS.—For purposes of applying any strength issued pursuant to paragraph (4). the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corpora- statutory, regulatory, or administrative con- ‘‘(3) GOVERNMENT-SPONSORED ENTERPRISES tion to establish requirements relating to tinuous coverage requirement, including FOR HOUSING.—The Federal National Mort- the financial strength of private insurance under section 1307(g)(1), the Administrator gage Association and the Federal Home Loan companies from which the entity or agency shall consider any period during which a Mortgage Corporation shall implement pro- will accept private flood insurance, provided property was continuously covered by pri- cedures reasonably designed to ensure that, that such requirements shall not affect or vate flood insurance (as defined in section for any loan that is— conflict with any State law, regulation, or 102(b)(8) of the Flood Disaster Protection Act ‘‘(A) secured by improved real estate or a procedure concerning the regulation of the of 1973 (42 U.S.C. 4012a(b)(8))) to be a period of mobile home located in an area that has business of insurance.’’; and continuous coverage.’’. been identified, at the time of the origina- (D) by adding at the end the following new SEC. 202. OPT-OUT OF MANDATORY COVERAGE tion of the loan or at any time during the paragraphs: REQUIREMENT FOR COMMERCIAL term of the loan, by the Administrator as an ‘‘(8) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: PROPERTIES. area having special flood hazards and in ‘‘(A) FLOOD INSURANCE.—The term ‘flood (a) AMENDMENTS TO FLOOD DISASTER PRO- which flood insurance is available under the insurance’ means— TECTION ACT OF 1973.—Effective on January 1, National Flood Insurance Act of 1968, and ‘‘(i) Federal flood insurance; and 2019, the Flood Disaster Protection Act of ‘‘(B) purchased or guaranteed by such enti- ‘‘(ii) private flood insurance. 1973, as amended by the preceding provisions ty, ‘‘(B) FEDERAL FLOOD INSURANCE.—The term of this Act, is further amended— the building or mobile home and any per- ‘Federal flood insurance’ means an insurance (1) in section 3(a) (42 U.S.C. 4003(a))— sonal property securing the loan is covered policy made available under the National (A) in paragraph (10), by striking ‘‘and’’ at for the term of the loan by flood insurance in Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4001 et the end; the amount provided in paragraph (1). The seq.). (B) in paragraph (11), by striking the pe- Federal National Mortgage Association and ‘‘(C) MUTUAL AID SOCIETY.—The term ‘mu- riod at the end and inserting ‘‘; and’’; and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corpora- tual aid society’ means an organization— (C) by adding at the end the following new tion shall accept flood insurance as satisfac- ‘‘(i) the members of which— paragraph: tion of the flood insurance coverage require- ‘‘(I) share a common set of ethical or reli- ‘‘(12) ‘residential improved real estate’ ment under paragraph (1) if the flood insur- gious beliefs; and means improved real estate that— ance coverage provided meets the require- ‘‘(II) in accordance with the beliefs de- ‘‘(A) is primarily used for residential pur- ments for coverage under that paragraph and scribed in subclause (I), agree to cover ex- poses, as defined by the Federal entities for the requirements relating to financial penses arising from damage to property of lending regulation; and strength issued pursuant to paragraph (4). the members of the organization, including ‘‘(B) secures financing or financial assist- ‘‘(4) REQUIREMENTS REGARDING FINANCIAL damage caused by flooding; and ance provided through a federally related STRENGTH.—The Director of the Federal ‘‘(ii) that has a demonstrated history of single family loan program, as defined by the Housing Finance Agency, in consultation fulfilling the terms of agreements to cover Federal entities for lending regulation.’’; and with the Federal National Mortgage Associa- expenses arising from damage to property of (2) in section 102 (42 U.S.C. 4012a)— tion, the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Cor- the members of the organization caused by (A) in subsection (b)— poration, the Secretary of Housing and flooding. (i) in paragraph (1)—

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A14NO7.013 H14NOPT1 H9216 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 (I) by inserting ‘‘residential’’ before ‘‘im- (B) by redesignating paragraphs (14) data, models, assessments, analytical tools, proved real estate’’; and through (17) as paragraphs (15) through (18), and other information in the possession of (II) by inserting ‘‘residential’’ before respectively; and the Administrator relating to the National ‘‘building or mobile home’’; (C) by inserting after paragraph (13) the Flood Insurance Program under this title (ii) in paragraph (2)— following new paragraph: that is used in assessing flood risk or identi- (I) by inserting ‘‘residential’’ before ‘‘im- ‘‘(14) the term ‘residential improved real fying and establishing flood elevations and proved real estate’’ each place such term ap- estate’ means improved real estate that— premiums, including— pears; and ‘‘(A) is primarily used for residential pur- ‘‘(A) data relating to risk on individual (II) by inserting ‘‘residential’’ before poses, as defined by the Federal entities for properties and loss ratio information and ‘‘building or mobile home’’ each place such lending regulation; and other information identifying losses under term appears; and ‘‘(B) secures financing or financial assist- the program; (iii) in paragraph (3)— ance provided through a federally related ‘‘(B) current and historical policy informa- (I) in subparagraph (A), by inserting ‘‘resi- single family loan program, as defined by the tion, limited to the amount and term only, dential’’ before ‘‘improved real estate’’; and Federal entities for lending regulation;’’. for properties currently covered by flood in- (II) in the matter after and below subpara- (c) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—This section surance and for properties that are no longer graph (B), by inserting ‘‘residential’’ before and the amendments made by this section covered by flood insurance; ‘‘building or mobile home’’; may not be construed to prohibit the Admin- ‘‘(C) current and historical claims informa- (B) in subsection (c)(3), by striking ‘‘, in istrator of the Federal Emergency Manage- tion, limited to the date and amount paid the case of any residential property, for any ment Agency from offering flood insurance only, for properties currently covered by structure that is a part of such property’’ coverage under the National Flood Insurance flood insurance and for properties that are and inserting ‘‘for any structure that is a Program for eligible non-residential prop- no longer covered by flood insurance; part of a residential property’’; erties, other residential multifamily prop- ‘‘(D) identification of whether a property (C) in subsection (e)— erties, or structures financed with commer- was constructed before or after the effective (i) in paragraph (1)— cial loans, or to prohibit the purchase of date of the first flood insurance rate map for (I) by inserting ‘‘residential’’ before ‘‘im- such coverage for such eligible properties. a community; proved real estate’’; and SEC. 203. ELIMINATION OF NON-COMPETE RE- ‘‘(E) identification of properties that have (II) by inserting ‘‘residential’’ before QUIREMENT. been mitigated through elevation, a buyout, ‘‘building or mobile home’’ each place such Section 1345 of the National Flood Insur- or any other mitigation action; and term appears; and ance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4081) is amended ‘‘(F) identification of unmitigated mul- (ii) in paragraph (5)— by adding at the end the following new sub- tiple-loss properties. (I) in subparagraph (A)— section: ‘‘(2) OPEN SOURCE DATA SYSTEM.—In car- (aa) by inserting ‘‘residential’’ before ‘‘im- ‘‘(f) AUTHORITY TO PROVIDE OTHER FLOOD rying out paragraph (1), the Administrator proved real estate’’ each place such term ap- COVERAGE.— shall establish an open source data system pears; and ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator may by which all information required to be made (bb) by inserting ‘‘residential’’ before not, as a condition of participating in the publicly available by such subsection may be ‘‘building or mobile home’’ each place such Write Your Own Program (as such term is accessed by the public on an immediate basis by electronic means. term appears; defined in section 1370(a)) or in otherwise (II) in subparagraph (B), by inserting ‘‘resi- participating in the utilization by the Ad- ‘‘(b) COMMUNITY INFORMATION.—Not later dential’’ before ‘‘building or mobile home’’ ministrator of the facilities and services of than the expiration of the 12-month period each place such term appears; and insurance companies, insurers, insurance beginning upon the date of the enactment of (III) in subparagraph (C), by inserting ‘‘res- agents and brokers, and insurance adjust- this section, the Administrator shall estab- idential’’ before ‘‘building or mobile home’’; ment organizations pursuant to the author- lish and maintain a publicly searchable data- and ity in this section, nor as a condition of eli- base that provides information about each (D) in subsection (h)— gibility to engage in any other activities community participating in the National (i) by inserting ‘‘residential’’ before ‘‘im- under the National Flood Insurance Program Flood Insurance Program, which shall in- proved real estate’’ each place such term ap- under this title, restrict any such company, clude the following information: pears; and insurer, agent, broker, or organization from ‘‘(1) The status of the community’s compli- (ii) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), offering and selling private flood insurance ance with the National Flood Insurance Pro- by inserting ‘‘residential’’ before ‘‘building (as such term is defined in section 102(b)(9) of gram, including any findings of noncompli- or mobile home’’. the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973 (42 ance, the status of any enforcement actions U.S.C. 4012a(b)(9))). initiated by a State or by the Administrator, (b) AMENDMENTS TO NATIONAL FLOOD IN- ‘‘(2) FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE/SUBSIDY AR- and the number of days of any such con- SURANCE ACT OF 1968.—Effective on January RANGEMENT.—After the date of the enact- tinuing noncompliance. 1, 2019, the National Flood Insurance Act of ment of this subsection— ‘‘(2) The number of properties located in 1968, as amended by the preceding provisions ‘‘(A) the Administrator may not include in the community’s special flood hazard areas of this Act, is further amended— any agreement entered into with any insurer that were built before the effective date of (1) in section 1364(a) (42 U.S.C. 4104a(a))— for participation in the Write Your Own Pro- the first flood insurance rate map for the (A) in paragraph (1), by inserting ‘‘residen- gram any provision establishing a condition community. tial’’ before ‘‘improved real estate’’; prohibited by paragraph (1), including the ‘‘(3) The number of properties located in (B) in paragraph (2), by inserting ‘‘residen- provisions of Article XIII of the Federal the community’s special flood hazard areas tial’’ before ‘‘improved real estate’’; and Emergency Management Agency, Federal In- that were built after the effective date of the (C) in paragraph (3)(A), by inserting ‘‘resi- surance Administration, Financial Assist- first flood insurance rate map for the com- dential’’ before ‘‘building’’; ance/Subsidy Arrangement, as adopted pur- munity. (2) in section 1365 (42 U.S.C. 4104b)— suant to section 62.23(a) of title 44 of the ‘‘(4) The total number of current and his- (A) in subsection (a)— Code of Federal Regulations; and torical claims located outside the commu- (i) by inserting ‘‘residential’’ before ‘‘im- ‘‘(B) any such provision in any such agree- nity’s special flood hazard areas. proved real estate’’; and ment entered into before such date of enact- ‘‘(5) The total number of multiple-loss (ii) by inserting ‘‘residential’’ before ment shall not have any force or effect, and properties in the community. ‘‘building’’; the Administrator may not take any action ‘‘(6) The portion of the community, stated (B) in subsection (b)(2)— to enforce such provision.’’. as a percentage and in terms of square miles, (i) by inserting ‘‘residential’’ before ‘‘build- SEC. 204. PUBLIC AVAILABILITY OF PROGRAM IN- that is located within special flood hazard ing’’ each place such term appears; and FORMATION. areas. (ii) by inserting ‘‘residential’’ before ‘‘im- Part C of chapter II of the National Flood ‘‘(c) IDENTIFICATION OF PROPERTIES.—The proved real estate’’ each place such term ap- Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4081 et seq.) information provided pursuant to sub- pears; is amended by adding at the end the fol- sections (a) and (b) shall be based on data (C) in subsection (d), by inserting ‘‘residen- lowing new section: that identifies properties at the zip code or tial’’ before ‘‘improved real estate’’ each ‘‘SEC. 1349. PUBLIC AVAILABILITY OF PROGRAM census block level, and shall include the place such term appears; and INFORMATION. name of the community and State in which (D) in subsection (e)— ‘‘(a) FLOOD RISK INFORMATION.— a property is located. (i) by inserting ‘‘residential’’ before ‘‘im- ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in ‘‘(d) PROTECTION OF PERSONALLY IDENTIFI- proved real estate’’; and paragraph (2), to facilitate the National ABLE INFORMATION.—The information pro- (ii) by inserting ‘‘residential’’ before Flood Insurance Program becoming a source vided pursuant to subsections (a) and (b) ‘‘building’’ each place such term appears; of information and data for research and de- shall be disclosed in a format that does not and velopment of technology that better under- reveal individually identifiable information (3) in section 1370 (42 U.S.C. 4121)— stands flooding, the risk of flooding, and the about property owners in accordance with (A) in paragraph (8), by inserting ‘‘residen- predictability of perils of flooding, the Ad- the section 552a of title 5, United States tial’’ before ‘‘improved real estate’’; ministrator shall make publicly available all Code.

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‘‘(e) DEFINITION OF LOSS RATIO.—For pur- (1) that would be established by an owner shall carry out a program to demonstrate poses of this section, the term ‘loss ratio’ of residential property with respect to such the feasibility and effectiveness of author- means, with respect to the National Flood property in accordance with requirements izing the establishment of flood damage sav- Insurance Program, the ratio of the amount established by the Administrator of the Fed- ings accounts in the manner provided in plan of claims paid under the Program to the eral Emergency Management Agency; and and guidelines for the demonstration pro- amount of premiums paid under the Pro- (2) the proceeds of which would be avail- gram submitted pursuant to subsection (a). gram.’’. able for use only to cover losses to such (c) SCOPE.—The demonstration program SEC. 205. REFUND OF PREMIUMS UPON CAN- properties resulting from flooding, pursuant under this section shall provide for the es- CELLATION OF POLICY BECAUSE OF to adjustment of a claim for such losses in tablishment of flood damage savings ac- REPLACEMENT WITH PRIVATE the same manner and according to the same counts with respect to not more than 5 per- FLOOD INSURANCE. procedures as apply to claims for losses cent of the residential properties that have 4 Section 1306 of the National Flood Insur- under flood insurance coverage made avail- or fewer residences and that are covered by ance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4013) is amended able under the National Flood Insurance Act flood insurance coverage made available by adding at the end the following new sub- of 1968. under the National Flood Insurance Pro- section: (c) ISSUES.—Such study shall include an gram. ‘‘(e) REFUND OF UNEARNED PREMIUMS FOR analysis of, and recommendation regarding, (d) TIMING.—The Administrator shall com- POLICIES CANCELED BECAUSE OF REPLACE- each of the following issues: mence the demonstration program under MENT WITH PRIVATE FLOOD INSURANCE.— (1) Whether authorizing the establishment this section not later than the expiration of ‘‘(1) REQUIRED REFUND.—Subject to sub- of such flood damage savings accounts would the 12-month period beginning upon the subsection (c), if at any time an insured under a be effective and efficient in reducing flood mission of the plan and guidelines for the policy for flood insurance coverage for a insurance premiums, eliminating the need demonstration pursuant to subsection (a). property that is made available under this for purchase of flood insurance coverage (e) GEOGRAPHICAL DIVERSITY.—The Admin- title cancels such policy because other dupli- made available under the National Flood In- istrator shall ensure that properties for cate flood insurance coverage for the same surance Program, and reducing risks to the which flood damage savings accounts are es- property has been obtained from a source financial safety and soundness of the Na- tablished under the demonstration are lo- other than the National Flood Insurance tional Flood Insurance Fund. cated in diverse geographical areas through- Program under this title, the Administrator (2) Possible options for structuring such out the United States. shall refund to the former insured a portion flood damage savings accounts, including— (f) REPORT.—Upon the expiration of the 2- of the premiums paid for the coverage made (A) what types of institutions could hold year period beginning upon the date of the available under this title, as determined con- such accounts and the benefits and problems commencement of the demonstration pro- sistent with industry practice according to with each such type of institution; gram under this section, the Administrator the portion of the term of the policy that (B) considerations affecting the amounts shall submit a report to the Committee on such coverage was in effect, but only if a required to be held in such accounts; and Financial Services of the House of Rep- copy of declarations page of the new policy (C) options regarding considerations the resentatives and the Committee on Banking, obtained from a source other than the pro- conditions under which such an account may Housing, and Urban Affairs of the Senate de- gram under this title is provided to the Ad- be terminated. scribing and assessing the demonstration, ministrator. (3) The feasibility and effectiveness, and and setting forth conclusions and rec- ‘‘(2) EFFECTIVE DATE OF CANCELLATION.— problems involved in, authorizing the Ad- ommendations regarding continuing and ex- For purposes of this subsection, a cancella- ministrator of the Federal Emergency Man- panding the demonstration. tion of a policy for coverage made available agement Agency to make secondary flood in- (g) FEASIBILITY.—The Administrator shall under the national flood insurance program surance coverage available under the Na- implement this section only after deter- under this title, for the reason specified in tional Flood Insurance Program to cover the mining that implementation is supported by paragraph (1), shall be effective— portion of flood losses or damages to prop- the Comptroller’s conclusions and rec- ‘‘(A) on the effective date of the new policy erties for which such flood damage savings ommendations contained in the report re- obtained from a source other than the pro- accounts have been established that exceed quired under section 206. gram under this title, if the request for such the amounts held in such accounts. cancellation was received by the Adminis- (4) The benefits and problems involved in TITLE III—MAPPING FAIRNESS trator before the expiration of the 6-month authorizing the establishment of such ac- SEC. 301. USE OF OTHER RISK ASSESSMENT period beginning on the effective date of the counts for non-residential properties. TOOLS IN DETERMINING PREMIUM new policy; or (d) REPORT.—Not later than the expiration RATES. ‘‘(B) on the date of the receipt by the Ad- of the 12-month period beginning on the date (a) ESTIMATES OF PREMIUM RATES.—Sub- ministrator of the request for cancellation, if of the enactment of this Act, the Comp- paragraph (A) of section 1307(a)(1) of the Na- the request for such cancellation was re- troller General shall submit a report to the tional Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. ceived by the Administrator after the expira- Committee on Financial Services of the 4014(a)(1)(A)), as amended by the preceding tion of the 6-month period beginning on the House of Representatives, the Committee on provisions of this Act, is further amended— effective date of the new policy. Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs of the (1) in clause (ii), by striking ‘‘and’’ at the ‘‘(3) PROHIBITION OF REFUNDS FOR PROP- Senate, and the Administrator that sets end; and ERTIES RECEIVING INCREASED COST OF COMPLI- forth the analysis, conclusions, and rec- (2) by adding at the end the following new ANCE CLAIMS.—No premium amounts paid for ommendations resulting from the study clause: coverage made available under this title may under this section. Such report shall identify ‘‘(iv) both the risk identified by the appli- be refunded pursuant to this subsection— elements that should be taken into consider- cable flood insurance rate maps and by other ‘‘(A) with respect to coverage for any prop- ation by the Administrator in designing and risk assessment data and tools, including erty for which measures have been imple- carrying out the demonstration program risk assessment models and scores from ap- mented using amounts received pursuant to under section 207. propriate sources; and’’. a claim under increased cost of compliance SEC. 207. DEMONSTRATION PROGRAM FOR (b) ESTABLISHMENT OF CHARGEABLE PRE- coverage made available pursuant to section FLOOD DAMAGE SAVINGS AC- MIUM RATES.—Paragraph (1) of section 1308(b) COUNTS. 1304(b); or of the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (a) PLAN.—If the Comptroller General of (42 U.S.C. 4015(b)(1)) is amended by inserting ‘‘(B) if a claim has been paid or is pending the United States concludes in the report re- before the semicolon at the end the fol- under the policy term for which the refund is quired under section 206 that a demonstra- lowing: ‘‘, taking into account both the risk sought.’’. tion program under this section is feasible identified by the applicable flood insurance SEC. 206. GAO STUDY OF FLOOD DAMAGE SAV- and should be considered, then the Adminis- rate maps and by other risk assessment data INGS ACCOUNTS. trator of the Federal Emergency Manage- (a) IN GENERAL.—The Comptroller General ment Agency shall, not later than the expi- and tools, including risk assessment models of the United States shall conduct a study to ration of the 12-month period beginning upon and scores from appropriate sources’’. analyze the feasibility and effectiveness, and the submission of the report under section (c) EFFECTIVE DATE AND REGULATIONS.— problems involved, in reducing flood insur- 206(d), submit to the Committee on Financial (1) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments ance premiums and eliminating the need for Services of the House of Representatives and made by subsections (a) and (b) shall be purchase of flood insurance coverage by au- the Committee on Banking, Housing, and made, and shall take effect, upon the expira- thorizing owners of residential properties to Urban Affairs of the Senate a plan and guide- tion of the 36-month period beginning on the establish flood damage savings accounts de- lines for a demonstration program, to be car- date of the enactment of this Act. scribed in subsection (b) in lieu of complying ried out by the Administrator, to dem- (2) REGULATIONS.—The Administrator of with the mandatory requirements under sec- onstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the Federal Emergency Management Agency tion 102 of the Flood Disaster Protection Act authorizing the establishment of flood dam- shall issue regulations necessary to imple- of 1973 (42 U.S.C. 4012a) to purchase flood in- age savings accounts, taking into consider- ment the amendments made by subsections surance for such properties. ation the analysis, conclusions, and rec- (a) and (b), which shall identify risk assess- (b) FLOOD DAMAGE SAVINGS ACCOUNT.—A ommendations included in such report. ment data and tools to be used in identifying flood damage savings account described in (b) AUTHORITY.—The Administrator of the flood risk and appropriate sources for risk this subsection is a savings account— Federal Emergency Management Agency assessment models and scores to be so used.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A14NO7.013 H14NOPT1 H9218 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 Such regulations shall be issued not later by surveyors, engineers, and scientific ex- guidelines, and procedures established pursu- than the expiration of the 36-month period perts, the Administrator shall reimburse ant to section 100215(m)(1) of the Biggert- beginning on the date of the enactment of such individual or community for reasonable Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012 this Act and shall take effect upon the expi- expenses to an extent measured by the ratio (42 U.S.C. 4101a(m)(1)), which shall include ration of such period. of the successful portion of the appeal as procedures for providing notification and ap- SEC. 302. APPEALS REGARDING EXISTING FLOOD compared to the entire appeal, but not in- peal rights to individuals within the commu- MAPS. cluding legal services, in the effecting of an nities of the proposed flood elevation deter- (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 1360 of the Na- appeal based on a scientific or technical minations.’’. tional Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. error on the part of the Federal Emergency SEC. 304. COMMUNICATION AND OUTREACH RE- 4101) is amended by adding at the end the fol- Management Agency. No reimbursement GARDING MAP CHANGES. lowing new subsection: shall be made by the Administrator in re- Paragraph (1) of section 100216(d) of the ‘‘(k) APPEALS OF EXISTING MAPS.— spect to any fee or expense payment, the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act ‘‘(1) RIGHT TO APPEAL.—Subject to para- payment of which was agreed to be contin- of 2012 (42 U.S.C. 4101b(d)(1)) is amended— graph (6), a State or local government, or the gent upon the result of the appeal. The Ad- (1) in subparagraph (B), by inserting ‘‘max- owner or lessee of real property, who has ministrator may use such amounts from the imum’’ before ‘‘30-day period’’; and made a formal request to the Administrator National Flood Insurance Fund established (2) in subparagraph (C), by inserting ‘‘max- to update a flood map that the Adminis- under section 1310 as may be necessary to imum’’ before ‘‘30-day period’’. trator has denied may at any time appeal carry out this paragraph. SEC. 305. SHARING AND USE OF MAPS AND DATA. such a denial as provided in this subsection. ‘‘(6) INAPPLICABILITY TO COMMUNITY FLOOD Subsection (b) of section 100216 of the ‘‘(2) BASIS FOR APPEAL.—The basis for ap- MAPS.—This subsection shall not apply with Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act peal under this subsection shall be the pos- respect to any flood map that is in effect session of knowledge or information that— of 2012 (42 U.S.C. 4101b(b)) is amended— pursuant to certification under the stand- ‘‘(A) the base flood elevation level or des- (1) in paragraph (1)— ards, guidelines, and procedures established ignation of any aspect of a flood map is sci- (A) in subparagraph (B), by striking ‘‘and’’ pursuant to section 100215(m)(1)(B) of the entifically or technically inaccurate; or at the end; Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act ‘‘(B) factors exist that mitigate the risk of (B) in subparagraph (C), by striking the pe- of 2012 (42 U.S.C. 4101a(m)(1)(B)). flooding, including ditches, banks, walls, riod at the end and inserting ‘‘; and’’ ; and ‘‘(7) GUIDANCE.—The Administrator shall vegetation, levees, lakes, dams, reservoirs, (C) by adding at the end the following new issue guidance to implement this subsection, basin, retention ponds, and other natural or subparagraph: which shall not be subject to the notice and manmade topographical features. ‘‘(D) consult and coordinate with the De- comment requirements under section 553 of ‘‘(3) APPEALS PROCESS.— partment of Defense, the United States Geo- title 5, United States Code.’’. ‘‘(A) ADMINISTRATIVE ADJUDICATION.—An logical Survey, and the National Oceanic and (b) DEADLINE.—The Administrator of the appeal under this subsection shall be deter- Atmospheric Administration for the purpose Federal Emergency Management Agency mined by a final adjudication on the record, of obtaining the most-up-to-date maps and shall issue the guidance referred to section and after opportunity for an administrative other information of such agencies, includ- 1360(k)(7) of the National Flood Insurance hearing. ing information on topography, water flow, Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4101(k)(7)), as added by ‘‘(B) RIGHTS UPON ADVERSE DECISION.—If an and any other issues, relevant to mapping the amendment made by subsection (a) of appeal pursuant to subparagraph (A) does for flood insurance purposes.’’; and this section, not later than the expiration of not result in a decision in favor of the State, (2) in paragraph (3)— the 6-month period beginning on the date of local government, owner, or lessee, such (A) in subparagraph (D), by striking ‘‘and’’ the enactment of this Act. party may appeal the adverse decision to the at the end; Scientific Resolution Panel provided for in SEC. 303. APPEALS AND PUBLICATION OF PRO- (B) by redesignating subparagraph (E) as JECTED SPECIAL FLOOD HAZARD subparagraph (F); and section 1363A, which shall recommend a non- AREAS. (C) by inserting after subparagraph (D) the binding decision to the Administrator. (a) APPEALS.—Section 1363 of the National following new subparagraph: ‘‘(4) RELIEF.— Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4104) is ‘‘(E) any other information relevant to ‘‘(A) WHOLLY SUCCESSFUL APPEALS.—In the amended— mapping for flood insurance purposes ob- case of a successful appeal resulting in a pol- (1) in subsection (b), by striking the second tained pursuant to paragraph (1)(D); and’’. icyholder’s property being removed from a sentence and inserting the following: ‘‘Any special flood hazard area, such policyholder owner or lessee of real property within the SEC. 306. COMMUNITY FLOOD MAPS. may cancel the policy at any time within the community who believes the owner’s or les- (a) TECHNICAL MAPPING ADVISORY COUN- current policy year, and the Administrator see’s rights to be adversely affected by the CIL.—Section 100215 of the Biggert-Waters shall provide such policyholder a refund in Administrator’s proposed determination may Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012 (42 the amount of any premiums paid for such appeal such determination to the local gov- U.S.C. 4101a) is amended— policy year, plus any premiums paid for flood ernment no later than 90 days after the date (1) in subsection (c)— insurance coverage that the policyholder was of the second publication.’’; (A) in paragraph (5)(B), by striking ‘‘and’’ required to purchase or maintain during the (2) in subsection (d), by striking ‘‘sub- at the end; 2-year period preceding such policy year. section (e)’’ and inserting ‘‘subsection (f)’’; (B) by redesignating paragraph (6) as para- ‘‘(B) PARTIALLY SUCCESSFUL APPEALS.—In (3) by redesignating subsections (e), (f), and graph (9); and the case of any appeal in which mitigating (g) as subsections (f), (g), and (h), respec- (C) by inserting after paragraph (5) the fol- factors were determined to have reduced, but tively; and lowing new paragraphs: not eliminated, the risk of flooding, the Ad- (4) by inserting after subsection (d) the fol- ‘‘(6) recommend to the Administrator ministrator shall reduce the amount of flood lowing new subsection: methods or actions to make the flood map- insurance coverage required to be main- ‘‘(e) DETERMINATION BY ADMINISTRATOR IN ping processes more efficient; tained for the property concerned by the THE ABSENCE OF APPEALS.—If the Adminis- ‘‘(7) recommend to the Administrator ratio of the successful portion of the appeal trator has not received any appeals, upon ex- methods or actions to minimize any cost, as compared to the entire appeal. The Ad- piration of the 90-day appeal period estab- data, and paperwork requirements of the ministrator shall refund to the policyholder lished under subsection (b) of this section flood mapping processes; any payments made in excess of the amount the Administrator’s proposed determination ‘‘(8) assist communities, and in particular necessary for such new coverage amount, ef- shall become final. The community shall be smaller communities, in locating the re- fective from the time when the mitigating given a reasonable time after the Adminis- sources required to participate in the devel- factor was created or the beginning of the trator’s final determination in which to opment of flood elevations and flood hazard second policy year preceding the determina- adopt local land use and control measures area designations; and’’; and tion of the appeal, whichever occurred later. consistent with the Administrator’s deter- (2) by adding at the end the following new ‘‘(C) ADDITIONAL RELIEF.—The Adminis- mination.’’. subsection: trator may provide additional refunds in ex- (b) PUBLICATION.—Subsection (a) of section ‘‘(m) COMMUNITY FLOOD MAPS.— cess of the amounts specified in subpara- 1363 of the National Flood Insurance Act of ‘‘(1) STANDARDS AND PROCEDURES.—In addi- graphs (A) and (B) if the Administrator de- 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4104(a)) is amended by striking tion to the other duties of the Council under termines that such additional amounts are ‘‘in the Federal Register’’. this section, not later than the expiration of warranted. (c) INAPPLICABILITY TO PRIVATE AND COM- the 12-month period beginning on the date of ‘‘(5) RECOVERY OF COSTS.—When, incident MUNITY FLOOD MAPS.—Section 1363 of the Na- the enactment of this subsection, the Coun- to any appeal which is successful in whole or tional Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. cil shall recommend to the Administrator part regarding the designation of the base 4104), as amended by the preceding provisions standards and requirements for chief execu- flood elevation or any aspect of the flood of this section, is further amended by adding tive officers, or entities designated by chief map, including elevation or designation of a at the end the following new subsection: executive officers, of States and commu- special flood hazard area, the community, or ‘‘(i) INAPPLICABILITY TO COMMUNITY FLOOD nities participating in the National Flood In- the owner or lessee of real property, as the MAPS.—This section shall not apply with re- surance Program to use in mapping flood case may be, incurs expense in connection spect to any flood map that is in effect pur- hazards located in States and communities with the appeal, including services provided suant to certification under the standards, that choose to develop alternative maps to

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A14NO7.013 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9219 the flood insurance rate maps developed by and requirements adopted pursuant to para- istrator shall provide the covered commu- the Agency. The recommended standards and graph (3) of this subsection; and nity involved with notice of the non-compli- requirements shall include procedures for ‘‘(B) approve or disapprove such proposed ance that could result in the imposition of providing notification and appeal rights to maps for use under National Flood Insurance sanctions, which shall include recommenda- individuals within the communities of the Program.’’. tions for actions to bring the covered com- proposed flood elevation determinations. TITLE IV—PROTECTING CONSUMERS AND munity into compliance. ‘‘(2) EXEMPTION FROM RULEMAKING.—Until INDIVIDUALS THROUGH IMPROVED ‘‘(C) CONSIDERATIONS.—In determining ap- such time as the Administrator promulgates MITIGATION propriate sanctions to impose under this regulations implementing paragraph (1) of paragraph, the Administrator shall consider SEC. 401. PROVISION OF COMMUNITY RATING the resources available to the covered com- this subsection, the Administrator may, not- SYSTEM PREMIUM CREDITS TO MAX- withstanding any other provision of law, IMUM NUMBER OF COMMUNITIES munity involved, including Federal funding, adopt policies and procedures necessary to PRACTICABLE. the portion of the covered community that implement such paragraphs without under- Subsection (b) of section 1315 of the Na- lies within an area having special flood haz- going notice and comment rulemaking and tional Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. ards, and other factors that make it difficult without conducting regulatory analyses oth- 4022(b)) is amended— for the covered community to conduct miti- erwise required by statute, regulation, or ex- (1) in paragraph (2), by striking ‘‘may’’ and gation activities for existing flood-prone ecutive order.’’. inserting ‘‘shall’’; and structures. (b) FEMA IDENTIFICATION OF FLOOD-PRONE (2) in paragraph (3), by inserting ‘‘, and the ‘‘(5) COVERED COMMUNITY.—For purposes of AREAS.—Subsection (a) of section 1360 of the Administrator shall provide credits to the this subsection, the term ‘covered commu- National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 maximum number of communities prac- nity’ means a community— U.S.C. 4101(a)) is amended— ticable’’ after ‘‘under this program’’. ‘‘(A) that is participating, pursuant to section 1315, in the national flood insurance pro- (1) in paragraph (2), by striking the period SEC. 402. COMMUNITY ACCOUNTABILITY FOR RE- at the end and inserting ‘‘; and’’; PETITIVELY FLOODED AREAS. gram; and ‘‘(B) within which are located— (2) by redesignating paragraphs (1) and (2) (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 1361 of the Na- as subparagraphs (A), and (B), respectively, tional Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. ‘‘(i) 50 or more repetitive loss structures and realigning such subparagraphs so as to 4102) is amended by adding at the end the fol- for each of which, during any 10-year period, be indented 4 ems from the left margin; lowing new subsection: two or more claims for payments under flood insurance coverage have been made with a (3) by striking ‘‘is authorized to consult’’ ‘‘(e) COMMUNITY ACCOUNTABILITY FOR RE- cumulative amount exceeding $1,000; and inserting the following: ‘‘is authorized— PETITIVELY DAMAGED AREAS.— ‘‘(ii) 5 or more severe repetitive loss struc- ‘‘(1) to consult’’; ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator shall, (4) by adding at the end the following new by regulation, require any covered commu- tures (as such term is defined in section paragraph: nity (as such term is defined in paragraph 1366(h)) for which mitigation activities meet- ‘‘(2) to receive proposed alternative maps (5))— ing the standards for approval under section from communities developed pursuant to ‘‘(A) to identify the areas within the com- 1366(c)(2)(A) have not been conducted; or standards and requirements recommended by munity where properties described in para- ‘‘(iii) a public facility or a private non- the Technical Mapping Advisory Council, as graph (5)(B) or flood-damaged facilities are profit facility (as such terms are as defined required by section 100215(m) of the Biggert- located to determine areas repeatedly dam- in section 102 of the Robert T. Stafford Dis- Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012 aged by floods and to assess, with assistance aster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 4101a(m)) and adopted by the Ad- from the Administrator, the continuing risks (42 U.S.C. 5122)), that has received assistance ministrator as required by section to such areas; for repair, restoration, reconstruction, or re- 100216(c)(3) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 4101b(c)(3)), ‘‘(B) to develop a community-specific plan placement under section 406 of the Robert T. so that the Administrator may— for mitigating continuing flood risks to such Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency As- ‘‘(A) publish information with respect to repetitively flooded areas and to submit such sistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5172) in connection all flood plain areas, including coastal areas plan and plan updates to the Administrator with more than one flooding event in the located in the United States, which have spe- at appropriate intervals; most recent 10-year period. cial flood hazards, and ‘‘(C) to implement such plans; ‘‘(6) REPETITIVE-LOSS STRUCTURE.—For pur- ‘‘(B) establish or update flood-risk zone ‘‘(D) to make such plan, plan updates, and poses of this subsection, the term ‘repetitive data in all such areas, and make estimates reports on progress in reducing flood risk loss structure’ has the meaning given such with respect to the rates of probable flood available to the public, subject to section term in section 1370 (42 U.S.C. 4121). caused loss for the various flood risk zones 552a of title 5, United States Code. ‘‘(7) REPORTS TO CONGRESS.—Not later than the expiration of the 6-year period beginning for each of these areas until the date speci- ‘‘(2) INCORPORATION INTO EXISTING PLANS.— fied in section 1319.’’. Plans developed pursuant to paragraph (1) upon the date of the enactment of this subsection, and not less than every 2 years (c) NATIONAL FLOOD MAPPING PROGRAM.— may be incorporated into mitigation plans Section 100216 of the Biggert-Waters Flood developed under section 1366 of this Act (42 thereafter, the Administrator shall submit a Insurance Reform Act of 2012 (42 U.S.C. 4101b) U.S.C. 4104c) and hazard mitigation plans de- report to the Congress regarding the is amended— veloped under section 322 of the Robert T. progress in implementing plans developed (1) in subsection (a), by inserting ‘‘prepared Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency As- pursuant to paragraph (1)(B).’’. (b) REGULATIONS.—The Administrator of by the Administrator, or by a community sistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5165). the Federal Emergency Management Agency pursuant to section 1360(a)(2) of the National ‘‘(3) ASSISTANCE TO COMMUNITIES.— shall issue regulations necessary to carry Flood Insurance Act of 1968,’’ after ‘‘Program ‘‘(A) DATA.—To assist communities in out subsection (e) of section 1361 of the Na- rate maps’’; and preparation of plans required under para- tional Flood Insurance Act of 1968, as added (2) in subsection (c)— graph (1), the Administrator shall, upon re- by the amendment made by subsection (a) of (A) in paragraph (1)(B), by striking ‘‘and’’ quest, provide covered communities with ap- this section, not later than the expiration of at the end; propriate data regarding the property ad- the 12-month period that begins on the date (B) in paragraph (2)(C), by striking the pe- dresses and dates of claims associated with of the enactment of this Act. riod at the end and inserting a semicolon; insured properties within the community. SEC. 403. INCREASED COST OF COMPLIANCE and ‘‘(B) MITIGATION GRANTS.—In making deter- COVERAGE. (C) by adding at the end the following new minations regarding financial assistance (a) COVERAGE OF PROPERTIES AT HIGH RISK paragraphs: under the authorities of this Act, the Admin- OF FUTURE FLOOD DAMAGE.—Subsection (b) ‘‘(3) establish and adopt standards and re- istrator may consider the extent to which a of section 1304 of the National Flood Insur- quirements for development by States and community has complied with this sub- ance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4011(b)) is amend- communities of alternative flood insurance section and is working to remedy problems ed— rate maps to be submitted to the Adminis- with addressing repeatedly flooded areas. (1) in paragraph (4), by redesignating sub- trator pursuant to section 1360(a)(2) of the ‘‘(4) SANCTIONS.— paragraphs (A) through (D) as clauses (i) National Flood Insurance Act of 1968, taking ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator through (iv), respectively, and realigning into consideration the recommendations of shall, by regulations issued in accordance such clauses, as so redesignated, so as to be the Technical Mapping Advisory Council with the procedures established under sec- indented 6 ems from the left margin; made pursuant to section 100215(m) of this tion 553 of title 5, United States Code, re- (2) by redesignating paragraphs (1) through Act (42 U.S.C. 4101a(m)); and garding substantive rules, provide appro- (4) as subparagraphs (A) through (D), respec- ‘‘(4) in the case of proposed alternative priate sanctions for covered communities tively, and realigning such subparagraphs, as maps received by the Administrator pursu- that fail to comply with the requirements so redesignated, so as to be indented 4 ems ant to such section 1360(a)(2), not later than under this subsection or to make sufficient from the left margin; the expiration of the 6-month period begin- progress in reducing the flood risks to areas (3) by striking the subsection designation ning upon receipt of such proposed alter- in the community that are repeatedly dam- and all that follows through ‘‘The national’’ native maps— aged by floods. and inserting the following: ‘‘(A) determine whether such maps were ‘‘(B) NOTICE.—Before imposing any sanc- ‘‘(b) ADDITIONAL COVERAGE FOR COMPLIANCE developed in accordance with the standards tion pursuant to this paragraph, the Admin- WITH LAND USE AND CONTROL MEASURES.—

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‘‘(1) AUTHORITY; ELIGIBLE PROPERTIES.—The provisions of this section, is further amended ‘‘(A) the cumulative volume of policies national’’; by adding at the end the following new para- that have been underwritten under the Na- (4) in subparagraph (C) (as so redesignated graph: tional Flood Insurance Program during such by paragraph (2) of this subsection), by strik- ‘‘(5) CONTINUED FLOOD INSURANCE REQUIRE- fiscal year through the end of the quarter for ing ‘‘Fund’’ and all that follows and insert- MENT.—The Administrator may require, as a which the report is submitted; ing ‘‘Fund to require the implementation of condition of providing cost of compliance ‘‘(B) the types of policies insured, cat- such measures;’’; coverage under this subsection for a prop- egorized by risk; (5) in subparagraph (D)(iv) (as so redesig- erty, that the owner of the property enter ‘‘(C) any significant changes between ac- nated by paragraphs (1) and (2) of this sub- into such binding agreements as the Admin- tual and projected claim activity; section), by striking the period at the end istrator considers necessary to ensure that ‘‘(D) projected versus actual loss rates; and inserting a semicolon; and the owner of the property (and any subse- ‘‘(E) the cumulative number of currently (6) by adding at the end the following new quent owners) will maintain flood insurance insured repetitive-loss properties, severe re- subparagraphs: coverage under this title for the property in petitive-loss properties, and extreme repet- ‘‘(E) properties that have been identified such amount, and at all times during a pe- itive-loss properties that have been identi- by the Administrator, or by a community in riod having such duration, as the Adminis- fied during such fiscal year through the end accordance with such requirements as the trator considers appropriate to carry out the of the quarter for which the report is sub- Administrator shall establish, as at a high purposes of this subsection.’’. mitted; risk of future flood damage; and TITLE V—PROGRAM INTEGRITY ‘‘(F) the cumulative number of properties ‘‘(F) properties that are located within an SEC. 501. INDEPENDENT ACTUARIAL REVIEW. that have undergone mitigation assistance, area identified pursuant to section Section 1309 of the National Flood Insur- through the National Flood Insurance Pro- 1361(e)(1)(A) (42 U.S.C. 4102(e)(1)(A)) by a cov- ance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4016) is amended gram, during such fiscal year through the ered community (as such term is defined in by adding at the end the following new sub- end of the quarter for which the report is paragraph (3) of such section 1361(e)).’’. section: submitted; and (b) COVERAGE AMOUNT.—Section 1304(b) of ‘‘(e) INDEPENDENT ACTUARIAL REVIEW.— ‘‘(G) the number and location, by State or the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 ‘‘(1) FIDUCIARY RESPONSIBILITY.—The Ad- territory, of each policyholder that has been U.S.C. 4011(b)) is amended— ministrator has a responsibility to ensure identified for such fiscal year as an eligible (1) in paragraph (1) (as so designated by that the National Flood Insurance Program household for purposes of the flood insurance subsection (a)(3) of this section), by striking remains financially sound. Pursuant to this affordability program under section 1326. the last sentence (relating to a surcharge); responsibility, the Administrator shall from The first quarterly report under this para- and time to time review and eliminate non- graph shall be submitted on the last day of (2) by adding at the end the following new essential costs and positions within the Pro- the first quarter of fiscal year 2018, or on the paragraph: gram, unless otherwise authorized or re- last day of the first full calendar quarter fol- ‘‘(2) COVERAGE AMOUNT.— quired by law, as the Administrator deter- lowing the enactment of the 21st Century ‘‘(A) PRIMARY COVERAGE.—Each policy for mines to be necessary. Flood Reform Act, whichever occurs later.’’. flood insurance coverage made available ‘‘(2) ANNUAL INDEPENDENT ACTUARIAL SEC. 502. ADJUSTMENTS TO HOMEOWNER FLOOD under this title shall provide coverage under STUDY.—The Administrator shall provide for INSURANCE AFFORDABILITY SUR- this subsection having an aggregate liability an independent actuarial study of the Na- CHARGE. for any single property of $30,000. tional Flood Insurance Program to be con- (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 1308A of the Na- ‘‘(B) ENHANCED COVERAGE.—The Adminis- ducted annually, which shall analyze the fi- tional Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. trator shall make additional coverage avail- nancial position of the program based on the 4015a) is amended— able under this subsection, in excess of the long-term estimated losses of the program. (1) in subsection (a), by striking the first limit specified in subparagraph (A), having The Administrator shall submit a report (to- sentence and inserting the following: ‘‘The an aggregate liability for any single property gether with the independent actuarial study) Administrator shall impose and collect a of up to $60,000.’’. annually to the Committee on Financial non-refundable annual surcharge, in the (c) AMOUNT OF SURCHARGE.—Subsection (b) Services of the House of Representatives and amount provided in subsection (b), on all of section 1304 of the National Flood Insur- the Committee on Banking, Housing, and policies for flood insurance coverage under ance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4011(b)), as amend- Urban Affairs of the Senate describing the the National Flood Insurance Program that ed by the preceding provisions of this sec- results of such study, including a determina- are newly issued or renewed after the date of tion, is further amended by adding at the end tion of whether the Program has collected the enactment of this section.’’; and the following new paragraph: revenue sufficient to cover the administra- (2) by striking subsection (b) and inserting ‘‘(3) SURCHARGE FOR COVERAGE.— tive expenses of carrying out the flood insur- the following new subsection: ‘‘(A) PRIMARY COVERAGE.—The Adminis- ance program, which are reflected in the risk ‘‘(b) AMOUNT.—The amount of the sur- trator shall impose a surcharge on each in- premium rates, cost of capital, all other charge under subsection (a) shall be $40, ex- sured of such amount per policy as the Ad- costs associated with the transfer of risks, cept as follows: ministrator determines is appropriate to pro- and expected claims payments during the re- ‘‘(1) NON-PRIMARY RESIDENCES ELIGIBLE FOR vide cost of compliance coverage in accord- porting period, and an overall assessment of PRP.—The amount of the surcharge under ance with paragraph (2)(A). the financial status of the Program. subsection (a) shall be $125 in the case of in ‘‘(B) ENHANCED COVERAGE.—For each flood ‘‘(3) DETERMINATION OF ACTUARIAL BUDGET the case of a policy for any property that policy for flood insurance coverage under DEFICIT.— is— this title under which additional cost of ‘‘(A) REQUIREMENT.—Within the report sub- ‘‘(A) a residential property that is not the compliance coverage is provided pursuant to mitted under paragraph (2), the Adminis- primary residence of an individual, and paragraph (2)(B), the Administrator shall im- trator shall issue a determination of whether ‘‘(B) eligible for preferred risk rate method pose a surcharge, in addition to the sur- there exists an actuarial budget deficit for premiums. charge under subparagraph (A) of this para- the Program for the year covered in the re- ‘‘(2) NON-RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES AND NON- graph, in such amount as the Administrator port. The report shall recommend any PRIMARY RESIDENCES NOT ELIGIBLE FOR PRP.— determines is appropriate for the amount of changes to the Program, if necessary, to en- The amount of the surcharge under sub- such coverage provided.’’. sure that the program remains financially section (a) shall be $275 in case of in the case (d) USE OF CERTAIN MATERIALS.—Sub- sound. of a policy for any property that is— section (b) of section 1304 of the National ‘‘(B) BASIS OF DETERMINATION.—The deter- ‘‘(A) a non-residential property; or Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. mination required by subparagraph (A) shall ‘‘(B) a residential property that is— 4011(b)), as amended by the preceding provi- be based solely upon whether the portion of ‘‘(i) not the primary residence of an indi- sions of this section, is further amended by premiums estimated and collected by the vidual; and adding at the end the following new para- Program during the reporting period is suffi- ‘‘(ii) not eligible for preferred risk rate graph: cient to cover the administrative expenses of method premiums.’’. ‘‘(4) USE OF CERTAIN MATERIALS.—The Ad- carrying out the flood insurance program, (b) APPLICABILITY.—The amendment made ministrator shall require that any measures which are reflected in the risk premium by subsection (a) shall apply with respect to implemented using amounts made available rates, cost of capital, all other costs associ- policies for flood insurance coverage under from coverage provided pursuant to this sub- ated with the transfer of risk, and expected the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 section be carried out using materials, iden- claims payments for the reporting period. that are newly issued or renewed after the tified by the Administrator, that minimize ‘‘(4) QUARTERLY REPORTS.—During each fis- expiration of the 12-month period beginning the impact of flooding on the usability of the cal year, on a calendar quarterly basis, the on the date of the enactment of this Act. covered property and reduce the duration Secretary shall cause to be published in the SEC. 503. NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE RE- that flooding renders the property unusable Federal Register or comparable method, SERVE FUND COMPLIANCE. or uninhabitable.’’. with notice to the Committee on Financial Section 1310A of the National Flood Insur- (e) CONTINUED FLOOD INSURANCE REQUIRE- Services of the House of Representatives and ance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4017A) is amend- MENT.—Subsection (b) of section 1304 of the the Committee on Banking, Housing, and ed— National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 Urban Affairs of the Senate, information (1) in subsection (c)(2)(D), by inserting be- U.S.C. 4011(b)), as amended by the preceding which shall specify— fore the period at the end the following: ‘‘,

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including any provisions relating to charge- ‘‘(ii) at least 2 separate claims payments (2) ANNUAL LIMITATION ON PREMIUM IN- able premium rates or annual increases of have been made under flood insurance cov- CREASES.—Subsection (e) of section 1308 of such rates’’; erage under this title, with the cumulative the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 (2) in subsection (c)(3), by striking subpara- amount of such claims payments exceeding U.S.C. 4015(e)) is amended— graph (A) and inserting the following new the value of the structure. (A) in paragraph (3), by striking ‘‘and’’ at subparagraph: ‘‘(E) EXTREME REPETITIVE-LOSS PROP- the end; ‘‘(A) PARITY.—In exercising the authority ERTY.—The term ‘extreme repetitive-loss (B) in paragraph (4)— granted under paragraph (1) to increase pre- property’ means a structure that has in- (i) by striking ‘‘the chargeable risk’’ and miums, the Administrator shall institute a curred flood damage for which at least 2 sep- inserting ‘‘notwithstanding paragraph (5), single annual, uniform rate of assessment for arate claims have been made under flood in- the chargeable risk’’; and all individual policyholders.’’; and surance coverage under this title, with the (ii) by striking ‘‘described under paragraph (3) in subsection (d)— cumulative amount of such claims payments (3).’’ and inserting ‘‘estimated under section (A) by striking paragraph (1) and inserting exceeding 150 percent of the maximum cov- 1307(a)(1); and’’; and the following new paragraph: erage amount available for the structure. (C) by adding at the end the following new ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Beginning in fiscal year ‘‘(2) TREATMENT OF CLAIMS BEFORE COMPLI- paragraph: 2018 and not ending until the fiscal year in ANCE WITH STATE AND LOCAL REQUIREMENTS.— ‘‘(5) the chargeable risk premium rates for which the ratio required under subsection (b) The Administrator shall not consider claims flood insurance under this title for any prop- is achieved— that occurred before a structure was made erties described in subparagraph (F) of sec- ‘‘(A) in each fiscal year the Administrator compliant with State and local floodplain tion 1307(a)(2) shall be increased— shall place in the Reserve Fund an amount management requirements for purposes of ‘‘(A) for any property for which two quali- equal to not less than 7.5 percent of the re- determining a structure’s status as a mul- fied claims payments have been made, by 10 serve ratio required under subsection (b); and tiple-loss property.’’. percent each year, until the average risk pre- ‘‘(B) if in any given fiscal year the Admin- (b) PREMIUM ADJUSTMENT TO REFLECT CUR- mium rate for such property is equal to the istrator fails to comply with subparagraph RENT FLOOD RISK.— average of the risk premium rates for prop- (A), for the following fiscal year the Admin- (1) IN GENERAL.—Section 1308 of the Na- erties estimated under section 1307(a)(1); and istrator shall increase the rate of the annual tional Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. ‘‘(B) for any property for which three or assessment pursuant to subsection (c)(3)(A) 4015), as amended by the preceding provisions more qualified claims payments have been by at least one percentage point over the of this Act, is further amended by adding at made, by 15 percent each year, until the av- rate of the annual assessment pursuant to the end the following new subsection: erage risk premium rate for such property is subsection (c)(3)(A) in effect on the first day ‘‘(p) PREMIUM ADJUSTMENT TO REFLECT equal to the average of the risk premium of such given fiscal year.’’; CURRENT FLOOD RISK.— rates for properties estimated under section (B) in paragraph (2), by inserting before the ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in 1307(a)(1).’’. period at the end the following: ‘‘nor to in- paragraph (2), the Administrator shall rate a (d) MINIMUM DEDUCTIBLES FOR CERTAIN crease assessments pursuant to paragraph property for which two or more qualified MULTIPLE-LOSS PROPERTIES.— (1)(B)’’; and claims payments have been made and that is (1) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The National (C) in paragraph (3), by inserting before the charged a risk premium rate estimated Flood Insurance Act of 1968, as amended by period at the end the following: ‘‘and para- under section 1307(a)(1) (42 U.S.C. 4014(a)(1)) the preceding provisions of this Act, is fur- graph (1)(B) shall apply until the fiscal year based on the current risk of flood reflected in ther amended— in which the ratio required under subsection the flood insurance rate map in effect at the (A) by transferring subsection (b) of sec- (b) is achieved’’. time of rating. tion 1312 (42 U.S.C. 4019(b)) to section 1306 (42 SEC. 504. DESIGNATION AND TREATMENT OF ‘‘(2) ADJUSTMENT FOR EXISTING POLICIES.— U.S.C. 4013), inserting such subsection at the MULTIPLE-LOSS PROPERTIES. Notwithstanding subsection (e) of this sec- end of such section, and redesignating such (a) DEFINITION.—Section 1370 of the Na- tion, for policies for flood insurance under subsection as subsection (f); and tional Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. this title in force on the date of the enact- (B) in section 1312 (42 U.S.C. 4019), by redes- 4121), as amended by the preceding provisions ment of this Act for properties described in ignating subsection (c) as subsection (b). of this Act, is further amended— paragraph (1)— (2) CERTAIN MULTIPLE-LOSS PROPERTIES.— (1) in subsection (a)— ‘‘(A) for any property for which two quali- Subsection (f) of section 1306 of the National (A) by striking paragraph (7); and fied claims payments have been made, the Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. (B) by redesignating paragraphs (8) Administrator shall increase risk premium 4013(e)), as so transferred and redesignated through (18) as paragraphs (7) through (17), rates by 10 percent each year until such rates by paragraph (1) of this subsection, is amend- respectively; and comply with paragraph (1) of this subsection; ed adding at the end the following new para- (2) by adding at the end the following new and graph: subsection: ‘‘(B) for any property for which three or ‘‘(3) CERTAIN MULTIPLE-LOSS PROPERTIES.— ‘‘(d) MULTIPLE-LOSS PROPERTIES.— more qualified claims payments have been Notwithstanding paragraph (1) or (2), the ‘‘(1) DEFINITIONS.—As used in this title: made, the Administrator shall increase risk minimum annual deductible for damage to ‘‘(A) MULTIPLE-LOSS PROPERTY.—The term premium rates by 15 percent each year until any severe repetitive-loss property or ex- ‘multiple-loss property’ means any property such rates comply with paragraph (1) of this treme repetitive-loss property shall be not that is a repetitive-loss property, a severe re- subsection.’’. less than $5,000.’’. petitive-loss property, or an extreme repet- (2) CONFORMING AMENDMENT.—Section (e) CLAIM HISTORY VALIDATION.—Beginning itive-loss property. 1307(g)(2) of the National Flood Insurance not later than the expiration of the 180-day ‘‘(B) QUALIFIED CLAIMS PAYMENT.—The Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4014(g)(2)) is amended period beginning on the date of the enact- term ‘qualified claims payment’ means a by striking subparagraph (B) and inserting ment of this Act, the Administrator of the claims payment of any amount made under the following new subparagraph: Federal Emergency Management Agency flood insurance coverage under this title in ‘‘(B) in connection with a multiple-loss shall undertake efforts to validate the rea- connection with loss resulting from a flood property.’’. sonable accuracy of claim history data main- event that occurred after the date of the en- (c) PRE-FIRM MULTIPLE-LOSS PROPERTY.— tained pursuant to the National Flood Insur- actment of the 21st Century Flood Reform (1) TERMINATION OF SUBSIDY.—Section 1307 ance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4001 et seq.). Act, but not including any claim that oc- of the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (f) INCREASED COST OF COMPLIANCE COV- curred before a structure was made compli- (42 U.S.C. 4014) is amended— ERAGE.—Subparagraph (A) of section ant with State and local floodplain manage- (A) in subsection (a)(2)— 1304(b)(1) of the National Flood Insurance ment requirements. (i) by striking subparagraph (C) and insert- Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4011(b)(1)(A)), as amend- ‘‘(C) REPETITIVE-LOSS PROPERTY.—The term ing the following new subparagraph: ed by the preceding provisions of this Act, is ‘repetitive-loss property’ means a structure ‘‘(C) any extreme repetitive-loss prop- further amended by striking ‘‘repetitive loss that has incurred flood damage for which erty;’’; structures’’ and inserting ‘‘multiple-loss two or more separate claims payments of (ii) in subparagraph (D), by striking ‘‘or’’; properties’’. any amount have been made under flood in- (iii) in subparagraph (E)— (g) AVAILABILITY OF INSURANCE FOR MUL- surance coverage under this title. (I) in clause (i), by striking ‘‘fair’’; and TIPLE-LOSS PROPERTIES.— ‘‘(D) SEVERE REPETITIVE-LOSS PROPERTY.— (II) in clause (ii)— (1) IN GENERAL.—The National Flood Insur- The term ‘severe repetitive-loss property’ (aa) by striking ‘‘fair’’; and ance Act of 1968 is amended by inserting means a structure that has incurred flood (bb) by striking ‘‘and’’ and inserting ‘‘or’’; after section 1304 (42 U.S.C. 4011) the fol- damage for which— and lowing new section: ‘‘(i) 4 or more separate claims payments (iv) by adding at the end the following new ‘‘SEC. 1304A. AVAILABILITY OF INSURANCE FOR have been made under flood insurance cov- subparagraph: MULTIPLE-LOSS PROPERTIES. erage under this title, with the amount of ‘‘(F) any property for which two or more ‘‘(a) DATE AND INFORMATION IDENTIFYING each such claim exceeding $5,000, and with qualified claims payments have been made; CURRENT FLOOD RISK.—The Administrator the cumulative amount of such claims pay- and’’; and may provide flood insurance coverage under ments exceeding $20,000; or (B) by striking subsection (h). this title for a multiple-loss property only if

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A14NO7.013 H14NOPT1 H9222 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 the owner of the property submits to the Ad- ‘‘(2) to property owners, in coordination under this title, and shall be available sub- ministrator such data and information nec- with the State and community, in the form ject to section 1310(f); essary to determine such property’s current of direct grants under this section for car- ‘‘(B) any penalties collected under section risk of flood, as determined by the Adminis- rying out mitigation activities that reduce 102(f) the Flood Disaster Protect Act of 1973 trator, at the time of application for or re- flood damage to extreme repetitive-loss (42 U.S.C. 4012a(f); and newal of such coverage. properties. ‘‘(C) any amounts recaptured under sub- ‘‘(b) REFUSAL TO MITIGATE.— The Administrator shall take such actions as section (e) of this section. ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided pur- may be necessary to ensure that grants The Administrator may not use more than 5 suant to paragraph (2), the Administrator under this subsection are provided in a man- percent of amounts made available under may not make flood insurance coverage ner that is consistent with the delivery of this subsection to cover salaries, expenses, available under this title for any extreme re- coverage for increased cost of compliance and other administrative costs incurred by petitive-loss property for which a claim pay- provided under section 1304(b).’’; the Administrator to make grants and pro- ment for flood loss was made under coverage (2) in subsection (c)(2)(A)(ii), by striking vide assistance under this section. made available under this title that occurred ‘‘severe repetitive loss structures’’ and in- ‘‘(2) AVAILABILITY.—Amounts appropriated after the date of enactment of the 21st Cen- serting ‘‘multiple-loss properties’’; pursuant to this subsection for any fiscal tury Flood Reform Act if the property owner (3) in subsection (d)— year may remain available for obligation refuses an offer of mitigation for the prop- (A) in paragraph (1)— until expended.’’. (k) REPEAL.—Section 1367 of the National erty under section 1366(a)(2) (42 U.S.C. (i) by striking ‘‘SEVERE REPETITIVE LOSS Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4104d) 4104c(a)(2)). STRUCTURES’’ and inserting ‘‘EXTREME REPET- is repealed. ‘‘(2) EXCEPTIONS; APPEALS.—The Director ITIVE-LOSS PROPERTIES’’; and shall develop guidance to provide appro- (ii) by striking ‘‘severe repetitive loss SEC. 505. ELIMINATION OF COVERAGE FOR PROP- priate exceptions to the prohibition under ERTIES WITH EXCESSIVE LIFETIME structures’’ and inserting ‘‘extreme repet- CLAIMS. paragraph (1) and to allow for appeals to itive-loss properties’’; such prohibition.’’. Section 1305 of the National Flood Insur- (B) in paragraph (2)— ance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4012) is amended (2) EFFECTIVE DATE.—Section 1304A of the (i) by striking ‘‘REPETITIVE LOSS STRUC- by adding at the end the following new sub- National Flood Insurance Act of 1968, as TURES’’ and inserting ‘‘SEVERE REPETITIVE- added by paragraph (1) of this subsection, section: LOSS PROPERTIES’’; ‘‘(e) PROHIBITION OF COVERAGE FOR PROP- shall apply beginning upon the expiration of (ii) by striking ‘‘repetitive loss structures’’ ERTIES WITH EXCESSIVE LIFETIME CLAIMS.— the 12-month period beginning on the date of and inserting ‘‘severe repetitive-loss prop- The Administrator may not make available the enactment of this Act. erties’’; and any new or renewed coverage for flood insur- (h) RATES FOR PROPERTIES NEWLY MAPPED (iii) by striking ‘‘90 percent’’ and inserting ance under this title for any multiple-loss INTO AREAS WITH SPECIAL FLOOD HAZARDS.— ‘‘100 percent’’; property for which the aggregate amount in Subsection (i) of section 1308 of the National (C) by redesignating paragraph (3) as para- claims payments that have been made after Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4015(i)) graph (4); and the expiration of the 18-month period begin- is amended— (D) by inserting after paragraph (2) the fol- ning on the date of the enactment of this (1) by striking the subsection designation lowing new paragraph: subsection under flood insurance coverage and all that follows through ‘‘Notwith- ‘‘(3) REPETITIVE-LOSS PROPERTY.—In the under this title exceeds three times the standing’’ and inserting the following: case of mitigation activities to repetitive- amount of the replacement value of the ‘‘(i) RATES FOR PROPERTIES NEWLY MAPPED loss properties, in an amount up to 100 per- structure.’’. INTO AREAS WITH SPECIAL FLOOD HAZARDS.— cent of all eligible costs.’’; SEC. 507. PAY FOR PERFORMANCE AND STREAM- ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in (4) in subsection (h)— LINING COSTS AND REIMBURSE- paragraph (2) and notwithstanding’’; MENT. (2) by redesignating paragraphs (1) and (2) (A) by striking paragraphs (2) and (3); (B) by striking the subsection designation Section 1345 of the National Flood Insur- as subparagraphs (A) and (B), respectively, ance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4081), as amended and moving the left margins of such subpara- and all that follows through ‘‘shall apply:’’; and by the preceding provisions of this Act, is graphs, as so redesignated, and the matter further amended by adding at the end the (C) in paragraph (1)— following subparagraph (B), 2 ems to the following subsection: (i) by striking ‘‘COMMUNITY’’ and inserting right; and ‘‘(g) WRITE YOUR OWN ALLOWANCE AND PRO- ‘‘DEFINITION OF COMMUNITY’’; (3) by adding at the end the following new GRAM SAVINGS.— (ii) by striking ‘‘The’’ and inserting ‘‘For paragraph: ‘‘(1) ALLOWANCE RATE.— purposes of this section, the’’; ‘‘(2) INAPPLICABILITY TO MULTIPLE-LOSS ‘‘(A) LIMITATION.—The allowance paid to (iii) by redesignating such paragraph as PROPERTIES.—Paragraph (1) shall not apply companies participating in the Write Your to multiple-loss properties.’’. subsection (j); Own Program (as such term is defined in sec- (i) CLEAR COMMUNICATION OF MULTIPLE- (iv) in subparagraph (B), by striking ‘‘sub- tion 1370 (42 U.S.C. 4004)) with respect to a LOSS PROPERTY STATUS.— paragraph (A)’’ and inserting ‘‘paragraph policy for flood insurance coverage made (1) IN GENERAL.—Subsection (l) of section (1)’’; available under this title shall not be greater 1308 of the National Flood Insurance Act of (v) by redesignating subparagraphs (A) and than 27.9 percent of the chargeable premium 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4015(l)), as amended by the (B) as paragraphs (1) and (2), respectively; for such coverage. preceding provisions of this Act, is further (vi) in paragraph (1), as so redesignated by ‘‘(B) INAPPLICABILITY.—Subparagraph (A) amended by adding at the end the following clause (v) of this subparagraph, by redesig- shall not apply to actual and necessary costs new paragraph: nating clauses (i) and (ii) as subparagraphs related to section 1312(a) (42 U.S.C, 4019(a)), ‘‘(2) MULTIPLE-LOSS PROPERTIES.—Pursuant (A) and (B), respectively (and moving the or to payments deemed necessary by the Ad- to paragraph (1), the Administrator shall margins two ems to the left); and ministrator. clearly communicate to all policyholders for (vii) by moving the left margins of sub- ‘‘(C) IMPLEMENTATION.—The limitation in multiple-loss properties before the effective- section (j) (as so redesignated) and para- subparagraph (A) shall be imposed by equal ness of any such new or renewed coverage graphs (1) and (2), all as so redesignated, two reductions over the 3-year period beginning and after each qualified claims payment for ems to the left; and on the date of the enactment of this sub- the property— (5) by inserting after subsection (g) the fol- section. ‘‘(A) the availability of flood mitigation lowing new subsections: ‘‘(2) PROGRAM SAVINGS.— assistance under section 1366; and ‘‘(h) ALIGNMENT WITH INCREASED COST OF ‘‘(A) IMPLEMENTATION.—The Adminis- ‘‘(B) the effect on the premium rates COMPLIANCE.—Notwithstanding any provi- trator, within three years of the date of the charged for such a property of filing any fur- sion of law, any funds appropriated for as- enactment of this Act, shall reduce the costs ther claims under a flood insurance policy sistance under this title may be transferred and unnecessary burdens for the companies with respect to that property.’’. to the National Flood Insurance Fund estab- participating in the Write Your Own pro- (j) MITIGATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM.—Sec- lished under section 1310 (42 U.S.C. 4017) for gram by at least half of the amount by which tion 1366 of the National Flood Insurance Act the payment of claims to enable the Admin- the limitation under paragraph (1)(A) re- of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4104c) is amended— istrator to deliver grants under subsection duced costs compared to the costs as of the (1) in subsection (a)— (a)(2) of this section to align with the deliv- date of the enactment of this subsection. (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), ery of coverage for increased cost of compli- ‘‘(B) CONSIDERATION OF SAVINGS.—In meet- by inserting after the period at the end of ance for extreme repetitive-loss properties. ing the requirement of subparagraph (A), the the first sentence the following: ‘‘Priority ‘‘(i) FUNDING.— Administrator shall consider savings includ- under the program shall be given to pro- ‘‘(1) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.— ing— viding assistance with respect to multiple- Notwithstanding any other provision of law, ‘‘(i) indirect payments by the Adminis- loss properties.’’; assistance provided under this section shall trator of premium; (B) in paragraph (1), by inserting ‘‘and’’ be funded by— ‘‘(ii) eliminating unnecessary communica- after the semicolon at the end; and ‘‘(A) $225,000,000 in each fiscal year, subject tions requirements; (C) by striking paragraphs (2) and (3) and to offsetting collections, through risk pre- ‘‘(iii) reducing the frequency of National inserting the following: mium rates for flood insurance coverage Flood Insurance Program changes;

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A14NO7.013 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9223 ‘‘(iv) simplifying the flood rating system; (3) in subsection (e)(1), by striking ‘‘If’’ and proval of a claim for payment or disapproval and inserting ‘‘Subject to subsection (i) of this of the claim be made, and notification of ‘‘(v) other ways of streamlining the Pro- section, if’’; and such determination be provided to the in- gram to reduce costs while maintaining cus- (4) by adding at the end the following new sured making such claim, not later than the tomer service and distribution.’’. subsection: expiration of the 120-day period (as such pe- SEC. 508. ENFORCEMENT OF MANDATORY PUR- ‘‘(i) SATISFACTION OF MANDATORY PUR- riod may be extended pursuant to paragraph CHASE REQUIREMENTS. CHASE REQUIREMENT IN STATES ALLOWING (2)) beginning upon the day on which the pol- (a) PENALTIES.—Paragraph (5) of section ALL-PERILS POLICIES.— icyholder submits a signed proof of loss de- 102(f) of the Flood Disaster Protection Act of ‘‘(1) WAIVERS.—Subsections (a) and (b) of tailing the damage and amount of the loss. 1973 (42 U.S.C. 4012a(f)(5)) is amended by this section shall not apply with respect to Payment of approved claims shall be made striking ‘‘$2,000’’ and inserting ‘‘$5,000’’. residential properties in any State that alas soon as possible after such approval. (b) INSURED DEPOSITORY INSTITUTIONS.— lows any property insurance coverage that ‘‘(2) EXTENSION OF DEADLINE.—The Admin- Subparagraph (A) of section 10(i)(2) of the covers ‘all-perils’ except specifically ex- istrator shall provide that the period re- Federal Deposit Insurance Act (12 U.S.C. cluded perils and that includes coverage for ferred to in paragraph (1) may be extended 1820(i)(2)(A)) is amended by striking ‘‘date of flood perils in an amount at least equal to by a single additional period of 15 days in enactment of the Riegle Community Devel- the outstanding principal balance of the loan cases where extraordinary circumstances are opment and Regulatory Improvement Act of or the maximum limit of flood insurance demonstrated. The Administrator shall, by 1994 and biennially thereafter for the next 4 coverage made available under this title regulation, establish criteria for dem- years’’ and inserting ‘‘date of enactment of with respect to such type of residential prop- onstrating such extraordinary circumstances the 21st Century Flood Reform Act and bien- erty, whichever is less. and for determining to which claims such ex- nially thereafter’’. ‘‘(2) DEFINITIONS, PROCEDURES, STAND- traordinary circumstances apply.’’. (c) CREDIT UNIONS.—Subparagraph (A) of ARDS.—The Administrator may establish (2) APPLICABILITY.—The amendments made section 204(e)(2) of the Federal Credit Union such definitions, procedures, and standards by paragraph (1) shall apply to any claim Act (12 U.S.C. 1784(e)(2)(A)) is amended by as the Administrator considers necessary for under flood insurance coverage made avail- striking ‘‘date of enactment of the Riegle making determinations under paragraph able under the National Flood Insurance Act Community Development and Regulatory (1).’’. of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4001 et seq.) pending on the Improvement Act of 1994 and biennially SEC. 510. FLOOD INSURANCE PURCHASE RE- date of the enactment of this Act and any thereafter for the next 4 years’’ and inserting QUIREMENTS. claims made after such date of enactment. ‘‘date of enactment of the 21st Century Flood Section 102 of the Flood Disaster Protec- SEC. 512. RISK TRANSFER REQUIREMENT. Reform Act and annually thereafter’’. tion Act of 1973 (42 U.S.C. 4012a), as amended (d) GOVERNMENT-SPONSORED ENTER- Subsection (e) of section 1345 of the Na- by the preceding provisions of this Act, is PRISES.—Paragraph (4) of section 1319B(a) of tional Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. further amended— the Federal Housing Enterprises Financial 4081(e)) is amended— (1) in subsection (c)(2)(A), by striking Safety and Soundness Act of 1992 (12 U.S.C. (1) by striking ‘‘(e) RISK TRANSFER.—The ‘‘$5,000 or less’’ and inserting the following: 4521(a)(4)) is amended, in the matter after Administrator’’ and inserting the following: ‘‘$25,000 or less, except that such amount (as and below subparagraph (B), by striking ‘‘(e) RISK TRANSFER.— it may have been previously adjusted) shall ‘‘first, third, and fifth annual reports under ‘‘(1) AUTHORITY.—The Administrator’’; and be adjusted for inflation by the Adminis- this subsection required to be submitted (2) by adding at the end the following new trator upon the expiration of the 5-year pe- after the expiration of the 1-year period be- paragraph: riod beginning upon the enactment of the ginning on the date of enactment of the Rie- ‘‘(2) REQUIRED RISK TRANSFER COVERAGE.— 21st Century Flood Reform Act and upon the gle Community Development and Regulatory ‘‘(A) REQUIREMENT.—Not later than the ex- expiration of each successive 5-year period Improvement Act of 1994’’ and inserting piration of the 18-month period beginning thereafter, in accordance with an infla- ‘‘first annual report under this subsection re- upon the date of the enactment of this para- tionary index selected by the Adminis- quired to be submitted after the expiration graph and at all times thereafter, the Ad- trator’’; and of the 1-year period beginning on the date of ministrator shall annually cede a portion of (2) by adding at the end the following new enactment of the 21st Century Flood Reform the risk of the flood insurance program subsection: Act and every such second annual report under this title to the private reinsurance or ‘‘(j) FLOOD INSURANCE PURCHASE REQUIRE- thereafter’’. capital markets, or any combination thereof, MENTS.—Notwithstanding any other provi- (e) GUIDELINES.—The Federal entities for and at rates and terms that the Adminis- lending regulation (as such term is defined in sion of law, a State or local government or trator determines to be reasonable and ap- section 3(a) of the Flood Disaster Protection private lender may require the purchase of propriate, in an amount that— Act of 1973 (42 U.S.C. 4003(a))), in consulta- flood insurance coverage for a structure that ‘‘(i) is sufficient to maintain the ability of tion with the Administrator of the Federal is located outside of an area having special the program to pay claims; and Emergency Management Agency, shall joint- flood hazards.’’. ‘‘(ii) manages and limits the annual expo- ly update and reissue the rescinded docu- SEC. 511. CLARIFICATIONS; DEADLINE FOR AP- sure of the flood insurance program to flood ment of the Administrator entitled ‘‘Manda- PROVAL OF CLAIMS. losses in accordance with the probable max- tory Purchase of Flood Insurance Guide- (a) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—Part C of imum loss target established for such year lines’’ (lasted updated on October 29, 2014). chapter II of the National Flood Insurance under subparagraph (B). The updated document shall incorporate rec- Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4081 et seq.), as amend- ‘‘(B) PROBABLE MAXIMUM LOSS TARGET.— ommendations made by the Comptroller ed by the preceding provisions of this Act, is The Administrator shall for each fiscal year, General pursuant to the study conducted further amended by adding at the end the establish a probable maximum loss target for under section 514 of this Act. following new section: the national flood insurance program that SEC. 509. SATISFACTION OF MANDATORY PUR- ‘‘SEC. 1350. RULE OF CONSTRUCTION. shall be the maximum probable loss under CHASE REQUIREMENT IN STATES ‘‘A policyholder of a policy for flood insur- the national flood insurance program that is ALLOWING ALL-PERILS POLICIES. ance coverage made available under this expected to occur in such fiscal year. Section 102 of the Flood Disaster Protec- title must exhaust all administrative rem- ‘‘(C) CONSIDERATIONS.—In establishing the tion Act of 1973 (42 U.S.C. 4012a), as amended edies, including submission of disputed probable maximum loss target under sub- by the preceding provisions of this Act, is claims to appeal under any appeal process paragraph (B) for each fiscal year and car- further amended— made available by the Administrator, prior rying out subparagraph (A), the Adminis- (1) in subsection (a), by striking ‘‘After’’ to commencing legal action on any disputed trator shall consider— and inserting ‘‘Subject to subsection (i) of claim under such a policy.’’. ‘‘(i) the probable maximum loss targets for this section, after’’; (b) DEADLINE FOR APPROVAL OF CLAIMS.— other United States public natural catas- (2) in subsection (b)— (1) IN GENERAL.—Section 1312 of the Na- trophe insurance programs, including as (A) in paragraph (1), by striking ‘‘Each’’ tional Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. State wind pools and earthquake programs; and inserting ‘‘Subject to subsection (i) of 4019), as amended by the preceding provisions ‘‘(ii) the probable maximum loss targets of this section, each’’; of this Act, is further amended— other risk management organizations, in- (B) in paragraph (2)— (A) in subsection (a), by striking ‘‘The Ad- cluding the Federal National Mortgage Asso- (i) in subparagraph (A), by striking ‘‘A’’ ministrator’’ and inserting ‘‘Subject to the ciation and the Federal Home Loan Mort- the first place such term appears and insert- other provisions of this section, the Adminis- gage Corporation; ing ‘‘Subject to subsection (i) of this section, trator’’; and ‘‘(iii) catastrophic, actuarial, and other ap- a’’; (B) by adding at the end the following new propriate data modeling results of the na- (ii) in subparagraph (B), by striking subsection: tional flood insurance program portfolio; ‘‘Each’’ and inserting ‘‘Subject to subsection ‘‘(c) DEADLINE FOR APPROVAL OF CLAIMS.— ‘‘(iv) the availability of funds in the Na- (i) of this section, each’’; and ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator shall tional Flood Insurance Fund established (C) in paragraph (3), by striking ‘‘The’’ the provide that, in the case of any claim for under section 1310 (42 U.S.C. 4017); first place such term appears and inserting damage to or loss of property under flood in- ‘‘(v) the availability of funds in the Na- ‘‘Subject to subsection (i) of this section, surance coverage made available under this tional Flood Insurance Reserve Fund estab- the’’; title, an initial determination regarding ap- lished under section 1310A (42 U.S.C. 4017a);

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A14NO7.013 H14NOPT1 H9224 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 ‘‘(vi) the availability of borrowing author- (4) What are the estimated historical im- for flood insurance policies provided pursu- ity under section 1309 (42 U.S.C. 4016); pacts on revenue to the National Flood In- ant to this title. ‘‘(vii) the ability of the Administrator to surance Program based on the current level ‘‘(3) OTHER PENALTIES.—The penalties pro- repay outstanding debt; of compliance of section 102? vided for in this subsection shall be in addi- ‘‘(viii) amounts appropriated to the Admin- (5) Is the current monitoring and tracking tion to any other civil or criminal penalty istrator to carry out the national flood in- framework in place sufficient to ensure com- available under law.’’. surance program; pliance with section 102? SEC. 602. ENHANCED POLICYHOLDER APPEALS ‘‘(ix) reinsurance, capital markets, catas- (6) What is the best way to establish a con- PROCESS RIGHTS. trophe bonds, collateralized reinsurance, re- solidated, comprehensive, and accurate re- (a) ESTABLISHMENT.—Part C of chapter II silience bonds, and other insurance-linked pository of data on compliance with section of the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 securities, and other risk transfer opportuni- 102? (42 U.S.C. 4081 et seq.), as amended by the ties; and (7) What, if any, unintended consequences preceding provisions of this Act, is further ‘‘(x) any other factor the Administrator de- have resulted from the requirements and im- amended by adding at the end the following termines appropriate. plementation of section 102? new section: ‘‘(D) MULTI-YEAR CONTRACTS.—Nothing in (8) How can Federal agencies and regulated ‘‘SEC. 1352. APPROVAL OF DECISIONS RELATING this paragraph may be construed to prevent lending institutions improve compliance TO FLOOD INSURANCE COVERAGE. or prohibit the Administrator from com- with section 102? ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator shall plying with the requirement under subpara- (b) REPORT.—Not later than the expiration establish an appeals process to enable hold- graph (A) regarding ceding risk through con- of the 18-month period beginning on the date ers of a flood insurance policy provided tracts having a duration longer than one of the enactment of this Act, the Comp- under this title to appeal the decisions of year.’’. troller General shall submit a report to the their insurer, with respect to the disallow- SEC. 513. GAO STUDY OF SIMPLIFICATION OF NA- Committee on Financial Services of the ance, in whole or in part, of any claims for TIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PRO- House of Representatives and the Committee proved and approved losses covered by flood GRAM. on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs of insurance. Such appeals shall be limited to (a) STUDY.—The Comptroller General of the Senate regarding the findings and con- the claim or portion of the claim disallowed the United States shall conduct a study of clusions of the study conducted pursuant to by the insurer. options for simplifying flood insurance cov- this section. ‘‘(b) APPEAL DECISION.—Upon a decision in erage made available under the National TITLE VI—ADMINISTRATIVE REFORMS an appeal under subsection (a), the Adminis- Flood Insurance Act, which shall include the SEC. 601. PENALTIES FOR FRAUD AND FALSE trator shall provide the policyholder with a following: written appeal decision. The appeal decision (1) An analysis of how the administration STATEMENTS IN THE NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PROGRAM. shall explain the Administrator’s determina- of the National Flood Insurance Program tion to uphold or overturn the decision of can be simplified—statutorily, regulatorily, Part C of chapter 2 of the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4081 et seq.), the flood insurer. The Administrator may di- and administratively—for private flood in- rect the flood insurer to take action nec- surance policyholders, companies, agents, as amended by the preceding provisions of this Act, is further amended by adding at the essary to resolve the appeal, to include re-in- mortgage lenders, and flood insurance ven- spection, re-adjustment, or payment, as ap- dors. end the following new section: ‘‘SEC. 1351. PENALTIES FOR FRAUD AND FALSE propriate. (2) An assessment of ways in which flood ‘‘(c) RULES OF CONSTRUCTION.—This section insurance coverage made available under the STATEMENTS IN THE NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PROGRAM. shall not be construed as— National Flood Insurance Act and the pro- ‘‘(a) PROHIBITED ACTS.—A person shall not ‘‘(1) making the Federal Emergency Man- gram for providing and administrating such knowingly make a false or misleading state- agement Agency or the Administrator a coverage may be harmonized with private in- ment, production, or submission in connec- party to the flood insurance contract; or surance industry standards. tion with the proving or adjusting of a claim ‘‘(2) creating any action or remedy not oth- (3) Identification and analysis of ways in for flood insurance coverage made available erwise provided by this title.’’. which the structure of the National Flood under this Act. Such prohibited acts in- (b) REPEAL.—Section 205 of the Bunning- Insurance Program may be simplified, include— Blumenauer-Bereuter Flood Insurance Re- cluding analysis of the efficacy and effects ‘‘(1) knowingly forging an engineering reform Act of 2004 (42 U.S.C. 4011 note) is here- each of the following actions: port, claims adjustment report or technical by repealed. (A) Eliminating the use of two deductibles assistance report used to support a claim de- SEC. 603. DEADLINE FOR APPROVAL OF CLAIMS. under the Program. termination; (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 1312 of the Na- (B) Including in claims for flood-damages ‘‘(2) knowingly making any materially tional Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. full replacement cost for property not dam- false, fictitious, or fraudulent statement or 4019), as amended by the preceding provisions aged, but rendered unusable, by the flooding. representation in an engineering report, of this Act, is further amended by adding at (C) Using umbrella policies that allow mul- claims adjustment report, or technical as- the end the following new subsection: tiple structures on a property to be insured sistance report to support a claim deter- ‘‘(d) DEADLINE FOR APPROVAL OF CLAIMS.— under the same policy. ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator shall (b) REPORT.—Not later than the expiration mination; of the 18-month period beginning on the date ‘‘(3) knowingly submitting a materially provide that, in the case of any claim for of the enactment of this Act, the Comp- false, fictitious, or fraudulent claim. damage to or loss of property under flood in- troller General shall submit a report to the ‘‘(b) CIVIL ENFORCEMENT.—The Attorney surance coverage made available under this Committee on Financial Services of the General may bring a civil action for such re- title, a final determination regarding ap- House of Representatives and the Committee lief as may be appropriate whenever it approval of a claim for payment or disapproval on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs of pears that any person has violated or is of the claim be made, and notification of the Senate regarding the findings and con- about to violate any provision of this sec- such determination be provided to the in- clusions of the study conducted pursuant to tion. Such action may be brought in an ap- sured making such claim, not later than the this section. propriate United States district court. expiration of the 90-day period (as such pe- SEC. 514. GAO STUDY ON ENFORCEMENT OF MAN- ‘‘(c) REFERRAL TO ATTORNEY GENERAL.— riod may be extended pursuant to paragraph DATORY PURCHASE REQUIRE- The Administrator shall expeditiously refer (2)) beginning upon the day on which such MENTS. to the Attorney General for appropriate ac- claim was made. Payment of approved (a) IN GENERAL.—The Comptroller General tion any evidence developed in the perform- claims shall be made as soon as possible of the United States shall conduct a study of ance of functions under this Act that may after such approval. the implementation and efficacy of the re- warrant consideration for criminal or civil ‘‘(2) EXTENSION OF DEADLINE.—The Admin- quirements of section 102 of the Flood Dis- prosecution. istrator shall provide that the period re- aster Protection Act of 1973 (42 U.S.C. 4012a). ‘‘(d) PENALTIES.— ferred to in paragraph (1) may be extended Such study shall at minimum consider the ‘‘(1) CIVIL MONETARY PENALTY.—Any person by a single additional period of 15 days in following questions: who violates subsection (a) shall be subject cases where extraordinary circumstances are (1) How effectively do Federal agencies, to a civil penalty of not more than $10,000 for demonstrated. The Administrator shall, by regulated lending institutions, and Federal each violation, which shall be deposited into regulation, establish criteria for dem- entities for lending regulation implement the National Flood Insurance Fund estab- onstrating such extraordinary circumstances the requirements of section 102 of the Flood lished under section 1310 (42 U.S.C. 4017). and for determining to which claims such ex- Disaster Protection Act of 1973? ‘‘(2) SUSPENSION AND DEBARMENT.—Any per- traordinary circumstances apply.’’. (2) Does the current implementation of son who violates subsection (a) shall not be (b) APPLICABILITY.—The amendments made Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973 align eligible, for a period of not less than 2 years by subsection (a) shall apply to any claim with the congressional findings and purposes and not to exceed 5 years, to— under flood insurance coverage made avail- described in section 2(b) of such Act (42 ‘‘(A) receive flood insurance coverage pur- able under the National Flood Insurance Act U.S.C. 4002)? suant to this title; or of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4001 et seq.) pending on the (3) What is the current level of compliance ‘‘(B) provide services in connection with date of the enactment of this Act and any with section 102? the selling, servicing, or handling of claims claims made after such date of enactment.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A14NO7.013 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9225 SEC. 604. LITIGATION PROCESS OVERSIGHT AND nical assistance report subject to disclosure contact information sufficient to allow the REFORM. under subsection (a) may disclose such tech- policyholder to contact such entity. Part C of chapter II of the National Flood nical assistance report without further re- ‘‘(3) REQUIRED SIGNATURES.—Notwith- Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4081 et seq.), view or approval by the Administrator. standing section 1306(c) of the National as amended by the preceding provisions of ‘‘(c) DEFINITIONS.—For purposes of this sec- Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. this Act, is further amended by adding at the tion, the following definitions shall apply: 4013(c)), a policy for flood insurance coverage end the following new section: ‘‘(1) POLICYHOLDER.—The term ‘policy- under the National Flood Insurance Program ‘‘SEC. 1353. OVERSIGHT OF LITIGATION. holder’ means a person or persons shown as may not take effect unless the disclosure ‘‘(a) OVERSIGHT.—The Administrator shall an insured on the declarations page of a pol- sheet required under paragraph (1) and the monitor and oversee litigation conducted by icy for flood insurance coverage sold pursu- acknowledgment sheet required under para- Write Your Own companies arising under ant to this title. graph (2), with respect to the policy, are contracts for flood insurance sold pursuant ‘‘(2) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE REPORT.—The signed and dated by the policyholder and the to this title, to ensure that— term ‘technical assistance report’ means a seller of the policy who is acting on behalf of ‘‘(1) litigation expenses are reasonable, ap- report created for the purpose of furnishing the Program.’’. propriate, and cost-effective; and technical assistance to an insurance claims SEC. 608. RESERVE FUND AMOUNTS. ‘‘(2) Write Your Own companies comply adjuster assigned by the National Flood In- Section 1310 of the National Flood Insur- with guidance and procedures established by surance Program, including by engineers, ance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4017) is amended the Administrator regarding the conduct of surveyors, salvors, architects, and certified by adding at the end the following new sub- litigation. public accounts.’’. section: ‘‘(b) DENIAL OF REIMBURSEMENT FOR EX- SEC. 607. IMPROVED DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENT ‘‘(g) CREDITING OF RESERVE FUND PENSES.—The Administrator may deny reim- FOR STANDARD FLOOD INSURANCE AMOUNTS.—Funds collected pursuant to sec- bursement for litigation expenses that are POLICIES. tion 1310A may be credited to the Fund determined to be unreasonable, excessive, Section 100234 of the Biggert-Waters Flood under this section to be available for the contrary to guidance issued by the Adminis- Insurance Reform Act of 2012 (42 U.S.C. 4013a) purpose described in subsection (d)(1).’’. trator, or outside the scope of any arrange- is amended by adding at the end the fol- SEC. 609. SUFFICIENT STAFFING FOR OFFICE OF ment entered into with a Write Your Own lowing new subsection: FLOOD INSURANCE ADVOCATE. company. ‘‘(c) DISCLOSURE OF COVERAGE.— (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 24 of the Home- ‘‘(c) LITIGATION STRATEGY.—The Adminis- ‘‘(1) DISCLOSURE SHEET.—Each policy under owner Flood Insurance Affordability Act of trator may direct litigation strategy for the National Flood Insurance Program shall 2014 (42 U.S.C. 4033) is amended by adding at claims arising under a contract for flood in- include a disclosure sheet that sets forth, in the end the following new subsection: surance sold by a Write Your Own com- plain language— ‘‘(c) STAFF.—The Administrator shall en- pany.’’. ‘‘(A) the definition of the term ‘flood’ for sure that the Flood Insurance Advocate has SEC. 605. PROHIBITION ON HIRING DISBARRED purposes of coverage under the policy; sufficient staff to carry out all of the duties ATTORNEYS. ‘‘(B) a description of what type of flood and responsibilities of the Advocate under Part C of chapter II of the National Flood forces are necessary so that losses from an this section.’’. Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4081 et seq.), event are covered under the policy, including (b) TIMING.—The Administrator of the Fed- as amended by the preceding provisions of overflow of inland or tidal waves, unusual eral Emergency Management Agency shall this Act, is further amended by adding at the and rapid accumulation or runoff of a surface take such actions as may be necessary to end the following new section: any source, and mudflow; provide for full compliance with section 24(c) ‘‘SEC. 1354. PROHIBITION ON HIRING DISBARRED ‘‘(C) a statement of the types and charac- of the Homeowner Flood Insurance Afford- ATTORNEYS. teristics of losses that are not covered under ability Act of 2014, as added by the amend- ‘‘The Administrator may not at any time the policy; ment made by subsection (a) of this section, newly employ in connection with the flood ‘‘(D) a summary of total cost and amount not later than the expiration of the 180-day insurance program under this title any at- of insurance coverage, and any other infor- period beginning on the date of the enact- torney who has been suspended or disbarred mation relating to such coverage required to ment of this Act. by any court, bar, or Federal or State agency be disclosed under section 1308(l) of the Na- SEC. 610. LIMITED EXEMPTION FOR DISASTER OR to which the individual was previously ad- tional Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. CATASTROPHE CLAIMS ADJUSTERS. mitted to practice.’’. 4015(l)); Section 7 of the Fair Labor Standards Act SEC. 606. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE REPORTS. ‘‘(E) a statement that the disclosure sheet of 1938 (29 U.S.C. 207) is amended by adding at (a) USE.—Section 1312 of the National provides general information about the pol- the end the following: Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4019), icyholder’s standard flood insurance policy; ‘‘(s)(1) The provisions of this section shall as amended by the preceding provisions of ‘‘(F) a statement that the standard flood not apply for a period of 2 years after the oc- this Act, is further amended by adding at the insurance policy, together with the endorse- currence of a major disaster to any em- end the following new subsection: ments and declarations page, make up the ployee— ‘‘(e) USE OF TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE RE- official contract and are controlling in the ‘‘(A) employed to adjust or evaluate claims PORTS.—When adjusting claims for any dam- event that there is any difference between resulting from or relating to such major dis- age to or loss of property which is covered by the information on the disclosure sheet and aster, by an employer not engaged, directly flood insurance made available under this the information in the policy; and or through an affiliate, in underwriting, sell- title, the Administrator may rely upon tech- ‘‘(G) a statement that if the policyholder ing, or marketing property, casualty, or li- nical assistance reports, as such term is de- has any questions regarding information in ability insurance policies or contracts; fined in section 1312A, only if such reports the disclosure sheet or policy he or she ‘‘(B) who receives from such employer on are final and are prepared in compliance should contact the entity selling the policy average weekly compensation of not less with applicable State and Federal laws re- on behalf of the Program, together with con- than $591.00 per week or any minimum week- garding professional licensure and conduct.’’. tact information sufficient to allow the pol- ly amount established by the Secretary, (b) DISCLOSURE.—The National Flood In- icyholder to contact such entity. whichever is greater, for the number of surance Act of 1968 is amended by inserting ‘‘(2) ACKNOWLEDGMENT SHEET.—Each policy weeks such employee is engaged in any of after section 1312 (42 U.S.C. 4019) the fol- under the National Flood Insurance Program the activities described in subparagraph (C); lowing new section: shall include an acknowledgment sheet that and ‘‘SEC. 1312A. DISCLOSURE OF TECHNICAL ASSIST- sets forth, in plain language— ‘‘(C) whose duties include any of the fol- ANCE REPORTS. ‘‘(A) a statement of whether or not there is lowing: ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—Notwithstanding section a basement in the property to be covered by ‘‘(i) interviewing insured individuals, indi- 552a of title 5, United States Code, upon re- the policy; viduals who suffered injuries or other dam- quest by a policyholder, the Administrator ‘‘(B) a statement of whether or not the pol- ages or losses arising from or relating to a shall provide a true, complete, and icy provides coverage for the contents of the disaster, witnesses, or physicians; unredacted copy of any technical assistance property covered by the policy; ‘‘(ii) inspecting property damage or review- report that the Administrator relied upon in ‘‘(C) a statement that the standard flood ing factual information to prepare damage adjusting and paying for any damage to or insurance policy, together with the endorse- estimates; loss of property insured by the policyholder ments and declarations page, make up the ‘‘(iii) evaluating and making recommenda- and covered by flood insurance made avail- official contract and are controlling in the tions regarding coverage or compensability able under this title. Such disclosures shall event that there is any difference between of claims or determining liability or value be in addition to any other right of disclo- the information on the acknowledgment aspects of claims; sure otherwise made available pursuant such sheet and the information in the policy; and ‘‘(iv) negotiating settlements; or section 552a or any other provision of law. ‘‘(D) a statement that if the policyholder ‘‘(v) making recommendations regarding ‘‘(b) DIRECT DISCLOSURE BY WRITE YOUR has any questions regarding information in litigation. OWN COMPANIES AND DIRECT SERVICING the acknowledgment sheet or policy he or ‘‘(2) Notwithstanding any other provision AGENTS.—A Write Your Own company or di- she should contact the entity selling the pol- of section 18, in the event of a major dis- rect servicing agent in possession of a tech- icy on behalf of the Program, together with aster, this Act exclusively shall govern all

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A14NO7.013 H14NOPT1 H9226 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 such employers in lieu of any State or other Finally, Mr. Speaker, it is a govern- Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposi- Federal law or regulation or local law or reg- ment monopoly that, notwithstanding tion to H.R. 2874, legislation that will ulation, with respect to the employees de- subsidized rates, still, unfortunately, make flood insurance more expensive, scribed in paragraph (1). ‘‘(3) The exemption in this subsection shall has unaffordable premiums for many. less available, and less fair for con- not affect the exemption provided by section Today is a good day, Mr. Speaker, be- sumers. 13(a)(1). cause today the House gets to vote on At the outset, let me just say that I ‘‘(4) For purposes of this subsection— the 21st Century Flood Reform Act. appreciate the time and effort that ‘‘(A) the term ‘major disaster’ means any I thank the gentleman from Missouri Chairman HENSARLING and Mr. DUFFY natural catastrophe, including any hurri- (Mr. LUETKEMEYER) for his leadership spent in responding to my calls for bi- cane, tornado, storm, high water, wind driv- on the mapping reforms and reinsur- partisanship. We sat down multiple en water, tidal wave, tsunami, earthquake, ance. I want to thank the gentleman volcanic eruption, landslide, mudslide, snow- times to discuss areas where we could storm, or drought, or, regardless of cause, from Florida (Mr. ROSS) for his reforms find compromise and a path forward. any other catastrophe, including fire, flood, on opening up the market. I certainly Although our discussions were ulti- explosion, land collapse, avalanche, or pol- want to thank the gentleman from mately not successful and I strongly lutant or chemical release; Wisconsin (Mr. DUFFY) for his tireless oppose this bill, I continue to believe ‘‘(B) the term ‘employee employed to ad- effort and leadership in bringing this that flood insurance really can be a bi- just or evaluate claims resulting from or re- bill to the floor. partisan issue. In fact, I have a long lating to such major disaster’ means an indi- There are a lot of good reforms in history of working across the aisle on vidual who timely secured or secures a li- this bill, Mr. Speaker, for both tax- the National Flood Insurance Program. cense required by applicable law to engage in payers and ratepayers. Let me just and perform the activities described in In 2012, I coauthored the Biggert- clauses (i) through (v) of paragraph (1)(C) re- briefly touch upon two. Waters Act with former Representative lating to a major disaster, and is employed It is an absolutely revolutionary re- Judy Biggert, and in 2014, when by an employer that maintains worker com- form, Mr. Speaker, that we can break FEMA’s botched implementation of the pensation insurance coverage or protection open the government monopoly and premium increases called for in that for its employees, if required by applicable bring in market competition, innova- law led to unintended consequences, law, and withholds applicable Federal, State, tion competition, and more affordable lawmakers from across the aisle joined and local income and payroll taxes from the rates for so many. me once again to pass the Homeowner wages, salaries and any benefits of such em- Milliman, one of the actuarial ex- ployees; and Flood Insurance Affordability Act. perts within the marketplace, released Unfortunately, despite the best ef- ‘‘(C) the term ‘affiliate’ means a company a study a couple of months ago talking that, by reason of ownership or control of forts of Members from both sides of the twenty-five percent (25%) or more of the out- about the market competition, saying: aisle, I cannot support H.R. 2874 be- standing shares of any class of voting securi- ‘‘Based on our estimates, this would cause it contains many provisions that ties of one or more companies, directly or in- hold for 77 percent of all single families will harm American families and busi- directly, controls, is controlled by, or is in Florida, 69 percent in Louisiana, and nesses. under common control with, another com- 92 percent in Texas,’’ who all would see First and most importantly, the bill pany.’’. cheaper premiums. makes flood insurance more expensive. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The bill We know that is not theory. It is ac- This bill will punish low and middle shall be debatable for 1 hour equally di- tually happening in the market today. class Americans with increased pre- vided and controlled by the chair and In the nascent part of the market that miums, surcharges, and reserve fund ranking minority member of the Com- is open, people are getting hundreds, if assessments. In the wake of a historic mittee on Financial Services. not thousands, of dollars of savings. hurricane season that devastated so The gentleman from Texas (Mr. HEN- One of the great tragedies that I saw many communities, it is unconscion- SARLING) and the gentlewoman from in my native State of Texas, in Hous- able that we are considering a bill that California (Ms. MAXINE WATERS) each ton, was how few people actually took would make flood insurance less afford- will control 30 minutes. up flood insurance. Think, Mr. Speak- able. We should be focussing on pro- The Chair recognizes the gentleman er, if we had competition, if we had ad- viding additional disaster relief and re- from Texas. vertising, if people could roll that into covery after these devastating storms, GENERAL LEAVE their homeowner rates, how many not punishing these communities with Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I more people would have been protected higher premiums and surcharges. ask unanimous consent that all Mem- by the ravages of these hurricanes. It is clear that there are those who bers may have 5 legislative days in One more reform, briefly. We have choose to live near the coast as a lux- which to revise and extend their re- these repetitive loss properties where ury, but there are also those who live marks and to include extraneous mate- people live in areas that flood over and in floodplains who are low- and middle- rial on the bill under consideration. over and over. I met a couple of fami- income families with modest homes, The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there lies in Houston. They had three floods objection to the request of the gen- including some neighborhoods that are in 8 years. We have got to help them. predominantly minority. This is be- tleman from Texas? This bill provides more money for re- cause of the sad history of government- There was no objection. location, for flood-proofing, and for endorsed racism in access to credit and Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I mitigation, than any other flood re- in neighborhood planning that pushed yield myself such time as I may con- form bill, all by 25 percent. We would minorities into the bad parts of town, sume. prioritize these areas. Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, Maria: the We also have to realize that if we are which, in some cases, were bad because images of the human misery and the going to make this program sustain- they were prone to flooding. These communities also often lack economic devastation are still clearly able, we cannot have 1 percent of the the resources to make upgrades to imprinted on our minds. properties causing 25 percent of the their homes and infrastructure to Unfortunately, we know that part of losses. this is a result of a failed National guard against future flood risk and are Flood Insurance Program, which, Mr. b 1515 the least able to recover after a flood. Speaker, faced three important chal- Ultimately, if all we do is rebuild the The Lower Ninth Ward in New Orleans lenges. same properties in the same fashion in is a prime example. First, it is a bankrupt program. It is the same location, that is neither wise Another example is Greenspoint, a unsustainable. Taxpayers are on the nor compassionate. We have an oppor- business district in Houston that was hook for $1.2 trillion, running an an- tunity to enact historic reforms. We one of the hardest hit by Harvey. One nual actuarial deficit of $1.5 billion. It should do it today. in three residents in Greenspoint lives has already received two different bail- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of below the poverty line. Families in outs, for a combined total of about $25 my time. Greenspoint were still living in water- billion. Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. damaged and moldy units from flood- Also, it incents and subsidizes people Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time ing last year when they were hit again to actually live in harm’s way. as I may consume. by Harvey.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A14NO7.013 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9227 There is no simple answer to our Na- One of those was to provide better dis- NFIP, the bill proposes to set up a vol- tion’s flooding problems, but I do know closure to consumers about flood risk. untary State affordability program. that raising the premiums and racking We wanted them to know. And the sec- This proposal then fails to provide these up on policyholders will only ond was to decrease the number of re- States with the administrative costs to hurt families as well as our economy. peatedly flooded properties. This bill set up a program, a cost that may be Second, the bill makes flood insur- accomplishes both of those things. far too burdensome for many already- ance less available by allowing busi- Section 108 of the bill includes lan- struggling States. nesses to opt out of the requirement to guage that I authored, which will pro- Even worse, the program would offset purchase flood insurance, even if they vide information to home buyers about discounts for eligible policyholders by are a high-risk property in a flood past flood events, about the damage, charging policyholders who are not zone. about insurance claims, about any obli- able to take advantage of the afford- What is more, the bill kicks out cer- gation they might have to carry flood ability program—yet again increasing tain low-value homes from the NFIP by insurance; and the National Associa- costs for homeowners. prohibiting coverage for any home with tion of Realtors supports this common- Importantly, H.R. 2874 makes no ef- claims that, over the entire history of sense approach. fort to address the debt. Though the the property, following enactment, Section 402 of the bill includes the bi- NFIP had been self-sustaining for even if it changes hands, exceed three partisan Repeatedly Flooded Commu- many years, extreme unexpected dam- times the replacement value of the nities Preparation Act, sponsored by age following Hurricane Katrina and structure. Representative EARL BLUMENAUER and Superstorm Sandy left the NFIP with This provision is so ill-conceived that me. This means that repeatedly flooded over $20 billion in debt. Though some of the American Bankers Association properties, which comprise less than 2 the debt was, in fact, recently forgiven, wrote: ‘‘Cutting off such properties percent of NFIP policies but account the NFIP needed to borrow more from from NFIP coverage will likely lead to for one-third of all claims, are dealt the Treasury following Hurricanes Har- significant hardship for homeowners, with. vey, Irma, and Maria. lenders, and communities. As bor- Responsible, community-driven miti- The NFIP pays over $400 million a rowers lose NFIP coverage, and espe- gation is a win-win proposal, one which year in interest, money that could go cially if alternative private coverage is will help our neighborhoods become towards making improvements in the not available or affordable, these prop- stronger in the face of floods and ad- program or helping enhance afford- erties will lose value, and the risk of dress the fiscal footing of the overall ability. We need to wipe the slate clean abandonment and/or foreclosure in- program by decreasing the cost as this and give the NFIP a fresh start. H.R. 2874 fails to provide additional creases dramatically. In some flood- is addressed to community level. Finally, Mr. Speaker, I would par- funding for flood maps, maps that, in prone communities, this could lead to a ticularly like to thank the Pew Chari- many jurisdictions, are desperately local or regional foreclosure crisis.’’ table Trusts, their flood-prepared com- needed if we are going to have updated Third, the bill makes flood insurance munities initiative, for their support of maps. This bill also lacks funding for less fair for policyholders. In the wake our reform efforts. new mapping technology that could of this historic hurricane season, it is Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. help improve the accuracy of the flood astounding to me that the bill does Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the maps. nothing to fund flood maps so that we gentleman from Missouri (Mr. In conclusion, the short-term reau- can better protect families. Often- CLEAVER), the ranking member of the thorization of the NFIP expires early times, communities are unaware of Housing and Insurance Subcommittee next month. I urge my colleagues to their true flood risk; and by not pro- on the Financial Services Committee. vote against this bill and support a viding any funding for flood maps, Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in long-term NFIP strategy that pro- building in areas with no information opposition to H.R. 2874, the 21st Cen- motes affordability, stability for stake- about flood risk will only continue. tury Flood Reform Act. holders, and necessary funding for Climate change will only make these When the Financial Services Com- mapping and mitigation. storms more frequent, stronger, and mittee began the process to reauthor- Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I more devastating than ever before, and ize the National Flood Insurance Pro- yield 31⁄2 minutes to the gentleman we must make sure that the NFIP re- gram, I was very hopeful that we could from Missouri (Mr. LUETKEMEYER), mains available and affordable to all work across the aisle in a bipartisan chairman of the Financial Institutions Americans, not make it worse. manner. Unfortunately, the bill we see and Consumer Credit Subcommittee For all of these reasons, I urge my here today is not reflective of that ap- and one of the coauthors of H.R. 2874. colleagues to oppose H.R. 2874, and I reproach. Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I serve the balance of my time. Though a number of changes have, in rise today in support of the 21st Cen- Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I fact, been made to H.R. 2874 since leav- tury Flood Reform Act. yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from ing committee, the new provisions still Chairman HENSARLING and Chairman California (Mr. ROYCE), the chairman fail to incorporate many of our prior- DUFFY have crafted a great substitute of the Foreign Affairs Committee and ities for reauthorization or address our amendment that will bring about respected member of the Financial concerns with the NFIP. meaningful reform of NFIP and protect Services Committee. Most significantly, Mr. Speaker, in taxpayers and policyholders alike. Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- H.R. 2874 is the fact that it will in- The amendment includes H.R. 2246, er, I rise in strong support of the 21st crease cost for policyholders. The bill my Taxpayer Exposure Mitigation Act Century Flood Reform Act. raises costs on pre-FIRM structures of 2017. Included in that bill is a re- I think what Chairman JEB HEN- from 5 percent to 6.5 percent. quirement that the FEMA Adminis- SARLING was able to do here, and Chair- Additionally, the bill will require a trator purchase reinsurance or a cap- man DUFFY, is put forward a bill that $40 surcharge on primary residences ital market alternative in an effort to has really brought together the Mon- and seeks to increase the reserve fund guard taxpayers against losses. tagues and the Capulets, I mean, when by charging policyholders an addi- I know of no major insurance com- you think about the fact that, on one tional 1 percent every year. pany in the private sector that does hand, you have got the environmental The bill also changes the fee to pol- not purchase coverage to protect itself community supporting this and you icyholders who opt to pay their policy against loss of this kind. These prod- have got taxpayers’ advocates; you monthly. Many of our constituents ucts function well. There is no reason have got conservative think tanks and who live in flood-prone areas are not that FEMA should not be following you have got affordable housing wealthy. These are hardworking Amer- this best practice as well. groups; you have the reinsurers and icans who rely on the NFIP to help off- The amendment also grants States you have the insurers. set costs and protect their homes from and local governments and our con- We talked about two priorities that disastrous flooding. stituents the ability to play a more at least I was pushing to reauthorize in Instead of working to find ways to proactive role in the FEMA floodplain the National Flood Insurance Program. truly address affordability within the mapping process.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.058 H14NOPT1 H9228 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 I represent the Lake of the Ozarks gentlewoman from New York (Mrs. With a $1.4 billion annual deficit and with its 27,000 pieces of property along CAROLYN B. MALONEY), the ranking debt that continues to grow, this pro- its shoreline, which has dealt with tre- member of the Subcommittee on Cap- gram desperately needs reform, and mendous mapping issues over the past ital Markets of the Financial Services H.R. 2874 is our opportunity. several years. Hundreds of letters of Committee. We should all recognize that the map amendments were granted to my Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New NFIP is not a relief program. It is an constituents, and there were multiple York. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentle- insurance program. It is supposed to attempts by the community to engage woman for yielding and for her leader- insure against losses, which entails far with FEMA to fix their mapping proc- ship. more than simply paying for damages. ess, but my constituents never felt Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposi- Insurance is not about relief. It is their concerns were taken seriously. tion to H.R. 2874. about responsibly managing risk. In- The Lake of the Ozarks is not unique. There are some good things in this surance means mitigating risks before FEMA processes 25,000 LOMA letters bill, including the Zeldin-Maloney bill, disaster strikes, making investments each year at a cost of $13 million. This that would allow policyholders to re- in resiliency measures, telling people should tell all of us something about ceive mitigation credit for elevating when the risk they face is simply too the mapping process. Under this bill, boilers and other mechanical systems great, and providing service that areas like the Lake of the Ozarks to higher floors instead of in easily makes people thankful for choosing would be able to improve the accuracy flooded basements, which is a huge deal your product. of the maps themselves, no longer be- for the city of New York and other big No one knows this better than the holden to Washington, D.C. cities. professionals in the insurance industry This amendment would also create But there are too many provisions who work day in and day out to help an opt-out from the mandatory cov- that would make flood insurance in my Americans protect their lives, their erage required for commercial prop- district either unavailable or loved ones, and their belongings erties, allowing banks and businesses unaffordable. For this reason, the city against all types of threats—car crash- more flexibility to secure flood insur- of New York opposes this bill. es, earthquakes, and wildfires. ance coverage that meets an entity’s The bill would raise premiums on Regrettably, Federal policy has made unique risks and needs. homeowners by increasing the floor on it extremely difficult for private insurers to write policies that cover flood b 1530 premium increases that Congress just set 3 years ago. Currently, FEMA has risk. We have created a virtual monop- It is important to note that this leg- to increase premiums by a minimum of oly for the NFIP at the expense of pol- islation does not preclude any business 5 percent per year. Under this bill, icyholders and taxpayers alike, yet we from securing NFIP policy. Policies FEMA would have to increase pre- are still $30 billion in debt. will remain available to all businesses. H.R. 2874, which includes my bipar- miums by a minimum of 6.5 percent per Also, this provision should not be tisan Private Flood Insurance Market misconstrued as a caveat to avoid the year. When you add up the mandatory in- Development Act, will allow the pri- purchase of flood insurance. Businesses creases in premiums required to fund vate sector to compete to help home- operating in flood plains should have FEMA’s reserve fund and all of the owners manage their exposure to flood insurance, and I am confident other surcharges in the bill, the effect floods. that lenders will insist upon reasonable Competition can lower costs, provide would be to significantly increase flood coverage. I believe this should be a more affordable options for consumers, insurance premiums for homeowners. business decision between the lender and reduce the unacceptable number of Finally, I am concerned about elimi- and the business customer. uninsured homes by helping people un- nating the noncompete clause for so- Lastly, this amendment would re- derstand their risk. quire FEMA to use actual replacement called write-your-own private insurers. As it stands now, the NFIP is the cost in determining premium rates for This would allow the private insurers worst of all worlds: It is too big to fail. NFIP policies—language originally in- that administer the National Flood In- It is also bound to fail. cluded in my H.R. 2565. surance Program to exploit their ac- With this legislation, we can make Pricing for private policies fre- cess to FEMA’s database in order to substantial progress in turning around quently takes into account the actual cherry-pick the safest properties. This a program that has found itself on the replacement cost of a structure. It would leave FEMA with only the GAO’s high-risk list for the last dec- makes sense. Any insurance policy riskiest properties, and would under- ade. should factor in the amount of money mine the solvency of the National Under this bill, consumers will fi- that would be needed to replace a Flood Insurance Program. nally have an opportunity to select structure. So, while there are many thoughtful among a menu of options a plan that FEMA doesn’t adhere to this funda- good provisions in this bill, there are would fit their needs. As a result, they mental of insurance. Rather, the agen- too many provisions that would dra- will be more likely to buy insurance cy effectively uses a fixed national av- matically increase premiums for my than ever before. erage for insured value and replace- constituents. That is not the case today with the ment costs when determining customer Mr. Speaker, I urge a ‘‘no’’ vote on NFIP. Our constituents are severely premiums. this bill. limited. $250,000 maximum coverage on The result of FEMA’s current prac- Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I an NFIP policy. If you own a business, tice is that lower-income policyholders yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from you are not going to get business inter- subsidize wealthier homeowners. Florida (Mr. ROSS), the vice chairman ruption coverage. The substitute amendment we con- of the Housing and Insurance Sub- What good is the insurance, then? sider today gives FEMA the flexibility committee and the author of the pro- Thankfully, the private sector is ca- it needs to stop this practice and move consumer competition title of the bill. pable of offering more robust policies toward a replacement cost pricing Mr. ROSS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the that also provide more incentives for structure. chairman for yielding. property owners to invest in mitiga- I also want to thank my colleague Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the tion and resiliency. Ultimately, this in- from Wisconsin for including this pro- 21st Century Flood Reform Act, which creased emphasis on mitigation will vision in his substitute amendment. I would give communities in the Tampa benefit homeowners and taxpayers am confident this package will allow Bay area and all of our constituents a alike. the private sector to flourish and take National Flood Insurance Program This legislation will help us end the risk off the backs of taxpayers while that serves as a lifeboat when disaster absurd practice of paying to rebuild a protecting NFIP policyholders. strikes. home that has been destroyed by flood- Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to Right now, the NFIP is more like an ing on more than three occasions. support the measure. anchor tied around our neck, dragging Further, it strengthens the NFIP by Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. this country deeper and deeper into directing FEMA to spread the NFIP’s Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the debt as the waters rise. risk onto the global marketplace.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.060 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9229 This bill also contains more funding hard work on this important bill, and I will drastically raise premiums on your for mitigation and recovery than has urge all Members to support its pas- constituents without putting the nec- ever been authorized by Congress. Over sage. essary guardrails in place so those who $1 billion will be made available by this As we all know, this hurricane season can’t afford the high costs can still buy bill to help manage our constituents’ brought flooding and devastation to flood insurance? exposure to floods and improve the many parts of the country. Hurricanes Now, one example I am talking about safety of a home after a catastrophe. Harvey, Irma, and Maria added even is this, Mr. Speaker—and I want to Mr. Speaker, let’s support the free- more debt to the National Flood Insur- make this clear. I hope that there are dom to insure against obvious danger ance Program, leading to a taxpayer listeners on C–SPAN who will tune in. that imperils people’s homes and their bailout of $16 billion. That is $16 billion Call your neighbors, call somebody. So wallets. Let’s support informed deci- taken from the pockets of hardworking you listen to this: This bill, H.R. 2874, sionmaking. Americans. Unless Congress passes the will require policyholders to pay for Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. 21st Century Flood Reform Act, we any assistance they get when their Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the will, once again, have to bail out this States create affordability programs. gentlewoman from New York (Ms. program. Here is an example: Mr. DUFFY’s bill allows for the creation of a voluntary VELA´ ZQUEZ), the ranking member of The NFIP, as it currently operates, is the Small Business Committee and a structurally unsound. This bill will State-run affordability program. But senior member of the Financial Serv- help to prevent future bailouts by au- here is the catch, Mr. Speaker: there ices Committee. thorizing the NFIP to build up its re- isn’t one dime of funding provided in Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I serves. It will also prioritize mitiga- this bill to set up and implement this program. thank the gentlewoman for yielding. tion efforts and encourage the NFIP to Instead, Mr. DUFFY’s bill says the Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to engage in actuarially sound practices. cost of any discount given to policy- H.R. 2874. Of course, this effort is not solely fo- holders will have to be offset by fee in- This bill makes flood insurance more cused on taxpayer protection. Home- creases on other policyholders within expensive, less available, and less fair owners, too, will benefit from the 21st the same State. for millions of working families. Century Flood Reform Act. Now, Mr. Speaker, this is the Achil- This bill all but abandons Hurricane This bill crucially fosters the devel- les’ heel in this flood insurance busi- Sandy victims. opment of a private market for flood ness. I can guarantee you that this Hurricane Sandy made landfall in insurance. This will provide consumers would have a gravely negative impact New York and New Jersey 5 years ago, with better options and more competi- on all of us who are low to middle in- causing approximately $60 billion in tive prices. come. damage. More than 50 people lost their My own State’s former insurance Mr. Speaker, I made it clear to Mr. lives. commissioner testified in front of our JEB HENSARLING, our distinguished Today—half a decade later—more committee last year in support of this chairman; and to Mr. DUFFY that we than 1,000 homeowners still have not idea after seeing benefits of private are willing to walk across party lines. obtained proper resolution of their sector involvement. Commissioner Mil- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The flood insurance claim. ler said: time of the gentleman has expired. That is why I have worked for almost ‘‘In Pennsylvania, competition is Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. 11⁄2 years on legislation to improve proving to be good for consumers. . . .’’ Mr. Speaker, I yield an additional 30 FEMA’s claims processing system and ‘‘We are finding in many cases that seconds to the gentleman. to bring proper oversight and manage- private carriers are willing to offer Mr. DAVID SCOTT of Georgia. But ment to the write-your-own program. comparable coverage at substantially we offered this, as the ranking member While some of my recommended lower cost than the NFIP.’’ said, as an excellent opportunity. This changes were included in this bill, lan- Mr. Speaker, this is good for the peo- summer, we spent week after week on guage was also included that blows a ple of western Pennsylvania and it is this bill so that we could move this bill direct hole in these reforms. This bill the right policy for homeowners across forward in a way that would address af- requires policyholders to exhaust all the country. fordability, which was a major concern administrative remedies on any dis- I also want to thank Chairman of mine, of the ranking member’s, and puted claim before having their day in DUFFY for incorporating my amend- those of us on our side of the aisle. court. ment concerning Amish communities b 1545 However, we have already seen that into the final bill. The Amish and simi- FEMA’s administrative system is bro- lar religious communities have a tradi- There is no affordability in here. It is ken—and this bill will enable dishonest tion, informed by their religious obli- very important for us to point out that insurance providers to continue hiding gations, of paying for community this plan will put an overburden on the behind an unreachable threshold— losses through mutual aid societies. States, and then they have to pass it meaning policyholders will never be My amendment to this bill accommo- on in fees to the others. Unfortunately, it is a terrible bill. I made whole. dates those communities. urge my colleagues to vote ‘‘no.’’ After more than 5 years, with more Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I than 1,000 families still awaiting reso- support this bill. yield 11⁄2 minutes to the gentleman lution of their Hurricane Sandy claim, Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. from Arkansas (Mr. HILL), a member of we must seek to meaningfully reform Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the the Financial Services Committee. the claims process, not make it harder gentleman from Georgia (Mr. DAVID Mr. HILL. Mr. Speaker, I thank my for families to return to their home. SCOTT), a senior member of the Finan- chairman. A vote for this bill is a vote to aban- cial Services Committee. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support don Hurricane Sandy victims. Vote Mr. DAVID SCOTT of Georgia. Mr. of this bill sponsored by my friend, ‘‘no.’’ Speaker, I thank Ranking Member Representative SEAN DUFFY. Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I WATERS for yielding. He has worked tirelessly in crafting a yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from First, it is very important for us to solution here, along with Representa- Pennsylvania (Mr. ROTHFUS), the vice understand that flooding, Mr. Speaker, tive LUETKEMEYER, Representative chairman of our Financial Institutions is no longer just a coastal lawmaker’s ROSS, and our full committee chair- and Consumer Credit Subcommittee. problem. Flooding is now running man, Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. ROTHFUS. Mr. Speaker, I thank rampant in every part of our country. While the National Flood Insurance the chairman for yielding. So I think that every Member on the Program provides needed insurance Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express floor today and every Member of Con- coverage, it has numerous problems as my support for the 21st Century Flood gress needs to ask themselves a ques- currently constructed, and the 21st Reform Act. tion, and that is: Are you really willing Century Flood Reform Act seeks to im- I commend my colleagues on the Fi- to put your name on this bill? Are you plement much-needed reforms in this nancial Services Committee for their really willing to vote for this bill that program.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00049 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.062 H14NOPT1 H9230 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 In addition to reauthorizing the flood 2014 Congress passed another law undoing NFIP has spent many millions of dollars to program for 5 years, this bill provides much of the first. repair properties that have been repeatedly increased transparency to the public, Now, with catastrophic losses mounting flooded. Prior to Katrina, the NFIP was neverthe- provides more information to people and sea levels rising, it’s time to revisit the issue. less generally able to pay for coverage living in harm’s way about past dam- Making federal flood insurance more re- through the premiums it collected. Massive ages and the risk of flooding, ensures flective of reality would only go so far in losses from that storm and Sandy, however, mapping is timely and accurate, ties dealing with the problem of building in have driven it into de facto bankruptcy; the rates to risk, gives consumers greater flood-prone areas. That’s because many program has been forced to borrow more choice in flood insurance options, and homeowners don’t have flood insurance and than $24 billion from the treasury to pay incentivizes mitigation and risk reduc- because much of the damage that the gov- claims, a debt that was nearly unpayable tion. ernment eventually pays for is not covered even before Harvey hit. At the moment, the Currently, in Arkansas, we have one by the program. (Private insurance typically program has $1.7 billion on hand, plus $5.8 covers damage from wind but not water.) billion left on its line of credit with the private insurer that offers flood insur- With Katrina, for instance, the flood insur- Treasury—and some 373,000 policyholders in ance. A second underwriter is near ap- ance payout was $16.3 billion. But Congress the Harvey flood zone who will expect to get proval by our Insurance Commissioner passed supplementary spending of more than paid. Allen Kerr. $100 billion to provide intensive relief and Coincidentally, the program is due for re- The benefits to the consumer temporary housing, as well as fix broken lev- authorization on Sept. 30. Ideally, this dead- through private insurance are signifi- ies. line would galvanize Congress to ensure cant, as noted by the Milliman study. With Harvey and Irma, the federal tab be- enough money is available to pay current For example, one private insurer in yond of flood insurance is likely to be even commitments, while reforming NFIP for the higher. Only an estimated 20% of home- future. What’s needed are tougher flood-risk Arkansas covers up to $2 million in owners in the area affected by Harvey even mitigation requirements, more realistic pre- coverage per occurrence, Mr. Speaker, bothered with flood insurance, a number miums and encouragement for private-sector as opposed to the NFIP, which limits that has been dropping in recent years. But involvement in the business, based on mod- coverage to $250,000, across all rating making flood insurance reflect actual risks ern technology that may enable insurance categories at premiums substantially is a vital first step in coming to grips with companies to underwrite risks they could below the NFIP. reality. not have underwritten in the 1960s. Further, this private insurer can In the past several decades, Americans Recent history, alas, doesn’t make us opti- offer replacement value, reimburse- have flocked to coastal communities, many mistic: Congress did reform the program on a bipartisan basis in 2012, only to see much ment for living expenses if an indi- of them in parts of the country prone to hurricanes. With the hit to taxpayers growing of that undone under pressure from coastal- vidual or family is displaced by a flood. and the danger increasing, restraint—even state lawmakers in 2014, after Sandy. ‘‘There The NFIP does not. some reversal—of this trend is needed. is a tide in the affairs of men, which taken For almost 50 years, the experiment While people in the hurricane zones de- at the flood, leads on to fortune,’’ Shake- in government-provided flood insur- serve disaster assistance and the nation’s speare wrote. Congress, though, tends to go ance has proven to be ineffective, inef- sympathy, taxpayers can’t simply absorb with the political flow. ficient, and indisputably costly to ever increasing tabs for flood losses. The hardworking taxpayers. The time for government needs policies that encourage [From the Washington Times, Sept. 6, 2017] action is now. people to build their homes in safer places. FIXING FLOOD INSURANCE IN HARVEY’S WAKE Harvey and Irma are just the latest sobering PRIVATE INSURERS COULD HELP IN MATCHING Mr. Speaker, I include in the RECORD wake-up calls with that message. USA Today, Washington Post, Wash- COST AND RISK Hurricane Harvey took the most dev- ington Times, and Chicago Tribune ar- [From the Washington Post, Aug. 30, 2017] ticles. astating flooding in the city’s history to AFTER HARVEY, FLOOD INSURANCE NEEDS Houston, and the cost of repairing the dam- [From the USA Today, Sept. 7, 2017] REFORM age will be astronomical. Sadly, the federal MAKE FLOOD INSURANCE REFLECT ACTUAL Congress must be generous in helping to flood insurance program is already under- RISK repair the damage, to lives and to property, water and Harvey will only add to the flood AFTER HURRICANES, TAXPAYERS CAN’T ABSORB from Hurricane Harvey. The full extent of of red ink. It’s clear that Congress must re- EVER INCREASING TABS: OUR VIEW the destruction may not be known for a long form the program so the premiums property In 1968, in the wake of Hurricane Betsy, time but is evidently catastrophic, just as owners pay more closely reflect the flood Congress decided it had enough. Flooding the damage wrought by Katrina and Sandy risk. Until that happens, nature’s frequent was destroying too many homes, leaving fi- was. Even as they demonstrate that they fury will continue to undermine the finances nancial and physical devastation in its wake. have a heart, lawmakers must also show of everyone. So lawmakers created the National Flood that they have some brains. Specifically, the With the angry water from the Category 4 Insurance Program, a government-run insur- United States is long overdue for smart re- hurricane damaging 200,000 Houston-area ance fund for homeowners in flood-prone forms to one of the major government insti- homes and business firms, early estimates areas. tutions designed to help people cope with the place the cost of restoration as high as $190 And that’s when things got really bad. risk of natural disaster: the National Flood billion. That would eclipse the $108 billion The NFIP has been losing money ever Insurance Program (NFIP), which has under- loss in the 2005 Hurricane Katrina and since. The program is nearly $25 billion in written a total of 5 million policies providing Superstorm Sandy in 2012. President Trump the red and is running annual deficits in the homeowners and some businesses $1.2 trillion expects Congress to quickly approve a $7.9 range of $1.4 billion. That’s because it’s a in coverage. billion down payment for emergency relief. creation of Congress and therefore sets its Now almost half a century old, the NFIP The National Flood Insurance Program, premiums according to what is politically grew out of what was, at the time, a basic re- designed to wield the financial muscle of the convenient rather than what is actuarially ality of the insurance business: Flooding federal government to protect flood-prone sound. risks were actuarially imponderable, so in- property, has proved to be a money sieve. It With Hurricane Harvey devastating the suring against them was uneconomic for the covers about 5 million flood-prone properties Houston area, and Hurricane Irma bearing private sector, especially in places such as nationwide, worth about $1.2 trillion, and down on the Southeast coast, the program is the hurricane-prone Gulf of Mexico. To fill collects about $3.5 billion annually in pre- certain to take a massive loss this year. the gap, the federal government offered cov- miums. The program was $25 billion in the What’s worse, the NFIP’s woes are self- erage on two conditions: that local commu- red before Harvey hit—a clear indicator that generating. Because the premiums are well nities would take appropriate land-use and overall, property owners who are required to below what should be charged, this effec- other measures to prevent development in carry flood insurance are not paying for the tively subsidizes construction in flood-prone risky low-lying areas; and that homeowners risk. areas. And that means its losses grow as would pay actuarially sound premiums. Among the existing program’s short- more flood-prone land is developed. Elegant in theory, the plan gradually suc- comings are its policy of grandfathering Hurricane Katrina, which ravaged the Gulf cumbed to real estate interests, with the re- older structures built in low-lying regions Coast in 2005, exposed just how costly and sult that flood insurance enabled rather than before accurate floodplain mapping began, counterproductive the program had become. managed development along coasts and in encouraging owners to renovate rather than In 2012, after years of debate, Congress en- other flood-prone areas—ultimately putting demolish. Between 1978 and 2004, these risky acted a law that made flood insurance rates more people and property at risk than might properties comprised 1 percent of the pro- more reflective of actual risks and expanded otherwise have been the case. As it happens, gram’s insured properties but accounted for the areas considered flood-prone. well-to-do people benefit disproportionately 38 percent of the damage claims, according This generated Category 3 blowback from from this program; they’re the ones who to the Government Accountability Office. homeowners and the real estate lobby, and in tend to build big houses on the beach. The The federal program is subsidizing insurance

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:45 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00050 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.064 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9231 for expensive waterfront property along the surance premiums since buying the house in Americans. Hardworking Americans Southeastern coastline, favoring the 1975: $6,000. won’t be able to afford premiums, and wealthiest homeowners. Houston, according to a new study by the many of them won’t be able to afford Congress has made several attempts to put National Wildlife Federation, accounts for homes. This is not the way to treat the insurance on a sustainable financial foot- more than half of all the properties that are ing, without success. The program will ex- flooded and paid for over and over. It has people who work hard and pay their pire at the end of this month, which offers ‘‘managed to host three ‘500-year floods’ in taxes. legislators an opportunity to resolve the un- the past three years,’’ notes Michael If we can give tax breaks to corpora- intended consequences of the program. Grunwald of Politico. Each one costs tax- tions and billionaires, we can afford to Several constructive bills were reported payers large sums. Yet development in these reduce this debt on the NFIP so that out of the House Financial Services Com- precarious spots continues apace. hardworking Americans can afford mittee in June. Among the proposals are ‘‘Why are we writing flood insurance (poli- homes. It really is that simple. provisions giving more leeway to private in- cies) for new construction in flood zones?’’ Five years without another bill: this surers who currently offer only federally ap- asks Craig Fugate, who headed the Federal proved policies. Doing so would allow insur- Emergency Management Agency in the is our last chance. We can’t pass this ers to set premiums tailored to individual Obama administration. ‘‘Think about it: If chance up so that we can take care of properties, resulting in a closer match of in- you’re going to build a new structure in the billionaires and corporations at the ex- surance cost and flood risk. Other provisions flood zone, the private sector can insure it. pense of hardworking Americans. would limit claim payments for repeatedly And if they can’t insure it, then why is the Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I flooded properties and require the use of republic subsidizing the risk?’’ yield 11⁄2 minutes to the gentleman placement cost in setting insurance rates. It’s a big subsidy. Thanks to past storms, from Minnesota (Mr. EMMER), a hard- The House is seeking a five-year reauthor- the flood insurance program has a $25 billion working member of the Financial Serv- ization of the National Flood Insurance Pro- deficit. The Congressional Budget Office ices Committee. gram and the Senate version calls for a 10– found that coastal counties at risk from year term to ensure continuity. Both tropical storms make up just 10 percent of Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in versions back provisions to allow a gradual all the counties with federal flood insurance support of the 21st Century Flood Re- increase of private-sector involvement in policies—but generate 75 percent of the form Act, which will reauthorize and flood insurance. It’s an idea endorsed by the claims and most of the deficit. reform our National Flood Insurance free-market Cato Institute, which says ‘‘the So why is the public subsidizing the risk in Program. ideal ‘reform’ to the [program] would be to these places? Because the people living The NFIP provides important relief. fully privatize flood insurance. That would there, the politicians they elect, the busi- Millions of Americans rely on this pro- be more likely to fix the system in a way nesses they patronize and various interest gram to provide coverage when disaster that would limit the long-run government li- groups (such as homebuilders and the real es- ability than any alternative legislative ap- tate industry) have strong stakes in pre- strikes. The nearly 50-year-old NFIP proach.’’ Allowing private insurers to have a serving this program. They’ve been able to program, however, is in desperate need larger role in future flood protection is sen- prevent the sort of reforms needed to make of reform. sible. it actuarially sounder and closer to self-sus- Today’s legislation will not only re- No one could have foreseen the once-in-a- taining. authorize the program for 5 years, it lifetime deluge that swamped Houston, but In 2012, Congress passed a modest package will take steps to better align premium actuaries make their bones calculating risk, of sensible changes that would have raised rates to risk, improve FEMA’s mapping including in their calculations such unpre- costs to the flood-prone. But two years later, and appeals process, and begin to cor- dictable natural disasters as tornadoes and feeling the political heat, lawmakers back- earthquakes. Insurance premiums undis- tracked. rect the way the NFIP manages what torted by Washington rules would give con- Homeowners located in areas that are ex- are known as repetitive loss properties. sumers a clearer picture of flood hazards, pected to flood every 100 years are required Most importantly, H.R. 2874 lays the helping them avoid the mistake of building to buy flood insurance if they want federally groundwork for a private flood insur- in the path of storms like Hurricane Harvey. insured mortgages. But they pay rates far ance marketplace to take hold, which With monster storm Irma bearing down on lower than the risks warrant. will improve the fiscal stability and Florida, the need is urgent for Congress to That gap deprives builders of incentives to solvency of the NFIP for future genera- safeguard Americans from future property stay out of low-lying areas that are vulner- tions to come. This bill is a good start, loss and new heartbreak. able to flooding—or to elevate structures to but these reforms must continue to be keep them dry when the waters rise. It also [From the Chicago Tribune, Sept. 7, 2017] promotes the destruction of wetlands that built upon in the years ahead. I am thankful for the hard work of THE FOLLY OF PAYING AMERICANS TO LIVE IN could reduce flooding. Oh, and it helps to tilt HARM’S WAY migration toward vulnerable coastal regions Chairman HENSARLING, Housing and In- In the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey’s hit like those of Texas and Florida. surance Subcommittee Chairman on Texas, and with Hurricane Irma threat- DUFFY, and the entire Financial Serv- ening Florida, let’s all acknowledge one rea- Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. ices Committee staff for working to get son for the vulnerability of Americans who Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the this bill to the floor today. live in low-lying coastal regions of the Sun gentleman from Texas (Mr. AL GREEN), As many continue to rebuild their Belt: The federal government has been pay- the ranking member of the Oversight lives following the devastation of Har- ing people to locate there. and Investigations Subcommittee on vey, Irma, Sandy, and others, we need Not explicitly, of course. But an abundance the Financial Services Committee. a National Flood Insurance Program of inexpensive housing is a big attraction. Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speak- And a big factor in the low cost of housing in that stimulates choice and encourages the Houston area is that developers are free er, I thank the ranking member, and I proactive behaviors to better protect to build almost anywhere, including marshy, thank the chair of the committee as our citizens. low-lying areas where land is cheap. well. Mr. Speaker, again, this legislation is The chance of being swamped deters some Mr. Speaker, I am opposed to the leg- a good start. I encourage all of my col- people, but the government offers flood in- islation. I am opposed to it because it leagues to support this bill. surance to pay for repairing and rebuilding. does not give hardworking Americans Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. The owners of a Houston home that flooded the same consideration that we will ac- Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 16 times in 18 years got more than $800,000 in cord persons who are making billions payments—for a house worth just $115,000. gentleman from Florida (Mr. CRIST), a The folly of the government’s flood insur- and we will accord corporations. leading voice on flood insurance and ance program has been evident for decades, Corporations are going to get great climate issues and a member of the Fi- and some Midwestern communities have tax cuts, billionaires are going to get nancial Services Committee. been in on the action. We’ve written about tax cuts. We will eliminate the estate Mr. CRIST. Mr. Speaker, I want to how federal flood insurance has serially ben- tax, we will eliminate the AMT for bil- thank the ranking member for her efited many of those who refuse to move lionaires, but we are not going to give leadership. from river flood plains, sometimes to a fault. hardworking Americans the oppor- Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong After the Mississippi River flood of 1993, one tunity to get the relief that they need opposition to this bill. We must get Grafton, Ill., resident explained to a reporter that he had collected $24,000 in federal insur- with reference to the $20 billion worth flood insurance right, and that starts ance for damage to his small house from of debt that the NFIP currently has. with affordability. If families can’t af- floods in 1979, 1982, 1986 and 1992. For ’93, he If we don’t eliminate that debt now, ford insurance, they simply will not expected an additional $32,000. His total in- premiums will go up on hardworking buy it.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:45 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00051 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A14NO7.015 H14NOPT1 H9232 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 In my home State of Florida, the strictions in the bill on types of properties Services Committee approach. The SAFE number of NFIP policies has dropped 15 that can obtain coverage through the NFIP NFIP Act includes provisions to limit pre- percent since 2012, when Congress will undermine participation in the program, mium rate increases, create means-tested started raising premiums. If you don’t further destabilizing it. The bill does nothing mitigation and affordability provisions, ex- to invest in new flood mapping and tech- pand the Increased Cost of Compliance pro- think the government should be in- nology, which would result in more accurate gram, develop accurate flood maps, and em- volved in flood insurance, maybe that maps and does not sufficiently invest in phasize pre-disaster mitigation programs. is good news, maybe that is the goal mitigation. We ask for your continued as- Again, thank you for your continued as- here, but not for the good of the tax- sistance in ensuring that this bill does not sistance in ensuring that legislative efforts payer, when families who can’t afford become law. detrimental to Clearwater’s over 11,000 pol- coverage must turn to FEMA after a Additionally, we want to thank you for co- icyholders are not enacted into law. We sponsoring H.R. 3285, the Sustainable, Af- disaster. value your support and thank you for co- fordable, Fair and Efficient (SAFE) NFIP sponsoring H.R. 3285. Please do not hesitate The bottom line is that unaffordable Act. The legislation is significantly more to contact the city should you need addi- insurance will fail. This bill makes consumer-friendly than the House Financial tional information, and with warm, personal flood insurance less affordable, hiking Services Committee approach. The SAFE regards, I am premiums, surcharges, as well as fees. NFIP Act includes provisions to limit pre- Sincerely, Beyond that, this bill would decrease mium rate increases, create means-tested GEORGE N. CRETEKOS. access to coverage for vulnerable fami- mitigation and affordability provisions, ex- Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I pand the Increased Cost of Compliance pro- lies, forcing them into a private mar- 1 gram, develop accurate flood maps, and em- yield 1 ⁄2 minutes to the gentleman ket that does not exist. phasize pre-disaster mitigation programs. from New York (Mr. ZELDIN), a member Yes, we absolutely need 21st century Again, thank you for your continued as- of the Financial Services Committee. flood reform. Our climate is changing, sistance in ensuring that legislative efforts Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in sea levels are rising, floods are getting detrimental to Pinellas County’s over 130,000 strong support of this legislation, worse, and sticking our heads in the policyholders are not enacted into law. We which contains critical reforms that sand will only make solutions that value your support and thank you for co- protect access to affordable insurance, much more difficult. sponsoring H.R. 3285. Please do not hesitate improves the way policyholders are to contact me if I can provide additional in- This bill leaves behind the best re- formation or answer questions. treated when filing a claim, and places form ideas from both political parties, Sincerely, the National Flood Insurance Program like better mapping, as well as mitiga- JANET C. LONG, on the path towards fiscal solvency. tion. Chair, Pinellas County Commission. Included in this legislation is the bi- Those who have lived through nat- partisan bill I introduced with Con- ural disasters know you can’t stop the CITY OF CLEARWATER, gresswoman CAROLYN MALONEY that catastrophic force of Mother Nature, Clearwater, FL, November 7, 2017. provides a credit to NFIP policyholders but you can prepare. Hon. CHARLIE CRIST, who reduce their flood risk through House of Representatives, I urge my colleagues to reject this Washington, DC. mitigation. Homeowners who do the ideological exercise and put people DEAR REPRESENTATIVE CRIST: On behalf of right thing and invest in mitigation ac- over politics. Let us come together and the City of Clearwater, Florida, we urge you tivities deserve a strong return on pass real, sustainable reform for a to oppose the 21st Century Flood Reform their investment in the form of lower strong, affordable National Flood In- Act, H.R. 2874. This bill, which is the com- NFIP premiums. surance Program. pilation of the seven-bill package approved On Long Island, where the coastal Mr. Speaker, I include letters of op- by the House Financial Services Committee economy is our main economy, pro- this summer, is detrimental to Clearwater tecting life and property from flood position in the RECORD from the residents and to Florida local governments. Pinellas County Board of County Com- Despite the minor changes proposed in the damage is a top priority. missioners and the City of Clearwater. amendment, the bill will increase costs for I look forward to working with all PINELLAS COUNTY, National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) my colleagues in Congress to get this BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS, policyholders, create unfunded mandates by bill passed in the Senate and sent to Clearwater, FL, November 8, 2017. increasing regulatory burdens and respon- the President’s desk without delay. Hon. CHARLIE CRIST, sibilities for local governments, and lead to I am proud to be a cosponsor of this House of Representatives, Washington, DC. fewer participants in the NFIP, which will essential legislation, grateful for DEAR CHARLIE: On behalf of Pinellas Coun- undermine the integrity of the program. We Chairman HENSARLING’s and Chairman ty, Florida, we urge you to oppose the 21st strongly urge you to oppose the bill. Century Flood Reform Act, H.R. 2874. This The bill would increase premiums on DUFFY’s leadership on this issue, and I bill, which is the compilation of the seven- homes built prior to the first flood map by a urge all of my colleagues to vote bill package approved by the House Finan- minimum of 6.5% each year, with properties ‘‘yes.’’ cial Services Committee this summer, is det- that have made two or more claims subject Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. rimental to Pinellas County residents and to even higher rate increases. In addition to Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the local governments. Despite the minor this increase, all policy holders would be as- gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. RICH- changes proposed in the amendment, the bill sessed new and increased fees and surcharges MOND), the chair of the Congressional will increase costs for National Flood Insur- with some of these fees, such as the reserve Black Caucus and a long time leader on ance Program (NFIP) policyholders, create fund fee, increasing each year. As these in- unfunded mandates by increasing regulatory flood insurance issues. creased costs are passed on to policyholders, Mr. RICHMOND. Mr. Speaker, I want burdens and responsibilities for local govern- the bill acknowledges that an affordability ments, and lead to fewer participants in the assistance program is needed, however it del- to thank Congresswoman WATERS, the NFIP, which will undermine the integrity of egates that authority to states and requires ranking member. Oftentimes in this the program. We strongly urge you to oppose it to be financed through additional charges body, we talk about leadership. Leader- the bill. on the other policyholders in the state, cre- ship is what Congresswoman WATERS The bill would increase premiums on ating an even greater financial burden. did after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita; homes built prior to the first flood map by a These increased costs along with the new re- but, more importantly, 4 years ago, minimum of 6.5% each year, with properties strictions in the bill on types of properties when the threat of new flood policies that have made two or more claims subject that can obtain coverage through the NFIP were going to make people pay the cost to even higher rate increases. In addition to will undermine participation in the program, this increase, all policy holders would be as- further destabilizing it. The bill does nothing of their home every 5 years, we were sessed new and increased fees and surcharges to invest in new flood mapping and tech- talking about paying 20 percent of the with some of these fees, such as the reserve nology, which would result in more accurate value of your home in flood insurance fund fee, increasing each year. As these in- maps and does not sufficiently invest in every year, she came down to Lou- creased costs are passed on to policyholders, mitigation. We ask for your continued as- isiana and met with Louisiana citizens. the bill acknowledges that an affordability sistance in ensuring that this bill does not She didn’t come to the urban areas, al- assistance program is needed, however it del- become law. though she passed through, but she egates that authority to states and requires Additionally, we want to thank you for co- it to be financed through additional charges sponsoring H.R. 3285, the Sustainable, Af- went to the rural areas, talked to mid- on the other policyholders in the state, cre- fordable, Fare and Efficient (SAFE) NFIP dle-income families to figure out how ating an even greater financial burden. Act. The legislation is significantly more flood insurance reform would hurt These increased costs along with the new re- consumer-friendly than the House Financial them.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00052 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.065 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9233 What she found out is that it was place, Mr. Speaker, and, frankly, for I am angry, and I am disappointed going to cause more families to just most families, it just doesn’t exist. that I have to fight with my own party turn in the keys to their house and Those Ross-Castor provisions are so on these issues. I am not at all sorry to give their homes back to the mortgage important to finally help jump start stand up as strongly as I can for the company or declare bankruptcy so that that process. constituents who deserve this—hard- they can just get by. This program has had its own finan- working people who are trying to stay This bill is a lot better than the bill cial difficulties, and this bill helps in their homes. that was in committee, and I want to strengthen the program, helps give I know the program has problems. I thank the chairman and my colleagues some certainty, and, frankly, it gives know we have to do this in a different from Louisiana, Mr. SCALISE and Mr. some provisions in the bill that are way, and we have had an opportunity GRAVES, for making it a better bill. going to make it better for families to do it in a bipartisan way, where all But when we are talking about home- who rely on this program, and the tax- of our constituents should have been owners, the most responsible people in payers of this country, who help make helped, instead of picking winners and society who have now purchased their sure that we have a stable economy. losers. piece of the American Dream, when It is important for homeownership, it I am sick and tired of having to de- you have people who played by the is important that we maintain those fend the people in my district and the rules, bought the home of their dreams, provisions on grandfathering that were people in the Northeast from policies you don’t change the rules halfway to so important to our communities, and that don’t mean the right thing for us. say: Hey, we know this was the rule it is important that we pass this bill. Please do the right thing; vote ‘‘no.’’ when you bought the House, but now it I am glad that the House is taking Let’s come back with a bill that makes has changed, and all of a sudden that this action today. sense. Mr. Speaker, again, I commend Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I $500 in insurance you pay a month is Chairman HENSARLING and Congress- yield 11⁄2 minutes to the gentleman now $1,500. man DUFFY for their hard work, and all from Georgia (Mr. LOUDERMILK), an- That is not responsible, it is not fair, the other Members who played such an other respected member of our com- and we are picking on homeowners. mittee. I would just say to my friends on the important role in getting us to this Mr. LOUDERMILK. Mr. Speaker, I other side of the aisle that the bill is point. also want to thank Chairman HEN- better, but it is not worthy of the b 1600 SARLING and Chairman DUFFY for their American taxpayer or the American Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. tireless work on this bill. They have la- homeowner. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the bored endless hours to bring this bill to We keep talking about the private gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. LOBI- the floor, and we are very appreciative market. They are going to pick and ONDO), a senior member of the Trans- of that. choose where they want to insure, and portation and Infrastructure Com- Mr. Speaker, the fact that we are then, all of a sudden, you are left with mittee, and someone who has been here today shows that our legislative a high-risk pool, where homeowners working hard to try and have a bipar- process is working and that we are who work every day are stuck with tisan effort on this bill. doing the challenging work the Amer- costs that they just can’t afford. Mr. LOBIONDO. Mr. Speaker, I thank ican people sent us here to do, work I would simply say that this is some- my colleagues, Ms. WATERS, Mr. HEN- that isn’t always easy. Quite often, it thing we really could do, in this atmos- SARLING, and Mr. DUFFY, for their work is hard, but it is the right thing to do. phere, in a bipartisan way, because it is on this bill, and especially to my good After months of hard work, the Fi- the right thing to do. friend, STEVE SCALISE. nancial Services Committee passed a With all the good things in the bill, I know there was an effort to do this package of bills in June to reform and the problems—the bad outweighs the the right way, but I rise in opposition reauthorize the National Flood Insur- good. for a couple of reasons. First, I am dis- ance Program. I would just remind my friends on appointed. I am disappointed because Mr. Speaker, many of these bills in the other side of the aisle, the commu- we, in this body, had an opportunity to that package passed with unanimous nity that you save may be your own. have a bipartisan bill that would have support. You only have unanimous sup- Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I probably generated more than 400 port with strong bipartisan support. yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from votes, that we would have had a big Now, after lengthy negotiations, we Louisiana (Mr. SCALISE), the majority high-five moment, and we could have are taking up this compromise bill that whip, who has a slightly different mes- moved forward. The Senate would have will significantly improve the NFIP sage. taken it. The President would have and protect America’s taxpayers. The Mr. SCALISE. Mr. Speaker, I thank taken it. 21st Century Flood Reform Act will my colleague from Texas, Chairman But now we have a situation that make major strides to grow the private HENSARLING, for yielding. makes me angry—angry because we are flood insurance market and start to Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this picking winners and losers, angry be- put the NFIP on a fiscally sustainable bill that, really, if you look at what we cause the misery index for some Mem- path. are trying to achieve here, it is a few bers is more important than the misery This bill will also implement flood things, but the main two things are to index in my district or the Northeast. mapping improvements and increase give further reforms and protections to Five years ago, we were about a transparency and disclosure so policy- the taxpayers of this country while month after Superstorm Sandy. We had holders will know the true risk of also making sure that we are pro- political hand-to-hand combat to get floods at their property. tecting and giving certainty to the pol- what the rest of the Nation has gotten The bill also includes an amendment icyholders of the National Flood Insur- almost automatically with every nat- that I introduced with my good col- ance Program; the fact that this is a 5- ural disaster in the whole course of our league and dear friend from Georgia, year reauthorization; the fact that we Nation’s history. But no, Superstorm Representative DAVID SCOTT. The NFIP were able to protect the grandfathering Sandy, there had to be an offset. We is far too complicated for policy- provisions that are so important to barely got the help we needed. holders, insurers, and mortgage lend- families who have played by the rules, This is all tied in together because ers, so this amendment, which passed and if the rules are going to change, it we still have people suffering in New with unanimous support, calls for a is not fair that you would hold some- Jersey and New York and the North- GAO study on how the program may be thing against somebody that was legal east from the aftermath of Sandy, and simplified and streamlined. in the past; the fact that this bill has it is tied into this with Federal flood The NFIP authorization expires on important reforms, like Ross-Castor. insurance. It is critically important. December 8, so I would urge my col- We all talk about the fact that NFIP And why should it be that the con- leagues to join me in supporting this is the only place for most families to cerns of my district and the people who worthy program. go that want to buy flood insurance. I represent have any less of an influ- Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. We need to develop a private market- ence on what happens here? Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00053 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.066 H14NOPT1 H9234 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 gentleman from New York (Mr. KING), This is a 5-year reauthorization. It ter. I agree with much of what was said a senior member of the Financial Serv- reduces the mandatory annual cap on on both sides. ices Committee who has worked a long premium increases; it brings more ac- There are remaining significant prob- time for bipartisanship on reauthoriza- countability, including my language to lems. Insurance is not priced properly. tion of the National Flood Insurance forbid NFIP from hiring disbarred law- It is not that it is too expensive or it is Program. yers; and it doubles the mitigation cov- too cheap, it is not priced properly. We Mr. KING of New York. Mr. Speaker, erage from $30,000 to $60,000. have some winners and losers now, but I thank the gentlewoman for yielding, I urge my colleagues to support this too many people are subsidized by the and I appreciate her courtesy. I did ask bill. majority. my side for time. Unfortunately, they Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. We are not doing all that we can. The had no time available, so I thank the Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the Federal Government ends up holding gentlewoman for coming to my rescue gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. the bag for billions of dollars for un- on this. CAPUANO), a senior member of the Com- necessary flood damage with storm I feel very strongly about this, and I mittee on Financial Services and a after storm after storm; and, by the echo the comments of Mr. LOBIONDO. strong progressive leader. way, there are more on the way. The premium increase here can have a Mr. CAPUANO. Mr. Speaker, I don’t It doesn’t have to be this way. Part devastating impact on my constitu- even know if I need 2 minutes. of the problem is that because, inevi- ents. Without grandfathering, we Look, this bill has some good things tably, when we talk about reform, it would see premiums skyrocket. And in it. Everybody admits that. It does. costs money, and there are some people when Mr. LOBIONDO and I tried to ame- Like every bill I have ever voted on, who end up paying more. It is easy not liorate this by suggesting a com- there is some good, there is some bad. to update the maps. It is easy not to promise by putting a $5,000 cap on pre- But this bill has more bad in it than have people pay actuarial rates. It is miums, we were rejected. good. easy not to force local governments to When Mr. LOBIONDO talked about a It has some good philosophy that I do their job and not allow building in bias against the Northeast, that bias won’t agree with the details. I agree we harm’s way. continues today from Sandy. Lou- should do something about repetitive I strongly agree that, in times past, isiana, Texas, Florida, Puerto Rico all loss properties. I think everybody low-income and minority people were received tax relief following their agrees with that, but not the draconian subjected to real problems and more storms. To this day, voters in my dis- measures taken in this bill. flooding than they should have been. trict have not received that tax relief; We all agree that we need to help But now is the time to try and pivot and Mr. LOBIONDO’s district is the make it a stable fiscal platform, but and do something about it. same. not what this bill does. That is the So I am also tired of this regional Mr. Speaker, I include in the RECORD problem here. This is not a—I have bias. We, in the Northeast, get treat- a list of groups that are supporting this seen worse bills. As a matter of fact, I ed—whether it is on taxes, or whatever legislation. have seen worse flood insurance bills, ® it is, we do not get a fair shake. Maybe National Association of REALTORS so this, I will have to admit, is an im- they don’t need our votes. (NAR), National Association of Home Build- Well, you are not getting my vote provement over the last horrendous ers (NAHB), Property and Casualty Insurers Association of America (PCI), American In- today. I urge Members to vote in oppo- flood insurance bill. But it is not even close yet. surance Association (AIA), Reinsurance As- sition. sociation of America (RAA), Council of In- Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I And the problem here, this is a missed opportunity. Flood insurance surance Agents and Brokers (CIAB), Na- yield 11⁄2 minutes to the gentleman tional Association of Federally-Insured Cred- from New Jersey (Mr. MACARTHUR), a doesn’t need to be partisan. It doesn’t it Unions (NAFCU), Financial Services very hardworking member of the Fi- need to be based on philosophical pu- Roundtable (FSR), Mortgage Bankers Asso- nancial Services Committee. rity. This is a necessity to many Amer- ciation (MBA), American Land Title Asso- Mr. MACARTHUR. Mr. Speaker, I icans, many middle class Americans, ciation (ALTA), The SmarterSafer Coalition, also am from the Northeast, from New and there is no doubt, without winning National Wildlife Federation (NWF), Na- Jersey, and I rise in support of this bill or losing any votes at home, we could tional Multifamily Housing Council (NMHC), work this out if the majority wanted National Apartment Association (NAA), today. Community Mortgage Lenders of America Five years ago, Superstorm Sandy to. But you don’t. You don’t want any Democratic (CMLA), Commercial Real Estate Finance devastated my district. Ocean County, Council (CREFC), Real Estate Services Pro- my home, was the epicenter of that votes. Apparently, you don’t want all viders Council, Inc. (RESPRO), The Real Es- storm. You might remember the photo- the Republican votes. Why? I don’t tate Roundtable, Leading Builders of Amer- graphs of the iconic Jet Star roller know. Maybe lighting candles at the ica, The Manufactured Housing Institute coaster sitting in the ocean. That was altar of certain philosophies. (MHI), Building Owners and Managers Asso- my district. When this bill—not if—when this bill ciation (BOMA) International. Even today, I have thousands of con- fails in the Senate, you are going to The Realty Alliance, Habitat for Human- stituents who are still out of their find a lot of people over this side who ity, Institute of Real Estate Management continue to want to work with you to (IREM), International Council of Shopping homes. Now, thousands more are expe- Centers (ICSC), Association of Bermuda In- riencing the same thing because of come up with a bill we can all embrace. surers and Reinsurers (ABIR), Wholesale & Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria. I know that will happen, and I look for- Specialty Insurance Association (WSIA), 140 million Americans live in coastal ward to that day. Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council counties, and the NFIP has done a lot This bill isn’t it, and everybody here (SBE Council), Conservatives for Responsible to help with zoning standards, building knows it. Stewardship (CRS), Coalition to Reduce standards, flood plain management Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I Spending, American Consumer Institute, standards. It hasn’t been run perfectly, yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from CCIM Institute, Council for Affordable and Rural Housing, NAOIP, The Commercial Oregon (Mr. BLUMENAUER), a senior but this program is desperately needed Real Estate Development Association, Na- by people in areas like mine. Democrat and leader on environmental tional Association of Real Estate Investment The NFIP has fiscal issues, and this issues in the House. Trusts (Nareit), National Affordable Housing bill seeks to address them. It is the Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, I Management Association, National Associa- only Federal disaster program that ac- appreciate the gentleman’s courtesy in tion of Housing Cooperatives, National tually collects money in advance of a yielding me this time. Leased Housing Association, Taxpayers for disaster. I have enjoyed listening to the debate Common Sense, R Street Institute, National When I got on this committee a year back and forth. There is no area in Taxpayers Union (NTU). ago, I set out on this issue to do four Congress that I have spent more time Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, things: a long-term reauthorization, on, over the course of the last 20 years, the list is an interesting collection. It improve affordability, increase ac- than dealing with flood insurance. I includes environmental groups, con- countability, and enhance mitigation was the author of the last major piece sumer groups, housing advocates, busi- efforts. with our former colleague, Doug Bereu- nesses, fiscal watchdogs, and taxpayer

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00054 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.067 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9235 advocates. And all of them don’t agree who were getting swept away in flood- ly have learned to understand about af- with every detail. Many of them would waters, and we rebuild those homes in fordability. identify with some of the debates, but the same location and risk the lives of Every time I reached an impasse, I they agree that this bill is a step in the firefighters and first responders to go thought about Florida, I thought about right direction, and we should use it. save them. This policy is unacceptable Texas and what has happened recently What we vote on today—and I hope and it is not compassionate. with these storms. that it passes, I am going to vote for I hear my friends across the aisle Having worked in this way and hav- it—is not the last word. As it wends its say: You are going to hurt home- ing been a coauthor of Biggert-Waters way through the legislative process, if owners. Their rates are going to sky- and having been the author of the we all do our job of making it better, rocket. Homeowner Flood Insurance Afford- we can have that high-five moment What? On average, for a year, the ability Act, I think I know something that I think we all look forward to. price of flood insurance, on average, about storms, something about the Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. will go up $20, less than $2 a month, devastation that has been caused to Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of and they are screaming bloody murder families and communities, and I insist my time. about that? And what do they get for on affordability. Mr. Speaker, as Democrats and some Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I it? I have a list of 30 things of great re- Republicans have made clear, this is a yield 31⁄2 minutes to the gentleman form we get in this bill to help home- comprehensively bad bill that is harm- from Wisconsin (Mr. DUFFY), the chair- owners. ful for families and businesses. In the Yes, highly subsidized properties in a man of the Housing and Insurance Sub- wake of one of the most disastrous hur- pre-FIRM space are going to pay a lit- committee, and the sponsor of the leg- ricane seasons in history, this bill tle more, a little higher escalator, but islation, the 21st Century Flood Re- would make flood insurance more ex- we spend a billion dollars on mitiga- form Act. pensive, less available, and less fair for Mr. DUFFY. Mr. Speaker, I want to tion helping people flood-proof their millions of Americans. thank Chairman HENSARLING for all his homes, helping people get bought out I have repeatedly stated that afford- good and relentless hard work on this of their home and get to higher ground ability is my top priority, which is bill. I appreciate his tenacity. so they don’t have to live in a home made worse by this bill. Even with the I want to thank Mr. BLUMENAUER for that is continually flooded. slight revisions that the chairman has the comments that he just made. The I don’t know if you have lived in a made, coverage would still be less two of us had not worked together on a flood home, but it ain’t fun. It is hor- available, and cherry-picking by the lot of issues, but this is one we saw rible. Get them out. A billion dollars private sector would be encouraged, eye-to-eye, and, through flood, I think for that program. putting the government on the hook we have seen a lot of common ground We help communities with their for the riskiest of policies. and built a friendship together. mapping. We give them options to map, It is important to note that the big- I actually promised I was going to and we give them an appeals process in gest challenge to the National Flood wear a bike today, and I haven’t kept their mapping. Great reform, we set up Insurance Program is its massive debt, my promise. Later today, I will wear a private market. which the bill only addresses by charg- that for Mr. BLUMENAUER. Now, you don’t have to take the pri- ing hardworking Americans more for But I want to talk about the debate vate market, but you have an option to their flood insurance. That is just not we have had here today. This has been get a private plan that might have a fair. an effort at bipartisanship. On the Re- better rate than the government offers We have comprehensive support for publican side, I have worked with Rep- you. You have a choice—a choice, God this bill from both the private sector resentatives GRAVES and SCALISE and forbid—a choice that gives you a better and from our nonprofits. I don’t know ZELDIN and KING and LOBIONDO and price. about any consumer organizations that MACARTHUR trying to bring in their By the way, when we get the private support this bill, but I do know this. I concerns to this legislation. market in, we all float our risk to the know that I worked very hard to talk On the Democrat side, I have worked private sector. When a disaster hits about mitigation and how I thought it with Mr. SCOTT; I have worked with Texas or Florida, it is not just the tax- could be a program that the locals Mrs. MALONEY, Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ, all con- payers who bear all the burden. We could be involved in with the Federal cerned about the Northeast and the have private companies in play. That is Government. I know I worked very Sandy reforms that were necessary to a great thing. This is a good bill. This hard talking about the repetitive oc- learn the lessons. We have included is a bipartisan bill. Let’s stand to- currences that the chairman was con- those reforms in this bill. gether and reform a program to help cerned about, but I also offered alternatives to what he is advocating. I sat down countless hours with the the homeowner and our national debt. Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. I talked about outreach and edu- ranking member. She shared her phone cation to them, about a buyout pro- number with me. She left me at the Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. gram that they may join with and ac- dance though, because before this thing cept voluntarily. I know that I tried was done, she walked away. We tried to Mr. Speaker, let me say to my colleagues on the opposite side of the everything that I could. I listened to get a bipartisan bill. We worked on this Members from both sides of the aisle, aisle, my chairmen, Mr. HENSARLING thing together; so to say something and I know that we both wanted to and Mr. DUFFY, we did work very hard other than that is just not fair, it is have a comprehensive bill that was bi- not right. We have tried. to try and get a bipartisan bill. As I negotiated with them, every partisan. You might not like the end product, Mr. Speaker, it is unfortunate that time I reached an impasse, I thought but we have gone a great distance to we end up with this bad bill. I ask for get a bill that everybody can agree on, about Sandy and how hard Democrats a ‘‘no’’ vote on this bill, and I yield and I think we are going to get that had to work to provide support for an back the balance of my time. today. area that should have gotten the sup- Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I port of everyone in the Congress of the b 1615 yield myself the balance of my time. United States. However, there was a Mr. Speaker, there are a lot of hor- I want to talk about a few things. We demand from the opposite side of the rific images from Hurricane Harvey. are $25 billion in debt, a deficit of $1.5 aisle that it had to be paid for. We We should never forget them. We billion a year. This program is not sus- worked very hard to give them assist- should look at this image and say: tainable. We have people who are build- ance, and they still have not been made Never again. ing homes in harm’s way. They get whole. Yet I hear from my colleagues: Let’s flooded multiple times. Every time I reached an impasse, I preserve the status quo. Let’s again The chairman and I saw a homeowner thought about Louisiana and the work subsidize people to live in harm’s way. who was flooded three times in 10 that I had done after Katrina and the I say no, Mr. Speaker. It is time to years. One homeowner let his house visits that I have made there, the peo- get these people out of these neighbor- burn because he had to go save his kids ple that I got to know, and what I real- hoods. Let’s help them. That is why

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00055 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.069 H14NOPT1 H9236 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 this bill has more money for mitiga- Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, this is We should not allow companies who tion and relocation than has ever been the final amendment to the bill, which profited off Superstorm Sandy victims in any flood insurance reform bill. will not kill the bill or send it back to while committing widespread fraud and I hear my ranking member say that the committee. If adopted, the bill will failing to meet their basic obligations she cares about affordability. Then immediately proceed to final passage, under the National Flood Insurance let’s give people options. as amended. Program to sell their own flood insur- I hear from people who say: NFIP Mr. Speaker, this amendment would ance. would have cost me $2,700 a year, but I require the FEMA Administrator and We should not reauthorize the pro- was able to find private coverage for the DHS inspector general to certify gram without reforming the claims $718. that all claims for victims of process to ensure technical definitions Here is another one: I have benefited Superstorm Sandy are addressed before of ‘‘earth movement,’’ ‘‘basement,’’ and from switching to private market flood this bill takes effect. ‘‘mold damage’’ do not cause delay for insurance from FEMA. I save about Many in this Chamber should recall 5 victims receiving their fair share. $1,000 a year. years ago Superstorm Sandy caused This bill should ensure that victims Let’s save money. Let’s save pre- widespread destruction throughout have the time they need to file an ap- miums. Let’s save lives. Let’s vote New Jersey and many States in the peal and require FEMA to respond so ‘‘aye’’ on the 21st Century Flood Re- Northeast. Superstorm Sandy barreled victims are able to move the claims form Act. up the East Coast, bringing death and process forward. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance destruction. Over 200 people in the I submitted several amendments to of my time. United States and the Caribbean died, the Rules Committee with my col- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. and the storm caused more than $71 league Representative FRANK PALLONE YODER). All time for debate has ex- billion in damage. Sandy swamped of New Jersey to address these issues pired. coastline communities. It knocked out and the lessons we learned from Sandy. Pursuant to House Resolution 616, power for millions of people and busi- We were denied a vote. the previous question is ordered on the nesses, flooded public transit systems, At the very least, Mr. Speaker, we bill, as amended. and set neighborhoods ablaze. must ensure that FEMA certifies that Many Sandy victims have begun The question is on the engrossment all victims from Superstorm Sandy down the long road of recovery, but 5 and third reading of the bill. have had action taken on their case be- years later, many victims and commu- The bill was ordered to be engrossed fore we make more changes to the Na- nities are still waiting for relief. They and read a third time, and was read the tional Flood Insurance Program. That are still struggling to rebuild their third time. is what a vote in favor of this recom- homes and their businesses. It took MOTION TO RECOMMIT mit would do. Simply put, it would years for the hardest hit communities Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I have delay the implementation of the bill in my district, Little Ferry and a motion to recommit at the desk. until the FEMA Administrator and the Moonachie, to receive the relief to The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is the DHS inspector general certified that build key pieces of public infrastruc- gentleman opposed to the bill? all claims for Superstorm Sandy have Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, in this ture. In New Jersey, over 1,200 property been addressed. form, yes. owners are still moving through the re- In order to support Superstorm The SPEAKER pro tempore. The covery programs. Approximately 900 Sandy victims, I encourage my col- Clerk will report the motion to recom- are still not back in their homes. Of all leagues to vote in support of this re- mit. Sandy victims, there are over 2,000 peo- commit, because a ‘‘no’’ vote is a vote The Clerk read as follows: ple still awaiting final review of their against the victims of Superstorm Mr. Pascrell moves to recommit the bill, flood insurance claims. Sandy, no doubt about it, who, for 5 H.R. 2874, to the Committee on Financial After victims faced delay after delay years have still not been made whole. Services with instructions to report the to start the claims process with FEMA, Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance same back to the House forthwith with the of my time. following amendment: they then struggled with insurance At the end of the bill, add the following companies which were and continue to Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I new title: be a major source of strife for Sandy claim the time in opposition. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- TITLE VII—EFFECTIVE DATE victims. Many of the residents of New York tleman from Texas is recognized for 5 SEC. 701. EFFECTIVE DATE. minutes. Notwithstanding any other provision of and New Jersey saw insurers inten- this Act, each provision of this Act shall tionally paying out too little on their Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, take effect on the later of the following: claims, which in many cases was not first, I have some good news for my (1) The first date by which both the Admin- enough to cover the cost of repairing friend on the other side of the aisle. I istrator of the Federal Emergency Manage- the damage. We heard stories of insur- would have him pay very careful atten- ment Agency and the Inspector General of ance adjusters making significant er- tion to title VI of the 21st Century the Federal Emergency Management Agency rors on reports because they misunder- Flood Reform Act. It has everything to have, independently of each other, submitted stood technical definitions, underesti- do with the whole Sandy appeals proc- written certification to the Congress and mated the extent of the damage done, ess. We have 25 pages of reforms deal- caused such certification to be printed in the Federal Register that final resolution has or intentionally misrepresented the ing with what the gentleman was de- been reached on all claims for losses result- cause of the damage. scribing, including Section 601, Pen- ing from Hurricane Sandy of 2012 that were This is all documented. alties for Fraud and False Statements covered by flood insurance made available The problems were so significant, we in the National Flood Insurance Pro- under the National Flood Insurance Pro- had to force FEMA to reopen the gram. gram; or claims process for thousands of home- And, indeed, after Sandy, many of (2) The date that such provision would oth- owners. Some ended up getting addi- the policyholders were wronged and erwise take effect but for this section. tional money. I have heard from many there was much that we learned from Mr. PASCRELL (during the reading). who say that it is still not enough to that experience, and we tried to listen Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent cover their recovery costs. very carefully to a number of our col- to dispense with the reading. Mr. Speaker, on the heels of Hurri- leagues from New Jersey and New York The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there canes Harvey and Maria, we are now and, indeed, took many of the provi- objection to the request of the gen- tasked with reauthorizing the National sions which they have suggested. tleman from New Jersey? Flood Insurance Program. To ensure There was no objection. these victims do not face the same b 1630 The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- troubles as those in my State, we need The gentleman from New Jersey, in- ant to the rule, the gentleman from to apply the lessons we learned from deed, has some very legitimate issues New Jersey is recognized for 5 minutes Superstorm Sandy in this reauthoriza- and concerns. Many of them, I hope in support of his motion. tion. Tragically, this bill does not. and trust, have been addressed in this

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00056 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.071 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9237 bill. It is not too late. I would urge the Blunt Rochester Gottheimer O’Rourke Issa Messer Sensenbrenner gentleman to look at that title IV of Bonamici Green, Al Pallone Jenkins (KS) Mitchell Sessions Boyle, Brendan Green, Gene Panetta Jenkins (WV) Moolenaar Shimkus the bill and perhaps he would be en- F. Grijalva Pascrell Johnson (LA) Mooney (WV) Shuster couraged to support it. Brady (PA) Gutie´rrez Payne Johnson (OH) Mullin Simpson Otherwise, Mr. Speaker, I must urge Brown (MD) Hanabusa Perlmutter Jones Newhouse Smith (MO) Brownley (CA) Hastings Jordan Noem rejection of the motion to recommit Peters Smith (NE) Bustos Heck Peterson Joyce (OH) Norman Smith (NJ) Katko Nunes because, as you heard from the gen- Butterfield Higgins (NY) Pingree Smith (TX) Capuano Himes Kelly (MS) Olson tleman from New Jersey, he says it is Polis Smucker Carbajal Hoyer Kelly (PA) Palazzo Price (NC) Stefanik all about delay. We can’t delay getting Ca´ rdenas Huffman King (IA) Palmer Quigley Stewart people out of harm’s way. We can’t Carson (IN) Jackson Lee Raskin King (NY) Paulsen delay getting people out of neighbor- Cartwright Jayapal Kinzinger Pearce Stivers Rice (NY) Taylor hoods that have flooded four, five, six, Castor (FL) Jeffries Richmond Knight Perry Kustoff (TN) Tenney Castro (TX) Johnson (GA) Rosen Pittenger seven times in the last 8 years. Labrador Poe (TX) Thompson (PA) Chu, Judy Johnson, E. B. Roybal-Allard LaHood Poliquin Thornberry For those who can’t afford flood in- Cicilline Kaptur Ruiz LaMalfa Posey Tiberi surance, we can’t delay getting them Clark (MA) Keating Ruppersberger Clarke (NY) Kelly (IL) Lamborn Ratcliffe Tipton Rush market alternatives, where, in the 2 Clay Kennedy Lance Reed Trott Ryan (OH) percent of the market that exists Cleaver Khanna Latta Reichert Turner Sa´ nchez Clyburn Kihuen Lewis (MN) Renacci today, particularly in Pennsylvania, Sarbanes Upton Cohen Kildee LoBiondo Rice (SC) there are people that are not just sav- Schakowsky Valadao Connolly Kilmer Long Roby Schiff Wagner ing hundreds of dollars, Mr. Speaker, Conyers Kind Loudermilk Roe (TN) Schneider Walberg but even thousands of dollars. We can’t Cooper Krishnamoorthi Love Rogers (AL) Schrader Walden Correa Kuster (NH) Lucas Rogers (KY) delay. Scott (VA) Walker Costa Langevin Luetkemeyer Rohrabacher We know that this is a program that Scott, David Walorski Courtney Larsen (WA) MacArthur Rokita Walters, Mimi Serrano Marchant Rooney, Francis is unsustainable. It is a bankrupt pro- Crist Larson (CT) Weber (TX) Crowley Lawrence Sewell (AL) Marino Rooney, Thomas gram that is being funded, regrettably, Webster (FL) Cuellar Lawson (FL) Shea-Porter Marshall J. Wenstrup by a bankrupt nation. Taxpayers are Cummings Lee Sherman Massie Ros-Lehtinen Westerman on the hook for $1.2 trillion and an an- Davis (CA) Levin Sinema Mast Roskam Williams nual deficit of $1.5 billion of actuarial Davis, Danny Lewis (GA) Sires McCarthy Ross Slaughter Wilson (SC) deficit a year. DeFazio Lieu, Ted McCaul Rothfus DeGette Lipinski Smith (WA) McClintock Rouzer Wittman This thing isn’t just broke, Mr. Delaney Loebsack Soto McHenry Royce (CA) Womack Speaker, it is bailout broke. We can’t DeLauro Lofgren Speier McKinley Russell Woodall delay. We can’t delay trying to put this DelBene Lowenthal Suozzi McMorris Rutherford Yoder Demings Lowey Swalwell (CA) Rodgers Sanford Yoho back on a path of sustainability so the DeSaulnier Lujan Grisham, Takano McSally Scalise Young (AK) next time we have a serious storm or Deutch M. Thompson (CA) Meadows Schweikert Young (IA) superstorm, we want there to be funds Dingell Luja´ n, Ben Ray Thompson (MS) Meehan Scott, Austin Zeldin available to actually pay claims. Doggett Lynch Titus Doyle, Michael Maloney, Sean Tonko NOT VOTING—7 So, no, Mr. Speaker, we cannot delay. F. Matsui Torres Bridenstine Maloney, Pelosi We cannot delay, and we cannot con- Ellison McCollum Tsongas Dent Carolyn B. Pocan tinue to do what we have done in the Engel McEachin Vargas Johnson, Sam McGovern Veasey past in these repetitive loss areas and Eshoo McNerney Espaillat Meeks Vela b 1656 have our hands unclean by putting peo- Esty (CT) Meng Vela´ zquez ple back in the exact same neighbor- Evans Moore Visclosky Mrs. HANDEL, Messrs. LEWIS of hoods that haven’t just caused the loss Foster Moulton Walz Minnesota, JORDAN, BERGMAN, and Frankel (FL) Murphy (FL) Wasserman Mrs. BLACK changed their vote from of their property, but one day may Fudge Nadler Schultz very well cost the loss of their lives. Gabbard Napolitano Waters, Maxine ‘‘yea’’ to ‘‘nay.’’ We cannot delay. Gallego Neal Watson Coleman Mr. CARBAJAL, Ms. SINEMA, Garamendi Nolan Welch Messrs. EVANS, DAVID SCOTT of Mr. Speaker, I urge a rejection of the Gomez Norcross Wilson (FL) motion to recommit, and I yield back Gonzalez (TX) O’Halleran Yarmuth Georgia, Ms. MOORE, Mr. MCNERNEY, the balance of my time. Ms. MATSUI, and Mr. AL GREEN of The SPEAKER pro tempore. Without NAYS—236 Texas changed their vote from ‘‘nay’’ objection, the previous question is or- Abraham Cheney Foxx to ‘‘yea.’’ dered on the motion to recommit. Aderholt Coffman Franks (AZ) So the motion to recommit was re- Allen Cole Frelinghuysen jected. There was no objection. Amash Collins (GA) Gaetz The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Amodei Collins (NY) Gallagher The result of the vote was announced question is on the motion to recommit. Arrington Comer Garrett as above recorded. Babin Comstock Gianforte The question was taken; and the The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Bacon Conaway Gibbs question is on the passage of the bill. Speaker pro tempore announced that Banks (IN) Cook Gohmert the noes appeared to have it. Barletta Costello (PA) Goodlatte The question was taken; and the Barr Cramer Gosar Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, on Speaker pro tempore announced that Barton Crawford Gowdy the ayes appeared to have it. that I demand the yeas and nays. Bergman Culberson Granger Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, on The yeas and nays were ordered. Biggs Curbelo (FL) Graves (GA) Bilirakis Curtis Graves (LA) that I demand the yeas and nays. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Bishop (MI) Davidson Graves (MO) The yeas and nays were ordered. ant to clause 9 of rule XX, this 15- Bishop (UT) Davis, Rodney Griffith The SPEAKER pro tempore. This is a minute vote on the motion to recom- Black Denham Grothman 5-minute vote. mit will be followed by 5-minute votes Blackburn DeSantis Guthrie Blum DesJarlais Handel The vote was taken by electronic de- on: Bost Diaz-Balart Harper vice, and there were—yeas 237, nays Passage of the bill, if ordered; and Brady (TX) Donovan Harris 189, not voting 7, as follows: Adoption of the conference report to Brat Duffy Hartzler Brooks (AL) Duncan (SC) Hensarling [Roll No. 630] accompany H.R. 2810. Brooks (IN) Duncan (TN) Herrera Beutler YEAS—237 The vote was taken by electronic de- Buchanan Dunn Hice, Jody B. vice, and there were—yeas 190, nays Buck Emmer Higgins (LA) Aderholt Barton Blumenauer Bucshon Estes (KS) Hill Allen Bergman Bost 236, not voting 7, as follows: Budd Farenthold Holding Amodei Biggs Brady (TX) [Roll No. 629] Burgess Faso Hollingsworth Arrington Bilirakis Brat Byrne Ferguson Hudson Babin Bishop (MI) Brooks (AL) YEAS—190 Calvert Fitzpatrick Huizenga Bacon Bishop (UT) Brooks (IN) Adams Bass Beyer Carter (GA) Fleischmann Hultgren Banks (IN) Black Buchanan Aguilar Beatty Bishop (GA) Carter (TX) Flores Hunter Barletta Blackburn Buck Barraga´ n Bera Blumenauer Chabot Fortenberry Hurd Barr Blum Bucshon

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00057 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.074 H14NOPT1 H9238 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 Budd Hudson Reichert Hanabusa Lujan Grisham, Rush Boyle, Brendan Gowdy Meadows Burgess Huffman Renacci Hastings M. Ryan (OH) F. Granger Meehan Byrne Huizenga Rice (SC) Heck Luja´ n, Ben Ray Sa´ nchez Brady (PA) Graves (GA) Meeks Calvert Hultgren Roby Higgins (NY) Lynch Sarbanes Brady (TX) Graves (LA) Meng Carter (GA) Hunter Roe (TN) Himes Maloney, Schakowsky Brat Graves (MO) Messer Carter (TX) Hurd Rogers (AL) Hoyer Carolyn B. Schiff Brooks (AL) Green, Al Mitchell Chabot Issa Rogers (KY) Jackson Lee Maloney, Sean Schrader Brooks (IN) Green, Gene Moolenaar Cheney Jenkins (KS) Rohrabacher Jayapal Matsui Scott (VA) Brown (MD) Grothman Mooney (WV) Clay Jenkins (WV) Rokita Jeffries McCollum Scott, David Brownley (CA) Guthrie Moulton Coffman Johnson (LA) Rooney, Francis Johnson (GA) McNerney Serrano Buchanan Hanabusa Mullin Cole Johnson (OH) Rooney, Thomas Johnson, E. B. Meeks Sewell (AL) Buck Handel Murphy (FL) Collins (GA) Jordan J. Jones Meng Shea-Porter Bucshon Harper Neal Collins (NY) Joyce (OH) Rosen Kaptur Mitchell Sires Budd Harris Newhouse Comer Katko Roskam Keating Moore Slaughter Burgess Hartzler Noem Comstock Kelly (MS) Ross Kelly (IL) Moulton Smith (NJ) Bustos Hastings Nolan Conaway Kelly (PA) Rothfus Kennedy Murphy (FL) Smith (WA) Butterfield Heck Norcross Nadler Soto Cook King (IA) Rouzer Khanna Byrne Hensarling Norman Cooper Napolitano Speier Kinzinger Royce (CA) Kihuen Calvert Herrera Beutler Nunes Correa Knight Neal Suozzi Russell Kildee Carbajal Hice, Jody B. O’Halleran Costello (PA) Kustoff (TN) Norcross Swalwell (CA) Rutherford Kilmer Ca´ rdenas Higgins (LA) O’Rourke Cramer Labrador O’Halleran Takano Sanford Kind Carter (GA) Higgins (NY) Olson Crawford LaHood O’Rourke Thompson (CA) Scalise King (NY) Carter (TX) Hill Palazzo Culberson LaMalfa Palazzo Thompson (MS) Schneider Krishnamoorthi Cartwright Himes Palmer Curtis Lamborn Pallone Tonko Schweikert Kuster (NH) Castor (FL) Holding Panetta Davidson Lance Scott, Austin Panetta Torres Castro (TX) Hollingsworth Pascrell Langevin Pascrell Davis, Rodney Latta Sensenbrenner Tsongas Chabot Hoyer Paulsen Larsen (WA) Payne Vargas Denham Lewis (MN) Sessions Cheney Hudson Pearce Larson (CT) Perlmutter Veasey DeSantis Lipinski Sherman Cicilline Huizenga Perlmutter Lawrence Pingree Vela DesJarlais Long Shimkus Clay Hultgren Perry Doggett Loudermilk Lawson (FL) Polis Vela´ zquez Shuster Clyburn Hunter Peters Duffy Love Lee Price (NC) Visclosky Simpson Coffman Hurd Peterson Duncan (SC) Lucas Levin Quigley Walz Sinema Cole Issa Pingree Duncan (TN) Luetkemeyer Lewis (GA) Raskin Wasserman Smith (MO) Collins (GA) Jackson Lee Pittenger Dunn MacArthur Lieu, Ted Rice (NY) Schultz Smith (NE) Collins (NY) Jenkins (KS) Poe (TX) Emmer Marchant LoBiondo Richmond Waters, Maxine Smith (TX) Comer Jenkins (WV) Poliquin Estes (KS) Marino Loebsack Ros-Lehtinen Watson Coleman Smucker Comstock Johnson (LA) Posey Farenthold Marshall Lofgren Roybal-Allard Welch Stefanik Conaway Johnson (OH) Quigley Faso Massie Lowenthal Ruiz Wilson (FL) Stewart Connolly Johnson, E. B. Ratcliffe Ferguson Mast Lowey Ruppersberger Yarmuth Stivers Cook Jordan Reed Fitzpatrick McCarthy Cooper Joyce (OH) Reichert Fleischmann McCaul Taylor NOT VOTING—7 Tenney Correa Kaptur Renacci Flores McClintock Bridenstine McEachin Pocan Thompson (PA) Costa Katko Rice (NY) Fortenberry McHenry Dent McGovern Thornberry Costello (PA) Keating Rice (SC) Foxx McKinley Johnson, Sam Pelosi Courtney Kelly (IL) Richmond Franks (AZ) McMorris Tiberi Cramer Kelly (MS) Roby Gaetz Rodgers Tipton b 1703 Crawford Gallagher McSally Titus Kelly (PA) Roe (TN) Garrett Meadows Trott Mr. MARSHALL changed his vote Crist Kihuen Rogers (AL) Cuellar Kilmer Rogers (KY) Gianforte Meehan Turner from ‘‘nay’’ to ‘‘yea.’’ Gibbs Messer Upton Culberson Kind Rohrabacher Gohmert Moolenaar Valadao So the bill was passed. Cummings King (IA) Rokita Goodlatte Mooney (WV) Wagner The result of the vote was announced Curbelo (FL) King (NY) Rooney, Francis Gosar Mullin Walberg as above recorded. Curtis Kinzinger Rooney, Thomas Walden Davidson Knight J. Gowdy Newhouse A motion to reconsider was laid on Granger Noem Walker Davis (CA) Krishnamoorthi Ros-Lehtinen Graves (GA) Nolan Walorski the table. Davis, Rodney Kuster (NH) Rosen Graves (MO) Norman Walters, Mimi Delaney Kustoff (TN) Roskam Griffith Nunes Weber (TX) f DeLauro LaHood Ross Grothman Olson Webster (FL) DelBene LaMalfa Rothfus Guthrie Palmer Wenstrup CONFERENCE REPORT ON H.R. 2810, Demings Lamborn Rouzer Handel Paulsen Westerman Denham Lance Roybal-Allard NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZA- DeSantis Langevin Royce (CA) Harper Pearce Williams TION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2018 Harris Perry Wilson (SC) DesJarlais Larsen (WA) Ruiz Hartzler Peters Wittman Deutch Larson (CT) Rush The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Diaz-Balart Latta Russell Hensarling Peterson Womack finished business is the question on Herrera Beutler Pittenger Woodall Dingell Lawrence Rutherford Hice, Jody B. Poe (TX) Yoder adoption of the conference report on Doggett Lawson (FL) Ryan (OH) ´ Higgins (LA) Poliquin Yoho the bill (H.R. 2810) to authorize appro- Donovan Lewis (MN) Sanchez Duffy Lieu, Ted Sanford Hill Posey Young (AK) priations for fiscal year 2018 for mili- Holding Ratcliffe Young (IA) Duncan (SC) Lipinski Sarbanes Hollingsworth Reed Zeldin tary activities of the Department of Dunn LoBiondo Scalise Defense, for military construction, and Emmer Loebsack Schiff NAYS—189 Engel Long Schneider for defense activities of the Depart- Estes (KS) Loudermilk Schweikert Abraham Chu, Judy Diaz-Balart ment of Energy, to prescribe military Esty (CT) Love Scott (VA) Adams Cicilline Dingell personnel strengths for such fiscal Evans Lowey Scott, Austin Aguilar Clark (MA) Donovan year, and for other purposes, on which Farenthold Lucas Scott, David Amash Clarke (NY) Doyle, Michael Faso Luetkemeyer Sensenbrenner Barraga´ n Cleaver F. the yeas and nays were ordered. Ferguson Lujan Grisham, Sessions Bass Clyburn Ellison The Clerk read the title of the bill. Fitzpatrick M. Sewell (AL) Beatty Cohen Engel The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Fleischmann Luja´ n, Ben Ray Shea-Porter Bera Connolly Eshoo Flores MacArthur Sherman Beyer Conyers Espaillat question is on the conference report. Fortenberry Maloney, Shimkus Bishop (GA) Costa Esty (CT) This is a 5-minute vote. Foster Carolyn B. Shuster Blunt Rochester Courtney Evans The vote was taken by electronic de- Foxx Maloney, Sean Simpson Bonamici Crist Foster vice, and there were—yeas 356, nays 70, Frankel (FL) Marchant Sinema Boyle, Brendan Crowley Frankel (FL) Franks (AZ) Marino Smith (MO) F. Cuellar Frelinghuysen not voting 7, as follows: Frelinghuysen Marshall Smith (NE) Brady (PA) Cummings Fudge [Roll No. 631] Fudge Mast Smith (NJ) Brown (MD) Curbelo (FL) Gabbard Gaetz McCarthy Smith (TX) Brownley (CA) Davis (CA) Gallego YEAS—356 Gallagher McCaul Smith (WA) Bustos Davis, Danny Garamendi Abraham Banks (IN) Bilirakis Gallego McClintock Smucker Butterfield DeFazio Gomez Adams Barletta Bishop (GA) Garamendi McCollum Soto Capuano DeGette Gonzalez (TX) Aderholt Barr Bishop (MI) Gianforte McEachin Stefanik Carbajal Delaney Gottheimer Aguilar Barton Bishop (UT) Gibbs McHenry Stewart Ca´ rdenas DeLauro Graves (LA) Allen Beatty Black Gohmert McKinley Stivers Carson (IN) DelBene Green, Al Amodei Bera Blackburn Gonzalez (TX) McMorris Suozzi Cartwright Demings Green, Gene Arrington Bergman Blum Goodlatte Rodgers Taylor Castor (FL) DeSaulnier Grijalva Babin Beyer Blunt Rochester Gosar McNerney Tenney Castro (TX) Deutch Gutie´rrez Bacon Biggs Bost Gottheimer McSally Thompson (MS)

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00058 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A14NO7.022 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9239 Thompson (PA) Wagner Westerman House for 1 minute and to revise and girls and boys cross country teams, Thornberry Walberg Williams extend his remarks.) who both won Minnesota State high Tiberi Walden Wilson (FL) Tipton Walker Wilson (SC) Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speak- school championships this season. Titus Walorski Wittman er, I rise today to recognize World Se- The Wayzata girls’ team was led by Torres Walters, Mimi Womack ries Champion Josh Reddick and all of sophomore Emma Atkinson, who fin- Trott Walz Woodall his efforts to give back to his home- ished in third place overall at State. Tsongas Wasserman Yoder Turner Schultz Three of their runners placed in the top Yoho town in the First Congressional Dis- Upton Waters, Maxine Young (AK) trict of Georgia. 10, which helped them beat second- Valadao Weber (TX) Young (IA) Veasey Webster (FL) Baseball fans across America know place Edina by 19 points. Dave Vela Wenstrup Zeldin Mr. Reddick as the Houston Astros’ Emmans, who was the 2014 Girls Cross Country Coach of the Year, did an out- NAYS—70 right fielder. But to Rincon, Georgia, Mr. Reddick is a friend and a volunteer standing job leading the Trojan girls’ Amash Gabbard Napolitano Barraga´ n Garrett Pallone who works to improve every corner of team. Bass Gomez Payne his community. Namely, he founded On the boys’ side, Wayzata senior Blumenauer Griffith Polis the Josh Reddick Foundation with its Khalid Hussein, led the boys’ team to Bonamici Gutie´rrez Price (NC) most recent project to build an artifi- victory after coming in first place at Capuano Huffman Raskin cial turf baseball field designed specifi- State. Six of Wayzata’s runners placed Carson (IN) Jayapal Ruppersberger Chu, Judy Jeffries Schakowsky cally for children with special needs. in the top 25. This was the Trojans’ Clark (MA) Johnson (GA) Schrader He donated $1 million for the project, 10th State championship in 25 years, Clarke (NY) Jones Serrano Cleaver Kennedy which will have smooth fields for and Head Coach Mark Popp has now led Sires Cohen Khanna wheelchairs, a dugout designed for easy the team to victory in two of the last Slaughter Conyers Kildee Speier access, first class stadium seating, a 10- three seasons coaching. Crowley Labrador foot by 36-foot scoreboard, and more. Mr. Speaker, cross country takes an Davis, Danny Lee Swalwell (CA) DeFazio Levin Takano Groundbreaking for the field will begin immense amount of dedication, pas- DeGette Lewis (GA) Thompson (CA) on November 18. sion, and endurance, and it was evident DeSaulnier Lofgren Tonko I am proud that World Series Cham- that these Wayzata teams have worked Doyle, Michael Lowenthal Vargas F. Lynch Vela´ zquez pion Josh Reddick is from the First so hard. Duncan (TN) Massie Visclosky Congressional District of Georgia, but I Congratulations to the runners, the Ellison Matsui Watson Coleman am even more proud to see how this coaches, and the families for their suc- Eshoo Moore Welch fine young man is giving back to his cess this year of the Wayzata cross Espaillat Nadler Yarmuth community. country boys and girls teams for be- NOT VOTING—7 f coming State champs. Bridenstine Johnson, Sam Pocan f Dent McGovern b 1715 Grijalva Pelosi HONORING EVELYN MALZBERG SELL A TAX REFORM DREAM TO b 1711 AMERICANS (Mr. PAYNE asked and was given So the conference report was agreed permission to address the House for 1 (Mrs. WATSON COLEMAN asked and to. minute and to revise and extend his re- The result of the vote was announced was given permission to address the marks.) as above recorded. House for 1 minute.) Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, yesterday A motion to reconsider was laid on Mrs. WATSON COLEMAN. Mr. I rose to honor our Nation’s public the table. Speaker, each day the President and schools. Today I rise to honor Ms. Eve- Stated for: congressional Republicans are trying lyn Malzberg, a lady who embodies the Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Mr. Speaker, on to sell the American people a dream saying: ‘‘It is never too late to learn.’’ rollcall vote 631, I inadvertently pressed ‘‘nay’’ that will not become a reality. After graduating high school in 1943, on the recording device. I intended to vote In addition to running up the deficit, Ms. Malzberg thought about going to ‘‘yea’’ On Agreeing to the Conference Report lining the pockets of the very wealthy, college, but Ms. Malzberg’s mom told to the National Defense Authorization Act for and eliminating critical deductions her that no man would marry a woman Fiscal Year 2018. that New Jerseyans rely on, this tax smarter than he is. So Ms. Malzberg scheme dismantles the ladder of oppor- PERSONAL EXPLANATION found success elsewhere. She married, tunity that allows Americans to grow Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I was un- raised a family, and had a career as a and thrive. avoidably absent on Tuesday, November 14, legal secretary. Eliminating the medical expense de- 2017. Somewhere along the way, Ms. duction will devastate households na- On rollcall Vote 626, the Motion on Ordering Malzberg concluded that she had made tionwide struggling to recover from the Previous Question on the Rule, H. Res. a mistake. She started taking college high healthcare costs. Removing the 616, had I been present I would have voted courses, one a semester. A few years student loan interest deduction will ‘‘no.’’ ago, at the young age of 84, Ms. On rollcall Vote 627, passage of H. Res. cost recent college graduates hundreds Malzberg graduated from New Jersey 616, the rule for consideration of the Con- of dollars a year, significant to young City University with a bachelor’s de- ference Report to Accompany H.R. 2810, had Americans trying to get on their feet. gree in creative writing. I been present I would have voted ‘‘no.’’ Our tax system works best when it is I ask my colleagues to join me in On rollcall Vote 629, the Motion to Recom- fair, responsible, and supportive of the celebrating Ms. Malzberg, a lady whose mit H.R. 2874, had I been present I would true drivers of our economy: families, remarkable story proves how valuable have voted ‘‘yes.’’ workers, and small businesses. the Nation’s public education system is On rollcall Vote 630, final passage of H.R. I refuse to let congressional Repub- to our people. 2874, the 21st Century Flood Reform Act, had licans try to sell America a dream that f never will be reality, and definitely not I been present I would have voted ‘‘no.’’ NDAA CONFERENCE REPORT On rollcall Vote 631, agreeing to the Con- on the backs of the most vulnerable. PASSAGE ference Report to Accompany H.R. 2810, the f National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal (Mr. ALLEN asked and was given CONGRATULATING WAYZATA permission to address the House for 1 Year 2018, had I been present I would have CROSS COUNTRY voted ‘‘no.’’ minute and to revise and extend his re- f (Mr. PAULSEN asked and was given marks.) permission to address the House for 1 Mr. ALLEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise RECOGNIZING BASEBALL PLAYER minute and to revise and extend his re- today to express my support for the JOSH REDDICK marks.) conference report on the National De- (Mr. CARTER of Georgia asked and Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I offer fense Authorization Act, which passed was given permission to address the my congratulations to the Wayzata the House of Representatives today.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00059 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A14NO7.024 H14NOPT1 H9240 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 In a great bipartisan moment, the The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is a bold, it. If tax revenues to the government NDAA received overwhelming support transformative step that simplifies our are a concern, then certainly we should to authorize almost $700 billion in de- Tax Code and reduces the tax burden pass tax cuts. fense spending and set priorities for on working Americans and middle-in- After President Kennedy cut tax our military, including the largest pay come families. This bill reduces the rates, revenues to the government in- raise for our troops in 8 years. The con- Federal tax rate for the majority of creased from $95 billion to $280 billion. ference report kept funding important low- and middle-income Americans After President Reagan cut tax rates, to Georgia’s 12th District, included in while doubling the standard deduction. revenues to the government increased the earlier versions of the FY18 NDAA, More than 65 percent of filers in Geor- from $600 billion to $1.35 trillion. such as $8 billion in funding for cyber gia’s Sixth Congressional District use Furthermore, annual GDP growth operations and over $85 million in new that standard deduction. rates increased into the 4 to 5 percent military construction to prepare for What does it mean? range following these tax cuts. We are our cyber warriors at Fort Gordon, like It means that a married couple will going to witness this increase in eco- new family housing and a new gate. be able to pay not a dime of tax on nomic growth again under President Ensuring that our soldiers, sailors, their first $24,000 of income every year. Trump with a tax bill this House will and airmen are equipped with the fa- The bill will also fuel economic consider later this week. cilities and resources they need to growth and job creation. Small busi- As Ronald Reagan said: ‘‘We don’t fight the battles of today and tomor- nesses will be at the lowest tax rate have a trillion-dollar debt because we row is crucial to our Nation’s safety since World War II. The Tax Cuts and haven’t taxed enough. We have a tril- and security. Jobs Act contains real tangible bene- lion-dollar debt because we spend too Days after celebrating one of the fits for the majority of American tax- much.’’ most important days of the year hon- payers. I support this bill enthusiasti- oring our veterans, I am happy to say cally and I urge my colleagues to do f that, with the passage of H.R. 2810, we the same. have provided for the common defense, TAXES AND A BETTER DEAL supported our servicemembers, and f (Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of worked to close the critical readiness NOT A TAX BILL FOR OUR TIME Texas asked and was given permission gap. (Ms. JACKSON LEE asked and was to address the House for 1 minute.) f given permission to address the House Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, the Republican tax TAX PLAN AND EDUCATION for 1 minute.) Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, reform bill coming to the floor this (Mr. LOWENTHAL asked and was this tax bill is not about the future. It week raises serious questions about the given permission to address the House is about our past. Millions of Ameri- impact that this legislation will have for 1 minute and to revise and extend cans, middle class families, will have on middle class families, our ability to his remarks.) increased taxes under this tax scam. invest in our transportation infrastruc- Mr. LOWENTHAL. Mr. Speaker, my In fact, in the State of Texas, 230,000- ture, and students’ ability to attend Republican colleagues tell me that this plus Texans will pay an average of over college. tax plan will grow the economy and $6,000 more in taxes. That is a tax My hometown, Dallas, Texas, and make American workers more competi- scam. every municipality in the region has tive, but, in reality, the plan would In addition, Mr. Speaker, this is not written objections to how they are af- bankrupt our future. It threatens pro- a futuristic tax bill. This is not a tax fected. For one, the GOP tax plan visions that directly support our bill for our times. This is a tax bill eliminates many tax deductions that schools and our students. By elimi- that implodes higher education. For in- are favorable to middle class Ameri- nating the State and local tax deduc- stance, it does not allow the deduction cans, such as the medical expense de- tions, it penalizes States and school of student loans or interest payments duction and State and local income and districts that have chosen to invest in on those loans or tuition or expenses, sales tax deductions. These important our young people. deductions help middle class families In my home State of California, that eliminating the opportunity for edu- cational growth. lower their tax liability and put more threatens over $750 in State funding money in their pockets for everyday per public school student each and It eliminates the tax credit for research and innovation; again, sty- needs of hardworking Americans. every year. For Americans with stu- The plan also looks to an estimated dent loan debt, this plan eliminates the mieing the growth of the United States as it relates to research and innova- $2.6 trillion stockpiled overseas for student loan interest deduction. U.S. corporations. The plan seeks to In my district, over 21,000 people tion. Then to the large universities, allow repatriation of these funds for as claim this deduction each year. As a the endowments that are used to help little as 5 percent tax on brick-and- former college professor, I know the our students to build complexes to edu- mortar assets, or 12 percent on cash sacrifices that many of our students cate the best and the brightest are kept overseas. have to make to pursue an education. eliminated. This tax plan asks them to pay even This is a tax scam. It is a tax scam This was one of the same methods being more. on higher education. It is a tax scam considered to fund the major infrastructure bill These priorities are out of sync. This on hardworking middle class Ameri- that we are still waiting for, which raises con- is not tax reform that puts middle cans. It deserves a resounding ‘‘no’’ cerns about how we will pay for our crumbling class families first. We can do better. vote because we don’t want to go back. infrastructure. We want to go toward the future. Finally, the GOP tax plan also seeks to f f eliminate the student loan tax deduction. This NEED A TAX CODE FOR THE 21ST is a troubling change to existing law, as it CENTURY PASSING TAX CUTS places an even heavier burden on our future (Mrs. HANDEL asked and was given (Mr. BLUM asked and was given per- generations and others seeking a college edu- permission to address the House for 1 mission to address the House for 1 cation. Every college and university in my re- minute and to revise and extend her re- minute and to revise and extend his region has complained. marks.) marks.) All of these changes are proposed to the Mrs. HANDEL. Mr. Speaker, the last Mr. BLUM. Mr. Speaker, the only tune of an added $1.7 trillion dollars to our time we had real tax reform in this time I hear some of my colleagues ex- deficit. country was 1986. press their concern about the deficit is Mr. Speaker, I share the view with many of To achieve economic growth in the when this body is considering policies my colleagues that we are due for a major re- 21st century, we need a Tax Code de- to let hardworking American families form of our tax code. However, we must not signed for the 21st century. The status keep more of their hard-earned money. do so at the expense of millions of middle and quo is simply not getting it done. It is This is not the government’s money. lower class Americans are already struggling not good enough. It is the people’s money. They earned to get by.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00060 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.083 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9241 CELEBRATING GOD’S WORD However, I can’t vote for legislation with this. I don’t expect you to really (Mr. ARRINGTON asked and was that would raise taxes for 13 million look at all of these numbers, but this is given permission to address the House middle class households next year; or the structural deficit that exists today: for 1 minute and to revise and extend that would give the top 0.1 percent of $563 billion structural deficit. Every his remarks.) Americans an average tax cut of over year—this year and in the past years— Mr. ARRINGTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise $320,000 while raising taxes on 36 mil- we are running a serious deficit: $1.5 to support 76 years of celebrating God’s lion families by 2027; or that would pro- trillion. Ten years from now, it is Word during National Bible Week. No vide more tax benefit to the richest 1 going to be over a $1 trillion-a-year other book has sold more copies or percent than the lower 95 percent of structural deficit. changed more lives than the Bible. Americans combined. So what does H.R. 1, the 1 percent Saddling the next generation with Abraham Lincoln said: ‘‘In regard for bill, do to you? $1.7 trillion in debt while prioritizing this great book, I have this to say, ‘It What it does is it adds to the struc- millionaires and billionaires at the ex- tural deficit this year $115 billion; and, is the best gift God has given to man. pense of everybody else is irresponsible All that the good Savior gave to the in 2027, it will add $155 billion. and cruel. You can look at it this way—and per- world was communicated through this Mr. Speaker, I could spend countless book.’ ’’ haps this is a little easier to under- hours describing how this bill harms stand. It is about the deficit, and this May we always remember the impact middle class families, students, the el- the Bible has had on this country and is why the two-step is going to happen. derly, and businesses in my home State By the way, all of the deficit hawks on our democracy. May we govern ac- of New Mexico, but since I only have 1 that once occupied that entire array on cording to its timeless precepts and minute to address the floor today, I the right side of the congressional principles, and may God bless these will be back tomorrow to talk about House of Representatives disappeared. United States of America. how this bill devastates investment They migrated. They migrated south f and job creation in the quickly growing or somewhere. But I will tell you this: b 1730 renewable energy industry in my home as soon as this H.R. 1 percent passes, State of New Mexico. GOP TAX SCAM BILL the deficit hawks will return with a f mighty force to make cuts. (Ms. JUDY CHU of California asked TAX REFORM So here is what happens to the def- and was given permission to address icit: it starts down there—this is the The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. the House for 1 minute and to revise annual, not the total deficit—and rises FITZPATRICK). Under the Speaker’s an- and extend her remarks.) to this in 2027. This little orange across nounced policy of January 3, 2017, the Ms. JUDY CHU of California. Mr. the top is what will be added. We don’t gentleman from California (Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to the deal with the deficit directly. GARAMENDI) is recognized for 60 min- GOP tax scam bill, H.R. 1, which, con- So here is the deal, folks: cut taxes utes as the designee of the minority sidering who it really helps, should be now so that the superwealthy, five of labeled ‘‘H.R. 1 percent.’’ leader. Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, a which are in President Trump’s admin- As a member of the Ways and Means moment ago, you heard from my col- istration—oh, yes, eliminate the estate Committee, I offered amendments to league from California (Ms. JUDY CHU) tax. Great idea. ensure the middle class benefits, but about the tax bill. She put the first Do you know what that means to the Republicans rejected those proposals in page of H.R. 1 up and she added this lit- Trump family? order to give away tax cuts for cor- tle percentage, H.R. 1 percent. I If his wealth is $10 billion, as he says, porate interests and the top 1 percent. thought that was not only accurate, what it means is that somewhere Instead, H.R. 1 percent repeals the de- but it really does reflect what I was around a $4 billion tax avoidance. ductions for State and local taxes, rais- going to show a moment ago, and then Eliminating the estate tax and the ing taxes on California families who al- I decided to use hers. Trump family immediately saves $4 ready pay more to the Federal Govern- H.R. 1 is really about the 1 percent. billion. But maybe his net worth is ment than they receive back. In fact, The top 1 percent wealthy Americans really only $4 billion. So maybe it is the average middle class California would get 50 percent of a $1.5 trillion just a $1 billion tax savings. That is family who owns a home will see an av- gift from the American people, which just on the estate tax alone. erage tax increase of 26.4 percent, mak- really amounts to an enormous trans- This is a bad deal for Americans. It ing California the hardest hit State in fer of wealth from the working men will increase the deficit and it will cre- the country. It is outrageous. and women of America who depend ate what we call the Texas two-step. Or The SALT deduction enables commu- upon programs like education—and maybe we should call it the Speaker nities to fund important services that that was discussed by my colleagues a RYAN two-step. improve our quality of life, like law en- few moments ago—and depend upon Mr. Speaker, let me introduce a cou- forcement, infrastructure, and edu- medical services from Medicare, Med- ple of my colleagues who have joined cation. But repealing it forces con- icaid. In California, we call it Medi-Cal. us today from the State of New York. stituents in my State to either accept But what is going to happen here Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman higher taxes or a lower standard of liv- with this $1.5 trillion tax cut—and from New York (Mr. SUOZZI) to coming, all to pay for tax cuts for corpora- when you add the interest to it, basi- ment on this piece of legislation and tions and the wealthiest few. cally, a $2.3 trillion bogus deal that our what it means to his constituents. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to Republican colleagues are putting Mr. SUOZZI. Mr. Speaker, I thank vote ‘‘no’’ on the GOP tax scam. forth—is what I call the Texas two- Mr. GARAMENDI for bringing this Spe- f step. This really is Mr. BRADY from cial Order to the floor today. Mr. Speaker, I am here to point out TAX REFORM Texas’ program to really do a two-step, together with the Speaker of the the unfairness of the Republican-led (Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM House, Mr. RYAN. bill for tax reform, as they claim, that of New Mexico asked and was given The two-step was laid out in the would be devastating to New York’s permission to address the House for 1 budget bill, and the two-step is this: middle class families. minute and to revise and extend her re- First, make a monumental tax cut I want the people at home to know marks.) that really is for the superwealthy. that the U.S. Conference of Catholic Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of And then as soon as you get that Bishops have said: New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I would love signed by President Trump, you do the ‘‘This proposal appears to be the first to vote for a bipartisan tax reform that second step, which is to do massive Federal income tax modification in supports middle class families, ensures cuts so that you can deal with the def- American history that will raise in- the wealthiest Americans pay their fair icit. come taxes on the working poor while share, invests in the next generation, So I am going to just bring up the simultaneously providing a large tax and protects small businesses. issue of the deficit for just a moment cut to the wealthy.’’

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00061 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.085 H14NOPT1 H9242 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 Mr. Speaker, this bill is flawed and Congress, I came here ready and will- are also supporting their States. Many unfair on many levels. One thing I have ing to work—and I still stand ready of the blue States in America, quite learned since taking office back in Jan- and willing to work—across party lines frankly, are huge net donors to the uary, here in this Congress, is how very to get things done, even tax reform. I Federal Government, and many of the different the regions of this country want to see tax reform in this country, red States are huge net takers from the are. It is different from State to State but I can’t compromise my values. I Federal Government. This is just an- and it is different from place to place. can’t let down the families in my dis- other slap in the face to States like The amount of money that people trict who are going to be hurt by this ours. make in different regions is different. plan. Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Their cost of living is different, their Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues on SUOZZI and I could probably spend a property tax bills are different, and both sides of the aisle to try to do what couple of hours going back and forth. their State income taxes are as dif- is right: protect the hardworking Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentle- ferent as night and day. Americans—the hardworking New woman from Washington (Ms. There are now 105 million full-time Yorkers—who play by the rules and ask JAYAPAL), who comes from the far side jobs in the United States of America. for very little in return by voting of the continent from New York, Wash- Fifty-nine million of those jobs pay against this ill-conceived legislation, ington State. less than $50,000 a year. Eighty-six mil- and protect the State and local tax de- Ms. JAYAPAL. Mr. Speaker, I thank lion of those 105 million full-time jobs duction for our middle class. the gentleman from California (Mr. pay less than $75,000 per year. In my Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I GARAMENDI) for yielding, but also, district, the average salary is actually thank Mr. SUOZZI for his remarks. I ap- most of all, for his leadership on so higher than that, but so are their prop- preciate him bringing to my attention many critical issues around jobs and erty taxes, so are their income taxes, the SALT—the State and local tax. infrastructure and, of course, for pull- and so is there cost of living. What basically happens is the Repub- ing together this Special Order hour While this bill could be a net positive licans are putting salt on the wound tonight on this very important subject, for some Americans in many regions— and causing an enormous amount of because I think that the American peo- in my region and in many other re- pain for Americans—certainly in Cali- ple should understand that Republicans gions, and in my State and my district fornia, another high-cost State; Illi- in Congress are trying to literally re- specifically—this bill is a huge net neg- nois; New Jersey; and Massachusetts. write the U.S. economy with no hear- ative for middle class families. This is a problem for about 50 percent ings. There were a couple of markups, One particularly devastating element of the population of this Nation that is but those are not hearings. of this proposal is the elimination of going to see enormous things. We only just have been receiving the State and local tax deduction that In my own State, there are 120,000— some of the information about what is would be patently unfair to the over not 250,000, as in the gentleman’s State, even in the bill to be able to then see 250,000 hardworking families in my dis- but 120,000—who are looking at some- what the effects are. The reality is that trict that rely on that important de- where over a $12,000 loss deduction. we owe it to the American people to duction. New Yorkers claim the State Mr. SUOZZI. Will the gentleman share how this bill will affect their tax deduction more than just about yield? wallets, their housing, their education, any other State. In my district, we Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I their healthcare. have more people in the State than any yield to the gentleman from New York. Contrary to what the majority would other place that claim the State and Mr. SUOZZI. Mr. Speaker, I just have you believe, this tax bill is yet an- local tax deduction. It is the top 10 of want to point out that in the State of other vehicle for Republicans to raise the Nation. New York, there are many Republicans taxes on millions of middle class fami- Let’s look at the some of the spe- who have come out against this tax bill lies and reward the wealthiest and the cifics of what actually happens in my because of the fact that it will hurt so largest corporations by handing them district: many middle class families. trillions of dollars worth of taxes. People making between $50,000 and I think that Democrats certainly b 1745 $75,000 in my hometown of Glen Cove would love to see, as my colleague said, will see a 39 percent tax increase. In Eliminating the State and local tax real tax reform; by that, I mean tax re- my hometown of Glen Cove, a family deduction is completely and patently form that benefits the middle class and that makes between $100,000 and unfair. This State and local tax deduc- tax reform that would allow us dollars $200,000 will pay, roughly, $2,100 more tion has been in place for over 100 to invest in jobs, in infrastructure, in in taxes under this plan. years. Why should someone pay taxes education, in healthcare. In Huntington, every single family on taxes they have already paid to The twist this time that I find inter- making over $50,000 a year will see a their State and local governments? esting is that the Republican majority tax increase. Every family in Hun- Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, has mysteriously jettisoned its dog- tington making between $50,000 and there is one additional factor—I know matic fidelity to reducing deficits be- $75,000 a year will see—get this—a 135 this is the case in California and also cause—make no mistake about it— percent increase on what they cur- in New York—and that is both New however you slice it, this Republican rently pay. Every family making be- York and California are net contribu- tax bill will explode the budget defi- tween $100,000 and $200,000 a year will tors to other States. In our State of cits. see a $3,000 tax increase. California, even with this deduction, Mr. Speaker, Representative In Whitestone, every individual tax far more tax revenue flows to the Fed- GARAMENDI talked about the two-step filer making $50,000 or more will see a eral Government than Federal Govern- earlier, and that is right. We are all tax increase, regardless of their in- ment revenue comes back to the State going to be dancing a two-step, because come. of California. It is probably in the 15 to what the Congressional Budget Office Mr. Speaker, the evidence is crystal 20 percent net loss range to the State literally just released is an analysis clear for people in my district and in of California, and I think in New York that said that this tax bill will lead to many places throughout this country. it is similar. an immediate $25 billion cut in Medi- This tax reform plan, as it is called, Mr. SUOZZI. Mr. Speaker, I just care. is a punch in the gut to middle class wanted to point out, in the State of This bill has many provisions in it. taxpayers. These are hardworking peo- New York, we send $48 billion a year We have been talking about the State ple who deserve to be lifted up, not more to the Federal Government than and local tax deduction elimination, slapped down, by draconian tax in- we get back from the Federal Govern- and that is very important to my home creases that offset tax cuts going to ment. We are the largest net donor in State of Washington. We have about the superrich. America to the Federal Government. 800,000 people who are able to utilize How could anyone support a bill that We are contributing this money to that deduction and were able to reduce targets our middle class in such a way subsidize many programs that our col- their tax liability by more than $2,600 is unfathomable. When I was elected to leagues don’t want to support, but we in Republican and Democratic districts

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00062 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.087 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9243 across our State. This deduction is sig- benefited from this deduction, and that en that back. The American people, Re- nificant to our communities because, is true across the country. Nationwide, publicans and Democrats in urban and really, it guards against double tax- it is estimated that 70 percent of all rural districts across the country, said: ation. companies offer tuition assistance. No. We want our healthcare. Do not The Fraternal Order of Police just There is another provision in this bill take our healthcare away from us. came out against what I am calling the that everyone should be concerned Once again, the Republicans plan to Republican tax scam and the SALT de- with, and that is eliminating the med- incorporate this provision and try to duction elimination in particular, the ical expense deduction. That deduction once again strip healthcare. State and local tax deduction elimi- basically says that, if you are suffering Mr. Speaker, insanity is said to be nation. from a long-term, very expensive dis- doing the same thing over and over Why did the Fraternal Order of Po- ease, if you have somebody in a nursing again and expecting a different result. lice come out against this? home and you have to pay for expen- I really fear for the threshold that we They came out against this because sive long-term care for people, or are crossing. I fear for our economy; I they understand the two-step that we maybe somebody who has cancer, that fear for our middle class families; I fear are going to be dancing. They know you can deduct medical expenses for for our low-income families; and I fear that this tax bill and those kinds of de- those kinds of illnesses. This bill says: for the future of this country and for ductions are ultimately going to lead No more. the future of our children, because the to, and this is their words: endangering Once again, repealing the estate tax, reality is what we should be doing, if the ability to fund these essential law which benefits 5,400 of the wealthiest we were going to raise money through enforcement agencies that actually families in this country, in order to taxing people more, is we should be in- keep our communities safe. provide that tax benefit, we are actu- vesting that money into infrastruc- Another crucial mistake that the Re- ally going to take away this critical ture, jobs, healthcare. publican tax bill makes is eliminating tax deduction from regular working Not only are we not cutting the taxes tax-exempt bonds. For folks who are families around medical expenses. for people who need it the most, but we out there who are listening, the way to Finally, Mr. Speaker, the Republican are increasing their taxes to give a tax think about this is, if you have an af- tax bill repeals the new markets tax break to the wealthiest, and we are de- fordable housing problem in your com- credit, which, again, was created, real- stroying all of the investments that we munity, if you have a shortage of hous- ly, to incentivize investment in low-in- need to make into the U.S. economy ing, which is happening across the come and rural areas. That tax credit and into our communities and into our country, then these tax-exempt bonds is responsible for creating more than middle class families. This is an incredibly important issue. are the way that we help encourage 12,000 construction jobs and an addi- I don’t think people realize that the and leverage local and State dollars for tional 11,500 jobs in related industries Republicans are trying to push through affordable housing, with these tax-ex- across my State, just as an example. It a vote on this bill as early as this empt bonds. They advance, also, vital is extremely shortsighted to repeal Thursday. transportation projects, and they sup- that, especially for an administration I really believe that there are some port infrastructure projects and hos- and a party that says that they care Republicans across the aisle who have pitals and colleges and charities. about investing in jobs and infrastruc- come out already and said that this is For example, in my district, Seattle ture. not a bill that helps our families, that Pacific University has been able to use We haven’t seen any package for jobs helps our middle class families and our these private activity bonds to finance and infrastructure. I am not sure if you communities. They have been coura- nearly $42 million in construction and have, but I certainly haven’t. geous to say that. renovations to the library and to the The reality is that this bill, because Mr. Speaker, I want to thank them school of law. Similarly, the University of this two-step that Mr. GARAMENDI for doing that, and I want to urge other of Washington Medical Center has been described, which I will just remind peo- Republican colleagues across the aisle able to use these bonds to finance crit- ple what that is: the transfer of tril- to do the same thing so that we can ical medical research that has been lions of dollars in wealth from the mid- protect the livelihoods of our children beneficial across the country. dle class to the largest corporations and our families into the future. In eliminating several education-re- and the top 1 percent, and then through Mr. Speaker, I thank Representative lated tax deductions, the Republican exploding the deficit, which this bill GARAMENDI so much for his leadership tax bill is also cutting off valuable does, suddenly triggering automatic and for his constant speaking out on paths forward for students of all ages cuts as well as a rationale for cutting the need to invest in infrastructure and to not only improve their lives, but more from Medicare, from healthcare, jobs. also to join a workforce that depends from education, from transportation. Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I on 21st century skills. That is what we are looking at. thank the gentlewoman very much, Mr. Speaker, I know that Mr. The early word on the Senate Repub- Representative JAYAPAL, for her com- GARAMENDI spent a lot of time on this, lican tax bill seems to be just as bad, ments. She brought to our attention but repealing the student loan interest because I just heard before coming the inconsistencies that are in this deduction is in this bill. onto the floor that Senate Republicans piece of legislation. Let me just remind people that we are now saying that, once again, they Everywhere I go and people talk have $1.4 trillion in student loan debt are going to try to strip healthcare about this, they say: I don’t understand across the country. That is actually from Americans by including a repeal why they want to do that. I don’t un- more than credit card debt in this of the Affordable Care Act individual derstand why, with a growing economy country. mandate. and the economy actually moving This bill, in order to get tax cuts to My State knows exactly what hap- along pretty well, 4 percent-plus unem- the largest corporations and wealthiest pened because we had a situation like ployment and growth somewhere in the 1 percent of individuals, would repeal that about a decade ago, and we had to 3 percent range, why they want to to- that interest deduction for student dig our way out of that. What it meant tally turn the American economy up- loans. In Washington State, that would was that, essentially, healthcare be- side down in a way that does not create harm more than 275,000 taxpayers who came way too expensive for everybody. growth. claim that benefit, and it would raise There were too many people who were Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman their yearly taxes by more than $1,000 not buying healthcare, so you were from New York (Mr. NADLER), bouncing a year, on average. stuck with all the people who needed back across the continent and picking This bill also hurts our responsible healthcare, who were very sick. It ex- up, once again, in New York. I thank employers who provide tuition assist- ploded costs and, literally, Americans the gentleman for joining me, and I ance to help workers continue their across the country ended up suffering look forward to his words and the wis- studies at associate’s or undergraduate because of that. dom that he brings from Manhattan. or graduate levels. Tens of thousands They weren’t able to get rid of Mr. NADLER. Mr. Speaker, I thank of students in Washington State have healthcare. Three times we have beat- the gentleman for yielding, and I thank

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:04 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00063 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.089 H14NOPT1 H9244 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 him for organizing this Special Order percent. It also cuts the rates for pass- to repay the student loans. At least on this terrible Republican tax scam. through corporations from 39 to 25 per- they can deduct the interest on the This scam is a desperate, disgraceful cent. student loans. Not anymore. attempt to line the pockets of the Once again, Republicans claim this The adoption tax credit, child care wealthiest Americans and corporations will help small businesses, but it sim- spending accounts, even deductions for at the expense of the middle class. ply isn’t true. These pass-through cor- teachers who buy school supplies for And for what? porations are extremely wealthy part- their classrooms, all gone. And why? We are told the corporate and upper nerships and private companies. If you To pay for tax breaks for billionaires income tax cuts will result in more in- need a good example, I have a great one and corporations. vestment, in greater economic growth, just outside my district; it is called the But, as has been pointed out, under which will yield more jobs and more Trump Organization, which is orga- this scam, corporations keep these de- revenue for the country and higher nized as a pass-through corporation. ductions for their income. They keep wages for the middle class, but that is Now, they tell us that middle-income the State and local tax deduction, but bull. businessmen will profit by this, but individuals don’t. They have run this scam twice be- middle-income businessmen are not How can Republicans claim this bill fore. Ronald Reagan passed similar paying more than 25 percent to start helps the average American when fami- upper class tax cuts and told us they with, so this will only benefit the rich, lies are denied the deductions that cor- would generate such economic growth again. porations get to keep? If this bill is so blatantly harmful to that they would pay for themselves. But while billionaires and corpora- working families, why are my Repub- George W. Bush pulled the same tions will enjoy all these benefits, the Republican bill hands working families lican colleagues so crazy about it? scheme. Does it create jobs or give the econ- ticking time bombs. Unlike the cor- What happened? omy a boost? No. As I said, we have porate tax changes, which are perma- President Reagan’s cuts sent the na- tried that twice before with disastrous nent and indexed to inflation, every tional debt—the national debt accumu- results. Kansas, Brownbackistan as benefit in the Republican tax scam for lated from George Washington through they call it, after Governor Brownback the middle class sunsets after 5 years Jimmy Carter, which was a little less tried that, with disastrous results, so than $800 billion in 1980—from $800 bil- or is indexed to a slower rate of infla- that the Republican legislature had to lion to $4.3 trillion 12 years later, quin- tion. increase taxes earlier this year, over Speaker RYAN brags about a family tupled. the Governor’s veto, to start getting earning $59,000 a year getting a $1,500 President Bush’s tax cuts turned the out from 4-day school weeks. projected 10-year, $5.65 trillion sur- break in their tax burden next year. Under this plan, Republicans would plus—remember at the end of the Clin- Well, even in his example, by 2023, that tax companies less when they produce ton administration, we were having family is right back where they start- goods overseas than when they produce surpluses, and the projected surplus ed; and by 2027, they will be paying $500 them here in the U.S. It is a giant in- over 10 years was $5.65 trillion. His tax more than they were this year. centive to large corporations to send cuts turned that, in 8 years, into $10.63 This bill wipes out nearly every de- jobs overseas. trillion debt. duction and credit that helps working And if you ever doubted the Repub- families make ends meet—the deduc- b 1800 licans were doing this at the bidding of tion of State and local income taxes, corporate donors, well, just last week, It turned a $5.6 trillion surplus into a which hundreds of thousands of middle- Chairman BRADY, of the Ways and $10.6 trillion debt. So the argument income New Yorkers rely on each year. Means Committee, tweaked an excise that these kinds of tax cuts for the When the income tax was first en- tax multinational corporations opposed upper-income people and for corpora- acted to finance the Civil War, and and gave those corporations back $100 tions generate greater economic when it was re-imposed to finance billion in revenue. No such change was growth to generate more tax revenues World War I—and we have had it since made for working families. has been tried twice, not to mention in then—we have always had a deduction Now, we know—we know from experi- Kansas, recently. It doesn’t work. for State and local taxes. Why? Be- ence—that a few years from now the There is nothing in this bill to argue cause you shouldn’t be taxed on a tax. Republicans will use the $1.7 trillion that this tax scam will have a different You shouldn’t be taxed doubly. It is un- deficit this scam creates to say: Oh, my impact on the economy than Reagan’s fair. But now we will be. God. Look at this massive deficit. We or Bush’s. In fact, this scam is so The medical expense deduction, have to make terrible cuts to Social skewed toward the rich and corpora- which families use to pay for every- Security, to Medicare, to education, to tions, it could actually be worse. thing from fertility treatments to infrastructure, not that we want to. We The bill would eliminate the alter- nursing home care, this deduction says: love Medicare. We love Social Security, native minimum tax. To put it in per- If you are a middle-income family, and but we have got to savage them in spective, in 2005, the only year for your out-of-pocket expenses, beyond order to pay for these terrible deficits which we have at least the summary your insurance, if you have insurance, which we created. pages of Donald Trump’s tax returns, beyond your Medicare, if you are a sen- That is what they are building in in that year, Donald Trump paid $38 ior citizen, total more than 10 percent now. That is what this tax bill is de- million in taxes. Of that, $31 million of your total gross income, you can designed to produce. was the alternative minimum tax. duct your medical expenses to the ex- The Republicans are scamming The Republicans want to eliminate tent it exceeds 10 percent of your total America. They are offering a facade of the only tax that we actually know gross income. lower taxes that most Americans will that Donald Trump has ever paid. His So it has got to be large. If your in- never see, in exchange for massive and taxes would have been $5 million, not come is $75,000 a year, you can only de- permanent tax breaks for the wealthy $38 million, if it weren’t for the alter- duct the medical expenses that exceed and corporations, and guaranteed cuts native minimum tax. Of course, he $7,500, not the first $7,500. This will be down the road, in fact, some of them wants to eliminates it. gone, too. right away, to Social Security, Medi- Republicans will repeal the estate Now, if you have got parents in nurs- care, Medicaid, education, infrastruc- tax, despite the fact that the estate tax ing homes, you depend on this. If you ture. is paid by only the wealthiest 5,000 es- have got a child with cerebral palsy— I do not accept that deal, and the tates in the country every year—two- God forbid—if you have got a kid with American people shouldn’t have to ei- thousandths of 1 percent. cancer, you depend on this, but it is ther. We can find bipartisan common Wealthy Americans would also see going to be gone. ground that allows us to support work- immediate personal benefits from cuts The student loan interest deduction ing families, create jobs, and see every to corporate taxes. This bill imme- will be gone. So people go to school, American pay their fair share. diately and permanently cuts the cor- they go to college, they come out with American corporations, huge corporate tax rate to 20 percent from 35 these terrible, huge debts. They have porations, have $2.4 trillion stashed

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:21 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00064 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.091 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9245 abroad, which they don’t pay taxes on Let me give you an example of one of they will have more money to invest; until they bring it home. We don’t have America’s great corporations, AT&T. I they have plenty of money to invest. to allow that. We can make them pay think we all know AT&T. We probably They don’t see the investment opportu- taxes on it right away, whether they have them on our smartphone. In the nities, and that is a different problem. bring the money home or not. last decade, AT&T was capable, using There is plenty of money to invest. Why should we encourage them to various tax loopholes and deductions, They are rolling in cash. There is not a keep the money abroad, to create jobs to lower its effective corporate tax dearth of investment opportunity. abroad, by telling them they don’t pay rate, not to 20 percent, but to 8 per- There is not a dearth of investment taxes if the money is abroad? cent. cash. And the Republican bill just makes So over that period of time, while So if you give them more cash, they that worse. This Republican tax scam they were reducing their effective tax will pay their CEOs higher. They will is not a fair plan. It is not a plan to in- rates, that is their real tax rate, from put more money into stock buybacks. crease the economy. It is not a plan for whatever it was to 8 percent during The shareholders may benefit, but they economic growth. It is not a plan for that decade, did they create new jobs? won’t hire more workers. The economy fairness to the middle class. No. won’t benefit; and we will be taking Let me just say one other thing. A What they did was to lay off 80,000 money away from the middle class and number of years ago, while we were workers. And at the same time, guess lower-income people, and we will be told—I have seen ads—we were told by what? The CEO, he raked in $124 mil- taking money away from the govern- the Republican leaders that the eco- lion. ments, local governments, that have to nomic growth from this bill will So what is going on here? spend the money on schools, housing, produce huge gains for the average The American corporations, back in health, roads and bridges, and so forth family. Never mind the tax cut that the seventies and sixties, actually in- to build up this country. the average family will or won’t get. vested more than 50 percent, almost 60 Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I Because of the economic growth from percent, of their after-tax profits in ex- yield to the gentleman from the great this tax plan, wages will go up, and the panding their business—investment in State of New York (Mr. TONKO). average person will get $1,500 or $1,800 plants and equipment and wages and Mr. TONKO. Mr. Speaker, I thank or $2,000, depending who you are listen- hiring people. Representative GARAMENDI for leading ing to, in extra wages. Today, less than 10 percent is spent us in this Special Order. It is so impor- Well, a number of years ago, we were on expanding their businesses. Instead, tant that the public understand what is told the same thing about a bank- they are pumping up their stock prices happening here with this issue. ruptcy bill. This bankruptcy bill that with buybacks and with dividends. b 1815 the big banks pushed and all the Re- So what is going down? publicans pushed, we were told that if Tell me that this is going to some- The first response ought to be: Here we passed this bill, the banks would how create jobs. we go again. save so much money from certain dead- And, by the way, the gentleman Trickle-down has not worked in the beats that the average American would didn’t quite pick this one up, so let me past—the far past, the recent past. It is save $400 a year in lower interest rates. add to the weight of this terrible bill. not going to work again. I offered an amendment to say: Fine, They use what is called territorial tax When does trickle-down become mandate that the interest rates be low- system. Terrific. Corporations will not trickle-up? ered. And, of course, the Republicans be taxed for their profits globally, but, Well, to suggest that this is a tax re- voted that down. rather, they will only be taxed for their form act is really pulling a trick on the Well, we passed that bill. We passed profits within the United States, so it public. This is about a tax cut, and a that bill 12 years ago. Have you seen is even a further incentive to offshore tax cut for corporations, a tax cut for the interest rates go down? The inter- your jobs to the lowest tax place in the the wealthiest amongst us. est rates are still sky high. The banks world: Bahamas. Used to be Ireland, This trickle-down theory becomes raked in the money, hand over foot. but the EU decided that Ireland was trickle-up because you are taking and The lobbyists did very well. The Repub- cheating the rest of the European raising the taxes on some 36 million licans collected the campaign contribu- countries; put a stop to that, so now families, those that would be classified tions. The American people did not they are off. as middle class families, those who benefit. Apple, a great California company, work day in and day out and don’t even Same thing here. There will be no in- abandoned Ireland and is now, I think, earn a minimum wage, but they are crease in economic growth as a result located in the Jersey Islands off the working. The poorest amongst us, the of this bill. There will be no increase in coast of Great Britain. lowest bracket, gets an increase in its benefits. There will simply be a huge Scheme, scam, the American public rates. sucking sound as the money is taken is going to be the beneficiary? No. It is How is this fair? How is this eco- from the middle class and low-income going to be the victim, is going to be nomic or social justice? people and given to the superrich. the victim of this great transfer of Both measurements prove that it is This bill is disgusting. It ought to be wealth. false. It is not economically sound. It rejected. The gentleman had one more point to is not socially just. What we are doing Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I make, and then I would like to go to here is playing a game with the econ- thank the gentleman for bringing us my colleague, also from New York and omy, and we are putting the economy, the view from New York. He is quite what we still call the East-West Show. the American economy, at great risk. correct about what happened during Mr. NADLER. I do have one more We have seen major efforts made the great crisis in 2008, 2009. The Amer- point to make, and the gentleman re- since January of 2009 to grow the econ- ican public, probably to the tune of minded me of it. omy, and now we have this scam, this about $1 trillion, bailed out Wall In 2004, when we had the repatriation, trickery, to go and do a trickle-up: Street. And here we go again. Major we told the big corporations they could take from the working families, deny support for the American corporations bring all the offshore money home and their purchasing power, weaken their who are hiding trillions of dollars over- pay only a fractional tax on it; they purchasing power, and give it to cor- seas. were going to create jobs and so forth. porations, give it to the upper income Let me just give you one other exam- And what happened? They didn’t create strata in this country. That is a for- ple. There is a lot of talk around here jobs. They had buybacks. They en- mula for disaster, and we are going to from our Republican friends that some- riched their executives. They didn’t pay wickedly for this effort. how, if we reduce the corporate tax create jobs. We have always heard about deficit rate, we will see jobs being generated The fundamental problem with this situations. When President Clinton was and some $4,000 a year of new money in analysis is not that corporations don’t in office, when President Obama was in the pockets of American workers. have enough money to invest, and, office, the Republicans would talk Really? You think so? therefore, if you give them lower taxes about a deficit situation. There seems

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:21 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00065 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.093 H14NOPT1 H9246 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 to be no concern about deficit here, a Somebody today told me it is a once- is just atrocious what is going on, and deaf ear to the deficit. in-a-lifetime opportunity for tax re- not just Democrats or Republicans, but Borrowing to spend. Borrowing to form—tax reform. Is there reform in many persons who sent their Rep- spend. Borrowing $1.5 trillion, which this mess? There are the same old loop- resentatives here are not going to have probably amasses to $2.1 trillion to $2.3 holes. We grow more loopholes, and their Representatives be heard. trillion with the cost of borrowing, and they are getting a tax break in addi- Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, re- using that borrowing to spend on the tion. What are we doing to our econ- claiming my time, as an esteemed wealthiest amongst us, be they fami- omy here? This is a terrible bill. member of the Rules Committee, there lies, individuals, or corporations. When it comes to the SALT deduc- is an emergency meeting to push this How does that make economic sense? tion, the State and local tax deduction, bill to the floor without any public How does that help the economy? you will destroy States by requiring hearings. Is that correct? When we look at this situation, we double taxation on the investments Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, no are going to impact your average fam- they make in their own programs in hearings whatsoever, and yet the ily in any of our districts, those who their State. That will severely impact Speaker stood up and said that we are are working to maintain a household, upon people in my home State of New following regular order. to perhaps put aside some savings for York. We are not following regular order at improvements of that household or to I think it is a disaster that this all. assist their children in their pursuits House, this majority, the entire major- Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, my of a career, be it apprenticeship pro- ity, would allow this bill to come to recollection in the 1986 Reagan tax re- grams or college programs. We are the floor. form, it took 2 years of public hearings going to hurt these families. Before you tell me how you are going all around the country and some 30 Students will realize that their tui- to vote on this bill, tell me how you hearings in the House Ways and Means tion deduction is eliminated—elimi- tried to stop it from coming to the Committee, probably a similar number nated. Students will realize, former floor because it hurts so many Ameri- on the Senate side before the bill came students, that their loan interest de- to the floor. There were many, many cans. Thirty-six million families will ductions will be eliminated. amendments that were offered. be impacted. They will see a tax in- I heard a lot about this, Mr. Speaker, Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, in ad- when I was home over the last two crease. That is not my word. It is not dition to hearing from experts and weekends. We have always deducted ex- Representative GARAMENDI’s word. It is from affected entities around the coun- orbitant medical expenses when we did coming from the Tax Policy Center. try, now we are doing it in 2 weeks. People are putting this one under the our taxes. We prepared that for our ac- Mr. Speaker, I have to go to the countant because we had exorbitant microscope, and they are detailing Rules Committee, but I thank you all medical fees, medical expenditures, be what is in here and what is not in here, for what you are doing. they for families who are walking and this is a scam. It is bringing down Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I ap- through life with Alzheimer’s or who an economy. It is taking it in the preciate the work that the gentleman are fighting cancer or who have chron- wrong direction. It gives tax breaks to does there trying to protect the Amer- ic illnesses. They deserve to have that corporations that want to grow their ican public from this hasty—Mr. HAS- deduction. prosperity offshore and making it more TINGS, thank you so very much. I am told, on average, it is $9,000. productive for them to take jobs over- Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman Seventy-three percent of people who seas. from New York. make that deduction are earning less How can we tolerate this? No wonder Mr. TONKO. Mr. Speaker, I just than $75,000. This is a brutal response they are trying to rush the bill now. would love to point out, I would en- to America’s working families. It is a Get it done in a day or two before courage middle class America to raise harshness tossed against this economy America finds out what is in it. This is its voice. Raise your voices, because that has finally started to churn over a tax disaster, not a tax reform. It is a when we look at the repeal of the indi- the last several years. Now we step up tax cut for the wealthy at the expense vidual mandate that is being suggested and want to wreck all of that. of the working families and those who here, you are going to rip away We have all sorts of efforts that deny work below minimum wage in this healthcare from some 13 million Amer- various professions, teachers, for one, country, people who make it their goal icans, and that alongside the 36 million who will not be able to deduct for to be self-sufficient, and now this is families in this country that are going classroom expenses where they will, how they are rewarded. to see a tax increase. out of their own pocket, provide great- Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I Before that hits home, stand up and er resources for the children who are in yield to the gentleman from Florida speak out. And if you are not going to their classes that they teach. They are (Mr. HASTINGS). get a tax increase, if you might get facilitating this discovery, self-dis- Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I thank crumbs off the table because, remem- covery, within children. They are Mr. GARAMENDI for bringing this Spe- ber, if you weren’t at the table, and digging into their pockets to make cial Order. this was done in veiled secrecy, if you that experience all the more real, all Mr. Speaker, I just want to tell you, are not at the table, you are probably the more magical, all the more impor- in 7 minutes, I, along with the other on the menu. tant, and here we are going to deny members of the Rules Committee, will Here you are going to have these teachers to deduct those expenses, but be meeting on what is described as an families, 36 million that will get a tax we won’t do that for the businesses emergency meeting. That emergency is increase, but if you are going to get that want to reach into their own what you all have been describing. We maybe a crumb off the table, that sun- pocket and spend. were originally scheduled to meet at sets, and the other benefits are going We look at this situation, and we un- Rules tomorrow, and now, in an effort to go forever. derstand who gets a fair shake in this to jam this measure through, we are This is a monumental change in a tax deal, in this scam, and it is regrettable. meeting in an emergency capacity. cut policy. It is not reform. It is tax Now the talk of a Senate version What the American public needs to cuts for the wealthy and corporations bringing in the individual mandate? know is the substance of what you two at the expense of working families. Dollars that are made available for gentlemen and others have been talk- Finally, I would just make mention families to realize healthcare coverage, ing about, but please know this: every that there would be an immediate $25 and we are going to penalize them and Member deserves the right to con- billion cut in Medicare. The efforts use that to help pay for this borrowing? tribute to these bills when they affect that were made under the last adminis- This is a disaster. all of our constituents and will lead to tration to bring more stability to America needs to see this with its millions of Americans paying more in Medicare, to make certain that it had eyes wide open and to call your indi- taxes. a longer life out there, are now going vidual Representatives and ask them You all will handle the substance, to be wiped away. That is a very impor- to tell you how you are going to ben- but I thought that I would add that in tant program to Americans, very im- efit from this package. with my thanks to Mr. GARAMENDI. It portant program. We cannot afford to

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:21 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00066 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.095 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9247 have this go through in veiled secrecy money is gone. The Texas Two Step to say. They will be on the floor in a on a rush in the next day or two with- will deny us the money that we need few moments. out America knowing what is on the for education, reduce the revenues, and Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance table. then cut the programs to attempt to of my time. Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I bring back under control the deficit. It The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. thank the gentleman, very, very much. did not work. It will not work. And HOLLINGSWORTH). The Chair would re- There has been much discussion. We what it means is, the American econ- mind Members to direct all remarks to are going to be yielding this floor to omy that is recovering is going to be the Chair, and to formally yield and re- our Republican colleagues, and I see given a wallop on the side of its head, claim time when under recognition. them beginning to assemble, all of and we are going to see some real seri- f them who, just 3 weeks ago, were def- ous problems as we attempt to build CELEBRATING NATIONAL BIBLE icit hawks. the foundation for future economic WEEK I am going to point this out, and I growth. The money will not be there. am going to leave it here for my col- Mr. Speaker, I suspect that that The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under leagues who will be talking about why emergency meeting of the Rules Com- the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- we ought to increase the deficit. mittee is to specifically deal with the uary 3, 2017, the gentleman from Colo- The current structural deficit is problem that was announced by the rado (Mr. LAMBORN) is recognized for 60 about $500 billion. We are going to add, Congressional Budget Office just 3 minutes as the designee of the major- just this year, $115 billion on top of hours ago that said this tax bill will, ity leader. that. You can see that. But over the because of the sequestration law—it is GENERAL LEAVE next decade, that present structural a law—will create an automatic $25 bil- Mr. LAMBORN. Mr. Speaker, I ask deficit will grow to nearly $1 trillion a lion reduction in Medicare imme- unanimous consent that all Members year, and we will add to it another cou- diately and another $111 billion reduc- have 5 legislative days to revise and ex- ple hundred billion dollars. tion in programs, not to be determined tend their remarks and to include ex- The deficit hawks have a choice. by the Representatives of the people of traneous material on the topic of my They can live with the deficit, forget the United States but, rather, by Mick Special Order. they ever were deficit hawks and just Mulvaney, the head of the Office of The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there increase the deficit with this 1 percent Management and Budget, who is known objection to the request of the gen- tax bill, H.R. 1, or they could do what to be really weird in his budgeting pro- tleman from Colorado? I call the Texas two-step. posal. There was no objection. Keep in mind, the chairman of the He will make a $111 billion reduction Mr. LAMBORN. Mr. Speaker, it is a Ways and Means Committee is a Texan. all on his own, if this tax bill passes as great honor for me to come to the The Texas two-step is first you seri- it is written today. House floor tonight to celebrate Na- ously cut the revenues with this tax This is serious business, Americans. tional Bible Week. bill that is not a reform but, rather, a This is about your future. This is about This is an opportunity, for the next bill that actually 50 percent of the $1.5 your ability to have a decent job in hour, to celebrate the tremendous in- trillion reduction goes to the American America, a decent infrastructure, a de- fluence of the Bible on the freedoms we corporations and the top 1 percent. cent education system, and medical enjoy today in America. We are truly Forget about the deficit or do the services. blessed to live in a nation where we are Texas two-step: cut the revenues and What about the children’s health pro- free to worship and read the Holy then cut the programs. gram which is not yet in place? It is Scriptures without fear of persecution. What are the programs? unbelievable that, without one public There are many places throughout You mentioned Medicare. Already in hearing, the Republicans are deter- the world, unfortunately, where such the budget that passed this House with mined to pass a $1.5 trillion tax cut of freedoms do not exist. Americans have Mr. RYAN as Speaker was a $500 billion which 50 percent of the benefit goes to the right, under our wonderful system reduction to Medicare and a $700 billion the top 1 percent, and America’s cor- of government, to respect and study or $800 billion reduction to Medicaid, 60 porations are given yet another reason the Bible, or any other system of be- percent of which goes to the elderly in to offshore their jobs with what is lief, if they so choose, or even no belief nursing homes. That is what they have called territorial pricing. at all. That is the beauty of the Amer- in mind. This is where we are, folks. Wrap it ican way, and I believe it is founded up, if you will. and goes back to the Bible. b 1830 Mr. TONKO. Mr. Speaker, I would In 1941, President Franklin Delano Secondly, they are going to talk just say: Let’s do this with our eyes Roosevelt declared the week of about a trillion-dollar infrastructure. wide open. Trickle-down isn’t going to Thanksgiving to be National Bible No way. The money is gone. There will happen. Tax reform, this is not tax re- Week. Every U.S. President since has be no infrastructure program, no roads, form. Certainly, tax cuts where you aid followed this tradition by declaring no trains, no buses, no levees, no re- the upper-income strata and corpora- this time of year to be National Bible pair. tions at the expense of an increase of Week. The National Bible Association Mr. TONKO. Mr. GARAMENDI, I would taxes to the middle class is what this is and the United States Conference of point out, in addition to tinkering with about. It is pathetic. It is devastating. Catholic Bishops have designated the the public utility bonds out there, that It is disastrous, and it ought to be de- specific days of November 12 through 18 public utility financing that will be nied. of this year as National Bible Week. devastated by this bill, adds to the fur- Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, the This is the week set aside to recog- ther woes for building our investments gentleman is exactly right. Finally, as nize the Bible as a foundational build- and infrastructure of all kinds. we turn this floor over to our Repub- ing block of Western civilization, the Mr. GARAMENDI. Exactly, and you lican colleagues, I am really interested Judeo-Christian heritage, and the leg- might add education to that. So what in hearing why—and I see one of our acy that motivated and shaped the do you do? Student loans of which $1.4 colleagues from my area—why in the founding of the United States. In this trillion and nearly a trillion of that is Central Valley of California where any- hour, we will hear from Members of owned by the Federal Government, where from 110,000 to 150,000 families Congress from various faith traditions these students are paying interest to who pay taxes are going to lose their and denominations speak about what the Federal Government; and to add to State and local tax deduction? They the Bible means to them and what it that, we are going to deny them the will lose somewhere between $7,000 and means to the country. We are here, in ability to deduct the loan interest that $12,000 of deductions. keeping with tradition, to recognize they are paying. That amounts to an increase in taxes National Bible Week. This is really just hypocritical, and anywhere from $1,500 to $2,000. I want Mr. Speaker, I am just going to speak it is very harmful to the economy. We to hear them explain why that is good for a couple of moments about my own want to do job training. Forget it. The tax policy. We will see what they have personal experience and then turn it

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:21 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00067 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.096 H14NOPT1 H9248 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 over to some Members who want to radical and all-inspiring at the same became very frustrated that it was reli- share some thoughts that I think bear time. It claims to be the Word of God. gious; that it wasn’t a personal rela- worth listening to. Now, as a result, it changes lives. tionship with the Lord. In fact, so When I was a freshman at the Univer- The Bible reveals a plan. It starts right much so, that they decided that they sity of Kansas four decades ago, some- out with these words: ‘‘In the begin- would plant their own church. It is the one asked me if I knew what the Bible ning, God made. . . .’’ That changes ev- church that I go to today, that our en- was about. I said, yes, I knew what it erything. That sets the stage saying tire family goes to today. But for a was all about. But I realized that my that we are not here by chance, that year, they held Bible studies in homes answer was actually pretty presump- there is a loving God who has a design, seeking God’s will for their lives and tuous because I had never actually read and we are a part of it. It makes a dif- what it meant to have a personal rela- any of it. ference if we have a plan. It reveals tionship with Him and to spread it to Mr. Speaker, I wonder if this might that plan. It also gives us a purpose. their community. be true for others who might be listen- Part of the Psalms in 139 says, we are They were very poor, but they knew ing tonight. The only honest thing I ‘‘fearfully and wonderfully made’’ by a that everything in their life, their suc- could do at that point was to read the loving God. We are not here by chance. cess, and their family’s hope and future Bible for myself. I started by reading And it goes on and says, and this is God relied on the Lord’s will and them the Gospel of John in the New Testa- speaking: ‘‘For I know the plans I have being obedient to it. ment. When I read it, I discovered that for you, says the Lord, plans for good Mr. Speaker, I grew up as a young I hadn’t known at all what the Bible and not for evil, to give you a future girl coming downstairs in the middle of was about. and a hope.’’ the night for a drink of water to find In that Gospel, Jesus says: ‘‘I am the That is exciting. my dad on his knees reading his Bible way, the truth and the life; no one The Bible also gives us power. It in the middle of the living room. He comes to the Father but through me.’’ gives us power to overcome evil, hard- had a bad back. He worked hard. He And I ended up discovering a personal ship, and trials of life by revealing how was always in pain, and whenever he relationship with Jesus Christ who be- God sent his son, Jesus, to introduce us had a difficult time on the farm or came my Lord and Savior. to God and make a way for us to have couldn’t sleep because of the pain that Mr. Speaker, this is what I know a personal relationship with the living was in his body, the first thing he from personal experience. It is better God who made us and loves us. It is in- would do would be to read his Bible. to read the Bible for one’s self and not credible. Oftentimes, we didn’t realize how just to take someone else’s word for The Bible also gives us peace and much time he really did spend worship- what is in it. For me, it made all of the hope as a result, not just for today, but ping God, and reading His words to find difference in the world. My life has for the future. I start each day reading comfort and release through some of been totally different since then as a from my Bible, and I am so thankful the difficult times that he had gone result. for it. It has made a difference in my through. I remember being 13 years old and As King David says in the Psalms: life. I want to invite anyone who has being very insecure. In fact, my mom ‘‘The unfolding of Your words gives never read it to read it and to discover said she worried about me. She won- light; it gives understanding to the God’s plan and purpose for your life dered if I was going to be a young girl simple.’’ which will give you power and peace. who would grow up proud. I didn’t have As we celebrate National Bible Week, So let this most radical book ever writ- many friends. I didn’t think I was at- we remember the importance of faith ten touch and bless your life. tractive. I didn’t think I had any gifts. in both our private and public lives. We Mr. LAMBORN. Mr. Speaker, I thank She sat me down at the kitchen table, recognize the Bible’s powerful message my colleague from Missouri for her and she read to me Scriptures out of of hope. We cherish the wisdom of the wise words and thought-provoking the Bible that told me how God saw Bible, and we thank God for providing words. me; that God saw me above and not be- this Holy Book that has truly been, in I yield to the gentlewoman from neath; that He saw me as someone who the words of the Scripture, ‘‘a lamp South Dakota (Mrs. NOEM). had plans for me from the time I was in unto our feet and a light unto our Mrs. NOEM. Mr. Speaker, I thank the the womb. And you know what? I path.’’ gentleman for yielding. bought it. I completely changed my at- Mr. Speaker, at this point, I yield to Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize titude and my perspective of myself the gentlewoman from Missouri (Mrs. the 76th celebration of National Bible that day because of God’s Word that HARTZLER). Week. As I reflected on what I would was spoken over me by my mother. Mrs. HARTZLER. Mr. Speaker, I share with everyone tonight, I couldn’t So we as a family, from the time I thank the gentleman. I have a riddle get away from my background and my was little, went to church Sunday for everyone. What is the most dan- family heritage of being raised by mornings. We went Sunday nights. We gerous book ever published? What is Christian parents, who were raised by went Wednesday evenings. the most powerful book ever written? Christian grandparents, who worked What is the most cited book by Presi- hard and believed that the instruction b 1845 dents and our Nation’s Founders? What book for life was the Word of God. We knew that if the doors were open is the most prized possession that I Bryon and I have chosen to raise our on church, we were to be there, and we own? The Bible. children in much that same way. In were to be meditating on God’s Words It is a controversial book. Many peo- fact, when I was telling my family—we in our lives. That is how Bryon and I ple have it on their shelf at home, or it have a group text that we text in all have chosen to raise our kids as well. gathers dust on some end table, and the time with my kids, my husband We put them in Junior Bible Quiz be- people think it is a pretty innocuous and I. I was telling them that it was cause we wanted God’s Word hidden in book. But more people have lost their National Bible Week. I said to them: their heart. I am thankful that today lives over this book than any other Do you kids remember what the Junior they still have God’s Word hidden in book ever written. Bible Quiz answer is? For the very first their heart. Many rulers have ordered the gath- question in the Junior Bible Quiz book Mr. Speaker, Jesus tells us in Mat- ering and burning of all Bibles in the is: What is the Bible? thew 7: ‘‘Anyone who listens to My country, and, even today, in countries And my middle daughter, Kennedy, teaching and follows it is wise, like a like North Korea, possession of a Bible who is 20 years old, immediately texted person who builds a house on solid results in death or sentence to a labor back, and she said: The Bible is the in- rock. Though the rain comes in tor- camp. spired Word of God and is His revela- rents and the floodwaters rise and the Why? Well, because it is more than a tion to all people of Himself and His winds beat against that house, it won’t historic book, although it is; and it is plan for salvation. I said: Good job, collapse because it was built on bed- more than a collection of wise advice Kenners. rock.’’ and spellbounding stories, which it is. You see, because we—my grand- How often does it feel like we are It has the audacity to claim something parents grew up going to church and stuck in that storm, as though the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:45 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00068 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.098 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9249 floodwaters are rising around us and by Henry Van Dyke, and it is a wonder- Bible be open to 2 Chronicles 7:14, around people of faith, as though the ful summary of what the Bible means which reads: ‘If My people, which are winds are beating on our door? to us and to the world. called by My name shall humble them- It is during these times that we must Mr. Speaker, let me read to you what selves, pray, seek My face, and turn lean on our foundation, the Bible, our it says here in the text: from wicked ways, then I will hear instruction book. Born in the East and clothed in that form from Heaven and forgive their sin and It is in that Bible that God reveals and imagery, the Bible walks the ways of the heal their land.’ ’’ how He would like to use us as instru- world with familiar feet and enters land The President said: ‘‘This passage ex- ments of faith and as defenders of free- after land to find its own everywhere. It has presses my hope for the future of this dom that show Christ’s love and com- learned to speak in hundreds of languages to Nation and the world.’’ the hearts of men. It comes into the palace passion to our community, Nation, and to tell the monarch that he is a servant of One last quote along this line. Presi- world. Allowing Him to guide us the Most High and into the cottage to assure dent Abraham Lincoln once said: ‘‘I through His Word is the surest way to the peasant that He is a son of God. Children have but to say it is the best gift God navigate any storm. listen to its stories with wonder and delight, has given to man. All the good the sav- But so many times, people try to and wise men ponder them as parables of life. ior gave to the world was commu- navigate our policy debates in this It has a word of peace for the time of peril, nicated through this book. But for it Chamber by fighting to change one an- a word of comfort for the time of calamity, we could not know right from wrong. other’s minds. Mr. Speaker, I am con- a word of light for the hour of darkness. Its All things most desirable for man’s oracles are repeated in the assembly of the vinced what we ought to be doing is people, and its counsels whispered in the ear welfare, here and hereafter, are found seeking God to change their hearts, of the lonely. The wicked and the proud portrayed in it.’’ gearing their hearts toward Him. I rec- tremble at its warnings, but to the wounded Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman ognize that that takes trust, and it and the penitent, it has a mother’s voice. from Michigan (Mr. WALBERG), who is takes faith, but that is what we are di- The wilderness and the solitary place have my good friend. rected to do. been made glad by it, and the fire on the Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, I thank It is written in Proverbs: ‘‘Trust in hearth has lit the reading of its well-worn my good friend and colleague from Col- the Lord with all your heart and lean pages. It has woven itself into our dearest orado for yielding. not on your own understanding. In all dreams so that love, friendship, sympathy, Mr. Speaker, I appreciate so much to- devotion, memory, and hope put on the beau- your ways acknowledge Him, and He tiful garments of its treasured speech, night the opportunity to speak here will make your paths straight.’’ breathing of frankincense and myrrh. No during Special Orders. We could talk Mr. Speaker, I pray that we are being man is poor or desolate who has this treasure about the principles of charity from servants for God’s good, that we allow for his own. When the landscape darkens and the Scriptures. We could talk from the Him to light our path, and that we the trembling pilgrim comes to the valley Scriptures on principles of science. We humble ourselves enough to build our named of the shadow, he is not afraid to could talk on principles of education. house on His firm Biblical foundation. enter. He takes the rod and the staff of We could even talk about the prin- In this way, whatever we do, we do it Scripture in his hand. He says to friend and ciples of taxation and be very up to comrade: Good-Bye; we shall meet again. to the glory of God. And comforted by that support, he goes to- date as we deal with that here. Mr. LAMBORN. Mr. Speaker, I thank ward the lonely pass as one who walks But tonight, as we discuss the issues the gentlewoman for her heartfelt re- through the darkness into light. of the Bible in this National Bible marks. Mr. Speaker, I love those words. I Week, I want to go back to my earliest Many of the early American settlers also love the words that are inscribed days in my childhood home. I thank came to the New World with the ex- above the Speaker, where it says in the God that I had a mother and a father press purpose of following the Bible ac- marble: In God We Trust. who would speak to me about God’s cording to the convictions of their own There is a reason for that. Our Word, from God’s Word, and impart consciences. One of the first acts of Founders understood that this is our God’s Word in my life even when I Congress during the tumultuous begin- foundation. George Washington, the fa- didn’t want it or didn’t understand it. ning of our Nation was the authoriza- ther of our country, famously said in I remember from my earliest days tion of an American-published Bible. his Farewell Address: ‘‘Of all the dis- being taught to memorize Psalm 119:11, The war with the British had cut off positions and habits which lead to po- where it says: ‘‘Thy Word I have treas- the supply of any Bibles from England. litical prosperity, religion and moral- ured in my heart. That I might not sin Our Founding Fathers understood ity are indispensable supports.’’ against Thee.’’ how important it was for the American Adams was our second President. He As a young man, the thoughts of sin people to have Bibles, so, in 1782, Con- comes next. He said: ‘‘Our Constitution in some cases were enticing, but I am gress reviewed, approved, and author- is made only for a moral and religious glad that I had the opportunity to put ized the first known English language people. It is wholly inadequate for the the Scriptures in my life because ulti- Bible to be printed in America. government of any other.’’ mately, through the course of time, it Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman We have to remember these truths. I truly did change my life. from Louisiana (Mr. JOHNSON). close with the words of ‘‘The Gipper.’’ It brought me to the Book of Ro- Mr. JOHNSON of Louisiana. Mr. Ronald Reagan said it more recently: mans, where in Romans, the third Speaker, I am grateful to my friend ‘‘If we ever forget that we are one na- chapter verse 23 said: ‘‘For all have and colleague, Congressman DOUG LAM- tion under God, we will be a nation sinned and fallen short of the glory of BORN, for organizing this Special Order gone under.’’ God.’’ series in recognition of the 76th anni- I am so grateful for National Bible With that verse in the Psalm, my versary of National Bible Week. Week. I am so grateful to my friends mother would say: Tim, this book will I am delighted to stand with these and colleagues here for our recognition keep you from sin, or sin will keep you other Members today to share our per- of this great truth, what it means to from this book. spectives on why the Bible is so impor- our country, and what it means to each I found the truth in both of those tant to us and to our country. As we of us. statements. What I found there in Ro- approach the Thanksgiving holiday, Mr. LAMBORN. Mr. Speaker, I thank mans 3:23, that we have all sinned, I there is really no better time to the gentleman from Louisiana for his identified with that. But it didn’t end present these reflections. wonderful thoughts. He quoted some of there because I went over a few pages I wanted to share the preface to a the Presidents in our great country’s to Romans 5:8, where it said: ‘‘But God historic text that I have in my collec- history. I have two more quotes along demonstrated His own love toward us, tion. What I am holding here is a copy with that same line. in that while we were yet sinners, of the New Testament Bible study The gentleman mentioned Ronald Christ died for us.’’ course that was approved by and pub- Reagan, ‘‘The Gipper.’’ In his own Na- Those are words of Scripture. The lished for the public schools of Dallas, tional Bible Week declaration, he Bible impacted my life. As a young Texas, by its board of education in Sep- wrote when he was in office: ‘‘When I man, ultimately, I had to ask: Is that tember of 1946. The preface was written took the oath of office, I requested the true?

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:21 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00069 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.100 H14NOPT1 H9250 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 I am so thankful that ultimately I He looked her in the eye and said: will, in fact, allow us to continue self- admitted the truth, and I came to Ro- ‘‘Madam, a republic, if you can keep governance and, by extension, protect mans again, chapter 10:13, where it it.’’ this Republic. says: ‘‘For whosoever will call on the That is a daunting phrase, Mr. That used to be the easy thing to do, name of the Lord will be saved.’’ Speaker, and it is one that carries for- Mr. Speaker, but the voices against us, My good friend from Colorado indi- ward now for 230 years. It never ends. It the voices of intolerance are growing cated how that changed his life. It is not a one-and-done circumstance. louder and louder every single day. It changed my life as well, admitting per- So the question arises: How, in fact, will come at a risk to stand up for sonally that I was a sinner in need of a do we keep a republic? those Biblical truths on which this savior. The Bible said so. It changed Mr. Speaker, only a free, self-gov- country was founded and which have my life. erning people can keep a republic. As sustained her for some 230 years. Now, some might reject this. That is was previously quoted by my colleague b 1900 okay. But most who seek the truth of from Louisiana, John Adams wrote Are you and I, in fact, willing to take the Bible are not disappointed. It truly that only a moral and religious people those risks, take the risk of being os- changes lives. Admittedly, I am not can self-govern. perfect—and my colleagues could iden- Mr. Speaker, as I look at our Nation tracized, being ridiculed, being made tify with that—but I am forgiven. I am today, I am deeply concerned that we fun of because we stand up for the forgiven, and every day I have a pur- are losing that moral high ground to be truths that all of us know built and pose beyond myself to live in a way able to maintain the moral authority, sustained this country? I certainly hope we are because we that makes a difference because of not in fact, to self-govern. We each say the have got young men and women in uni- who I am, but who this book and my Pledge of Allegiance often. There is a form who put their lives on the line, savior has made me be. line in that pledge that says, ‘‘One na- and I am going to ask you to put your So I will end with this, Mr. Speaker, tion under God,’’ with no comma. reputation and mine on the line to help in my namesake, 2 Timothy 2:15, it Mr. Speaker, think about that jux- says to me specifically: Study to show create and maintain this Republic. taposition, ‘‘One nation under God.’’ As Benjamin Franklin said: ‘‘A Re- thyself approved unto God, a workman What does God see when He sees our public, if you can keep it.’’ These are that doesn’t need to be ashamed, accu- Nation today? What does He see in strong words for a strong-hearted peo- rately handling the word of truth. America that can, in fact, please Him? ple who must reclaim the moral high At the end of each day, Mr. Speaker, He sees a nation that has come to ac- ground that God, in fact, continues to because of this passage, I ask, first of cept the killing of 57 million babies in bless. all: Is God pleased? the last 44 years. He has seen a nation Secondly, has the work been done Mr. Speaker, I ask that God bless whose family units are breaking up and each one of us, that God continue to well? the impact it has on the moral guid- Thirdly, has the word—the truth— bless Texas, and that God bless the ance of children. He has seen a coars- great United States of America. been used well in my life? ening of our society, a language that is If I can answer in the affirmative to Mr. LAMBORN. Mr. Speaker, I thank unsuitable, a filthiness and common- each of those based upon the Bible, I the gentleman from Texas for his ness that, quite frankly, offends Him at know for whatever reason my God has words and for focusing our attention on every level. been served well, and I have done the the U.S. Constitution and some other Mr. Speaker, you and others listen- work well. great things, as well. ing to me tonight, I think, have their Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman own list of things that God looks at from Colorado for leading this Special from Kansas (Mr. ESTES). He won a spe- and cannot and simply will not bless. Order tonight talking about something cial election and is one of our most re- How do we turn that around? How do so significant as the Bible, and I pray cently elected and newest Members of we reclaim that moral high ground? that it imparts wisdom to all we do Congress. I look forward to seeing him I am going to argue, Mr. Speaker, here. doing good things here for a long time Mr. LAMBORN. Mr. Speaker, I thank that that is an individual job. I don’t to come. the gentleman for those profound and think any of us would argue that we Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I heartfelt words that he has just shared can legislate this work, because this is appreciate the gentleman from Colo- with us. a work of each of our hearts. rado holding this Special Order hour Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman Mr. Speaker, I think you reclaim this tonight. from Texas (Mr. CONAWAY). moral high ground by living a moral Serving my fellow Kansans for a lit- Mr. CONAWAY. Mr. Speaker, I appre- code. I live the Judeo-Christian model. tle over the last 6 months has been a ciate the gentleman holding this hour Jesus Christ is my personal savior. I very humbling experience. I can’t help tonight. try to live his tenets every single day. but walk onto the House floor and feel In September of this year, we cele- Some days I am better at it than oth- the weight of history in this hall. brated the 230th birthday of our Con- ers. Each of those days, I am simply a I am often reminded of Jesus’ words stitution, a document that has pro- sinner saved by grace. That grace of in Mark chapter 9: ‘‘Anyone who wants vided for the governance of this great God has provided the story of that, and to be first must be the very last, and people for 230 years. how that works is provided for us in the servant of all.’’ This verse touches The history behind that was that the the Bible that we celebrate tonight. on why each of us should be here not States in 1787 decided that the Articles Mr. Speaker, each one of us has to for our own gain, but in service to oth- of Confederation were not properly live a code that, in fact, can create ers. forming a nation that could protect moral and religious people. Each of us Throughout our country tonight, itself properly. So they sent really in this body take an oath every 2 people are in Bible study classes. We smart men to Philadelphia to fine- years—those of us who are fortunate to are all attempting to seek how we tune—or tweak—the Articles of Con- get reelected—to defend and protect humble ourselves before the Lord. federation. the Constitution against all enemies When I consider our Founding Fa- James Madison and others had a dif- foreign and domestic. thers’ vision for this Republic, I think ferent idea. They locked the doors, We have got good men and women in they set in motion with a servant’s they went into closed session, and they uniform tonight who are putting their heart. The Founders made clear that came forth with a Constitution that we lives between us and some really bad religious liberty was to be cherished, have lived under for the next 230 years. guys as a result of that oath of office. and so they enshrined it in our Con- Benjamin Franklin, who was the old- I’m going to ask each of my col- stitution. From the time of the Puri- est Framer, emerged from that experi- leagues here tonight to think about tans crossing the Atlantic in search of ence and was asked by a woman, whom what they are willing to put on the line freedom to practice their faith to we think was named Mrs. Powell. She to protect and defend the Constitution, today, millions of Americans have said: Good Doctor, what have you given to help create that moral fiber, and to taken the Bible as the cornerstone of us, a monarchy or a republic? reclaim that moral high ground that their faith.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:21 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00070 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.101 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9251 Our President’s have chosen to take ‘‘The law of the Lord is perfect, re- side, this is what true faith is all the oath of office on their Bibles. Presi- freshing to the soul. The decree of the about, proven time and time again. dent Lincoln chose his Bible to be open Lord is trustworthy, giving wisdom to I urge everybody not just to have the to Matthew 7:1, ‘‘Judge not, that ye be the simple’’—Psalm 19:8. Bible at your home. The statistics are not judged.’’ President Reagan chose to That also applies to the Bible itself, that every home has 2.2 Bibles, on av- have his Bible open to II Chronicles the inherent and infallible Word of erage. It isn’t that there aren’t enough 7:14, ‘‘If my people, which are called by God. Bibles. It is that people don’t open it my name, shall humble themselves, Jesus himself used Scripture that often enough. and pray, and seek my face. . . . ’’ was written before him. Jesus never be- Mr. LAMBORN. Mr. Speaker, I thank With the Bible as our guiding com- littled the Scripture, as some modern my friend from California (Mr. pass, these leaders chose to serve their critics do, or set it aside, nor did he LAMALFA) for his sincere words. fellow Americans with humility and criticize it; although he criticized When National Bible Week was start- strength. those who misused it or contradicted ed in 1941, even though that has only As we honor National Bible Week, I it, although he rejected many interpre- been 76 years, the Bible itself has been hope that individuals across this coun- tations of it. celebrated by Americans since the be- try, regardless of their faith back- When we hear the Son of God’s ginning of our country—in fact, before ground, will take a moment to reflect quotes to Scriptures, we need no fur- we were a country. on the gift of religious liberty and ther testimony. He believed every word Our Presidents have been very vocal their role to serve others around them. of Scripture. All the prophesies con- in their acknowledgment of the Bible The future of our great Nation rests in cerning Himself were fulfilled, as my and the DNA of who we are as Ameri- cans. Several have been quoted. the servant hearts of her people. colleague, Mr. LAMBORN, said. Listen to what Civil War hero Ulys- Mr. LAMBORN. Mr. Speaker, I am Time and time and time again, the ses Grant gave as advice to Sunday going to mention something about ful- timelines prove the Word of God’s school children: ‘‘Hold fast to the Bible filled prophesy. This is one of the rea- prophesy. Matthew 19:4 and 19:5 were as the sheet anchor of your liberties; sons why we can believe in and trust one of those that Jesus spoke of, docu- write its precepts on your hearts and the Bible. mented in the New Testament, ac- practice them in your lives. To the in- People come here to Congress with counts by those over there with Jesus fluence of this book we are indebted for all different kinds of backgrounds, in- at the time. the progress made in true civilization, cluding pastors. This diversity of back- We know Moses wrote the Penta- and to this we must look as our guide ground adds a valuable thread of expe- teuch, Jonah wrote Jonah, Daniel wrote Daniel. Jesus attests to that. He in the future.’’ rience and thought that helps us all. Then he finished with this quote One reason many people respect the believed the Old Testament was spoken from the Bible: ‘‘Righteousness Bible is that so many prophesies for by God, Himself, written by the Holy exalteth a nation, but sin is a reproach telling future events have come true Spirit’s inspiration, even though the to any people.’’ exactly as foretold. In the Old Testa- pen was held by men. That is an impor- Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman ment, there are many predictions that tant point for those who ask: How can from Georgia (Mr. ALLEN). were given to prove that, if a speaker the Bible be real, since it was written Mr. ALLEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise with were divinely inspired, those things down by men? great privilege to celebrate National that he predicted would come true; it The committed task of all writing of Bible Week. would validate the words of that proph- the Word of God, though they were fal- As stated, it has been 76 years since et. lible men, were guided by the infallible President Franklin Roosevelt declared The Book of Daniel, for instance, Holy Spirit. That is a faith we have this National Bible Week. I thank Con- contains scores of detailed prophesies and hold. gressman LAMBORN for recognizing the that were literally fulfilled. Skeptics It does take some faith, yes, just as importance of honoring God’s Word have fallen back to the position that it takes faith for me to get on that air- here tonight. Daniel must have been written after liner and fly back East each week. But Just 16 short years ago, I learned the the fact and is, therefore, not being the faith in the Bible is much stronger. most valuable lesson of my life. I real- honest. It has never been proven wrong. All the ized I had to change my priorities. Part In fact, the Book of Daniel is found prophesies that were made that have of that change was to put God first. A in its entirety in the Greek’s occurred already have been proven big part of that commitment was the Septuagint and partially in the Dead true. reading and studying of His Word Sea Scrolls, both of which we know The Founders thought it was a key through prayer and meditation. It is predated the events that were proph- element in the founding of this Nation, easy to say, but difficult to do. esied. That means that the critics of obviously. Right in this room, behind I had come to a point in my life the dating of the Book of Daniel are the Speaker’s dais, is the inscription: where I made a covenant with God on the ones who are not being honest. ‘‘In God We Trust.’’ Facing me right my knees, which reminds me of God’s The rise and fall of empires, the cap- now is the only forward-facing image instruction to Joshua 1:8, ‘‘This book ture and destruction of cities, the des- in here of Moses looking over this of laws shall not depart from your lips, tiny of kings all were prophesied in House of Representatives. but you shall meditate on it day and minute detail. Archeology and history Lastly, I would leave with this. As night so that you may be careful to do have literally confirmed hundreds of you watch the machinations of the according to all that is written in it; such prophesies as having come true. Members of Congress, I think one of for then, you will make your way pros- Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman the most important guidelines we perous, and then you will have true from California (Mr. LAMALFA). would have I find in Proverbs 4:25 success.’’ Mr. LAMALFA. Mr. Speaker, I thank through 4:27: we uphold the honor not I learned to gradually believe all the my colleague from Colorado (Mr. LAM- only of this institution and our fami- wonderful promises God made through BORN) for leading this Special Order to- lies, but those who walk with God, that His Word, and he credited to me His night on National Bible Week. walk with Jesus. righteousness, just as He did our spir- Last night, several of us had the In Proverbs, you see: ‘‘Let your eyes itual father Abraham in Genesis 15:6, privilege to attend a preview of the na- look straight ahead. Fix your gaze di- ‘‘I learned it was not my will be done, tional Museum of the Bible. It was very rectly before you. Keep straight the but His will be done.’’ impressive. I would urge everybody passage for your feet and be steadfast I learned what Jesus Christ had done watching tonight and who hears about in all your ways. Do not turn to the for me and the entire world and how he it to tour it when you get the chance right or the left. Keep your feet from leads me in all my endeavors and has here in Washington, D.C. evil.’’ called me to places I never imagined I One of the things that struck me That is what the Bible inspires. As I would go. One of those is right here. very early on in that tour was a banner read it on the plane coming back and Years ago, I could never have imag- hanging inside the museum that says: forth and read it at home or at my bed- ined myself here tonight, speaking on

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:21 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00071 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.103 H14NOPT1 H9252 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 this floor in the United States House of many archaeological discoveries which ‘‘For the time will come when they Representatives, representing the great have validated Biblical accounts, giv- will not endure sound doctrine; but people of Georgia’s 12th District. But ing trustworthiness to the Bible that wanting to have their ears tickled, here I am, by the grace of God. we acknowledge and commemorate they will accumulate for themselves In this endeavor, I meditate often, during this National Bible Week. teachers in accordance to their own de- and as said in Philippians 2: ‘‘Do noth- Time and time again, archaeology sires and will turn away their ears and ing out of selfish ambition or vain con- has shown that Biblical personalities, will turn aside to myths. ceit, but in humility consider others locations, and events actually existed ‘‘But you, be sober in all things, en- more important than yourself. Each of in time and space. Claims by critics dure hardship, do the work of the evan- you should look not only to your own that a Biblical statement was simply gelist, and fulfill your ministry.’’ interests, but look to the interests of made up have been debunked by later Mr. LAMBORN. Mr. Speaker, I thank others.’’ archaeological studies more times than the gentleman for those words. It is At a time when many Americans are we can say. great that we have been hearing today increasingly divided, I often remind Jewish archaeologist Nelson Glueck from Representatives from all over the myself and those around me to have has said: ‘‘It may be stated categori- United States: from North Carolina on faith in Him and to remember the cally that no archaeological discovery the Atlantic Coast in Georgia to Cali- Judeo-Christian values our Nation was has ever controverted or contradicted a fornia on the Pacific Coast, from founded on. Biblical reference.’’ Michigan on our Northern border to The Bible’s influence on or founding Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman Texas on our Southern border. And we documents can still be seen here today from North Carolina (Mr. ROUZER). have been hearing America speak to- Mr. ROUZER. Mr. Speaker, I greatly and was mentioned tonight. Again, night, so I think that is very special. appreciate my colleague from Colorado when the Constitutional Convention Now, there are some who would pre- for leading this Special Order on the reached an impasse, Ben Franklin fer to gloss over the vital role that the Bible, its importance to each of us, and asked clergymen to come in and pray Bible has had in the founding of our its influence on our constitutional Re- and read the Scriptures. They united Nation and the implementation of this public. unique form of government, but none around the greatest constitutional doc- Our Founding Fathers understood ument created in the history of man- that Biblical values were the basis for of our Founding Fathers were perfect. kind. our Republic and that this country Indeed, there are times in our Nation’s Americans are looking to Congress to would be slowly destroyed if the peo- history when Biblical principles were come together to find solutions for ris- ple’s knowledge and adherence to those not acted upon. ing healthcare costs, a simpler, fairer values were ever lost. Yet, listen to what President Harry Tax Code, and let’s get our good folks In reference to this danger, John Truman said during his address to the back to work again. It is time to put Adams wrote: ‘‘Democracy will soon Attorney General’s conference on law the American people’s interests above degenerate into an anarchy, such an enforcement problems: ‘‘The funda- political will. anarchy that every man will do what is mental basis of this Nation’s law was The division in this Nation is real. right in his own eyes, and no man’s life given to Moses on the Mount. The fun- They are evident right here in this or property or reputation or liberty damental basis of our Bill of Rights body. How could our behavior ever will be secure, and every one of these comes from the teachings which we get show the world to believe that God would soon mold itself into a system of from Exodus and St. Matthew, from sent His Son to save the world? subordination of all the moral virtues Isaiah and St. Paul. I don’t think we This is when we should look to God’s and intellectual abilities, all the pow- emphasize that enough these days. provision. The truth can always be ers of wealth, beauty, wit, and science, ‘‘If we don’t have the proper funda- found through faith in him. Jesus to the wanton pleasures, the capricious mental moral background, we will fi- summed it up when he prayed for us in will, and abominable cruelty of one or nally end up with a totalitarian gov- John 17:21: ‘‘That all of them may be a very few.’’ ernment, which does not believe in one, Father, just as You are in me and In a simpler language, that means rights for anybody except the State.’’ I am in You. May they also be in us so ‘‘tyranny.’’ Mr. Speaker, it has been an honor, that the world may believe that You When Alexis de Tocqueville visited and it has been a pleasure to com- sent me.’’ the United States early in the 19th cen- memorate National Bible Week this My inspiration is found in Psalms tury, he wrote in ‘‘Democracy in Amer- evening. As I said a moment ago, we 51:10–12, David’s Prayer: ‘‘Create in me ica’’ that our Nation’s ‘‘religious at- heard from colleagues from all over the a pure heart, O God, and renew a stead- mosphere was the first thing that United States. I am grateful to these fast spirit within me. Do not cast me struck me on arrival in the United colleagues who have joined me to from your presence or take your Holy States.’’ He believed that adherence to honor the Word of God. I am also Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy the virtuous standards was indispen- thankful to the National Bible Associa- of Your salvation and grant me a will- sable for the preservation of liberty. tion for their vision for National Bible ing spirit to sustain me.’’ Mr. Speaker, he was correct in this Week and for their encouragement for As we enter the Christmas season, assessment. This brings me to one of our efforts today. one of the most important seasons of my own favorite passages in the Bible: Mr. Speaker, the prophet Isaiah, the year, we all must remember to the Apostle Paul writing to Timothy, thousands of years ago, wrote: ‘‘The keep His Word close and let it lead us in 2 Timothy 3:16 through 2 Timothy grass withers and the flowers fall, but in all that we do. 4:5. And I might add that I find this the Word of our God endures forever.’’ I am grateful that we have a Presi- passage to be more and more relevant How true. Civilizations have risen dent who actually wishes a merry to our times with each and every pass- and fallen in those thousands of years Christmas as we all celebrate the birth ing day. since that was said, generations have of the Savior of the world. It reads: ‘‘All Scripture is inspired by come and gone, yet here today on No- God bless. God and profitable for teaching, for re- vember 14, 2017, we are still celebrating buke, for correction, for training in the enduring Word of God. We celebrate b 1915 righteousness; so that the man of God National Bible Week. Mr. LAMBORN. Mr. Speaker, I thank may be adequate, equipped for every Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance the gentleman from Georgia for being good work. of my time. here tonight and for those thought-pro- ‘‘I solemnly charge you in the pres- Mr. BABIN. Mr. Speaker, this past Sunday voking and very well-intended words. ence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is was the International Day of the Bible, and As our next speaker comes to the po- to judge the living and the dead, and by this week we are celebrating the National dium, let me mention the issue of ar- His appearing and His kingdom: preach Bible Week across the United States. chaeology. Archaeology is one of the the Word, be ready in season and out of It is very fitting that we take time today on reasons why we can have trust in that season, reprove, rebuke, exhort, with the floor of the People’s House to draw our what the Bible says is true. There are great patience and instruction. nation’s attention to the Bible. In his book

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:21 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00072 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K14NO7.104 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9253 Reading the Bible with the Founding Fathers, (Rept. No. 115–410) on the resolution (H. 3165. A letter from the Secretary, Depart- Dr. Daniel Dreisbach reminds us of the influ- Res. 619) providing for consideration of ment of the Treasury, transmitting a six- ential role the Bible served in the lives, the bill (H.R. 1) to provide for rec- month periodic report on the national emer- thoughts and ideas of our nation’s Founding onciliation pursuant to title II of the gency with respect to Syria that was declared in Executive Order 13338 of May 11, Fathers. concurrent resolution on the budget for 2004, pursuant to 50 U.S.C. 1641(c); Public The Bible was the most accessible book to fiscal year 2018, and providing for pro- Law 94-412, Sec. 401(c); (90 Stat. 1257) and 50 our Founding Fathers and gave them insights ceedings during the period from No- U.S.C. 1703(c); Public Law 95-223, Sec 204(c); on human nature, civic virtue, political author- vember 17, 2017, through November 24, (91 Stat. 1627); to the Committee on Foreign ity, and the rights and duties of citizens that 2017, which was referred to the House Affairs. informed them as they formulated established Calendar and ordered to be printed. 3166. A letter from the Assistant Legal Ad- the structures of government. viser, Office of Treaty Affairs, Department of On a more personal level, I believe that the f State, transmitting reports concerning Bible is not simply an inspirational book or a ENROLLED BILL SIGNED international agreements other than treaties entered into by the United States to be comforting book—although it is that. But, I be- Karen L. Haas, Clerk of the House, lieve the Bible to be the holy word of God. It transmitted to the Congress within the reported and found truly enrolled a bill sixty-day period specified in the Case-Za- tells us the story of God’s love for us. It is a of the House of the following title, blocki Act, pursuant to 1 U.S.C. 112b(a); Pub- story of redemption for those who would put which was thereupon signed by the lic Law 92-403, Sec. 1(a) (as amended by Pub- their faith and trust in Christ alone. Speaker: lic Law 108-458, Sec. 7121(b)); (118 Stat. 3807); John 3:16 tells us that ‘‘God so loved the to the Committee on Foreign Affairs. world that he gave his only begotten son, that H.R. 1679. An act to ensure that the Fed- 3167. A letter from the White House Liai- whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, eral Emergency Management Agency’s cur- son, Department of Education, transmitting but have everlasting life.’’ rent efforts to modernize its grant manage- a notification of a nomination, pursuant to 5 For me, as a follower of Jesus Christ, this ment system includes applicant accessibility U.S.C. 3349(a); Public Law 105-277, 151(b); (112 and transparency, and for other purposes. is not only comforting and inspiring but it is Stat. 2681-614); to the Committee on Over- f sight and Government Reform. True and the Bible is a guide for my life. 3168. A letter from the White House Liai- Each day—and the older I get—I am re- ADJOURNMENT son, Department of Education, transmitting minded of the comforting Truth in Job Chapter Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I move a notification of a nomination, pursuant to 5 19. Written centuries before the birth, cru- U.S.C. 3349(a); Public Law 105-277, 151(b); (112 cifixion and resurrection of Jesus, we were that the House do now adjourn. Stat. 2681-614); to the Committee on Over- told of our redeemer. The one who would The motion was agreed to; accord- sight and Government Reform. save us. ingly (at 12 o’clock and 26 minutes 3169. A letter from the Acting Assistant For I know that my Redeemer lives, a.m.), under its previous order, the Administrator, Environmental Protection And He shall stand at last on the earth; House adjourned until today, Wednes- Agency, transmitting the Agency’s FY 2016 And after my skin is destroyed, this I know, day, November 15, 2017, at 10 a.m. for Commercial and Inherently Governmental That in my flesh I shall see God, morning-hour debate. Inventories, pursuant to 31 U.S.C. 501 note; Whom I shall see for myself, Public Law 105-270, Sec. 2(c)(1)(A); (112 Stat. f And my eyes shall behold, and not another. 2382); to the Committee on Oversight and How my heart yearns within me! EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS, Government Reform. Job 19:25–27 3170. A letter from the Deputy Chief of ETC. Staff, Office of Science and Technology Pol- This promise reminds me of the Lord’s love Under clause 2 of rule XIV, executive icy, Executive Office of the President, trans- for me—no matter what the circumstances of communications were taken from the mitting a notification of a vacancy and des- life. Speaker’s table and referred as follows: ignation of acting officer, pursuant to 5 Maybe it’s been a while since you poured U.S.C. 3349(a); Public Law 105-277, 151(b); (112 over the pages of the Bible. Maybe it’s been 3161. A letter from the Secretary, Depart- Stat. 2681-614); to the Committee on Over- collecting dust on a shelf. Take it down and ment of Defense, transmitting a letter on the sight and Government Reform. read once again the truthful and comforting approved retirement of Vice Admiral Troy 3171. A letter from the Branch Chief, En- M. Shoemaker, United States Navy, and his dangered Species Listing, U.S. Fish and words of God preserved for us and given to us advancement to the grade of vice admiral on as a gift. Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior, the retired list, pursuant to 10 U.S.C. transmitting the Department’s final rule — I thank my colleagues for reserving this time 1370(c)(1); Public Law 96-513, Sec. 112 (as Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and for me to join you in sharing what the Bible amended by Public Law 104-106, Sec. 502(b)); Plants; Endangered Species Status for Dalea means to me and hundreds of millions of oth- (110 Stat. 293); to the Committee on Armed carthagenensis var. floridana (Florida Prai- ers across the world. Services. rie-clover), and Threatened Species Status f 3162. A letter from the Director, Regula- for Sideroxylon reclinatum ssp. tions Policy and Management Staff, FDA, austrofloridense (Everglades Bully), RECESS Department of Health and Human Services, Digitaria pauciflora (Florida Pineland Crab- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- transmitting the Department’s final rule — grass), and Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair Listing of Color Additives Exempt From Cer- pinetorum (Pineland Sandmat) [Docket No.: declares the House in recess subject to tification; Calcium Carbonate [Docket No.: FWS-R4-ES-2016-0090; 4500030113] (RIN: 1018- FDA-2016-C-2767] received November 13, 2017, BB48) received November 13, 2017, pursuant the call of the Chair. pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law Accordingly (at 7 o’clock and 22 min- to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Com- Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on utes p.m.), the House stood in recess. mittee on Energy and Commerce. Natural Resources. f 3163. A letter from the Director, Regula- 3172. A letter from the Chief, Branch of tions Policy and Management Staff, FDA, b 0025 Listing Policy and Support, U.S. Fish and Department of Health and Human Services, Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior, AFTER RECESS transmitting the Department’s final rule — transmitting the Department’s final rule — Food Additives Permitted in Feed and The recess having expired, the House Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Drinking Water of Animals; Ammonium For- Plants; Removing Textual Descriptions of was called to order by the Speaker pro mate and Formic Acid [Docket No.: FDA- Critical Habitat Boundaries for Plants on tempore (Mr. WOODALL) at 12 o’clock 2014-F-0988] received November 13, 2017, pur- the Hawaiian Islands [Docket No.: FWS-HQ- and 25 minutes a.m. suant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104- ES-2015-0009; 4500090023] (RIN: 1018-BA80) re- f 121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee ceived November 13, 2017, pursuant to 5 on Energy and Commerce. U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. REPORT ON RESOLUTION PRO- 3164. A letter from the Secretary, Depart- 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Nat- VIDING FOR CONSIDERATION OF ment of the Treasury, transmitting a six- ural Resources. H.R. 1, TAX CUTS AND JOBS ACT, month periodic report on the national emer- 3173. A letter from the Wildlife Biologist, AND PROVIDING FOR PRO- gency with respect to the Central African U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department CEEDINGS DURING THE PERIOD Republic that was declared in Executive of the Interior, transmitting the Depart- FROM NOVEMBER 17, 2017, Order 13667 of May 12, 2014, pursuant to 50 ment’s final rule — Migratory Bird Hunting; THROUGH NOVEMBER 24, 2017 U.S.C. 1641(c); Public Law 94-412, Sec. 401(c); Approval of Corrosion-Inhibited Copper Shot (90 Stat. 1257) and 50 U.S.C. 1703(c); Public as Nontoxic for Waterfowl Hunting [Docket Mr. SESSIONS, from the Committee Law 95-223, Sec 204(c); (91 Stat. 1627); to the No.: FWS-HQ-MB-2015-0073; FF09M21200-178- on Rules, submitted a privileged report Committee on Foreign Affairs. FXMB1231099BPP0] (RIN: 1018-BB06) received

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:33 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00073 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A14NO7.030 H14NOPT1 H9254 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 14, 2017 November 13, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. status for certain aliens present in the By Ms. TITUS: 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 United States, and for other purposes; to the H.R. 4394. A bill to direct the Secretary of Stat. 868); to the Committee on Natural Re- Committee on the Judiciary. Health and Human Services to make avail- sources. By Ms. DELAURO: able a public option for health insurance cov- 3174. A letter from the Conversation Policy H.R. 4385. A bill to amend the Federal erage for individuals residing in an area Advisor, National Wildlife Refuge System, Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to restrict di- without a qualified health plan available U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department rect-to-consumer drug advertising; to the through an Exchange, and for other pur- of the Interior, transmitting the Depart- Committee on Energy and Commerce. poses; to the Committee on Energy and Com- ment’s final rule — 2017-2018 Refuge-Specific By Mr. DUFFY: merce. Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations H.R. 4386. A bill to establish a grant pro- By Mr. ELLISON (for himself, Mr. [Docket No.: FWS-HQ-NWRS-2017-0005; gram that encourages States to establish EMMER, Mr. STIVERS, Ms. BASS, Mrs. FXRS12650900000-178-FF09R26000] (RIN: 1018- subgrant programs that encourage recipients BEATTY, Mr. SMITH of Washington, to create, maintain, and improve digital fab- BB75) received November 13, 2017, pursuant Mr. PAULSEN, Mr. GALLEGO, and Mr. rication laboratories, and for other purposes; to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, HECK): Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on to the Committee on Education and the H. Res. 620. A resolution strongly con- Workforce. Natural Resources. demning the terrorist attack in Mogadishu, By Mr. DUFFY: 3175. A letter from the Assistant Secretary Somalia on October 14, 2017, and expressing H.R. 4387. A bill to amend the Carl D. Per- for Legislative Affairs, Department of Home- condolences and sympathies to the victims kins Career and Technical Education Act of of the attack and their families; to the Com- land Security, transmitting a legislative 2006 to increase the allocation for rural mittee on Foreign Affairs. proposal, styled the ‘‘Coast Guard Authoriza- areas, and for other purposes; to the Com- tion Act for Fiscal Year 2018’’; to the Com- mittee on Education and the Workforce. f mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- By Mr. DUFFY: CONSTITUTIONAL AUTHORITY ture. H.R. 4388. A bill to prioritize, in certain 3176. A letter from the Deputy Assistant substance abuse prevention, treatment, and STATEMENT Secretary for the Veteran’s Employment and recovery programs, the treatment and recov- Pursuant to clause 7 of rule XII of Training Service, Department of Labor, ery of addicted minors, and individuals re- transmitting the Department’s final rule — the Rules of the House of Representa- sponsible for the care of dependent minors tives, the following statements are sub- HIRE Vets Medallion Program [Docket No.: who are at risk of entering the foster care VETS-2017-0001] (RIN: 1293-AA21) received system; to the Committee on Energy and mitted regarding the specific powers November 13, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Commerce. granted to Congress in the Constitu- 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 By Mr. DUFFY: tion to enact the accompanying bill or Stat. 868); to the Committee on Veterans’ Af- H.R. 4389. A bill to amend section 428 of the joint resolution. fairs. McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act to By Mr. RASKIN: 3177. A letter from the Office of the Sec- set aside funds for case management services H.R. 4382. retary (00REG), Department of Veterans Af- for residents of permanent supportive hous- Congress has the power to enact this legis- fairs, transmitting the Department’s final ing for homeless persons, and for other pur- lation pursuant to the following: rule — Ecclesiastical Endorsing Organiza- poses; to the Committee on Financial Serv- Article 1, Section 8, of the U.S. Constitu- tions (RIN: 2900-AP83) received November 13, ices. tion and the First Amendment to the Con- 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public By Mr. GIANFORTE (for himself and stitution Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Mr. DUFFY): By Mr. BIGGS: H.R. 4390. A bill to reauthorize the rural Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. H.R. 4383. emergency medical service training and f Congress has the power to enact this legis- equipment assistance program under section lation pursuant to the following: 330J of the Public Health Service Act; to the REPORTS OF COMMITTEES ON Article I of the Constitution grants Con- Committee on Energy and Commerce. PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS gress the power to raise revenue By Ms. MCCOLLUM (for herself, Mr. By Ms. CLARKE of New York: Under clause 2 of rule XIII, reports of POCAN, Mr. GRIJALVA, Mr. CONYERS, H.R. 4384. committees were delivered to the Clerk Mr. BLUMENAUER, Ms. PINGREE, Mr. Congress has the power to enact this legis- for printing and reference to the proper DEFAZIO, Mr. CARSON of Indiana, Mr. ´ lation pursuant to the following: calendar, as follows: GUTIERREZ, and Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS the power granted to Congress under Arti- Mr. SESSIONS: Committee on Rules. of Illinois): cle I of the United States Constitution and it H.R. 4391. A bill to require the Secretary of House Resolution 619. Resolution providing subsequent amendments, and further clari- State to certify that United States funds do for consideration of the bill (H.R. 1) to pro- fied and interpreted by the Supreme Court of vide for reconciliation pursuant to title II of not support military detention, interroga- tion, abuse, or ill-treatment of Palestinian the United States. the concurrent resolution on the budget for By Ms. DELAURO: fiscal year 2018, and providing for pro- children, and for other purposes; to the Com- mittee on Foreign Affairs. H.R. 4385. ceedings during the period from November Congress has the power to enact this legis- By Mr. MCKINLEY (for himself, Mr. 17, 2017, through November 27, 2017 (Rept. lation pursuant to the following: THOMPSON of California, Mr. JOHNSON 115–410). Referred to the House Calendar. Article 1, Section 8, Clauses 3 and 18 of the of Ohio, Mr. KUSTOFF of Tennessee, United States Congress f Mr. COURTNEY, and Ms. CASTOR of By Mr. DUFFY: PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS Florida): H.R. 4392. A bill to provide that the provi- H.R. 4386. Under clause 2 of rule XII, public sion of the Medicare Program: Hospital Out- Congress has the power to enact this legis- bills and resolutions of the following patient Prospective Payment and Ambula- lation pursuant to the following: tory Surgical Center Payment Systems and Article I, Section 8 titles were introduced and severally re- By Mr. DUFFY: ferred, as follows: Quality Reporting Programs final regulation relating to changes in the payment amount H.R. 4387. By Mr. RASKIN (for himself and Mr. for certain drugs and biologicals purchased Congress has the power to enact this legis- JORDAN): under the 340B drug discount program shall lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 4382. A bill to maintain the free flow have no force or effect, and for other pur- Article I, Section 8 of information to the public by providing poses; to the Committee on Energy and Com- By Mr. DUFFY: conditions for the federally compelled disclo- merce, and in addition to the Committee on H.R. 4388. sure of information by certain persons con- Ways and Means, for a period to be subse- Congress has the power to enact this legis- nected with the news media; to the Com- quently determined by the Speaker, in each lation pursuant to the following: mittee on the Judiciary. case for consideration of such provisions as Article I, Section 8 By Mr. BIGGS: fall within the jurisdiction of the committee By Mr. DUFFY: H.R. 4383. A bill to reform the Internal concerned. H.R. 4389. Revenue Code of 1986; to the Committee on By Mr. SMITH of New Jersey: Congress has the power to enact this legis- Ways and Means. H.R. 4393. A bill to amend the Congres- lation pursuant to the following: By Ms. CLARKE of New York (for her- sional Accountability Act of 1995 to clarify Article I, Section 8 self, Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN, Ms. JAYAPAL, that employees of the Commission on Secu- By Mr. GIANFORTE: Ms. LOFGREN, Ms. JACKSON LEE, Mr. rity and Cooperation in Europe and the Con- H.R. 4390. MCGOVERN, Ms. LEE, Mr. HASTINGS, gressional-Executive Commission on the Congress has the power to enact this legis- Ms. WILSON of Florida, and Mr. People’s Republic of China are to be treated lation pursuant to the following: CORREA): as covered employees for purposes of such Article 1, Section 8 H.R. 4384. A bill to amend the Immigration Act; to the Committee on House Administra- By Ms. MCCOLLUM: and Nationality Act to provide protected tion. H.R. 4391.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:33 Nov 15, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00074 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\L14NO7.000 H14NOPT1 November 14, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H9255

Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 1494: Mr. SESSIONS and Mr. EVANS. Mr. FRANCIS ROONEY of Florida, and Mr. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 1530: Mr. TROTT. DEFAZIO. Article I, Section 8 H.R. 1566: Mr. SCHRADER. H.R. 3978: Mr. WILLIAMS, Ms. TENNEY, Mr. By Mr. MCKINLEY: H.R. 1651: Ms. GABBARD and Ms. JENKINS of MESSER, Mr. ZELDIN, and Ms. SINEMA. H.R. 4392. Kansas. H.R. 3988: Mr. FITZPATRICK. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 1661: Mr. MEADOWS. H.R. 4049: Mr. SABLAN. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 1666: Mr. NOLAN. H.R. 4082: Mr. CARBAJAL, Mrs. TORRES, Mr. According to Article I, Section 8, Clause 3 H.R. 1683: Mr. MCCLINTOCK, Mr. KING of COURTNEY, Mrs. WATSON COLEMAN, Mr. SIRES, of the Constitution: The Congress shall have Iowa, Mr. WITTMAN, and Mr. THOMAS J. ROO- Mr. ELLISON, and Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. power to enact this legislation to regulate NEY of Florida. H.R. 4101: Mr. COLLINS of New York, Mr. commerce with foreign nations, and among H.R. 1847: Mr. EVANS. MESSER, Mr. BARLETTA, and Mr. PEARCE. the several states, and with the Indian H.R. 1876: Mr. OLSON. H.R. 4115: Ms. BLUNT ROCHESTER and Mrs. tribes. H.R. 1953: Mr. CROWLEY. DAVIS of California. By Mr. SMITH of New Jersey: H.R. 1990: Mr. BIGGS. H.R. 4122: Mr. SUOZZI, Mr. GRIJALVA, Mr. H.R. 4393. H.R. 2149: Ms. MCSALLY. KHANNA, Ms. TSONGAS, and Ms. WASSERMAN Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 2228: Mrs. MIMI WALTERS of California. SCHULTZ. USTOS lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 2237: Mrs. B . H.R. 4132: Mr. JONES. H.R. 2259: Mrs. TORRES, Mr. KHANNA, and Article I, Section 8, clause 18 et al. H.R. 4207: Mr. COFFMAN. Mr. TIPTON. By Ms. TITUS: H.R. 4209: Mr. BEYER. H.R. 4394. H.R. 2276: Mr. MEADOWS. H.R. 4215: Mr. BLUMENAUER. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 2285: Mr. GRIFFITH. H.R. 4222: Mr. SWALWELL of California. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 2295: Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia and Mrs. H.R. 4231: Mr. GIANFORTE and Mr. FRANCIS Article 1 Section 8 DEMINGS. ROONEY of Florida. H.R. 2320: Miss GONZA´ LEZ-COLO´ N of Puerto f H.R. 4239: Mr. ABRAHAM. Rico. H.R. 4240: Ms. TITUS, Mr. PETERS, Mr. ADDITIONAL SPONSORS H.R. 2345: Mr. TONKO. TONKO, Mr. SCHIFF, Mr. HOYER, Ms. SCHA- H.R. 2366: Mr. AGUILAR. Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors KOWSKY, Mr. POCAN, Mr. YARMUTH, and Mr. H.R. 2394: Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. VELA. were added to public bills and resolu- H.R. 2436: Mr. LAMALFA. H.R. 4253: Mr. WELCH. tions, as follows: H.R. 2452: Ms. ADAMS and Mr. PASCRELL. H.R. 4258: Mr. ROSS. H.R. 29: Mr. JONES. H.R. 2492: Mr. WALKER, Mr. POSEY, Mr. INEMA OLLINGSWORTH H.R. 176: Mr. WEBSTER of Florida. BISHOP of Michigan, and Mr. CULBERSON. H.R. 4263: Ms. S , Mr. H , TIVERS H.R. 203: Mr. SABLAN. H.R. 2556: Ms. ESTY of Connecticut. and Mr. S . H.R. 281: Mr. COFFMAN. H.R. 2633: Mr. TED LIEU of California. H.R. 4265: Mr. DAVID SCOTT of Georgia. H.R. 350: Mrs. BLACKBURN. H.R. 2640: Ms. ROSEN. H.R. 4267: Mr. ROYCE of California, Mr. H.R. 400: Ms. MCSALLY. H.R. 2740: Mr. SCHRADER, Mr. POSEY, Mr. HIMES, Mrs. BEATTY, and Mrs. WAGNER. H.R. 421: Ms. STEFANIK. KENNEDY, and Ms. GRANGER. H.R. 4274: Mr. OLSON, Mr. BANKS of Indiana, H.R. 448: Mr. RASKIN. H.R. 2790: Mr. ZELDIN and Mr. BROWN of Mr. GIBBS, and Mr. JORDAN. H.R. 559: Mr. WOODALL. Maryland. H.R. 4278: Mr. BARR. H.R. 564: Mr. AUSTIN SCOTT of Georgia. H.R. 2821: Mr. BIGGS. H.R. 4292: Mr. ROYCE of California and Ms. H.R. 592: Ms. CLARKE of New York and Mrs. H.R. 2860: Mr. SCHWEIKERT. SINEMA. NAPOLITANO. H.R. 2902: Mr. KEATING, Ms. ROSEN, and Mr. H.R. 4295: Mrs. BLACK. H.R. 681: Mr. KELLY of Mississippi and Mr. QUIGLEY. H.R. 4300: Ms. JACKSON LEE, Mr. JONES, WESTERMAN. H.R. 3027: Mr. KIND. Mrs. RADEWAGEN, and Ms. KAPTUR. H.R. 685: Ms. DELBENE. H.R. 3174: Ms. BLUNT ROCHESTER. H.R. 4306: Ms. MOORE. H.R. 747: Mr. ROHRABACHER. H.R. 3221: Ms. TENNEY. H.R. 4310: Mr. BARLETTA. H.R. 754: Mr. DAVID SCOTT of Georgia and H.R. 3287: Mr. QUIGLEY. H.R. 4316: Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. MESSER. H.R. 3368: Mr. BISHOP of Georgia and Ms. H.R. 4324: Ms. TENNEY and Mr. ZELDIN. H.R. 786: Ms. ESHOO. LOFGREN. H.R. 4328: Mr. KENNEDY. H.R. 795: Mr. CARTWRIGHT, Mr. KENNEDY, H.R. 3381: Mr. BLUMENAUER. H.R. 4334: Mr. COHEN and Mr. CA´ RDENAS. and Mr. GOMEZ. H.R. 3397: Miss RICE of New York and Mrs. H.R. 4335: Mr. COFFMAN. H.R. 828: Mr. O’ROURKE. MURPHY of Florida. H.R. 4336: Mr. FRANCIS ROONEY of Florida. H.R. 846: Mr. MCKINLEY and Mr. JENKINS of H.R. 3427: Mr. JORDAN. H.R. 4372: Mr. BYRNE and Mr. LEWIS of Min- West Virginia. H.R. 3444: Mr. NOLAN, Ms. SLAUGHTER, Mr. nesota. H.R. 896: Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. RUSH, and Mr. QUIGLEY. H.R. 4375: Ms. ESTY of Connecticut. H.R. 912: Mr. NADLER, Mr. GOMEZ, and Ms. H.R. 3478: Mr. SMITH of Washington. H. Con. Res. 57: Mrs. WALORSKI. BARRAGA´ N. H.R. 3528: Mr. TONKO. H. Con. Res. 90: Mr. ROYCE of California, H.R. 949: Mr. GOTTHEIMER. H.R. 3542: Mr. SCHNEIDER, Mr. POE of Mr. ENGEL, Mr. MCGOVERN, Mr. FITZPATRICK, H.R. 959: Mr. SCHRADER. Texas, and Mr. SHERMAN. Mrs. WAGNER, Ms. SPEIER, Ms. SLAUGHTER, H.R. 1034: Mr. GOMEZ. H.R. 3592: Mr. MEEKS. Mr. CONNOLLY, Mr. CICILLINE, Mr. ESPAILLAT, H.R. 1120: Mr. HIGGINS of New York and Ms. H.R. 3596: Mr. WESTERMAN, Mr. LATTA, Mr. Mr. SHERMAN, Mr. CASTRO of Texas, Mr. MOORE. WOMACK, Mr. SMITH of Nebraska, Mr. KEATING, Mr. SIRES, Mr. TED LIEU of Cali- H.R. 1144: Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. CRAMER, Ms. BASS, and Mr. JOHNSON of Ohio. fornia, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. RASKIN, Mr. H.R. 1155: Mr. ROSKAM. H.R. 3635: Mr. AUSTIN SCOTT of Georgia and MCCAUL, Mr. GARRETT, and Mr. DONOVAN. H.R. 1158: Mrs. BUSTOS. Mr. CARTER of Georgia. H. Res. 129: Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. H.R. 1164: Mr. HOLLINGSWORTH and Mrs. H.R. 3637: Mr. SOTO. H. Res. 282: Ms. ESTY of Connecticut. WAGNER. H.R. 3692: Mr. LANCE. H. Res. 336: Mr. CONNOLLY, Mr. SHERMAN, H.R. 1178: Mr. GRIFFITH. H.R. 3730: Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. ROYCE of California, and Mr. CICILLINE. H.R. 1187: Ms. MOORE. H.R. 3748: Mr. AGUILAR. H. Res. 401: Mr. SCHNEIDER. H.R. 1205: Mr. MCKINLEY, Mr. ROGERS of H.R. 3770: Mr. AGUILAR. H. Res. 466: Mr. COFFMAN, Mr. KIHUEN, Ms. Kentucky, and Mr. JOHNSON of Louisiana. H.R. 3784: Mr. COHEN and Mr. BOST. ROSEN, Mr. MOULTON, Ms. CASTOR of Florida, H.R. 1229: Mr. HUFFMAN, Mr. HASTINGS, and H.R. 3798: Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. and Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. H.R. 3814: Ms. SHEA-PORTER. H. Res. 516: Mrs. NAPOLITANO, Mr. TED LIEU H.R. 1284: Mrs. COMSTOCK. H.R. 3822: Mr. PERRY. of California, Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD, Mr. H.R. 1318: Mr. VALADAO. H.R. 3887: Mr. BEYER. GARAMENDI, and Mr. AGUILAR. H.R. 1379: Ms. BONAMICI. H.R. 3925: Mrs. BUSTOS. H. Res. 529: Ms. JAYAPAL and Mr. TED LIEU H.R. 1409: Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania, Mr. H.R. 3931: Mr. BLUMENAUER. of California. YOHO, Mr. PANETTA, and Mr. CULBERSON. H.R. 3956: Mr. VALADAO. H. Res. 576: Mr. FLEISCHMANN. H.R. 1415: Mr. CICILLINE. H.R. 3976: Mr. POSEY, Mr. COFFMAN, Mr. H. Res. 604: Mr. REICHERT and Mr. KIND. H.R. 1478: Mr. COURTNEY. WESTERMAN, Mr. SENSENBRENNER, Mr. JONES, H. Res. 610: Mr. SESSIONS.

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