E PL UR UM IB N U U S Congressional Record United States th of America PROCEEDINGS AND DEBATES OF THE 114 CONGRESS, FIRST SESSION

Vol. 161 WASHINGTON, TUESDAY, MARCH 24, 2015 No. 49 House of Representatives The House met at 9 a.m. and was AFGHANISTAN: THE GRAVEYARD The National Priorities Project says called to order by the Speaker pro tem- OF EMPIRES ‘‘$753.3 billion has been allocated for the war pore (Ms. FOXX). in Afghanistan since 2001, including $89.1 bil- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The lion in fiscal year 2014.’’ f Chair recognizes the gentleman from President Obama hopes to reduce U.S. North Carolina (Mr. JONES) for 5 min- DESIGNATION OF THE SPEAKER forces in Afghanistan to just 9,800 troops PRO TEMPORE utes. next year. But the money spigot will not be Mr. JONES. Mr. Speaker, last week turned off. The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- in the House Armed Services Com- Afghanistan is one of the poorest countries fore the House the following commu- mittee, we had a hearing on the budget nication from the Speaker: in the world. In Asia, only Bangladesh is for fiscal year 2016. Secretary of De- poorer. According to the World Food Pro- WASHINGTON, DC, fense Ashton Carter and Chairman of gramme, half the population lives below the March 24, 2015. the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Mar- poverty line; Afghanistan has one of the I hereby appoint the Honorable VIRGINIA tin Dempsey, both testified before the highest infant mortality rates in the world; FOXX to act as Speaker pro tempore on this and more than half the children under 5 day. committee, and I have great respect for years old are chronically malnourished. JOHN A. BOEHNER, both of them. I asked them if, after a Speaker of the House of Representatives. decade in Afghanistan, keeping troops Yet at one thing Afghanistan succeeds su- perbly: Afghanistan illegally produces and f in Afghanistan for 9 more years would even make a difference. exports opium, morphine and heroin in such RECESS Last year in his Politico article, quantities that, according to the United Na- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- ‘‘Down the Opium Rathole,’’ Roger tions Office on Drugs and Crime, Afghani- Simon argues, ‘‘If you spent 13 years stan is ‘‘practically the exclusive supplier of ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair the world’s deadliest drug [93% of the global declares the House in recess until 10 pounding money down a rathole with opiates market]. Leaving aside 19th-century a.m. today. little to show for it, you might wake China, that had a population at that time 15 Accordingly (at 9 o’clock and 1 up one morning and say: ‘Hey, I’m times larger than today’s Afghanistan, no minute a.m.), the House stood in re- going to stop pounding money down other country in the world has ever produced cess. this rathole.’ . . . Unfortunately, the narcotics on such a deadly scale.’’ f U.S. Government does not think this The United States has spent billions trying way. Even though our combat troops to stop this trade, but it has failed utterly. b 1000 are leaving Afghanistan, our money In fact, under U.S. occupation, drug produc- AFTER RECESS will continue to flow there, billion tion has increased. after billion.’’ The recess having expired, the House Opiates come from opium poppies, which Mr. Speaker, I submit this Politico are planted in profusion in Afghanistan. was called to order by the Speaker pro article for the RECORD. More than eight years ago, we decided to tempore (Mr. GRAVES of Louisiana) at [From Politico, Oct. 29, 2014] spray the poppy fields with herbicides, but 10 a.m. this was unpopular with the Afghan govern- DOWN THE OPIUM RATHOLE f ment, which didn’t want its illegal drug prof- (By Roger Simon) its to stop. And even some counterinsur- MORNING-HOUR DEBATE If you spent 13 years pounding money down gency experts feared that killing the opium The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- a rathole with little to show for it, you poppies would drive angry poppy farmers ant to the order of the House of Janu- might wake up one morning and say: ‘‘Hey, into the arms of the Taliban. I’m going to stop pounding money down this ary 6, 2015, the Chair will now recog- rathole.’’ Lots of people get confused between coun- nize Members from lists submitted by Unfortunately, the U.S. government does terinsurgency and counterterrorism, by the the majority and minority leaders for not think this way. way. A military expert once explained it to morning-hour debate. The U.S. government wakes up every me this way: The Chair will alternate recognition morning and says: ‘‘The rathole is looking a Counterinsurgency is when you try to win between the parties, with each party little empty today. Let’s pound a few more the hearts and minds of the people. billion dollars down there.’’ limited to 1 hour and each Member Counterterrorism is when you kill the peo- And when that rathole is Afghanistan, the ple and then try to win their hearts and other than the majority and minority billions are essentially without end. leaders and the minority whip limited Even though our combat troops are leaving minds. to 5 minutes, but in no event shall de- Afghanistan, our money will continue to The United States has tried both policies bate continue beyond 11:50 a.m. flow there, billion after billion. in Afghanistan for years.

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 04:58 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24MR7.000 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H1852 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 24, 2015 And while the Taliban has become adept at ing on U.S. policy in Afghanistan, be widely condemned the more clearly fighting counterterrorism, the Afghan gov- where I asked General John Campbell, people understand it. ernment has become adept at exploiting U.S. Army, commander of the Inter- We are back to the Medicare voucher, counterinsurgency. Take narcotics. How does a country that national Security Assistance Force and which may have a different name but is has few and terrible roads, like Afghanistan, United States Forces in Afghanistan, if still toxic. A measure of their under- get 93 percent of the world’s opiates out of he will ever have a successor who will standing of its unpopularity is their re- its country? be honest with Congress and the Amer- fusal to put it into effect for seniors One way is by air. And in January 2013, the ican people about the fact that we have now. Instead they would have people U.S. government said it would no longer done as much as we can do in Afghani- approaching retirement age in their grant contracts to a private Afghanistan air- stan. He did not give me a direct an- mid-fifties who will be able to enjoy line because the U.S. military’s anti-corrup- the benefits and uncertainty of a tion unit said the airline ‘‘was involved in swer, but his response was this: ‘‘For bulk opium smuggling.’’ very little continued investment, we vouchered Medicare program. But the Afghan government howled, and can make this a shining light of cen- It is silent on the transportation cri- the U.S. lifted its ban. tral Asia.’’ sis that is already upon us. The latest There are other examples, but only one Mr. Speaker, if I had had more time, transportation extension expires May conclusion. As Michael Lumpkin, assistant I would have asked General Campbell 31. Resources are not going to be avail- secretary of defense for special operations/ what his definition of ‘‘very little con- able to get us through this fiscal year, low-intensity conflict, said in a letter on let alone the next fiscal year that they Oct. 7: ‘‘In our opinion, the failure to reduce tinued investment’’ is when we have al- poppy cultivation and increase eradication is ready spent billions and billions of dol- would budget for. And if the budget due to the lack of Afghan government sup- lars and spilled blood in Afghanistan. that they have foreseen would some- port for the effort.’’ There are bridges, roads, educational how be enacted as written, the next fis- But over 12 years, the U.S. government needs, and veterans benefits to provide cal year would see massive cuts for pounded $7.6 billion down the drug eradi- here in the United States. Let’s focus every single State across the country cation rathole in Afghanistan. on their needs rather than on chasing for transportation. In a report last week, John Sopko, the U.S. It continues to chip away at the abil- special inspector general for Afghanistan re- something that will never happen. His- construction, said: ‘‘By every conceivable tory has proven Afghanistan will never ity of the Federal Government to hire metric, we’ve failed. Production and cultiva- change. It is a graveyard of empires. and maintain the skilled workforce tion are up, interdiction and eradication are Mr. Speaker, without a debate in Americans depend upon. One of the down, financial support to the insurgency is Congress, President Obama signed a Bi- most bizarre examples is their contin- up, and addiction and abuse are at unprece- lateral Security Agreement with Af- ued attack on the ability of the IRS, dented levels in Afghanistan.’’ ghanistan to keep our United States the Internal Revenue Service, to per- To our government, the solution was clear: form the functions necessary to finance Pound more money down the rathole. troops there for 9 more years. Let’s cut As The Washington Post recently reported: the 9 years to 3 or 4 years and bring our our government. ‘‘The State Department requested $137.5 mil- troops home. What business cripples its accounts lion in funding for counter-narcotics efforts Finally, with an ever-climbing $18 receivable department? And the proof in Afghanistan for fiscal year 2014, a $31 mil- trillion debt, the American people are of this approach is available to any lion increase over fiscal year 2012.’’ frustrated. Congress needs to impose American who tries to call the IRS to Further, the Senate Foreign Relations spending controls to save taxpayer get information. It is almost impos- Committee recently wrote a report saying sible to get through now, let alone with we should give Afghanistan ‘‘between $5 bil- money. lion and $8 billion annually for at least a Mr. Speaker, may God continue to the budget cuts that are anticipated. decade’’ even though most U.S. troops will bless our men and women in uniform, You can ask any CPA in your district (supposedly) be long gone by then. and may God continue to bless Amer- about the devastating effects of crip- So we have spent $7.6 billion on a drug ica. pling the IRS on not just the average eradication program that increased drug pro- f citizen, but even on people who can duction. And now we are planning to pour $50 hire the best legal and accounting serv- billion to $80 billion into that same country THE REPUBLICAN BUDGET ices available. over the next 10 years. And you know what worries me? Pretty The SPEAKER pro tempore. The While the IRS may be an attractive soon we are going to be talking about real Chair recognizes the gentleman from target for their assault on government, money. Oregon (Mr. BLUMENAUER) for 5 min- the attack is not limited to the Inter- Mr. JONES. In recent days, the waste utes. nal Revenue or the EPA. This budget of billions of dollars in Afghanistan has Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, will have crippling effects on the been dominating the headlines: this week marks the latest chapter in American way of life all across the March 20 of this year, ‘‘Afghanistan the drama of Republican control of country. This budgetary approach that Can’t Manage Billions in Aid, U.S. In- Congress. This is their first oppor- is already baked in produces fewer peo- spector Finds’’; March 14, 2015, ‘‘C.I.A. tunity with complete control of both ple to be able to deal with the services Cash Ended Up in Coffers of Al Qaeda’’; Chambers to bring into focus what for the exploding number of retired May 4, 2013, ‘‘Karzai Says He Was As- they would do governing, and the re- people seeking help from the Social Se- sured C.I.A. Would Continue Delivering sults aren’t pretty. curity Administration. It shortchanges Bags of Cash.’’ We are discussing this week a budget the maintenance of our national parks. Mr. Speaker, the squandering of bil- that has been labeled by press accounts It underfunds medical research that lions of U.S. taxpayer dollars by the that actually give them the benefit of can make a huge difference for Amer- Afghan Government is one small aspect the doubt as being phony or a disaster. ican families. of the rampant waste, fraud, and abuse It has been condemned by many con- Mr. Speaker, there are things that in Afghanistan. servative commentators as a sham. could be done. I introduced legislation The House is looking to vote on the The purported $5.5 trillion in budget this week, the REIN-IN Act, which budget produced by the Republican ma- savings over the next 10 years provides would cut $100 billion of unnecessary jority this week which continues bil- no good explanation about how it can spending on nuclear weapons over the lions of dollars the military deserves, actually be achieved. There is a trillion next 10 years. These savings could be but the billions of dollars going to Af- dollars in unspecified reductions used to shore up the Department of De- ghanistan are a waste. The Republican ‘‘other mandatory programs.’’ They fense without resorting to the budget budget also provides billions of dollars would abolish the Affordable Care Act, gimmicks that they are using. for emergency war funding to get but somehow keep all of the revenues That is the bitter reality of their around sequestration. Why do we have that finance it. budget approach. It is not their theat- sequestration in the first place? Be- There are a few areas of clarity rics or the creative terminology. Re- cause Congress has not passed an hon- which are hardly comforting. The publicans are avoiding the hard ques- est budget in years. ratcheting down support for our low-in- tions and reasonable solutions. It is A couple of weeks ago, the House come college students through Pell simply an assault on providing Ameri- Armed Services Committee had a hear- grants is hardly a step forward and will cans with the services they want, need,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:19 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24MR7.004 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE March 24, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1853 and deserve. The more people under- Bush turned to Governor Kean and over 171,000 Alabamians have selected a stand this, the sooner we are likely to former Indiana Congressman Lee Ham- plan and/or were automatically en- get the changes we need in the political ilton to chair the National Commission rolled in the ACA—that is over 171,000 process to get us back on course. on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United Alabamians. These citizens will be This budget may be a sham and a States. The two chairs led an exhaus- abandoned by the Republican budget fraud, but it contains dangerous ele- tive review of the intelligence, home- proposal and would not have insurance ments that will affect every family in land security, and governmental re- for quality health care. America. We can and should do better. sponse before and after the acts of ter- Furthermore, the Republican budget f ror perpetrated against this country. proposal does nothing to help The 9/11 Commission’s work and leader- incentivize job creation or put Ameri- CELEBRATING THE PUBLIC SERV- ship drew bipartisan acclaim and re- cans back to work. We are currently on ICE OF THE HONORABLE THOM- sulted in major reforms to improve our a path towards growth and prosperity. AS HOWARD KEAN Nation’s security preparedness. The Under President Obama’s leadership, The SPEAKER pro tempore. The United States is safer today thanks to the economy has added more than 12 Chair recognizes the gentleman from the tremendous work of Governor Kean million private sector jobs in the last New Jersey (Mr. LANCE) for 5 minutes. and his colleagues. 60 months. The Republican 2016 budget Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise I had the honor to serve as an assist- proposal would reverse those valuable today to recognize the distinguished ant counsel to Governor Kean in Tren- gains—12 million private sector jobs in public service of the Honorable Thomas ton and am honored now to call him a the last 60 months. Howard Kean, 48th Governor of New constituent in the congressional dis- Mr. Speaker, it is unfortunate that Jersey, who will become 80 years old trict I serve. I have learned continually instead of putting forth a budget that next month. Governor Kean is one of from Governor Kean, whether through would create jobs, balance our budget, the most respected statesmen in the observation or instruction, and I am and spur economic growth throughout country due to his tremendous con- among the many New Jerseyans who our country, we are once again seeing tributions to the civic life of New Jer- consider him a mentor. divisive politics at work. Instead of at- sey and of the Nation. Governor Kean is a wonderful son and tempting to balance the budget on the Governor Kean was born on April 21, brother, husband, father and grand- backs of American families, as this 1935, in New York City, to Elizabeth father, educator, leader, colleague, and budget proposal does, we should be Stuyvesant Howard and Robert Win- friend. He and his wife, the former seeking to find a fair and balanced plan throp Kean. His father served for 20 Deborah Bye of Wilmington, Delaware, to responsibly reduce our deficit, to years in the House of Representatives have raised three fine children, twin grow our economy, to strengthen our and became the ranking member on the sons, Thomas and Reed, and daughter, infrastructure, to spur innovation, and Ways and Means Committee. His Alexandra. His son, Thomas H. Kean, to create jobs. grandfather, Hamilton Fish Kean, was Jr., is my successor as minority leader As we move forward, it is my hope United States Senator from New Jer- in the New Jersey State Senate. that we will pass a 2016 Federal budget sey. Historians can trace his family’s On his 80th birthday, I congratulate that works for all Americans and long and proud history of public service Governor Thomas H. Kean and wish leaves no one behind. to William Livingston, signer of the him many years ahead of good health I ask my colleagues to vote ‘‘no’’ on United States Constitution and the and happiness. The United States of the Republican 2016 budget resolution. first Governor of New Jersey. Governor America owes him a significant debt of Kean was graduated from Princeton gratitude for all that he has done in f University in 1957, and after military service to the Nation. REPUBLICAN BUDGET PROPOSAL service returned to Livingston, New Jersey, named for his ancestor. f The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Governor Kean started his own ca- b 1015 Chair recognizes the gentleman from reer in public office with election to Pennsylvania (Mr. THOMPSON) for 5 the New Jersey General Assembly in REPUBLICAN FISCAL YEAR 2016 minutes. 1967. Known as a thoughtful and dili- BUDGET RESOLUTION Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. gent legislator, he was elected to lead The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Mr. Speaker, the House Republican the chamber in 1972, when he became Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from budget proposal released last week will the youngest speaker of the general as- Alabama (Ms. SEWELL) for 5 minutes. serve as a strong blueprint to put our sembly in New Jersey history. Gov- Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Mr. Speak- country on a long-term path to fiscal ernor Kean’s two successful campaigns er, today, I rise against the Republican responsibility and sustainability. for Governor of New Jersey were each fiscal year 2016 budget resolution. This Unlike the President’s proposed of historical significance: in 1981, his budget proposal would reduce critical budget, which is the same tax-and- election marked the closest margin of economic investments, undermine spend policies that have not worked for victory in State history, while his 1985 growth in our jobs, as well as attempt the President or the American people, reelection was the largest margin of to reduce the deficit on the backs of the House Republican proposal aims to victory ever recorded in a guber- our students, seniors, low-income fami- balance the budget within 10 years natorial race in our State. lies, and the American middle class. without ever raising taxes. Mr. Speaker, New Jersey saw signifi- The Republican 2016 budget abandons Mr. Speaker, yesterday, marked the cant improvements to public edu- our students. Our students, overall, are fifth anniversary of the Affordable Care cation, environmental protection, ac- our country’s future. It abandons our Act being signed into law. Let me be cess to high-quality health care, and students by making cuts to college aid, clear: ObamaCare is certainly not stable taxing and spending policies dur- research, job training, and innovation. worth celebrating. ing the Kean governorship. His most It also abandons our most vulnerable. The House majority budget proposal defining legacy was his record of inclu- It would end Medicare as we know it would repeal ObamaCare in full, in- sive public engagement that facilitated and make harmful changes to Med- cluding the tax increases, erroneous progress, compromise, and the ad- icaid, threatening our seniors across regulations, and mandates, all while vancement of the best interests of New this country. promoting freedom of choice, afford- Jersey. Following his time in Trenton, The 2016 Republican proposal also ability, and true patient-centered Governor Kean served for 15 years as threatens low-income families by re- health care solutions. president of Drew University in Madi- ducing the food stamp program and by Furthermore, the budget proposal son, New Jersey, where applications, repealing the Affordable Care Act, aims to further ensure a strong na- the physical structure, and the endow- leaving 16.4 million Americans who tional security, economic competitive- ment increased dramatically. now have access to quality, affordable ness, and an atmosphere that will fos- In the aftermath of the terrorist at- health care coverage without a viable ter positive growth throughout Penn- tacks of September 11, 2001, President option. In my State of Alabama alone, sylvania and all across the country.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:19 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.008 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H1854 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 24, 2015 I urge my colleagues on both sides of eryone with the impression that the resenting the nine letters in Eleftheria, the aisle to support a clear path for- United States could change its course meaning freedom. ward. The American people deserve as and abandon Israel at the U.N. I can’t Eight years of bloodshed and battle much. think of a worse message to send to our led to the Treaty of Adrianople, the f friends in Israel and a better gift to the formal declaration of a free and inde- anti-Israel factions of the international pendent Greece. BLACK LUNG BENEFITS community. Greece was the world’s first advanced The SPEAKER pro tempore. The The delegitimization efforts of Israel civilization, one that provided a cul- Chair recognizes the gentleman from are on the rise around the world and in tural heritage that has influenced the West Virginia (Mr. JENKINS) for 5 min- the United Nations. Israel needs its world. Firsts in philosophy, mathe- utes. friends in the United States now more matics, politics, sports, and art all Mr. JENKINS of West Virginia. Mr. than ever before. stemmed from a free Greece. Speaker, I come to the House floor These are bipartisan concerns, Mr. Liberty and justice, freedom to deter- today to introduce my first bill, a reso- Speaker. Republicans and Democrats mine the path of one’s own life, these lution to protect black lung benefits. alike want a strong U.S.-Israel rela- are human desires, and they were em- bodied by Greece throughout their Miners work hard to keep the lights tionship, and the days of this adminis- fight for independence. on, to power our homes and businesses, tration challenging and undercutting and to provide for their own families. Those unyielding Hellenes paid life Israel’s Prime Minister, regardless of In West Virginia alone, over 18,000 and limb for those desires, and genera- who that Prime Minister may be, must men and women work in the coal tions of Greeks for decades to come mines. It is good work, it is important stop. The stakes are far too high. The owe their ancestors thanks. work, work that puts food on the table challenges are amongst us. As George Washington once said: We have to stand and speak with one and provides a better life for their fam- ‘‘Liberty, when it begins to take ilies. united voice, Republicans and Demo- root, is a plant of rapid growth.’’ While great strides have been made crats alike, that we will stand shoul- This held true in Greece in 1821, as it in mine safety, some miners will still der-to-shoulder with our one true ally. did in America in 1776. develop black lung disease. This is not right versus left; this is ‘‘Freedom or Death’’ was the battle The Federal Government made a right versus wrong. cry of the revolutionaries nearly 200 promise decades ago to help coal min- f years ago. It rings true today. Freedom is a powerful and beautiful notion. ers and their families if miners develop GREEK INDEPENDENCE DAY black lung. Since 1973, miners have The Greek people achieved that for known that if they get black lung, the The SPEAKER pro tempore. The themselves 194 years ago, and I am Federal Government will be there and Chair recognizes the gentleman from proud to celebrate in memory of those stand up for them. More than 100,000 Florida (Mr. BILIRAKIS) for 5 minutes. who fought bravely to shed the shack- miners from West Virginia have filed Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise les of the Ottoman Empire. We celebrate Greek independence to for black lung benefits. And today, al- today to celebrate the 194th anniver- reaffirm the common democratic herit- most 5,000 miners and their families de- sary of Greek independence. Citizens of Greece have always been a age we share. And, as Americans, we pend on these benefits for care for their proud people, in body, mind, and spirit. must continue to pursue the spirit of families when they are no longer able From Pericles, the Greek statesman freedom and liberty, which character- to work. izes both of our great nations. Congress must uphold, protect, and and general, dubbed ‘‘the first citizen of Athens’’; to Plato, who laid a God bless America. Long live secure these crucial benefits for our Greece—Zito i Ellas. hardworking miners and their families. groundwork in philosophy so vast that the entirety of European philosophical The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- As we in Congress work on health care tleman from Florida will provide the reform, we must remember the miners tradition is said to simply be a foot- note to his work; to Count Ioannis Clerk a translation of his remarks for who toil above ground and underground the RECORD. to power our Nation. Any reforms must Kapodistrias, the first head of state of f secure the black lung benefits program an independent Greece, Greeks have and ensure that these critical benefits been exceptional. DENY AMNESTY CREDITS ACT OF will be available for our miners and I am almost certain that Thomas Jef- 2015 ferson cast an eye across the Atlantic their families. We made them a prom- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ise. We must keep that promise. towards Greece when he uttered these Chair recognizes the gentleman from words in 1821: f Texas (Mr. WEBER) for 5 minutes. ‘‘The flames kindled on the 4th of Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, REPUBLICANS AND DEMOCRATS July 1776 have spread over too much of today, I rise to speak on the recent in- WANT A STRONG U.S.-ISRAEL the globe to be extinguished by the fee- troduction of my bill, H.R. 1332, the RELATIONSHIP ble engines of despotism. On the con- Deny Amnesty Credits Act of 2015, in The SPEAKER pro tempore. The trary, they will consume these engines order to put our country and our Amer- Chair recognizes the gentleman from and all who work them.’’ icans first. Illinois (Mr. DOLD) for 5 minutes. It is no coincidence that the Feast of As a response to the President’s un- Mr. DOLD. Mr. Speaker, 4 years ago, Annunciation—Evangelismos—a com- authorized and illegal actions granting amid concerns of hostile treatment memoration of the conception of Jesus amnesty, my bill will prevent those against Israel at the United Nations, I Christ, is also celebrated on March 25, who are granted deferred action under launched an initiative where I wrote just as Greek Independence Day is cele- Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, letters to dozens of foreign ambas- brated. or DACA, and the Parents of Ameri- sadors to the United Nations and ex- I am blessed to be of two cultures cans and Lawful Permanent Residents, plained why it was important that they that have been beacons of freedom for or DAPA, from qualifying for the stood against anti-Israel actions at the all of civilization: the place of my earned income tax credit and the child U.N. birth, the land of the free and the home tax credit. I am saddened, Mr. Speaker, that the of the brave, the United States of As it stands, the President’s illegal United States is apparently now in America; and the land of my ancestors, executive amnesty would allow illegal need of such a letter. Recent public re- the birthplace of democracy, the Hel- aliens to obtain Social Security num- ports indicate that President Obama lenic Republic. bers and the ability to receive as much warned Prime Minister Netanyahu, Many Greeks fought for years, hold- as $35,000 of hardworking taxpayer fresh off of his democratic election by ing on to their heritage, culture, and moneys on their tax returns from the the Israeli people, that the U.S. will re- faith. Bishop Germanos of Patras United States Treasury. The money assess our options at the U.N. raised the emblem of freedom for Hel- that is from our hardworking tax- Think about that for a second, Mr. lenes, the flag bearing a white cross payers, don’t they deserve to be put Speaker. President Obama has left ev- and nine blue and white stripes rep- first?

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:09 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.005 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE March 24, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1855 b 1030 sonal lives, as well as their families this body for his delivering the morn- According to the Congressional Budg- and loved ones. ing prayer, and I ask my colleagues to et Office, this would cost American I pray for Your blessings upon our join me in making Pastor Fountain’s taxpayers $10.2 billion because of an il- Nation and upon our day. I love You, time in our Nation’s Capital warm and legal executive program never author- Lord. It is in the name of Jesus Christ inviting. ized by Congress. I pray. America can no longer be the world’s Amen. f ATM. This President has trampled f upon our Constitution and has cir- THE JOURNAL RESIGNATIONS AS MEMBER OF cumvented Congress to ensure his po- COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERV- The SPEAKER. The Chair has exam- litical legacy far too many times, and ICES AND COMMITTEE ON HOME- ined the Journal of the last day’s pro- it must stop. Instead of working with LAND SECURITY ceedings and announces to the House Congress to secure our borders and to his approval thereof. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. uphold the law of the land, this admin- Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Jour- SMITH of Nebraska) laid before the istration is offering executive amnesty nal stands approved. House the following resignations as a and tax credits to illegal aliens. Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, pursuant member of the Committee on Armed Mr. Speaker, it is time to put Amer- to clause 1, rule I, I demand a vote on Services and the Committee on Home- ica first. We must hold this administra- agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of land Security: tion accountable for actions that cir- the Journal. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, cumvent Congress’ constitutional The SPEAKER. The question is on Washington, DC, March 23, 2015. power of the purse, costing billions of the Speaker’s approval of the Journal. Hon. JOHN BOEHNER, taxpayer dollars—our taxpayers. The question was taken; and the Speaker, House of Representatives, The Capitol, My bill, the Deny Amnesty Credits Speaker announced that the ayes ap- Washington, DC. Act of 2015, will do just that. It will put peared to have it. DEAR SPEAKER BOEHNER: I write to offer America first. It will help put us on Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I object to my official resignation as a member of the that path. It will help our hard-work- House Armed Services Committee and the the vote on the ground that a quorum House Committee on Homeland Security, ef- ing Americans to be first and foremost is not present and make the point of in the hearts of us—of our Congress, fective today, March 23, 2015. Both commit- order that a quorum is not present. tees are vital to ensuring our nation is se- the elected Representatives—who are, The SPEAKER. Pursuant to clause 8, cure at home and abroad, and it has been and quite frankly, charged with putting rule XX, further proceedings on this honor and a privilege to serve on these two Americans first. question will be postponed. committees over the last four years. Mr. Speaker, did I mention? It is The point of no quorum is considered Sincerely, time to put America first. withdrawn. STEVEN M. PALAZZO, The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- Member of Congress. f bers are reminded to refrain from en- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Without gaging in personalities toward the PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE objection, the resignations are accept- President. The SPEAKER. Will the gentleman ed. f from Arkansas (Mr. HILL) come for- There was no objection. RECESS ward and lead the House in the Pledge The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- of Allegiance. f ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair Mr. HILL led the Pledge of Alle- declares the House in recess until noon giance as follows: ELECTING MEMBERS TO CERTAIN today. I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the STANDING COMMITTEES OF THE Accordingly (at 10 o’clock and 31 United States of America, and to the Repub- HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES lic for which it stands, one nation under God, minutes a.m.), the House stood in re- indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, by direction cess. f of the Republican Conference, I offer a f privileged resolution and ask for its b 1200 WELCOMING PASTOR DENNIS immediate consideration. FOUNTAIN AFTER RECESS The Clerk read the resolution, as fol- The SPEAKER. Without objection, lows: The recess having expired, the House the gentleman from Washington (Mr. H. RES. 165 was called to order by the Speaker at NEWHOUSE) is recognized for 1 minute. noon. Resolved, That the following named Mem- There was no objection. bers be, and are hereby, elected to the fol- f Mr. NEWHOUSE. Mr. Speaker, I rise lowing standing committees of the House of PRAYER with the honor to welcome today’s Representatives: Reverend Dennis Fountain, Moses guest chaplain, Pastor Dennis Foun- COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS: Mr. Lake Baptist Church, Moses Lake, tain, the pastor of Moses Lake Baptist Palazzo. COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES: Mr. Rus- Washington, offered the following Church in Moses Lake, Washington. sell. prayer: Pastor Fountain has crossed the Cas- Ms. FOXX (during the reading). Mr. Dear God and Heavenly Father, we cade Mountain divide to serve common Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that come before You today humbling our- needs on both sides of Washington the resolution be considered as read selves and seeking Your help. I want to State. Pastor Fountain began his min- and printed in the RECORD. thank You, first of all, for who You istry in 2006 as a youth pastor in Lake- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there are. wood, in western Washington. He head- Thank You for Your goodness, ed east across the Cascades to plant objection to the request of the gentle- mercy, and grace in each of our lives, Moses Lake Baptist Church, which first woman from North Carolina? and thank You for the blessings You opened its doors 4 years ago this There was no objection. The resolution was agreed to. give to us every day. month. Pastor Fountain also currently Lord, I want to thank You for each serves as the chaplain for the Grant A motion to reconsider was laid on and every Representative and all they County Sheriff’s Office. I would like to the table. do to direct our great country. I pray thank him for his faithfulness and f today that You would have your hand commitment to serve the needs of the of grace and guidance upon them. I people of our State, particularly first pray, God, that You would give them responders and the law enforcement ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER the wisdom they need on a daily basis community. PRO TEMPORE to fulfill the office You have appointed It is my privilege to welcome Pastor The SPEAKER pro tempore. The them to. Fountain and his wife, Hannah, to the Chair will entertain up to 15 requests I also ask that You would guide, en- House of Representatives as fellow for 1-minute speeches on each side of courage, and protect them in their per- Washingtonians. I extend the thanks of the aisle.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:09 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.007 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H1856 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 24, 2015 FLAT STANLEY This year’s run started in Ozark, Ar- 1940, the U.S. operated a clandestine (Ms. FOXX asked and was given per- kansas, last Friday and concluded at air support mission to protect the citi- mission to address the House for 1 the State capitol in Little Rock on zens of the Republic of China, carried minute.) Sunday afternoon. out by a courageous volunteer group of Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, I would like A team of Active Duty and Reserve pilots. Known as the Flying Tigers, to welcome a distinguished visitor to airmen, soldiers, marines, and Arkan- this group became the 14th Air Force the House floor today. sas State Police embarked on a 146- and included my father, the late First Flat Stanley is visiting Washington, mile memorial run to honor every Ar- Lieutenant Hugh Wilson. D.C., this week from Miss Martin’s sec- kansan who has died since the attacks America is eternally grateful that ond-grade class at Clemmons Elemen- on September 11, 2001. the Chinese military in 1942 rescued tary in Clemmons, North Carolina. I had the honor of attending the final most of the crews after 15 U.S. planes Through Flat Stanley’s adventures, the ceremony on Sunday afternoon and crashed in China following the Doo- students in Miss Martin’s class are was deeply moved to be in the presence little Raid, which had been formed at learning about geography and maps. of approximately 30 Gold Star families Columbia Army Air Base, South Caro- It has been more than 50 years since that were in attendance. lina. Stanley Lambchop was first flattened These men have served their country Today, I am encouraging everyone to by a bulletin board in Jeff Brown’s 1964 bravely, and their example and sac- recognize the critical importance of children’s classic. Today, the Flat rifice are ones all Americans and Ar- the U.S.-Taiwan relationship and its Stanley Project is a global literacy ac- kansans can admire. continuation. tivity that engages hundreds of thou- f In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President by his actions sands of children and includes more JUST THE FACTS than 6,000 schools registered in 88 coun- never forget September the 11th in the tries around the world. (Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of global war on terrorism. It has been my pleasure to show Flat New York asked and was given permis- f Stanley around the U.S. Capitol. I hope sion to address the House for 1 minute.) Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New VETERANS EDUCATION TAX he has a safe trip back to North Caro- SECURITY ACT lina’s Fifth Congressional District and York. Mr. Speaker, as Congress debates that Miss Martin’s class enjoys learn- how to best craft the 2016 budget pro- (Mr. GALLEGO asked and was given ing about his visit to Congress. posal, I hope that heavier consider- permission to address the House for 1 ation will be given to reality over ide- minute.) f ology. Mr. GALLEGO. Mr. Speaker, today, INCREASE HARBOR MAINTENANCE Let’s look at the facts of what has veterans who are disabled can get their FUNDING actually worked in the past and what Federal student loan debt discharged. (Ms. HAHN asked and was given per- has not. Because in real life, the facts But, unfortunately, the Department of mission to address the House for 1 show that Democratic administrations Education reports discharged debt to minute.) have outperformed the Republican ad- the IRS, where it is considered as in- Ms. HAHN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to call ministrations in creating jobs by a sig- come for Federal and possible State on Congress to keep its promise to in- nificant margin. tax purposes. In many instances, hav- vest in our Nation’s ports. The most recent jobs report, for in- ing Federal student loan debt dis- The harbor maintenance tax col- stance, showed that the economy added charged results in a substantial tax li- lected at our ports should be returned another 295,000 jobs in February. That ability. to our ports, not stockpiled or diverted is the 60th consecutive month of pri- That is why I am introducing the to other spending. vate sector job growth, and the longest Veterans Education Tax Security Act— For years, only about 50 percent of streak in history that has been re- the VETS Act. This bill will ensure the tax was returned to our ports. The corded. that disabled veterans, deceased vet- harbor maintenance trust fund now has Over the past 5 years, the American erans, and deceased members of the a surplus of approximately $9 billion. automobile industry added over 500,000 Armed Forces are not financially pe- Last year, with bipartisan support, jobs due to the Democratic-led restruc- nalized when their Federal student we passed the Water Resources Reform turing. loan debts are lawfully discharged. and Development Act, which set tar- And during the past 4 years, while As veterans ourselves, Congressman gets for annual increases in usage of our friends on the other side of the ZINKE and I both understand the impor- the trust fund, leading to 100 percent aisle predicted hyperinflation, the col- tance of putting politics aside to sup- use by the year 2025. lapse of the dollar, and worse, we put port our soldiers and veterans who I have offered an amendment to the more people back to work than all have risked their whole lives and their budget resolution to meet that target other advanced economies combined. families to defend our country. They, funding level for 2016 established in Let’s face the facts and consider or their families, should not be penal- WRRDA, and I am disappointed that what has worked in the real world in ized when Federal student loans are the Rules Committee did not rule it in creating jobs. forgiven because of death or disability. order. f I thank Congressman ZINKE for his To keep our United States ports glob- support on this issue and look forward CELEBRATION OF U.S.-TAIWAN ally competitive, we should fully use to working with my colleagues on both RELATIONSHIP the harbor maintenance trust fund to sides of the aisle to champion fairness maintain and improve our harbors and (Mr. WILSON of South Carolina for our veterans. navigation channels. asked and was given permission to ad- f f dress the House for 1 minute and to re- vise and extend his remarks.) FIGHTING FOR OUR FISHING ARKANSAS RUN FOR THE FALLEN Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. INDUSTRY (Mr. HILL asked and was given per- Speaker, I am grateful to celebrate the (Mr. GUINTA asked and was given mission to address the House for 1 strong relationship between Taiwan permission to address the House for 1 minute.) and the United States. With the 70th minute and to revise and extend his re- Mr. HILL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today anniversary of the ending of World War marks.) to recognize the fourth annual Arkan- II this year and the 36th anniversary of Mr. GUINTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise sas Run for the Fallen. Congratula- the Taiwan Relations Act on April 10, today in support of one of New Hamp- tions too to run organizer Chief Master we can reflect how this relationship shire’s most vital industries—the fish- Sergeant Bubba Beason. has been beneficial for both countries. ing industry. Several years ago, to honor Arkan- Prior to World War II, America rec- For nearly 400 years, our fishing in- sas’ fallen heroes, the Arkansas Run ognized the importance of protecting dustry has helped sustain and build our for the Fallen was created. the Chinese people from invaders. In local economy in the seacoast region of

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:04 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.011 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE March 24, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1857 New Hampshire, providing thousands of Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. nation each March, and to pay respect steady jobs and millions of dollars in Mr. Speaker, on March 1, Penn State to those women across the generations economic opportunity for the Granite University’s public television station, who have been trailblazers in so many State annually. WPSU-TV, celebrated its 50th anniver- ways, including in our military. Unfortunately, increasing and con- sary. In 1944, one such remarkable woman stantly evolving government mandates On March 1, 1965, WPSU transmitted was blazing trails in the skies over are threatening to put an end to this its first broadcast signal from atop what is now Nellis Air Force Base, very historic industry. Penfield Mountain, and viewers for the which is in my district. Betty Wall, At a time when our Nation’s job cre- first time watched ‘‘Saludos Amigos,’’ whom I had the opportunity to speak ators are already struggling to add an introductory Spanish class aimed at to yesterday, was one of those Women jobs, increase revenue, and compete schoolchildren across central Pennsyl- Airforce Service Pilots during World with cheaper international companies, vania. Since that initial broadcast, War II. the last thing that we should require of WPSU has dedicated itself to informing When a skeptical male pilot would them is to spend their already limited and engaging central Pennsylvania climb into her aircraft for training, she time and resources on adhering to communities and beyond. treated him to an introductory flight pages and pages of costly Federal regu- More recently, WPSU has looked to he would never forget. As she put the lations. make a global impact by expanding its aircraft through its incredible combat It is my charge to fight for regu- documentary production. WPSU-TV maneuvers, the guy in the backseat latory relief and to strengthen New has produced several award-winning had no choice but to marvel at her Hampshire’s commercial fishing indus- projects, such as ‘‘Telling Amy’s skill and expertise, on par with the try, which for so long has been an es- Story,’’ which has reached more than 6 men who were allowed to go into com- sential part of the New England tradi- million people through on-air broad- bat. tion. casts, online, and at various commu- In 2010, Ms. Wall and her fellow This remains one of my top prior- nity events. WASPs received the well-deserved ities, and I will continue to work tire- Mr. Speaker, today, WPSU-TV honor of the Congressional Gold Medal. lessly in a bipartisan fashion with the reaches approximately 515,000 house- Now, decades later, she has been fol- New England region to preserve this in- holds in 29 counties through cable, sat- lowed by many other female pilots who dustry, which is so essential to our ellite, and over-the-air delivery. continue to break barriers and lead the Granite State. As a graduate of Penn State Univer- way. f sity, I am so proud of all that WPSU- That is why, Mr. Speaker, I call on us b 1215 TV has accomplished, and I urge my as a nation to pay tribute to these colleagues to join me in recognizing amazing women during the month of SUPPORT THE DEMOCRATIC them for 50 terrific years. March. BUDGET f f (Mr. KILDEE asked and was given VETERANS MEDICAL ACCESS ACT LIFTING DEFENSE AND permission to address the House for 1 NONDEFENSE BUDGET CAPS minute.) (Ms. BROWNLEY of California asked Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, last week, and was given permission to address (Mrs. DINGELL asked and was given the Republicans released their budget, the House for 1 minute.) permission to address the House for 1 which is a roadmap of their priorities Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. minute.) and their values. Just as has been the Speaker, as Members of Congress, we Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, as the case for the past few years, it comes as have a responsibility to serve our vet- House begins to prepare to discuss the no surprise that this budget will erans as well as they have served us next year’s fiscal budget, we need a squeeze hard-working American fami- and our country. That means a lifelong budget that supports hard-working lies and make them, again, work hard- commitment to their health and well- Americans, not one that puts our fami- er and get less. being. lies in jeopardy. One of our priorities must be to end Veterans who are severely disabled or The GOP budget ends Medicare as we the across-the-board sequestration cuts blinded after they return home are eli- know it; it cuts Pell grants; it deci- that have strangled our investments in gible for medical care at VA specialty mates Head Start, and it doubles down national priorities like education, re- rehabilitation clinics, where we can on policies that put working families search, and innovation. Unfortunately, improve their quality of life and inde- further behind. One thing that we all this GOP budget goes further and jeop- pendence; but, too often, veterans can- need to fear in this budget is the harm- ardizes national security by keeping not afford the cost of the trip. ful, arbitrary budget caps on both our sequester cuts on our military and our The Blinded Veterans Association of nondefense and defense programs. defense needs. America estimates that, even though These caps hurt all Americans and Sadly, the past few months of Con- these VA clinics have long wait lists, make our military vulnerable. gress have been nothing more than one of four beds is empty because vet- Our military leadership has made continued giveaways to special inter- erans who need care cannot afford to clear that the budget caps are harming ests and the wealthy and pandering to pay for transportation for their care. our national security. Michigan is an the most extreme voices, the Tea Party That is why I have introduced the important northern border State, and voices in Congress. Veterans Medical Access Act, legisla- at too many places, like at the Today, the Democrats released our tion to reimburse blinded and severely Selfridge Air National Guard Base in budget. This is a budget that works for disabled veterans for travel expenses in Michigan, our men and women in uni- hard-working Americans. It protects Ventura County and across the country form face dramatic cuts to the critical national security. It gives so they can access the lifesaving and training and equipment they need to Michiganders and families all across life-changing care they need. defend our country. America the tools they need to buy a I hope that my colleagues will join We can’t afford more unrealistic house, to send their kids to college, me in support of this critical legisla- budget gimmicks or plans that just and to save for a decent retirement. tion. kick the can down the road. We need to We have got to put away these fights. f take up a serious budget, which the Democrats will offer this week. f TRAILBLAZER BETTY WALL f WPSU-TV CELEBRATES ITS 50TH (Mr. HARDY asked and was given ANNIVERSARY permission to address the House for 1 SUPPORT THE DEMOCRATIC (Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania minute.) BUDGET asked and was given permission to ad- Mr. HARDY. Mr. Speaker, I rise (Mr. PALLONE asked and was given dress the House for 1 minute and to re- today in recognition of Women’s His- permission to address the House for 1 vise and extend his remarks.) tory Month, which we celebrate as a minute.)

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:04 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.012 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H1858 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 24, 2015 Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, accord- National Guard base at Martin State first reading of the concurrent resolution ing to the CBO, the House Republican Airport. I am a member of the Defense shall be dispensed with. All points of order budget’s cuts to SNAP would drive the Appropriations Subcommittee and am against consideration of the concurrent reso- poorest working families deeper into co-chair of the Army Caucus. I am the lution are waived. General debate shall not exceed four hours, with three hours of gen- poverty and would increase hunger in former ranking member of the Intel- eral debate confined to the congressional our communities. ligence Committee. budget equally divided and controlled by the The Republican budget would cut as I have sat through hearing after chair and ranking minority member of the many as 60 million people from SNAP, hearing in which the leaders of our Committee on the Budget and one hour of most of whom are working, and cuts of Armed Forces have all testified that, if general debate on the subject of economic this magnitude would be tragic for mil- sequestration is not repealed, it will goals and policies equally divided and con- lions of hard-working Americans and make our country weaker against the trolled by Representative Brady of Texas and their families. Basically, the House Re- threats that exist today, from ter- Representative Carolyn Maloney of New York or their respective designees. After publican budget makes people work rorism to cyber, including the Russia- general debate the concurrent resolution harder for less. China threat. shall be considered for amendment under the Today, the Democrats introduced an These outdated spending levels are five-minute rule. The concurrent resolution alternative budget, and this Demo- putting our national security at risk shall be considered as read. No amendment cratic budget works for hard-working and are damaging our credibility shall be in order except those printed in the Americans. First, it makes it easier to throughout the world. The across-the- report of the Committee on Rules accom- own a home; second, easier to send kids board cuts of sequestration take away panying this resolution. Each such amend- to college; third, easier to have a se- all ability to make strategic decisions ment may be offered only in the order print- ed in the report, may be offered only by a cure and enjoyable retirement. on the things we keep and the things Member designated in the report, shall be Once again, the difference between we cut. Budgeting is the science of pri- considered as read, and shall be debatable for the two: House Republicans want orities, not cutting across the board. the time specified in the report equally di- Americans to work harder for less; We must ensure our Armed Forces vided and controlled by the proponent and an Democrats, on the other hand, want to and intelligence community have the opponent. All points of order against such help hard-working Americans. resources they need to do their jobs amendments are waived. If more than one such amendment is adopted, then only the f around the world and to protect our country and our families. The alter- one receiving the greater number of affirma- VETERAN SPOUSES EQUAL tive votes shall be considered as finally native Democratic budget released TREATMENT ACT adopted. In the case of a tie for the greater today does that by repealing sequestra- number of affirmative votes, then only the (Ms. TITUS asked and was given per- tion. last amendment to receive that number of mission to address the House for 1 f affirmative votes shall be considered as fi- minute.) nally adopted. After the conclusion of con- Ms. TITUS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today COMMUNICATION FROM THE sideration of the concurrent resolution for on behalf of the LGBT veterans, who CLERK OF THE HOUSE amendment and a final period of general de- face discrimination by the very govern- bate, which shall not exceed 10 minutes The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- equally divided and controlled by the chair ment they fought to defend, and I urge fore the House the following commu- my colleagues to join me in ending this and ranking minority member of the Com- nication from the Clerk of the House of mittee on the Budget, the Committee shall injustice. Representatives: rise and report the concurrent resolution to Two years ago, DOMA was struck OFFICE OF THE CLERK, the House with such amendment as may down, and most Federal benefits were HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, have been finally adopted. The previous effectively extended to legally married Washington, DC, March 24, 2015. question shall be considered as ordered on same-sex couples; yet an outdated law Hon. JOHN A. BOEHNER, the concurrent resolution and amendments continues to bar access to VA benefits The Speaker, U.S. Capitol, thereto to adoption without intervening mo- for LGBT veteran families in States House of Representatives, Washington, DC. tion except amendments offered by the chair that do not recognize marriage equal- DEAR MR. SPEAKER: Pursuant to the per- of the Committee on the Budget pursuant to mission granted in Clause 2(h) of Rule II of section 305(a)(5) of the Congressional Budget ity. Act of 1974 to achieve mathematical consist- Our men and women in uniform do the Rules of the U.S. House of Representa- tives, the Clerk received the following mes- ency. The concurrent resolution shall not be not serve in defense of a particular sage from the Secretary of the Senate on subject to a demand for division of the ques- State, but of the United States. All March 24, 2015 at 9:18 a.m.: tion of its adoption. veterans should have access to all Fed- Appointments: The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- eral benefits, regardless of where they Board of Directors of the Office of Compli- tleman from Georgia is recognized for 1 live, just as they do when they are in ance. hour. the military. With best wishes, I am Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, for the Sincerely, When President Lincoln laid out his purpose of debate only, I yield the cus- KAREN L. HAAS. vision for caring for veterans, he said tomary 30 minutes to the gentlewoman we should support those ‘‘who shall f from New York (Ms. SLAUGHTER), pend- have borne the battle.’’ He didn’t say PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION ing which I yield myself such time as I anything about discriminating against OF H. CON. RES. 27, CONCURRENT may consume. During consideration of some because of who they love. RESOLUTION ON THE BUDGET this resolution, all time yielded is for Please join me in ending this injus- FOR FISCAL YEAR 2016 the purpose of debate only. tice, and support the bipartisan Vet- 1230 eran Spouses Equal Treatment Act, Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, by di- b which I will introduce tomorrow. rection of the Committee on Rules, I Mr. Speaker, I was looking around to call up House Resolution 163 and ask f see if folks were getting goosebumps as for its immediate consideration. the Reading Clerk was reading the SUPPORT THE DEMOCRATIC The Clerk read the resolution, as fol- rule. I was. I think that if folks were BUDGET lows: honest with themselves, they would be (Mr. RUPPERSBERGER asked and H. RES. 163 getting some goosebumps, too, because was given permission to address the Resolved, That at any time after the adop- we don’t always have the most open of House for 1 minute.) tion of this resolution the Speaker may, pur- processes around here. It is hard. We Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Mr. Speak- suant to clause 2(b) of rule XVIII, declare the have 435 of us. We all represent dif- er, I rise today against the majority House resolved into the Committee of the ferent districts, constituents that often resolution, which fails to repeal seques- Whole House on the state of the Union for have different hopes and dreams, dif- consideration of the concurrent resolution tration. (H. Con. Res. 27) establishing the budget for ferent challenges that they face. It is I am proud to represent not one, but the United States Government for fiscal year not easy to craft a process that allows two Army bases, Fort Meade and Aber- 2016 and setting forth appropriate budgetary every Member of this institution to deen Proving Ground, as well as an Air levels for fiscal years 2017 through 2025. The have a voice.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:04 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.014 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE March 24, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1859 It is particularly not easy to allow we can come together as a body and the Republican budget from the major- every Member of this institution to begin this debate, I don’t know which ity’s allies and its own members. have a voice on something as impor- budget is going to pass at the end of The American Enterprise Institute tant as the budget of the United States the day, but I know this: I know Amer- said about this budget: ‘‘The House of America. That is big, $3.8 trillion ica will be the better for us having a GOP leadership took the easy way worth of big. And yet what you just process that includes absolutely every out.’’ heard from the Reading Clerk, Mr. voice in this Chamber, and I know that A Republican Member and Army vet- Speaker, is that if we pass this rule, our chances of turning this budget eran said that this budget ‘‘makes our this rule that my colleagues and I on process, this collection of hopes and country weaker.’’ the Committee on Rules sorted out dreams that are in a document into the Another member of the House major- yesterday, if we pass this rule, we will law of the land to make a difference in ity said: ‘‘I am tired of seeing gim- begin the process that will allow a de- the lives of families in each of our dis- micks in the budget process; I am tired bate on every single budget submitted tricts back home, the chances of that of seeing gimmicks in the legislative by every single Member of this House. happening will be much, much greater. process.’’ Now, Mr. Speaker, I have written Mr. Speaker, I have got lots to say Finally, summing it up nicely, one those budgets in the past. That is not about the budgets we have introduced, Republican Member said, ‘‘It’s all an easy job. There is a reason we are I have lots to say about the numbers hooey.’’ not going to consider 435 budgets. It is that are behind those budgets, but I Mr. Speaker, I include for the a big, big job. But more than being big don’t want to slow down what I know is RECORD several news reports docu- in that it requires hundreds and hun- going to be a bipartisan day and a bi- menting the criticisms of the GOP dreds of hours, it is big in that it re- partisan budget week. budget. quires you to put your money where So, with that, I reserve the balance [From CNN, March 18, 2015] your mouth is. That is not a task that of my time. HOUSE GOP MEMBERS THREATENING TO TAKE folks often step up to the microphone Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I BUDGET DOWN OVER DEFENSE to take on in this town, Mr. Speaker, thank the gentleman for yielding me (By Deirdre Walsh) but today we have budgets from the the customary 30 minutes, and I yield WASHINGTON.—A sizeable bloc of House Re- Progressive Caucus; we have budgets myself such time as I may consume. publicans are vowing to defeat the GOP from the Democratic minority on the Mr. Speaker, we have some good eco- budget that was unveiled on Tuesday, argu- Committee on the Budget; we have nomic news: the private sector has ing it shortchanges defense programs at a budgets from the Republican Study added 12 million new jobs over the last time that multiple national security threats Committee; we have budgets from the 60 months, 5 years; our national unem- around the world means Pentagon spending House Committee on the Budget and ployment rate is down to 5.5 percent; should be boosted. we have reduced the deficit from 9.8 ‘‘As a Republican I do not want our budget more. Every group that decided that to go down. But as a veteran and somebody they didn’t run for this job to make percent of our economy to nearly 3 per- who has served in the Army I am not going campaign speeches but they ran for cent; 16.4 million people now have af- to be part of something that I believe that this job to make a difference has a fordable health care who didn’t have it makes our country weaker,’’ Florida GOP chance to put their money where their before. These are good economic indi- Rep. Tom Rooney told reporters Tuesday. mouth is. cators, and we are moving in the right Failure to pass a budget won’t trigger any My friends in the Progressive Caucus, direction, but there is more to do to crisis—budget resolutions are nonbinding Mr. Speaker, if we pass this rule, we ensure that our economy gets and and essentially symbolic documents. They do set spending levels for various government will be allowed to vote on a Progressive stays stronger. What we can’t afford to do at this agencies and outline the party’s priorities Caucus budget. My back-of-the-enve- for reforming entitlement programs and the lope calculations suggest that their critical juncture is endanger all of the tax code, but they lack the force of law. budget proposes increasing taxes by al- progress we have made by pursuing But if House Speaker John Boehner can’t most $7 trillion—$7 trillion. I don’t this drastic austerity agenda, and that cobble together enough votes from his own support that kind of tax increase, but is what the Republican budget is. They members for a budget, he will add another by golly, we ought to have a conversa- have an almost religious commitment embarrassing setback to a pile of failed ef- tion about it. There are folks who are to slashing government to pay for tax forts this year. Boehner and Senate Majority cuts for the wealthy. So they propose Leader Mitch McConnell pledged that total down here who are willing to rec- GOP control of Congress meant they would ommend it. We should be willing to severe cuts to everything except the prove their party can govern and showcasing count the votes and see if it wins or military, even though it means de- a unified budget is key to that pledge. whether it loses. stroying Medicare coverage that was Last month, Ohio Republican Rep. Mike I sit on the House Committee on the promised to seniors, cutting education Turner, a senior member of the Armed Serv- Budget as well as the Committee on funding that we need to help our chil- ices Committee, got 70 House Republicans to Rules, Mr. Speaker. Our budget doesn’t dren compete in the global economy, sign a letter insisting that defense programs raise taxes at all, at least not the tax literally taking food out of the mouths receive a minimum of $561 billion that was rates. We believe if you implement a of the poor, and snatching health in- included in President Barack Obama’s budg- et plan. responsible budget, we are going to see surance away from millions who now Republican budget writers, however, were the economic engine of America begin have access to affordable care coverage put in a box because of the automatic across to churn once again. We believe reve- for the first time. the board spending cuts, known as sequestra- nues are going to rise because it turns Not only would the House majority tion, put into place by a previous budget law. out, if you don’t make any money, you raise taxes on the poor and give a Those cuts cap defense spending at $523 bil- can’t pay any taxes. If you get the $50,000 tax break to millionaires—a lion. economy going, tax revenues begin to play that some like to call the reverse To address concerns from defense hawks, take care of themselves. Reduce about Robin Hood—but the House majority the House Budget Committee used an ac- would slash funding for bridges and counting trick and added more than $30 bil- $5.5 trillion in spending, that is what lion in defense money to the ‘‘Overseas Con- the House Committee on the Budget roads and gut funding for law enforce- tingency Operations,’’ an emergency fund proposes. ment and schools, double down on that doesn’t count toward their total spend- I don’t know where the votes are trickle-down economics and dynamic ing number. On top of that money the com- going to shake out, Mr. Speaker, and I scoring, a failed and discredited set of mittee created a separate $20 billion reserve am excited to find out. So often you policies that we know don’t work. fund to add more savings from other pro- come to the House floor, it has been That is how the House majority grams and promised to set both pots of pre-scripted: The votes have been wants to govern the greatest democ- money aside for defense. racy on Earth, by cutting our way to But multiple House Republicans told CNN counted; the process has been closed; it the move is merely a gimmick. is just more of a show up and vote to prosperity. Not only is it dangerous, it ‘‘I don’t think that it’s fair game—I think give it some finality. But not so today. is mathematically impossible. It just it’s fairy dust stuff,’’ Rooney said. If we can come together as a Com- doesn’t add up. But don’t take my word The top Democrat on the House Budget mittee on Rules and pass this rule, if for it. Here are some of the reactions to Committee, Rep. Chris Van Hollen, also

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:04 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.018 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H1860 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 24, 2015 seized on the way Republicans structured about $112 billion below what former Sec- since it creates inefficiency and drives up Pentagon money, saying on Wednesday the retary of Defense Robert Gates thought program and planning costs across the larg- GOP budget ‘‘plays a shameless shell game would be necessary for the Pentagon when he est federal agency. with our defense spending. It would make crafted his final budget in 2012. Enron accountants blush.’’ As an attempt to appease both budget and [From The Examiner, March 17, 2015] Boehner and his lieutenants also know fiscal hawks, the House budget seeks to off- CONSERVATIVES QUESTION ‘GIMMICKS’ IN some conservatives won’t back the measure set a lower base defense budget by increasing HOUSE GOP’S DEFENSE BUDGET Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO) because they want bolder reforms, but threat (By Tara Copp) from Republicans who want to see bolstered ‘‘wartime’’ spending. That is because these defense spending is real. emergency funds are exempt from budget Republican budget leaders announced a fis- GOP Rep. Adam Kinzinger ticked off a list caps and essentially ‘‘off the books.’’ cal 2016 plan Tuesday that appeases the de- of flashpoints across the globe—ISIS in the While the House GOP budget would osten- fense hawks in their party by nearly dou- Middle East, Ukraine, Boko Haram—that sibly increase Pentagon OCO funding to bling wartime spending, but the move has weren’t major threats in 2011, arguing the about $90 billion compared to the Obama ad- prompted pushback from their most conserv- trend shows the need to respond to growing ministration’s 2016 request of roughly $51 bil- ative flanks, highlighting the challenges threats, not cut back. lion, much of this increase is an illusion. ahead. ‘‘It’s a totally different world we live in First, the plan uses a budgetary procedure Nine conservative House Republicans who and I think we have to recognize that,’’ he known as a deficit-neutral reserve fund to in- hosted a discussion with reporters shortly told CNN, adding he’s not sure how he will crease OCO spending by more than $20 bil- after the budget’s release said they want ‘‘to vote on the current measure and hopes it lion. Reserve funds call for increased spend- get to yes’’ on the GOP’s plan, but they will be changed. ing in certain areas but only upon the condi- raised concerns about the plan’s direction. House Republican leaders also can’t afford tion that offsetting cuts or revenues are gen- They questioned whether additional mili- to lose more an a couple dozen of their own erated elsewhere. tary spending has been properly vetted, members on this vote, because Democrats Without corresponding deficit reduction, noted that the sequester-immune account will surely oppose the measure which repeals reserve funds do not lead to increased spend- boosting military spending is not in line Obamacare and cuts food stamp and edu- ing. This means that while the House plan with the promises they made to their con- cation programs. promises about $39 billion in OCO spending stituents to deliver a balanced budget, and There remains hope by some in the GOP, over the president’s request, about half of pointed out that the added defense needs will though, that they can strike a balance that this increase will not materialize. require concessions to Democrats that will works for the majority of the caucus. Realistically, the Pentagon should expect further distance the party from its political But even if House Republicans figure out a no more than about $569 billion from the goals. way to pass this budget, the constraints on House budget between base and wartime ‘‘Republicans are in the majority, but con- future proposals will persist until Democrats spending—well under the $585 billion the servatives are not,’’ said Rep. Thomas and Republicans broker a compromise to do president requested. Massie, R-Ky. But he added that the final away with the automatic cuts that they Even if taken at face value, the OCO in- bill will need to address conservatives’ con- agree are unworkable for both domestic and crease contained in the House budget will cerns. ‘‘There are a lot more conservatives defense programs. not make up for years of neglected Pentagon than are at this table today.’’ ‘‘Both sides need to come together and put modernization and readiness. The reality is Lawmakers said they specifically invited their grown up pants on and figure out how that the base budget and war spending ac- four officers and agents to testify. do we overcome this issue,’’ Kinzinger said. counts buy different outcomes and effects. The members were also doubtful that they A budget resolution brokered between the Emergency funds buy mostly perishable could garner enough intra-party support for two chambers is supposed to be negotiated items like readiness, maintenance, training, the blueprint to move the bill through on a by April 15th so spending panels can move and war-related consumables like fuel. This process known as reconciliation, due to dif- forward with their work. makes OCO spending the equivalent of a ferences on spending within their party. sugar high. It contains empty calories that Reconciliation, if enough Republicans [From AEI, March 17, 2015] are rapidly consumed by ongoing operations, agree to it, would allow the budget to be but does not provide for the long-term health passed on a simple majority, effectively cut- HOUSE GOP 2016 BUDGET RESOLUTION IS DOA of the military. Only robust and predictable ting out Senate Democrats’ ability to block (By Mackenzie Eaglen) base budgets—as the bipartisan National De- it. Even though House Republicans just un- fense Panel recommended—can provide long- ‘‘We need to make sure we are the party of veiled their draft budget for the next ten term funding for readiness, force structure fiscal conservatism,’’ said Rep. Justin years, it is already painfully clear how this and modernization. Amash, R–Mich. ‘‘I understand some of the is going to end for defense. Moreover, by relying on debt-financed sup- concerns from defense hawks who want to 1. The House budget resolution will not plemental money to put a Band-Aid on the blow through the [spending] caps. But I’m have enough votes to pass as written. There military’s growing wounds, the House budget tired of seeing gimmicks in the budget proc- will be no conference with the Senate as a provides a false sense of accomplishment of ess. I’m tired of seeing gimmicks in the leg- result. having ‘‘fixed’’ defense. The unfortunate re- islative process. 2. The defense appropriations bill that ality is that it does not. While the budget ‘‘At the end of the day, if you want to in- passes the House will match the legal spend- does propose increased defense spending in crease spending on programs Republicans ing caps for the core defense budget at $499 the future, the only year that matters is like, you are going to have to accept some billion for 2016. 2016. And, in 2016, the House GOP plan keeps compromise for Democrats. So for those who 3. Congress will seek to add additional current spending caps locked in. Not only is are pushing for higher spending, they’d bet- emergency supplemental funds—or overseas that insufficient, but the president is sure to ter be prepared to go to higher spending on contingency operations (OCO) money—for veto the defense spending bill when it ulti- Democratic programs and possibly tax in- defense above President Obama’s levels, but mately hits his desk at these levels. creases.’’ much of it will ultimately be stripped out For three and a half years, the military In the 2016 plan, which House Budget Com- during floor debate. has languished under the Budget Control mittee Chairman Tom Price, R–Ga., an- 4. The defense spending bills that pass in Act’s irresponsible defense cuts as threats nounced Tuesday, keeps the Defense Depart- both chambers will not become law. Most around the world have increased. While both ment’s baseline budget to the $523 billion se- likely, the federal government will start the political parties share in the responsibility quester cap—but then adds another $94 bil- fiscal year operating under another con- for passage of the Budget Control Act, the lion in the wartime fund known as the over- tinuing resolution (CR). GOP now controls Congress. The House budg- seas contingency operations account, which 5. All eyes will turn to the Budget Com- et resolution is clear that defense is only one is not subject to sequester caps. mittee chairmen to craft a follow on to the priority of many, and one far down the line ‘‘That’s one of the issues I am having with Ryan-Murray Bipartisan Budget Act to at that. the budget,’’ said Rep. Rau´ l Labrador, R– stanch the bleeding and triage the patient The House GOP leadership took the easy Idaho. ‘‘I think if you are going to plus up (defense) while providing some fiscal cer- way out—politically and budgetary. This res- military spending you should have to do it tainty and relief for the military later this olution will do little to draw support from within the budget—not in a separate [war- summer or early fall. policymakers with a deep understanding of time] account. I think we have to ask the Only after this long, torturous path to the the crisis in defense and will likely end up fundamental question, ‘what is all that end will leadership finally understand why failing for not pleasing any bloc in the party, money being spent on in the military? It’s the House Republican budget blueprint for including defense hawks, fiscal hawks and not a question that Republicans are willing 2016 is wholly insufficient to provide for appropriators. to ask.’’ America’s military. First, the budget limits For the Pentagon, this means another long Price’s assurance that defense could be base defense spending to about $499 billion in year of budget uncertainty with no foresight beefed up under a balanced budget also was 2016, in line with caps mandated under cur- into how or when the budgetary process will questioned. rent law. This is a budget $35 billion below end and at what spending levels. That hurts ‘‘I don’t know anybody who honestly be- what President Obama has requested, and not only the military, but taxpayers as well lieves we are going to balance the budget in

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:04 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24MR7.013 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE March 24, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1861 10 years. It’s all hooey,’’ said Rep. Ken Buck, ing for the military is through sta- help those constituents in need in our R–Colo. Buck said with winding down oper- bility, not through slush funds, spend- district. If you care about folks who ations in Afghanistan and the end of the 2008 ing caps, and budget games. are in need in your district, you care financial crisis, it is now time to make push This is how the majority chooses to about balancing the budget, because we difficult spending cuts to balance the budget. ‘‘We continue to put off the pain,’’ Buck run our government: with tax breaks all know that in a debt crisis, the folks said. for millionaires and billionaires, with who get hurt the most are the folks Labrador said it’s not a question of defense financial incentives for Big Oil, tax who are most dependent on govern- as a priority, but the willingness to scruti- breaks for corporations that ship their ment services. nize defense spending. jobs overseas, and tax policies that Mr. Speaker, in this great festival of ‘‘I want to protect the military as much as burden the people whose heads are democracy that is the budget process, anybody. But it seems we have an unques- barely above water. But, most impor- tioning disregard for what its actually being we have a budget before us today that spent in the military sometimes as Repub- tantly, it hurts the SNAP program, purports to balance in 6 years. The Re- licans, and I have a concern about that. when thousands, millions of Americans publican Study Committee has intro- ‘‘So now what we are going to do is . . . go to bed hungry every night. How dare duced that budget. We are going to put it in the [overseas contingency] account we threaten the very thing that gives have a vote on it today. We have the and we are going to forget about the prom- them some peace of mind and some budget that came out of the House ises that we made to our constituents that food to eat. That is also, by the way, an Committee on the Budget. It purports we are going to balance the budget,’’ Lab- agriculture program that our farmers to balance in 10 years. We are going to rador said. Rep. Jim Jordan, R–Ohio, said he was depend on to help them make a living. have votes on budgets in this process, ‘‘leaning toward yes’’ in supporting the addi- Mr. Speaker, let’s take a different Mr. Speaker, that anticipate balancing tional Pentagon spending, but that he want- course. Let’s grow the economy from never—never. ed to see the final bill. ‘‘Obviously we want the middle class out, not try to hope The President’s budget, for example, to do everything we can for national defense, something will trickle down on it. Mr. Speaker, the President’s budget but we understand the dynamic we are in,’’ Let’s fix our crumbling roads and projects $2 trillion in new taxes—$2 Jordan said. bridges, and let’s invest in our kids and trillion in new taxes—and never bal- Ms. SLAUGHTER. The Republican make it easier to go to college, not ances. It doesn’t balance next year; it budget would force hardworking fami- harder. Let’s respect the contribution doesn’t balance 10 years from now; it lies to work harder for less. The pro- of our Nation’s seniors and make cer- doesn’t balance 20 years from now. It posal turns Medicaid into a State block tain that they have the stability that balances never. Every time we borrow grant, makes students pay more for they need in their health care to make a dollar from our children or our tuition, decimates the Pell grants for financial decisions with some degree of grandchildren, we are promising, we college tuition, slashes food stamps, certainty. We could do that by adopt- are committing either an additional and turns Medicare into a voucher pro- ing the Democratic alternative. And dollar in taxes on those same children gram for the future recipients, all the while my colleagues in the minority and grandchildren plus interest in the while keeping billions of dollars in tax might be getting fatigued saying this future or an additional dollar in benefit breaks for Big Oil. over and over that what we have isn’t cuts. Today, Medicare guarantees insur- just a list of numbers, it is a statement Mr. Speaker, we ought to have this ance coverage for seniors, but imagine of our ideals, instead of a slash-and- robust debate about our spending prior- with me, if you will, a world in which burn budget that puts at risk the eco- ities, but it ought to start from the po- Medicare is just a fixed amount vouch- nomic growth of the last 5 years, we sition that we have an obligation to er. Instead of insurance, your grand- propose investments in our infrastruc- pay for the bills that we are running up parent is given a set amount of money ture, in our children, in our economy, today. I say to my friends, these are and is sent out on his or her own to ne- and in our future. not small things that we are arguing gotiate with multinational companies; Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of about. I want to talk to you about how and if they need a medical plan that is my time. do we invest more in transportation. I more expensive than that voucher, the Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield want to talk to you about how do we balance comes straight out of their myself such time as I may consume. invest more lifting people up from that pocket, or, if they can’t afford it, they I am not sure if I was clear when I bottom rung of the ladder to the next have no insurance. Not only does the got started, and I apologize if I was rung of the ladder, to the next rung of budget show a clear disdain for work- not. We are going to vote on every idea the ladder. ing families, middle class families, stu- that folks have. We are going to vote dents, and the elderly, but it was so on every budget that was introduced. If b 1245 haphazardly drafted last week that the you have a plan about how to better I want to talk about how to invest in media exposed a drafting error in the run this Nation, you don’t need to com- America, but every time we vote for a bill that revealed an additional $900 plain about somebody else’s vision; you budget that doesn’t balance, we threat- million in cuts. Imagine that, nearly a are allowed to bring your own vision to en that future. We have more in inter- billion dollars that had been over- the floor. est payments on the national debt than looked. Mr. Speaker, we all care about men on all national security combined. What is more, the House majority is and women back home in our districts. I don’t know that we are going to playing fast and loose, using budget What you can see on this chart is the find that agreement today, Mr. Speak- gimmicks to violate agreed-upon interest spending alone under current er, but if we pass this rule, again, we spending caps in the sequestration and law in year 2025. That is the 10th year will be able to begin that process where to fund critical long-term Department of the budget window, almost a trillion all of the ideas will be debated. of Defense needs out of a temporary dollars in interest alone. When we hear I just encourage my friends, when war slush fund, the overseas contin- about what the spending priorities are each budget comes to the floor, ask gency operations account, a slush fund that each Member of this Chamber has, this question: Do we plan for balance the use of which Republicans decried we have to ask ourselves, so what are ever? Do we anticipate ending the just last year for undermining the you doing to balance the budget so added burden on our children ever? Do budgetary process. that interest doesn’t consume it all? we anticipate mortgaging our chil- The Secretary of Defense, Dr. Ashton As you can see, Mr. Speaker, under dren’s future for as far as the eye can Carter, has highlighted the need for current law, if we don’t make nec- see, or do we anticipate taking respon- predictability in the Department’s essary changes, we are going to be sibility? budget. He would like to know from spending more on interest alone on the We have got a lot of budgets to one year to the next what is a gimmick national debt than we are on all de- choose from, a lot of opportunities to and what is real, something that the fense issues combined. We are going to take responsibility for. Mr. Speaker, I House majority refuses to ensure. Ash- be spending more on interest on the na- encourage my friends to support this ton Carter, Secretary of Defense, says tional debt than we spend on Medicaid, rule so that we will be able to bring the only way that he can provide fund- our largest health care program, to those bills to the floor.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:04 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24MR7.015 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H1862 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 24, 2015 With that, I reserve the balance of the floor of the House, and every single mony yesterday. Once again, I am my time. idea that was offered is going to be going to have to look at it again, and Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I am considered. Mr. Speaker, that doesn’t I know Chairman PRICE is going to as pleased to yield 2 minutes to the gen- happen by accident. well. tleman from Colorado (Mr. POLIS), a At this time it is my great pleasure Mr. Speaker, this is why we do budg- member of the Committee on Rules. to yield such time as he may consume ets. We do budgets so that we do ask Mr. POLIS. I thank the gentlewoman to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. SES- the tough questions, so that we can put from New York. SIONS), the chairman of the Rules Com- a pencil to the millions, billions, and Mr. Speaker, this is the time of year mittee and an outspoken advocate for trillions that the American taxpayer where we begin to debate our Nation’s trying to bring these ideas to the floor, sent us here to do. budget, ostensibly, our plans for the without whom we would not be able to For us to be on the defensive by our fiscal future of our Nation. be here today. friends, the Democrats, about wanting There was a time, far ago in the past, Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I want to balance the budget, about us want- before the invention of the Ryan budg- to thank the gentleman from Georgia, ing to do the things that will balance et and the Price budgets, when this who represents not only the Rules out and not only netting them out to time of year represented an honest, in- Committee but conservatives from where we don’t spend more than what formed discussion of our different across our Conference on the Budget we take in, but being on the defensive views of the future of our Nation and Committee. I want to thank the gen- because we are doing the right thing to how to restore fiscal stability. tleman from Georgia (Mr. WOODALL) sustain America’s greatest days ahead Since the Ryan budget, though, for bringing this bill to the floor today. of us, I think is a real mistake for the which says it balances, but doesn’t; Mr. Speaker, yesterday, we had an people who make the argument against which includes tax revenue for laws opportunity to have Chairman TOM us, when they are the people that that it says it repeals; which creates PRICE come and speak with us about passed—without one Republican vote— fiscal growth out of thin air; this dis- the budget and what costs what and what we were told is $108 billion for 12.5 cussion, unfortunately, has devolved what decisions we wanted to make and million people. into nothing more than political the- what direction we were going to go. Mr. Speaker, we have got to get away ater. It was really pretty simple. He said from this yelling and screaming and go Somehow, this year, as we consider he is presenting a budget that is going to the numbers. And that is what TOM this rule today on the first ever Price to balance. He is presenting a budget PRICE did. That is what Mr. WOODALL is budgets, the process has fallen even that is going to fund our military prop- doing. They are looking at how we are further. Gimmicks are being stacked erly. And he has got a budget which is spending our money and what we are on gimmicks. The Budget Control Act one we cannot only understand but be- getting as a result of it. And if it really and its caps are law, and everyone on lieve in. is true that for everybody who is on my side of the aisle stands ready to One of the questions I asked him yes- this Affordable Care Act, the true cost to the taxpayers is over $5 million for work together to come to a com- terday was: Mr. PRICE, how much does promise solution that allows for both the Affordable Care Act, known as each person, then shame on us for not our domestic spending needs to be met ObamaCare, cost the taxpayer and the knowing, asking, and understanding. as well as our national security needs. budget? He said: You know, I don’t And that is what we are doing today, But that is not the discussion we are know, but I’ll get back to you. Well, by Mr. Speaker. TOM PRICE, our young chairman from having. Instead, we have a budget—or the end of the hearing, he said—what Georgia, actually has taken time to go budgets—which completely circumvent he could figure—it is $108 billion. and look at the budget. He is also doing common sense and budgetary conven- Now, I have not checked this out. In a lot of other things that the gen- tion by adding billions of ‘‘base budg- fairness to TOM PRICE, he is allowed to tleman from Texas, MIKE BURGESS, go and doublecheck everything. That et’’ money to the overseas contingency gave him credit for yesterday, where he was a cursory view. account, essentially giving President is looking at some $800 billion—almost Mr. Speaker, if that is true, and if I Obama a record slush fund to engage in a trillion dollars—that is sitting in accept the figures that the gentle- wars of his choice without consulting agencies, not spent yet, that has pre- woman, the ranking member of the the United States Congress. viously been given to them. The tax- committee, said of the number of peo- Those are the Republican plans be- payer paid for it, and they are just sit- ple who are on ObamaCare, the Afford- fore you. What we have is a fictional ting there waiting to spend the money. budget. But then, that fictional budget able Care Act—about 12 million—if you Mr. Speaker, it is Republicans, it is wasn’t enough for everyone. So here we just do simple multiplication, 12 mil- TOM PRICE, it is ROB WOODALL, it is the are, being asked to pass a rule which lion into $108 billion, we are talking members of the committee who have looks a lot like the rules you might see literally every single recipient would taken the tough votes and have done at an auction at the county fair. The be costing this government more than their homework. And that is what we most votes wins the blue ribbon. $5 million per person for their insur- are presenting here today. We are pre- This isn’t the county fair. This is the ance. senting the hard work from a com- United States Congress. This is our of- It is staggering. It is staggering that mittee called the Budget Committee to ficial budget plan of a major American our friends, the Democrats, passed—it come and look at, once a year, how political party for fiscal years 2016 took us all day—a bill that they told us much are we spending, what are we through 2025. at least 24 million people who were un- getting, and how can we do it better? I reject this rule today. We can do insured would be on it, and a whole So I will reject the arguments from better. We can have an honest discus- bunch of other people, and now here we those who say that the Republicans sion about our budget priorities and are some 4 years later, a whopping aren’t doing the right thing. We are about restoring fiscal stability for the total of 12.5 million at a cost of $100 doing the heavy lifting. It is Repub- next generation. We deserve a serious billion or more. And yet they come to licans who are trying to look at the proposal rather than this fun and the floor and look at us like we are billions that are being spent. Not just games and gimmicks that we have be- some self-righteous group of people be- the thousands, but the hundreds of mil- fore us under this rule. cause we want to balance the budget lions and the thousand billions. Be- I encourage my colleagues to oppose and change the direction. cause a thousand billion is a trillion. the rule. Mr. Speaker, this budget is not about And this is a big budget, and we need Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield doing away with the Affordable Care people to do what we are doing. myself 30 seconds to say to my friend, Act. It is about properly looking at the So, Mr. Speaker, I stand up for not that is what is so wonderful about this money that comes in to the Federal just my party, the Republican Party, process. The days for pointing out who Government and us properly allocating but I stand up for the honest and legiti- is so wrong and their ideas are so bad it back out. And $108 billion for 12 mil- mate work that TOM PRICE and the are left for a campaign season. This is lion people is immoral. It is uncon- Budget Committee have done. And I in- the day where you bring your ideas to scionable. And yet that was the testi- tend to follow up with this committee

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.020 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE March 24, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1863 and to make sure we know more about Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposi- tation Act (1964); the Criminal Justice Act the real cost of government because it tion to this rule and the underlying (1964); the Food Stamp Act (1964); the Older is the real cost of government that bill. Yes, I am a member of the Budget Americans Act (1965); Social Security Amend- turns the direction of our country, Committee and the Appropriations ments (1965); the Voting Rights Act (1965); where we pass by that effort of where Committee, and I know that our na- the Housing and Urban Development Act we create good behavior and we help tional budget is a statement of our na- (1965); the Public Works and Economic De- people to, one, where we create people tional priorities and our values. And I velopment Act (1965); the Department of who are leaning on the government for know very well that the Republican Housing and Urban Development Act (1965); their life, for their lifestyle, and for budget is full of misplaced priorities the Amendment to the Immigration and Na- their future. And that is a mistake. and it is not a moral document. tionality Act (1965); the Higher Education Act That is a mistake—and one that the This budget should not be rigged in (1965); the Child Nutrition Act (1966); the Republican Party will try and stand up favor of special interests and the Child Protection Act (1966); and the National to. wealthy few, but the Republican budg- School Lunch Act (1968). I understand the difference between a et is. Our Nation’s budget should Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield person who is able-bodied and not. I prioritize working families, too many myself 60 seconds just to ask the gen- have a son with Down Syndrome, and I of whom are making low wages and liv- tlewoman from California, I under- understand that we do need to do the ing below the poverty line. It should stand why she objects to the Repub- right things for people who can’t take assist those working hard to find a job lican budget. What I don’t understand care of themselves—those with an in- and invest in workforce training, job is why she objects to the rule. tellectual or physical disability. I get training, and job creation. Instead, this We have made every single budget it that we should be there for poor peo- Republican budget keeps tax breaks for that any Member of Congress asked to ple. corporations and the superwealthy. be made in order, we made that in But it is unconscionable if we are Our budget should open educational order. Could the gentlewoman tell me paying $5 million for an insurance plan, opportunities for all, but the Repub- why she opposes the rule? per person, under the Affordable Care lican budget slashes Pell grants that I will be happy to yield to the gentle- Act. That is beyond the wild ideas of Congress has already paid for by $89 woman from California. boondoggle. It is immoral. billion. Ms. LEE. Why do I oppose the rule? So, the Republican Party is going to b 1300 I oppose the rule, first, because this ask the tough questions. And when we rule, if it moves forward, would allow A budget—a moral document—a go to the voter or taxpayer and we say: for the Republican budget, which we budget that invests in the American Here is what we want you to under- know could pass this body, with these people should invest in our Nation’s stand about your money, we can do it huge cuts. I think we need to go back crumbling infrastructure, but the Re- with the authority and the responsi- to the drawing board and minimally publican budget cuts funding for our bility that we have done the home- put back and restore cuts to the SNAP roads, our bridges, and our rail. program. work. We sharpened our pencils and we It should contain a serious and effec- Any budget that has SNAP cuts, cuts made a real difference by under- tive strategy to end poverty if we real- to Pell grants, does not invest in infra- standing not just dollars and cents, but ly believe that our budget is a reflec- structure, any budget that does that, the future of this great Nation. tion of our values and is a moral docu- regardless of the budgets that have Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I ment. The House Republican budget of- been put forward, I don’t want to see yield myself such time as I may con- fers none of these. sume. In fact, it slashes programs that sup- this debate put forward with those cuts Now I think I understand it all. I be- port low-wage workers and people in place. lieve I understand how you could lose working hard to find a job. These fami- Mr. WOODALL. I thank the gentle- $900 million when you are doing your lies shouldn’t have to go hungry; yet, woman. Candidly, I am certainly on the other budget. because their wages are so low, they side of that issue. I understand that By what possible means do you think need food stamps. By cutting $150 bil- somebody is going to win and some- that we are paying $5 million for each lion from SNAP, this budget creates body is going to lose, but I think the person’s health care who is on the Af- more hunger and more poverty for peo- process is always better when we allow fordable Care Act? ple who are working. The rising cost of health care for the Many of the programs in this budget everyone’s ideas to come to the floor, first time in 50 years is going down. are a legacy of the War on Poverty, and that is one of the things this rule But nobody ever paid $5 million for which cut the poverty rate in our coun- does, and I am very grateful that we anybody’s health care in a single year. try by one-third in 50 years. Let me have been able to do that. I thank my It is the most atrocious thing I think I just read the list of programs that you friend. have heard on this floor. are cutting and what the War on Pov- Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the Mr. and Mrs. America, these are the erty listed. gentleman from Oklahoma (Mr. COLE), people you have entrusted your Con- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. a member of the Rules Committee, a gress to. They are the people who are DENHAM). The time of the gentlewoman member of the Budget Committee, and writing your budget. They are the peo- has expired. a member of the Appropriations Com- ple who are going to voucherize your Ms. SLAUGHTER. I yield the gentle- mittee. Medicare, who are going to turn Med- woman an additional 30 seconds. Mr. COLE. Mr. Speaker, I thank my icaid into a block grant and help some Ms. LEE. The Civil Rights Act, the friend for yielding. people, maybe not. These are the peo- Criminal Justice Act, Food Stamp Act, I want to pick up and thank my ple making sure that the roads and Older Americans Act, Social Security friend and thank our chairman of the bridges are crumbling and that are amendments, Voting Rights Act, HUD, Rules Committee for doing exactly going to take food out of the mouths of all of these programs, Higher Edu- what he just suggested, bringing us a the poor. cation Act, these are initiatives that rule that lets everybody bring their This is the kind of math that you are you are cutting that provide pathways choices to the floor. That is what we practicing over there? For heaven’s out of poverty. all like to do around here. sake. This Republican budget balances on Interestingly enough, we essentially I yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman the backs of the most vulnerable to have three Democratic choices and from California (Ms. LEE), who I hope preserve tax loopholes for the super- three Republican choices, and we are is as angry as I am, a member of the wealthy and slush funds for Pentagon going to have an opportunity for people Committee on the Budget. contractors. to express a variety of opinions and ar- Ms. LEE. I want to thank the gentle- I urge a ‘‘no’’ vote on the rule and on rive at a consensus in this body. woman for yielding and for making it this budget. Now, obviously, as a Republican, I very plain in terms of what their budg- List of War on Poverty Programs: the Civil like all three Republican alternatives et does and does not do. Rights Act (1964); the Urban Mass Transpor- pretty well. I think my friend Mr.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.021 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H1864 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 24, 2015 WOODALL has always worked on the Re- States has got a signature that is going Just listen to the people who rely on publican Study Committee budget; it to have to happen to any appropria- SNAP to make ends meet. Thousands gets us to balance faster than anything tions bill. Our friends have a filibuster of people sent messages to Congress else on this floor. control in the upper House. written on paper plates, pleading with The reality is, if you look at the My hope is we state our positions. I us not to cut SNAP. three Republican budgets, they have am very content with where we are One woman wrote: several things in common. The first is opening this debate; and then, frankly, SNAP means that, as a single mother, I they make tough choices because we over the course of the months ahead, was able to finish college, feed my family, have got an $18 trillion debt; and, just we work together and see if we can find and find a career where I am able to advo- left on autopilot, that will increase by that common ground. cate for a program that I know works. another $7.2 trillion. It aims to bring That common ground ought to do Another person wrote: these things into balance, and each one what the Republicans are trying to do SNAP means dignity. SNAP matters to me of those Republican budgets does in terms of lowering the deficit, re- because no senior should have to choose be- that—the Republican Study Committee forming entitlements, not raising tween buying food or paying for their medi- taxes, and moving us in a fiscally re- cation. When I was a child, my father left, budget a little bit faster—but all with- and the only reason we could afford food was in the 10-year budget window. sponsible direction while we modernize our Tax Code. That is our opening posi- because of food stamps. I never got a chance Second, they all repeal ObamaCare— to say thank you, so thank you. not a big surprise. No Republican voted tion. I look forward to defending it. I thank my friend Mr. WOODALL for For the life of me, I can’t figure out for it. We have never liked it, and it why House Republicans are hell-bent would be remiss of us not to continue bringing this excellent rule to the floor, which allows everybody to put on arbitrarily cutting a program that to argue our position. feeds hungry kids, seniors, and working Third, they all call for major tax re- forward their position. Mr. Speaker, I urge support of the families. These SNAP cuts are deep and forms. We all know that lowering hurtful. We have already seen how the rates, eliminating exemptions, and rule. Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I am farm bill cuts $8.6 billion, how those rationalizing the Tax Code contributes pleased to yield 4 minutes to the gen- cuts are wreaking havoc among the to economic growth. tleman from Massachusetts (Mr. hungry. Imagine what a cut of $125 bil- They all, frankly, defend the country MCGOVERN), a member of the Com- lion-plus would do. pretty well. We do it in different ways, mittee on Rules and an extraordinary Republicans claim that SNAP spend- and we have debates, but they all man- colleague. ing is out of control; yet the Congres- age to do that, and none of them raise Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, the sional Budget Office shows that SNAP taxes in the process of achieving those last 8 years have been very difficult. spending is going down as the economy objectives. We are recovering from the single recovers and people go back to work. I am pretty content with the Repub- greatest economic crisis since the Last night, in the Rules Committee, lican choices in front of us and look Great Depression. This recovery hasn’t I offered an amendment to strike these forward to that. I think it behooves us been easy, and it has forced us to make SNAP cuts from the Republican budg- all to remember—and it gets lost in difficult decisions. Working on budget et. The Republicans blocked my this debate—a budget is not the law of priorities and wrestling with spending amendment while, at the same time, the land. cuts have been difficult, to say the increasing spending for the Pentagon The budget is, essentially, a negoti- least. by over $90 billion, without even pay- ating position. The President sub- Our economy is beginning to turn ing for it. mitted a budget earlier. That is his ini- around, thanks in large part to an in- Mr. Speaker, budgets are moral docu- tial negotiating position. Whatever crease in hiring and the success of the ments; and what the Republicans are emerges from this debate today is like- Affordable Care Act; yet we still must doing, in my opinion, is immoral. Pe- ly to be the Republican initial negoti- wrestle with the Nation’s budget. It is nalizing working families—and, yes, ating position. true, as my Republican friends say, the majority of people on SNAP who My friends on their side will present that tough choices have to be made. can work do work—penalizing these a budget today which I presume rep- Why is it that every time House Re- families by taking away food in the resents their initial negotiating posi- publicans try to put our fiscal house in guise of fiscal prudence is just wrong. tion. They have also got other budgets order, they ask those among us who Cutting SNAP, while increasing un- within the context of that—perfectly can least afford it to make the most checked spending for the Pentagon, is appropriate. We do, too, but they will sacrifices? hypocritical. have a general position. Our friends in Mr. Speaker, we should not balance Let’s be clear. There is a cost to hun- the Senate, on both sides of the aisle, the budget on the backs of the poor and ger in America. Hungry kids don’t are wrestling with this very issue as we working families. They didn’t cause learn in school. Senior citizens who talk. the financial crisis, and they shouldn’t take their medication on an empty Now, we seem to forget, as we draw be the ones forced to get us out of this stomach end up in the emergency our differences and distinctions here, mess. room. Workers who miss meals are less we do live in an era of divided govern- There is a lot to dislike in the Repub- productive at work. ment; and despite what many people lican budget, from repealing the Af- Cutting SNAP, a program that puts think, we do occasionally come to com- fordable Care Act to ending Medicare food on the table for hungry families, promises around here. as we know it, to slashing Pell grants. is just a rotten thing to do. Shame on Now, I am pretty pleased we have Quite frankly, it is awful. anybody in this House who votes for a lowered the budget deficit every year I want to focus on what the Repub- budget that increases hunger in Amer- that we have been in the majority, but lican budget does to SNAP, the Na- ica. that has entailed some compromises. tion’s premier antihunger program. Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield We compromised in the Ryan-Murray Once again, the Republican budget myself 1 minute to say to my friend agreement. That was actually a pretty would turn SNAP into a block grant, from Massachusetts I know he cares good agreement that both sides were resulting in sharp cuts of $125 billion. deeply about these issues; and, can- happy with. On top of that, the Republican budget didly, this House is a better House be- Frankly, this week, we will probably requires a cut of at least another $1 bil- cause of his leadership on these issues. compromise on the so-called doc fix, lion—maybe more—from SNAP. Just this year, we are going to spend the SGR. We compromised last Decem- Mr. Speaker, SNAP is one of the only four times more on interest on our na- ber on the CR/Omnibus bill which, remaining basic protections for the tional debt than feeding families again, gave us some fiscal stability. poor. For many of the poorest Ameri- through the Food Stamp program. An I suspect, as we all define our initial cans, SNAP is the only form of income unbalanced budget is eroding those op- negotiating positions, at some point assistance that they receive. The num- portunities to invest in people. down the road, we will indeed com- bers don’t lie, but the stories are far I am certain that we would come to- promise. The President of the United more powerful. gether to invest in Americans. I am

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.023 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE March 24, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1865 certain that we care. I will concede the collateral, high interest rate docu- in opposition to the previous question gentleman cares. I won’t concede he ments that our bill allows them to so that H.R. 1434 can be offered. Let me cares more than I do about lifting folks write down. tell you why. up and taking them to the next rung of Anyone watching this debate knows Every few weeks, I spend time calling that ladder. that when there is a period of low in- constituents who have sent me letters Our debt and our deficit are eroding terest rates—and that is exactly what and emails. In many of these conversa- those opportunities to come together. is the situation today—middle class tions, I hear about the burden of stu- Mr. MCGOVERN. Will the gentleman families refinance their houses, refi- dent loan debt. Just recently, I spoke yield? nance their car loans, and refinance with a couple with more than $100,000 Mr. WOODALL. I yield to the gen- their credit cards; but students and in student debt, and their monthly tleman from Massachusetts. people carrying student loan debt be- loan payments exceed the rent that Mr. MCGOVERN. I would argue that cause of the fact that they were no-col- they pay on their apartment. the problem of hunger in America is lateral loans are trapped. There is absolutely no question, stu- actually increasing our deficit and our Our bill allows them to go to the De- dent loan debt is an enormous problem debt; but I would also argue, if you partment of Education, write down in this country. We all know the facts. want to find ways to balance the budg- those interest rates to 3.6 percent. The As the gentleman from Connecticut et, maybe go after some of those cor- Congressional Budget Office has told us stated, at $1.3 trillion, student loan porate tax breaks, instead of going that half of the trillion-dollar overhang debt has surpassed credit card debt. after poor people. would be refinanced down if this bill Nearly three-quarters of college seniors Mr. WOODALL. As the gentleman took place. That puts money in peo- graduate with some debt; bachelor’s de- knows—and, again, I thank the gen- ple’s pockets, as the Pew Research Cen- gree recipients graduate with an aver- tleman—I have introduced the only bill ter shows. That means that they are age of almost $30,000 in debt. in Congress that abolishes every single going to go out and buy cars, buy The Federal Government, the States, corporate tax break in the Tax Code. I homes, and start families. colleges and universities and other rel- would welcome support and enthusi- Our failure to deal with this issue is evant actors in higher education must astic cosponsorship from any of my strangling this economic recovery. And come together to address this issue. We colleagues on the other side the aisle. incredibly, we are going to take up a must take steps to reduce the under- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of Republican budget which cuts Pell lying costs of degree completion, Grants and also raises interest rate my time. strengthen Federal and State invest- costs for Stafford loan programs. Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, if we ment in colleges and universities, pro- Let’s be very clear: this budget al- defeat the previous question, I will lows the government to charge interest vide additional aid to students, and di- offer an amendment to the rule to while people are in school, which has minish existing student loan debt. allow for consideration of legislation The gentleman from Connecticut, been a pillar of the Stafford student that would help families afford college OURTNEY loan program, that interest is not Mr. C ’s legislation, the Bank tuition by letting undergraduate bor- charged while kids are going through on Students Emergency Loan Refi- rowers refinance their student loans at college. Yet the Republican budget nancing Act, would help bring down ex- a low interest rate of 3.86 percent. That adds to that $1.3 trillion in overhang by isting student loan debt by allowing el- is what the families we represent need, adding interest costs in their budget igible borrowers with existing debt to not the education cuts in the Repub- plan. refinance their student loans and re- lican budget. The hard-working American people ceive the same lower interest rates To discuss our proposal, I am pleased who want to buy homes, who want to passed by Congress in 2013 that new 1 to yield 3 ⁄2 minutes to the distin- send their kids to college, have an op- borrowers currently receive. guished gentleman from Connecticut portunity with this legislation, H.R. Lowering interest rates for existing (Mr. COURTNEY). 1434, to allow them to refinance down loan debt will benefit tens of millions Mr. COURTNEY. Mr. Speaker, I their interest rates to a lower out-of- of Americans. I oppose the rule. I op- thank the gentlewoman from New pocket cost that will provide an auto- pose the previous question. York. matic, instant stimulus to the U.S. Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield I rise in opposition to the rule and to economy. That is what the American myself 1 minute. the previous question, as she just stat- people are looking for, not a Repub- If I could engage my friend from Cali- ed, would allow consideration of H.R. lican budget plan that compounds the fornia, I understand why he doesn’t 1434, the Bank on Students Emergency largest area of consumer debt in the like one of the Republican budgets that Loan Refinancing Act. U.S. economy. It adds costs to folks is here. But this rule also makes in Mr. Speaker, there is an emergency whose Pell grants won’t rise and whose order every single Democratic sub- out there for young Americans who are interest rates are going to go up on stitute budget that was offered. trapped in high interest rate students their Stafford loans. I would ask my friend why it is that loans. The Federal Reserve bank has The choice is very clear with this he opposes this rule since it allows ev- tallied that. It is $1.3 trillion of over- vote that we are about to take. One eryone’s ideas to be considered. hang in the U.S. economy. vote is going to add to the student loan I am happy to yield to my friend. None other than the former Repub- problem, which the Federal Reserve Mr. TAKANO. Well, I am not so much lican Governor of the State of Indiana has identified as the largest consumer in opposition to the rule because of not and the former Budget Director under debt challenge of our Nation, and the allowing other budgets to be consid- George Bush testified before the Edu- other vote will allow us to move for- ered, but because of the way the rule is cation Committee the other day, and ward to solving that problem. structured, I would rather see us be this is what he said: Vote ‘‘no’’ on the rule. Vote ‘‘no’’ on able to consider H.R. 1434. If we would Research from the Pew Research Center the previous question. Let’s help those oppose the rule and oppose the previous and Rutgers shows that today’s 20- and 30- 7.5 million kids and young people who question, we could solve the student year olds are delaying marriage, delaying are behind on their student loans. debt question here. childbearing, both unhelpful trends from an Allow them to refinance down their in- Mr. WOODALL. I thank my friend. economic and social standpoint. terest rates, which is what happens all I reserve the balance of my time. Between 25 percent and 40 percent of bor- Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I am rowers report postponing homes, cars, and throughout the U.S. economy during a pleased to yield 11⁄2 minutes to the gen- other major purchases. Half say that their time of low interest rates. student loans increase their risk of default- Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, I re- tleman from California (Mr. ing on other bills. serve the balance of my time. DESAULNIER). Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I Mr. DESAULNIER. I thank the gen- b 1315 yield 11⁄2 minutes to the gentleman tlelady for yielding. There are 7.5 million young Ameri- from California (Mr. TAKANO). Mr. Speaker, I rise to urge my col- cans who are behind on their student Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I, too, leagues to vote ‘‘no’’ on the previous loans. Again, they are trapped in no rise in opposition to the rule, and I rise question so that we can amend the rule

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:58 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.024 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H1866 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 24, 2015 to bring up the Bank on Students that time that the bill’s removal The fact of the matter is, I oppose Emergency Loan Refinancing Act. meant that ‘‘with this action, the this rule. I think my Republican The magnitude of the problem cannot House has declined to proceed on the friends’ budget will pass. I understand be overlooked. In 2013, there were 37 implementation of the very budget it that. million American student loan bor- adopted just 3 months ago. Thus, I be- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The rowers with outstanding student loans. lieve,’’ Chairman ROGERS went on, time of the gentleman has expired. Those 37 million American students ‘‘that the House has made its choice: Mr. WOODALL. I yield myself an ad- hold an enormous $1.3 trillion in stu- sequestration—and its unrealistic and ditional 15 seconds, and I yield to the dent loan debt, as my friend from Con- ill-conceived discretionary cuts—must gentleman from Maryland. necticut mentioned. Student loan debt be brought to an end.’’ Mr. HOYER. I thank the gentleman. is growing by $3,000 per second. The That was the Republican chairman of I wish he would go back to the draw- ing board. And I will tell my friend, I Bank on Students Emergency Loan Re- the Appropriations Committee speak- will participate with you. financing Act would be a good first ing—not STENY HOYER, not a Demo- crat, but a Republican leader. Nobody believes, I think, that seques- step in allowing students to refinance ter is going to ultimately rule the day their loans and put some much-needed So, Mr. Speaker, today is not the first time that we are seeing the major- in our appropriation bills because it is, money back in their pockets and back as your chairman said, ill-conceived in the American economy. ity plagued by dysfunction as it budg- ets in a partisan way, but today it has and unrealistic. I would think it better In 2012, Congress passed a bill to policy for us to decide that now, and allow new student loan borrowers to gone a step further with a rule that es- sentially acknowledges that there is no then implement appropriation bills receive a low interest rate. Unfortu- consistent with something that is rea- nately, students with existing student consensus among Republicans as to how they ought to proceed. That is why sonable and not ill-conceived. loan debt were left out of this fix. This Mr. WOODALL. I reserve the balance Republicans are putting forward this bill would provide those students who of my time. borrowed before 2012 the same opportu- convoluted amendment strategy. Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I am However, I tell my friends on the nities that new borrowers have. pleased to yield 11⁄2 minutes to the gen- other side, the votes exist to pass a If student loan borrowers could get tlewoman from North Carolina (Ms. budget in this House but only if it is lower interest rates, they would be able ADAMS). to more fully participate in the econ- one that replaces both the defense and Ms. ADAMS. I thank the gentlelady omy. They could buy houses, eat out in nondefense components of the seques- for yielding. restaurants, move out of their parents’ ter with a commonsense and fiscally Mr. Speaker, I stand before you homes, or even just have enough responsible alternative. today as a member of the Higher Edu- And I predict today that this budget money to save for a better future. cation Subcommittee and as a retired will not be followed, as previous budg- This bill is simple, and it fixes a fun- professor of 40 years at Bennett College ets passed by the Republican majority damental inequity. I urge my col- in North Carolina. I am steadfastly have never been followed and were not leagues to defeat the previous question. committed to making sure that every Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, I re- followed by them. student has access to a quality, afford- Democrats would partner, I would serve the balance of my time. able college education because edu- tell my Republican friends, to pass a Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I am cation is key to achieving the Amer- budget that invests in the future and pleased to yield 3 minutes to the gen- ican Dream. does not stifle the growth of jobs and tleman from Maryland (Mr. HOYER), However, too many of our graduates opportunity. are burdened with insurmountable the Democratic whip. I urge my colleagues we can do bet- (Mr. HOYER asked and was given debt, which hinders their prospect of ter. Reject this rule. Let’s go back to permission to revise and extend his re- achieving the great American Dream. the drawing board. Let’s get it right. marks.) Even worse, the rising cost of edu- Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield cation and the threat of educational Mr. HOYER. I thank the ranking myself 1 minute to say to my friend, member. debt has become a barrier for many whose leadership in this House I value, students considering college. That is Mr. Speaker, in parliamentary par- that he had an opportunity in that lance, what we have before us is termed not acceptable. joint select committee, that supercom- National student loan debt is more a ‘‘structured rule.’’ However, I would mittee, an opportunity that I know he than $1.3 trillion. It is time to invest in venture to say that this is an wishes that we had been able to come our constituents and help our grad- unstructured rule. It is a rule put for- together on and we were not able to uates better manage their debt. Home- ward by a majority with no clear struc- come together on. owners and car owners can refinance ture to its strategy of how to govern What we have now is not a division their loans. Why can’t our hardworking this country. amongst ourselves; it is a reflection of graduates do the same? This rule will allow them to bring the fact that we actually have different The Bank on Students Emergency two versions of their budget to the opinions. Allowing different budgets to Loan Refinancing Act will allow them floor, as their deficit hawks and de- come to the floor is going to allow us to do just that. It will allow graduates fense hawks continue to fight over to flush out those opinions. to refinance their old debt so that they what budget they should pursue. It is I wish, thinking about bipartisan co- are better equipped to pay it off. demonstrative of the deep divisions operation as we have had in years past, One in seven student borrowers de- that we have seen displayed on a reg- there would have been a Republican- faults on their loans within the first 3 ular basis in the majority party. Democratic substitute that would have years. If we don’t act now, our grad- We have now seen one example after gotten to balance as well, making uates will continue to be forced to another of this Republican majority those tough decisions. But instead, choose between paying school debt, being unable to assemble the votes what we are left with are Democratic purchasing homes, creating a savings from within its own ranks to pass im- budgets that never balance and Repub- account, and starting families. The portant measures on its own. We saw it lican budgets that achieve balance, all threat is too grave to our economy. with funding to keep the Department while ignoring the challenge that we I know firsthand what higher edu- of Homeland Security open. We also have to deal with sequester long term. cation can do for a person’s life because saw it last Congress, when Republicans I appreciate the gentleman’s leader- of what it did for me. That is why I am were forced to withdraw an appropria- ship on trying to deal with the seques- fighting for every student to have ac- tions bill for Transportation, Housing, ter. I, too, wish we had had it. cess to a quality, affordable education. and Urban Development when they Mr. HOYER. Will the gentleman from We can no longer sit back and watch didn’t have the votes to support their Georgia yield? students spend their entire adult lives sequestration strategy. Mr. WOODALL. I am happy to yield paying off their student debt. I urge The gentleman from Kentucky, HAL to the gentleman. my colleagues to put our graduates be- ROGERS, the Republican chairman of Mr. HOYER. I thank my friend for fore partisan politics, and let’s pass the Appropriations Committee, said at yielding. this legislation.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.025 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE March 24, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1867 Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, I would Member after Member has come to the the bill are waived. At the conclusion of con- say to my friend from New York that I House floor, and they have said that sideration of the bill for amendment the have no further requests for time, and these students have taken out all of Committee shall rise and report the bill to I would ask my friend if she has further these loans, economic circumstances the House with such amendments as may have been adopted. The previous question requests for time. have changed, and now their opportuni- shall be considered as ordered on the bill and Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I do ties are truncated. I feel for those stu- amendments thereto to final passage with- not, and I am prepared to close. dents. America is in exactly that same out intervening motion except one motion to Mr. WOODALL. With that, Mr. circumstance. We have taken out loan recommit with or without instructions. If Speaker, I reserve the balance of my after loan after loan, economic cir- the Committee of the Whole rises and re- time. cumstances are changing, and if we ports that it has come to no resolution on the bill, then on the next legislative day the b 1330 continue on this path, America’s op- portunities will be truncated. House shall, immediately after the third Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, the I hear my friends advocating for an daily order of business under clause 1 of rule House majority has once again chosen opportunity to refinance student loans. XIV, resolve into the Committee of the Whole for further consideration of the bill. to favor billionaires over the middle Where is the opportunity to refinance class, debunk economics over real in- America’s $18 trillion in debt? Mr. SEC. 3. Clause 1(c) of rule XIX shall not vestments, and politics over people. Speaker, over the next 10 years, if we apply to the consideration of H.R. 1434. Democrats have a clear alternative do nothing—if we do nothing—as my that would keep our economy growing colleagues propose, if we defeat this THE VOTE ON THE PREVIOUS QUESTION: WHAT and ensure a strong fiscal future. Our rule and do nothing, America will pay IT REALLY MEANS alternative ensures that college is $4.7 trillion in interest alone—not a achievable, that jobs are available, and This vote, the vote on whether to order the penny of the $18 trillion in principal, previous question on a special rule, is not that health care is affordable. That is $4.7 trillion in interest alone. That is what will keep our economy on the merely a procedural vote. A vote against or- an entire year, in fact, that is an entire dering the previous question is a vote right track. year and one quarter of Federal spend- against the Republican majority agenda and Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous con- ing wasted on interest. a vote to allow the Democratic minority to sent to insert the text of my amend- These are not academic conversa- offer an alternative plan. It is a vote about ment in the RECORD along with extra- tions we are having today, Mr. Speak- what the House should be debating. neous material immediately prior to er. These are decisions about whether Mr. Clarence Cannon’s Precedents of the the vote on the previous question. we are going to be paying our creditors House of Representatives (VI, 308–311), de- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there or investing in America. These are de- scribes the vote on the previous question on objection to the request of the gentle- cisions about whether we are going to the rule as ‘‘a motion to direct or control the woman from New York? be paying our creditors or focusing on consideration of the subject before the House There was no objection. being made by the Member in charge.’’ To our collective priorities. These are de- defeat the previous question is to give the Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I cisions about whether the budget will urge my colleagues to vote ‘‘no’’ and opposition a chance to decide the subject be- balance or whether it never ever, ever fore the House. Cannon cites the Speaker’s defeat the previous question, vote ‘‘no’’ will. ruling of January 13, 1920, to the effect that on the draconian Republican budget, I choose balance, Mr. Speaker. I ‘‘the refusal of the House to sustain the de- and I yield back the balance of my choose balance, and I choose the tough mand for the previous question passes the time. bipartisan decisions that we will have control of the resolution to the opposition’’ GENERAL LEAVE to make together. I choose the tough in order to offer an amendment. On March Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, I ask 15, 1909, a member of the majority party of- bicameral decisions we will have to fered a rule resolution. The House defeated unanimous consent that all Members make together. I choose the tough ne- the previous question and a member of the may have 5 legislative days to revise gotiations with the President that we opposition rose to a parliamentary inquiry, and extend their remarks. will have to do together. But I will not asking who was entitled to recognition. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there be a party to mortgaging the future of Speaker Joseph G. Cannon (R-Illinois) said: objection to the request of the gen- America one more time. I am grateful ‘‘The previous question having been refused, tleman from Georgia? that we will consider all of the ideas the gentleman from New York, Mr. Fitz- There was no objection. that are presented here today, and I am gerald, who had asked the gentleman to Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield yield to him for an amendment, is entitled to confident that balance and fiscal re- the first recognition.’’ myself such time as I may consume. sponsibility will rise to the top. I understand why folks want to vote With that, Mr. Speaker, I urge all of The Republican majority may say ‘‘the ‘‘no’’ sometimes in this Chamber. You my colleagues to support this rule and vote on the previous question is simply a want to vote ‘‘no’’ because you don’t vote on whether to proceed to an immediate get on to this great debate that we will vote on adopting the resolution . . . [and] like the ideas the other side has, and it have. has no substantive legislative or policy im- turns out that if they have more votes The material previously referred to plications whatsoever.’’ But that is not what than you have on any particular idea, by Ms. SLAUGHTER is as follows: they have always said. Listen to the Repub- they win and you lose. I lose in this AN AMENDMENT TO H. RES. 163 OFFERED BY lican Leadership Manual on the Legislative Chamber from time to time myself, as MS. SLAUGHTER OF NEW YORK Process in the United States House of Rep- resentatives, (6th edition, page 135). Here’s I know all my friends do, but this rule At the end of the resolution, add the fol- how the Republicans describe the previous offers an opportunity at least for every lowing new sections: question vote in their own manual: ‘‘Al- idea to be heard, and the best ideas SEC. 2. Immediately upon adoption of this though it is generally not possible to amend ought to rise to the top. That is the resolution the Speaker shall, pursuant to clause 2(b) of rule XVIII, declare the House the rule because the majority Member con- America that I believe in. That is the trolling the time will not yield for the pur- Congress that I believe in, that if we resolved into the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union for consider- pose of offering an amendment, the same re- allow this festival of democracy, if we ation of the bill (H.R. 1434) to amend the sult may be achieved by voting down the pre- allow all of these provisions to be con- Higher Education Act of 1965 to provide for vious question on the rule. . . . When the sidered, we will have the best ideas rise the refinancing of certain Federal student motion for the previous question is defeated, to the top. loans, and for other purposes. The first read- control of the time passes to the Member When I hear my colleagues com- ing of the bill shall be dispensed with. All who led the opposition to ordering the pre- points of order against consideration of the vious question. That Member, because he plaining about what isn’t available then controls the time, may offer an amend- today, it is an indictment of our collec- bill are waived. General debate shall be con- fined to the bill and shall not exceed one ment to the rule, or yield for the purpose of tive work ethic because this rule amendment.’’ makes every idea that was presented hour equally divided and controlled by the chair and ranking minority member of the In Deschler’s Procedure in the U.S. House available. Committee on Education and the Workforce. of Representatives, the subchapter titled Mr. Speaker, my friends on the other After general debate the bill shall be consid- ‘‘Amending Special Rules’’ states: ‘‘a refusal side decided to talk about student loan ered for amendment under the five-minute to order the previous question on such a rule debt today. It is a troubling issue. rule. All points of order against provisions in [a special rule reported from the Committee

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:58 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.026 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H1868 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 24, 2015 on Rules] opens the resolution to amend- McClintock Reed Stewart Wasserman Watson Coleman Yarmuth ment and further debate.’’ (Chapter 21, sec- McHenry Reichert Stivers Schultz Welch tion 21.2) Section 21.3 continues: ‘‘Upon re- McKinley Renacci Stutzman Waters, Maxine Wilson (FL) jection of the motion for the previous ques- McMorris Ribble Thompson (PA) Rodgers NOT VOTING—14 tion on a resolution reported from the Com- Rice (SC) Thornberry McSally Rigell Brown (FL) Graves (MO) Payne mittee on Rules, control shifts to the Mem- Tiberi Meadows Roby Tipton Buchanan Grijalva Roskam ber leading the opposition to the previous Meehan Roe (TN) Trott Costa Hinojosa Ruiz question, who may offer a proper amendment Messer Rogers (AL) Turner Duncan (SC) Labrador Smith (WA) or motion and who controls the time for de- Mica Rogers (KY) Upton Gosar Norcross bate thereon.’’ Miller (FL) Rohrabacher Valadao Clearly, the vote on the previous question Miller (MI) Rokita Wagner b 1402 on a rule does have substantive policy impli- Moolenaar Rooney (FL) Walberg cations. It is one of the only available tools Mooney (WV) Ros-Lehtinen Walden Mr. PALLONE, Ms. SEWELL of Ala- for those who oppose the Republican major- Mullin Ross Walker bama, and Mr. GARAMENDI changed Mulvaney Rothfus ity’s agenda and allows those with alter- Walorski Murphy (PA) Rouzer their vote from ‘‘yea’’ to ‘‘nay.’’ native views the opportunity to offer an al- Walters, Mimi Neugebauer Royce Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas changed Weber (TX) ternative plan Newhouse Russell his vote from ‘‘nay’’ to ‘‘yea.’’ Webster (FL) Noem Ryan (WI) Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield Wenstrup So the previous question was ordered. Nugent Salmon back the balance of my time, and I Westerman The result of the vote was announced Nunes Sanford move the previous question on the res- Olson Scalise Westmoreland as above recorded. olution. Palazzo Schock Whitfield The SPEAKER pro tempore. The The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Palmer Schweikert Williams question is on the resolution. question is on ordering the previous Paulsen Scott, Austin Wilson (SC) The question was taken; and the Wittman question. Pearce Sensenbrenner Speaker pro tempore announced that Perry Sessions Womack The question was taken; and the Pittenger Shimkus Woodall the ayes appeared to have it. Speaker pro tempore announced that Pitts Shuster Yoder Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, on the ayes appeared to have it. Poe (TX) Simpson Yoho that I demand the yeas and nays. Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, on Poliquin Smith (MO) Young (AK) The yeas and nays were ordered. Pompeo Smith (NE) Young (IA) The SPEAKER pro tempore. This is a that I demand the yeas and nays. Posey Smith (NJ) Young (IN) The yeas and nays were ordered. Price, Tom Smith (TX) Zeldin 5-minute vote. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Ratcliffe Stefanik Zinke The vote was taken by electronic de- ant to clause 8 and clause 9 of rule XX, vice, and there were—yeas 237, nays this 15-minute vote on ordering the NAYS—180 180, answered ‘‘present’’ 1, not voting previous question will be followed by 5- 14, as follows: Adams Fattah Meeks minute votes on adopting the resolu- Aguilar Foster Meng [Roll No. 133] tion, if ordered; suspending the rules Ashford Frankel (FL) Moore YEAS—237 and passing H.R. 216; and agreeing to Bass Fudge Moulton Abraham Farenthold Knight the Speaker’s approval of the Journal, Beatty Gabbard Murphy (FL) Aderholt Fincher Labrador Becerra Gallego Nadler Allen Fitzpatrick LaMalfa if ordered. Bera Garamendi Napolitano The vote was taken by electronic de- Amash Fleischmann Lamborn Beyer Graham Neal Amodei Fleming Lance vice, and there were—yeas 238, nays Bishop (GA) Grayson Nolan Babin Flores Latta 180, not voting 14, as follows: Blumenauer Green, Al O’Rourke Barletta Forbes LoBiondo Bonamici Green, Gene Pallone Barr Fortenberry Long ´ [Roll No. 132] Boyle, Brendan Gutierrez Pascrell Barton Foxx Loudermilk F. Hahn Pelosi Benishek Franks (AZ) Love Brady (PA) Hastings Perlmutter YEAS—238 Bilirakis Frelinghuysen Lucas Brownley (CA) Heck (WA) Peters Bishop (MI) Garrett Luetkemeyer Bustos Higgins Peterson Bishop (UT) Gibbs Lummis Abraham Culberson Herrera Beutler Butterfield Himes Pingree Black Gibson MacArthur Aderholt Curbelo (FL) Hice, Jody B. Capps Honda Pocan Blackburn Gohmert Marchant Allen Davis, Rodney Hill Capuano Hoyer Polis Blum Goodlatte Marino ´ Amash Denham Holding Cardenas Huffman Price (NC) Bost Gosar Massie Amodei Dent Hudson Carney Israel Quigley Boustany Gowdy McCarthy Babin DeSantis Huelskamp Carson (IN) Jackson Lee Rangel Brady (TX) Granger McCaul Barletta DesJarlais Huizenga (MI) Cartwright Jeffries Rice (NY) Brat Graves (GA) McClintock Barr Diaz-Balart Hultgren Castor (FL) Johnson (GA) Richmond Bridenstine Graves (LA) McHenry Barton Dold Hunter Castro (TX) Johnson, E. B. Roybal-Allard Brooks (AL) Grothman McKinley Benishek Duffy Hurd (TX) Chu, Judy Kaptur Ruppersberger Brooks (IN) Guinta McMorris Bilirakis Duncan (TN) Hurt (VA) Cicilline Keating Rush Buck Guthrie Rodgers Bishop (MI) Ellmers (NC) Issa Clark (MA) Kelly (IL) Ryan (OH) Burgess Hanna McSally ´ Bishop (UT) Emmer (MN) Jenkins (KS) Clarke (NY) Kennedy Sanchez, Linda Byrne Hardy Meadows Black Farenthold Jenkins (WV) Clay Kildee T. Calvert Harper Meehan Blackburn Fincher Johnson (OH) Cleaver Kilmer Sanchez, Loretta Carter (GA) Harris Messer Blum Fitzpatrick Johnson, Sam Clyburn Kind Sarbanes Carter (TX) Hartzler Mica Bost Fleischmann Jolly Cohen Kirkpatrick Schakowsky Chabot Heck (NV) Miller (FL) Boustany Fleming Jones Connolly Kuster Schiff Chaffetz Hensarling Miller (MI) Brady (TX) Flores Jordan Conyers Langevin Schrader Clawson (FL) Herrera Beutler Moolenaar Brat Forbes Joyce Cooper Larsen (WA) Scott (VA) Coffman Hice, Jody B. Mooney (WV) Bridenstine Fortenberry Katko Courtney Larson (CT) Scott, David Cole Hill Mullin Brooks (AL) Foxx Kelly (PA) Crowley Lawrence Serrano Collins (GA) Holding Mulvaney Brooks (IN) Franks (AZ) King (IA) Cuellar Lee Sewell (AL) Collins (NY) Hudson Murphy (PA) Buck Frelinghuysen King (NY) Cummings Levin Sherman Comstock Huelskamp Neugebauer Bucshon Garrett Kinzinger (IL) Davis (CA) Lewis Sinema Conaway Huizenga (MI) Newhouse Burgess Gibbs Kline Davis, Danny Lieu, Ted Sires Cook Hultgren Noem Byrne Gibson Knight DeFazio Lipinski Slaughter Costello (PA) Hunter Nugent Calvert Gohmert LaMalfa DeGette Loebsack Speier Cramer Hurd (TX) Nunes Carter (GA) Goodlatte Lamborn Delaney Lofgren Swalwell (CA) Crawford Hurt (VA) Olson Carter (TX) Gowdy Lance DeLauro Lowenthal Takai Crenshaw Issa Palazzo Chabot Granger Latta DelBene Lowey Takano Culberson Jenkins (KS) Palmer Chaffetz Graves (GA) LoBiondo DeSaulnier Lujan Grisham Thompson (CA) Curbelo (FL) Jenkins (WV) Paulsen Clawson (FL) Graves (LA) Long Deutch (NM) Thompson (MS) Davis, Rodney Johnson (OH) Pearce ´ Coffman Griffith Loudermilk Dingell Lujan, Ben Ray Titus Denham Johnson, Sam Perry Cole Grothman Love Doggett (NM) Tonko Dent Jolly Pittenger Collins (GA) Guinta Lucas Doyle, Michael Lynch Torres DeSantis Jordan Pitts Collins (NY) Guthrie Luetkemeyer F. Maloney, Tsongas DesJarlais Joyce Poe (TX) Comstock Hanna Lummis Duckworth Carolyn Van Hollen Diaz-Balart Katko Poliquin Conaway Hardy MacArthur Edwards Maloney, Sean Vargas Dold Kelly (PA) Pompeo Cook Harper Marchant Ellison Matsui Veasey Duffy King (IA) Posey Costello (PA) Harris Marino Engel McCollum Vela Duncan (TN) King (NY) Price, Tom ´ Cramer Hartzler Massie Eshoo McDermott Velazquez Ellmers (NC) Kinzinger (IL) Ratcliffe Crawford Heck (NV) McCarthy Esty McGovern Visclosky Emmer (MN) Kline Reed Crenshaw Hensarling McCaul Farr McNerney Walz

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:59 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24MR7.010 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE March 24, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1869 Reichert Schweikert Walden b 1410 Hartzler McCaul Sa´ nchez, Linda Renacci Scott, Austin Walker Hastings McClintock T. Ribble Sensenbrenner Walorski So the resolution was agreed to. Heck (NV) McCollum Sanchez, Loretta Rice (SC) Sessions Walters, Mimi The result of the vote was announced Heck (WA) McDermott Sanford Rigell Shimkus Weber (TX) Hensarling McGovern Sarbanes Roby Shuster as above recorded. Webster (FL) A motion to reconsider was laid on Herrera Beutler McHenry Scalise Roe (TN) Simpson Wenstrup Hice, Jody B. McKinley Schakowsky Rogers (AL) Smith (MO) Westerman the table. Higgins McMorris Schiff Rogers (KY) Smith (NE) Westmoreland Hill Rodgers Schock Rohrabacher Smith (NJ) f Whitfield Himes McNerney Schrader Rokita Smith (TX) Holding McSally Schweikert Rooney (FL) Stefanik Williams DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AF- Honda Meadows Ros-Lehtinen Stewart Wilson (SC) Scott (VA) FAIRS BUDGET PLANNING RE- Hoyer Meehan Roskam Stivers Wittman Scott, Austin Hudson Meeks Ross Stutzman Womack FORM ACT OF 2015 Scott, David Huelskamp Meng Sensenbrenner Rothfus Thompson (PA) Woodall The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Rouzer Thornberry Yoder Huffman Messer Serrano Royce Tiberi Yoho finished business is the vote on the mo- Huizenga (MI) Mica Sessions Russell Tipton Young (AK) tion to suspend the rules and pass the Hultgren Miller (FL) Sewell (AL) Ryan (WI) Trott Young (IA) bill (H.R. 216) to amend title 38, United Hunter Miller (MI) Sherman Hurd (TX) Moolenaar Salmon Upton Young (IN) States Code, to direct the Secretary of Shimkus Sanford Valadao Zeldin Hurt (VA) Mooney (WV) Shuster Scalise Wagner Zinke Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress Israel Moore Simpson Schock Walberg a Future-Years Veterans Program and Issa Moulton Sinema a quadrennial veterans review, to es- Jackson Lee Mullin Sires NAYS—180 Jeffries Mulvaney tablish in the Department of Veterans Slaughter Aguilar Gabbard Napolitano Jenkins (KS) Murphy (FL) Smith (MO) Ashford Gallego Neal Affairs a Chief Strategy Officer, and for Jenkins (WV) Murphy (PA) Smith (NE) Bass Garamendi Nolan other purposes, as amended, on which Johnson (GA) Nadler Smith (NJ) Beatty Graham O’Rourke the yeas and nays were ordered. Johnson (OH) Napolitano Smith (TX) Becerra Grayson Pallone The Clerk read the title of the bill. Johnson, E. B. Neal Speier Bera Green, Al Pascrell Johnson, Sam Neugebauer The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Stefanik Beyer Green, Gene Pelosi Jolly Newhouse Stewart Bishop (GA) Gutie´rrez Perlmutter question is on the motion offered by Jones Noem Stivers Blumenauer Hahn Peters the gentleman from Florida (Mr. MIL- Jordan Nolan Stutzman Bonamici Hastings Peterson Joyce Nugent Swalwell (CA) Boyle, Brendan Heck (WA) LER) that the House suspend the rules Pingree Kaptur Nunes F. Higgins Takai Pocan and pass the bill, as amended. Katko O’Rourke Brady (PA) Himes Takano Polis This is a 5-minute vote. Keating Olson Brownley (CA) Honda Thompson (CA) Price (NC) Kelly (IL) Palazzo Bustos Hoyer The vote was taken by electronic de- Thompson (MS) Kelly (PA) Pallone Butterfield Huffman Quigley vice, and there were—yeas 420, nays 0, Thompson (PA) Kennedy Palmer Capps Israel Rangel Thornberry not voting 12, as follows: Kildee Pascrell Capuano Jackson Lee Rice (NY) Tiberi Kilmer Paulsen Ca´ rdenas Jeffries Richmond [Roll No. 134] Tipton Pearce Carney Johnson (GA) Roybal-Allard YEAS—420 Kind Titus Pelosi Carson (IN) Johnson, E. B. Ruppersberger King (IA) Tonko Abraham Castor (FL) Duckworth Perlmutter Cartwright Jones Rush King (NY) Torres Adams Castro (TX) Duffy Castor (FL) Kaptur Ryan (OH) Kinzinger (IL) Peters Aderholt Chabot Duncan (TN) Trott Castro (TX) Keating Sa´ nchez, Linda Kirkpatrick Peterson Aguilar Chaffetz Edwards Tsongas Chu, Judy Kelly (IL) T. Kline Pingree Allen Chu, Judy Ellison Turner Cicilline Kennedy Sanchez, Loretta Knight Pittenger Amash Cicilline Ellmers (NC) Upton Clark (MA) Kildee Sarbanes Kuster Pitts Amodei Clark (MA) Emmer (MN) Valadao Clarke (NY) Kilmer Labrador Pocan Schakowsky Ashford Clarke (NY) Engel Van Hollen Clay Kind LaMalfa Poe (TX) Schiff Babin Clawson (FL) Eshoo Vargas Cleaver Kirkpatrick Lamborn Poliquin Schrader Barletta Clay Esty Veasey Clyburn Kuster Lance Polis Scott (VA) Barr Cleaver Farenthold Vela Cohen Langevin Langevin Pompeo Scott, David Barton Clyburn Farr Vela´ zquez Connolly Larsen (WA) Larsen (WA) Posey Serrano Bass Cohen Fattah Visclosky Conyers Larson (CT) Larson (CT) Price (NC) Sewell (AL) Beatty Cole Fincher Wagner Cooper Lawrence Latta Price, Tom Sherman Becerra Collins (GA) Fitzpatrick Costa Lee Quigley Walberg Sinema Benishek Collins (NY) Fleischmann Lawrence Courtney Levin Rangel Walden Sires Bera Comstock Fleming Lee Crowley Lewis Ratcliffe Walker Slaughter Beyer Conaway Flores Levin Cuellar Lieu, Ted Walorski Speier Bilirakis Connolly Forbes Lewis Reed Cummings Lipinski Walters, Mimi Swalwell (CA) Bishop (GA) Conyers Fortenberry Lieu, Ted Reichert Davis (CA) Loebsack Walz Takai Bishop (MI) Cook Foster Lipinski Renacci Davis, Danny Lofgren Wasserman Takano Bishop (UT) Cooper Foxx LoBiondo Ribble DeFazio Lowenthal Schultz Thompson (CA) Black Costa Frankel (FL) Loebsack Rice (NY) DeGette Lowey Waters, Maxine Thompson (MS) Blackburn Costello (PA) Franks (AZ) Lofgren Rice (SC) Delaney Lujan Grisham Watson Coleman Titus Blum Courtney Frelinghuysen Long Richmond DeLauro (NM) Weber (TX) Tonko Blumenauer Cramer Fudge Loudermilk Rigell DelBene Luja´ n, Ben Ray Webster (FL) Bonamici Crawford Gabbard Love Roby DeSaulnier (NM) Torres Bost Crenshaw Gallego Lowenthal Roe (TN) Welch Dingell Lynch Tsongas Boustany Crowley Garamendi Lowey Rogers (AL) Wenstrup Doggett Maloney, Van Hollen Boyle, Brendan Cuellar Garrett Lucas Rogers (KY) Westerman Doyle, Michael Carolyn Vargas F. Culberson Gibbs Luetkemeyer Rohrabacher Westmoreland F. Maloney, Sean Veasey Brady (PA) Cummings Gibson Lujan Grisham Rokita Whitfield Duckworth Matsui Vela Brady (TX) Curbelo (FL) Gohmert (NM) Rooney (FL) Williams Edwards McCollum Vela´ zquez Brat Davis (CA) Goodlatte Luja´ n, Ben Ray Ros-Lehtinen Wilson (FL) Ellison McDermott Visclosky Bridenstine Davis, Danny Gosar (NM) Roskam Wilson (SC) Engel McGovern Walz Brooks (AL) Davis, Rodney Gowdy Lummis Ross Wittman Eshoo McNerney Wasserman Brooks (IN) DeFazio Graham Rothfus Womack Esty Meeks Schultz Lynch Brownley (CA) DeGette Granger Woodall Farr Meng Waters, Maxine MacArthur Rouzer Buck Delaney Graves (GA) Yarmuth Fattah Moore Watson Coleman Maloney, Roybal-Allard Bucshon DeLauro Graves (LA) Yoder Foster Moulton Welch Carolyn Royce Burgess DelBene Grayson Frankel (FL) Murphy (FL) Wilson (FL) Maloney, Sean Ruppersberger Yoho Bustos Denham Green, Al Fudge Nadler Yarmuth Marchant Rush Young (AK) Butterfield Dent Green, Gene Marino Russell Young (IA) ANSWERED ‘‘PRESENT’’—1 Byrne DeSantis Griffith Massie Ryan (OH) Young (IN) Calvert DeSaulnier Grothman Matsui Ryan (WI) Zeldin Griffith Capps DesJarlais Guinta McCarthy Salmon Zinke Capuano Deutch Guthrie NOT VOTING—14 ´ ´ Cardenas Diaz-Balart Gutierrez NOT VOTING—12 Adams Duncan (SC) Payne Carney Dingell Hahn Brown (FL) Graves (MO) Ruiz Carson (IN) Doggett Hanna Brown (FL) Graves (MO) Payne Buchanan Grijalva Smith (WA) Carter (GA) Dold Hardy Buchanan Grijalva Perry Bucshon Hinojosa Turner Carter (TX) Doyle, Michael Harper Coffman Hinojosa Ruiz Deutch Norcross Cartwright F. Harris Duncan (SC) Norcross Smith (WA)

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:58 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24MR7.008 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H1870 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 24, 2015 b 1417 Mullin Rothfus Titus b 1424 Murphy (PA) Royce Trott So (two-thirds being in the affirma- Nadler Ruppersberger Tsongas So the Journal was approved. tive) the rules were suspended and the Napolitano Russell Upton The result of the vote was announced bill, as amended, was passed. Neugebauer Ryan (WI) Van Hollen as above recorded. Nunes Salmon The result of the vote was announced Vela O’Rourke Sanford Wagner f as above recorded. Olson Scalise Walker CONCURRENT RESOLUTION ON A motion to reconsider was laid on Palmer Schiff Walters, Mimi THE BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR the table. Perlmutter Schock Walz Pingree Schweikert Wasserman 2016 f Pitts Scott (VA) Schultz GENERAL LEAVE Pocan Scott, Austin Webster (FL) THE JOURNAL Poliquin Scott, David Welch Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. Mr. Polis Sensenbrenner Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Wenstrup Pompeo Serrano Westerman all Members may have 5 legislative Posey Sessions finished business is the question on Westmoreland Price (NC) Sherman days to revise and extend their re- agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of Whitfield Rangel Shimkus marks and include extraneous material Williams the Journal, which the Chair will put Reichert Simpson Wilson (FL) on H. Con. Res. 27. de novo. Ribble Smith (NE) Wilson (SC) The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there The question is on the Speaker’s ap- Rice (SC) Smith (NJ) Womack objection to the request of the gen- proval of the Journal. Richmond Smith (TX) Roby Speier Yarmuth tleman from Georgia? The question was taken; and the Yoho Roe (TN) Stefanik There was no objection. Young (AK) Speaker pro tempore announced that Rogers (KY) Stewart The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Rohrabacher Stutzman Young (IA) the ayes appeared to have it. ant to House Resolution 163 and rule Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, on Rokita Takai Young (IN) Roskam Takano Zeldin XVIII, the Chair declares the House in that I demand the yeas and nays. Ross Tiberi Zinke the Committee of the Whole House on The yeas and nays were ordered. the state of the Union for the consider- The SPEAKER pro tempore. This is a NAYS—156 ation of the concurrent resolution, H. 5-minute vote. Aguilar Green, Gene Paulsen Con. Res. 27. The vote was taken by electronic de- Amash Griffith Pearce The Chair appoints the gentleman vice, and there were—yeas 254, nays Barr Hanna Perry Bass Hastings Peters from Kansas (Mr. YODER) to preside 156, answered ‘‘present’’ 2, not voting Benishek Heck (NV) Peterson over the Committee of the Whole. 20, as follows: Bera Herrera Beutler Pittenger [Roll No. 135] Beyer Hice, Jody B. Poe (TX) b 1425 Bost Hill Price, Tom IN THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE YEAS—254 Boyle, Brendan Holding Ratcliffe Abraham DeSaulnier Kaptur F. Honda Reed Accordingly, the House resolved Adams DesJarlais Katko Brady (PA) Hoyer Renacci itself into the Committee of the Whole Aderholt Deutch Keating Brooks (IN) Hudson Rice (NY) House on the state of the Union for the Allen Diaz-Balart Kelly (IL) Brownley (CA) Huizenga (MI) Rigell Amodei Dingell Kelly (PA) Buck Hurd (TX) Rogers (AL) consideration of the concurrent resolu- Ashford Doggett Kennedy Bucshon Israel Rooney (FL) tion (H. Con. Res. 27) establishing the Burgess Jackson Lee Babin Doyle, Michael Kildee Ros-Lehtinen budget for the United States Govern- Byrne Jeffries Barletta F. King (IA) Rouzer Capuano Jenkins (KS) ment for fiscal year 2016 and setting Barton Duckworth King (NY) Roybal-Allard Carter (GA) Jenkins (WV) Beatty Duncan (TN) Kline Rush forth appropriate budgetary levels for Castor (FL) Johnson (OH) Becerra Edwards Knight Sa´ nchez, Linda fiscal years 2017 through 2025, with Mr. Chaffetz Jones Bilirakis Ellison Kuster T. YODER in the chair. Bishop (MI) Emmer (MN) Labrador Clarke (NY) Jordan Clawson (FL) Joyce Sanchez, Loretta The Clerk read the title of the bill. Bishop (UT) Engel LaMalfa Sarbanes Black Eshoo Lamborn Cleaver Kilmer The CHAIR. Pursuant to the rule, the Clyburn Kind Schakowsky Blackburn Esty Larsen (WA) Schrader concurrent resolution is considered Blum Farr Larson (CT) Coffman Kinzinger (IL) Collins (GA) Kirkpatrick Sewell (AL) read the first time. Bonamici Fattah Latta Shuster Boustany Fincher Lawrence Conaway Lance General debate shall not exceed 4 Connolly Langevin Sinema Brady (TX) Fleischmann Levin Sires hours, with 3 hours confined to the con- Brat Forbes Lieu, Ted Costa Lee gressional budget, equally divided and Costello (PA) Lewis Slaughter Bridenstine Fortenberry Lipinski Smith (MO) controlled by the chair and ranking Brooks (AL) Foster Loebsack Curbelo (FL) LoBiondo Davis, Rodney Love Stivers minority member of the Committee on Bustos Frankel (FL) Lofgren Swalwell (CA) Butterfield Franks (AZ) DeFazio Lowenthal Long Thompson (CA) the Budget, and 1 hour on the subject Calvert Frelinghuysen Loudermilk Delaney Lynch Thompson (MS) of economic goals and policies, equally Capps Gabbard Lowey Denham MacArthur Thompson (PA) Carney Gallego Lucas Dent Maloney, Sean divided and controlled by the gen- Tipton Carson (IN) Garamendi Luetkemeyer DeSantis Matsui tleman from Texas (Mr. BRADY) and Torres Carter (TX) Goodlatte Lujan Grisham Dold McDermott Turner the gentlewoman from New York (Mrs. Cartwright Graham (NM) Duffy McGovern Valadao CAROLYN B. MALONEY), or their des- Castro (TX) Granger Luja´ n, Ben Ray Ellmers (NC) Miller (FL) Vargas Chabot Grayson (NM) Farenthold Moore ignees. Veasey Chu, Judy Green, Al Lummis Fitzpatrick Moulton The gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Vela´ zquez Cicilline Grothman Maloney, Fleming Mulvaney Visclosky TOM PRICE) and the gentleman from Clark (MA) Guinta Carolyn Flores Murphy (FL) Clay Guthrie Marchant Foxx Neal Walberg Maryland (Mr. VAN HOLLEN) each will Cohen Gutie´rrez Marino Fudge Newhouse Walden control 90 minutes of debate on the Cole Hahn Massie Garrett Noem Waters, Maxine congressional budget. Gibbs Nolan Watson Coleman Collins (NY) Hardy McCarthy The Chair recognizes the gentleman Comstock Harper McCaul Gibson Nugent Weber (TX) Conyers Harris McClintock Gosar Palazzo Wittman from Georgia. Cook Hartzler McCollum Gowdy Pallone Woodall Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. Mr. Cooper Heck (WA) McHenry Graves (LA) Pascrell Yoder Chairman, I yield myself such time as Courtney Hensarling McKinley I may consume. Cramer Higgins McMorris ANSWERED ‘‘PRESENT’’—2 I thank the chairman, and I want to Crawford Himes Rodgers Gohmert Tonko Crenshaw Huelskamp McNerney thank my ranking member on the com- Crowley Huffman McSally NOT VOTING—20 mittee, the gentleman from Maryland Cuellar Hultgren Meadows Culberson Hunter Meehan Bishop (GA) Graves (MO) Quigley (Mr. VAN HOLLEN), for his work on our Cummings Hurt (VA) Meeks Blumenauer Grijalva Ruiz budget that we bring forward and the Davis (CA) Issa Meng Brown (FL) Hinojosa Ryan (OH) spirited debate that we had in com- Davis, Danny Johnson (GA) Messer Buchanan Miller (MI) Smith (WA) mittee. DeGette Johnson, E. B. Mica Ca´ rdenas Norcross Thornberry I want to thank all of our committee DeLauro Johnson, Sam Moolenaar Duncan (SC) Payne Walorski DelBene Jolly Mooney (WV) Graves (GA) Pelosi members for the productive activity

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.034 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE March 24, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1871 that they brought forward over the last cans to pursue their destinies. Put dif- form Fannie and Freddie. We cut cor- 10 or 11 weeks to work on our budget ferently, this budget resolution ex- porate welfare. and produce this product. presses a vision, a vision of governing, We promote federalism. In fact, a let- I want to thank our staff. They have and of America itself. ter sent from Governors across this done incredible work to get us to this So what is that vision? Mr. Chair- State recently said: point. man, we believe in promoting the Over the last several decades, the Federal I want to take a special moment to greatest amount of opportunity and Government has passed laws and promul- thank Congressional Budget Office Di- the greatest amount of success for the gated regulations that restrict the ability of rector Doug Elmendorf, who will be greatest number of Americans so the States to innovate while requiring States to leaving at the end of the month. I greatest number of American dreams implement and run programs dictated by know the ranking member and I are Federal dollars and Federal rules. may be realized, and doing so in a way For a long time, States were willing to going to have some words later on that demonstrates real hope and real trade off power and responsibility for Fed- about his service, but I want to thank compassion and real fairness without eral taxpayer funds, but we have reached a him and his staff for the work that Washington picking winners and losers. tipping point where States serve to carry out they have done. Now, Americans just have a common the wishes of the Federal Government in- Mr. Chairman, I am so proud and sense about them, and they understand stead of serving as laboratories of democ- pleased to join my Committee on the that something just isn’t right, espe- racy. Budget colleagues and Conference cially with our debt—very troubling, So, we give States flexibility—flexi- member colleagues on this side of the over $18 trillion. They know that we bility in programs like Medicaid and aisle to present A Balanced Budget for can’t spend more money than we take nutritional assistance. The States are a Stronger America. in forever. They can’t do it in their the ones that know how best to respond When I talk with folks back home in personal lives, they can’t do it in their to their population. We return control the district, the Sixth District of Geor- families or their businesses or their of education to State and local govern- gia, and across the State of Georgia, communities, and we can’t do it right ments. truly across this country, individuals here in Congress. We hold Washington accountable, re- are concerned. They are very con- In fact, the Chairman of the Joint ducing the size of the Federal work- cerned. Many of them are angry. Most Chiefs of Staff said just a few years force through attrition, and we support are frustrated about the direction of ago, Admiral Mike Mullen, the highest selling Federal assets and unneeded America. They feel we are adrift, that ranking military officer in our coun- Federal lands. We call for regulatory Washington seems incapable of ad- try, he was asked: What is the greatest reform to free up small business and dressing their concerns, that the Fed- threat to national security? The high- job creation across this land. We re- eral Government is getting in the way est ranking military officer in our quire fee-collecting programs in the or impeding the very spirit of the peo- country asked what the greatest threat Federal Government to account for ple. The President’s response in his was, and he said the national debt be- that revenue in our own appropriations budget? More taxes, more spending, cause he knows what Americans know, process so the people’s Representatives more borrowing, more debt, more stag- that unless we have economic security, can have a say about how that money nant growth, and a budget that never, we will never have national security. is spent. ever, ever balances. We cut waste, fraud, and abuse. We Remember, Mr. Chairman—the b 1430 would end the double-dipping in dis- American people know this—every dol- So instead of the insecurity and the ability insurance and unemployment lar that is taken for taxes and every uncertainty of the President’s plan, we insurance. We require able-bodied dollar that is borrowed, stealing from think there is a better way. adults of working age to work in order the next generation, is a dollar that What are our highlights? We balance to receive Federal welfare benefits. can’t be used to pay the rent, to buy a the budget in less than 10 years, and we We support the rights of conscience car, to buy a home, to send a kid to do so without raising taxes. Our budget for doctors and health care providers college, to open a business or to expand reduces spending by $5.5 trillion. It and employers, and we push back on a business and create jobs. We think stays in balance and sets us on a path the executive overreach of this admin- there is a better way. to pay off that debt—all of it. istration. We stop the President’s war Framing that issue, as folks read our We provide for a vote on the balanced on coal. We prevent the carbon tax. We report, is our introduction, in which we budget amendment in the House of encourage construction of the Key- say this: It is often said that a budget Representatives—this Congress—some- stone pipeline, and we hold the IRS ac- is more than a dry collection of num- thing that folks back home just think countable for targeting American tax- bers and budgeting more than a me- makes sense. payers. chanical act. With respect to the con- We support a strong national de- Mr. Chairman, this is a positive vi- gressional budget, no one has put it fense—providing resources above the sion for our country. It will deliver real better than the renowned political sci- President’s number—when taking into results for the American people. We re- entist, Aaron Wildavsky, when he said: account the base defense budget and sponsibly lay out a path for a healthy Taxing and spending, resource mobiliza- the global war on terror funding. economy, an opportunity economy— tion, and resource allocation now take up as We repeal ObamaCare in its entirety. one that opens doors for people, not much or more time on the floors of Congress As a physician, I can tell you it is not subjects them to the dictates of Wash- than all other matters put together. How just harming the health of America; it large government will be, the part it will ington, D.C. play in our lives, whether more or less will is harming the economy of America. Mr. Chairman, we believe in Amer- be done for defense or welfare, how much, We stop the raid on Medicare. We ica, and we believe in Americans. We and what sort of people will pay for the serv- eliminate the Independent Payment understand our problems are signifi- ices, what kind of society, in sum, we Ameri- Advisory Board, where a board of indi- cant, and we hear the people of this Na- cans want to have, all these are routinely viduals can not pay seniors’ doctors for tion crying out for leadership here in discussed in budget debates. caring for them. Washington, D.C. This resolution proceeds from that We promote patient-centered health The Balanced Budget for a Stronger conviction. It seeks to restore funda- care where patients, families, and doc- America will result in a government mental principles of budgeting and tors are making medical decisions, not that is more efficient, more effective, governing, to reverse the drift toward Washington, D.C. and more accountable—one that frees higher spending and larger govern- We secure economic opportunity. We up the American spirit and optimism ment, to reinforce the innovative and call for fair and simple and comprehen- and enthusiasm to do great things and creative spirit stirring among the myr- sive tax reform to get this economy meet great challenges. iad institutions and communities rolling again and get millions of Amer- We encourage our colleagues and fel- across this country, and to revitalize icans back to work. low citizens across this country to join the prosperity that creates ever-ex- We repeal Dodd-Frank and end the us in this exciting opportunity. panding opportunities for all Ameri- too-big-to-fail bank bailouts. We re- I reserve the balance of my time.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.037 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H1872 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 24, 2015 Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Chairman, I ever—is: How can we make sure that cut the top tax rate. The theory was want to start by thanking the chair- they benefit from that increased pro- that benefits would trickle down and man of the committee, Chairman ductivity? lift everybody up. Guess what? Incomes PRICE, for conducting the business of Mr. Chairman, we had some hope to the top 1 percent went up. Every- the Budget Committee in a profes- right after the November election. I re- body else ran aground. Yachts went up. sional manner. We have sharp dif- member opening up the newspaper— Everyone else’s boat ran aground. That ferences but have expressed them in a The Wall Street Journal. There was an is what happened. civil fashion. op-ed piece by Speaker BOEHNER and Guess what else went up? Deficits I also want to agree with him with Republican Senate Leader MITCH went up, Mr. Chairman, but everybody respect to the great job the Budget MCCONNELL, and here is what they else was running in place or fell behind. Committee staff has done, both Demo- said. They said that they were humbled And here is the thing. While this Re- crat and Republican, and agree with by the opportunity to ‘‘help struggling publican budget makes life harder him on one more thing—and it may be middle class Americans’’ and to deal right away for hard-working Ameri- the last thing I agree with the gen- with ‘‘wage stagnation.’’ That is what cans—life will get harder imme- tleman on during this debate. Dr. El- they said right after the election. diately—it also disinvests in our fu- mendorf, the current head of the Con- But, Mr. Chairman, the very bad ture. It slashes the part of the budget gressional Budget Office, has done a news today for the country is, if you we use to invest in our kids’ edu- great job, and we are going to have a look at this Republican budget, it cation—from early education and Head little bit more to say about that later. turns out they were just kidding. This Start to K–12 and beyond. We all believe in America, Mr. Chair, Republican budget is really hard on It is a sad day when we start chop- but I do not believe this Republican hard-working Americans and those who ping away at the ladder of opportunity budget reflects the values and prior- are looking hard to find a job. It says, in this country. ities. It is the wrong direction for Keep working harder, but you are It will also devastate the invest- America. going to get less. ments our country has historically Now, as we gather here today, we are It will do nothing to increase pay- made in scientific research and innova- facing some good news, we are facing checks and take-home pay for working tion, investments that have helped some bad news, and we are facing some families. In fact, it squeezes them even power our economy and keep us at the really bad news. harder and tighter. It will increase the cutting edge of world technology. The good news is the economy is im- tax burden on millions of families— And guess what else? It provides no proving. More people are going back to those in the middle class and those solution, no answer to the fact that in work. In fact, the private sector has working hard to join the middle class. added 12 million new jobs over the last just a few months, in May, we are Amazingly, it just drops the higher going to face a shortfall in the trans- 60 months. education tax credits. It ends the boost It is not all rosy. Many Americans portation trust fund that will result in in the child tax credit. Millions of are still looking for work, but the un- a construction slowdown this summer. Americans will lose access to Afford- employment rate has fallen to 5.5 per- It does nothing about that in the budg- cent, and trends are good. able Care tax credits. et. It says: Oh, we’re going to come up The bad news is that Americans are It is not just working families. Stu- with something after today—in a cou- working harder than ever, but their dents who are working hard to try and ple months. paychecks are flat. This is not a new get a job are going to find college even So, Mr. Chair, when I say that this problem, Mr. Chairman. It is not even less affordable than today. budget disinvests in America, it is not a problem in the last 2 years or just the This Republican budget cuts student rhetoric. It is a mathematical reality. last 5 years. It goes back quite a ways. loans. It increases the cost of student I want people to look at this chart. In fact, as this chart indicates, we have loans. It starts charging students in- This is a chart of the share of our econ- seen a growing gap between worker terest while they are still in college. It omy that we spend on the investment productivity, which has been rising cuts $90 billion from Pell—mandatory— portion of our budget—the investment steadily, and the incomes and pay- and more. in our kids’ education, the investment checks of most working Americans. It is not just students and working in scientific research like the medical If you look at this chart, it is very families. Seniors who have worked research to help find treatments and interesting, because it goes from 1948 hard to secure a healthy retirement are cures to diseases like cancer or diabe- to the 1970s, and you see these two going to see their costs go up imme- tes or other diseases that plague Amer- lines are convergent. That means the diately. Prescription drugs will cost ican families. additional worker productivity—the more. Copayments for preventive Here is what the Republican budget hard work of American workers—was health services go up right away. Nurs- does. It takes that investment budget translated into higher paychecks and ing home care will get much more ex- and throws it off the cliff, to the point compensation for them. pensive as they cut $90 billion out of that it is 40 percent below the lowest But starting around the 1970s, you Medicaid, two-thirds of which goes to level as a share of the economy since saw the great divergence. Worker pro- help seniors and disabled individuals. we have been keeping records in the ductivity went up. People are working Most of the rest goes to families with late 1950s. harder than ever, better than ever, but kids. And then they turn Medicare into Here is a country that invested in the their paychecks and compensation a voucher program that will reduce GI Bill. We invested in our infrastruc- have been pretty much flat. Medicare benefits. ture and the National Highway Sys- So, where is the value of that hard So while this Republican budget tem. We have invested in our kids’ edu- work going? If people are working squeezes hard-working families, in- cation. This Republican budget harder than ever, why aren’t their pay- creases the cost of college for students, disinvests in America. So it cuts all checks keeping track? squeezes seniors—higher costs for those things. Well, that additional value of hard them—it is great for those who are al- I will tell you one thing it doesn’t work is no longer going to regular ready in the top 1 percent. It is great cut. It doesn’t cut one single tax break working Americans—people working for millionaires. In fact, this budget for the purpose of reducing the deficit. for a paycheck. It has gone, over- paves the way for the Romney-Ryan Not one penny. Not one penny to re- whelmingly, to folks at the top. And I plan to cut the tax rate for million- duce the deficit. don’t mean just the top 10. It has gone, aires by a third. It paves the way. It overwhelmingly, to the top 1 percent of green lights it. b 1445 Americans, who have seen their in- If you look at this budget, it is based We hear that the highest priority is comes rise dramatically even as every- on a failed and unproven economic the- to reduce the deficit; but, yes, let’s cut body else has pretty much been run- ory—top-down, trickle-down econom- our investment in education. Yeah, ning in place and flat. ics—the same old theory, the theory let’s cut our investment in innovation. So, our challenge to all those people that collided with the real world under Let’s not fund the transportation trust working really hard—harder than President Bush in the 2000s, right? It fund—but we are not going to cut one

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.038 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE March 24, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1873 single tax break for the purpose of re- Ways and Means Committee, the past the budget and get this debt on the ducing the deficit, not for corporate chairman of the Budget Committee. I right track. jets, not for hedge fund owners, not am proud to yield 4 minutes to the gen- We invest it the right way by giving one. tleman from Wisconsin (Mr. RYAN). people more of their own money so Despite all that and despite the deep Mr. RYAN of Wisconsin. Mr. Chair- that they can make decisions on what cuts it makes in our investment, the man, I just want to, first of all, tip my is right for their family, instead of hav- reality is this budget doesn’t balance. hat to the new Budget chairman. It is ing Washington run it all. It doesn’t balance, not by a long shot, a very difficult job putting a budget to- Now, there is one last thing I would Mr. Chairman. gether. I did it for the last 4 years and like to say as I get carried away on the This budget takes budget quackery served in the capacity of the gentleman rhetoric. The CBO is an agency we use to new heights. It claims to repeal the from Maryland as the ranking member quite a bit here, and the Congressional Affordable Care Act, but it uses the of the Budget Committee for the prior Budget Office is a very important gov- revenues and the savings from the Af- 4 years before that, so I want to thank ernment agency that gives us all of our fordable Care Act to claim balance at the gentleman for bringing an out- cost estimates. This budget is written the end of 10 years. standing budget to the floor. on their estimates. Senator ENZI, the new Republican First of all, this is a budget to be For the last 6 years, we have had a chairman of the Senate Budget Com- proud of. This is a budget that makes Director at the Congressional Budget mittee, said that was kind of a budget our country stronger. This is a budget Office by the name of Doug Elmendorf, accounting that he didn’t think was that balances. It is pretty important to who has done an outstanding job as Di- right. The Heritage Foundation, they note that hard-working taxpayers, the rector of the CBO. I have worked very called that question as well in com- people that elected us here to represent closely with Dr. Elmendorf and with ments last time this came up. them, they have to live within their CBO in my prior capacity. He was a Here is the other thing. The budget means. Well, so should government. Democratic appointee, but the CBO Di- doesn’t account for the almost $1 tril- That is the basic decision here. rector is supposed to call the balls and lion in tax extenders that our Repub- When you take a look at the budgets the strikes and play it fair. Doug El- lican colleagues brought to the floor that are being considered here today, mendorf has done that. last fall and are on the way to bringing we are basically trying to get the gov- I just simply want to say, for the to the floor now, $1 trillion. If you add ernment to get back into the business record, Mr. Chairman, that we wish that to the deficit, which is real of being honest with people about our him well. He is leaving at the end of money, it is even farther out of bal- finances. the month. We wish him well. We ance. Here is the problem, Mr. Chairman. thank him for his service. We thank Then they go and claim a deficit divi- Our government is making promises to the Congressional Budget Office for all dend based on phantom deficit reduc- people in this country that it knows it the hard work that they put in so that tions. Here is the number. This is in can’t keep. That is dishonesty. What we can be here on the floor with these the 10th year. This is in the 10th year this budget does is it puts our budget budgets, and we wish him great success when they say their budget is really in back on track so that the government in the future in whatever it is he balance by $33 billion. Well, it is not. can keep these promises, the promises chooses and thank him for his service If you take out the Affordable Care that people are organizing their lives to this House, to this Congress, and to Act revenue, if you take out the Af- around. our country. fordable Care Act savings, if you add in What the gentleman from Maryland Mr. Chairman, I simply want to say the tax extenders costs that our Repub- and the President’s budget says is just this is an outstanding budget that de- lican colleagues keep bringing to the keep raising taxes; tax more. Oh, by serves our support. Don’t buy all the floor, you don’t come close to balance, the way, that is not enough. Then we hype you are hearing from the other not close, Mr. Chairman. This balanced need to borrow more and spend more. side, and pass this fantastic Price budget stuff, it just isn’t true. It is just That seems to be the path to pros- budget. not true. It would make Enron ac- perity, according to them, and look at Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Chairman, I countants blush. where we are, highest poverty rates in yield myself such time as I may con- I think, Mr. Chairman, most Ameri- a generation. Our economy is growing sume. cans would agree that this budget— below 2 percent in most cases, below 3, I listened to my friend and the cutting tax rates for the very wealthy, which is what we were supposed to be former chairman and his remarks. The while increasing the tax burden on growing at. The gentleman, I just lis- reality is that the President’s proposal working families, raising the cost to tened to his rhetoric. He says this and the Democratic proposal, we don’t seniors, raising the cost to students, slices, this slashes; we are chopping increase tax rates; but, yes, we do get cutting vital investments—will simply away at opportunity. rid of some of the tax loopholes in the stack the deck even more in favor of Here is what this budget does. In- Tax Code that are riddled with pref- the very wealthy and the very powerful stead of increasing spending, on aver- erences that are there not because they and make it harder on everyone else to age, like the President’s budget does at make America more productive, but get ahead. 5.1 percent, it does it at 3.4 percent. We because someone had a powerful lob- Mr. Chairman, we can do better. We are saying let’s get the government to byist who was getting a special inter- can do much better, and Democrats live within its means. est break for them. will propose a budget that promotes a Government spending will still in- If you think about it, if the govern- more rapidly growing economy, with crease, on average, 3.4 percent a year, ment provides a grant of $1,000 to more broadly shared prosperity. That instead of 5.1 percent a year. I guess somebody, that is $1,000 in value; but if will be the right direction for America. that is the difference between whether I say to you, Of the taxes you have to Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance people can live the American Dream or pay, I am going to give you a special of my time. not, whether we are slashing or chop- break so it is $1,000 less, that is a pret- Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. Mr. ping or doing all these horrible, awful ty good deal, too. Chairman, so much misinformation things to people. The reality is we spend $1.4 trillion, just presented and we will work Mr. Chairman, just don’t buy all this according to the Congressional Budget through that over the course of the overheated rhetoric. The problem is we Office, each year on tax expenditures, next 3 hours as we debate this bill. have got to balance the budget. We more than on Social Security. Now, I guess the most disheartening thing have got to get this debt under control. some of those are for good purposes, is the rhetoric that divides the Amer- We see the storm clouds on the hori- good public policy purposes, but some ican people. This is a time for the zon, and what this budget does is it of them are for like corporate jets, and country to come together and solve the gets government to be honest with the some of them are for hedge fund man- challenges that we have. taxpayers that give us this money in agers. An individual who has been leading the first place so that we can meet Here is the thing. We think that we in that is the current chairman of the these priorities honestly and balance can get rid of some of those tax breaks

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.040 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H1874 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 24, 2015 to help reduce the long-term deficit. the king of the hill, the queen-of-the- ment to attempt to provide that better Our colleagues would just prefer to hill budget, the price-is-right budget— life because, Mr. Chairman, after 50 devastate our investments in education I don’t know—where we are either years of the War on Poverty, for exam- and other areas, going to have $94 billion or $96 billion ple, we know that the Federal Govern- Math is math, to the former chair- in a slush fund, the overseas account ment can’t do the job. man. The reality is—and he knows it— that is $36 billion, $38 billion above There is a lot of rhetoric out there. that the portion of the budget we use what the generals and the President Certainly, Mr. Chairman, for the com- to make these investments, the Repub- say they need for war. mittee, it is not positive and not right lican budget does absolutely cut that The CHAIR. The time of the gentle- either. It is just plain wrong. to 40 percent below the lowest levels of woman has expired. We talk about hard work. You know the shared economy since we have been Mr. VAN HOLLEN. I yield the gentle- what is hard work? Getting the com- keeping records. That is a fact. woman an additional 30 seconds. peting priorities and a continuing usur- Another reality is that this Repub- Ms. MOORE. That is $1.4 trillion of pation of our limited moneys in terms lican budget doesn’t balance unless you entitlements that we spend through of our mandatory spending and getting are using phony math. the Tax Code for gas and oil subsidies, a budget to balance in 10 years. Yet Mr. Chairman, I am now very pleased jets, hedge fund managers. There is again, this Budget Committee and this to yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman talk in this budget of eliminating the House of Representatives has a plan to from Wisconsin (Ms. MOORE), a great estate tax. Millionaires and billion- do it and, unlike you have heard, to do member of the Budget Committee. aires are benefiting tremendously on it honestly. Ms. MOORE. Mr. Chairman, I thank tax income from CEO pay. What is not hard work, quite frankly, the ranking member for yielding to The CHAIR. The time of the gentle- Mr. Chairman, what is easier to do is me. woman has again expired. to never balance, and this chart shows I want to add my voice to those who Mr. VAN HOLLEN. I yield the gentle- that. The President’s budget never bal- congratulate everyone on the Budget woman an additional 15 seconds. ances, ever. Of course, Mr. Chairman, you know Committee, particularly the chair and Ms. MOORE. Don’t believe the hype. that you can’t start paying down the the ranking member, for their really I agree with the gentleman from Wis- $18 trillion of debt that we have with hard work—and the staff—that we put consin. Don’t believe the hype. This is another $100 trillion on the way until into this labor. not a democratic budget, as Americans you first count the balance. We do that I can tell you that I was, indeed, have come to know it. Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. Mr. in a responsible, honest way. We don’t shocked. Even though I have been on try to do it in a year. We do it in a re- the Budget Committee for several cy- Chairman, this appears to be a common theme, moving forward with this rhet- sponsible, logical 10-year window. cles, I continue to be shocked at how The Federal budget is very big. It is oric that is hyperbole and dividing this budget does not reflect what I call like an aircraft carrier, Mr. Chairman. American against American. It is just democratic values. I mean democratic, You have got to turn it, and you have not positive. It is not what this Nation not as a Democratic Party, but as our got to turn it decisively, but it doesn’t democracy. I believe that our democ- needs. turn on a dime. And that is what we The gentleman from Maryland said racy is really at risk when we put forth show here. That is what we do here. that it is all about math. Math is such a budget. Again, it is hard work. I think that this budget hollows out math. And he is right. It is also hard work, as I mentioned the middle class; and, based on the con- We now spend about $12,000 per Amer- earlier, because, as time goes on, more structs that we have seen in the past, ican every single year, and we collect and more of our over $3 trillion worth it would raise taxes on middle class about $10,000 per every single American of spending per year is spent on pro- families. I am talking about those peo- each year. It doesn’t work. grams that are eventually going to ple earning modest incomes—$50,000 to What does it get you? This is what it bankrupt us if we don’t reform them. If $75,000 a year—by $2,000 a year. gets you. This is the debt-to-gross do- we don’t strengthen them and save Of course, it abandons the poor. Of mestic product ratio, the debt since them for future generations, no one the $5.5 trillion, 69 percent of this is on 1940 of this country until 2015. The red will be able to take advantage of Med- the backs of those who are the most line is where the debt is going. This is icaid, of Medicare, of Social Security. poor and most vulnerable. A lot of peo- the President’s plan. This is the Demo- And I know we all put money into ple just don’t care that much about crat plan right here. That is what will those programs—especially Medicare poor people; but who do we care about crush this country. Our friends want to and Social Security—but on average, in this budget? stick their heads in the sand and ig- we only put about 30 percent into This budget pulls up the ladder of op- nore that. This is what destroys lives. them, Medicare, for example. And that portunity from our kids, that next gen- This destroys every American. 70 percent delta goes on the backs of eration that is going to make our econ- We stand for all Americans. We be- our children and grandchildren, a lot of omy work. They are doing us a favor lieve that having a balanced budget for whom haven’t yet been born. Talk by trying to go to college; yet we cut a stronger America is the way to solve about taxation without representation. Pell grants in this Republican budget these challenges. We believe it is im- Our budget solves this problem. We by somewhere around $90 billion. portant to save and strengthen and se- have the ability, and we on the com- It deconstructs our job-creating in- cure the programs that are so vital for mittee have had the honesty to have frastructure investment by $187 billion. the American people. this direct, forthright conversation There used to be a time when the I am proud to yield 3 minutes to the with the American people, frankly, transportation budget was a bipartisan gentleman from Indiana (Mr. ROKITA), now for 5 years. The worst thing we thing; but, in the name of balancing a the vice chairman of the Budget Com- could have done is to turn tail and run budget, we even throw these workers mittee who has been working dili- and not have this honest conversation. under the bus. gently on this from the very beginning. The CHAIR. The time of the gen- It pulls the lifeline from seniors, dis- Mr. ROKITA. I thank the chairman tleman has expired. abled, and kids by block granting our for his hard work. I thank all of my Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. I yield Medicaid program and cutting $913 bil- Budget Committee colleagues for their the gentleman an additional 1 minute. lion, that being a portion of the $2 tril- hard work. Mr. ROKITA. But we did it 5 years lion that we cut from health care, a Mr. Chairman, it has been hard ago when the new crew came in. We lifeline, by repealing the Affordable work—it continues to be—to have this continue to do it. And I am encour- Care Act and all this in the name of a honest conversation with the American aged, Mr. Chairman. I think the Amer- phony balancing of the budget. people. ican people see the light. They see that The whole goal here is to allow the unless we correct and reform this man- b 1500 opportunity for Americans to build datory overspending, no one can be We are going to see a display here at better lives for themselves and their helped. We can’t have Americans build- some point. I don’t know if you call it families, not for the Federal Govern- ing better lives for themselves and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.041 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE March 24, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1875 their families. We are going to have centers provide critical training and The budget produced by Chairman them more dependent on the Federal guidance; yet this budget would short- PRICE’s House Budget Committee Government, and in doing so, more and change those programs, removing local meets our current defense demands by more people will be hurt. resources that allow small businesses adding additional money into the war Slush fund, no. A very important to take root and grow in our commu- account. But I would reassure the fund to fight the global war on terror, nities. Nationally, Small Business De- ranking member that it funds that in- to keep our troops safe and effective. velopment Centers and Women’s Busi- crease through a concomitant decrease That is an important fund. I wouldn’t ness Centers would see cuts of $195 mil- in other spending. That will hold us on call that a slush fund. And I wouldn’t lion. This would mean 16,000 fewer a trajectory to balance the budget in call dependency on broken programs small businesses are able to launch, less than 10 years and then begin pay- good or positive either. while 150,000 existing small companies ing down the unprecedented debt that Republicans on the Budget Com- would be deprived assistance that this administration has run up. mittee, Republicans in this Congress, I speeds their growth. Unfortunately, this plan is met with hope all of us eventually will have the Beyond technical assistance, small opposition from so-called defense courage and ability to not only have firms need capital to expand. Sadly, hawks who want the extra spending for this conversation with the American this budget also undermines credit pro- defense, which this budget provides, people but to start putting this con- grams. New York City alone would see but who don’t want to go through the versation into direct action. a $22.5 million reduction in fuss and bother of paying for it. And Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Chairman, I microloans—microloans. Do you know therein lies the problem. yield myself such time as I may con- that 62 percent of microloan borrowers This is not just a 1-year increase. Be- sume. are women, low-income women with a I am a little surprised the gentleman default rate of less than 3 percent? cause it increases defense spending from Indiana brought up what is called Shame on us. This lending helps the without making other cuts, it changes the OCO funding. These are the funds smallest businesses create opportunity the overall spending trajectory over in the overseas contingency operations in economically stricken communities. the next 10 years. account for overseas contingencies, So it only makes sense that this budg- And here is the simple math of the like wars and other contingencies that et, which targets the most vulnerable, matter. This adds more than $20 billion come up. would slash this program too. to our total spending this year, and it, The reality is that what the Repub- Small businesses would suffer in in effect, repudiates the budget plan for lican budget does here is create a slush other ways. For many small busi- additional reductions next year. On fund out of the overseas contingency nesses, having the Federal Government this new trajectory that these budget account. It sends a signal that we are as a customer can mean significant hawks would set, there will be no bal- confused about how we are going to revenue and job creation opportunity. anced budget in 10 years, even if we en- fund our defense obligations, and it is Under this plan, small business con- acted every other reform called for in in total violation of what the Budget tract awards would be reduced by $142 the budget and maintained all other Committee itself stood for for years. billion, lowering job creation by 2.1 departments within these constraints. I want to read, Mr. Chairman, from million positions. New York City com- After 10 years, we will still be run- the 2015 Republican budget. It is just a panies would lose out on $3.6 billion ning deficits of nearly $100 billion a year ago, but we have got real amnesia worth of Federal work over the budget year, and interest costs will have eaten among our Republican colleagues. period. us alive. That is why it is so important Here is what they said in their re- Mr. Chairman, Republicans like to to pass the budget intact, without the port: position themselves as small business amendments being proposed. Abuse of the OCO cap adjustment is a champions. However, supporting small backdoor loophole that undermines the in- firms takes more than lip service. It re- b 1515 tegrity of the budget process; quires wise investments in programs The Budget Committee will exercise its promoting entrepreneurship. This I am curious how the self-proclaimed oversight responsibilities with respect to the defense hawks claim to defend our use of the OCO; budget slashes those programs, and I The Budget Committee will oppose in- urge my colleagues to reject it. country when our credit is shot and our creases above the levels the administration Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. Mr. debt service is approaching $1 trillion a and our military commanders say are needed Chairman, I was amused by my friend year. They forget that in the spring of to carry out operations unless it can be from Maryland’s comments about the 1945, carrying a debt proportional to clearly demonstrated that such amounts are global war on terror fund, under- the one we have today, there was seri- war-related. standing that in 2015, 2014, and 2013, for ous doubt over whether we could con- I didn’t write that. Our Republican those fiscal years, he voted for the ap- tinue to conduct the war for another colleagues put it in their report. It is propriations bills that included the de- year. like, ooh, didn’t mean it. fense money and the OCO money. In When he was Chairman of the Joint So I am really baffled that our col- fact, the levels were $91.9 billion, $91.9 Chiefs of Staff, Admiral Mike Mullin leagues keep bringing this up. It is a billion, and $98.7 billion that the gen- warned that in his professional mili- total violation of what the Budget tleman voted for. tary judgment, the greatest threat to Committee has always stood for on a Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Will the gen- our national security is the national bipartisan basis. tleman yield? debt. He made that warning 5 years and With that, I yield 3 minutes to the Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. Maybe I $41⁄2 trillion of debt ago. gentlelady from New York (Ms. will yield to the gentleman later if I History warns us that countries that VELA´ ZQUEZ), the ranking member of have time. bankrupt themselves aren’t around the Small Business Committee and a I am pleased to yield 31⁄2 minutes to great friend to entrepreneurs around the gentleman from California (Mr. very long because before you can pro- vide for the common defense, you have the country. MCCLINTOCK), my friend and a member Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ. I thank the rank- of the Budget Committee. to be able to pay for it, and the ability ing member for yielding. Mr. MCCLINTOCK. I thank the gen- of our Nation to do so is coming into Mr. Chairman, I rise to oppose a tleman for yielding. grave doubt. The Budget Committee’s budget that will cut the legs out from Mr. Chairman, we need to discuss the budget offers us a very narrow path out under our Nation’s small businesses. budget under the ominously growing of debt while continuing to fund our This budget would mean $10 billion of shadow of unprecedented debt that has military at the requested levels, and cuts to initiatives that foster small literally doubled in the last 8 years. its adoption, intact, is indispensable business growth. Taken together, these With crushing debt comes ruinous in- both to our short-term and to our long- reductions would mean 190,000 fewer terest costs that the CBO warns will term defense needs. jobs created. exceed our entire military budget with- Mr. Chairman, we have a stark For many would-be business owners, in the decade on our current trajec- choice before us: pay for the needed in- the SBA’s entrepreneurial development tory. creases in defense by reducing other

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:58 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.042 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H1876 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 24, 2015 spending, or refuse to pay for those in- people, there would be a 99 percent cut Budget Committee and the leadership creases and sacrifice the long-term se- in State funding. Yes. No, I’m not ex- you have shown there. curity and prosperity of our country on aggerating, 99 percent. Because basi- Mr. Chairman, Americans know that the altar of instant gratification. cally the money is paying for past obli- this country was built on a strong Amongst the most chilling words in gations, past projects for the States. work ethic. This budget provides a history are those attributed to Louis When the States finish a project, they framework to create work require- XV, ‘‘After us, the flood.’’ Let that not get reimbursed. While they are build- ments for able-bodied, working-age be the epitaph of this Congress. ing it, they don’t. So under their budg- adults receiving Federal benefits. Mr. VAN HOLLEN. I yield myself et in fiscal year 2016, your State De- Some may ask, Why work require- such time as I may consume. partment of Transportation will get 99 ments? In 1996, President Clinton, a fel- Mr. Chairman, Mr. MCCLINTOCK is percent less Federal funds. That kind low Arkansan from my hometown of right about this OCO slush fund. of has a pretty big impact in some Hot Springs but from across the aisle, To the chairman of the committee, States here. If you are in a bright yel- said: Today we are taking an historic you actually made exactly my point in low State, you are over 70 percent, de- chance to make welfare what it is your remarks. I did support the OCO pending on the Federal funds; if you meant to be: a second chance, not a money—again, this is for overseas con- are in a green State, 50 to 69; and a way of life. The goal of workforce re- tingency operations—at the level re- light green, 30 to 49. quirements on able-bodied, working- quested by the President and the Joint I would note on the Republican side age adults is simply to give Americans Chiefs of Staff, our military com- that the chairman of the committee, a hand up, not a hand out. manders. It was higher a couple of Georgia, they would get $1.1 billion Mr. Chairman, we should be con- years ago because we had tens of thou- less. Now, I guess Georgia doesn’t need cerned about the negative effects these sands more troops in Afghanistan. The the money. The roads, the congestion Federal benefit programs are having on gentleman may recall that we brought around Atlanta is not a problem. The our American work ethic when we re- a lot of those troops home. As a result Speaker’s State would get $1.2 billion view the data. The maximum an indi- of that, we don’t need as much money less under this budget; California, $3.2 vidual can earn and still receive gov- in our war account, the overseas con- billion less, the majority leader; and ernment assistance under some pro- tingency account. grams, according to the U.S. Depart- So what I did, Mr. Chairman, is ex- Louisiana, the whip, $619 million less. ment of Health and Human Services, is actly what our Republican colleagues These are facts. That is the actual im- only $1,000. on the Budget Committee said we pact of their proposed budget. It digs a The Cato Institute reports that in 39 should do at that time; in other words, hole so deep we will never get out of it. States, individuals can make more on I opposed increases above the levels the What happens after the first year of government assistance than by work- administration and military com- their reform of the trust fund? Well, ing an 8-hour, $8-per-hour job. In six manders said were needed to carry out actually, unless we pass a long-term States, government benefits pay more those operations. Yes, I did support a bill with new funding, which they are budget level at the level the President quite resistant to thus far, it would than a $12-per-hour job; and in eight and our military commanders said was mean 30 percent less funding than States, government assistance pays for more than the average salary of an necessary, but as Mr. MCCLINTOCK said, today for all States and a 60 percent the Republican budget does just the op- cut in surface transportation. American teacher. In my home State, where Medicaid posite. It does what we said we would We already have a system with not do—and I say ‘‘we,’’ Republicans 147,000 bridges that need repair or total expansion was accepted, 40 percent of and Democrats alike. So it is impor- replacement. Forty percent of the sur- the able-bodied, working-age adults re- tant to heed our own words; otherwise, face on the National Highway System ceiving 100-percent-funded Medicaid as the Budget Committee itself said, is in such bad condition it has to be had zero income. By adding workforce we will undermine the integrity of the dug up—not just resurfaced, no, major requirements for able-bodied, working- budget process. That was the point Mr. work—and a $75 billion backlog in age adults in the Medicaid population alone, this budget establishes a blue- MCCLINTOCK was making as well. transit systems. Our legacy systems in I now yield 3 minutes to the gen- our major cities are so obsolete, they print for work requirements that will tleman from Oregon (Mr. DEFAZIO), the are killing people. Right here in the result in savings by 2022 of up to $376 ranking member of the Transportation Nation’s Capital, people are dying un- billion federally, with an additional and Infrastructure Committee. He is necessarily because they can’t afford to $170 billion saved at the State level. somebody who knows we have to fund bring in modern cars without the Fed- President Franklin Roosevelt made the modernization of our country’s in- eral partnership. clear during a 1935 address to Congress frastructure. We held a hearing just last week in that these programs were not intended Mr. DEFAZIO. Mr. Chairman, let’s the committee, and we heard from the to be an entitlement but a temporary depart from a little bit of the acri- Governor of North Carolina—red State, aid to those in need. He said: mony, the acronyms, the magic aster- red Governor—the mayor of Salt Lake, ‘‘The lessons of history, confirmed by isks, and the end runs. Let’s be con- and the transportation director from the evidence immediately before me, crete. So let’s talk about infrastruc- Wyoming. They all say the Federal show conclusively that continued de- ture investment and what the Repub- partnership is absolutely critical, and pendence upon relief induces a spir- lican budget would do. you are going to reduce it to 1 percent. itual and moral disintegration fun- We are running a deficit this year. Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. Mr. damentally destructive to the national We fall off a cliff the end of May, and Chairman, I would note for the gen- fibre. To dole out relief in this way is if we don’t put up $10 billion, many tleman that if he reads the budget res- to administer a narcotic, a subtle de- States will cancel projects this sum- olution, we accommodate for appro- stroyer of the human spirit. It is inim- mer. That is not the subject of this priate funding for infrastructure and ical to the dictates of sound policy. It budget. This budget is for next year. for highways in section 510. With a def- is in violation of the traditions of So what are they doing for the long icit-neutral reserve fund, that means America. Work must be found for able- term? They are going to reform the that we actually accommodate for pay- bodied but destitute workers.’’ highway trust fund. Oh, thank you ing for it, for transportation and for in- The principles President Clinton and very much. I appreciate that. They are frastructure, because we believe it is a President Roosevelt before him pro- going to limit expenditures out of the priority. We believe it is a priority for moted are more important now than fund to future income. We have been the American people. ever before as we find ourselves in a fis- supplementing it from general funds Mr. Chairman, I am pleased to yield cal crisis created by dependence and because the income is not adequate, 3 minutes to the gentleman from Ar- entitlement. President Clinton re- but they are going to say: No. No more kansas (Mr. WESTERMAN), a member of minded us in 1996 that this is not the general funds. You live on the income. the Budget Committee. end of welfare reform, this is the begin- What does that mean? Well, it means, Mr. WESTERMAN. Thank you, Mr. ning, and we all have to assume respon- in this budget put forward by these Chairman, for the diligent work on the sibility.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.044 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE March 24, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1877 The CHAIR. The time of the gen- tried to do to the American people shortly pass a trillion-dollar tax in- tleman has expired. after Bill Clinton left office. crease to offset these unpaid for tax Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. Mr. During his term, 21 million jobs were breaks and abide by his budget’s rev- Chairman, I yield the gentleman an ad- created. Then the next 8 years when we enue assumptions. ditional 30 seconds. dropped the tax rate down from 39.6 to Mr. Chairman, I urge a ‘‘no’’ vote for Mr. WESTERMAN. This budget 35 percent for those most affluent, we this budget. It is simply not worth the incentivizes work, not dependence. didn’t gain anything. In fact, we lost paper it is printed on. This budget reduces spending growth 463,000 jobs. You want to try this The CHAIR. Members are reminded instead of growing government. This again? We are not going to try it again. to direct their remarks to the Chair budget moves us in the right direction. You want to talk about dead on ar- and not to other Members of the body I encourage my friends on both sides rival? Those are your words. This is in the second person. of the aisle to assume responsibility by dead on arrival. Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. Mr. voting for this balanced budget for a Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong opposi- Chairman, I yield myself such time as stronger, working America. tion to this budget. Forget about the I may consume. Mr. VAN HOLLEN. I yield myself trillions of dollars worth of cuts to pro- I want to make a comment about the such time as I may consume. grams that help people with low or highway trust fund that was ref- Mr. Chairman, actually, this Repub- moderate incomes. Forget about the erenced. My colleague from Maryland lican budget strips away provisions tax increases that hit the middle class stated there is nothing in this budget that are in existence today to make and working poor so that some million- that will deal with the problem that is work pay. Child tax credits for working aires and billionaires can squeeze a lit- about to occur in a month and a half. families, they get rid of the bump up. tle more from the stone. Forget about And he is right. This budget deals with They get rid of the enhanced earned in- repealing ObamaCare for the 56th time, fiscal year 2016, which begins in Octo- come tax credit for working families. taking affordable health care out of the ber. As I said, they get rid of the higher hands of 16 million Americans, leaving The good news, Mr. Chairman, how- education deduction for families so them with nothing and not having the ever, is that in last year’s budget, FY15 that they can send their kids to school. guts to tell them what is going on. For- budget, which addresses this year, this I also want to say a word about the get about all of that. current year that we are in right now, transportation trust fund, because as The fundamental problem with this we also had a proposal to be able to the ranking member, as the senior document is that even with all the dra- provide for a deficit neutral reserve Democrat on the Transportation and conian spending cuts and with all the fund for transportation, which was Infrastructure Committee just pointed tax increases I just described, at the used previously for MAP–21. So a path out, this Republican budget has no pro- end of the day, it still doesn’t balance, to how we are able to actually solve vision inside the budget numbers for as the ranking member, just a few mo- the challenges before us. dealing with the crisis we are going to I am so pleased to yield 3 minutes to ments ago, said over and over again. face in a few months. In fact, Mr. Ranking Member, it is the gentlewoman from California (Mrs. Now, the chairman of the committee not even close. MIMI WALTERS). mentioned the deficit-neutral reserve Mrs. MIMI WALTERS of California. fund, section 510. I am looking at it b 1530 Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support now. Deficit-neutral reserve funds can This budget, while calling for the of the House Republican fiscal year play an important role in signaling a complete and total repeal of the Af- 2016 budget resolution, A Balanced policy direction. After all, these are 10- fordable Care Act, continues to assume Budget for a Stronger America. year budgets. I would understand if we that the law’s $2 trillion revenue in- At a time when our Nation is grap- didn’t know exactly what we were creases and Medicare savings—it as- pling with over $18 trillion in national going to do with our transportation sumes that. We will do away with the debt and an uncertain economic future, trust fund 10 years from now or 9 years bill, but we will keep the money. I now more than ever Washington must from now, but we are talking about 11⁄2 don’t know another way to put it. learn to live within its means. Wash- months from now. We are talking When we get to taxes, the budget as- ington’s spending problem is one that about in the first year of this budget. sumes that revenues remain unchanged cannot be taken lightly. In the middle of May, we are going to for the current law. Yet you, yourself— According to former Chairman of the see a construction slowdown. you, yourself, Mr. Chairman, I have a Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Now, the Democratic budget alter- great deal of respect for you, Doctor— Mullen, the ‘‘single, biggest threat to native, we have a plan. The President you stated explicitly through the Chair our national security’’ is our national put forward a 6-year plan, $478 billion. that you don’t think we should be debt. House Republicans are working It is included in his budget numbers. It using the current law baseline. You to confront this issue head on. is not like, okay, a little asterisk, we said that, I didn’t. In our budget proposal, we seek to will figure this out in a month and a Last Congress, we passed $956 billion tackle Washington’s spending addic- half. The President makes sure we in unpaid-for tax breaks. You all voted tion by reducing Federal spending by don’t have a shortfall, and, actually, he for that. They weren’t assumed in the $5.5 trillion and balancing the Federal says we need to modernize our infra- current law baseline. This year, we budget in less than 10 years. This is a structure so we can compete in this have already passed $100 billion in un- sharp contrast to President Obama’s global economy. paid-for tax cuts. Where is this money budget, which never balances, ever, de- So, Mr. Chairman, it is just reckless coming from? We are the tax-and-spend spite the President’s continued insist- to put forward a budget where it Democrats. You folks know better than ence on raising taxes. doesn’t even provide any solution to that. Our budget aims to strengthen vital something that is going to face us in a The CHAIR. The time of the gen- programs like Medicare and Social Se- month and a half. tleman has expired. curity in a fiscally responsible way so Now I am pleased to yield 3 minutes Mr. VAN HOLLEN. I yield the gen- that we can fulfill the promises we to the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. tleman an additional 30 seconds. have made to our Nation’s seniors. PASCRELL), a terrific member of the Mr. PASCRELL. Thank you. One of the Federal Government’s top Budget Committee. Two hundred billion dollars more priorities is providing a strong na- Mr. PASCRELL. Thank you, Mr. have been reported out of Ways and tional defense. This budget boosts de- Ranking Member. Thank you, Mr. Means. And tomorrow, we are going to fense spending above the President’s Chairman. report out another $300 billion tax cut levels so we can ensure a strong, safe, Mr. Chairman, there is a stark choice for Paris Hilton, Ivanka Trump, and and secure Nation. to be made, there is no question about others fortunate enough to be left a Furthermore, our proposal repeals it, as I am quoting from the gentleman nice inheritance. That is what you are ObamaCare in full, including the law’s from California. going to do tomorrow. taxes, regulations, and mandates that Mr. Chairman, this is the stark My friend, the chairman, might just are crippling hard-working Americans choice. Look at this. This is what you be assuming that your majority will and small businesses nationwide.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.045 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H1878 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 24, 2015 We also empower patients by repeal- pay for college, and the seniors who So, Mr. Chairman, I urge today all ing the President’s Independent Pay- won’t be able to pay their medical Members of this body to stand up to ment Advisory Board, an unelected, bills. We need to invest in economic se- support the budget and to support the unaccountable board of bureaucrats curity for everyone. American taxpayers, to stand up for charged with making patient’s health I urge my colleagues to oppose this strengthening our social safety net, care decisions. budget and, instead, pass a budget that and to stand up for our children and to The Republican budget is a positive lifts people out of poverty, invests in stand up for our grandchildren, who do step forward for our Nation. It seeks to hard-working families who have been not deserve to be handed the bill for address our Nation’s debt crisis while left behind by the economy, and that our irresponsible spending today. also supporting the programs that are provides for shared prosperity. I urge a ‘‘yes’’ vote on the Repub- critical to our national and economic Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. Mr. lican budget. security. Chairman, I am pleased to yield 3 min- Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Chairman, I I urge my colleagues to support this utes to the gentleman from New Jersey yield myself such time as I may con- budget resolution. (Mr. GARRETT), a senior member of the sume. Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Chairman, as Budget Committee. I don’t think that huge disinvest- we have previously pointed out, this Mr. GARRETT. Mr. Chairman, back ment in education, starting with early Republican budget keeps the revenues on January 20, 2009, the day President education going through K–12, helps from the Affordable Care Act even as it Obama took office, the Federal debt in our kids in their future. I don’t think that the efforts that strip away a lot of claims to repeal the Affordable Care this country stood at $10.6 trillion. The the job training programs help hard- Act. Without that level of revenue, Federal debt today, as we stand here today, is over $18 trillion. That is an working Americans. along with other savings, it doesn’t The President’s budget’s priority is come close to balancing. No account- increase of over 70 percent during his tenure. to accelerate economic growth and ant would certify this Republican have more broadly shared prosperity. I budget close to balance. Debt now represents 101 percent of the GDP. In other words—let’s put this would remind my colleagues that the I am now pleased to yield 3 minutes day the President was sworn into office to the gentlewoman from New Mexico in context—America owes more money to its creditors around the world than we were losing 800,000 jobs every month (Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM), a ter- in this country. The bottom was falling rific member of the committee and the value of all the goods and all the services that are produced right here in out. Now we have seen over the last 60 someone who is an expert on all sorts the United States in 1 year. months 12 million jobs created. We of issues, including health care. That level of debt, quite honestly, is have got a long way to go, but we are Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of unsustainable. In fact, that is not just certainly on the right track. And the New Mexico. Mr. Chair, I want to me saying this. The nonpartisan Con- President’s budget provides for addi- thank the ranking member. gressional Budget Office, the CBO, tional economic growth in a fiscally re- This budget, the Republican budget, states that our ‘‘high and rising debt sponsible way. The President’s budget is a collection of $5.5 trillion of dev- would have serious negative con- reduces the debt-to-GDP ratio. The astating cuts to both mandatory and sequences for both the economy and President’s budget reduces the deficit’s nondefense discretionary programs. the Federal budget.’’ And it certainly share of the economy. I have heard my colleagues say that does. But what the President’s budget does we need to treat the budget like we do Admiral Michael Mullen, also quoted not do is disinvest in our kid’s edu- American families: when you can’t live on this floor before, perhaps put it best cation, it does not increase the cost to within your means, then you have to when he said: ‘‘The single, biggest seniors for prescription drugs and figure that out. The problem is, this is threat to our national security’’ in this copays for preventive health care, and a budget that actually takes away country is what?—‘‘our debt.’’ it doesn’t get away from a lot of the those means. If we are going to talk So, Mr. Chairman, Americans are important tax credits and relief for about entitlement reform, you have to faced with two paths right now: one middle class Americans and those provide an investment and actually that continues down the path of bliss- working to join the middle class. So, create jobs and create opportunities to ful neglect of our very real budget cri- no, it does not do that. Now I am very pleased to yield 2 min- have careers and meaningful wages. sis; or on the other path, one that utes to the gentlewoman from Cali- Now, as we debate these numbers, I seeks an honest solution to it. really hope that my Republican col- Instead of solving our debt problem, fornia (Ms. HAHN), who knows a lot about the importance of economic leagues, when they vote for this budg- President Obama has committed to ex- growth, especially as it relates to small et, will you really know what you are acerbating it. doing and what these numbers mean The President’s budget would add an- businesses, a distinguished member of for hard-working American families? other $8.5 trillion to our already stag- the Small Business Committee. Ms. HAHN. Mr. Chairman, I thank Because I know what the budget does gering debt. But despite his $2.1 trillion my colleague, CHRIS VAN HOLLEN, for and how it impacts them. in new tax increases, in addition, the the opportunity to speak today. Here is what it means. It means 290 Obama budget never ever balances. It fewer New Mexican children are going Mr. Chairman, I think a budget is a is a vision that consigns our children reflection of our priorities. The choices to have access to Head Start. It means and grandchildren to a future of crush- 18,700 fewer New Mexico residents are we make about how to invest and spend ing debts and heavy tax burdens. have an impact on our American fami- going to receive job training and em- The Republican budget, on the other ployment services. It means 59,000 New lies. We must make it easier for hard- hand, is a stark alternative to the past working Americans to own a home, to Mexican students are going to lose ac- 6 years of reckless spending and failed send their kids to college, and to have cess to their Pell grants for college. It policies. Instead of ever-increasing a secure and enjoyable retirement. means 24,100 New Mexican seniors are debt and ever-higher taxes, Repub- That is why it is so important that likely going to have to pay more for licans will balance the budget in less we invest in our Nation’s ports, which their prescription drugs. And about than 10 years without raising more create good-paying American jobs and 431,000—that bears repeating—431,000 taxes on you. sustain American businesses. Providing New Mexicans receiving SNAP, half of Instead of pretending that Medicare our ports and waterways with the fund- which are children, will be in jeopardy is sound, Republicans will strengthen ing and support they need is a high pri- of losing their nutrition support. the program by making much-needed ority for me, and one that is shared by Now, when we think about the budg- structural improvements to it. many of my colleagues, especially the et, we cannot just think about the Instead of dictating that Washington almost 100 members of the bipartisan numbers that sit on a piece of paper. knows all the answers, Republicans Congressional PORTS Caucus. We need to think about the human will promote by innovation and also by meaning behind the numbers. We need flexibility for Medicaid, for education, b 1545 to think about the child that will go and other programs by restoring local We know that America must invest hungry, the student who can’t afford to control. more in our ports to remain globally

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.047 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE March 24, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1879 competitive and to be prepared for the that you pay just to be able to borrow I reserve the balance of my time. expansion of the Panama Canal, which the money that you are using for what- Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Chairman, I will impact international trade and ever it is. yield myself such time as I may con- shipping routes. In this instance, the interest on the sume. The budget we are considering today, debt, when we get to numbers not too As I said at the beginning of this de- however, does just the opposite. Cut- far away, consumes the entire Federal bate, the one thing that the Republican ting funding for programs that support budget. That is what we are talking budget, unfortunately, will do imme- American commerce is both short- about. In a very short period of time, diately is make life harder for hard- sighted and harmful to the competi- within the budget window of this 10- working Americans. How does it do it? tiveness of American businesses. year period of time, interest on the As I indicated, it actually increases the I applaud the Congressional Progres- debt rises to over $1 trillion a year. tax burden on working Americans— sive Caucus budget because it fully That is more than the amount spent middle-income Americans and people meets the targets we set in the 2014 on defense. That is more than the working their way to the middle— WRRDA bill for the harbor mainte- amount spent on Medicare. That is while providing another tax rate cut nance funding, using more of the rev- more than the amount spent on Med- for folks at the very top. enue collected at our ports for its in- icaid. That is more than the amount For people who are working harder tended purpose of maintaining and im- spent on education. All of the priorities than ever and feel that they are just on proving ports and navigation channels. that the American people have is going a treadmill, it doesn’t help them at all. Let me emphasize that the harbor to be spent on interest on the debt. In fact, they are going to move farther maintenance trust fund is self-funded. That is why we believe it is a moral behind, in addition to the fact that This is not new spending or new fees. question. Are we going to leave our they are going to pile more costs on to Shippers already pay this tax to fund kids this kind of debt? Are we going to students by increasing the cost of stu- destine them to a life that has no op- improvements that Congress is refus- dent loans. portunity, to have them be servants to ing to authorize. It is right there in their budget. They the Federal Government just to work The trust fund now has a surplus of are going to start charging you inter- so they can send their tax money to $9 billion in fees that America’s ports est while you are in college. They are Washington to pay the interest on the have collected; but unless we act, these going to start charging seniors with funds will not be used as intended, debt? Mr. Chairman, you know that is not high prescription drug costs even more which is to improve our ports. the America we want to leave our kids because they are going to reopen what The CHAIR. The time of the gentle- and our grandkids. I don’t believe it is is called the prescription drug dough- woman has expired. the America that our friends on the nut hole. I don’t know how that is good Mr. VAN HOLLEN. I yield the gentle- other side of the aisle want to leave for seniors in America. woman an additional 30 seconds. our kids and grandkids. It is hard on seniors, hard on stu- Ms. HAHN. Thank you. Sadly, that is what their budget does. dents, hard on working families. Mr. Chairman, I call on my col- That is what the President’s budget The Democratic budget, like the leagues on both sides of the aisle to does. That is why we are so excited President’s budget, meets those prior- join me in supporting a budget that re- about A Balanced Budget for a Strong- ities. For example, working families turns this tax back to the ports, where er America, a budget that puts us on a are facing huge childcare costs, so we it is collected. path to balance within less than a 10- propose a significant expansion of the I want to thank the bipartisan group year period of time and that saves $5.5 child independent care tax credit. We of 86 Members who signed the letter, trillion. make it a little bit easier for those which Congressman BOUSTANY and I Our friends on the other side say, Oh, families who are working but who want sent to House appropriators last week, no; it really doesn’t get to balance. to make sure their kids have quality calling for the harbor maintenance Even if you conceded that—and I childcare. We make it easier for them trust fund funding to be at the WRRDA don’t—our goal is to get it to balance. by providing them a significant tax level. Theirs never does. It is more and more credit for that cost. Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. Mr. and more borrowing, more debt, more For couples who are working, we Chairman, I yield myself such time as taxes, more spending. It is not what scale back the marriage penalty so the I may consume. the American people want. second worker doesn’t begin work at I want to thank the gentlewoman for What we need to do is to come to- the same higher tax rate as the first her comments because she is abso- gether and address these challenges worker in the household. That is the lutely right. The budget is about prior- that we have in a positive way, in a kind of important relief we provide to ities, and the priorities that we have in real way, in an honest way, and get middle class families and to those our budget, we believe, address in a real results for the work that we do working to join the middle class. very responsible way the challenges here. The Republican budget actually gets that we face in this Nation. We are proud of the work that this rid of some of the important provisions What is the President’s priority? If budget does. It lays out a positive path, that are already there to help those you look at where his budget would a path of real solutions, one of saving families, but our budget does this in a take us, it is debt. This, again, is the and strengthening and securing Medi- fiscally responsible way. As we have chart that demonstrates the debt that care and Medicaid, one of tax reform seen, the Republican budget doesn’t this Nation has held since 1940. That is that actually works to get this econ- balance, not by a long shot. the dark area here. You see the debt omy rolling again so we can grow the I mentioned a quote in my opening has increased since this President came economy in this country and put peo- remarks. I am going to quote the chair- into office. It is at virtually the high- ple back to work. Those are the posi- man of the Senate Budget Committee, est level it has been since World War II. tive things that this budget does. Mr. ENZI, who said: Where does his path go? Where does The safety net programs are vital. One of the problems I have had with budg- the Democrats’ path go in their budg- They are important. We protect those ets that I have looked at is that they use a et? Higher than ever before—ever be- programs. We actually make them lot of gimmicks. Now, when there was antici- fore—that is their plan, apparently. It work better for the individuals who are pation that ObamaCare would go away and is what their budget outlines. It is receiving those moneys, and we encour- that all of that money would still be there, what the President’s budget outlines. age them, in a moral way, to better that is not realistic. I would like to see us What does that mean? What that their lives and get back on their feet. get to real accounting with the budget. means is the interest on the debt, pay- We assist them in getting back to That is what Senator ENZI said; yet ing the debt service. Everybody knows work. this budget assumes the revenue from what interest means. They pay it on Those are positive solutions, Mr. the Affordable Care Act at the same their credit cards. They pay it on their Chairman, positive solutions. It is A time it repeals the Affordable Care Act. home mortgages. They pay interest Balanced Budget for a Stronger Amer- What the President’s and the Demo- when they buy a car. That is money ica. cratic budgets do is put us on a fiscally

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.049 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H1880 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 24, 2015 responsible path, reducing the debt to for a loan and put their home in the talked about the fact that the Repub- GDP ratio and doing it in a way that deal and put their futures and their lican budget will immediately increase improves economic growth and pro- 401(k)’s and everything behind that the cost to seniors with high prescrip- vides for more shared prosperity, not a kid’s education, they are stuck with tion drug burdens, it will increase the budget that provides another round of that loan rate. copays immediately for preventive tax cuts for folks at the top with the You have got people in this country services. hope that somehow it is going to trick- who are paying 6, 8, 9 percent—as high Let me just say a word about what it le down and lift everybody up. as 13—on loans, and they can’t renego- will do to seniors who are in nursing Somebody who knows a lot about tiate them. Is that fair? Is that the fu- homes and other settings that rely on these areas is someone who is both a ture you want, to stick the kids in this Medicaid. The previous gentleman just member of the Budget Committee and country with those kinds of loans? mentioned the number of people in his the Ways and Means Committee. In my view, this budget has no hu- district on Medicaid. Let me just say I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman manity and no view of the future for that seniors and people with disabil- from Washington (Mr. MCDERMOTT). our kids. ities account for 85 percent of Medicaid (Mr. MCDERMOTT asked and was I urge Members to vote ‘‘no.’’ spending; 65 percent of that spending is given permission to revise and extend Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. Mr. to the aged and the disabled, 20 percent his remarks.) Chairman, I am pleased to yield 3 min- to kids. Mr. MCDERMOTT. Mr. Chairman, a utes to the gentleman from Michigan Now, here is what the Congressional budget is a statement of values and pri- (Mr. MOOLENAAR), a freshman Member Budget Office, the nonpartisan folks, orities. and a member of the Budget Com- said about the Medicaid cuts of this You have heard people standing up mittee. magnitude in the Republican budget here, talking about what their prior- Mr. MOOLENAAR. Mr. Chairman, and the impact that they would have ities are, that we don’t want to load up the Federal Government has a spending on States: even with significant effi- our kids with debt, that we don’t want problem. ciency gains, in other words, even if to do all this kind of stuff; yet the Last week, the Government Account- you imagine that the States are going budget that is put forward by my Re- ability Office released a report esti- to somehow come up with incredible ef- publican colleagues is a shortsighted mating that the government made $124 ficiencies, even with that, the mag- statement that has no view of the fu- billion in improper payments during nitude of the reduction in spending rel- ture. 2014. Wasteful spending like this is one ative to such spending in other sce- It gambles away the future of the of the reasons the national debt has narios means that States would need to next generation’s in order to supply skyrocketed to $18 trillion today. increase their spending on these pro- business and the ultrawealthy with Divided among 320 million Ameri- grams, make considerable cutbacks in near-term gains. What has made this cans, a child born today inherits $56,250 them, or both; in other words, you are country great is the strategic Federal in debt—or $225,000 for a family of four. just passing the buck down to the investments in health care, roads, edu- Americans work too hard to have the States. So they have a choice: either cation, bridges, research—the types of government waste their tax dollars. It they raise taxes to make sure that investment that build the middle class is time to start our country on a new folks in senior homes, seniors in nurs- and America. course. This Republican budget puts ing homes don’t take a hit, or seniors Now, the Republicans say their budg- America on a more sustainable and re- in nursing homes take a hit through et plan balances the budget in 9 years. sponsible fiscal path. fewer benefits. You just can’t have it What they don’t tell you is that they In my district, there are over 130,000 both ways when you are cutting $900 do this at the expense of Medicare, Medicare-eligible residents and over billion out of the program that helps Medicaid, SNAP, Pell grants—every- 169,000 Social Security recipients. This seniors and the disabled; right? thing in the social budget. budget keeps the promises that have Okay. Here, States, you do it on your What you learn from this budget is been made to our seniors and to those own; we are just going to give you $900 that, when they say they are balancing near retirement age by stabilizing the billion less. Any nonpartisan person the budget, they mean we are cutting Social Security trust fund. It also looking at this would arrive at the con- domestic programs. We are cutting grants flexibility to the States on Med- clusion the nonpartisan budget folks at anything that helps hard-working fam- icaid, allowing them to craft their own CBO concluded, which is: either States ilies in this country. programs to serve the needs of their are going to increase their taxes to It also fails to cut one single dime States and their local communities. maintain those services, or those peo- from the military, not one single dime. This budget also enhances our na- ple are going to get less services. That They actually want to give the mili- tional security. Former Chairman of is why this Republican budget is hard tary more than they asked for. Now, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Admiral Mi- on seniors, just like it is hard on stu- despite raising taxes, you would think chael Mullen, said our debt is ‘‘the sin- dents and why it is hard on working they could at least cut a dime from the gle biggest threat to our national secu- families around the country. Defense Department. rity.’’ Over 20 percent of it is held by As I said, it is great if you are al- By now, people’s eyes are kind of foreign governments. ready at the top; right? If you are a glazed over at home in thinking about By balancing within 10 years, this millionaire, you are going to get green- this, but let me talk to one group of budget ends deficits and slows the lighted for the Romney-Ryan tax plan people, to anybody who has a student amount that will have to be paid to that cuts your rate by 30 percent while with student debt. It is the largest debt other countries. With less spending increasing the tax burden on working load we have in this country. We have needed for debt payments, more future Americans. That is just not right. made our kids indentured servants of funding can go to our national secu- I reserve the balance of my time. banks and of the Federal Government. rity. Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. I yield This budget contains $127 billion over myself such time as I may consume. the next 10 years that we will have ex- b 1600 Mr. Chairman, we have heard our tracted from students in interest on This is a budget for solving problems friends on the other side talk about their loans to give cuts in taxes to the and creating a better future. This gimmicks. If you want to talk about a wealthy, to lower the rates, to make it budget addresses our country’s fiscal gimmick, let’s talk about the Presi- better for the rich. problems in a responsible way, without dent’s budget and what he does for de- If you know anything about student raising taxes, and puts our Nation on a fense. The President comes out and loans, those loans can’t be renegoti- brighter path for our children and pounds his chest and says: I am a big ated. You can renegotiate on your grandchildren. defense hawk. I think we need to give house, or you can renegotiate on any- Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Chair, I yield our defense folks more money—some- thing else, but not on a student loan. myself such time as I may consume. thing that we actually believe—to keep When a student and his mother and fa- I do want to say a word about the im- this Nation safe, protect us from the ther or her mother and father sign up pact on seniors. We have already threats we have today. The President

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.050 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE March 24, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1881 says: Oh, oh, I believe in our budget, we defense budget. It is larger than the ting edge and don’t fall behind. The Re- will put $566 billion in our budget for Medicaid budget. It is five times larger publican budget has no plan more than defense, in the base defense budget. than the education budget, five times the 10-months plan we have had, and in What the President knows, what our larger than the transportation budget. this budget nothing real at all. friends on the other side of the aisle Whatever it is you care about, what- Now, I do want to say one word about know, is that that number is fiction. ever investments in America you want what the chairman said about the You talk about a gimmick. The Presi- to make, by failing to commit yourself President’s defense spending and the dent doesn’t lay out any path at all to to a balanced budget today, you are way the President did it. You ought to deal with the sequester cap, to deal trading away those opportunities. know, the President did not put it in with the law of the land right now that Every dollar borrowed today is a tax the slush fund. He put our base defense says that that number is going to be increase on children and grandchildren needs where they always have been: in $523 billion unless the law is changed, or a benefit cut for children and grand- the defense budget for the Defense De- which is why we positively, honestly, children. partment. In fact, I was really sur- sincerely bring about appropriate in- I could not be prouder. When faced prised to hear the chairman say that, creases for our men and women who with a deteriorating economic situa- because the Republican study group are in harm’s way and defending our tion, where every year the CBO says we budget—I believe the Republican study liberty and freedom. are constraining growth more and group budget represents a majority of If this House actually stuck with the more and more, it has been the hardest Republicans; I am not sure—does it the President’s number, went with the year since I have been here to balance same way the President did it, in a President’s number—and the President the budget. Our chairman said: If it is straightforward manner. They put the lays out no path to be able to change a big challenge, I want it in my com- funds that the Joint Chiefs of Staff say the law—that number would snap right mittee. And he has done it. they need for our base defense needs, back down to $523 billion as soon as the It is a partnership in that committee. they put it in their budget. They do ex- next fiscal year, the next calendar year I have great respect for the ranking actly what the chairman said the begins. That is why we believe it is ap- member from Maryland and his leader- President was doing in some indirect propriate to lay out that path, to lay ship of that committee as well. We are way. out the path to be able to solve the trading it all away. Balance this budg- Look, I really am pretty surprised challenge that we have, and we do that et. Let’s do it together; let’s do it re- that our colleagues keep coming back in our budget. sponsibly. But let it not be a question to this point because it is a total viola- You talk about gimmicks, Mr. Chair- of whether or not we do it; let it be a tion of what they, themselves, said, man, the President’s budget is full of question of when we do it. We will have wrote down on paper a year ago, that gimmicks. What it isn’t full of is re- that debate together. you shouldn’t be funding our defense sponsibility, as I mentioned before, in- I thank my chairman. needs as part of the ongoing defense creasing the debt beyond where the eye Mr. VAN HOLLEN. I yield myself budget by putting them in a slush fund can see. So we have got a positive such time as I may consume. for the overseas contingency account budget, A Balanced Budget for a Mr. Chairman, just a couple of when the military leadership says they Stronger America. points. Again—and we keep hearing don’t need that money for that pur- I am pleased to yield 3 minutes to the that the Republican budget balances— pose. gentleman from the great State of it does not balance. It is interesting I am pleased the President did this in Georgia (Mr. WOODALL), my colleague that instead of having the priority a straightforward manner, in the man- on the Committee on the Budget, to right now be accelerated economic ner that the Joint Chiefs of Staff and talk about the responsible things that growth with rising paychecks and ris- the military leadership said. In fact, it this budget can do. ing wages for Americans, our Repub- turns out the same way the Republican Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Chairman, I lican colleagues have made the abso- study group did, but apparently not the thank my chairman for yielding me the lute priority a balance which their own way the Republican majority wants to time. It has been a great privilege to budget doesn’t achieve. do business anymore. work with Chairman TOM PRICE on the In fact, the Republican budget that I am pleased to yield 3 minutes to the Committee on the Budget. was brought to the floor just 3 years gentlewoman from California (Ms. I was down here earlier bringing the ago didn’t balance until something like MAXINE WATERS), the distinguished rule to the floor, but I was trying to 2047, and yet now instead of having the ranking member of the Committee on defend a rule that was going to allow priority be growing the economy in a Financial Services, who understands all the ideas. Now we actually get to way that raises wages for all families, the impact that the Republican budget talk about which ideas are the good they have got a priority which their decisions are going to have on every- ideas. That is why I wanted to come own budget doesn’t meet. day Americans, including in their down here and speak. Now, American families who are fo- pocketbooks. I heard my friend from Maryland cusing on their pocketbooks know that Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. speak with such passion and conviction from time to time they do borrow to Mr. Chairman, I thank Mr. VAN HOLLEN on Medicaid, and I share his passion, invest in their future. They borrow to for his leadership on the Committee on and I know his conviction to be true. buy a home that can go up in value. the Budget. But if we do nothing, interest pay- They sometimes borrow for education As ranking member of the Com- ments alone are going to be larger than because they know that is a good in- mittee on Financial Services, I would the entire Medicaid budget. We have vestment. like to express my serious concerns six different budgets that we can con- Actually, interest rates are very low about how this budget resolution un- sider down here on the House floor. right now. We should be investing in dermines our financial stability, pro- Three of them balance; three of them our national infrastructure so we don’t tection for American consumers, and never, ever do. become a pothole nation in the days the entire housing market. I was listening to what the chairman ahead. You know, the chairman of the It is now 7 years since our country’s said earlier. He said: I do not concede committee mentioned again the trans- financial system was rocked by Wall any of the discussion from the other portation trust fund a little earlier Street greed and predatory lending. All side about whether or not this budget today. of our constituents bore witness to an balances or not. But the point is at The reality is that the President’s economy where family members lost least we are trying. Even if you are proposal puts forward in the budget a their jobs, friends were made homeless, right that the numbers don’t work out, 6-year transportation plan that avoids and everyone’s savings, no matter how even if the economic circumstances the shortfall and actually helps to modest, were depleted. In all, trillions change, we have as a goal ending this boost our national infrastructure, our of dollars of wealth vanished in the wasted taxpayer resource, which is in- investment in roads and bridges and span of a few months. When some of terest to our creditors. It dwarfs every- modernizing our national infrastruc- the money returned, it was not shared thing—everything. It is larger than the ture, so that we can remain at the cut- equally.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.051 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H1882 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 24, 2015 Democrats in Congress worked to This only gets worse if we don’t do member of the Transportation and In- prevent a repeat of this disaster by, something sooner. frastructure Committee. among other things, putting in place And so today, in contrast to the Ms. EDWARDS. I thank my friend the tools necessary to prevent bailouts President’s budget that increases taxes and colleague from Maryland for his of megabanks and creating an inde- and increases spending—and his budget leadership on the Budget Committee, pendent regulator solely tasked with actually never, ever balances—we, as and also the Democrats on the Budget defending consumers from financial Republicans, are putting forward a re- Committee. harm. sponsible budget, a balanced budget, Mr. Chairman, Congress is really Rehashing failed policies, the Repub- and one that I believe is critically im- tasked at this time of year with devel- lican budget resolution would repeal portant for the future of our country oping a budget that lays out our Na- these tools and bind the hands of the and for the future of our economy. Our tion’s priorities and spending, but Consumer Financial Protection Bu- budget balances in 10 years. those priorities really should reflect reau. The Republicans would return us So, Mr. Chairman, if you look at this our values. As hard as it is to imag- to a system where a company like AIG chart, it doesn’t take an economist to ine—and it is hard—this Price budget would once again threaten the entire see which plan will ultimately lead to resolution is actually worse than the financial system. The Republicans debt and decline and which plan will previous Ryan budget for hard-working would return us to a system where lead us to growth and prosperity. American families. lenders can make predatory mortgages The House Republican budget begins Once again, we see how little Repub- to some of the most disadvantaged making payments on our national debt licans value protecting critical prior- communities, including communities in year 2024, and the President’s budget ities that actually help Americans live of color, but that is not all. just digs us deeper and deeper into the a healthy life and enjoy a secure retire- hole. ment. In fact, the Republican budget 1615 b I can tell you, Mr. Chairman, I have would force working families to pay This budget resolution goes even fur- two sons, Payton and Preston, 13 and 9 more in taxes. It would make college ther. It would privatize Fannie Mae years old. We cannot continue to hand education less affordable. It would and Freddie Mac along the lines of the them the bill and expect them and fu- force seniors to pay more for their failed PATH Act, a terrible piece of ture generations to pay for the spend- health care and prescription drugs. It legislation rejected by everyone—hous- ing of Washington that is out of con- would end the Medicare guarantee by ing advocates, realtors, mortgage trol. That is why we have to get to a turning it into a voucher program. banks, academics, and, I might add, a balanced budget sooner rather than Lastly, Mr. Chairman, it would block majority of Members in the House. later. grant both Medicaid and the Supple- Why do we all reject it? We fear it On top of balancing the budget, this mental Nutrition Assistance Program. The fact is that this budget would would be the end of safe mortgages like plan calls for a fair and simpler Tax decimate our Nation’s already crum- the 30-year fixed rate mortgage. We Code. It ends ObamaCare’s broken bling infrastructure by reducing fund- fear it would favor only the big promises and strengthens our entitle- ing by 19 percent over the next decade. megabanks, hurting community banks. ment programs for current seniors and If you would imagine that, that means We fear that it would further widen the for future beneficiaries. In light of cur- that every road that needs to be re- wealth gap in this country. rent threats, this budget also increases paired, the bridges that are falling This budget resolution is built upon a defense spending, which is a priority apart, the mass transit that needs in- flawed foundation that harms some of for us, so that our military—our men vesting in, this budget would actually our most vulnerable communities. I and women in uniform—can defend this cut our spending by 19 percent over the urge that the Members of this House country at a very dangerous time. oppose the Republican budget resolu- next decade. This plan is an opportunity for us to It would require an additional $318 tion. stand together and to show the Amer- billion from Federal and postal em- Mr. PRICE of Georgia. Mr. Chairman, ican people that we are committed to A ployees and their retirees—hard-work- I am pleased to yield 3 minutes to the Balanced Budget for a Stronger Amer- ing people who have given all that they gentleman from Indiana (Mr. ica, to starting to pay our debt down to can to deficit reduction. In fact, that is STUTZMAN), a very productive member make sure that future generations a constituency that has already con- of the Budget Committee. don’t have to pay for those debts and tributed $159 billion to deficit reduc- Mr. STUTZMAN. Mr. Chairman, I that we can work together on common- tion. rise today in strong support of the Re- sense reforms. Mr. Chairman, Republican priorities publican House budget, A Balanced I thank the chairman for his work on are making tax cuts for the wealthy Budget for a Stronger America. this particular budget. I am proudly permanent, and they are shrinking the Mr. Chairman, as we have seen over standing here today in support of that size of government, regardless of the the last several years, the tax-and- hard work, and I ask my colleagues to damage—great damage—that it would spend policies of this President have support it as well. cause. made our economy very sluggish. It is Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Chairman, House Democrats, I believe, are in- a very slow recovery. Our wages are not only does the Republican budget vesting in hard-working Americans. We stagnant. Our national debt has in- not balance, but it doesn’t eliminate have said it is important for us to im- creased to more than $18 trillion. This one special interest tax break for the prove access to high-quality child care is a 70 percent increase since President purpose of reducing the deficit. Not and dependent care. It is important to Obama took office. And if the Presi- one. These are tax breaks that power- invest in quality education for all our dent had his way, we would actually ful interests have put into the Tax children. It is important to end the add another $8.5 trillion of debt over Code over many years. draconian across-the-board sequester the next 10 years. Apparently, it is okay to deeply cut cuts. Mr. Chairman, if we look at this our investment in our kids’ education. The Acting CHAIR (Mr. THOMPSON of chart, it shows interest versus other Apparently, it is okay to increase the Pennsylvania). The time of the gentle- spending. This line right here—net in- cost of prescription drugs for seniors woman has expired. terest—is the one that we should all be on Medicare, but, for some reason, we Mr. VAN HOLLEN. I yield the gentle- very concerned about because this is are not going to get rid of one cor- woman an additional 30 seconds. something that we have to pay for. porate tax break for the purpose of re- Ms. EDWARDS. The Democrats’ This is not a line item that we can all ducing the deficit. Those are not Amer- budget would protect seniors’ health of a sudden say: No, we’re not going to icans’ priorities. care and retirement. It would create pay as much on net interest as we’re Mr. Chairman, I yield 2 minutes to jobs in America through rebuilding our going to maybe on defense or education the gentlewoman from Maryland (Ms. infrastructure and support jobs by or transportation. This is something EDWARDS), someone who understands making sure our Nation’s manufactur- that we as American people have to the importance of moving America for- ers get to invest in the research and de- pay because of the interest on our debt. ward, my colleague and friend and a velopment that they need.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.052 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE March 24, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1883 In short, Mr. Chairman, I urge my tration, in fairness to my Democratic My friend from South Carolina has colleagues to vote down this draconian colleagues, it went from $5 trillion to left the floor. I regret that. He was the Republican budget and support each of $10 trillion in the course of about 8 Governor of a State. This budget would the Democratic alternatives. I know I years. And then, under the Obama ad- not have been tenable during his ad- will be voting for them because each of ministration, it has gone from $10 tril- ministration or, frankly, the adminis- them, even though they are different, lion to roughly $20 trillion. tration of my own Governor, who hap- would be way better than the draco- The growth is becoming geometric. pens to be a Republican. We have had nian budget that has been proposed by And the question is: What are we going Democrats in the past. Republicans. to do about it? What we can do is what The gentleman ended with a number I thank my colleague from Maryland the President has proposed, which is of cautions about the path of fiscal ir- for his leadership. We need to invest in nothing—adding $2 trillion in new responsibility and what it would lead America’s future, including our hard- taxes, adding $8 trillion in new debt, to. I agree with him on that, but I will working men and women. and going from structural $500 billion tell him it is indeed unfortunate that, Mr. PRICE of Georgia. Mr. Chairman, deficits to $1.1 trillion deficits. once again, we have a budget that does I am pleased to yield 3 minutes to the I think that what we are talking not put us on a path of fiscal sustain- gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. about here is ultimately made impor- ability. We have a budget that is not SANFORD), a member of the Budget tant by what Admiral Mike Mullen had real. We have a budget that pretends. Committee. to say on the subject. When asked what That is what USA Today said today. Mr. SANFORD. I thank the chairman the biggest threat is to the American Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to for yielding. civilization, his response was the the budget resolutions offered by the Mr. Chairman, I just heard the budg- American debt and deficit. chairman of the Budget Committee, We are reaching this tipping point. If et described as draconian. I would say Mr. PRICE, for whom I have great re- that doing nothing, ultimately, is dra- you look at the numbers, by 2025 we spect. I say budget resolutions, plural, will only have enough money for inter- conian because what the numbers show because there are two of them. One was est and entitlements, and nothing else, is that if we do nothing, roughly in 10 reported by the committee that chan- without raising taxes substantially or years we will be spending about $800 nels $36 billion into the overseas con- cutting those benefits that my col- billion a year in interest alone—more tingency operations account, dis- than we spend on all of our Nation’s de- leagues have just been talking about. I will leave you with one point, and I guising it as emergency war funding as fense. a way of getting around the defense se- I could give any number of different think it is this. Sir Alexander Fraser Tytler studied history for the whole of quester caps while offering token lan- indicators that say if we do nothing, guage providing about $20 billion to be we are headed for a train wreck that his life. The Acting CHAIR. The time of the offset at a later date. will have real impact on the very con- gentleman has expired. The other budget was unveiled by Re- stituencies that my Democratic col- Mr. PRICE of Georgia. I yield the publicans yesterday. It includes an ad- leagues were just alluding to. gentleman an additional 30 seconds. ditional $2 billion on top of that $36 bil- It is not a perfect budget. We are Mr. SANFORD. He got to the end of lion in overseas contingency operations having an intense debate, whether it is his life and the quote that was attrib- and removes any mention of paying for on the Democratic side or, frankly, uted to him at life’s end was: A democ- this effective negation of the defense even within the Republican family. racy cannot exist as a permanent form sequester. The gentleman from South I just had a conversation with my of government. It can only exist until Carolina referred to devices like that. colleague, MIKE TURNER from Ohio, the voters discover that they can vote b 1630 who is really passionate about the need themselves largesse from the public to spend more on defense. We are still treasury, with the result that democ- This dueling budget strategy came working out those wrinkles. But what I racy always fails under a loose fiscal about because Republicans didn’t have do know, in fairness to the chairman policy, and it is generally followed by the votes for their own proposal yet and what he has tried to do in man- dictatorship. again. They are offering their Members aging the different folks that are af- The average age of the world’s great two options: blow through the defense fected by this budget, is to say: If you civilizations has been 200 years. These sequester ceiling by $36 billion or blow are in a hole, you quit digging. And nations have progressed to this se- through it by $38 billion. fundamentally, if you look at our Na- quence: from bondage to spiritual Apparently, some are going to mask tion’s budget trajectory, we are in a faith; spiritual faith to great courage; their either hawkish perspective on the hole that is going to get far worse if we great courage to liberty; liberty to defense or hawkish perspective on the don’t do what the chairman and the abundance; abundance to selfishness; deficit by a vote either for A or for A. committee have suggested. selfishness to complacency; compla- Of course, while they blow through I would say, one, we are spending too cency to apathy; apathy to depend- the cap on the defense side, they con- much. And yet the President’s proposal ency; and from dependency back again tinue the cap on the domestic side for is to go from spending roughly around into bondage. this year, before cutting dramatically 20 percent of GDP up to 22 percent of Ultimately, what I think that this below that level in future years, merci- GDP, from a historic average of, frank- budget is about is avoiding that very lessly gutting priority investments in ly, around 18 percent. bondage that that historian and many education, job training, innovation, re- We are taxing too much. We are others have talked about over the search, and other priorities of this Na- going to go in the President’s proposal years. tion if it is to remain competitive in from spending of around 18 percent to Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Chairman, I world markets, if it is to remain a around 20 percent—a little bit over yield 5 minutes to the gentleman from growing, thriving nation. that. That doesn’t sound like much, Maryland (Mr. HOYER), the Democratic This budget is a severe disinvestment but you take two points of a GDP in whip, who understands the importance in America’s future and our long-term 2025, and you are looking at more than of a growing economy—a growing econ- economic competitiveness. This ap- $500 billion—more than, again, roughly omy with shared prosperity and a proach is not a blueprint for growth what we spend in defense for our entire growing economy with fiscal responsi- and opportunity for America’s busi- Nation on a yearly basis. bility. nesses and workers. It is, rather, sadly, We have a budget trajectory where (Mr. HOYER asked and was given a recipe for economic and fiscal dis- we are handing too much debt to the permission to revise and extend his re- aster in the years to come. next generation. And we are headed, marks.) Mr. Chairman, if we fail to invest in again, for this unsustainable train Mr. HOYER. I thank my friend, Mr. the next generation or to continue the wreck. VAN HOLLEN, for yielding, and I thank War on Poverty in this country, we are Think about it this way. It took our him for the extraordinary job that he doing a grave disservice to our children country 200 years to accumulate $5 tril- has done as ranking member of the and our grandchildren by not giving lion in debt. Under the Bush adminis- Budget Committee. them the tools they need to secure the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.054 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H1884 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 24, 2015 jobs and opportunities that open doors makes no attempt to balance the budg- bad choices. It doesn’t cut one single to the middle class. et, leaving future generations with special interest tax break in the Code Like the Ryan budgets, which were even more debt. Indeed, his plan pro- while it makes deep cuts to our kids’ never implemented by the majority poses returning to trillion-dollar defi- early education. That is a bad choice, party at any point in time from this cits, leaving a legacy of staggering not a tough choice. House—forget about blaming Senator debt and further eroding our standing Mr. Chairman, I yield 3 minutes to REID or the Senate, they were never in the world. the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. CON- implemented in this House—Mr. For decades, Americans have been NOLLY), a distinguished member of the PRICE’s budgets rely on a magic aster- told that spending for things you can’t Oversight and Government Reform isk, hiding the specifics behind over $1 pay for is good fiscal policy and that Committee. trillion in cuts in order to appear to debts and deficits don’t matter. Presi- Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Chairman, I balance it in its stated goal of 9 years. dent Obama believes that maxing out honor my friend from Maryland for his No one—no one—knows exactly what the Federal credit card to pay for gov- extraordinary and outstanding leader- programs Republicans would cut or by ernment programs and using more of ship on a very difficult set of complex how much. That is not being honest the taxpayers’ hard-earned dollars to numbers and policies known as the with the American people. They would pay interest on the debt is actually U.S. budget. Thank you so much for turn Medicare into a voucher program good for our economy. your leadership. and would take access to affordable Well, the ruse is over. Families aren’t Mr. Chairman, this year’s Republican health care away from millions of buying it. The ‘‘charge now and pay budget resolution is incredulously ti- Americans by repealing the Affordable later’’ mentality is no longer afford- tled ‘‘A Balanced Budget for a Stronger Care Act. able. Parents know debt and interest America,’’ but by every measure, the The Acting CHAIR. The time of the payments add up. They understand draconian cuts proposed in this budget gentleman has expired. that out-of-control debt cripples their would severely weaken America’s inno- Mr. VAN HOLLEN. I yield the gen- ability to respond to an emergency, for vative advantage and competitiveness. tleman an additional 1 minute. example, when the basement floods or It might as well be called ‘‘Let’s Mr. HOYER. Mr. Chairman, make no the furnace goes out. Disinvest in America.’’ Consider the cuts to basic research, mistake. These budget alternatives are Mr. Chairman, what is true for Amer- once a bedrock, a Federal priority that political documents that are unwork- ican families is true for the Federal spurred new discoveries that are now able and unserious when it comes to Government. Just like working fami- vital in our daily lives and the econ- governing. lies must do, so must the government. omy. R&D is critical for my northern Like previous Republican budgets Purchases we can’t afford need to be Virginia district, where the technology that rely on sequestration, I have no put on hold until we can afford it; community is driving innovation. doubt that the majority will not be tough choices must be made. This Republican budget would slash able to enact appropriation bills that Every day, families make responsible R&D funding by 15 percent, to its low- adhere to whichever version that you financial decisions. Do we sign up the est level since 2002. That is a retreat will pass. You have not done so in the kids for Little League, or do we buy from America’s role as the global inno- past, and you will not do so this year. the bigger van? The same principle vation leader and, essentially, cedes They will continue to be, as the Re- must apply in our government. the playing field to our international publican chairman of the Appropria- This budget, Mr. Chairman, acknowl- competition. tions Committee, Mr. ROGERS, said, edges that addressing our debt is a na- Similarly, the Republican budget ‘‘unrealistic and ill-conceived.’’ tional priority. It puts forth param- would disinvest in our classrooms. To Budget Committee Democrats, the eters that will force the government to achieve their ruse of balancing the Congressional Progressive Caucus, and make reforms and live within its budget over 10 years, Republicans the Congressional Black Caucus have means so we can start to address a debt would cut nondefense spending 24 per- all put forward alternatives that are that now exceeds $18 trillion. cent below the already reduced seques- far better than these dueling Repub- This budget eliminates all of the ter levels. lican budget resolutions. ObamaCare taxes and mandates that For K–12 education, that translates Democrats prioritize replacing the are costing small businesses tens of into an $89 billion cut over the next sequester, which Mr. ROGERS believes thousands of dollars, cutting into decade and would surely leave every should be done, on both the defense and Americans’ take-home pay, and driving child behind their international peers. domestic sides, so that we can make in- up healthcare costs for the American It would also put higher education fur- vestments in America’s future that are consumer. ther out of reach for low and middle fiscally sustainable. Importantly, Mr. Chairman, this res- class families. America did not ascend I urge my colleagues to reject the olution sets the stage for us to pass to its role as the world’s leading econ- two Republican budget alternatives real healthcare reform that will actu- omy by quashing the potential of fu- and their strategy of selective seques- ally address cost and coverage and help ture innovators and leaders. ter. American families in their healthcare Mr. Chairman, our Republican col- The Acting CHAIR. Members are re- choices with more freedom, more leagues are, once again, showing they minded to direct all their remarks to choice, and less bureaucracy. This know the cost of everything and the the Chair. budget respects the rights of con- value of very little. I often hear my Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. Mr. science for our Nation’s doctors and re- colleagues lament that we should run Chairman, I yield 3 minutes to the gen- ligious institutions and people of faith. government more like a business. tleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Finally, this budget will result in a Well, if that is the case, perhaps we ROTHFUS). leaner, more efficient government that should start by listening to the busi- Mr. ROTHFUS. Mr. Chairman, I want is transparent and accountable to the ness community which is advocating to first thank Chairman PRICE and his American people. for us to invest more—not less—in staff for their hard work on this budg- Mr. Chairman, the Budget Commit- R&D, in education, and in infrastruc- et. With all the difficulties and com- tee’s resolution makes the hard choices ture for the future workforce of Amer- plexities in drafting a budget, includ- needed to move the country forward, to ica and the building blocks of a com- ing inheriting an $18 trillion debt, make possible increases in our defense petitive economy. Chairman PRICE and the committee budget needed to address the threats in These are investments that yield tre- have managed to find savings of $5.5 our world, and to set us on a path to a mendous returns for our families, for trillion and to balance the budget in 10 balanced budget. our children, for our future; and the years, all without any new taxes. Again, I thank Chairman PRICE for Republican budget would eviscerate This has not been an easy task, but the work of him and his committee. those pillars of American this budget resolution stands in stark Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Chairman, exceptionalism. contrast to what the President sent us. this budget doesn’t make tough Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. Mr. The President’s irresponsible proposal choices. The Republican budget makes Chairman, I thank the gentleman for

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.055 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE March 24, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1885 bringing up the issue of business in that addresses the top concerns of small of small business owners had their personal America, jobs in America. business owners—our nation’s job creators. insurance plans cancelled last year, some- I include in the RECORD letters from NFIB and small business owners strongly thing the President and the law’s supporters the Chamber of Commerce of the support these efforts. promised wouldn’t happen. Twelve percent of COMPREHENSIVE TAX REFORM owners renewed their old plans early in order United States of America and from the to avoid higher premiums and narrower In your budget blueprint you state, ‘‘The National Federation of Independent choices, two results that were also not part U.S. tax code is absurdly complicated, pat- Business in support of our budget. of the deal. The NFIB survey found that 62 ently unfair, and highly inefficient.’’ NFIB percent of small business owners are paying CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF THE members could not agree more and strongly higher premiums while only eight percent UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, support the inclusion of comprehensive tax say their costs have dropped. The President’s Washington, DC, March 18, 2015. reform in the budget resolution. The com- sales pitch for the law included promised Hon. TOM PRICE, plicated tax code, which forces small busi- Chairman, Committee on the Budget, House of health insurance premium relief for small nesses to pay 67 percent more for tax compli- businesses. Five years later, a substantial Representatives, Washington, DC ance than larger corporations, needs to be DEAR CHAIRMAN PRICE: The U.S. Chamber majority of small business owners are re- simplified. Most importantly, high tax rates of Commerce, the world’s largest business porting the opposite result. continue to be a persistent problem for small federation, representing the interests of PROVIDING FOR A BALANCED BUDGET business owners. Specific tax concerns ac- more than three million businesses of all count for five of the top ten most severe Small business owners have long supported sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state problems facing business owners. As over 75 balancing the federal budget. Additionally, and local chambers of commerce, and dedi- percent of small businesses are structured as according to the NFIB Federal Ballot, 90 per- cated to promoting, protecting, and defend- pass-through entities, lowering individual cent of NFIB members support a balanced ing America’s free enterprise system, appre- income tax rates is especially important. budget amendment to the Constitution. Our ciates your proposed budget resolution, ‘‘A Pass-through entities employ 54 percent of nation’s small businesses are calling on Con- Balanced Budget for a Stronger America,’’ all private-sector workers—their tax burden gress to fix our dangerous fiscal situation which would establish the budget for fiscal is directly tied to their ability to keep their without damaging economic growth or rais- year 2016. workers employed. ing taxes on job creators. If our long-term This proposal recognizes the importance of fiscal outlook is not addressed by lawmakers restraining federal spending, correcting the SENSIBLE REGULATORY REFORM today, future generations will continue to be unsustainable growth path of entitlement NFIB appreciates that your budget ‘‘calls faced with higher debt and interest pay- spending, reducing federal budget deficits, on Congress, in consultation with the public, ments, increased tax rates and fewer invest- containing the growth of federal debt, and to enact legislation to reform our regulatory ment opportunities. Small business owners enacting comprehensive tax reform—all system.’’ While regulation is necessary, it must compete in today’s economy while op- goals shared by the Chamber. must be pragmatic. Unfortunately, federal erating within their budgets and so too The proposal would balance the budget agencies rarely take into account how their should the federal government. within 10 years without raising taxes regulations affect small business. Federal Thank you again for introducing the Fiscal through $5.5 trillion in spending reductions, regulators should work with small business Year 2016 Budget Resolution. NFIB strongly out of a base spending level of $48.6 trillion. owners to help ensure compliance, rather supports its passage when considered by the The Congressional Budget Office estimated than aggressively impose fines for violations full House of Representatives. We look for- the macroeconomic effects of the proposed that result from confusion. Government reg- ward to working with you on this, and simi- deficit reduction and concluded output per ulations rank as the fifth most severe prob- lar measures to protect small business as the person would be 1.5 percent higher at the end lem for small business owners in the NFIB 114th Congress moves forward. of 10 years, which in turn would reduce the Research Foundation’s most recent Small Sincerely, budget deficit an additional $147 billion. Business Problems and Priorities survey. AMANDA AUSTIN, Such budgetary savings would move the Federal agencies, notably the Environmental Vice President, Public Policy. budget from modest deficit to modest sur- Protection Agency and Occupational Safety Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. Mr. plus by 2024. and Health Administration, continue to dem- Chairman, I yield 3 minutes to the gen- The nation faces many challenging issues onstrate a lack of understanding of how reg- tleman from the Commonwealth of in budget policy that will require sustained ulatory proposals impact small business op- Virginia (Mr. FORBES), a senior mem- debate over many months and, in some erations. cases, years. Over the long term, the budget In order to provide for meaningful regu- ber of the Republican Conference. is a blueprint for restoring fiscal discipline latory reform, Congress should eliminate Mr. FORBES. Mr. Chairman, I first by shrinking the size of government and debt loopholes and clarify language in the Regu- want to commend Chairman PRICE for compared to current law. latory Flexibility Act (RFA) to ensure that shepherding this budget to the floor This budget proposal marks an important all federal agencies take into account, and and doing such a tremendous job; yet, step toward a more sensible, more sustain- make public, both direct and indirect costs with the great job he has done, I know able, pro-growth fiscal policy. The Chamber to small businesses in their rulemaking; ex- urges the Committee and the full House of it is confusing, probably, to people lis- pand the Small Business Regulatory En- tening to this debate at home because, Representatives to debate the issues fully forcement and Fairness Act (SBREFA) and and then adopt a budget resolution on a Small Business Advocacy Review (SBAR) throughout today and tomorrow, a lot timely basis. The Chamber further urges the panels to apply to all federal agencies; waive of very smart men and women are United States Senate likewise to meet its re- fines for first time paperwork errors and pro- going to come to this floor and argue sponsibility by passing a budget addressing vide small business with a grace period to fix various debates. our long-term challenges. The Chamber minor violations when the public and em- When all those voices have silenced looks forward to working with Congress on ployees are not at risk; and make compli- and everybody sits back down in their the vital reforms to entitlements and our tax ance assistance programs a priority, instead code necessary to get our fiscal house in chairs, we all know that it is going to of minimizing them in order to provide for come down to two choices. Those two order. the expansion of enforcement programs. Sincerely, choices are going to be what we refer HEALTHCARE REFORM R. BRUCE JOSTEN. to as Price 1 or Price 2. The budget resolution also addresses small Mr. Chairman, we also all know that NATIONAL FEDERATION business owners’ most severe business prob- the difference between those two bills OF INDEPENDENT BUSINESS, lem: the cost of health insurance. NFIB is going to be how much we are willing Washington, DC, March 23, 2015. members continue to advocate for full repeal of the Affordable Care Act. Thank you for in- to spend for the national defense of Hon. TOM PRICE, this country to defend the greatest na- Chairman, Committee on the Budget, House of cluding this provision in the budget resolu- Representatives, Cannon House Office tion. The Affordable Care Act only exacer- tion the world has ever known. Building, Washington, DC. bates a system of health insurance that is fi- In addition, one of the things that DEAR CHAIRMAN PRICE: On behalf of the Na- nancially unsustainable, threatening the will be clear is not that we will be tional Federation of Independent Business health and financial security of Americans. spending what we need to defend the (NFIB), the nation’s leading small business Small business owners and their employees country, but we will be spending the advocacy organization, thank you for your are especially vulnerable to the weaknesses amount we have to spend to keep from efforts to address our nation’s fiscal prob- of the current system. As Congress addresses putting our national defense in a crisis future healthcare policy, we urge you to put lems in the Fiscal Year 2016 Budget Resolu- situation and a devastating situation tion. forward reforms to balance the competing A budget that balances in fewer than ten goals of affordability, access to quality care, to the men and women who serve this years, and includes support for comprehen- predictability and consumer choice. country around the globe. sive tax reform, regulatory reform, and re- According to a December 2014 survey by Just two points I would like to leave peal of the Affordable Care Act, is a budget the NFIB Research Foundation, ten percent Members with as they cast those votes

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.056 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H1886 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 24, 2015 and the first one is this. The difference With those cuts, the budget would be fense. It is the amount that is endorsed in the amount of money we will be funded at 40 percent below the lowest by Chairman Dempsey, the Chairman spending for national defense between level in the last 50 years as a percent- of the Joint Chiefs of Staff at the De- Price 1 and Price 2, if the budget were age of GDP. Those cuts will not be partment of Defense. $1, would be equal to half of this penny made, but if they are, that would be It is what he has asked for from this if I could cut it in two—half of this devastating. House and what he says is necessary in penny; yet, as small as that may seem, As the ranking member of the Com- the face of things such as ISIS, ISIL, it makes the difference between a cri- mittee on Education and the Work- what is happening in Libya, what is sis in national defense and a dev- force, I am particularly concerned happening with Putin and his aggres- astating situation to our men and about the cuts in education. Education siveness. women in uniform. funding would be cut by $103 billion The Secretary General of NATO was The last thing, Mr. Chairman, I over 10 years. That is a 22 percent cut just here today and spoke to Members would like to leave everyone with as in Federal aid to teachers, principals, of Congress, and he said we are facing they cast those votes is this. It will not school districts, colleges, and univer- a Russia that is both willing to use its be about the men and women in suits sities. military force, modernizing its mili- who make speeches in here, but it is That will include significant cuts in tary force, and also is not being bound going to be about the men and women title I funding, resources that go to by international agreements. This is who wear uniforms around the globe areas of high poverty school districts. only going to be able to be responded because they will fight to defend this It would cut the Individuals with Dis- to not by force, but by strength, a country, regardless of what we do. abilities Education Act, which supports strength that we must give in this The question is whether we will leave educational services and resources for budget of Price 2. them in a crisis situation and a dev- students with disabilities, and there Secondly, the Chief of Staff of the astating situation. That is why I hope would be significant cuts to Head Army, General Ray Odierno, was before this body will vote ‘‘no’’ to Price 1, Start. College students are having us, and I asked him: What will happen ‘‘yes’’ to Price 2, and then, if Price 2 trouble paying for tuition, room, and if we go to the sequestration levels? passes, vote for final passage of this board. Well, this budget cuts Pell What happens if we don’t fully fund, as budget, which is a well-done document grants. in Price 2? He says that it means that by the chairman. In the area of job training and em- it will take us longer to do our mis- b 1645 ployment services, the budget would sion. It will cost us in lives. It will cost Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Chairman, result in 2 million fewer workers re- us in injuries. just for all Members listening, the last ceiving critical support and does noth- The difference between Price 1 and gentleman was talking about the dif- ing to help the long-term unemployed Price 2, from the Chief of Staff of the ferences between the two versions of get back into the workforce. Army, is lives and whether or not we the Republican budget. Mr. Chairman, the Republican budget can win and do our mission and wheth- I want to point out that the Presi- sends students, families, and workers er or not our men and women in uni- dent of the United States funds our de- down the wrong path at this important form are injured. fense budget in the straightforward crossroad. We need a strong budget That is serious stuff. It is serious way and in the way that the Joint that reflects the values of all Ameri- enough that people in this Congress Chiefs of Staff have asked for, funding cans and makes the necessary invest- need to vote ‘‘no’’ on Price 1 and ‘‘yes’’ the base budget as it should be and ments in programs that we know will on Price 2. funding the OCO budget as it should be. expand the economy for all. Mr. Chairman, we cannot afford to I now yield 3 minutes to the gen- The Republican budget fails to do jeopardize our national security and re- tleman from Virginia (Mr. SCOTT), the this and, therefore, should be rejected. duce funding for defense anymore. Our ranking member of the Education and Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. Mr. men and women in uniform need to the Workforce Committee who under- Chairman, I am pleased to yield 3 min- have a clear message, and that clear stands that growing our economy de- utes to the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. message is that we are behind them. pends on our kids getting a good edu- TURNER), the former mayor of the That message only comes by a vote cation. great city of Dayton. ‘‘no’’ on Price 1 and a vote ‘‘yes’’ on Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Chair- Mr. TURNER. Mr. Chairman, I want Price 2. man, I rise in opposition to the under- to commend Chairman PRICE for the I urge all Members of Congress to lying Republican budget for fiscal year work that he has done. The chairman- support our men and women. Vote 2016, and I also rise to commend the ship of the Budget Committee is one of ‘‘yes’’ on Price 2. gentleman from Maryland (Mr. VAN the most difficult. Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Chairman, I HOLLEN) for his strong opposition. He has a 360-degree responsibility of am now really pleased to yield 3 min- Mr. Chairman, this budget is not a all aspects of funding the Federal Gov- utes to the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. serious plan. It contains trillions of ernment, balancing our priorities, RYAN), a terrific member of the Budget dollars in tax cuts, but it doesn’t show looking at our financial security, and Committee. a dime’s worth of tax increases when most of the time, we ask the Budget Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Chairman, I they say it is going to be revenue neu- Committee chairman to produce a have been in Congress now 13 years, tral. It includes trillions of dollars in budget. In this instance, we asked him and I have had many discussions with unspecified cuts that will not be made. to produce two. the chairman over the course of my ca- For example, are we really going to re- I greatly appreciate that the chair- reer, but I am stunned—and I know he peal Medicare as we know it? man has produced two. We have what is won’t be stunned that I am stunned— If you actually believe that the Re- coming to this floor, Price 1 and Price with the inability of the Republican publican majority will carry out this 2. I am here to speak in support of Party to govern this Chamber or to plan, it would actually devastate our Price 2, but even beyond that, I am govern the country. economy by balancing the budget on asking people to vote ‘‘no’’ on Price 1. I mean, if you just look at Price 1, the backs of students, workers, seniors, It is very important that you vote Price 2, the contortions that the Re- the disabled, and vulnerable commu- ‘‘no’’ on Price 1. We can’t pass multiple publican Party has to go through in nities across the Nation. budgets. We have to have one agenda order to meet the basic standard of try- The Republican budget assumes that coming out of this House, and that one ing to govern the country is mind- sequestration cuts will be enacted and agenda is only the difference between blowing—and then to go through all then adds an additional $759 billion in Price 1 and Price 2 with respect to how these contortions just so you don’t nondefense discretionary spending do we defend this Nation. have to fund the domestic agenda that cuts. That is the part of the budget Now, Price 2 has $523 billion for the is going to actually grow the economy that invests in education, workforce Department of Defense and $96 billion in the United States. training, scientific research, transpor- in overseas contingency operations I say this because I was here and tation, and infrastructure. funding. It fully funds our national de- watched when President Bush was here

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:43 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.057 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE March 24, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1887 and the Republicans controlled Con- the defense fix. Our country needs to cation tax credits. It cuts investment gress: cut taxes, deregulate, and the get back on a responsible financial in our infrastructure and innovation, economy will grow, and jobs will be path, a path that protects our national leaving us less competitive in the glob- created. security, repeals ObamaCare, and re- al economy. We had a stagnant decade of growth forms our entitlement programs so This budget takes more than 16 mil- because we failed to make the kinds of they are sustainable. lion men, women, and children off of investments that we need to make in Mr. Chairman, I want to remind us of the health insurance plan they have this country in order to grow the pie. the rapidly deteriorating security situ- now, thanks to the Affordable Care Here we are today, after we were able ation we face. Russia has invaded Act. People will, again, be denied care to survive a huge economic collapse Ukraine. ISIS is spreading. Iran is pur- because of preexisting conditions. Life- after that agenda was fully imple- suing nuclear weapons and long-range time caps on coverage return. mented, and we have the average CEO missiles while actively supporting ter- If the Affordable Care Act were re- making $296 for every $1 that the work- rorist organizations around the world. pealed, as proposed in the Republicans’ er makes; we have the top 1 percent North Korea is pursuing a submarine- ‘‘work harder for less’’ budget, here is getting 17 percent of the tax expendi- launched ballistic missile capability to what would happen in my State: more tures that this Chamber and this gov- go with its nuclear weapons program. than 500,000 Kentuckians would lose ernment doles out, and wages have China is threatening our friends and al- their healthcare coverage. been stagnant. lies in Asia. This is just a laundry list We wouldn’t gain the 40,000 new jobs I think we have got to go back and of bad actors that threaten the very that are projected over the next 6 years ask ourselves: How did we grow this safety of our Nation. because of the Affordable Care Act, and great middle class? How did we grow Meanwhile, President Obama’s for- the Kentucky budget would miss out this economy? How did we have the eign policy is a disaster, which puts us on $800 million more in revenue. highest standards and the highest at even greater risk. Shockingly, the For seniors, this budget ends the wages in the entire world for such a President is even turning his back on guarantee of Medicare as we know it. long period of time? We invested in re- Israel, damaging our partnership with Prescription drug costs will go up on search and development at the Na- our closest ally in the Middle East. day one. Copays will increase. The pre- tional Science Foundation. Now, we Our military has already faced dras- scription drug doughnut hole will re- are down hundreds of grants from the tic cuts. The Air Force is the smallest open. National Science Foundation. it has ever been. The Army is on a path Eventually, seniors will be given a Do you think China is not putting to being the smallest since 1940. The voucher and sent on their way, told to money into these programs? India? Pa- Navy will soon be the smallest since find their own health plan—ironically, cific rim countries? They are investing 1915. something that very, very closely re- in research, development, technologies, Mr. Chairman, I firmly believe most sembles the healthcare exchanges that alternative energy; and they are beat- Americans agree that now is not the our friends on the other side despise so ing us to the punch. We are cutting our time to cut our national security much. budgets and some of these programs spending. Russia isn’t cutting its mili- This is not what the American people that ultimately lead to growth. tary budget. Iran isn’t cutting its mili- want. They want us to invest in our These budgets are supposed to pro- tary budget. ISIS certainly isn’t cut- people, invest in innovation, and con- vide stability for the government and ting its military budget. tinue our economic recovery by cre- the private sector. We say: well, we are I urge my colleagues to join me in ating new opportunities. providing stability, but we will tell you supporting this budget by voting ‘‘yes’’ The Democratic budget will do just what the tax rates are going to be on Price 2. This is a vital step in keep- that, cutting taxes for working fami- later. We are going to fund transpor- ing our military strong in the face of lies, making college more affordable, tation; we will tell you how later. dangerous threats around the world. health care more accessible, and retire- This formula is fairly simple: invest Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Chairman, I ment more secure. in research, educate your workforce, am now really pleased to yield 3 min- It is time we reward hard work, and invest in transportation, and make utes to the gentleman from Kentucky I urge my colleagues to reject the Re- sure that everybody has access to a de- (Mr. YARMUTH), a member of the Budg- publican budget and support the Demo- cent education, and your economy will et Committee. cratic alternative. take off. Mr. YARMUTH. I thank my friend Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. Mr. This budget does the exact opposite. for yielding. Chairman, it gives me particular pleas- The ultimate contradictions are the Mr. Chairman, as a 6-year member of ure to yield 3 minutes to the gentle- deep cuts in the SNAP program, the the Budget Committee and the second woman from the great State of Mis- cuts in the Medicaid, and everyone is ranking Democrat, I have seen this souri (Mrs. HARTZLER), one of the most supposed to pull themselves up by their budget proposal up close and personal. diligent and dedicated Members of this bootstraps and go to work, but then we I have seen the way it has been re- Congress who is a member of both the try to raise the minimum wage, and shaped over the years, from its early Armed Services Committee and the you fight us on that. days as the first Ryan budget, to the Budget Committee. I think that we have proven how to collection of budget tricks and gim- grow this economy. I am sure most micks we find before us today. b 1700 Americans would want to go back and Despite the highly questionable math Mrs. HARTZLER. Thank you very say: we will take the Clinton economy; and mysterious growth projections, the much, Chairman. You are a wonderful we will take the Democratic budget in consequences are clear. This budget chairman and have helped us produce a ’93, and we will grow the economy hurts American families now and in wonderful, responsible budget. where we see every income group in- the future, hitting their pocketbooks Mr. Chairman, this budget goes a crease in the incomes that their fami- and their checkbooks today while long way to address the out-of-control lies are making. disinvesting in our and their future. spending problem and crushing debt This budget continues to hollow out It immediately raises taxes on the the administration has fostered over our military and our domestic prior- hard-working families who are simply the last few years. Unlike the Presi- ities. looking for a shot at the American dent’s proposal, though, our budget Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. Mr. Dream: owning a home, providing their contains progrowth economic reforms, Chairman, I am pleased to yield 3 min- kids with access to a good education, repeals ObamaCare, and it balances. utes to the gentleman from Colorado living a healthy life, and being able to Most importantly, Price 2 restores (Mr. LAMBORN). save for retirement while their parents harmful defense cuts and provides the Mr. LAMBORN. I thank the chair- enjoy theirs. necessary resources our warfighters man for his hard work on this budget. It makes college more expensive for need. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support those families, cutting Pell grants by The threats facing this Nation and of the House Republican budget with $90 billion and eliminating higher edu- the world right now are vast, real, and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:43 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.059 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H1888 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 24, 2015 expanding: ISIL has proclaimed a ca- that he has done. We just happen to The Acting CHAIR. The time of the liphate in the Middle East, and it is disagree. gentlewoman has again expired. now looking to expand into other coun- Ever since the Affordable Care Act Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Chairman, I tries; Russia is continually making was passed, it has been the challenge of yield the gentlewoman an additional 30 headlines with aggression and inva- Republicans to suggest that it wasn’t seconds. sions into Ukraine and surrounding working. We have close to 11 million Ms. JACKSON LEE. As I close, let areas; China continues to build its people insured. Some populations who me thank the gentleman for his cour- military as it gains more and more were never insured now have high num- tesy. power globally; and Islamic extremism bers—citizens who were uninsured. And Mr. VAN HOLLEN is right. I have continues to spread to more and more so the idea of the Affordable Care being served on the Judiciary Committee. It countries. a failure, you are just dead wrong. is there that we deal with the prob- We, as representatives of the people, I am very glad to support the Demo- lems, particularly on the Crime Sub- are charged with providing for the cratic alternative because it is the op- committee, at the end of someone’s de- common defense. Given the size, reach, posite of the Republican budget, which tour in life. Do you know what, Mr. and increasingly brutal nature of the says work harder for less when we Chairman? Those detours in life that threats we face, we should feel obliged know what Americans need and what wind up with 75,000 persons in the Fed- to make sure that we create a budget they want for their families. They eral prison system on mandatory mini- that gives our military the tools nec- want to be able to buy a home; they mums has been because people cannot essary to address today’s threats and want to be able to send their kids to read, do not have opportunities, and do be fully prepared to address the threats college, and they want a secure retire- not have jobs. of tomorrow, whatever they may be ment. Under the GOP budget, it is I want to invest in a budget that lifts and wherever they may come from. harder to buy a home, absolutely al- the boats of all people; if you work As the only Member to sit on both most impossible to send your children hard, you get a home; if you work hard, the House Budget Committee and the to college, and certainly harder to you can send your kids to school; if House Armed Services Committee, I enjoy a secure retirement. you work hard, you can retire. That is am proud that these two committees House Republicans oppose increasing the budget I want to support, not this have come together for Price 2 to pro- the minimum wage, claiming that it no-success budget that is being pro- vide total defense funding spending costs jobs. Wrong again. For every in- posed by our Republican friends. above the President’s request. crease in the minimum wage, it has I ask my colleagues to support the Missouri’s Fourth Congressional Dis- been accompanied by an expanding alternative budget along with the CPC trict is proud to be one of our Nation’s economy. and the CBC budget. most military-intensive congressional House Republicans opposing com- Mr. Chair, I rise in strong opposition to H. districts, home of two major military prehensive immigration reform, wrong Con. Res. 27, the House Republicans’ ‘‘Budg- installations—Whiteman Air Force again. Studies conducted by groups as et Resolution for Fiscal Year 2016’’ because it Base and Fort Leonard Wood—and far apart as the Chamber of Commerce continues the reckless and irresponsible ap- thousands of dedicated military fami- and the AFL–CIO indicate that the proach to fiscal policy that the House majority lies sacrificing so much to keep us safe. gross domestic product will grow $1.5 has championed for years, with disastrous re- Providing our military the resources trillion over 10 years. sults. necessary to safeguard our liberties This is a sorry track record of eco- Mr. Chair, the budgeteers on the majority and protect our shores is one of the top nomic forecasting, and therefore, this side have a very poor track record when it legislative priorities I have, and I am budget is one that I have to oppose be- comes to economic forecasts and projections. For years, they have based their entire leg- proud that these resources are provided cause it favors the wealthy over work- islative agenda and strategy on their belief in Price 2. ing class families and those struggling that the Affordable Care Act or ‘‘Obamacare’’ Again, I thank Chairman PRICE for to enter or remain in the middle class. his leadership on this committee and in I oppose the Republican budget because would be a failure. The wish was father to the thought. But they this process, and I urge my colleagues it asks major sacrifices of seniors who were wrong. to vote ‘‘yes’’ on Price 2. can barely make ends meet and fun- Because of Obamacare more than 16.4 mil- Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Chairman, I damentally alters the social contract lion Americans now know the peace of mind think our colleagues can hear that by turning Medicaid and the SNAP pro- that comes from affordable, quality health in- there is an awful lot of confusion and gram into a block program and Medi- surance that is there when you need it. uncertainty among our Republican col- care into a voucher. House Republicans oppose increasing the leagues about funding our national de- The Acting CHAIR. The time of the minimum wage, claiming that it costs jobs. fense. The President’s budget is very gentlewoman has expired. Wrong again. clear. He funds the national defense the Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Chairman, I Every increase in the minimum wage has way the Joint Chiefs of Staff proposed yield the gentlewoman an additional 30 been accompanied by an expanding economy, is best for the country. seconds. especially during the Clinton Administration. Mr. Chairman, I am now pleased to Ms. JACKSON LEE. It is clearly not House Republicans opposing comprehen- yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman a working road map for success. If the sive immigration reform claim that it will lead from Texas (Ms. JACKSON LEE), a dis- House Republican’s ‘‘work harder to to lower incomes and lost jobs. tinguished member of the Judiciary get less’’ budget were adopted, here is a Wrong again. Studies conducted by groups Committee who fights for justice and sample of the pain and misery that will as far apart as the Chamber of Commerce other really important causes. be visited on working families: an end and the AFL-CIO consistently show that com- Ms. JACKSON LEE. Let me thank to higher education tax credits, an end prehensive immigration reform will grow the my good friend from Maryland for his to needed increases in the child tax Gross Domestic Product by $1.5 trillion over leadership consistently that really credit, the loss of access to tax credits 10 years. speaks to the hearts and minds of for the Affordable Care Act, a reduc- Given this sorry track record of economic Americans because we know what tion in tax rates for the wealthy, yield- forecasting, I strongly oppose the Republican Americans want: just a simple oppor- ing average tax cuts of $200,000 for mil- budget because it favors the wealthy over tunity to live, thrive, and to create the lionaires financed by a $2,000 tax in- middle class families and those struggling to values that we have built this country crease on the typical working class enter or remain in the middle class. on. If you work hard, you are success- family. I oppose this Republican budget because it ful. Mr. Chairman, this ‘‘Price is not asks major sacrifices of seniors who can bare- Mr. Chairman, the budgeteers on the right’’ budget will make it harder to ly make ends meet, and fundamentally alters majority side have a very poor track get to the middle and working class the social contract by turning Medicaid and record when it comes to economic fore- parents to send their kids to college, SNAP programs into a block grant and Medi- casts and projections. ending these higher education tax cred- care into a voucher. Let me also acknowledge the chair- its and cutting student loan programs I cannot and will not support a resolution man of this committee for the work and Pell grants. that attempts to balance the budget on the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:43 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.060 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE March 24, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1889 backs of working families, seniors, children, children struggling to make ends meet and put tries worldwide defeating the terrorists the poor, or mortgages the future by failing to food on the table by converting the Supple- overseas. I support our cyber forces make the investments needed to sustain eco- mental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) who play a critical role in the defense nomic growth and opportunity for all Ameri- into a block grant beginning in 2021 and cut- of our national security from state and cans. ting funding steeply—by $125 billion (34 per- nonstate aggressors alike. And I appre- Mr. Chair, the GOP ‘‘Work Harder, Get cent) between 2021 and by 2025. ciate our scientists and engineers who Less’’ Budget squeezes hard-working Ameri- These dramatic cuts could mean in 2021 develop the cutting-edge technologies cans by making it: 1. Harder to buy a home through 2025 either cutting off assistance to provided for our warfighters to protect by keeping their paychecks stagnant; 2. hard- 11 to 12 million eligible people each year, or American families. er to send your kids to college by cutting stu- cutting benefits by almost $55 per person per In an environment where our Air dent loans; and 3. harder to enjoy a secure re- month. Force is the smallest since its creation, tirement by privatizing Medicare. In contrast, the Democratic Budget works the Army is on the path to being the If the House Republicans’ ‘‘Work Harder to FOR American families by giving them the smallest since 1939, and the Navy will Get Less’’ budget were adopted, here is a tools to buy a home, send their kids to college soon be the smallest since 1915, we can- sample of the pain and misery that will be vis- and enjoy a secure retirement. not risk reducing our national defense. ited on middle-class and working families: 1. Mr. Chair, the Democratic Budget rep- We can best provide for peace through An end to higher education tax credits; 2. an resents a better way. strength. end to needed increases in the child tax cred- We Democrats understand that we are all in Mr. Chairman, I would like to point it; 3. the loss of access to tax credits for af- this together and that our current economic out that tomorrow we will be taking a fordable health care for millions of Americans; situation calls for a balanced approach be- vote on two seemingly similar budgets, and 4. a reduction in tax rates for the wealthy tween increased revenues and responsible re- Price 1 and Price 2, but there are two yielding an average tax cut of $200,000 for duction in expenditures. major differences between the budgets. Our plan will protect and strengthen our re- millionaires financed by a $2,000 tax increase Price 2 represents the product of fruit- covering economy, reduce the deficit in a re- on the typical middle class family. ful negotiations between the leader- sponsible way, while continuing to invest in Mr. Chair, this ‘‘Price is not Right’’ budget ship, the House Budget Committee, and the things that make our country strong like will make it harder to middle and working the House Armed Services Committee. class parents to send their kids to college by: education, health care, innovation, and clean 1. Ending higher education tax credits; and 2. energy. In Director of National Intelligence cutting student loan programs and Pell Grants, Mr. Chair, this Republican budget is bad for James Clapper’s recent Worldwide making college less affordable and adding to America but it is disastrous for the people Threat Assessment before the Senate the already huge levels of student debt. from my home state of Texas who sent me Armed Services Committee, he said: The damage caused by the Republican here to advocate for their interests. Let me In 2013, just over 11,500 terrorist attacks budget is not limited to working families and highlight a few examples. worldwide killed approximately 22,000 peo- students; there are also lumps of coal for sen- 1. If the Republican budget resolution were ple. Preliminary data just for the first 9 iors who have earned and deserve a secure to become the basis of federal fiscal policy, months of 2014 indicate nearly 13,000 attacks, 3,435,336 Texas seniors would be forced out which killed 31,000 people. When the account- retirement: 1. The Medicare guarantee is ing is done, 2014 will have been the most le- turned into a voucher program with increased of traditional Medicare and into a voucher pro- thal year for global terrorism in the 45 years costs for seniors. 2. Seniors who have worked gram. Under the Republican plan to end Medi- such data has been compiled. hard for a financially secure retirement will im- care as we know it, Texas seniors will receive The world is becoming more dan- mediately have to pay new co-pays for pre- a voucher instead of guaranteed benefits gerous, and it is time Congress came ventive care and much higher costs for pre- under traditional Medicare. together and funded our troops appro- scription drugs. 2. For the 3,435,336 Texans aged 45–54, The Republican budget also disinvests in the value of their vouchers would be capped priately. Terrorists have declared war America’s future: 1. Slashes the part of the at growth levels that are lower than the pro- on American families. budget we use to invest in our children’s edu- jected increases in health care costs. Previous I would like to thank our leadership cation; and 2. devastates our investments in analyses showed that this type of plan would team, Chairman PRICE and Chairman scientific research and innovation. cut future spending by $5,900 per senior, forc- MAC THORNBERRY, for their work in ne- Mr. Chair, the Republican budget exacer- ing them to spend more out of pocket and di- gotiating Chairman PRICE’s defense al- bates the drag on the economy resulting from minishing their access to quality care. ternative, Price 2, and it is my hope a crumbling infrastructure by cutting $187 bil- 3. Additionally, private insurance plans will that tomorrow we can come together lion, or more than 19 percent, from transpor- aggressively pursue the healthiest, least ex- and pass Price 2. tation funding over the coming decade and pensive enrollees, thereby allowing Medi- In conclusion, God bless our troops, provides no solution to address the current care—currently the lifeline for 3,187,332 Texas and may the President by his actions shortfall in the federal transportation fund, seniors—to ‘‘wither on the vine.’’ never forget September the 11th in the which means we can expect construction 4. If the Republican budget resolution were global war on terrorism. slowdowns beginning this summer. to be adopted by Congress, 206,304 Texas Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Chairman, I Mr. Chair, compared to the President’s seniors would pay more for prescription drugs would just say to my Republican col- budget, the Republican budget would result next year. leagues, if you want to vote for a de- this fiscal year in 35,000 fewer children in Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. Mr. fense budget in a straightforward man- Head Start and up to 6,000 fewer special edu- Chairman, I am now pleased to yield 3 ner the way the Joint Chiefs of Staff cation teachers, paraprofessionals, and other minutes to the gentleman from South have recommended, then vote for the related staff. Carolina (Mr. WILSON), a senior mem- Democratic alternative. The Republican budget also shortchanges ber of the Armed Services Committee. I reserve the balance of my time. America’s future by cutting investments in sci- Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. Mr. entific research and innovation in real terms Thank you, Chairman PRICE, for your Chairman, may I inquire as how much by failing to lift the draconian sequester on do- extraordinary leadership. time remains on each side? mestic priorities. Mr. Chairman, I am grateful today to As a result, under the Republican budget, join with my House Armed Services The Acting CHAIR (Mr. HILL). The there would be 1,300 fewer medical research Committee colleagues and speak in gentleman from Georgia has 27 minutes grants at National Institutes H and 950 fewer support of Chairman PRICE’s defense al- remaining. The gentleman from Mary- competitive science research awards at the ternative budget, Price 2. land has 101⁄2 minutes remaining. NSF, affecting 11,600 researchers, techni- As the chairman of the Emerging Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. Mr. cians, and students. Threats and Capabilities Sub- Chairman, I am now pleased to yield 4 Finally, Mr. Chair, the Republican Budget committee on the House Armed Serv- minutes to the gentleman from Cali- mistreats the poorest and most vulnerable per- ices Committee, my top priority is to fornia (Mr. HUNTER), a member of the sons in our country. provide adequate funding for our Spe- Armed Services Committee and a gen- The Republican ‘‘Work Harder, Get Less’’ cial Operations Forces who are cur- tleman who has served this country in budget takes aim at millions of families with rently deployed in more than 80 coun- the armed services.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:43 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24MR7.018 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H1890 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 24, 2015 Mr. HUNTER. I would like to thank went down. When those towers fell, we Council for Citizens Against Govern- the gentleman from Georgia for deal- realized what was important, and it ment Waste supporting our budget; ing with the entire Congress and com- was keeping this country safe. Price 2 Americans for Tax Reform, supporting ing up with only two budgets, Price 1 will help keep this country safe; Price our budget; Americans for Prosperity, and Price 2. 1 will make it a more dangerous place. supporting our budget; National Tax- I think that the chairman has been Again, Mr. Chairman, I would urge my payers Union, supporting our budget; 60 pulled in just about every different di- colleagues to vote ‘‘no’’ on Price 1 and Plus Association, supporting our budg- rection, and I am actually glad that vote ‘‘yes’’ on Price 2. et; Association of Mature American this is coming to fruition. Again, I thank the chairman for giv- Citizens, supporting our budget. And I I would like to urge my colleagues to ing his heart and soul to this and lis- mentioned before the U.S. Chamber of vote for Price 2, the defense budget tening to so many people and trying to Commerce, and National Federation of that Chairman PRICE is putting out, come up with something that this side Independent Business. and vote ‘‘no’’ on Price 1. There is a of the aisle can agree on. Mr. Chairman, I include in the reason for that: Price 2 is the defense Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Chairman, I RECORD letters of support that have budget. just point out to my colleagues that been provided by these organizations. Our job as Members of Congress is to both of what we are referring to as AMERICANS FOR TAX REFORM do a lot of things. We go to different Price 1 and Price 2 are a total violation Washington, DC. March 17, 2015. meetings. We vote on transportation, of what the Budget Committee, on a bi- Chairman TOM PRICE, education, labor issues, and all kinds of partisan basis, has said we would not Committee on the Budget, things. But our number one job, our do with respect to using the overseas House of Representatives. DEAR CHAIRMEN PRICE: On behalf of Ameri- number one job of the American people contingency account as a slush fund. cans for Tax Reform, I write in strong sup- is to keep them safe. It is national se- Both Price 1 and Price 2 do that to dif- port of the recently released U.S. House of curity. That is why I am here. ferent degrees. If you want to fund de- Representatives budget proposal. The budget I did three tours. I did two tours in fense in the straightforward manner blueprint authored by House Budget Com- Iraq and one in Afghanistan. I was in that the military leadership has rec- mittee Chairman Tom Price (R–GA) will en- Iraq when we didn’t have up-armored ommended to the President and the sure that Washington lives within its means Humvees. I was in Iraq when we didn’t President has put in the budget, then by balancing the budget in less than ten have enough scopes for our Marines years and cutting $5.5 trillion in federal you should support the Democratic al- spending. and security forces. I was in Afghani- ternative. The budget proposal calls for a fairer, sim- stan when we didn’t have enough stuff, Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance pler tax code, reforms struggling entitle- too. In fact, if you vote for Price 2, you of my time. ment programs, clamps down on inefficient are still only voting for the ragged and ineffective government programs, and 1715 edge of what our Defense Department b lays the groundwork for strong economic needs. Mr. PRICE of Georgia. Mr. Chairman, growth. The plan also empowers the states We have things going off all over I yield myself such time as I may con- to make their own decisions by restoring the right now. Africa is gone. The Middle sume. principle of federalism. It saddens me to have our colleagues By keeping to the proposed reforms, Con- East is gone and going. Eastern Europe gress stands to secure America’s economic is going now because of the Russians. on the other side of the aisle talk prospects, protect jobs, and accelerate eco- And Asia and China, China is imping- about a slush fund when they are talk- nomic development to levels which would be ing and coming eastward towards the ing about the military. I think it ma- unattainable given the current spending United States. Things will never be ligns our military. It doesn’t give the policies. Lower, flatter taxes plus a competi- safer. Things will never be safer. I honor and the dignity to the men and tive international tax regime would enshrine think the American people have to re- women who stand in harm’s way every our place as the world’s number 1 destina- tion for entrepreneurship. Simply put, ask- alize that, but they have to contend single day to protect our liberty and protect our freedom. It is hard to even ing taxpayers to pay $160 billion per year is with it. an undue burden that we can do without. The American people need to know recognize the comment when you are Notably, the House budget repeals that their Navy is patrolling the ocean, talking about those men and women of Obamacare in its entirety and reforms the that their Marines and their Army are a slush fund. health care system to increase access to af- able to go wherever we ask them to at I have great respect for members of fordable care and provide patients with bet- a moment’s notice and wherever we the armed services, incredible respect ter medical choices. Repealing Obamacare need them to. The American people for their leadership. We believe strong- would eliminate numerous job killing regu- ly in their ability to take the resources lations including the employer mandate and need to know that their Air Force is the individual mandate. In place of this com- patrolling the skies. that we provide them and do the job, plex system, the House budget prioritizes a If we are $20 billion under the ragged do the mission, make certain that this patient-centered approach that gives power edge of what our Defense Department Nation is safe and kept from harm. back to the individual. needs, we are going to have to make So I would encourage our colleagues Repealing Obamacare will also put a stop sacrifices, and the American people are on the other side to rethink their lan- to the raiding of the Medicare trust fund. In not going to be as safe. If we vote and guage and their rhetoric. Words mean turn, this will help secure and strengthen Price 1 wins, we are going to have to something. Words mean something. I Medicare so the program can continue to provide retirees with the care that they de- leave here and tell the American peo- hope that they are able to recognize serve. The budget will also build a new pre- ple that the American military cannot that that language doesn’t do dignity mium support program for Medicare that do what they think it can do. Price 2 to this Chamber, it doesn’t do dignity will further empower seniors to make their will fund the U.S. military where it to the men and women who stand in own choices. needs to be to face all these challenges, the breach. Finally, the budget implements improve- still barely—still barely—but the I want to take a few minutes, Mr. ments to Medicaid. Specifically, it repeals American military will be able to do it. Chairman, and I want to recognize the Obamacare Medicaid expansion and those folks who have recognized us in grants increased flexibility to the states, Mr. Chairman, I would urge my col- which will allow the states the opportunity leagues to look around the world and supporting A Balanced Budget for a to build a strong and sustainable system of ask themselves one question: What is Stronger America, groups all across Medicaid that suits their needs. their job as a U.S. Congress Member? this Nation, men and women who stand The House Budget maintains the spending What is their number one job? There is up and say: We know that there is a restrictions mandated in the Budget Control no social security without national se- challenge out there, we know that the Act of 2011, ensuring the continuation of the curity. It doesn’t matter what our edu- fiscal situation of this Nation is dif- savings from discretionary spending. In con- ficult, and we want to support those trast to the White House budget, which ig- cation budget is if another 9/11 hap- nores 2011 spending caps and raises spending pens. who are actually providing positive so- through misleading promises, the House I wear this 9/11 memorial bracelet on lutions: budget abides by federal law. The budget al- my wrist. That is what made me join Council for Citizens Against Govern- locates funding to the DOD’s Overseas Con- the Marine Corps is when our towers ment Waste—I have a letter from the tingency Operations (OCO) fund to meet the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:43 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.061 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE March 24, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1891 complex and dangerous global threats, bal- Security and Medicare. On Social Security, ‘‘We are very supportive of Chairman anced by cuts to mandatory spending. the budget clearly states that Congress Price’s budget proposal and look forward to It is important to keeps the caps in place should not raid the retirement trust fund to working closely with the committee to safe- that have stabilized federal spending since temporarily patch the disability program, guard the interests of taxpayers,’’ CCAGW 2011 and will lead to $1.79 trillion in savings which is projected to be insolvent in 2016. President Tom Schatz said. ‘‘We are also through 2021. You should be congratulated AMAC strongly supports this policy position pleased to see the budget contains many for proposing a more fiscally responsible so- and believes this is the kind of forward- Prime Cuts recommendations. With the na- lution despite the urging of some of his more thinking leadership that is required to save tional debt more than $18 trillion, it is time reckless colleagues to break spending caps and secure this critical program. While these to balance the budget and end deficit spend- and undo years of fiscal restraint. important senior programs face uncertain fu- ing in Washington.’’ We urge the House Budget committee to tures, AMAC appreciates that this budget The Council for Citizens Against Govern- support this bold pro-growth proposal. It re- compels Congress to adopt long-term legisla- ment Waste is the lobbying arm of the na- turns power to states and localities while tive solutions that will guarantee Social Se- tion’s largest nonpartisan, nonprofit organi- making great, positive strides in the tax curity and Medicare benefits for today’s sen- zation dedicated to eliminating waste, fraud, code. iors and tomorrow’s retirees. abuse, and mismanagement in government. Sincerely, Last, AMAC is pleased to see that the GROVER G. NORQUIST, budget fully repeals the ‘‘Patient Protection [March 17, 2015] President, and Affordable Care Act,’’ or ‘‘ObamaCare.’’ AMERICANS FOR PROSPERITY ON THE HOUSE Americans for Tax Reform. Repealing ObamaCare will save over $2 tril- BUDGET PROPOSAL lion, will end the egregious $700 billion raid ARLINGTON, VA.—Today Americans for THE 60 PLUS ASSOCIATION, on Medicare, and will unburden the public Prosperity, the nation’s largest grassroots Alexandria, VA, March 18, 2015. from obtrusive government mandates and advocate for economic freedom, applauded Hon. TOM PRICE, regulations. Instead of imposing one-size- the House Budget Committee for introducing Chairman, House Committee on the Budget, fits-all government health care on the Amer- a budget resolution this morning. AFP Vice Cannon House Office Building, Washington, ican people, this budget proposes health re- President of Government Affairs Brent Gard- DC. form that is patient-centered. AMAC sup- ner issued the following statement: DEAR CHAIRMAN PRICE: On behalf of more ports the budget’s patient-centered approach ‘‘We applaud House Budget Committee than seven million senior citizen activists, to health care that places value on increased Chairman Tom Price for putting together a the 60 Plus Association applauds your leader- access to quality, affordable care and ex- common sense budget resolution. While not ship in putting forth a responsible Balanced panded choices for individuals, families, and perfect, we are pleased to see a number of Budget plan. Not only will this legislation businesses. positive policies proposed in this common protect seniors but also our children and As an organization committed to rep- sense budget. We applaud Chairman Price for grandchildren. resenting the interests of mature Americans holding firm on Congress’s past agreement to We need positive, common sense solutions and seniors, AMAC is encouraged by the control spending by adhering to the discre- to put our nation’s spending on a path of sus- positive vision outlined in ‘‘A Balanced tionary spending caps established in the tainability that both strengthens and pre- Budget for a Stronger America.’’ We feel Budget Control Act. Keeping these caps is serves our Social Security and Medicare ben- that this budget will help to restore our na- the best tool for lawmakers to restrain efits. By reducing spending though respon- tion’s financial and economic security and spending, and we encourage Congress to keep sible government-wide reforms, the House will put America on a path toward greater these caps. Republican budget also ensures America’s prosperity. ‘‘This is a welcome change from the Presi- economic security. Sincerely, dent’s recent call for higher levels of federal Again, we thank you for your efforts and DAN WEBER, spending and higher taxes on American fami- introducing a Balanced Budget that puts our President and Founder of AMAC. lies. Additional reforms that Americans for nation back on the right path! This plan will Prosperity supports in this budget resolution protect the investment of our generation as CCAGW PRAISES FY 2016 HOUSE BALANCED is that it balances within 10 years, sets the well as for future generations. BUDGET RESOLUTION stage for comprehensive tax reform, and Sincerely, (WASHINGTON, DC).—Today, the Council for turns control over certain mandatory pro- JAMES L. MARTIN, Citizens Against Government Waste grams over to the states. It also includes a Chairman. (CCAGW) praised House Budget Committee full repeal of the President’s health care law Chairman Tom Price’s (R-Ga.) fiscal year that has already seen millions of people lose ASSOCIATION OF (FY) 2016 Budget Resolution. The blueprint their health care plans. Overall, this budget MATURE AMERICAN CITIZENS, balances the budget in less than 10 years, a resolution is a strong step in the right direc- March 18, 2015. clear divergence from President Obama’s tion.’’ Hon. TOM PRICE, budget, which never balances at all. Earlier in March, Americans for Prosperity 6th District, Georgia, Cannon House Office The budget proposal cuts waste, improves sent a letter of specific items that should be Building, Washington, DC. accountability, and eliminates redundancies included in the upcoming budget resolutions Hon. CHRIS VAN HOLLEN, in the federal government. A particularly in Congress. Online here. We continue to en- 8th District, Maryland, Cannon House Office laudable component is the elimination of courage federal lawmakers to work towards Building, Washington, DC. ‘‘double dipping’’ of Social Security Dis- budget solutions that protect American tax- DEAR CHAIRMAN PRICE AND RANKING MEM- ability Insurance and Unemployment Insur- payers and reduce spending. BER VAN HOLLEN, On behalf of the 1.3 million ance, as recommended by the Government members of AMAC, the Association of Ma- Accountability Office (GAO) on March 4, Groups Supporting: Americans for Tax Re- ture American Citizens, I am writing to con- 2015. The budget proposal also makes note of form; Council for Citizens Against Govern- vey our strong support for many of the poli- duplicative programs that need to be con- ment Waste; Americans for Prosperity; US cies set forth in the House Budget Commit- solidated, including food aid and housing as- Chamber of Commerce; Association of Ma- tee’s FY 2016 budget resolution, ‘‘A Balanced sistance that not only waste millions of tax- ture American Citizens; National Federation Budget for a Stronger America.’’ This budget payer dollars but also fail to achieve their for Independent Business (NFIB); 60 Plus As- proposal correctly identifies the financial stated objectives. sociation. and economic challenges facing America The budget includes numerous rec- Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. Mr. today and provides a blueprint for tackling ommendations from ‘‘Prime Cuts,’’ such as Chairman, I also want to address this those problems with positive, responsible so- the privatization of Fannie Mae and Freddie issue of morality. We have had a num- lutions. Mac, the elimination of the Commerce De- ber of folks on the other side of the Time and again, it is has been said that partment’s Hollings Manufacturing Exten- aisle talk about the morality of a budg- America’s national debt is the single biggest sion Program and International Trade Pro- threat to our national security. For this rea- motion Activities, and the termination of et. And budgeting is priorities, it is a son, it is imperative that Congress unite dozens of green energy grants funded in the moral document; there is no doubt around a plan to pay down our debt and bal- stimulus bill that would ‘‘protect taxpayers about it. ance the budget so that Washington can from being on the hook for future boon- In the earlier debate, a number of begin living within its means. ‘‘A Balanced doggles.’’ The 2015 Prime Cuts will be re- folks on the other side talked about Budget for a Stronger America’’ promises to leased on April 1. this notion that moral documents, balance the budget in less than 10 years Moreover, the budget proposal’s commit- moral issues, are raised in budgets. without raising taxes by reducing federal ment to devolving programs to the states, And I agree, there is no doubt about it. particularly Medicaid, food stamps, and edu- spending by $5.5 trillion and making govern- Budgets say what kind of people we ment programs more effective and efficient. cational programs, will spur innovation, in- Not only does this budget promote healthy crease flexibility, and save taxpayers money. are. They say what kind of people we economic policies and reduce federal spend- Government that is closer to the people gov- want to be. ing, it also provides a path forward to save erns more effectively, with less waste and So I want to ask this question, Mr. and strengthen vital programs like Social more accountability. Chairman:

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:43 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24MR7.023 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H1892 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 24, 2015 What is the morality of trapping dis- 1 year ago. Here is what he said as part cutting the top tax rate for the advantaged people in a web of welfare of the Republican majority: ‘‘Abuse of wealthiest people in the country, the programs that discourage self-suffi- the OCO’’—that is the overseas contin- people who have done just great over ciency and instead shackle them to gency account—‘‘is a backdoor loop- the last 20, 30 years? Is it right to cut government dependency? What is the hole that undermines the integrity of their tax rates by one-third, from 39 morality of that? the budget process.’’ That is what our percent down to the mid-20s, while in- What is the morality of keeping re- Republican colleagues said. They said creasing the tax burden on working tirees in a health care coverage pro- they weren’t going to allow it. They families, middle class families, and gram that is going bankrupt, becoming are using the overseas contingency ac- those who are working their way into insolvent, not according to my num- count as a slush fund for moneys that the middle class, getting rid of the de- bers, according to the trustees of the should be invested in the normal De- duction for higher education, getting program itself, and that can’t keep its fense Department accounts. That is rid of the increase in the child tax promises if its so-called providers keep what they said last year. They have credit, getting rid of the Affordable blocking reform? What is the morality done a 180 here. That is a discredit to Care Act tax credits that help people of that? this House. afford education? What is the morality, Mr. Chairman, We keep hearing all day about Price The Tax Policy Center did a study of forcing low-income people into a sec- 1 and Price 2. What is that all about? I that said a proposal like the Romney- ond-rate health care program in which am sure colleagues listening have got Ryan plan would provide about an av- many can’t get appointments with doc- to be going: What is going on, Price 1 erage tax cut of $200,000 to millionaires tors and those doctors are grossly and Price 2? It is because our Repub- and increase the tax burden on middle- under-reimbursed by the government? lican colleagues haven’t figured out income families by $2,000. Is that right? What is the morality of that? how they are going to fund the defense Look, the issue here is whether you What is the morality, Mr. Chairman, of the country. But both Price 1 and believe that we should grow our econ- of stifling medical innovation, pre- Price 2 are a violation of the position omy and accelerate economic growth venting new treatments from reaching our Republican colleagues took just a in a way with more shared prosperity, patients because of ever-expanding year ago. or whether you believe in an economy Washington bureaucracy and red tape? So let’s do this in a way that honors that grows through trickle down, the Where is the morality in that kind of our commitment to our defense and do idea that cutting tax rates for the top program? it in a straightforward manner, the will somehow lift everybody up. That What is the morality of tying college way that the Joint Chiefs of Staff and theory ran into the hard wall of re- students to years of crippling debt be- others have recommended. ality. Folks at the top had their in- cause of a government-run student Now, it is always interesting to un- comes go up, everybody else was run- loan program that drives up tuitions? I derstand people’s different perceptions ning in place. We should not go back to hear my friends on the other side talk in morality. I would just ask a ques- that. about how difficult it is for students, tion: Is it right to have a budget that I reserve the balance of my time. and it is. Mr. Chairman, it is difficult refuses to cut a single special interest Mr. PRICE of Georgia. Mr. Chairman, because of the student loan program tax break in order to reduce the deficit I yield myself such time as I may con- that they put in place when they were while cutting our investment in our sume. in the majority that doesn’t give stu- kids’ education? Is it right to have a I am amused by my colleague’s inter- dents access to low interest rate loans. budget that won’t cut a corporate tax pretation of what happened with stu- Where is the morality of that? break, like the corporate jet loophole, dent loans. It is an interesting rewrit- Where is the morality of heaping tril- but cuts our investment in our kids’ ing of history. lions of dollars of debt onto future gen- education, increases the cost of pre- What the translation is is that the erations to finance today’s government scription drugs to seniors, says to stu- Federal Government now controls the spending because today’s policymakers dents you are going to pay more for vast majority of student loans, con- refuse to stop outspending our tax rev- your student loans? trols and dictates interest on those enue? Where is the morality in that, I was really interested to hear the loans. So the money that the students Mr. Chairman? chairman’s comments about the stu- are paying out there in interest on And these are only a few examples of dent loan program. What the Demo- those loans, where is it going? It is the regrettable consequences of well- crats did when they were in the major- going to the Federal Government intentioned, government-sponsored ity was get rid of a system where the when, in fact, those students could ac- compassion. big banks were making guaranteed re- tually get loans at a lower rate, but Our Republican budget aims to break turns off of taxpayer dollars that were that is now precluded. So our friends that pattern. We aim to respect the not going to students. They were mak- have a proclivity for rewriting history. American people and talk to them ing guaranteed 9 percent returns. Their plan, by the way; that was their about the seriousness of the challenges So we said: Why should we have a plan to put the Federal Government in that we face, but provide positive alter- system where the big banks are getting charge of student loans. natives, real solutions with real re- these guaranteed taxpayer-subsidized The gentleman says, What has sults. That is what they are longing returns? And we moved to a direct loan changed in a year? Well, a lot has for, real leadership in this town. program. That meant every dollar changed, Mr. Chairman: Russian ag- Our budget isn’t about cutting pro- could go farther in terms of providing gression in Eastern Europe, ISIS, Chi- grams, it is about improving and sav- student loans. Cut out the big banks. nese making more noise. ing them to ensure a sustainable safety They were just siphoning off dollars Look, I admit that funding the de- net for those who need it, while encour- that were intended to go to students. fense for our country in this way, $613 aging and helping others sustain them- That is what we did. But we also under- billion—$523 billion in the base budget selves, the most truly compassionate stand that despite those improvements, and $90 billion in the global war on ter- thing one can do for another. That is our students are finding it costly to go ror fund—is not ideal. the morality of our Republican budget. to college. Why are we doing that? The Presi- I reserve the balance of my time. That is why actually in our budget dent so far has refused to lay out a Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Chairman, I we provide for increased opportunity path to change the law, which it takes yield myself such time as I may con- and more affordable college, the oppo- in order to put it in the base defense sume. site of what our Republicans do, which budget, which is why we in our budget Let me just start with some com- is they say they want to increase inter- responsibly, proactively, honestly lay ments about the importance of making est rates on student loans and cut $90 forth the path to be able to get that sure we make investments in defense in billion-plus from Pell grants. done. a straightforward and honest way. Is it moral or, I should just ask: Does Our friends know that if the Presi- The chairman’s comments were di- the country really think it is right to dent’s number were included in the rectly contrary to the position he took have a budget that paves the way for budget, as soon as the next year begins,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:58 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.063 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE March 24, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1893 boom, right back down to $523 billion. fight the enemies of freedom and the When you think about the Federal He can talk about the number he has enemies of America. It does it in a re- Government, everything else is about got all he wants, but the law of the alistic fashion, not in this dream world $1 trillion a year: education, energy, land brings it right back down to $523 that the President’s budget seems to be legislative branch, judiciary, court sys- billion unless the law is changed. living in. tem, transportation, research, defense. We look forward to working with our I encourage my colleagues to support Everything else in the Federal Govern- colleagues, we look forward to working this effort from our chairman of the ment, with the exception of Medicare, with the administration, so that we Budget Committee. Again, I thank the Medicaid, and Social Security, is about can actually do so in a way that modi- chairman for his effort. $1 trillion. fies the base defense budget. I hope Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Chairman, I Now, Mr. Chairman, people out there that that is able to happen, I hope that am just a little puzzled by the com- across this great Nation know that, for that is able to happen. ments from the gentleman from Flor- 4 out of the last 6 years, Washington— I am now pleased to yield 3 minutes ida since the Republican study group’s this country—has run a deficit of to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. budget—and I understand the Repub- greater than $1 trillion each year, DIAZ-BALART), a very active member of lican study group consists of about 170 which means that you could do away the Appropriations Committee and of members of a big majority of the Re- with the entire Federal Government— the Budget Committee. publican caucus—funds defense in a the entire thing, everything—with the Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Chairman, I straightforward way that the Presi- exception of Medicare, Medicaid, and rise today, first, to thank the chairman dent’s budget does and that the Demo- Social Security, and you wouldn’t even of the Budget Committee for the job he cratic alternative budget does. balance the budget. That is the chal- has done and the staff of that com- I am interested to hear the Repub- lenge. Very shortly, mandatory spend- mittee. lican study group’s budget approach to ing is going to consume the entire Fed- As the chairman stated, this budget defense characterized as a fake. I think eral budget. actually deals with the issues that are that would be a surprise to the mem- We have got a problem that we have important to our country. The Presi- bers of the Republican study group. got to deal with. If we don’t, what hap- I reserve the balance of my time. dent has put together and has put for- Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. Mr. pens is that we are no longer going to ward a budget, but as the chairman Chairman, I yield myself such time as be able to pass off to our kids and our stated, it is a budget that assumes that I may consume. grandkids the kind of opportunity for the law is not the law. He assumes that I would like to put a little more meat them to realize their dreams. you can just throw money on top of the on the bones, if you will, of this issue That is what we need to do, Mr. law and that it is going to stay there of discretionary spending and of man- Chairman. We need to recognize the by some miracle of nature when the re- datory spending because it really is the problems, and we need to recognize the ality is that we know, as the chairman locus of the problem that we have, and challenges, and that is what our budget stated, that that is fake, because if we I think our friends on the other side of does. It recognizes that mandatory were to mark up to those numbers, the the aisle would agree. spending can’t continue on the path sequester would kick in and just elimi- When you look at history, over the that it is on. nate those funds outright. last 50 years or so—the red on this is Sadly, in that mandatory spending, those programs are actually going b 1730 mandatory spending, and the blue is discretionary spending—back in 1962, broke: Medicare, insolvent by 2033; So- This budget deals with reality. This mandatory spending was about a third cial Security, insolvent by 2034. budget deals with the fact that, if we of our Federal budget, and discre- What our budget does is responsibly, don’t deal with and if we don’t reform tionary spending was about two-thirds. positively, honestly say to the Amer- what is causing, frankly, the debt, the Over the last 50 years, what has hap- ican people that we recognize that deficits—which is mandatory spend- pened is that that has flipped, and challenge. It is reckless for us not to ing—it will consume 100 percent of the mandatory spending has become two- recognize and address that challenge, budget in a generation. thirds or even more of Federal spend- so we do in our budget put forward This budget also demands from Con- ing, and discretionary spending has be- positive solutions to those challenges gress tax reform, tax reform that we come about a third. so that we can, as a percentage of the all know would increase the economy, Now, why is that important? All of amount of spending in the Federal Gov- that would create more jobs, that the things that we say that we care ernment, narrow the amount of money would make it easier for Americans to about outside of Medicare and Med- spent on mandatory programs so that open businesses—small, medium, and icaid and Social Security, basically, we have more moneys available for the large—to create jobs here in this coun- are in this blue area. Defense is in the kinds of things that everybody on this try. blue area, as are transportation, en- House floor and everybody in this I want to thank the chairman be- ergy, education, research. Chamber wants to do. cause it also recognizes the fact that, All of the things we say that we want We want to make certain that we no, al Qaeda is not on the run; that, no, to protect are in the blue area. This is have the greatest opportunity for the we have not defeated terrorism; and what our Appropriations Committee next generation, but that light is get- that the world is not as safe as any of deals with. The automatic spending— ting dim unless we address the chal- us would like it to be. This recognizes the mandatory programs—are crowding lenges that we face. That is why it is so that we have to give our military what out, as you see, Mr. Chairman, the dis- important to adopt a positive budget, it needs to do its job. cretionary spending. The challenge to an honest budget, a sincere budget, a Yes, the President adds money to the my colleagues is to recognize this prob- budget that recognizes these challenges base, but I repeat—and the chairman lem, to recognize what needs to be but that puts in place positive solu- mentioned this—that that is fake be- done. tions. cause, unless you change the law, What needs to be done is that the I appreciate the conversations and which this budget cannot do, that mandatory programs need to be ad- the discussions of my friends on the money automatically goes away. dressed. You can’t bury your head in other side of the aisle, but it is abso- The one thing that we can do that is the sand and say it doesn’t make any lutely vital that we, as Representatives in the hands of this bill, of this budget difference. We spend about $3.6 trillion of the people, come together and solve that is in front of us, is to do precisely a year on the entire Federal budget. these challenges that we have from a what the chairman has put forward. About $2.6 trillion—ballpark figures financial standpoint so that we can Is it perfect? Absolutely not—it is re- of $2.5 trillion, $2.6 trillion—is of basi- pass on to our kids and our grandkids sponsible. It helps create jobs, and it cally three things, which is Medicare the greatest nation the world has ever will grow the economy. It will stop this and Medicaid, Social Security, and in- known. out-of-control spending; and, yes, it terest on the debt, which has been I reserve the balance of my time. will deal with making sure that our talked about and that we aren’t able to Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Chairman, military has the tools that it needs to do anything about. We can’t change it. how much time remains on both sides?

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:43 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.064 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H1894 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 24, 2015 The Acting CHAIR (Mr. CURBELO of hard work every day. Our current Tax have had for the last 6 years, let’s talk Florida). The gentleman from Mary- Code actually gives better tax rates to about what has happened. This is the land has 4 minutes remaining. The gen- unearned income than to earned in- Congressional Budget Office estimate tleman from Georgia has 61⁄2 minutes come. That doesn’t make sense. of growth over the ensuing 10 years: in remaining. We propose to provide important tax 2012, they predicted that the growth Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Chairman, I incentives and benefits to hard-work- was going to average 3 percent; in 2013, reserve unless the gentleman wants to ing Americans; whereas the Republican 2.9 percent; in 2014, 2.5 percent; this close. budget just provides another tax rate year, 2.3 percent growth over the next Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. I would cut for folks at the top on the failed 10 years. say to my friend that I am prepared to theory that it is going to trickle down Now, what does that mean? What close, so I am happy to have the gen- and lift everybody up. That is not the that means is that a full percent tleman close. way to accelerate economic growth. growth off the average growth rate Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Chairman, I The way to accelerate economic over the last 40 years, and such a dis- yield myself the balance of my time. growth is to make sure all hard-work- tinctive decrease in growth that jobs When we are talking about the budg- ing Americans can bring back bigger aren’t going to be able to be created at et and priorities, the chairman of the paychecks to provide for their families, the numbers that they need to be, that committee left out one of the biggest to make sure their families can achieve the economy doesn’t get to be roaring areas of ‘‘spending’’ in the Tax Code ac- the American Dream. at the way that it needs to be, that rev- cording to the Congressional Budget That is an economy in which every- enue into the Federal Government is Office, and that is the amount of spend- one moves forward together, as opposed diminished because the growth isn’t projected to be what it ought to be. ing that goes through a whole range of to an economy that says to the folks at How much? Is it a little bit? If we— tax breaks. the top: you have made it; we are going If you look at this chart, you will if, when, we are able to adopt the poli- to give you even more tax breaks, and cies in our budget, A Balanced Budget find that what the Congressional Budg- once you climb the ladder of oppor- et Office calls ‘‘tax expenditures’’ ex- for a Stronger America projection, we tunity, it is okay to lift the ladder up would suggest that we can return to ceed the amount spent each year on after you. Social Security, on Medicare and Med- the average growth rate of the last 40 That has not been the way our coun- years, 3.2, 3.3 percent. What that means icaid, on defense: $1.4 billion in tax try has worked from the beginning. breaks. is more jobs, more activity, more eco- Let’s reject this budget. There is a bet- nomic vitality out there. What that Now, some of those are for good pol- ter way, and we will have a chance to icy purposes, but some of them and a means is nearly $3 trillion, $3 trillion debate that tomorrow. more to the Federal Government in lot of them are there because some I yield back the balance of my time. powerful special interest got some spe- terms of revenue just because of the in- Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. Mr. creased activity in our economy. Imag- cial break that helps him and nobody Chairman, I yield myself the balance of ine what we could do with those kinds else, and this Republican budget my time. of resources, to balance the budget, to doesn’t touch one of those in order to In closing, we have heard a lot of get this economy going again, to allow reduce the deficit, not one. It doesn’t conversation this afternoon about the the American people to realize their close one of those $1.4 trillion in tax budget; a lot of hyperbole, a lot of mis- dreams in so many, many wonderful expenditures to reduce the deficit. information, I would suggest. and vital ways. What it does do is make life harder I suspect that those out there watch- How do you do that? You do that for people who are working hard every ing, if they are looking at this, have with tax reform. You do that with tax day. It increases the tax burden on said to their spouses: hide the kids and reform. My friends on the other side of middle class Americans and on those pets, dear; they are talking about the the aisle say: Well, no, you haven’t who are working to join the middle budget. identified what you are going to do. class. It raises the cost of going to col- Let me set the record straight on a No, that is the responsibility of the lege by increasing the cost of student couple of items. Some folks on the Committee on Ways and Means. The loans. It increases the daily costs of other side have talked about the re- budget lays out the pathway, and then seniors, who are going to face higher search budget is being decimated. the committees of jurisdiction go to prescription drug costs and higher fees Table one in the budget report has a work and accomplish that pathway, for copayments—seniors, students, line item for general science, space, put in place the programs that would working class families. and technology. That is research and accomplish that pathway, A Balanced I started this discussion by pointing innovation—for 2016, $28.381 billion; in Budget for a Stronger America. out that we have seen worker produc- going to 2025, $34.488 billion; for the 10- I want to reiterate once again, re- tivity grow. American workers are year window, $313 billion to research member, Mr. Chairman, that every dol- working harder than ever, but their and innovation. lar that is taken in taxes from the paychecks have been flat. Our Demo- Chairman RYAN, early on in this con- American people and every dollar that cratic alternative budget will address versation, in this debate, talked about is borrowed is a dollar that can’t be that issue. all of the hyperbole on the other side used to pay the rent, can’t be used to This Republican budget makes the and of the words ‘‘slashing’’ and ‘‘cut- buy a house, can’t be used to buy a car, situation worse. It doesn’t do anything ting’’ and ‘‘decimating’’ and ‘‘destroy- can’t be used to send a kid to college, to help hard-working Americans get ing.’’ can’t be used to expand or to begin a ahead. It says, Work harder, but get Mr. Chairman, what the other side business. less. You are going to take home less, proposes, what the President proposes, So what we need are positive solu- and you are going to get hit with high- is a growth in the budget of 5.1 percent tions, real solutions, honest solutions, er taxes because they take away cer- on average. That is what gets you this like we put forward in our budget. tain important tax benefits for middle- amount of debt. Highlights once again: We balance the income and working people. budget in less than 10 years without Why in the world we would want to b 1745 raising taxes. Our budget decreases pass a budget that makes it harder on It crowds out everything else that we spending by over $5.5 trillion in the 10- hard-working people today and that want to do in our society. Our growth year budget window—$5.5 trillion—in- disinvests in the future of America to- rate, 3.4 percent—3.4 percent. That is stead of adding trillions of dollars of morrow, I don’t know. There is a much what gets you A Balanced Budget for a spending. We support a strong national better way to do it. We will present an Stronger America. defense; we have defined that, $613 bil- alternative tomorrow which does that. Now, my friend talks about the pro- lion combined with base defense spend- It says we should have a Tax Code ductivity in this country; and it is ing and global war on terror spending. that is not rigged in favor of making true, productivity is up, but let me We repeal ObamaCare in its entirety, money off of money, but that actually talk about the growth. If they want to once again, as a physician, not just be- favors people who earn a living through double down on the policies that we cause it is harming the economy, but it

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:43 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.065 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE March 24, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1895 is also harming the health of the Amer- BENJAMIN P. GROGAN AND JERRY who were killed in the line of duty. I ican people. We secure economic oppor- L. DOVE FEDERAL BUREAU OF am pleased to be a cosponsor of this tunity for all citizens. INVESTIGATION MIAMI FIELD legislation, and I want to thank the We don’t leave anybody behind. We OFFICE gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. WIL- recognize the imperative and the op- Mr. CURBELO of Florida. Mr. Speak- SON) for her leadership on this bill. portunity that is so necessary for er, I move to suspend the rules and Mr. Speaker, earlier this afternoon, I folks. We do, however, believe that pass the bill (H.R. 1092) to designate spoke with George Piro, special agent there are places where appropriate fed- the Federal building located at 2030 in charge of the FBI’s Miami field of- eralism ought to occur, where States Southwest 145th Avenue in Miramar, fice, and on behalf of the families of and local communities can better re- Florida, as the ‘‘Benjamin P. Grogan the fallen officers and of all of his col- spond to the needs of their citizens, and Jerry L. Dove Federal Bureau of leagues, he conveyed his sincere appre- whether it is in the area of health care, Investigation Miami Field Office’’, as ciation to this House for considering whether it is in the area of nutritional amended. this important legislation today. assistance, or whether it is in the area The Clerk read the title of the bill. I urge my colleagues to support pas- of education, something that so many The text of the bill is as follows: State legislatures and so many Gov- sage of this legislation. ernors are talking about as we speak. H.R. 1092 Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of We hold Washington accountable. We Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- my time. think it is important to have a right resentatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, Mr. CARSON of Indiana. Mr. Speak- size of Washington, not an expanded er, I yield myself such time as I may Federal bureaucracy that continues to SECTION 1. DESIGNATION. The Federal building located at 2030 South- consume. overreach and continues to affect ad- west 145th Avenue in Miramar, Florida, shall Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. versely, in regulatory schemes, the be known and designated as the ‘‘Benjamin 1092, as amended, which designates the lives of the American people. We cut P. Grogan and Jerry L. Dove Federal Build- Federal building located in Miramar, waste and fraud and abuse all across ing’’. Florida, as the Benjamin P. Grogan the Federal Government, defining SEC. 2. REFERENCES. and Jerry L. Dove Federal Bureau of areas that need to be audited and Any reference in a law, map, regulation, Investigation Miami Field Office. where we need to find savings. The document, paper, or other record of the American people, the hardworking United States to the Federal building re- I would also like to thank my dear American people, they are sick and ferred to in section 1 shall be deemed to be friend and pioneer and legend, the gen- tired of the kind of waste in this gov- a reference to the ‘‘Benjamin P. Grogan and tlelady from Florida, Madam FRED- Jerry L. Dove Federal Building’’. ernment. We support rights of con- ERICA WILSON, who really is a Floridian science for physicians all across this The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- icon, but I want to recognize her for land, and we push back on the execu- ant to the rule, the gentleman from her dedicated work with law enforce- tive overreach. Florida (Mr. CURBELO) and the gen- ment officers, including the two who This is A Balanced Budget for a tleman from Indiana (Mr. CARSON) each died in the line of duty. Stronger America. It will result in a will control 20 minutes. On April 11, 1989, Mr. Speaker, FBI greater efficiency, greater effective- The Chair recognizes the gentleman Agents Jerry Dove and Benjamin ness, and greater accountability of this from Florida. Grogan were killed in southwest government. I urge my colleagues to GENERAL LEAVE Miami, Florida. While these two FBI support A Balanced Budget for a Mr. CURBELO of Florida. Mr. Speak- agents were investigating a spate of Stronger America. er, I ask unanimous consent that all violent armed robberies, they observed I yield back the balance of my time. Members may have 5 legislative days a vehicle suspected to be connected to The Acting CHAIR. All time for gen- in which to revise and extend their re- the robberies. When the agents at- eral debate on the congressional budget marks and include extraneous material tempted to stop the vehicle and the has expired. on H.R. 1092, as amended. suspects refused, a high-speed chase en- Mr. TOM PRICE of Georgia. Mr. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there sued. A gun battle followed, and Spe- Chair, I move that the Committee do objection to the request of the gen- cial Agents Dove and Grogan were now rise. tleman from Florida? killed. Five other agents were injured The motion was agreed to. There was no objection. in the attack. Accordingly, the Committee rose; Mr. CURBELO of Florida. I yield my- Now, since this incident, Mr. Speak- and the Speaker pro tempore (Mr. self such time as I may consume. er, every April 11, the Miami FBI field MOOLENAAR) having assumed the chair, Mr. Speaker, H.R. 1092, as amended, office has held a special ceremony to Mr. CURBELO of Florida, Acting Chair would designate the Federal building honor Special Agents Dove and Grogan of the Committee of the Whole House located at 2030 Southwest 145th Avenue and other law enforcement officers who on the state of the Union, reported that in Miramar, Florida, as the Benjamin have been killed in the line of duty. that Committee, having had under con- P. Grogan and Jerry L. Dove Federal sideration the resolution (H. Con. Res. Building. As a former police officer, I have a 27) establishing the budget for the FBI Special Agents Jerry Dove and deep appreciation of this honor being United States Government for fiscal Benjamin P. Grogan were killed in 1986 bestowed today. Naming this new facil- year 2016 and setting forth appropriate during a gun battle with robbery sus- ity after FBI Special Agents Jerry budgetary levels for fiscal years 2017 pects. Special Agents Dove and Grogan Dove and Benjamin P. Grogan is a fit- through 2025, had come to no resolution had been a part of a surveillance effort ting tribute to these two law enforce- thereon. in connection with a series of violent ment officers who gave their lives in service and protection of the citizens of f bank robberies in Miami, Florida. Special Agent Dove was born in Jan- Miami, Florida. ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER uary 1956 in Charleston, West Virginia. I urge my colleagues to join us in PRO TEMPORE He earned degrees from Marshall Uni- supporting H.R. 1092, as amended. versity and West Virginia University The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of and had been in law enforcement for 4 ant to clause 8 of rule XX, the Chair my time. will postpone further proceedings years prior to his death. today on the motion to suspend the Special Agent Grogan was born in Mr. CURBELO of Florida. Mr. Speak- rules on which a recorded vote or the Atlanta, Georgia, in February 1933. He er, I yield 2 minutes to my distin- yeas and nays are ordered, or on which became an FBI special agent in 1961 guished colleague from Florida, Ms. the vote incurs objection under clause and had been with the FBI for 19 years ILEANA ROS-LEHTINEN. 6 of rule XX. prior to his death. Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I Any record vote on the postponed This legislation recognizes the ulti- thank our brand-new Florida colleague, question will be taken later. mate sacrifice of these two FBI agents the gentleman from Miami, Mr.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:58 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.067 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H1896 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 24, 2015 CURBELO, for his leadership in bringing designate the Federal building located I know that Agents Grogan and Dove this important bill to the floor before at 2030 Southwest 145th Avenue in knew about this violence when they us tonight. I especially commend my Miramar, Florida, in the heart of my said good-bye to their families, picked good friend, the gentlelady from district, as the Benjamin P. Grogan up their badges and guns, and left Miami, Dr. WILSON, for spearheading and Jerry L. Dove Federal Building. home on the morning of April 11, 1986. this effort to commemorate and thank This new 475,000-square-foot facility Yet they still answered the charge to our law enforcement officers, and espe- is a state-of-the-art office building and protect their community in the face of cially to highlight the sacrifice that is developed in accordance with the this danger. these two special agents made. 2030 Zero Environmental Footprint I know that Agent Grogan was a As was pointed out by the previous project goal, according to the archi- company man. I know that he had 25 speakers, Mr. Speaker, in 1986, Special tects. years of dedicated service to the Bu- Agents Benjamin P. Grogan and Jerry This facility is a part of the GSA’s reau and was 1 year from retirement. L. Dove were killed while serving Design Excellence Program, and in the His wife was also an employee of the bravely in the line of duty after they words of the architect, it ‘‘expresses Bureau. and other agents gave chase to two the dignity, enterprise, and stability of I know that Agent Dove had only 4 robbery suspects. the United States Government, while years of service in the Bureau after the landscape restores the native envi- completing law school, but he was liv- b 1800 ronment by reintroducing wetlands and ing his boyhood dream, according to A 5-minute gun battle—the bloodiest vegetation typical of the Everglades.’’ his family. in FBI history—erupted when the sus- The facility is LEED certified and is I have their photos displayed here so pects’ vehicle was stopped in my sleepy designed to reduce the consumption of that you can see the men we are pro- neighborhood of Pinecrest, Florida, and potable water by 95 percent. There are posing to honor. I wanted to have their both suspects began firing on law en- also solar panels on the roof of the pictures so that you can see the brav- forcement. annex and garage that will provide re- ery in their eyes. In addition to the tragic loss of Spe- newable electricity. The building will I know that their bravery was the cial Agents Grogan and Dove, five be high tech and be able to support motivation for their joining a team of other agents, including the agent who over 1,000 employees. fellow agents on the morning of April shot and killed the suspects, were in- There are a few major points that I 11, 1986, to tail a vehicle with two sus- jured, as approximately 145 shots were want to mention about the building. pects on board whom they thought fired during this exchange. First, the building is aesthetically gor- were connected to a string of violent Even though scenes as tragic as this geous and far from what you would bank robberies. one are very rare in south Florida consider your typical government The agents attempted to hail the today, our community understands the building. It sheds the model that gov- driver of the vehicle to pull over, and dangers that all law enforcement offi- ernment buildings always place func- when that failed, the agents strategi- cers face in the course of their daily tion over form. The building stands out cally cornered the vehicle, which came work to protect civilians. The sacrifice from the neighboring buildings so to a crashing halt by hitting a tree. A of both special agents and their fami- much that most people don’t know gun battle immediately ensued. There that it is the FBI’s new field office. lies is a testament to the ethos of serv- was a barrage of bullets. Also, the construction cost was ap- ice in our south Florida community. I can only imagine how the crackle proximately $8 million below the budg- Although nothing will bring back from the guns cut through the nor- eted amount, and this was achieved these brave agents, I am proud to sup- mally peaceful morning of that south through the operational efficiency of port Ms. WILSON’s important bill to Dade neighborhood. Yet our brave men the contractor Hensel Phelps, the FBI, name the FBI’s new south Florida field of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and GSA. office for them. It is just one way, Mr. The project provided a boost to the returned fire. Their fire hit the sus- Speaker, in which we can honor their local economy by creating hundreds of pects several times but, unfortunately, service and their sacrifice. jobs for the residents of my commu- those weapons were not powerful Special Agents Dove and Grogan are nity. The employees will be able to enough to stop them. role models for our new generation of give back to the economy—which is so On the other hand, the weapons that law enforcement officers. Their brav- great—by spending money in the city were used by the suspects were so pow- ery, their courage, their selfless dedi- of Miramar. erful that the agents were injured by cation is seen every day in law enforce- Now, Mr. Speaker, we have an oppor- misses that tore pieces of metal from ment officers in south Florida. tunity to create an even stronger per- their vehicles. However, those agents Mr. CARSON of Indiana. Mr. Speak- sonal connection with the local com- continued to battle on. Those agents er, I yield 10 minutes to the gentle- munity. knew that this could be that day which woman from Florida (Ms. WILSON), the We are naming the building in honor they prayed to avoid as they said good- author of the bill. of Special Agents Benjamin P. Grogan bye to their loved ones and left their Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, and Jerry L. Dove, members of the home, but they still battled on. a special thank you to Speaker BOEH- Federal Bureau of Investigation who I can only imagine the frustration of NER for realizing the urgency of this died valiantly on Friday, April 11, 1986, Special Agents Richard Manauzzi, Gor- bill. We just got this information, and in what is still considered the bloodiest don McNeill, Edmundo Mireles, Gilbert I went to the Speaker and he redlined gun battle in the storied history of the Orrantia, John Hanlon, Ronald Risner, the bill and brought it to the floor. FBI. and Grogan and Dove as they shot doz- I am proud to have my Florida col- Most men and women in law enforce- ens of bullets into the suspects’ direc- leagues here with me: a legend in her ment leave their homes for work know- tion and the high-powered rifle contin- own time, Representative ILEANA ROS- ing that there is a possibility that they ued to return fire, but they still bat- LEHTINEN, and Mr. CURBELO, who is may not return, but I don’t know if tled on. new. He has really jumped into Con- that was on the minds of Agents In a desperate attempt to flee, the gress and has been so helpful in all that Grogan and Dove as they left their suspects tried to commandeer Grogan we do. homes on April 11, 1986. and Dove’s vehicle. When they came It is a pleasure for the time to be I do know that it was an unusually around to the side of the vehicle, managed by ANDRE´ CARSON, who him- cool and breezy spring morning in Grogan and Dove were on the ground in self is a police officer and who under- south Florida. I do know that Miami in a defensive position they had taken to stands who we consider a role model in the 1980s was plagued by crime and battle the suspects. It is reported that that field. I thank you so much for graphic violence. This period has been the suspects shot both agents with a being here today for this important chronicled in media reports and dra- high-powered rifle at close range. bill. matically portrayed on the TV show Shortly after, the suspects were them- I rise today to urge my colleagues to ‘‘Miami Vice’’ and in movies like selves fatally shot by Agent Edmundo support H.R. 1092, which proposes to ‘‘Scarface.’’ Mireles.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:43 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.069 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE March 24, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1897 Agent Mireles made a very impres- The title of the bill was amended so Anniversary of my alma mater, Florida Inter- sive statement about his role in that as to read: ‘‘A bill to designate the national University, on April 6th, 2015. tragic event. He said: Federal building located at 2030 South- Not only is FIU ‘‘Worlds Ahead’’ in finding I knew that I was going to die, but I was west 145th Avenue in Miramar, Florida, solutions to the most challenging problems of going to do my best to make sure that the as the ‘Benjamin P. Grogan and Jerry our time, but the University and the entire FTU suspects didn’t get away. L. Dove Federal Building’.’’. community has moved Miami-Dade County When the dust cleared, two agents A motion to reconsider was laid on ‘‘Worlds Ahead’’ as well. lay dead on that spring morning, and the table. Since its founding in 1965, HU has grown five were seriously injured. f alongside South Florida, and has helped en- I know one other thing: that if for no able our community’s notable progress and other reason, we are here in Congress b 1815 evolution over the last five decades. to honor, commend, and decorate those COMMUNICATION FROM CHAIR OF Miami-Dade County’s only public research Americans who live up to the ideals university has now awarded over 200,000 de- upon which this great country was COMMITTEE ON HOMELAND SE- CURITY grees in more than 180 bachelor’s, master’s, founded. and doctoral programs, and currently enrolls Mr. Speaker, I implore you and my The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- more than 54,000 students. colleagues in Congress to join me, the fore the House the following commu- FTU is also a major economic engine that Transportation Committee, and my nication from the Chair of the Com- contributes nearly $9 billion each year to the Florida colleagues, and lift up Special mittee on Homeland Security: local economy as a top-10 employer in the Agent Benjamin Grogan and Special HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, county. Agent Dove from that street in south COMMITTEE ON HOMELAND SECURITY, To President Mark Rosenberg, my good Miami and place their names high, Washington, DC, March 24, 2015. friend, and the whole Florida International Uni- where the world can know that we are Hon. JOHN A. BOEHNER, versity family: happy anniversary and thank Speaker, House of Representatives, proud of their sacrifice for their Na- you for decades of outstanding contributions tion. Washington, DC. DEAR MR. SPEAKER: This is to notify you to South Florida. It is only fitting that these names I look forward to the next 50 years of amaz- should be placed on the same mantle pursuant to rule VIII of the Rules of the House of Representatives, that the Com- ing accomplishments to come. with the letters FBI because Special mittee on Homeland Security and its sub- And as a two-time graduate of FIU, I say Go Agents Grogan and Dove embody the committees have received document sub- Golden Panthers! motto for which the agency has become poenas issued by the United States District f known: fidelity, bravery, and integrity. Court for the District of Massachusetts in a God bless the FBI, and God bless civil case. RECOGNIZING THE COMPETITIVE America. After consultation with the Office of Gen- CARRIERS ASSOCIATION Mr. CARSON of Indiana. Mr. Speak- eral Counsel regarding the subpoenas, I have determined that compliance is not con- (Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia asked and er, I yield back the balance of my time. was given permission to address the Mr. CURBELO of Florida. Mr. Speak- sistent with the privileges and rights of the House for 1 minute and to revise and er, I yield myself such time as I may House. Sincerely, extend his remarks.) consume. MICHAEL MCCAUL, Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speak- I want to thank my two colleagues Chairman. er, I rise today to recognize the Com- from Florida for their moving and elo- petitive Carriers Association, which is quent remarks. I especially want to f the leading organization for competi- thank Ms. WILSON for raising aware- COMMEMORATING FLORIDA tive wireless carriers and stakeholders. ness and taking this very special ini- INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY’S CCA was founded in 1992 by nine rural tiative to honor these men who gave 50TH ANNIVERSARY and regional wireless carriers. Since its the ultimate sacrifice for the safety (Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN asked and was founding, CCA has grown to become and the security of our community. Mr. Speaker, it is often in this House given permission to address the House the Nation’s leading association for that we take time to remember those for 1 minute and to revise and extend competitive wireless providers serving who are defending our freedoms around her remarks.) all areas of the United States. the globe, our men and women in uni- Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I Today is the first day of CCA’s 2015 form, as we should, because many of am so proud to stand here today on the Global Expo in Atlanta. More than 100 them also pay the ultimate sacrifice. floor of the U.S. House of Representa- CCA member volunteers will gather for Less frequently do we take time to tives to recognize the upcoming 50th a special day of volunteering with honor our heroes in law enforcement, anniversary of my alma mater, Florida Hands On Atlanta. CCA will assemble those who live with us in our neighbor- International University, on April 6, 2,000 boxed meals and deliver them in hoods and who keep our neighborhoods 2015. person to schools, senior citizen homes, and our homes safe. Not only is FIU worlds ahead in find- and other locations in the Old Fourth By doing this today, this House is ing solutions to the most challenging Ward neighborhood. honoring not just these men, not just problems of our time, but the univer- I am pleased that CCA is bringing the their families, but all of our law en- sity and the entire FIU community has spirit of community to Atlanta, and I forcement officers throughout this moved Miami-Dade County worlds am confident this event will be quite country who every day fight to keep us ahead as well. successful. safe and to guarantee the security of Since its founding in 1965, FIU has f grown alongside south Florida and has our neighborhoods and of our families. HONORING PUCKETT EMERGENCY helped enable the region’s notable Once again, I thank my colleagues MANAGEMENT SERVICES for this wonderful bipartisan effort to progress and evolution over the last honor those who truly deserve to be five decades. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under honored by this House. To President Mark Rosenberg, my the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- With that, Mr. Speaker, I yield back good friend, and the whole Florida uary 6, 2015, the gentleman from Geor- the balance of my time. International University family, I say gia (Mr. LOUDERMILK) is recognized for The SPEAKER pro tempore. The happy anniversary, and thank you for 60 minutes as the designee of the ma- question is on the motion offered by decades of outstanding contributions jority leader. the gentleman from Florida (Mr. to south Florida. I look forward to the GENERAL LEAVE CURBELO) that the House suspend the next 50 years of amazing accomplish- Mr. LOUDERMILK. Mr. Speaker, I rules and pass the bill, H.R. 1092. ments to come. As a two-time graduate ask unanimous consent that all Mem- The question was taken; and (two- of FIU, I say, Go Golden Panthers. bers may have 5 legislative days in thirds being in the affirmative) the Mr. Speaker, I am so proud to stand here which to revise and extend their re- rules were suspended and the bill, as today on the Floor of the U.S. House of Rep- marks and insert extraneous material amended, was passed. resentatives to recognize the upcoming 50th on the topic of my Special Order.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:43 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24MR7.071 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H1898 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 24, 2015 The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there ADJOURNMENT case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee objection to the request of the gen- Mr. LOUDERMILK. Mr. Speaker, I tleman from Georgia? concerned. move that the House do now adjourn. By Mr. NUNES (for himself, Mr. There was no objection. The motion was agreed to; accord- SCHIFF, Mr. WESTMORELAND, and Mr. Mr. LOUDERMILK. Mr. Speaker, ingly (at 6 o’clock and 22 minutes HIMES): Georgia’s 11th Congressional District is p.m.), under its previous order, the H.R. 1560. A bill to improve cybersecurity home to some of the Nation’s most in- House adjourned until tomorrow, in the United States through enhanced shar- novative and leading-edge businesses. Wednesday, March 25, 2015, at 10 a.m. ing of information about cybersecurity One such business has been providing threats, and for other purposes; to the Com- f emergency management services to mittee on Intelligence (Permanent Select). PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS By Mr. LUCAS (for himself, Ms. residents in northwest Georgia. BONAMICI, Mr. BRIDENSTINE, Mr. Puckett EMS is a family-owned and Under clause 2 of rule XII, public SMITH of Texas, Ms. EDDIE BERNICE -operated business with a strong rep- bills and resolutions of the following JOHNSON of Texas, Mr. STEWART, and utation for delivering state-of-the-art titles were introduced and severally re- Mr. ROHRABACHER): medical services to the people of Cobb ferred, as follows: H.R. 1561. A bill to improve the National and Dade Counties. Today, I am espe- Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s By Mr. BURGESS (for himself, Mr. weather research through a focused program cially proud that this business has re- UPTON, Mr. LEVIN, Mr. RYAN of Wis- of investment on affordable and attainable cently taken the national stage as one consin, Mr. PALLONE, Mr. PITTS, Mr. advances in observational, computing, and of the leading innovators in emergency GENE GREEN of Texas, Mr. BRADY of modeling capabilities to support substantial health technology. Texas, Mr. MCDERMOTT, Mr. BOU- improvement in weather forecasting and pre- In 2013, Puckett Emergency Manage- STANY, and Mr. SESSIONS): diction of high impact weather events, to ex- ment Services was recognized by the H.R. 2. A bill to amend title XVIII of the pand commercial opportunities for the provi- Social Security Act to repeal the Medicare Cobb County Chamber of Commerce as sion of weather data, and for other purposes; sustainable growth rate and strengthen to the Committee on Science, Space, and the Small Business of the Year for its Medicare access by improving physician pay- Technology. work to support the local community ments and making other improvements, to By Mr. CHAFFETZ (for himself and and to ensure the highest level of care. reauthorize the Children’s Health Insurance Ms. SPEIER): Most recently, Puckett EMS’ soft- Program, and for other purposes; to the H.R. 1562. A bill to prohibit the awarding of ware company, EMS Technology Solu- Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in a contract or grant in excess of the sim- tions, received the Emergency Manage- addition to the Committees on Ways and plified acquisition threshold unless the pro- spective contractor or grantee certifies in ment Services World Magazine’s Top Means, the Judiciary, Agriculture, Natural Resources, and the Budget, for a period to be writing to the agency awarding the contract Innovation award for its controlled subsequently determined by the Speaker, in or grant that the contractor or grantee has substance tracking software, Operative each case for consideration of such provi- no seriously delinquent tax debts, and for IQ. sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the other purposes; to the Committee on Over- This cutting-edge solution uses bio- committee concerned. sight and Government Reform. metric technology to track controlled By Mr. CUMMINGS (for himself and By Mr. CHAFFETZ: H.R. 1563. A bill to amend title 5, United substances from the time the medica- Ms. NORTON): H.R. 1557. A bill to amend the Notification States Code, to provide that individuals hav- tion is administered to the very last ing seriously delinquent tax debts shall be dose. In fact, using this software is a and Federal Employee Antidiscrimination and Retaliation Act of 2002 to strengthen ineligible for Federal employment, and for much more secure way of monitoring Federal antidiscrimination laws enforced by other purposes; to the Committee on Over- prescription drug use and bringing the Equal Employment Opportunity Com- sight and Government Reform, and in addi- medical records in line with today’s mission and expand accountability within tion to the Committee on House Administra- technology. the Federal government, and for other pur- tion, for a period to be subsequently deter- poses; to the Committee on Oversight and mined by the Speaker, in each case for con- What is even more remarkable is Op- sideration of such provisions as fall within Government Reform. erative IQ uses available technology to the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. By Mr. OLSON (for himself, Mr. GENE continually update patient medical By Mr. CHAFFETZ: GREEN of Texas, and Mr. MICHAEL F. records, helping prevent substance H.R. 1564. A bill to require Members of DOYLE of Pennsylvania): abuse. In the emergency management Congress to disclose delinquent tax liability H.R. 1558. A bill to clarify that compliance and to require an ethics inquiry into, and the industry, where seconds could mean with an emergency order under section 202(c) the difference between life and death, garnishment of the wages of, a Member with of the Federal Power Act may not be consid- Federal tax liability; to the Committee on this technical innovation is a lifesaver. ered a violation of any Federal, State, or House Administration, and in addition to the I commend Puckett EMS for their local environmental law or regulation, and Committee on Rules, for a period to be sub- tireless efforts to protect the public for other purposes; to the Committee on En- sequently determined by the Speaker, in safety of our citizens and congratulate ergy and Commerce. each case for consideration of such provi- them on their well-deserved recogni- By Mr. SMITH of New Jersey (for him- sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the self, Ms. MAXINE WATERS of Cali- tion as a top innovator. committee concerned. fornia, Mr. ROSKAM, Mr. FATTAH, Mr. By Mr. CARTWRIGHT (for himself, Mr. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to stand TONKO, Mr. BLUMENAUER, Mr. before this body to recognize the con- BUTTERFIELD, Mr. CAPUANO, Ms. GARAMENDI, Mr. DUNCAN of Ten- CLARK of Massachusetts, Mr. CUM- tributions the management and em- nessee, Mr. BUCHANAN, Mr. MURPHY MINGS, Ms. EDWARDS, Mr. GUTIE´ RREZ, ployees of Puckett EMS have made to of Florida, Mr. HINOJOSA, Mr. DAVID Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia, Ms. KAPTUR, our community and their success in SCOTT of Georgia, Mr. YARMUTH, Ms. Mr. LANGEVIN, Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN improving the safety and access to FRANKEL of Florida, Mr. JOHNSON of GRISHAM of New Mexico, Mr. LYNCH, Georgia, Mr. CAPUANO, Mr. HIGGINS, critical health care. Ms. PINGREE, Mr. YARMUTH, Mr. Mr. LOEBSACK, Ms. PINGREE, Ms. WIL- COHEN, Mr. ELLISON, and Ms. ESHOO): Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance SON of Florida, Ms. SLAUGHTER, Mr. of my time. H.R. 1565. A bill to amend the Truth in KEATING, Mr. SIRES, Mr. JOYCE, Mr. Lending Act to establish a national usury SARBANES, Ms. KUSTER, Mr. GRI- rate for consumer credit transactions; to the f JALVA, Mr. WALZ, Mr. HARPER, Mr. Committee on Financial Services. DEUTCH, Mr. RANGEL, Ms. CLARK of By Mr. POE of Texas (for himself and LEAVE OF ABSENCE Massachusetts, Ms. NORTON, and Mr. Mr. PIERLUISI): BARLETTA): H.R. 1566. A bill to improve security at By unanimous consent, leave of ab- H.R. 1559. A bill to amend title XVIII of the State and local courthouses; to the Com- sence was granted to: Social Security Act to provide for coverage mittee on the Judiciary, and in addition to Mr. PAYNE (at the request of Ms. under the Medicare program of an initial the Committee on Oversight and Govern- PELOSI) for today on account of foot comprehensive care plan for Medicare bene- ment Reform, for a period to be subsequently surgery. ficiaries newly diagnosed with Alzheimer’s determined by the Speaker, in each case for disease and related dementias, and for other consideration of such provisions as fall with- Mr. RUIZ (at the request of Ms. purposes; to the Committee on Energy and in the jurisdiction of the committee con- PELOSI) for March 23, today, March 25 Commerce, and in addition to the Committee cerned. and 26 on account of birth of twin baby on Ways and Means, for a period to be subse- By Mr. SMITH of New Jersey (for him- girls. quently determined by the Speaker, in each self, Ms. MCCOLLUM, Mr. ROYCE, Mr.

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ENGEL, Mr. FORTENBERRY, Ms. BASS, By Mr. CARSON of Indiana: LUJA´ N of New Mexico, and Mr. Mr. CRENSHAW, Ms. DELAURO, Mr. H.R. 1573. A bill to require institutions of MCGOVERN): REICHERT, Mr. SMITH of Washington, higher education to provide students with in- H.R. 1582. A bill to amend the Forest Leg- Mr. PAULSEN, and Mr. CICILLINE): formation from the Occupational Employ- acy Program of the Cooperative Forestry As- H.R. 1567. A bill to authorize a comprehen- ment Statistics program and the Occupa- sistance Act of 1978 to authorize States to sive, strategic approach for United States tional Outlook Handbook of the Bureau of allow certain entities to acquire, hold, and foreign assistance to developing countries to Labor Statistics, and for other purposes; to manage conservation easements under the reduce global poverty and hunger, achieve the Committee on Education and the Work- program; to the Committee on Agriculture. food security and improved nutrition, pro- force. By Mr. HARDY: mote inclusive, sustainable agricultural-led By Mr. CARSON of Indiana: H.R. 1583. A bill to amend the Small Busi- economic growth, improve nutritional out- H.R. 1574. A bill to amend the Higher Edu- ness Act to clarify the requirements related comes, especially for women and children, cation Act of 1965, to add a work-study pro- to small business contracts for services, and build resilience among vulnerable popu- gram for off-campus community service at for other purposes; to the Committee on lations, and for other purposes; to the Com- selected after-school activities, and for other Small Business. mittee on Foreign Affairs. purposes; to the Committee on Education By Mr. LANGEVIN: By Mr. VARGAS (for himself, Mr. ROO- and the Workforce. H.R. 1584. A bill to amend title 18, United NEY of Florida, Mr. CONYERS, and Mr. By Ms. BROWN of Florida: States Code, to provide greater HUNTER): H.R. 1575. A bill to amend title 38, United extraterritorial criminal jurisdiction over H.R. 1568. A bill to establish processes for States Code, to make permanent the pilot certain credit card and other access device certain aliens located in Iraq and certain program on counseling in retreat settings for fraud offenses; to the Committee on the Ju- other countries who are or were nationals or women veterans newly separated from serv- diciary. residents of Iraq or Syria who have been per- ice in the Armed Forces; to the Committee By Mr. LATTA (for himself, Mr. GOOD- secuted or have a credible fear of being per- on Veterans’ Affairs. LATTE, Ms. FOXX, Mrs. BLACK, Mr. secuted by the group commonly known as By Mr. BURGESS (for himself, Mr. MCKINLEY, and Mr. OLSON): the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, or BUTTERFIELD, Mr. ASHFORD, and Mr. H.R. 1585. A bill to eliminate automatic by a similar group, to apply and interview BILIRAKIS): pay adjustments for Members of Congress, for admission to the United States as refu- H.R. 1576. A bill to require a study by the and for other purposes; to the Committee on gees, and for other purposes; to the Com- Government Accountability Office (GAO) to House Administration, and in addition to the mittee on the Judiciary, and in addition to assess the Food and Drug Administration’s Committee on Oversight and Government the Committee on Foreign Affairs, for a pe- current regulatory pathway for reviewing ge- Reform, for a period to be subsequently de- riod to be subsequently determined by the neric versions of nonbiologic complex drug termined by the Speaker, in each case for Speaker, in each case for consideration of products, and for other purposes; to the Com- consideration of such provisions as fall with- such provisions as fall within the jurisdic- mittee on Energy and Commerce. in the jurisdiction of the committee con- tion of the committee concerned. By Mr. CHAFFETZ: cerned. By Mr. ZELDIN: H.R. 1577. A bill to require additional enti- By Ms. LEE: H.R. 1569. A bill to amend title 38, United ties to be subject to the requirements of sec- H.R. 1586. A bill to modernize laws, and States Code, to clarify that the estate of a tion 552 of title 5, United States Code (com- eliminate discrimination, with respect to deceased veteran may receive certain ac- people living with HIV/AIDS, and for other crued benefits upon the death of the veteran, monly referred to as the Freedom of Infor- mation Act), and for other purposes; to the purposes; to the Committee on the Judici- and for other purposes; to the Committee on ary, and in addition to the Committees on Veterans’ Affairs. Committee on Financial Services. By Mr. DELANEY (for himself, Mr. Energy and Commerce, and Armed Services, By Mr. BILIRAKIS (for himself, Mr. for a period to be subsequently determined COLE, Mr. WESTERMAN, Mr. BRAT, Mr. PIERLUISI, Mr. SABLAN, Ms. by the Speaker, in each case for consider- RIBBLE, Mr. CARNEY, and Mr. PLASKETT, Ms. BORDALLO, and Mrs. ation of such provisions as fall within the ju- PETERS): RADEWAGEN): H.R. 1578. A bill to establish the Commis- risdiction of the committee concerned. H.R. 1570. A bill to provide for greater By Ms. LOFGREN (for herself, Mr. transparency and information with respect sion on Long Term Social Security Solvency, and for other purposes; to the Committee on MASSIE, Mr. POLIS, and Ms. ESHOO): to Federal expenditures under the Medicaid H.R. 1587. A bill to amend section 1201 of Ways and Means, and in addition to the Com- and CHIP programs in the territories of the title 17, United States Code, to require the mittee on Rules, for a period to be subse- United States, and for other purposes; to the infringement of a copyright for a violation of quently determined by the Speaker, in each Committee on Energy and Commerce. such section, and for other purposes; to the case for consideration of such provisions as By Mr. COURTNEY (for himself, Ms. Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition fall within the jurisdiction of the committee PINGREE, Ms. TSONGAS, Mr. TAKANO, to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a concerned. Ms. MENG, Mr. DEFAZIO, Ms. period to be subsequently determined by the MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New By Mr. ENGEL (for himself, Mr. Speaker, in each case for consideration of Mexico, Mr. LARSON of Connecticut, MEEKS, Ms. WILSON of Florida, Mr. such provisions as fall within the jurisdic- Mr. DOGGETT, Mr. PASCRELL, Ms. HASTINGS, Ms. LEE, Ms. CLARKE of tion of the committee concerned. New York, Ms. FRANKEL of Florida, FRANKEL of Florida, Ms. DELAURO, By Ms. MCSALLY (for herself, Mr. Mr. SIRES, and Mr. DEUTCH): Mr. KEATING, Ms. CLARK of Massachu- GOSAR, Mr. FRANKS of Arizona, Mr. H.R. 1579. A bill to establish United States setts, Mr. BLUMENAUER, Mr. WITT- SCHWEIKERT, Mr. SALMON, Ms. embassies with consular services in the five MAN, Mr. HANNA, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, SINEMA, and Mr. PEARCE): Mr. GIBSON, Mr. SCHRADER, Ms. countries in the Caribbean with which the H.R. 1588. A bill to prohibit the intentional DELBENE, and Mr. HIGGINS): United States has diplomatic relations but hindering of immigration, border, and cus- H.R. 1571. A bill to amend title XVIII of the no permanent diplomatic presence: Antigua toms controls, and for other purposes; to the Social Security Act to count a period of re- and Barbuda, Dominica, St. Kitts and Nevis, Committee on the Judiciary. ceipt of outpatient observation services in a St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grena- By Mrs. NOEM: hospital toward satisfying the 3-day inpa- dines; to the Committee on Foreign Affairs. H.R. 1589. A bill to prohibit the use of funds tient hospital stay requirement for coverage By Mr. FARENTHOLD: by the Secretary of the Interior to make a of skilled nursing facility services under H.R. 1580. A bill to extend the final plant- final determination on the listing of the Medicare, and for other purposes; to the ing date for grain sorghum under Federal northern long-eared bat under the Endan- Committee on Ways and Means, and in addi- crop insurance policies because of extreme gered Species Act of 1973; to the Committee tion to the Committee on Energy and Com- weather conditions that have adversely af- on Natural Resources. merce, for a period to be subsequently deter- fected field conditions for planting, and for By Mr. ROE of Tennessee: mined by the Speaker, in each case for con- other purposes; to the Committee on Agri- H.R. 1590. A bill to establish a prize pro- sideration of such provisions as fall within culture. gram to award a prize and contract for the the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. By Mr. GALLEGO (for himself and Mr. development of a fully-integrated electronic By Mr. LAMBORN (for himself and Mr. ZINKE): health records program for use by the De- DESANTIS): H.R. 1581. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- partment of Defense and the Department of H.R. 1572. A bill to require certifications by enue Code of 1986 to exclude from gross in- Veterans Affairs; to the Committee on prospective contractors with the United come the discharge of certain student loans Armed Services, and in addition to the Com- States Government that they are not boy- of deceased or disabled veterans; to the Com- mittee on Veterans’ Affairs, for a period to cotting persons, and for other purposes; to mittee on Ways and Means. be subsequently determined by the Speaker, the Committee on Oversight and Govern- By Mr. GIBSON (for himself, Mr. in each case for consideration of such provi- ment Reform, and in addition to the Com- GARAMENDI, Mr. SEAN PATRICK MALO- sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the mittee on Foreign Affairs, for a period to be NEY of New York, Mr. HUFFMAN, Ms. committee concerned. subsequently determined by the Speaker, in KUSTER, Mr. SCHRADER, Mr. TONKO, By Mr. ROSS (for himself and Mr. each case for consideration of such provi- Mr. LOEBSACK, Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD, JOLLY): sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the Mr. LOWENTHAL, Mrs. LUMMIS, Mr. H.R. 1591. A bill to require zero-based budg- committee concerned. COSTA, Mr. FITZPATRICK, Mr. BEN RAY eting for departments and agencies of the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:43 Mar 25, 2015 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00049 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\L24MR7.100 H24MRPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H1900 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 24, 2015 Government; to the Committee on the Budg- fordable Care Act that includes the amend- The intelligence and intelligence-related et. ments made to the Black Lung Benefits Act; activities of the United States government By Mr. RYAN of Ohio: to the Committee on Education and the support the national security interests of the H.R. 1592. A bill to amend title 18, United Workforce. United States, support and assist the armed States Code, to require that the Director of By Ms. LINDA T. SA´ NCHEZ of Cali- forces of the United States, and support the the Bureau of Prisons ensure that each chief fornia (for herself and Mr. COOK): President in the execution of the foreign pol- executive officer of a Federal penal or cor- H. Res. 168. A resolution expressing support icy of the United States. Article I, section 8 rectional institution provides a secure stor- for designation of a ‘‘Welcome Home Viet- gives Congress the power ‘‘to . . . provide for age area located outside of the secure perim- nam Veterans Day’’; to the Committee on the common defense and general welfare of eter of the Federal penal or correctional in- Veterans’ Affairs. the United States.’’ The Necessary and Prop- stitution for firearms carried by certain em- By Mr. TAKAI (for himself and Ms. er Clause of that section also grants Con- ployees of the Bureau of Prisons, and for GABBARD): gress the power ‘‘[t]o make all laws which other purposes; to the Committee on the Ju- H. Res. 169. A resolution acknowledging shall be necessary and proper for carrying diciary. and honoring brave young men from Hawaii into Execution the foregoing Powers and all By Mr. SENSENBRENNER (for him- who enabled the United States to establish other Powers vested in this Constitution in self, Mr. LARSEN of Washington, Mr. and maintain jurisdiction in remote equa- the Government of the United States, or in YOUNG of Alaska, and Mr. SALMON): torial islands as prolonged conflict in the Pa- any Department or Officer thereof.’’ H.R. 1593. A bill to amend the State De- cific lead to World War II; to the Committee By Mr. LUCAS: partment Basic Authorities Act of 1956 to es- on Natural Resources. H.R. 1561. tablish a United States Ambassador at Large By Mr. TIBERI (for himself, Mrs. Congress has the power to enact this legis- for Arctic Affairs, and for other purposes; to BEATTY, Mr. CHABOT, Ms. KAPTUR, lation pursuant to the following: the Committee on Foreign Affairs. Mr. JOYCE, and Mr. RYAN of Ohio): Article I, Section 8, Clause 3: By Mr. WILSON of South Carolina (for H. Res. 170. A resolution recognizing the The Congress shall have power to regulate himself, Mr. AMODEI, Mr. BARLETTA, National Association of Letter Carriers’ One commerce with foreign nations, and among Mr. BEYER, Mr. BISHOP of Georgia, Day Food Drive; to the Committee on Agri- the several states, and with Indian tribes. Ms. BORDALLO, Ms. BROWNLEY of Cali- culture. and Article I, Section 8, Clause 18: fornia, Mr. BURGESS, Mrs. BUSTOS, f Mr. CARTER of Texas, Mr. CART- The Congress shall have power to make all WRIGHT, Mr. COFFMAN, Mr. COLE, Mr. PRIVATE BILLS AND Laws which shall be necessary and proper for CONNOLLY, Mr. CRAMER, Ms. RESOLUTIONS carrying into Execution the foregoing Pow- ers, and all other Powers vested by this Con- DELBENE, Mr. DESJARLAIS, Mr. Under clause 3 of rule XII, DEUTCH, Mr. ELLISON, Ms. ESTY, Mr. stitution in the Government of the United FARENTHOLD, Mr. FARR, Mr. FORBES, Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of California States, or in any Department of Officer Ms. GABBARD, Mr. GIBSON, Ms. introduced a bill (H.R. 1596) to au- thereof. GRANGER, Mr. GRIFFITH, Mr. GRI- thorize the President to award the By Mr. CHAFFETZ: JALVA, Mr. HANNA, Mr. HURT of Vir- Medal of Honor to Special Forces H.R. 1562. ginia, Mr. ISRAEL, Mr. JOLLY, Mr. Command Sergeant Major Ramon Congress has the power to enact this legis- KING of New York, Mr. LOEBSACK, Ms. Rodriguez of the United States Army lation pursuant to the following: LOFGREN, Mrs. LOWEY, Mr. LUETKE- for acts of valor during the Vietnam Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 of the United MEYER, Mr. SEAN PATRICK MALONEY War; which was referred to the Com- States Constitution of New York, Mr. PEARCE, Mr. mittee on Armed Services. By Mr. CHAFFETZ: H.R. 1563. PETERS, Mr. PIERLUISI, Ms. PINGREE, f Congress has the power to enact this legis- Mr. POLIS, Mr. RIGELL, Mr. ROSS, Mr. lation pursuant to the following: RUSH, Mr. RYAN of Ohio, Mr. SALMON, CONSTITUTIONAL AUTHORITY Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 of the United Mr. SCHOCK, Mr. AUSTIN SCOTT of STATEMENT States Constitution Georgia, Mr. SCOTT of Virginia, Mr. Pursuant to clause 7 of rule XII of By Mr. CHAFFETZ: SMITH of New Jersey, Mr. TAKANO, the Rules of the House of Representa- H.R. 1564. Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania, Ms. tives, the following statements are sub- Congress has the power to enact this legis- TSONGAS, Mr. VAN HOLLEN, Mrs. WAG- mitted regarding the specific powers lation pursuant to the following: NER, Mr. WITTMAN, and Mr. YAR- granted to Congress in the Constitu- Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 and Article 1, MUTH): Section 8, Clause 18 of the United States H.R. 1594. A bill to amend title 10, United tion to enact the accompanying bill or Constitution States Code, to repeal the requirement for joint resolution. By Mr. CARTWRIGHT: reduction of survivor annuities under the By Mr. BURGESS: H.R. 1565. Survivor Benefit Plan for military surviving H.R. 2. Congress has the power to enact this legis- spouses to offset the receipt of veterans de- Congress has the power to enact this legis- lation pursuant to the following: pendency and indemnity compensation; to lation pursuant to the following: Article I; Section 8; Clause 3 of the Con- the Committee on Armed Services. Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 of the United stitution states The Congress shall have By Mr. YOHO (for himself and Ms. States Constitution. Power To regulate Commerce with foreign FRANKEL of Florida): By Mr. CUMMINGS: Nations, and among the several States, and H.R. 1595. A bill to require the Secretary of H.R. 1557. with the Indian Tribes. the Treasury to implement security meas- Congress has the power to enact this legis- By Mr. POE of Texas: ures in the electronic tax return filing proc- lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 1566. ess to prevent tax refund fraud from being Article 1, Section 8: The Congress shall Congress has the power to enact this legis- perpetrated with electronic identity theft; to have Power To . . provide for the common lation pursuant to the following: the Committee on Ways and Means. Defence and general Welfare of the United Article 1, Section 8, Clause 3 By Ms. FOXX: States By Mr. SMITH of New Jersey: H. Res. 165. A resolution electing Members By Mr. OLSON: H.R. 1567. to certain standing committees of the House H.R. 1558. Congress has the power to enact this legis- of Representatives; considered and agreed to. Congress has the power to enact this legis- lation pursuant to the following: considered and agreed to. lation pursuant to the following: Article I, section 8 of the Constitution. By Mr. ASHFORD: Article 1, Section 8, Clause 18—The Con- By Mr. VARGAS: H. Res. 166. A resolution amending the gress shall have power to . . . make all laws H.R. 1568. Rules of the House of Representatives to pre- which shall be necessary and proper for car- Congress has the power to enact this legis- clude the Committee on Rules from report- rying into Execution the foregoing Powers, lation pursuant to the following: ing a rule or order that would provide for the and all other Powers vested by this Constitu- (1) To establish a uniform Rule of Natu- consideration of a bill or joint resolution tion in the Government of the United States, ralization, as enumerated in Article I, Sec- with less than 10 hours of debate; to the or in any Department or Officer Thereof. tion 8, Clause 4 of the U.S. Constitution. Committee on Rules. By Mr. SMITH of New Jersey: By Mr. ZELDIN: By Mr. JENKINS of West Virginia (for H.R. 1559. H.R. 1569. himself, Mr. MCKINLEY, Mr. MOONEY Congress has the power to enact this legis- Congress has the power to enact this legis- of West Virginia, Mr. GRIFFITH, and lation pursuant to the following: lation pursuant to the following: Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky): Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 of the Con- Article 1, Section 8 of the United States H. Res. 167. A resolution expressing the stitution. Constitution. sense of the House of Representatives that By Mr. NUNES: By Mr. BILIRAKIS: the committees of jurisdiction in the House H.R. 1560. H.R. 1570. of Representatives should craft replacement Congress has the power to enact this legis- Congress has the power to enact this legis- language for the Patient Protection and Af- lation pursuant to the following: lation pursuant to the following:

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The Congress States; all but duties, imposts, and excises Article 1 Section 8 shall have Power to lay and collect Taxes, shall be uniform throughout the United The Congress shall have the power to pro- Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the States. vide for the common defense. Debts and provide for the common Defence By Mr. GIBSON: By Mr. YOHO: and general Welfare of the United States; but H.R. 1582. H.R. 1595. all Duties, Imposts and Excises shall be uni- Congress has the power to enact this legis- Congress has the power to enact this legis- form throughout the United States. lation pursuant to the following: lation pursuant to the following: By Mr. LAMBORN: Clause 1, of Section 8, of Article I. Clause 1, Section 8 of Article 1 of the H.R. 1572. By Mr. HARDY: United States Constitution which reads: Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 1583. ‘‘The Congress shall have Power to lay and lation pursuant to the following: Congress has the power to enact this legis- collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts, and Excises, Section 8 of article 1 of the Constitution lation pursuant to the following: to pay the Debts, and provide for the com- By Mr. CARSON of Indiana: The Congress enacts this bill pursuant to mon Defense and General Welfare of the H.R. 1573. Clause 1 of Section 8 of Article 1 of the United States; but all Duties and Imposts Congress has the power to enact this legis- United States Constitution, which provides and Excises shall be uniform throughout the lation pursuant to the following: Congress with the ability to enact legisla- United States.’’ Congress has the power to enact this legis- tion necessary and proper to effectuate its By Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of Cali- lation pursuant to Clause 1 of section 8 of purposes in taxing and spending. fornia: Article I of the Constitution. By Mr. LANGEVIN: H.R. 1596. By Mr. CARSON of Indiana: H.R. 1584. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 1574. Congress has the power to enact this legis- lation pursuant to the following: Congress has the power to enact this legis- lation pursuant to the following: Article I, Section 8, Clauses 13 and 14 clause 3 of section 8 of article I of the Con- lation pursuant to the following: The Congress shall have the Power To pro- stitution. Congress has the power to enact this legis- vide and maintain a Navy; and to make By Mr. LATTA: lation pursuant to Clause 1 of section 8 of Rules for the Government and Regulation of H.R. 1585. Article I of the Constitution. the land and naval Forces. By Ms. BROWN of Florida: Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 1575. lation pursuant to the following: f Congress has the power to enact this legis- Article 1, Section 6 lation pursuant to the following: The Senators and Representatives shall re- ADDITIONAL SPONSORS ARTICLE I SECTION 8 ceive a Compensation for their Services, to Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors By Mr. BURGESS: be ascertained by Law, and paid out of the were added to public bills and resolu- Treasury of the United States. H.R. 1576. tions, as follows: Congress has the power to enact this legis- By Ms. LEE: lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 1586. H.R. 21: Mr. SALMON. Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 of the United Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 38: Mr. BILIRAKIS. States Constitution, which grants Congress lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 131: Ms. STEFANIK. the power to lay and collect taxes, duties, This bill is enacted pursuant to the power H.R. 140: Mr. SMITH of Texas. imposts and excises, to pay the debts and granted to Congress under Article 1 of the H.R. 213: Mr. FARENTHOLD. provide for the common defense and general United States Constitution and its subse- H.R. 232: Mr. PETERS, Mr. WALBERG, Mr. welfare of the United States. quent amendments and further clarified and MICHAEL F. DOYLE of Pennsylvania, and Mr. Article 1, Section 8, Clause 3, of the United intrepreted by the Supreme Court of the TIPTON. States Constitution, which grants Congress United States H.R. 244: Mr. CRAWFORD. the power to regulate commerce with foreign By Ms. LOFGREN: H.R. 267: Ms. JACKSON LEE and Mr. RANGEL. nations, and among the several states, and H.R. 1587. H.R. 292: Ms. CASTOR of Florida, Ms. ROY- with the Indian tribes. Congress has the power to enact this legis- BAL-ALLARD, Mr. TONKO, Mr. LOEBSACK, and By Mr. CHAFFETZ: lation pursuant to the following: Mr. RIBBLE. HA. 1577. Article 1, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitu- H.R. 310: Mr. LUCAS. Congress has the power to enact this legis- tion. H.R. 359: Mr. BARLETTA, Mr. GUINTA, Mr. lation pursuant to the following: By Ms. MCSALLY: JONES, and Ms. GABBARD. Article I, Section 8 H.R. 1588. H.R. 420: Mr. GROTHMAN. Congress has the power to enact this legis- The Congress shall have Power To lay and H.R. 472: Mr. RYAN of Ohio and Mr. RUS- lation pursuant to the following: collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, SELL. Article 1, Section 8, Clauses 3 and 18 of the to pay the Debts and provide for the common H.R. 524: Mr. HUIZENGA of Michigan. United States Constitution. Defense and general Welfare of the United H.R. 543: Mr. HUDSON. By Mrs. NOEM: States; . . . H.R. 546: Mr. SALMON and Mr. LOEBSACK. H.R. 1589. H.R. 547: Mr. MEADOWS. To make all Laws which shall be necessary Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 556: Mr. HINOJOSA and Mr. ABRAHAM. and proper for carrying into Execution the lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 579: Mr. PETERS. foregoing Powers, and all other Powers vest- Article I, Section 8, Clause 3 of the U.S. H.R. 588: Mr. BUCHANAN, Mr. DIAZ-BALART, ed by this Constitution in the Government of Constitution. and Mr. NUGENT. the United Staes, or in any Department or By Mr. ROE of Tennessee: H.R. 595: Mr. HANNA, Mr. YOHO, and Mr. Officer thereof H.R. 1590. By Mr. DELANEY: Congress has the power to enact this legis- UPTON. H.R. 1578. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 601: Mr. POSEY. Congress has the power to enact this legis- The Constitutional Authority for this bill H.R. 625: Mr. WHITFIELD. lation pursuant to the following: derives from Article I, Section 8 of the Con- H.R. 628: Mr. HUIZENGA of Michigan and Article I, Section 8 stitution of the United States. Mr. CARSON of Indiana. By Mr. ENGEL: By Mr. ROSS: H.R. 631: Mr. FRANKS of Arizona and Mr. H.R. 1579. H.R. 1591. LUCAS. Congress has the power to enact this legis- Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 650: Mr. ROSS, Mr. STIVERS, and Mr. lation pursuant to the following: lation pursuant to the following: POSEY. Article I, section 8 of the U.S. Constitution Article I, Section 8, Clause 18 H.R. 653: Mr. STUTZMAN, Mr. RANGEL, Mrs. By Mr. FARENTHOLD: By Mr. RYAN of Ohio: LAWRENCE, Ms. KUSTER, Mr. WELCH, Mr. Hit. 1580. H.R. 1592. ASHFORD, Mr. HONDA, Mr. FOSTER, Mr. Congress has the power to enact this legis- Congress has the power to enact this legis- BISHOP of Michigan, Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia, lation pursuant to the following: lation pursuant to the following: Mr. HENSARLING, Mr. PIERLUISI, and Mr. The ability to regulate interstate com- ‘‘The Congress enacts this bill pursuant to EMMER of Minnesota. merce pursuant to Article I, Section 8, Clause 18 of Section 8 of Article I of the H.R. 658: Mr. RANGEL. Clause 3. United States Constitution.’’ H.R. 667: Mr. TED LIEU of California, Mr. By Mr. GALLEGO: By Mr. SENSENBRENNER: HECK of Nevada, and Ms. LOFGREN. H.R. 1581. H.R. 1593. H.R. 674: Miss RICE of New York. Congress has the power to enact this legis- Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 685: Mr. BROOKS of Alabama, Mr. CAR- lation pursuant to the following: lation pursuant to the following: TER of Georgia, and Mr. CLEAVER.

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H.R. 709: Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. H.R. 1195: Mr. FITZPATRICK, Mr. HUIZENGA H. Con. Res. 24: Mr. HARRIS and Ms. KAP- H.R. 712: Mrs. HARTZLER. of Michigan, Mr. KING of New York, and Mr. TUR. H.R. 721: Ms. KELLY of Illinois, Mr. BEYER, ROUZER. H. Res. 11: Mr. JORDAN. Mr. LUCAS, and Mr. KIND. H.R. 1210: Mr. POE of Texas and Mr. GUTH- H. Res. 12: Mr. KATKO, Ms. MAXINE WATERS H.R. 746: Mr. MACARTHUR, Ms. JUDY CHU of RIE. of California, and Mr. NEAL. California, and Mr. LOBIONDO. H.R. 1214: Mr. POLIS. H. Res. 15: Mr. POLIQUIN. H.R. 767: Mr. TIPTON and Mr. SCHWEIKERT. H.R. 1215: Mr. GUINTA. H. Res. 54: Mrs. BEATTY and Mr. JOHNSON of H.R. 784: Mrs. LOWEY. H.R. 1259: Mr. NEUGEBAUER. Ohio. H.R. 815: Mrs. ELLMERS of North Carolina H.R. 1267: Mr. LUETKEMEYER and Mrs. H. Res. 139: Mr. GROTHMAN. and Mr. HUDSON. BUSTOS. H. Res. 161: Mr. HIGGINS. H.R. 818: Mrs. BUSTOS. H.R. 1269: Mr. SENSENBRENNER and Mr. H.R. 831: Mr. LOEBSACK. NUGENT. f H.R. 855: Mr. SMITH of Missouri, Mr. PRICE H.R. 1283: Mr. CONYERS and Ms. BASS. of North Carolina, and Mr. PASCRELL. H.R. 1299: Mr. MILLER of Florida. H.R. 868: Mr. POLIQUIN. H.R. 1300: Mr. CRENSHAW and Mr. SIMPSON. CONGRESSIONAL EARMARKS, LIM- H.R. 885: Ms. CLARK of Massachusetts, Mr. H.R. 1301: Mr. BENISHEK, Mr. ENGEL, and ITED TAX BENEFITS, OR LIM- HUFFMAN, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, and Mr. ENGEL. Mr. JOYCE. ITED TARIFF BENEFITS H.R. 908: Ms. LOFGREN, Mrs. DAVIS of Cali- H.R. 1306: Mr. LOEBSACK. fornia, Ms. BROWNLEY of California, Mr. H.R. 1309: Mr. POSEY and Mr. SESSIONS. Under clause 9 of rule XXI, lists or COSTA, Mr. VARGAS, Mr. BERA, Mr. AGUILAR, H.R. 1339: Mr. LOEBSACK. statements on congressional earmarks, Mrs. CAPPS, Mrs. TORRES, Ms. ROYBAL- H.R. 1343: Mr. RYAN of Ohio, Mr. HASTINGS, limited tax benefits, or limited tariff ALLARD, Mr. SHERMAN, Ms. SPEIER, Ms. Judy Ms. SEWELL of Alabama, and Mr. HIGGINS. benefits were submitted as follows: Chu of California, Mr. BECERRA, Mr. SCHIFF, H.R. 1358: Ms. SPEIER. OFFERED BY MR. CONAWAY and Mr. PETERS. H.R. 1369: Mr. HUELSKAMP and Mr. LATTA. H.R. 911: Mr. PETERS and Ms. SPEIER. H.R. 1386: Mr. GIBSON. The provisions that warranted a referral to H.R. 912: Mr. CARTWRIGHT. H.R. 1389: Mr. ZINKE and Mr. STIVERS. the Committee on Agriculture in H.R. 2 do H.R. 920: Mr. BUCSHON. H.R. 1399: Mr. ZINKE. not contain any congressional earmarks, H.R. 921: Mr. LOEBSACK. H.R. 1413: Mr. DUNCAN of South Carolina, limited tax benefits, or limited tariff bene- H.R. 944: Mr. MACARTHUR. Mr. FORBES, Mr. HURT of Virginia, and Mr. fits as defined in clause 9 of rule XXI of the H.R. 973: Mr. RANGEL. EMMER of Minnesota. Rules of the House of Representatives. H.R. 977: Mr. FORTENBERRY and Mr. H.R. 1427: Ms. BROWN of Florida and Ms. OFFERED BY MR. GOODLATTE KINZINGER of Illinois. BROWNLEY of California. The provisions that warranted a referral to H.R. 978: Mr. ROTHFUS. H.R. 1434: Mr. HECK of Washington and the Committee on Judiciary in H.R. 2 do not H.R. 985: Mr. MEEHAN, Mr. HANNA, Mr. Miss RICE of New York. contain any congressional earmarks, limited LIPINSKI, and Mrs. HARTZLER. H.R. 1441: Mr. FOSTER. tax benefits, or limited tariff benefits as de- H.R. 990: Miss Rice of New York. H.R. 1453: Mr. HECK of Nevada, Mr. fined in clause 9 of rule XXI. H.R. 1057: Mr. ROSS. FARENTHOLD, and Mr. LOEBSACK. OFFERED BY MR. PRICE OF GEORGIA H.R. 1058: Mr. GROTHMAN and Mr. WEBSTER H.R. 1463: Mr. ELLISON. of Florida. H.R. 1470: Mr. BUCSHON and Mr. ABRAHAMT. The provisions that warranted a referral to H.R. 1059: Mr. GROTHMAN. H.R. 1479: Mr. KELLY of Pennsylvania, Mr. the Committee on the Budget in H.R. 2, the H.R. 1062: Mr. LANCE and Mr. POE of Texas. MCKINLEY, Mr. GRAVES of Missouri, Mr. ROE Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization H.R. 1086: Mr. SMITH of Nebraska and Mr. of Tennessee, Mr. JONES, Mr. WOMACK, and Act of 2015, do not contain any congressional SCHRADER. Mr. BYRNE. earmarks, limited tax benefits, or limited H.R. 1091: Mr. SENSENBRENNER and Mr. H.R. 1480: Mr. HUIZENGA of Michigan and tariff benefits as defined in clause 9 of rule WEBSTER of Florida. Mr. SESSIONS. XXI. H.R. 1104: Mr. GROTHMAN. H.R. 1482: Mrs. CAPPS, Mr. SARBANES, and OFFERED BY MR. RYAN OF WISCONSIN H.R. 1105: Mr. SCHWEIKERT, Mr. GOODLATTE, Mr. COHEN. The provisions that warranted a referral to Mr. HUDSON, Mr. BARLETTA, Mr. POLIQUIN, H.R. 1485: Mrs. LUMMIS. the Committee on the Ways and Means in Mr. HUIZENGA of Michigan, Mr. FRELING- H.R. 1486: Mr. GUINTA and Mr. TIPTON. H.R. 2, ‘‘Medicare Access and CHIP Reau- HUYSEN, Mr. MCCLINTOCK, Mr. HUELSKAMP, H.R. 1498: Mr. ROONEY of Florida and Mr. thorization Act of 2015,’’ do not contain any Mr. EMMER of Minnesota, Mr. WEBSTER of KINZINGER of Illinois. congressional earmarks, limited tax bene- Florida, Mr. BISHOP of Utah, Mr. SMITH of OHEN H.R. 1502: Mr. C . fits, or limited tariff benefits as defined in New Jersey, Mr. NUGENT, and Mr. ALLEN. H.R. 1527: Ms. MENG, Mr. RANGEL, Mr. clause 9 of rule XXI of the Rules of the U.S. H.R. 1135: Mr. KATKO. SWALWELL of California, and Mr. MEEKS. House of Representatives. H.R. 1137: Mr. BRIDENSTINE. H.R. 1528: Ms. LOFGREN and Mr. BARR. H.R. 1142: Mr. SMITH of Missouri, Mr. H.R. 1547: Mr. DUNCAN of Tennessee and Mr. OFFERED BY MR. UPTON VARGAS, Mrs. HARTZLER, and Mr. GIBBS. ROTHFUS. The provisions that warranted a referral to H.R. 1153: Mr. DUNCAN of South Carolina, H.R. 1550: Mr. MURPHY of Florida. the Committee on Energy and Commerce in Mr. GRAVES of Georgia, and Mr. DUNCAN of H. Con. Res. 17: Mr. PIERLUISI. H.R. 2 do not contain any congressional ear- Tennessee. H. Con. Res. 23: Mr. TURNER, Mr. LATTA, marks, limited tax benefits, or limited tariff H.R. 1154: Mr. YOUNG of Indiana. Mrs. CAPPS, and Mr. RUIZ. benefits as defined in clause 9 of rule XXI.

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