E PL UR UM IB N U U S Congressional Record th of America PROCEEDINGS AND DEBATES OF THE 116 CONGRESS, SECOND SESSION

Vol. 166 WASHINGTON, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2020 No. 213 House of Representatives The House met at noon and was For months, forward; but based on what has been called to order by the Speaker pro tem- has avoided numerous opportunities to done to date, you would probably pore (Ms. MCCOLLUM). keep North Carolina open for business. squander that opportunity, too. f He imposed phases of reopening that Leadership is not a foreign concept. only caused more businesses to go So why not lead the right way and put DESIGNATION OF SPEAKER PRO under while he claimed it was the best aside your desire to see North Carolina TEMPORE option. closed for business? The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- Now he believes a 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. North Carolina is an economic power- fore the House the following commu- curfew will somehow eliminate COVID– house because of its hardworking citi- nication from the Speaker: 19 altogether. What this curfew will do zens who show up to work and get the job done. It is high time it is treated WASHINGTON, DC, in the end is remind North Carolinians December 16, 2020. that their Governor has no idea what that way. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- I hereby appoint the Honorable BETTY he is doing. MCCOLLUM to act as Speaker pro tempore on COVID–19 is not a creature that bers are reminded to address their re- this day. roams the streets in the dead of night marks to the Chair and not to a per- , and retreats to its burrow once day- ceived viewing audience. Speaker of the House of Representatives. break hits. This is a virus. Necessary f f safety precautions can be taken to pro- HONORING THE LIVES OF MORNING-HOUR DEBATE tect yourself, your loved ones, and GUADALUPE AND MARIA LOPEZ those around you. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- But when ill-conceived directives Chair recognizes the gentleman from ant to the order of the House of Janu- from Governor Cooper come into play, ary 7, 2020, the Chair will now recog- Illinois (Mr. GARCI´A) for 5 minutes. North Carolinians begin to question Mr. GARCI´A of Illinois. Madam nize Members from lists submitted by where the ambition ends and where the majority and minority leaders for Speaker, today, I rise to honor Guada- leadership begins. lupe and Maria Lopez, who were taken morning-hour debate. The American people hear time and The Chair will alternate recognition from us by COVID–19 in Chicago only a time again that we must follow the few weeks ago. between the parties, with time equally science, but when we question the Like thousands during this pan- allocated between the parties and each science that is used to justify demic, their children—Erica, Richie, Member other than the majority and lockdowns, we seldom receive true and Andy—weren’t even able to say a minority leaders and the minority clarity. proper good-bye. whip limited to 5 minutes, but in no We can all agree that the imperative Guadalupe and Maria were loving event shall debate continue beyond 1:50 here is to protect people from the parents, grandparents, and active p.m. scourge of the virus. That is abun- members of the community who raised f dantly clear. However, that imperative their family in Archer Heights in Chi- becomes horribly diluted when State cago. REJECTING LIBERAL LOCKDOWNS and local economies suffer, people lose Lupe, as most people knew him, was The SPEAKER pro tempore. The their jobs, and ends can’t be met be- a beloved 911 dispatcher for 33 years. Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from cause of lockdowns. That is the sad re- Chicago police officers described him North Carolina (Ms. FOXX) for 5 min- ality of what lockdowns can do. as a ‘‘voice of security and reassur- utes. I have a message for Governor Coo- ance’’ who guided them on the radio Ms. FOXX of North Carolina. Madam per: Your abject failures during this through some of the most dangerous Speaker, liberal Governors across the pandemic have hurt the livelihoods of situations. Colleagues remember him country have shown they know nothing people who are proud to call North as always ready to help jump-start a about good governance. Carolina home. The last thing North car or change a tire, even after a long, Many times I have heard impassioned Carolinians need is a bureaucrat sit- stressful shift. speeches from my Republican col- ting in the Governor’s mansion who Maria owned an income tax service in leagues on how liberal Governors run- hands down blanketed mandates. my neighborhood of Little Village. She ning their States have gone off the Hopefully, Governors across the served the community and, particu- deep end. Today, I am here to share country, including yourself, will look larly, immigrants with kindness and North Carolina’s story. to common sense as a guide moving dedication.

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.

H7161

.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.000 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7162 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 Lupe and Maria’s marriage was a lifesaving potential, and I plan to take All told, this will create billions of love story, and their children and the vaccine as soon as I am eligible. dollars of economic revitalization, grandchildren were the center of their As part of , our which will result in greater transpor- universe. They are reunited in Heaven. Nation is equipped to facilitate this tation options, better quality of life, My wife, Evelyn, and I are keeping vaccine distribution more efficiently and renewed civic engagement. I en- the Lopez family in our prayers. than any other country in the world. courage my colleagues to support this f At the same time, we know that it will project. take time before everyone can receive I include in the RECORD an appropria- BRIGHTER DAYS AHEAD it. tions request in honor of . The SPEAKER pro tempore. The As we wait, this is not the time to CONGRESSMAN KWANZA HALL, Chair recognizes the gentleman from grow complacent. COVID–19 cases are 5th District, , December 14, 2020. Pennsylvania (Mr. JOYCE) for 5 min- rising in Pennsylvania and around the THE JOHN LEWIS TOD INNOVATION LOOP—TO- utes. country, and it is up to all of us to do WARDS JUSTICE IN MOBILITY AND Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam our part to protect our family, our PLACEMAKING Speaker, this week, Americans wit- friends, and our neighbors. I am happy to submit this extraordinary nessed a remarkable achievement. Less This year, I have been amazed by appropriations request in honor of John than a year after the novel coronavirus Americans’ commitment to one an- Lewis. The John Lewis TOD Innovation Loop reached the shores of America, the first other and to their communities. To- envisions spurring over $5 Billion of eco- nomic development in Georgia’s Fifth Dis- doses of a safe and effective vaccine gether, we can defeat this virus. As we wait for the widespread immunization, trict in honor of the legacy of Congressman were administered to frontline John Lewis’ sacrifice and commitment to eq- healthcare workers in Pennsylvania we must continue to stand strong uity, justice and economic empowerment. and around the country. against this invisible enemy. Specifically this project provides an oppor- This amazing accomplishment is not Yes, the coronavirus remains an tunity to achieve justice in mobility (trans- only a testament to America’s unparal- ever-present threat to America and to portation) and placemaking through stra- leled healthcare heroes, researchers our economy. Yes, we are in a shared tegic land use and transit oriented develop- and scientists, but it is also a testa- fight to save lives and to save liveli- ment (TOD). Campbellton Road, a major ar- hoods. And, yes, there is hope on the tery of this project, is the area where both of ment to the promise of American inno- Congressman Lewis’ homes were located. vation. horizon. It is arriving in communities every day in the coolers on UPS and IMMEDIATE 2020 FUNDING REQUEST FOR THE In just a matter of months, Oper- JOHN LEWIS TOD INNOVATION LOOP ation Warp Speed has harnessed the FedEx trucks. As we near the end of this incredibly 1. $5M for development of the conceptual full power of the Federal Government, challenging year, Americans have plan. the private sector, and the scientific much to be grateful for. Thanks to our 2. $50M for Accelerated Campbellton Road community to deliver results for the scientific community, to Operation Bus Rapid Transit project. American people, all in record time. This funding will ultimately create a snow- Warp Speed, and especially to our I am sincerely grateful to the leaders ball effect for signature catalytic projects healthcare heroes, there are brighter at the helm of this historic public/pri- listed below. Their estimated economic im- days ahead. vate partnership, including President pacts are: f Fort McPherson TOD / Tyler Perry Stu- and Secretary of Health dios, $800M. and Human Services , who MOBILITY, INNOVATION, AND Oakland City TOD, $200M. was born in my district, in Johnstown, PLACEMAKING Campbellton Road or Bus Rapid Transit Pennsylvania. Truly, all of those who The SPEAKER pro tempore. The and future Light Rail, $50M/$250M. have served in Operation Warp Speed Greenbriar—Westgate Area, $1B. Chair recognizes the gentleman from John Lewis Senior Transit Center @ Barge have done an incredible job. Georgia (Mr. HALL) for 5 minutes. As our Nation continues to combat Rd, $500M. Mr. HALL. Madam Speaker, I rise Camp Creek @ Campbellton Road, $200M. the COVID–19 pandemic, we recognize today to speak to the importance and Campbellton @ Fulton Industrial, $200M. that a safe and effective vaccine is key interrelationship of mobility, innova- Fulton Industrial @ MLK Drive, $200M. to restoring our communities, rebuild- tion and placemaking. Aerotropolis ( Airport Area), $1.7B. ing our economy and, ultimately, sav- In honor of my predecessor, the late Total impact: $5.05 Billion. ing lives. While the first COVID–19 vac- Honorable John Lewis, I am happy to One of the first projects in the John Lewis cine developed by Pfizer already has TOD Innovation Loop is high-capacity tran- offer the John Lewis TOD Innovation sit in the Campbellton Road Corridor. This been granted emergency authorization Loop. The John Lewis TOD Innovation project will assist in transforming this cor- from the FDA, we expect more to fol- Loop envisions spurring over $5 billion ridor of established neighborhoods and busi- low in the coming days and weeks. of economic development in Georgia’s nesses into a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly, Now, it is imperative for the Amer- Fifth District in honor of the legacy of mixed-use community and could incentivize ican people to know the facts about Congressman John Lewis’ sacrifice and major redevelopment efforts at Greenbriar these vaccines so that they can make commitment to equity, justice, and Mall and Fort McPherson. The project will informed consent. economic empowerment. introduce Light Rail Transit or Bus Rapid Number one: As part of Operation Specifically, this project provides an Transit to the area served by one of the Warp Speed, multiple COVID–19 vac- city’s busiest bus routes. The budget is $50 opportunity to achieve justice in mo- million and the project would be adminis- cines are being developed by private bility and placemaking through stra- tered by Metro Atlanta Rapid Transit Au- companies and simultaneously pro- tegic land use and transit-oriented de- thority. duced, accelerating the typical produc- velopment. For more information visit: https:// tion process so that, as soon as a safe Campbellton Road, a major artery of www.itsmarta.com/campbellton-cor- and effective option is cleared, it is this project, is the area where both of ridor.aspx ready to go. Congressman Lewis’ homes were lo- PROBLEMS IN AMERICA’S PRISONS Number two: Each COVID–19 vaccine cated. This funding will ultimately cre- Mr. HALL. Madam Speaker, I rise is undergoing the same rigorous safety, ate a snowball effect for signature today to draw the Chamber’s attention quality, and efficacy screenings as any catalytic projects, such as Fort to a second problem, a problem in other modern vaccine. McPherson TOD, Tyler Perry Studios, America’s prisons. Number three: The FDA will only Greenbriar, and Westgate redevelop- I include in the RECORD the following grant emergency use authorization to a ments. hyperlink to an article from Reuters: vaccine following the recommendation One of the first projects in the John https://www.reuters.com/investigates/ of an independent advisory board. Lewis TOD Innovation Loop is high-ca- section/usa-jails. Number four: The American people pacity transit in the Campbellton Road The article draws attention to the can be confident in the safety and the corridor. The project will introduce private prisons, the death penalty, and efficacy of a COVID–19 vaccine. Light Rail Transit or Bus Rapid Tran- COVID. These are longstanding chal- Madam Speaker, like many Ameri- sit to the area served by one the city’s lenges in our criminal justice system. cans, I recognize that this vaccine has busiest bus routes. Also on the list of problems, but not

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7163 mentioned in that article, are life sen- have lost jobs and income, it is more critical H.R. 7217, the Confederate Monument Re- tences, the Federal sentencing guide- than ever to provide critical housing assist- moval Act, introduced by the gentlewoman lines, and solitary confinement. ance. The CARES Act provided many home- from California, Ms. LEE, would remove all I am supplementing to this state- owners with the right to have all mortgage Confederate memorials from the United States ment and to the article an appropria- payments completely paused for a period of Capitol, so that we do not risk perpetuating tions proposal. Were it here during the time. Renters, however, face a patchwork of the myths of white supremacy to a new, more appropriations process, I would submit regulations across the country that leave them diverse, more inclusive generation of Ameri- this proposal so that it may be inte- in more uncertain positions. That is why I co- cans. I strongly support efforts in the Georgia grated into future appropriations vehi- sponsored H.R. 6820, the Emergency Rental General Assembly to replace the state’s statue cles. Assistance and Rental Market Stabilization of Alexander Stephens in Statuary Hall with Madam Speaker, I rise in support of several Act, introduced by Mr. HECK of Washington. one honoring my predecessor and friend, the pieces of legislation that I am proud to co- This bill would provide $100 million in emer- late Honorable John Lewis. Congressman sponsor on behalf of the people of Georgia’s gency assistance to help prevent people at Lewis challenged the historical status quo in 5th Congressional District. risk of homelessness from finding themselves the South by championing civil and human First, I will highlight several pieces of legis- on the street. Especially as coronavirus cases rights through peaceful, dramatic, nonviolent lation critical to fighting the COVID–19 pan- rise and as the weather gets colder, we must action, dating from his tenure as president of demic. As a survivor of COVID–19, I know ensure that as many people as possible are the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Com- firsthand the pain and difficulty this terrible dis- able to safely find the protection and dignity of mittee and including his 17 terms serving in ease has caused too many Americans. their own home. this House. Our nation’s experience with COVID–19 has Health care is a right, not a privilege. Ensur- I am also proud to join two other bills impor- highlighted this country’s need for paid family ing that every American has high-quality tant to my constituents. health care is never more important than dur- and medical leave. H.R. 1185, the FAMILY Act, introduced by the gentlewoman from Con- H.R. 2975, the Women’s Health Protection ing a pandemic that has claimed nearly Act, offered by the gentlewoman from Cali- necticut, Ms. DELAURO, would create a new 300,000 American lives. That is why I support fornia, Ms. CHU, prohibits states like Georgia H.R. 6317, the Ensuring Coverage in Public paid family and medical leave system run by the Social Security Administration. Under this from restricting access to abortion services. Health Emergencies Act, introduced by the Georgia has some of the most restrictive abor- gentleman from Texas, Mr. DOGGETT, and system, workers and employers would split the very modest cost of the program. Paid leave tion laws in the country, but my constituents hope to be added as a co-sponsor this week. deserve to make their own choices regarding This bill would create a special 30-day enroll- benefits employers and employees alike— workers have time and flexibility to help them- their health. ment period during public health emergencies Lastly, H.R. 5349, the Protect SNAP Act, to allow employees to enroll in health plans. It selves or their families through personal cri- ses, while employers can afford to keep was introduced by the gentlewoman from Con- also would require coverage of services like necticut, Ms. DELAURO. This bill prohibits the vaccines, diagnostic testing, and treatment trained workers on the job. But the United States is the only rich nation without it. Paid administration from limiting access to the Sup- and care. leave would have helped save countless jobs plemental Nutrition Assistance Program, com- As we fight the pandemic, it is critical to ad- monly known as food stamps. Last year, the dress the racial and ethnic disparities in how and businesses during this difficult year. Sadly, COVID–19 is not the only epidemic administration announced a plan to make COVID–19 affects Americans. Systemic facing the American people. This summer, the nearly 700,000 people ineligible for food as- health, economic, and social inequities mean rest of the country was reminded of what my sistance. We know SNAP is critical to making that minority communities have borne the constituents in Metro Atlanta know all too well: sure that children in the richest country in the worst of this terrible disease—in cases, that people of color, particularly African-Ameri- world have food in their stomachs, and it deaths, jobs lost, and pay cut. We are, sadly, cans, face systemic racism every day. Some- would be doubly irresponsible to deny them not all in this together. H.R. 6585, the Equi- times, this discrimination manifests itself as help during a pandemic and recession. Con- table Data Collection and Disclosure on unnecessary and brutal police violence, as we gress must do all it can to ensure this vital COVID–19 Act, and H.R. 6763, the COVID–19 saw in the murders of George Floyd, Breanna program is strengthened and expanded, not Racial and Ethnic Disparities Task Force Act, Taylor, and, in my district, Rayshard Brooks. cut. were both introduced by the gentlewoman Black Lives Matter, and their Black Lives Madam Speaker, I am proud to represent from Illinois, Ms. KELLY. These bills will pro- Mattered. the people of Georgia’s 5th Congressional vide critical information and attention to this I have co-sponsored legislation to ensure District. I believe these bills to be some of the problem and help to mitigate the effects that police treat citizens with dignity and respect critically important measures this body should this disease has had on communities like the and are accountable to the communities they be considering and passing to help the Amer- ones I represent, and I look forward to being serve. First, I am proud to introduce a bill ican people through this difficult time. added as a co-sponsor. aimed at abolishing qualified immunity, which Black women experience some of the worst helps shield police officers who break the law f systemic disparities in health, housing, em- from accountability. H.R. 4408, the Eric Gar- DEMOCRAT ELECTION THEFT EX- ployment, and education. I am proud to sup- ner Excessive Use of Force Prevention Act, port two other bills co-sponsored by Congress- PERT DESCRIBES HOW HE DOES introduced by the chairman of our caucus, Mr. IT woman KELLY of Illinois and hope to be added JEFFRIES of New York, would forbid the use of as a co-sponsor. H.R. 8196, the Protect Black police chokeholds. I also support H.R. 7100, The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Women and Girls Act would establish an Inter- the George Floyd Enforcement Trust and In- Chair recognizes the gentleman from agency Task Force to examine the complex tegrity Act, introduced by the gentlewoman Alabama (Mr. BROOKS) for 5 minutes. problems and make recommendations for pol- from Texas, Ms. JACKSON LEE. This com- Mr. BROOKS of Alabama. Madam icy changes to help increase opportunity for prehensive legislation improves accountability Speaker, as an overview, House Speak- our mothers, sisters, and daughters. H.R. by introducing new accreditation standards re- er NANCY PELOSI, without a floor vote, 1897, the Mothers and Offspring Mortality and lated to use of force, civilian review, and other has dictated that we wear a mask while Morbidity Awareness (MOMMA’s) Act, will di- provisions like training and data collection. speaking on the House floor or we will rect federal resources to prevent maternal We also must do all we can to erase the bit- be silenced; hence, my mask. mortality and expand Medicaid to cover one ter legacy left by enslavement and forced Madam Speaker, this is my seventh year of postpartum needs. Georgia faces a cri- bondage. H.R. 40, sponsored by the gentle- speech in a series on voter fraud, elec- sis: My state has the worst maternal mortality woman from Texas, Ms. JACKSON LEE, would tion theft, and the presidential elec- rate in the country, and many women, particu- create a commission to study and develop tion. larly women of color, lack access to critical reparations proposals for African-Americans. Today, I continue citing an August pre- and postpartum services and lack health Black communities today still suffer from the 29, 2020, New York Post expose that re- insurance. We know that we all do better wages, property, and rights stolen by slavery veals the sordid underbelly of voter when we all do better, and as we rebuild our and Jim Crow. We must also work to end the fraud and election theft that plague country from the ruin caused by the pandemic, forced labor that still exists due to mass incar- American elections. we must leave no one behind. ceration, and I am proud to introduce a con- The New York Post, after confirming During a time in which we need people to stitutional amendment to end that horrific prac- a Democrat election thief expert’s ‘‘rap stay home as much as possible, but people tice that perpetuates human suffering. sheet and long history working as a

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K16DE7.005 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7164 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 consultant to various campaigns,’’ re- These are the times that try men’s souls. erans’ Affairs Committee and currently veals his stunning election theft strat- The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot as ranking member. He has never for- egies and view that ‘‘election fraud is will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of gotten his service in the U.S. Army in more the rule than the exception.’’ their country, but he that stands by it now the Medical Corps, where he was sta- The Democrat election theft expert deserves the love and thanks of man and woman. Tyranny, like hell, is not easily con- tioned in Korea. steals elections at nursing homes, stat- quered; yet we have this consolation with us, He has never forgotten his constitu- ing: ‘‘Hitting up assisted-living facili- that the harder the conflict, the more glo- ents, who enjoy a livelihood in the ties and helping the elderly fill out rious the triumph. thriving region in and around Johnson their absentee ballots was a gold mine Madam Speaker, I urge all American City, Tennessee. of votes. There are nursing homes patriots to join the fight for America For three decades, prior to coming to where the nurse is actually a paid oper- and against dictatorial socialism. Why? Congress, PHIL was an OB/GYN. He ative. They literally fill the ballot out Because America is worth fighting for. claims, Madam Speaker, that his ter- for them.’’ As such, on January 6, 2021, provided rific record of public service and local The Democrat election theft expert the required one Senator joins me, I office, including being mayor of John- steals elections by exploiting weak will move to reject electoral college son City, were essential to his prepara- voter identification laws. submissions of all States whose elec- tion for and success in earning a seat ‘‘The Democrat election theft expert tion systems are so badly flawed as to in Congress. But we all know better, Madam Speaker. We know that simply would send operatives to vote in poll- render their vote submissions unreli- delivering the vast majority of your ing stations, particularly in States able, untrustworthy, and unworthy of constituents is a surefire way to be likes New Jersey and New York that do acceptance. not require voter ID.’’ successfully elected. f As a Christian, PHIL sets a high b 1215 TRIBUTE TO PHIL ROE standard and is a stalwart in the an- The Democrat election expert de- nual National Prayer Breakfast prepa- scribes how he deploys his election The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from ration and our weekly Thursday morn- theft team: ing bipartisan fellowship, where he Arkansas (Mr. HILL) for 5 minutes. You fill out these index cards with that never hesitates to bring his guitar and person’s name and district, and you go Mr. HILL of Arkansas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize my share his musical talents. There must around the city and say: You are going to be be something in the water in Bristol, him. You are going to be him. friend, PHIL ROE, Representative of At the polling place, the fake voter would Tennessee’s First District, as he choos- Tennessee, home of country music. It is true that PHIL and I bonded over sign in and vote. es to end this chapter in his life and re- critical national defense policy, ac- The imposters re-create the signature that turn to being a private citizen. countability and excellence in care for already appears in the voter roll as best they On television, many Americans are could. In the rare instance that a real voter our veterans, and his solutions for mar- left with the impression that the U.S. had already signed in and cast a ballot, the ket-based policies that would lead to House of Representatives is a place of impersonator would just chalk it up to an in- more affordable healthcare for all constant combat. Naturally, over the nocent mistake and bolt. Americans. But we grew up as Scouts, The Democrat election theft expert steals past two centuries, the House has seen so our real mutual love is for the out- elections at homeless shelters, which offer a many great debates about the future of doors. To this day, decades later, we nearly inexhaustible pool of reliable— our Nation. share a love of backpacking, camping, buyable—voters. Debate at its essence is about pas- Laughing at the roughly $174 per vote Mike and hiking in the mountains. Bloomberg spent to win his third mayoral sionately arguing for your preferred In fact, in 2019, both of us were so ex- term, he said he could have delivered the course of action. The beauty of the peo- cited that Congress passed, and Presi- same result at a 70 percent discount. ple’s House and the reason that former dent Trump signed into law, new na- Madam Speaker, voter fraud and Speaker Longworth described the tional wilderness areas in each our dis- election theft increasingly rot at the House as coming nearer reflecting at tricts. For me, I was able to add acre- foundation of America’s republic: our all time the popular will than does any age to Flatside Wilderness and com- elections. other individual or legislative body in mence a formal study of the area. For Voting by illegal aliens and other this or any other country is that we de- PHIL, it was adding nearly 20,000 acres noncitizens is rampant and flipping bate in earnest, yet we do so with a of some of the wildest pockets of Cher- elections because socialist Democrats premium on civility. But, alas, as I okee National Forest in east Tennessee have made it illegal to require proof of say, many Americans are left, based on to the wilderness system. citizenship when illegal aliens and the evening cable entertainment We both share an amazing affection other noncitizens demand to be reg- shows, with the opposite impression. for that long day at high-altitude istered to vote. My experience over the past 6 years above the treeline. One evening in This year, at a minimum, hundreds is that this Chamber is, in fact, a place Maine, after a delicious dinner, we of thousands and, more likely, millions where the great issues of the day are agreed, hey, let’s get up in the morning of illegal aliens and other noncitizens debated and where, through that work and go climb the highest mountain on voted after openly promised and debate, firm friendships are estab- the eastern seaboard and hike the end amnesty and citizenship if he is elected lished. Those friendships extend across of the Appalachian Trail. We will climb President. the aisle, across cultures, and across and retrace the steps of Henry David Vote-by-mail schemes are both hor- generations. Thoreau’s attempt to climb Mount Ka- ribly prone to voter fraud and illegal Over the past 6 years, I have come to tahdin. because they violate Article I, Section have the greatest respect for one of my Sure enough, we were true to our 4 of the Constitution and Congress’ en- colleagues who, after 12 years, has word. We got up at 3 a.m. and drove suing designation, with minor excep- elected to leave the House and return from the coast to the trailhead, arriv- tions, of one 24-hour day as the elec- to that most basic title that we all ing at 7 a.m. We spent one of the most tion day during which citizens can hold with honor, that of citizen. memorable days on the trail that I can vote. Congress could have but did not During the course of these years, I recall. The summit of Mount Katahdin create an election week, an election recognize my friend, PHIL ROE, Rep- was pea soup, but you can tell from our month, or an election season. resentative of Tennessee’s First Dis- smiles that the long trek up and down Madam Speaker, the overwhelming trict, as a man of high character, im- was worth every step. and irrefutable evidence compels but mense intellect, and great loyalty. His Congressman ROE, you have fought one conclusion: If only lawful votes loyalty to the people of the Tri-Cities the good fight. You have kept the cast by eligible American citizens are of east Tennessee is shown in his daily faith. And like every good Scout, you counted, then Donald Trump won the spirit. have left your campsite cleaner than electoral college. His loyalty, passion, and care for his when you found it. Now it is time for a In 1776 American patriot Thomas fellow veterans have overflowed in his few less cross fires and a few more late- Paine said it best: role as chairman of the House Vet- night campfires.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K16DE7.006 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7165 Martha and I wish you and Clarinda; children. His youngest son, Gregory Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. your combined families; your three Kratz, practices law in Fairbury, Ne- Madam Speaker, I rise today to recog- kids, Whitney, John, David; and their braska, and also serves as an officer in nize a friend and colleague who will be families many, many happy days on the Air National Guard. Jeff retiring from Congress as the 116th the trail in the years to come. Kratz, his oldest son, serves as my leg- Congress comes to a close. I have You will be missed here in the peo- islative director and has worked for served with Dr. PHIL ROE since we ple’s House. You will be missed by your many years serving the needs of Ne- came into Congress together as class- friends. These Halls will be a little braska taxpayers. mates in 2009. emptier without your smile, your Paul Kratz’s dedication to Nebraska PHIL represents the First Congres- voice, and your love expressed daily for has touched countless lives, and his sional District of Tennessee. His path- the people of east Tennessee. positive example has surely inspired way to Congress includes being an f another generation of his family to Eagle Scout, veteran, mayor, and med- carry his torch for many years to ical physician, delivering more than RECOGNIZING PAUL KRATZ ON HIS come. 5,000 of his future constituents. RETIREMENT We thank him for his dedicated serv- PHIL and I have sat next to each The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ice to our city and wish him the best in other on the House Education and Chair recognizes the gentleman from future endeavors. Labor Committee for 12 years. We started at the very end of the seniority Nebraska (Mr. BACON) for 5 minutes. RECOGNIZING STEVE NELSON ON HIS Mr. BACON. Madam Speaker, I rise RETIREMENT seating and now sit prominently as today to recognize a faithful public Mr. BACON. Madam Speaker, I rise senior members. servant who served the city of Omaha today to recognize Mr. Steve Nelson, a b 1230 for nearly 23 years. man who has been at the forefront of Congressman ROE has left his mark Paul Kratz, who led the city’s legal Nebraska’s booming agriculture indus- serving the American people as chair department as the city attorney, re- try and who retired on December 8 of and Republican leader of the House tired last week to spend his days with this year as the president of the Ne- Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. He au- his wife of 47 years, Diane. He is also a braska Farm Bureau, a position he has thored the MISSION Act, which en- wonderful friend of mine. faithfully served since 2011. sures veterans have the ability to re- A 1975 graduate of the University of A farmer his whole life, Steve has ceive the best possible care now and in Nebraska College of Law, Paul oversaw produced irrigated corn, hybrid seed the future, and the Forever GI Bill, a staff of 35, including 24 attorneys, corn, and soybeans at his farm near which ensures veterans won’t lose ac- and negotiated redevelopment agree- Axtell in south central Nebraska. cess to the education benefits that ments and managed litigation. Origi- In his work with the Farm Bureau, they earned through their service. nally hired by former Mayor , both before and during his tenure as Madam Chair, in his own words, Con- also a former Congressman here, he president, Steve has helped to secure gressman PHIL ROE said it best: ‘‘I’ll served during the administrations of farm bills and worked to reform and leave Congress at the end of the year Mayor Mike Fahey, Mayor Jim Suttle, lower taxes to help protect farm and knowing that our Nation’s heroes are and current Mayor . ranch families. better served today because of our Mayor Stothert had this to say about He has also fought to bolster animal work.’’ Mr. Kratz: agriculture against those who want to Thank you, PHIL. And thank you to Paul has been an important adviser, nego- end it and sought initiatives to grow his wife, Clarinda, and their family for tiator, and taxpayer advocate for more than Nebraska’s livestock industry. sharing PHIL with us. Best wishes for two decades. He has guided mayors and city While Texas and Nebraska may have whatever the next chapter’s adventures councils to make decisions that make had a rivalry on the football field, they bring. Omaha the great and growing city it is today. also have held a rivalry in livestock. FAREWELL TO CONGRESSMAN GREG WALDEN During Steve’s time as president, Ne- Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Former Mayor Suttle said this about braska was ranked first for several Madam Speaker, in 2018, Congressman him: years in commercial red meat produc- GREG WALDEN won his 11th term in During my time as mayor, Paul Kratz al- tion. Congress to represent Oregon’s Second ways told me what I needed to hear, not nec- Steve has also advocated for Nebras- essarily what I wanted to hear. Out of this Congressional District. When the 116th foundation came a strong relationship built ka’s agriculture industry to other Congress ends, he will retire after 22 on trust and honesty. In addition, it made countries, serving as a delegation years of service to our Nation. me a better mayor and a better leader, espe- member to Denmark, Japan, South GREG graduated from the University cially as we led the city through the two Korea, Belgium, and many others. of Oregon with a journalism degree and major tragedies of a potential bankruptcy I am sure his wife, Elma, a retired took over the operations of his father’s and the devastating 2011 River nurse, is looking forward to spending radio station in Hood River—and added flood. more time with her husband and is another—before winning his congres- Former Mayor Daub said this: proud of the work he has done, as are sional seat in 1998. Paul Kratz brought unique skills and a his kids: Scott and his wife, Amy, who In 2014 and 2016, he successfully love of public service to Omaha city govern- farm with Steve; and their daughter, chaired the National Republican Con- ment. Always the gentleman, his calm and Stacy, and her husband, Bobby, who gressional Committee. GREG served as pleasant demeanor provided stability in his live in Ashland. Sadly, their daughter, chairman of the House Committee on well-managed office and earns broad agree- Energy and Commerce in the 115th ment of admiring his objectivity and wise Sarah, passed away unexpectedly in advice. He understood and appreciated the 2006. Of course, his four grandchildren, Congress and currently serves as the political ramifications of legal advice, the I am sure, will spend more time with Republican leader of the Committee on value of compromise, and his insights and grandpa on the farm. Energy and Commerce. creative recommendations to a multitude of I thank Steve for advocating and bol- Madam Speaker, I am honored to tough issues were always helpful. His talent stering Nebraska’s agriculture indus- have worked with Congressman GREG and tenacity in public service is rare, and he try. I thank him for his friendship and WALDEN and share passions with him: will leave very large shoes to fill. his counsel. his passion to improve forest manage- Paul Kratz may have been the man Madam Speaker, I wish Steve the ment and lead reforms to make our behind the curtain in negotiations, but best on his retirement from the bureau. Federal forests healthier, make our his legacy will remain because of doz- f rural communities more financially ens of projects, including the CHI solvent, and make our forests more re- Health Center, the Pedes- FAREWELL TO PHIL ROE silient to climate change. trian Bridge, the TD Ameritrade Park, The SPEAKER pro tempore. The To his wife, Mylene, thank you for and the College World Series contract. Chair recognizes the gentleman from sharing this lifelong Oregonian, Eagle In addition, the legacy of service of Pennsylvania (Mr. THOMPSON) for 5 Scout, and great public servant with the Kratz family continues with his minutes. us.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K16DE7.008 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7166 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 Best wishes, GREG. I know you will Dr. Still’s legacy to provide the best he has received numerous awards and continue to make a difference in retire- possible care to patients. honors, to include the 2017 Presidential ment. I became acquainted with Dr. Mullins Rank Award for Meritorious Service FAREWELL TO CONGRESSMAN ROB BISHOP in February of 2008, after the explosion among many others. Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. of the Savannah Sugar Refinery in my It is people like Marcus who inspire Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize a hometown of Port Wentworth. A num- us to live for something greater than retiring leader and mentor, Congress- ber of the victims there were taken to ourselves, and I am thankful for the man ROB BISHOP. the Augusta Burn Center; and there, I wonderful example he has set, which A public schoolteacher turned public witnessed Dr. Mullins’ compassion, his will surely outlast his career for count- servant, ROB BISHOP represents Utah’s concern, and his care for patients. less years to come. First Congressional District in the Madam Speaker, because of Dr. Madam Speaker, I wish him and his . I have had the Mullins’ unrivaled work and care for family the best as he embarks on his privilege of serving with and under the patients, he now leaves behind a legacy retirement. leadership of Congressman BISHOP on that represents dedication to the well- f being of patients and improving the Committee on Natural Resources NO VOTER FRAUD for 8 years. healthcare across the Nation and The SPEAKER pro tempore. The First elected in 2003, ROB served as world. chairman of the powerful House Com- Madam Speaker, my thoughts and Chair recognizes the gentleman from mittee on Natural Resources and is prayers go out to his family, his New York (Mr. JEFFRIES) for 5 minutes. now its ranking member. He has been a friends, his patients, and all who knew Mr. JEFFRIES. Madam Speaker, I key player on many public land bills. him. rise today to condemn the treacherous and seditious behavior of some in this Congressman BISHOP is committed to REMEMBERING HARRISON DEAL helping Congress strike a balance for Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Nation who continue to poison the in- wise management of our public lands Speaker, I rise today to remember and tegrity of our . and resources. Protecting private prop- honor Statesboro native Harrison Deal, The voters have spoken. The re- erty rights and State sovereignty and who, tragically, passed away on Fri- counts have spoken. The electoral col- preserving the Western heritage are day, December 4, from a fatal car cash lege has spoken. Joe Biden will be the among his chief priorities on the com- in Pooler, Georgia. 46th President of the United States of mittees that guided him. There is no Harrison was a 20-year-old student at America. Over 80 million people voted stronger fighter to protect the liveli- the and was ex- for Joe Biden—more than any other hoods of public land users in rural pected to graduate in 2022. He was a Presidential candidate in American America, while ensuring that we are former intern for Senator PERDUE, and history. Joe Biden won blue States, like New responsible stewards of our natural re- worked in the Athens office for Senator York and California. sources. ’s campaign. Joe Biden won swing States like Madam Speaker, Congressman ROB Governor Brian Kemp stated Har- , Pennsylvania, and Wis- BISHOP negotiated much of the legisla- rison was a member of the ‘‘Kemp Strong’’ family, and was a Kemp son consin. tion included in the Natural Resources Joe Biden won red States, like Geor- Management Act. This legislation ex- and brother they never had. He has been described as an incredible, mag- gia and Arizona. panded access to public lands, while Joe Biden is the next President of the nificent young man by Senator PERDUE also shrinking the size of the Federal United States of America. and Senator LOEFFLER. estate, and provided wins for America’s And yet there are some in this coun- sportsmen, hunters, and fishermen. He clearly touched countless lives in the State of Georgia and beyond. try who continue to peddle wild con- Thank you, ROB, for your service, spiracy theories without a shred of evi- your friendship, and your mentoring. Madam Speaker, Harrison was the son of Bulloch County Commissioner dence: Thank you, as well to his wife, The Republican Jeralynn, and his children and grand- Curt Deal and his wife, Jenni, and was the brother of Hannah and Halli Deal. found no evidence of voter fraud. children for sharing ROB with us. The Republican Governor of Ari- Best wishes in the next chapter of My thoughts and prayers go out to the Deal family, Harrison’s friends, and zona—no evidence of voter fraud. life. The Republican-led FBI found no evi- all who knew him during this most dif- f dence of voter fraud. ficult time. HONORING DR. FRED MULLINS The Republican-led Department of RECOGNIZING MARCUS HILL Justice found no evidence of voter The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam fraud. Chair recognizes the gentleman from Speaker, I rise today to honor and con- Republican-appointed judges Georgia (Mr. CARTER) for 5 minutes. gratulate a great American. Marcus throughout the country have found no Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Hill retires from serving as a senior ex- evidence of voter fraud. Speaker, I rise today to remember and ecutive adviser for the Federal Law En- The Republican Attorney General, honor a highly esteemed surgeon, com- forcement Training Centers, or FLETC, Bill Barr, found no evidence of voter passionate physician, hero, and an in- on January 28, 2021. fraud. credible person. Marcus began his career of service as The Supreme Court, with six Repub- Dr. Fred Mullins, who was president a personnel management specialist lican-appointed Justices dismissed the and CEO of the Burn and Reconstruc- with the Department of the Navy in baseless lawsuit that contained not a tive Centers of America, sadly, passed 1983 and was assigned to the naval sub- shred of evidence of voter fraud. away at the age of 54. In his over 30 marine base located in Kings Bay, Madam Speaker, Joe Biden was duly- years of caring for thousands of pa- Georgia. This position further inspired elected as the next President of the tients, he was a trailblazer in burn care him to a life of service, so he went on United States of America, and yet across the Nation and the world. to serve an Active-Duty tour in the there are some in this Nation who are Dr. Mullins was also a founding board United States Air Force. behaving like members of the Jefferson member of the Georgia Trauma Foun- Before he transferred to FLETC in Davis Caucus, including a former Mem- dation, a member of the Georgia Trau- 1999, Marcus served in several leader- ber of this Chamber, who suggested ma Commission, and chairman of the ship assignments within the Navy. His that Texas secede. JMS Research Foundation. He was a career in FLETC spanned widely and Madam Speaker, it is time to respect native Augustan and graduated from included joining the Transportation the Constitution. Augusta College before attending the Security Administration, or TSA, after It is time to respect our democracy. Medical College of Georgia. the tragic events of 9/11. It is time to respect the voters. Dr. Mullins was given a foundation Marcus’ life has been marked by dis- It is time to respect the rule of law. for his skills in burn care by Dr. Joseph tinguished commitment to serving his It is time to respect the peaceful M. Still, and his focus was on carrying country and fellow man, which is why transfer of power.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:38 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K16DE7.010 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7167 It is time to end this charade. Members and staff throughout the Cap- UNC-Charlotte, he went on to pursue It is time to stop providing aid and itol, to rise for a moment of silence in his dream. comfort to an insurrection. remembrance of more than 300,000 May God bless Tyler’s family and the It is time to stop lying to the Amer- Americans who have passed away from many brave men and women serving ican people. the COVID–19 virus. with the Mount Holly Police Depart- f f ment. RECESS ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER f The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- The SPEAKER. The Chair will enter- ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair tain up to 15 requests for 1-minute WE MUST WORK TOGETHER declares the House in recess until 2 speeches on each side of the aisle. p.m. today. (Mr. CARTWRIGHT asked and was Accordingly (at 12 o’clock and 40 f given permission to address the House minutes p.m.), the House stood in re- REMEMBERING THE LIFE OF DICK for 1 minute.) cess. HINCH, SPEAKER OF NEW HAMP- Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I f SHIRE HOUSE rise to exhort all of us in this Chamber to work together. b 1400 (Mr. PAPPAS asked and was given I know there are those of us in this permission to address the House for 1 AFTER RECESS Chamber for whom the spending of one minute and to revise and extend his re- The recess having expired, the House Federal dollar is a physically painful marks.) event, but now is not the time to be was called to order by the Speaker at 2 Mr. PAPPAS. Madam Speaker, I rise p.m. deficit hawks. Now is the time for us to to remember the life and legacy of come together. f State Representative Dick Hinch, the The United States of America is speaker of the New Hampshire House. I PRAYER more than the sum of its parts. In was deeply saddened last week when I times of great danger to our Nation, we The Chaplain, the Reverend Patrick learned of the sudden passing of Speak- come together, and the Federal Gov- J. Conroy, offered the following prayer: er Hinch. He was yet another American ernment leads the way. We did it when Gracious God, thank You for giving we have lost due to COVID–19. we defeated fascism in Europe and us another day. Dick was a dedicated elected official Asia. We did it when we rebuilt Europe As we near the end of a long and dif- for the people of Merrimack, the town and Asia to become great allies and ficult year, signs of hope begin to he represented at the State house for peaceful and productive partners. emerge. The long and difficult work of six terms. Just a week before his pass- We can do it again. We have a ter- compromise and problem-solving has ing on December 2, Dick was sworn in rible enemy right now in the COVID been encouraging. Continue to inspire as the new speaker of the New Hamp- virus. It is wrecking our economy, and the men and women of Congress to shire House, a role he considered to be it is killing our people. We have lost work together to fashion bills to fund the honor of his life. more than 300,000 people, more than the government and offer assistance to I saw him on election day, when he our combat losses in World War II. those who find themselves on the edge warmly greeted me at his polling place Let’s work together for robust of economic disaster. just like everyone else coming to vote. COVID relief for our economy. Let’s Bless as well those who, in great It didn’t matter that I was a Democrat get it done, Mr. Speaker. hope, deliver vaccines to the men and and he was a Republican. He knew that women who have been on the front line public service was a higher calling, and of the battle against the plague of he treated everyone with the utmost f COVID–19. May their work continue in respect. good and improving health. Comfort Dick was a happy warrior and em- CONGRATULATING PRESIDENT those who have suffered the loss of bodied the spirit of New Hampshire’s TRUMP ON VACCINE SUCCESS loved ones during this difficult year. citizen legislature. We are better off (Mr. WILSON of South Carolina May all that is done this day be for because of his decades of work on be- asked and was given permission to ad- Your greater honor and glory. half of the people of Merrimack and dress the House for 1 minute and to re- Amen. New Hampshire. vise and extend his remarks.) f My thoughts are with his wife, Pat, Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. THE JOURNAL and their children, as well as his fam- Speaker, The Washington Times edi- ily, friends, and colleagues, during this torial board is appreciated for pub- The SPEAKER. Pursuant to section difficult time. May he rest in peace. 4(a) of House Resolution 967, the Jour- lishing ‘‘Joy, and Vaccines to the nal of the last day’s proceedings is ap- f World,’’ where they praised President proved. Donald Trump for his efforts to bring a REMEMBERING PATROLMAN vaccine to the United States faster f TYLER HERNDON than any other vaccine in history. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE (Ms. FOXX of North Carolina asked The article is explaining: The SPEAKER. Will the gentleman and was given permission to address The lifesaving COVID–19 vaccine that from South Carolina (Mr. WILSON) the House for 1 minute.) President Trump promised to deliver has ar- come forward and lead the House in the Ms. FOXX of North Carolina. Mr. rived in record time. Hallelujah. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Pa- On Friday, the Food and Drug Administra- Pledge of Allegiance. tion concluded its review of the front-run- Mr. WILSON of South Carolina led trolman Tyler Herndon of Kings Moun- tain, North Carolina, who passed away ning vaccine developed and gave a green the Pledge of Allegiance as follows: light for distribution. Initial shipments are on December 11 in the line of duty. I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the expected to reach all 636 locations across the United States of America, and to the Repub- He was a dedicated public servant, 50 States by today. lic for which it stands, one nation under God, and many who knew him knew that he ‘‘Promises made, promises kept,’’ Mr. indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. loved his job and his community im- Trump likes to say. That is the can-do spirit f mensely. that makes America special. Just in time for To his father, Mark; mother, Debbie; Christmas, the fruits of Operation Warp MOMENT OF SILENCE IN REMEM- sister, Lindsey; and girlfriend, Holly, Speed are starting to bring joy to the world. BRANCE OF AMERICANS WHO Tyler was someone who always put a In conclusion, God bless our troops, HAVE PASSED AWAY FROM THE smile on people’s faces. and we will never forget September the COVID–19 VIRUS Tyler always wanted to be in law en- 11th in the global war on terrorism. The SPEAKER. The Chair asks all forcement. After he received his bach- Our family’s sympathy for the death Members in the Chamber, as well as elor’s degree in criminal justice from of former DNC Chairman Don Fowler.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K16DE7.012 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7168 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 SURVIVAL CHECKS FOR MIXED- military when returning to private life The solution is within our grasp. We STATUS FAMILIES by providing access to nontraditional just need to come together this week (Mr. GARCI´A of Illinois asked and and technology-oriented courses to get the job done. was given permission to address the through the VET TEC pilot program. Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my col- House for 1 minute.) This bill would expand VET TEC to in- leagues: Don’t be an Ebenezer Scrooge. Mr. GARCI´A of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, clude part-time courses and permit ad- Embrace the Christmas spirit. Join me we are close to finalizing a relief pack- ditional course providers into the VET and vote ‘‘yes.’’ age, but I ask my colleagues: Relief for TEC pilot program. f I am also pleased that H.R. 7105, like whom? RECOGNIZING MIKE VUCKOVICH A relief package without survival the initial House-passed version of this bill, would increase the VET TEC fund- checks is not a relief package at all, (Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania ing authorization by $30 million per nor is a relief package that leaves out asked and was given permission to ad- year through 2023 to help the VA meet millions of immigrants and their fami- dress the House for 1 minute and to re- demand for this popular program with lies. Any deal that we strike must in- vise and extend his remarks.) our veterans. clude survival checks to families and Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. In addition, no veteran in my district Mr. Speaker, I rise today to give a spe- immigrants, and mixed-status families or anywhere in the country should be must be included. cial shout-out to Mike Vuckovich, su- homeless due to unnecessary VA staff- perintendent of the Indiana Area Earlier this year, countless families ing vacancies. The Reducing Veteran that I represent were denied stimulus School District. Homelessness Act would require that Mike was recently recognized as one checks, including U.S. citizens whose the VA contract out any consistently spouses are immigrants. We even ex- of America’s Superintendents to Watch vacant HUD-VA Supportive Housing for 2020. He was one of only 24 recipi- cluded children who may have an im- case management positions to commu- migrant parent. ents to receive this recognition and the nity experts so that unused housing only Pennsylvanian. How in the world did we exclude U.S. vouchers can be matched with home- citizen children? Mike has been on the job just 2 years less veterans who need them the most. but recently was recognized by the Na- In this season of sacred holidays, I Finally, I want to take a moment to tional School Public Relations Asso- implore all of us to be compassionate thank Dr. ROE for his unwavering com- ciation as a 2020 Superintendent to and not punish kids for their parents’ mitment to our Nation’s veterans Watch. The organization selects super- status. Families are struggling to put throughout his time in this Congress, intendents from across the country food on their tables and keep roofs over specifically as chairman and ranking who ‘‘demonstrate dynamic, fast-paced their heads. member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Circumstances are dire. We need to Committee over the course of the past leadership with strong communication put money directly into working fami- 4 years and for his own personal service at its core.’’ lies’ pockets. I urge my colleagues that to the United States Army, serving in This is exactly what Mike has done any relief package must include sur- Korea. with his time at Indiana Area School vival checks for everyone, including His strong leadership on behalf of our District. immigrant children. fellow veterans has been unwavering Mike has been a champion for digital technology and online communication f since he came to Congress, and his te- nacity, knowledge, and friendship will throughout the district, investments HONORING THOSE WHO HONOR be missed in this Chamber after he re- that have clearly come in handy in the OUR VETERANS tires from Congress. age of coronavirus. The district’s new website and social media accounts have (Mr. MCCARTHY asked and was On behalf of a very grateful Nation, been a useful tool to keep parents, given permission to address the House we thank Dr. ROE for his servant’s teachers, and students on the same for 1 minute.) heart, for putting the veterans first, page during what has undoubtedly been Mr. MCCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, I rise and for improving the quality of the a hectic and stressful school year. today in support of the care for them. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues on I thank Mike for his drive, dedica- and DAVID P. ROE, M.D. Veterans tion, and initiative, and I am pleased Health Care and Benefits Improvement both sides of the aisle to join me in to have a leader like Mike in Indiana Act of 2020, a bipartisan legislative supporting this bipartisan bill and County. package that includes two bills that I thanking Congressman ROE for his have proudly introduced this Congress, service. f the VET TEC Expansion Act and the f b 1415 Reducing Veteran Homelessness Act of HOPE AND DESPAIR IN CENTRAL 2020. FLORIDA EIGHTH ANNIVERSARY OF SANDY HOOK ELEMENTARY SHOOTING Since coming to Congress in 2007, one (Mr. SOTO asked and was given per- of my most important priorities in this mission to address the House for 1 (Mrs. HAYES asked and was given Chamber has been to protect and im- minute and to revise and extend his re- permission to address the House for 1 prove the benefits that our Nation’s marks.) minute and to revise and extend her re- veterans have earned and deserve. I in- Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, there is a marks.) troduced the VET TEC Expansion Act mix of hope and despair in central Mrs. HAYES. Mr. Speaker, I rise and the Reducing Veteran Homeless- Florida. today in remembrance of the 26 beau- ness Act earlier this Congress in re- This week, the first vaccines arrived tiful lives that were lost on December sponse to comments and feedback I re- to help protect our healthcare profes- 14, 2012, at Sandy Hook Elementary ceived from veterans and veterans or- sionals. But unemployment remains School. ganizations throughout my district and around 10 percent; food banks lay bare; Mr. Speaker, 8 years ago, 20 innocent across the country. many are behind on rent; and children and six selfless educators were Both pieces of legislation seek to coronavirus cases continue to rise. murdered in what should have been the build upon existing veterans benefits The message is clear in both Florida safest places in their community: their programs, including the VET TEC pilot and across our Nation: Americans need school. program and the HUD–VA Supportive help. Today, I ask that we pause, reflect, Housing Program, by expanding and It is time for this Congress to come remember, and recommit ourselves to streamlining them for veterans and together and pass meaningful working to ensure that this never hap- veterans service providers who utilize coronavirus emergency relief to defeat pens again. them. the virus; to help small businesses and For many residents of Newtown, Con- The VET TEC Expansion Act will the unemployed; and to ensure food, necticut, 8 years feels like yesterday. continue to ensure that our heroes can housing, and direct stimulus checks for Time has stood still for so many fami- enhance skills they developed in the our constituents. lies as they attempt to rebuild their

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K16DE7.015 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7169 community and honor the precious That the Senate passed without amend- Sec. 1009. Clarification of educational assist- memory of their children and edu- ment H.R. 6100. ance for individuals who pursue cators. That the Senate passed without amend- an approved program of edu- ment H.R. 7259. Mr. Speaker, much needs to be done cation leading to a degree while That the Senate passed without amend- on active duty. to ensure that our schools and commu- ment H.R. 8354. Sec. 1010. Verification of enrollment for pur- nities are safe places. We owe it to the With best wishes, I am, poses of receipt of Post-9/11 Edu- 26 families from Sandy Hook to work Sincerely, cational Assistance benefits. together to make this happen. We owe ROBERT F. REEVES, Sec. 1011. Clarification regarding the depend- it to the over 38,000 people who will die Deputy Clerk. ents to whom entitlement to edu- each year from gun violence to do bet- f cational assistance may be trans- ter. We owe it to the 50 million people ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER ferred under the Post 9/11 Edu- who are affected by mental health cational Assistance Program. PRO TEMPORE Sec. 1012. Expansion of reasons for which a challenges each year. We owe it to our- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- course of education may be dis- selves, because we are capable of cre- ant to clause 8 of rule XX, the Chair approved. ating change. will postpone further proceedings Sec. 1013. Oversight of educational institutions Mr. Speaker, today, we honor, re- today on motions to suspend the rules with approved programs: risk- member, and reflect, and then we get on which the yeas and nays are or- based surveys. back to work. Sec. 1014. Oversight of educational institutions dered. subject to Government action for f The House will resume proceedings purposes of the educational as- on postponed questions at a later time. IN RECOGNITION OF DAWN BAKER sistance programs of the Depart- f ment of Veterans Affairs. (Mr. CARTER of Georgia asked and DEPENDABLE EMPLOYMENT AND Sec. 1015. Additional requirement for approval was given permission to address the of educational institutions for LIVING IMPROVEMENTS FOR House for 1 minute and to revise and purposes of the educational as- VETERANS ECONOMIC RECOVERY extend his remarks.) sistance programs of the Depart- ACT Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speak- ment of Veterans Affairs. Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I move to Sec. 1016. Clarification of accreditation for law er, I rise today to recognize Savannah, schools for purposes of the edu- Georgia, WTOC news anchor Dawn suspend the rules and concur in the Senate amendment to the bill (H.R. cational assistance programs of Baker for appearing in this year’s the Department of Veterans Af- ‘‘CNN Heroes’’ special. In the special, 7105) to provide flexibility for the Sec- fairs. she was recognized as the first person retary of Veterans Affairs in caring for Sec. 1017. Clarification of grounds for dis- to participate in phase 3 of the COVID– homeless veterans during a covered approval of a course for purposes 19 vaccine trial in the U.S. public health emergency, to direct the of the educational assistance pro- Local news anchors have thousands Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry grams of the Department of Vet- out a retraining assistance program for erans Affairs. of viewers, so they have a great respon- unemployed veterans, and for other Sec. 1018. Requirements for educational institu- sibility to serve as positive leaders in purposes, as amended. tions participating in the edu- their community. By demonstrating The Clerk read the title of the bill. cational assistance programs of the importance and safety of the The text of the Senate amendment is the Department of Veterans Af- coronavirus vaccine, which is now as follows: fairs. being distributed across the country, Senate amendment: Sec. 1019. Overpayments to eligible persons or veterans. Dawn has exemplified the qualities of a Strike all after the enacting clause and in- true leader. Sec. 1020. Improvements to limitation on certain sert the following: advertising, sales, and enrollment However, this is not the first time SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS. practices. Dawn has been a hero. Throughout her (a) SHORT TITLE.—This Act may be cited as Sec. 1021. Charge to entitlement to educational career in journalism, she has blessed the ‘‘Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. assistance for individuals who do countless lives through her dedication Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement not transfer credits from certain to improving her community and the Act of 2020’’. closed or disapproved programs of (b) TABLE OF CONTENTS.—The table of con- State of Georgia. education. tents for this Act is as follows: Sec. 1022. Department of Veterans Affairs treat- Mr. Speaker, I take this time to Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents. thank all heroes like Dawn Baker for ment of for-profit educational in- Sec. 2. Determination of budgetary effects. stitutions converted to nonprofit stepping up to the plate during an un- TITLE I—EDUCATION educational institutions. precedented time and demonstrating Subtitle A—Education Generally Sec. 1023. Authority of State approving agen- commitment to a better, healthier Sec. 1001. Improvements to Edith Nourse Rogers cies to conduct outreach activi- America. STEM Scholarship program of De- ties. Sec. 1024. Limitation on colocation and admin- f partment of Veterans Affairs. Sec. 1002. Expansion of eligibility for Fry Schol- istration of State approving agen- COMMUNICATION FROM THE arship to children and spouses of cies. CLERK OF THE HOUSE certain deceased members of the Sec. 1025. Elimination of period of eligibility for Armed Forces. training and rehabilitation for The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Sec. 1003. Period for election to receive benefits certain veterans with service-con- CUELLAR) laid before the House the fol- under All-Volunteer Educational nected disabilities. lowing communication from the Clerk Assistance Program of Depart- Subtitle B—Pandemic Assistance of the House of Representatives: ment of Veterans Affairs. Sec. 1004. Phase out of All-Volunteer Edu- Sec. 1101. Definitions. OFFICE OF THE CLERK, cational Assistance Program. Sec. 1102. Continuation of Department of Vet- HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Sec. 1005. Requirements for in-State tuition. erans Affairs educational assist- Washington, DC, December 16, 2020. Sec. 1006. Expansion of authority for certain ance benefits during COVID–19 Hon. NANCY PELOSI, qualifying work-study activities emergency. The Speaker, House of Representatives, for purposes of the educational Sec. 1103. Effects of closure of educational in- Washington, DC. assistance programs of the De- stitution and modification of DEAR MADAM SPEAKER: Pursuant to the partment of Veterans Affairs to courses by reason of COVID–19 permission granted in Clause 2(h) of Rule II include outreach services provided emergency. of the Rules of the U.S. House of Representa- through congressional offices. Sec. 1104. Payment of educational assistance in tives, the Clerk received the following mes- Sec. 1007. Restoration of entitlement to rehabili- cases of withdrawal. sage from the Secretary of the Senate on De- tation programs for veterans af- Sec. 1105. Modification of time limitations on cember 16, 2020, at 11:30 a.m.: fected by school closure or dis- use of entitlement. That the Senate passed S. 2032. approval. Sec. 1106. Apprenticeship or on-job training re- That the Senate passed S. 2054. Sec. 1008. Technical correction to clarify eligi- quirements. That the Senate passed S. 3152. bility for participation in Yellow Sec. 1107. Inclusion of training establishments That the Senate passed without amend- Ribbon Program of Department of in certain provisions related to ment H.R. 4356. Veterans Affairs. COVID–19 emergency.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6343 E:\CR\FM\K16DE7.017 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7170 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 Sec. 1108. Treatment of payment of allowances TITLE III—HEALTH CARE Sec. 4205. Repeal of sunset on authority to under Student Veteran Subtitle A—Health Care Generally carry out program of referral and Coronavirus Response Act. counseling services for veterans at Sec. 3001. Expansion of modifications to Vet- TITLE II—BENEFITS risk for homelessness who are eran Directed Care program. transitioning from certain institu- Subtitle A—Benefits Generally Sec. 3002. Prohibition on collection of a health tions. Sec. 2001. Revision of definition of Vietnam era care copayment by the Secretary Sec. 4206. Coordination of case management for purposes of the laws adminis- of Veterans Affairs from a veteran services for veterans receiving tered by the Secretary of Veterans who is a member of an Indian housing vouchers under Tribal Affairs. tribe. Housing and Urban Development- Sec. 2002. Matters relating to Department of Sec. 3003. Oversight for State homes regarding Veterans Affairs Supportive Hous- Veterans Affairs medical dis- COVID–19 infections, response ca- ing program. ability examinations. pacity, and staffing levels. Sec. 4207. Contracts relating to case managers Sec. 2003. Medal of Honor special pension for Sec. 3004. Grants for State homes located on for homeless veterans in sup- surviving spouses. tribal lands. ported housing program. Sec. 2004. Modernization of service-disabled vet- Sec. 4208. Report on staffing of Department of Sec. 3005. Continuation of Women’s Health erans insurance. Housing and Urban Development- Transition Training program of Sec. 2005. Denial of claims for traumatic injury Department of Veterans Affairs Department of Veterans Affairs. protection under Servicemembers’ supported housing program. Sec. 3006. Authority for Secretary of Veterans Group Life Insurance. Subtitle C—Retraining Assistance for Veterans Sec. 2006. Publication and acceptance of dis- Affairs to furnish medically nec- Sec. 4301. Access for the Secretaries of Labor ability benefit questionnaire forms essary transportation for newborn and Veterans Affairs to the Fed- of Department of Veterans Af- children of certain women vet- erans. eral directory of new hires. fairs. Sec. 4302. Expansion of eligible class of pro- Sec. 3007. Waiver of requirements of Depart- Sec. 2007. Threshold for reporting debts to con- viders of high technology pro- ment of Veterans Affairs for re- sumer reporting agencies. grams of education for veterans. Sec. 2008. Removal of dependents from award of ceipt of per diem payments for Sec. 4303. Pilot program for off-base transition compensation or pension. domiciliary care at State homes training for veterans and spouses. Sec. 2009. Eligibility for dependency and indem- and modification of eligibility for Sec. 4304. Grants for provision of transition as- nity compensation for surviving such payments. sistance to members of the Armed spouses who remarry after age 55. Sec. 3008. Expansion of quarterly update of in- Forces after separation, retire- Sec. 2010. Study on exposure by members of the formation on staffing and vacan- ment, or discharge. Armed Forces to toxicants at cies at facilities of the Department Sec. 4305. One-year independent assessment of Karshi-Khanabad Air Base in Uz- of Veterans Affairs to include in- the effectiveness of Transition As- bekistan. formation on duration of hiring sistance Program. Sec. 2011. Comptroller General briefing and re- process. Sec. 4306. Longitudinal study on changes to port on repealing manifestation Sec. 3009. Requirement for certain Department Transition Assistance Program. period for presumptions of service of Veterans Affairs medical facili- TITLE V—DEBORAH SAMPSON connection for certain diseases as- ties to have physical location for Sec. 5001. Short title. sociated with exposure to certain the disposal of controlled sub- Subtitle A—Improving Access for Women herbicide agents. stances medications. Veterans to the Department of Veterans Affairs Sec. 2012. Extension of authority of Secretary of Sec. 3010. Department of Veterans Affairs pilot Veterans Affairs to use income in- Sec. 5101. Office of Women’s Health in Depart- program for clinical observation ment of Veterans Affairs. formation from other agencies. by undergraduate students. Sec. 2013. Extension on certain limits on pay- Sec. 5102. Women veterans retrofit initiative. Sec. 5103. Establishment of environment of care ments of pension. Subtitle B—Scheduling and Consult Management standards and inspections at De- Subtitle B—Housing partment of Veterans Affairs med- Sec. 2101. Eligibility of certain members of the Sec. 3101. Process and requirements for sched- ical centers. reserve components of the Armed uling appointments for health Sec. 5104. Provision of reintegration and read- Forces for home loans from the care from Department of Veterans justment services to veterans and Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Affairs and non-Department family members in group retreat Sec. 2102. Reducing loan fees for certain vet- health care. settings. erans affected by major disasters. Sec. 3102. Audits regarding scheduling of ap- Sec. 5105. Provision of legal services for women Sec. 2103. Extension of certain housing loan pointments and management of veterans. fees. consultations for health care from Sec. 5106. Comptroller General surveys and re- Sec. 2104. Collection of overpayments of spe- Department of Veterans Affairs port on supportive services pro- cially adapted housing assistance. and non-Department health care. vided for very low-income women veterans. Subtitle C—Burial Matters Sec. 3103. Administration of non-Department of Veterans Affairs health care. Sec. 5107. Programs on assistance for child care Sec. 2201. Transportation of deceased veterans Sec. 3104. Examination of health care consulta- for certain veterans. to veterans’ cemeteries. tion and scheduling positions of Sec. 5108. Availability of prosthetics for women Sec. 2202. Increase in certain funeral benefits Department of Veterans Affairs. veterans from Department of Vet- under laws administered by the erans Affairs. Secretary of Veterans Affairs. TITLE IV—NAVY SEAL BILL MULDER Sec. 5109. Requirement to improve Department Sec. 2203. Outer burial receptacles for each new Sec. 4001. Short title. of Veterans Affairs women vet- grave in cemeteries that are the erans call center. subjects of certain grants made by Subtitle A—Service-connection and COVID–19 Sec. 5110. Study on infertility services furnished the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Sec. 4101. Presumptions of service-connection at Department of Veterans Af- Sec. 2204. Provision of inscriptions for spouses for members of Armed Forces who fairs. and children on certain contract Coronavirus Disease 2019 Sec. 5111. Sense of Congress on access to facili- headstones and markers furnished under certain circumstances. ties of Department of Veterans Af- fairs by reservists for counseling by the Secretary of Veterans Af- Subtitle B—Assistance for Homeless Veterans fairs. and treatment relating to military Sec. 2205. Aid to counties for establishment, ex- Sec. 4201. Flexibility for the Secretary of Vet- sexual trauma. pansion, and improvement of vet- erans Affairs in caring for home- Subtitle B—Increasing Staff Cultural erans’ cemeteries. less veterans during a covered Competency public health emergency. Sec. 2206. Increase in maximum amount of Sec. 5201. Staffing of women’s health primary grants to States, counties, and Sec. 4202. Legal services for homeless veterans care providers at medical facilities tribal organizations for operating and veterans at risk for homeless- of Department of Veterans Af- and maintaining veterans’ ceme- ness. fairs. teries. Sec. 4203. Gap analysis of Department of Vet- Sec. 5202. Additional funding for primary care Sec. 2207. Provision of urns and commemorative erans Affairs programs that pro- and emergency care clinicians in plaques for remains of certain vet- vide assistance to women veterans Women Veterans Health Care erans whose cremated remains are who are homeless. Mini-Residency Program. not interred in certain cemeteries. Sec. 4204. Improvements to grants awarded by Sec. 5203. Establishment of women veteran Sec. 2208. Training of State and tribal veterans’ the Secretary of Veterans Affairs training module for non-Depart- cemetery personnel by National to entities that provide services to ment of Veterans Affairs health Cemetery Administration. homeless veterans. care providers.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6343 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7171 Sec. 5204. Study on staffing of women veteran TITLE VII—OTHER MATTERS (C) by redesignating subclauses (X) and (XI) program manager program at Subtitle A—Administrative and Other Matters as subclauses (IX) and (X), respectively; (2) in subparagraph (B)— medical centers of Department of Sec. 7001. Medical examination protocol for vol- Veterans Affairs and training of (A) by inserting ‘‘covered clinical training unteer drivers participating in program for health care professionals or a’’ be- staff. program of transportation services Sec. 5205. Study on Women Veteran Coordi- fore ‘‘program of education’’; and for veterans. (B) by striking the period at the end and in- nator program. Sec. 7002. Department of Veterans Affairs Advi- Sec. 5206. Staffing improvement plan for peer serting ‘‘; or’’; and sory Committee on Tribal and In- specialists of Department of Vet- (3) by adding at the end the following new dian Affairs. erans Affairs who are women. subparagraph: Sec. 7003. Preference for offerors employing vet- ‘‘(C) is an individual who has earned a grad- Subtitle C—Eliminating Harassment and erans. uate degree in a field referred to in subpara- Assault Sec. 7004. Extension of certain employment and graph (A)(i) and is enrolled in a covered clinical Sec. 5301. Expansion of coverage by Department reemployment rights to members training program for health care profes- of Veterans Affairs of counseling of the National Guard who per- sionals.’’. and treatment for sexual trauma. form State active duty. (b) PRIORITY.—Subsection (c) of such section Sec. 5302. Assessment of effects of intimate part- Sec. 7005. Repayment of misused benefits. is amended to read as follows: ner violence on women veterans Sec. 7006. Exemption of certain transfers. ‘‘(c) PRIORITY.—(1) If the Secretary deter- by Advisory Committee on Women Sec. 7007. Report and planned actions of the mines that there are insufficient funds available Veterans. Secretary of Veterans Affairs to in a fiscal year to provide additional benefits Sec. 5303. Anti-harassment and anti-sexual as- address certain high-risk areas of under this section to all eligible individuals, the sault policy of Department of Vet- the Department of Veterans Af- Secretary may give priority to the following eli- erans Affairs. fairs. gible individuals: Sec. 5304. Pilot program on assisting veterans Sec. 7008. Annual report by Secretary of Vet- ‘‘(A) Individuals who require the most credit who experience intimate partner erans Affairs on implementation hours described in subsection (b)(4). violence or sexual assault. of priority recommendations of ‘‘(B) Individuals who are entitled to edu- Sec. 5305. Study and task force on veterans ex- Comptroller General of the United cational assistance under this chapter by reason periencing intimate partner vio- States pertaining to Department of paragraph (1), (2), (8), or (9) of section 3311(b) lence or sexual assault. of Veterans Affairs. of this title. Subtitle D—Data Collection and Reporting Sec. 7009. Clarification of methods used to mon- ‘‘(2) The Secretary shall give priority to indi- itor compliance with certain limi- Sec. 5401. Requirement for collection and anal- viduals under paragraph (1) in the following tations on subcontracting. ysis of data on Department of order: Sec. 7010. Department of Veterans Affairs re- Veterans Affairs benefits and ‘‘(A) Individuals who are enrolled in a pro- quirement to provide certain no- services and disaggregation of gram of education leading to an undergraduate tice to persons filing claims for such data by gender, race, and degree in a field referred to in subsection damage, injury, or death on ethnicity. (b)(4)(A)(i). Standard Form 95. Sec. 5402. Study on barriers for women veterans ‘‘(B) Individuals who are enrolled in a pro- to receipt of health care from De- Subtitle B—Matters Relating to the Chief Fi- gram of education leading to a teaching certifi- partment of Veterans Affairs. nancial Officer of Department of Veterans Af- cate. Sec. 5403. Study on feasibility and advisability fairs ‘‘(C) Individuals who are enrolled in a dual- of offering Parenting STAIR pro- Sec. 7101. Definitions. degree program leading to both an under- gram at all medical centers of De- Sec. 7102. Plans for addressing material weak- graduate and graduate degree in a field referred partment of Veterans Affairs. nesses and providing sufficient to in subsection (b)(4)(A)(i). ‘‘(D) Individuals who have earned an under- Subtitle E—Benefits Matters authority to Chief Financial Offi- cer of Department of Veterans Af- graduate degree and are enrolled in a covered Sec. 5501. Evaluation of service-connection of fairs. clinical training program for health care profes- mental health conditions relating Sec. 7103. Chief Financial Officer attestation. sionals. to military sexual trauma. Sec. 7104. Chief Financial Officer responsibility ‘‘(E) Individuals who have earned a graduate Sec. 5502. Choice of sex of Department of Vet- for subordinate chief financial of- degree and are enrolled in a covered clinical erans Affairs medical examiner for ficers. training program for health care profes- assessment of claims for com- sionals.’’. pensation relating to disability re- Subtitle C—Servicemembers Civil Relief (c) AMOUNTS NOT SUBJECT TO CERTAIN LIMI- sulting from physical assault of a Sec. 7201. Clarification of delivery of notice of TATION.—Subsection (d) of such section is sexual nature, battery of a sexual termination of leases of premises amended by adding at the end the following nature, or sexual harassment. and motor vehicles for purposes of new paragraph: Sec. 5503. Secretary of Veterans Affairs report relief under Servicemembers Civil ‘‘(4) Notwithstanding any other provision of on implementing recommendations Relief Act. this chapter or chapter 36 of this title, any addi- of Inspector General of Depart- Sec. 7202. Technical correction regarding exten- tional benefits under this section may not be ment of Veterans Affairs in cer- sion of lease protections for counted toward the aggregate period for which tain report on denied servicemembers under stop move- section 3695 of this title limits an individual’s re- posttraumatic stress disorder ment orders in response to local, ceipt of allowance or assistance.’’. claims related to military sexual national, or global emergency. (d) COVERED CLINICAL TRAINING PROGRAM trauma. SEC. 2. DETERMINATION OF BUDGETARY EF- DEFINED.—Such section is further amended by TITLE VI—REPRESENTATION AND FECTS. adding at the end the following new subsection: FINANCIAL EXPLOITATION MATTERS The budgetary effects of this Act, for the pur- ‘‘(h) COVERED CLINICAL TRAINING PROGRAM pose of complying with the Statutory Pay-As- DEFINED.—In this section, the term ‘covered Sec. 6001. Short title. You-Go Act of 2010, shall be determined by ref- clinical training program’ means any clinical Sec. 6002. Plan to address the financial exploi- erence to the latest statement titled ‘‘Budgetary training required by a health care professional tation of veterans receiving pen- Effects of PAYGO Legislation’’ for this Act, sub- to be licensed to practice in a State or locality.’’. sion from the Department of Vet- mitted for printing in the Congressional Record SEC. 1002. EXPANSION OF ELIGIBILITY FOR FRY erans Affairs. by the Chairman of the House Budget Com- SCHOLARSHIP TO CHILDREN AND Sec. 6003. Overpayments of pension to veterans SPOUSES OF CERTAIN DECEASED receiving pension from the De- mittee, provided that such statement has been submitted prior to the vote on passage. MEMBERS OF THE ARMED FORCES. partment of Veterans Affairs. (a) IN GENERAL.—Subsection (b) of section Sec. 6004. Evaluation of additional actions for TITLE I—EDUCATION 3311 of title 38, United States Code, as amended verifying direct deposit informa- Subtitle A—Education Generally by section 105 of the Harry W. Colmery Veterans tion provided by veterans on ap- SEC. 1001. IMPROVEMENTS TO EDITH NOURSE Educational Assistance Act of 2017 (Public Law plications for veterans pension. ROGERS STEM SCHOLARSHIP PRO- 115–48), is further amended— Sec. 6005. Annual report on efforts of Depart- GRAM OF DEPARTMENT OF VET- (1) by redesignating paragraph (9) as para- ment of Veterans Affairs to ad- ERANS AFFAIRS. graph (11); and dress the financial exploitation of (a) CLARIFICATION AND EXPANSION OF ELIGI- (2) by inserting after paragraph (8) the fol- veterans receiving pension. BILITY.—Subsection (b)(4) of section 3320 of title lowing new paragraphs (9) and (10): Sec. 6006. Notice regarding fees charged in con- 38, United States Code, is amended— ‘‘(9) An individual who is the child or spouse nection with filing an application (1) in subparagraph (A)(i)— of a person who, on or after September 11, 2001, for veterans pension. (A) in the matter preceding subclause (I), by dies in line of duty while serving on duty other Sec. 6007. Outreach plan for educating vulner- inserting ‘‘, or a dual degree program that in- than active duty as a member of the Armed able veterans about potential fi- cludes such an undergraduate college degree,’’ Forces. nancial exploitation relating to after ‘‘undergraduate college degree’’; ‘‘(10) An individual who is the child or spouse the receipt of pension. (B) by striking subclause (IX); and of a member of the Selected Reserve who dies on

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7172 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 or after September 11, 2001, while a member of to or less than the rate the institution charges (2) in paragraph (1), by inserting ‘‘for a pe- the Selected Reserve from a service-connected for tuition and fees for residents of the State in riod of more than 30 days’’ after ‘‘active duty’’; disability.’’. which the institution is located. The Secretary and (b) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.—Title 38, shall disapprove a course of education provided (3) in paragraph (2), in the matter preceding United States Code, is amended as follows: by such an institution that does not provide the subparagraph (A), by inserting ‘‘for a period of (1) In section 3311(f), by striking ‘‘paragraph Secretary— more than 30 days’’ after ‘‘active duty’’. (8)’’ each place it appears and inserting ‘‘para- ‘‘(i) an initial explanation of such require- (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments made graphs (8), (9), and (10)’’. ments; and by subsection (a) shall take effect on August 1, (2) In section 3313(c)(1), by striking ‘‘(8), or ‘‘(ii) not later than 90 days after the date on 2022. which any such requirements change, the up- (9)’’ and inserting ‘‘(8), (9), (10), or (11)’’. SEC. 1010. VERIFICATION OF ENROLLMENT FOR (3) In section 3317(a), in the second sentence, dated requirements.’’. PURPOSES OF RECEIPT OF POST-9/11 by striking ‘‘paragraphs (1), (2), (8), and (9)’’ (b) APPLICATION.—The amendments made by EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE BENE- and inserting ‘‘paragraphs (1), (2), (8), (9), (10), this section shall apply with respect to a quar- FITS. and (11)’’. ter, semester, or term, as applicable, commencing (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 3313 of title 38, (4) In section 3320, as amended by section 1001 on or after August 1, 2021. United States Code, is amended by adding at the of this title, in subsection (c)(1)(B), by striking SEC. 1006. EXPANSION OF AUTHORITY FOR CER- end the following new subsection: ‘‘(8), or (9)’’ and inserting ‘‘(8), (9), (10), or TAIN QUALIFYING WORK-STUDY AC- ‘‘(l) VERIFICATION OF ENROLLMENT.—(1) The (11)’’. TIVITIES FOR PURPOSES OF THE Secretary shall require— EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE PRO- (5) In section 3322— GRAMS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF ‘‘(A) each educational institution to submit to (A) in subsection (e), by striking both ‘‘sec- VETERANS AFFAIRS TO INCLUDE the Secretary verification of each individual tions 3311(b)(8) and 3319’’ and inserting ‘‘section OUTREACH SERVICES PROVIDED who is enrolled in a course or program of edu- 3319 and paragraph (8), (9), or (10) of section THROUGH CONGRESSIONAL OF- cation at the educational institution and is re- 3311 of this title’’; FICES. ceiving educational assistance under this chap- (B) in subsection (f), by striking ‘‘section (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 3485(a)(4) of title 38, ter— 3311(b)(8)’’ and inserting ‘‘paragraph (8), (9), or United States Code, is amended by adding at the ‘‘(i) not later than such time as the Secretary (10) of section 3311 of this title’’; and end the following new subparagraph: determines reasonable after the date on which (C) in subsection (h)(2), by striking ‘‘either ‘‘(K) The following activities carried out at the individual is enrolled; and section 3311(b)(8) or chapter 35’’ and inserting the offices of Members of Congress for such ‘‘(ii) not later than such time as the Secretary ‘‘either chapter 35 or paragraph (8), (9), or (10) Members: determines reasonable after the last date on of section 3311’’. ‘‘(i) The distribution of information to mem- which a student is able to withdraw from the (c) APPLICABILITY DATE.—The amendments bers of the Armed Forces, veterans, and their course or program of education without penalty; made by this section shall take effect imme- dependents about the benefits and services and diately after the amendments made by section under laws administered by the Secretary and ‘‘(B) each individual who is enrolled in a 105 of the Harry W. Colmery Veterans Edu- other appropriate governmental and nongovern- course or program of education and is receiving cational Assistance Act of 2017 (Public Law 115– mental programs. educational assistance under this chapter to ‘‘(ii) The preparation and processing of papers 48) take effect and shall apply with respect to a submit to the Secretary verification of such en- and other documents, including documents to quarter, semester, or term, as applicable, com- rollment for each month during which the indi- assist in the preparation and presentation of mencing on or after August 1, 2021. vidual is so enrolled and receiving such edu- claims for benefits under laws administered by SEC. 1003. PERIOD FOR ELECTION TO RECEIVE cational assistance. the Secretary.’’. BENEFITS UNDER ALL-VOLUNTEER ‘‘(2) Verification under this subsection shall EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE PRO- (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendment made by subsection (a) shall take effect on August 1, be in an electronic form prescribed by the Sec- GRAM OF DEPARTMENT OF VET- retary. ERANS AFFAIRS. 2021. ‘‘(3) If an individual fails to submit the (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 3011 of title 38, SEC. 1007. RESTORATION OF ENTITLEMENT TO verification required under paragraph (1)(B) for United States Code, is amended— REHABILITATION PROGRAMS FOR two consecutive months, the Secretary may not (1) in subsection (c)(1), by striking ‘‘Any such VETERANS AFFECTED BY SCHOOL make a monthly stipend payment to the indi- election shall be made at the time the individual CLOSURE OR DISAPPROVAL. (a) ENTITLEMENT.—Section 3699 of title 38, vidual under this section until the individual initially enters on active duty as a member of United States Code, is amended by striking submits such verification.’’. the Armed Forces’’ and inserting ‘‘Any such ‘‘chapter 30,’’ each time it appears and inserting (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendment made election shall be made during the 90-day period ‘‘chapter 30, 31,’’. by subsection (a) shall take effect on August 1, beginning on the day that is 180 days after the (b) PAYMENT OF SUBSISTENCE ALLOWANCES.— 2021. date on which the individual initially enters ini- Section 3680(a)(2)(B) of title 38, United States tial training’’; and SEC. 1011. CLARIFICATION REGARDING THE DE- Code, is amended— PENDENTS TO WHOM ENTITLEMENT (2) in subsection (b)(1), by striking ‘‘that such (1) by inserting ‘‘or a subsistence allowance TO EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE MAY individual is entitled to such pay’’ and inserting described in section 3108’’ before ‘‘, during’’; BE TRANSFERRED UNDER THE POST ‘‘that begin after the date that is 270 days after and 9/11 EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE PRO- the date on which the individual initially enters (2) by inserting ‘‘or allowance’’ after ‘‘such a GRAM. initial training’’. stipend’’. (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 3319(c) of title 38, (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments made (c) CONFORMING AMENDMENT.—Section 7 of United States Code, is amended to read as fol- by subsection (a) shall take effect on the date the Student Veteran Coronavirus Response Act lows: that is two years after the date of the enactment of 2020 (134 Stat. 634; Public Law 116–140) is ‘‘(c) ELIGIBLE DEPENDENTS.— of this Act. hereby repealed. ‘‘(1) TRANSFER.—An individual approved to SEC. 1004. PHASE OUT OF ALL-VOLUNTEER EDU- (d) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments made transfer an entitlement to educational assist- CATIONAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM. by this section shall apply as if included in the ance under this section may transfer the indi- Subsection (a)(1)(A) of section 3011 of title 38, enactment of section 109 of the Harry W. vidual’s entitlement to an eligible dependent or United States Code, is amended by striking Colmery Veterans Educational Assistance Act of a combination of eligible dependents. ‘‘after June 30, 1985’’ and inserting ‘‘during the 2017 (Public Law 115–48; 131 Stat. 978). ‘‘(2) DEFINITION OF ELIGIBLE DEPENDENT.—For period beginning July 1, 1985, and ending Sep- SEC. 1008. TECHNICAL CORRECTION TO CLARIFY purposes of this subsection, the term ‘eligible de- tember 30, 2030’’. ELIGIBILITY FOR PARTICIPATION IN pendent’ has the meaning given the term ‘de- SEC. 1005. REQUIREMENTS FOR IN-STATE TUI- YELLOW RIBBON PROGRAM OF DE- pendent’ under subparagraphs (A), (I), and (D) TION. PARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS. of section 1072(2) of title 10.’’. (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 3679(c) of title 38, Section 3317(a) of title 38, United States Code, (b) APPLICABILITY.—The amendment made by United States Code, is amended— is amended— subsection (a) shall apply with respect to edu- (1) by striking ‘‘the full cost of established (1) in paragraph (2)(A), by striking ‘‘less than cational assistance payable under chapter 33 of charges (as specified in section 3313)’’ and in- three years before the date of enrollment in the title 38, United States Code, before, on, or after serting ‘‘the full cost of tuition and fees for a course concerned’’; and the date that is 90 days after the date of the en- (2) in paragraph (4)— program of education’’; and actment of this Act. (2) by striking ‘‘those established charges’’ (A) by striking ‘‘It shall’’ and inserting ‘‘(A) and inserting ‘‘such tuition and fees’’. SEC. 1012. EXPANSION OF REASONS FOR WHICH A It shall’’; and COURSE OF EDUCATION MAY BE DIS- (B) by adding at the end the following new SEC. 1009. CLARIFICATION OF EDUCATIONAL AS- APPROVED. SISTANCE FOR INDIVIDUALS WHO subparagraph: PURSUE AN APPROVED PROGRAM OF (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 3672(b)(2) of title 38, ‘‘(B) To the extent feasible, the Secretary EDUCATION LEADING TO A DEGREE United States Code, is amended— shall make publicly available on the internet WHILE ON ACTIVE DUTY. (1) in subparagraph (A)(i), by inserting or ‘‘or website of the Department a database explain- (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 3313(e) of title 38, (D)’’ after ‘‘subparagraph (C)’’; and ing any requirements described in subparagraph United States Code, is amended— (2) by adding at the end the following new (A) that are established by a public institution (1) in the heading, by inserting ‘‘FOR A PE- subparagraph: of higher learning for an individual to be RIOD OF MORE THAN 30 DAYS’’ after ‘‘ACTIVE ‘‘(D) A program that is described in subpara- charged tuition and fees at a rate that is equal DUTY’’; graph (A)(i) of this paragraph and offered by an

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7173

educational institution that is at risk of losing ‘‘(e) NOTICE OF GOVERNMENT ACTION.—(1)(A) (1) with respect to an educational institution, accreditation shall not be deemed to be approved If the Secretary receives notice described in the Secretary shall ensure the careful review for purposes of this chapter. For purposes of paragraph (2), or otherwise becomes aware of an of— this subparagraph, an educational institution is action or event described in paragraph (3), with ‘‘(A) to the extent possible, the action that at risk of losing accreditation if that edu- respect to an educational institution, the Sec- gave rise to such notice; and cational institution has received from the rel- retary shall transmit such notice or provide no- ‘‘(B) any other action against the educational evant accrediting agency or association a notice tice of such action or event to the State approv- institution by any Federal or State government described in section 3673(e)(2)(D) of this title.’’. ing agency for the State where the educational entity or by the educational institution’s (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments made institution is located by not later than 30 days accreditor. by subsection (a) shall take effect on August 1, after the date on which the Secretary receives ‘‘(7) In this subsection, the term ‘risk-based 2021. such notice or becomes aware of such action or survey’ means the risk-based survey developed SEC. 1013. OVERSIGHT OF EDUCATIONAL INSTI- event. under section 3673A of this title.’’. TUTIONS WITH APPROVED PRO- ‘‘(B) If a State approving agency receives no- GRAMS: RISK-BASED SURVEYS. (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendment made tice as described in paragraph (2), or otherwise by subsection (a) shall take effect on August 1, (a) RISK-BASED SURVEYS.— becomes aware of an action or event described (1) IN GENERAL.—Subchapter I of chapter 36, 2021. in paragraph (3), with respect to an educational United States Code, is amended by inserting institution, other than from the Secretary pur- SEC. 1015. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENT FOR AP- after section 3673 the following new section: PROVAL OF EDUCATIONAL INSTITU- suant to subparagraph (A) of this paragraph, ‘‘§ 3673A. Risk-based surveys TIONS FOR PURPOSES OF THE EDU- the State approving agency shall immediately CATIONAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS ‘‘(a) DEVELOPMENT REQUIRED.—The Sec- notify the Secretary. OF THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS retary, in partnership with State approving ‘‘(C) Not later than 60 days after the date on AFFAIRS. agencies, shall develop a searchable risk-based which a State approving agency receives notice (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 3675 of title 38, survey for oversight of educational institutions under subparagraph (A), receives notice as de- United States Code, is amended— with courses and programs of education ap- scribed in subparagraph (B), or becomes aware (1) in subsection (b), by adding at the end the proved under this chapter. as described in such subparagraph, as the case following new paragraph: ‘‘(b) SCOPE.—(1) The scope of the risk-based may be, regarding an educational institution, survey developed under subsection (a) shall be ‘‘(4) The educational institution is approved such State approving agency shall— and participates in a program under title IV of determined by the Secretary, in partnership ‘‘(i) complete a risk-based survey of such edu- with the State approving agency. the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070 cational institution; and et seq.) or the Secretary has waived the require- ‘‘(2) At a minimum the scope determined ‘‘(ii) provide the Secretary with— ment under this paragraph with respect to an under paragraph (1) shall include the following: ‘‘(I) a complete report on the findings of the ‘‘(A) Rapid increase in veteran enrollment. educational institution and submits to the Com- State approving agency with respect to the risk- ‘‘(B) Rapid increase in tuition and fees. mittee on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate and based survey completed under clause (i) and ‘‘(C) Complaints tracked and published with the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the House any actions taken as a result of such findings; the mechanism required by section 3698(b)(2) of Representatives notice of such waiver.’’. from students pursuing programs of education and ‘‘(II) any supporting documentation and per- (2) by adding at the end the following new with educational assistance furnished under subsection: laws administered by the Secretary, based on se- tinent records. ‘‘(2) Notice described in this paragraph is any ‘‘(d)(1) The Secretary shall submit to Congress verity or volume of the complaints. an annual report on any waivers issued pursu- ‘‘(D) Compliance with section 3680A(d)(1) of of the following: ant to subsection (b)(4) or section this title. ‘‘(A) Notice from the Secretary of Education ‘‘(E) Veteran completion rates. of an event under paragraph (3)(A). 3672(b)(2)(A)(i) of this title. ‘‘(F) Indicators of financial stability. ‘‘(B) Notice of an event under paragraph ‘‘(2) Each report submitted under paragraph ‘‘(G) Review of the advertising and recruiting (3)(B). (1) shall include, for the year covered by the re- practices of the educational institution, includ- ‘‘(C) Notice from a State of an action taken by port, the following: ing those by third-party contractors of the edu- that State under paragraph (3)(C). ‘‘(A) The name of each educational institution cational institution. ‘‘(D) Notice provided by an accrediting agency for which a waiver was issued. ‘‘(H) Matters for which the Federal Govern- or association of an action described in para- ‘‘(B) The justification for each such waiver. ment or a State Government brings an action in graph (3)(D) taken by that agency or associa- ‘‘(C) The total number of waivers issued.’’. a court of competent jurisdiction against an tion. (b) REQUIREMENT FOR APPROVAL OF STAND- educational institution, including matters in ‘‘(E) Notice that the Secretary of Education ARD COLLEGE DEGREE PROGRAMS.—Clause (i) of cases in which the Federal Government or the has placed the educational institution on provi- section 3672(b)(2)(A) of such title is amended to State comes to a settled agreement on such mat- sional certification status. read as follows: ters outside of the court. ‘‘(3) An action or event under this paragraph ‘‘(i) Except as provided in subparagraph (C) ‘‘(c) DATABASE.—The Secretary, in partner- is any of the following: or (D), an accredited standard college degree ship with the State approving agencies under ‘‘(A) The receipt by an educational institution this chapter, shall establish a database or use program offered at a public or not-for-profit of payments under the heightened cash moni- proprietary educational institution that— an existing system, as the Secretary considers toring level 2 payment method pursuant to sec- ‘‘(I) is accredited by an agency or association appropriate, to serve as a central repository for tion 487(c)(1)(B) of the Higher Education Act of recognized for that purpose by the Secretary of information required for or collected during site 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1094). Education; and visits for the risk-based survey developed under ‘‘(B) Punitive action taken by the Attorney subsection (a), so as to improve future oversight General, the Federal Trade Commission, or any ‘‘(II) is approved and participates in a pro- of educational institutions with programs of other Federal department or agency for mis- gram under title IV of the Higher Education Act education approved under this chapter.’’. conduct or misleading marketing practices that of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070 et seq.), unless the Sec- (2) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of sec- would violate the standards defined by the Sec- retary has waived the requirement to participate tions at the beginning of chapter 36 of such title retary of Veterans Affairs. in a program under title IV of the Higher Edu- is amended by inserting after the item relating ‘‘(C) Punitive action taken by a State against cation Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070 et seq.).’’. to section 3673 the following new item: an educational institution. (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments made ‘‘3673A. Risk-based surveys.’’. ‘‘(D) The loss, or risk of loss, by an edu- by subsections (a) and (b) shall take effect on (b) USE OF STATE APPROVING AGENCIES FOR cational institution of an accreditation from an August 1, 2021. OVERSIGHT ACTIVITIES.— accrediting agency or association, including no- SEC. 1016. CLARIFICATION OF ACCREDITATION (1) IN GENERAL.—Section 3673(d) of title 38, tice of probation, suspension, an order to show FOR LAW SCHOOLS FOR PURPOSES United States Code, is amended— cause relating to the educational institution’s OF THE EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE (A) by striking ‘‘may’’ and inserting ‘‘shall’’; academic policies and practices or to its finan- PROGRAMS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS. and cial stability, or revocation of accreditation. (B) by striking ‘‘compliance and risk-based ‘‘(E) The placement of an educational institu- (a) IN GENERAL.—Paragraphs (14)(B) and surveys’’ and inserting ‘‘a risk-based survey de- tion on provisional certification status by the (15)(B) of section 3676(c) of title 38, United veloped under section 3673A of this title’’. Secretary of Education. States Code, are each amended— (2) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendment made ‘‘(4) If a State approving agency disapproves (1) by striking ‘‘an accrediting agency’’ both by paragraph (1) shall take effect on October 1, or suspends an educational institution, the places it appears and inserting ‘‘a specialized 2022. State approving agency shall provide notice of accrediting agency for programs of legal edu- SEC. 1014. OVERSIGHT OF EDUCATIONAL INSTI- such disapproval or suspension to the Secretary cation’’; and TUTIONS SUBJECT TO GOVERNMENT (2) by inserting before the period the fol- ACTION FOR PURPOSES OF THE EDU- and to all other State approving agencies. CATIONAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS ‘‘(5) This subsection shall be carried out using lowing: ‘‘, from which recipients of law degrees OF THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS amounts made available pursuant to section from such accredited programs are eligible to sit AFFAIRS. 3674(a)(4) of this title as long as such amounts for a bar examination in any State’’. (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 3673 of title 38, remain available. (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments made United States Code, is amended by adding at the ‘‘(6) For each notice transmitted or provided by subsection (a) shall take effect on August 1, end the following new subsection: to a State approving agency under paragraph 2021.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7174 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 SEC. 1017. CLARIFICATION OF GROUNDS FOR DIS- ‘‘(ii) alert such individual of the potential eli- cy or the Secretary, when acting in the role of APPROVAL OF A COURSE FOR PUR- gibility of the individual for such financial aid the State approving agency, determines that an POSES OF THE EDUCATIONAL AS- before packaging or arranging student loans or educational institution is the subject of a nega- SISTANCE PROGRAMS OF THE DE- alternative financing programs for the indi- tive action made by the accrediting agency that PARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS. vidual. accredits the institution, including any of the (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 3679 of title 38, ‘‘(D) Maintain policies to— following: United States Code, is amended— ‘‘(i) prohibit the automatic renewal of a cov- (1) by inserting ‘‘(including failure to comply ‘‘(A) Accreditor sanctions. ered individual in courses and programs of edu- ‘‘(B) Accreditation probation. with a risk-based survey under this chapter or cation; and ‘‘(C) The loss of accreditation or candidacy secure an affirmation of approval by the appro- ‘‘(ii) ensure that each covered individual ap- for accreditation. priate State approving agency following the sur- proves of the enrollment of the individual in a ‘‘(4)(A) An action described in this subpara- vey)’’ after ‘‘requirements of this chapter’’; and course. graph is any of the following: (2) by adding at the end the following new ‘‘(E) Provide to a covered individual enrolled ‘‘(i) Submitting to the Secretary a rec- subsection: in a course of education at the educational in- ommendation that the Secretary publish a ‘‘(f) In this section, the term ‘risk-based sur- stitution with information regarding the re- warning on the internet website of the Depart- vey’ means a risk-based survey developed under quirements to graduate from such course, in- ment described in section 3698(c)(2) of this title, section 3673A(a) of this title.’’. cluding information regarding when required or such other similar internet website of the De- (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendment made classes will be offered and a timeline to grad- by subsection (a) shall take effect on August 1, partment, that describes how an educational in- uate. 2021. stitution is failing to meet a requirement under ‘‘(F) With respect to an accredited edu- paragraph (1), (2), or (3). SEC. 1018. REQUIREMENTS FOR EDUCATIONAL IN- cational institution, obtain the approval of the ‘‘(ii) Disapproving a course for purposes of STITUTIONS PARTICIPATING IN THE EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE PRO- accrediting agency for each new course or pro- this chapter. GRAMS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF gram of the institution before enrolling covered ‘‘(B)(i) The Secretary shall establish guide- VETERANS AFFAIRS. individuals in such courses or programs if the lines to ensure that the actions described in sub- (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 3679 of title 38, accrediting agency determines that such ap- paragraph (A) are applied in a proportional and United States Code, as amended by section 1017 proval is appropriate under the substantive uniform manner by State approving agencies, or of this title, is further amended by adding at the change requirements of the accrediting agency the Secretary when acting in the role of the end the following new subsection: regarding the quality, objectives, scope, or con- State approving agency. ‘‘(f)(1) Except as provided by paragraph (5), a trol of the institution. ‘‘(ii) Each State approving agency and the State approving agency, or the Secretary when ‘‘(G) Maintain a policy that— Secretary, when acting in the role of the State acting in the role of the State approving agency, ‘‘(i) ensures that members of the Armed approving agency, shall adhere to the guidelines shall take an action described in paragraph Forces, including the reserve components and established under clause (i). (4)(A) if the State approving agency or the Sec- the National Guard, who enroll in a course of ‘‘(C) The State approving agency, in consulta- retary, when acting in the role of the State ap- education at the educational institution may be tion with the Secretary, or the Secretary when proving agency, determines that an educational readmitted at such institution if such members acting in the role of the State approving agency, institution does not perform any of the fol- are temporarily unavailable or have to suspend may limit an action described in subparagraph lowing: such enrollment by reason of serving in the (A)(ii) to individuals not enrolled at the edu- ‘‘(A) Prior to the enrollment of a covered indi- Armed Forces; and cational institution before the period described vidual in a course of education at the edu- ‘‘(ii) otherwise accommodates such members in such subparagraph. cational institution, provide the individual with during short absences by reason of such service. ‘‘(5)(A) The Secretary may waive the require- a form that contains information personalized to ‘‘(H) Designate an employee of the edu- ments of paragraph (1) or waive the require- the individual that describes— cational institution to serve as a point of con- ments of paragraph (2) with respect to an edu- ‘‘(i) the estimated total cost of the course, in- tact for covered individuals and the family of cational institution for a 1-academic-year period cluding tuition, fees, books, supplies, and any such individuals needing assistance with respect beginning in August of the year in which the other additional costs; to academic counseling, financial counseling, waiver is made. A single educational institution ‘‘(ii) an estimate of the cost for living expenses disability counseling, and other information re- may not receive waivers under this paragraph for students enrolled in the course; garding completing a course of education at for more than 2 consecutive academic years. ‘‘(iii) the amount of the costs under clauses (i) such institution, including by referring such in- ‘‘(B) To be considered for a waiver under this and (ii) that are covered by the educational as- dividuals and family to the appropriate persons paragraph, an educational institution shall sub- sistance provided to the individual under chap- for such counseling and information. mit to the Secretary an application prior to the ter 30, 31, 32, 33, or 35 of this title, or chapter ‘‘(2) Except as provided by paragraph (5), a first day of the academic year for which the 1606 or 1607 of title 10, as the case may be; State approving agency, or the Secretary when waiver is sought. ‘‘(iv) the type and amount of Federal finan- acting in the role of the State approving agency, ‘‘(6) Not later than October 1 of each year, the cial aid not administered by the Secretary and shall take an action described in paragraph Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Vet- financial aid offered by the institution that the (4)(A) if the State approving agency, the Sec- erans’ Affairs of the Senate and the Committee individual may qualify to receive; retary, or any Federal agency, determines that on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of Representa- ‘‘(v) an estimate of the amount of student an educational institution does any of the fol- tives the following reports: loan debt the individual would have upon grad- lowing: ‘‘(A) A report, which shall be made publicly uation; ‘‘(A) Carries out deceptive or persistent re- available, that includes the following: ‘‘(vi) information regarding graduation rates; cruiting techniques, including on military in- ‘‘(i) A summary of each action described in ‘‘(vii) job-placement rates for graduates of the stallations, that may include— paragraph (4)(A) made during the year covered course, if available; ‘‘(i) misrepresentation (as defined in section by the report, including— ‘‘(viii) information regarding the acceptance 3696(e)(2)(B) of this title) or payment of incen- ‘‘(I) the name of the educational institution; by the institution of transfer of credits, includ- tive compensation; ‘‘(II) the type of action taken; ing military credits; ‘‘(ii) during any 1-month period making three ‘‘(III) the rationale for the action, including ‘‘(ix) any conditions or additional require- or more unsolicited contacts to a covered indi- how the educational institution was not in com- ments, including training, experience, or exami- vidual, including contacts by phone, email, or pliance with this subsection; nations, required to obtain the license, certifi- in-person; or ‘‘(IV) the length of time that the educational cation, or approval for which the course of edu- ‘‘(iii) engaging in same-day recruitment and institution was not in such compliance; and cation is designed to provide preparation; and registration. ‘‘(V) whether the educational institution was ‘‘(x) other information to facilitate comparison ‘‘(B) Pays inducements, including any gra- also not in compliance with this subsection dur- by the individual of aid packages offered by dif- tuity, favor, discount, entertainment, hospi- ing any of the 2 years prior to the year covered ferent educational institutions. tality, loan, transportation, lodging, meals, or by the report. ‘‘(B) Not later than 15 days after the date on other item having a monetary value of more ‘‘(ii) A summary and justifications for the which the institution (or the governing body of than a de minimis amount, to any individual or waivers made under paragraph (5) during the the institution) determines tuition rates and fees entity, or its agents including third party lead year covered by the report, including the total for an academic year that is different than the generators or marketing firms other than sala- number of waivers each educational institution amount being charged by the institution, pro- ries paid to employees or fees paid to contractors has received. vide a covered individual enrolled in a course of in conformity with all applicable laws for the ‘‘(B) A report containing the recommendations education at the educational institution with purpose of securing enrollments of covered indi- of the Secretary with respect to any legislative the form under subparagraph (A) that contains viduals or obtaining access to educational as- actions the Secretary determines appropriate to updated information. sistance under this title, with the exception of ensure that this subsection is carried out in a ‘‘(C) Maintain policies to— scholarships, grants, and tuition reductions pro- manner that is consistent with the requirements ‘‘(i) inform each covered individual enrolled in vided by the educational institution. that educational institutions must meet for pur- a course of education at the educational institu- ‘‘(3) A State approving agency, or the Sec- poses of other departments or agencies of the tion of the availability of Federal financial aid retary when acting in the role of the State ap- Federal Government. not administered by the Secretary and financial proving agency, shall take an action described ‘‘(7) In this subsection, the term ‘covered indi- aid offered by the institution; and in paragraph (4)(A) if the State approving agen- vidual’ means an individual who is pursuing a

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7175 course of education at an educational institu- ‘‘(II) to receive, to apply to take, or to take an ‘‘(i) the relationship of the institution with tion under chapter 30, 31, 32, 33, or 35 of this examination required to receive a local, State, or any organization, employment agency, or other title, or chapter 1606 or 1607 of title 10.’’. Federal license, or a nongovernmental certifi- agency providing authorized training leading (b) APPLICATION DATE.—The amendment cation required as a precondition for employ- directly to employment; made by this section shall take effect on June ment, or to perform certain functions in the ‘‘(ii) the plans of the institution to maintain a 15, 2021, and shall apply to an educational insti- States in which the educational program is of- placement service for graduates or otherwise as- tution beginning on August 1, 2021, except that fered, or to meet additional conditions that the sist graduates to obtain employment; an educational institution may submit an appli- institution knows or reasonably should know ‘‘(iii) the knowledge of the institution about cation for a waiver under subsection (f)(5) of are generally needed to secure employment in a the current or likely future conditions, com- section 3679 of title 38, United States Code, as recognized occupation for which the program is pensation, or employment opportunities in the added by subsection (a), beginning on June 15, represented to prepare students; industry or occupation for which the students 2021. ‘‘(v) the requirements for successfully com- are being prepared; SEC. 1019. OVERPAYMENTS TO ELIGIBLE PER- pleting the course of study or program and the ‘‘(iv) job market statistics maintained by the SONS OR VETERANS. circumstances that would constitute grounds for Federal Government in relation to the potential (a) IN GENERAL.—Subsection (b) of section terminating the student’s enrollment; placement of the graduates of the institution; 3685 of title 38, United States Code, is amended ‘‘(vi) whether the courses of education at the and to read as follows: institution are recommended or have been the ‘‘(v) other requirements that are generally ‘‘(b) Any overpayment to a veteran or eligible subject of unsolicited testimonials or endorse- needed to be employed in the fields for which person with respect to pursuit by the veteran or ments by— the training is provided, such as requirements eligible person of a program of education at an ‘‘(I) vocational counselors, high schools, col- related to commercial driving licenses or permits educational institution shall constitute a liabil- leges, educational organizations, employment to carry firearms, and failing to disclose factors ity of the educational institution to the United agencies, members of a particular industry, stu- that would prevent an applicant from quali- States if— dents, former students, or others; or fying for such requirements, such as prior crimi- ‘‘(1) the Secretary finds that the overpayment ‘‘(II) officials of a local or State government nal records or preexisting medical conditions. has been made as the result of— or the Federal Government; ‘‘(2) In this subsection: ‘‘(A) the willful or negligent failure of an edu- ‘‘(vii) the size, location, facilities, or equip- ‘‘(A) The term ‘misleading statement’ includes cational institution to report, as required under ment of the institution; any communication, action, omission, or intima- this chapter or chapter 34 or 35 of this title, to ‘‘(viii) the availability, frequency, and appro- tion made in writing, visually, orally, or the Department of Veterans Affairs excessive ab- priateness of the courses of education and pro- through other means, that has the likelihood or sences from a course, or discontinuance or inter- grams to the employment objectives that the in- tendency to mislead the intended recipient of ruption of a course by the veteran or eligible stitution states the courses and programs are de- the communication under the circumstances in person; or signed to meet; which the communication is made. Such term ‘‘(B) the willful or negligent false certification ‘‘(ix) the nature, age, and availability of the includes the use of student endorsements or by an educational institution; or training devices or equipment of the institution testimonials for an educational institution that ‘‘(2) the benefit payment sent to an edu- and the appropriateness to the employment ob- a student gives to the institution either under cational institution on behalf of an eligible vet- jectives that the institution states the courses duress or because the institution required the eran or person is made pursuant to— and programs are designed to meet; student to make such an endorsement or testi- ‘‘(A) section 3313(h) of this title; ‘‘(x) the number, availability, and qualifica- monial to participate in a program of education. ‘‘(B) section 3317 of this title; or tions, including the training and experience, of ‘‘(B) The term ‘misrepresentation’ means any ‘‘(C) section 3680(d) of this title; or the faculty and other personnel of the institu- false, erroneous, or misleading statement, ac- ‘‘(D) section 3320(d) of this title.’’. tion; tion, omission, or intimation made directly or in- (b) CLARIFYING AMENDMENT.—Subsection (a) ‘‘(xi) the availability of part-time employment directly to a student, a prospective student, the of such section is further amended by inserting or other forms of financial assistance; public, an accrediting agency, a State agency, ‘‘(xii) the nature and availability of any tuto- ‘‘relating to educational assistance under a law or to the Secretary by an eligible institution, one rial or specialized instruction, guidance and administered by the Secretary’’ after ‘‘made to a of its representatives, or any person with whom counseling, or other supplementary assistance veteran or eligible person’’. the institution has an agreement to provide edu- the institution will provide students before, dur- SEC. 1020. IMPROVEMENTS TO LIMITATION ON cational programs, marketing, advertising, re- ing, or after the completion of a course of edu- CERTAIN ADVERTISING, SALES, AND cruiting or admissions services. ENROLLMENT PRACTICES. cation; ‘‘(C) The term ‘substantial misrepresentation’ ‘‘(xiii) the nature or extent of any pre- (a) PROHIBITION ON SUBSTANTIAL MISREPRE- means misrepresentation in which the person to requisites established for enrollment in any SENTATION.— whom it was made could reasonably be expected course of education; (1) IN GENERAL.—Section 3696 of title 38, to rely, or has reasonably relied, to that per- ‘‘(xiv) the subject matter, content of the United States Code, is amended to read as fol- son’s detriment. course of education, or any other fact related to lows: ‘‘(c) LIMITATION ON CERTAIN COMMISSIONS, the degree, diploma, certificate of completion, or ‘‘§ 3696. Prohibition on certain advertising, BONUSES, AND OTHER INCENTIVE PAYMENTS.— any similar document that the student is to be, sales, and enrollment practices An educational institution with a course or pro- or is, awarded upon completion of the course of gram of education approved under this chapter, ‘‘(a) PROHIBITION ON ENGAGING IN SUBSTAN- education; and TIAL MISREPRESENTATION.—An educational in- ‘‘(xv) whether the degree that the institution and an entity that owns such an educational stitution with a course or program of education will confer upon completion of the course of institution, shall not provide any commission, approved under this chapter, and an entity that education has been authorized by the appro- bonus, or other incentive payment based directly owns such an educational institution, shall not priate State educational agency, including with or indirectly on success in securing enrollments engage in substantial misrepresentation de- respect to cases where the institution fails to or financial aid to any persons or entities en- scribed in subsection (b). disclose facts regarding the lack of such author- gaged in any student recruiting or admission ac- ‘‘(b) SUBSTANTIAL MISREPRESENTATION DE- ization in any advertising or promotional mate- tivities or in making decisions regarding the SCRIBED.—(1) Substantial misrepresentation de- rials that reference such degree. award of student financial assistance. scribed in this paragraph is substantial mis- ‘‘(B) The financial charges of the institution, ‘‘(d) REQUIREMENT TO MAINTAIN RECORDS.— representation by an educational institution, a including misrepresentation regarding— (1) To ensure compliance with this section, any representative of the institution, or any person ‘‘(i) offers of scholarships to pay all or part of educational institution offering courses ap- with whom the institution has an agreement to a course charge; proved for the enrollment of eligible persons or provide educational programs, marketing, ad- ‘‘(ii) whether a particular charge is the cus- veterans shall maintain a complete record of all vertising, recruiting or admissions services, con- tomary charge at the institution for a course; advertising, sales, or enrollment materials (and cerning any of the following: ‘‘(iii) the cost of the program and the refund copies thereof) utilized by or on behalf of the in- ‘‘(A) The nature of the educational program policy of the institution if the student does not stitution during the preceding two-year period. of the institution, including misrepresentation complete the program; Such record shall be available for inspection by regarding— ‘‘(iv) the availability or nature of any finan- the State approving agency or the Secretary. ‘‘(i) the particular type, specific source, or na- cial assistance offered to students, including a ‘‘(2) Such materials shall include but are not ture and extent, of the accreditation of the insti- student’s responsibility to repay any loans, re- limited to any direct mail pieces, brochures, tution or a course of education at the institu- gardless of whether the student is successful in printed literature used by sales persons, films, tion; completing the program and obtaining employ- video tapes, and audio tapes disseminated ‘‘(ii) whether a student may transfer course ment; and through broadcast media, material disseminated credits to another institution; ‘‘(v) the student’s right to reject any par- through print, digital, or electronic media, tear ‘‘(iii) conditions under which the institution ticular type of financial aid or other assistance, sheets, leaflets, handbills, fliers, and any sales will accept transfer credits earned at another or whether the student must apply for a par- or recruitment manuals used to instruct sales institution; ticular type of financial aid, such as financing personnel, agents, or representatives of such in- ‘‘(iv) whether successful completion of a offered by the institution. stitution. course of instruction qualifies a student— ‘‘(C) The employability of the graduates of the ‘‘(e) AGREEMENT WITH FEDERAL TRADE COM- ‘‘(I) for acceptance to a labor union or similar institution, including misrepresentation regard- MISSION.—(1) The Secretary shall, pursuant to organization; or ing— section 3694 of this title, enter into an agreement

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7176 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 with the Federal Trade Commission to utilize, ‘‘(C) The process established under subpara- this paragraph until reinstatement under sub- where appropriate, its services and facilities, graph (A) shall not prohibit a State approving section (j). consistent with its available resources, in car- agency from— ‘‘(D) Subject to subsection (i), any third viola- rying out investigations and making the Under ‘‘(i) independently investigating a potential tion within three years of the second violation Secretary of Benefit’s preliminary findings violation of subsection (a), (c), or (d); or of this section shall result in revocation of ap- under subsection (g)(1). ‘‘(ii) taking action if the State approving proval under this chapter as described in sub- ‘‘(2) Such agreement shall provide that cases agency finds a violation of subsection (a), (c), or paragraph (A)(iii) of this paragraph until rein- arising under subsection (a) of this section or (d). statement under subsection (j). any similar matters with respect to any of the ‘‘(3) Upon a preliminary finding under this ‘‘(E) Any action taken under subparagraph requirements of this chapter or chapters 34 and subsection of a violation of subsection (a), (c), (A) of this paragraph regarding a violation of 35 of this title may be referred to the Federal or (d) by an educational institution, or the subsection (a), (c), or (d) by an educational in- Trade Commission which in its discretion will owner of an educational institution, the Under stitution or the owner of an educational institu- conduct an investigation and make preliminary Secretary shall require the educational institu- tion shall be taken on or before the date that is findings. tion or owner to submit to the Under Secretary 180 days after the date on which the Under Sec- ‘‘(3) The findings and results of any investiga- a report prepared by an approved third-party retary provided notice to the educational insti- tion under paragraph (2) shall be referred to the auditor of the advertising and enrollment prac- tution or owner regarding the violation in ac- Under Secretary for Benefits, who shall take ap- tices of the educational institution or owner. cordance with the process established under propriate action under subsection (g) in such ‘‘(4)(A) Before making a final determination subsection (g)(2)(B)(iii). ‘‘(2) The factors set forth in this paragraph cases not later than 60 days after the date of under this subsection regarding a violation of subsection (a), (c), or (d) by an educational in- are the following: such referral. ‘‘(A) That the Secretary’s action brings suffi- stitution or owner of an educational institution, ‘‘(f) FINAL JUDGMENTS FROM OTHER FEDERAL cient deterrence for future fraud against stu- AGENCIES.—Whenever the Secretary becomes the Under Secretary shall— ‘‘(i) review the practices of the educational in- dents and the programs of education carried out aware of a final judgment by a Federal agency under this title. Fraud against veterans must be stitution or owner that pertain to activities and against an educational institution or owner of met with a repercussion strong enough to send practices covered by subsections (a), (c), and an educational institution pertaining to sub- a deterrent message to this and other edu- (d); stantial misrepresentation described in sub- cational institutions and owners. ‘‘(ii) consider the results of a risk-based sur- section (b) or of other credible evidence relating ‘‘(B) That the educational institution has se- vey conducted by a State approving agency, if to a violation of subsection (a), the Secretary, in cured an approved third-party auditor to verify partnership with the applicable State approving available; and the educational institution’s, or owner’s, adver- ‘‘(iii) review— agency, shall— tising and enrollment practices for at least three ‘‘(I) the findings and information received ‘‘(1) within 30 days, alert the educational in- years going forward. stitution or owner that it is at risk of losing ap- pursuant to the processes established under ‘‘(C) That the educational institution or proval under this chapter of its courses or pro- paragraph (2)(B)(iii); owner has repudiated the deceptive practices grams of education; ‘‘(II) in a case in which a report was sub- and has communicated to all employees that de- mitted under subsection (f)(3), such report; ‘‘(2) provide the educational institution or ceptive practices will not be tolerated, and has ‘‘(III) the report submitted under paragraph owner 60 days to provide any information it instituted strong governance procedures to pre- (3)(B) of this subsection; wishes to the Secretary; vent recurrence. ‘‘(IV) any findings and results submitted ‘‘(3) require the educational institution or ‘‘(D) That the educational institution has under subsection (e)(3); owner to submit to the Secretary a report pre- taken steps to remove any pressure on its enroll- ‘‘(V) the marketing and outreach material of ment recruiters, including by removing enroll- pared by an approved third-party auditor of the the educational institution and the contractors advertising and enrollment practices of the edu- ment quotas and incentives for enrollment. of the educational institution. ‘‘(E) That the State approving agency or the cational institution or owner; and ‘‘(B) The Under Secretary may not make a ‘‘(4) refer the matter to the Under Secretary of Secretary acting in the role of the State approv- final determination under this subsection solely ing agency, has completed a risk-based survey Benefits, who may thereafter make a prelimi- based on preliminary findings. nary finding under subsection (g). and determined the educational institution is ‘‘(5) The Under Secretary may not delegate worthy of serving eligible veterans and eligible ‘‘(g) PRELIMINARY FINDINGS, FINAL DETER- authority to make a final determination under persons. MINATIONS, AND PROCESSES.—(1) The Under Sec- this subsection, including to any employee of ‘‘(3) Enforcement action under this section retary for Benefits shall make preliminary find- the Department or to the Federal Trade Commis- shall not preclude enforcement action under sec- ings and final determinations on violations of sion. tion 3690 of this title. subsections (a), (c), and (d). ‘‘(h) ENFORCEMENT.—(1)(A) Upon a final de- ‘‘(4) No action may be carried out under this ‘‘(2)(A) The Under Secretary shall establish a termination by the Under Secretary for Benefits subsection with respect to a final determination process for making preliminary findings and under subsection (g) that an educational insti- by the Under Secretary under subsection (g) final determinations under paragraph (1). tution or the owner of an educational institu- while such final determination is pending re- ‘‘(B) The process established under subpara- tion violated subsection (a), (c), or (d), the view under subsection (i). graph (A) shall— Under Secretary shall, but subject to subpara- ‘‘(i) APPEALS.—(1) The Secretary shall estab- ‘‘(i) clearly define what triggers an oversight graphs (B), (C), and (D) of this paragraph, take lish a process by which an educational institu- visit by the Under Secretary for purposes of en- one of the following actions independent of any tion or the owner of an educational institution forcing subsections (a), (c), and (d); actions taken under section 3690 of this title: that is the subject of more than one final deter- ‘‘(ii) set forth factors an educational institu- ‘‘(i) Publish a caution flag on the GI Bill mination by the Under Secretary under sub- tion, or the owner of the educational institu- Comparison Tool, or successor tool, about that section (g)(1) that the educational institution or tion, must meet in order to retain approval sta- educational institution and alert its currently owner violated subsection (a), may request a re- tus under this section, including with respect to enrolled eligible veterans and eligible persons. view of the most recent final determination. the factors set forth under subsection (h)(2); ‘‘(ii) Suspend the approval of the courses and ‘‘(2)(A) The Secretary shall— ‘‘(iii) include a process for the provision of no- programs of education offered by the edu- ‘‘(i) review each final determination for which tice to an educational institution, or the owner cational institution by disapproving new enroll- a review is requested under paragraph (1); and ‘‘(ii) pursuant to such review, issue a final de- of the educational institution, that the Under ments of eligible veterans and eligible persons in cision sustaining, modifying, or overturning the Secretary has made a preliminary finding under each course or program of education offered by paragraph (1) that the education institution or final determination. that educational institution. ‘‘(B) The Secretary may not delegate any de- owner has violated subsection (a), (c), or (d), ‘‘(iii) Revoke the approval of the courses and which the Under Secretary shall provide to the cision under subparagraph (A). programs of education offered by the edu- ‘‘(C)(i) Review under subparagraph (A)(i) of educational institution or owner within such cational institution by disapproving all enroll- this paragraph shall be the exclusive avenue for period after making the preliminary finding as ments of eligible veterans and eligible persons in review of a final determination under subsection the Under Secretary shall establish for purposes each course or program of education offered by (g)(1). of this clause, except that, in every case, such that educational institution. ‘‘(ii) A decision issued pursuant to a review period shall end before the date on which the ‘‘(B) In deciding upon a course of action under subparagraph (A)(i) may not be appealed Under Secretary makes a final determination under subparagraph (A), for the first violation to the Secretary for review under section 7104(a) under such paragraph; and of this section, the Secretary shall consider the of this title. ‘‘(iv) include— factors set forth in paragraph (2). ‘‘(3)(A) Not later than 30 days after the date ‘‘(I) a process for receipt of findings from a ‘‘(C) Subject to subsection (i), any repeat vio- on which the Secretary issues a final decision third-party pertinent to this section; and lation and final finding within five years of the under paragraph (2)(A)(ii), the Secretary shall ‘‘(II) a process for an educational institution first violation of this section shall result in— submit to Congress a report on such final deci- or an owner to provide such information as the ‘‘(i) a suspension of approval of new enroll- sion. educational institution or owner determines ap- ments as described in subparagraph (A)(ii) of ‘‘(B) A report submitted under subparagraph propriate to the Secretary, including informa- this paragraph until reinstatement under sub- (A) shall include the following: tion about corrective actions the educational in- section (j); or ‘‘(i) An outline of the decisionmaking process stitution or owner may have taken in response ‘‘(ii) a revocation of approval under this of the Secretary that led to the final decision de- to preliminary findings under paragraph (1). chapter as described in subparagraph (A)(iii) of scribed in subparagraph (A).

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7177

‘‘(ii) Any relevant material used to make the (c) APPLICATION DATE.—The amendments SEC. 1023. AUTHORITY OF STATE APPROVING final decision under paragraph (2)(A)(ii), in- made by this section shall take effect on August AGENCIES TO CONDUCT OUTREACH cluding risk-based surveys and documentation 1, 2021. ACTIVITIES. from the educational institution or the owners SEC. 1021. CHARGE TO ENTITLEMENT TO EDU- Section 3673 of title 38, United States Code, as of the educational institution. CATIONAL ASSISTANCE FOR INDI- amended by section 1014 of this title, is further ‘‘(iii) Materials that were submitted to the VIDUALS WHO DO NOT TRANSFER amended by adding at the end the following Secretary after the date of the final determina- CREDITS FROM CERTAIN CLOSED OR new subsection: tion under subsection (g) that was the subject of DISAPPROVED PROGRAMS OF EDU- ‘‘(f) OUTREACH ACTIVITIES.—(1) A State ap- CATION. the final decision under paragraph (2)(A)(ii) of proving agency may conduct outreach activities (a) IN GENERAL.—Subsection (c) of section this subsection and before the date on which the if— 3699 of title 38, United States Code, is amended ‘‘(A) the State approving agency has properly Secretary issued such final decision. to read as follows: conducted its enforcement and approval of ‘‘(j) REINSTATEMENT OF APPROVAL.—(1) If an ‘‘(c) PERIOD NOT CHARGED.—(1) The period courses and programs of education under this educational institution or the owner of an edu- for which, by reason of this subsection, edu- cational institution has had the approval of the chapter; and cational assistance is not charged against enti- ‘‘(B) funds are still available to do so. courses or programs of education of the edu- tlement or counted toward the applicable aggre- ‘‘(2) For purposes of paragraph (1)(A), a State cational institution suspended as described in gate period under section 3695 of this title shall approving agency shall be considered to have clause (ii) of subsection (h)(1)(A) or revoked as not exceed the aggregate of— properly conducted its enforcement and ap- described in clause (iii) of such subsection for a ‘‘(A) the portion of the period of enrollment in proval of courses and programs of education violation of subsection (a), (c), or (d) pursuant the course from which the individual did not re- under this chapter if the State approving agen- to subparagraph (C) or (D) of subsection (h)(1), ceive credit or with respect to which the indi- cy has— the educational institution or owner may submit vidual lost training time, as determined under ‘‘(A) met fulfilled its requirements pursuant to to the applicable State approving agency or the subsection (b)(2); and the applicable cooperative agreements between Secretary when acting as a State approving ‘‘(B) the period by which a monthly stipend is the State approving agency and the Department agency an application for reinstatement of ap- extended under section 3680(a)(2)(B) of this title. relating to the oversight and approval of courses proval under this subsection. ‘‘(2)(A) An individual described in subpara- and programs of education under this chapter; ‘‘(2) Approval under this chapter may not be graph (B) who transfers fewer than 12 credits and reinstated under this subsection until— from a program of education that is closed or ‘‘(B) completed a risk-based survey of any ‘‘(A) the educational institution or owner sub- disapproved as described in subsection (b)(1) course or program of education determined to be mits to the applicable State approving agency or shall be deemed to be an individual who did not of questionable quality or at risk by any Federal the Secretary when acting as a State approving receive such credits, as described in subsection or State agency or any accrediting agency. agency an application for reinstatement of ap- (b)(2), except that the period for which such in- ‘‘(3) Outreach activities conducted under proval under paragraph (1); dividual’s entitlement is not charged shall be paragraph (1) shall be carried out using ‘‘(B) the date that is 540 days after the date the entire period of the individual’s enrollment amounts derived from amounts not specifically of the most recent suspension or revocation de- in the program of education. In carrying out appropriated to carry out this subsection.’’. scribed in paragraph (1) of the educational in- this subparagraph, the Secretary, in consulta- SEC. 1024. LIMITATION ON COLOCATION AND AD- stitution or owner; tion with the Secretary of Education, shall es- MINISTRATION OF STATE APPROV- ‘‘(C) the educational institution submits a re- tablish procedures to determine whether the in- ING AGENCIES. port by an approved third-party auditor on the dividual transferred credits to a comparable (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 3671 of title 38, advertising and enrollment practices of the edu- course or program of education. United States Code, is amended by adding at the cational institution, including those of its third- ‘‘(B) An individual described in this subpara- end the following new subsection: party contractors; graph is an individual who is enrolled in a ‘‘(c) A State department or agency may not be ‘‘(D) procedures are in place to prevent any course or program of education closed or discon- recognized as a State approving agency des- future violation of subsection (a), (c), or (d); tinued as described in subsection (b)(1) during ignated under this section if such State depart- ‘‘(E) that the educational institution has met the period beginning on the date that is 120 ment or agency is administered at or colocated all factors set forth in subsection (h)(2); and days before the date of such closure or dis- with a university or university system whose ‘‘(F) the Secretary agrees to such reinstate- continuance and ending on the date of such clo- courses or programs of education would be sub- ment. sure or discontinuance, as the case may be. ject to approval under this chapter by the State ‘‘(k) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION REGARDING ‘‘(C) This paragraph shall apply with respect approving agency in that State.’’. STATE APPROVING AGENCIES AND RISK-BASED to a course or program of education closed or (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendment made SURVEYS.—Nothing in this section shall be con- discontinued before September 30, 2023.’’. by subsection (a) shall take effect on the date strued to prohibit a State approving agency (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendment made that is 180 days after the date of the enactment from conducting any risk-based survey the State by subsection (a) shall take effect on August 1, of this Act. approving agency considers appropriate at any 2021. SEC. 1025. ELIMINATION OF PERIOD OF ELIGI- educational institution that it considers appro- SEC. 1022. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS BILITY FOR TRAINING AND REHA- priate for oversight purposes. TREATMENT OF FOR-PROFIT EDU- BILITATION FOR CERTAIN VET- ‘‘(l) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: CATIONAL INSTITUTIONS CON- ERANS WITH SERVICE-CONNECTED ‘‘(1) The term ‘approved third-party auditor’ VERTED TO NONPROFIT EDU- DISABILITIES. means an independent third-party auditor that CATIONAL INSTITUTIONS. (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 3103 of title 38, is approved by the Secretary for purposes of (a) IN GENERAL.—Subchapter II of chapter 36 United States Code, is amended— third-party audits under this section. of title 38, United States Code, is amended by (1) in subsection (a), by striking ‘‘or (e)’’ and ‘‘(2) The term ‘risk-based survey’ means the adding at the end the following new section: inserting ‘‘(e), or (g)’’; and risk-based survey developed under section 3673A ‘‘§ 3699B. Treatment of certain for-profit edu- (2) by adding at the end the following new of this title.’’. cational institutions subsection: (2) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of sec- ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—In the case of any for-prof- ‘‘(g) Subsection (a) shall not apply to a vet- tions at the beginning of chapter 36 of such title it educational institution that is converted to a eran who was discharged or released from active is amended by striking the item relating to sec- nonprofit educational institution, the State ap- military, naval, or air service on or after Janu- tion 3696 and inserting the following new item: proving agency or the Secretary when acting as ary 1, 2013.’’. (b) CONFORMING AMENDMENT.—Section 6(c) of ‘‘3696. Prohibition on certain advertising, sales, a State approving agency shall conduct annual the Student Veteran Coronavirus Response Act and enrollment practices.’’. risk-based surveys of the institution during the of 2020 (134 Stat. 633; Public Law 116–140) is (b) REQUIREMENTS FOR NONACCREDITED three-year period beginning on the date on amended by striking paragraph (1). COURSES.—Paragraph (10) of section 3676(c) of which the educational institution is so con- such title is amended to read as follows: verted. Subtitle B—Pandemic Assistance ‘‘(10) The institution, and any entity that ‘‘(b) RISK-BASED SURVEY DEFINED.—In this SEC. 1101. DEFINITIONS. owns the institution, does not engage in sub- section, the term ‘risk-based survey’ means the In this subtitle: stantial misrepresentation described in section risk-based survey developed under section 3673A (1) COVERED PROGRAM OF EDUCATION.—The 3696(e) of this title. The institution shall not be of this title.’’. term ‘‘covered program of education’’ means a deemed to have met this requirement until the (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of sec- program of education (as defined in section 3002 State approving agency— tions at the beginning of such chapter is amend- of title 38, United States Code) approved by a ‘‘(A) has ascertained that no Federal depart- ed by inserting after the item relating to section State approving agency, or the Secretary of Vet- ment or agency has taken a punitive action, not 3699A the following new item: erans Affairs when acting in the role of a State including a settlement agreement, against the ‘‘3699B. Treatment of certain for-profit edu- approving agency. school for misleading or deceptive practices; cational institutions.’’. (2) COVID–19 EMERGENCY.—The term ‘‘(B) has, if such an order has been issued, (c) APPLICABILITY.—Section 3699B of title 38, ‘‘COVID–19 emergency’’ means the public given due weight to that fact; and United States Code, as added by subsection (a), health emergency declared pursuant to section ‘‘(C) has reviewed the complete record of ad- shall apply with respect to the conversion of a 319 of the Public Health Service Act on January vertising, sales, or enrollment materials (and for-profit educational institution to a nonprofit 31, 2020, entitled ‘‘Determination that a Public copies thereof) used by or on behalf of the insti- educational institution that occurs on or after Health Emergency Exists Nationwide as the Re- tution during the preceding 12-month period.’’. the date of the enactment of this Act. sult of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus’’.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7178 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020

(3) EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION.—The term gram of education in which the individual is en- (2) INDIVIDUAL DESCRIBED.—An individual de- ‘‘educational institution’’ has the meaning rolled during the period for which the indi- scribed in this paragraph is an individual who given that term in section 3452(c) of title 38, vidual received such assistance, any assistance is pursuing a course of education at an edu- United States Code, and includes an institution provided pursuant to this section shall not be cational institution under chapter 30, 31, 32, 33, of higher learning (as defined in such section). counted for purposes of determining the total or 35 of title 38, United States Code, or chapter (4) STATE APPROVING AGENCY.—The term amount of an individual’s entitlement to edu- 1606 of title 10, United States Code, as of the ‘‘State approving agency’’ has the meaning cational assistance, housing stipends, or pay- date on which the course is disapproved as de- given that term in section 3671 of title 38, United ments or subsistence allowances under chapters scribed in subsection (b)(1)(B). States Code. 30, 31, 32, and 35 of such title and chapter 1606 (f) STATUS AS FULL-TIME STUDENT FOR PUR- (5) TRAINING ESTABLISHMENT.—The term of title 10, United States Code. POSES OF HOUSING STIPEND CALCULATION.—In ‘‘training establishment’’ has the meaning given (e) APPLICABILITY PERIOD.—This section shall the case of an individual who, as of the first that term in section 3452(e) of title 38, United apply during the period beginning on March 1, day of the COVID–19 emergency was enrolled on States Code. 2020, and ending on December 21, 2021. a full-time basis in a program of education and (6) TRAINING.—The term ‘‘training’’ includes SEC. 1103. EFFECTS OF CLOSURE OF EDU- was receiving educational assistance under on-job training and apprenticeship programs CATIONAL INSTITUTION AND MODI- chapter 33 of title 38, United States Code, or and vocational rehabilitation programs. FICATION OF COURSES BY REASON subsistence allowance under chapter 31 of such SEC. 1102. CONTINUATION OF DEPARTMENT OF OF COVID–19 EMERGENCY. title, and for whom the Secretary makes a deter- VETERANS AFFAIRS EDUCATIONAL (a) CLOSURE OR DISAPPROVAL.—Any payment mination under subsection (b), the individual ASSISTANCE BENEFITS DURING of educational assistance described in subsection shall be treated as an individual enrolled in a COVID–19 EMERGENCY. (b) shall not— program of education on a full-time basis for the (a) AUTHORITY.—If the Secretary of Veterans (1) be charged against any entitlement to edu- purpose of calculating monthly housing stipends Affairs determines under subsection (c) that an cational assistance of the individual concerned; payable under chapter 33 of title 38, United individual is negatively affected by the COVID– or States Code, or subsistence allowance payable (2) be counted against the aggregate period for 19 emergency, the Secretary may provide edu- under chapter 31 of such title, for any month which section 3695 of title 38, United States cational assistance to that individual under the the individual is enrolled in the program of edu- Code, limits the receipt of educational assistance laws administered by the Secretary as if such cation on a part-time basis to complete any by such individual. negative effects did not occur. The authority course of education that was partially or fully under this section is in addition to the authority (b) EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE DESCRIBED.— Subject to subsection (d), the payment of edu- canceled by reason of the COVID–19 emergency. provided under section 1 of Public Law 116–128 (g) NOTICE OF CLOSURES.—Not later than 5 cational assistance described in this subsection (38 U.S.C. 3001 note prec.), but in no case may business days after the date on which the Sec- is the payment of such assistance to an indi- the Secretary provide more than a total of four retary receives notice that an educational insti- vidual for pursuit of a course or program of edu- weeks of additional educational assistance by tution will close or is closed by reason of the cation at an educational institution under reason of section 4 of the Student Veteran COVID–19 emergency, the Secretary shall pro- chapter 30, 31, 32, 33, or 35 of title 38, United Coronavirus Response Act of 2020 (Public Law vide to each individual who is enrolled in a States Code, or chapter 1606 of title 10, United 116–140; 38 U.S.C. 3680 note) and this section. course or program of education at such edu- States Code, if the Secretary determines that the (b) HOUSING AND ALLOWANCES.—In providing cational institution using entitlement to edu- individual— educational assistance to an individual pursu- cational assistance under chapter 30, 31, 32, 33, ant to subsection (a), the Secretary may— (1) was unable to complete such course or pro- gram as a result of— or 35 of title 38, United States Code, or chapter (1) continue to pay a monthly housing stipend 1606 of title 10, United States Code, notice of— under chapter 33 of title 38, United States Code, (A) the closure of the educational institution, or the full or partial cancellation of a course or (1) such closure and the date of such closure; during a month the individual would have been and enrolled in a program of education or training program of education, by reason of the COVID– 19 emergency; or (2) the effect of such closure on the individ- but for the COVID–19 emergency at the same ual’s entitlement to educational assistance pur- rate such stipend would have been payable if (B) the disapproval of the course or a course that is a necessary part of that program under suant to this section. the individual had not been negatively affected (h) APPLICABILITY.—This section shall apply by the COVID–19 emergency, except that the chapter 36 of title 38, United States Code, be- cause the course was modified by reason of such with respect to the closure of an educational in- total number of weeks for which stipends may stitution, or the cancellation or modification of continue to be so payable may not exceed four emergency; and (2) did not receive credit or lost training time, a course or program of education, that occurs weeks; and toward completion of the program of education during the period beginning on March 1, 2020, (2) continue to pay payments or subsistence being so pursued. and ending on December 21, 2021. allowances under chapters 30, 31, 32, 33, and 35 (c) HOUSING ASSISTANCE.—In this section, SEC. 1104. PAYMENT OF EDUCATIONAL ASSIST- of such title and chapter 1606 of title 10, United educational assistance includes, as applicable— ANCE IN CASES OF WITHDRAWAL. States Code, during a month for a period of time (1) monthly housing stipends payable under (a) IN GENERAL.—In the case of any indi- that the individual would have been enrolled in chapter 33 of title 38, United States Code, for vidual who withdraws from a program of edu- a program of education or training but for the any month the individual would have been en- cation or training, other than a program by cor- COVID–19 emergency, except that the total rolled in a course or program of education; and respondence, in an educational institution number of weeks for which payments or allow- (2) payments or subsistence allowances under under chapter 31, 34, or 35 of title 38, United ances may continue to be so payable may not chapters 30, 31, 32, and 35 of such title and States Code, for a covered reason during the pe- exceed four weeks. chapter 1606 of title 10, United States Code, dur- riod beginning on March 1, 2020, and ending on (c) DETERMINATION OF NEGATIVE EFFECTS.— ing a month the individual would have been en- December 21, 2021, the Secretary of Veterans Af- The Secretary shall determine that an indi- rolled in a course or program of education. fairs shall find mitigating circumstances for vidual was negatively affected by the COVID–19 (d) PERIOD NOT CHARGED.—The period for purposes of section 3680(a)(1)(C)(ii) of title 38, emergency if— which, by reason of this subsection, educational United States Code. (1) the individual is enrolled in a covered pro- assistance is not charged against entitlement or (b) COVERED REASON.—In this section, the gram of education of an educational institution counted toward the applicable aggregate period term ‘‘covered reason’’ means any reason re- or enrolled in training at a training establish- under section 3695 of title 38, United States lated to the COVID–19 emergency, including— ment and is pursuing such program or training Code, shall not exceed the aggregate of— (1) illness, quarantine, or social distancing re- using educational assistance under the laws ad- (1) the portion of the period of enrollment in quirements; ministered by the Secretary; the course from which the individual did not re- (2) issues associated with COVID–19 testing (2) the educational institution or training es- ceive credit or with respect to which the indi- accessibility; tablishment certifies to the Secretary that such vidual lost training time, as determined under (3) access or availability of childcare; program or training is truncated, delayed, relo- subsection (b)(2); and (4) providing care for a family member or co- cated, canceled, partially canceled, converted (2) the period by which a monthly stipend is habitants; from being on-site to being offered by distance extended under section 3680(a)(2)(B) of title 38, (5) change of location or residence due to learning, or otherwise modified or made un- United States Code. COVID–19 or associated school closures; available by reason of the COVID–19 emergency; (e) CONTINUING PURSUIT OF DISAPPROVED (6) employment changes or financial hardship; and COURSES.— and (3) the Secretary determines that the modifica- (1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary may treat a (7) issues associated with changes in format or tion to such program or training specified under course of education that is disapproved under medium of instruction. paragraph (2) would reduce the amount of edu- chapter 36 of title 38, United States Code, as SEC. 1105. MODIFICATION OF TIME LIMITATIONS cational assistance (including with respect to being approved under such chapter with respect ON USE OF ENTITLEMENT. monthly housing stipends, payments, or subsist- to an individual described in paragraph (2) if (a) MONTGOMERY GI BILL.—The subsection (i) ence allowances) that would be payable to the the Secretary determines, on a programmatic temporarily added to section 3031 of title 38, individual but for the COVID–19 emergency. basis, that— United States Code, by subsection (a) of section (d) EFFECT ON ENTITLEMENT PERIOD.—If the (A) such disapproval is the result of an action 6 of the Student Veteran Coronavirus Response Secretary determines that an individual who re- described in subsection (b)(1)(B); and Act of 2020 (Public Law 116–140) is amended— ceived assistance under this section did not (B) continuing pursuing such course is in the (1) in paragraph (1), by striking ‘‘the period make progress toward the completion of the pro- best interest of the individual. the individual is so prevented from pursuing

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7179

such program’’ and inserting ‘‘the period begin- (b) APPLICABILITY PERIOD.—The period de- FESSIONALS TO PERFORM MEDICAL DISABILITY ning on March 1, 2020, and ending on December scribed in this section is the period beginning on EXAMINATIONS FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF VET- 21, 2021’’; and March 1, 2020, and ending on December 21, 2021. ERANS AFFAIRS UNDER PILOT PROGRAM FOR USE (2) in paragraph (2), by striking ‘‘the first day SEC. 1107. INCLUSION OF TRAINING ESTABLISH- OF CONTRACT PHYSICIANS FOR DISABILITY EX- after the individual is able to resume pursuit of MENTS IN CERTAIN PROVISIONS RE- AMINATIONS.— a program of education with educational assist- LATED TO COVID–19 EMERGENCY. (1) IN GENERAL.—Subsection (c) of section 504 ance under this chapter’’ and inserting ‘‘Decem- (a) CONTINUATION OF BENEFITS.—Section 1 of of the Veterans’ Benefits Improvements Act of ber 22, 2021’’. Public Law 116–128 is amended— 1996 (Public Law 104–275; 38 U.S.C. 5101 note) is (b) VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION AND TRAIN- (1) in subsection (a), by inserting ‘‘or a train- amended to read as follows: ING.—The subsection (g) temporarily added to ing establishment’’ after ‘‘an educational insti- ‘‘(c) LICENSURE OF CONTRACT HEALTH CARE section 3103 of title 38, United States Code, by tution’’; and PROFESSIONALS.— subsection (c) of such section 6 is amended— (2) in subsection (c), by adding at the end the ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Notwithstanding any law regarding the licensure of health care profes- (1) in paragraph (1), by striking ‘‘the period following new paragraph: ‘‘(4) TRAINING ESTABLISHMENT.—The term sionals, a health care professional described in the individual is so prevented from participating ‘training establishment’ has the meaning given paragraph (2) may conduct an examination pur- such program’’ and inserting ‘‘the period begin- such term in section 3452(e) of title 38, United suant to a contract entered into under sub- ning on March 1, 2020, and ending on December States Code.’’. section (a) at any location in any State, the Dis- 21, 2021’’; and (b) PAYMENT OF ALLOWANCES.—Section 4(a)(1) trict of Columbia, or a Commonwealth, territory, (2) in paragraph (2), by striking ‘‘the first day of the Student Veteran Coronavirus Response or possession of the United States, so long as the after the individual is able to resume participa- Act of 2020 (Public Law 116–140; 38 U.S.C. 3680 examination is within the scope of the author- tion in such program’’ and inserting ‘‘December note) is amended by inserting ‘‘or a training es- ized duties under such contract. 22, 2021’’. tablishment’’ after ‘‘educational institution’’. ‘‘(2) HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL DESCRIBED.— SEC. 1106. APPRENTICESHIP OR ON-JOB TRAIN- (c) PROHIBITION OF CHARGE TO ENTITLE- A health care professional described in this ING REQUIREMENTS. MENT.—The subparagraph (C) temporarily paragraph is a physician, physician assistant, (a) IN GENERAL.—During the period described added to section 3699(b)(1) of title 38, United nurse practitioner, audiologist, or psychologist, in subsection (b), subsection (e) of section 3687 States Code, by section 5 of the Student Veteran who— of title 38, United States Code, shall be applied Coronavirus Response Act of 2020 (Public Law ‘‘(A) has a current unrestricted license to by substituting the following for paragraph (2): 116–140; 38 U.S.C. 3699 note) is amended by in- practice the health care profession of the physi- ‘‘(2)(A) Subject to subparagraphs (B) and (C), serting ‘‘or training establishment’’ after ‘‘edu- cian, physician assistant, nurse practitioner, for any month in which an individual fails to cational institution’’. audiologist, or psychologist, as the case may be; complete 120 hours of training, the entitlement (d) EXTENSION OF TIME LIMITATIONS.— ‘‘(B) is not barred from practicing such health otherwise chargeable under paragraph (1) shall (1) MGIB.—The subsection (i) temporarily care profession in any State, the District of Co- be reduced in the same proportion as the month- added to section 3031 of title 38, United States lumbia, or a Commonwealth, territory, or pos- ly training assistance allowance payable is re- Code, by subsection (a) of section 6 of the Stu- session of the United States; and duced under subsection (b)(3). dent Veteran Coronavirus Response Act of 2020 ‘‘(C) is performing authorized duties for the ‘‘(B) In the case of an individual who is un- (Public Law 116–140), as amended by section Department of Veterans Affairs pursuant to a employed during any month, the 120-hour re- 1105 of this title, is further amended by inserting contract entered into under subsection (a).’’. quirement under subparagraph (A) for that ‘‘or training establishment’’ after ‘‘educational (2) PURPOSE.—The purpose of the amendment month shall be reduced proportionately to re- institution’’. made by paragraph (1) is to expand the license flect the individual’s period of unemployment, (2) TRANSFER PERIOD.—The subparagraph (C) portability for physicians assistants, nurse prac- except that the amount of monthly training as- temporarily added to section 3319(h)(5) of such titioners, audiologists, and psychologists to sup- sistance otherwise payable to the individual title by section 6 of the Student Veteran plement the capacity of employees of the De- under subsection (b)(3) shall not be reduced. Coronavirus Response Act of 2020 (Public Law partment to provide medical examinations de- ‘‘(C) Any period during which an individual 116–140) is amended by inserting ‘‘or training es- scribed in subsection (b). is unemployed shall not— tablishment’’ after ‘‘educational institution’’. (3) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—The amendment ‘‘(i) be charged against any entitlement to SEC. 1108. TREATMENT OF PAYMENT OF ALLOW- made by paragraph (1) shall not be construed to educational assistance of the individual; or ANCES UNDER STUDENT VETERAN affect the license portability for physicians in ‘‘(ii) be counted against the aggregate period CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE ACT. effect under section 504(c) of such Act as in ef- for which section 3695 of this title limits the re- Section 4 of the Student Veteran Coronavirus fect on the day before the date of the enactment ceipt of educational assistance by such indi- Response Act of 2020 (Public Law 116–140) is of this Act. vidual. amended— (4) SUNSET.—On the date that is three years ‘‘(D) Any amount by which the entitlement of (1) in subsection (b)— after the date of the enactment of this Act, sub- (A) by striking ‘‘may not exceed four weeks.’’ an individual is reduced under subparagraph section (c) of such section shall read as it read and inserting ‘‘may not exceed the shorter of the (A) shall not— on the day before the date of the enactment of following:’’; and ‘‘(i) be charged against any entitlement to this Act. (B) by adding at the end the following new (b) TEMPORARY HALT ON ELIMINATION OF educational assistance of the individual; or paragraphs: MEDICAL EXAMINER POSITIONS IN DEPARTMENT ‘‘(ii) be counted against the aggregate period ‘‘(1) The period of time that the eligible vet- OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.—The Secretary of Vet- for which section 3695 of this title limits the re- eran or eligible person would have been enrolled erans Affairs shall temporarily suspend the ef- ceipt of educational assistance by such indi- in a program of education or training but for forts of the Secretary in effect on the day before vidual. the emergency situation. the date of the enactment of this Act to elimi- ‘‘(E) In the case of an individual who fails to ‘‘(2) Four weeks.’’; and nate medical examiner positions in the Depart- complete 120 hours of training during a month, (2) by adding at the end the following new ment of Veterans Affairs until the number of in- but who completed more than 120 hours of train- subsection: dividuals awaiting a medical examination with ing during the preceding month, the individual ‘‘(e) ENTITLEMENT NOT CHARGED.—Any pay- respect to medical disability of the individuals may apply the number of hours in excess of 120 ment of allowances under this section shall for benefits under laws administered by the Sec- that the individual completed for that month to not— retary that are carried out through the Under the month for which the individual failed to ‘‘(1) be charged against any entitlement to Secretary for Benefits is equal to or less than complete 120 hours. If the addition of such ex- educational assistance of the eligible veteran or the number of such individuals who were await- cess hours results in a total of 120 hours or eligible person concerned; or ing such a medical examination with respect to more, the individual shall be treated as an indi- ‘‘(2) be counted against the aggregate period such purposes on March 1, 2020. vidual who has completed 120 hours of training for which section 3695 of this title 38, United (c) REPORT ON PROVISION OF MEDICAL EXAMI- for that month. Any excess hours applied to a States Code, limits the receipt of educational as- NATIONS.— different month under this subparagraph may sistance by such eligible veteran or eligible per- (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 180 days after only be applied to one such month. son.’’. the date of the enactment of this Act, the Sec- ‘‘(F) This paragraph applies to amounts de- TITLE II—BENEFITS retary shall submit to the appropriate commit- scribed in section 3313(g)(3)(B)(iv) and section Subtitle A—Benefits Generally tees of Congress a report on the provision of 3032(c)(2) of this title and section 16131(d)(2) of SEC. 2001. REVISION OF DEFINITION OF VIETNAM medical examinations described in subsection (b) title 10. ERA FOR PURPOSES OF THE LAWS by the Department. ‘‘(G) In this paragraph: ADMINISTERED BY THE SECRETARY (2) CONTENTS.—The report submitted under ‘‘(i) The term ‘unemployed’ includes being fur- OF VETERANS AFFAIRS. paragraph (1) shall cover the following: loughed or being scheduled to work zero hours. Section 101(29)(A) of title 38, United States (A) How the Secretary will increase the capac- ‘‘(ii) The term ‘fails to complete 120 hours of Code, is amended by striking ‘‘February 28, ity, efficiency, and timeliness of physician as- training’ means, with respect to an individual, 1961’’ and inserting ‘‘November 1, 1955’’. sistants, nurse practitioners, audiologists, and that during any month, the individual com- SEC. 2002. MATTERS RELATING TO DEPARTMENT psychologists of the Veterans Health Adminis- pletes at least one hour, but fewer than 120 OF VETERANS AFFAIRS MEDICAL tration with respect to completing medical ex- hours, of training, including in a case in which DISABILITY EXAMINATIONS. aminations described in subsection (b). the individual is unemployed for part of, but not (a) TEMPORARY CLARIFICATION OF LICENSURE (B) The total number of full-time equivalent the whole, month.’’. REQUIREMENTS FOR CONTRACTOR MEDICAL PRO- employees among all physician assistants, nurse

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7180 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 practitioners, audiologists, and psychologists of a person whose name has been entered on the ‘‘(I) are administratively and actuarially needed for the increases described in subpara- Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard Medal sound for the insurance program under para- graph (A). of Honor Roll and a copy of whose certificate graph (1); and (C) An assessment regarding the importance of has been delivered to the Secretary under sec- ‘‘(II) will not result in such program operating retaining a critical knowledge base within the tion 1134a(d) of title 10. at a loss; and Department for performing medical examina- ‘‘(B) No special pension shall be paid to a sur- ‘‘(ii) publishes in the Federal Register, and tions for veterans filing claims for compensation viving spouse of a person under this section un- submits to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of under chapters 11 and 13 of title 38, United less such surviving spouse was married to such the Senate and the Committee on Veterans’ Af- States Code, including with respect to military person— fairs of the House of Representatives, such max- sexual trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, ‘‘(i) for one year or more prior to the veteran’s imum amount and determination. traumatic brain injury, and toxic exposure. death; or ‘‘(5)(A)(i) Insurance granted under this sec- (3) COLLABORATION.—The Secretary shall col- ‘‘(ii) for any period of time if a child was born tion shall be on a nonparticipating basis and all laborate with the veterans community and of the marriage, or was born to them before the premiums and other collections therefor shall be stakeholders in the preparation of the report re- marriage. credited directly to a revolving fund in the quired by paragraph (1). ‘‘(C) No special pension shall be paid to a sur- Treasury of the United States. ‘‘(ii) Any payments on such insurance shall be (4) APPROPRIATE COMMITTEES OF CONGRESS viving spouse of a person under this section if made directly from such fund. DEFINED.—In this subsection, the term ‘‘appro- such surviving spouse is receiving benefits under ‘‘(B)(i) The Secretary of the Treasury may in- priate committees of Congress’’ means— section 1311 or 1318 of this title.’’. vest in and sell and retire special interest-bear- (A) the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and (2) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.— ing obligations of the United States for the ac- the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate; (A) IN GENERAL.—Such section is amended— count of the revolving fund under subparagraph and (i) in subsection (d), by inserting ‘‘or married (A). (B) the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and to more than one person who has been awarded ‘‘(ii) Such obligations issued for that purpose the Committee on Appropriations of the House a medal of honor,’’ after ‘‘honor,’’; and (ii) in subsection (f)(1), by striking ‘‘this sec- shall— of Representatives. ‘‘(I) have maturities fixed with due regard for tion’’ and inserting ‘‘paragraph (1) of sub- (d) COMPTROLLER GENERAL OF THE UNITED the needs of the fund; and STATES REVIEW.— section (a), or under paragraph (2) of such sub- ‘‘(II) bear interest at a rate equal to the aver- (1) REVIEW REQUIRED.—Not later than 360 section in the case of a posthumous entry on the age market yield (computed by the Secretary of days after the date of the enactment of this Act, Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard Medal the Treasury on the basis of market quotations the Comptroller General of the United States of Honor Roll,’’. as of the end of the calendar month preceding shall commence a review of the implementation (B) SPECIAL PROVISIONS RELATING TO MAR- the date of issue) on all marketable interest- of the pilot program authorized under sub- RIAGES.—Section 103(d)(5) of such title is amend- bearing obligations of the United States then section (a) of section 504 of the Veterans’ Bene- ed by adding at the end the following new sub- forming a part of the public debt which are not fits Improvements Act of 1996 (Public Law 104– paragraph: due or callable until after the expiration of four 275; 38 U.S.C. 5101 note). ‘‘(E) Section 1562(a)(2), relating to Medal of years from the end of such calendar month; ex- (2) ELEMENTS.—The review conducted under Honor special pension.’’. cept that where such average market yield is not paragraph (1) shall include the following: (3) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments made a multiple of one-eighth of one per centum, the (A) An assessment of the use of subsection (c) by this subsection shall apply with respect to rate of interest of such obligation shall be the of section 504 of such Act, as amended by sub- payment of pension under section 1562 of title multiple of one-eighth of one per centum nearest section (a)(1) of this section. 38, United States Code, for months beginning such market yield. (B) Efforts to retain and recruit medical exam- after the date of the enactment of this Act. ‘‘(6)(A) Administrative support financed by iners as employees of the Department. SEC. 2004. MODERNIZATION OF SERVICE-DIS- the appropriations for ‘General Operating Ex- (C) Use of telehealth for medical examinations ABLED VETERANS INSURANCE. penses, Department of Veterans Affairs’ and described in subsection (b) that are administered (a) ESTABLISHMENT OF MODERNIZED PRO- ‘Information Technology Systems, Department by the Department. GRAM.— of Veterans Affairs’ for the insurance program (e) BRIEFING ON RECOMMENDATIONS OF COMP- (1) IN GENERAL.—Chapter 19 of title 38, United under paragraph (1) shall be paid from pre- TROLLER GENERAL OF THE UNITED STATES.—Not States Code, is amended by inserting after sec- miums credited to the fund under paragraph (5). later than 60 days after the date of the enact- tion 1922A the following new section: ‘‘(B) Such payment for administrative support ment of this Act, the Secretary shall provide to ‘‘§ 1922B. Service-disabled veterans insurance shall be reimbursed for that fiscal year from the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the Sen- ‘‘(a) INSURANCE.—(1) Beginning January 1, funds that are available on such insurance after ate and the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of 2023, the Secretary shall carry out a service-dis- claims have been paid. the House of Representatives a briefing on how abled veterans insurance program under which ‘‘(b) ELIGIBILITY.—A veteran is eligible to en- the Secretary will implement the recommenda- a veteran is granted insurance by the United roll in the insurance program under subsection tions of the Comptroller General of the United States against the death of such individual oc- (a)(1) if the veteran has a service-connected dis- States regarding— curring while such insurance is in force. ability, without regard to— (1) the monitoring of the training of providers ‘‘(2) The Secretary may only issue whole-life ‘‘(1) whether such disability is compensable of examinations pursuant to contracts under policies under the insurance program under under chapter 11 of this title; or ‘‘(2) whether the veteran meets standards of section 504 of the Veterans’ Benefits Improve- paragraph (1). good health required for other life insurance ments Act of 1996 (Public Law 104–275; 38 U.S.C. ‘‘(3) The Secretary may not grant insurance to policies. 5101 note); and a veteran under paragraph (1) unless— ‘‘(c) ENROLLMENT AND WAITING PERIOD.—(1) (2) ensuring such providers receive such train- ‘‘(A) the veteran submits the application for An eligible veteran may enroll in the insurance ing. such insurance before the veteran attains 81 program under subsection (a)(1) at any time. (f) HOLDING UNDERPERFORMING CONTRACT years of age; or MEDICAL EXAMINERS ACCOUNTABLE.—The Sec- ‘‘(2) The life insurance policy of a veteran ‘‘(B) with respect to a veteran who has at- who enrolls in the insurance program under retary shall take such actions as may be nec- tained 81 years of age— essary to hold accountable the providers of med- subsection (a)(1) does not go into force unless— ‘‘(i) the veteran filed a claim for compensation ‘‘(A) a period of two years elapses following ical examinations pursuant to contracts under under chapter 11 of this title before attaining section 504 of the Veterans’ Benefits Improve- the date of such enrollment; and such age; ‘‘(B) the veteran pays the premiums required ments Act of 1996 (Public Law 104–275; 38 U.S.C. ‘‘(ii) based on such claim, and after the vet- during such two-year period. 5101 note) who are underperforming in the meet- eran attained such age, the Secretary first de- ‘‘(3)(A) If a veteran dies during the two-year ing of the needs of veterans through the per- termines that the veteran has a service-con- period described in paragraph (2), the Secretary formance of medical examinations pursuant to nected disability; and shall pay to the beneficiary of the veteran the such contracts. ‘‘(iii) the veteran submits the application for amount of premiums paid by the veteran under SEC. 2003. MEDAL OF HONOR SPECIAL PENSION such insurance during the two-year period fol- this section, plus interest. FOR SURVIVING SPOUSES. lowing the date of such determination. ‘‘(B) The Secretary— (a) CODIFICATION OF CURRENT RATE OF SPE- ‘‘(4)(A) A veteran enrolled in the insurance ‘‘(i) for the initial year of the insurance pro- CIAL PENSION.—Subsection (a) of section 1562 of program under paragraph (1) may elect to be in- gram under subsection (a)(1)— title 38, United States Code, is amended by strik- sured in any of the following amounts: ‘‘(I) shall set such interest at a rate of one ing ‘‘$1,000’’ and inserting ‘‘$1,388.68’’. ‘‘(i) $10,000. percent; and (b) SPECIAL PENSION FOR SURVIVING ‘‘(ii) $20,000. ‘‘(II) may adjust such rate during such year SPOUSES.— ‘‘(iii) $30,000. based on program experience, except that the in- (1) SURVIVING SPOUSE BENEFIT.—Such sub- ‘‘(iv) $40,000. terest rate may not be less than zero percent; section is further amended— ‘‘(v) In accordance with subparagraph (B), a ‘‘(ii) for the second and each subsequent year (A) by inserting ‘‘(1)’’ after ‘‘(a)’’; and maximum amount greater than $40,000. of the program, shall calculate such interest at (B) by adding at the end the following new ‘‘(B) The Secretary may establish a maximum an annual rate equal to the rate of return on paragraph: amount to be insured under paragraph (1) that the revolving fund under subsection (a)(5) for ‘‘(2)(A) Except as provided in subparagraphs is greater than $40,000 if the Secretary— the calendar year preceding the year of the vet- (B) and (C), the Secretary shall pay special pen- ‘‘(i) determines that such maximum amount eran’s death, except that the interest rate may sion under this section to the surviving spouse and the premiums for such amount— not be less than zero percent; and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7181 ‘‘(iii) on an annual basis, shall publish on the the end of the period described in such para- ‘‘(A) Each reason for that denial, including a internet website of the Department the average graph, if the Secretary receives a complete and description of all the information upon which interest rate calculated under clause (ii) for the valid claim for payment. the denial is based and a description of the ap- preceding calendar year. ‘‘(2) In a case where the Secretary has not plicable laws, regulations, or policies, with ap- ‘‘(d) PREMIUMS.—(1) The Secretary shall es- made an insurance payment under this section propriate citations, and an explanation of how tablish a schedule of basic premium rates by age during the applicable period specified in para- such laws, regulations, or policies affected the per $10,000 of insurance under subsection (a)(1) graph (1) by reason of a beneficiary not yet hav- denial. consistent with basic premium rates generally ing filed a claim, or the Secretary not yet mak- ‘‘(B) Each finding that is favorable to the charged for guaranteed acceptance life insur- ing a determination under subsection (f)(3), the member. ance policies by private life insurance compa- Secretary may make the payment after such ap- ‘‘(2) Any finding favorable to the member as nies. plicable period. described in paragraph (1)(B) shall be binding ‘‘(2) The Secretary may adjust such schedule ‘‘(3) Notwithstanding section 1917 of this title, on all subsequent reviews or appeals of the de- after the first policy year in a manner consistent the Secretary shall make an insurance payment nial of the claim, unless clear and convincing with the general practice of guaranteed accept- under this section in a lump sum. evidence is shown to the contrary to rebut such ance life insurance policies issued by private life ‘‘(4) The Secretary may not make an insur- favorable finding.’’. insurance companies. ance payment under this section if such pay- SEC. 2006. PUBLICATION AND ACCEPTANCE OF ‘‘(3) Section 1912 of this title shall not apply ment will escheat to a State. DISABILITY BENEFIT QUESTION- to life insurance policies under subsection (a)(1), ‘‘(5) Any payment under this subsection shall NAIRE FORMS OF DEPARTMENT OF and the Secretary may not otherwise waive pre- be a bar to recovery by any other person.’’. VETERANS AFFAIRS. miums for such insurance policies. (2) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of sec- (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 5101 of title 38, ‘‘(e) BENEFICIARIES.—(1) A veteran who en- tions at the beginning of such chapter is amend- United States Code, is amended— rolls in the insurance program under subsection ed by inserting after the item relating to section (1) by redesignating subsection (d) as sub- (a)(1) may designate a beneficiary of the life in- 1922A the following new item: section (e); and (2) by inserting after subsection (c) the fol- surance policy. ‘‘1922B. Service-disabled veterans insurance.’’. ‘‘(2) If a veteran enrolled in the insurance lowing new subsection (d): (b) SUNSET OF PREVIOUS PROGRAM AND TRAN- program under subsection (a)(1) does not des- ‘‘(d)(1) The Secretary shall publish in a cen- SITION.— tral location on the internet website of the De- ignate a beneficiary under paragraph (1) before (1) S–DVI.—Section 1922 of such title is the veteran dies, or if a designated beneficiary partment— amended by adding at the end the following ‘‘(A) the disability benefit questionnaire forms predeceases the veteran, the Secretary shall de- new subsection: of the Department for the submittal of evidence termine the beneficiary in the following order: ‘‘(d)(1) The Secretary may not accept any ap- from non-Department medical providers regard- ‘‘(A) The surviving spouse of the veteran. plication by a veteran to be insured under this ‘‘(B) The children of the veteran and descend- ing a disability of a claimant, including any section after December 31, 2022. form or process that replaces any such disability ants of deceased children by representation. ‘‘(2)(A) During the period beginning January ‘‘(C) The parents of the veteran or the sur- benefit questionnaire form; and 1, 2023, and ending December 31, 2025, a veteran ‘‘(B) details about the process used by the De- vivors of the parents. who is insured under this section may elect to ‘‘(D) The duly appointed executor or adminis- partment for submittal of evidence described in instead be insured under section 1922B of this trator of the estate of the veteran. subparagraph (A). title based on the age of the veteran at the time ‘‘(2) Subject to section 6103 of this title, if the ‘‘(E) Other next of kin of the veteran entitled of such election. Secretary updates a form described in para- under the laws of domicile of the veteran at the ‘‘(B)(i) A veteran who elects under subpara- graph (1)(A), the Secretary shall— time of the death of the veteran. graph (A) to be insured under section 1922B of ‘‘(A) accept the previous version of the form ‘‘(f) CLAIMS.—(1) If the deceased veteran des- this title shall be subject to the two-year waiting filed by a claimant if— ignated a beneficiary under subsection (e)(1)— ‘‘(i) the claimant provided to the non-Depart- ‘‘(A) the designated beneficiary is the only period specified in subsection (c) of such section. ment medical provider the previous version of person who may file a claim for payment under ‘‘(ii) If the veteran dies during such period, the form before the date on which the updated subsection (g) during the one-year period begin- the Secretary shall pay the beneficiary under version of the form was made available; and ning on the date of the death of the veteran; this section, and, if applicable, under section 1922A, plus the amount of premiums paid by the ‘‘(ii) the claimant files the previous version of and the form during the one-year period following ‘‘(B) if the designated beneficiary does not file veteran under such section 1922B, plus interest. ‘‘(3) Except as provided by paragraph (2)(B), the date the form was completed by the non-De- a claim for the payment during the period de- partment medical provider; scribed in paragraph (1), or if payment to the a veteran may not be insured under this section and section 1922B simultaneously.’’. ‘‘(B) request from the claimant (or from a designated beneficiary within that period is pro- non-Department medical provider if the claim- hibited by Federal statute or regulation, a bene- (2) SUPPLEMENTAL S–DVI.—Section 1922A(b) of such title is amended by adding after the period ant has authorized the provider to share health ficiary described in subsection (e)(2) may file a information with the Secretary) any other infor- claim for such payment during the one-year pe- at the end the following: ‘‘The Secretary may not accept any such application after December mation that the updated version of the form re- riod following the period described in subpara- quires; and graph (A) as if the designated beneficiary had 31, 2022. Except as provided by section 1922(d)(2)(B), a veteran may not have supple- ‘‘(C) apply the laws and regulations required predeceased the veteran. to adjudicate the claim as if the claimant filed ‘‘(2) If the deceased veteran did not designate mental insurance under this section and be in- sured under section 1922B simultaneously.’’. the updated version of the form. a beneficiary under subsection (e)(1), or if the ‘‘(3) The Secretary may waive any inter- (c) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.—Chapter 19 of designated beneficiary predeceased the veteran, agency approval process required to approve a such title is amended— a beneficiary described in subsection (e)(2) may modification to a disability benefit questionnaire (1) in the section heading of section 1922, by file a claim for payment under subsection (g) form if such requirement only applies by reason striking ‘‘Service’’ and inserting ‘‘Legacy serv- during the two-year period beginning on the of the forms being made public.’’. ice’’; date of the death of the veteran. (b) REPORTS BY INSPECTOR GENERAL OF THE (2) in the section heading of section 1922A, by ‘‘(3) If, on the date that is two years after the DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.—Not less striking ‘‘ ’’ and inserting ‘‘ date of the death of the veteran, no claim for Supplemental Leg- frequently than once each year through 2023, ’’; and payment has been filed by any beneficiary pur- acy supplemental the Inspector General of the Department of Vet- (3) in the table of sections at the beginning of suant to paragraph (1) or (2), and the Secretary erans Affairs shall submit to Congress a report such chapter by striking the items relating to has not received notice that any such claim will on the findings of the Inspector General with re- sections 1922 and 1922A and inserting the fol- be so filed during the subsequent one-year pe- spect to the use of the forms published under lowing new items: riod, the Secretary may make the payment to a section 5101(d)(1) of such title, as added by sub- claimant whom the Secretary determines to be ‘‘1922. Legacy service disabled veterans’ insur- section (a). equitably entitled to such payment. ance. (c) INITIAL FORM.—The Secretary of Veterans ‘‘(g) PAYMENTS.—(1) In a case described in ‘‘1922A. Legacy supplemental service disabled Affairs shall begin carrying out section subsection (f)— veterans’ insurance for totally 5101(d)(1) of such title, as added by subsection ‘‘(A) in paragraph (1)(A), the Secretary shall disabled veterans.’’. (a), by publishing, as described in such section, pay the designated beneficiary not later than 90 SEC. 2005. DENIAL OF CLAIMS FOR TRAUMATIC the form described in such section that was in days after the designated beneficiary files a INJURY PROTECTION UNDER effect on January 1, 2020. complete and valid claim for payment; SERVICEMEMBERS’ GROUP LIFE IN- (d) ALTERNATE PROCESS.— ‘‘(B) in paragraph (1)(B) or (2), the Secretary SURANCE. (1) ASSESSMENT AND REPORT.— shall make any payment not later than one year Section 1980A of title 38, United States Code, (A) IN GENERAL.—Subject to paragraph (2), after the end of the period described in the ap- is amended by adding at the end the following not later than 180 days after the date of the en- plicable such paragraph, if the Secretary re- new subsection: actment of this act, the Secretary shall— ceives a complete and valid claim for payment in ‘‘(l)(1) If a claim for benefits under this sec- (i) assess the feasibility and advisability of re- accordance with the applicable such paragraph; tion is denied, the Secretary concerned shall placing disability benefit questionnaire forms or provide to the member at the same time as the that are used by non-Department medical pro- ‘‘(C) in paragraph (3), the Secretary shall member is informed of such denial a description viders to submit to the Secretary evidence re- make any payment not later than one year after of the following: garding a disability of a claimant for benefits

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7182 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 under laws administered by the Secretary, with ‘‘§ 5320. Threshold for reporting debts to con- ing by gathering such information as the Ad- another consistent process that considers evi- sumer reporting agencies ministrator may consider useful in carrying out dence equally, whether provided by a Depart- ‘‘The Secretary shall prescribe regulations the study. ment or a non-Department medical provider; that establish the minimum amount of a claim or (2) OBTAINING INFORMATION CONCERNING EX- and debt, arising from a benefit administered by the POSURE.—Assistance under paragraph (1) pro- (ii) submit to Congress— Under Secretary for Benefits or Under Secretary vided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall (I) a report on the findings of the Secretary for Health, that the Secretary will report to a include compiling information on exposure de- with respect to the assessment conducted under consumer reporting agency under section 3711 of scribed in subsection (a)(2) and the Secretary of clause (i); and title 31.’’. Defense shall provide to the Secretary of Vet- (II) if the report submitted under subclause (I) (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of sec- erans Affairs such information concerning such of this clause includes a finding that replacing tions at the beginning of such chapter is amend- exposure as the Secretary of Veterans Affairs the disability benefit questionnaire forms de- ed by adding after the item relating to section considers appropriate for purposes of the study scribed in clause (i) as described in such clause 5319 the following new item: required by subsection (a), including environ- is feasible and advisable, a plan to replace such ‘‘5320.Threshold for reporting debts to consumer mental sampling data relative to any location forms as described in such clause. reporting agencies.’’. covered by the study. (B) COLLABORATION REQUIRED.—If, in car- (c) DEADLINE.—The Secretary of Veterans Af- (e) BIENNIAL UPDATES.—No later than the rying out the assessment required by clause (i) fairs shall prescribe regulations under section date that is two years after the date of the en- of subparagraph (A), the Secretary determines 5320 of such title, as added by subsection (a), actment of this Act and not less frequently than that replacing the disability benefit question- not later than 180 days after the date of the en- once every two years thereafter until the date naire forms described in such clause as described actment of this Act. on which the study required by subsection (a) is in such clause is feasible and advisable, the Sec- completed, the Administrator shall submit to the retary shall collaborate with, partner with, and SEC. 2008. REMOVAL OF DEPENDENTS FROM AWARD OF COMPENSATION OR PEN- appropriate committees of Congress updates on consider the advice of veterans service organiza- SION. the status of the matters covered by such study, tions, and such other stakeholders as the Sec- Beginning not later than 90 days after the including any preliminary findings of the Ad- retary considers appropriate, on the replacement date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary ministrator. forms and process for submitting such forms. of Veterans Affairs shall ensure that— (f) FINAL REPORT.—Not later than 60 days (2) REQUIREMENTS.—The Secretary may only (1) the recipient of an award of compensation after the date on which the study required by determine under paragraph (1)(A) that replac- or pension may remove any dependent from an subsection (a) is completed, the Administrator ing the forms described in such paragraph is award of compensation or pension to the indi- shall submit to the appropriate committees of feasible and advisable if the Secretary certifies vidual using the eBenefits system of the Depart- Congress a report on the findings of the Admin- that— ment of Veterans Affairs, or a successor system; istrator with respect to such study. (A) it is in the best interest of veterans to do and (g) INCLUSION OF UZBEKISTAN IN CERTAIN so; (2) such removal takes effect not later than 60 (B) the replacement process would include all REGISTRIES AND PROGRAMS.—Section 201(c)(2) of days after the date on which the recipient elects the Dignified Burial and Other Veterans’ Bene- the medical information needed to adjudicate a such removal. claim for benefits under laws administered by fits Improvement Act of 2012 (Public Law 112– the Secretary; and SEC. 2009. ELIGIBILITY FOR DEPENDENCY AND 260; 38 U.S.C. 527 note) is amended, in the mat- INDEMNITY COMPENSATION FOR (C) the new process will ensure that all med- ter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking SURVIVING SPOUSES WHO REMARRY ‘‘Afghanistan or Iraq’’ and inserting ‘‘Afghani- ical information provided will be considered AFTER AGE 55. stan, Iraq, or Uzbekistan’’. equally, whether it is provided by a Department Section 103(d)(2)(B) of title 38, United States medical provider or a non-Department medical Code, is amended in the second sentence by in- (h) DEPLETED URANIUM FOLLOW-UP PRO- provider. serting ‘‘chapter 13 or’’ after ‘‘benefits under’’. GRAMS.—The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall (3) IMPLEMENTATION.— ensure that any individual who deployed as a SEC. 2010. STUDY ON EXPOSURE BY MEMBERS OF (A) IN GENERAL.—Subject to subparagraph THE ARMED FORCES TO TOXICANTS member of the Armed Forces to the covered loca- (B), if the Secretary determines under para- AT KARSHI-KHANABAD AIR BASE IN tion set forth in subsection (b) during the cor- graph (1)(A) that replacing the forms as de- UZBEKISTAN. responding period set forth in such subsection is scribed in such paragraph is feasible and advis- (a) AGREEMENT AND STUDY.—Not later than 60 covered by the Depleted Uranium Follow-up able, the Secretary shall, not later than two days after the date of the enactment of this Act, Programs of the Department of Veterans Affairs. years after the date on which the Secretary sub- the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall enter (i) APPROPRIATE COMMITTEES OF CONGRESS mits the report under paragraph (1)(B)(i)— into an agreement with the Administrator of the DEFINED.—In this section, the term ‘‘appro- (i) replace the forms as described in paragraph Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Reg- priate committees of Congress’’ means— (1)(A); istry for the Administrator to complete, not later (1) the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and (ii) publish such replacement pursuant to sub- than 10 years after the date of the enactment of the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate; paragraph (A) of section 5101(d)(1), as added by this Act, a study to identify— and subsection (a)(2); and (1) incidents of cancer and other diseases or (2) the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and (iii) update the details under subparagraph illnesses experienced by individuals who served the Committee on Armed Services of the House (B) of such section. in the active military, naval, or air service (as of Representatives. (B) REPORTS BY INSPECTOR GENERAL OF THE defined in section 101 of title 38, United States DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.—If the Sec- Code) in the covered location set forth under SEC. 2011. COMPTROLLER GENERAL BRIEFING retary replaces the forms under subparagraph subsection (b) during the corresponding period AND REPORT ON REPEALING MANI- (A), the Inspector General of the Department of set forth under such subsection; and FESTATION PERIOD FOR PRESUMP- TIONS OF SERVICE CONNECTION Veterans Affairs shall, not later than one year (2) a list of toxic substances, chemicals, ion- FOR CERTAIN DISEASES ASSOCI- after the date that the Secretary replaces such izing radiation, and airborne hazards such indi- ATED WITH EXPOSURE TO CERTAIN forms and not less frequently than once each viduals may have been exposed to during such HERBICIDE AGENTS. year thereafter until the date that is three years service. (a) IN GENERAL.—Not later than one year after the date on which the Secretary replaces (b) COVERED LOCATION AND CORRESPONDING after the date of the enactment of this Act, the such forms, submit to Congress a report on the PERIOD.—The covered location and cor- Comptroller General of the United States shall process that replaced such forms that ascertains responding period set forth under this sub- provide to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of whether the process properly protects veterans. section are Karshi-Khanabad (K2) Air Base in the Senate and the Committee on Veterans’ Af- (4) LIMITATION.—The Secretary may not dis- Uzbekistan and the period beginning on October fairs of the House of Representatives a briefing continue the use of the disability benefit ques- 1, 2001, and ending on September 30, 2005. on preliminary observations of the Comptroller tionnaire forms described in paragraph (1)(A) (c) ELEMENTS.—The study conducted under General, and not later than 240 days after the until a replacement form or process is imple- subsection (a) shall include the following: date of such briefing, provide such committees a mented. (1) An assessment regarding the conditions of briefing and submit to such committees a final (e) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—Nothing in this the covered location set forth under subsection report, on the efforts of the Secretary of Vet- section or section 5101(d) of such title, as added (b), including an identification of toxic sub- erans Affairs to provide benefits, including com- by subsection (a), may be construed to require stances, chemicals, ionizing radiation, and air- pensation and health care, to veterans— the Secretary to develop any new information borne hazards contaminating such covered loca- technology system or otherwise require the Sec- tion during such corresponding period. (1) who during active military, naval, or air retary to make any significant changes to the (2) An epidemiological study of the health service, served in the Republic of Vietnam dur- internet website of the Department. consequences of the service described in sub- ing the period beginning on January 9, 1962, and ending on May 7, 1975; and SEC. 2007. THRESHOLD FOR REPORTING DEBTS section (a) to the individuals described in such TO CONSUMER REPORTING AGEN- subsection. (2) in whom chloracne, porphyria cutanea CIES. (d) SUPPORT FOR STUDY.— tarda, or acute or subacute peripheral neurop- (a) IN GENERAL.—Chapter 53 of title 38, (1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall provide athy have manifested. United States Code, is amended by adding after the Administrator with assistance in carrying (b) ELEMENTS.—The report required by sub- section 5319 the following new section: out the study required by subsection (a), includ- section (a) shall include the following:

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7183 (1) A description of how the Secretary estab- spect to full-time National Guard duty (as de- ‘‘(4)(A) The recovery of any overpayment re- lishes a service connection for a diseases de- fined in section 101 of title 10, United States ferred to in this subsection may be waived by scribed in paragraph (2) of subsection (a) mani- Code) performed before, on, or after the date of the Secretary. festing in veterans, including the number of vet- the enactment of this Act. ‘‘(B) Waiver of any such overpayment as to a erans described in paragraph (1) of such sub- SEC. 2102. REDUCING LOAN FEES FOR CERTAIN person described in paragraph (2) shall in no section who have filed a claim for a benefit as- VETERANS AFFECTED BY MAJOR way release any other person described in such sociated with a disease described in paragraph DISASTERS. paragraph from liability. (2) of such subsection. Section 3729(b)(4) of title 38, United States ‘‘(5) The Secretary shall waive recovery under (2) A description of how claims adjudicators of Code, is amended— this subsection of any overpayment to a person the Department of Veterans Affairs determine (1) by amending subparagraph (D) to read as described in paragraph (2)(A), or a dependent or service connection for a disease described in follows: survivor of such person, that arises from admin- subparagraph (C) or (E) of section 1116(a)(2) of ‘‘(D)(i) The term ‘initial loan’ means a loan to istrative error described in paragraph (7)(A). title 38, United States Code, when documenta- a veteran guaranteed under section 3710 or ‘‘(6) Nothing in this subsection shall be con- tion proving the presence of the disease during made under section 3711 of this title if the vet- strued as precluding the imposition of any civil the manifestation period set forth in such sub- eran has never obtained a loan guaranteed or criminal liability under this title or any other paragraphs for the disease is not available. under section 3710 or made under section 3711 of law. (3) A description of the expected effect of re- this title. ‘‘(7) The Secretary shall prescribe in regula- pealing the manifestation period from such sub- ‘‘(ii) If a veteran has obtained a loan guaran- tions what constitutes an overpayment for the paragraphs, including the expected effect on the teed under section 3710 or made under section purposes of this subsection, which, at a min- number of claims for benefits the Department 3711 of this title and the dwelling securing such imum, shall include— will receive, an estimate of the cost to the De- loan was substantially damaged or destroyed by ‘‘(A) administrative error that results in an partment of such repeal, and a review of the sci- a major disaster declared by the President under individual receiving assistance to which that in- entific evidence regarding such repeal. section 401 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster dividual is not entitled; (4) A review of all claims submitted to the Sec- Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. ‘‘(B) the failure of any person described in retary for compensation under chapter 11 of 5170), the Secretary shall treat as an initial paragraph (2) to— such title that are associated with a disease de- loan, as defined in clause (i), the next loan the ‘‘(i) perform or allow to be performed any act scribed in subsection (a)(2), including the type Secretary guarantees or makes to such veteran relating to assistance under this chapter; or of proof presented to establish a service connec- under section 3710 or 3711, respectively, if— ‘‘(ii) compensate any party performing serv- tion for the manifestation of the disease based ‘‘(I) such loan is guaranteed or made before ices or supplying goods relating to assistance on exposure to a herbicide agent. the date that is three years after the date on under this chapter; and (5) Recommendations on how the Department which the dwelling was substantially damaged ‘‘(C) any disbursement of funds relating to as- can better adjudicate claims for benefits, includ- or destroyed; and sistance under this chapter, that, in the sole dis- ing compensation, submitted to the Department ‘‘(II) such loan is only for repairs or construc- cretion of the Secretary, constitutes a misuse of that are associated with a disease described in tion of the dwelling, as determined by the Sec- such assistance. paragraph (2) of subsection (a) for veterans de- retary.’’; and ‘‘(8) Prior to collecting an overpayment under scribed in paragraph (1) of such subsection. (2) in subparagraph (E), by striking ‘‘if the this subsection, the Secretary shall provide to (6) An assessment of such other areas as the veteran has previously obtained a loan guaran- the person whom the Secretary has determined Comptroller General considers appropriate to teed under section 3710 or made under section liable for such overpayment— study. 3711 of this title’’ and inserting ‘‘that is not an ‘‘(A) notice of the finding by the Secretary of (c) ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION.—Not later than initial loan’’. such overpayment; 120 days after the date on which the Comp- SEC. 2103. EXTENSION OF CERTAIN HOUSING ‘‘(B) a reasonable opportunity for such person troller General of the United States submits the LOAN FEES. to remedy the circumstances that effectuated the report required under subsection (a), the Sec- Section 3729(b)(2) of title 38, United States overpayment; and retary shall commence carrying out the rec- Code, is amended by striking ‘‘October 1, 2029’’ ‘‘(C) a reasonable opportunity for such person ommendations submitted under subsection (b)(5) each place it appears and inserting ‘‘October 1, to present evidence to the Secretary that an to the degree that the Secretary is authorized to 2030’’. overpayment was not made. carry out the recommendations by a statute that SEC. 2104. COLLECTION OF OVERPAYMENTS OF ‘‘(9) For the purposes of section 511 of this was in effect on the day before the date of the SPECIALLY ADAPTED HOUSING AS- title, a decision to collect an overpayment from enactment of this Act. SISTANCE. a person other than a person described in para- (d) HERBICIDE AGENT DEFINED.—In this sec- Section 2102 of title 38, United States Code, is graph (2)(A), or a dependent or survivor of such tion, the term ‘‘herbicide agent’’ has the mean- amended by adding at the end the following person, may not be treated as a decision that af- ing given such term in section 1116(a)(3) of title new subsection: fects the provision of benefits.’’. 38, United States Code. ‘‘(g)(1) Whenever the Secretary finds that an Subtitle C—Burial Matters SEC. 2012. EXTENSION OF AUTHORITY OF SEC- overpayment has been made to, or on behalf of, RETARY OF VETERANS AFFAIRS TO a person described in paragraph (2), the Sec- SEC. 2201. TRANSPORTATION OF DECEASED VET- USE INCOME INFORMATION FROM ERANS TO VETERANS’ CEMETERIES. retary shall determine— OTHER AGENCIES. (a) IN GENERAL.—Subsection (a) of section Section 5317(g) of title 38, United States Code, ‘‘(A) the amounts to recover, if any; and ‘‘(B) who is liable to the United States for 2308 of title 38, United States Code, is amended is amended by striking ‘‘September 30, 2027’’ and by striking ‘‘in a national cemetery’’ and insert- inserting ‘‘September 30, 2030’’. such overpayment. ‘‘(2) A person described in this paragraph is ing ‘‘in a national cemetery or a covered vet- SEC. 2013. EXTENSION ON CERTAIN LIMITS ON erans’ cemetery’’. PAYMENTS OF PENSION. any of the following: ‘‘(A) An individual who applied for assist- (b) COVERED VETERANS’ CEMETERY DE- Section 5503(d)(7) of title 38, United States FINED.—Section 2308 of such title is amended by Code, is amended by striking ‘‘September 30, ance— ‘‘(i) under this chapter; or adding at the end the following new subsection: 2028’’ and inserting ‘‘October 30, 2028’’. ‘‘(ii) under chapter 31 of this title who is pur- ‘‘(c) COVERED VETERANS’ CEMETERY DE- Subtitle B—Housing suing a rehabilitation program under such FINED.—In this section, the term ‘covered vet- SEC. 2101. ELIGIBILITY OF CERTAIN MEMBERS OF chapter in acquiring adaptations to a residence. erans’ cemetery’ means a veterans’ cemetery— THE RESERVE COMPONENTS OF THE ‘‘(B) An owner or seller of real estate used, or ‘‘(1) in which a deceased veteran described in ARMED FORCES FOR HOME LOANS intended to be used, in connection with assist- subsection (b) is eligible to be buried; FROM THE SECRETARY OF VET- ance under this chapter. ‘‘(2) that— ERANS AFFAIRS. ‘‘(C) A builder, contractor, supplier, ‘‘(A) is owned by a State; or (a) EXPANSION OF DEFINITION OF VETERAN tradesperson, corporation, trust, partnership, or ‘‘(B) is on trust land owned by, or held in FOR PURPOSES OF HOME LOANS.—Section 3701(b) trust for, a tribal organization; and of title 38, United States Code, is amended by other person, who provided services or goods re- lating to assistance under this chapter. ‘‘(3) for which the Secretary has made a grant adding at the end the following new paragraph: under section 2408 of this title.’’. ‘‘(7) The term ‘veteran’ also includes, for pur- ‘‘(D) An attorney, escrow agent, or financial institution, that receives, or holds in escrow, (c) CONFORMING AMENDMENT.—Section 2308 of poses of home loans, an individual who per- such title is amended in the section heading by formed full-time National Guard duty (as that funds relating to assistance under this chapter. ‘‘(E) A surviving spouse, heir, assignee, or adding at the end the following: ‘‘or a covered term is defined in section 101 of title 10) for a pe- veterans’ cemetery’’. riod— successor in interest of or to, any person de- scribed in this paragraph. (d) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of sec- ‘‘(A) of not less than 90 cumulative days; and tions at the beginning of chapter 23 of such title ‘‘(B) that includes 30 consecutive days.’’. ‘‘(3)(A) Any overpayment referred to in this is amended by striking the item relating to sec- (b) EXPANSION OF ELIGIBILITY.—Section subsection may be recovered in the same manner 3702(a)(2) of such title is amended by adding at as any other debt due the United States. tion 2308 and inserting the following new item: the end the following new subparagraph: ‘‘(B) In recovering the overpayment, the Sec- ‘‘2308. Transportation of deceased veteran to a ‘‘(G) Each individual described in section retary may charge administrative costs, fees, national cemetery or a covered 3701(b)(7) of this title.’’. and interest, as appropriate, in a manner simi- veterans’ cemetery.’’. (c) RETROACTIVE APPLICABILITY.—The amend- lar to the authority under section 5315 of this (e) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments made ments made by this section shall apply with re- title. by this section shall take effect on the date that

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7184 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 is two years after the date of the enactment of (ii) in subsection (b)(3)— predeceases the individual, the Secretary may, if this Act. (I) by striking ‘‘section 2302’’ and inserting feasible and upon request, include an inscrip- SEC. 2202. INCREASE IN CERTAIN FUNERAL BENE- ‘‘section 2303’’; and tion for the spouse or dependent child on the FITS UNDER LAWS ADMINISTERED (II) by striking ‘‘subsection (a)(2)(A)’’ and in- headstone or marker furnished for the indi- BY THE SECRETARY OF VETERANS serting ‘‘subsection (a)(2)(C)’’. vidual under subsection (a) or (d).’’. AFFAIRS. (D) In section 113(c)(1), by striking ‘‘2302,’’. (b) APPLICATION.—Subsection (i) of section (a) FUNERAL EXPENSES FOR NON-SERVICE-CON- (E) In section 5101(a)(1)(B)(i), by striking 2306 of title 38, United States Code, as added by NECTED DISABILITIES.—Chapter 23 of title 38, ‘‘2302’’ and inserting ‘‘2303’’. subsection (a), shall apply with respect to an in- United States Code, is amended as follows: (2) EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE.—Section 11 of dividual who dies on or after October 1, 2019. (1) By transferring subsection (b) of section the Military Selective Service Act (50 U.S.C. SEC. 2205. AID TO COUNTIES FOR ESTABLISH- 2302 to the end of section 2303 and redesignating 3810) is amended by striking ‘‘section 2302(a) of MENT, EXPANSION, AND IMPROVE- such subsection as subsection (d). title 38’’ and inserting ‘‘section 2303 of title 38, MENT OF VETERANS’ CEMETERIES. (2) By striking section 2302. United States Code, regarding veterans de- (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 2408 of title 38, (3) In section 2303— scribed in subparagraph (B) or (C) of subsection United States Code, is amended— (A) in the section heading, by striking ‘‘Death (a)(2) of such section’’. (1) by inserting ‘‘or county’’ after ‘‘State’’ in Department facility’’ and inserting ‘‘Death (c) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of sec- each place it appears; from non-service-connected disability’’; and tions at the beginning of chapter 23 of such title (2) in subsection (a)(1), in the matter pre- (B) in subsection (a)— is amended by striking the items relating to sec- (i) in paragraph (1), by striking ‘‘a veteran ceding subparagraph (A), by striking ‘‘sub- tions 2302 and 2303 and inserting the following section (b)’’ and inserting ‘‘subsections (b), (c), dies in a facility described in paragraph (2)’’ new item: and inserting ‘‘a veteran described in paragraph (d), and (g)’’; ‘‘2303. Death from non-service-connected dis- (2) dies’’; (3) by adding at the end the following new ability; plot allowance.’’. (ii) by striking paragraph (2) and inserting subsection: (d) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments made ‘‘(g)(1) The Secretary may make a grant to a the following new paragraph (2): by this section shall apply to deaths that occur ‘‘(2) A veteran described in this paragraph is county under this section only if— on or after the date that is two years after the a deceased veteran who is not covered by section ‘‘(A)(i) the State in which the county is lo- date of the enactment of this Act. 2307 of this title and who meets any of the fol- cated does not have a veterans’ cemetery owned lowing criteria: SEC. 2203. OUTER BURIAL RECEPTACLES FOR by the State; ‘‘(A) The deceased veteran dies in— EACH NEW GRAVE IN CEMETERIES ‘‘(ii) the State is not in receipt of a grant THAT ARE THE SUBJECTS OF CER- under this section for the construction of a new ‘‘(i) a facility of the Department (as defined in TAIN GRANTS MADE BY THE SEC- section 1701(3) of this title) to which the de- RETARY OF VETERANS AFFAIRS. veterans’ cemetery to be owned by the State; ceased veteran was properly admitted for hos- (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 2306(e) of title 38, ‘‘(iii) the State did not apply for a grant pital, nursing home, or domiciliary care under United States Code, is amended— under this section during the previous year; section 1710 or 1711(a) of this title; or (1) in paragraph (1)— ‘‘(iv) no tribal organization from the State in ‘‘(ii) an institution at which the deceased vet- (A) in subparagraph (A)— which the county is located has a veterans’ cem- eran was, at the time of death, receiving— (i) by striking ‘‘shall’’ and inserting ‘‘may’’; etery on trust land owned by, or held in trust ‘‘(I) hospital care in accordance with sections and for, the tribal organization; 1703A, 8111, and 8153 of this title; (ii) by inserting ‘‘, or in a cemetery that is the ‘‘(v) no such tribal organization is in receipt ‘‘(II) nursing home care under section 1720 of subject of a grant to a State or a tribal organi- of a grant under this section for the construc- this title; or zation under section 2408 of this title,’’ after tion of a new veterans’ cemetery to be located ‘‘(III) nursing home care for which payments ‘‘National Cemetery Administration’’; and on such land; and are made under section 1741 of this title. (B) in subparagraph (C), by striking ‘‘shall’’ ‘‘(vi) no such tribal organization applied for a ‘‘(B) At the time of death, the deceased vet- and inserting ‘‘may’’; and grant under this section during the previous eran (including a person who died during a pe- (2) by striking paragraph (2) and inserting the year; and riod deemed to be active military, naval, or air following new paragraph (2): ‘‘(B) the county demonstrates in the applica- service under section 106(c) of this title) is in re- ‘‘(2)(A) The use of outer burial receptacles in tion under subsection (a)(2), to the satisfaction ceipt of compensation under chapter 11 of this a cemetery under the control of the National of the Secretary, that the county has the re- title (or but for the receipt of retirement pay Cemetery Administration or in a cemetery that sources necessary to operate and maintain the would have been entitled to such compensation) is the subject of a grant to a State or a tribal or- veterans’ cemetery owned by the county. or was in receipt of pension under chapter 15 of ganization under section 2408 of this title shall ‘‘(2)(A) If a county and the State in which the this title. be in accordance with regulations or procedures county is located both apply for a grant under ‘‘(C) The Secretary determines— approved by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. this section for the same year, the Secretary ‘‘(i) the deceased veteran (including a person ‘‘(B) The use of outer burial receptacles in Ar- shall give priority to the State. who died during a period deemed to be active lington National Cemetery shall be in accord- ‘‘(B) If a county and a tribal organization military, naval, or air service under section ance with regulations or procedures approved from the State in which the county is located 106(c) of this title) has no next of kin or other by the Secretary of the Army. both apply for a grant under this section for the person claiming the body of the deceased vet- ‘‘(C) The use of outer burial receptacles in a same year, the Secretary shall give priority to eran; and national cemetery administered by the National the tribal organization. ‘‘(ii) that there are not available sufficient re- Park Service shall be in accordance with regula- ‘‘(3) The Secretary shall prescribe regulations sources to cover burial and funeral expenses.’’; tions or procedures approved by the Secretary of to carry out this subsection.’’; and (iii) in subsection (b)— the Interior.’’. (4) in subsection (f)— (I) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments made (A) by redesignating paragraph (3) as sub- striking ‘‘section 2302 of this title and’’; and by this section shall take effect on the date that section (h); (II) in paragraph (2), by striking ‘‘under sec- is two years after the date of the enactment of (B) by moving such subsection, as so redesig- tion 2302 of this title or’’; and this Act. nated, to the location after subsection (g), as (iv) in subsection (d), as added by paragraph SEC. 2204. PROVISION OF INSCRIPTIONS FOR added by paragraph (3); (1) of this subsection, by striking ‘‘Except as’’ SPOUSES AND CHILDREN ON CER- (C) in subsection (h), as so redesignated and and inserting ‘‘With respect to a deceased vet- TAIN HEADSTONES AND MARKERS moved, by redesignating subparagraphs (A) and eran described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of FURNISHED BY THE SECRETARY OF (B) as paragraphs (1) and (2), respectively; and subsection (a)(2), except as’’. VETERANS AFFAIRS. (D) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), as (b) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.— (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 2306 of title 38, so redesignated, by striking ‘‘this subsection’’ (1) TITLE 38.—Such title is amended as follows: United States Code, is amended— (A) In section 2304, by striking ‘‘Applications (1) by redesignating subsection (i) as sub- and inserting ‘‘this section’’. for payments under section 2302 of this title’’ section (j); and (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENTS.— and inserting ‘‘Applications for payments under (2) by inserting after subsection (h) the fol- (1) SECTION HEADING.—The heading of such section 2303 of this title regarding veterans de- lowing new subsection (i): section is amended by inserting ‘‘, counties, and scribed in subparagraph (B) or (C) of subsection ‘‘(i)(1) In addition to any other authority tribal organizations’’ after ‘‘States’’. (a)(2) of such section’’. under this section, in the case of an individual (2) TABLE OF SECTIONS.—The table of sections (B) In section 2307, by striking ‘‘sections 2302 whose grave is not in a covered cemetery (as at the beginning of chapter 24 of such title is and 2303(a)(1) and (b)(2) of this title’’ and in- that term is defined in subsection (f)(2)) and for amended by striking the item relating to section serting ‘‘subsections (a)(1) and (b)(2) of section whom the Secretary has furnished a headstone 2408 and inserting the following new item: 2303 of this title’’. or marker under subsection (a) or (d), the Sec- ‘‘2408. Aid to States, counties, and tribal organi- (C) In section 2308— retary, if feasible and upon request, may replace zations for establishment, expan- (i) in subsection (a), by striking ‘‘pursuant to the headstone or marker to add an inscription sion, and improvement of vet- section 2302 or 2307 of this title,’’ and inserting for the surviving spouse or eligible dependent erans’ cemeteries.’’. ‘‘pursuant to section 2303 of this title regarding child of such individual following the death of (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments made veterans described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of the surviving spouse or eligible dependent child. by this section shall take on effect on the date subsection (a)(2) of such section, or pursuant to ‘‘(2) If the spouse or eligible dependent child that is two years after the date of the enactment section 2307 of this title,’’; and of an individual referred to in paragraph (1) of this Act.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7185 SEC. 2206. INCREASE IN MAXIMUM AMOUNT OF (3) by inserting after subsection (b) the fol- date on which a public health emergency was GRANTS TO STATES, COUNTIES, AND lowing new subsection (c): first declared and ending on the date that is 60 TRIBAL ORGANIZATIONS FOR OPER- ‘‘(c)(1) A grant under this section for a pur- days after the date on which a public health ATING AND MAINTAINING VET- pose described in subparagraph (A) or (B) of emergency is no longer in effect. ERANS’ CEMETERIES. subsection (a)(1) may be used, solely or in part, ‘‘(g) COVERED PROVIDER DEFINED.—In this Section 2408(e)(2) of title 38, United States for training costs, including travel expenses and section, the term ‘covered provider’ means a pro- Code, is amended by striking ‘‘$5,000,000’’ and up to four weeks of lodging expenses, associated vider participating in the Program, including— inserting ‘‘$10,000,000’’. with attendance by employees of a veterans’ ‘‘(1) an Aging and Disability Resource Center, SEC. 2207. PROVISION OF URNS AND COMMEMO- cemetery owned by a State or on trust land an area agency on aging, or a State agency (as RATIVE PLAQUES FOR REMAINS OF those terms are defined in section 102 of the CERTAIN VETERANS WHOSE CRE- owned by, or held in trust for, a tribal organiza- MATED REMAINS ARE NOT IN- tion at training provided by the National Ceme- Older Americans Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C. 3002)); or TERRED IN CERTAIN CEMETERIES. tery Administration. ‘‘(2) a center for independent living (as de- (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 2306 of title 38, ‘‘(2) Any employee described in paragraph (1) fined in section 702 of the Rehabilitation Act of United States Code, as amended by section 2204 who participates in training described in such 1973 (29 U.S.C. 796a)).’’. of this title, is further amended— paragraph shall fulfill a service requirement as SEC. 3002. PROHIBITION ON COLLECTION OF A (1) by redesignating subsections (h), (i), and determined by the Secretary. HEALTH CARE COPAYMENT BY THE (j) as subsections (i), (j), and (k), respectively; ‘‘(3) The Secretary may by regulation pre- SECRETARY OF VETERANS AFFAIRS FROM A VETERAN WHO IS A MEMBER and scribe such additional terms and conditions for OF AN INDIAN TRIBE. (2) by inserting after subsection (g) the fol- grants used for training costs under this sub- (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 1730A of title 38, lowing new subsection (h): section as the Secretary considers appropriate.’’. United States Code, is amended— ‘‘(h)(1) In lieu of furnishing a headstone or (b) REPORTS.— (1) in the heading, by striking ‘‘catastroph- marker under this section for a deceased indi- (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than each of two ically disabled’’ and inserting ‘‘certain’’; vidual described in paragraph (3), the Secretary years and five years after the date of the enact- (2) by inserting ‘‘(a) PROHIBITION.—’’ before shall furnish, upon request and at the expense ment of this Act, the Secretary of Veterans Af- ‘‘Notwithstanding’’; of the United States— fairs shall submit to the Committee on Veterans’ (3) by striking ‘‘a veteran who is catastroph- ‘‘(A) an urn made of any material to signify Affairs of the Senate and the Committee on Vet- ically disabled, as defined by the Secretary,’’ the individual’s status as a veteran, in which erans’ Affairs of the House of Representatives a and inserting ‘‘a covered veteran’’; and the remains of such individual may be placed at report on training provided by the National (4) by adding at the end the following new private expense; or Cemetery Administration under subsection (c) of subsection: ‘‘(B) a commemorative plaque signifying the section 2408 of title 38, United States Code, as ‘‘(b) COVERED VETERAN DEFINED.—In this sec- individual’s status as a veteran. added by subsection (a). tion, the term ‘covered veteran’ means a veteran ‘‘(2) If the Secretary furnishes an urn or com- (2) ELEMENTS.—The report required by para- who— memorative plaque for an individual under graph (1) shall include the following: ‘‘(1) is catastrophically disabled, as defined by paragraph (1), the Secretary may not provide (A) The attrition rate with respect to individ- the Secretary; or for such individual— uals who participate in the training described in ‘‘(2) is an Indian or urban Indian (as those ‘‘(A) a headstone or marker under this sec- paragraph (1). terms are defined in section 4 of the Indian tion; or (B) A description of how State and tribal vet- Health Care Improvement Act (25 U.S.C. ‘‘(B) any burial benefit under section 2402 of erans’ cemeteries that used grants awarded 1603)).’’. this title. under section 2408 of title 38, United States (b) TECHNICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of sec- ‘‘(3) A deceased individual described in this Code, for training costs under subsection (c) of tions at the beginning of chapter 17 of such title paragraph is an individual— such section, as added by subsection (a), have is amended by striking the item relating to sec- ‘‘(A) who served in the Armed Forces on or improved as a result of the training, according tion 1730A and inserting the following: after April 6, 1917; to the administrators of such cemeteries. ‘‘1730A. Prohibition on collection of copayments ‘‘(B) who is eligible for a headstone or marker (C) An identification of how many State and from certain veterans.’’. furnished under subsection (d) (or would be so tribal veterans’ cemeteries used the authority (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments made eligible but for the date of the death of the indi- provided by subsection (c) of section 2408 of title by this section shall take effect on the day that vidual); and 38, United States Code, as added by subsection is one year after the date of the enactment of ‘‘(C) whose remains were cremated and not in- (a), in order to train individuals. this Act. terred in a national cemetery, a State veterans’ (D) The amount obligated or expended as a re- SEC. 3003. OVERSIGHT FOR STATE HOMES RE- cemetery, a tribal cemetery, a county cemetery, sult of the authority described in subparagraph GARDING COVID–19 INFECTIONS, RE- or a private cemetery. (C). SPONSE CAPACITY, AND STAFFING ‘‘(4)(A) Any urn or commemorative plaque LEVELS. furnished under this subsection shall be the per- TITLE III—HEALTH CARE (a) REPORTING.— sonal property of the next of kin or such other Subtitle A—Health Care Generally (1) IN GENERAL.—During a covered public individual as the Secretary considers appro- SEC. 3001. EXPANSION OF MODIFICATIONS TO health emergency, each State home shall submit priate. VETERAN DIRECTED CARE PRO- weekly to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs and ‘‘(B) The Federal Government shall not be lia- GRAM. the National Healthcare Safety Network of the ble for any damage to an urn or commemorative Section 20006 of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, plaque furnished under this subsection that oc- and Economic Security Act (Public Law 116–136) through an electronic medium and in a stand- curs after the date on which the urn or com- is amended— ardized format specified by the Secretary, a re- memorative plaque is so furnished. (1) by striking ‘‘During a public health emer- port on the emergency. ‘‘(5) The Secretary shall prescribe regulations gency’’ each place it appears and inserting (2) ELEMENTS.—Each report required by para- to carry out this subsection.’’. ‘‘During the period specified in subsection (f)’’; graph (1) for a State home shall include the fol- (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments made (2) in subsection (a)— lowing: by this section shall take on effect on the date (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by (A) The number of suspected and confirmed that is two years after the date of the enactment striking ‘‘during a public health emergency’’ COVID–19 infections among residents and staff, of this Act. and inserting ‘‘during the period specified in including residents previously treated for SEC. 2208. TRAINING OF STATE AND TRIBAL VET- subsection (f)’’; and COVID–19, disaggregated by— ERANS’ CEMETERY PERSONNEL BY (B) in paragraph (1), by striking ‘‘an area (i) veteran, spouse of a veteran, staff, and NATIONAL CEMETERY ADMINISTRA- agency on aging’’ and inserting ‘‘a covered pro- other; TION. vider’’; and (ii) race and ethnicity; (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 2408 of title 38, (3) by striking subsection (e) and inserting the (iii) gender; and United States Code, as amended by sections 2205 (iv) age. following new subsections: and 2206 of this title, is further amended— (B) The number of total deaths and COVID– ‘‘(e) TRANSFER OF CERTAIN VETERANS TO THE (1) in subsection (b)(1)— 19 deaths among residents and staff, PROGRAM.—During the period specified in sub- (A) in subparagraph (A)— disaggregated by— (i) by striking ‘‘and (ii) the cost’’ and insert- section (f), the Secretary shall allow a veteran (i) veteran, spouse of a veteran, staff, and ing ‘‘(ii) the cost’’; and residing in an area covered by the Program to be other; (ii) by inserting ‘‘; and (iii) training costs de- transferred to the Program for the duration of (ii) race and ethnicity; scribed in subsection (c)(1)’’ before the semi- such period if— (iii) gender; and colon; and ‘‘(1) the veteran had been receiving extended (iv) age. (B) in subparagraph (B)— care services paid for by the Department, such (C) An assessment of the supply of personal (i) by striking ‘‘and (ii) the cost’’ and insert- as adult day services or homemaker or home protective equipment and hand hygiene sup- ing ‘‘(ii) the cost’’; and health aide services, immediately preceding such plies. (ii) by inserting ‘‘; and (iii) training costs de- period; and (D) An assessment of ventilator capacity and scribed in subsection (c)(1)’’ before the period; ‘‘(2) those services are no longer available due supplies. (2) by redesignating subsections (c) through to a public health emergency. (E) The number of resident beds and the occu- (h) as subsections (d) through (i), respectively; ‘‘(f) PERIOD SPECIFIED.—The period specified pancy rate, disaggregated by veteran, spouse of and in this subsection is the period beginning on the a veteran, and other.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7186 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020

(F) An assessment of the access of residents to (1) APPROPRIATE COMMITTEES OF CONGRESS.— (2) the Committee on Armed Services and the testing for COVID–19. The term ‘‘appropriate committees of Congress’’ Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of (G) An assessment of staffing shortages, if means— Representatives. any. (A) the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and SEC. 3006. AUTHORITY FOR SECRETARY OF VET- (H) Such other information as the Secretary the Committee on Indian Affairs of the Senate; ERANS AFFAIRS TO FURNISH MEDI- may specify. and CALLY NECESSARY TRANSPOR- (b) PUBLICATION OF TOTAL INFECTIONS AND (B) the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and TATION FOR NEWBORN CHILDREN OF CERTAIN WOMEN VETERANS. DEATHS.— the Subcommittee for Indigenous Peoples of the (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 30 days after United States of the Committee on Natural Re- (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 1786 of title 38, the date of the enactment of this Act, and not sources of the House of Representatives. United States Code, as amended by section 9102 less frequently than weekly thereafter, the Sec- (2) INDIAN TRIBE.—The term ‘‘Indian tribe’’ of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National retary shall post on a publicly available website has the meaning given that term in section 4 of Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021, of the Department of Veterans Affairs— the Indian Self-Determination and Education is further amended— (1) in subsection (a)— (A) the total number of residents and staff of Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 5304). (3) STATE HOME.—The term ‘‘State home’’ has (A) in the matter before paragraph (1), by in- State homes who are infected with COVID–19; serting ‘‘and transportation necessary to receive and the meaning given that term in section 101(19) of title 38, United States Code. such services’’ after ‘‘described in subsection (B) the total number of such residents and (b)’’; staff who have died from COVID–19. (4) STATE HOME PROGRAM.—The term ‘‘State home program’’ means the program of the De- (B) in paragraph (1), by striking ‘‘or’’; (2) INFORMATION ON RESIDENTS AND STAFF.— (C) in paragraph (2), by striking the period at The Secretary shall disaggregate information on partment of Veterans Affairs for which pay- ments are made under subchapter V of chapter the end and inserting ‘‘; or’’; and residents and staff published under paragraph (D) by adding at the end the following new (1) by veteran, staff, and other. 17 of title 38, United States Code, and assistance is provided under subchapter III of chapter 81 of paragraph: (c) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: ‘‘(3) another location, including a health care such title. (1) COVERED PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY.— facility, if the veteran delivers the child before The term ‘‘covered public health emergency’’ SEC. 3005. CONTINUATION OF WOMEN’S HEALTH arriving at a facility described in paragraph (1) means an emergency with respect to COVID–19 TRANSITION TRAINING PROGRAM OF DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AF- or (2).’’; declared by a Federal, State, or local authority. FAIRS. (2) in subsection (b), by inserting before the (2) STATE HOME.—The term ‘‘State home’’ has (a) DURATION.—The Secretary of Veterans Af- period at the end the following: ‘‘, including the meaning given that term in section 101(19) of fairs shall carry out the Women’s Health Tran- necessary health care services provided by a fa- title 38, United States Code. sition Training program of the Department of cility other than the facility where the newborn SEC. 3004. GRANTS FOR STATE HOMES LOCATED Veterans Affairs (in this section referred to as child was delivered (including a specialty pedi- ON TRIBAL LANDS. the ‘‘Program’’) until at least one year after the atric hospital) that accepts transfer of the new- (a) STATE HOME DEFINED.—Section 101(19) of date of the enactment of this Act. born child and responsibility for treatment of title 38, United States Code, is amended by in- (b) REPORT.—Not later than one year and ten the newborn child’’; and serting ‘‘or Indian tribe (as defined in section 4 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, (3) by adding at the end the following new of the Indian Self-Determination and Education the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of subsections: ‘‘(d) TRANSPORTATION.—(1) Transportation Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 5304))’’ after ‘‘(other Veterans Affairs shall jointly submit to the ap- furnished under subsection (a) to, from, or be- than a possession)’’. propriate congressional committees a report on (b) PAYMENTS TO STATE HOMES.—Section 1741 tween care settings to meet the needs of a new- the Program that includes the following: born child includes costs for either or both the of title 38, United States Code, is amended by (1) The number of women members of the newborn child and parents. adding at the end the following new subsection: Armed Forces, disaggregated by military depart- ‘‘(g) In this subchapter, the term ‘State’ ‘‘(2) Transportation furnished under sub- ment (with respect to the Department of the section (a) includes transportation by ambu- means each of the several States and each In- Navy, disaggregated by the Navy and Marine dian tribe (as defined in section 4 of the Indian lance, including air ambulance, or other appro- Corps), who participated in the Program. priate medically staffed modes of transpor- Self-Determination and Education Assistance (2) The number of courses held under the Pro- tation— Act (25 U.S.C. 5304)).’’. gram. ‘‘(A) to another health care facility (including (c) STATE HOME CONSTRUCTION.— (3) The locations at which such courses were a specialty pediatric hospital) that accepts (1) IN GENERAL.—Section 8131(2) of title 38, held, the number of seats available for such transfer of the newborn child or otherwise pro- United States Code, is amended by inserting courses, and the number of participants at each vides post-delivery care services when the treat- ‘‘includes each Indian tribe (as defined in sec- such location. ing facility is not capable of furnishing the care tion 4 of the Indian Self-Determination and (4) With respect to the number of members of or services required; or Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 5304)) but’’ the Armed Forces who participated in the Pro- ‘‘(B) to a health care facility in a medical before ‘‘does not’’. gram as specified under paragraph (1)— emergency of such nature that a prudent (A) the number who enrolled in the health (2) CONFORMING AMENDMENT.—Section 8132 of layperson reasonably expects that delay in seek- care system of the Department of Veterans Af- such title is amended by striking ‘‘several’’. ing immediate medical attention would be haz- fairs under section 1705(a) of title 38, United (d) ADDITIONAL LEGISLATIVE OR ADMINISTRA- ardous to life or health. TIVE ACTION.— States Code; and ‘‘(3) Amounts paid by the Department for (B) the number who attended at least one (1) CONSULTATION WITH INDIAN TRIBES.—Not transportation under this section shall be de- later than 180 days after the date of the enact- health care appointment at a medical facility of rived from the Medical Services appropriations ment of this Act, the Secretary of Veterans Af- the Department of Veterans Affairs. account of the Department. (5) Data relating to— fairs shall consult with Indian tribes to deter- ‘‘(e) REIMBURSEMENT OR PAYMENT FOR (A) satisfaction with courses held under the mine if any legislative or administrative action HEALTH CARE SERVICES OR TRANSPORTATION.— is necessary to modify the State home program Program; (B) improved awareness of health care serv- (1) Pursuant to regulations the Secretary shall to function efficiently in support of State homes ices administered by the Secretary of Veterans prescribe to establish rates of reimbursement and operated by Indian tribes pursuant to the Affairs; and any limitations thereto under this section, the amendments made by this section. (C) any other available statistics regarding Secretary shall directly reimburse a covered en- (2) REPORT TO CONGRESS.—Not later than 90 the Program. tity for health care services or transportation days after completing consultations under para- (6) A discussion of regulatory, legal, or re- services provided under this section, unless the graph (1), the Secretary shall submit to the ap- source barriers to— cost of the services or transportation is covered propriate committees of Congress a report recom- (A) making the Program permanent to enable by an established agreement or contract. If such mending legislative action that the Secretary access to services provided under the Program an agreement or contract exists, its negotiated considers appropriate to modify the State home by a greater number of women members of the payment terms shall apply. program described in such paragraph in light of Armed Forces at locations throughout the ‘‘(2)(A) Reimbursement or payment by the Sec- those consultations. United States; retary under this section on behalf of an indi- (3) MODIFICATIONS.—Not later than 180 days (B) offering the Program online for women vidual to a covered entity shall, unless rejected after completing consultations under paragraph members of the Armed Forces who are unable to and refunded by the covered entity within 30 (1), the Secretary shall make any modifications attend courses held under the Program in per- days of receipt, extinguish any liability on the to regulations implementing the State home pro- son; and part of the individual for the health care serv- gram, for which legislative action is not nec- (C) the feasability of automatically enrolling ices or transportation covered by such payment. essary, as the Secretary considers appropriate in Program participants in the health care system ‘‘(B) Neither the absence of a contract or light of those consultations. of the Department of Veterans Affairs under agreement between the Secretary and a covered (e) TECHNICAL SUPPORT AND ASSISTANCE.— section 1705(a) of title 38, United States Code. entity nor any provision of a contract, agree- The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall provide (c) APPROPRIATE CONGRESSIONAL COMMITTEES ment, or assignment to the contrary shall oper- technical support and assistance to Indian DEFINED.—In this section, the term ‘‘appro- ate to modify, limit, or negate the requirements tribes in carrying out the State home program at priate congressional committees’’ means— of subparagraph (A). State homes operated by Indian tribes pursuant (1) the Committee on Armed Services and the ‘‘(3) In this subsection, the term ‘covered enti- to the amendments made by this section. Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate; ty’ means any individual, transportation car- (f) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: and rier, organization, or other entity that furnished

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7187 or paid for health care services or transpor- ‘‘(iii) The average number of days potential (A) nationals of the United States; tation under this section.’’. hires or new hires appointed under paragraphs (B) enrolled in an accredited program of study (b) TREATMENT OF CERTAIN EXPENSES AL- (1) and (3) of section 7401 of such title spent in at an institution of higher education; and READY INCURRED.— each phase of the Time to Hire Model, or suc- (C) referred by their institution of higher edu- (1) IN GENERAL.—Pursuant to such regulations cessor model.’’. cation following an internal application process. as the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall pre- (b) ANNUAL REPORT.—Subsection (b) of such (2) PRIORITY.—In making such selection, the scribe, with respect to transportation furnished section is amended, in the first sentence, by add- Secretary shall give priority to each of the fol- in order for a newborn child of a veteran to re- ing before the period at the end the following: lowing five categories of students: ceive health care services under section 1786 of ‘‘and to improve the onboard timeline for facili- (A) Students who, at the time of the comple- title 38, United States Code, during the period ties for which the duration of the onboarding tion of their secondary education, resided in a specified in paragraph (2), the Secretary may— process exceeds the metrics laid out in the Time health professional shortage area (as defined in (A) waive a debt owed by the veteran to the to Hire Model of the Veterans Health Adminis- section 332 of the Public Health Service Act (42 Department of Veterans Affairs or reimburse ex- tration, or successor model’’. U.S.C. 254e)). penses already paid by the veteran to the De- SEC. 3009. REQUIREMENT FOR CERTAIN DEPART- (B) First generation college students (as de- partment for such transportation; MENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS MED- fined in section 402A(h)(3) of the Higher Edu- (B) reimburse the veteran for expenses already ICAL FACILITIES TO HAVE PHYSICAL cation Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1067q(a))). paid by the veteran to a covered entity for such LOCATION FOR THE DISPOSAL OF (C) Students who have been referred by mi- transportation; or CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES MEDICA- nority-serving institutions (as defined in section (C) reimburse a covered entity for the costs of TIONS. 371(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 such transportation. (a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of Veterans U.S.C. 1067q(a))). (2) PERIOD SPECIFIED.—The period specified in Affairs shall ensure that each covered Depart- (D) Veterans (as defined in section 101 of title this paragraph is the period beginning on May ment medical facility has a physical location 38, United States Code). 5, 2010, and ending on the date of the enactment where patients may dispose of controlled sub- (E) Students who indicate an intention to spe- of this Act. stances medications. cialize in a health professional occupation iden- (3) COVERED ENTITY DEFINED.—In this sub- (b) COVERED DEPARTMENT MEDICAL FACIL- tified by the Inspector General of the Depart- section, the term ‘‘covered entity’’ has the ITY.—In this section, the term ‘‘covered Depart- ment under section 7412 of title 38, United States meaning given that term in section 1786(e)(3) of ment medical facility’’ means a medical facility Code, as having a staffing shortage. title 38, United States Code, as added by sub- of the Department of Veterans Affairs with an (3) ASSIGNMENT TO MEDICAL CENTERS.—The section (a). onsite pharmacy or a physical location dedi- Secretary shall assign students selected under SEC. 3007. WAIVER OF REQUIREMENTS OF DE- cated for law enforcement purposes. paragraph (1) to medical centers selected under PARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—This section shall take subsection (b) without regard for whether such FOR RECEIPT OF PER DIEM PAY- effect on January 1, 2022. medical centers have staffing shortages in any MENTS FOR DOMICILIARY CARE AT SEC. 3010. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS health professional occupation pursuant to sec- STATE HOMES AND MODIFICATION PILOT PROGRAM FOR CLINICAL OB- tion 7412 of title 38, United States Code. OF ELIGIBILITY FOR SUCH PAY- SERVATION BY UNDERGRADUATE THER ATTERS MENTS. (e) O M .—In carrying out the STUDENTS. pilot program under this section, the Secretary (a) WAIVER OF REQUIREMENTS.—Notwith- (a) ESTABLISHMENT.—The Secretary of Vet- standing section 1741 of title 38, United States shall— erans Affairs shall carry out a pilot program for (1) establish a formal status to facilitate the Code (as amended by subsection (b)), the Sec- a one-year period, beginning not later than Au- access to medical centers of the Department by retary of Veterans Affairs shall modify section gust 15, 2021, to provide certain students de- student observers participating in the pilot pro- 51.51(b) of title 38, Code of Federal Regulations scribed in subsection (d) a clinical observation gram; (or successor regulations), to provide the Sec- experience at medical centers of the Department (2) establish standardized legal, privacy, and retary the authority to waive the requirements of Veterans Affairs. ethical requirements for the student observers, under such section 51.51(b) for a veteran to be (b) MEDICAL CENTER SELECTION.—The Sec- including with respect to— eligible for per diem payments for domiciliary retary shall carry out the pilot program under (A) ensuring that no student observer provides care at a State home if— this section at not fewer than five medical cen- any care to patients while participating as an (1) the veteran has met not fewer than four of ters of the Department. In selecting such med- observer; and the requirements set forth in such section; or ical centers, the Secretary shall ensure regional (B) ensuring the suitability of a student to (2) such waiver would be in the best interest diversity among such selected medical centers. participate in the pilot program to ensure that of the veteran. (c) CLINICAL OBSERVATION SESSIONS.— the student poses no risk to patients; (b) MODIFICATION OF ELIGIBILITY.—Section (1) FREQUENCY AND DURATION.—In carrying (3) develop and implement a partnership strat- 1741(a)(1) of title 38, United States Code, is out the pilot program, the Secretary shall— egy with minority-serving institutions to encour- amended, in the flush text following subpara- (A) provide at least one and not more than age referrals; graph (B), by striking ‘‘in a Department facil- three clinical observation sessions at each med- (4) create standardized procedures for student ity’’ and inserting ‘‘under the laws administered ical center selected during each calendar year; observers; by the Secretary’’. (B) ensure that each clinical observation ses- (5) create an online information page about (c) STATE HOME DEFINED.—In this section, the sion— the pilot program on the internet website of the term ‘‘State home’’ has the meaning given that (i) lasts between four and six months; and Department; term in section 101(19) of title 38, United States (ii) to the extent practicable, begins and ends (6) publish on the online information page Code. concurrently with one or more academic terms of created under paragraph (5) the locations of SEC. 3008. EXPANSION OF QUARTERLY UPDATE an institution of higher education (as defined in such centers, and other information on the pilot OF INFORMATION ON STAFFING AND VACANCIES AT FACILITIES OF THE section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 program, not later than 180 days before the date DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AF- (20 U.S.C. 1001)); and on which applications are required to be sub- FAIRS TO INCLUDE INFORMATION (C) ensure that the clinical observation ses- mitted by potential student observers; ON DURATION OF HIRING PROCESS. sions provided at a medical center have minimal (7) identify medical centers and specific health (a) QUARTERLY UPDATE.—Subsection (a)(1) of overlap. professionals participating in the pilot program; section 505 of the VA MISSION Act of 2018 (2) SESSIONS.—The Secretary shall ensure that and (Public Law 115–182; 38 U.S.C. 301 note) is the pilot program consists of clinical observation (8) notify the Committees on Veterans’ Affairs amended by adding at the end the following sessions as follows: of the House of Representatives and the Senate new subparagraph: (A) Each session shall allow for not fewer of the medical centers selected under subsection ‘‘(E) Beginning with any update under para- than five students nor greater than 15 students (c) within 30 days of selection, to facilitate pro- graph (3) on or after the date of the enactment to participate in the session. gram awareness. of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. (B) Each session shall consist of not fewer (f) REPORT.—Not later than 180 days after the Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement than 20 observational hours nor greater than 40 completion of the pilot program under sub- Act of 2020, the following: observational hours. section (a), the Secretary shall submit to the ‘‘(i) For employees appointed under para- (C) A majority of the observational hours Committees on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of graphs (1) and (3) of section 7401 of title 38, shall be spent observing a health professional. Representatives and the Senate a report on the United States Code, the number of employees for The other observational hours shall be spent in results of the pilot program, including— which the duration of the process from valida- a manner that ensures a robust, well rounded (1) the number and demographics of all appli- tion of vacancy to receipt of official offer and experience that exposes the students to a variety cants, those accepted to participate in the pilot notification of actual start date exceeds the of aspects of medical care and health care ad- program, and those who completed the pilot pro- metrics laid out in the Time to Hire Model of the ministration. gram; and Veterans Health Administration, or successor (D) Each session shall provide a diverse clin- (2) if participating institutions of higher edu- model. ical observation experience. cation choose to administer satisfaction surveys ‘‘(ii) The percentage of employees who are de- (d) STUDENTS.— that assess the experience of those who com- scribed in clause (i) compared to all employees (1) SELECTION.—The Secretary shall select to pleted the pilot program, the results of any such appointed under paragraphs (1) and (3) of sec- participate in the pilot program under sub- satisfaction surveys, provided at the discretion tion 7401 of such title during the same period. section (a) students who are— of the institution of higher education.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7188 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020

(g) SENSE OF CONGRESS REGARDING DEPART- who is to be involved in the scheduling of ap- (ii) Duplicate consultation requests. MENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS PILOT PROGRAM pointments for health care from the Department (iii) Consultations that were discontinued. FOR CLINICAL OBSERVATION BY UNDERGRADUATE or health care described in subsection (iv) Delays in consultations. STUDENTS.—It is the sense of Congress that the (a)(1)(A)(ii)— (v) Consultations that were not properly pilot program described in subsection (a) should (A) to undergo training on the process and re- closed or discontinued, including a description be designed to— quirements established under subsection (a) as of remediation attempts. (1) increase the awareness, knowledge, and part of training for the position for which the (F) A review for accuracy with respect to con- empathy of future health professionals toward employee has been hired; and sultation management as follows: the health conditions common to veterans; (B) to make the certification to the Secretary (i) A review of the accuracy of the type of (2) increase the diversity of the recruitment required under paragraph (1). service, either administrative or clinical, that is pool of future physicians of the Department; (c) METHOD TO MONITOR COMPLIANCE.— inputted in the electronic health record. and (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 180 days after (ii) A review of the accuracy of the type of (3) expand clinical observation opportunities the date of the enactment of this Act, the Sec- consultation setting, either impatient or out- for all students by encouraging students of all retary shall establish or maintain a method or patient, that is inputted in the electronic health backgrounds to consider a career in the health tool— record. professions. (A) to enable monitoring of the compliance of (iii) A review of the appropriateness of the (h) NO ADDITIONAL FUNDS AUTHORIZED.—No the Department with the process and require- level of urgency of the consultation that is additional funds are authorized to be appro- ments established under subsection (a), includ- inputted in the electronic health record. priated to carry out the requirements of this sec- ing compliance with policies of the Department (iv) A review of any delayed or unresolved tion. Such requirements shall be carried out relating to the maximum number of days al- consultations. (2) An identification of such recommendations using amounts otherwise authorized to be ap- lowed to complete each step of such process; and for corrective action as the Secretary considers propriated. (B) to ensure that each medical facility of the Department complies with such process and re- necessary, including additional training, in- Subtitle B—Scheduling and Consult creased personnel, and other resources. Management quirements. (2) USE THROUGHOUT DEPARTMENT.— (3) A certification that the director of each SEC. 3101. PROCESS AND REQUIREMENTS FOR (A) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall require medical center of the Department covered by the SCHEDULING APPOINTMENTS FOR each medical facility of the Department to use audit is in compliance with the process and re- HEALTH CARE FROM DEPARTMENT the method or tool described in paragraph (1). quirements established under section 3101(a) OF VETERANS AFFAIRS AND NON-DE- and such other requirements relating to the PARTMENT HEALTH CARE. (B) REPORT.—Not later than one year after scheduling of appointments and management of (a) PROCESS AND REQUIREMENTS.— the date of the enactment of this Act, the Sec- consultations as the Secretary considers appro- (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 60 days after retary shall submit to the Committee on Vet- priate. the date of the enactment of this Act, the Sec- erans’ Affairs of the Senate and the Committee (4) With respect to referrals for health care be- retary of Veterans Affairs shall— on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of Representa- tween health care providers or facilities of the (A) establish a process and requirements for tives a report indicating whether each medical Department, a measurement of, for each medical scheduling appointments for— facility of the Department is using the method facility of the Department covered by the (i) health care from the Department of Vet- or tool described in paragraph (1). audit— erans Affairs; and (d) COMPTROLLER GENERAL REPORT.—Not (A) the period of time between— (ii) health care furnished through the Vet- later than two years after the date of the enact- (i) the date that a clinician of the Department erans Community Care Program under section ment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the determines that a veteran requires care from an- 1703 of title 38, United States Code, by a non- United States shall submit to the Committee on other health care provider or facility and the Department health care provider; and Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate and the Com- date that the referral for care is sent to the (B) submit to the Committee on Veterans’ Af- mittee on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of Rep- other health care provider or facility; fairs of the Senate and the Committee on Vet- resentatives a report on the compliance of the Secretary with the requirements of this section. (ii) the date that the referral for care is sent erans’ Affairs of the House of Representatives a to the other health care provider or facility and SEC. 3102. AUDITS REGARDING SCHEDULING OF description of such process and requirements. the date that the other health care provider or (2) ELEMENTS OF DESCRIPTION.—The descrip- APPOINTMENTS AND MANAGEMENT OF CONSULTATIONS FOR HEALTH facility accepts the referral; tion of the process and requirements for sched- (iii) the date that the other health care pro- uling appointments for health care required to CARE FROM DEPARTMENT OF VET- ERANS AFFAIRS AND NON-DEPART- vider or facility accepts the referral and the be submitted under paragraph (1)(B) shall in- MENT HEALTH CARE. date that the appointment with the other health clude— (a) IN GENERAL.—Not later than each of one care provider or at the other facility is made; (A) information on how such process and re- year and two years after the date of the enact- and quirements take into account the access stand- ment of this Act, the Secretary of Veterans Af- (iv) the date that the appointment with the ards established under section 1703B of title 38, fairs shall provide for the conduct of a facility- other health care provider or at the other facil- United States Code; and level audit of the scheduling of appointments ity is made and the date of the appointment (B) the maximum number of days allowed to and the management of consultations for health with the other health care provider or at the complete each step of such process. care under the laws administered by the Sec- other facility; and ERIODIC REVISION.— (3) P retary. (B) any other period of time that the Sec- (A) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary may revise (b) APPLICATION.— retary determines necessary to measure. the process and requirements required under (1) FIRST AUDIT.—The first audit required (5) With respect to referrals for non-Depart- paragraph (1) as the Secretary considers nec- under subsection (a) shall apply to each medical ment health care originating from medical facili- essary. facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs. ties of the Department, a measurement of, for (B) SUBMITTAL TO CONGRESS.—Not later than (2) SECOND AUDIT.—The second audit required each such facility covered by the audit— 30 days before revising the process and require- under subsection (a) shall apply to only those (A) the period of time between— ments under subparagraph (A), the Secretary medical facilities of the Department that are in (i) the date that a clinician of the Department shall submit to the Committee on Veterans’ Af- need of corrective action based on the first determines that a veteran requires care, or a fairs of the Senate and the Committee on Vet- audit, as determined by the Secretary. veteran presents to the Department requesting erans’ Affairs of the House of Representatives a (c) ELEMENTS.—Each audit conducted under care, and the date that the referral for care is description of such revised process and require- subsection (a) shall include the following: sent to a non-Department health care provider; ments, including a description of any modifica- (1) With respect to each medical center of the (ii) the date that the referral for care is sent tions to the certification and training under Department covered by the audit, an assessment to a non-Department health care provider and subsection (b). of any scheduling or consultation management the date that a non-Department health care (b) CERTIFICATION AND TRAINING ON PROCESS issues at that medical center, including the fol- provider accepts the referral; AND REQUIREMENTS.— lowing: (iii) the date that a non-Department health (1) CERTIFICATION.—Not later than one year (A) An assessment of noncompliance with care provider accepts the referral and the date after the date of the enactment of this Act, the policies of the Veterans Health Administration that the referral to a non-Department health Secretary shall require each individual involved relating to scheduling appointments and man- care provider is completed; in the scheduling of appointments for health aging consultations. (iv) the date that the referral to a non-Depart- care from the Department or health care de- (B) An assessment of the extent to which ap- ment health care provider is completed and the scribed in subsection (a)(1)(A)(ii), including pointments or consultations are not timely proc- date that an appointment with a non-Depart- schedulers, clinical coordinators, and super- essed. ment health care provider is made; and visors, to certify to the Secretary that the indi- (C) A description of any backlogs in appoint- (v) the date that an appointment with a non- vidual understands the process and require- ments or consultations that are awaiting action. Department health care provider is made and ments established under subsection (a), includ- (D) An assessment of whether consultations the date that an appointment with a non-De- ing the maximum number of days allowed to are appropriately processed. partment health care provider occurs; and complete each step of such process. (E) Data with respect to consultations as fol- (B) any other period of time that the Sec- (2) NEW EMPLOYEES.—The Secretary shall re- lows: retary determines necessary to measure. quire each employee hired by the Department on (i) Consultations that were scheduled within (d) CONDUCT OF AUDIT BY THIRD PARTY.— or after the date of the enactment of this Act the request window. Each audit conducted under subsection (a) with

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7189 respect to a medical facility of the Department (ii) the date that the referral for care is sent Subtitle A—Service-connection and COVID–19 shall be conducted by an individual or entity to a non-Department health care provider and SEC. 4101. PRESUMPTIONS OF SERVICE-CONNEC- that is not affiliated with the facility. the date that a non-Department health care TION FOR MEMBERS OF ARMED (e) TRANSMITTAL TO VHA.—Each audit con- provider accepts the referral; FORCES WHO CONTRACT ducted under subsection (a) shall be transmitted (iii) the date that a non-Department health CORONAVIRUS DISEASE 2019 UNDER to the Under Secretary for Health of the Depart- care provider accepts the referral and the date CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES. ment so that the Under Secretary can— that the referral to a non-Department health (a) IN GENERAL.—Subchapter VI of chapter 11 (1) strengthen oversight of the scheduling of care provider is completed; of title 38, United States Code, is amended by appointments and management of consultations (iv) the date that the referral to a non-Depart- adding at the end the following new section: throughout the Department; ment health care provider is completed and the ‘‘§ 1164. Presumptions of service-connection (2) monitor national policy on such sched- date that an appointment with a non-Depart- for Coronavirus Disease 2019 uling and management; and ment health care provider is made; and ‘‘(a) PRESUMPTIONS GENERALLY.—(1) For pur- (3) develop a remediation plan to address (v) the date that an appointment with a non- poses of laws administered by the Secretary and issues uncovered by those audits. Department health care provider is made and subject to section 1113 of this title, if symptoms (f) ANNUAL REPORT.— the date that an appointment with a non-De- of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (in this section re- (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than December 31 partment health care provider occurs; and ferred to as ‘COVID–19’) described in subsection of each year in which an audit is conducted (B) any other period of time that the Sec- (d) manifest within one of the manifestation pe- under subsection (a), the Secretary shall submit retary determines necessary to measure. riods described in paragraph (2) in an indi- (2) SUBMISSIONS TO CONGRESS.— to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the vidual who served in a qualifying period of duty Senate and the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs (A) IN GENERAL.—Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the described in subsection (b)— of the House of Representatives a report on the ‘‘(A) infection with severe acute respiratory Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Vet- audit conducted during that year. syndrome coronavirus 2 (in this section referred erans’ Affairs of the Senate and the Committee (2) ELEMENTS.—The Secretary shall include in to as ‘SARS–CoV–2’) shall be presumed to have on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of Representa- each report required by paragraph (1)— occurred during the qualifying period of duty; (A) the nationwide results of the audit con- tives the data measured under paragraph (1), ‘‘(B) COVID–19 shall be presumed to have ducted under subsection (a); disaggregated by medical facility. been incurred during the qualifying period of (B) UPDATE.—Not less frequently than bi- (B) the results of such audit with respect to duty; and each medical facility of the Department covered weekly, the Secretary shall update the data sub- ‘‘(C) if the individual becomes disabled or dies by such audit; mitted under subparagraph (A). as a result of COVID–19, it shall be presumed (c) COMPTROLLER GENERAL REPORT.— (C) an assessment of how the Department that the individual became disabled or died dur- strengthened oversight of the scheduling of ap- (1) REVIEW.—Beginning not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, ing the qualifying period of duty for purposes of pointments and management of consultations at establishing that the individual served in the each such facility as a result of the audit; the Comptroller General of the United States shall review compliance by the Secretary with active military, naval, or air service. (D) an assessment of how the audit informed ‘‘(2)(A) The manifestation periods described in the requirements of this section, including a re- the national policy of the Department with re- this paragraph are the following: spect to the scheduling of appointments and view of the validity and reliability of data sub- ‘‘(i) During a qualifying period of duty de- management of consultations; and mitted by the Secretary under subsection (b)(2). scribed in subsection (b), if that period of duty (2) REPORT.—Not later than three years after (E) a description of any remediation plans to was more than 48 continuous hours in duration. address issues raised by the audit that was com- the date of the enactment of this Act, the Comp- ‘‘(ii) Within 14 days after the individual’s pleted. troller General shall submit to the Committee on completion of a qualifying period of duty de- SEC. 3103. ADMINISTRATION OF NON-DEPART- Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate and the Com- scribed in subsection (b). MENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS mittee on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of Rep- ‘‘(iii) An additional period prescribed under HEALTH CARE. resentatives the results of the review conducted subparagraph (B). (a) CERTIFICATION OF PROPER ADMINISTRA- under paragraph (1). ‘‘(B)(i) If the Secretary determines that a TION OF NON-DEPARTMENT CARE.— SEC. 3104. EXAMINATION OF HEALTH CARE CON- manifestation period of more than 14 days after (1) REVIEW.— SULTATION AND SCHEDULING POSI- completion of a qualifying period of service is (A) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of Veterans TIONS OF DEPARTMENT OF VET- appropriate for the presumptions under para- ERANS AFFAIRS. Affairs shall conduct a review of the staffing, graph (1), the Secretary may prescribe that ad- (a) PROPER GRADING OF CONSULTATION AND training, and other requirements necessary to ditional period by regulation. SCHEDULING POSITIONS.— administer section 1703 of title 38, United States ‘‘(ii) A determination under clause (i) shall be (1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of Veterans Code. made in consultation with the Director of the Affairs shall conduct an examination of health (B) ELEMENTS.—The review conducted under Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. care positions of the Department of Veterans Af- subparagraph (A) shall include, with respect to ‘‘(b) QUALIFYING PERIOD OF DUTY DE- fairs to determine whether health care positions each medical facility of the Department of Vet- SCRIBED.—A qualifying period of duty described involved in the consultation and scheduling erans Affairs— in this subsection is— (i) an assessment of the type of positions re- processes are appropriately graded. ‘‘(1) a period of active duty performed— quired to be staffed at the medical facility; (2) CONSULTATION.—In conducting the exam- ‘‘(A) during the national emergency declared (ii) the number of such positions authorized; ination under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall by the President under the National Emer- (iii) the number of such positions funded; consult with health care staffing experts in the gencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.); and (iv) the number of such positions filled; and Federal Government and the private sector. ‘‘(B) before the date that is three years after (v) the number of additional such positions re- (3) SUBMITTAL TO CONGRESS.—Not later than the date of the enactment of the Johnny Isakson quired to be authorized. 120 days after the date of the enactment of this and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care (2) SUBMITTAL TO CONGRESS.—Not later than Act, the Secretary shall submit to the appro- and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020; or 180 days after the date of the enactment of this priate committees of Congress the results of the ‘‘(2) training duty under title 10 or full-time Act, and every 180 days thereafter, the Sec- examination conducted under paragraph (1). National Guard duty (as defined in section 101 retary shall submit to the Committee on Vet- (b) REVIEW OF ONBOARDING PROCESS.—Not of title 10), performed under orders issued on or erans’ Affairs of the Senate and the Committee later than 180 days after the date of the enact- after March 13, 2020— on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of Representa- ment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to ‘‘(A) during the national emergency declared tives— the appropriate committees of Congress— by the President under the National Emer- (A) the results of the review conducted under (1) a review of the onboarding process of indi- gencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.); and paragraph (1); and viduals in health care positions described in ‘‘(B) before the date that is three years after (B) a certification that the Secretary has es- subsection (a), including how long it takes to the date of the enactment of the Johnny Isakson tablished all staffing, training, and other re- hire those individuals; and and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care quirements required to be reviewed under such (2) a description of any changes that the Sec- and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. paragraph. retary has made or plans to make to improve ‘‘(c) APPLICATION OF PRESUMPTIONS FOR (b) SCHEDULING OF APPOINTMENTS.— that process. TRAINING DUTY.—When, pursuant to subsection (1) MEASUREMENT OF TIMELINESS FOR EACH (c) APPROPRIATE COMMITTEES OF CONGRESS (a), COVID–19 is presumed to have been in- FACILITY.—Not later than 120 days after the DEFINED.—In this section, the term ‘‘appro- curred during a qualifying period of duty de- date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary priate committees of Congress’’ means— scribed in subsection (b)(2)— shall measure, with respect to referrals for non- (1) the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and ‘‘(1) COVID–19 shall be deemed to have been Department health care originating from med- the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate; incurred in the line of duty during a period of ical facilities of the Department, for each such and active military, naval, or air service; and (2) the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and facility— ‘‘(2) where entitlement to benefits under this (A) the period of time between— the Committee on Appropriations of the House title is predicated on the individual who was (i) the date that a clinician of the Department of Representatives. disabled or died being a veteran, benefits for dis- determines that a veteran requires care, or a TITLE IV—NAVY SEAL BILL MULDER ability or death resulting from COVID–19 as de- veteran presents to the Department requesting SEC. 4001. SHORT TITLE. scribed in subsection (a) shall be paid or fur- care, and the date that the referral for care is This title may be cited as the ‘‘Navy SEAL nished as if the individual was a veteran, with- sent to a non-Department health care provider; Bill Mulder Act of 2020’’. out regard to whether the period of duty would

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7190 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 constitute active military, naval, or air service (C) by adding at the end the following: (B) to facilitate social distancing or isolation under section 101 of this title. ‘‘(2) If the Secretary waives any limit on grant needs; or ‘‘(d) SYMPTOMS OF COVID–19.—For purposes amounts or rates for per diem payments under (C) to facilitate the operation of housing of subsection (a), symptoms of COVID–19 are paragraph (1), notwithstanding section under such section. those symptoms that competent medical evidence 2012(a)(2)(B) of such title, the maximum rate for (2) LIMITATION.—The Secretary may waive a demonstrates are experienced by an individual per diem payments described in paragraph requirement pursuant to the authority provided affected and directly related to COVID–19. (1)(B) shall be three times the rate authorized by paragraph (1) with respect to a residence or ‘‘(e) MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS AND OPINIONS.— for State homes for domiciliary care under sec- facility referred to in such section 2032 only if If there is a question of whether the symptoms tion 1741 of such title.’’. the residence or facility, as the case may be, experienced by an individual described in para- (2) MODIFICATION OF FUNDING LIMITS FOR meets applicable local safety requirements, in- graph (1) of subsection (a) during a manifesta- GRANTS.—Subsection (c)(2) of section 2011 of title cluding fire safety requirements. tion period described in paragraph (2) of such 38, United States Code, shall not apply to any (d) ACCESS TO DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AF- subsection are attributable to COVID–19 result- grant awarded during a covered public health FAIRS TELEHEALTH SERVICES.—To the extent ing from infection with SARS–CoV–2 during the emergency under such section for a project de- practicable, during a covered public health qualifying period of duty, in determining scribed in subsection (b)(1) of such section. emergency, the Secretary shall ensure that vet- whether a medical examination or medical opin- (3) USE OF PER DIEM PAYMENTS.—During a erans participating in or receiving services from ion is necessary to make a decision on the claim covered public health emergency, a recipient of a program under chapter 20 of title 38, United within the meaning of section 5103A(d) of this a grant or an eligible entity under the grant and States Code, have access to telehealth services to title, a qualifying period of duty described in per diem program of the Department (in this which such veterans are eligible under the laws subsection (b) of this section shall be treated as subsection referred to as the ‘‘program’’) may administered by the Secretary, including by en- if it were active military, naval, or air service use per diem payments under sections 2012 and suring that telehealth capabilities are available for purposes of section 5103A(d)(2)(B) of this 2061 of title 38, United States Code, to provide to— title.’’. assistance required for safety and survival (such (1) such veterans; (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of sec- as food, shelter, clothing, blankets, and hygiene (2) case managers of the Department of pro- tions at the beginning of such subchapter is items) for— grams for homeless veterans authorized under amended by adding at the end the following (A) homeless veterans; and such chapter; and new item: (B) formerly homeless veterans residing in a (3) community-based service providers for ‘‘1164. Presumptions of service-connection for facility operated wholly or in part by such a re- homeless veterans receiving funds from the De- Coronavirus Disease 2019.’’. cipient or eligible entity receiving per diem pay- partment through grants or contracts. ments under section 2012 of such title. (e) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: Subtitle B—Assistance for Homeless Veterans (4) ADDITIONAL TRANSITIONAL HOUSING.— (1) COVERED PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY.— SEC. 4201. FLEXIBILITY FOR THE SECRETARY OF (A) IN GENERAL.—During a covered public The term ‘‘covered public health emergency’’ VETERANS AFFAIRS IN CARING FOR health emergency, under the program, the Sec- means an emergency with respect to COVID–19 HOMELESS VETERANS DURING A retary may provide amounts for additional tran- declared by a Federal, State, or local authority. COVERED PUBLIC HEALTH EMER- sitional housing beds to facilitate access to (2) HOMELESS VETERAN; VETERAN.—The terms GENCY. housing and services provided to homeless vet- (a) GENERAL SUPPORT.— ‘‘homeless veteran’’ and ‘‘veteran’’ have the erans. (1) USE OF FUNDS.—During a covered public meanings given those terms in section 2002 of (B) NOTICE; COMPETITION; PERIOD OF PER- health emergency, the Secretary of Veterans Af- title 38, United States Code. FORMANCE.—The Secretary may provide fairs may use amounts appropriated or other- amounts under subparagraph (A)— (3) TELEHEALTH.— wise made available to the Department of Vet- (i) without notice or competition; and (A) IN GENERAL.—The term ‘‘telehealth’’ erans Affairs to carry out sections 2011, 2012, (ii) for a period of performance determined by means the use of electronic information and 2031, and 2061 of title 38, United States Code, to the Secretary. telecommunications technologies to support and provide to homeless veterans and veterans par- (5) INSPECTIONS AND LIFE SAFETY CODE RE- promote long-distance clinical health care, pa- ticipating in the program carried out under sec- QUIREMENTS.— tient and professional health-related education, tion 8(o)(19) of the United States Housing Act of (A) IN GENERAL.—During a covered public public health, and health administration. 1937 (42 U.S.C. 1437f(o)(19)) (commonly referred health emergency, the Secretary may waive any (B) TECHNOLOGIES.—For purposes of subpara- to as ‘‘HUD-VASH’’), as the Secretary deter- requirement under subsection (b) or (c) of sec- graph (A), ‘‘telecommunications technologies’’ mines is needed, the following: tion 2012 of title 38, United States Code, in order include video conferencing, the internet, stream- (A) Assistance required for safety and survival to allow the recipient of a grant or an eligible ing media, and terrestrial and wireless commu- (such as food, shelter, clothing, blankets, and entity under the program— nications. hygiene items). (i) to quickly identify temporary alternate SEC. 4202. LEGAL SERVICES FOR HOMELESS VET- (B) Transportation required to support sta- sites of care for homeless veterans that are suit- ERANS AND VETERANS AT RISK FOR bility and health (such as for appointments with able for habitation; HOMELESSNESS. service providers, conducting housing searches, (ii) to facilitate social distancing or isolation (a) IN GENERAL.—Subchapter III of chapter 20 and obtaining food and supplies). needs; or of title 38, United States Code, is amended by in- (C) Communications equipment and services (iii) to facilitate activation or continuation of serting after section 2022 the following new sec- (such as tablets, smartphones, disposable a program for which a grant has been awarded. tion: (B) LIMITATION.—The Secretary may waive a phones, and related service plans) required to ‘‘§ 2022A. Legal services for homeless veterans requirement pursuant to the authority provided support stability and health (such as maintain- and veterans at risk for homelessness ing contact with service providers, prospective by subparagraph (A) with respect to a facility of landlords, and family). a recipient of a grant or an eligible entity under ‘‘(a) GRANTS.—Subject to the availability of (D) Such other assistance as the Secretary de- the program only if the facility meets applicable appropriations provided for such purpose, the termines is needed. local safety requirements, including fire safety Secretary shall award grants to eligible entities (2) HOMELESS VETERANS ON LAND OF THE DE- requirements. that provide legal services to homeless veterans PARTMENT.— (6) DISPOSITION OF PROPERTY RELATING TO and veterans at risk for homelessness. (A) COLLABORATION.—During a covered public GRANTS.—During a covered public health emer- ‘‘(b) CRITERIA.—(1) The Secretary shall— health emergency, to the extent possible, the gency, if the recipient of a grant awarded before ‘‘(A) establish criteria and requirements for Secretary may collaborate with one or more or- or during such emergency under section 2011 of grants under this section, including criteria for ganizations to manage use of land of the De- title 38, United States Code, for a project de- entities eligible to receive such grants; and partment for homeless veterans for living and scribed in subsection (b)(1) of such section is no ‘‘(B) publish such criteria and requirements in sleeping. longer providing services in accordance with the the Federal Register. (B) ELEMENTS.—Collaboration under subpara- terms of the grant, the recipient shall not be ‘‘(2) In establishing criteria and requirements graph (A) may include the provision by either subject during such emergency to any property under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall— the Secretary or the organization of food serv- disposition requirements relating to the grant ‘‘(A) take into consideration any criteria and ices and security for property, buildings, and under subsection (c) or (f) of section 61.67 of requirements needed with respect to carrying other facilities owned or controlled by the De- title 38, Code of Federal Regulations, section out this section in rural communities, on trust partment. 200.311(c) of title 2, Code of Federal Regulations, lands, and in the territories and possessions of (b) GRANT AND PER DIEM PROGRAM.— or successor regulations. the United States; and (1) LIMITS ON RATES FOR PER DIEM PAY- (c) INSPECTION AND LIFE SAFETY CODE RE- ‘‘(B) consult with organizations that have ex- MENTS.—Section 20013(b) of the Coronavirus QUIREMENTS FOR THERAPEUTIC HOUSING.— perience in providing services to homeless vet- Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (38 (1) IN GENERAL.—During a covered public erans, including— U.S.C. 2011 note; Public Law 116–136) is amend- health emergency, the Secretary may waive any ‘‘(i) veterans service organizations; ed— inspection or life safety code requirement under ‘‘(ii) the Equal Justice Works AmeriCorps Vet- (A) by redesignating paragraphs (1) and (2) as subsection (c) of section 2032 of title 38, United erans Legal Corps; and subparagraphs (A) and (B), respectively; States Code— ‘‘(iii) such other organizations as the Sec- (B) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), (A) to allow quick identification of temporary retary determines appropriate. as so redesignated, by inserting ‘‘(1)’’ before ‘‘In alternate sites of care for homeless veterans that ‘‘(c) ELIGIBLE ENTITIES.—The Secretary may the case’’; and are suitable for habitation; award a grant under this section to an entity

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7191

applying for such a grant only if the applicant (c) CRITERIA.—Not later than 180 days after ‘‘(ii) In the case of services furnished to a for the grant— the date of the enactment of this Act, the Sec- homeless veteran who is placed in housing that ‘‘(1) is a public or nonprofit private entity retary of Veterans Affairs shall establish and will become permanent housing for the veteran with the capacity (as determined by the Sec- publish in the Federal Register the criteria and upon termination of the furnishing of such serv- retary) to effectively administer a grant under requirements pursuant to subsection (b)(1) of ices to such veteran, the maximum rate of per this section; section 2022A of title 38, United States Code, as diem authorized under this section is 150 percent ‘‘(2) demonstrates that adequate financial added by subsection (a). of the rate authorized for State homes for domi- support will be available to carry out the serv- SEC. 4203. GAP ANALYSIS OF DEPARTMENT OF ciliary care under subsection (a)(1)(A) of section ices for which the grant is sought consistent VETERANS AFFAIRS PROGRAMS 1741 of this title, as the Secretary may increase with the application; THAT PROVIDE ASSISTANCE TO from time to time under subsection (c) of that ‘‘(3) agrees to meet the applicable criteria and WOMEN VETERANS WHO ARE HOME- section.’’. requirements established under subsection (b)(1); LESS. (b) REIMBURSEMENT OF CERTAIN FEES.—Such and (a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of Veterans section is further amended by adding at the end ‘‘(4) has, as determined by the Secretary, dem- Affairs shall complete an analysis of programs the following new subsection: onstrated the capacity to meet such criteria and of the Department of Veterans Affairs that pro- ‘‘(e) REIMBURSEMENT OF ENTITIES FOR CER- requirements. vide assistance to women veterans who are TAIN FEES.—The Secretary may reimburse a re- ‘‘(d) USE OF FUNDS.—Grants under this sec- homeless or precariously housed to identify the cipient of a grant under section 2011, 2013, or tion shall be used to provide homeless veterans areas in which such programs are failing to 2061 of this title or a recipient of per diem pay- and veterans at risk for homelessness the fol- meet the needs of such women. ments under this section for fees charged to that lowing legal services: (b) REPORT.—Not later than 270 days after the grant or per diem payment recipient for the use ‘‘(1) Legal services relating to housing, includ- date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the homeless management information system ing eviction defense, representation in landlord- shall submit to the Committee on Veterans’ Af- described in section 402(f) of the McKinney- tenant cases, and representation in foreclosure fairs of the Senate and the Committee on Vet- Vento Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. cases. erans’ Affairs of the House of Representatives a 11360a(f))— ‘‘(2) Legal services relating to family law, in- report on the analysis completed under sub- ‘‘(1) in amounts the Secretary determines to be cluding assistance in court proceedings for child section (a). reasonable; and support, divorce, estate planning, and family SEC. 4204. IMPROVEMENTS TO GRANTS AWARDED ‘‘(2) if the Secretary determines that the grant reconciliation. BY THE SECRETARY OF VETERANS or per diem payment recipient is unable to ob- ‘‘(3) Legal services relating to income support, AFFAIRS TO ENTITIES THAT PRO- tain information contained in such system including assistance in obtaining public bene- VIDE SERVICES TO HOMELESS VET- through other means and at no cost to the grant ERANS. fits. or per diem payment recipient.’’. (a) INCREASE IN PER DIEM PAYMENTS.—Para- ‘‘(4) Legal services relating to criminal de- graph (2) of subsection (a) of section 2012 of title SEC. 4205. REPEAL OF SUNSET ON AUTHORITY TO fense, including defense in matters symptomatic CARRY OUT PROGRAM OF REFERRAL 38, United States Code, is amended to read as of homelessness, such as outstanding warrants, AND COUNSELING SERVICES FOR follows: VETERANS AT RISK FOR HOMELESS- fines, and driver’s license revocation, to reduce ‘‘(2)(A)(i) Except as otherwise provided in sub- recidivism and facilitate the overcoming of re- NESS WHO ARE TRANSITIONING paragraph (B), the rate for such per diem pay- FROM CERTAIN INSTITUTIONS. entry obstacles in employment or housing. ments shall be the daily cost of care estimated (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 2023 of title 38, ‘‘(5) Legal services relating to requests to up- by the grant recipient or eligible entity adjusted United States Code, is amended— grade the characterization of a discharge or dis- by the Secretary under clause (ii). (1) by striking subsection (d); and missal of a former member of the Armed Forces ‘‘(ii)(I) The Secretary shall adjust the rate es- (2) by redesignating subsection (e) as sub- under section 1553 of title 10. timated by the grant recipient or eligible entity section (d). ‘‘(6) Such other legal services as the Secretary under clause (i) to exclude other sources of in- (b) CONFORMING AMENDMENT.—Section determines appropriate. come described in subclause (III) that the grant 2021(a)(4) of such title is amended by striking ‘‘(e) FUNDS FOR WOMEN VETERANS.—For any recipient or eligible entity certifies to be correct. ‘‘section 2023(e)’’ and inserting ‘‘section fiscal year, not less than 10 percent of the ‘‘(II) Each grant recipient or eligible entity 2023(d)’’. amount authorized to be appropriated for grants shall provide to the Secretary such information SEC. 4206. COORDINATION OF CASE MANAGE- under this section shall be used to provide legal with respect to other sources of income as the MENT SERVICES FOR VETERANS RE- services described in subsection (d) to women Secretary may require to make the adjustment CEIVING HOUSING VOUCHERS veterans. under subclause (I). UNDER TRIBAL HOUSING AND ‘‘(f) LOCATIONS.—To the extent practicable, URBAN DEVELOPMENT-VETERANS ‘‘(III) The other sources of income referred to AFFAIRS SUPPORTIVE HOUSING the Secretary shall award grants under this sec- in subclauses (I) and (II) are payments to the tion to eligible entities in a manner that is equi- PROGRAM. grant recipient or eligible entity for furnishing Section 2003 of title 38, United States Code, is tably distributed across the geographic regions services to homeless veterans under programs of the United States, including with respect to— amended by adding at the end the following other than under this subchapter, including new subsection: ‘‘(1) rural communities; payments and grants from other departments ‘‘(2) trust lands (as defined in section 3765 of ‘‘(c) MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING ON AS- and agencies of the United States, from depart- SISTANCE FROM INDIAN HEALTH SERVICE.—The this title); ments or agencies of State or local government, ‘‘(3) Native Americans; and Secretary may enter into a memorandum of un- and from private entities or organizations. derstanding with the Secretary of Health and ‘‘(4) tribal organizations (as defined in section ‘‘(iii) For purposes of calculating the rate for 4 of the Indian Self-Determination and Edu- Human Services under which case managers of per diem payments under clause (i), in the case the Indian Health Service may provide case cation Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 5304)). of a homeless veteran who has care of a minor ‘‘(g) BIENNIAL REPORTS.—(1) Not less fre- management assistance to veterans who receive dependent while receiving services from the quently than once every two years, the Sec- housing vouchers under the Tribal Housing and grant recipient or eligible entity, the daily cost retary shall submit to the Committee on Vet- Urban Development-Veterans Affairs Supportive of care of the homeless veteran shall be the sum erans’ Affairs of the Senate and the Committee Housing (Tribal HUD-VASH) program of the of the daily cost of care of the homeless veteran on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of Representa- Department of Housing and Urban Develop- determined under clause (i) plus, for each such tives a report on grants awarded under this sec- ment.’’. minor dependent, an amount that equals 50 per- tion. SEC. 4207. CONTRACTS RELATING TO CASE MAN- cent of such daily cost of care. AGERS FOR HOMELESS VETERANS IN ‘‘(2) To the extent feasible, each report re- ‘‘(B)(i)(I) Except as provided in clause (ii), quired by paragraph (1) shall include the fol- SUPPORTED HOUSING PROGRAM. and subject to the availability of appropriations, (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 304 of the Honoring lowing with respect to the period covered by the the Secretary may adjust the rate for per diem America’s Veterans and Caring for Camp report: payments under this paragraph, as the Sec- ‘‘(A) The number of homeless veterans and Lejeune Families Act of 2012 (Public Law 112– retary considers appropriate. veterans at risk for homelessness assisted. 154; 38 U.S.C. 2041 note) is amended— ‘‘(II) Any adjustment made under this (1) in subsection (a)— ‘‘(B) A description of the legal services pro- clause— (A) by inserting ‘‘(1)’’ before ‘‘The Secretary’’; vided. ‘‘(aa) may not result in a rate that— (B) by adding at the end the following new ‘‘(C) A description of the legal matters ad- ‘‘(AA) is lower than the rate in effect under paragraphs: dressed. this paragraph as in effect immediately pre- ‘‘(2)(A) The director of each covered medical ‘‘(D) An analysis by the Secretary with re- ceding the date of the enactment of the Navy center shall seek to enter into one or more con- spect to the operational effectiveness and cost- SEAL Bill Mulder Act of 2020; or tracts or agreements described in paragraph (1). effectiveness of the services provided.’’. ‘‘(BB) exceeds the rate that is 115 percent of ‘‘(B) Any contract or agreement under sub- (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of sec- the rate authorized for State homes for domi- paragraph (A) may require that each case man- tions at the beginning of chapter 20 of such title ciliary care under subsection (a)(1)(A) of section ager employed by an eligible entity who per- is amended by inserting after the item relating 1741 of this title, as the Secretary may increase forms services under the contract or agreement to section 2022 the following new item: from time to time under subsection (c) of that has credentials equivalent to the credentials re- ‘‘2022A. Legal services for homeless veterans and section; and quired for a case manager of the Department. veterans at risk for homeless- ‘‘(bb) may be determined on the basis of local- ‘‘(C)(i) The Secretary may waive the require- ness.’’. ity. ment under subparagraph (A) with respect to a

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7192 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 covered medical center if the Secretary deter- and Urban Development have worked with non- and Other Veterans’ Benefits Improvement Act mines that fulfilling such requirement is infeasi- Federal partners (such as local governments, of 2012 (Public Law 112–260; 10 U.S.C. 1144 note) ble. nongovernmental organizations, veterans service is amended— ‘‘(ii) If the Secretary grants a waiver under organizations, and employee unions) to meet the (1) by striking ‘‘During the two-year period clause (i), the Secretary shall, not later than 90 staffing needs of the HUD-VASH program. beginning on the date of the enactment of this days after granting such waiver, submit to the (5) Examples of how medical centers of the Act’’ and inserting ‘‘During the five-year period Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate Department of Veterans Affairs with high reten- beginning on the date of the enactment of the and the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the tion rates for case managers of the HUD-VASH Navy SEAL Bill Mulder Act of 2020’’; and House of Representatives a report containing— program have been able to maintain staffing lev- (2) by striking ‘‘to assess the feasibility and ‘‘(I) an explanation of the determination made els. advisability of providing such program to eligi- under clause (i); Subtitle C—Retraining Assistance for ble individuals at locations other than military ‘‘(II) a plan to increase the number of case Veterans installations’’. managers of the Department; and (b) LOCATIONS.—Subsection (c) of such section ‘‘(III) a plan for the covered medical center to SEC. 4301. ACCESS FOR THE SECRETARIES OF LABOR AND VETERANS AFFAIRS TO is amended— increase use of housing vouchers allocated to THE FEDERAL DIRECTORY OF NEW (1) in paragraph (1)— that medical center under the program described HIRES. (A) in the paragraph heading, by striking in paragraph (1). Section 453A(h) of the Social Security Act (42 ‘‘STATES’’ and inserting ‘‘LOCATIONS’’; and ‘‘(D) In this paragraph, the term ‘covered U.S.C. 653a(h)) is amended by adding at the end (B) by striking ‘‘not less than three and not medical center’ means a medical center of the the following new paragraph: more than five States’’ and inserting ‘‘not fewer Department with respect to which the Secretary ‘‘(4) VETERAN EMPLOYMENT.—The Secretaries than 50 locations in States (as defined in section determines that— of Labor and of Veterans Affairs shall have ac- 101 of title 38, United States Code)’’; ‘‘(i) more than 15 percent of all housing cess to information reported by employers pursu- (2) in paragraph (2), by striking ‘‘at least vouchers allocated to that medical center under ant to subsection (b) of this section for purposes two’’ and inserting ‘‘at least 20’’; and the program described in paragraph (1) during of tracking employment of veterans.’’. (3) by adding at the end the following new the fiscal year preceding the fiscal year in SEC. 4302. EXPANSION OF ELIGIBLE CLASS OF paragraphs: which such determination was made were un- PROVIDERS OF HIGH TECHNOLOGY ‘‘(5) PREFERENCES.—In selecting States for used due to a lack of case management services PROGRAMS OF EDUCATION FOR VET- participation in the pilot program, the Secretary provided by the Secretary; and ERANS. shall provide a preference for any State with— ‘‘(ii) one or more case manager positions have Section 116 of the Harry W. Colmery Veterans ‘‘(A) a high rate of usage of unemployment been vacant for at least nine consecutive months Educational Assistance Act of 2017 (Public Law benefits for recently separated members of the immediately preceding the date of such deter- 115–48; 38 U.S.C. 3001 note) is amended— Armed Forces; or mination.’’; and (1) in subsection (b), by adding at the end the ‘‘(B) a labor force or economy that has been (2) in subsection (b)(2)— following: ‘‘The Secretary shall treat an indi- significantly impacted by a covered public (A) in the matter before subparagraph (A), by vidual as an eligible veteran if the Secretary de- health emergency. striking ‘‘, including because—’’ and inserting a termines that the individual shall become an eli- ‘‘(6) COVERED PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY DE- period; and gible veteran fewer than 180 days after the date FINED.—In this subsection, the term ‘covered (B) by striking subparagraphs (A), (B), and of such determination. If an individual treated public health emergency’ means— (C). as an eligible veteran by reason of the preceding ‘‘(A) the public health emergency declared by (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments made sentence does anything to make the veteran in- the Secretary of Health and Human Services by this section shall take effect on the first day eligible during the 180-day period referred to in under section 319 of the Public Health Service of the first fiscal year that begins after the date such sentence, the Secretary may require the Act (42 U.S.C. 247d) on January 31, 2020, with of the enactment of this Act. veteran to repay any benefits received by such respect to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID–19); SEC. 4208. REPORT ON STAFFING OF DEPART- veteran by reason of such sentence.’’; or MENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DE- (2) in subsection (c)— ‘‘(B) a domestic emergency declared, based on VELOPMENT-DEPARTMENT OF VET- (A) in paragraph (3)(A), by striking ‘‘has been an outbreak of Coronavirus Disease 2019 ERANS AFFAIRS SUPPORTED HOUS- operational for at least 2 years’’ and inserting ING PROGRAM. (COVID–19), by the President, the Secretary of ‘‘employs instructors whom the Secretary deter- Not later than 180 days after the date of the Homeland Security, or a State or local author- mines are experts in their respective fields in ac- enactment of this Act, and every three years ity.’’. cordance with paragraph (6)’’; and (c) ANNUAL REPORT.—Subsection (e) of such thereafter, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (B) by adding at the end the following new shall submit to the Committee on Veterans’ Af- section is amended by adding at the end the fol- paragraph: lowing new sentence: ‘‘Each such report shall fairs of the Senate and the Committee on Vet- ‘‘(6) EXPERTS.—The Secretary shall determine include information about the employment out- erans’ Affairs of the House of Representatives a whether instructors are experts under para- comes of the eligible individuals who received report that includes the following: graph (3)(A) based on evidence furnished to the such training during the year covered by the re- (1) An assessment of the hiring needs of the Secretary by the provider regarding the ability port.’’. program carried out under section 8(o)(19) of the of the instructors to— (d) CONFORMING REPEAL.—Subsection (f) of United States Housing Act of 1937 (42 U.S.C. ‘‘(A) identify professions in need of new em- such section is repealed. 1437f(o)(19)) (in this section referred to as the ployees to hire, tailor the programs to meet mar- ‘‘HUD-VASH program’’), including— ket needs, and identify the employers likely to SEC. 4304. GRANTS FOR PROVISION OF TRANSI- TION ASSISTANCE TO MEMBERS OF (A) an identification of the number of case hire graduates; managers of the HUD-VASH program as of the THE ARMED FORCES AFTER SEPARA- ‘‘(B) effectively teach the skills offered to eli- TION, RETIREMENT, OR DISCHARGE. date of the report including— gible veterans; (a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of Veterans (i) the total number of vacancies; and ‘‘(C) provide relevant industry experience in Affairs shall make grants to eligible organiza- (ii) the vacancies at each medical center of the the fields of programs offered to incoming eligi- tions for the provision of transition assistance to Department of Veterans Affairs; ble veterans; and members of the Armed Forces who are sepa- (B) the number of case managers of the HUD- ‘‘(D) demonstrate relevant industry experience rated, retired, or discharged from the Armed VASH program that the Secretary of Veterans in such fields of programs.’’; Affairs and the Secretary of Housing and Urban (3) in subsection (d), in the matter preceding Forces, and spouses of such members. Development jointly determine necessary to meet paragraph (1)— (b) USE OF FUNDS.—The recipient of a grant the needs of the Department and the program; (A) by inserting ‘‘(not including an individual under this section shall use the grant to provide and described in the second sentence of subsection to members of the Armed Forces and spouses de- (C) the amount of turnover among case man- (b))’’ after ‘‘each eligible veteran’’; and scribed in subsection (a) resume assistance, agers of the HUD-VASH program and whether (B) by inserting ‘‘or part-time’’ after ‘‘full- interview training, job recruitment training, and the turnover was planned or unexpected. time’’; related services leading directly to successful (2) An assessment of how compensation, in- (4) in subsection (g), by striking ‘‘$15,000,000’’ transition, as determined by the Secretary. cluding recruitment and retention incentives, and inserting ‘‘$45,000,000’’; and (c) ELIGIBLE ORGANIZATIONS.—To be eligible for case managers of the HUD-VASH program (5) by adding at the end the following new for a grant under this section, an organization affects turnover, and what percentage of reten- subsection (i): shall submit to the Secretary an application tion compensation is provided to such case man- ‘‘(i) PROHIBITION ON CERTAIN ACCOUNTING OF containing such information and assurances as agers at each medical center of the Department ASSISTANCE.—The Secretary may not consider the Secretary, in consultation with the Sec- of Veterans Affairs (compared to other posi- enrollment in a high technology program of edu- retary of Labor, may require. tions). cation under this section to be assistance under (d) PRIORITY.—In making grants under this (3) A comparison of compensation described in a provision of law referred to in section 3695 of section, the Secretary shall give priority to an paragraph (2) with the compensation provided title 38, United States Code.’’. organization that— to State, local, and nongovernmental housing SEC. 4303. PILOT PROGRAM FOR OFF-BASE TRAN- (1) provides multiple forms of services de- employees at comparable training and experi- SITION TRAINING FOR VETERANS scribed in subsection (b); or ence levels. AND SPOUSES. (2) is located in a State with— (4) Examples of how the Department of Vet- (a) EXTENSION OF PILOT PROGRAM.—Sub- (A) a high rate of unemployment among vet- erans Affairs and the Department of Housing section (a) of section 301 of the Dignified Burial erans;

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7193 (B) a high rate of usage of unemployment (A) the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and (J) The percentage of each cohort that benefits for recently separated members of the the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate; achieves a successful outcome for the Transition Armed Forces; or and Assistance Program, as determined under sec- (C) a labor force or economy that has been (B) the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and tion 136(a)(7). significantly impacted by a covered public the Committee on Armed Services of the House (K) Other criteria the Secretaries and the Ad- health emergency (as such term is defined in of Representatives. ministrator of the Small Business Administra- section 131(n)). (2) COVERED OFFICIALS.—The term ‘‘covered tion determine appropriate. (e) AMOUNT OF GRANT.—A grant under this officials’’ means— (d) APPROPRIATE COMMITTEES OF CONGRESS section shall be in an amount that does not ex- (A) the Secretary of Defense; DEFINED.—In this section, the term ‘‘appro- ceed 50 percent of the amount required by the (B) the Secretary of Labor; priate committees of Congress’’ means— organization to provide the services described in (C) the Administrator of the Small Business (1) the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and subsection (b). Administration; and the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate; (f) DEADLINE.—The Secretary shall carry out (D) the Secretaries of the military depart- and this section not later than 180 days after the ments. (2) the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and date of the enactment of this Act. (3) MILITARY DEPARTMENT.—The term ‘‘mili- the Committee on Armed Services of the House (g) TERMINATION.—The authority to provide a tary department’’ has the meaning given that of Representatives. term in section 101 of title 10, United States grant under this section shall terminate on the TITLE V—DEBORAH SAMPSON date that is five years after the date on which Code. the Secretary implements the grant program SEC. 4306. LONGITUDINAL STUDY ON CHANGES SEC. 5001. SHORT TITLE. under this section. TO TRANSITION ASSISTANCE PRO- This title may be cited as the ‘‘Deborah Samp- GRAM. son Act of 2020’’. SEC. 4305. ONE-YEAR INDEPENDENT ASSESSMENT OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF TRANSI- (a) STUDY.—Not later than 90 days after the Subtitle A—Improving Access for Women Vet- TION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM. date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary erans to the Department of Veterans Affairs (a) INDEPENDENT ASSESSMENT.—Not later than of Veterans Affairs, in consultation with the SEC. 5101. OFFICE OF WOMEN’S HEALTH IN DE- 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Labor, PARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS. Act, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, in con- and the Administrator of the Small Business Ad- (a) CHIEF OFFICER OF WOMEN’S HEALTH.— sultation with the covered officials, shall enter ministration, shall conduct a five-year longitu- Subsection (a) of section 7306 of title 38, United into an agreement with an appropriate entity dinal study regarding the Transition Assistance States Code, is amended— with experience in adult education to carry out Program under sections 1142 and 1144 of title 10, (1) by redesignating paragraph (10) as para- a one-year independent assessment of the Tran- United States Code (TAP), on three separate co- graph (11); and sition Assistance Program under sections 1142 horts of members of the Armed Forces who have (2) by inserting after paragraph (9) the fol- and 1144 of title 10, United States Code (TAP), separated from the Armed Forces, including— lowing new paragraph (10): including— (1) a cohort that has attended counseling ‘‘(10) The Chief Officer of Women’s Health.’’. (1) the effectiveness of the Transition Assist- under the Transition Assistance Program as im- (b) ORGANIZATION OF OFFICE AND ANNUAL RE- ance Program for members of each military de- plemented on the date of the enactment of this PORTS.— partment during the entire military life cycle; Act; (1) IN GENERAL.—Subchapter I of chapter 73 of (2) the appropriateness of the career readiness (2) a cohort that attends counseling under the title 38, United States Code, is amended by add- standards of the Transition Assistance Program; Transition Assistance Program after the Sec- ing at the end of the following new sections: retary of Defense and the Secretary of Labor im- (3) a review of information that is provided to ‘‘§ 7310. Office of Women’s Health the Department of Veterans Affairs under the plement changes recommended in the report ‘‘(a) ESTABLISHMENT.—(1) The Under Sec- Transition Assistance Program, including men- under section 136(b); and retary for Health shall establish and operate in tal health data; (3) a cohort that has not attended counseling (4) whether the Transition Assistance Pro- under the Transition Assistance Program. the Veterans Health Administration the Office gram effectively addresses the challenges vet- (b) PROGRESS REPORTS.—Not later than 90 of Women’s Health (in this section referred to as erans face entering the civilian workforce and days after the date that is one year after the the ‘Office’). in translating experience and skills from mili- date of the initiation of the study under sub- ‘‘(2) The Office shall be located at the Central tary service to the job market; section (a), and annually thereafter for the Office of the Department of Veterans Affairs. (5) whether the Transition Assistance Pro- three subsequent years, the Secretary of Vet- ‘‘(3)(A) The head of the Office is the Chief Of- gram effectively addresses the challenges faced erans Affairs, the Secretary of Defense, the Sec- ficer of Women’s Health (in this section referred by the families of veterans making the transition retary of Labor, and the Administrator of the to as the ‘Chief Officer’). ‘‘(B) The Chief Officer shall report to the to civilian life; Small Business Administration shall jointly sub- (6) appropriate metrics regarding outcomes of mit to the appropriate committees of Congress a Under Secretary for Health. ‘‘(4) The Under Secretary for Health shall the Transition Assistance Program for members progress report of activities under the study dur- provide the Office with such staff and other of the Armed Forces one year after separation, ing the immediately preceding year. support as may be necessary for the Office to retirement, or discharge from the Armed Forces; (c) FINAL REPORT.— (7) what the Secretary, in consultation with (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 180 days after carry out effectively the functions of the Office the covered officials and veterans service orga- the completion of the study under subsection under this section. nizations, determine to be successful outcomes (a), the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, the Sec- ‘‘(5) The Under Secretary for Health may re- for the Transition Assistance Program; retary of Defense, the Secretary of Labor, and organize existing offices within the Veterans (8) whether members of the Armed Forces the Administrator of the Small Business Admin- Health Administration as of the date of the en- achieve successful outcomes for the Transition istration shall jointly submit to the appropriate actment of this section in order to avoid dupli- Assistance Program, as determined under para- committees of Congress a report of final findings cation with the functions of the Office. graph (7); and recommendations based on the study. ‘‘(b) FUNCTIONS.—The functions of the Office (9) how the Secretary and the covered officials (2) ELEMENTS.—The final report under para- include the following: provide feedback to each other regarding such graph (1) shall include information regarding ‘‘(1) To provide a central office for monitoring outcomes; the following: and encouraging the activities of the Veterans (10) recommendations for the Secretaries of (A) The percentage of each cohort that re- Health Administration with respect to the provi- the military departments regarding how to im- ceived unemployment benefits during the study sion, evaluation, and improvement of health prove outcomes for members of the Armed Forces under subsection (a). care services provided to women veterans by the after separation, retirement, and discharge; and (B) The numbers of months members of each Department. (11) other topics the Secretary and the covered cohort were employed during the study. ‘‘(2) To develop and implement standards of officials determine would aid members of the (C) Annual starting and ending salaries of care for the provision of health care for women Armed Forces as they transition to civilian life. members of each cohort who were employed dur- veterans by the Department. (b) REPORT.—Not later than 90 days after the ing the study. ‘‘(3) To monitor and identify deficiencies in completion of the independent assessment under (D) How many members of each cohort en- standards of care for the provision of health subsection (a), the Secretary and the covered of- rolled in an institution of higher learning, as care for women veterans by the Department, to ficials shall jointly submit to the appropriate that term is defined in section 3452(f) of title 38, provide technical assistance to medical facilities committees of Congress— United States Code. of the Department to address and remedy defi- (1) the findings and recommendations (includ- (E) The academic credit hours, degrees, and ciencies, and to perform oversight of implemen- ing recommended legislation) of the independent certificates obtained by members of each cohort tation of such standards of care. assessment prepared by the entity described in during the study. ‘‘(4) To monitor and identify deficiencies in subsection (a); and (F) The annual income of members of each co- standards of care for the provision of health (2) responses of the Secretary and the covered hort. care for women veterans provided through the officials to the findings and recommendations (G) The total household income of members of community pursuant to this title and to provide described in paragraph (1). each cohort. recommendations to the appropriate office to (c) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: (H) How many members of each cohort own address and remedy any deficiencies. (1) APPROPRIATE COMMITTEES OF CONGRESS.— their principal residences. ‘‘(5) To oversee distribution of resources and The term ‘‘appropriate committees of Congress’’ (I) How many dependents members of each co- information related to health programming for means— hort have. women veterans under this title.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7194 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 ‘‘(6) To promote the expansion and improve- ‘‘§ 7310A. Annual reports on women’s health women, including the following, disaggregated ment of clinical, research, and educational ac- ‘‘(a) ANNUAL REPORTS.—Not later than De- by Veterans Integrated Service Network and tivities of the Veterans Health Administration cember 1 of each year, the Chief Officer of Wom- State (except with respect to paragraph (4)): with respect to the health care of women vet- en’s Health shall submit to the appropriate con- ‘‘(1) The number of women’s health centers. erans. gressional committees a report containing the ‘‘(2) The number of patient aligned care teams ‘‘(7) To provide, as part of the annual budg- matters under subsections (b) through (g). of the Department relating to women’s health. eting process, recommendations with respect to ‘‘(b) OFFICE OF WOMEN’S HEALTH.—Each re- ‘‘(3) The number of full- and part-time gyne- the amounts to be requested for furnishing hos- port under subsection (a) shall include a de- cologists of the Department. pital care and medical services to women vet- scription of— ‘‘(4) The number of designated women’s erans pursuant to chapter 17 of this title, in- ‘‘(1) actions taken by the Office of Women’s health care providers of the Department, cluding, at a minimum, recommendations that Health established under section 7310 of this disaggregated by facility of the Department. ensure that such amounts either reflect or ex- title in the preceding fiscal year to improve the ‘‘(5) The number of health care providers of ceed the proportion of veterans enrolled in the provision of health care by the Department to the Department who have completed a mini-resi- system of patient enrollment of the Department women veterans; dency for women’s health care through the established and operated under section 1705(a) ‘‘(2) any identified deficiencies related to the Women Veterans Health Care Mini-Residency of this title who are women. provision of health care by the Department to Program of the Department during the one-year ‘‘(8) To provide recommendations to the Under women veterans and the standards of care es- period preceding the submittal of the report and Secretary for Health with respect to modifying tablished in such section and the plan of the the number of mini-residency training slots for the Veterans Equitable Resource Allocation sys- Department to address such deficiencies; such program that are available during the one- tem, or successor system, to ensure that resource ‘‘(3) the funding and personnel provided to year period following such date. allocations under such system, or successor sys- the Office and whether additional funding or ‘‘(6) The number of designated women’s tem, reflect the health care needs of women vet- personnel are needed to meet the requirements health care providers of the Department who erans. of such section; and have sufficient women patient loads or case ‘‘(9) To carry out such other duties as the ‘‘(4) other information that would be of inter- complexities to retain their competencies and Under Secretary for Health may require. est to the appropriate congressional committees proficiencies. ‘‘(c) RECOMMENDATIONS.—(1) If the Under ‘‘(f) ACCESSIBILITY AND TREATMENT OP- Secretary for Health determines not to imple- with respect to oversight of the provision of health care by the Department to women vet- TIONS.—Each report under subsection (a) shall ment any recommendation made by the Chief include an analysis of the accessibility and Officer with respect to the allocation of re- erans. ‘‘(c) ACCESS TO GENDER-SPECIFIC SERVICES.— treatment options for women veterans, including sources to address the health care needs of the following: women veterans, the Secretary shall notify the (1) Each report under subsection (a) shall in- clude an analysis of the access of women vet- ‘‘(1) An assessment of wheelchair accessibility appropriate congressional committees of such of women’s health centers of the Department, determination by not later than 30 days after erans to gender-specific services under con- tracts, agreements, or other arrangements with including, with respect to each such center, an the date on which the Under Secretary for assessment of accessibility for each kind of Health receives the recommendation. non-Department medical providers entered into by the Secretary for the provision of hospital treatment provided at the center, including with ‘‘(2) Each notification under paragraph (1) re- respect to radiology and mammography, that lating to a determination with respect to a rec- care or medical services to veterans. ‘‘(2) The analysis under paragraph (1) shall addresses all relevant factors, including door ommendation shall include the following: sizes, hoists, and equipment. ‘‘(A) The reasoning of the Under Secretary for include data and performance measures for the ‘‘(2) The options for women veterans to access Health in making the determination. availability of gender-specific services described ‘‘(B) An alternative, if one is selected, to the in such paragraph, including— mental health providers and primary care pro- recommendation that the Under Secretary for ‘‘(A) the average wait time between the pre- viders who are women. Health will carry out to fulfill the health care ferred appointment date of the veteran and the ‘‘(3) The options for women veterans at med- needs of women veterans. date on which the appointment is completed; ical facilities of the Department with respect to ‘‘(d) STANDARDS OF CARE.—For purposes of ‘‘(B) the average driving time required for vet- clothing sizes, including for gowns, drawstring carrying out the functions of the Office under erans to attend appointments; and pants, and pajamas. this section, the standards of care for the provi- ‘‘(C) reasons why appointments could not be ‘‘(g) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: sion of health care for women veterans from the scheduled with non-Department medical pro- ‘‘(1) The term ‘appropriate congressional com- Department shall include, at a minimum, the viders. mittees’ means— following: ‘‘(d) MODELS OF CARE.—(1) Each report under ‘‘(A) the Committee on Appropriations and the ‘‘(1) A requirement for— subsection (a) shall include an analysis of the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate; ‘‘(A) at least one designated women’s health use by the Department of general primary care and primary care provider at each medical center of clinics, separate but shared spaces, and women’s ‘‘(B) the Committee on Appropriations and the the Department whose duties include, to the ex- health centers as delivery of care models for Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of tent practicable, providing training to other women veterans. Representatives. health care providers of the Department with re- ‘‘(2) The analysis under paragraph (1) shall ‘‘(2) The term ‘gender-specific services’ means spect to the needs of women veterans; and include the following: mammography, obstetric care, gynecological ‘‘(B) at least one designated women’s health ‘‘(A) The number of facilities of the Depart- care, and such other services as the Secretary primary care provider at each community-based ment that fall into each delivery of care model determines appropriate.’’. outpatient clinic of the Department who may described in such paragraph, disaggregated by (2) REFERENCES TO HEALTH CARE AND SERV- serve women patients as a percentage of the Veterans Integrated Service Network and State. ICES.—The references to health care and the ref- total duties of the provider. ‘‘(B) A description of the criteria used by the erences to services in sections 7310 and 7310A of ‘‘(2) Other requirements as determined by the Department to determine which such model is title 38, United States Code, as added by para- Under Secretary for Health. most appropriate for each facility of the Depart- graph (1), are references to the health care and ‘‘(e) OUTREACH.—The Chief Officer shall en- ment. services included in the medical benefits pack- sure that— age provided by the Department as in effect on ‘‘(1) not less frequently than biannually, each ‘‘(C) An assessment of how the Department decides to make investments to modify facilities the day before the date of the enactment of this medical facility of the Department holds a pub- Act. lic forum for women veterans that occurs out- to a different model. ‘‘(D) A description of what, if any, plans the (3) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of sec- side of regular business hours; and tions for such chapter is amended by inserting ‘‘(2) not less frequently than quarterly, each Department has to modify facilities from general primary care clinics to another model. after the item relating to section 7309A the fol- medical facility of the Department convenes a lowing new items: focus group of women veterans that includes a ‘‘(E) An assessment of whether any facilities ‘‘7310. Office of Women’s Health. discussion of harassment occurring at such fa- could be modified to a separate but shared space ‘‘7310A. Annual reports on women’s health.’’. cility. for a women’s health center within planned in- (c) INITIAL REPORT.—The Chief Officer of ‘‘(f) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: vestments under the strategic capital investment ‘‘(1) The term ‘appropriate congressional com- planning process of the Department. Women’s Health of the Department of Veterans mittees’ has the meaning given that term in sec- ‘‘(F) An assessment of whether any facilities Affairs shall submit the initial report under sec- tion 7310A(h) of this title. could be modified to a separate or shared space tion 7310A of title 38, United States Code, as ‘‘(2) The term ‘facility of the Department’ has or a women’s health center with minor modifica- added by subsection (b), by not later than one the meaning given the term ‘facilities of the De- tions to existing plans under the strategic cap- year after the date of the enactment of this Act. partment’ in section 1701(3) of this title. ital investment planning process of the Depart- SEC. 5102. WOMEN VETERANS RETROFIT INITIA- ‘‘(3) The term ‘Veterans Equitable Resource ment. TIVE. Allocation system’ means the resource allocation ‘‘(G) An assessment of whether the Depart- (a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of Veterans system established pursuant to section 429 of the ment has a goal for how many facilities should Affairs shall prioritize the retrofitting of exist- Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing fall into each such model. ing medical facilities of the Department of Vet- and Urban Development, and Independent ‘‘(e) STAFFING.—Each report under subsection erans Affairs with fixtures, materials, and other Agencies Appropriations Act, 1997 (Public Law (a) shall include an analysis of the staffing of outfitting measures to support the provision of 104–204; 110 Stat. 2929). the Department relating to the treatment of care to women veterans at such facilities.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7195

(b) PLAN.— ‘‘(bb) Financial counseling. Comptroller General of the United States shall (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than one year after ‘‘(cc) Occupational counseling. submit to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the date of the enactment of this Act, the Sec- ‘‘(dd) Information and counseling on stress re- the Senate and the Committee on Veterans’ Af- retary shall submit to Congress, the Committee duction. fairs of the House of Representatives a report on on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate, and the ‘‘(ee) Information and counseling on conflict the efforts of the Department of Veterans Af- Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of resolution. fairs to provide supportive services to women Representatives a plan to address deficiencies in ‘‘(ff) Such other information and counseling veterans under section 2044 of title 38, United environment of care for women veterans at med- as the Secretary considers appropriate to assist States. ical facilities of the Department. the individual in reintegration into family, em- (2) ELEMENTS.—The report required by para- (2) ELEMENTS.—The plan required by para- ployment, and community. graph (1) shall include the following: graph (1) shall include the following: ‘‘(III) In furnishing reintegration and read- (A) A review of how the Department deter- (A) An explanation of the specific environ- justment services under subclause (I), the Sec- mines which categories of supportive services ment of care deficiencies that need correcting. retary shall offer women the opportunity to re- would be beneficial to women veterans who re- (B) An assessment of how the Secretary ceive such services in group retreat settings in ceive services under such section. prioritizes retrofitting existing medical facilities which the only participants are women. (B) A description of the challenges women vet- to support provision of care to women veterans ‘‘(IV) An individual described in subpara- erans who have children face in accessing sup- in comparison to other requirements. graph (C)(v) may receive reintegration and re- portive services under such section, including (C) A five-year strategic plan and cost projec- adjustment services under subclause (I) of this with respect to accessing— tion for retrofitting medical facilities of the De- clause only if the individual receives such serv- (i) homeless shelters with their children; partment to support the provision of care to ices with a family member described in subclause (ii) homeless shelters that have restrictions on women veterans as required under subsection (I) or (II) of such subparagraph. male children; and (a). ‘‘(V) In each of fiscal years 2021 through 2025, (iii) affordable child care. (c) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.— the maximum number of individuals to whom in- (C) A description of how the Department iden- Subject to appropriations and the plan under tegration and readjustment services may be fur- tifies eligible entities under such section that (b), there is authorized to be appropriated to the nished in group retreat settings under this sub- can provide supportive services to meet the Secretary $20,000,000 to carry out subsection (a) clause (I) shall not exceed 1,200 individuals.’’. needs of women veterans, including eligible enti- in addition to amounts otherwise made available (b) REQUEST FOR SERVICES.—Subsection (a)(2) ties with experience in— to the Secretary for the purposes set forth in of such section is amended— (i) intimate partner violence; such subsection. (1) by striking ‘‘Upon’’ and inserting ‘‘(A) (ii) legal matters pertaining especially to SEC. 5103. ESTABLISHMENT OF ENVIRONMENT OF Upon’’; women veterans, including temporary restrain- CARE STANDARDS AND INSPEC- (2) by striking ‘‘paragraph (1)(B)’’ and insert- ing orders and child care orders; TIONS AT DEPARTMENT OF VET- ing ‘‘paragraph (1)(B)(i)’’; and (iii) supportive services for children; and ERANS AFFAIRS MEDICAL CENTERS. (3) by adding at the end the following new (iv) the evaluation of which categories of serv- (a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of Veterans subparagraph: ices would be beneficial to women veterans who Affairs shall establish a policy under which the ‘‘(B) Upon the request of an individual de- receive such services under such section. environment of care standards and inspections scribed in paragraph (1)(C), the Secretary shall (D) A description of how much the Depart- at medical centers of the Department of Vet- furnish the individual reintegration and read- ment spends, from funds appropriated to carry erans Affairs include— justment services in group retreat settings under out such section and funds provided under the (1) an alignment of the requirements for such paragraph (1)(B)(ii) if the Secretary determines Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security standards and inspections with the women’s the experience will be therapeutically appro- Act (Public Law 116–136), on supportive services health handbook of the Veterans Health Admin- priate.’’. specifically for women veterans, and in par- istration; SEC. 5105. PROVISION OF LEGAL SERVICES FOR ticular, on the services described in subpara- (2) a requirement for the frequency of such in- WOMEN VETERANS. graph (A). spections; (a) AGREEMENT REQUIRED.—The Secretary of (E) The results of the surveys conducted (3) delineation of the roles and responsibilities Veterans Affairs shall enter into one or more under subsection (a). of staff at each medical center who are respon- agreements with public or private entities to (F) A review of the resources and program- sible for compliance; provide legal services to women veterans. ming offered to woman veterans under such sec- (4) the requirement that each medical center (b) FOCUS.—The focus of an agreement en- tion. submit to the Secretary and make publicly avail- tered into under subsection (a) shall be to ad- (G) An assessment of such other areas as the able a report on the compliance of the medical dress the following unmet needs of women vet- Comptroller General considers appropriate. center with the standards; and erans as set forth in the most recently completed SEC. 5107. PROGRAMS ON ASSISTANCE FOR (5) a remediation plan. Community Homelessness Assessment, Local CHILD CARE FOR CERTAIN VET- (b) REPORT.—Not later than 180 days after the Education and Networking Groups for Veterans ERANS. date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary (CHALENG for Veterans) survey: (a) ASSISTANCE FOR CHILD CARE FOR CERTAIN shall submit to the Committee on Veterans’ Af- (1) Child support. VETERANS RECEIVING HEALTH CARE.— fairs of the Senate and the Committee on Vet- (2) Prevention of eviction and foreclosure. (1) IN GENERAL.—Subchapter I of chapter 17 of erans’ Affairs of the House of Representatives a (3) Discharge upgrades. title 38, United States Code, is amended by add- report certifying in writing that the policy re- (4) Financial guardianship. ing at the end the following new section: quired by subsection (a) has been finalized and (5) Credit counseling. ‘‘§ 1709C. Assistance for child care for certain disseminated to all medical centers of the De- (6) Family reconciliation assistance. veterans receiving health care partment. SEC. 5106. COMPTROLLER GENERAL SURVEYS ‘‘(a) PROGRAM REQUIRED.—The Secretary SEC. 5104. PROVISION OF REINTEGRATION AND AND REPORT ON SUPPORTIVE SERV- READJUSTMENT SERVICES TO VET- ICES PROVIDED FOR VERY LOW-IN- shall carry out a program to provide, subject to ERANS AND FAMILY MEMBERS IN COME WOMEN VETERANS. subsection (b), assistance to qualified veterans GROUP RETREAT SETTINGS. (a) SURVEYS.— described in subsection (c) to obtain child care (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 1712A of title 38, (1) SURVEY OF WOMEN VETERANS.—The Comp- so that such veterans can receive health care United States Code, is amended— troller General of the United States shall survey services described in subsection (c)(2). (1) in subsection (a)(1)(B)— women veterans who have received or are receiv- ‘‘(b) LIMITATION ON PERIOD OF PAYMENTS.— (A) in clause (ii), by redesignating subclauses ing supportive services provided under section Assistance may be provided to a qualified vet- (I) and (II) as items (aa) and (bb); 2044 of title 38, United States Code, to determine eran under this section for receipt of child care (B) by redesignating clauses (i) and (ii) as satisfaction with the ability of such services to only during the period that the qualified vet- subclauses (I) and (II); meet the specific needs of such veterans. eran— (C) in the matter preceding subclause (I), as (2) SURVEY OF ELIGIBLE ENTITIES.—The Comp- ‘‘(1) receives the types of health care services redesignated by subparagraph (B), by striking troller General shall survey eligible entities re- described in subsection (c)(2) at a facility of the ‘‘Counseling’’ and inserting ‘‘(i) Counseling’’; ceiving financial assistance under such section Department; and and and other partners of the Department of Vet- ‘‘(2) requires travel to and return from such (D) by adding at the end the following new erans Affairs, including veterans service organi- facility for the receipt of such health care serv- clause: zations and the National Coalition of Homeless ices. ‘‘(ii)(I) Except as provided in subclauses (IV) Veterans, on the view of such entities and part- ‘‘(c) QUALIFIED VETERANS.—For purposes of and (V), counseling furnished to an individual ners regarding— this section, a qualified veteran is a veteran under subparagraph (A) may include reintegra- (A) whether the Department is meeting the who— tion and readjustment services described in sub- needs of women veterans through the provision ‘‘(1) is the primary caretaker of a child or clause (II) furnished in group retreat settings. of supportive services under such section; and children; and ‘‘(II) Reintegration and readjustment services (B) any additional supportive services that ‘‘(2)(A) receives from the Department— described in this subclause are the following: may be required to meet such needs. ‘‘(i) regular mental health care services; ‘‘(aa) Information on reintegration of the in- (b) REPORT.— ‘‘(ii) intensive mental health care services; or dividual into family, employment, and commu- (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 18 months ‘‘(iii) such other intensive health care services nity. after the date of the enactment of this Act, the that the Secretary determines that provision of

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7196 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 assistance to the veteran to obtain child care justment Counseling Service Regions selected by Service Network and medical center of the De- would improve access to such health care serv- the Secretary for purposes of the pilot program. partment; ices by the veteran; or (5) FORMS OF CHILD CARE ASSISTANCE.— (D) the total number of women veterans uti- ‘‘(B) is in need of regular or intensive mental (A) IN GENERAL.—Child care assistance under lizing the Department for prosthetic services, health care services from the Department, and the pilot program may include the following: disaggregated by facility of the Department; but for lack of child care services, would receive (i) Stipends for the payment of child care of- (E) an assessment of efforts by the Depart- such health care services from the Department. fered by a licensed child care center (either di- ment on research, development, and employment ‘‘(d) LOCATIONS.—Not later than five years rectly or through a voucher program) that shall of additive manufacture technology (commonly after the date of the enactment of the Deborah be, to the extent practicable, modeled after the referred to as 3D printing) to provide prosthetic Sampson Act of 2020, the Secretary shall carry Department of Veterans Affairs Child Care Sub- items for women veterans; out the program at each medical center of the sidy Program established pursuant to section 630 (F) the results of a survey with a representa- Department. of the Treasury and General Government Ap- tive sample of not fewer than 50,000 veterans (of ‘‘(e) FORMS OF CHILD CARE ASSISTANCE.—(1) propriations Act, 2002 (Public Law 107–67; 115 which women shall be overrepresented) in an Child care assistance under this section may in- Stat. 552). amputee care program on satisfaction with pros- clude the following: (ii) Payments to private child care agencies. thetics furnished or procured by the Department ‘‘(A) Stipends for the payment of child care (iii) Collaboration with facilities or programs that replace appendages or their function; and offered by a licensed child care center (either di- of other Federal agencies. (G) such other information as the Secretary rectly or through a voucher program) that shall (iv) Such other forms of assistance as the Sec- considers appropriate. be, to the extent practicable, modeled after the retary considers appropriate. SEC. 5109. REQUIREMENT TO IMPROVE DEPART- Department of Veterans Affairs Child Care Sub- (B) LOCAL AREA.—In providing child care as- MENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS sidy Program established pursuant to section 630 sistance under the pilot program, the child care WOMEN VETERANS CALL CENTER. of the Treasury and General Government Ap- needs of the local area shall be considered and The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall en- propriations Act, 2002 (Public Law 107–67; 115 the head of each Vet Center may select the type hance the capabilities of the women veterans Stat. 552). of care that is most appropriate or feasible for call center of the Department of Veterans Af- ‘‘(B) Direct provision of child care at an on- such Vet Center. fairs to respond to requests by women veterans site facility of the Department. (C) USE OF STIPEND.—In the case that child for assistance with accessing health care and ‘‘(C) Payments to private child care agencies. care assistance under the pilot program is pro- benefits furnished under the laws administered ‘‘(D) Collaboration with facilities or programs vided as a stipend under subparagraph (A)(i), by the Secretary. of other Federal agencies. such stipend shall cover the full cost of such SEC. 5110. STUDY ON INFERTILITY SERVICES ‘‘(E) Such other forms of assistance as the child care. FURNISHED AT DEPARTMENT OF Secretary considers appropriate. (6) DURATION.—The pilot program shall be VETERANS AFFAIRS. ‘‘(2) In providing child care assistance under carried out during the two-year period begin- (a) STUDY REQUIRED.—The Secretary of Vet- this section, the child care needs of the local ning on the date of the commencement of the erans Affairs shall conduct a study on the infer- area shall be considered and the head of each pilot program. tility services offerings at the Department of medical center may select the type of care that (7) REPORT.— Veterans Affairs. is most appropriate or feasible for such medical (A) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 180 days (b) ELEMENTS.—The study conducted under center. after the completion of the pilot program, the subsection (a) shall include the following: ‘‘(3) In the case that child care assistance Secretary shall submit to Congress a report on (1) An assessment of the following: under this section is provided as a stipend under the pilot program. (A) The availability of infertility services at paragraph (1)(A), such stipend shall cover the (B) ELEMENTS.—The report required by sub- facilities of the Department and through laws full cost of such child care.’’. paragraph (A) shall include the findings and administered by the Secretary for the provision (2) CONFORMING AMENDMENT.—Section 205(e) conclusions of the Secretary regarding the pilot of non-Department care. of the Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health program, and shall include such recommenda- (B) The demand for such services from eligible Services Act of 2010 (Public Law 111–163; 38 tions for the continuation or expansion of the individuals. U.S.C. 1710 note) is amended by striking ‘‘Sep- pilot program as the Secretary considers appro- (2) Identification of potential challenges in tember 30, 2020’’ and inserting ‘‘the date of the priate. accessing infertility services for eligible individ- uals. enactment of the Deborah Sampson Act of (8) VET CENTER DEFINED.—In this subsection, (3) An analysis of Department resources for 2020’’. the term ‘‘Vet Center’’ has the meaning given the furnishing of infertility services, including (3) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of sec- that term in section 1712A(h) of title 38, United analysis of Department workforce and non-De- tions at the beginning of chapter 17 of such title States Code. partment providers. is amended by inserting after the item relating SEC. 5108. AVAILABILITY OF PROSTHETICS FOR to section 1709B the following new item: (4) Development of recommendations for the WOMEN VETERANS FROM DEPART- improvement of infertility services under laws MENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS. ‘‘1709C. Assistance for child care for certain administered by the Secretary to improve eligible (a) ACCESS AT EACH MEDICAL FACILITY.—Sec- veterans receiving health individuals’ access, delivery of services, and tion 1714(a) of title 38, United States Code, is care,’’. health outcomes. (b) PILOT PROGRAM ON ASSISTANCE FOR CHILD amended— (c) REPORT.—Not later than one year after the (1) by striking ‘‘(a) Any veteran’’ and insert- CARE FOR CERTAIN VETERANS RECEIVING READ- date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary ing ‘‘(a)(1) Any veteran’’; and JUSTMENT COUNSELING AND RELATED MENTAL shall submit to the Committee on Veterans’ Af- (2) by adding at the end the following new HEALTH SERVICES.— fairs of the Senate and the Committee on Vet- (1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of Veterans paragraph: erans’ Affairs of the House of Representatives a Affairs shall carry out a pilot program to assess ‘‘(2) In furnishing prosthetic appliances under report on the study conducted under subsection the feasibility and advisability of providing, paragraph (1), the Secretary shall ensure (a). women veterans are able to access clinically ap- subject to paragraph (2), assistance to qualified (d) ELIGIBLE INDIVIDUAL DEFINED.—In this propriate prosthetic appliances through each veterans described in paragraph (3) to obtain section, the term ‘‘eligible individual’’ means an medical facility of the Department.’’. child care so that such veterans can receive re- individual who is a veteran who is eligible for (b) REPORT.— adjustment counseling and related mental and enrolled in the health care system of the (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than one year after health services. Department under section 1705(a) of title 38, the date of the enactment of this Act, the Sec- (2) LIMITATION ON PERIOD OF PAYMENTS.—As- United States Code. sistance may be provided to a qualified veteran retary of Veterans Affairs shall submit to the under the pilot program for receipt of child care Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate SEC. 5111. SENSE OF CONGRESS ON ACCESS TO FACILITIES OF DEPARTMENT OF only during the period that the qualified vet- and the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the VETERANS AFFAIRS BY RESERVISTS eran receives readjustment counseling and re- House of Representatives a report on the avail- FOR COUNSELING AND TREATMENT lated health care services at a Vet Center. ability from the Department of Veterans Affairs RELATING TO MILITARY SEXUAL (3) QUALIFIED VETERANS.—For purposes of of prosthetics made for women veterans, includ- TRAUMA. this subsection, a qualified veteran is a veteran ing an assessment of the availability of such (a) IN GENERAL.—It is the sense of Congress who— prosthetics at medical facilities of the Depart- that members of the reserve components of the (A) is the primary caretaker of a child or chil- ment. Armed Forces, including members of the Na- dren; and (2) ELEMENTS.—The report required by para- tional Guard, should be able to access all health (B)(i) receives from the Department regular re- graph (1) shall include— care facilities of the Department of Veterans Af- adjustment counseling and related mental (A) a list of all devices classified by the De- fairs, not just Vet Centers, to receive counseling health services; or partment as prosthetic devices, including a and treatment relating to military sexual trau- (ii) is in need of regular readjustment coun- breakdown of whether a device is considered ma. seling and related mental health services from gender-neutral or gender-specific; (b) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: the Department, and but for lack of child care (B) for gender-neutral devices, a breakdown (1) MILITARY SEXUAL TRAUMA.—The term services, would receive such counseling and of sizing; ‘‘military sexual trauma’’ has the meaning services from the Department. (C) the average time it takes for a woman vet- given such term in section 1164(c) of title 38, (4) LOCATIONS.—The Secretary shall carry out eran to receive a prosthetic device after it is pre- United States Code, as added by section 5501(a) the pilot program in not fewer than three Read- scribed, disaggregated by Veterans Integrated of this title.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7197

(2) VET CENTER.—The term ‘‘Vet Center’’ has (1) if the program is appropriately staffed at Secretary, in consultation with the Inspector the meaning given that term in section 1712A(h) each medical center of the Department; General, shall submit to the Committee on Vet- of such title. (2) whether each medical center of the Depart- erans’ Affairs of the Senate and the Committee Subtitle B—Increasing Staff Cultural ment is staffed with a Women Veteran Program on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of Representa- Competency Manager; and tives a plan, based on the results of the assess- (3) whether it would be feasible and advisable ment required by subsection (a), to hire addi- SEC. 5201. STAFFING OF WOMEN’S HEALTH PRI- to have a Women Veteran Program Ombudsman MARY CARE PROVIDERS AT MEDICAL tional qualified peer specialists who are women, FACILITIES OF DEPARTMENT OF at each medical center of the Department. with special consideration for areas that lack VETERANS AFFAIRS. (b) REPORT.—Not later than 270 days after the peer specialists who are women. The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall ensure date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary (2) ELEMENTS.—The peer specialist positions that each medical facility of the Department of shall submit to the Committee on Veterans’ Af- included in the plan required by paragraph Veterans Affairs has not fewer than one full- fairs of the Senate and the Committee on Vet- (1)— time or part-time women’s health primary care erans’ Affairs of the House of Representatives a (A) shall be non-volunteer, paid positions; provider whose duties include, to the extent pos- report on the study conducted under subsection and (B) may be part-time positions. sible, providing training to other health care (a). providers of the Department on the needs of (c) TRAINING.—The Secretary shall ensure Subtitle C—Eliminating Harassment and women veterans. that all Women Veteran Program Managers and Assault Women Veteran Program Ombudsmen receive SEC. 5202. ADDITIONAL FUNDING FOR PRIMARY SEC. 5301. EXPANSION OF COVERAGE BY DEPART- CARE AND EMERGENCY CARE CLINI- the proper training to carry out their duties. MENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS OF CIANS IN WOMEN VETERANS SEC. 5205. STUDY ON WOMEN VETERAN COORDI- COUNSELING AND TREATMENT FOR HEALTH CARE MINI-RESIDENCY PRO- NATOR PROGRAM. SEXUAL TRAUMA. GRAM. (a) STUDY AND REPORT REQUIRED.—Not later (a) EXPANSION OF ELIGIBILITY FOR COUN- (a) IN GENERAL.—There is authorized to be than 180 days after the date of the enactment of SELING AND TREATMENT.—Section 1720D of title appropriated to the Secretary of Veterans Af- this Act, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs 38, United States Code, is amended— fairs $1,000,000 for each fiscal years 2021 shall— (1) in subsection (a)— through 2025 to provide opportunities for par- (1) complete a study on the Women Veteran (A) in paragraph (1), by striking ‘‘active duty, ticipation in the Women Veterans Health Care Coordinator program of the Veterans Benefits active duty for training, or inactive duty train- Mini-Residency Program of the Department of Administration of the Department of Veterans ing’’ and inserting ‘‘duty, regardless of duty Veterans Affairs for primary care and emer- Affairs; and status or line of duty determination (as that gency care clinicians. (2) submit to the Committee on Veterans’ Af- term is used in section 12323 of title 10)’’; and (B) in paragraph (2)(A), by striking ‘‘active (b) TREATMENT OF AMOUNTS.—The amounts fairs of the Senate and the Committee on Vet- authorized to be appropriated under subsection erans’ Affairs of the House of Representatives a duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty (a) shall be in addition to amounts otherwise report on the findings of the Secretary with re- training’’ and inserting ‘‘duty, regardless of made available to the Secretary for the purposes spect to the study completed under paragraph duty status or line of duty determination (as set forth in such subsection. (1). that term is used in section 12323 of title 10)’’; (2) by striking ‘‘veteran’’ each place it ap- (b) ELEMENTS.—The study required by sub- SEC. 5203. ESTABLISHMENT OF WOMEN VETERAN pears and inserting ‘‘former member of the TRAINING MODULE FOR NON-DE- section (a)(1) shall identify the following: PARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (1) If the program described in such subsection Armed Forces’’; (3) by striking ‘‘veterans’’ each place it ap- HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS. is appropriately staffed at each regional benefits pears and inserting ‘‘former members of the (a) IN GENERAL.—Not later than one year office of the Department. after the date of the enactment of this Act, the (2) Whether each regional benefits office of Armed Forces’’; and (4) by adding at the end the following new Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall establish and the Department is staffed with a Women Vet- subsection: make available to community providers a train- eran Coordinator. ‘‘(g) In this section, the term ‘former member ing module that is specific to women veterans. (3) The position description of the Women Vet- of the Armed Forces’ includes the following: (b) TRAINING MATERIALS PROVIDED.—Under eran Coordinator. ‘‘(1) A veteran. the training module established and made avail- (4) Whether an individual serving in the ‘‘(2) An individual described in section able to community providers under subsection Women Veteran Coordinator position concur- 1720I(b) of this title.’’. (a), the Secretary shall provide to community rently serves in any other position, and if so, (b) INCLUSION OF TREATMENT FOR PHYSICAL providers the same training materials relating to the allocation of time the individual spends in HEALTH CONDITIONS.—Such section is further treatment of women veterans that is provided to each such position. amended— health care providers of the Department of Vet- (5) A description of the metrics the Secretary (1) in subsection (a)— erans Affairs to ensure that all health care pro- uses to determine the job performance and effec- (A) in paragraph (1)— viders treating women veterans have access to tiveness of the Women Veteran Coordinator. (i) by inserting ‘‘, to include care for physical the same materials to support competency SEC. 5206. STAFFING IMPROVEMENT PLAN FOR health conditions, as appropriate,’’ after ‘‘coun- throughout the community. PEER SPECIALISTS OF DEPARTMENT seling and appropriate care and services’’; (c) ADMINISTRATION OF TRAINING MODULE.— OF VETERANS AFFAIRS WHO ARE (ii) by striking ‘‘overcome psychological trau- The Secretary shall administer the training WOMEN. ma’’ and inserting ‘‘treat a condition’’; and module established under subsection (a) to com- (a) ASSESSMENT OF CAPACITY.— (iii) by striking ‘‘mental health professional’’ munity providers through an internet website of (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 90 days after and inserting ‘‘health care professional’’; and the Department. the date of the enactment of this Act, the Sec- (B) in paragraph (2)(A), by striking ‘‘over- (d) ANNUAL REPORT.—Not later than one year retary of Veterans Affairs, in consultation with come psychological trauma’’ and inserting after the establishment of the training module the Inspector General of the Department of Vet- ‘‘treat a condition’’; and under subsection (a), and annually thereafter, erans Affairs, shall commence an assessment of (2) in subsection (d)— (A) in paragraph (1), by inserting ‘‘and other the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report the capacity of peer specialists of the Depart- health care professionals’’ after ‘‘mental health on— ment of Veterans Affairs who are women. (1) the utilization by community providers of (2) ELEMENTS.—The assessment required by professionals’’; and (B) in paragraph (2)(A), by inserting ‘‘and the training module; and paragraph (1) shall include an assessment of the other health care professionals’’ after ‘‘mental (2) the effectiveness of the training module. following: health professionals’’. (e) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: (A) The geographical distribution of peer spe- SEC. 5302. ASSESSMENT OF EFFECTS OF INTI- (1) COMMUNITY PROVIDER.—The term ‘‘com- cialists of the Department who are women. (B) The geographical distribution of women MATE PARTNER VIOLENCE ON munity provider’’ means a non-Department of WOMEN VETERANS BY ADVISORY Veterans Affairs health care provider who pro- veterans. COMMITTEE ON WOMEN VETERANS. vides preauthorized health care to veterans (C) The number and proportion of women peer Section 542(c)(1) of title 38, United States under the laws administered by the Secretary of specialists who specialize in peer counseling on Code, is amended— Veterans Affairs. mental health or suicide prevention. (1) in subparagraph (B), by striking ‘‘and’’ at (2) PREAUTHORIZED HEALTH CARE.—The term (D) The number and proportion of women the end; ‘‘preauthorized health care’’ means health care peer specialists who specialize in peer coun- (2) by redesignating subparagraph (C) as sub- provided to a veteran that is authorized by the seling on non-mental health related matters. paragraph (D); and Secretary before being provided. (b) REPORT.—Not later than one year after (3) by inserting after subparagraph (B) the SEC. 5204. STUDY ON STAFFING OF WOMEN VET- the assessment required by subsection (a) has following new subparagraph (C): ERAN PROGRAM MANAGER PRO- commenced, the Secretary shall submit to the ‘‘(C) an assessment of the effects of intimate GRAM AT MEDICAL CENTERS OF DE- Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate partner violence on women veterans; and’’. PARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS and the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the SEC. 5303. ANTI-HARASSMENT AND ANTI-SEXUAL AND TRAINING OF STAFF. House of Representatives a report detailing the ASSAULT POLICY OF DEPARTMENT (a) STUDY.—The Secretary of Veterans Affairs findings of the assessment. OF VETERANS AFFAIRS. shall conduct a study on the use of the Women (c) STAFFING IMPROVEMENT PLAN.— (a) IN GENERAL.—Subchapter II of chapter 5 Veteran Program Manager program of the De- (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 180 days after of title 38, United States Code, is amended by partment of Veterans Affairs to determine— submitting the report under subsection (b), the adding at the end the following new section:

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7198 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 ‘‘§ 533. Anti-harassment and anti-sexual as- (including Vet Centers under section 1712A of of the report to stop harassment and sexual as- sault policy this title), with regard to that facility; sault at facilities of the Department. ‘‘(a) ESTABLISHMENT.—(1) The Secretary, act- ‘‘(2) at least one individual employed in each ‘‘(E) An assessment of the implementation of ing through the Office of Assault and Preven- Veterans Integrated Service Network, with re- the training required in subsection (a)(2)(H). tion of the Veterans Health Administration, gard to facilities in that Veterans Integrated ‘‘(F) A list of resources the Secretary deter- shall establish a comprehensive policy to end Service Network; mines necessary to prevent harassment and sex- harassment and sexual assault, including sexual ‘‘(3) at least one individual employed in each ual assault at facilities of the Department. harassment and gender-based harassment, regional benefits office; ‘‘(g) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: throughout the Department. ‘‘(4) at least one individual employed at each ‘‘(1) The term ‘non-Department individual’ ‘‘(2) The policy required by paragraph (1) location of the National Cemetery Administra- means any individual present at a facility of the shall include the following: tion; and Department who is not an employee or con- ‘‘(A) A process for employees and contractors ‘‘(5) at least one individual employed at the tractor of the Department. of the Department to respond to reported inci- Central Office of the Department to track re- ‘‘(2) The term ‘sexual harassment’ means un- dents of harassment and sexual assault com- ports of such harassment and sexual assault solicited verbal or physical contact of a sexual mitted by any non-Department individual with- across the Department, disaggregated by facil- nature which is threatening in character.’’. in a facility of the Department, including with ity. (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of sec- respect to accountability or disciplinary meas- ‘‘(c) ACCOUNTABILITY.—(1) The Secretary tions at the beginning of such chapter is amend- ures. shall establish a policy to ensure that each fa- ed by adding after the item relating to section ‘‘(B) A process for employees and contractors cility of the Department and each director of a 532 the following new item: of the Department to respond to reported inci- Veterans Integrated Service Network is respon- ‘‘533. Anti-harassment and anti-sexual as- dents of harassment and sexual assault of any sible for addressing harassment and sexual as- sault policy.’’. non-Department individual within a facility of sault at the facility and the Network. (c) DEFINITION OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT.—Sec- the Department. ‘‘(2) The policy required by paragraph (1) tion 1720D(f) of such title is amended by striking ‘‘(C) A process for any non-Department indi- shall include— ‘‘repeated,’’. vidual to report harassment and sexual assault ‘‘(A) a remediation plan for facilities that ex- (d) DEADLINE.—The Secretary shall commence described in subparagraph (A), including an op- perience five or more incidents of sexual harass- carrying out section 533 of such title, as added tion for confidential reporting, and for the Sec- ment, sexual assault, or combination thereof, by subsection (a), not later than 180 days after retary to respond to and address such reports. during any single fiscal year; and the date of enactment of this Act. ‘‘(D) Clear mechanisms for non-Department ‘‘(B) taking appropriate actions under chapter SEC. 5304. PILOT PROGRAM ON ASSISTING VET- individuals to readily identify to whom and how 7 or subchapter V of chapter 74 of this title. ERANS WHO EXPERIENCE INTIMATE to report incidents of harassment and sexual as- ‘‘(d) DATA.—The Secretary shall ensure that PARTNER VIOLENCE OR SEXUAL AS- sault committed by another non-Department in- the in-take process for veterans at medical fa- SAULT. dividual. cilities of the Department includes a survey to (a) PILOT PROGRAM REQUIRED.—The Sec- ‘‘(E) Clear mechanisms for employees and con- collect the following information: retary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out a pilot tractors of the Department to readily identify to ‘‘(1) Whether the veteran feels safe at the fa- program to assess the feasibility and advisability whom and how to report incidents of harass- cility and whether any events occurred at the of assisting former members of the Armed Forces ment and sexual assault and how to refer non- facility that affect such feeling. who have experienced or are experiencing inti- Department individuals with respect to report- ‘‘(2) Whether the veteran wants to be con- mate partner violence or sexual assault in ac- ing an incident of harassment or sexual assault. tacted later by the Department with respect to cessing benefits from the Department of Vet- ‘‘(F) A process for, and mandatory reporting such safety issues. erans Affairs, including coordinating access to requirement applicable to, any employee or con- ‘‘(e) WORKING GROUP.—(1) The Secretary medical treatment centers, housing assistance, tractor of the Department who witnesses harass- shall establish a working group to assist the and other benefits from the Department. ment or sexual assault described in subpara- Secretary in implementing policies to carry out (b) DURATION.—The Secretary shall carry out graph (A) or (B) within a facility of the Depart- this section. the pilot program under subsection (a) during ment, regardless of whether the individual af- ‘‘(2) The working group established under the two-year period beginning on the date of the fected by such harassment or sexual assault paragraph (1) shall consist of representatives commencement of the pilot program. wants to report such harassment or sexual as- from— (c) COLLABORATION.—The Secretary shall sault. ‘‘(A) veterans service organizations; carry out the pilot program under subsection (a) ‘‘(G) The actions possible, including discipli- ‘‘(B) State, local, and Tribal veterans agen- in collaboration with— nary actions, for employees or contractors of the cies; and (1) intimate partner violence shelters and pro- Department who fail to report incidents of har- ‘‘(C) other persons the Secretary determines grams; assment and sexual assault described in sub- appropriate. (2) rape crisis centers; paragraph (A) or (B) that the employees or con- ‘‘(3) The working group established under (3) State intimate partner violence and sexual tractors witness. paragraph (1) shall develop, and the Secretary assault coalitions; and ‘‘(H) On an annual or more frequent basis, shall carry out— (4) such other health care or other service pro- mandatory training for employees and contrac- ‘‘(A) an action plan for addressing changes at viders that serve intimate partner violence or tors of the Department regarding how to report the local level to reduce instances of harassment sexual assault victims as determined by the Sec- and address harassment and sexual assault de- and sexual assault; retary, particularly those providing emergency scribed in subparagraphs (A) and (B), including ‘‘(B) standardized media for veterans service services or housing assistance. bystander intervention training. organizations and other persons to use in print (d) AUTHORIZED ACTIVITIES.—In carrying out ‘‘(I) On an annual or more frequent basis, the and on the internet with respect to reducing the pilot program under subsection (a), the Sec- distribution of the policy under this subsection harassment and sexual assault; and retary may conduct the following activities: and anti-harassment and anti-sexual assault ‘‘(C) bystander intervention training for vet- (1) Training for community-based intimate educational materials by mail or email to each erans. partner violence or sexual assault service pro- individual receiving a benefit under a law ad- ‘‘(4) The working group established under viders on— ministered by the Secretary. paragraph (1) shall not be subject to the require- (A) identifying former members of the Armed ‘‘(J) The prominent display of anti-harass- ments of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 Forces who have been victims of, or are cur- ment and anti-sexual assault messages in each U.S.C. App.). rently experiencing, intimate partner violence or facility of the Department, including how non- ‘‘(f) ANNUAL REPORTS.—(1) The Secretary sexual assault; Department individuals may report harassment shall submit to the Committee on Veterans’ Af- (B) coordinating with local service providers and sexual assault described in subparagraphs fairs of the Senate and the Committee on Vet- of the Department; and (A) and (B) at such facility and the points of erans’ Affairs of the House of Representatives (C) connecting former members of the Armed contact under subsection (b). an annual report on harassment and sexual as- Forces with appropriate housing, mental health, ‘‘(K) The posting on internet websites of the sault described in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of medical, and other financial assistance or bene- Department, including the main internet website subsection (a)(2) in facilities of the Department. fits from the Department. regarding benefits of the Department and the ‘‘(2) Each report submitted under paragraph (2) Assistance to service providers to ensure main internet website regarding health care of (1) shall include the following: access of veterans to intimate partner violence the Department, of anti-harassment and anti- ‘‘(A) Results of harassment and sexual assault and sexual assault emergency services, particu- sexual assault banners specifically addressing programming, including the End Harassment larly in underserved areas, including services harassment and sexual assault described in sub- program. for Native American veterans (as defined in sec- paragraphs (A) and (B). ‘‘(B) Results of studies from the Women’s tion 3765 of title 38, United States Code). ‘‘(b) POINTS OF CONTACT.—The Secretary Health Practice-Based Research Network of the (3) Such other outreach and assistance as the shall designate, as a point of contact to receive Department relating to harassment and sexual Secretary determines necessary for the provision reports of harassment and sexual assault de- assault. of assistance under subsection (a). scribed in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of sub- ‘‘(C) Data collected on incidents of sexual (e) INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE AND SEXUAL section (a)(2)— harassment and sexual assault. ASSAULT OUTREACH COORDINATORS.— ‘‘(1) at least one individual, in addition to law ‘‘(D) A description of any actions taken by (1) IN GENERAL.—In order to effectively assist enforcement, at each facility of the Department the Secretary during the year preceding the date veterans who have experienced intimate partner

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7199 violence or sexual assault, the Secretary may es- (iii) urban and rural veterans; through peer network support, and to provide tablish local coordinators to provide outreach (iv) veterans who are enrolled in a program recommendations for the enhancement of such under the pilot program required by subsection under section 1720G of title 38, United States services, to address— (a). Code; (A) the perpetration of intimate partner vio- (2) LOCAL COORDINATOR KNOWLEDGE.—The (v) veterans who are in intimate relationships lence and sexual assault; and Secretary shall ensure that each coordinator es- with other veterans; and (B) the recovery of veterans, particularly tablished under paragraph (1) is knowledgeable (vi) veterans who are described in more than women veterans, from intimate partner violence about— one clause of this subparagraph; and sexual assault. (A) the dynamics of intimate partner violence (C) examine the prevalence of the perpetration (7) To review and make recommendations to and sexual assault, including safety concerns, of intimate partner violence by veterans; and expand services available for veterans at risk of legal protections, and the need for the provision (D) include recommendations to address the perpetrating intimate partner violence. of confidential services; findings of the study. (e) REPORT.—Not later than one year after the (B) the eligibility of veterans for services and (3) REPORT.—Not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and not less benefits from the Department that are relevant date on which the Secretary completes the study frequently than annually thereafter by October to recovery from intimate partner violence and under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall submit 1 of each year, the Task Force shall submit to sexual assault, particularly emergency housing to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the the Secretary of Veterans Affairs and Congress assistance, mental health care, other health Senate and the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs a report on the activities of the Task Force, in- care, and disability benefits; and of the House of Representatives a report on such cluding any recommendations for legislative or (C) local community resources addressing inti- study. administrative action. (b) TASK FORCE.— mate partner violence and sexual assault. (f) NONAPPLICABILITY OF FACA.—The Task (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 90 days after (3) LOCAL COORDINATOR ASSISTANCE.—Each Force shall not be subject to the requirements of the date on which the Secretary completes the coordinator established under paragraph (1) the Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. study under subsection (a), the Secretary, in shall assist intimate partner violence shelters App.). consultation with the Attorney General and the and rape crisis centers in providing services to (g) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: Secretary of Health and Human Services, shall veterans. (1) NATIVE AMERICAN VETERAN.—The term establish a national task force (in this section (f) REPORT.— ‘‘Native American veteran’’ has the meaning referred to as the ‘‘Task Force’’) to develop a (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 180 days after given that term in section 3765 of title 38, United comprehensive national program, including by the completion of the pilot program under sub- States Code. integrating facilities, services, and benefits of section (a), the Secretary shall submit to Con- (2) STATE.—The term ‘‘State’’ has the meaning the Department of Veterans Affairs into existing gress a report on the pilot program. given that term in section 101 of title 38, United networks of community-based intimate partner (2) CONTENTS.—The report required by para- States Code. graph (1) shall include the following: violence and sexual assault services, to address (A) The findings and conclusions of the Sec- intimate partner violence and sexual assault Subtitle D—Data Collection and Reporting retary with respect to the pilot program. among veterans. SEC. 5401. REQUIREMENT FOR COLLECTION AND (B) Such recommendations for continuing or (2) LEADERSHIP.—The Secretary of Veterans ANALYSIS OF DATA ON DEPARTMENT expanding the pilot program as the Secretary Affairs shall lead the Task Force in collabora- OF VETERANS AFFAIRS BENEFITS AND SERVICES AND considers appropriate. tion with the Attorney General and the Sec- retary of Health and Human Services. DISAGGREGATION OF SUCH DATA BY (g) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: GENDER, RACE, AND ETHNICITY. (1) INTIMATE PARTNER.— (c) CONSULTATION WITH STAKEHOLDERS.—In The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall— (A) IN GENERAL.—The term ‘‘intimate part- carrying out this section, the Task Force shall (1) collect and analyze data on each program ner’’ means a person with whom one has a close consult with— of the Department of Veterans Affairs that pro- personal relationship that may be characterized (1) representatives from veteran service orga- vides a service or benefit to a veteran, including by the partners’ emotional connectedness, reg- nizations and military service organizations; the program carried out under section 1144 of ular contact, ongoing physical contact and sex- (2) representatives from not fewer than three title 10, United States Code; ual behavior, identity as a couple, and famili- national organizations or State coalitions with (2) disaggregate such data by gender, race, arity and knowledge about each other’s lives. demonstrated expertise in intimate partner vio- and ethnicity, when the data lends itself to such (B) CLOSE PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS.—In this lence prevention, response, or advocacy; and disaggregation; and paragraph, the term ‘‘close personal relation- (3) representatives from not fewer than three (3) publish the data collected and analyzed ships’’ includes the following: national organizations or State coalitions, par- under paragraph (1), except for such cases in (i) A relationship between married spouses. ticularly those representing underserved and (ii) A relationship between common-law ethnic minority communities, with demonstrated which the Secretary determines that some por- spouses. expertise in sexual assault prevention, response, tions of the data would undermine the anonym- (iii) A relationship between civil union or advocacy. ity of a veteran. spouses. (d) DUTIES.—The duties of the Task Force SEC. 5402. STUDY ON BARRIERS FOR WOMEN VET- (iv) A relationship between domestic partners. shall include the following: ERANS TO RECEIPT OF HEALTH (v) A relationship between dating partners. (1) To review existing services and policies of CARE FROM DEPARTMENT OF VET- (vi) A relationship between ongoing sexual the Department and develop a comprehensive ERANS AFFAIRS. partners. national program to be carried out by the Sec- (a) STUDY REQUIRED.—The Secretary of Vet- (2) INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE.—The term retary of Veterans Affairs, in collaboration with erans Affairs shall conduct a comprehensive ‘‘intimate partner violence’’ includes physical the heads of relevant Federal agencies, to ad- study of the barriers to the provision of health violence, sexual violence, stalking, and psycho- dress intimate partner violence and sexual as- care by the Department of Veterans Affairs en- logical aggression, including coercive tactics by sault prevention, response, and treatment. countered by women who are veterans. a current or former intimate partner. (2) To review the feasibility and advisability (b) SURVEY.—In conducting the study re- quired by subsection (a), the Secretary shall— SEC. 5305. STUDY AND TASK FORCE ON VET- of establishing an expedited process to secure ERANS EXPERIENCING INTIMATE emergency, temporary benefits, including hous- (1) survey women veterans who seek or receive PARTNER VIOLENCE OR SEXUAL AS- ing or other benefits, for veterans who are expe- hospital care or medical services provided by the SAULT. riencing intimate partner violence or sexual as- Department as well as women veterans who do (a) NATIONAL BASELINE STUDY.— sault. not seek or receive such care or services; (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than one year after (3) To review and make recommendations re- (2) administer the survey to a representative the date of the enactment of this Act, the Sec- garding the feasibility and advisability of estab- sample of women veterans from each Veterans retary of Veterans Affairs, in consultation with lishing dedicated, temporary housing assistance Integrated Service Network; and the Attorney General, shall conduct a national for veterans experiencing intimate partner vio- (3) ensure that the sample of women veterans baseline study to examine the scope of the prob- lence or sexual assault. surveyed is of sufficient size for the study re- lem of intimate partner violence and sexual as- (4) To identify any requirements regarding in- sults to be statistically significant and is a larg- sault among veterans and spouses and intimate timate partner violence assistance or sexual as- er sample than that of the study specified in partners of veterans. sault response and services that are not being subsection (c)(1). (2) MATTERS INCLUDED.—The study under met by the Department and make recommenda- (c) USE OF PREVIOUS STUDIES.—In conducting paragraph (1) shall— tions on how the Department can meet such re- the study required by subsection (a), the Sec- (A) include a literature review of all relevant quirements. retary shall build on the work of the studies of research on intimate partner violence and sex- (5) To review and make recommendations re- the Department titled— ual assault among veterans and spouses and in- garding the feasibility and advisability of pro- (1) ‘‘National Survey of Women Veterans in timate partners of veterans; viding direct services or contracting for commu- Fiscal Year 2007–2008’’; and (B) examine the prevalence of the experience nity-based services for veterans in response to a (2) ‘‘Study of Barriers for Women Veterans to of intimate partner violence among— sexual assault, including through the use of sex- VA Health Care 2015’’. (i) women veterans; ual assault nurse examiners, particularly in un- (d) ELEMENTS OF STUDY.—In conducting the (ii) veterans who are minority group members derserved or remote areas, including services for study required by subsection (a), the Secretary (as defined in section 544 of title 38, United Native American veterans. shall conduct research on the effects of the fol- States Code, and including other minority popu- (6) To review the availability of counseling lowing on the women veterans surveyed in the lations as the Secretary determines appropriate); services provided by the Department and study:

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7200 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 (1) The barriers associated with seeking men- trauma for affected members and former mem- section (a) are trained to identify markers indi- tal health care services, including with respect bers of the Armed Forces. cating military sexual trauma. to provider availability, telehealth access, and (b) ELEMENTS.—In conducting the study ‘‘(c) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: family, work, and school obligations. under subsection (a), the Secretary shall as- ‘‘(1) The term ‘covered mental health condi- (2) The effect of driving distance or avail- sess— tion’ means post-traumatic stress disorder, anx- ability of other forms of transportation to the (1) staffing needed to offer the Parenting iety, depression, or other mental health diag- nearest medical facility on access to care. STAIR program at all medical centers of the De- nosis described in the current version of the Di- (3) The effect of access to care from non-De- partment; agnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Dis- partment providers. (2) any additional infrastructure or resources orders published by the American Psychiatric (4) The availability of child care. (such as child care during the program) needed Association that the Secretary determines to be (5) The satisfaction of such veterans with the for the expansion of the program; and related to military sexual trauma. provision by the Department of integrated pri- (3) such other factors relevant to the expan- ‘‘(2) The term ‘military sexual trauma’ means, mary care, women’s health clinics, or both, in- sion of the program as the Secretary considers with respect to a veteran, a physical assault of cluding perceptions of quality of care, safety, appropriate. a sexual nature, battery of a sexual nature, or and comfort. (c) REPORTS TO CONGRESS.— sexual harassment during active military, naval, (6) The understanding and perceived accessi- (1) INTERIM REPORT.—Not later than one year or air service.’’. bility among such veterans of eligibility require- after the date of the enactment of this Act, the (2) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of sec- tions at the beginning of such chapter is amend- ments for, and the scope of services available Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Vet- ed by adding at the end the following new item: under, hospital care and medical services. erans’ Affairs of the Senate and the Committee (7) The perception of such veterans of per- on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of Representa- ‘‘1164. Specialized teams to evaluate claims sonal safety and comfort in inpatient, out- tives a report detailing— involving military sexual trau- patient, and behavioral health facilities. (A) the current number and locations of all ma.’’. (8) The gender sensitivity of health care pro- facilities of the Department offering the Par- (b) ANNUAL REPORTS ON CLAIMS FOR DISABIL- viders and staff to issues that particularly affect enting STAIR program; and ITIES INCURRED OR AGGRAVATED BY MILITARY women. (B) the number of veterans served by such SEXUAL TRAUMA.— (1) REPORTS REQUIRED.—Not later than March (9) The effectiveness of outreach for health program in the most recent fiscal year or cal- 1, 2021, and not less frequently than once each care services available to women veterans. endar year for which data is available. year thereafter through 2027, the Secretary of (10) The location and operating hours of (2) FINAL REPORT.—Not later than three years Veterans Affairs shall submit to Congress a re- health care facilities that provide services to after the date of the enactment of this Act, the port on covered claims submitted during the pre- women veterans. Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Vet- vious fiscal year to identify and track the con- (11) The perception of such veterans of the erans’ Affairs of the Senate and the Committee sistency of decisions across regional offices of motto of the Department. on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of Representa- the Department of Veterans Affairs. (12) Such other significant barriers as the Sec- tives a report detailing— (2) ELEMENTS.—Each report under paragraph retary considers appropriate. (A) the results of the study conducted under subsection (a); (1) shall include the following: (e) DISCHARGE BY CONTRACT.—The Secretary (B) an update on how many veterans have (A) The number of covered claims submitted to shall enter into a contract with a qualified inde- used the Parenting STAIR program since its de- or considered by the Secretary during the fiscal pendent entity or organization to carry out the velopment in fiscal year 2017, disaggregated by year covered by the report. study and research required under this section. year, including the locations in which veterans (B) Of the covered claims listed under sub- (f) MANDATORY REVIEW OF DATA BY CERTAIN have used such program; and paragraph (A), the number and percentage of DEPARTMENT DIVISIONS.— (C) a determination on the feasibility and ad- such claims— (1) REVIEW.— visability of expanding the Parenting STAIR (i) submitted by each sex; (A) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall ensure (ii) that were approved, including the number program to all medical facilities of the Depart- that the head of each division of the Depart- and percentage of such approved claims sub- ment offering care for military sexual trauma. ment of Veterans Affairs specified in paragraph mitted by each sex; (d) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: (2) reviews the results of the study conducted (iii) that were denied, including the number (1) AFFECTED MEMBERS AND FORMER MEMBERS under this section. and percentage of such denied claims submitted OF THE ARMED FORCES.—The term ‘‘affected (B) SUBMITTAL OF FINDINGS.—The head of by each sex; and members and former members of the Armed (iv) that were developed and reviewed by a each division specified in paragraph (2) shall Forces’’ means members and former members of submit findings with respect to the study under specialized team established under section the Armed Forces who are parents and have ex- 1164(a) of title 38, United States Code, as added this section to the Under Secretary of the De- perienced military sexual trauma. partment with responsibilities relating to health by subsection (a). (2) MILITARY SEXUAL TRAUMA.—The term (C) Of the covered claims listed under sub- care services for women veterans. ‘‘military sexual trauma’’ has the meaning (2) SPECIFIED DIVISIONS.—The divisions of the paragraph (A) that were approved, the number given such term in section 1164(c) of title 38, and percentage, disaggregated by sex, of claims Department of Veterans Affairs specified in this United States Code, as added by section 5501(a) paragraph are the following: assigned to each rating percentage. of this title. (D) Of the covered claims listed under sub- (A) The Office of the Under Secretary for (3) PARENTING STAIR PROGRAM.—The term paragraph (A) that were denied— Health. ‘‘Parenting STAIR program’’ means the pro- (i) the three most common reasons given by (B) The Office of Women’s Health established gram of the Department of Veterans Affairs that the Secretary under section 5104(b)(1) of title 38, under section 7310 of title 38, United States consists of a five-session, parenting-specific United States Code, for such denials; and Code. treatment protocol based on skills training in af- (ii) the number of denials that were based on (C) The Center for Women Veterans under fective and interpersonal regulation (commonly the failure of a veteran to report for a medical section 318 of such title. referred to as ‘‘STAIR’’), which is a cognitive examination. (D) The Advisory Committee on Women Vet- behavioral therapy that has been identified as a (E) The number of covered claims that, as of erans established under section 542 of such title. promising practice for treating post-traumatic the end of the fiscal year covered by the report, (g) REPORT.— stress disorder, including chronic and com- are pending and, separately, the number of such (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 30 months plicated forms, among individuals with co-oc- claims on appeal. after the date of the enactment of this Act, the curring disorders. (F) For the fiscal year covered by the report, Secretary shall submit to Congress a report on the average number of days that covered claims Subtitle E—Benefits Matters the study required under this section. take to complete, beginning on the date on (2) ELEMENTS.—The report under paragraph SEC. 5501. EVALUATION OF SERVICE-CONNEC- which the claim is submitted. (1) shall include— TION OF MENTAL HEALTH CONDI- (G) A description of the training that the Sec- (A) the findings of the head of each division TIONS RELATING TO MILITARY SEX- retary provides to employees of the Veterans UAL TRAUMA. of the Department specified under subsection Benefits Administration, or such contractors or (a) SPECIALIZED TEAMS TO EVALUATE CLAIMS (f)(2); and other individuals as the Secretary considers ap- INVOLVING MILITARY SEXUAL TRAUMA.— (B) recommendations for such administrative propriate, specifically with respect to covered (1) IN GENERAL.—subchapter VI of chapter 11 and legislative action as the Secretary considers of such title is amended by adding at the end claims, including the frequency, length, and appropriate. the following new section: content of such training. SEC. 5403. STUDY ON FEASIBILITY AND ADVIS- (H) Whether all covered claims are subject to ABILITY OF OFFERING PARENTING ‘‘§ 1164. Specialized teams to evaluate claims second level review until the individual rater of STAIR PROGRAM AT ALL MEDICAL involving military sexual trauma the Veterans Benefits Administration adjudi- CENTERS OF DEPARTMENT OF VET- ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall estab- cating such covered claims achieves an accuracy ERANS AFFAIRS. lish specialized teams to process claims for com- rate of 90 percent on decisions of such covered (a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of Veterans pensation for a covered mental health condition claims. Affairs shall conduct a study on the feasibility based on military sexual trauma experienced by (3) DEFINITIONS.—In this subsection: and advisability of expanding the Parenting a veteran during active military, naval, or air (A) COVERED CLAIMS.—The term ‘‘covered STAIR program to all medical centers of the De- service. claims’’ means claims for disability compensa- partment of Veterans Affairs and including ‘‘(b) TRAINING.—The Secretary shall ensure tion submitted to the Secretary based on a cov- such program as part of care for military sexual that members of teams established under sub- ered mental health condition alleged to have

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7201 been incurred or aggravated by military sexual soliciting and collecting information on com- (1) conduct an evaluation of the feasibility trauma. plaints received, referrals made, and actions and advisability of requiring the processors of (B) COVERED MENTAL HEALTH CONDITION.— taken by the pension management centers of the claims for pension under chapter 15 of title 38, The term ‘‘covered mental health condition’’ has Department of Veterans Affairs and any other United States Code, to take additional actions to the meaning given such term in section 1164(c) relevant components of the Department, in cases verify that the direct deposit information pro- of title 38, United States Code. of potential financial exploitation of individuals vided by an individual on an application for (C) MILITARY SEXUAL TRAUMA.—The term receiving pension under chapter 15 of title 38, pension is for the appropriate recipient; and ‘‘military sexual trauma’’ has the meaning United States Code. (2) identify such legislative or administrative given such term in such section. (b) PLAN TO ASSESS AND ADDRESS FINANCIAL actions as the Under Secretary considers appro- SEC. 5502. CHOICE OF SEX OF DEPARTMENT OF EXPLOITATION OF VETERANS.— priate to ensure that payments of pension are (1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall develop VETERANS AFFAIRS MEDICAL EXAM- provided to the correct recipients. INER FOR ASSESSMENT OF CLAIMS and periodically update a plan— FOR COMPENSATION RELATING TO (A) to regularly assess the information solic- (b) SUBMISSION TO CONGRESS.— DISABILITY RESULTING FROM PHYS- ited and collected under subsection (a) to iden- (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 240 days after ICAL ASSAULT OF A SEXUAL NA- tify trends of potential financial exploitation of the date of the enactment of this Act, the Under TURE, BATTERY OF A SEXUAL NA- the individuals described in subsection (a) Secretary shall submit to Congress a report on TURE, OR SEXUAL HARASSMENT. across the Department; and the evaluation and identification under sub- (a) IN GENERAL.—Subchapter VI of chapter 11 (B) to outline actions that the Department section (a). of title 38, United States Code, as amended by can take to improve education and training to section 5501 of this title, is further amended by (2) CONTENTS.—The report required by para- address those trends. graph (1) shall include the following: inserting after section 1164, as added by section (2) SUBMISSION OF PLAN.—Not later than one 5501, the following new section: year after the date of the enactment of this Act (A) The findings of the Under Secretary with respect to the evaluation conducted under sub- ‘‘§ 1165. Choice of sex of medical examiner for and not less frequently than once every two section (a)(1). certain disabilities years thereafter until the date that is six years (B) The actions identified under subsection ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall ensure after the date of the enactment of this Act, the (a)(2). that a veteran who requires a medical examina- Secretary shall submit the plan most recently tion from a covered medical provider in support developed or updated under paragraph (1) to— (C) A plan for implementing any administra- of a claim for compensation under this chapter (A) the Comptroller General of the United tive actions identified under subsection (a)(2). States; and for a mental or physical health condition that (D) A rationale for not implementing any ac- (B) the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and resulted from a physical assault of a sexual na- tions evaluated under paragraph (1) of sub- the Special Committee on Aging of the Senate section (a) but not identified under paragraph ture, battery of a sexual nature, or sexual har- and the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the (2) of such subsection. assment may designate the sex of the medical House of Representatives. provider who provides such medical examina- SEC. 6003. OVERPAYMENTS OF PENSION TO VET- SEC. 6005. ANNUAL REPORT ON EFFORTS OF DE- tion. ERANS RECEIVING PENSION FROM PARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS ‘‘(b) COVERED MEDICAL PROVIDERS.—For pur- THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AF- TO ADDRESS THE FINANCIAL EX- poses of this section, a covered medical provider FAIRS. PLOITATION OF VETERANS RECEIV- is any medical provider who is employed by the (a) GUIDANCE AND TRAINING FOR CLAIMS ING PENSION. Department or is under any contract with the PROCESSORS.—As the Secretary of Veterans Af- (a) IN GENERAL.—Not later than one year Department to provide a medical examination or fairs considers necessary, but not less frequently after the date of the enactment of this Act and a medical opinion when such an examination or than once every three years until the date that not less frequently than once each year there- opinion is necessary to make a decision on a is 10 years after the date of the enactment of after until the date that is four years after the claim. this Act, the Under Secretary for Benefits of the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary ‘‘(c) NOTICE.—Before providing any medical Department of Veterans Affairs shall update of Veterans Affairs shall submit to the Com- examination for a veteran in support for a claim guidance and training curriculum for the proc- mittee on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate and described in subsection (a), the Secretary shall essors of claims for pension under chapter 15 of the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the House notify the veteran of the veteran’s rights under title 38, United States Code, regarding the eval- of Representatives a report on efforts to address subsection (a).’’. uation of questionable medical expenses on ap- the financial exploitation of individuals receiv- (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of sec- plications for pension, including by updating ing pension under chapter 15 of title 38, United tions at the beginning of chapter 11 of such such guidance with respect to what constitutes States Code. title, as amended by section 5501 of this title, is a questionable medical expense and by including (b) CONTENTS.—Each report required by sub- further amended by inserting after the item re- examples of such expenses. section (a) shall include, for the period covered lating to section 1164 the following new item: (b) IDENTIFICATION AND TRACKING.—The by the report, the following: Under Secretary shall develop a method for ‘‘1165. Choice of sex of medical examiner for (1) The number of individuals who received identifying and tracking the number of individ- certain disabilities.’’. pension under chapter 15 of title 38, United uals who have received overpayments of pension SEC. 5503. SECRETARY OF VETERANS AFFAIRS RE- States Code, who have been referred by any under chapter 15 of title 38, United States Code. PORT ON IMPLEMENTING REC- component of the Department of Veterans Af- (c) ANNUAL REPORT.—Not later than one year OMMENDATIONS OF INSPECTOR fairs to the Office of Inspector General of the GENERAL OF DEPARTMENT OF VET- after the date of the enactment of this Act and ERANS AFFAIRS IN CERTAIN REPORT not later than October 31 of each fiscal year be- Department as likely or proven victims of finan- ON DENIED POSTTRAUMATIC ginning thereafter until the date that is four cial exploitation. STRESS DISORDER CLAIMS RELATED years after the date of the enactment of this (2) The number of referrals and reports relat- TO MILITARY SEXUAL TRAUMA. Act, the Under Secretary shall submit to Con- ing to the financial exploitation of such individ- Not later than 90 days after the date of the gress a report that includes, for the period cov- uals made by the Department of Veterans Af- enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Veterans ered by the report, the following: fairs to— Affairs shall submit to the Committee on Vet- (1) The number of individuals who received (A) the Consumer Sentinel Network of the erans’ Affairs of the Senate and the Committee overpayments of pension under chapter 15 of Federal Trade Commission; and on Veterans’ Affairs of the House a report on title 38, United States Code. (B) the Department of Justice. the progress of the Secretary in implementing (2) The five most common reasons for overpay- (3) A description of the actions taken as a re- the recommendations from the report of the In- ments described in paragraph (1). spector General of the Department of Veterans (3) The number of veterans who had to repay sult of such referrals and reports against— Affairs entitled ‘‘Denied Posttraumatic Stress overpayments described in paragraph (1). (A) individuals recognized by the Secretary as Disorder Claims Related to Military Sexual (4) The number of veterans for whom the Sec- agents or attorneys under section 5904 of title Trauma’’ (17–05248–241). retary waived a requirement to repay an over- 38, United States Code; and TITLE VI—REPRESENTATION AND payment described in paragraph (1). (B) individuals not so recognized. (5) The total dollar amount of overpayments FINANCIAL EXPLOITATION MATTERS SEC. 6006. NOTICE REGARDING FEES CHARGED IN described in paragraph (1). CONNECTION WITH FILING AN AP- SEC. 6001. SHORT TITLE. (6) The total dollar amount of repayments of This title may be cited as the ‘‘Financial Ref- PLICATION FOR VETERANS PEN- veterans for overpayments described in para- SION. uge for Every Elderly Veteran Act of 2020’’ or graph (1). The Under Secretary for Benefits of the De- the ‘‘FREE Veteran Act of 2020’’. (7) The average dollar amount of repayments partment of Veterans Affairs shall ensure that SEC. 6002. PLAN TO ADDRESS THE FINANCIAL EX- described in paragraph (6). every paper or electronic document relating to PLOITATION OF VETERANS RECEIV- SEC. 6004. EVALUATION OF ADDITIONAL ACTIONS ING PENSION FROM THE DEPART- FOR VERIFYING DIRECT DEPOSIT IN- the receipt of pension under chapter 15 of title MENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS. FORMATION PROVIDED BY VET- 38, United States Code, that is available to indi- (a) DEVELOPMENT OF METHOD FOR SOLICITA- ERANS ON APPLICATIONS FOR VET- viduals who apply for such pension, including TION AND COLLECTION OF INFORMATION.—Not ERANS PENSION. educational forms about or applications for such later than one year after the date of the enact- (a) IN GENERAL.—The Under Secretary for pension, includes a notice that the Department ment of this Act, the Secretary of Veterans Af- Benefits of the Department of Veterans Affairs does not charge any fee in connection with the fairs shall develop a method for systematically shall— filing of an application for such pension.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7202 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020

SEC. 6007. OUTREACH PLAN FOR EDUCATING ‘‘(b) MEMBERSHIP.—(1) The Committee shall and urban Indian organizations conferring on VULNERABLE VETERANS ABOUT PO- be comprised of 15 voting members selected by issues at the tribal, regional, or national levels. TENTIAL FINANCIAL EXPLOITATION the Secretary from among individuals nomi- ‘‘(6) To ensure that pertinent issues are RELATING TO THE RECEIPT OF PEN- brought to the attention of Indian tribes, tribal SION. nated as specified under this subsection. ‘‘(2) In selecting members under paragraph organizations, urban Indian organizations, and (a) DEVELOPMENT OF PLAN.—The Under Sec- retary for Benefits of the Department of Vet- (1), the Secretary shall ensure that— Native Hawaiian organizations in a timely man- ‘‘(A) at least one member of each of the 12 erans Affairs shall develop, in collaboration ner, so that feedback can be obtained. service areas of the Indian Health Service is rep- ‘‘(7) To encourage the Secretary to work with with veterans service organizations, an outreach resented in the membership of the Committee other Federal agencies and Congress so that Na- plan for educating vulnerable individuals about nominated by Indian tribes or tribal organiza- tive American veterans are not denied the full potential financial exploitation relating to the tions; benefit of their status as both Native Americans receipt of pension under chapter 15 of title 38, ‘‘(B) at least one member of the Committee and veterans. United States Code. represents the Native Hawaiian veteran commu- ‘‘(8) To highlight contributions of Native (b) SUBMISSION TO CONGRESS.—Not later than nity nominated by a Native Hawaiian Organiza- American veterans in the Armed Forces. 180 days after the date of the enactment of this tion; ‘‘(9) To make recommendations on the con- Act, the Under Secretary shall submit to the ‘‘(C) at least one member of the Committee sultation policy of the Department on tribal Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and the Special represents urban Indian organizations nomi- matters. Committee on Aging of the Senate and the Com- nated by a national urban Indian organization; ‘‘(10) To support a process to develop an mittee on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of Rep- and urban Indian organization confer policy to en- resentatives the plan developed under sub- ‘‘(D) not fewer than half of the members are sure the Secretary confers, to the maximum ex- section (a). veterans, unless the Secretary determines that tent practicable, with urban Indian organiza- (c) VETERANS SERVICE ORGANIZATION DE- an insufficient number of qualified veterans tions. FINED.—In this section, the term ‘‘veterans serv- were nominated under paragraph (1). ‘‘(11) To conduct other duties as recommended ice organization’’ means an organization recog- ‘‘(3) No member of the Committee may be an by the Committee. nized by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for employee of the Federal Government. ‘‘(g) REPORTS.—(1) Not less frequently than the representation of veterans under section ‘‘(c) TERMS; VACANCIES.—(1) A member of the once each year, the Committee shall submit to 5902 of title 38, United States Code. Committee shall be appointed for a term of two the Secretary and the appropriate committees of TITLE VII—OTHER MATTERS years. Congress such recommendations as the Com- Subtitle A—Administrative and Other Matters ‘‘(2) The Secretary shall fill a vacancy in the mittee may have for legislative or administrative SEC. 7001. MEDICAL EXAMINATION PROTOCOL Committee in the same manner as the original action for the upcoming year. FOR VOLUNTEER DRIVERS PARTICI- appointment within 180 days. ‘‘(2) Not later than 90 days after the date on PATING IN PROGRAM OF TRANSPOR- ‘‘(d) MEETINGS.—(1)(A) Except as provided in which the Secretary receives a recommendation TATION SERVICES FOR VETERANS. subparagraph (B), the Committee shall meet in- under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall submit Section 111A(b) of title 38, United States Code, person with the Secretary, or the Secretary’s to the appropriate committees of Congress a is amended— designee, not less frequently than twice each written response to the recommendation. (1) by inserting ‘‘(1)’’ before ‘‘The Secretary’’; year and hold monthly conference calls as nec- ‘‘(3) Not less frequently than once every two and essary. years, the Committee shall submit to the Sec- (2) by adding at the end the following new ‘‘(B) During a public health emergency (as de- retary and the appropriate committees of Con- paragraph: fined in section 20003 of the Coronavirus Aid, gress a report describing the activities of the ‘‘(2)(A) Not later than 90 days after the date Relief, and Economic Security Act (Public Law Committee during the previous two years. of the enactment of the Johnny Isakson and 116–136)), meetings under subparagraph (A) may ‘‘(4) The Secretary shall make publicly avail- David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and be conducted virtually. able on an Internet website of the Department— Benefits Improvement Act of 2020, the Secretary ‘‘(2)(A) Representatives of relevant Federal ‘‘(A) each recommendation the Secretary re- shall develop and establish a national protocol agencies may attend meetings of the Committee ceives under paragraph (1); for the administration of medical examinations and provide information to the Committee. ‘‘(B) each response the Secretary submits for volunteer drivers to participate in the pro- ‘‘(B) One representative of the Office of Tribal under paragraph (2); and gram described in paragraph (1). Government Relations of the Department shall ‘‘(C) each report the Secretary receives under ‘‘(B) In developing the protocol required by attend at each meeting of the Committee. paragraph (3). subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall consult ‘‘(C) Representatives attending meetings ‘‘(h) COMMITTEE PERSONNEL MATTERS.—A with such persons as the Secretary determines under this paragraph shall not be considered member of the Committee shall be allowed travel have an interest in the program described in voting members of the Committee. expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsist- paragraph (1). ‘‘(D) A representative attending a meeting or ence, at rates authorized for an employee of an ‘‘(C)(i) The Secretary shall implement the pro- providing information under this paragraph agency under subchapter I of chapter 57 of title tocol by first conducting a one-year pilot pro- may not receive additional compensation for 5 while away from the home or regular place of gram using the protocol. services performed with respect to the Com- business of the member in the performance of ‘‘(ii) After conducting the pilot program re- mittee. the duties of the Committee. quired by clause (i), the Secretary shall assess ‘‘(e) SUBCOMMITTEES.—(1) The Committee may ‘‘(i) FEDERAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE ACT EX- the pilot program and make such changes to the establish subcommittees. EMPTION.—Section 14 of the Federal Advisory protocol as the Secretary considers appropriate. ‘‘(2) The Secretary may, in consultation with Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.) shall not apply to ‘‘(iii) After making changes to the protocol the Committee, appoint a member to a sub- the Committee. under clause (ii), the Secretary shall implement committee established under paragraph (1) who ‘‘(j) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: the protocol in phases during the course of one is not a member of the Committee. ‘‘(1) The term ‘appropriate committees of Con- year.’’. ‘‘(3) Such subcommittees may enhance the gress’ means— SEC. 7002. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS function of the Committee, but may not super- ‘‘(A) the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON TRIBAL sede the authority of the Committee or provide the Committee on Indian Affairs of the Senate; AND INDIAN AFFAIRS. direct advice or work products to the Depart- and (a) ESTABLISHMENT OF ADVISORY COM- ment. ‘‘(B) the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and MITTEE.— ‘‘(f) DUTIES.—The duties of the Committee are the Committee on Natural Resources of the (1) IN GENERAL.—Subchapter III of chapter 5 as follows: House of Representatives. of title 38, United States Code, is amended by ‘‘(1) To advise the Secretary on ways the De- ‘‘(2) The term ‘Indian tribe’ has the meaning adding at the end the following new section: partment can improve the programs and services given such term in section 4 of the Indian Self- ‘‘§ 547. Advisory Committee on Tribal and In- of the Department to better serve Native Amer- Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 dian Affairs ican veterans. U.S.C. 5304). ‘‘(a) ESTABLISHMENT.—(1) The Secretary shall ‘‘(2) To identify for the Department evolving ‘‘(3) The term ‘Native Hawaiian organization’ establish an advisory committee to provide ad- issues of relevance to Indian tribes, tribal orga- means any organization that— vice and guidance to the Secretary on matters nizations, and Native American veterans relat- ‘‘(A) serves the interests of Native Hawaiians; relating to Indian tribes, tribal organizations, ing to programs and services of the Department. ‘‘(B) has Native Hawaiians in substantive and and Native American veterans. ‘‘(3) To propose clarifications, recommenda- policymaking positions within the organization; ‘‘(2) The advisory committee established under tions, and solutions to address issues raised at ‘‘(C) has demonstrated experience working paragraph (1) shall be known as the ‘Advisory tribal, regional, and national levels, especially with Native Hawaiian veterans; and Committee on Tribal and Indian Affairs’ (in this regarding any tribal consultation reports. ‘‘(D) shall include the Office of Hawaiian Af- section referred to as the ‘Committee’). ‘‘(4) To provide a forum for Indian tribes, trib- fairs. ‘‘(3) The Committee shall facilitate, but not al organizations, urban Indian organizations, ‘‘(4) The term ‘Native American veteran’ has supplant, government-to-government consulta- Native Hawaiian organizations, and the Depart- the meaning given such term in section 3765 of tion between the Department and Indian tribes ment to discuss issues and proposals for changes this title. or tribal organizations. to Department regulations, policies, and proce- ‘‘(5) The term ‘Office of Hawaiian Affairs’ ‘‘(4) The Secretary shall consult with Indian dures. means the Office of Hawaiian Affairs estab- tribes or tribal organizations in developing a ‘‘(5) To identify priorities and provide advice lished by the constitution of the State of Ha- charter for the Committee. on appropriate strategies for tribal consultation waii.’’.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7203 ‘‘(6) The term ‘tribal organization’ has the ‘‘(3) The debarment of an offeror under para- (2) Corrective actions and specific steps to ad- meaning given such term in section 3765 of this graph (1) includes the debarment of all prin- dress each root cause, including— title. cipals in the offeror for a period of not less than (A) the progress of the Secretary in imple- ‘‘(7) The term ‘urban Indian organization’ has five years.’’. menting those actions and steps; and the meaning given such term in section 4 of the (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of sec- (B) timelines and milestones the Secretary de- Indian Health Care Improvement Act (25 U.S.C. tions at the beginning of chapter 81 of such title termines feasible to complete each corrective ac- 1603).’’. is amended by inserting after the item relating tion. (2) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of sec- to section 8128 the following new item: (3) Resources the Secretary determines are tions at the beginning of chapter 5 of such title necessary to implement corrective actions, in- ‘‘8129. Preference for offerors employing vet- is amended by inserting after the item relating cluding— erans.’’. to section 546 the following new item: (A) funding; ‘‘547. Advisory Committee on Tribal and Indian SEC. 7004. EXTENSION OF CERTAIN EMPLOYMENT (B) stakeholders; AND REEMPLOYMENT RIGHTS TO (C) technology; and Affairs.’’. MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL GUARD (D) senior officials responsible for imple- (b) DEADLINE FOR ESTABLISHMENT.—The Sec- WHO PERFORM STATE ACTIVE DUTY. menting the corrective actions and reporting re- retary of Veterans Affairs shall establish the ad- Section 4303 of title 38, United States Code, is visory committee required by section 547 of title sults. amended— (4) Metrics for assessing progress in address- 38, United States Code, as added by subsection (1) in paragraph (13), by inserting ‘‘State ac- ing the areas of concern described in para- (a)(1), not later than 180 days after the date of tive duty for a period of 14 days or more, State graphs (1) and (2) of subsection (a). the enactment of this Act. active duty in response to a national emergency (5) Key outcomes that demonstrate progress in (c) DEADLINE FOR INITIAL APPOINTMENTS.— declared by the President under the National addressing the areas of concern described in Not later than 90 days after the date on which Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.), State paragraphs (1) and (2) of subsection (a). the Secretary establishes the advisory committee active duty in response to a major disaster de- (6) Obstacles to implementation of the plan required by such section, the Secretary shall ap- clared by the President under section 401 of the that the Secretary identifies. point members under subsection (b)(1) of such Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emer- (7) Recommendations of the Secretary regard- section. ing legislation or funding the Secretary deter- (d) INITIAL MEETING.—Not later than 90 days gency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5170),’’ after mines necessary to implement the plan. after the date on which the Secretary estab- ‘‘full-time National Guard duty,’’; (2) by redesignating paragraph (15) as para- (8) Any other information the Secretary deter- lishes the advisory committee required by such mines is relevant to understanding the progress section, such advisory committee shall hold its graph (16); and (3) by inserting after paragraph (14) the fol- of the Department toward the removal of the first meeting. areas of concern from the High Risk List. (e) REPORT ON RELATION TO OFFICE OF TRIB- lowing new paragraph (15): ‘‘(15) The term ‘State active duty’ means (c) ANNUAL UPDATES.— AL AND GOVERNMENT RELATIONS.— (1) UPDATE REQUIRED.—Not less than once (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than two years training or other duty, other than inactive duty, each year during the implementation period after the date of the first meeting held by the performed by a member of the National Guard of under paragraph (2), the Secretary shall submit advisory committee required by such section, the a State— to Congress an update regarding implementation Secretary shall submit to Congress a report on ‘‘(A) not under section 502 of title 32 or under of each element of the plan under subsection whether and to what extent the activities of the title 10; (b). advisory committee improve the function of the ‘‘(B) in service to the Governor of a State; and (2) IMPLEMENTATION PERIOD.—The implemen- Office of Tribal and Government Relations of ‘‘(C) for which the member is not entitled to tation period described in this paragraph begins the Department of Veterans Affairs, aid the de- pay from the Federal Government.’’. on the date on which the Secretary submits the cisions of the Secretary, and whether and to SEC. 7005. REPAYMENT OF MISUSED BENEFITS. report required under subsection (a) and ends what extent the activities of the advisory com- (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 6107(b) of title 38, on the earlier of the following dates: mittee duplicate function of the Department per- United States Code, is amended— (A) The date on which the Comptroller Gen- formed before the enactment of this Act. (1) in paragraph (1), by striking ‘‘In any case eral removes the last area of concern for the De- (2) REVIEW BY ADVISORY COMMITTEE.—The in which a fiduciary described in paragraph partment from the most recent High-Risk List of Secretary shall— (2)’’ and inserting ‘‘In any case not covered by (A) give the advisory committee an oppor- the Government Accountability Office. subsection (a) in which a fiduciary’’; tunity to review the report required by para- (B) The date that is 8 years after the date on (2) by striking paragraph (2); and graph (1) before submitting the report under which the Secretary submits the plan required (3) by redesignating paragraph (3) as para- such paragraph; and under subsection (a). (B) include in the report submitted under such graph (2). SEC. 7008. ANNUAL REPORT BY SECRETARY OF paragraph such comments as the advisory com- (b) APPLICATION.—The amendments made by VETERANS AFFAIRS ON IMPLEMEN- mittee considers appropriate regarding the views subsection (a) shall apply with respect to any TATION OF PRIORITY RECOMMENDA- determination by the Secretary of Veterans Af- TIONS OF COMPTROLLER GENERAL of the advisory committee with respect to the re- OF THE UNITED STATES PER- port. fairs made on or after the date of the enactment of this Act regarding the misuse of benefits by a TAINING TO DEPARTMENT OF VET- SEC. 7003. PREFERENCE FOR OFFERORS EMPLOY- ERANS AFFAIRS. fiduciary. ING VETERANS. (a) ANNUAL REPORT REQUIRED.—Not later (a) IN GENERAL.—Subchapter II of chapter 81 SEC. 7006. EXEMPTION OF CERTAIN TRANSFERS. than 270 days after the date of the enactment of of title 38, United States Code, is amended by Section 7364(b)(1) of title 38, United States this Act, and not less than once during each of adding after section 8128 the following new sec- Code, is amended by adding at the end the fol- the subsequent 3 years, the Secretary of Vet- tion: lowing new sentence: ‘‘Any amounts so trans- erans Affairs shall submit to the Committees on ‘‘§ 8129. Preference for offerors employing vet- ferred after September 30, 2016, shall be avail- Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate and House of erans able without regard to fiscal year limitations, Representatives and to the Comptroller General ‘‘(a) PREFERENCE.—(1) In awarding a contract notwithstanding section 1535(d) of title 31.’’. of the United States a report on the implementa- for the procurement of goods or services, the SEC. 7007. REPORT AND PLANNED ACTIONS OF tion of priority recommendations of the Comp- Secretary may give a preference to offerors that THE SECRETARY OF VETERANS AF- troller General that pertain to the Department employ veterans on a full-time basis. FAIRS TO ADDRESS CERTAIN HIGH- of Veterans Affairs. ‘‘(2) The Secretary shall determine such pref- RISK AREAS OF THE DEPARTMENT (b) CONTENTS.—Each report submitted under OF VETERANS AFFAIRS. erence based on the percentage of the full-time subsection (a) shall include, for the period cov- employees of the offeror who are veterans. (a) REPORT REQUIRED.—Not later than 180 ered by the report, the following: ‘‘(b) ENFORCEMENT PENALTIES FOR MISREPRE- days after the date of the enactment of this Act, (1) The progress of the Secretary in imple- SENTATION.—(1) Any offeror that is determined the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, in consulta- menting all open priority recommendations of by the Secretary to have willfully and inten- tion with the Comptroller General of the United the Comptroller General for the Department of tionally misrepresented the veteran status of the States, shall submit to the Committees on Vet- Veterans Affairs. employees of the offeror for purposes of sub- erans’ Affairs of the Senate and House of Rep- (2) An explanation for each instance where section (a) may be debarred from contracting resentatives a report outlining the plan the Sec- the Secretary has decided not to implement, or with the Department for a period of not less retary has developed and the actions the Sec- has not fully implemented, an open priority rec- than five years. retary has taken to address the areas of concern ommendation of the Comptroller General for the ‘‘(2) If the Secretary carries out a debarment identified by the Comptroller General for the Department. under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall— Department of Veterans Affairs in the 2019 (3) A summary of the corrective actions taken ‘‘(A) commence debarment action against the High-Risk List of the Government Account- and remaining steps the Secretary plans to take offeror by not later than 30 days after deter- ability Office (GAO–19–157SP) regarding— to implement open priority recommendations of mining that the offeror willfully and inten- (1) acquisition management; and the Comptroller General. tionally misrepresented the veteran status of the (2) managing risks and improving health care. (c) SUPPLEMENT NOT SUPPLANT CERTAIN RE- employees of the offeror as described in para- (b) ELEMENTS.—The report under subsection QUIRED REPORTS OR WRITTEN STATEMENTS.— graph (1); and (a) shall include each of the following: The report under this section shall not be con- ‘‘(B) complete debarment actions against such (1) Root causes of the areas of concern de- strued to supplant any report or written state- offeror by not later than 90 days after such de- scribed in paragraphs (1) and (2) of subsection ment required under section 720 of title 31, termination. (a). United States Code.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7204 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 SEC. 7009. CLARIFICATION OF METHODS USED TO SEC. 7103. CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER ATTESTA- (2) in paragraph (2)(C)(ii), by striking ‘‘Sec- MONITOR COMPLIANCE WITH CER- TION. retary of Defense’’ and inserting ‘‘Secretary TAIN LIMITATIONS ON SUBCON- Concurrent with the submittal to Congress of concerned’’. TRACTING. the President’s budget request under section (b) RETROACTIVE APPLICATION.—The amend- Section 8127(k)(3)(A) of title 38, United States 1105 of title 31, United States Code, for fiscal ments made by this section shall apply to stop Code, is amended by striking ‘‘and any other’’ year 2022 and each of the next three subsequent movement orders issued on or after March 1, and inserting ‘‘or any other’’. fiscal years, the Chief Financial Officer of the 2020. SEC. 7010. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS Department of Veterans affairs shall submit to The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- REQUIREMENT TO PROVIDE CER- the appropriate congressional committees each ant to the rule, the gentleman from TAIN NOTICE TO PERSONS FILING of the following: CLAIMS FOR DAMAGE, INJURY, OR (1) A certification of the responsibility of the California (Mr. TAKANO) and the gen- DEATH ON STANDARD FORM 95. Chief Financial Officer for internal financial tleman from Tennessee (Mr. DAVID P. Not later than 90 days after the date on which controls of the Department. ROE) each will control 20 minutes. a person submits to the Secretary of Veterans (2) An attestation that the Chief Financial The Chair recognizes the gentleman Affairs a claim for damage, injury, or death on Officer has collaborated sufficiently with the from California. Standard Form 95, or any successor form, the subordinate chief financial officers of the De- Secretary shall provide to such person notice of GENERAL LEAVE partment to be confident in the financial projec- Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I ask each of the following: tions included the budget request and sup- (1) The benefit of obtaining legal advice con- porting materials. unanimous consent that all Members cerning such claim. may have 5 legislative days in which to (2) The employment status of any individual SEC. 7104. CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER RESPONSI- BILITY FOR SUBORDINATE CHIEF FI- revise and extend their remarks and to listed on the form. NANCIAL OFFICERS. insert extraneous material on H.R. (3) If the claim involves a contractor that en- (a) IN GENERAL.—In accordance with the re- tered into an agreement with the Secretary, the 7105, as amended. sponsibilities of the Chief Financial Officer of The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there importance of obtaining legal advice as to the the Department of Veterans Affairs for the re- statute of limitations regarding the claim in the objection to the request of the gen- cruitment, selection, and training of personnel tleman from California? State in which the claim arose. to carry out agency financial management func- Subtitle B—Matters Relating to the Chief Fi- tions pursuant to section 902(a)(5)(C) of title 31, There was no objection. nancial Officer of Department of Veterans United States Code, the Chief Financial Officer Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield Affairs or the designee of the Chief Financial Officer myself such time as I may consume. SEC. 7101. DEFINITIONS. within the Office of Management of the Depart- Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. In this subtitle: ment shall— 7105, as amended, the Johnny Isakson (1) APPROPRIATE CONGRESSIONAL COMMIT- (1) participate in the interview and selection and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans TEES.—The term ‘‘appropriate congressional panels of all subordinate chief financial officers; Health Care and Benefits Improvement committees’’ means the Committees on Veterans’ and Act of 2020. Affairs of the Senate and the House of Rep- (2) give input into the performance plans and H.R. 7105, as amended, was intro- performance evaluations of all subordinate chief resentatives and the Committees on Appropria- duced by Representative , tions of the Senate and the House of Represent- financial officers. (b) TERMINATION.—The requirements under chairman of the Subcommittee on Eco- atives. nomic Opportunity, and the bill before (2) SUBORDINATE CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER.— subsection (a) shall terminate on the date that The term ‘‘subordinate chief financial officer’’— is five years after the date of the enactment of us today contains several crucial im- (A) includes— this Act. provements that will better the lives of (i) the chief financial officer of the Veterans Subtitle C—Servicemembers Civil Relief veterans during the COVID–19 pan- Health Administration, the chief financial offi- SEC. 7201. CLARIFICATION OF DELIVERY OF NO- demic and beyond. cer of the Office of Community Care within the TICE OF TERMINATION OF LEASES Mr. Speaker, the first title of this Veterans Health Administration, and all chief OF PREMISES AND MOTOR VEHICLES bill contains legislation from Rep- FOR PURPOSES OF RELIEF UNDER financial officers of Veterans Integrated Service resentatives LEVIN, UNDERWOOD, Networks within the Veterans Health Adminis- SERVICEMEMBERS CIVIL RELIEF ACT. SABLAN, BROWNLEY, WEXTON, and LEE tration; (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 305(c)(2) of the (ii) the chief financial officer of the Veterans to improve the Forever GI Bill. These Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (50 U.S.C. Benefits Administration and all chief financial provisions will ensure that institutions 3955(c)(2)) is amended— officers of organizational subdivisions rep- of higher learning are more account- (1) in subparagraph (B), by striking ‘‘or’’ at resenting business lines within the Veterans able to student veterans. the end; Benefits Administration; (2) in subparagraph (C), by striking the period These provisions will improve over- (iii) the chief financial officer of the National and inserting ‘‘; or’’; and sight of colleges and universities, pro- Cemetery Administration; and (3) by adding at the end the following new vide more flexibility for veterans to (iv) the chief financial officer of the Office of subparagraph: use their benefits, and improve infor- Information and Technology; and ‘‘(D) by electronic means, including— (B) does not include the Inspector General. mation sharing with students so that ‘‘(i) the direct delivery of material to an elec- they can make a more informed deci- SEC. 7102. PLANS FOR ADDRESSING MATERIAL tronic address designated by the lessor (or the sion on where to continue their edu- WEAKNESSES AND PROVIDING SUF- lessor’s grantee) or the lessor’s agent (or the FICIENT AUTHORITY TO CHIEF FI- agent’s grantee); cation. NANCIAL OFFICER OF DEPARTMENT ‘‘(ii) the posting of material to a website or Further, building off my Student OF VETERANS AFFAIRS. Veterans Coronavirus Response Act Not later than 180 days after the date of the other internet or electronic-based information enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter repository to which access has been granted to from earlier in the year, this legisla- for each of the three subsequent years, the Sec- the lessee, the lessor (or the lessor’s grantee), or tion includes immediate COVID–19-re- retary of Veterans Affairs, acting through the the lessor’s agent (or the agent’s grantee); and lated relief, from Representative ‘‘(iii) other electronic means reasonably cal- Chief Financial Officer of the Department of CUNNINGHAM, to student veterans. His culated to ensure actual receipt of the material Veterans Affairs, shall submit to the appropriate legislation will extend housing benefits by the lessor (or the lessor’s grantee) or the les- congressional committees— to student veterans, provide more flexi- (1) an action plan, including steps, related sor’s agent (or the agent’s grantee).’’. (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments made bility when using their education bene- timelines, costs, progress, status of implementa- by subsection (a) shall apply to delivery of no- fits during the pandemic, and mod- tion, and any updates for fully addressing the tice of lease terminations on or after the date material weaknesses of the Department dis- ernize apprenticeship programs to the enactment of this Act. cussed in the Management’s Discussion and allow them to continue effectively dur- Analysis section of the financial statements of SEC. 7202. TECHNICAL CORRECTION REGARDING ing COVID–19. EXTENSION OF LEASE PROTECTIONS Mr. Speaker, to better serve those the Department submitted to Congress under FOR SERVICEMEMBERS UNDER STOP section 3515 of title 31, United States Code for MOVEMENT ORDERS IN RESPONSE veterans who are experiencing home- the year preceding the year during which the TO LOCAL, NATIONAL, OR GLOBAL lessness, this legislation includes con- report is submitted; and EMERGENCY. tributions from Representatives PA- (2) a plan outlining the steps the Secretary (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 305(b) of the NETTA, PETERS, WILD, BEATTY, and plans to take to address the recommendations of Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (50 U.S.C. BROWNLEY to provide more veterans auditors related to entity-level internal controls 3955(b)), as amended by Public Law 116–158, is and to provide sufficient authority to the Chief further amended— with access to the HUD-VASH pro- Financial Officer of the Department to carry (1) in paragraph (1)(C)(ii), by striking ‘‘Sec- gram, including veterans with children out the requirements of section 902 of title 31, retary of Defense’’ and inserting ‘‘Secretary and women veterans, and to provide United States Code. concerned’’; and legal services to homeless veterans.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:38 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.002 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7205 Recognition of service and sacrifice Representative , the b 1430 is a priority of mine, and I thank Rep- chairwoman of the Veterans’ Affairs Mr. DAVID P. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. resentative COX for his bill that awards Health Subcommittee. Title V is Speaker, I yield myself such time as I benefits to military advisers who named after Deborah Sampson, a Revo- may consume. served in Vietnam immediately prior lutionary War veteran from Massachu- Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support to the Vietnam war. This group of ad- setts who served in the Continental of H.R. 7105, the Johnny Isakson and visers faced hostilities in the years pre- Army for 17 months and was wounded David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health ceding the formal declaration of war in in battle more than once. Care and Benefits Improvement Act of Vietnam, and some lost their lives. The Mr. Speaker, Deborah Sampson was 2020. Military Assistance Advisory Group neither the first nor the only woman to This legislation is a culmination of 2 will now have greater access to certain serve in the Continental Army, nor was years of bipartisan work by the House wartime benefits. she the first woman to be granted a and Senate Veterans’ Affairs Commit- Mr. Speaker, similarly, this legisla- pension by Congress, but she was the tees. It contains provisions that will tion expands benefits for certain vet- most persistent. Over 38 years, Con- provide veterans and their families erans, including Medal of Honor recipi- gress granted her a pension, backpay; with improved access to care, com- ents. Thanks to Representative LAMB’s and, ultimately, her husband was pensation, education, housing, and bur- legislation, those veterans and their granted a survivor’s pension after her ial benefits that they have earned and survivors will now receive a greater death. It is because of similar persist- will result in a Department of Veterans amount of special pension. ence by women warriors who followed Affairs that is better able to meet their My priority next Congress is to bring in Deborah Sampson’s footsteps that needs. more veterans with toxic exposures we are considering this legislation I am proud that one of my last votes into VA and create an easier process to today. in Congress will be in support of this bill. I am also humbled that it bears get these veterans benefits. One group Among the numerous provisions in- my name and that of my friend, former I have heard a lot about is K–2 vet- cluded in this legislation—perhaps the Senator Johnny Isakson from Georgia. erans, who served at Karshi-Khanabad most important—relate to eliminating It was a pleasure to work with Senator Air Base in Uzbekistan. These service- sexual harassment and assault. members slept in tents above soil that Isakson as the chairman of the Senate Today, nearly one in four new re- Veterans’ Affairs Committee before his glowed and oozed, and, unsurprisingly, cruits joining the military is a woman; many later fell ill. retirement last year. and, as a result, women veterans are Our shared passion for serving our Mr. Speaker, I fully support inclusion the fastest growing demographic in the of legislation that partners with the fellow veterans led to the creation and veterans community, and VA must be passage of landmark veterans’ legisla- Centers for Disease Control to study prepared to welcome them. these exposures and resulting health tion, including the MISSION Act, the Unacceptably, at least one in four Forever GI Bill, the Accountability and effects. women veterans experience sexual and For veterans who have passed away, Whistleblower Protection Act, and the gender harassment at VA facilities. burial benefits ease the burden on Veterans Appeals Improvement and This must end. grieving families. This legislative Modernization Act. Mr. Speaker, last week, both the VA I am honored to share this recogni- package expands these benefits, cre- OIG and the Fort Hood Independent tion with him, and I thank our col- ating greater access. Representative Review Committee issued reports that leagues for recognizing our work in DELGADO’s legislation makes counties emphasized the need to do more to ad- this way. It would take more time than eligible for VA grants to build and op- dress the toxic culture that exists at I have to list every worthy proposal in erate veteran cemeteries, bringing a the Department of Defense and at VA. this bill and thank every lawmaker, veteran’s final resting place closer to No veteran, caregiver, employee, con- Republican and Democrat alike, who home for rural communities. tractor, or other public visitor should sponsored them. Representative SABLAN’s legislation experience sexual harassment or as- The many provisions included in this works to expand those grants, which omnibus bill will support veterans and are also available to States, territories, sault at VA. H.R. 7105, as amended, requires VA to families from the time they transition and Tribal governments, to cover in- out of the military to the time they creasing costs of cemetery operations. develop a comprehensive policy that includes bystander intervention, man- are interred in a VA, State, Tribal, or This legislative package includes sev- private cemetery and at multiple crit- eral provisions from numerous datory reporting mechanisms for em- ployees, confidential reporting mecha- ical touchpoints in between. healthcare-related bills, and I will just For transitioning veterans, it will take a minute to highlight a few. nisms for veterans, and holds leader- ship accountable for addressing sexual authorize a review of the Transition I am really delighted we are able to Assistance Program, or TAP; allow include Representative GALLEGO’s Na- harassment and assault at VA facili- ties. TAP to be provided at off-base loca- tive American PACT Act, which pro- tions; and support community organi- This bill also includes provisions put hibits VA from collecting copays from zations that are supporting service- forward by Representative PAPPAS that a veteran who is a member of an Indian members as they transition. Tribe. require new rules for how VA collects For student veterans, it will expand Mr. Speaker, H.R. 7105, as amended, debts owed by beneficiaries to avoid the Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Schol- also includes innovative ideas like Rep- unnecessary harm to veteran credit arship program to student veterans resentative KAPTUR’s the Vet HP Act, ratings, as well as to prevent many working on their medical degrees; re- which seeks to expose undergraduate overpayments from happening due to quire schools to provide all student students considering careers in medi- eligibility changes. veterans with in-state tuition, regard- cine to directly experience VA’s Mr. Speaker, finally, the bill before less of when they left Active Duty; healthcare environment. us improves the protections offered by make improvements and increase fund- In addition, this package includes the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act ing for the VET TEC pilot program to language requiring State veterans for veterans and their families. The in- connect veterans with careers in the homes to provide VA with reoccurring cluded legislation from Representa- technology industry; strengthen over- reports on COVID–19 cases and related tives BUSTOS and ROSE provides addi- sight of schools that use the GI Bill; issues in the facility. This is one more tional protections to ensure that vet- expand the restoration of benefits to way that VA and Congress can ensure erans aren’t disadvantaged by their students whose schools close in the veterans in State veterans homes have service to our Nation and that they are middle of a term; and ensure that more the resources they need during this allowed more flexibility and protec- servicemembers and veterans can take public health emergency. tions for their employment and leases. advantage of the improved benefits Mr. Speaker, I am especially pleased Mr. Speaker, I urge all Members to available through the Post-9/11 GI Bill. this end-of-year package includes the support H.R. 7105, as amended, and I re- For veterans with service-connected Deborah Sampson Act, introduced by serve the balance of my time. disabilities, it will ensure that claims

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K16DE7.019 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7206 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 for disability compensation include while in the Reserves, and it will ad- ny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Vet- pertinent information from veterans’ dress an inequity in Federal benefits erans Health Care and Benefits Im- private providers by requiring the VA for surviving spouses by allowing them provement Act. to reinstate public-facing Disability to retain their eligibility for VA De- In addition to including the Deborah Benefits Questionnaires, or DBQs, and pendency and Indemnity Compensation Sampson Act, a key piece of legislation issue a report detailing whether an al- if they remarry after the age of 55. that will improve healthcare and ac- ternative disability exam process I can go on and on; but, suffice to cess to VA services and benefits for would better serve veterans and, if so, say, there is something in this bill for women veterans, this legislation also implement it. just about every one of our Nation’s includes the Boosting Rates of Amer- For women veterans, it will ensure veterans and their loved ones. ican Veteran Employment Act, which I that the VA healthcare system is more I am very grateful to every Senator introduced, along with Congressman prepared for and responsive to their and Member of Congress who has intro- PAUL COOK from California, to expand needs and help it instill a culture that duced one of the various pieces of legis- employment opportunities for our vet- is more welcoming, inclusive, and safe. lation in this package, including Re- erans. For veterans who have experienced publican Leader KEVIN MCCARTHY of The BRAVE Act is commonsense, bi- military sexual trauma, it will stream- California; my good friend and incom- partisan legislation that will authorize line benefits and make it easier to get ing Ranking Member from the VA Secretary to give preference to the care and compensation they de- Illinois; Congressman contractors with high concentrations serve. from Florida; General of full-time veteran employees when For veterans struggling with home- from Michigan; Congressman JIM awarding Federal contracts. lessness or housing insecurity, it will BANKS from Indiana; Congressman First, this will reward companies increase funding for transitional hous- ANDY BARR from Kentucky, Congress- that actively hire and invest in vet- ing providers; improve case manage- man from Illinois; erans. Second, it will create an incen- ment services in the HUD-VASH Congressman DOUG LAMALFA from tive for other companies to do the voucher program; provide additional California; and Congressman JODEY same, which, in, turn will help bring funding and flexibility to allow service ARRINGTON from Texas. more veterans into their workforce providers to care for those with chil- This bill would not have been pos- with good paying jobs, the types of op- dren and meet rising demands associ- sible without the hard work, dedica- portunities that give veterans and ated with COVID–19; authorize grant tion, and support of numerous individ- their families the stability they need funding for legal services; and support uals and organizations, including VA; as they transition to civilian life. those leaving the criminal justice sys- our partners in the veteran service or- Most importantly, as more and more tem. ganization community; the Women companies hire more and more vet- For veterans worried about their fi- Veterans Task Force; committee mem- erans, they will ultimately see that in- nances, it will address a major root bers from both sides of the aisle, par- vesting in veterans is just good for cause of veteran debt by allowing vet- ticularly the chairs and ranking mem- business. That is what the real incen- erans to remove dependents from the bers of our Subcommittees on Dis- tive should be. eBenefits system. ability Assistance and Memorial Af- Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman fairs, on Economic Opportunity, on For veterans concerned about the TAKANO and Ranking Member ROE for general management and operation of Health, and on Oversight and Inves- including the BRAVE Act in this bipar- the Department of Veterans Affairs, it tigations; our colleagues on the Senate tisan bill package, and I urge my col- will improve VA’s work with Congress Veterans’ Affairs Committee; and last, leagues to support H.R. 7105 today. and the Government Accountability but certainly not least, my good Mr. DAVID P. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Office to address high-risk service lines friends and fellow Veterans’ Affairs Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the gen- Committee leaders: Chairman TAKANO, and improve VA’s overall efficiency tleman from Illinois (Mr. BOST), my and effectiveness; and strengthen fi- Chairman MORAN, and Ranking Mem- good friend and new ranking member nancial management across the De- ber TESTER. on the Veterans’ Affairs Committee. I Serving in the United States Army, partment, which is more important have been in Mr. BOST’s district many Second Infantry Division, as I did, was now than ever before as VA’s budget times. I know his passion. He is a a defining moment in my life. Helping approaches $250 billion a year and total former marine. I guess once a marine, to serve my fellow veterans in Congress liabilities surpass $4 trillion. these past 12 years along such an es- always a marine, Mr. Speaker. For veterans who are providing crit- Mr. BOST. Mr. Speaker, I stand in teemed group of lawmakers who I am ical care and support during the full support of H.R. 7105, and I am proud to call friends has been a honor COVID–19 pandemic, it will provide a proud to be the sponsor of several pro- of a lifetime. time-limited presumption of exposure The 116th Congress has been one for visions included in today’s veterans’ to help streamline benefits for those the history books in more than one omnibus bill. who develop long-term disabilities as- way. I hope that it will end on a high The first is a provision that would sociated with exposure to COVID–19 as note today by passing this important modernize the Service-Disabled Vet- a result of their service during this un- bill and providing that, despite all of erans Insurance program by increasing forgettable moment in history. the challenges before us at this par- the maximum coverage from $10,000 to For veterans at the end of their lives, ticular moment in time, Congress can $40,000; ensuring that veterans cannot it will create a single burial benefit for still come together on a bipartisan be denied coverage for any preexisting non-service-connected veterans by rais- basis to enact meaningful legislation condition; removing the requirement ing the cost of the non-service-con- on behalf of some of our most deserving that veterans apply for coverage within nected burial allowance to match the constituents, the men and women who 2 years of receiving an award of service allowance for veterans who pass away have so bravely defended our freedoms connection; and requiring premiums to in a VA facility; allow VA to pay for and the families and caregivers who cover the long-term cost of the pro- certain burial transportation costs for support them. gram, like the VA has with other life families who choose to lay their loved Mr. Speaker, I urge every one of my insurance programs. ones to rest in a State or Tribal vet- colleagues to join me in supporting Once the modernization program erans cemetery; and permit VA to re- this bill today, and I reserve the bal- goes into effect, the outdated program place a veteran’s VA-furnished head- ance of my time. would be sunset for new applicants. stone in a private cemetery to add me- Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 Another provision of mine will au- morial inscriptions for eligible family minute to the gentlewoman from New thorize a pilot program to extend li- members. York (Miss RICE), my good friend and cense portability to certain nonphysi- Finally, for veterans’ survivors, it member of the House Veterans’ Affairs cian providers who perform disability will extend GI Bill survivor benefits to Committee. exams under contract with the VA. As the families of servicemembers who Miss RICE of New York. Mr. Speaker, a result, contract vendors will be able died of a service-connected injury I rise in support of H.R. 7105, the John- to schedule a veteran’s exam sooner.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:38 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K16DE7.021 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7207 This is critical, as the VBA focuses its Transition Improvement Act to ease would require the VA to furnish an urn efforts on reducing the backlogs of dis- the transition to civilian life and help or a plaque if a deceased eligible vet- ability exams that has been caused by veterans build meaningful careers. eran was not interred in a traditional the pandemic. It includes the Protect the GI Bill cemetery. All veterans deserve to be Additionally, this bill will address a Act and the Pandemic Assistance for honored for their service, regardless of problem that occurred when a veteran Student Veterans Act to help veterans how their families choose to lay them has a change in their dependency sta- make the most of their GI Bill benefits. to rest. tus, but the VA does not take imme- It includes the Brian Tally VA Em- It is named in honor of Chuck Osier, diate action to reduce the veteran’s ployment Transparency Act to protect an Air Force veteran from Sherrill, benefits payments. As a result, the vet- veterans’ legal rights. New York, who passed away in 2015. Be- eran may incur an overpayment that This legislation will make a real dif- cause Chuck was not interred in a tra- the veteran must pay back. My provi- ference for veterans across the coun- ditional cemetery, his family could not sion would allow a veteran to remove try, and I am proud of the bipartisan honor him with a VA-furnished mark- their dependent from their award progress we are making today. er. through eBenefits within 60 days of the Mr. DAVID P. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. His widow, Donna, has been working veteran’s input and without VA ap- Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gen- with Members of Congress from central proval. tleman from Michigan (Mr. BERGMAN), New York for years to get this fixed. I This package also includes another my good friend who represents the am proud to stand here for Chuck and one of my bills, H.R. 7445, which would Upper Peninsula of Michigan. I think Donna and finally get this bill passed. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to expand eligibility for VA home loans General BERGMAN is the highest rank- programs to certain members of the ing officer who has served in the U.S. support this important legislation for National Guard and Reserve. Congress, a marine. our Nation’s veterans and their fami- Mr. Speaker, it is only right and log- lies. ical that members of the National b 1445 Mr. DAVID P. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Guard and Reserve who perform Fed- Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gen- eral Active Duty be given the same today in support of H.R. 7105, the John- tleman from Kentucky (Mr. BARR), my benefits as their full-time Active Duty ny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Vet- good friend, my neighbor just north of counterparts. erans Health Care and Benefits Im- me in Kentucky, and a very, very Before I close, I would like to thank provement Act of 2020. prominent member of the Veterans’ Af- Ranking Member ROE for his leader- I consider the word ‘‘optimism’’ to fairs Committee. ship on the committee these past 4 mean hope that actually includes a Mr. BARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today years, both as ranking member and as plan, and I have sincere optimism that in strong support of H.R. 7105, the chairman. He has done a great job of the bipartisan legislative package be- Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. representing the veterans of this Na- fore us today will serve as a blueprint Veterans Health Care and Benefits Im- tion and making sure that his focus for the great work we can achieve in provement Act of 2020. Let me start by thanking my good and the committee’s focus is kept on the next Congress by working together. friend, the ranking member of the Vet- what is best for them. More importantly, I have confidence erans’ Affairs Committee, a former I want to thank him for how he that it will make a positive difference chairman of this committee, for his treats and works with each member of in veterans’ lives. service to this country, not just as a the staff, as well as each Member, to For example, H.R. 7105 includes my guide us through. Remember, under his veteran himself, but also leading this legislation, the GI Bill Planning Act of guidance, we have enacted several committee and being a tireless cham- 2019, which will give military enlistees pieces of legislative accomplishments, pion of the men and women who have greater ability to consider which GI including appeals reform, the MISSION served our country in uniform, through Bill benefits are right for them. Act, and the Forever GI Bill. all of his accomplishments on this Now, as the full committee ranking Just think, in the heat of the first 2 committee. member, I hope to follow in his foot- weeks of their boot camp, 70 percent of I am so grateful for what you have steps, and I hope I can do him proud enlistees decide to pay $1,200 upfront to done for our veterans and, on a per- and continue our work to improve ben- opt into their Montgomery GI Bill ben- sonal note, as a mentor to me and so efits and services for our veterans and efit, but 97 percent actually end up many others, leading the way, showing their families. using the more robust post-9/11 GI Bill. your patriotism. You are going to be Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 By delaying this Montgomery GI Bill missed here, but we appreciate your minute to the gentleman from Cali- opt-in decision 6 months and respon- friendship. fornia (Mr. LEVIN), my good friend, who sibly ending new enrollment in 10 I am grateful, Mr. Speaker, that the is also a member of the House Vet- years, we will actually save recruits two bipartisan bills I introduced this erans’ Affairs Committee and is the money and ensure they are more in- Congress are included in this com- Chairman of the Economic Opportunity formed on their future education bene- prehensive veterans package: an Subcommittee. fits. amended version of my bill, H.R. 7795, Mr. LEVIN of California. Mr. Speak- Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman the Veterans Benefits Fairness and er, we simply cannot allow our vet- and the ranking member for including Transparency Act of 2020, which I in- erans to fall into homelessness, end up not only my bill but several other troduced with my Democratic col- jobless, or go without the basic serv- major measures that I have co-led to league, Representative ELAINE LURIA ices that they deserve. These chal- improve VA transparency in benefits from ; and H.R. 5772, the Vet- lenges have only been exacerbated by decisions, as well as increase account- eran STEM Scholarship Enhancement the COVID–19 pandemic. ability in the Department’s efforts to Act, which I introduced and later I am proud to lead the Johnny Isak- address programs that are at a high worked on with Representative LAUREN son and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans risk of waste, fraud, and abuse. UNDERWOOD from Illinois. Health Care and Benefits Improvement Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to My bill, the Veterans Benefits Fair- Act so that we can do right by our vet- support H.R. 7105, and I wish Dr. ROE ness and Transparency Act of 2020 will erans during this pandemic and be- fair winds and following seas. make it easier for veterans to file their yond. Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 disability claims by requiring the VA This legislation includes several of minute to the gentleman from New to restore the availability of disability my bipartisan bills. It includes the Re- York (Mr. BRINDISI), my good friend, benefits questionnaires, or DBQs, to ducing Veteran Homelessness Act and who is also a member of the House Vet- their publicly available website so that the Homeless Veteran Coronavirus Re- erans’ Affairs Committee. a veteran can use their own personal sponse Act to lift veterans out of Mr. BRINDISI. Mr. Speaker, I rise in healthcare provider when filing for homelessness. support of H.R. 7105. benefits. This bill also cuts red tape It includes the Navy SEAL Chief I am proud that this bill includes the and bureaucracy by preventing a vet- Petty Officer William ‘‘Bill’’ Mulder Chuck Osier Burial Benefits Act, which eran’s claim from being rejected just

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:38 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K16DE7.022 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7208 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 because the VA changed a line on a A second provisions honors the sac- oring Bill Mulder and his family and, form. rifices of our female veterans by ensur- in doing so, passing this legislation Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank ing they have access to properly fitted that will engage our Active Duty mili- my constituent, retired Master Gun- prosthetic items, just as their male tary earlier in the process, before they nery Sergeant Kenneth Gilliam, a 30- counterparts do. venture out as civilians, to equip them year Marine Corps veteran, and Ken- The third focuses on punitive debt and empower them with education and tucky Sixth District Veterans Coali- collection practices by VA against our opportunities for employment and to tion member retired Chief Warrant Of- veterans, many of whom have done ev- connect them with their brothers and ficer Denny Hart, who were the inspira- erything right. This provision sets lim- sisters, fellow veterans in the commu- tion for this legislation. its on when VA may initiate collection nity. My other bill, the Veteran STEM proceedings and even gives our vet- All the component parts of this, I Scholarship Enhancement Act allows erans the ability to update crucial ben- think, will end up with lives saved, less the VA to more quickly process vet- efit information online. Bill Mulders, in terms of his final chap- eran scholarship applications for the Mr. Speaker, I thank the House and ter, and less pain for wives of military Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholar- Senate committees for getting this bi- personnel, like Sydney Mulder. ship by lifting the requirement for pri- partisan bill to the floor, and I urge my To Sydney, let me say thank you for ority groups among eligible veterans colleagues to pass this legislation your sacrifice. applying for the scholarship unless the today. To Bill’s children, Nina, Jake, and VA determines that it is nearing the Mr. DAVID P. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Sam, thank you for what you guys rep- scholarship’s yearly funding limit. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gen- resent in military families. Your dad is This bill also prevents the Rogers tleman from Texas (Mr. ARRINGTON), a true American hero. His legacy will STEM scholarship from counting to- who served on the Veterans’ Affairs not stop here. It will live on in you, ward the 48-month limit a veteran Committee and the Ways and Means and it will live on in the lives that it can— Committee. He has been a tireless ad- changes because of this piece of legisla- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The vocate for veterans during that time. tion. time of the gentleman has expired. Mr. Speaker, with all due respect, The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Mr. DAVID P. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. there would not be a Texas if it were time of the gentleman has expired. Speaker, I yield an additional 1 minute not for Tennessee. Mr. DAVID P. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. to the gentleman from Kentucky. Mr. ARRINGTON. Mr. Speaker, how Speaker, I yield an additional 1 minute Mr. BARR. Mr. Speaker, this bill also can a Texan respond to that in the 3 to the gentleman from Texas. prevents the Rogers STEM scholarship minutes that has been allotted to me? Mr. ARRINGTON. Mr. Speaker, from counting toward the 48-month Mr. Speaker, I will say, with all sin- thank you for indulging me. limit a veteran can receive GI benefits. cerity, what an incredible man, what a God bless the Mulder family. God I have seen veterans in my district in great statesman and a leader for this bless those who serve our great coun- central and eastern Kentucky, espe- country. For all things good about our try. cially at Eastern Kentucky University, veterans and the promises that we have I pray to God that this will help take advantage of this important made and the services that we render make an impact on the real lives of our scholarship. to them, Dr. PHIL ROE, what a hero and veterans as they transition and maxi- Mr. Speaker, I am proud of my vote what a great mentor to many of us. mize their greatest God-given potential for this package that delivers for our I join the many who have benefited as civilians once again. That is the way Nation’s veterans. I thank, again, my from your friendship and leadership. this ought to work, and I know that is colleagues for working in a bipartisan Mr. Speaker, I appreciate Chairman our desire. way to shepherd this very important TAKANO’s friendship, and I thank him Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I thank package of veteran advocacy legisla- for his leadership and his love for our the gentleman from Texas and his de- tion to fruition. veterans. Our country’s character, I votion to Bill Mulder and his memory. Once again, I thank my good friend think we would say, could be measured Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the for his distinguished service in this in a few ways. One of them is how we gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. KAPTUR), body, Dr. PHIL ROE. Thank you, sir. It treat those who we send off to battle. my good friend, a longtime friend to has been an honor serving with you on In addition to being the right thing the Veterans’ Affairs Committee, and a this subcommittee especially. to do—that is, deliver on the promises senior member of the Appropriations Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 we make to our veterans—it is also Committee. minute to the gentleman from New good national security policy. It is Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, I thank Hampshire (Mr. PAPPAS), my good more than just recruiting the right Chairman TAKANO for his dedication friend who is also a member of the people and providing the best training. and leadership to move these import House Veterans’ Affairs Committee and If we are going to maintain the great- veterans provisions through Congress. chairman of the Subcommittee on est fighting force in all the world, we Included in this package is my bill, Oversight and Investigations. need to make sure we do right by our the Veterans-Specific Education for Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I thank Active Duty military men and women Tomorrow’s Health Professionals Act. Chairman TAKANO for getting this im- as they transition to civilian life and The VET HP Act will create a 1-year portant legislation to the floor. being veterans. pilot program to allow pre-med stu- Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support Mr. Speaker, I want to focus on title dents to gain clinical observation expe- of H.R. 7105, a crucial piece of veterans IV of this piece of legislation. It is the rience at VA medical centers. I thank legislation that aptly bears the name Transition Assistance Improvement the chairman for his leadership in help- of our distinguished ranking member, Act that I have worked on for a few ing include this. Dr. ROE. years now. It is named after my dear This legislation will not only in- The bill now includes three pieces of friend from high school, Bill Mulder, crease opportunities for students from legislation that I introduced to ensure Chief Petty Officer Navy SEAL Bill diverse backgrounds to gain the clin- VA is able to fulfill its mission of sup- Mulder. I love saying his name. ical observation time they need for porting all those who have borne the He is a warrior’s warrior. He, too, medical school, but it will also allow battle. These three provisions will help gave his life for this country. He suf- them the opportunity to gain a deeper improve the quality of care and address fered and struggled with the wounds of understanding of veterans’ specific deficiencies that frustrate and even battle that you can’t easily see. Let’s health needs and experiences, which we harm our veterans. put it that way. just heard about, while connecting The first requires VA to address bu- I am so grateful to Chairman TAKANO them with the VA medical system. reaucratic waste, fraud, abuse, and and Chairman ROE, and my colleagues In identifying and training future mismanagement identified by the Gov- on the other side of the aisle, espe- physicians interested in serving vet- ernment Accountability Office’s High cially Representative MIKE LEVIN, for erans, this legislation will, hopefully, Risk List. helping shepherd this along and hon- help fill some of the estimated 30,000

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K16DE7.024 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7209 medical vacancies at the Department who has been a champion for the finan- ing reporting from State veterans’ of Veterans Affairs by creating a viable cial security of our veterans on every- homes in light of COVID outbreaks. pipeline of future physicians. thing from the GI Bill to This bill is focused on justice, equal- Mr. Speaker, one of our highest re- antihomelessness initiatives. ity, and opportunity, and we are par- sponsibilities as a Congress is to ensure And to you, Mr. Ranking Member ticularly proud of the steps taken to our veterans receive the timely, high- ROE, thank you for your leadership and help servicemembers transition to the est quality care they deserve from your friendship and prioritizing our civilian workforce and to improve serv- trained professionals. I am pleased that veterans. I am so proud that this bill is ices and VA access for Native Amer- this bill, the VET HP Act, with the named for you. Congratulations to you, ican veterans, including eliminating leadership of Chairman TAKANO and and thank you. their copays. with my sponsorship as well, will di- I also recognize former Senator John- House Members can take pride in the rectly support these priorities. ny Isakson. What a great person he is. inclusion of Congresswoman What a great Member of the Senate he BROWNLEY’s Deborah Sampson Act, a b 1500 has been. I enjoyed being with him crown jewel in this package and the Mr. DAVID P. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. when we were saluting our veterans at most comprehensive women veterans Speaker, I reserve the balance of my Normandy, when he made that visit bill in over a decade. time. there and made us all so proud. This bill improves the health, bene- Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 Johnny was always bipartisan, reach- fits, education, and VA support system minute to the gentlewoman from Cali- ing across the aisle for our veterans, for women veterans, including by re- fornia (Ms. PELOSI), a champion and a and it was a joy to serve in this House quiring VA to create the staunch advocate, who is unparalleled as he served as a Senator. But I want antiharassment and antiassault policy, in her support for our Nation’s 22 mil- him to know that he is very missed improving women-specific primary lion veterans. and, again, recognized for his leader- healthcare, expanding access to Under the Speaker’s leadership, the ship. childcare, and strengthening mental House has passed the largest increases Mr. Speaker, last year, many Mem- health initiatives. in veterans funding in history, includ- bers were blessed to be able to travel to This bill could not be more timely. ing investments in mental health serv- Europe to mark 75 years of the Nor- Last week, the VA inspector general’s ices, Agent Orange disability, mandy landing and the Battle of the report revealed the appalling coverup healthcare benefits, economic and edu- Bulge on another visit. and discrediting of a woman veteran cational opportunities, as well as job At the commemoration of the Battle who works on the task force that cre- training. of the Bulge, almost 1 year ago this ated this legislation at the hands of She understands we must build up, day, I met a veteran in his nineties Secretary Wilkie and top VA officials. not tear down, the Department of Vet- who urged us to pray for peace. He It is a profound injustice for any pa- erans Affairs. She has upheld the sa- spoke for the veterans who were gath- triot with the courage to serve to have cred pledge that, just as the military ered there in a program with the King to experience having his or her voice leaves no one behind on the battlefield, of Belgium and the President of Ger- silenced and integrity questioned. Con- we must leave no veteran behind here many. It was very interesting. The Sec- gress will not relent until every serv- at home. retary of Defense spoke, but the vet- icemember, every veteran, every This Congress, with her support, we eran spoke for the veterans, and he woman can live free from the fear of have continued to preserve the sacred talked about the camaraderie and the assault or abuse. trust of our men and women in uniform band of brothers and all that, but at This package was drafted—this is and the 200,000 servicemembers who be- the end, he said: Pray for peace. what I am so proud of, because, on a come veterans each year. In that same spirit of peace, hope, regular basis, we meet with the veteran Mr. Speaker, I am, of course, refer- and respect, this Congress has honored service organizations, and it is their ring to the Speaker of this great House our veterans and their families and opportunity to tell us what their prior- from the great State of California, the caregivers with transformative action: ities are. There are so many issues that Honorable NANCY D’ALESANDRO PELOSI. from the Blue Water Navy Vietnam needed to be addressed. Some of them I Ms. PELOSI. Mr. Speaker, I thank Veterans Act to expand protections for have already mentioned here that have the gentleman for yielding and for his those devastated by exposure to Agent been addressed over time and right great leadership. He makes us so proud Orange, to ending the cruelly unfair now. But their wisdom and their expe- as the chair of the Veterans’ Affairs widows tax and kiddie tax—remember rience and their patriotism really helps Committee. that?—to passing the COMPACT Act to shape our agenda. I proudly rise in support of H.R. 7105, combat veteran suicide, to investing Thank you, Mr. TAKANO, for listening a strong bipartisan package of legisla- nearly $20 billion in VA readiness in and for acting upon the knowledge and tion that strives to meet our respon- pandemic research. values they give us. sibilities to honor the service and sac- Now the House is building on this bi- This package was drafted in con- rifice of those who don the uniform. partisan momentum with this omni- sultation with leading veterans groups, The strength of this package and its bus, which includes provisions from and we are proud to have the support of support across the aisle is a testament nearly 60 House-passed bills. the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the to the outstanding leadership of Chair- This bill strengthens veterans’ edu- American Legion, the Military Officers man . We are very proud cation, investing nearly $350 million in Association of America, Student Vet- of him as a Californian and as a Mem- improving GI benefits for surviving erans of America, Disabled American ber of this House. family members, increasing work study Veterans, the National Military Fam- The bill has been an all-hands-on- options and fellowship opportunities ily Association, Iraq and Afghan Vet- deck effort, and I salute the many for veterans, securing benefits for erans of America, the Association of Members whose provisions and perspec- those who cannot complete courses due the U.S. Navy, Paralyzed Veterans of tives have strengthened it: to the pandemic, and more. America, and Veterans Education Suc- Congresswoman JULIA BROWNLEY, the It safeguards veterans’ benefits, in- cess, just to name a few. The list goes chair of the Health Subcommittee and cluding by modernizing the benefit sys- on. the Women’s Veterans Task Force, who tem with commonsense reforms, in- As we send this package to the Presi- has worked tirelessly to achieve gender vesting in benefits for surviving dent’s desk, House Democrats are equity at VA, including, now, through spouses, and improving eligibility for ready to take further action to honor the landmark Deborah Sampson Act housing and home loan assistance for our veterans in the next Congress, included in this omnibus; National Guard and Reserve members. working alongside the Biden-Harris ad- Congressman MIKE LEVIN, the pride This bill protects veterans’ health, ministration. of our freshman class, who introduced improving care for those exposed to the Just as the military pledges to leave this omnibus as chair of the Sub- coronavirus and burn pits, improving no one behind on the battlefield, we committee on Economic Opportunity, VA’s scheduling process, and increas- solemnly promise to leave no veteran

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00049 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K16DE7.026 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7210 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 behind. That is particularly personal to Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 b 1515 me, having four brothers who served in minute to the gentleman from Michi- Despite this, the VA has long charged the armed services, an uncle who died gan (Mr. KILDEE), my good friend. Native veterans unconstitutional co- in World War II, but also a daughter Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I thank payments for their care. That should who is so committed to our veterans Chairman TAKANO and Ranking Mem- end today. that practically every day she will say ber ROE and my Michigan colleague, Now more than ever, in the midst of to me: What did you do for our vet- JACK BERGMAN, with whom I worked on a health crisis that has been dispropor- erans today? And not just on Veterans this legislation, for bringing this bill to tionately affecting Native people, we Day. the floor, which includes my legisla- need to make sure that Native veterans As we send this package, recognize tion, the Transparency For Wounded have access to the healthcare they are that our work on behalf of veterans, Warriors Act. due, both as veterans and as members their families, and their caregivers This legislation will improve the of Tribal nations. must be bipartisan and of the highest Traumatic Servicemembers’ Group That is why, Mr. Speaker, I urge my priority. I urge the passage of this bill. Life Insurance program, known as colleagues to support this important And as I say to those VSOs when TSGLI, which provides financial sup- provision to uphold our trust responsi- they come in: Understand this; for you port to help servicemembers recover bility and to vote ‘‘yes’’ on the under- and to honor you, we pledge to always from severe injuries. lying package. work as much as possible in a bipar- This issue came to me 7 years ago as Mr. DAVID P. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. tisan way. a result of an injury suffered by Ser- Speaker, I reserve the balance of my That is the way they would want us geant First Class Cameron Corder from time. to do so. That is why I am particularly Clio, Michigan, my neighbor just a few Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 proud, Congressman ROE, to recognize miles away from where I live, who sus- minute to the gentleman from New your leadership, and I am so happy tained a severe back injury while on York (Mr. DELGADO), my good friend. that this bill is named for you and for Active Duty serving as a flight medic Mr. DELGADO. Mr. Speaker, I thank Johnny Isakson, as well. in Afghanistan. the chairman, Mr. TAKANO, for yield- Mr. Speaker, I once again voice my Despite his traumatic injury, the ing. appreciation for Mr. TAKANO for his Army repeatedly denied his TSGLI Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support great leadership. I thank him. claims, and for years my staff and I of H.R. 7105. This legislation incor- Mr. DAVID P. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. fought all the way to the top rungs of porates two bills I was proud to intro- Speaker, I reserve the balance of my the military to try to get Cameron his duce. The first bill is my bipartisan Fair- time. benefits. Finally, in November of 2017, ness for Local Veteran Cemeteries Act, Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I am sure after years of denials, Cameron re- an easy bipartisan fix to allow local- Christine Pelosi is going to be tweeting ceived those benefits. ities to honor our Nation’s veterans. in just a few moments. His experience, though, was a clear As the law is currently written, only Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the case of bureaucratic harm suffered by a State-run veteran cemeteries are eligi- gentleman from Connecticut (Mr. Wounded Warrior. His treatment was ble for the National Cemetery Admin- COURTNEY), my good friend and mem- unacceptable. This legislation will, istration’s Veterans Cemetery Grants. ber of the Armed Services Committee hopefully, ensure that it won’t happen This cripples counties and States that and senior member of the Education to other servicemembers. don’t have State-operated veteran and Labor Committee. I am pleased that the House has in- cemeteries, including New York, Flor- Mr. COURTNEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise cluded this bill in this bipartisan pack- ida, Alaska, and Oregon, where veteran in support of this bill and salute Mr. age. When it comes to my constituents cemeteries are operated by counties or TAKANO and Mr. ROE for their fine and veterans, I don’t give up until I county-equivalents. work. win. Our bill will ensure counties and lo- In particular, I want to foot stomp I thank my friend Chairman TAKANO, calities can use Federal funds to help section 2011, which instructs GAO to and I especially thank Dr. ROE. I very run veteran cemeteries. conduct an independent analysis of the much enjoyed serving with you and H.R. 7105 also incorporates my Im- VA’s 1-year manifestation rule, which look forward to staying connected to proving Benefits for Underserved Vet- has unfairly blocked benefits for three you in some fashion. erans Act, which would require the VA debilitating conditions caused by Mr. DAVID P. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. to publish a report on veterans’ bene- Agent Orange dioxin used in the Viet- Speaker, I reserve the balance of my fits, disaggregating by sex or minority nam war. time. group member status. This is an impor- In a nutshell, veterans are required Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 tant step in leveling the playing field to show these illnesses manifested minute the gentleman from Arizona for women and minority veterans. themselves within 1 year of exposure in (Mr. GALLEGO). The men and women of the armed order to get VA help. Only one prob- Mr. GALLEGO. Mr. Speaker, I rise in services dedicate their lives to defend- lem: 50 years ago, when servicemem- support of H.R. 7105. This important ing our Nation and its values. I am bers were handling this poison, the package includes a bill I authored, H.R. proud to support this legislation that U.S. Government never disclosed how 4908, the Native American Veteran helps our Nation provide better care dangerous it was. When its toxicity PACT Act. for our veterans and protect their final was finally recognized decades later, Native people have fought in every resting place. the 1-year clock to prove manifestation American war since the American Rev- Mr. DAVID P. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. had long expired. It is the ultimate olution, more than a century before Speaker, I reserve the balance of my catch-22. they were even granted citizenship. time. Section 2011 would not exist but for When I served in Iraq, I fought along- Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 the tireless work of Vietnam veteran side Navajo marines, some of the best minute to the gentlewoman from New Gerry Wright from Andover, Con- marines you will ever meet. I have wit- Mexico (Ms. HAALAND), my good friend. necticut, who has crisscrossed America nessed, firsthand, Native communities’ The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- rounding up support for abolishing this tradition of service to America, which bers are reminded to put on their rule—no lobbyists, no super-PACs, just is why I introduced the PACT Act, to masks. old-fashioned citizen activism. make sure America keeps its promises Ms. HAALAND. Mr. Speaker, as one Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Gerry. to these heroes. of the first Native American women He is a true patriot. The PACT Act would prohibit the VA elected to Congress and the daughter of Mr. Speaker, I urge support of this from charging copays to Native Amer- two veterans, I am proud that my bill bill. ican veterans. The United States Gov- with Representative MIKE GALLAGHER, Mr. DAVID P. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. ernment has a treaty obligation to pro- the Department of Veterans Affairs Speaker, I reserve the balance of my vide healthcare to Native Americans Tribal Advisory Committee Act, will time. free of charge. be included in this package.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00050 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K16DE7.028 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7211 All veterans deserve the best care I ask my colleagues to support H.R. 7105. PROGRAM.—Section 1720G(a) of title 38, that our country can give, but there The SPEAKER pro tempore. The United States Code, is amended by adding at are gaps in services for Native Amer- question is on the motion offered by the end the following new paragraphs: ican veterans. the gentleman from California (Mr. ‘‘(12)(A) The Secretary shall notify the in- dividuals described in subparagraph (C) re- The advisory committee established TAKANO) that the House suspend the garding decisions affecting the furnishing of by this bill will ensure that we look at rules and concur in the Senate amend- assistance under this subsection using stand- and remedy the specific barriers Native ment to the bill, H.R. 7105. ardized letters, as the Secretary determines American veterans face so they will The question was taken; and (two- such notifications and letters to be appro- have access to the same care that other thirds being in the affirmative) the priate. veterans have. rules were suspended and the Senate ‘‘(B) A notification provided under sub- For these reasons and many more, I amendment was concurred in. paragraph (A) shall include the elements re- am thankful for the inclusion of my A motion to reconsider was laid on quired for notices of decisions under section bill today and look forward to seeing the table. 5104(b) of this title to the extent that those elements apply to such notification, unless, its implementation by President-elect f not later than 60 days after the date of the Biden. TRANSPARENCY AND EFFECTIVE enactment of the Transparency and Effective The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ACCOUNTABILITY MEASURES Accountability Measures for Veteran Care- time of the gentleman from California FOR VETERAN CAREGIVERS ACT givers Act, the Secretary determines that it (Mr. TAKANO) has expired. would not be feasible to include such ele- Mr. DAVID P. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I move to ments in such notifications and submits to Speaker, I have no further speakers, suspend the rules and pass the bill (S. the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the and I am prepared to close. 2216) to require the Secretary of Vet- Senate and the Committee on Veterans’ Af- Mr. Speaker, it is obvious today, erans Affairs to formally recognize fairs of the House of Representatives a re- with the minority leader, the Speaker, caregivers of veterans, notify veterans port setting forth the reasons for such deter- and numerous, numerous distinguished and caregivers of clinical determina- mination. Members coming to speak, the impor- tions relating to eligibility for the ‘‘(C) The individuals described in this sub- paragraph shall include— tance of this. family caregiver program, and tempo- ‘‘(i) an individual who submits an applica- Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman rarily extend benefits for veterans who tion for the program established under para- TAKANO for his work on this. I thank are determined ineligible for the fam- graph (1); all the Members who, in a bipartisan ily caregiver program, and for other ‘‘(ii) an individual determined by the Sec- way, brought this extremely important purposes. retary to be an eligible veteran pursuant to bill to fruition. The Clerk read the title of the bill. such an application; and I certainly appreciate the honor of The text of the bill is as follows: ‘‘(iii) a family caregiver of an eligible vet- having this bill named after Senator S. 2216 eran who is— ‘‘(I) approved as a provider of personal care ISAKSON and myself, and I encourage Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- services under paragraph (6)(B); or my colleagues to support this bill. resentatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, ‘‘(II) designated as a primary provider of Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance personal care services under paragraph SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. of my time. (7)(A). This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Trans- Mr. SABLAN. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 7105, the ‘‘(13)(A) If the Secretary determines that a parency and Effective Accountability Meas- Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improve- veteran receiving services under the program ures for Veteran Caregivers Act’’ or the established under paragraph (1) is no longer ment Act, includes my bill helping get more ‘‘TEAM Veteran Caregivers Act’’. funding for operations and maintenance to lo- eligible for such program solely because of SEC. 2. MODIFICATION OF ADMINISTRATION OF improvement in the condition of the vet- cally-run, veterans cemeteries nationwide. CAREGIVER PROGRAMS OF DEPART- My legislation, H.R. 5487, increases the MENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS. eran— amount the VA can grant for this purpose (a) FORMAL RECOGNITION OF CAREGIVERS.— ‘‘(i) the effective date of discharge of the (1) REPORT.— veteran from the program shall be not ear- each year from $5 million to $10 million. As lier than the date that is 60 days after the more veterans choose to be buried close to (A) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, date on which the Secretary provides notice their home, more states, territories, and tribal the Secretary shall submit to the Committee of such lack of eligibility under paragraph governments are applying for funding from the on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate and the (12)(A) to the relevant individuals described VA to help cover the costs of operating and Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the House in paragraph (12)(C); and maintaining local veterans cemeteries. of Representatives a report regarding the ‘‘(ii) the Secretary shall extend benefits And, while the list of applications grows, the feasibility and advisability of formally rec- under the program established under para- amount the Department can award has not. ognizing all caregivers of veterans by identi- graph (1) for a family caregiver of the vet- Under current law, no more than $5 million fying any caregiver of a veteran in the elec- eran described in paragraph (12)(C)(iii), in- cluding stipends under paragraph can be awarded per year to meet the needs tronic health record of the veteran. (B) CAREGIVERS RECOGNIZED.—The recogni- (3)(A)(ii)(V), if such an extension is deter- of over 100 cemeteries. mined appropriate by the Secretary, for a 90- H.R. 5487, the Veterans Cemetery Grants tion of caregivers described in subparagraph (A) shall include recognition of — day period following discharge of the veteran Improvement Act updates that authorization by (i) any family caregiver who is approved as from the program. a modest $5 million. The Act will help veteran a provider of personal care services for an el- ‘‘(B) This paragraph shall not be construed cemeteries in every state, territory, and tribal igible veteran under the program of com- to limit the authority of the Secretary— nation, remain the dignified and well-main- prehensive assistance for family caregivers ‘‘(i) to prescribe regulations addressing tained resting places our veterans deserve. under subsection (a) of section 1720G of title other bases for— I know in my own district, the Northern Mar- 38, United States Code; and ‘‘(I) the discharge of a veteran from the iana Islands, the veterans cemetery, built with (ii) any caregiver of a covered veteran par- program established under paragraph (1); or ticipating in the program of general care- ‘‘(II) the revocation of the designation of a federal funds, faces challenges in this respect. family caregiver of a veteran as a primary Veterans’ families have come to me for help giver support services under subsection (b) of such section. provider of personal care services under and this bill responds. (C) TIMELINE.—If the Secretary determines paragraph (7)(A); or I know my co-sponsor, Representative that formally recognizing all caregivers of ‘‘(ii) to provide advance notice and ex- STEIL, shares this concern for the Southern veterans as described in subparagraph (A) is tended benefits under the program, as appro- Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in his feasible and advisable, the report required by priate, if another basis for discharge of a vet- district, as do other Members for the ceme- such subparagraph shall include a timeline eran described in subclause (I) of clause (i) or teries that serve their constituents. for implementing such recognition. revocation of a designation described in sub- And I know the members of this House are (2) IMPLEMENTATION.—If the Secretary de- clause (II) of such clause applies.’’. committed to honoring our nation’s veterans termines that formally recognizing all care- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- and their families, who have sacrificed so givers of veterans as described in paragraph ant to the rule, the gentleman from (1)(A) is feasible and advisable, the Secretary California (Mr. TAKANO) and the gen- much to ensure our country remains safe and shall implement such recognition in accord- tleman from Tennessee (Mr. DAVID P. free. ance with the timeline included in the report I thank Chairman TAKANO and Senator required by such paragraph. ROE) each will control 20 minutes. TESTER for all their support to include into H.R. (b) NOTIFICATIONS, EXTENSION OF BENEFITS, The Chair recognizes the gentleman 7105 this important measure. AND DISCHARGE FROM FAMILY CAREGIVER from California.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:48 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00051 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K16DE7.030 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7212 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 GENERAL LEAVE Along with expanding the family Sharon told our office countless sto- Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I ask caregiver program to caregivers of vet- ries of her struggles attempting to gain unanimous consent that all Members erans of all eras, VA also made several access to her son’s VA medical records, may have 5 legislative days in which to programmatic changes, which I hope even something as simple as a much- revise and extend their remarks and to will ensure the program works better needed copy of an MRI. insert extraneous material on S. 2216. for every single veteran and caregiver As many caregivers know, having The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there in need of it. However, it may also re- timely access to medical records is ex- objection to the request of the gen- sult in some caregivers who were for- tremely important to move forward in tleman from California? merly eligible for the program to no the recovery process of the patient. There was no objection. longer be eligible for it because their Sharon has had issues getting access to Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield veteran loved one had sufficiently re- these records because the VA does not myself such time as I may consume. covered as to no longer require the formally recognize family caregivers in Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of S. same level of caregiving services. the health records of the veteran. 2216, Senator PETERS’ bill, the TEAM To help individuals under those cir- Today, we are one step closer to fix- Veteran Caregivers Act. cumstances, this bill would require the ing this issue by requiring the VA to This legislation clarifies certain ele- VA to notify veterans and caregivers of report to Congress on the feasibility ments of VA’s program of comprehen- medical decisions and determinations and the advisability of recognizing sive assistance for family caregivers that may affect their eligibility for the family caregivers in the electronic and the general caregiver program. family caregiver program and to ex- health records of the veteran. The bill formally recognizes a vet- tend the caregiver benefits on a tem- I will continue to work with my eran’s primary caregiver in the vet- porary basis to those who are deemed House and Senate colleagues and the eran’s medical record and requires ineligible for the program, ensuring VA to ensure that no family caregiver standardization in letters determining that they have time to adjust to life goes through the same bureaucratic program eligibility. without the support it provides them. nightmares as Sharon has. Additionally, it extends the benefits It would also require VA to list the Mr. Speaker, I thank all the care- of the comprehensive program for 90 names of caregivers in veterans’ elec- givers who support our wounded vet- days after a veteran has been deter- tronic health records to ease commu- erans every day, the Elizabeth Dole mined to no longer be clinically eligi- nication between providers and care- Foundation, Disabled American Vet- ble. This will allow the family care- givers. erans, Paralyzed Veterans of America, givers, who have likely forgone or Mr. Speaker, I am grateful to Sen- and all the veterans service organiza- minimized their own careers in order ator GARY PETERS from Michigan and tions that voiced their strong support to care for veterans, the means and Senator , my fellow for this legislation. necessary time to transition back to Tennessean, for introducing this bill, Mr. Speaker, I thank, again, my col- the workforce without worrying about as well as Congressman league from Tennessee, Dr. ROE, for his how to pay the bills. This is an unnec- from Arizona for sponsoring the House service in Congress and his strong sup- essary stress on those who have al- companion to it. I thank each of them port of our Nation’s veterans. I will say ready been through so much. for their leadership on this issue and I respect him. His leadership and exper- Mr. Speaker, I urge all Members to their commitment to caring for care- tise will be missed in the Halls of this support S. 2216, and I reserve the bal- givers. Congress. ance of my time. Mr. Speaker, I will be proudly sup- Thank you, Dr. ROE. Mr. DAVID P. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. porting this bill today, and I urge all of Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my col- Speaker, I yield myself as much time my colleagues to join me. leagues to vote ‘‘yes’’. as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I reserve Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support my time. the balance of my time. of S. 2216, the TEAM Veteran Care- Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I reserve Mr. DAVID P. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. givers Act. the balance of my time. Speaker, I have no further speakers, Just as our Nation’s veterans are he- Mr. DAVID P. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. and I am prepared to close. roes, so are their caregivers. When a Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gen- Mr. Speaker, I want to take a couple servicemember or veteran is seriously tleman from Arizona (Mr. BIGGS), my of minutes of personal privilege before injured in service to our country, their good friend, who is the House sponsor I do close. family caregiver serves as an irreplace- of this legislation. This will be the last couple of days I able source of support and care during Mr. BIGGS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the am here on the House floor, and I recovery and beyond. gentleman for yielding. I thank the would like to thank the constituents of They are just as vital a part of the ranking member for all of his work the First Congressional District of veteran’s care team as the veteran’s here on this bill and so many others to Tennessee who have supported me doctors and nurses. They deserve re- benefit the lives of our veterans and overwhelmingly for the past 12 years. I spect, recognition, and support for all their families. I appreciate it very cannot thank you enough. the work they do for their veteran much. I have made so many great friends as loved ones and the personal sacrifices I strongly support S. 2216, the TEAM I have traveled those 12 counties in that work requires of them. Veteran Caregivers Act, and, as the rural east Tennessee, and I couldn’t be Since the Department of Veterans sponsor of H.R. 6571, the House com- prouder of them. Certainly, my prayers Affairs’ family caregiver program was panion of this legislation. are with them now during this COVID created by Congress in 2012, caregiver Family caregivers assume enormous epidemic. support services—including a monthly responsibilities by caring for our This was a year like no one ever ex- stipend, respite care, training, and wounded veterans, including many who pected, Mr. Speaker. I think we will all healthcare, if needed—have been of- are among our most vulnerable. look back years from now, and history fered to eligible caregivers of post-9/11 I introduced this legislation because will judge us on how we did now. veterans. one of my constituents, Ms. Sharon I want to thank my family and We expanded the family caregiver Grassi, came to us with her concerns friends that I have had. I would not be program to include caregivers of pre-9/ related to the VA’s family caregiver here without them. 11 veterans in the MISSION Act 2 years program. Sharon is the mother and During this past 12 years, I have had, ago, and those caregivers began receiv- caregiver of her son Derek, a 100-per- obviously, some personal issues. My ing benefits through the program in cent disabled veteran who served mul- wife died of cancer during the 12 years October. tiple tours in Iraq and Afghanistan as a I was here. I lost a very dear personal Mr. Speaker, I would be remiss if I combat medic. Since Derek’s departure friend not 6 weeks after that. My moth- didn’t say the Dole Foundation and from the service, Sharon has dedicated er died a year after that. And a year Senator Dole had a great influence on her life to securing the well-being of after that, I was diagnosed with cancer this. her son. myself, and I am a cancer survivor.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00052 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K16DE7.032 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7213 I want to thank the people in this families now with the high cost of edu- I note that Mr. Towers is going to go body and in this House for the personal cation. work on the other side, and I say that support that they gave me and uplifted We had an SGR, the sustainable with all great affection. Some things me, the Congressional Prayer Break- growth rate repeal, and Medicare re- will change, some things will stay con- fast, and just many friends, as Mr. form, the Medicare wage index reform. stant. BIGGS talked about, that would stop We passed the National Desert Storm This behemoth, it is more than 300 and speak to you and lift you up. I and Desert Shield War Memorial Act. pages of legislative text. That is a tes- don’t think people see that. With Whip HOYER, we passed an tament to the spirit of wanting to do I want to thank my staff. I have had EpiPen bill so that they can be put it right. an incredible staff since I have been schools around the country. And I can I want to congratulate my own staff here. I am amazed at the insight and tell you, after that happened, in my director, Ray Kelley, for that amazing work that these young people do on own district about 3 years ago, a stu- work of both he and Jon and their both sides of the aisle. It is just amaz- dent had an anaphylactic reaction. She counterparts in the Senate. This could ing. We would not get this legislation did not know she had a problem. And a not be the work of PHIL ROE and myself completed. You see this big, thick life was saved because of that. alone. It was the work of incredible binder right here. It is these staff mem- I think if I did anything in Con- leadership at the staff level. bers that put this together, do the hard gress—and I want to thank Mr. HOYER I could go on and name every staff work, and bring us together. And I for his help with that. We have another person. I have 28—29 staffers, and they can’t thank them enough. asthma bill that is getting hot lined in all have performed magnificently to And my colleagues: I have met and the Senate, to show you can do bipar- produce, I think, this incredible holi- made some amazing friends that will tisan work across the aisle. day gift to America’s veterans and to last a lifetime here. That is just a few of the things that America. I remember, and I will pass this we were able to succeed and do. These So PHIL ROE, thank you for, together, along, an old coach told me this once. are, again, not done by any one person. this gift that our teams have created We were at a Boy Scout camp and I was They are done as a team. And I want to for our country. Thank you for the gift a counselor there. One of the scouts thank everyone who helped make my you have been to our country. ran up and said: ‘‘Coach, Coach, we time here in Congress successful. And my final word to you is, on your have a problem down at shower house I can tell you, it is one of the great next chapter, Godspeed. number 2.’’ privileges of my life to serve in the Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance And he said: ‘‘What is it?’’ House of Representatives, in the great- of my time. The scout said: ‘‘Well, the toilet is est deliberative body in the world, the The SPEAKER pro tempore. The stopped up.’’ United States Congress. It is an honor question is on the motion offered by And the coach, I will never forget I will never forget, Mr. Speaker. the gentleman from California (Mr. this, he said: ‘‘We don’t have problems I will finish by saying that I encour- TAKANO) that the House suspend the here. We have opportunities.’’ age my colleagues to support this bill rules and pass the bill, S. 2216. So, basically, we have had a lot of op- and, graciously, I yield back the bal- The question was taken. portunities, I have, since I have been ance of my time. The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the here. Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being I have been able to serve on some myself such time as I may consume. in the affirmative, the ayes have it. committees, the Veterans’ Affairs I would just like to take a few mo- Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, on that I Committee, which I have been a mem- ments to say even more words of praise demand the yeas and nays. ber since day one; the Education and for my colleague, Dr. PHIL ROE, my The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Labor Committee, which I had the ranking member. We have served on ant to section 3 of House Resolution privilege of serving as the chairman of two committees coterminously: the 965, the yeas and nays are ordered. the Subcommittee on Health, Employ- Veterans’ Affairs Committee, which Pursuant to clause 8 of rule XX, fur- ment, Labor, and Pensions. I served a you chaired and which I now chair and ther proceedings on this motion will be term on the Agriculture Committee. I which we have been both ranking mem- postponed. served on the Joint Select Committee bers; and the Education and Labor f on Solvency of Multiemployer Pension Committee. It is sort of a fate of coincidence, but CRISIS STABILIZATION AND Plans. I have co-chaired the GOP Doc- COMMUNITY REENTRY ACT OF 2020 tors Caucus for the past several terms. it has been an absolute pleasure to be your colleague, sir. I wish you well in Ms. BASS. Mr. Speaker, I move to b 1530 this next chapter of your life. suspend the rules and pass the bill (S. Mr. Speaker, I mean this sincerely. I especially want to take note of the 3312) to establish a crisis stabilization No one person does any of these things. example you set by organizing the con- and community reentry grant program, It does take a team effort. And that gressional delegation trip to Afghani- and for other purposes. team effort, you heard it today, you stan. I believe it was either my first The Clerk read the title of the bill. heard both sides of the aisle contribute term or my second term in Congress. The text of the bill is as follows: to this piece of legislation that we just What an honor that was to travel with S. 3312 passed by voice vote. you and a bipartisan delegation to Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- We were able to pass in a bipartisan serve turkey dinner during Thanks- resentatives of the United States of America in way the MISSION Act, which will fun- giving. I never forgot that lesson. Congress assembled, damentally change—it is a very com- I vowed that if I ever became chair- SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. plex act that will fundamentally man of the committee, that we would This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Crisis Sta- change how veterans get their care and do the same thing, we would continue bilization and Community Reentry Act of improve the quality of care for our vet- that tradition of serving our troops 2020’’. erans. who cannot be with their families dur- SEC. 2. MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS STABILIZATION. The Forever GI Bill—Mr. Speaker, ing the holiday season. (a) PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION when I got out of the Army in 1975, I That spirit of service carried into the GRANTS.—Title I of the Omnibus Crime Con- trol and Safe Streets Act of 1968 (34 U.S.C. was able to use the GI Bill, and I know work that you have done and I have 10101 et seq.) is amended by inserting after it paid me $300 a month for 2 years. It done together, with all the Members. part NN the following: sunsetted at 10 years. This Congress We say it is a team effort. It is a spe- ‘‘PART OO—CRISIS STABILIZATION AND fully paid for that. cial part of the Congress that we have COMMUNITY REENTRY PROGRAM. These young people now, these men staff that interact with each other, not ‘‘SEC. 3051. GRANT AUTHORIZATION. and women who have served this coun- primarily in an antagonistic mode. ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—The Attorney General try, can use that benefit the rest of There are differences, but we work may make grants under this part to States, their lives and that benefit can be them out and we work them out bi- for use by State and local correctional facili- transferred. It is an incredible help to camerally. ties, for the purpose of providing clinical

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00053 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K16DE7.033 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7214 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 services for people with serious mental ill- needs of justice-involved individuals who are and Human Services’ Substance Abuse and ness and substance use disorders that estab- living with serious mental illness. Mental Health Services Administration. lish treatment, suicide prevention, and con- ‘‘(c) CONSULTATION.—The Attorney General ‘‘SEC. 3053. REVIEW OF STATE APPLICATIONS. tinuity of recovery in the community upon shall consult with the Secretary of Health ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—The Attorney General release from the correctional facility. and Human Services to ensure that serious shall make a grant under section 3051 to ‘‘(b) USE OF FUNDS.—A grant awarded mental illness treatment and recovery sup- carry out the projects described in the appli- under this part shall be used to support— port services provided under this grant pro- cation submitted under section 3052 upon de- ‘‘(1) programs involving criminal and juve- gram incorporate evidence-based approaches termining that— nile justice agencies, mental health agen- that facilitate long-term engagement in re- ‘‘(1) the application is consistent with the cies, community-based organizations that covery services and supports. requirements of this part; and focus on reentry, and community-based be- ‘‘(d) BEHAVIORAL HEALTH PROVIDER DE- ‘‘(2) before the approval of the application, havioral health providers that improve clin- FINED.—In this section, the term ‘behavioral the Attorney General has made an affirma- ical stabilization during pre-trial detention health provider’ means— tive finding in writing that the proposed and incarceration and continuity of care ‘‘(1) a community mental health center project has been reviewed in accordance with leading to recovery in the community by that meets the criteria under section 1913(c) this part. providing services and supports that may in- of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. ‘‘(b) APPROVAL.—Each application sub- clude peer support services, enrollment in 300x–2(c)); or mitted under section 3052 shall be considered healthcare, and introduction to long-acting ‘‘(2) a certified community behavioral approved, in whole or in part, by the Attor- injectable medications or, as clinically indi- health clinic described in section 223(d) of ney General not later than 90 days after first cated, other medications, by— the Protecting Access to Medicare Act of received, unless the Attorney General in- ‘‘(A) providing training and education for 2014 (42 U.S.C. 1396a note). forms the applicant of specific reasons for criminal and juvenile justice agencies, men- disapproval. tal health agencies, and community-based ‘‘SEC. 3052. STATE APPLICATIONS. ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—To request a grant ‘‘(c) RESTRICTION.—Grant funds received behavioral health providers on interventions under this part shall not be used for land ac- that support— under this part, the chief executive of a State, or such agency as the chief executive quisition or construction projects. ‘‘(i) engagement in recovery supports and ‘‘(d) DISAPPROVAL NOTICE AND RECONSIDER- services; may designate, shall submit an application to the Attorney General— ATION.—The Attorney General may not dis- ‘‘(ii) access to medication while in an in- approve any application without first afford- carcerated setting; and ‘‘(1) in such form and containing such in- formation as the Attorney General may rea- ing the applicant reasonable notice and an ‘‘(iii) continuity of care during reentry opportunity for reconsideration. into the community; sonably require; ‘‘SEC. 3054. EVALUATION. ‘‘(B) ensuring that offenders with serious ‘‘(2) that includes assurances that Federal ‘‘Each State that receives a grant under mental illness are provided appropriate ac- funds received under this part shall be used this part shall submit to the Attorney Gen- cess to evidence-based recovery supports to supplement, not supplant, non-Federal eral an evaluation not later than 1 year after that may include peer support services, funds that would otherwise be available for receipt of the grant in such form and con- medication (including long-acting injectable activities funded under this part; and taining such information as the Attorney medications where clinically appropriate), ‘‘(3) that describes the coordination be- General, in consultation with the Secretary and psycho-social therapies; tween State criminal and juvenile justice ‘‘(C) offering technical assistance to crimi- agencies, mental health agencies and com- of Health and Human Services, may reason- nal justice agencies on how to modify their munity-based behavioral health providers, ably require. administrative and clinical processes to ac- preliminary qualified offenders, and family ‘‘SEC. 3055. AUTHORIZATION OF FUNDING. commodate evidence-based interventions, and community members in— ‘‘For purposes of carrying out this part, such as long-acting injectable medications ‘‘(A) program design; the Attorney General is authorized to award and other recovery supports; and ‘‘(B) program implementation; and not more than $10,000,000 of funds appro- ‘‘(D) participating in data collection ac- ‘‘(C) training on crisis response, medica- priated to the Department of Justice for tivities specified by the Attorney General, in tion adherence, and continuity of recovery in State and local law enforcement activities consultation with the Secretary of Health the community. for each of fiscal years 2020 through 2025.’’. and Human Services; ‘‘(b) ELIGIBILITY FOR PREFERENCE WITH (b) NATIONAL CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND MEN- ‘‘(2) programs that support cooperative ef- COMMUNITY CARE COMPONENT.— TAL HEALTH TRAINING AND TECHNICAL ASSIST- forts between criminal and juvenile justice ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—In awarding grants under ANCE.—Section 2992(c)(3) of title I of the Om- agencies, mental health agencies, and com- this part, the Attorney General shall give nibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of munity-based behavioral health providers to preference to a State that ensures that indi- 1968 (34 U.S.C. 10652(c)(3)) is amended by in- establish or enhance serious mental illness viduals who participate in a program, funded serting before the semicolon at the end the recovery support by— by a grant under this part will be provided following: ‘‘, which may include interven- ‘‘(A) strengthening or establishing crisis with continuity of care, in accordance with tions designed to enhance access to medica- response services delivered by hotlines, mo- paragraph (2), in a community care provider tion.’’. bile crisis teams, crisis stabilization and program upon release from a correctional fa- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- triage centers, peer support specialists, pub- cility. ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from lic safety officers, community-based behav- ‘‘(2) REQUIREMENTS.—For purposes of para- California (Ms. BASS) and the gen- ioral health providers, and other stake- graph (1), the continuity of care shall involve tleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. holders, including by providing technical the coordination of the correctional facility RESCHENTHALER) each will control 20 support for interventions that promote long- treatment program with qualified commu- minutes. term recovery; nity behavioral health providers and other The Chair recognizes the gentle- ‘‘(B) engaging criminal and juvenile justice recovery supports, pre-trial release pro- agencies, mental health agencies and com- grams, parole supervision programs, half- woman from California. munity-based behavioral health providers, way house programs, and participation in GENERAL LEAVE preliminary qualified offenders, and family peer recovery group programs, which may Ms. BASS. Mr. Speaker, I ask unani- and community members in program design, aid in ongoing recovery after the individual mous consent that all Members have 5 program implementation, and training on is released from the correctional facility. legislative days to revise and extend crisis response services, including connec- ‘‘(3) COMMUNITY CARE PROVIDER PROGRAM their remarks and include extraneous tion to recovery services and supports; DEFINED.—For purposes of this subsection, material on the bill under consider- ‘‘(C) examining health care reimbursement the term ‘community care provider program’ issues that may pose a barrier to ensuring means a community mental health center or ation. the long-term financial sustainability of cri- certified community behavioral health clinic The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there sis response services and interventions that that directly provides to an individual, or as- objection to the request of the gentle- promote long-term engagement with recov- sists in connecting an individual to the pro- woman from California? ery services and supports; and vision of, appropriate community-based There was no objection. ‘‘(D) participating in data collection ac- treatment, medication management, and Ms. BASS. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- tivities specified by the Attorney General, in other recovery supports, when the individual self such time as I may consume. consultation with the Secretary of Health leaves a correctional facility at the end of a Mr. Speaker, I am proud to support and Human Services; and sentence or on parole. S. 3312, the Crisis Stabilization and ‘‘(3) programs that provide training and ad- ‘‘(c) COORDINATION OF FEDERAL ASSIST- Community Reentry Act of 2020. ditional resources to criminal and juvenile ANCE.—Each application submitted for a Today, with this bill, the House takes justice agencies, mental health agencies, and grant under this part shall include a descrip- community-based behavioral health pro- tion of how the funds made available under additional affirmative steps to promote viders on serious mental illness, suicide pre- this part will be coordinated with Federal as- the successful reentry into their com- vention strategies, recovery engagement sistance for behavioral health services cur- munities of individuals leaving correc- strategies, and the special health and social rently provided by the Department of Health tional facilities.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00054 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.010 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7215 The bill provides funding to State, successful reentry and, in turn, sup- Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support local, and community organizations to porting public safety. Like those bills, of the Crisis Stabilization and Commu- provide incarcerated and recently re- S. 3312, the Crisis Stabilization and nity Reentry Act of 2020. leased individuals with mental health Community Reentry Act, is a nec- I can tell you, Mr. Speaker, as a and substance abuse treatment. Pro- essary tool to ensure that proper serv- former sheriff with over 40 years of ex- viding continuity of care in relation to ices reach people involved in the crimi- perience in law enforcement, I under- mental health and substance abuse nal justice system. stand the issues people face as they treatment when individuals are re- Finally, I thank our colleague, Rep- leave and transition from incarceration leased from correctional facilities is a resentative , for cham- to a free society. Throughout my time critical bridge back into their commu- pioning the companion bill in the in law enforcement, I saw many indi- nities; but continuity of care of this House. viduals—too many individuals—re-of- sort is seldom available to returning Mr. Speaker, I urge all my colleagues fend time and time again, often with citizens. This bill addresses that gap. to support this bill, and I reserve the the same offenses involving substance At a series of hearings this Congress, balance of my time. abuse and mental health issues. the Judiciary Committee has explored Mr. RESCHENTHALER. Mr. Speak- Part of the problem back then was, the many challenges that recently re- er, I yield myself such time as I may when a prisoner was released from leased individuals face. These return- consume. State prison, literally all we gave them ing citizens confront a myriad of bar- Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support was a blue bag for their valuables and riers that hamper reentry. Unfortu- of S. 3312, the Crisis Stabilization and a bus ticket home. And we wondered nately, many struggle with mental Community Reentry Act of 2020. I was why they failed and returned to a life health and substance abuse. Navigating proud to introduce this House com- of crime—not much for rehabilitation. reentry, which is already daunting, can panion bill, this bipartisan piece of leg- be made even more difficult due to islation, with Representatives RUTHER- So, when I became the sheriff of these additional challenges. FORD, TRONE, ARMSTRONG, DEAN, and Jacksonville, I partnered with the Because the need is great, the reach SCANLON. Florida Secretary of Corrections and of this bill is broad. The grants award- The Crisis Stabilization and Commu- community groups to implement pro- ed by S. 3312 improve mental health nity Reentry Act authorizes grants for grams that provided continued treat- and substance abuse treatment during State and local correctional facilities ment and services to individuals during pretrial detention, throughout incar- to partner with community mental and after they left prison because those ceration, and upon return to the com- health and behavioral health providers exiting prison systems face numerous munity. Eligible grantees include juve- to provide clinical services for people challenges as they go back to their nile justice agencies, mental health with serious mental illness and sub- communities, often with little or no agencies, and community-based behav- stance abuse disorders. support from friends or family. ioral health providers. When I served as a district judge in As my colleague just mentioned, the The bill’s keen focus on the provision southwestern Pennsylvania, many of Bureau of Justice Statistics calculates of care by local, community-based pro- those who came before my bench were that one in seven individuals in State viders is deliberate, as this is con- suffering from untreated and and Federal prisons, and one in four in- sistent with long-term reentry success. undiagnosed mental illness. In fact, ac- dividuals in jails, experience serious This is why I am particularly sup- cording to a 2012 Bureau of Justice Sta- psychological distress. Their battles portive of this provision of the bill that tistics survey, approximately 1 in 7 with psychological distress and sub- implements a preference for grantees State and Federal prisoners, and 1 in 4 stance abuse do not stop when they that provide community-based care jail inmates met the threshold for seri- exit prison. In fact, they are exacer- and promote policies that reduce the ous psychological distress in the 30 bated upon their release. Indeed, dur- number of technical probation viola- days prior. ing this transition phase, that support tions. S. 3312 ensures that we provide these is often needed the most. Also notable in S. 3312 is the broad individuals with treatment, suicide Today’s bipartisan legislation would panoply of mental health services that prevention, and tools for long-term re- streamline mental health and medical it incorporates. These include peer sup- covery upon release from a correc- services for these individuals, pre- port, enrollment in long-term tional facility. By ensuring continuity venting a lapse of care between prison healthcare programs, and introduction of mental healthcare, we can facilitate and society, and, instead, creating a to clinically proven medications. This successful reentry, which is critical to continuum of care for those at greater bill recognizes that no single reentry reducing recidivism; in turn, improving risk of relapse. solution will work for every returning public safety and saving taxpayer dol- The Crisis Stabilization and Commu- individual. lars. nity Reentry Act establishes a warm The programs authorized in S. 3312 I want to, again, thank my fellow handoff of care between law enforce- would further promote much-needed sponsors in the House, as well as Sen- ment, community-based groups, and cooperative efforts among criminal and ators CORNYN and BLUMENTHAL, for mental health specialists. The partner- juvenile justice agencies, mental prioritizing this important issue. ship between law enforcement and health agencies, and community-based I am proud to support this bipartisan, community groups is critical as they behavioral health providers. bicameral bill that will give law en- both share a common goal to lower re- The programs receiving funding forcement the tools that they need to cidivism and ensure people can thrive under this bill would engage relevant keep our communities safe, while also and succeed when they return back to stakeholders in the formulation of pro- ending the revolving door between pris- their communities. gram design, implementation, training on and the streets. By offering grants through the De- on services, and examination of Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to partment of Justice, States and com- healthcare reimbursement issues that support S. 3312, and I reserve the bal- munities would be able to provide may pose a barrier to ensuring long- ance of my time. term financial sustainability of these medication-assisted treatment, coun- programs. b 1545 seling, and other transition services The holistic approach to reentry that Ms. BASS. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the that are prioritized for those who need this bill adopts has consistently been balance of my time. it most. shown to promote successful reentry Mr. RESCHENTHALER. Mr. Speak- This bipartisan legislation is sup- and offer better long-term solutions. er, I yield such time as he may con- ported by the National Sheriffs’ Asso- In recent years, Congress passed the sume to the gentleman from Florida ciation, the Major Cities Chiefs Asso- hallmark Second Chance Act and a (Mr. RUTHERFORD). ciation, the National Council for Be- number of other bills, including H.R. Mr. RUTHERFORD. Mr. Speaker, I havioral Health, and the National Alli- 8161, the One Stop Community Reentry thank my colleague and good friend ance on Mental Illness, and the Treat- Program Act, focused on promoting from Pennsylvania for yielding. ment Advocacy Center.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:48 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00055 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K16DE7.036 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7216 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 I am proud to support this initiative Crisis Stabilization and Community Reentry (4) in section 3052(a) of title I of the Omni- as a member of the congressional bi- Act grants would support community-level cri- bus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of partisan Opioid Task Force, as a mem- sis response programs, including collabo- 1968, as added by section 2 of the Act, in the ber of the Mental Health Caucus, and ratively designed crisis response services and matter preceding paragraph (1), strike ‘‘, or such agency as the chief executive may des- also as a proud member of the Law En- technical support programs that promote medi- ignate,’’ and insert ‘‘, Indian Tribe, unit of forcement Caucus, because as a sheriff, cation adherence and continuity of care. local government, or community-based non- I have seen firsthand and know the suc- This grant funding will also support targeted profit organization’’; cess a bill like this can accomplish. training programs related to medication adher- (5) in section 3052(a)(3) of title I of the Om- This bill is going to save lives, it is ence and continuity of care; including the pur- nibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of going to save money, and it is going to chase and use of long-acting antipsychotic 1968, as added by section 2 of the Act, in the reduce crime. With a renewed focus on medications to support adherence. matter preceding subparagraph (A), after those people in greatest need, we can Importantly, the infusion of funding will ‘‘State’’ insert ‘‘, Tribal, or local’’; (6) in section 3052(b)(1) of title I of the Om- work together to ensure that pattern strengthen local agency and provider capacity to reduce suicides during incarceration. nibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of of recidivism can become a problem in 1968, as added by section 2 of the Act— the past rather than one that will be Finally, the legislation establishes a national (A) after ‘‘State’’ insert ‘‘, Indian Tribe, shouldered by future generations to technical assistance center to support justice unit of local government, or community- come. and mental health agencies, community be- based nonprofit organization’’; and Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues on havioral health providers, CCBHCs, and other (B) after ‘‘facility’’ insert ‘‘and adopt poli- both sides of the aisle to support this stakeholders in developing training and treat- cies that focus on programming, strategies, bill, which, again, Mr. Speaker, is ment approaches for justice-involved persons and educational components for reducing re- going to save lives, save dollars, and with mental illness, as well as payment strate- cidivism and probation violations’’; gies that promote best-practices with respect (7) in the section heading for section 3053 of reduce recidivism. title I of the Omnibus Crime Control and Ms. BASS. Mr. Speaker, I continue to to care for this vulnerable group of persons. Safe Streets Act of 1968, as added by section This legislation is strongly supported by and reserve the balance of my time. 2 of the Act, strike ‘‘STATE’’; and Mr. RESCHENTHALER. Mr. Speak- has earned the endorsement of The National (8) in section 3054 of title I of the Omnibus er, in closing, once again, I would like Council, which is another reason why I strong- Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968, to urge my colleagues to support S. ly support this bipartisan, common-sense as added by section 2 of the Act, after 3312, and I yield back the balance of my criminal justice reform and urge all Members ‘‘State’’ insert ‘‘, Indian Tribe, unit of local time. to join me in voting to pass S. 3312, the Crisis government, or community-based nonprofit organization’’. Ms. BASS. Mr. Speaker, the Crisis Stabilization and Community Reentry Act. Stabilization and Community Reentry The SPEAKER pro tempore. The AMENDMENT IN THE NATURE OF A SUBSTITUTE Act of 2020 represents a significant step question is on the motion offered by OFFERED BY MS. BASS toward ensuring that incarcerated peo- the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Ms. BASS. Mr. Speaker, I have an ple receive appropriate mental health BASS) that the House suspend the rules amendment at the desk. and substance abuse care while in a and pass the bill, S. 3312. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The correctional facility and that those The question was taken; and (two- Clerk will report the amendment. services are available upon their re- thirds being in the affirmative) the The Clerk read as follows: entry into the community. rules were suspended and the bill was Strike all that follows after the resolving I am encouraged by the bipartisan passed. clause and insert the following: A motion to reconsider was laid on and bicameral support for this bill. I, That in the enrollment of S. 3312, an Act to the table. establish a crisis stabilization and commu- again, thank Representative TRONE, as f nity reentry grant program, and for other well as Senators CORNYN and purposes, the Secretary of the Senate shall— BLUMENTHAL and my colleague from TO CORRECT THE ENROLLMENT (1) in section 3051(a) of title I of the Omni- the Judiciary Committee, Representa- OF S. 3312 bus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of tive RESCHENTHALER. Ms. BASS. Mr. Speaker, I ask unani- 1968, as added by section 2 of the Act, strike Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to ‘‘, for use by State and local correctional fa- mous consent to take from the Speak- cilities,’’ and insert ‘‘, Indian Tribes, units of join me in supporting this bill today, er’s table the concurrent resolution (S. and I yield back the balance of my local government, and community-based Con. Res. 52) to correct the enrollment nonprofit organizations’’; time. of S. 3312, and ask for its immediate (2) in section 3051(b)(1)(B) of title I of the Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, as a sen- consideration in the House. Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act ior member of the Judiciary, Committee, I rise The Clerk read the title of the con- of 1968, as added by section 2 of the Act, in strong support of S. 3312, the ‘‘Crisis Sta- current resolution. strike ‘‘offenders’’ and insert ‘‘individuals’’; bilization and Community Reentry Act,’’ bipar- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there (3) in the section heading for section 3052 of tisan legislation that ensures people experi- objection to the request of the gentle- title I of the Omnibus Crime Control and encing a mental health crisis receive appro- woman from California? Safe Streets Act of 1968, as added by section priate care while in a correctional facility. 2 of the Act, strike ‘‘STATE’’; There was no objection. (4) in section 3052(a) of title I of the Omni- Specifically, the Crisis Stabilization and The text of the concurrent resolution bus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of Community Reentry Act would authorize $10 is as follows: 1968, as added by section 2 of the Act, in the million in grants to communities to create col- S. CON. RES. 52 matter preceding paragraph (1), strike ‘‘, or laborative programs involving justice agencies Resolved by the Senate (the House of Rep- such agency as the chief executive may des- and community-based behavioral health pro- resentatives concurring), That in the enroll- ignate,’’ and insert ‘‘, Indian Tribe, unit of viders, including Certified Community Behav- ment of S. 3312, an Act to establish a crisis local government, or community-based non- ioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs). stabilization and community reentry grant profit organization’’; Mr. Speaker, this legislation addresses the program, and for other purposes, the Sec- (5) in section 3052(a)(3) of title I of the Om- challenges faced by many person during their retary of the Senate shall— nibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of (1) in section 3051(a) of title I of the Omni- 1968, as added by section 2 of the Act, in the period of incarceration and as they seek to re- bus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of matter preceding subparagraph (A), after enter the community. 1968, as added by section 2 of the Act, strike ‘‘State’’ insert ‘‘, Tribal, or local’’; This includes access to proper medication ‘‘, for use by State and local correctional fa- (6) in section 3052(b)(1) of title I of the Om- and additional training for law enforcement of- cilities,’’ and insert ‘‘, Indian Tribes, units of nibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of ficers so they can address the needs of our local government, and community-based 1968, as added by section 2 of the Act— most vulnerable individuals. nonprofit organizations’’; (A) after ‘‘State’’ insert ‘‘, Indian Tribe, The bill also calls for a warm handoff be- (2) in section 3051(b)(1)(B) of title I of the unit of local government, or community- tween law enforcement and community mental Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act based nonprofit organization’’; and of 1968, as added by section 2 of the Act, (B) after ‘‘facility’’ insert ‘‘and adopt poli- health clinics upon re-entry into the community strike ‘‘offenders’’ and insert ‘‘individuals’’; cies that focus on programming, strategies, to ensure the best possible start. (3) in the section heading for section 3052 of and educational components for reducing re- It would also create a national technical as- title I of the Omnibus Crime Control and cidivism and probation violations’’; sistance center to serve communities around Safe Streets Act of 1968, as added by section (7) in the section heading for section 3053 of the country. 2 of the Act, strike ‘‘STATE’’; title I of the Omnibus Crime Control and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:48 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00056 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K16DE7.037 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7217 Safe Streets Act of 1968, as added by section ‘‘(C) Medical examiners offices. ‘‘SEC. 102. AUTHORIZATION OF FUNDING. 2 of the Act, strike ‘‘STATE’’; ‘‘(D) Accredited, publicly funded toxi- ‘‘To the extent provided in advance in ap- (8) in section 3054 of title I of the Omnibus cology laboratories. propriations Acts, the Attorney General is Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968, ‘‘(E) Accredited, publicly funded crime lab- authorized to use funds appropriated for the as added by section 2 of the Act, after oratories. operationalization, maintenance, and expan- ‘‘State’’ insert ‘‘, Indian Tribe, unit of local ‘‘(F) Publicly funded university forensic sion of the National Missing and Unidenti- government, or community-based nonprofit anthropology laboratories. fied Persons System (NamUs) for the purpose organization’’; and ‘‘(G) Nonprofit organizations that have of carrying out this Act’’. (9) amend section 3055 of title I of the Om- working collaborative agreements with SEC. 3. RESCUE BEACONS. nibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of State and county forensic offices, including 1968, as added by section 2 of the Act, to read medical examiners, coroners, and justices of Section 411(o) of the Homeland Security as follows: the peace, for entry of data into CODIS or Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 211(o)) is amended by adding at the end the following: ‘‘SEC. 3055. AUTHORIZATION OF FUNDING. the National Missing and Unidentified Per- sons System (commonly known as ‘NamUs’), ‘‘(3) RESCUE BEACONS.—Beginning in fiscal ‘‘ year 2019, in carrying out subsection (c)(8), Subject to the availability of appropria- or both.’’; the Commissioner shall purchase, deploy, tions, for purposes of carrying out this part, (2) in section 203 (34 U.S.C. 40502)— and maintain not more than 170 self- the Attorney General is authorized to award (A) in subsection (a), by striking ‘‘a State’’ powering, 9–1–1 cellular relay rescue beacons not more than $10,000,000 of funds appro- and inserting ‘‘an entity described in section along the southern border of the United priated to the Department of Justice for 202’’; States at locations determined appropriate these purposes for each of fiscal years 2021 (B) in subsection (b)— by the Commissioner to mitigate migrant through 2025.’’. (i) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), deaths.’’. Ms. BASS (during the reading). Mr. by striking ‘‘State’’ and inserting ‘‘appli- cant’’; SEC. 4. REPORTING ON NATIONAL MISSING AND Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to (ii) by striking paragraph (1) and inserting UNIDENTIFIED PERSONS SYSTEM dispense with the reading of the the following: (NAMUS) PROGRAM. amendment. ‘‘(1) report to the National Crime Informa- Not later than 18 months after the date of The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there tion Center and, when possible, to law en- enactment of this act, and every year there- objection to the request of the gentle- forcement authorities throughout the appli- after, the Attorney General shall submit a woman from California? cant’s jurisdiction regarding every deceased report to the appropriate committees of Con- There was no objection. unidentified person, regardless of age, found gress regarding— in the applicant’s jurisdiction;’’; (1) the number of unidentified person cases The amendment was agreed to. processed; The concurrent resolution was con- (iii) in paragraph (3), by striking ‘‘and’’ at the end; (2) CODIS associations and identifications; curred in. (iv) in paragraph (4), by striking the period (3) the number of anthropology cases proc- A motion to reconsider was laid on at the end and inserting ‘‘; and’’; and essed; the table. (v) by adding at the end the following: (4) the number of suspected border crossing f ‘‘(5) collect and report information to the cases and associations made; National Missing and Unidentified Persons (5) the number of trials supported with ex- MISSING PERSONS AND UNIDENTI- System (NamUs) regarding missing persons pert testimony; FIED REMAINS ACT OF 2019 and unidentified remains.’’; and (6) the number of students trained and pro- Ms. SCANLON. Mr. Speaker, I move (C) by adding at the end the following: fessions of those students; and (7) the turnaround time and backlog. to suspend the rules and pass the bill ‘‘(c) PRIVACY PROTECTIONS FOR BIOLOGICAL (S. 2174) to expand the grants author- FAMILY REFERENCE SAMPLES.— SEC. 5. OTHER REPORTING REQUIREMENTS. ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Any suspected biological (a) UNIDENTIFIED REMAINS.— ized under Jennifer’s Law and Kristen’s family DNA reference samples received from Act to include processing of unidenti- (1) REPORTING REQUIREMENT.—Not later citizens of the United States or foreign na- than 1 year after the date of enactment of fied remains, resolving missing persons tionals and uploaded into the Combined DNA this Act, and annually thereafter, the Com- cases, and for other purposes, as Index System (commonly referred to as missioner of U.S. Customs and Border Pro- amended. ‘CODIS’) by an accredited, publicly funded tection shall submit a report to the appro- The Clerk read the title of the bill. CODIS forensic laboratory awarded a grant priate committees of Congress regarding all The text of the bill is as follows: under this section may be used only for iden- unidentified remains discovered, during the tifying missing persons and unidentified re- S. 2174 reporting period, on or near the border be- mains. tween the United States and Mexico, includ- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- ‘‘(2) LIMITATION ON USE.—Any biological ing— resentatives of the United States of America in family DNA reference samples from citizens (A) for each deceased person— Congress assembled, of the United States or foreign nationals en- (i) the cause and manner of death, if SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. tered into CODIS for purposes of identifying known; This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Missing Per- missing persons and unidentified remains (ii) the sex, age (at time of death), and sons and Unidentified Remains Act of 2019’’. may not be disclosed to a Federal or State country of origin (if such information is de- SEC. 2. USE OF GRANT FUNDS. law enforcement agency for law enforcement terminable); and (a) JENNIFER’S LAW.—Jennifer’s Law (34 purposes.’’; and (iii) the location of each unidentified re- U.S.C. 40501 et seq.) is amended— (3) by striking section 204 (34 U.S.C. 40503) main; (1) by striking section 202 (34 U.S.C. 40501) and inserting the following: (B) the total number of deceased people and inserting the following: ‘‘SEC. 205. USE OF FUNDS. whose unidentified remains were discovered ‘‘SEC. 202. PROGRAM AUTHORIZED. ‘‘An applicant receiving a grant award by U.S. Customs and Border Protection dur- ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.— under this title may use such funds to— ing the reporting period; ‘‘(1) GRANTS AUTHORIZED.—The Attorney ‘‘(1) pay for the costs incurred during or (C) to the extent such information is avail- General may award grants to eligible enti- after fiscal year 2017 for the transportation, able to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, ties described in paragraph (2) to enable the processing, identification, and reporting of the total number of deceased people whose eligible entities to improve the transpor- missing persons and unidentified remains, unidentified remains were discovered by Fed- tation, processing, identification, and re- including migrants; eral, State, local or Tribal law enforcement porting of missing persons and unidentified ‘‘(2) establish and expand programs devel- officers, military personnel, or medical ex- remains, including migrants. oped to improve the reporting of unidentified aminers offices; ‘‘(2) ELIGIBLE ENTITIES.—Eligible entities persons in accordance with the assurances (D) the efforts of U.S. Customs and Border described in this paragraph are the fol- provided in the application submitted pursu- Protection to engage with nongovernmental lowing: ant to section 203(b); organizations, institutions of higher edu- ‘‘(A) States and units of local government. ‘‘(3) hire and maintain additional DNA case cation, medical examiners and coroners, and ‘‘(B) Accredited, publicly funded, Combined analysts and technicians, fingerprint exam- law enforcement agencies— DNA Index System (commonly known as iners, forensic odontologists, and forensic (i) to identify and map the locations at ‘CODIS’) forensic laboratories, which dem- anthropologists, needed to support such which migrant deaths occur; and onstrate the grant funds will be used for identification programs; and (ii) to count the number of deaths that DNA typing and uploading biological family ‘‘(4) procure and maintain state of the art occur at such locations; and DNA reference samples, including samples multi-modal, multi-purpose forensic and (E) a detailed description of U.S. Customs from foreign nationals, into CODIS, subject DNA-typing and analytical equipment.’’. and Border Protection’s Missing Migrant to the protocols for inclusion of such foren- (b) KRISTEN’S ACT.—Section 102 of Program, including how the program helps sic DNA profiles into CODIS, and the privacy Kristen’s Act (34 U.S.C. 40504 note) is amend- mitigate migrant deaths while maintaining protections required under section 203(c). ed to read as follows: border security.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:48 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00057 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.008 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7218 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 (2) PUBLIC DISCLOSURE.—Not later than 30 neous material on the bill under con- the need for the legislation and bol- days after each report required under para- sideration. sters the bipartisan nature of the bill. graph (1) is submitted, the Commissioner of The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there I want to thank Representative U.S. Customs and Border Protection shall objection to the request of the gentle- VICENTE GONZALEZ for his leadership on publish on the website of the agency the in- formation described in subparagraphs (A), woman from Pennsylvania? this issue and his tireless work on be- (B), and (C) of paragraph (1) during each re- There was no objection. half of his House companion to this porting period. Ms. SCANLON. Mr. Speaker, I yield bill. (b) RESCUE BEACONS.—Not later than 1 year myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to after the date of enactment of this Act, and Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support support this bill, and I reserve the bal- annually thereafter, the Commissioner of of S. 2174, the Missing Persons and Un- ance of my time. U.S. Customs and Border Protection shall identified Remains Act, a bipartisan Mr. RESCHENTHALER. Mr. Speak- submit a report to the appropriate commit- measure aimed at assisting State and tees of Congress regarding the use of rescue er, I yield myself such time as I may beacons along the border between the United local governments to locate missing consume. States and Mexico, including, for the report- people and identify human remains. Mr. Speaker, while I support this leg- ing period— This bill not only authorizes grant islation, I strongly believe in ensuring (1) the number of rescue beacons in each funding to States and localities for justice for all victims and their fami- border patrol sector; such purposes, but it also improves the lies. I want to be absolutely clear that (2) the specific location of each rescue bea- Federal Government’s data collection the continued crisis at our border re- con; procedures and expands Customs and (3) the frequency with which each rescue quires more from Congress. beacon was activated by a person in distress; Border Protection’s response to the S. 2174 provides resources to law en- (4) a description of the nature of the dis- tragic rise in migrant deaths along our forcement and related entities tasked tress that resulted in each rescue beacon ac- southern border. with processing the remains of those tivation (if such information is deter- These changes bring much-needed fi- who tragically died while making the minable); and nancial relief to local jurisdictions na- dangerous journey to enter this coun- (5) an assessment, in consultation with tionwide and provide a modicum of dig- try illegally. local stakeholders, including elected offi- nity and consolation to the families of But Congress should be doing more to cials, nongovernmental organizations, and those who have perished. secure our borders and to prevent these landowners, of necessary additional rescue Sadly, there is a pressing need for beacons and recommendations for locations tragic deaths in the first place. I am for deployment to reduce migrant deaths. this legislation. The process by which concerned about the burdens this bill (c) GAO REPORT.—Not later than 6 months States and localities and law enforce- places on our already strained U.S. after the report required under subsection (a) ment agencies must tackle these issues Customs and Border Protection. is submitted to the appropriate committees exacts a financial and emotional toll. Under this bill, CBP is charged with of Congress, the Comptroller General of the When remains are found, their identi- documenting information about indi- United States shall submit a report to the fication by State and local law enforce- viduals who died at the border, report- same committees that describes— ment and medical examiners, often (1) how U.S. Customs and Border Protec- ing on the causes of their deaths, and tion collects and records border-crossing supported by crime and forensic labora- mapping their final locations. I truly death data; tories, provides decedents and their fear that these reports may be used by (2) the differences (if any) in U.S. Customs survivors with dignity and respect. open-border advocates to malign the and Border Protection border-crossing death But bringing closure to these fami- men and women of the U.S. Border Pa- data collection methodology across its sec- lies is costly. State and local entities trol when those advocates inevitably tors; must transport, preserve the remains, decide to play politics and start to (3) how U.S. Customs and Border Protec- perform autopsies, attempt DNA test- argue that CBP is not doing enough to tion’s data and statistical analysis on trends ing, and conduct forensic examina- in the numbers, locations, causes, and char- mitigate migrant deaths. acteristics of border-crossing deaths com- tions. These tasks can be particularly In reality, to prevent future deaths pare to other sources of data on these deaths, burdensome on small jurisdictions that at the border, we need to make it abso- including border county medical examiners often have to rely on State support to lutely clear that no one should embark and coroners and the Centers for Disease carry out these complex tasks. on this dangerous journey because ille- Control and Prevention; That is why the grant program that gal entry is simply not an option. We (4) how U.S. Customs and Border Protec- this bill authorizes is so important. must fix our broken immigration sys- tion measures the effectiveness of its pro- While the need for this support is tem, which incentivizes people to cross grams to mitigate migrant deaths; and greatest along our southern border, the (5) the extent to which U.S. Customs and our border illegally. Strong border se- Border Protection engages Federal, State, grant funds authorized by S. 2174 will curity and interior enforcement is the local, and Tribal governments, foreign diplo- support jurisdictions nationwide to best way to stop loss of life. matic and consular posts, and nongovern- carry on this critical work. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of mental organizations— S. 2174 also contains a number of pro- my time. (A) to accurately identify deceased individ- visions that will strengthen the Fed- uals; eral Government’s efforts to identify b 1600 (B) to resolve cases involving unidentified missing and unidentified people. Nota- Ms. SCANLON. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 remains; bly, the bill would create a bridge be- minutes to the gentleman from Texas (C) to resolve cases involving unidentified (Mr. GONZALEZ). persons; and tween States and localities and a Fed- (D) to share information on missing per- eral database to help match reports of Mr. GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speak- sons and unidentified remains, specifically missing people with unidentified re- er, I rise today in support of S. 2174, the with the National Missing and Unidentified mains. Missing Persons and Unidentified Re- Persons System (NamUs). Importantly, the bill authorizes Cus- mains Act, which gives local law en- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- toms and Border Protection to install forcement the tools they need to ad- ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from up to 170 self-powering cellular relay dress a devastating issue that is drain- Pennsylvania (Ms. SCANLON) and the rescue beacons along the southern bor- ing resources in rural communities in gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. der that will help stranded migrants south Texas and across the southwest RESCHENTHALER) each will control 20 call for help should they find them- border. minutes. selves injured or in need of emergency Border communities are currently The Chair recognizes the gentle- services. shouldering the cost of identifying and woman from Pennsylvania (Ms. SCAN- A broad coalition of stakeholders recovering the remains of migrants LON). have endorsed S. 2174, including the As- who tragically perished while migrat- GENERAL LEAVE sociation of State Criminal Investiga- ing to the United States. This affects Ms. SCANLON. Mr. Speaker, I ask tive Agencies; the League of United our citizens, ranchers, and farmers. unanimous consent that all Members Latin American Citizens, or LULAC; The Missing Persons and Unidenti- have 5 legislative days to revise and ex- and the Christian Life Commission. fied Remains Act is a bipartisan, bi- tend their remarks and include extra- This broad swath of support speaks to cameral effort that will give local law

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:48 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00058 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.011 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7219 enforcement access to Federal dollars Mr. Speaker, migrants seeking a better and areas; this bill would increase the total number and will help free up local resources for safer life in the United States who attempt to of beacons by 600 percent. rural healthcare, education, broadband, cross the U.S.-Mexico border between ports of The bill clarifies privacy protections con- and other key services that are, trag- entry are often faced with difficult terrain and cerning the use of biometric data in the report- ically, needed in these areas. extremely dangerous conditions. ing and identification of missing persons and This is a critical bill to help address The temperature in barren border sections unidentified remains and provides that any issues that are symptomatic of a larger of Arizona’s Sonoran Desert, for example, can piece of biometric evidence handled by an en- problem. Unless we invest time and re- reach over 104 degrees Fahrenheit in the tity receiving grant funding be used for the sources to address the root cause of mi- summer and drop to below freezing in the win- sole purpose of identifying missing persons gration from Central America, we will ter. and unidentified remains. continue to witness these tragic deaths Since 1998, the U.S. Border Patrol has re- Finally, S. 2174 requires the Attorney Gen- in our border region. ported 7,505 migrant deaths on the border, eral, Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Mr. Speaker, I thank Brooks County most due to dehydration, drowning, and expo- and the Government Accountability Office Sheriff Benny Martinez, Jim Hogg sure to extreme heat or cold. (GAO) each to submit annual reports on use County Sheriff Erasmo Alarcon, Jr., For more than two decades, over one mi- of grant funding and on programs imple- and Duval County Sheriff Romeo Ra- grant a day has died while attempting to enter mented to save migrant lives and identify the mirez, to name a few. These men have without authorization, a misdemeanor offense dead. been on the front lines of this issue and under Federal law. Mr. Speaker, the Missing Persons and Un- continue their work to identify who The actual number dead is likely much high- identified Remains Act would make an imme- has died. er than that, as the statistics only report those diate impact, both by saving lives on the bor- I also acknowledge the Southern Bor- who have been positively identified by border der and by allowing the families of those who der Communities Coalition, the Church patrol agents. have lost loved ones to gain closure. World Services, and the Texas Civil The bodies of migrants tragically lost during I strongly support this bipartisan, common- Rights Project for their work to raise attempted border crossings become increas- sense reform that would enable the United awareness about this issue and help ingly difficult to identify after exposure to the States to lessen the loss of life on our south- build support for this bill. Without the desert for prolonged periods. ern border and treat those dying or crossing support of this large cross section of The continuing loss of life on the border is between ports of entry with dignity and hu- stakeholders, we would not be here unacceptable and allowing many of the dead manity. passing this legislation today. to remain unidentified is inhumane, families of I urge all Members to join me in voting to For the families that have lost their border crossers unsure of their loved ones’ pass S. 2174, the Missing Persons and Un- loved ones, this bill is an opportunity fate and depriving them of the opportunity un- identified Remains Act of 2019. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The to bring closure. I know many of you able to say goodbye. question is on the motion offered by may not find the answers you seek, but The legislation before us would create the gentlewoman from Pennsylvania there is a much better chance because grants for humanitarian and state actors to re- (Ms. SCANLON) that the House suspend of this legislation. port and identify missing persons and unidenti- the rules and pass the bill, S. 2174, as Mr. Speaker, in recognition of the bi- fied remains, including migrant border cross- partisan support for this bill, I request amended. ers. The question was taken; and (two- that all my colleagues vote in support The bill also provides resources for rescue thirds being in the affirmative) the of this important effort. beacons, which have been used effectively to rules were suspended and the bill, as Mr. RESCHENTHALER. Mr. Speak- rescue migrants who are in danger. amended, was passed. er, in closing, while I support this bill, Mr. Speaker, the Missing Persons and Un- The title of the bill was amended so I think Congress must do more to se- identified Remains Act would authorize the At- as to read: ‘‘A bill to the extent pro- cure our borders. torney General to provide grants to various vided in advance in appropriations Act, Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance entities to report, process, and identify missing of my time. the Attorney General is authorized to persons and unidentified remains. use funds appropriated for the Ms. SCANLON. Mr. Speaker, I yield Entities eligible for the grants would include operationalization, maintenance, and myself the balance of my time. state and local governments, humanitarian aid expansion of the National Missing and Mr. Speaker, the assistance provided groups, nonprofit organizations, forensics and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) by this bill will help bring peace of toxicology laboratories, and medical exam- for the purpose of carrying out this mind to the families of missing persons iners’ offices. Act’’. by taking meaningful steps to improve This funding will improve reporting of miss- the identification of remains. A motion to reconsider was laid on ing persons to the Combined DNA Index Sys- the table. I applaud the bipartisan and bi- tem (CODIS) and the National Missing and cameral support for this bill. I thank Unidentified Persons System (NamUs), data- f Representatives GONZALEZ and HURD bases used to identify border crossers who MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT for their efforts in the House, as well as have lost their lives. A message in writing from the Presi- Senators CORNYN and HARRIS for cham- Additionally, the legislation authorizes the dent of the United States was commu- pioning the bill in the Senate. purchase and implementation of up to 170 nicated to the House by Ms. Mariel Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to self-powered ‘‘rescue beacons’’ in isolated Ridgway, one of his secretaries. join me in support of this bill today, border regions to prevent further migrant f and I yield back the balance of my deaths. time. Rescue beacons are tools used by U.S. ONE SMALL STEP TO PROTECT Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, as a sen- Border Patrol in desolate border areas to res- HUMAN HERITAGE IN SPACE ACT ior member of the Judiciary, Committee and a cue migrants in distress. Ms. KENDRA S. HORN of Oklahoma. member representing a state on the nation’s They are 30 to 40 feet tall, solar-powered, Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the southern border, I rise in strong support of S. and satellite-connected. rules and pass the bill (S. 1694) to re- 2174, the ‘‘Missing Persons and Unidentified They are equipped with a 9–1–1 cellular quire any Federal agency that issues li- Remains Act of 2019,’’ sponsored by the sen- relay, a strobe light, and a multilingual instruc- censes to conduct lunar activities to ior senator from Texas, Sen. CORNYN, and tional placard to help migrants alert border pa- include in the requirements for such li- Sen. , the next Vice-President trol personnel to a distress call. censes an agreement relating to the of the United States and the first woman and Not long ago, on Christmas Eve, 2017, a preservation and protection of the person of color to win election to that high of- distress call from a rescue beacon allowed Apollo 11 landing site, and for other fice. border patrol agents to rescue a migrant fam- purposes, as amended. I support the Missing Persons and Unidenti- ily near Lukeville, Arizona, representing three The Clerk read the title of the bill. fied Remains Act because it is bipartisan leg- of hundreds of lives that have been saved by The text of the bill is as follows: islation that will help prevent migrant deaths the beacons since they were first implemented S. 1694 on the Southwest border and will help border in the late 1990s. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- counties and nonprofit organizations locate As of November 12, 2019, there were 34 resentatives of the United States of America in and identify missing migrants. rescue beacons situated in desolate border Congress assembled,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:48 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00059 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K16DE7.042 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7220 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. (11) Article eight of the Outer Space Trea- U.S. Government Lunar Artifacts’’ issued by This Act may be cited as the ‘‘One Small ty states, ‘‘[a] State Party to the Treaty on the National Aeronautics and Space Admin- Step to Protect Human Heritage in Space whose registry an object launched into outer istration on July 20, 2011, and updated on Oc- Act’’. space is carried shall retain jurisdiction and tober 28, 2011; and SEC. 2. FINDINGS; SENSE OF CONGRESS. control over such object, and over any per- (2) any successor recommendations, guide- (a) FINDINGS.—Congress makes the fol- sonnel thereof, while in outer space or on a lines, best practices, or standards relating to lowing findings: celestial body. Ownership of objects the principle of due regard and the limita- (1) On July 16, 1969, the Apollo 11 space- launched into outer space, including objects tion of harmful interference with Apollo craft launched from the John F. Kennedy landed or constructed on a celestial body, landing site artifacts issued by the National Space Center carrying Neil A. Armstrong, and of their component parts, is not affected Aeronautics and Space Administration. Edwin E. ‘‘Buzz’’ Aldrin, Jr., and Michael by their presence in outer space or on a ce- (c) EXEMPTION.—The Administrator may Collins. lestial body or by their return to the Earth.’’ waive the conditions or requirements from (2) July 20, 2019, marked the 50th anniver- (12) Article nine of the Outer Space Treaty subsection (a)(1) as it applies to an indi- sary of the date on which the Apollo 11 states, ‘‘[i]n the exploration and use of outer vidual contract, grant, agreement, partner- spacecraft landed on the Moon and Neil Arm- space, including the moon and other celes- ship or other arrangement pertaining to strong and Buzz Aldrin became the first hu- tial bodies, States Parties to the Treaty lunar activities carried out by, for, or in mans to set foot on a celestial body off the shall be guided by the principle of co-oper- partnership with the National Aeronautics Earth. ation and mutual assistance and shall con- and Space Administration so long as— (3) The landing of the Apollo 11 spacecraft duct all their activities in outer space, in- (1) such waiver is accompanied by a finding and humanity’s first off-world footprints are cluding the moon and other celestial bodies, from the Administrator that carrying out achievements unparalleled in history, a di- with due regard to the corresponding inter- the obligation of subsection (a)(1) would be rect product of the work and perseverance of ests of all other States Parties to the Trea- unduly prohibitive to an activity or activi- the more than 400,000 individuals who con- ty,’’ and continues, ‘‘[i]f a State Party to the ties of legitimate and significant historical, tributed to the development of the Apollo Treaty has reason to believe that an activity archaeological, anthropological, scientific, missions on the shoulders of centuries of or experiment planned by it or its nationals or engineering value; and science and engineering pioneers from all in outer space, including the moon and other (2) the finding in paragraph (1) is provided corners of the world. celestial bodies, would cause potentially to the Committee on Science, Space, and (4) Among the thousands of individuals harmful interference with activities of other Technology of the House of Representatives who have contributed to the achievements of States Parties in the peaceful exploration and the Committee on Commerce, Science, the National Aeronautics and Space Admin- and use of outer space, including the moon and Transportation of the Senate not later istration (in this section referred to as and other celestial bodies, it shall undertake than 30 days prior to the waiver taking ef- ‘‘NASA’’) are African-American women such appropriate international consultations be- fect. as Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughn, fore proceeding with any such activity or ex- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Mary Jackson, and Dr. Christine Darden, periment. A State Party to the Treaty which who made critical contributions to NASA has reason to believe that an activity or ex- ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from space programs. Katherine Johnson worked periment planned by another State Party in Oklahoma (Ms. KENDRA S. HORN) and at NASA for 35 years and calculated the tra- outer space, including the moon and other the gentleman from Texas (Mr. BABIN) jectory of the Apollo 11 landing and the tra- celestial bodies, would cause potentially each will control 20 minutes. jectories for the spaceflights of astronauts harmful interference with activities in the The Chair recognizes the gentle- Alan Shepard and . Katherine peaceful exploration and use of outer space, woman from Oklahoma. Johnson, together with many other individ- including the moon and other celestial bod- GENERAL LEAVE uals the work of whom often went ies, may request consultation concerning the unacknowledged, helped broaden the scope of activity or experiment.’’. Ms. KENDRA S. HORN of Oklahoma. space travel and charted new frontiers for (b) SENSE OF CONGRESS.—It is the sense of Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent humanity’s exploration of space. Congress that— that all Members may have 5 legisla- (5) The landing of the Apollo 11 spacecraft (1) as commercial enterprises and more tive days to revise and extend their re- was made on behalf of all humankind, and countries acquire the ability to land on the marks and to include extraneous mate- Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin were accom- Moon, it is necessary to encourage the devel- panied by messages of peace from the leaders rial on S. 1694, the bill now under con- opment of best practices to respect the prin- sideration. of more than 70 countries. ciple of due regard and to limit harmful in- (6) The lunar landing sites of the Apollo 11 terference to the Apollo landing site arti- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there spacecraft, the robotic spacecraft that pre- facts in acknowledgment of the human effort objection to the request of the gentle- ceded the Apollo 11 mission, and the crewed and innovation they represent, as well as woman from Oklahoma? and robotic spacecraft that followed, are of their archaeological, anthropological, histor- There was no objection. outstanding universal value to humanity. ical, scientific, and engineering significance Ms. KENDRA S. HORN of Oklahoma. (7) Such landing sites— and value; and Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time (A) are the first archaeological sites with (2) the Administrator of the National Aero- human activity that are not on Earth; as I may consume. nautics and Space Administration should Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of S. (B) provide evidence of the first achieve- continue to develop best practices to respect ments of humankind in the realm of space the principle of due regard and limit harmful 1694, the One Small Step to Protect travel and exploration; and interference with historic Apollo lunar land- Human Heritage in Space Act. (C) contain artifacts and other evidence of ing site artifacts. First, I thank Senators PETERS and human exploration activities that remain a SEC. 3. BEST PRACTICES RELATED TO APOLLO CRUZ for their leadership in the Senate potential source of cultural, historical, ar- HISTORIC LUNAR LANDING SITE AR- on this important legislation, as well chaeological, anthropological, scientific, and TIFACTS. as Chairwoman JOHNSON and Ranking engineering knowledge. (a) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator of the Member LUCAS and Subcommittee on (8) On July 20, 2011, NASA published the National Aeronautics and Space Administra- voluntary guidance entitled ‘‘NASA’s Rec- tion shall— Space and Aeronautics Ranking Mem- ommendations to Space-Faring Entities: (1) add the recommendations in subsection ber BABIN, along with myself, for intro- How to Protect and Preserve the Historic (b) as a condition or requirement to con- ducing the companion bill in the House and Scientific Value of U.S. Government tracts, grants, agreements, partnerships or of Representatives, which we are all co- Lunar Artifacts’’. other arrangements pertaining to lunar ac- sponsors of. (9) In March 2018, the Office of Science and tivities carried out by, for, or in partnership Mr. Speaker, I think we can all rec- Technology Policy published a report enti- with the National Aeronautics and Space Ad- ognize the incredible accomplishments tled ‘‘Protecting & Preserving Apollo Pro- ministration; of the United States and our leadership gram Lunar Landing Sites & Artifacts’’. (2) inform other relevant Federal agencies (10) Article one of the ‘‘Treaty on Prin- of the recommendations described in sub- in space and particularly when, 51 ciples Governing the Activities of States in section (b); and years ago, our Nation sent Apollo 11 on the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, in- (3) encourage the use of best practices, con- its journey to the Moon and back, cluding the Moon and Other Celestial Bod- sistent with the recommendations in sub- when some 650 million people tuned in ies,’’ commonly known as the ‘‘Outer Space section (b), by other relevant Federal agen- to watch this historic first Moon land- Treaty,’’ states ‘‘[o]uter space, including the cies. ing and see astronaut Neil Armstrong moon and other celestial bodies, shall be free (b) RECOMMENDATIONS DESCRIBED.—The take humankind’s first step onto the for exploration and use by all States without recommendations described in this sub- discrimination of any kind, on a basis of section are— lunar surface. equality and in accordance with inter- (1) ‘‘NASA’s Recommendations to Space- Now, half a century later, the rugged national law, and there shall be free access Faring Entities: How to Protect and Pre- boot print of Neil Armstrong’s and to all areas of celestial bodies.’’ serve the Historic and Scientific Value of Buzz Aldrin’s feet and their walk on

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:48 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00060 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.015 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7221 the Moon remain at Tranquility Base. establish principles and set positive ex- Record. Additionally, I ask that you support The first American flag to be planted amples of responsible behavior, includ- the appointment of Committee on Foreign on the Moon’s surface still marks the ing ‘‘to preserve outer space heritage, Affairs conferees during any House-Senate site of their landing, as do the sci- which they consider to comprise his- conference convened on this legislation. Sincerely, entific hardware and other items that torically significant human or robotic ELIOT L. ENGEL, Armstrong and Aldrin left behind. landing sites, artifacts, spacecraft, or Chairman. These objects and others from the other evidence of activity on celestial Mr. BABIN. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- Apollo era tell the story of bodies in accordance with mutually de- self such time as I may consume. humankind’s extraordinary journey to veloped standards and practices.’’ Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of S. the Moon. They have historical, ar- Mr. Speaker, NASA’s Apollo program 1694, the One Small Step to Protect chaeological, and inspirational value, was an inspiration to so many across Human Heritage in Space Act. and it is up to us to work to protect this country and around the world. Its As an original cosponsor of the House them. lunar landing artifacts are of cultural, companion bill, H.R. 3766, I certainly Mr. Speaker, following the 50th anni- historic, archaeological, and scientific appreciate the importance of respect- versary of the Apollo 11 Moon landing, significance for all of humanity, be- ing the historic significance of the the One Small Step Act both recog- yond just the United States. nizes the achievements of the Apollo The Senate is prepared to pick up Apollo missions. program and takes important measures this version of their bill as soon as it Mr. Speaker, I represent Johnson to preserve our Nation’s human herit- passes the House. Space Center, or JSC, the home of age in space, heritage such as the rover Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to NASA’s Mission Control and the men tracks, footprints, scientific experi- vote ‘‘yes’’ on the One Small Step to and women who made the Apollo mis- ments, and spacecraft hardware, among Protect Human Heritage in Space Act sions possible. JSC has a long history others, at these lunar landing sites. and to ensure that this important leg- of developing spacecraft and con- Now, today, as more and more actors islation is enacted into law. ducting missions in space. enter the space arena, including other Mr. Speaker, before I conclude, I From the very earliest Mercury mis- nations and commercial entities with thank the Committee on Foreign Af- sions that put the first Americans in plans to carry out lunar activities, and fairs for helping us to bring this bill to space through Gemini and Apollo mis- we as a nation are working our way to the floor today, and I reserve the bal- sions, as well as the space shuttle and send humans back to the Moon and ance of my time. International Space Station era, Hous- then on to Mars as part of our deep HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, COM- ton has been the anchor of our Nation’s space exploration program, it is more MITTEE ON SCIENCE, SPACE, AND human spaceflight program. As NASA important today than ever that we TECHNOLOGY, develops the next generation of human take action to protect the historic arti- Washington, DC, December 14, 2020. spaceflight capabilities, Houston and facts that memorialize our first explo- Chairman ELIOT L. ENGEL, JSC will remain America’s tether to ration of the Moon and the advance- Committee on Foreign Affairs, deep space. ments achieved by the Apollo program. House of Representatives, Washington, DC. But while it is important to recog- The One Small Step Act does this by DEAR CHAIRMAN ELIOT: I am writing to you concerning S. 1694, the ‘‘One Small Step to nize and respect the accomplishments taking timely action based on guidance Protect Human Heritage in Space Act,’’ of the past, we should not simply rest from NASA. which was referred to the Committee on on our laurels. We have a lot more to In 2011, our Nation’s space agency re- Science, Space, and Technology, and in addi- do. leased recommendations on how to pre- tion to the Committee on Foreign Affairs on Mr. Speaker, America does not look serve the first lunar landing sites. July 19, 2019. longingly in the rearview mirror of his- Their report states that future visits to I appreciate your willingness to work coop- tory. We stand on the shoulders of gi- the Apollo landing sites ‘‘could impose eratively on this bill. I recognize that S. 1694 contains provisions that fall within the ju- ants and carry the torch lit by those significant disturbance risks to these before us farther into the unknown. sites, thus potentially destroying irre- risdiction of the Committee on Foreign Af- fairs. I appreciate that your Committee will The bill before us correctly balances placeable historic, scientific, and edu- waive further consideration of the bill and these two competing interests: respect- cational artifacts and materials.’’ that this action is not a waiver of future ju- ing the past and enabling the future. The act we are considering today re- risdictional claims over this subject matter. The Outer Space Treaty, drafted at quires action to follow this report’s I will make sure to include our exchange of the dawn of the space age, lays out im- recommendations. S. 1694, the One letters in the Congressional Record and will portant principles for all spacefaring Small Step to Protect Human Heritage support the appointment of the Committee nations. It calls for establishing the in Space Act, directs the NASA Admin- on Foreign Affairs conferees during any Principle of Due Regard, which re- istrator to include in its contracts, House-Senate conference. Thank you for spects the activities of actors in space grants, and agreements lunar activities your cooperation on this legislation. Sincerely, and creates a process for signatories to carried out by, for, or in partnership , the treaty to undertake appropriate with conditions and requirements of its Chairwoman, Committee on Science, consultations before any action that 2011 recommendations about how to Space, and Technology. protect and preserve the historic and would potentially cause harmful inter- ference with another party to the trea- scientific value of U.S. Government HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, ty. lunar artifacts. COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN AFFAIRS, The One Small Step Act further di- Washington, DC, December 14, 2020. More importantly, the treaty estab- rects the NASA Administrator to in- Hon. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON, lishes, in its opening article, the over- form other relevant Federal agencies of House Science, Space, and Technology Com- arching principle that outer space, in- the recommendations in the 2011 NASA mittee, House of Representatives, Wash- cluding the Moon and other celestial ington, DC. report. bodies, shall be free for exploration and DEAR CHAIRWOMAN JOHNSON: I am writing The bill we are considering today use by all states without discrimina- to you concerning S. 1694, One Small Step to tion of any kind on the basis of equal- makes changes to the language origi- Protect Human Heritage in Space Act. I rec- nally passed by the Senate last year. It ognize that the bill contains provision that ity and in accordance with inter- recognizes NASA’s central role in fall within the jurisdiction of the Committee national law, and there shall be free ac- working with partners on lunar activi- on Foreign Affairs. cess to all areas of celestial bodies. ties and ensures they follow best prac- In an effort to work cooperatively and to This bill directs NASA to continue tices regarding U.S. lunar landing site expedite the consideration of the bill, the developing recommendations and best artifacts. This approach strikes an im- Committee on Foreign Affairs will waive re- practices that protect this freedom ferral of S. 1694. This, however, is not a waiv- while also respecting the Principle of portant balance in preserving lunar er of future jurisdictional claims by the heritage sites, while not imposing reg- Committee on Foreign Affairs over this leg- Due Regard and informing the practice ulatory framework. islation or its subject matter. of consultation ahead of potentially Further, this act builds on NASA’s Thank you for agreeing to include our ex- harmful interference with the Apollo work through the Artemis Accords to change of letters in the Congressional landing artifacts. The bill also calls on

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:48 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00061 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K16DE7.045 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7222 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 NASA to include these recommenda- innovation and helped make sure that In closing, I want to also extend my support tions in all contracts, grants, coopera- we, as a nation, are a leader in tech- of S. 2472, the ‘‘Neil A. Armstrong Test Facil- tive agreements, and partnerships. nology, innovation, and discovery. ity Act’’ to honor an American hero in our The bill does not create any addi- Mr. Speaker, I encourage swift pas- space program. I urge my colleagues to sup- tional regulatory authority. Instead, sage of this bill. I encourage all of my port passage of both S. 1694, the ‘‘One Small the bill offers a carrot rather than a colleagues to vote ‘‘yea,’’ and I yield Step Act’’ and S. 2472, ‘‘the Neil A. Armstrong stick. If the private sector wants to le- back the balance of my time. Test Facility Act.’’ verage the vast experience and re- Ms. JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I am The SPEAKER pro tempore. The sources that NASA offers, they simply pleased to support House passage of S. 1694, question is on the motion offered by must abide by NASA’s own internal the ‘‘One Small Step to Protect Human Herit- the gentlewoman from Oklahoma (Ms. policies. age in Space Act.’’ KENDRA S. HORN) that the House sus- NASA is not a regulatory agency, I want to thank Senator PETERS and Senator pend the rules and pass the bill, S. 1694, and this bill does not grant any other CRUZ for initiating this legislation in the Sen- as amended. agency any new power or mechanism ate. I also want to extend my appreciation to The question was taken; and (two- to influence commercial space activi- House Science Committee Ranking Member thirds being in the affirmative) the ties. This will allow our Nation’s LUCAS, and Space and Aeronautics Sub- rules were suspended and the bill, as emerging and vibrant commercial committee Chairwoman HORN and Ranking amended, was passed. space sector to continue to innovate, Member BABIN for joining me in cosponsoring The title of the bill was amended so while also respecting the rich archae- the House companion bill. We all share the as to read: ‘‘A bill to require the Na- ological, anthropological, historical, goal of protecting human heritage in space, tional Aeronautics and Space Adminis- scientific, and engineering accomplish- and it is fitting that we are working together to tration to add recommendations and ments of the Apollo program. seek passage of the ‘‘One Small Step’’ legisla- inform other relevant agencies of infor- Mr. Speaker, I thank Ranking Mem- tion. mation relating to the principle of due ber LUCAS, Senator PETERS, Senator More than 50 years ago, the world watched regard and the limitation of harmful CRUZ, and Chairwoman JOHNSON for in awe as Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin interference with Apollo landing site working with me to get this bill across landed on the lunar surface and became the artifacts, and for other purposes.’’. the finish line. first humans to set foot on another planetary A motion to reconsider was laid on I also thank Chairwoman KENDRA body. Prior to their successful landing, NASA the table. HORN for her leadership over the last 2 implemented a series of tests, including f years. Her tenure as chairwoman for robotic landings and human in-space test pro- the Subcommittee on Space and Aero- NEIL A. ARMSTRONG TEST grams in preparation for the Apollo human FACILITY ACT nautics was marked by significant landings. The culmination of those precursor change and accomplishments for our efforts resulted in the safe and successful Ms. KENDRA S. HORN of Oklahoma. Nation’s space program. Apollo 11 lunar landing, a moment that Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the Her steady and fair treatment for all changed the course of humanity. rules and pass the bill (S. 2472) to re- Members’ interests should serve as a Apollo human landing missions explored a designate the NASA John H. Glenn Re- shining example to this distinguished total of 6 sites on the Moon, leaving indicators search Center at Plum Brook Station, body. She will be missed, and I wish of human presence, including rover tracks, Ohio, as the NASA John H. Glenn Re- her the very, very best in the future. footprints, and scientific experiments and search Center at the Neil A. Armstrong Mr. Speaker, I recommend swift pas- spacecraft hardware, among other lunar land- Test Facility. sage of this measure, and I yield back ing site artifacts. Those artifacts that remain The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows: the balance of my time. imprinted in the lunar dust and on the surface b 1615 of the Moon are cultural, historic, scientific, S. 2472 and archeological artifacts. The bill we are Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- Ms. KENDRA S. HORN of Oklahoma. resentatives of the United States of America in Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time considering today, the ‘‘One Small Step to Congress assembled, as I may consume. Protect Human Heritage in Space Act,’’ directs SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. Mr. Speaker, I want to begin by first the NASA Administrator to take important ac- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Neil A. Arm- thanking Ranking Member BABIN, as tions toward preserving those artifacts. strong Test Facility Act’’. well as Chairwoman JOHNSON and The United States led the way in lunar ex- SEC. 2. FINDINGS. Ranking Member LUCAS and Senators ploration with humans and we must also lead Congress finds as follows: PETERS and CRUZ, for their work on the way in setting examples and guiding re- (1) Neil A. Armstrong, through his own def- this. sponsible behaviors in outer space, including inition, was first and foremost as a test Particularly, I thank Ranking Mem- behaviors related to our lunar landing site arti- pilot. facts. Congress and the American taxpayers (2) A native of Wapakoneta, Ohio, Arm- ber BABIN. It has truly been an honor strong began his inspiring career in space ex- to be able to work with his on these made possible the United States’ historic and ploration in Cleveland, Ohio, at what is now issues and to do so in a constructive momentous Apollo lunar landings by author- the NASA John H. Glenn Research Center. way that advances policy that is good izing the program and investing four percent of (3) Becoming the first human to land a for the United States, for discovery, for the nation’s federal spending at the time to spacecraft, and then set foot upon, the moon, innovation, and for our leadership in a successfully carry it out. It is incumbent upon represents the greatest dream of any test way that we can come together. the House of Representatives to honor these pilot. Space is one of those areas where it historic lunar artifacts and to honor America’s (4) Therefore, it is fitting that the premier investment and commitment to making the aeronautics and space test station in Ohio is and should be bipartisan, where we should be renamed in his honor. Apollo program a success. The direction in the can come together for the best inter- SEC. 3. REDESIGNATION OF NASA JOHN H. ests of our Nation, to continue to ad- One Small Step bill will put into law our com- GLENN RESEARCH CENTER AT PLUM vance discovery and to encourage inno- mitment toward preserving America’s human BROOK STATION, OHIO, AS NASA vation. heritage in space. JOHN H. GLENN RESEARCH CENTER AT THE NEIL A. ARMSTRONG TEST Mr. Speaker, this bill does just that. Apollo remains an inspiration; it brought the FACILITY. It finds the right balance between pre- world together during a period of unique chal- (a) REDESIGNATION.—The NASA John H. serving the heritage of the Apollo era, lenges and resulted in long-lasting benefits to Glenn Research Center at Plum Brook Sta- for a reminder of what we can accom- Americans. As we plan and prepare to send tion, Ohio, is hereby redesignated as the plish when we come together to work, Americans into deep space once again, and NASA John H. Glenn Research Center at the to advance technology, to do what has as other nations and actors become increas- Neil A. Armstrong Test Facility. never been done before, while not plac- ingly capable of lunar activity, honoring and (b) REFERENCES.—Any reference in a law, map, regulation, document, paper, or other ing too much burden on our ability to preserving Apollo’s historic and cultural signifi- record of the United States to the station re- move forward into the future and ad- cance must be prioritized. In doing so, we cel- ferred to in subsection (a) shall be deemed to vance that discovery. ebrate American ingenuity and the awe-inspir- be a reference to the ‘‘NASA John H. Glenn Our Nation’s space program has long ing, humanity-changing achievements of which Center at the Neil A. Armstrong Test Facil- served as a source of inspiration and we are capable. ity’’.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:48 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00062 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K16DE7.046 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7223 (c) SAVINGS.—Nothing in this section shall Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of Congresswoman HORN, you have been be construed to alter the relationship be- my time. a trusted and valued colleague and tween the Plum Brook Station and the Mr. GONZALEZ of Ohio. Mr. Speak- have ably served our Nation and your NASA John H. Glenn Research Center. er, I yield myself such time as I may constituents. I want to express my The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- consume. deep appreciation for your assistance ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support on today’s legislation and for your Oklahoma (Ms. KENDRA S. HORN) and of S. 2472, the Neil A. Armstrong Test friendship as you served so honorably the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. GON- Facility Act. This legislation would in this Congress. In the busy days be- ZALEZ) each will control 20 minutes. simply rename the NASA Plum Brook fore the end of the session, Ohio is The Chair recognizes the gentle- Station testing facility in Sandusky, truly grateful for your assistance in woman from Oklahoma. Ohio, after Neil Armstrong. getting this bill to the finish line. We GENERAL LEAVE I want to first thank the esteemed can’t thank you enough. Ms. KENDRA S. HORN of Oklahoma. Senator PORTMAN from the great State Mr. Speaker, the Neil A. Armstrong Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent of Ohio for his work on this legislation Test Facility Act renames the NASA that all Members may have 5 legisla- and his many years of service to our Plum Brook Station after a true Amer- tive days in which to revise and extend State. ican hero, who happened to be a Buck- their remarks and include extraneous Additionally, I want to thank my eye, an Ohioan. material on S. 2472, the bill now under colleague from across the aisle, and an- Our State is known for aviation, for consideration. other fellow Ohioan, Congresswoman its flight milestones, for its courageous The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there KAPTUR, for her efforts on this as well. heroes and inventors. The Plum Brook objection to the request of the gentle- Ms. KAPTUR is a tremendous leader Station, located in Sandusky, Ohio, is woman from Oklahoma? within our State. While we may be on a true asset to American excellence in There was no objection. opposite sides of the aisle, we have al- space exploration. The facilities at the Ms. KENDRA S. HORN of Oklahoma. ways found ways to work together on site are second to none. They contain behalf of northern Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time the Space Environments Complex, with On July 20, 1969, the world watched in the world’s largest space test chamber. as I may consume. wonder as Neil Armstrong became the Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support In its In-Space Propulsion building, first man to ever set foot on the Moon. it has a space chamber where you can of S. 2472, the Neil A. Armstrong Test Born in Wapakoneta, Ohio, Armstrong fire an upper stage rocket. There is Facility Act. was the embodiment of a dedicated also a world-class clean-air hypersonic NASA astronaut and Apollo 11 space- American. Serving as a naval aviator wind tunnel that even the Department craft commander Neil Armstrong in- during the Korean war and partici- of Defense didn’t know about, and a spired all of humanity by taking ‘‘one pating in various test pilot programs, space chamber to test equipment to small step for man, one giant leap for he was never one to shy away from a mankind,’’ touching down on a plan- simulate planetary surface conditions. challenge. His courage was reflective of Imagine what someone like Neil etary body hundreds of thousands of not only himself, but also that of the Armstrong had to learn in order to be miles away as a part of the Apollo 11 United States as we raced to beat So- successful in that history-making Moon landing mission. He is a national viet Russia to the Moon. It is why, flight. hero, a naval aviator, and one of many today, we move to honor Armstrong’s early pioneers of human space explo- These capabilities enable our sci- legacy by renaming the Plum Brook entists to prepare for the rigors of ration. Station at NASA’s John Glenn Re- Mr. Armstrong was born in space exploration. search Center to the Neil A. Armstrong The Plum Brook Station and test fa- Wapakoneta, Ohio, and started his Test Facility. cility is a national asset. Today, it is NASA career in 1955, at the National A staple of northern Ohio and a con- being renamed after an American pio- Advisory Committee for Aeronautics— tinuing symbol of American ingenuity, neer in human history. This year, or NACA—Lewis Research Center, now Plum Brook is home to an array of Plum Brook Station finished testing the NASA Glenn Research Center. projects for supporting our country’s the ORION spacecraft that will fly the endeavors into the unknown. Ranging This legislation recognizes his sig- Artemis I mission. This mission will from the world’s most powerful space nificant achievements, service, and eventually return a person to the environment simulators to full-scale contributions to the Nation by renam- Moon. ing the NASA John H. Glenn Research testing for launch vehicles, Plum Fifty-one years after Neil Armstrong Brook is critical to NASA’s mission. Center at Plum Brook Station, Ohio, as captivated the world with his famous Renaming Plum Brook after one of our the NASA John H. Glenn Research Cen- words that united humankind and al- State’s greatest heroes is a fitting way ter at the Neil A. Armstrong Test Fa- lowed us to dream for a common pur- to memorialize Neil Armstrong’s leg- cility. pose, the Nation turns our attention acy within the State of Ohio and to in- NASA’s Plum Brook Station, located back to this test facility. How humble spire the next generation of leaders in in Sandusky, Ohio, is home to world- it was when he said, ‘‘One small step class test facilities, where NASA and our quest to explore the universe. This legislation has already passed for man, one giant leap for mankind.’’ the international space community Mr. Speaker, I also want to express the via unani- perform complex, critical ground tests my deep appreciation to Representa- of space vehicles and systems. mous consent and has the full support of the entire Ohio congressional dele- tive ANTHONY GONZALEZ’s partnership Just this year, the Orion Multi-Pur- on this bill. I am pleased to see him pose Crew Vehicle finished its final gation. I thank Senators PORTMAN and managing the Republican time today. I campaign of environmental testing at BROWN on this bill. I also thank Chair- couldn’t be happier. He and his staff Plum Brook Station as NASA prepares woman JOHNSON and Ranking Member have been able to be collegial partners to return humans to deep space explo- LUCAS for their help in bringing this in securing a floor vote, and I thank ration. bill to the floor today so that it can him for that. I also thank our col- Mr. Armstrong returned to his home reach the President’s desk. leagues in the other body who have State of Ohio after his service to the Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to helped as well. Nation and NASA. It is truly appro- support this legislation, and I reserve I, along with the people of Ohio, are priate that a world-class aerospace test the balance of my time. also extremely grateful to Chairwoman facility in the State of Ohio be named Ms. KENDRA S. HORN of Oklahoma. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON; Ranking for a native son and one of the world’s Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the Member LUCAS; our Senate colleagues, most accomplished and dedicated pi- gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. KAPTUR). Senators BROWN and PORTMAN, for lots. It is very fitting that we have another their bicameral partnership on today’s I urge my colleagues to vote ‘‘yes’’ Ohioan to speak on this bill. legislation. This is the way Congress on S. 2472, the Neil A. Armstrong Test Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise in should work. Facility Act, to honor an American support of S. 2472, the Neil A. Arm- In these days of uncertainty for our hero. strong Test Facility Act. society and planet, renaming the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:48 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00063 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.024 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7224 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 NASA test facility at Sandusky, Ohio, work together to achieve common [Roll No. 244] for Neil Armstrong offers a reminder to ends. YEAS—380 the world of our common purpose that To my colleague, Ms. KAPTUR from Adams Doggett Krishnamoorthi can give us the giant leaps that lie Ohio, thank you for your friendship Aderholt Doyle, Michael Kuster (NH) ahead for humankind. Indeed, America and support. It is an honor to be able to Aguilar F. Kustoff (TN) must continue reaching for the stars work on issues that acknowledge and Allen Emmer LaHood and beyond. recognize the accomplishments of Allred Engel LaMalfa Amash Escobar Lamb Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to those heroes in the Apollo program Amodei Eshoo Lamborn support S. 2472, the Neil A. Armstrong who showed us what it means to come Armstrong Espaillat Langevin Test Facility Act. together to achieve something that has Arrington Estes Larsen (WA) Mr. GONZALEZ of Ohio. Mr. Speak- never been done before. Axne Evans Larson (CT) Babin Ferguson Latta er, I yield 5 minutes to the gentleman Bacon Finkenauer Lawrence from Ohio (Mr. BALDERSON). b 1630 Balderson Fitzpatrick Lawson (FL) Mr. BALDERSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise Banks Fleischmann Lee (CA) As we recognize Neil Armstrong with today in support of the Neil A. Arm- Barr Fletcher Lee (NV) this renaming of this facility, it is in Barraga´ n Fortenberry Levin (CA) strong Test Facility Act. The Buckeye honor of perhaps one of the most well- Bass Foster Levin (MI) State is honored to have been the home Beatty Foxx (NC) Lieu, Ted known quotes of all time. Because of of American hero Neil Alden Arm- Bera Frankel Lofgren the magnitude of that accomplishment, strong. Bergman Fudge Long ‘‘One small step for man, one giant Beyer Fulcher Lowenthal From the Wright brothers to the leap for mankind,’’ was only made pos- Biggs Gabbard Lowey namesake of this legislation, Ohio Bilirakis Gaetz Lucas sible through the innovation and the boasts a rich history as leaders in the Bishop (GA) Gallagher Luetkemeyer effort of Neil Armstrong and so many Bishop (NC) Gallego Luja´ n aerospace industry. others across this Nation who invested Blumenauer Garamendi Luria Born in northwest Ohio, Neil Arm- in the Apollo program. Blunt Rochester Garcia (CA) Lynch strong made history on July 21, 1969, as Bonamici Garcı´a (IL) Malinowski As an Oklahoman, although we can- he uttered the words: ‘‘That’s one Bost Garcia (TX) Maloney, not claim Neil Armstrong but can Boyle, Brendan Gianforte Carolyn B. small step for man, one giant leap for claim a rich heritage in the aerospace F. Gohmert Maloney, Sean mankind.’’ Brindisi Golden Massie As the first human being to step foot arena and have astronauts at every Brooks (AL) Gomez Mast phase of the Apollo program, I can Brooks (IN) Gonzalez (OH) Matsui on the Moon, Neil Armstrong inspired Brown (MD) Gooden McAdams generations of Americans to literally think of no more appropriate recogni- tion of Neil Armstrong than to name Brownley (CA) Gosar McBath follow in his footsteps. Buck Gottheimer McCarthy The United States owes a debt of this facility after him. Bucshon Graves (MO) McCaul Budd Green (TN) McClintock gratitude to Mr. Armstrong for his Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and I urge a ‘‘yes’’ Burchett Green, Al (TX) McCollum service at NASA through multiple Burgess Griffith McEachin space exploration programs, as well as vote. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the bal- Bustos Grijalva McGovern the U.S. Navy. ance of my time. Butterfield Grothman McKinley The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Calvert Guthrie McNerney The Neil A. Armstrong Test Facility Carbajal Haaland Meeks Act would honor this American hero by question is on the motion offered by Ca´ rdenas Hagedorn Meng bestowing his name on a critical NASA the gentlewoman from Oklahoma (Ms. Carson (IN) Hall Meuser test facility station in Armstrong’s KENDRA S. HORN) that the House sus- Carter (GA) Harder (CA) Mfume pend the rules and pass the bill, S. 2472. Cartwright Harris Miller home State of Ohio. Case Hartzler Moolenaar Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to The question was taken; and (two- Casten (IL) Hastings Moore vote in support of the Neil A. Arm- thirds being in the affirmative) the Castor (FL) Hayes Morelle rules were suspended and the bill was Castro (TX) Heck Moulton strong Test Facility Act. Chabot Hern, Kevin Mucarsel-Powell Ms. KENDRA S. HORN of Oklahoma. passed. Chu, Judy Herrera Beutler Mullin Mr. Speaker, I am prepared to close, A motion to reconsider was laid on Cicilline Hice (GA) Murphy (FL) the table. Cisneros Higgins (LA) Murphy (NC) and I reserve the balance of my time. Clark (MA) Higgins (NY) Nadler Mr. GONZALEZ of Ohio. Mr. Speak- f Clarke (NY) Hill (AR) Napolitano er, I yield myself such time as I may Clay Himes Neal consume. Cleaver Hollingsworth Neguse Cline Horn, Kendra S. Newhouse Neil Armstrong’s heroism not only TRANSPARENCY AND EFFECTIVE ACCOUNTABILITY MEASURES Clyburn Horsford Norcross inspired a generation during the Apollo Cohen Houlahan Norman era, but also continues to inspire gen- FOR VETERAN CAREGIVERS ACT Cole Hoyer Nunes The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Comer Hudson O’Halleran erations today as we look forward to Conaway Huffman Ocasio-Cortez the Artemis program. ant to clause 8 of rule XX, the unfin- Connolly Huizenga Omar As America looks to send the first ished business is the vote on the mo- Cooper Hurd (TX) Palazzo woman and next man back to the tion to suspend the rules and pass the Correa Jackson Lee Pallone Costa Jacobs Palmer Moon, and as we look to Mars and be- bill (S. 2216) to require the Secretary of Courtney Jayapal Panetta yond, renaming Plum Brook Station Veterans Affairs to formally recognize Cox (CA) Jeffries Pappas would be a great gesture of thanks for caregivers of veterans, notify veterans Craig Johnson (GA) Pascrell Armstrong’s service to the Nation. and caregivers of clinical determina- Crawford Johnson (LA) Payne Crenshaw Johnson (OH) Pence Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to tions relating to eligibility for the Crist Johnson (SD) Perlmutter support this legislation, and I yield family caregiver program, and tempo- Crow Johnson (TX) Perry back the balance of my time. rarily extend benefits for veterans who Cuellar Jordan Peters Cunningham Joyce (OH) Peterson Ms. KENDRA S. HORN of Oklahoma. are determined ineligible for the fam- Davids (KS) Joyce (PA) Phillips Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time ily caregiver program, and for other Davidson (OH) Kaptur Pingree as I may consume. purposes, on which the yeas and nays Davis (CA) Katko Pocan Mr. Speaker, I want to begin by were ordered. Davis, Danny K. Keating Porter Davis, Rodney Keller Posey thanking Mr. GONZALEZ for his work on The Clerk read the title of the bill. Dean Kelly (IL) Pressley this legislation and to say how much of The SPEAKER pro tempore. The DeFazio Kelly (MS) Price (NC) a privilege it has been to be able to question is on the motion offered by DeGette Kelly (PA) Quigley DeLauro Kennedy Raskin serve with him and work with him on the gentleman from California (Mr. DelBene Khanna Reed the Science, Space, and Technology TAKANO) that the House suspend the Delgado Kildee Reschenthaler Committee and on the Space and Aero- rules and pass the bill. Demings Kilmer Rice (NY) nautics Subcommittee. Indeed, this is The vote was taken by electronic de- DeSaulnier Kim Rice (SC) Deutch Kind Richmond one among many ways that we have vice, and there were—yeas 380, nays 0, Diaz-Balart King (NY) Riggleman proven that there is still the ability to not voting 49, as follows: Dingell Kirkpatrick Rodgers (WA)

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:48 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00064 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K16DE7.050 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7225 Roe, David P. Smith (WA) Van Drew Lawrence Norcross Schakowsky after the Nation’s highest military Rose (NY) Smucker Vargas (Kildee) (Sherrill) (Kelly (IL)) court disregarded Congress’ intent and Rose, John W. Soto Veasey Lawson (FL) Pascrell Schneider Rouda Spanberger Vela (Demings) (Pallone) (Casten (IL)) incorrectly applied a 5-year statute of Rouzer Speier Vela´ zquez Lieu, Ted (Beyer) Payne Schrier limitations on Harmony’s case. Roy Stanton Visclosky Lofgren (Jeffries) (Wasserman (Spanberger) To fix this loophole, I introduced Roybal-Allard Stefanik Lowenthal Serrano Walberg Schultz) Harmony’s Law to ensure that con- Ruiz Steil Walden (Beyer) Peters (Kildee) (Jeffries) Ruppersberger Steube Lowey (Tonko) Sewell (AL) victed rapists are held accountable. I Walorski Peterson Rush Stevens McEachin (Cicilline) Waltz (McCollum) also worked with the Solicitor General Rutherford Stivers (Wexton) Sires (Pallone) Pingree Sa´ nchez Suozzi Wasserman McNerney Smith (WA) in the Supreme Court to hear Har- (Cicilline) Sarbanes Swalwell (CA) Schultz (Raskin) (Courtney) mony’s case and overturn this massive Pocan (Raskin) Scalise Takano Waters Meng (Clark Speier (Scanlon) miscarriage of justice. Porter (Wexton) Scanlon Taylor Watkins (MA)) Titus (Connolly) Madam Speaker, last week, the Su- Schakowsky Thompson (CA) Watson Coleman Moore (Beyer) Price (NC) Vargas (Correa) Schiff Thompson (MS) Weber (TX) Mucarsel-Powell (Butterfield) Veasey (Beyer) preme Court ruled unanimously in Har- Schneider Thompson (PA) Webster (FL) (Wasserman Richmond Watson Coleman mony Allen’s favor. The Court’s 8–0 de- Schrader Thornberry Welch Schultz) (Butterfield) (Pallone) cision is a monumental one, and it Roybal-Allard Schrier Tiffany Wenstrup Nadler (Jeffries) Welch serves a justice to Harmony that was Schweikert Timmons Westerman Napolitano (Garcia (TX)) (McGovern) Scott (VA) Tipton Wexton (Correa) Ruiz (Dingell) Wild (Scanlon) long overdue. It also prevents the po- Scott, Austin Titus Wild Neguse Rush Wilson (FL) tential early release of hundreds of Scott, David Tlaib Williams (Perlmutter) (Underwood) (Hayes) convicted rapists, making this a vic- Serrano Tonko Wilson (FL) f tory for all victims of military sexual Sewell (AL) Torres (CA) Wilson (SC) Shalala assault. Torres Small Wittman MARKING A DAY OF HOPE Sherman (NM) Womack f Sherrill Trahan (Ms. JACKSON LEE asked and was Woodall Sires Trone Yarmuth given permission to address the House LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITIES ON BE- Slotkin Turner HALF OF GEORGIA’S FIFTH CON- Smith (MO) Underwood Young for 1 minute.) Smith (NJ) Upton Zeldin Ms. JACKSON LEE. Madam Speaker, GRESSIONAL DISTRICT NOT VOTING—49 first of all, I want to, as a member of (Mr. HALL asked and was given per- the Judiciary Committee, associate Abraham Granger Rogers (AL) mission to address the House for 1 Baird Graves (LA) Rogers (KY) myself with the Missing Persons and minute and to revise and extend his re- Bishop (UT) Guest Rooney (FL) Unidentified Remains Act of 2019, a marks.) Brady Holding Ryan very vital act for dealing with families Mr. HALL. Madam Speaker, I rise to Buchanan King (IA) Sensenbrenner who have lost loved ones, as well as the Byrne Kinzinger alert the Chamber to three legislative Shimkus Crisis Stabilization and Community Carter (TX) Lesko Simpson activities that I am pursuing on behalf Cheney Lipinski Smith (NE) Reentry Act, S. 3312, which deals with of Georgia’s Fifth Congressional Dis- Cloud Loebsack Spano helping people who are incarcerated Collins (GA) Loudermilk trict and a transportation and infra- Stauber Curtis Marchant adjust back to the community. structure bill that I will be introducing Stewart DesJarlais Marshall I believe that we had a day of hope later this week. Duncan McHenry Wagner yesterday in Houston and around the Walker The first will seek to eliminate quali- Dunn Mitchell world. In fact, it was not only yester- Flores Mooney (WV) Wright fied immunity in police misconduct Gibbs Olson Yoho day, but it was Monday. That is when cases. The second piece of legislation is Gonzalez (TX) Roby the first vaccines began to come to the a constitutional amendment that con- ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE Nation. cerns forced labor. The third piece of The SPEAKER pro tempore (during I went to the public hospital system, legislation is one that would expunge the vote). Members are reminded to put and I became part of UPS—that is, all records of nonviolent offenders im- on their masks. Pfizer vaccines that I was able to lift pacted by the war on drugs and other at the Lyndon Baines Johnson Hospital various crime bills for any State and and then walk that vaccine to the local government that is the recipient b 1733 pharmacy so that people would have of Federal crime dollars. Mr. CLINE changed his vote from hope. Then, I went to Ben Taub Hos- Later this week, I will be introducing ‘‘nay’’ to ‘‘yea.’’ pital—the public health system, legislation to commission a study on a So (two-thirds being in the affirma- again—and watched people from all vital transportation corridor in Geor- tive) the rules were suspended and the backgrounds get vaccinated. gia, which would connect Campbellton bill was passed. This is a day of hope. We must con- Road to the businesses that are right The result of the vote was announced tinue, but we must continue to walk to make greater metro Atlanta their as above recorded. carefully. We must continue to stay home. A motion to reconsider was laid on distant, get testing, and wear our Madam Speaker, I encourage my col- the table. masks. leagues to support my pieces of legisla- MEMBERS RECORDED PURSUANT TO HOUSE There is hope. I am delighted to have tion and this project. RESOLUTION 965, 116TH CONGRESS been able to be there to say to our con- f Allred (Wexton) Dean (Scanlon) Gomez (Aguilar) stituents that there is hope, Madam Axne (Davids DeFazio (Davids Grijalva (Garcı´a Speaker. RECOGNIZING COHO BREWING (KS)) (KS)) (IL)) COMPANY Barraga´ n (Beyer) DeGette (Blunt f Hastings (Mr. VAN DREW asked and was given Bera (Aguilar) Rochester) (Wasserman JUSTICE FOR HARMONY ALLEN Blumenauer DelBene Schultz) permission to address the House for 1 (Beyer) (Cicilline) Heck (Kildee) (Mr. MAST asked and was given per- minute and to revise and extend his re- Bonamici (Clark DeSaulnier Jayapal (Raskin) (MA)) (Matsui) mission to address the House for 1 marks.) Johnson (TX) minute and to revise and extend his re- Mr. VAN DREW. Madam Speaker, I Brownley (CA) Deutch (Rice (Jeffries) (Clark (MA)) (NY)) Kennedy marks.) would like to recognize Coho Brewing Ca´ rdenas Doggett (Raskin) (McGovern) Mr. MAST. Madam Speaker, Har- Company in Cape May Court House in (Cisneros) Doyle, Michael Kilmer (Kildee) Case F. (Cartwright) mony Allen is a veteran who was raped south Jersey. Coho was founded by (Cartwright) Escobar (Garcia Kim (Davids by her Air Force instructor while serv- Karen Buckingham in January 2019, in- Cleaver (Davids (TX)) (KS)) ing our country. spired by her passion for craft beer. (KS)) Finkenauer Kind (Beyer) Cohen (Beyer) (Underwood) Kirkpatrick Madam Speaker, I rise today to cele- The brewery’s interior design is in- Cooper (Himes) Fletcher (Stanton) brate justice for Harmony Allen. spired by all our law enforcement and Costa (Correa) (Raskin) Kuster (NH) Now, for two decades, Harmony has first responders. Karen hosted fund- Craig Frankel (Clark (Bustos) been fighting for justice. Despite being raisers and cornhole tournaments to (McCollum) (MA)) Lamb (Panetta) Davis (CA) Garamendi Langevin convicted in 2017, her rapist was set raise money for the State police and K– (Scanlon) (Sherman) (Lynch) free on a misconstrued technicality 9 units. Each of Coho’s beer cans has a

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:06 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00065 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.025 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7226 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 blue line in honor of our first respond- George Herbert Walker Bush’s adminis- To the Congress of the United States: ers. She has also turned part of her tration. He returned to elected office in Section 202(d) of the National Emer- tasting room into a brew-tique, which 2002, winning Tennessee’s open U.S. gencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides gives clothes and goods to those in Senate seat. for the automatic termination of a na- need. In Congress, Senator ALEXANDER tional emergency unless, within 90 Madam Speaker, I thank Karen for demonstrated strong leadership and days before the anniversary date of its all she does for the south Jersey com- legislated in the best interests of all declaration, the President publishes in munity and for our first responders, Tennesseeans. Among his many the Federal Register and transmits to God bless Karen, God bless America, achievements are the SUPPORT Act, the Congress a notice stating that the and God bless our first responders. comprehensive legislation to fight the emergency is to continue in effect be- f opioid epidemic, and, as of late, the yond the anniversary date. In accord- Great American Outdoors Act, which ance with this provision, I have sent to RECOGNIZING DR. PHIL ROE will preserve the Smokies and other the Federal Register for publication the (Mr. WENSTRUP asked and was national parks for years to come. enclosed notice stating that the na- given permission to address the House Senator ALEXANDER and I are fond of tional emergency declared in Executive for 1 minute and to revise and extend the same quote from our friend Alex Order 13818 of December 20, 2017, is to his remarks.) Haley: ‘‘Find the good and praise it.’’ continue in effect beyond December 20, Mr. WENSTRUP. Madam Speaker, I There is a lot of good in LAMAR ALEX- 2020. rise today to recognize the impressive ANDER, and I thank him for his many The prevalence and severity of career of my good friend, Dr. PHIL ROE, years of service. human rights abuse and corruption that have their source, in whole or in who is retiring at the end of this Con- f gress. substantial part, outside the United A veteran himself, Dr. ROE served ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER States, continue to threaten the sta- honorably as chairman and ranking PRO TEMPORE bility of international political and member on the Veterans’ Affairs Com- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mrs. economic systems. Human rights abuse mittee, where he worked on preventing MCBATH). Members are reminded to put and corruption undermine the values veteran suicide, increasing patient ac- on their masks. that form an essential foundation of cess to care, and providing agency ac- stable, secure, and functioning soci- f countability. eties; have devastating impacts on in- Dr. ROE has been a strong leader of AMERICA’S CONFIDENCE IN OUR dividuals; weaken democratic institu- our GOP Doctors Caucus, providing ELECTORAL SYSTEM tions; degrade the rule of law; perpet- uate violent conflicts; facilitate the ac- strong insight, a steady hand, and a lot (Mr. LAMALFA asked and was given tivities of dangerous persons; under- of patience as we have debated critical permission to address the House for 1 mine economic markets; and continue legislation affecting patients and pro- minute and to revise and extend his re- to pose an unusual and extraordinary viders. marks.) threat to the national security, foreign Over the years, I have been blessed Mr. LAMALFA. Madam Speaker, policy, and economy of the United enough to call Dr. ROE a dear friend. America’s confidence in our electoral States. Therefore, I have determined He showed me what life in rural Ten- system has suffered an egregious blow that it is necessary to continue the na- nessee was like; he has regaled us with this cycle. Of the many credible con- tional emergency declared in Executive his guitar skills; he has made us laugh; cerns surrounding this year’s process, Order 13818 with respect to serious and he has been a source of wisdom for Dominion voting machines have neared human rights abuse and corruption. all of us. the top of the list. From crashing dur- It has also been a pleasure to get to ing a recount in Georgia to several er- DONALD J. TRUMP. know his beloved wife, Clarinda, who I rors in Antrim County, Michigan, it is THE WHITE HOUSE, December 16, 2020. know is looking forward to having him clear that Dominion’s authority on f around more often. vote counting is in question. There NEW HOLLAND AGRICULTURE I know that I can speak on behalf of needs to be a fully independent audit of 125TH ANNIVERSARY all of my colleagues when I say thank Dominion’s voting machines. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under you for your service, PHIL. Good luck No, this is not an attempt to over- in retirement, and God bless you. the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- turn an election; this is about making uary 3, 2019, the Chair recognizes the f sure, moving forward, all Americans gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. have faith in our elections, whether it b 1745 SMUCKER) for 30 minutes. is the constitutional actions setting Mr. SMUCKER. Madam Speaker, I IN RECOGNITION OF SENATOR election process in place or trans- rise today to honor a local business in LAMAR ALEXANDER parency in the tabulation of the vote. my congressional district and con- (Mr. BURCHETT asked and was given Madam Speaker, my Republican col- gratulate them as they celebrate their permission to address the House for 1 leagues and I have stressed that every 125th anniversary this year. minute and to revise and extend his re- legal vote must be counted, but we To my constituents in the 11th Dis- marks.) must also ensure those who count our trict, when they hear the words ‘‘New Mr. BURCHETT. Madam Speaker, I votes, whether a person or a machine, Holland,’’ they often think of a great rise today in recognition of Senator are also fully complying with the law. borough with about 6,000 residents lo- LAMAR ALEXANDER, who is retiring f cated in Eastern Lancaster County. from the United States Senate after 18 But when others across the globe hear CONTINUATION OF THE NATIONAL years in office. My friend, Senator the words ‘‘New Holland,’’ it often EMERGENCY WITH RESPECT TO ALEXANDER, has led a strong career means to them high quality, agricul- SERIOUS HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSE representing Tennesseeans at the State tural machinery. and Federal levels. AND CORRUPTION—MESSAGE New Holland Agriculture, which is a Senator ALEXANDER was Governor of FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE brand of CNH Industrial, was founded Tennessee from 1979 to 1987. As Gov- UNITED STATES (H. DOC. NO. 116– 125 years ago in New Holland, Pennsyl- ernor, he revamped the economy by 173) vania, by a gentleman named Abe Zim- cutting regulations to attract new The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- merman. What Mr. Zimmerman began businesses and jobs and reformed our fore the House the following message as a small machine shop in 1895 would public education curriculum. from the President of the United eventually grow to become a global Following two terms as Governor, States; which was read and, together leader in agricultural equipment, from Senator ALEXANDER was president of with the accompanying papers, referred tractors to harvesting. the University of Tennessee and served to the Committee on Foreign Affairs The company became known for as Secretary of Education in President and ordered to be printed: technological innovations, particularly

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:06 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00066 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K16DE7.055 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7227 the development of the first automatic lenges of remote instruction, educators or local government, to index award hay baler nearly 80 years ago. The com- in school districts had to adjust quick- amounts under such Act for inflation, to pro- pany’s hay tools plant still operates in ly to make sure students are still re- vide for civil injunctive relief for violations New Holland, Pennsylvania, where ceiving that quality education. Amer- of such Act, and for other purposes; with an amendment (Rept. 116–658). Referred to the they produce approximately 30 models ica’s teachers always rise to the occa- Committee of the Whole House on the state of balers, which are exported to 45 sion, and they have done so once again. of the Union. countries around the world. New Hol- Madam Speaker, we also honor the Mr. GRIJALVA: Committee on Natural Re- land Agriculture has 800 dealerships in brave servicemembers in the United sources. H.R. 3068. A bill to establish an off- North America and nearly 5,000 more States Armed Forces who are away shore wind career training grant program, across the globe. from their families for this upcoming and for other purposes; with an amendment Madam Speaker, I am particularly holiday season, and we pray for their (Rept. 116–659, Pt. 1). Referred to the Com- thankful for and proud of the hard continued safety. We must also hold mittee of the Whole House on the state of the Union. work by the company’s nearly 1,000 their families in our hearts as they, full-time employees in New Holland, too, serve our Nation with bravery DISCHARGE OF COMMITTEE Pennsylvania. Many of them I know while their loved ones are abroad. Pursuant to clause 2 of rule XIII, the personally and are some of my closest Madam Speaker, lastly, I thank ev- Committee on Education and Labor friends. eryone here in the Capitol working discharged from further consideration. I particularly want to mention my hard to put safety measures in place so H.R. 3068 referred to the Committee of father-in-law, Jim Greiner, who spent we can be here in Washington to serve the Whole House on the state of the his entire career at New Holland. He and work for the American people. I Union. retired after 45 years as a project engi- know that brighter days lie ahead for f neer and had a great career there. our neighbors and nations. Thera- PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS I am thankful for how New Holland peutics and vaccines are going to help has given back to the community, par- us turn the corner on this virus. Under clause 2 of rule XII, public ticularly working to support STEM Please keep your loved ones and bills and resolutions of the following education in my congressional district. neighbors in mind. Wear a mask, wash titles were introduced and severally re- The organization recently hosted an your hands, and practice social ferred, as follows: externship program for local educators distancing this holiday season. By Mr. AGUILAR: to provide a hands-on learning experi- Madam Speaker, I yield back the bal- H.R. 8974. A bill to increase the principal ence for teachers to see how New Hol- ance of my time. obligation limits for mortgage insurance under the National Housing Act for resi- land’s employees use STEM every day f at the workplace. dences in eligible metropolitan cities and ADJOURNMENT urban counties; to the Committee on Finan- Madam Speaker, I offer my congratu- cial Services. lations to New Holland North America The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- By Ms. BLUNT ROCHESTER: on their 125th anniversary. I am cer- ant to section 4(b) of House Resolution H.R. 8975. A bill to prohibit the usage of ex- tain that Mr. Abe Zimmerman, who 967, the House stands adjourned until ploitative and deceptive practices by large founded the company so long ago, noon tomorrow for morning-hour de- online operators and to promote consumer could not have envisioned how the bate and 2 p.m. for legislative business. welfare in the use of behavioral research by business would grow to support agri- Thereupon (at 5 o’clock and 54 min- such providers; to the Committee on Energy culture across the globe but would be utes p.m.), under its previous order, the and Commerce. By Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois: very, very proud of what his company House adjourned until tomorrow, H.R. 8976. A bill to clarify access to courts has accomplished. I wish them contin- Thursday, December 17, 2020, at noon of the United States for persons seeking re- ued success as they navigate the next for morning-hour debate. dress for a violation of a constitutional right 125 years in business and thank them f by the United States or any agent, person, or for having a positive impact on the entity acting in the name of the United community that I represent. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES ON States, and for other purposes; to the Com- PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS mittee on the Judiciary. IN HONOR OF FRONTLINE WORKERS AND By Mrs. DINGELL (for herself and Mr. SERVICEMEMBERS Under clause 2 of rule XIII, reports of committees were delivered to the Clerk DESAULNIER): Mr. SMUCKER. Madam Speaker, I H.R. 8977. A bill to require employers to also rise today to honor the brave men for printing and reference to the proper provide training to employees whose jobs are and women in my district and across calendar, as follows: in danger of being changed or replaced due to America who have been working hard Mr. DEFAZIO: Committee on Transpor- technology, and for other purposes; to the to combat COVID–19. tation and Infrastructure. H.R. 5047. A bill to Committee on Education and Labor, and in Since the beginning of the pandemic, require the Administrator of General Serv- addition to the Committee on Ways and doctors, nurses, and medical profes- ices to conduct an annual audit of properties Means, for a period to be subsequently deter- sionals in hospitals, long-term care fa- leased to private parties, and for other pur- mined by the Speaker, in each case for con- cilities, and community health centers poses (Rept. 116–655). Referred to the Com- sideration of such provisions as fall within mittee of the Whole House on the state of the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. have committed long hours away from the Union. By Mr. GARCI´A of Illinois (for himself, their families to put the needs of oth- Ms. WATERS: Committee on Financial Mr. ESPAILLAT, and Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ): ers before their own. They have worked Services. H.R. 5013. A bill to apply the Fair H.R. 8978. A bill to establish the Office for without pause to keep our community Debt Collection Practices Act to small busi- the Equitable, Transparent, and Accountable healthy and to care for those in need. nesses to the same extent as such Act applies Puerto Rico Reconstruction, and for other Throughout this pandemic, farmers, to consumers, to require the Director of the purposes; to the Committee on Transpor- producers, truck drivers, and manufac- Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection to tation and Infrastructure, and in addition to turers have also worked without pause define ‘‘small business’’ for purposes of such the Committee on Financial Services, for a Act, and for other purposes; with amend- period to be subsequently determined by the to provide for us all. The farmers and ments (Rept. 116–656). Referred to the Com- Speaker, in each case for consideration of agriculture producers in my district mittee of the Whole House on the state of such provisions as fall within the jurisdic- adjusted to changes in supply chain op- the Union. tion of the committee concerned. erations to keep our Nation fed. Truck Mr. TAKANO: Committee on Veterans’ Af- By Mr. HALL: drivers and logistics professionals en- fairs. Hijacking our Heroes: Exploiting Vet- H.R. 8979. A bill to amend the Revised sured deliveries of essential goods and erans Through Disinformation on Social Statutes of the United States to eliminate personal protective equipment were de- Media (Rept. 116–657). Referred to the Com- qualified immunity, and for other purposes; livered, and delivered on time. mittee of the Whole House on the state of to the Committee on the Judiciary. Educators have also faced significant the Union. By Mr. HALL: Ms. WATERS: Committee on Financial H.R. 8980. A bill to provide for the resen- challenges this year, but they have Services. H.R. 3948. A bill to amend the Fair tencing and expungement of nonviolent of- continued to provide students with the Debt Collection Practices Act to extend the fenses for individuals adversely impacted by best education possible in these cir- provisions of that Act to cover a debt col- the War on Drugs, and for other purposes; to cumstances. Adapting to the chal- lector who is collecting debt owed to a State the Committee on the Judiciary.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:06 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00067 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K16DE7.057 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE H7228 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 16, 2020 By Ms. HERRERA BEUTLER (for her- By Mr. LYNCH (for himself and Mr. mitted regarding the specific powers self and Ms. PORTER): EMMER): granted to Congress in the Constitu- H.R. 8981. A bill to prohibit discrimination H.R. 8989. A bill to require the Securities tion to enact the accompanying bill or on the basis of mental or physical disability and Exchange Commission to conduct a in cases of anatomical gifts and organ trans- study on the feasibility, benefits, and costs joint resolution. plants; to the Committee on Energy and of using a distributed ledger system in the By Mr. AGUILAR: Commerce. post-trade clearing and settlement process, H.R. 8974. By Mr. HILL of Arkansas: and for other purposes; to the Committee on Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 8982. A bill to amend the Federal Re- Financial Services. lation pursuant to the following: serve Act to require the Federal Open Mar- By Mr. NORCROSS (for himself and Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution By Ms. BLUNT ROCHESTER: ket Committee to establish interest rates on Mr. WALBERG): H.R. 8975. balances maintained at a Federal Reserve H.R. 8990. A bill to amend the Employee Congress has the power to enact this legis- Bank by depository institutions; to the Com- Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 to lation pursuant to the following: mittee on Financial Services. permit default investment arrangements in By Mr. HILL of Arkansas: Article I, Section 8, Clause 3 and Article I, annuities, and for other purposes; to the Section 8, Clause 18. H.R. 8983. A bill to amend the Sarbanes- Committee on Education and Labor. Oxley Act of 2002 to exclude the audits of pri- By Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois: By Mr. POSEY: H.R. 8976. vately held, non-custody brokers and dealers H.R. 8991. A bill to amend the Help Amer- that are in good standing from certain re- Congress has the power to enact this legis- ica Vote Act of 2002 to prohibit the use of quirements under title I of that Act, and for lation pursuant to the following: voting systems in elections for Federal office other purposes; to the Committee on Finan- Article I of the Constitution and its subse- whose hardware and software components cial Services. quent amendments and further clarified and are not manufactured and maintained in the By Mr. HILL of Arkansas: interpreted by the Supreme Court of the H.R. 8984. A bill to ensure that the oper- United States or which are produced by for- United States. ations of the Board of Governors of the Fed- eign entities, and for other purposes; to the By Mrs. DINGELL: eral Reserve System remain independent Committee on House Administration. H.R. 8977. from the credit policy of the United States, By Miss RICE of New York: Congress has the power to enact this legis- and for other purposes; to the Committee on H.R. 8992. A bill to amend the Homeland lation pursuant to the following: Financial Services. Security Act of 2002 to provide for certain The Constitutional authority of Congress By Mr. HILL of Arkansas (for himself succession reforms, and for other purposes; to enact this legislation is provided by Arti- and Mr. SCHWEIKERT): to the Committee on Homeland Security. cle I, Section 8 of the United States Con- H.R. 8985. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- By Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi (for stitution. enue Code of 1986 to make an exception to himself and Mr. SCHIFF): By Mr. GARCI´A of Illinois: the 100 shareholder S corporation limitation H.R. 8993. A bill to amend the Homeland H.R. 8978. in the case of shareholders whose shares Security Act of 2002 to direct the Secretary Congress has the power to enact this legis- were acquired through certain crowd-funding of Homeland Security to carry out an intel- lation pursuant to the following: or small public offerings; to the Committee ligence and cybersecurity diversity fellow- Article 1, Section 8 on Ways and Means. ship program, and for other purposes; to the By Mr. HALL: By Mr. HUFFMAN (for himself, Mr. Committee on Homeland Security. H.R. 8979. LAMALFA, Mr. GARAMENDI, Mr. By Ms. UNDERWOOD (for herself, Mr. Congress has the power to enact this legis- MCCLINTOCK, Mr. THOMPSON of Cali- THOMPSON of Mississippi, Ms. NOR- lation pursuant to the following: fornia, Ms. MATSUI, Mr. BERA, Mr. TON, Mr. BISHOP of Georgia, Mr. CAR- This bill is enacted pursuant to the power MCNERNEY, Mr. HARDER of California, SON of Indiana, Ms. MOORE, Mr. KIL- granted to Congress under Article I of the Mr. DESAULNIER, Ms. PELOSI, Ms. LEE DEE, and Ms. JAYAPAL): United States Constitution and its subse- of California, Ms. SPEIER, Mr. H.R. 8994. A bill to amend the Department quent amendments, and further clarified and SWALWELL of California, Mr. COSTA, of Education Organization Act to permit ap- interpreted by the Supreme Court of the Mr. KHANNA, Ms. ESHOO, Ms. LOF- peals of certain determinations made by the United States. GREN, Mr. PANETTA, Mr. COX of Cali- Office of Civil Rights of the Department of By Mr. HALL: fornia, Mr. NUNES, Mr. MCCARTHY, Education made with respect to complaints H.R. 8980. Congress has the power to enact this legis- Mr. CARBAJAL, Mr. GARCIA of Cali- filed between March 5, 2018, and November lation pursuant to the following: fornia, Ms. BROWNLEY of California, 18, 2018; to the Committee on Education and This bill is enacted pursuant to the power Ms. of California, Mr. Labor. granted to Congress under Article I of the SCHIFF, Mr. CA´ RDENAS, Mr. SHERMAN, By Mr. VEASEY (for himself, Mr. United States Constitution and its subse- Mr. AGUILAR, Mrs. NAPOLITANO, Mr. MCKINLEY, Mrs. BUSTOS, and Mr. quent amendments, and further clarified and of California, Mr. GOMEZ, STAUBER): interpreted by the Supreme Court of the Mrs. TORRES of California, Mr. RUIZ, H.R. 8995. A bill to require the Secretary of United States. Ms. BASS, Ms. SA´ NCHEZ, Mr. Energy to establish programs for carbon di- By Ms. HERRERA BEUTLER: CISNEROS, Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD, Mr. oxide capture, transport, utilization, and storage, and for other purposes; to the Com- H.R. 8981. TAKANO, Mr. CALVERT, Ms. WATERS, Congress has the power to enact this legis- Ms. BARRAGA´ N, Ms. PORTER, Mr. mittee on Science, Space, and Technology, and in addition to the Committees on Energy lation pursuant to the following: CORREA, Mr. LOWENTHAL, Mr. ROUDA, Article I Section 8 Clause 1, Article I Sec- and Commerce, and Transportation and In- Mr. LEVIN of California, Mr. VARGAS, tion 8 Clause 3, Article I Section 8 Clause 18 frastructure, for a period to be subsequently Mr. PETERS, and Mrs. DAVIS of Cali- By Mr. HILL of Arkansas: determined by the Speaker, in each case for fornia): H.R. 8982. H.R. 8986. A bill to designate the facility of consideration of such provisions as fall with- Congress has the power to enact this legis- the United States Postal Service located at in the jurisdiction of the committee con- lation pursuant to the following: 120 4th Street in Petaluma, California, as the cerned. Article I. Section 8, Clause 1 ‘‘Lynn C. Woolsey Post Office Building’’; to By Mr. HALL: By Mr. HILL of Arkansas: the Committee on Oversight and Reform. H.J. Res. 106. A joint resolution proposing H.R. 8983. By Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania: an amendment to the Constitution of the Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 8987. A bill to amend the Public United States to prohibit the use of slavery lation pursuant to the following: Health Service Act to incentivize the manu- and involuntary servitude as a punishment Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 facture of certain medicines in the United for a crime; to the Committee on the Judici- By Mr. HILL of Arkansas: States and to enhance the security of the ary. H.R. 8984. United States pharmaceutical supply chain, By Mr. MORELLE (for himself and Ms. Congress has the power to enact this legis- and for other purposes; to the Committee on SHERRILL): lation pursuant to the following: Energy and Commerce, and in addition to H. Res. 1266. A resolution expressing appre- Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 the Committee on Ways and Means, for a pe- ciation and support for essential employees By Mr. HILL of Arkansas: riod to be subsequently determined by the with disabilities during the current pan- H.R. 8985. Speaker, in each case for consideration of demic, and beyond; to the Committee on Congress has the power to enact this legis- such provisions as fall within the jurisdic- Education and Labor. lation pursuant to the following: tion of the committee concerned. f Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 By Mr. KIM (for himself, Mr. SUOZZI, By Mr. HUFFMAN: and Mr. KING of New York): CONSTITUTIONAL AUTHORITY H.R. 8986. H.R. 8988. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- STATEMENT Congress has the power to enact this legis- enue Code of 1986 to reduce the base erosion lation pursuant to the following: minimum tax rate for taxable years ending Pursuant to clause 7 of rule XII of This bill is enacted pursuant to the power in 2020; to the Committee on Ways and the Rules of the House of Representa- granted to Congress under Article I, Section Means. tives, the following statements are sub- 8, Clause 7 of the United States Constitution.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:06 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00068 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\L16DE7.100 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7229 By Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania: ADDITIONAL SPONSORS H.R. 8637: Mr. BERA, Mr. LARSEN of Wash- H.R. 8987. ington, Mrs. NAPOLITANO, Ms. PORTER, Mrs. Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors Congress has the power to enact this legis- CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York, Mr. lation pursuant to the following: were added to public bills and resolu- LOWENTHAL, Mr. TED LIEU of California, and Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution of tions, as follows: Ms. HAALAND. the United States. H.R. 788: Mr. CROW. H.R. 8702: Mr. GALLAGHER, Mr. SOTO, Mr. By Mr. KIM: H.R. 1685: Mr. TRONE. DAVID SCOTT of Georgia, Mr. GALLEGO, Mr. H.R. 8988. H.R. 1992: Mr. KILMER and Ms. KAPTUR. SMITH of Washington, Ms. MCCOLLUM, Mr. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 2054: Mr. CRIST. CORREA, Mr. YARMUTH, Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 2168: Ms. HOULAHAN. of Illinois, and Mr. PHILLIPS. Article 1, Section 8 of the Constitution H.R. 2482: Mr. SMITH of Washington. By Mr. LYNCH: H.R. 2625: Ms. SHERRILL. H.R. 8743: Mr. WALDEN, Mr. THOMPSON of H.R. 8989. H.R. 2775: Ms. DEAN. Mississippi, Mr. HUFFMAN, Mr. RUIZ, Mr. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 2848: Mr. RUIZ. CRIST, and Mr. KRISHNAMOORTHI. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 3104: Mr. SHERMAN. H.R. 8769: Ms. MATSUI. A´ NCHEZ ASTOR Article 1, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitu- H.R. 3107: Ms. S and Ms. C of H.R. 8778: Mrs. NAPOLITANO. tion Florida. H.R. 8782: Ms. SHALALA and Mr. LYNCH. By Mr. NORCROSS: H.R. 3138: Mr. CLEAVER and Ms. HOULAHAN. H.R. 8990. H.R. 3225: Ms. PORTER. H.R. 8791: Mr. KHANNA. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 4022: Mr. LEVIN of Michigan. H.R. 8793: Ms. JUDY CHU of California. DAMS OMEZ lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 4052: Ms. A and Mr. G . H.R. 8805: Mrs. WALORSKI. clause 18 of section 8 of article I of the H.R. 4092: Mr. AGUILAR. H.R. 4729: Ms. ESHOO. H.R. 8809: Mr. GRIJALVA and Mr. HIGGINS of Constitution New York. By Mr. POSEY: H.R. 4758: Mr. JOYCE of Ohio. H.R. 8991. H.R. 4823: Ms. PORTER. H.R. 8812: Mr. SMITH of Washington, Mr. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 4836: Mr. CARBAJAL. COHEN, Mr. GRIJALVA, Ms. WILD, and Mr. H.R. 4961: Ms. HAALAND. lation pursuant to the following: SCHNEIDER. H.R. 5091: Ms. PORTER. Article I, Section 8 H.R. 8824: Ms. CLARKE of New York. H.R. 5141: Mr. RUSH and Mr. GALLEGO. By Miss RICE of New York: H.R. 8830: Mr. LAMALFA. H.R. 5200: Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. H.R. 8992. H.R. 5234: Mr. CROW. H.R. 8867: Mr. NEGUSE. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 5297: Mr. DUNN. H.R. 8904: Ms. JUDY CHU of California. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 5548: Ms. BONAMICI and Mr. Article 1, Section 8 H.R. 8907: Mr. WALTZ. LOWENTHAL. H.R. 8908: Ms. NORTON and Ms. SCHA- By Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi: H.R. 5861: Mr. MCGOVERN. H.R. 8993. H.R. 6359: Ms. DAVIDS of Kansas and Mr. KOWSKY. Congress has the power to enact this legis- STIVERS. H.R. 8912: Mr. CARSON of Indiana. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 6364: Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ. H.R. 8933: Mr. RYAN. Article 1, Section 8 UFFMAN H.R. 6644: Mr. H . H.R. 8956: Ms. NORTON. By Ms. UNDERWOOD: H.R. 6703: Mrs. FLETCHER, Mr. LYNCH, Mr. H. Con. Res. 115: Mr. JOYCE of Ohio. H.R. 8994. FOSTER, Ms. SHERRILL, Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD, Congress has the power to enact this legis- Ms. SCANLON, and Mr. LAMB. H. Res. 114: Mr. BUDD and Ms. KELLY of Illi- lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 7078: Ms. PINGREE. nois. Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitu- H.R. 7380: Mr. PRICE of North Carolina. H. Res. 1183: Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia, Mr. tion H.R. 7663: Ms. PINGREE and Mr. HUFFMAN. DEUTCH, and Mr. KILDEE. By Mr. VEASEY: H.R. 7876: Mr. QUIGLEY. H. Res. 1192: Ms. LOFGREN. H.R. 8995. H.R. 7886: Mrs. MURPHY of Florida and Mr. Congress has the power to enact this legis- HURD of Texas. H. Res. 1221: Mr. NADLER, Ms. LOFGREN, and lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 8082: Mrs. MILLER. Mr. CROW. Article I, Section 8 (relating to interstate H.R. 8096: Mr. RYAN and Ms. MATSUI. H. Res. 1222: Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia and commerce) H.R. 8179: Mr. RYAN and Mr. YARMUTH. Mr. LEVIN of Michigan. By Mr. HALL: H.R. 8361: Ms. Craig. H. Res. 1234: Ms. PRESSLEY. H.J. Res. 106. H.R. 8429: Ms. NORTON. H. Res. 1246: Ms. LOFGREN. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 8485: Mr. MOULTON. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 8565: Ms. NORTON, Mr. CONNOLLY, Mr. H. Res. 1257: Miss GONZA´ LEZ-COLO´ N of Puer- Article V of the Constitution of the United COOPER, Mr. RASKIN, Mr. KHANNA, and Ms. to Rico. States. PORTER. H. Res. 1265: Mrs. LESKO.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:06 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00069 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE7.020 H16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with HOUSE E PL UR UM IB N U U S Congressional Record United States th of America PROCEEDINGS AND DEBATES OF THE 116 CONGRESS, SECOND SESSION

Vol. 166 WASHINGTON, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2020 No. 213 Senate The Senate met at 10 a.m. and was a Q&A in every one of those counties. tinuing these urgent discussions until called to order by the President pro This annual tradition keeps me in we have an agreement, and we agreed tempore (Mr. GRASSLEY). touch with the grassroots of Iowa and we will not leave town until we have f allows me to bring their ideas to the made law. policymaking tables here in Wash- The American people need more help. PRAYER ington, DC. It is that simple. Further targeted re- The Chaplain, Dr. Barry C. Black, of- With all the twists and turns this lief is now months overdue. We need fered the following prayer: year took, my county meetings were vaccine distribution money. We need to Let us pray. more beneficial than ever. I just want re-up the Paycheck Protection Pro- Eternal Spirit, our hope for the years to mention a couple of these twists and gram to save jobs. We need to continue to come, today, teach our lawmakers turns. to provide for laid-off Americans. Con- to do things Your way, embracing Your The twist and turns involved the big gressional leaders on both sides are precepts and walking in Your path. In- devastating windstorm we called the going to keep working until we get this spire them to trust You for safety. As ‘‘derecho’’ that went through central done. they receive guidance from You and Iowa, destroying 800,000 acres of crops. f follow Your leading, replace anxiety Those twists and turns involved deal- with calm, confusion with clarity, and ing with all the issues coming from TRIBUTE TO pessimism with hope. COVID–19. Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, now Lord, guide our Senators to find One thing I know for sure, Iowans are on a completely different matter, it is workable solutions for the problems of very resilient people. So I look forward both my honor and unhappy duty to our Nation and world. to continuing these county meetings offer one more parting tribute to a dis- You are our God, and the good things and the Q&A’s involved with them at tinguished Senator who will leave us at we have come from You. the beginning of the new year. the end of the 116th Congress. We pray in Your marvelous Name. I yield the floor. My good friend the senior Senator Amen. I suggest the absence of a quorum. from Kansas, PAT ROBERTS, is pre- f The PRESIDING OFFICER. The paring to close out the longest congres- clerk will call the roll. sional tenure the Sunflower State has PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE The senior assistant legislative clerk ever seen. The President pro tempore led the proceeded to call the roll. When PAT arrived in Washington as a Pledge of Allegiance, as follows: Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I freshman House Member, he was a I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the ask unanimous consent that the order young man among giants—Byrd, Ste- United States of America, and to the Repub- for the quorum call be rescinded. vens, Dole. But over the past four dec- lic for which it stands, one nation under God, The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without ades, the name ‘‘Roberts’’ has come to indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. objection, it is so ordered. define its own iconic brand of heart- The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. f land statesmanship. ALEXANDER). The Senator from Iowa. PAT is the first to admit he didn’t es- Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, I ask RECOGNITION OF THE MAJORITY tablish that name all on his own. He unanimous consent for 1 minute in LEADER inherited it from another great Kan- morning business, please. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ma- san. Charles Wesley Roberts was a ma- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without jority leader is recognized. rine, a journalist, and a leader in Re- objection, it is so ordered. f publican politics. f So get ready to experience some deja CORONAVIRUS vu, because at age 16, our future col- IOWA Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, the league got to attend the 1952 conven- Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, we Democratic leader and I worked into tion that nominated Kansas’s own Gen- all know that, without a doubt, 2020 the evening alongside the Speaker of eral Eisenhower. That early taste of has been a difficult year. But for me it the House and the House Republican politics planted a seed. was an important year to continue leader. We made major headway toward PAT earned his own Marine Corps fighting for Iowans and listening to hammering out a targeted pandemic commission. In fact, he served with the Iowans. relief package that would be able to first contingent to return to Iwo Jima, This year I completed my 40th year pass both Chambers with bipartisan where his father had fought 15 years of my 99 county meetings that included majorities. We committed to con- earlier.

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

S7511

.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:39 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE6.000 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE S7512 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 16, 2020 Then he decided to ply another fam- for bipartisan work. That is partly the voice, the expression all work together. ily trade. Like generations of Roberts nature of an issue set where divisions But I will share just one example. men, including an abolitionist news- tend to be more regional than ideolog- Several years back, PAT and I were paperman three generations back, he ical, but it is also because of the both attending a formal dinner hon- took up journalism. skilled, thoughtful, and genial con- oring Bob Dole and Howard Baker. PAT Only then did PAT bring his talents sensus-builder we have had at the cen- had been asked to offer some remarks here to Washington, to Senator Frank ter of the dais. in Bob’s honor. Apparently, he decided Carlson’s office. He impressed, and by Two years ago, because of the chair- a conventional toast would just simply the next time his next boss, Keith man, the farm bill conference report not cut it; the fancy evening would Sebelius, announced his retirement, passed by an overwhelming margin of need shaking up. PAT was running out of excuses not to 87 to 13—87 votes for our farm bill. By It so happened that PAT had recently go on and run himself. my count, that was the eighth farm attended Kennedy Center Honors that Campaigning in Kansas’s ‘‘Big First’’ bill our colleague had a hand in. It honored Neil Diamond. So when PAT district required countless road trips turns out that experience actually took the podium at that dinner, with across nearly half the State. But lis- matters, or, as our colleague likes to that famous tune ‘‘Sweet Caroline’’ tening to neighbors, building relation- say, ‘‘it takes a long time to do big ships, and earning trust came natu- stuck in his head, he wound up leading things’’—‘‘a long time to do big the audience in the world premiere rally. PAT’s district elected him no things.’’ sing-along of the new original song fewer than eight times, and the whole That is true of multiyear farm bills. State sent him here to the Senate an- ‘‘Sweet Robert Dole . . . Bob, Bob, It is true of the advances PAT has Bob.’’ A little unusual, sure, but some- other four. pushed forward on geopolitical issues Before long, every small-time diner how it was the perfect contribution. It like food security. It is true of other literally brought the house down. in Western Kansas was filled with peo- important projects that our friend has ple who saw PAT not just as an elected So we have here a senior Senator taken under his wing, like the crusade from a State that expects greatness official but as a trusted friend. The to make certain that President Eisen- way I hear it, you walk into a res- from its representatives. They gave hower receives the monument he de- America a young man from Abilene taurant or a coffee shop with PAT, and served here in Washington. This pan- you budget about 15 minutes of con- who led the fight against tyranny in demic may have changed the unveiling Europe and became President. They versation before you even make it to ceremonies this year, but it is only fit- your table. Many of those conversa- gave us another son from Russell who ting that Ike persevered. That is tions revolve around one particular fought in that fight, came home, be- thanks to a quarter century of work line of work. There is a reason why no came Senate majority leader, and ran from PAT ROBERTS. for President. less an authority than Bob Dole would There is a reason the people of Kan- later dub this man ‘‘Mr. Agriculture.’’ sas have rehired our colleague time But let’s add one more name to that When Republicans retook the House after time, and it is not just for his en- distinguished company. Historians cer- majority in 1994, they knew who had to tertaining wit, although I will have tainly will. There is a third Kansas chair the Ag Committee. The rest is more on that subject in just a moment. statesman from Holton who belongs on history for our colleague, for his State, that list: Eisenhower, Dole, and ROB- and for farmers and growers all across It is because, when their Senator sees a way to strengthen his home State or ERTS. America. In his own farewell speech, PAT The 1996 farm bill that PAT shep- his country, he keeps at it until he gets it done. quoted his first boss in Washington, herded included ‘‘Freedom to Farm,’’ Senator Carlson. He said: landmark legislation that set a new In short, PAT has spent decades mak- tone for the way American farmers ing sure that it is not just places like There are no self-made men or women in would compete in a global market. Manhattan, NY, but also Manhattan, public office. It is your friends and family who make you what you are. Now, today, we know that PAT would KS, that get the attention and support later become the only American ever they deserve. Well, more than all the bills he has to chair the Ag Committee in both the In fact, thanks to PAT, Manhattan, passed, above all the outcomes he Senate and the House. But on this side KS, is the home for our Nation’s his- willed into reality, PAT says his family of the dome, he tackled a few other as- toric new National Bio and Agro-De- is his ‘‘crowning achievement.’’ So I signments first. fense Facility. He played the long must conclude by thanking PAT’s PAT had already helped clean up game and spent years getting his State ‘‘magnolia blossom,’’ Franki, for her some ethics messes in the House, and ready to make the pitch. This state-of- generosity in lending PAT to us all so his discretion and integrity landed the-art research facility will come on- these years and everything she has him on the Senate Ethics Committee. line at K-State, next to another impor- done to make it possible. And the Sen- In short order, he was chairing it. tant research facility that happens to ate thanks his three kids and their Then came the Intelligence Com- be named Pat Roberts Hall. eight grandchildren for making do with mittee gavel and, with it, more sen- He has looked out for Fort Riley and less of our colleague’s time than they sitive challenges. Our trusted marine its essential missions. He has helped deserve. had to conduct oversight and ask hard devastated communities like Greens- So PAT, we know we are going to questions in the wake of September 11 burg rebuild after disaster. In every laugh less without you. I am afraid we and the Iraq invasion. He oversaw es- way imaginable, Kansas has had its are not going to get as much done sential reports and helped shape re- champion. without you. form. PAT’s voice has been a powerful pres- But you have made us better for But we couldn’t keep the Kansan ence in these halls. But in rare mo- knowing you, the Senate better for away from his top passion for long. So ments when he hasn’t been getting re- having you, and Kansas and your coun- it wasn’t long before Mr. Agriculture sults, the voice has, of course, been try so much better for your devoted was chairing the committee with the making us laugh. PAT is one of the best service. humored Senators in a long time—not most importance of all to his constitu- I suggest the absence of a quorum. ents back in Kansas. funny, humorous. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Chairman ROBERTS has been a con- It is not just PAT’s quick wit or his stant voice and a consistent champion punch lines themselves that take the clerk will call the roll. for the men and women of this country cake. The best part is just the unpre- The senior assistant legislative clerk who get their hands dirty, grow crops, tentious fearlessness with which he proceeded to call the roll. raise livestock, and, as our colleague will go after a good laugh in almost Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, I ask likes to say, ‘‘feed a troubled and hun- any situation. unanimous consent that the order for gry world.’’ It is a daunting task to try to convey the quorum call be rescinded. Even in polarized times, the Ag Com- PAT’s winsome humor as a third party. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without mittee has largely remained a haven It is a package deal. The words, the objection, it is so ordered.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 09:29 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G16DE6.002 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S7513 RECOGNITION OF THE MINORITY The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without wealth, and opportunity will continue LEADER objection, it is so ordered. to move to only a handful of coastal The PRESIDING OFFICER. The f cities, and the full reach and diversity Democratic leader is recognized. of American ingenuity will go unreal- RESERVATION OF LEADER TIME ized. Fortunately, there are a lot of in- f The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under dividuals in the private sector who are BUSINESS BEFORE THE SENATE the previous order, the leadership time already working to address this issue Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, as we is reserved. and expand venture-backed investment rapidly approach the end of the session, f to other areas of the United States, and we had the opportunity to hear Senators are working in earnest to fin- CONCLUSION OF MORNING from some of them yesterday. I was ish a bipartisan government funding BUSINESS bill as well as an emergency Federal very grateful for their input. We were relief package. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Morning very pleased to have a South Dakota Over the past several weeks, the bi- business is closed. entrepreneur among our panelists. partisan Gang of 8 came together to f I am committed to making sure that the Federal Government serves as a provide a framework for an agreement EXECUTIVE SESSION on emergency COVID relief. That help, not a hindrance, to the expansion framework has been the basis of discus- of venture capital investment. I took sions between the four congressional EXECUTIVE CALENDAR the reins of the Commerce Commit- leaders: Speaker PELOSI, Leader tee’s Subcommittee on Communica- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under MCCARTHY, Leader MCCONNELL, and tions, Technology, Innovation, and the myself. Secretary Mnuchin has been in the previous order, the Senate will pro- Internet at the start of the 116th Con- our talks as well, representing the ceed to executive session to resume gress, and I am very proud of the work President. consideration of the following nomina- we have done over the past 2 years. We Yesterday we had two very long and tion, which the clerk will report. have had a very active Congress, hold- very productive meetings. Our final The senior assistant legislative clerk ing eight hearings in Washington, DC, discussion stretched late into the read the nomination of Katherine A. as well as a hearing in my home State evening. Crytzer, of Tennessee, to be United of South Dakota. These hearings have As we race the clock to reach a final States District Judge for the Eastern explored everything from broadband in- accord before the end of the year, we District of Tennessee. vestment in rural America to the way are close to an agreement. It is not a TECHNOLOGY the social media companies filter infor- done deal yet, but we are very close. Mr. THUNE. Mr. President, yester- mation on their platforms. Now, for Democrats, this has always day afternoon, the Commerce Sub- I have introduced several bills over been about getting the American peo- committee on Communications, Tech- the past 2 years that have been in- ple the relief they need in the time of nology, Innovation, and the Internet formed by our work at the committee, an acute national crisis, of an emer- held our final hearing of the 116th Con- including the PACT Act, the TRACED gency to so many Americans. This has gress. The title of yesterday’s hearing Act, the Telecommunications Skilled been about delivering a lifeline to was ‘‘Betting on the Rest: Expanding Workforce Act, and the STREAMLINE Americans who were laid off, through American Entrepreneurship Outside Small Cell Deployment Act. no fault of their own, families strug- Traditional Hubs,’’ and it focused on A priority of mine over the past sev- gling to pay the rent and put food on examining where venture capital is eral years has been ensuring that the table, small businesses hanging on being invested in this country and America stays at the head of the next for dear life. where it is not, with an eye to explor- wave of internet technology, which is This has been about saving our ing ways to expand investment to 5G. In addition to the tremendous tech- schools, our healthcare system, and de- other parts of the country. nological benefits that will result from livering the resources to produce and Over the past 50 years, venture cap- 5G, staying at the forefront of the 5G distribute the vaccine that should fi- ital has come to play an essential role revolution will bring tremendous eco- nally, finally help our country turn the in advancing American nomic investment and create a lot of corner and defeat this evil disease. entrepreneurism. Venture capitalists great American jobs. We are on the precipice of achieving I spent a lot of time working on this have provided key funding for startups these goals. We Democrats would have issue when I was chairman of the Com- that have gone on to become some of liked to go considerably further, but merce Committee, and heading up the America’s most profitable companies. this won’t be the last time Congress Communications, Technology, Innova- Many of the technologies and services speaks on COVID relief. Right now, we tion, and the Internet Subcommittee in we rely on today would not be around must address this emergency over the this Congress has allowed me to con- if venture capitalists hadn’t been will- short term. But make no mistake, we tinue to focus on 5G. ing to take a risk on innovation. will work in the future to provide addi- Last year, I introduced the STREAM- However, venture capital investment tional relief as the country requires, LINE Small Cell Deployment Act along in the United States has traditionally but we need to provide a platform to with the ranking member of the sub- been highly concentrated in certain build on. We need to address this emer- committee, Senator SCHATZ. Our legis- areas of the country. In 2019, Cali- gency right now. lation would help expedite the deploy- At the end of one of the most dif- fornia-based companies received 50 per- ment of the small cells that are a key ficult years in recent American his- cent of all venture-backed investment part of 5G infrastructure. tory, a vaccine has given us all a rea- in the United States. Just three This year, I introduced the Tele- son for hope. Let’s give the country an- States—California, New York, and communications Skilled Workforce Act other reason. The finish line is in sight. Massachusetts—accounted for almost to address another part of the 5G equa- Everyone wants to get this done. Let’s 75 percent of all venture-backed invest- tion, and that is ensuring that we have push through the few final meters and ment in the country. the workforce in place to handle the deliver the outcome that the American There are a lot of valid reasons for demands of installing and maintaining people very much need. this investment concentration. How- 5G technology. I yield the floor. ever, this geographic imbalance also As a resident of a rural State, ensur- I suggest the absence of a quorum. means that a majority of regions with- ing access to broadband internet in The PRESIDING OFFICER. The in the United States are often shut out rural communities has long been a pri- clerk will call the roll. from the kind of investment that cre- ority of mine. I introduced legislation The senior assistant legislative clerk ates jobs, revitalizes communities, and this year to direct funds from radio proceeded to call the roll. enables the pursuit of the American spectrum auctions to expand rural Mr. THUNE. Mr. President, I ask dream. broadband access. I am continuing my unanimous consent that the order for Without greater access to capital in work to ensure that rural communities the quorum call be rescinded. underserved regions, the flow of talent, get access to 5G technology.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:39 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G16DE6.003 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE S7514 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 16, 2020 Now, 5G has the potential to offer that I have mentioned. I want to thank compromise. This give-and-take is a tremendous benefits to rural commu- the subcommittee’s ranking member, good thing, for it lets people closest to nities, from expanded access to tele- Senator SCHATZ, for all the work he the issue have a significant voice. So I health services to precision agriculture has done to make our committee so ef- appreciate the efforts the stakeholders technologies, and I am committed to fective. I look forward to continuing to on the ground in Oregon have made to ensuring that rural communities are work with all my subcommittee col- get this bill to where it is today. How- not left behind in the 5G revolution. leagues to advance the 5G revolution, ever, I believe additional work is still Pretty much every American has address the challenges presented by the needed. been forced to deal with annoying and internet age, and to make life better I would let my friend from Oregon illegal robocalls. These calls are a for the American people. know that I will work with him and major nuisance, and too often, they are I yield the floor. any other Senators with public lands more than a nuisance. Every day, vul- I suggest the absence of a quorum. issues before the Committee on Energy nerable Americans fall prey to even The PRESIDING OFFICER. The and Natural Resources. We may not al- more sophisticated scammers and have clerk will call the roll. ways agree on a given outcome, but I money or their identities stolen. The senior assistant legislative clerk am committed to having those discus- I have worked on this issue for years, proceeded to call the roll. sions with Members of this body. and in 2019 I introduced the Telephone The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. For this reason, I object. Robocall Abuse Criminal Enforcement SASSE). The Senator from Oregon. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objec- and Deterrence Act, or the TRACED UNANIMOUS CONSENT REQUEST—S. 2828 tion is heard. Act, along with Senator MARKEY. Mr. WYDEN. Mr. President, in a mo- The Senator from Oregon. While this legislation won’t stop every ment, I am going to make a unanimous Mr. WYDEN. Mr. President, I know robocall, the TRACED Act provides consent request on a piece of legisla- my colleague does have other business tools to discourage illegal robocalls, tion on which my Eastern Oregon con- that he has to get to, but before he at- protect consumers, and crack down on stituents have done an extraordinary tends to that, I just want to thank him offenders. I am very proud that last De- job with respect to building a coalition for spending time with me already on cember, the President signed our legis- that brings people together on a con- this issue. I am going to outline the ex- lation into law. tentious issue. It deserves enormous traordinary effort that was made by More and more, Americans get news credit, and I will describe their efforts my constituents. and information from social media here shortly. I think we all know—and I am going sites, and particularly during this past I also want to thank, as we begin, to discuss it—that in the West, very election cycle, a lot of questions have Senator BARRASSO. Senator BARRASSO often, citizens feel nobody is listening arisen about the ways that social will be taking on a new role in January to them, that nobody cares about media platforms are filtering the infor- on the Senate Committee on Energy them. The Senator and I have talked mation that we see. Internet platforms and Natural Resources. He and I have about this. This is kind of a question have actively cultivated the notion worked together often, and I have ap- of, How do you empower them with a that they are merely providing the preciated his talking with me on this framework that can help them but also technology for people to communicate matter as he begins to look to his new serve as a model for the country? and to share their thoughts and ideas, duties in January. So a big thanks to my colleague, and but the reality is somewhat different. Mr. President, as in legislative ses- I am looking forward to working with Sites like Facebook and Twitter make sion, I ask unanimous consent that the him on this and other matters next use of sophisticated content-modera- Energy and Natural Resources Com- year. tion tools, algorithms, and rec- mittee be discharged from further con- What Senator BARRASSO and I are ommendation engines to shape the con- sideration of S. 2828, the Malheur Com- discussing is the Malheur Community tent that we see on these platforms. munity Empowerment for the Owyhee Empowerment for the Owyhee Act, Now, content moderation can cer- Act, and the Senate proceed to its im- known in our part of the county as the tainly improve the user experience. mediate consideration; further, that Malheur CEO Act. The bill has been in Most of us would prefer that YouTube the bill be considered read a third time the works since late 2018. Back then, recommend videos that match our in- and passed; and that the motion to re- when a group of ranchers and business terest. The problem is, the content consider be considered made and laid people who live in Malheur County, moderation has been and largely con- upon the table with no intervening ac- OR, came to see me, they came to talk tinues to be a black box, with con- tion or debate. about this incredible part of Oregon sumers having little or no idea how the The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there they call home. It is wide open coun- information they see has been shaped objection? try, and not many people live there, by the sites they are visiting. The Senator from Wyoming. but those who do want to make sure Last year, I chaired a subcommittee Mr. BARRASSO. Mr. President, re- they have a say in how it is going to be hearing on this issue, and the informa- serving the right to object, I do appre- preserved and managed for the future. tion we gathered helped inform two ciate the work the Senator from Or- When I say this bill has been in the pieces of bipartisan legislation that I egon has done on this public lands bill. works since 2018, that is not the whole introduced this Congress—the Filter I know the amount of effort that has story, because the fact is that the Bubble Transparency Act and the Plat- gone into this legislation is significant. groundwork for this bill has been in form Accountability and Consumer Locally driven public lands bills take the making for decades, and it is only Transparency Act, or the PACT Act. an incredible amount of time to get recently that an incredible coalition of Both of these bills would increase right. Oregonians from across the political transparency around the content-mod- This legislation has gone through in- spectrum has come together to make it eration process so that users have a tensive local stakeholder involvement, possible for us to propose this legisla- better sense of how the information very similar to what we have done in tion. presented to them is being filtered. The Wyoming with the Wyoming Public As I touched on with Senator BAR- Filter Bubble Transparency Act and Lands Initiative in my home State. RASSO, in rural areas of the West, like the PACT Act go a long way toward The Wyoming Public Lands Initiative Malheur County, there is often a feel- making social media and other sites was spearheaded by our Wyoming ing that people from thousands of more accountable to consumers, and I County Commissioners Association. miles away, particularly in DC, think will continue to work to advance these This initiative was started in order to that they somehow know better than legislative efforts here in the Senate. resolve, through local negotiations, the rural citizens about what is good for I am grateful to have had the oppor- status of so-called ‘‘temporary’’ wilder- those rural communities. I guess I tunity to chair this subcommittee over ness study areas in Wyoming that have would sum it up as: In rural areas, the past Congress and for the oppor- now, seemingly, become permanent. there is the sense that somehow, often, tunity it has given me to work on the I recognize and understand that pub- elites just look down on them; that no- important issues and the legislation lic lands negotiations often result in body is listening; that people in power

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:39 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G16DE6.005 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S7515 consider them kind of simple cowboys business people came to me with a very Now, the other area I want to touch who care little about saving land, air, improbable request for a Democratic on is—I said at the get-go and I think and water. U.S. Senator: Would I be willing to this has implications for dealing with Now, I have townhall meetings in work with them to pass land manage- public lands in the West. I said that every county in Oregon. I had 970 of ment legislation that could serve as an there has got to be three requirements them until earlier this spring when we alternative to a designation as a na- to help us all protect the land and pre- couldn’t do them in person due to the tional monument? serve the ranching way of life. pandemic. So we started doing them I thought this would be the point my First, we would have to bring every- virtually. I know from all of those colleagues would be interested in: I body to the table—environmentalists, townhall meetings that constituents in asked one member of the group if they ranchers, local folks, and we would Eastern Oregon are actually working had come to me because they thought have to bring some of the folks from every day to try to propose common- I might take leave of my senses and the more metropolitan area as well. sense, practical policies to preserve say yes to their request. When I asked That is because, in effect, when I said special places for their kids and their them, the person who was looking at that, they said: OK. You know your grandkids. They know that they are me said: Yes, that is what we thought, way around legislation. We will try to working for all Americans because all Ron. find common ground. Americans own public lands. Eastern Looming over the discussion was the And there is common ground on the Oregonians believe—and I think it is a history of this wonderful part of East- key question. In every nook and cran- very powerful point—that nobody cares ern Oregon. I am not going to take my ny of Oregon, there are people who care more about protecting Oregon’s nat- colleagues through a long discussion of about our natural treasures in the ural treasures than those who live the history of the Taylor Grazing Act, Owyhee Canyonlands. Malheur County every day in those communities and as it goes all the way back to 1932. So may keep its clock on Idaho time, but are always thinking about what the fu- I will just start with the fact that in it is enormously loved all across our State. In my view, that alone ought to ture is for their kids and their this area, Malheur County makes up be a reason, after decades and decades grandkids. most of the Vale District of the Bureau I will repeat that. of Land Management, which, of course, of differences with respect to how to Folks in rural Oregon know that the is part of the Department of the Inte- manage these treasures, that alone is a land is public land, that it belongs to rior. The Vale District was the poster reason to work together. The second rule of our discussions all Americans, and they know that child for ‘‘scientific grazing manage- was all about we weren’t going to liti- their communities’ futures depend on ment’’ in the 1960s and early 1970s gate this with the press and outside keeping the lands healthy and usable. under the Taylor Grazing Act. Did it groups every time somebody had a lit- The ranchers of Malheur County want live up to its potential? I would say it tle question, any kind of a dispute. So, to be active participants in improving didn’t because its efforts really were in effect, we had set it up so that other and keeping the ecological health of not adequately funded, and it lacked groups, environmental and ranchers, our public lands, and with this legisla- the consistent monitoring or the there was going to be a lot of oppor- tion that we are discussing today, they adaptive management needed to make tunity for folks to have their say. will have a real shot at doing just that. it work on the ground, and that raises And the third rule was that there The fact is that, in some parts of the the question: What results are really at would be an understanding that we West, there have been bad actors who issue? would respect our environmental laws. have abused the land for their own gain The Taylor Grazing Act is about That was also very pivotal. So, in and flouted the law in a dangerous turning cattle out onto public lands March of 2019, we got our group to- way. For example, in 2016, a heavily and attempting to assure they don’t gether in the conference room at the armed group of extremists that was not destroy the land, but where is the act National Guard Armory in Ontario, from Oregon, led by members of the when it comes to fighting invasive OR, and those were the things that we Bundy family, stormed the Malheur weeds and actually improving soil wanted to start with that we thought National Wildlife Refuge and occupied health and responding to climate gave us a chance to build this coalition it for weeks. There was a standoff that change and the effects of rangeland that could lead to passing legislation people all over the country saw, be- fires? In looking at what happened over to manage these treasures. So we got tween them and Federal, State, and the decades—the 1930s, the 1960s, the ranchers, environmentalists, local local law enforcement. There was one 1970s—this bill says we are going to an- businesses, and we meet, essentially, death. Further south, in Nevada, the swer those questions for 2020. every other Monday for months and Bundys have not only stolen millions The Owyhee Basin Stewardship Coa- months. of dollars’ worth of grazing fees from lition from Malheur County wanted to I also want to thank the Bureau of the American people, they also basi- work together. I was glad that they Land Management and the U.S. Fish cally pushed aside basic environmental came with their improbable request. I and Wildlife Service, Oregon State standards laid out by the Taylor Graz- said we have got one chance here on parks, fish and wildlife management ing Act, leading to degraded land- our watch to bring people together, to agencies, local Tribe representatives, scapes. come up with a sensible proposal. And all of whom put in enormous amounts Now, in Malheur County, just a few when they indicated they wanted to of time offering information, expertise, hours of wide open spaces east of the work with me, I basically said: How and good will. I met with local county Malheur National Wildlife Refuge that could I refuse? officials, as well, relearning their the extremists took over, our ranchers Knowing the violence that can erupt thoughts with respect to roads and and our small business people, to their in the West when people become closed water infrastructure and their most great credit, said: We are going to take off, when people just refuse to talk, important local economic needs. So a different path, a better path. In that is when you have a prescription that is what really led to this legisla- Malheur County, you don’t have the for trouble. As long as we are talking, tion. Bundys breaking the law. Our Malheur as long as we are coming together, as Finally, what we said is that we have County ranchers are committed to long as we are sitting with each other to make sure that people have an op- being better and doing better, but that and maybe just having a coffee, a tuna portunity to also talk, sort of, a little doesn’t mean they aren’t skeptical of fish sandwich, you have an opportunity bit offline. So after these sessions, we people coming in and changing the to come up with solutions. That is why always found a way to make it to a rules when it comes to public lands I agreed to this. gathering place somewhere where peo- surrounding their communities. I agreed, in effect, to try to match ple could just have a soda, perhaps So, in 2018, the Owyhee Basin Stew- the courage of these ranchers and busi- something a little bit stronger, and we ardship Coalition from Malheur County ness people in coming forward, and I could just take the time informally to came to Washington to meet with me. said: If they are going to be willing to talk about what we thought the future Senator BARRASSO will be interested in think through how to do this, I am was for this incredible part of the this. This group of ranchers and small going to join them. world.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:39 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G16DE6.007 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE S7516 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 16, 2020 Now, in closing up, I want to mention retail businesses, which I think we all Steve Russell, chair/rancher that I think land designation discus- understand desperately—desperately— Andy Bentz, former sheriff and Cliff sions pit people against one another in need our attention. Bentz’s brother the West if you do it the traditional I also want to thank at this point, Linda Bentz, rancher and Cliff and Andy’s sister-in-law sort of way. We needed some unity if while I am on floor, Senator GRASSLEY. Elias Eiguren, rancher we were going to come together on a He and I have led the bipartisan effort Mark Mackenzie, rancher bill. So that is why we wanted to make on the Finance Committee. Jaime Yturriondobeitia, rancher sure everybody had a shared under- I see Senator MANCHIN here. He Paulette Pyle, local consultant and former standing of how this would be ad- knows how strongly we feel about get- advocate dressed. ting the small businesses the deduct- And members of the environmental com- I particularly want at this time to ibility associated with these PPP munity who also sat through all or most of commend Sarah Bittleman, who is sit- loans. the meetings that lead to S. 2828 Tim Davis, Friends of the Owyhee ting here with me, who, month after I bring this up only by way of saying Ryan Houston and Corie Harlan, Oregon month after month, call after call after that we are grateful to Senator GRASS- Natural Desert Association call, email after email after email, al- LEY for working with me. He is the David Moryc, American Rivers ways tried to keep this on focus. chair of the Finance Committee. I am Nicole Cordan, Pew Charitable Trust I also want to mention at this time the ranking Democrat, but Senator Liz Sullivan, Northwest Sports Fishermen our inspiration was the late Mary MANCHIN and others deserve credit for With special thanks to Brent Grasty and Gautreaux, who was in our office for helping us get that proposal moving, Don Gonzalez at the Bureau of Land Manage- over two decades. She was the spirit of and we made it clear we have to get ment without whose expertise many of our discussions would have been a lot shorter. this effort. She lived in Portland. Yet that in before we go home. Part of it is Mr. WYDEN. I yield the floor. she was beloved—beloved—by the peo- our concern for the small retail busi- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- ple of rural Oregon, the people of nesses that we saw in the Owyhee. ator from West Virginia. Finally, the bill provides for amen- Malheur County. So with Sarah and Mr. MANCHIN. Mr. President, I ities at the Owyhee Reservoir with a Mary as the energy behind this, we would like permission to basically be marina. That is also good for the local really set out to build this coalition, able to complete my remarks. economy. Recreation is a big economic which has gotten us to this point. It The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without engine in our part of the world. was a coalition driven on the fact that objection, it is so ordered. people would take the time to do this And the last point I will just mention right. is the bill is a compromise. Everybody CORONAVIRUS When I brought it to the attention of had to make some concessions. Mr. MANCHIN. Mr. President, I want Senator BARRASSO, who obviously will There are folks who feel that the en- to start by thanking all of the Mem- play a key role in the Energy and Nat- vironmental groups got too much here. bers—and I mean all of the Members— ural Resources Committee next year, There are folks who feel the ranchers who have worked so diligently to the first thing he wanted to hear about and the small business people got too produce this product. was the kind of groundwork that had much. But the fact is, all sides said: We This is the product we produced with been laid for local input, for local have some core values and some core the so-called Gang of 8, but it turned stakeholders. I described to him much priorities. Let’s see if we can address into a bigger gang than that because of what we have been talking about. the core values and core priorities on more and more people want to work in So I introduced the Malheur CEO Act both sides of this so that this spectac- a bipartisan way in the Senate. I have in November of 2019. It was part of a ular portion of Eastern Oregon could be said: It is alive and well; we just have legislative hearing in 2020, and let me protected and preserved and we could to exercise it more. just very quickly describe a couple of respect and empower the people who We did that. We brought over the bi- elements of it. It works this way: It in- call it home and work so hard to make cameral group, the Problem Solvers, cludes range land management en- a living there. and they were tremendously instru- hancements, loop roads to focus tourist Finally, I ask unanimous consent to mental in being involved in this proc- travel and build the local economy, and put into the RECORD the names of all ess. I am so pleased to have that bi- about a million acres of wilderness des- the people who worked so hard on this cameral work, bipartisan work. We ignation. It also moves around a mil- effort—our Owyhee Basin Stewardship need more of it, and we are going to ba- lion acres of land now being studied Coalition. They are ranchers; there are sically demand more of it. But with into multiple-use management. folks on various kinds of environ- this product right now, as the ‘‘four The bill implements a few key strate- mental organizations and groups; and corners’’ are working, this is the tem- gies: a plan to let ranchers do range they deserve incredible credit for being plate they have used. improvements, irrigation systems, re- willing to put in the time and effort on Leader SCHUMER has said that this is moving water-sucking juniper, and re- something that seemed so improbable. what they have used because the legis- placing invasive weeds with native Finally, I want to thank my partner lative language has already been pro- grasses and improve the ecological here in the Senate, Senator MERKLEY. duced. There might be some tweaks to health of the range land. He has been terrific as we worked on it, but there are so many people. So here are the pictures to my left. this. We both share a love of the land Let me tell you how it started. My The first is a picture of rangeland in Eastern Oregon. dear friend Senator DURBIN is here. being overrun by weeds. The second Now it is up to the U.S. Senate to get After the election, we called each other shows rangeland in a native, healthy this passed. It isn’t going to happen back and forth, a few of us, saying: condition. today, unfortunately, but I want the Something has to be done. Nothing is Now, the bill also establishes a Senate to know I am going to stay at moving. People are hurting. Malheur Community Empowerment for it until this gets done. I think it will We heard that all during the election, the Owyhee advisory group so on an on- be of enormous benefit for rural Or- and they couldn’t figure out why we going basis it can advise BLM on land egon. I think it will be of enormous hadn’t done anything. I had no good ex- management. And the bill also provides benefit for our State, and I think it planation because, basically, the two substantial funding for the BLM so it will be a model for how our country leaders on both sides of the aisle were can finish environmental soil surveys brings people together, particularly as locked, and I said we didn’t know how and carry out environmental policies it relates to issues where we have been to break it. The only way we could associated with this bill and monitor polarized in the past. break it is by doing something showing the implementation of the bill. There being no objection, the mate- we could come together. The bill includes funding for the rial was ordered to be printed in the We did that. We did that in a way study and designation of three loop RECORD, as follows: that—we had a dinner. Senator MARK roads designed to improve the visitor The Owyhee Basin Stewardship Coalition WARNER from Virginia said: Let’s have experience, keep visitors out of trou- members who sat through most of the meet- a dinner. Senator ble, and drive more traffic to the small ings: said: Come to my house. So we go to

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:39 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G16DE6.008 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S7517 LISA MURKOWSKI’s house, and there and people are depending on us. We in- But, again, I want to thank all of my were eight of us. We had four R’s and clude $300 a week. I am not sure what colleagues, my Republican colleagues four D’s, and we grew from there. On the final bill will be on the safety net and friends and Democratic colleagues our side, there was Senator MARK WAR- realm there. We had $13 billion for food who worked so hard, and everybody NER, Senator , Senator assistance. We had SNAP benefits, who is going to benefit. I think it can JEAN SHAHEEN, myself. On the Repub- helping people who are falling into that be a merry Christmas. It can be a much lican side, there was Senator LISA chasm of welfare who need help, and happier Christmas for sure when we all MURKOWSKI, Senator , $35 billion for healthcare providers. We go home and look at our constituents Senator , and Senator had 20 percent set aside for the rural and say ‘‘We have done everything we . From there, it grew. hospitals and rural clinics. We had $16 can to get you through the most chal- Then we brought the bipartisan group billion for testing and tracing, and I lenging time,’’ which will be the first over—Congressman understand they are increasing that, quarter of 2021, and this bill is an emer- and Congressman and the which is needed; $12 billion for commu- gency bill that goes through April 1. Problem Solvers—and we kept growing nity development financial institu- I would note—oh, we are ready to go. from there, and we had more Senators tions; $5 billion for emergency funding I yield the floor. The PRESIDING OFFICER. All coming in. So we got input from every for substance abuse prevention and postcloture time has expired. quadrant we could possibly in order to treatment and mental health services; $82 billion for education, including $20 The question is, Will the Senate ad- do what we did, but it took quite a vise and consent to the Crytzer nomi- while. billion for basically higher education; $10 billion to support childcare; $10 bil- nation? The biggest hurdle we had was how Mr. JOHNSON. I ask for the yeas and much we could agree that we need as lion for broadband, including $3 billion for education and distance learning; nays. an emergency. Democrats were at 1.2, The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there a 1.3. The Republicans were at 5 or 6. We and $45 billion in emergency funding for transportation. There are so many sufficient second? couldn’t move off of that, and it took There appears to be a sufficient sec- us a while to say: Let’s look at emer- needs that we have out there. We have a second bill too. I am un- ond. gencies and everything that basically The clerk will call the roll. is going to run out of time in December derstanding that was a little bit more The bill clerk called the roll. and be nullified. People are going to controversial, but I can tell you one Mr. THUNE. The following Senators thing: There was no controversy on the lose their lifelines. are necessarily absent: the Senator We started putting all those figures first bill—$748 billion; 100 percent from Wyoming (Mr. ENZI), the Senator together and came up with the $900 bil- Democrats and Republicans—all had from Nebraska (Mrs. FISCHER), the Sen- lion figure. That is where 908 came input to make that happen. ator from Georgia (Mrs. LOEFFLER), Again, I say the staffs have worked a from. I understand they are still at the and the Senator from Georgia (Mr. yeoman’s job over day and night for 900, which we appreciate very much. I PERDUE). the last month. They have done a ter- am hopeful that we can help break that Mr. DURBIN. I announce that the rific job. Senator from California (Ms. HARRIS) is deadlock and be a part of this, but Now for State and local, I really be- there is so much more that has to be necessarily absent. lieve personally there is a need because The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. done, and there is so much more need I have seen the frontline workers and out there that will need to be done. We DAINES). Are there any other Senators the amount of revenue we might lose in the Chamber desiring to vote? must all come together behind Presi- for people not to have those services dent-Elect Joe Biden to make sure that The result was announced—yeas 48, that are essential. They are depending nays 47, as follows: we do it and look at the need of Amer- on it. We might lose it because the ica, not the greed of America. [Rollcall Vote No. 268 Ex.] States or the localities don’t have the YEAS—48 Trust me, if you are sending checks, revenue. So we have to come back and everyone is in line, but if you are real- Alexander Ernst Portman address that. If we don’t do it now, we Barrasso Gardner Risch ly getting to the people who are on the have to do it as soon as President-Elect Blackburn Graham Roberts frontline, they need it. Joe Biden takes over, look at it again Blunt Grassley Romney I have people who have said and we to try to help those in need, and we Boozman Hawley Rounds have all said: We are not going to go Braun Hoeven Rubio will do that. Burr Hyde-Smith Sasse home. We can’t go home until we do So we have come together. We have Capito Inhofe Scott (FL) something. Guess what. If we don’t do come together. Also what we are say- Cassidy Johnson Scott (SC) anything, a lot of people won’t have a ing is the money that the Governors Collins Kennedy Shelby home to go to this holiday season. Cornyn Lankford Sullivan and everyone has left over, they are Cotton Lee Thune They truly won’t. They are being evict- going to be able to have extensions on Cramer McConnell Tillis ed. They are losing their lifeline. They how that is used, and we have some di- Crapo Moran Toomey are losing their shelter. Cruz Murkowski Wicker rection. Daines Paul Young Food assistance—my goodness. Think We want to make sure that the locals about all the people in need. Have you have some opportunities too. Some of NAYS—47 ever seen the lines of people whom you the local communities and local mu- Baldwin Heinrich Rosen have never seen before, who have never Bennet Hirono Sanders nicipalities or local counties did not Blumenthal Jones been to a food give-out or a food bank Schatz get the revenue that they should have Booker Kaine Schumer or a food line? gotten in the first tranche of money, so Brown Kelly Shaheen These are the things that we ad- we are hoping that is taken care of Cantwell King Sinema dressed, and we addressed them in the also. Cardin Klobuchar Smith Carper Leahy Stabenow most compassionate way. That is our So all these protections that we put Casey Manchin Tester Coons Markey job. in there, we are trying to help. We are Udall Cortez Masto Menendez I understand that our four corners trying to get a pathway forward to Van Hollen Duckworth Merkley are very close to a deal. I think it will bring our economy back, to make sure Durbin Murphy Warner be done. I know it will be done because we are able to. But this is the product Feinstein Murray Warren we have to do it. Failure is not an op- that got it all going, and this is the Gillibrand Peters Whitehouse tion. So we are going to work very group of people who made it happen, Hassan Reed Wyden hard to continue to do that. the bipartisan group who worked day NOT VOTING—5 Let me tell you, we have unemploy- and night, and I can’t thank them Enzi Harris Perdue ment assistance for people who lost more. I couldn’t be more proud to be Fischer Loeffler their jobs, food assistance, shelter as- with a group whom I consider true The nomination was confirmed. sistance. We have small business debt Americans who stepped up to the plate The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under relief. We have student loan forbear- and got something done when we didn’t the previous order, the motion to re- ance. We have so many other things, think it could be done. consider is considered made and laid

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:39 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G16DE6.011 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE S7518 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 16, 2020 upon the table, and the President will NAYS—39 eign agents. I also raised concerns be immediately notified of the Presi- Baldwin Feinstein Peters about work for Ukrainians by Paul dent’s action. Bennet Gillibrand Rosen Manafort and the Podesta Group. I Blumenthal Hassan Sanders The Senator from Missouri. Booker Heinrich Schatz raised concerns when the firm behind Mr. BLUNT. Mr. President, I ask Brown Hirono Schumer the discredited Steele dossier failed to unanimous consent that the manda- Cantwell Kaine Shaheen register for its lobbying work to repeal tory quorum call be waived. Cardin Klobuchar Smith U.S. sanctions against Russia. I even Carper Leahy Stabenow The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Casey Markey Udall subpoenaed Manafort to testify at a objection, it is so ordered. Coons Menendez Van Hollen Judiciary Committee hearing on lax Cortez Masto Merkley Warner FARA enforcement. I praised Mueller Duckworth Murphy Warren f Durbin Murray Wyden for dusting off the law that had been ignored for so long. NOT VOTING—5 I have conducted FARA oversight CLOTURE MOTION Enzi Harris Perdue without regard to power, party, or The PRESIDING OFFICER. Pursuant Fischer Loeffler privilege. Americans expect equal ap- to rule XXII, the Chair lays before the The PRESIDING OFFICER. On this plication of the law no matter which Senate the pending cloture motion, vote, the yeas are 56, the nays are 39. political party someone is affiliated which the clerk will state. The motion is agreed to. with. I am an equal opportunity over- The senior assistant legislative clerk f seer. FARA ought to be better enforced read as follows: EXECUTIVE CALENDAR and equally enforced. That is why my CLOTURE MOTION office worked thoroughly to expose The PRESIDING OFFICER. The We, the undersigned Senators, in accord- holes in the existing FARA law and ance with the provisions of rule XXII of the clerk will report the nomination. found ways to shore it up. Standing Rules of the Senate, do hereby The senior assistant legislative clerk My bipartisan Foreign Agents Disclo- move to bring to a close debate on the nomi- read the nomination of Joseph Dawson sure and Registration Enhancement nation of Joseph Dawson III, of South Caro- III, of South Carolina, to be United Act is the product of years of oversight lina, to be United States District Judge for States District Judge for the District and policy work. The bill requires the the District of South Carolina. of South Carolina. Justice Department, for the first time, Mitch McConnell, James E. Risch, Mike The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. ROM- to craft a comprehensive FARA en- Crapo, , Shelley Moore Cap- NEY). The Senator from Iowa. ito, , , Chuck forcement strategy and to release advi- Grassley, , , UNANIMOUS CONSENT REQUEST—S. 1762 sory opinions to promote transparency. Pat Roberts, Cory Gardner, Lindsey Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, It gives FARA investigators new tools, Graham, , , much ink has been spilled the past few including civil investigative demand , . years over the threat of foreign influ- authority, to help identify violations. The PRESIDING OFFICER. By unan- ence in our politics. It is a topic I have The bill appropriately limits those in imous consent, the mandatory quorum spoken about many times on this floor. the Justice Department who can use call has been waived. This issue has become highly politi- this authority, and it provides essen- The question is, Is it the sense of the cized, but it requires bipartisan agree- tial due process protections. In fact, it Senate that debate on the nomination ment to address. is based on identical authorities in the of Joseph Dawson III, of South Caro- It is increasingly clear that our ad- False Claims Act, which I sponsored lina, to be United States District Judge versaries will stop at nothing to influ- now 35 years ago, which for years has for the District of South Carolina, ence political discourse in our country. helped to root out waste, fraud, and shall be brought to a close? We can all agree that there is a real abuse. The yeas and nays are mandatory need to improve our Nation’s foreign The bill also enhances penalties for under the rule. influence laws. Fortunately, the Sen- FARA violations to deter future The clerk will call the roll. ate has a real opportunity today to fi- abuses. It requires foreign agents to The senior assistant legislative clerk nally do something about it. immediately disclose their clients. called the roll. In 1938, Congress passed the Foreign That way, policymakers know the true Agents Registration Act, referred to by Mr. THUNE. The following Senators sources and can make the most in- the acronym ‘‘FARA.’’ It did this in are necessarily absent: the Senator formed decisions. 1938 to expose Nazi propaganda and Finally, it requires a review of the from Wyoming (Mr. ENZI), the Senator identify foreign attempts to influence Lobbying Disclosure Act exemption to from Nebraska (Mrs. FISCHER), the Sen- policymakers and the American public. determine whether it has been abused ator from Georgia (Mrs. LOEFFLER), The bill was last updated in 1966. And it and the Senator from Georgia (Mr. to conceal foreign influence efforts. now requires those who lobby on behalf Legitimate interests engaging in le- PERDUE). of foreign governments and interests to gitimate conduct shouldn’t bear an un- Mr. DURBIN. I announce that the register their affiliations and activities necessary burden. That is why our bill Senator from California (Ms. HARRIS) is with the Justice Department. strikes a real and right balance. But we necessarily absent. FARA reflects the fundamental prin- must also ensure that FARA’s exemp- The yeas and nays resulted—yeas 56, ciple that transparency brings account- tions haven’t created loopholes for for- nays 39, as follows: ability. Until recently, however, the eign governments to hide their true in- [Rollcall Vote No. 269 Ex.] law had been seldom used, and few on K tentions. YEAS—56 Street paid much attention to the ne- I am pleased to have support from Alexander Grassley Risch cessity of registering under this act if the chairman and ranking member of Barrasso Hawley Roberts they were lobbying for a foreign coun- the Judiciary Committee and the Blackburn Hoeven Romney try. Of course, that was not due to a chairman and vice chairman of the In- Blunt Hyde-Smith Rounds Boozman Inhofe Rubio lack of foreign influence efforts. telligence Committee. We have bipar- Braun Johnson Sasse Given FARA’s important trans- tisan support on the Foreign Relations Burr Jones Scott (FL) parency provisions, its lack of enforce- Committee, including from Senators Capito Kelly Scott (SC) Cassidy Kennedy ment was shocking to me, and that is SHAHEEN, RUBIO, MURPHY, and YOUNG, Shelby Collins King the problem that these several legisla- who have all worked to shine light on Sinema Cornyn Lankford Sullivan tors sponsoring this legislation are try- foreign influence, and we now have the Cotton Lee Cramer Manchin Tester ing to correct. signoff of the chairman of that com- Crapo McConnell Thune I first raised concerns about lack- mittee, along with support from this Cruz Moran Tillis luster FARA enforcement in April 2015 administration. Groups like the Daines Murkowski Toomey when a former Clinton White House Project on Government Oversight and Ernst Paul Whitehouse Gardner Portman Wicker staffer and a lawyer for a Georgian po- another group that goes by the name of Graham Reed Young litical party failed to register as for- Issue One endorse the measure, saying

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:39 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G16DE6.012 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S7519 it ‘‘directly addresses structural weak- fluence the education of our next gen- changes are sorely needed to FARA, nesses of FARA.’’ eration of leaders. but they also demonstrate that the This is a truly bipartisan bill with In other words, the Communist Party statute may need more than a few common ground where it is usually of and other countries will stop tweaks. tough to find it. The Senate should at nothing to try to influence the poli- And before we have determined ex- send a clear signal today that it is seri- cies that come out of this body and out actly what the most needed reforms ous about shining a light on foreign in- of Congress and out of Washington, DC, are, it seems shortsighted to provide fluence by passing this bill. and bend them in their favor. additional enforcement tools before we Before I make a UC request, I would So I am an enthusiastic supporter of have figured out what that regime like to ask one of the leaders in this what the Senator from Iowa is trying should look like. area, Senator CORNYN, to make com- to do. I look forward to working for Indeed, adopting ad hoc changes ments. Then I will make the UC re- maybe even something better than rather than looking at more com- quest. what we are proposing right now, and I prehensive reform could actually cre- understand the Senator from New Jer- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- ate more problems down the road. sey is committed to doing that. ator from Texas. Many have noted that FARA’s defini- Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, let me This is a serious problem, and I will bet you there are a number of ways tions and requirements are broad and start by thanking Chairman GRASSLEY sow confusion over exactly when and for his leadership on this. This has that foreign governments—not just China but other countries around the under what circumstances an indi- been a bipartisan endeavor, and we vidual must register and report covered look forward to working with Senator world—try to influence policies here in America, and we don’t even know they activities. There is no denying the na- MENENDEZ, the Senator from New Jer- ture of lobbying, influence efforts, and sey, who says that he supports the spir- are doing it. Reforming the Foreign Agents Registration Act and the Lob- communication methods have dramati- it of what we are trying to do. I will let cally changed since FARA was enacted him speak for himself in describing it, bying Disclosure Act is so important to make sure that people have to file for in 1938 or even revised in 1966. but let me just tell you what brings me We live in a dramatically more inter- to this issue. full transparency when representing a foreign government. connected and complex world today. It is an experience we had in 2016 Foreign influence efforts and when we tried to pass the Justice I appreciate the leadership of my friend, the Senator from Iowa, and I disinformation have made their way Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act. into the top echelons of U.S. Govern- This provided a carve-out in the doc- look forward to working with our col- leagues across the aisle to try to get ment and this very body. It seems only trine of sovereign immunity that prudent that we step back and examine would allow Americans to sue foreign this done. Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, I whether there are blind spots in the governments for financing terrorist at- have two sentences before I ask unani- current FARA regime. tacks on American soil. If that sounds mous consent. There are a number of bills pending familiar, it is exactly what they be- I think by passing the bill, this will in both the House and the Senate that lieve happened on 9/11—that a foreign give the Senate an opportunity to send propose reforms to FARA. Some pro- government financed a terrorist at- a clear signal that it is serious about pose a new unit altogether for review- tack, taking the lives of their loved shining a light on foreign influence. ing and enforcing FARA violations. ones on 9/11. Opposing it, in fact, would only help Others propose additional disclosure When we tried to pass the Justice our foreign adversaries continue to and registration requirements, signifi- Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act, I hide what they are really doing. cant changes to the current FARA ex- got called by a former colleague here As in legislative session, I ask unani- emptions, or more electronic reporting. in the Senate who happened to be rep- mous consent that the Committee on Yet none of those have been given thor- resenting the Kingdom of Saudi Ara- Foreign Relations be discharged from ough or, indeed, any consideration by bia. They were doing everything they further consideration of S. 1762 and the the Senate Foreign Relations Com- could to prevent the passage of the bill. Senate proceed to its immediate con- mittee, the committee of jurisdiction. I know they were working the phones, sideration. I further ask that the bill There are also a number of concerns trying to get anybody else they could be considered read a third time and get to object to the ultimate unani- about the current FARA regime, as passed and that the motion to recon- well as how it has been applied, that mous passage of the bill and the over- sider be considered made and laid upon riding of President Obama’s veto. deserve consideration. Some nonprofit the table. organizations, for example, have raised Next, we were met with not only lob- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there bying but veterans who were enticed to serious concerns about how FARA objection? could be applied to them and are seek- come to Washington, DC, and stay at a The Senator from New Jersey. local, pricey hotel to try to lobby Con- Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. President, in ing additional changes to this bill to gress to make the argument that some- reserving the right to object, let me ensure it is not weaponized. how this was hurtful to our veterans thank Senator GRASSLEY for his work And as other countries, such as Rus- who had served in the military. It on this issue, and I agree with him that sia and Hungary, adopt their own didn’t make any sense to me then, and our current foreign regime is in need of versions of FARA laws and look to use it doesn’t make any sense to me now. updating. I look forward to working them to crack down on civil society What I am suggesting is that our ri- with him and Senator CORNYN and with groups and nonprofits, we should be es- vals around the world will use a num- Senators WHITEHOUSE and SHAHEEN, pecially concerned about the signal ber of creative ways to try to influence who both came to speak to me about that any potential weaponizing of us by lobbying. That is why the For- this, as well as with Chairman RISCH FARA sends. eign Agents Registration Act that we and the cosponsors of this legislation, The past few years have shown how are talking about here is so important. on engaging in a comprehensive effort critical it is that we not adopt a patch- We have even seen a recent report of to do just that. work approach but that we get it right. a Chinese intelligence officer trying to FARA, the Foreign Agents Registra- The disturbing rise of foreign influ- influence a Member of the U.S. Con- tion Act, is perhaps the most critical ence campaigns that use a variety of gress. Fortunately, according to public tool we have for shining a light on for- measures to mask who is the ultimate reports, he got a defensive briefing, as eign influence efforts in the United source or beneficiary should serve as you should under those circumstances, States. Its aim is to ensure that the an alarm bell for all of us. So before and was able to break off that relation- public knows the source of foreign-di- this body passes any tweaks or new ship, according to published reports. rected efforts that are intended to in- tools and adds to the current patch- We know that the Communist Party fluence American public opinion, pol- work of FARA regulations and exemp- of China is investing in things like the icy, and laws. tions, I think we should take a step Confucius Institutes around our insti- I agree with the Senator that the back and take a comprehensive look, tutions of higher learning to try to in- past few years have demonstrated that and we have not done that.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:39 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G16DE6.016 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE S7520 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 16, 2020 So, respectfully, these changes mined, and they are relentless, so I lions—maybe hundreds of millions—of should not pass this body without care- hope that just this little colloquy people. ful consideration by the committee of today will help alert more of our col- States are dipping into their other jurisdiction. A committee markup is leagues about the importance of our sources of funding to ensure they have the appropriate vehicle for considering working together to address this. I the capabilities to carry out this wide- such changes to assess the ramifica- look forward to being part of that proc- spread effort, but it takes specialized tions of the changes in this bill and to ess. equipment from ultralow temperature see if other changes are warranted. Nothing happens very quickly around freezers to store the vaccine, to masks I stand ready and willing to work this place. Sometimes you have to and gloves and other PPE to protect with Chairman RISCH, Senator GRASS- work on things for years to get them those administering it, and it is easy to LEY, and other colleagues to make any done. see that the costs add up quickly. needed changes to FARA, but because CORONAVIRUS So the time for politicking and cam- of all of these concerns that I have, I Mr. President, speaking of working paigning is over. Now is the time for us would object today to passing this bill hard to solve problems, my hope is that to solve this problem and ensure that out of the Senate without first giving we are closing in on our ability to pass this vaccine distribution program goes the committee the opportunity to con- the next COVID–19 relief bill. As the off without a hitch. This is the silver sider it and other potential reforms. Presiding Officer knows, we have been bullet we have been praying for and I urge my colleagues to give us the at this for a while. hoping for, and it would be shameful if opportunity to work through this to- It has been since March that we our partisan dysfunction in Congress gether and ensure the Foreign Assets passed the CARES Act, and we have stood in the way of the success of Oper- Registration Act is fit for the 21st cen- tried a number of times to try to pass ation Warp Speed. tury. And because of that, I do object. additional relief for our small busi- Second, we must support the men The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objec- nesses and individuals, provide more and women whose livelihoods have tion is heard. resources to our frontline healthcare been upended by the pandemic. We all The Senator from Iowa. workers—make sure that they have the know that. We have done a lot, but we Mr. GRASSLEY. Of course I am dis- PPE, the testing and that the vaccine need to do more. appointed, but I know that Senator that is now here can be deployed in a We didn’t know in March how long MENENDEZ is a serious legislator, and if way that as many Americans who can this virus would last, how many what we have to do to do something in get the vaccine as possible will do so. lockdowns would ensue. this area is work into the next Con- Again, we know that the intervening In April, as businesses closed doors to gress on this issue, I look forward to election has been a problem because stop the spread of the virus, our na- continuing to work for it. some people saw benefits to not solving tionwide unemployment rate sky- The reason I am kind of disappointed the problem, and that would somehow rocketed to 14.7 percent. Tens of mil- is the fact that we had two Democratic gain them advantage at the ballot box. lions of Americans simply had no way bills and two Republican bills. I intro- And still, today, there are still dis- to earn a paycheck, cover their bills, or duced my first bill in 2017, and it took agreements over a handful of con- even put food on their table. Many re- a lot of work to put together the bill troversial provisions, but as we enter lied on the bolstered unemployment in- that I asked unanimous consent on, to the final days of the 116th Congress, it surance benefits provided through the work out the differences with several is now time to break that stalemate. CARES Act, which helped cover bills different approaches, and I thought There is no doubt in my mind that and expenses until they were able to that we had taken everything into con- every Member of this body has a little resume their jobs. sideration, particularly bringing to- different vision about what the next re- Fortunately, our economic engine did gether people from the Intelligence lief package should look like, but as not remain stalled for long. That is not Committee and the Judiciary Com- the old saying goes, we shouldn’t let only due to what we have done here but mittee that had interest in this legisla- the perfect be the enemy of the good. what the Federal Reserve has done. tion as well. The search for compromise—which is And over the past several months, the Maybe another reason I am dis- really part of our job description here— unemployment rate has gradually appointed out of that hard work that on some of the most controversial ticked down and reached 6.7 percent in so many people put into this is the fact measures has left us emptyhanded, and November. that on the part of particularly our it is time to set aside those pieces that I have no doubt that we will continue Democratic colleagues, we have heard we can’t agree on and make progress to rebuild our economy and put more so much over the years, lecturing on the ones we can. people back to work who are eager to about foreign influence, and that is First and foremost is funding for vac- get back to work. But the reality is, it why I thought it would be easy to move cine distribution that I alluded to a is going to take a while. forward today, and I am sorry it is not, moment ago. Last week, the FDA ap- There are still workers with no way but I look forward to January and proved the first COVID–19 vaccine, and to earn a paycheck, and unless we take starting over again and working with the process of vaccinating our frontline action, they are sure to face an even Senator MENENDEZ to get this job done. healthcare workers is already under- more dire economic strain in the days Hopefully, it will not take 3 years more way. And there is a good chance that ahead. The day after Christmas—the to get something done. by this time next week, millions of day after Christmas—two key pro- I yield the floor. doses of a second approved vaccine will grams from the CARES Act expire, The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- be en route to hospitals across the which will leave millions of Americans ator from Texas. country. without the jobless benefits that they Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I look There is no question that the race to and their families need to survive. It forward to working with the Senator develop an effective COVID vaccine has would be a shame, it would be embar- from New Jersey and the Senator from been a success. It has really been noth- rassing and, frankly, just flat negligent Iowa. As I said, this is a very serious ing short of a miracle. Now it is crit- on our part if we did not intervene to problem for the U.S. Government, and, ical we take additional actions to en- make sure that we establish a con- thus, for the American people. sure the race to distribute the vaccine tinuum of support for these folks who, One of our greatest assets is also one is successful as well. through no fault of their own, find of our greatest vulnerabilities. We are We have been waiting and planning themselves without work. an open society. Our adversaries are for a vaccine all year, but the funding These are the same people who, not, and, thus, they use things like the Congress provided in the CARES Act to again, through no fault of their own, internet for information warfare, help execute the nationwide distribu- had the rug pulled out from under whereas we see it as a valuable tool to tion project has run dry. While the cost them earlier this year, and we can’t do business, to stay in touch with our of the vaccine itself is already covered, leave them hanging. We have to help. families, and to communicate with one there are a host of other expenses that Third, we need to continue sup- another. Our adversaries are deter- come with vaccinating tens of mil- porting our small businesses. Congress

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:39 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G16DE6.018 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S7521 invested $670 billion in the Paycheck lief bill, and I guarantee all 535 Mem- expanding care options women can ac- Protection Program. Every time I say bers of Congress would like to see more cess at the VA to reduce the need for a number like that—or $3 trillion—I for other things in the relief bill. But referrals to community care, increas- still have to pinch myself that we are the fact of the matter is, we have been ing trained medical professionals who spending the money. We need to spend unable to reach an agreement on a bill specialize in women’s health issues, this money in order to meet this pan- that includes the most controversial and enhancing privacy in exam rooms. demic, but the Paycheck Protection priorities, and it is time to take action These are reasonable steps that the VA Program, in particular, has been a life- where we can act and where we do have can implement to ensure equitable ac- line for America’s small business own- consensus and come back next year and cess to services. ers, especially in my State. try to do more and try to do better. The good news is, we are one step Texas received more than $41 billion Each of these areas I just men- closer to making these upgrades a re- through more than 417,000 individual tioned—support for vaccines, our work- ality, thanks to Senate passage of the PPP loans. This has given our busi- ers, and small businesses—have that Deborah Sampson Act. The Veterans’ nesses the resources they need to stay sort of strong bipartisan support. So I Affairs ranking committee member, afloat and stay connected to their em- think all 100 of us—whether Repub- , and I introduced this leg- ployees until things can return to licans, Independents, or Democrats— islation, fittingly, named after a Revo- whatever the next normal is. should be able to line up behind a bill lutionary War veteran who disguised But we know the process is hap- that supports these goals. Over the last herself as a man to help defeat the pening much faster for some businesses several days, we have seen more bipar- British. In her spirit, we must do more than others. It is interesting: A number tisan communication and cooperation to address the gender disparities at the of businesses, I would say, are flour- than we saw in months—in the months VA. ishing during the pandemic—it is real- leading up to this point, certainly since We used the recommendations we ly, really interesting—while others are March. And I hope we are able to reach heard from veterans in Arkansas, Mon- just flat on their backs or nonexistent. an agreement and pass another relief tana, and all across the country to de- Many small businesses that have al- bill before gaveling out. As a matter of velop our legislation to eliminate the ready received PPP loans are still op- fact, I heard the majority leader say we barriers to care. The Deborah Sampson erating at a significant loss. They are are not leaving until we do, and I agree Act creates a dedicated Office of Wom- unable to bring in enough revenue to with that. en’s Health at the VA, expands the re- keep their businesses and employees The American people have repeatedly integration and readjustment group, above water, and they need more as- called on Congress to provide support counseling retreats for women veterans sistance. Again, that is because of a for those hit hardest by this pandemic, and their families, and improves call lack of demand or because of restric- and we simply cannot and will not let center services. tions governments have placed on peo- them down. It increases the number of gender- ple in the interest of public health— I yield the floor. specific providers and coordinators in some of them seemingly pretty arbi- The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. VA facilities, trains clinicians, and ret- trary. I won’t go down that path here. BLUNT). The Senator from Arkansas. rofits VA facilities to bolster privacy But these folks need help. DEBORAH SAMPSON ACT and improve the environment. It pro- Currently, those businesses aren’t el- vides access to legal services for igible for a second draw of the PPP, Mr. BOOZMAN. Mr. President, I rise women veterans and expands childcare and unless we want Main Streets today to recognize a significant legisla- across the country to turn into ghost tive victory the Senate delivered for for veterans receiving healthcare at towns, that needs to change. We need women veterans that will eliminate the VA. These are just a few of the improve- to reopen the PPP with additional barriers to care and services that many ments this bill requires the VA to im- funding for the hardest hit businesses women face when accessing the Depart- plement so we can better serve the to receive a second loan. This is the ment of Veterans Affairs. The VA estimates that women make needs of women veterans. most effective way of keeping Ameri- up approximately 10 percent of our Na- I appreciate the leadership of Senator cans connected with their employers tion’s veteran population. That number TESTER and the support of veterans and more small businesses on track for is expected to increase to more than 16 service organizations and encourage a strong postpandemic recovery. Members of Congress to support this There are a number of other busi- percent within the next 25 years. As a legislation. I applaud the Senate for nesses—small businesses—that didn’t result, the number of women veterans advancing the legislation and urge my qualify for the PPP which need our as- receiving healthcare from the VA has sistance, too. Things like small, inde- more than tripled since 2000. colleagues in the House of Representa- pendent music venues are the best ex- The changing face of our military re- tives to quickly approve this bill so we ample of a critical Main Street indus- quires us to reexamine how we can best can ensure women who serve in uni- try that is dying under the current serve these veterans. The VA has been form receive the care and services that COVID restrictions. slow to modernize its delivery of they so earned. That is why I worked with our friend healthcare and benefits to support Also, as always, I want to thank the from Minnesota, Senator KLOBUCHAR, their needs. Women veterans are more staffs of myself and Senator TESTER to introduce the Save Our Stages Act, likely to face homelessness, unemploy- who worked so hard in this regard, and, which will keep independent venues ment, and go without needed medical simply, this would not have become across America from closing their healthcare. They are reluctant to turn law without their tremendous efforts. doors for good. This wouldn’t just to the VA for help. More than 50 per- So, with that, I yield the floor. apply to live music venues in Austin, cent of women veterans believe they The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. TX. This would apply to symphonies are not entitled to or eligible for VA BRAUN). The Senator from Wyoming. and, potentially, Broadway. This would care. We must do more to fulfill our CORONAVIRUS apply across the board. promise. Mr. BARRASSO. Mr. President, I I am proud to say that 56 of our col- We need to create a culture at the come to the floor today to ask our leagues have cosponsored the Save Our VA that welcomes women veterans and Democratic colleagues to join us Re- Stages Act, making it one of the most makes them feel like they belong. It is publicans in providing immediate re- widely supported stimulus proposals long overdue, and we need to update lief—relief in the fight against before the Senate. the belief that when a women seeks coronavirus and economic relief for the Again, I know the Presiding Officer care at the VA, it is because her hus- people of this country. has had his shoulder to the grindstone band is the veteran. So often, it is not Americans don’t ask much of their on this topic for a long time now. We uncommon for a veteran employee to government, but they are asking us for still have a lot of work to do, but we pass a woman in line and ask, you something right now. No. 1, they are don’t have much time. know, is her husband around. asking to help control the spread of the Beyond these three goals, there is a Arkansans have shared with me sug- coronavirus, and, No. 2, they are asking lot more I would like to see in the re- gestions for improvement that include: to help with an economic recovery.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:39 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G16DE6.019 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE S7522 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 16, 2020 America and Americans shouldn’t $6 billion is additionally needed to help at different times—once the first pa- have to choose between staying open in a full distribution of the vaccine. tient came, they continued to come, and staying healthy. We need both, and Well, I am ready to vote for that. I and they are still coming today. That Congress needs to provide a path be- want to make sure we have that money is why this vaccine is such a welcome yond the pandemic. so the vaccine, which has been amazing relief and why, for the healthcare pro- A path forward, as the Presiding Offi- in terms of the speed of development, viders who have done such remarkable cer knows, is something Republicans can also be deployed similarly to what work, we can say this is their finest have been proposing now for a long was done. hour. They have kept us going, kept time. We have done it, first, with the This vaccine was done in an unprece- patients, offered of themselves, and CARES Act, and we need to do it right dented scale—the number of people now the vaccines have arrived. now with additional coronavirus and who are going to be vaccinated, the We need to do more in this body. We economic relief legislation. success, the timeline. A safe, effective, have healthcare workers leading by ex- Our bill is practical. It supports our and powerful vaccine is truly aston- ample. We have folks in assisted living. neighborhoods—men and women work- ishing. Never has a vaccine been devel- Close to half of all the people who lost ing on Main Street in our small towns oped or distributed faster. their lives because of coronavirus were and communities all across the coun- It truly is this Senate, under the residents of assisted living. But of try. We also need to provide unemploy- CARES Act, and this administration, those millions of healthcare workers, ment help for those who, for no reason under Operation Warp Speed, which we need to make sure that the vaccines of their own, happen to find themselves stood this operation up and made it continue to flow to them and to all of out of work as a result of the pan- successful. So we are seeing the real ef- society and to all people in this coun- demic. We need to get the vaccine to as fects as people are getting the shot. try. When you think about it in the big many Americans as we can as quickly It is by doing that, that we will put picture—and you know this, Mr. Presi- and safely as we can, especially during this disease behind us. We will be back dent, from your background in business this holiday season, when we are really to our strong, robust, and growing and contributing in your community— looking at a medical miracle. economy. Our kids will be back full this is what we talk about when we Now, what we have seen from the time in school. The universities will be talk about American ingenuity. It is other side is gridlock—no path forward returning to the robust future that we why people around the world look to on the economy, no path forward on know is ahead of them. America for answers, because when coronavirus. We have seen them play It is because of the work of this body, things that are critical occur, it is politics with the pandemic. House and months ago, with the CARES Act. America that finds the solutions, as we Senate Republicans have tried now 40 But our work is not done. As we ap- have done right now with this vaccine. times—40 different times—to get some- We have come together, public as proach the Christmas holidays, there is thing accepted that can be sent to pro- well as private, over the last 8 more work to be done. I turn to my col- vide that relief for the American pub- months—the FDA—to approve a vac- leagues on the other side of the aisle lic. The Democrats, each and every cine. It is interesting: Who should get and say: Please, join us this holiday time, blocked it. The gridlock must it first—the doctors, the nurses? I season to make sure that the American end today. know firefighters are getting it here in people, who don’t ask for much, are Mr. President, I would like to spend the District of Columbia. Firefighters able to continue to keep their lives on just a moment on this historic vaccine have been getting it at home in Wyo- track, get back on track, and move for- discovery. It is, to me as a doctor, com- ming, and people like the healthcare ward into the year 2021 with a vaccine parable to insulin, comparable to the providers, and then, of course, those available to everyone and for a much vaccine for polio, and comparable to who are most vulnerable, people who better new year. penicillin as an antibiotic. It is going are in our nursing homes right now and Thank you. to be that dramatic in terms of the in assisted living facilities, people who I yield the floor. change in the world. are most vulnerable. That is who ought The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- As we gather on the floor today, to get it first. ator from Vermont. planes, trucks, UPS, and Federal Ex- I know when the time comes for me, Mr. SANDERS. Mr. President, let me press are all taking vaccines across the I am going to get it. My wife is going say a few words on the coronavirus re- country to many, many locations— to get it. We will be saying yes because lief package that is now being nego- over 636 this first week. So it is not I believe it is safe, I believe it is effec- tiated. In my view, this bill of roughly just a scientific triumph. It is also a tive, and I believe it is the solution $900 billion has a number of enor- logistical triumph. that gets us through this. It gets us mously important provisions in it Every newspaper in the country yes- through the disease, and it gets the which will do a great deal of service terday, I believe, had a picture of some- economy back on track. and help for the American people. body receiving the vaccine, receiving I talked to one of the doctors who We are talking about funding for vac- the shot in that local community. It is runs the intensive care unit at Wyo- cine distribution, which is a no- a remarkable time for our Nation. As ming Medical Center. The healthcare brainer. We have got to get that vac- Christmas packages are being deliv- personnel are exhausted. They have cine out to every State in this country ered, so is this great hope for people re- been working double shifts. If one gets if we are going to finally put an end to ceiving the vaccine. sick, others have to pick up the work- this horrific pandemic. We are talking All told, this week, there were 3 mil- load, as more and more people show up about, in this bill, in this proposal, in- lion doses distributed to people around in the hospitals and the emergency creased funding for education, the country, in 636 sites. In my State rooms with coronavirus. This is very healthcare, childcare, nutrition, hous- alone, Wyoming, there are 5 different welcome relief. ing, transportation, and many other locations where the vaccine has arrived I talked to a physician who works in very important areas. and over 5,000 people being vaccinated the emergency room. She is going to be I agree with all of that, but the prob- this week. By the end of the year, there vaccinated on Friday. So this is what lem is that, while this proposal ad- will be 15,000. I am sure in the Pre- we need. dresses some of the major crises facing siding Officer’s State of Indiana, there It is so interesting. The pundits talk our country and the families of our are more locations than that, more about the dark winters of the country, there is simply not enough people being vaccinated. The frontline coronavirus surge, but for the money in the proposal to deal with the workers are getting it first, and that is healthcare providers in our home com- unprecedented crises that we now face. the way we need to do it. munities, they have to keep the doors It is no secret to anybody that right As part of the CARES Act—the Pre- open every day and keep the lights on now, at this moment in America, we siding Officer and I voted for it—$10 and take care of these patients, one face the worst set of crises that this billion went to help develop the vac- after another after another. country has seen for perhaps a hundred cine and money spent to distribute the Once the first one came—and the years. The pandemic is surging vaccine. But we need to do more. About wave hit different parts of the country throughout America. More and more

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:39 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G16DE6.022 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S7523 people are being diagnosed with the evicted from their apartments or their As you know, the CARES Act pro- virus. More and more people are ending homes because they no longer have the vided $1,200 for every working-class up in hospital. More and more people income to pay their rent or pay their adult in this country; that is, for an in- are dying. mortgage—that is the crisis that we dividual earning less than $75,000 a But it is not just a public health cri- are in right now. And, unfortunately, year; for a couple, $150,000; plus $500 for sis that we are addressing; we are deal- this proposal does not address that cri- their kids. That means, for a family of ing with a terrible, terrible economic sis to the degree that it should. four—husband, wife, and two kids— meltdown, where many, many millions Now, that is the bad news. My hope— that is $3,400. of people have lost their jobs; they very sincere hope—is that when the Now, you don’t get rich with that, have lost their healthcare. People are Biden administration comes into office but when you get a check for $3,400 for working, in many cases, for fewer in late January, their very first pri- a family of four, it means that maybe hours. Rather than 40 hours a week, ority will be to address the deficiencies you can pay your bills; maybe you can they are working 30 hours a week—less and the inadequacies in this bill. breathe a little bit easier; maybe, come income coming in. The American people today, the Christmastime, you might actually be So this bill has a lot in it that is working class of this country today, able to buy your kids a few gifts; good, but given the enormity of the cri- are struggling in a way that we have maybe the fear of eviction is lessened ses that we face, it simply does not go not seen since the Great Depression of just a little bit. anywhere far enough. the 1930s. People are desperate. I will That is what we did in the CARES As the Presiding Officer may well re- never forget, in my State, in my com- Act, and that is what I wanted in this member, in May, in response to the cri- munity, in my neighborhood, a few bill. Now, a week ago, 10 days ago no- sis, the Democratic House passed a He- months ago—Burlington, VT—they body here was talking about the need roes bill calling for $3.4 trillion in new shut down—the State shut down a for direct payments, help for working money to address the kind of crises highway, and hundreds and hundreds of families, despite the fact that that is that we are facing. And while that bill automobiles lined up, one behind each the issue, the program that the Amer- did not have everything that I wanted other, in order to get emergency food ican people most wanted. There are a in it, it was a serious, serious step for- distributed by Vermont National lot of other important things that we ward in addressing the multitude of Guard—in my community. are dealing with. That is what the crises facing our country. It was a $3.4 That is going on all over this coun- American people wanted: Help us out. trillion bill, passed in the House in try, where States are in worse shape Let us make a decision. Get us some May. than the State of Vermont. People who money in this time of need. In July, the House came back and have never, ever gone to an emergency I am happy to say, working with peo- said: Well, we are not going to spend food shelter are now lining up for emer- ple like Senator HAWLEY of Missouri; $3.4 trillion; we are going to reduce it gency food packages in the United working with the Progressive Caucus to $2.2 trillion, and they passed what States of America, in the richest coun- in the House of Representatives; work- was called a Heroes 2 bill, which called try in the history of the world, at a ing with Senators GILLIBRAND, WAR- for $2.2 trillion in new money. Again, it time, by the way, when a number of REN, MERKLEY, MARKEY, and WYDEN; did not go as far as I would want but billionaires are doing phenomenally working with and was a very serious effort. well. many others in the House, ALEXANDRIA Among other things in that bill as So this bill, in my view, does not go OCASIO-CORTEZ, , ILHAN well as the first Heroes bill, there was anywhere near far enough in terms of OMAR, , and many others a provision to extend unemployment addressing our crises, and I hope that who have stood up in the House and benefits for another 4 months and pro- as soon as the Biden administration said ‘‘We have to have direct pay- vide a $600 supplementary check. And comes into office, they will address ments,’’ I am happy to say that, as of there were provisions in it to provide a those deficiencies. now—and we are going to fight for $1,200 direct payment to adults and $500 Now, the good news—there is some more because this process is not over— to their children. That was the Heroes good news, and I am happy, as we enter the proposal, as I understand it, pro- 2 bill for $2.2 trillion. the holiday season, to say something vides for a direct payment of $600 for Just a few months ago, the Trump that I think the American people are every working-class adult and $600 for administration, represented by Sec- wanting to hear. And that is, when you their kids. That means for a family of retary of the Treasury Mnuchin, pro- ask the American people—and the poll- four, that would be $2,400. That is half posed a $1.8 trillion bill—$1.8 trillion. sters do that. They say to the Amer- of what I wanted, but it is a step for- Today, the bill that is being nego- ican people that we are in the midst of ward. I am going do my best to make tiated calls for all of $348 billion in new this terrible crisis; what do you think sure that we come as close to that money. This is a $900 billion bill, but should happen? $1,200 as we possibly can. most of the funding is carried over Overwhelmingly, some 80 percent of Millions of our people today are liv- from the CARES Act—$348 billion in the American people—overwhelmingly, ing in desperation. Half of our workers new money. In other words, this is Republicans, Democrats, Independents, are living paycheck to paycheck, while roughly 10 percent of what Democrats they say that, in the midst of this one out of four American workers in the House passed in the first Heroes emergency, we need the U.S. Govern- today is either unemployed or making bill. ment to respond to our pain because we a starvation wage of less than $20,000 a Now, I was a mayor for 8 years. I don’t want to get evicted; we don’t year. During the holiday season, over know a little bit about negotiating. I, want our kids to go hungry; we don’t one-third of Americans expect to lose frankly, don’t know how you negotiate want to be saddled with incredible income—one-third—and are having a from $3.4 trillion down to $348 billion. debt. The government has got to do difficult time paying for basic house- You got 10 percent of what you origi- something. hold expenses. In America today, hun- nally started with. Eighty percent of the American peo- ger is at its highest level in decades. This is not just numbers. What this is ple—Democrats, Republicans, Inde- More than half a million Americans are about is whether, in this moment of pendents—understand that. homeless, and over 30 million of our unprecedented crisis, when families are Then, when you ask them, ‘‘What is people are on the brink of eviction. By struggling to feed their children, when the most important thing that can be January 1, 12 million Americans will a half a million people are sleeping out done?’’—there is a long list of things— owe an average of $5,800 in back rent. on the street, when in the midst of this what they say is the most important As bad as this crisis is for the whole awful pandemic over 90 million Ameri- thing that can be done is, in this mo- population, from coast to coast, it is cans are uninsured or underinsured and ment, help my family out. Get me worse for the African-American and can’t go to the doctor in the midst of a some money so I can pay my bills, so I Latino and Native American commu- pandemic, when they are sick, at a don’t get evicted, so I can feed my kids, nities. During this pandemic, nearly 60 time when many, many millions of so I can go to the doctor when I get percent of Latino families and 55 per- families are worried about getting sick. Get me a direct payment. cent of African-American families and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:39 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G16DE6.023 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE S7524 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 16, 2020 many, many, many Native American from Wyoming (Mr. ENZI), the Senator Tennessee, to be United States District families have either experienced a job from Nebraska (Mrs. FISCHER), the Sen- Judge for the Eastern District of Tennessee. loss or a pay cut. ator from Georgia (Mrs. LOEFFLER), Mitch McConnell, James E. Risch, Mike All across this country, working fam- and the Senator from Georgia (Mr. Crapo, Roy Blunt, Shelley Moore Cap- ito, Tom Cotton, John Cornyn, Chuck ilies are standing up and saying: You PERDUE). Grassley, Thom Tillis, Richard Burr, know what, we have served in the mili- Mr. DURBIN. I announce that the Pat Roberts, Cory Gardner, Lindsey tary. We are doing our best to raise our Senator from California (Ms. HARRIS) is Graham, Todd Young, Marco Rubio, kids in this unprecedented moment in necessarily absent. John Boozman, John Barrasso. history. We need help. The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. COT- The PRESIDING OFFICER. By unan- I want to thank not only my friends TON). Are there any other Senators in imous consent, the mandatory quorum in the Congressional Progressive Cau- the Chamber desiring to vote? call has been waived. cus in the House of Representatives— The result was announced—yeas 56, The question is, Is it the sense of the JAYAPAL, TLAIB, OMAR, OCASIO-CORTEZ, nays 39, as follows: Senate that debate on the nomination RO KHANNA, and many, many others—I [Rollcall Vote No. 270 Ex.] of Charles Edward Atchley, Jr., of Ten- also want to thank the millions of YEAS—56 nessee, to be United States District Americans who have stood up and de- Alexander Grassley Risch Judge for the Eastern District of Ten- manded that the government respond Barrasso Hawley Roberts nessee, shall be brought to a close? to the needs of working families. Blackburn Hoeven Romney The yeas and nays are mandatory I want to thank the over 60 groups Blunt Hyde-Smith Rounds under the rule. Boozman Inhofe Rubio representing millions of working fami- Braun Johnson The clerk will call the roll. Sasse The legislative clerk called the roll. lies, progressives, the elderly and Burr Jones Scott (FL) young people, including Public Citizen, Capito Kelly Scott (SC) Mr. THUNE. The following Senators Cassidy Kennedy the Center for Popular Democracy, the Shelby are necessarily absent: the Senator Collins King Sinema NZI Sunrise Movement, Social Security Cornyn Lankford from Wyoming (Mr. E ), the Senator Sullivan Works, Presente, and People’s Action, Cotton Lee from Nebraska (Mrs. FISCHER), the Sen- Cramer Manchin Tester ator from Georgia (Mrs. LOEFFLER), for pushing a progressive agenda for- Thune Crapo McConnell and the Senator from Georgia (Mr. ward and for demanding that this gov- Cruz Moran Tillis ernment respond to the needs of our Daines Murkowski Toomey PERDUE). people. Ernst Paul Whitehouse Mr. DURBIN. I announce that the So here we are, as this proposal con- Gardner Portman Wicker Senator from California (Ms. HARRIS) is Graham Reed Young tinues to be negotiated. As I said ear- necessarily absent. lier, it is my hope that not only do we NAYS—39 The yeas and nays resulted—yeas 54, make sure that unemployment benefits Baldwin Feinstein Peters nays 41, as follows: are extended for another 16 weeks at Bennet Gillibrand Rosen [Rollcall Vote No. 271 Ex.] Blumenthal Hassan Sanders YEAS—54 $300 per week, it is my hope that we Booker Heinrich Schatz can see some light here and get to the Brown Hirono Schumer Alexander Graham Risch $1,200 direct payment that adults in Cantwell Kaine Shaheen Barrasso Grassley Roberts Cardin Klobuchar Smith Blackburn Hawley Romney this country desperately need. I am Carper Leahy Stabenow Blunt Hoeven Rounds going to do my best in the coming days Casey Markey Udall Boozman Hyde-Smith Rubio to make sure that happens. I hope the Coons Menendez Van Hollen Braun Inhofe Sasse American people will join with me and Cortez Masto Merkley Warner Burr Johnson Scott (FL) Duckworth Murphy Warren Capito Jones Scott (SC) get on the phones and call up their Durbin Murray Wyden Cassidy Kelly Shelby Members of the House and Members of Collins Kennedy Sinema the Senate and say that in this unprec- NOT VOTING—5 Cornyn Lankford Sullivan Cotton Lee Tester edented moment in American history, Enzi Harris Perdue Fischer Loeffler Cramer Manchin Thune government has to respond to the Crapo McConnell Tillis needs of working families. The nomination was confirmed. Cruz Moran Toomey The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Daines Murkowski Whitehouse With that, I yield the floor. Ernst Paul Wicker I suggest the absence of a quorum. ator from North Carolina. Gardner Portman Young The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Mr. TILLIS. Mr. President, I ask NAYS—41 clerk will call the roll. unanimous consent that the motion to The senior assistant legislative clerk reconsider be considered made and laid Baldwin Gillibrand Reed Bennet Hassan Rosen proceeded to call the roll. upon the table and the President be im- Blumenthal Heinrich Sanders Mr. ROBERTS. Mr. President, I ask mediately notified of the Senate’s ac- Booker Hirono Schatz unanimous consent that the order for tion. Brown Kaine Schumer Cantwell King Shaheen the quorum call be rescinded. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there Cardin Klobuchar objection? Smith The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Carper Leahy Stabenow Casey Markey objection, it is so ordered. Without objection, it is so ordered. Udall Coons Menendez Mr. ROBERTS. Mr. President, I ask Mr. TILLIS. Mr. President, I ask Van Hollen Cortez Masto Merkley Warner unanimous consent that the scheduled unanimous consent that the manda- Duckworth Murphy vote take place now. tory quorum call be waived. Durbin Murray Warren The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Feinstein Peters Wyden objection, it is so ordered. objection, it is so ordered. NOT VOTING—5 All postcloture time has expired. f Enzi Harris Perdue The question is, Will the Senate ad- Fischer Loeffler vise and consent to the Dawson nomi- CLOTURE MOTION The PRESIDING OFFICER. On this nation? The PRESIDING OFFICER. Pursuant vote, the yeas are 54, the nays are 41. Mr. ROBERTS. Mr. President, I ask to rule XXII, the Chair lays before the The motion is agreed to. for the yeas and nays. Senate the pending cloture motion, f The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there a which the clerk will state. sufficient second? The senior assistant legislative clerk EXECUTIVE CALENDAR There appears to be a sufficient sec- read as follows: The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ond. CLOTURE MOTION clerk will report the nomination. The legislative clerk read the nomi- The clerk will call the roll. We, the undersigned Senators, in accord- The senior assistant legislative clerk ance with the provisions of rule XXII of the nation of Charles Edward Atchley, Jr., called the roll. Standing Rules of the Senate, do hereby of Tennessee, to be United States Dis- Mr. THUNE. The following Senators move to bring to a close debate on the nomi- trict Judge for the Eastern District of are necessarily absent: the Senator nation of Charles Edward Atchley, Jr., of Tennessee.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:39 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G16DE6.024 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S7525 The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mrs. pendence in the face of increased per- Before I ask for consent, I want to BLACKBURN). The Senator from New sonal threats on judges, and to help turn to my distinguished colleague, the Jersey. prevent this unthinkable tragedy—un- Senator from New Jersey, Mr. CORY UNANIMOUS CONSENT REQUEST—S. 4711 thinkable tragedy—from ever hap- BOOKER. Mr. MENENDEZ. Madam President, I pening again to anyone else. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- come to the floor today and will soon The Daniel Anderl Judicial Security ator from New Jersey. ask unanimous consent for the passage and Privacy Act of 2020 is a bipartisan, Mr. BOOKER. Madam President, I of the Daniel Anderl Judicial Security bicameral, and commonsense plan to come to the floor today in support of and Privacy Act of 2020. This legisla- safeguard the personal information of my senior Senator’s unanimous con- tion is about standing up for the inde- Federal judges and their families. And sent request to pass the Daniel Anderl pendence of our Federal judiciary and I want to thank my colleague Senator Judicial Security and Privacy Act. As Senator MENENDEZ pointed out, the safety of all of those who serve it. BOOKER, who has been there every step this is a bipartisan piece of legislation. Many of you already know the ter- of the way, a member of the Judiciary, It is bicameral. It will take important rible tragedy that recently struck Fed- and Chairman GRAHAM—Senator steps to safeguard the personally iden- eral District Judge Esther Salas and —for leading this ef- tifiable information of Federal judges her family in New Jersey. This sum- fort with me. and their family members from indi- mer, an unhinged and violent indi- Our legislation makes it unlawful for data brokers to knowingly sell, trade, viduals who wish to do them harm. vidual showed up at Judge Salas’s As Senator MENENDEZ said, it is home, impersonating a package deliv- license, purchase, or otherwise provide personally identifiable information of a named after Daniel Anderl, the son of ery driver. When her 20-year-old son Judge Esther Salas and Mark Anderl, Daniel Anderl answered the door, the Federal judge or their family. Since its introduction, we have who was senselessly murdered in July assailant opened fire, taking the life of worked with several stakeholders, in- of this year by a hate-filled gunman. her only child and seriously wounding cluding the Administrative Office of The gunman was able to access per- her husband Mark Anderl. sonal information, as Senator MENEN- Unfortunately, this tragedy is not the U.S. Courts, the U.S. Marshals Of- fice, the American Civil Liberties DEZ said, by going to Judge Salas’s in- the first attack on a Federal judge. formation, getting it—including where There was the 1979 murder of Judge Union, among others. Together, we carefully updated legislative language she lived, the routes she took to work, John Wood in San Antonio, TX; the in order to uphold the First Amend- and even her place of worship and her 1988 murder of Judge Richard Daronco ment right of the press to report on home address. As a result, Judge Salas in Pelham, NY; the 1989 murder of matters of public concern and balance and her husband have gone through Judge Robert Vance in Mountain that right with our urgent need to bet- something that no parent ever, ever Brook, AL; the 2005 murder of the hus- ter protect the safety of Federal judges should have to go through. band and mother of Judge Joan Lefkow No person who takes on the responsi- and their families. in Illinois. Federal judges and their families will bility of serving as a Federal judge And there have been other attacks as continue to be able to seek relief should ever have to live in fear that well. In June, 2013, Chief Judge Tim- through the courts for the knowing and they or their family could be targeted othy Corrigan was targeted by a gun- willful publication of their personal in- by someone wishing to do them harm, who is able to easily access their per- man who purchased the address of his formation, and the party responsible sonal information. Passing this bill Florida home on the internet for a for the violation will have to pay the today in memory and in honor of Dan- mere $1.95—$1.95. The gunshot missed cost and reasonable attorney’s fees. his ear by less than 2 inches. The bill enjoys widespread support iel Anderl will mark a commitment of Just last month, a judge’s address among judicial and attorney organiza- this body to safeguarding the privacy was circulated on social media, urging tions, including the National Associa- and security of our Federal judges and people to gather outside his home tion of Attorneys General, the Na- their families so that we can make sure we are doing everything in our power while the judge was hearing a high-pro- tional Judicial Conference, the Federal to prevent this from happening to an- file case. Judges Association, the National Con- other family. According to the U.S. Marshals Serv- ference of Bankruptcy Judges, the Our bill, as Senator MENENDEZ said, ice, threats against Federal judges rose American Bar Association, the Na- by 500 percent between fiscal years 2015 has broad support. It has been endorsed tional Hispanic Bar Association, the by the Administrative Office of the and 2019. This trend should worry all of National Bar Association, and several us who care about our Constitution. An U.S. Courts, Federal Judges Associa- others. tion, the Federal Magistrate Judges independent judiciary in which judges America’s Federal judges must be Association, the National Conference can render decisions without fear of able to render rulings without fearing of Bankruptcy Judges, the Federal Bar retribution and violence is essential to for their lives or the lives of their loved the integrity of our democracy. Association, the National Association ones. We must better protect Federal of Attorneys Generals, and others— Indeed, the idea that any judge at judges’ personal information from any level of government could be in- people from all backgrounds, people those who would seek to do them harm. from both parties, Independents. We timidated undermines the very concept That is exactly what the Daniel Anderl of the rule of law. We expect all Ameri- have a unanimous chorus of support of Judicial Security and Privacy Act of people who believe that this is justice cans to have respect for the rule of law, 2020 will do. This legislation will not even when they disagree with the out- and will help keep judges safe. bring Judge Salas’s son back. But we James C. Duff, the Administrative come of a case or a particular ruling. must ensure, as Judge Salas said, that Director of the U.S. Courts, said in his Unfortunately, that is not always the his death not be in vain. statement of support of this bill: ‘‘It is case. As she recently wrote in the New crucial in our system of justice that Some individuals delude themselves York Times, ‘‘Daniel’s death is speak- judges can decide cases without fear for into believing that violence is the an- ing to us, but will we listen? For the their safety and that of their family.’’ swer. We may not be able to eliminate sake of my brothers and sisters on the He is absolutely right. hatred from someone’s heart, but what bench, Congress must act now. Every I echo Senator MENENDEZ’s request we can do is make sure that the men day that goes by without action leaves to pass the Daniel Anderl Judicial Se- and women who serve on our Federal our federal judges, our justice system curity and Privacy Act. bench do not make for such easy tar- and our very democracy in danger.’’ I yield the floor. gets. That is why, after Daniel’s mur- We must protect the independence of The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- der, I made a personal commitment to our courts, the safety of our judges, ator from New Jersey. Judge Salas. I told her that I would de- and prevent this sort of tragedy from Mr. MENENDEZ. Madam President, velop legislation, along with my col- ever happening again. This is a com- as if in legislative session, I ask unani- league Senator BOOKER, to better pro- monsense bill. It will save lives, and I mous consent that the Judiciary Com- tect the men and women who sit on our urge my colleagues to approve it with- mittee be discharged from further con- Federal judiciary, to ensure their inde- out delay. sideration of S. 4711 and the Senate

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:39 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G16DE6.031 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE S7526 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 16, 2020 proceed to its immediate consider- fiable information from being sold and aisle that we are willing to compromise ation; further that the Menendez sub- posted online by data brokers. Allow- with the Senator from New Jersey. We stitute amendment at the desk be con- ing at-risk individuals to file private are willing to work with him on get- sidered and agreed to; that the bill, as action against data brokers for declar- ting the bill passed. The only thing amended, be read a third time and atory and injunctive relief, plus rea- that we would like to do is to have it passed; and that the motion to recon- sonable attorney’s fees, will achieve include Congress, as well. sider be considered made and laid upon that goal. The other points you had mentioned the table with no intervening action or I ask the Senator to modify his re- that you object to, as far as changing, debate. quest to, instead, include my sub- I would be willing to discuss. I think The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there stitute amendment at the desk, and there would be a middle ground. objection? that my substitute amendment be con- I think this could be passed. When we The Senator from Kentucky. sidered and agreed to; the bill, as pass something unanimously, there has Mr. PAUL. Madam President, reserv- amended, be considered read a third to be a little give and take. No one gets ing the right to object, I agree that time and passed and that the motions their way. I am not saying that you members of the judicial branch need to reconsider be considered made and can’t have it. I am for your bill in gen- better protection. In fact, I have been laid upon the table. eral. active in this issue for the last couple The PRESIDING OFFICER. Does the I think it ought to be expanded to of years, and each time this has come Senator so modify his request? Congress. We had at least two people forward, at the end of the year, with Mr. MENENDEZ. Reserving the right shot. Gabby Giffords was shot. We had very little time to do the normal proc- to object to the modification, I appre- shot. We had other ess, I have advocated that an amend- ciate the Senator’s concern to expand threats. Congress is threatened and ment be added that would include pro- the universe of people covered by this families are frightened. tection of Members of Congress. I real- bill, including Members of Congress. I don’t know about you, but, rou- ly think that it is important that we While that is a laudable goal, I person- tinely, the sheriff and police have to come to our house for threats to my protect addresses for our judges, but it ally think it would be more appro- house. I am not alone. This happens to is also important that we do this for priate to legislate that in another bill. other people. There is no reason why our elected officials. This bill is for the Federal judiciary In recent years, what has happened because of the special threats they face we should do this only for one branch of government. They put the satellite has taught us that the legislative and the importance of ensuring their picture of my House on the nightly branch needs better protection as well. independence in terms of being able to news, basically pointing out where That was clear in 2011, when Congress- make judgments based on the law and every crazy person in the world can go woman Gabby Giffords was tragically the facts, not upon some fear that to find my house. shot while doing the most important lurks outside of their home or outside We do need to do something. This part of the job—meeting with constitu- of their chambers. isn’t a new request. I requested this a I also understand that the amend- ents. year ago when a very similar bill came Words cannot express how happy and ment would strip out—and if I am up a year ago for special protections inspiring it was to see Congresswoman wrong, I would be happy to be cor- for the judiciary. I said, once again: Giffords here in the Chamber as her rected—would strip out the ability to Good idea, we should apply it to Con- husband, Senator KELLY, was recently seek redressing the court as it relates gress. sworn in as a Member of the body. But to the provision that we provide for We go forward a whole year, and now words also cannot express the pain felt judges. Without a threat of some dam- we are doing the same thing again, and by the family of the people who were ages, there is little incentive for a data nobody seems to be listening. killed and wounded that day. That broker to remove the personal identifi- I will tell you that I am willing to should have been a wakeup call to bet- able information of a judge and his or compromise on this and willing to ter protect Members of Congress and, her family. This is not about frivolous work with you to pass it, but I think in doing so, better protect the people suits. This is about protecting the Fed- we should extend it. It is not that hard. around them. eral judiciary. If we extend it to Congress and flip it But just a few years later, a shooter In addition to that, we had made sev- back, then, I think it would pass unani- nearly killed Congressman STEVE SCA- eral good-faith efforts before we got to mously in the House, as well. But I ob- LISE during baseball practice for the this point to address the concerns of ject to this version. annual charity baseball game. I was my colleagues across the aisle. We ac- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objec- there, and I said at the time that our tually had the Administrative Office of tion is heard. lives were saved by the Capitol Hill po- the U.S. Courts engage in conversa- The Senator from New Jersey. lice. Had they not been there, things tions directly with our colleagues. Mr. MENENDEZ. Madam President, I might have gone much worse. My colleagues had concerns about a just say to my colleague that I cer- But the Capitol Hill police are not new grant program to States. Well, we tainly am concerned about his safety stationed at our homes where our fami- changed that language to a report. and security and, for that fact, the lies live while we serve in Washington. Senator LEE was part of those con- safety and security of all of our col- Extending the provision of this bill to cerns. To better understand the proper leagues. I appreciate his concern and the Members of Congress would better Federal role, we changed it to a report. understand it and look forward to protect all of us—our families, our They don’t want to deal with some of working with him on that. neighbors, and our constituents. the questions that we had for the U.S. I will say that the other elements It is a very minor request that I am marshals. Again, this is about pro- that Senator LEE had incorporated into asking. It is an amendment that would tecting the Federal judiciary. Guess his amendment just renders the secu- not change anything or lessen any- what branch protects the Federal judi- rity—whether for a Member of Con- thing about the bill. It is a very rea- ciary. The U.S. marshals. We changed gress or for the judiciary—useless, in sonable request, and I don’t understand that. which case, I don’t want to give false exactly why we can’t make this bill It never seems to be enough. It never security to anybody that they are better by applying it to both judges seems to be enough. It is unfortunate being protected if, in fact, they don’t and Members of Congress. that the Federal judiciary will pay the have the wherewithal to do so. My substitute amendment, which I price of this recalcitrance, but I can- I look forward to that opportunity. will offer for unanimous consent, will not, at this time, agree to the modi- I promised Judge Salas that her son’s make simple changes to the legisla- fication. Therefore, I object to it. death will not be in vain. We may not tion. It would extend the same protec- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there have achieved this tonight with Sen- tions it would offer to the judicial objection to the original request? ator BOOKER, but we are going to make branch to the legislative branch. The Senator from Kentucky. this happen, hopefully, sooner rather Second, the laudable goal of this leg- Mr. PAUL. Reserving the right to ob- than later. But we will make this hap- islation is to protect personally identi- ject, I would like to offer across the pen.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:39 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G16DE6.032 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S7527 I yield the floor. Monark Baptist Church went out and something that we can be proud of be- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- started distributing food. fore Christmas, to send a message to ator from Missouri. Do you know they distributed food to the American people that they matter, CORONAVIRUS hundreds of families for hours. When to send a message to working people in Mr. HAWLEY. Madam President, last they had run out of the food, there my State and in every State in this week, I came to this floor on two sepa- were over 50 cars—not individuals, Country that they matter and that we rate occasions with Senator SANDERS cars. Fifty cars were still in line, as far are here fighting for them; that we to talk about the need for direct assist- as the eye could see, having driven look forward to the day when they are ance to working families in my State— miles and miles around from neigh- back at work, ready to work, able to in the State of Missouri—and all across boring counties to come for the help. support themselves and their families, this country. I said that I was willing These are working people. These are and that we are on the path to getting to use every tool at my disposal to not folks who want some handout. there. make sure that this body acted to give These are working people. These are That is the message that we can direct assistance to working people in proud people. These are people who send. That is the message that we must need as part of COVID relief. I said don’t want government to do stuff for send. I will not leave this body until it then, and I say it again today, that them. They want to be able to get back is accomplished. working people should be first in line up on their own feet and provide for I promise you this. If I have anything for COVID relief, not last. They should themselves. to say about it, we will not be leaving Government shut down their busi- be the first consideration, not some here before Christmas until direct as- nesses and took away their jobs this afterthought. sistance is on the way to the working I am pleased to report that we were past year and put them in this position people of this Nation. told today, as negotiations are ongoing of, in some cases, outright desperation. I yield the floor. Let me tell you about a gal from The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- about a COVID relief bill, that direct Kansas City, 22 years old. Her first ator from Rhode Island. assistance to working people and work- name is Mars. I won’t share her last TRIBUTE TO TOM UDALL ing families is in the bill, that working name just for her own privacy. You Mr. REED. Madam President, I want people will be getting assistance. know, she has talked to me and told I want to say once again here on this to take some time to thank and com- me about her plight. She moved to floor, as that package continues to mend my colleagues who are departing Kansas City earlier this year, right the Senate. All of these Members have take shape, how important it is that around the time the pandemic started. devoted themselves to serving the Na- working families be able to count on She got an apartment. She was getting tion and serving their States. We are some relief and how important it is for set up and getting going. Then, the all better off for their service. this body to prioritize working people pandemic hit. Then, the shutdown hit. Let me begin with my friend and col- over government, over big businesses, Then, she lost her job. Then, she lost league TOM UDALL. TOM inherited a over government programs, and to give her plumbing. The water wouldn’t family tradition of fighting for the assistance directly to the people them- work. She complained to the landlord. American West and its citizens. His selves. They wouldn’t do anything. The ceiling time in the Senate only added to the Look, people know how to spend collapsed. The landlord wouldn’t do Udall legacy. their money and what is best for their anything. Then she didn’t have enough TOM has been one of our Chamber’s own families. The quickest way to help money to make rent, and, the other leaders on conservation and the envi- people in need is to give them direct day, she woke up with a 10-day eviction ronment. He championed the creation assistance and let them make the notice out on her front door. of monuments and worked to block the choices for their own families, for their These are people who need help, not Trump administration’s harmful envi- own kids, not to have to wait in line because they don’t know how to work ronmental policies. And, this year, he for some program, not to have to talk but because they do know how to work helped secure permanent funding for to some bureaucrat but to be able to and the government has put them in the Land and Water Conservation make their own choices direct, with as- the position that they are facing today. Fund, which was pioneered by TOM’s fa- sistance that comes direct to them. This pandemic has put them in the po- ther, Stewart Udall. That is going to be in this bill, I under- sition they are facing today. What they TOM’s commitment to the health of stand. want is the ability to get back up on our Nation’s environment has always I am sure as heck going to continue their own two feet and to provide for been evident, and I was proud to hand to fight to see that it is in the bill and themselves by the work of their own off my role as the Democratic leader of that any relief that is passed by the hands. That is what direct assistance the Senate Interior Appropriations Senate prioritizes working people with to working families will do. Subcommittee to TOM in 2015. During direct relief. So to those who say it is not an his tenure, funding for the Interior ap- Some have questioned whether this is emergency, I urge you to open your propriations bill grew by 25 percent, really necessary. Some have said: Well, eyes and to look around at the people and more than 100 anti-environmental it is not an emergency, and this bill is who are hurting, who are struggling, riders were blocked. These victories only for emergencies, and direct assist- who are desperate for help. would have been impossible without ance isn’t an emergency. I have heard that it is said: Well, it is TOM’s ability to connect with his fel- To that I say: Is it not an emergency not stimulative. What a word—direct low Members and get things done. They that working people are having to line assistance isn’t stimulative, as if the are also a testament to TOM’s deep up for food—literally, line up for food— American people are knobs and dials to knowledge of America’s lands and re- in this country, in this day and age, be- be twisted and turned around to get a sources. cause they don’t have enough money to desired outcome, as if the economy is Of course, TOM’s successes go beyond go purchase nutrition for their own something to be micromanaged in his environmental work. TOM has children? Washington, DC. worked tirelessly to ensure our Na- Just think about what is happening I am not interested in stimulus. I am tion’s Native Americans receive the re- in my own State. interested in helping working people spect and support they are entitled to. Let me tell you about Monark Bap- survive. I am not interested in micro- He salvaged and ultimately passed bi- tist Church in Neosho, MO, down in managing this economy. I am inter- partisan legislation updating the Toxic Southwest Missouri. They had a food ested in getting working people back Substances Control Act for the first distribution program. They have done up on their feet so they can manage time since 1976, which was a big victory this for years, by the way, but as their own lives. That is what this is for public health. I was also pleased to COVID intensified this past year, they about. That is why the need is so great. work with TOM to pass legislation in stood up their efforts. Neighbors came That is what we are trying to accom- 2016 to help reduce and prevent suicide together and donated. They got all the plish. among adolescents and young adults. food that they could. They went out We have a chance to do this, to get Finally, I am especially grateful for there in Neosho, MO—not a huge town. this done, to get accomplished here TOM’s efforts to increase resources for

VerDate Sep 11 2014 09:29 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G16DE6.040 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE S7528 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 16, 2020 the National Endowment for the Arts to require military installations to I observed this commitment first- and the National Endowment for the plan or conduct live emergency re- hand during our years serving and Humanities. These Federal agencies sponse training events to help prevent traveling together as part of the Sen- are part of Rhode Island’s late and such tragic shootings in the future. ate Armed Services Committee. PAT great Senator Claiborne Pell’s lasting DOUG also continued his career-long successfully pushed for the creation of legacy. They lift our spirits, tell our fight for civil rights while in the Sen- a more modern refueling and transport stories, and strengthen our sense of ate. He enacted the Civil Rights Cold tanker for our Air Force. He helped se- community. TOM’s work in advancing Case Records Collection Act, which re- cure improvements at Fort Leaven- these agencies has enriched our coun- quires the review and release of un- worth and created the first Senate cau- try and helped bring so many people solved civil rights case records to help cus exclusively dedicated to supporting together. deliver justice for the victims’ fami- the U.S. Marine Corps. Thankfully, TOM has said that, while lies, and he has been a passionate de- As Chairman of the Dwight D. Eisen- he is leaving the Senate, he is not re- fender of voting rights for all Ameri- hower Memorial Commission, PAT ably tiring from public service. I know New cans. led the effort to build a memorial to Mexico and our country are better off DOUG has never been afraid to take a President Dwight D. Eisenhower in for that. I wish TOM and his family the difficult vote or to speak out for what Washington, DC, and I am delighted best as they go forward. is right. We will miss DOUG’s persist- that, after years of PAT’s hard work TRIBUTE TO ence and conscientiousness in the Sen- and leadership—and I observed this Madam President, let me turn now to ate. I salute him and wish him well in firsthand during my few years as a my dear friend DOUG JONES. I have had his future endeavors. member of the Commission—the me- the privilege to serve alongside DOUG TRIBUTE TO LAMAR ALEXANDER morial was officially opened and dedi- JONES both on the Armed Services Madam President, with respect to cated in September. That, too, will be Committee and the Banking Com- Chairman LAMAR ALEXANDER, biparti- a lasting tribute to PAT ROBERTS’ mittee during his time in the Senate. sanship and compromise are synony- work. DOUG has had a long and successful mous, and they have also always been Beyond his defense work, PAT was career helping those who need it most central to the success of this institu- greatly concerned with the well-being and doing what is right even if the tion. No one has been more of a con- of our farmers. He is the only Member price is. Yet I was still struck, time tributing factor to the successes we to have authored and enacted farm and again, by his dedication to the wel- have had than LAMAR ALEXANDER, and bills in both the House and the Senate. fare of our servicemembers and vet- he has embodied these principles dur- We also worked closely together to erans and their families—something I ing his time in the Senate. pass legislation upgrading our Nation’s witnessed firsthand when we traveled I first had the privilege of working trauma centers to ensure that severely together to visit servicemembers in with him on the Joint Economic Com- injured patients receive the best pos- Iraq and Afghanistan last year, and no- mittee and the Health, Education, sible care. where was DOUG’s commitment to Labor, and Pensions Committee, which PAT was always quick with quips and these Americans more apparent than in he now chairs, and we have spent many brought levity to this body. I thank last year’s National Defense Authoriza- years serving together on the Appro- him for his spirit and his lifelong serv- tion Act. priations Committee. ice. DOUG was greatly troubled that thou- LAMAR is focused more on getting TRIBUTE TO MICHAEL B. ENZI sands of Gold Star families were being things done than on making headlines. Madam President, MIKE ENZI has unfairly shortchanged by certain laws He worked across the aisle to pass long served the people of Wyoming related to survivor benefits. So, DOUG, landmark laws, including the Every with distinction. MIKE and I spent like he has throughout his professional Student Succeeds Act, the 21st Century many years working together on the life, went to work to right an injustice. Cures Act, and the SUPPORT for Pa- Banking Committee and on the HELP He introduced the bipartisan Military tients and Communities Act. He and I Committee, which he chaired during Widow’s Tax Elimination Act and was also worked together to enact laws some of my service on that committee. the Democratic lead on the Gold Star that reduce infant deaths and make I have always appreciated his decency Family Tax Relief Act. I was proud to children’s medications safer. These and thoughtfulness. help DOUG enact these bills, which laws have improved the lives of count- He spent his time in the Senate ad- allow military widows and widowers less Americans. They are a testament vancing his ‘‘80–20‘‘ approach to legis- and their children to receive the full to LAMAR’s work ethic and the influ- lating. He sought to focus on the 80 survivor benefits they are entitled to, ence he has in the Senate. percent of issues, where both sides as part of the fiscal year 2020 National LAMAR has also not shied away from could come to an agreement, rather Defense Authorization Act. DOUG’s tackling contentious issues. I have al- than on the 20 percent of issues where work on these issues has directly im- ways appreciated his willingness to he felt an agreement was unreachable. proved the lives of tens of thousands of take lonely positions, particularly with He worked quietly behind the scenes to Gold Star families who have given so respect to his thoughtful work on mat- get things done, and he got things much to our country. ters such as immigration and govern- done. Naturally, DOUG worked hard again ment shutdowns. MIKE is one of the few U.S. Senators this year to shape the fiscal year 2021 I wish him well in the future. He has with an accounting background, and he National Defense Authorization Act, left an extraordinary legacy and exam- and I worked closely together to bring and he shaped it for the better. The ple for all of us. greater awareness to financial literacy legislation includes a provision written TRIBUTE TO PAT ROBERTS issues, as well as to create the Senate by DOUG requiring a GAO audit of con- Madam President, PAT ROBERTS has Financial Literacy Caucus to help tinuing efforts to ensure that racial had a distinguished career in both the Americans develop and maintain and gender disparities in the military Senate and the House of Representa- healthy financial habits. justice system are properly addressed tives. His work has touched on many I am also especially grateful for and eliminated. He was also instru- issues, but he has been particularly MIKE’s support for legislation I led in mental during the markup of the fiscal dedicated to preserving the strength of 2010 updating museum and library serv- year 2021 NDAA when the committee our national defense and ensuring the ices to better meet the needs of Ameri- voted to remove the names of confed- well-being of our servicemembers. cans. As the then-ranking member of erate soldiers from our military instal- PAT’s concern for the defense of our the HELP Committee, MIKE played a lations, and in the wake of the deadly Nation is longstanding. He began his pivotal role in securing the law’s pas- shooting at Naval Air Station Pensa- public service as a young man in the sage. cola, DOUG met with the family of a U.S. Marine Corps, and he has dis- Our work together was of great im- slain Navy ensign, Kaleb Watson, and played the steadfast resolve emblem- portance, and I will miss his thought- subsequently fought for two specific atic of marines throughout his time in fulness and determination. I wish MIKE provisions in the fiscal year 2021 NDAA Congress. well in all of his future endeavors.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 09:29 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G16DE6.042 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S7529 TRIBUTE TO CORY GARDNER and was a friend of Jim Taft. MARTHA’s TRIBUTE TO LINDA BEHNKEN Madam President, I also want to rec- father was also one of the most re- Mr. SULLIVAN. Mr. President, it is ognize CORY GARDNER. While we never spected lawyers in Rhode Island, some- getting toward the end of the week served on the same committee, I had one who was a tenacious and bright here. We still have got a lot of work to the pleasure of working with him on a lawyer. That tradition is carried on by do in the U.S. Senate, particularly on a number of issues. her brother Mark, whom I had the relief package and end-of-the-year ap- We were able to come together with a privilege and pleasure to know while I propriations. So we are working hard group of our colleagues and pass a law was practicing law in Rhode Island. on that. designating 9–8-8 as a national suicide It is a wonderful family, and she has But I also want to take the oppor- prevention and mental health crisis brought great distinction to not only tunity, given it is the end of the week, hotline. The designation will make it the Senate, to not only the State of Ar- to do what I consider one of my favor- easier for people to access this criti- izona, but also to the State of Rhode ite activities of the entire week each cally important lifeline when they Island. I wish her the very best going week in the Senate, and that is talking really need it. I thank CORY for his forward. about someone in my State who is partnership and leadership on this TRIBUTE TO KAMALA HARRIS making a difference, helping out our issue. Madam President, finally, while communities and making Alaska one CORY also worked diligently to secure KAMALA HARRIS is not leaving the Sen- of the best States—the best State, in the passage of the Great American Out- ate entirely, I would like to take a mo- my view—in the country. This is the doors Act last summer. This law per- ment to recognize and thank her as she individual we call the Alaskan of the manently funds the Land and Water moves to her new role as Vice Presi- Week. Conservation Fund and addresses a dent of the United States and, accord- So I want to do an acknowledgment maintenance backlog on Federal parks ing to the Constitution, as President of to some of our Hill reporters who have and public lands. The Great American this body. taken an interest in the ‘‘Alaskan of Outdoors Act is a real victory for the KAMALA is relentlessly determined to the Week’’ each week. I think some- environment and conservation. help and support the most vulnerable times because they recognize it is fin- I thank CORY for his service and wish Americans. She has helped lead the ishing up the week. We are not yet him the best as he leaves the Senate. charge to protect Dreamers, expand done yet, though. We have a lot of TRIBUTE TO MARTHA MCSALLY healthcare coverage, and reform our work to do. But I also appreciate them Madam President, I also want to criminal justice system. KAMALA dedi- reporting on it because it is just good thank MARTHA MCSALLY for her service cated her Senate tenure to policies to see stories about people who are in this Chamber. MARTHA is a veteran that make America a more equitable doing good work for their State and of the Air Force and has always been a country and ensure equal opportunities their community. fighter. In fact, when you say ‘‘veteran and rights for communities of color. What we try to do with this series, of the Air Force,’’ you are really under- KAMALA is also a former prosecutor, which we have been doing now for a stating her role in the Air Force. She and she brought a prosecutor’s inci- number of years, is to talk about peo- fought to become the first American siveness and grit with her to this body. ple who don’t always get the recogni- woman to fly a fighter jet in combat. She led the case against many of the tion that they deserve, people who are She fought to become the first Amer- Trump administration’s most harmful making a big difference. You know, ican woman to command a fighter policies and nominees, and I know she Alaska, like really every other State in squadron in combat, and she continued will bring that tenacity to the Office of the country, is experiencing serious fighting while a Member of the U.S. Vice President of the United States. challenges right now as a result of Senate. I also know that she will help guide COVID–19, but I am confident, just like Indeed, MARTHA was a steadfast and heal our Nation as we continue to the rest of the country, we will get champion for the well-being of our combat the COVID–19 pandemic. through this more resilient than ever. servicemembers, military families, and I wish her well as she begins her new We have a saying. I certainly love veterans during her time on the Armed role, and I look forward to working this saying: Tough times don’t last, but Services Committee. She worked to in- with her and President-Elect Biden to tough people do. Americans, Alaskans, clude language in the fiscal year 2020 meet the many challenges before us. North Dakotans are tough, and we are National Defense Authorization Act To all of my colleagues who are de- going to get through this. improving the effectiveness of sexual parting the Senate, I give you my I would like to introduce our Alaskan assault investigations in the military greatest respect and admiration for of the Week, Linda Behnken, from the and strengthening support for victims. your service to your States, to the Sen- gorgeous city of Sitka, AK, in South- MARTHA also played a key role in ate, and to the United States of Amer- east Alaska. The ‘‘Paris of the Pa- helping enact over 30 provisions in the ica. cific,’’ it is called, Sitka. A fun fact fiscal year 2020 NDAA to address the I yield the floor. about Sitka, it is the largest city in systemic crisis of privatized housing I suggest the absence of a quorum. the United States by land area, encom- and help remedy the mistreatment of The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. passing over 4,800 square miles, includ- military families, and she teamed with CRAMER). The clerk will call the roll. ing water. That is big. The population Senators TESTER and SULLIVAN to pass The legislative clerk proceeded to is fairly big for our State. It is beau- legislation enhancing the tools the De- call the roll. tiful. If you haven’t been to Sitka, you partment of Veterans Affairs uses to Mr. SULLIVAN. Mr. President, I ask have got to go. It is gorgeous. meet the mental health needs of vet- unanimous consent that the order for Now, Linda—boy, talk about Linda. erans. These accomplishments are only the quorum call be rescinded. Linda is innovative, caring, and she a few examples of the important work The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without has a deep and abiding commitment to MARTHA did here, but they illustrate objection, it is so ordered. our great State, her community, and to her wholehearted commitment to ORDER OF BUSINESS the profession that she has devoted her bettering the lives of those who do so Mr. SULLIVAN. Mr. President, I ask life to, one that is revered and so im- much for our country. unanimous consent that notwith- portant in Alaska, and that is commer- I attribute all of this great success standing rule XXII, that the cial fishing. and achievement—first woman fighter postcloture time on the Atchley nomi- For more than 30 years now, Linda pilot, first woman to lead a squadron in nation expire at 11:30 a.m., Thursday, has been on a boat catching fish out of combat, and more—to a simple reason. December 17; further, if the nomination Alaska’s waters. It is the best seafood, MARTHA was born and raised in War- is confirmed, the motion to reconsider mind you, in the world. No doubt about wick, RI, right next to my hometown be considered made and laid upon the that one—wild Alaskan seafood. Not of Cranston, RI. MARTHA’s close rel- table and the President be immediately only is she a successful fisherman, ative was the mayor of Cranston. My notified of the Senate’s action. which is, of course, a full-time job, she dad worked as a custodian in the The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without has also worked to ensure that Alaska school system. He respected, admired, objection, it is so ordered. continues to have sustainable fisheries.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 09:29 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G16DE6.043 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE S7530 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 16, 2020 We are what I call the superpower of When she came back to Alaska, she and military organizations. You get seafood. Over 60 percent of all fish began to fish again, eventually buying the picture. She is working hard. They caught in the United States is har- her own small commercial fishing boat, have done amazing work. And I want to vested in Alaska’s waters—6–0. That is which she now fishes with her husband thank her and so many who worked huge. But we need to make sure we and two sons who have themselves been with her for this great effort. have oceans that are clean and sustain- fishing since a very, very young age. Something else that Linda did, a de- able and that the profession is safe and I have always said that the Alaskan cision she made for her community. small fishermen can thrive and the fisherman is the quintessential small Earlier, I spoke about that cash prize young fishermen can enter the profes- business man and small business that came with the Heinz Award— sion. That is what Linda has been fo- woman. It is often family businesses. $250,000. She took $100,000 of that cused on for her entire career in Alas- They take huge risks. They create a money, which was her prize money, and ka. great product. They work hard as can donated it back to the organization So for this work and so much more, be. They are the quintessential small that she helped found, the Alaska Sus- including a huge role in helping needy business men and women in America, tainable Fisheries Trust, to work on families, particularly during this pan- and Linda proves the point. sustainable fisheries, combating cli- demic, Linda was recently awarded the She became the executive director of mate change, and to help young fisher- prestigious Heinz Award for the Envi- the Alaska Longline Fishermen’s Asso- men enter the profession so we have ronment, named after the late U.S. ciation, which is an alliance of small- sustainable fisheries going forward. Senator John Heinz. It is a very pres- boat commercial fishermen committed I am sure Linda probably heard the tigious award. to sustainable and safe fisheries. good news: Our legislation, my legisla- Here is the thing. Linda didn’t even Let me talk about safety on our tion, the Save Our Seas 2.0 legislation apply for it. She didn’t seek it. She was waters in Alaska. Fishing, particularly to clean up our oceans passed the Sen- ate recently and is on its way to the sought out and I believe shocked when in Alaska’s waters, is one of the most President’s desk for his signature. she found out she received this very dangerous jobs out there. Linda has prestigious award that comes with a More good news. had many harrowing stories—caught As she said: ‘‘We won’t have jobs if $250,000 cash prize. Now, that is a big out fishing in the frigid waters for deal. I will say more about that cash we don’t take care of our fisheries.’’ hours in the center of storms, man Keep them sustainable ‘‘and get young prize in a minute. overboard, challenges, wind whisking Let me tell you a bit about Linda’s people into the profession.’’ People like away equipment. But all in all, it is Linda—committed, organized, generous story and how she came to be such a much safer now than it used to be when passionate steward of our fisheries, of of spirit, hard-working, in love with Linda first started to fish. Then, when what she does in her State and her our sea, and of our ocean. Born and a certain fishery opened, everyone raised in Connecticut, Linda headed to community—will get us through this rushed out at once to get as much fish pandemic. These are the people in Alaska in 1982 during a summer break as possible regardless of the conditions. from college. She wanted to make Alaska, in America. And it is people That has changed. Now fishing is a like her that will also ensure that some money. She heard that one of the safer—but still dangerous—business in ways she could do it was to fish in the Alaska remains the superpower of sea- my great State. food, not just for America but for the great State of Alaska. Linda was also involved in limiting She took a ferry from Bellingham, world. bigger commercial vessels from oper- WA, to Sitka, and she immediately fell So, Linda, for all that you do, for all ating in the waters of Southeast Alas- in love with this gorgeous—and I mean that you are going to continue to do, ka and worked for more stringent envi- gorgeous—community the minute she thank you, thank you, thank you. ronmental regulations on the cruise got off the boat. It took her about a Great work, and congratulations on ship industry. month pounding the docks to find a being our Alaskan of the Week. Among other things related to fish- deckhand job. There weren’t a lot of I yield the floor. eries, she served 9 years on the North The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- women in this business then. She did Pacific Fishery Management Council ator from Oklahoma. eventually find not just a job but a and is a founding member of the Alas- wonderful community. WESTERN SAHARA AND ABRAHAM ACCORDS ‘‘The fishing community,’’ she said, ka Sustainable Fisheries Trust, which Mr. INHOFE. Mr. President, 6 days ‘‘is full of independent and resourceful promotes Alaska seafood, helps young- ago, on the 10th, I came down to the people who are really there for each er men and women enter the field, and floor after having discovered some- other’’ in their times of need. She also helps feed the hungry from the bounty thing that happened. I think it really described how, when the fishing was of the sea—all of which contributed to was not intentional the way it hap- done or when it was bad weather, peo- her winning the Heinz Award. pened, but I would like to share that ple would gather around the docks. This pandemic that we are experi- with you and share the frustration that Some would light up the grill. Some encing has negatively impacted so I have. would bring pie, a loaf of bread. Instru- many lives, but it has also brought out There is a situation that is taking ments would come out. Stories were some of the best in us in Alaska and in place and has taken place for 30-some told. Kids played. Linda said: ‘‘I found America, people across the country, years in Western Sahara. This is an a sense of community that I really reaching out to their neighbors, volun- area where after a colonial period, the hadn’t [found]’’ anywhere else. teering their time to do as much as different colonies in there were at- So she loved it. She went back to the they can. tached to other countries. In the case lower 48 to finish her undergraduate This includes Linda. When she read of Western Sahara, that actually had degree, but Alaska was always with early on in the pandemic that a gro- been attached to Spain. It was called her. She knew that she had found a cery store in her area stopped accept- Spanish Sahara at that time. This was home and a mission to help create ing checks, she got to work. Working way back in pre-1966. One of the many more sustainable fisheries in the great with her groups, the Alaska Sustain- good things that President Trump has State of Alaska. able Fisheries Trust and the Alaska done is that he has put together this To that end, she enrolled in a mas- Longline Fishermen’s Association, program called the Abraham accords, ter’s degree program in resource devel- they began delivering food—fish—to and that is bringing the Arab popu- opment at Yale and then came back to people’s doors, locally caught and proc- lation and the Jewish population in the Alaska. essed seafood to those who were in Middle East together. This is some- ‘‘What I saw going on in the ocean need. thing that Presidents have tried to do drove me to . . . graduate school.’’ So far—get this—with their partners, for a long period of time—both Demo- During that time, in the 1980s, she said they have provided over 400,000 pounds crat and Republican, not successful. that the way the fishing was managed of delicious Alaska seafood. They And this has become successful because wasn’t working well for the smaller brought in 400,000 pounds—wow—to the thing that was announced just 6 fishermen, nor was there much of an children’s programs, food pantries, days ago was that Morocco was going emphasis back then on sustainability. women’s shelters, Tribal organizations, to salvage a relationship with Israel.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:39 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G16DE6.045 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S7531 I don’t know how many or what kind Then, in 1991, the U.N. ceasefire mis- Human Rights for her work on behalf of detail went into that, but, inadvert- sion began to provide a referendum of of her people in Western Sahara. I re- ently, I think, they agreed to some- self-determination. So that is the member her so well. thing that Morocco has been trying to United Nations coming in again and She had been arrested by Morocco for do for a long period of time, and that saying that they need to have the right demonstrating peacefully in Western is, to have the United States recognize of self-determination. That is some- Sahara. She was in prison for 4 years. that they have rights to the land that thing that was restated over and over She was blindfolded the entire time for is known as Western Sahara. again. Well, that was a ceasefire in 1991 4 years, and she was tortured and treat- Now, as for Western Sahara, back that was supposed to stop all kinds of ed terribly, and she lost her eyesight as after the colonial days, they started brutality and the bad things that were a result of that. And all that was for getting their independence in various going on in that part of the world. peacefully protesting on behalf of her parts of that world. They had been at- I became very close, many years ago, homeland. tached to Spain at that time. Well, with James Baker. James Baker, back But it didn’t stop her work. She kept anyway, what the President did—and I during the Bush 1 administration, was fighting for her people, even facing ar- say I think this was inadvertently Secretary of State, and he was Sec- rest again. Additionally, 15 years ago, I done—was to give Morocco claims to retary of Treasury, and he took this did something that is kind of unusual the land that rightly belongs to the on, back during the first Bush adminis- here in Washington. People don’t real- Western Saharans. tration, as a personal thing. He went ize this—that Members of the House Now, I think that he could have se- and became familiar with this and and the Senate don’t always testify be- cured the agreement with Morocco tried to put together a special envoy to fore the other body. And 15 years ago, without giving away and reversing 45 Western Sahara and worked at it for a they were having a hearing in the years of our longstanding foreign pol- long period of time. James Baker is House on international affairs, and I icy. still around and still committed. asked if I could be a witness. So I went Now, I have to confess that when I I remember when I called James there and testified, and I gave the his- came down to the floor last week, I was Baker—this was several years ago—and tory that is similar to what I just stat- feeling shocked and deeply saddened by I said: I have been watching what you ed—the history of what has been going the announcement. The news about the did—what you tried to do—in Western on there—and why the referendum for United States recognizing Morocco’s Sahara to free these people up, and I self-determination was so necessary. claim over Western Sahara took me by just want you to know that I have been But I also called out a hidden part of surprise because I had been involved in there, I have seen it, and I agree with this, and that is the lobbyists. You that issue for a long period of time. you, and I want to get your advice as know, it seems like every time some- And we have had a policy in the United to how we can best make this happen. one has a cause that is unjust, they go States since pre-1966 that we firmly All we want is a referendum of self-de- and hire all the lobbyists in Wash- supported the rights of the Saharans— termination so people can decide for ington. We are having that right now the Western Sahara people—to their themselves what they want their land with an organization in another sub- own land that was taken unfairly from to be a part of. ject area. But at that time, that was them. So James Baker responded to me, Now, this came as a surprise to me, 2005, and at that time, the following and he said: That was one of the very and I came down to the floor. That was lobbyists had been hired by Morocco: few failures that we had during that 6 days ago. And I want to tell you what the Livingston Group, Tew Cardenas, has happened since that time, just to administration. Edelman public relations, Miller & He said: I was Secretary of State, and refresh the memory of those individ- Chevalier, Gabriel and company, Rob- I worked hard on it and did everything uals. ert Holley, and Whiton Case. Those are There are a lot of people out there I could, and I feel sorry. I wish you the seven lobbyists that were hired by Mo- who are concerned about this. best of luck. rocco. Remember what happened histori- Well, then, in 2004, the United States And now, that hasn’t changed. cally and kind of a chronology of what and Morocco signed a free-trade agree- Today, right now, they are represented happened in Western Sahara. First of ment. This is interesting because we by JPC Strategies, Third Circle, and all, in 1966, the United Nations General signed the free-trade agreement with Neale Creek, and average over $1 mil- Assembly resolution agreed that a res- Morocco, and the agreement explic- lion each year. olution of self-determination should be itly—explicitly—excluded Western Sa- So all these lobbyists in Washington held, and that is, to allow the United hara because Morocco does not have have been hired by Morocco. And whom Nations endorsing the idea that a reso- sovereignty over it. So they agreed. do the Western Saharans have to lift lution of self-determination be made They signed the same thing that we up their voices? They have no one—no for the population of Western Sahara. signed saying that that land did not be- one at all. That was 1966, and we are in full agree- long to Morocco, and it was specifi- So, given my personal history, you ment with that here in the United cally agreed that it be excluded. That can forgive me for being shocked and States. was the United States and Morocco deeply saddened at having their future Then, because of the fact that Mo- way back in 2004. so harshly stolen from them after they rocco was trying to claim some owner- So you have, in 1966, the United Na- spent three generations waiting for the ship of the land that belonged to the tions making that declaration. In 1975, promise of a referendum for self-deter- people of Western Sahara, in 1975 the the International Court of Justice de- mination. International Court of Justice denied nied the right of the territory to Mo- I have to say this. I am quite sure Morocco the right to territory of West- rocco; 1991, the ceasefire; 1997; then that our President was not even aware ern Sahara. Now, this was the Inter- again, in 2004, the United States and of that. He is doing the right thing in national Court of Justice. That is sup- Morocco signing a free-trade agree- terms of the accords that we are doing posed to be a final thing. ment—which all of this was agreed to. in that part of the world, bringing the And Morocco then invaded Western So this isn’t news for me. I have been Arabs and the Jews together. It is a Sahara. Now, keep in mind that you involved in this issue for decades, as good thing. But this is an issue that have Morocco—a very, very wealthy well, and I have visited the refugee should never have come up or been a country with all kinds of resources— camps in that area. About 10 years ago, part of it, and I am quite sure that he taking on a group of people who had I met with Aminatou Haidar. It was was not aware of this. been sent out of their homes, out and someone who would become well recog- So now, seeing the reactions around living in the bush. I have been there nized and some of the abuses that had the world, it is clear that there is kind several times. The conditions are just been taking place for a long time. She of a silver lining. I look at this as an not livable conditions. And then, of was here in Washington and came to opportunity. It is an issue that people course, they were invaded by Morocco my office. She is from that area, and are worn out on. We tried and tried and as a result of the International Court she was here to accept an award from tried everything we could think of. And of Justice decision. the Robert F. Kennedy Center for just from my coming to the floor 6

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:39 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G16DE6.053 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE S7532 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 16, 2020 days ago, all these things have hap- ministration. He was Secretary of Everybody agrees with this. It is one pened since that time. People have a State. This is his statement just the of the few things in foreign policy new hope. other day—yesterday, it was. He said: where there is no opposition. They all And remember, the conflict in West- While I strongly support the Abraham Ac- agree with that self-determination for ern Sahara is what we used to call a cords, the proper way to implement them the Western Sahara people. frozen, forgotten conflict. That has a was the way it was done with the UAE, Bah- I am so saddened by the betrayal to- finality to it. There is something about rain and Sudan, and not by cynically trading ward the people of Western Sahara for a ‘‘frozen conflict,’’ you know—that off the self-determination rights of the peo- unilaterally recognizing Morocco’s nothing more is going to happen. They ple of Western Sahara. I agree with Senator claim. Yet I am seeing the unexpected JAMES INHOFE— called it a frozen conflict and made it results from the proclamation. easy for the rest of the world to let the That is me— If highlighting the injustice of these status quo continue, leaving the West- when he characterized this development as people pushes the rest of the world to ern Saharan people in limbo, waiting ‘‘shocking and deeply disappointing.’’ It finally get them the referendum they for a referendum that had been prom- would appear that the United States of deserve, it may be worth it, and that is America, which was founded first and fore- ised way back in 1966. what I am seeing right now. I remem- The forgotten conflict allowed Mo- most on the principle of self-determination, has walked away from that principle regard- ber so well—it has now been some three rocco to continue encroaching and get- ing the people of Western Sahara. This is or four generations of Western ting away with human rights abuses very regrettable. Saharans and the little kids you see in like the one I just described—torturing That is James Baker. the camps, in the refugee camps, living that young lady for 4 years, causing Even more, these are other opinions. under conditions that we can’t even her to go blind. So those were the unin- These are opinion pieces. This came imagine in this country, but they are tended consequences of this arrange- out, and I just read them this morning. happy little kids. They carry around a ment that was made with Morocco. David Keene—we all remember David sign. I don’t have the pronunciation in So it has never been so clear to the their language, but it says: ‘‘We will international community. I have never Keene. He was with the Washington Times. He was with the American Con- fight till we get back our homes.’’ seen the international community so These are little kids. They all know— united. Everybody is on our side on servative Union and with the NRA. His the fourth generation of those who this thing—the side that we have had quote was this: The United States has sometimes quite have been abandoned. and will return to for some 30 years. So I remember—and I called, and I The African Union said—this is just properly, given our interests, stayed out of found out—what was the year? Was it since the last 6 days: ‘‘The position of controversies like this, but one is hard pressed to find another situation in which we 2007? Yes, in 2007, Mark Powers and I— the African Union remains unchanged, have virtually announced that justice he has been with me on a lot of things in conformity with relevant AU’’—that doesn’t matter and that those like the West- in Africa that we have been interested is the African Union—‘‘and United Na- ern Saharans who have sought their rights in. He and I met with all of the elected tions resolutions.’’ peacefully rather than [by way] . . . [of] ter- leaders of the Western Saharans in a On the United Nations: ‘‘The United rorism and . . . [guns] are fools. Nations said Thursday its position was John Bolton, in Foreign Policy, said: room that is out in the desert. We ac- tually heard all their stories. They are ‘unchanged’ on the disputed Western [T]he Polisario is at a crucial juncture. It Sahara region after the United States would be fully justified if it chooses to re- all Muslims out there, and we all recognized Morocco’s sovereignty turn to the battlefield, but much depends on prayed together. We prayed to the Lord there.’’ the positions of Algeria, Mauritania and oth- for mercy in this case. And I think that That is the United Nations coming ers—and what resources are available. maybe it is closer than we thought it back again. Now, that gets back to the question was. In a news article, the European of resources. We have unlimited re- That is what is happening right now. Union indicated last Thursday that sources by the very wealthy nation— It is something that—we have to move ‘‘the status of Western Sahara has not one of the wealthiest nations in the back to our original position that we been determined and must be nego- world, Morocco. have held since 1966 in supporting peo- tiated in a process led by the United Stephen Zunes—I got to know him a ple—the right for a referendum of self- Nations, after the President of the long time ago. He is a scholar with the determination. United States, Donald Trump, has rec- University of San Francisco. He spe- With that, I yield the floor. ognized the Moroccan sovereignty.’’ cializes in this area. This is his quote I suggest the absence of a quorum. So the European Union is in full just in the last 2 days: The PRESIDING OFFICER. The agreement with what we are about to clerk will call the roll. Morocco’s claim on Western Sahara is re- The bill clerk proceeded to call the try to do again. jected by the United Nations, the World The United Kingdom said: ‘‘Our posi- Court, the African Union and a broad con- roll. tion on the status of Western Sahara sensus of international legal scholars that Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I ask remains unchanged.’’ consider the region a non-self-governing ter- unanimous consent that the order for It didn’t change them a bit what we ritory that must be allowed an act of self-de- the quorum call be rescinded. did here in the United States. termination. This is why no country had for- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Algeria. Algeria is right next door. I mally recognized Morocco’s takeover—until objection, it is so ordered. now. meant to bring a map down here to fa- JOHNNY ISAKSON AND DAVID P. ROE, M.D. VET- miliarize everyone with the area that This is still Stephen Zunes. He said: ERANS HEALTH CARE AND BENEFITS IM- we are talking about. Algeria said: ‘‘Human Rights Watch, Amnesty Inter- PROVEMENT ACT OF 2020 ‘‘The conflict of Western Sahara is a national and other reputable human Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, tonight I question of decolonization which can rights groups have documented wide- am pleased to speak as the chairman of only be resolved through the applica- spread suppression of peaceful, pro- the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Af- tion of the international law and the independence activists by Moroccan oc- fairs on the work we have accom- well-established charter of the United cupation forces, including torture, plished with our colleagues in the Nations and the African Union in this beatings, detention without trial and House to deliver today meaningful ben- matter, which provides for the authen- extrajudicial killings. efits and reforms for our Nation’s vet- tic exercise by the Sahrawi people of Still quoting the scholar, Stephen erans and to recognize the decades of their inalienable right to self-deter- Zunes: ‘‘Since the Polisario’’— service of two of our departing col- mination and independence.’’ Polisario, of course, are those fighting leagues who are dedicated to the well- That is Algeria. And, by the way, for their freedom and for their rec- being of our veterans. every one of the 52 nations in Africa is lamation. ‘‘Since the Polisario pro- Today the House passed the Johnny in full agreement with what we are claimed the establishment of the Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Vet- talking about right now. Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic in erans Health Care and Benefits Im- And James Baker hasn’t gone away. 1976, 84 countries have recognized West- provement Act of 2020. This legislation This is way back in the first Bush ad- ern Sahara as an independent state.’’ is the culmination of more than 2 years

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:39 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G16DE6.054 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S7533 of bipartisan work, with input from all work this past year in helping to lead the work she has done throughout her of our veteran service organizations, our committee’s efforts to do the right career and because of her tenacious dozens of Senators and Members of the thing for our Nation’s veterans. This ‘‘never take no for an answer’’ ap- House of Representatives, our partners bill is a testament to his dedication to proach to doing all things right. at the Department of Veterans Affairs, serving our veterans and to his staff’s Caroline, you will be missed, but you and the leadership of the former Senate tireless work on veterans’ behalf. are always part of the team. You de- and House VA Committee chairmen, One more thank-you certainly rests serve our gratitude for what you have Senator Isakson and Congressman ROE. with our SVAC members for providing accomplished on behalf of our Nation’s Among its many provisions, this leg- so many legislative solutions to issues military men and women and on behalf islation invests in the education and that we have heard from the VA, from of our veterans. employment of veterans to make cer- our VSOs and from veterans in each of I yield the floor. tain they have the tools necessary to our home States. I know that making f achieve success after service through certain our veterans continue to re- expanded opportunities to use their ceive care and benefits was foremost in EXECUTIVE CALENDAR earned benefits for longer periods of their minds during this pandemic, and Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I ask time and more opportunities for job I would like to thank Senators BOOZ- unanimous consent that the Senate training. MAN, CASSIDY, ROUNDS, TILLIS, SUL- proceed to the en bloc consideration of This bill will also give the VA the LIVAN, BLACKBURN, CRAMER, LOEFFLER, the following nominations: Executive tools necessary to serve veterans at and each of our Democratic colleagues Calendar Nos. 867 and 868. risk of homelessness in a more mean- on the committee for their contribu- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without ingful way during the pandemic and re- tion to this landmark legislation. objection, it is so ordered. quire the VA to provide greater over- Our veteran service organizations The clerk will report the nomina- sight and support to our State vet- often speak for veterans who cannot tions en bloc. erans’ homes. speak for themselves, and they help The bill clerk read the nominations It also includes provisions from the Members of this body understand the of Anna Maria Ruzinski, of Wisconsin, Deborah Sampson Act, a landmark bill issues and concerns that veterans may to be United States Marshal for the that makes clear women who serve be facing across the country in addi- Eastern District of Wisconsin for the their country in the Armed Forces tion to our own home States. I thank term of four years; and Gregory Scott must have a VA that is as effective for all of the VSOs that have worked on Tabor, of Arkansas, to be United them as it is for the men who also have this bill, for many years in many cases, States Marshal for the Western Dis- served. meeting with me and with our com- trict of Arkansas for the term of four As I mentioned, this bill is named mittee staff, explaining issues and years. after two public servants. Johnny Isak- working closely with us to make cer- Thereupon, the Senate proceeded to son was my predecessor as chairman, tain we find the right solutions for our consider the nominations en bloc. and I have worked hard to follow his Nation’s veterans. I hope each VSO— Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I ask example of bipartisanship in working veteran service organization—and its unanimous consent that the Senate with our VA Committee ranking mem- members will benefit from this legisla- vote on the nominations en bloc with ber, Senator JON TESTER. Legislation tion following the President’s signa- no intervening action or debate; that, like this bill is the result of many ture. I hope they will benefit for dec- if confirmed, the motions to reconsider months of work by members of our ades to come. be considered made and laid upon the staff, stemming from a desire from Finally, I want to thank our team at table en bloc; and that the President be both sides of the aisle to better serve the Senate VA Committee for every- immediately notified of the Senate’s our Nation’s veterans. The important thing they have put into this legisla- action. relationships that exist between Sen- tion. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without ators, our House colleagues, and our Thank you to Senator TESTER’s staff objection, it is so ordered. staff members result in a bipartisan so- for all of your thoughtful work draft- The question is, Will the Senate ad- lution like the one that passed the ing the language to help address real vise and consent to the Ruzinski and House today and that passed the Sen- issues that impact real veterans. Tabor nominations en bloc? ate just a few days before. Thank you to my VA staff, who have The nominations were confirmed en I would also like to thank Dr. PHIL put in the work conducting oversight bloc. ROE. I served with him in the House of and responding to casework so we can f Representatives. He is the current understand the needs of veterans in House Veterans’ Affairs Committee Kansas and across the country and EXECUTIVE CALENDAR ranking member and its former chair- make meaningful, lasting changes so Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I ask man. I thank him for his partnership they may experience the American unanimous consent that the Com- and his friendship as we worked to- dream that they once fought so hard to mittee on Foreign Relations be dis- gether to serve veterans, since we both secure for each of us. charged and the Senate proceed to the served on that committee in the House Thank you to Chelsey Ladd, Victoria en bloc consideration of the following together. Lee, Scott Nulty, Kevin Ryan, Thomas nominations: PN2398 and PN2063. The VA is making positive, measur- Wilson, Michele Payne, Barry Walker, The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without able changes to better serve our vet- Pauline Schmitt, Thomas Coleman, objection, it is so ordered. erans, and Congressman ROE and Sen- Asher Allman, Jake Vance, Mark The clerk will report the nomina- ator Isakson deserve credit not only for Crowley, Brian Newbold, Lindsay tions en bloc. being a big part of that change but also Dearing, Emily Blair, Kelsey Baron, The bill clerk read the nominations for being an example for the rest of us Tiffanii Woolfolk, and David Shear- of Irving Bailey, of Florida, to be a as to how we can work across the aisle man. Member of the Board of Directors of and across the Capitol to improve the Finally, I want to recognize my staff the United States International Devel- lives of our country’s veterans and all director, Caroline Canfield, who is end- opment Finance Corporation for a term of our fellow citizens. ing her service with my office and with of three years (New Position); and I would also like to recognize Con- the Senate at the end of this month. Deven J. Parekh, of New York, to be a gressman ROE’s counterpart, House VA She has served as a tremendous asset. Member of the Board of Directors of Committee Chairman TAKANO, for see- She is a tremendous asset and a force the United States International Devel- ing this bill to completion in the House multiplier as my military legislative opment Finance Corporation for a term of Representatives today. assistant, as my lead appropriations of three years (New Position). I would like to thank my counterpart staffer, and now as my VA Committee Thereupon, the Senate proceeded to in the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Com- staff director. consider the nominations en bloc. mittee, Ranking Member JON TESTER, Our Nation’s veterans and our mili- Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I ask the Senator from Montana, for his hard tary members are better off because of unanimous consent that the Senate

VerDate Sep 11 2014 09:46 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G16DE6.048 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE S7534 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 16, 2020 vote on the nominations en bloc with President Bush appointed him to the attacks into neighboring Tanzania, no intervening action or debate; that, Commission on Federal Ethics Law Re- have used horrific acts of terror—in- if confirmed, the motions to reconsider form and as Ambassador and Chairman cluding systematic use of arson, mur- be considered made and laid upon the of the U.S. Delegation to the World Ad- der, often including beheadings, and table en bloc; and that the President be ministrative Radio Conference. kidnapping—to force compliance with immediately notified of the Senate’s Jan Baran has been an integral part their aims. Their acts have effectively action. of legal teams that have defended displaced more than 500,000 people in The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Americans’ political speech rights be- Cabo Delgado, creating a severe hu- objection, it is so ordered. fore the U.S. Supreme Court. He was manitarian crises. In 1 week in Novem- The question is, will the Senate ad- part of my team when I challenged the ber alone, more than 10,000 people fled vise and consent to the Bailey and constitutionality of the campaign fi- to the port city of Pemba, many in Parekh nominations en bloc? nance law known as McCain-Feingold. rickety, unsafe boats. A significant of The nominations were confirmed en From McConnell v. FEC to Citizens these internally displaced persons now bloc. United and beyond, Jan was in the mid- languish in crowded, unsanitary condi- f dle of these important battles. Through tions. these episodes and many more, I per- What can be done to solve this crisis? LEGISLATIVE SESSION sonally have witnessed and appreciated And what should be the role of the Jan’s candor, sharp legal mind, and United States, which today appears to be retreating from Africa? This year MORNING BUSINESS strategic thinking. Washington can be a transient place, has perhaps taught us more than any Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I ask but Mr. Baran has stayed in the fray in recent memory that stability and se- unanimous consent that the Senate for more than 40 years and given his curity around the world can directly proceed to legislative session for a pe- best every day to uphold free speech impact the stability and security of the riod of morning business, with Sen- and defend the Republic. I am not sure United States. We have a sustained in- ators permitted to speak therein for up if the people of that small town in Po- terest in helping to support innocent, to 10 minutes each. land know that the son of their war- suffering people and promoting sta- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without time mayor’s son built such a distin- bility. objection, it is so ordered. guished career in just one generation. The security aspect of the threat re- f His talent, perseverance, and commit- quires a security solution. However, the Mozambican security forces have TRIBUTE TO JAN BARAN ment to his country are a credit to where Jan came from and the life he demonstrated that they cannot effec- Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, has led along the way. I extend my tively respond to this threat without today I want to extend congratulations warm wishes to him and his wife Kath- assistance. It is clear that they lack and best wishes to a friend, a skilled ryn, their four children, sons-in-law, proper training and equipment, and a attorney in the areas of campaign fi- and grandchildren. substantial body of reporting has es- nance and election law, and a devoted f tablished that elements of these forces defender of the First Amendment. have frequently committed serious After more than 35 years, Jan Witold MOZAMBIQUE human rights abuses, as well as en- Baran is retiring from the law firm Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. President, I gaged in petty corruption targeting the Wiley Rein LLP at the end of the rise to call attention to the rapidly local impoverished population. The month. Throughout his distinguished burgeoning Islamist insurgency in Mozambican Government must take career, Jan has successfully rep- northern Mozambique, which is drag- steps to ensure that state security resented thousands of clients, includ- ging that country into ever-increasing forces are not only effective, but that ing me. He has put his brilliance to violence and chaos. In the past decade, they also engage in such a manner that work defending all Americans’ rights Mozambique has taken steps to resolve earns the trust of the population they to participate in our democracy and ex- a decades-long civil war and while are charged with protecting press themselves through voluntary peace remains elusive, with long- The good news is that the inter- contributions to the candidates of their standing support from the United national community has begun to re- choice, so that a few elite gatekeepers States, there has been progress. This spond. The U.S.’s counterterrorism co- cannot control the public discourse in progress, when coupled with the 2010 ordinator recently visited Maputo to our country. discovery of enormous natural gas re- offer our assistance to the government. When you consider Jan’s background, serves in the remote northern province European countries have also pledged it is no surprise he is committed to of Cabo Delgado, could have changed to assist with building Mozambique’s preserving freedom. Jan was born in the development course of the country. security capacities. Any such counter- postwar Europe to a Flemish mother But a new conflict has emerged in Mo- terrorism support must include rig- and Polish Catholic father. Before Jan zambique that threatens all of the po- orous human rights training, as well as was born, his father had survived 21⁄2 tential gains for the citizens of the improvements in civil-military rela- years in concentration camps including province and the entire country. tions and effective intelligence-gath- Auschwitz, before he was liberated by The origins of this extremist insur- ering. The government should also be American troops at Dachau. Jan’s fa- gency share traits with many others pressed to reduce its reliance on local ther was incarcerated because during globally: a marginalized community’s militias, who have even less training his tenure as mayor of a small town in grievance against corrupt and distant and accountability than government Poland, he refused to turn in his rifle rulers, fueled and brutally exploited by troops. to the Gestapo. Clearly a stubborn radical Islamist ideologues, has al- The humanitarian crisis also de- dedication to freedom under law is in lowed extremism to take root and gain mands immediate action. Of the half Jan’s bloodline. traction, while the innocent majority million people who have been dis- Next year will mark the 70th anni- of the local population bears the cost. placed, 41 percent are children. The versary of the Baran family’s immigra- The extremists have proclaimed alle- provinces of northern Mozambique that tion to America. I am sure his parents giance to ISIS and have rapidly devel- host most of these newly displaced peo- would be extremely proud of what their oped increasingly sophisticated mili- ple are among the poorest in one of the son has accomplished. A decorated tary capabilities; Mozambique’s poorly world’s least-developed countries and scholar from Vanderbilt Law School; trained security forces have proven un- have little capacity to assist those af- general counsel for the National Re- able to vanquish the group. It is an in- fected by the crisis. In total, more than publican Congressional Committee; a surgency on the advance. It has seized 1.3 million people in northern Mozam- trailblazing attorney at the FEC; gen- seizing entire towns and now controls bique are in urgent need of humani- eral counsel to the 1988 campaign of considerable territory. tarian assistance and protection, ac- President George H. W. Bush; counsel The insurgents, who have attracted cording to the U.N. The international to the Republican National Committee. foreign fighters and recently launched community must step up and fully fund

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:39 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G16DE6.049 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S7535 the modest request of the U.N. Office citizen of my home State, CSM Bennie exploding mortar rounds in order to for the Coordination of Humanitarian G. Adkins, who died of complications drag several wounded Americans to Affairs, which has said that it requires related to the COVID–19 virus on April safety. During the battle, Bennie later $254 million to provide humanitarian 17, 2020. He was laid to rest with full recalled, bullets hit and killed one man assistance through 2021. military honors this morning after a he was carrying on his back. At an- Counterterrorism training and hu- funeral service in the chapel at Arling- other point, Adkins, a former baseball manitarian assistance alone, however, ton National Cemetery. catcher, caught a North Vietnamese are not enough to defeat ISIS in Mo- Command Sergeant Major Adkins, hand grenade in midair and flung it zambique. They are only tools to re- known to friends and family as back at the enemy. spond to the immediate crisis. To effec- ‘‘Bennie,’’ received the Medal of Honor Over the course of 4 days, Bennie re- tively address the root causes of the at a White House ceremony on Sep- peatedly exposed himself to hostile fire conflict—the social and economic in- tember 15, 2014, for acts of heroism dur- while rescuing and helping evacuate equalities that have allowed extremism ing the Vietnam war. Although Bennie his fellow soldiers, retrieving addi- to take hold and flourish—the was recommended for the Medal of tional munitions, and repelling re- Mozambican Government and inter- Honor at the time, he was instead peated waves of attacking enemy sol- national partners must assist in reach- given the next highest award, the Dis- diers. Bennie suffered 18 wounds—in- ing the country’s increasingly-alien- tinguished Service Cross. In 2002, the cluding to an eye and his torso—but ated northern communities. The gov- Army began reviewing Distinguished managed to kill an estimated 135 to 175 ernment must engage with its northern Service Cross awards for possible up- enemy troops. citizens and deliver what the majority grades, and finally, 48 years later, Because of his efforts to carry a of the population wants and expects: President Obama bestowed a well-de- wounded soldier to an extraction point better governance and critical social served Medal of Honor upon Bennie rather than leave him behind, Bennie services. The international community Adkins. and his group were unable to reach the can help by collaborating and coordi- As we know, the Medal of Honor is last evacuation helicopter. Running ex- nating their engagement with the gov- the Nation’s highest medal for valor in tremely low on ammunition, he re- ernment on a package of development combat. According to a statute passed turned to the mortar pit, gathered ad- aid that helps to address poor govern- in 1918, the President is authorized to ditional ammunition, and ran through ance, increases transparency and fights present this award to ‘‘each person intense fire back to the communica- corruption, effectively delivers health who, while an officer or enlisted man of tions bunker. After being ordered to and education services, and fosters job the Army, shall hereafter, in action in- evacuate the camp, Adkins and the re- opportunities and local entrepreneur- volving actual conflict with an enemy, maining small group destroyed all sig- ship. Mozambique and its international distinguish himself conspicuously by nal equipment and classified docu- ments, then fought their way out of the partners also must scale up programs gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of camp and into the jungle, where they aimed at countering extremist ide- his life above and beyond the call of evaded the pursuing North Vietnamese ology and promoting defections from duty.’’ Other legislation authorizes the award within the other military de- Army for 2 days. the insurgency. Their escape was aided by the sawed- Donors must also hold the govern- partments as well. off shotgun Bennie carried as a sidearm ment’s feet to the fire on its obligation In the history of this country, the and by the unexpected intervention of to invest it its own citizenry, including Medal of Honor has been awarded to an Indonesian tiger. Trapped in the by insisting that the government de- 3,507 individuals. Fewer than 70 of jungle, the group’s radio damaged in those recipients are still alive today. velop its natural resources—notably the battle, Adkins managed to rig his the gas reserves in Cabo Delgado—in an I point this out because I believe that when these heroes leave Active Duty shotgun as an antenna, enabling him to equitable, transparent, manner that re- communicate their location to friendly and come home to live among us in our sults in that a significant portion of forces. As the group endured a second communities, their very presence in prospective natural gas revenues being night in the jungle waiting for help to our midst lifts us all up. They inspire invested in the provinces that host Mo- arrive, the tiger, which had been hunt- and embolden countless other acts of zambique’s gas resources. ing nearby, frightened off the enemy, courage and sacrifice, both great and As the conflict grows in scope and in- giving Adkins and the others an oppor- small, many of which we have seen in tensity, the United States will need to tunity to create a makeshift landing the recent weeks and months our Na- further develop a coordinated, inter- pad for a rescue helicopter the next tion and our world have been battling agency strategy, one which uses all the morning. levers of American power—diplomatic, the very virus that took Bennie The Medal of Honor citation con- development, and defense—to address Adkins’ life. cludes, ‘‘Sergeant First Class Adkins’ Cabo Delgado’s military, humani- So it is with gratitude and a deep extraordinary heroism in close combat tarian, and development crisis and to sense of loss that we remember this ex- against a numerically superior hostile work with regional partners on to both traordinary man. force was in keeping with the highest inform and implement such a strategy. The facts of the events that led to traditions of the military service and The situation in Mozambique is dire, Bennie Adkins’ recognition bear men- reflects great credit upon himself, his and unfortunately it has not attracted tion. However, as President Obama said unit, and the United States Army.’’ an appropriate level of attention from when presenting Bennie with the Extraordinary indeed. policymakers. It is tragic to see a Medal, ‘‘I have to be honest, in a battle Remarkable as those details are, the country that seemed to be on the cusp and daring escape that lasted four facts of Bennie’s postservice life are of transformation dragged back into days, Bennie performed so many acts of equally worthy of note. conflict. The situation is not hopeless. bravery we actually don’t have time to Bennie and his wife Mary were mar- The United States and its partners can talk about all of them.’’ I will, there- ried for more than 60 years—until she together effectively help Mozambique fore, attempt to summarize, combining passed away in 2019. They don’t give defeat this insurgency and support the information from the citation that ac- medals for that, but I know from ob- Mozambican people’s aspirations for a companied the award, media accounts serving my own parents’ 60-plus years more hopeful future, but the situation of the events, and quotes from Bennie’s together that, no matter who the cou- is urgent. We must act now. memoir. ple are, that kind of dedication, loy- f When Camp A Shau was attacked by alty, and commitment are special. a large Viet Cong force early on March After 20 years of service in the Army, HONORING COMMAND SERGEANT 9, 1966, then-Sergeant First Class Bennie retired and went back to MAJOR BENNIE G. ADKINS (RET.) Adkins rushed through intense hostile school. He earned three degrees from Mr. JONES. Mr. President, it is with fire to man a mortar position. Al- Troy University—a bachelor’s in fi- sadness and humility that I ask this though wounded himself by incoming nance and two master’s degrees—and body to pause for a moment to remem- fire, Bennie briefly relinquished his opened his own accounting firm in Au- ber and honor a great American and a mortar to a comrade and ran through burn. Then, Bennie began deploying his

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:39 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE6.008 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE S7536 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 16, 2020 charisma, his wit, his way with people, a harrowing encounter when his plane The legacy Chuck leaves is such an and his resources to help others pursue was shot down over German-occupied important part of our heritage as West their goals through education. France. He and another American trav- Virginians. Our little State has mined For several years, Bennie taught elled on foot through mountainous ter- the coal that forged the steel that built night classes at Alabama’s Southern rain and snow toward neutral Spain. As the tanks and ships that keep our Union Junior College and Auburn Uni- they stopped to rest, the Nazis opened country the strongest in the world. It versity, as well as GED classes at the fire, wounding the man traveling with is an honor to remember Chuck as part local jail. Later, he established The Chuck. Chuck carried him into Spain, of our military service heritage and Bennie Adkins Foundation, which to where they met British forces. Despite our way of life that sinks deep into the date has provided about 50 educational the treacherous journey he had just en- roots of West Virginia’s rich culture. I scholarships to noncommissioned Spe- dured, to everyone’s astonishment, encourage all Americans to learn what cial Forces officers. Chuck was determined to fly again. He they can about this legendary West Bennie’s dedication to the service of climbed his way through the ranks, Virginian. his country and to his fellow Ameri- pursuing a return to combat duty, Gayle and I are praying for Chuck’s cans never waned. For many years he which was eventually granted. For his wife Victoria, daughters, Susan and traveled extensively, in what he de- service, Chuck received the Silver Sharon, son, Don, and all who loved scribed as his fourth career, ‘‘trying to Star, the Distinguished Flying Cross, and admired him. instill patriotism in our young people.’’ the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple f And according to President Obama in Heart, and the Air Medal. He also re- RECOGNIZING OREGON’S FIRST 2014, ‘‘the first thing you need to know ceived the Presidential Medal of Free- FEMALE EAGLE SCOUTS is when Bennie and I met in the Oval dom, the Nation’s highest civilian Office, he asked if he could sign back award, from President Ronald Reagan Mr. WYDEN. Mr. President, I am up. His lovely wife was not amused.’’ in 1985. There are so few Veterans left proud to be able to recognize Oregon’s I know that for Bennie’s family and from the World War II era, and it is our first female Eagle Scouts, the highest his community, this is a loss impos- responsibility and our privilege to rec- rank attainable in the Boy Scouts of sible to describe or to measure. My ognize the service of these noble he- America, or BSA. Evelyn Becker, Juli- wife Louise joins me in sending our sin- roes. ana Cimral, and Anya Kramer have cerest condolences to Bennie’s daugh- In 1957, Chuck became an air squad- demonstrated remarkable leadership, ter Mary Ann Adkins Blake (David), to ron commander and then commander skill, and perseverance to earn this im- his sons Michael Adkins (Christine), of the Aerospace Research Pilot School portant distinction and have done it and Keith Adkins (Jaime), and to his at Edwards in 1961. He also commanded through an unprecedented pandemic. many grandchildren and great-grand- a fighter wing and flew combat mis- For more than 100 years, the Eagle children. sions during the Vietnam war. He re- Scout rank has represented a tremen- To paraphrase his Medal of Honor ci- tired as an Air Force brigadier general dous accomplishment that is recog- tation, Bennie Adkins’ extraordinary in 1975, and in an honorary gesture, he nized in Oregon and across the country. life reflects great credit upon himself, was promoted to the rank of major To earn Scouting’s highest honor, a his family, and his country. May he general in 2005. Scout must demonstrate mastery of rest in peace, and may God bless the We all of course know the story of numerous skills and obtain a merit United States of America. the day Chuck became the first pilot to badge for each one, earn a position of f break the sound barrier. On October 14, responsibility within their troop, and 1947, Chuck flew an orange Bell X–1 air- complete a service project that will di- REMEMBERING GENERAL craft at nearly 700 mph and made his- rectly benefit their community. Until CHARLES ELWOOD ‘‘CHUCK’’ tory. Flying F–15 planes, he broke the recently, girls and young women were YEAGER sound barrier again on the 50th and not allowed to join BSA, but that fi- Mr. MANCHIN. Mr. President, I rise 55th anniversaries of his pioneering nally changed for the better in Feb- today to honor an American hero and flight, and he was a passenger on an F– ruary of 2019. Evelyn, Juliana, and one of West Virginia’s native sons who 15 plane in another breaking of the Anya, Oregon’s first three female Eagle was larger than life and an inspiration sound barrier to commemorate the 65th Scouts, received their rank in October for generations of Americans—General anniversary. and will join others in receiving their Charles Elwood ‘‘Chuck’’ Yeager. I knew Chuck very well and he was a official Eagle title in February 2021. Chuck bravely served our Nation as a dear friend to me and Gayle. As Gov- We can see examples of their skills pilot for more than 30 years in the U.S. ernor, I was fortunate to host Chuck at and dedication to improving their com- Air Force during World War II and least once a year for the One Shot Deer munity in the Eagle service projects Vietnam. When he became the first Hunt, which gives proceeds to helping they tackled. Juliana, a senior at Jes- pilot to break the sound barrier he the hungry. He told me so many in- uit High School, employed her knowl- challenged each of us to test the limits credible stories of his service, includ- edge of and interest in bees and the im- of what is possible. I am grateful to ing all the intricate details of his leg- portance these pollinators play in the have known this legendary West Vir- endary flight. I recall him telling me food supply chain to build 25 bee houses ginian and to call him my dear friend. that the only reason he got to fly the that have increased the pollination and Chuck truly embodied what it means Bell X–1 that day was because the pre- production of nearby gardens. Evelyn, to be from the Mountain State. Born in vious pilot they asked wanted too a sophomore at Scappoose High School, 1923 in rural Lincoln County, Chuck much money. They offered Chuck an built a fence to separate her local grew up the way many of us do in West extra 60 dollars a month, and he school from a busy highway and a Virginia—hunting and fishing and jumped at the chance. Not only is the bioswale to prevent children from fall- learning early to be respectful of na- story true about Chuck pushing ing into the water and to help improve ture and our fellow man. Like his fa- through with a broken rib, but he the safety of her community. Anya, a ther, A. Hal Yeager, who was a gaswell wasn’t even supposed to break the freshman at Western Oregon Univer- driller, Chuck showed an aptitude for sound barrier that day. He thought if sity, spent months building a partner- mechanics, and by the time he was a he didn’t go for it that first day, he ship between the West Linn Food Pan- teenager, he was able to assemble a car wouldn’t get another chance. Chuck try and Period.org so that women in engine on his own. His work ethic and truly had nerves of steel. need would have access to feminine hy- natural talent would serve him well Long after his record-breaking flight, giene products, an often overlooked es- throughout the rest of his remarkable Chuck remained in our hearts as a sential. life. symbol of patriotism and bravery. His It has been exciting to see the BSA In 1941, Chuck enlisted in the Army life is full of tales of his bravery, his finally welcoming the other half of the Air Forces right out of high school and stoicism in the face of danger, and his population into their ranks. Each of trained as a mechanic before heading determination to perform his duty no these three women watched their to flight school. In 1944, he experienced matter the cost. brothers succeed in Boy Scouts while

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:39 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE6.009 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S7537 growing up. When finally given the immigrants who came to this country toughest of environments, leading gen- chance, they continued that family didn’t know where they were going, erations of men and women while hav- tradition of achievement. I am excited couldn’t speak the language, and were ing an immeasurable and positive in- to see what new heights these out- unfamiliar with Appalachian culture. fluence on them. I know this because I standing Eagle Scouts and community All they knew is that they had to work was fortunate to have Phillip on my leaders will reach. Many more will hard and were determined to provide a staff for a year as a congressional fel- come after them, and our communities good life for their families. That is low and am fortunate to call him my will be better for it. what the Festival represents, and those friend. Oregonians always take pride in serv- are the ideals that Carmine upheld. His Command Sergeant Major Cantrell is ing our State and this great country, lovely wife Florence, their 7 children, retiring from his final assignment, and these three Eagle Scouts are a 25 grandchildren, 24 great-grand- where he served as the senior enlisted great example of that. Today I say con- children, and their entire family, 73 leader of the West Virginia National gratulations to the first women from people altogether, have all been active Guard, a duty that he assumed in 2018 Oregon to earn the rank of Eagle in this beloved festival. After Flor- where he advised the Adjutant General Scout, and I wish them many more ence’s passing, Carmine endowed the on all matters pertaining to the nearly years of success. Florence Chico Cann Children’s Cre- 6,400 enlisted soldiers and airmen of the f ative Arts Program as well as the Chil- West Virginia National Guard. Before dren’s Chorus. Carmine is committed this assignment with the West Virginia ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS to the beautiful North Central region National Guard, Phillip served in the of our State, and I know I join count- toughest and most elite Active Army TRIBUTE TO CARMINE CANN, SR. less West Virginians in thanking him units, in combat and in peace. Phillip for his service to his community for so is the Soldier’s Soldier, having trained ∑ Mr. MANCHIN. Mr. President, it is a many years. a generation of leaders as a drill ser- great privilege of mine to rise and Carmine will tell you that much of geant, led infantry units in combat as honor a pillar of strength in my home his success is rooted in faith, and he is a first sergeant and command sergeant State of West Virginia, Carmine Cann, forever thankful for the blessings that major, and paid reverence to our Na- Sr., as we celebrate his 90th birthday his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, has tion’s veterans as the command ser- on July 27, 2020. provided. He is never one to accept ac- geant major of the Old Guard. Carmine has been like family to me claim very well, instead deferring all Growing up in Logan County, Phillip for much of my life, and if there is any- praise and thanks to the Almighty. He enlisted in the Active Army Infantry in thing to know about Carmine, it is is a shining beacon of his faith, family, May of 1988 as soon as he graduated that family is everything. It is one of community, and State. high school. He attending infantryman the countless things I have always ad- Carmine’s expertise has been sought- training at Fort Benning, GA, and mired most about him, in addition to after by Senators, Congressmen, Gov- would add many qualifications along his unwavering devotion to our home ernors, budding community leaders, the way, including Master State and his unparalleled knowledge and his friends and family. He has Jumpmaster, Air Assault, Combat In- of business and the law. Throughout never been one to shy away from a fantry, and Drill Sergeant Badges. He my own life and career, I have always friendly debate with those who have married his wife Sherry in June 1989, kept Carmine in the back of my mind— opposing views. Carmine has the great- and they have been together through remembering to stay strong for my est respect for all opinions—people numerous deployments, traveling the State and my family. from all walks of life. He is first and world together to serve their country A native of Clarksburg, Carmine foremost an outstanding person, a gen- and State. practiced law with his father upon tleman in the old sense, and a true Anyone who has served in the mili- graduating from West Virginia Univer- broker of compromise in a world so in tary knows that the noncommissioned sity College of Law. In 1954, their firm need of that leadership and trust. officer is the backbone of the Army. merged with another and became Carmine, despite that we aren’t able Throughout his career, Phillip has Young, Morgan and Cann, where he to have a birthday party in your honor done the heavy lifting and served at practiced until joining Flaherty’s this year, I know this will still be a every level of noncommissioned officer Clarksburg office in 2017. memorable occasion for you to reflect leadership, to include team and squad Carmine served in the West Virginia on your many accomplishments and ex- leaders, platoon sergeant, first ser- Legislature for 8 years as a member of periences, while you enjoy the well geant, operations sergeant major and the House of Delegates. Throughout wishes from your loved ones. You have battalion and brigade command ser- government circles, he was widely provided so much happiness and wis- geant major. known for his keen political awareness. dom to the lives of those around you, Command Sergeant Major Cantrell The Charleston Gazette dubbed him myself included. It is my wish that the served in the 82nd Airborne Division ‘‘Mighty Mouse’’ for his accomplish- memory of this special day remains from 1988 to 1996, participating in Oper- ments in and behind the scenes. After with you just as your guidance and in- ation Just Cause and Operations Desert choosing not to run for reelection, Car- fluence will remain in all the lives you Shield/Desert Storm before being reas- mine served the West Virginia Coal As- have touched. I know that Florence, a signed to Fort Leonard Wood to serve sociation and West Virginia Beer true angel, is smiling down on you. as a drill sergeant. Upon his comple- Wholesalers Association as a govern- Gayle and I are thinking fondly about tion of drill sergeant duty, he returned mental relations consultant for over 25 you on this special day, and we sin- to the 82nd Airborne Division and Fort years. cerely appreciate your many years of Bragg, where he was deployed on a Some of his awards and honors in- loyal friendship.∑ peacekeeping mission to Kosovo with clude St. Mary’s Irish Legend in 2011, f the 3/504th Infantry Regiment. Italian American Man of the Year by In 2005, while first sergeant of D the West Virginia Italian Heritage Fes- TRIBUTE TO COMMAND SERGEANT Company, 2/505th Infantry Regiment, tival in 2005, and recipient of the Dis- MAJOR PHILIP R. CANTRELL 82nd Airborne Division, Command Ser- tinguished West Virginian Award in ∑ Mr. MANCHIN. Mr. President, it is geant Major Cantrell was deployed in 1995. an honor to rise today to recognize the support of Hurricane Katrina relief ef- Among his many roles in the commu- unwavering service of a true West Vir- forts and subsequently deployed two nity, Carmine is also well known as a ginian, CSM Phillip R. Cantrell, as he companies to Iraq in 2006 in support of founding member of the Italian Herit- retires from Active military service Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was de- age Festival’s Board of Directors. The and transitions to a new chapter of ployed to Iraq in one of the most dan- Italian Heritage Festival is such a spe- public service. Phillip Cantrell is sim- gerous locations during 2006–2007, the cial event for me and for people not ply the best of the best. He is humble, time period known as the surge, when only in West Virginia but for people competent, compassionate, and a war- troop deployments were unexpectedly from across the country. The Italian rior scholar. He has served in the extended from 12 months to 15 months.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:39 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE6.010 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE S7538 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 16, 2020 My State director served on the ground I am so deeply proud of what West home State as a whole is just special with him in Iraq during this time and Virginians have accomplished and what that way. I always respected and ad- attests to his solid leadership, having they will continue to accomplish to mired Mark for the strong, passionate seen him operate during the most chal- protect the freedoms we hold dear. leader he was. As a lifelong member of lenging, life-and-death conditions. She Command Sergeant Major Cantrell is a St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in called him ‘‘the best in a unit of the part of this legacy of excellence and an Mannington, Mark served as a lector, bests,’’ which is a testament to his inspiration to all who will follow in his Eucharistic minister, and choir mem- leadership in the most difficult of con- footsteps. I want to wish Phillip, his ber. The importance of faith and family ditions. wife Sherry who has been with him was at the forefront of everything he After his combat deployments to every step of the way, along with his set out to do, and it carried him Iraq, he was promoted to sergeant family and many friends, a heartfelt through any hardships he faced. major in 2008 and after completion of congratulations and warm wishes for He loved to work with his hands and the U.S. Army Sergeants Major Acad- future health and happiness.∑ found solace in gardening and working emy was assigned as the 8th Army Op- f on his farm, and I know I join our en- erations and Protection Sergeant tire family in remembering Mark as Major in Yongsan, Korea. REMEMBERING MARK ALLEN the hard-working, generous soul he Command Sergeant Major Cantrell GOUZD was. His legacy lives on through our was then competitively selected to ∑ Mr. MANCHIN. Mr. President I rise many loving memories of him as well serve as the battalion command ser- today to honor the life of a proud West as through the brave coal miners who geant major of 4th Battalion, 3rd Infan- Virginian and a devoted husband, fa- learned from his lifesaving training. try Regiment at Fort Myer and in 2012 ther, and grandfather, my cousin, Mark What is most important is that he was hand-selected as the brigade com- Allen Gouzd. lived a full life, surrounded by his loved mand sergeant major of the 3rd Infan- Put simply, Mark embodied what it ones. Gayle and I extend our condo- try Regiment, ‘‘The Old Guard.’’ This means to be a West Virginian, and the lences to his beloved wife of nearly 36 hallowed unit is America’s oldest Ac- legacy he has left is such an important years, Lora; their sons, Zachary and tive Duty infantry unit where only the part of our heritage. There is no great- his wife Kelly, and Jeremy and his wife best are selected to serve. The Old er accomplishment than being in a po- Allie; and his grandson Oliver; as well Guard is the official ceremonial unit of sition to give back to your community, as his parents Joe and Carole; his sis- the Army, providing a guard at the and his work in mine safety and rescue ters, Christina and her husband Jack, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and per- truly benefited our home State in a and Cynthia and her husband Steve; his forming countless commemorations at profound way that undoubtedly saved brother-in-law Remy Petrucci; and his Arlington National Cemetery, amongst countless lives. mother-in-law and father-in-law, Leon- other missions. Phillip’s service at The After graduating from Mannington ard and Judy Myers; in addition to his Old Guard is of the highest caliber and High School and later Fairmont State numerous nieces and nephews. Again, reflects great credit upon his patriot- College, Mark began his career in land we extend our most sincere condo- ism and abilities. surveying and eventually began work- lences from our family to theirs for our After serving as the most senior en- ing with Federal Number 2 Mines. As shared loss of this remarkable person. listed member of The Old Guard, Phil- an instructor for the Mine Rescue Pro- The unwavering love he had for our lip was again competitively selected as gram, Mark diligently prepared miners family, friends, and our home State an Army congressional fellow, an for the rigors of working underground. will live on forever in the hearts of all honor awarded to very few highly com- The teams he trained always went on who had the privilege of knowing him.∑ petitive servicemembers. That is where to perform well in local, State, and f I really got the chance to know Phillip even national competitions. For the and see him in action when he served last few years, Mark worked as an ex- REMEMBERING CASSIE JOHNSON as a member of my staff for a year. tension agent for West Virginia Univer- ∑ Mr. MANCHIN. Mr. President, I rise I have come to know Command Ser- sity as the manager of mine rescue and today to honor the life and legacy of geant Major Cantrell well throughout emergency response training at WVU’s one of West Virginia’s finest. the years as a valuable part of my Doll’s Run facility. He also served as Patrolwoman Cassie Johnson of the team as an Army congressional fellow the WVU Collegiate Mine Rescue Team Charleston Police Department rep- and can attest to his strength of char- trainer. resented the very best of who we are as acter and profound leadership. It is a Having experienced a coal mining a statewide community, and she was privilege to recognize him for his serv- tragedy within our own family, Mark’s taken from us far too soon on Decem- ice to our State and Nation. work was especially admirable and ber 3, 2020, at the age of 28. Cassie was Following the year in my office, he came from a place of caring deeply for the daughter of an ironworker; she was a congressional legislative liaison the people who keep our lights on, as shared her mother’s steely resolve and in the Army Senate Liaison Division, well as their families. West Virginia iron constitution. traveling around the world with con- suffered an immeasurable loss when 78 Being a police officer in the city she gressional delegations. brave coal miners were killed in the loved and grew up in was a dream come Command Sergeant Major Cantrell Farmington No. 9 mine disaster 52 true for Cassie. She was sworn in by holds a master’s degree in legislative years ago. My dear uncle John Gouzd, Mayor Amy Goodwin in January of 2019 affairs from George Washington Uni- one of my neighbors, and several high and had previously worked as a city versity and a bachelor’s in human re- school classmates were in the mine humane officer. Cassie was born and source management from American that day. For days, we all sat around raised in our State’s capital. She could Military University. the company store waiting for updates have gone anywhere, and she chose to Because of Phillip’s career and his about the fate of our loved ones. I will stay and protect and serve the commu- unique leadership talents, it is my never forget the look on my mother’s nity that made her who she was. greatest honor to recognize his service. face when she heard the news that her She was truly a beautiful person in When visitors come to West Virginia, I younger brother had died in the explo- every way. Growing up, Cassie was an jump at the chance to tell them we sion. Our community and the entire athlete and particularly loved softball. have fought in more wars, shed more State came together to mourn the lives She would one day find that the Little blood, and lost more lives for the cause we lost. For Mark and me, that dis- League field she played on as a child of freedom than most any State. We aster fueled our passion for promoting was on her beat, and so she watched have always done the heavy lifting and changes that would help keep our min- over it with great care so the current never complained. We have mined the ers safe and also ensure their families generation of children could play in coal and forged the steel that built the were taken care of. safety. One of the first things she did guns, ships, and factories that have I always consider myself fortunate to when she was assigned to the field was protected and continue to protect our have grown up around such strong, in- to clean up the drug paraphernalia to country to this day. spiring people. Marion County and our make it a safe place for kids. Because

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:39 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G16DE6.038 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S7539 of her efforts, children and their fami- I had the tremendous and humbling that have protected and continue to lies have been able to enjoy the field as honor of visiting with Cassie’s family protect our country to this day. I am a clean, safe, fun place to play. at her bedside in her final hours. It is so deeply proud of what West Vir- Cassie was an animal lover and dedi- clear to me that Cassie came from ginians have accomplished and what cated her life to rescuing pets who had strong roots and that her life was filled they will continue to accomplish to been cast aside, even taking an animal with joy and love. She was a beloved protect the freedoms we hold dear. behavior class in Tennessee so she daughter, sister, and a loyal friend, That is Richard’s legacy, and his cour- could better understand the language who adored her three dogs and all ani- age, loyalty, and humility will never be of dogs. Cassie’s beloved dog, Emma, mals. True to her character, Cassie was forgotten. was a chocolate lab who passed away an organ donor, and her final act of Richard was deeply involved in the just a few months ago. Cassie grieved selflessness has given someone else a community through the Kanawha Val- deeply for Emma because she had a chance at life. ley Dental Association, the West Vir- special connection with her. Years ago, The Charleston Police Department ginia Dental Association, the American when Cassie was in high school, Emma has retired Cassie’s unit number, 146. I Dental Association, and the Academy had nine chocolate lab pups—in know I join the entire Mountain State of General Dentists, the International Cassie’s bedroom. Her mom tells the in mourning our shared loss of this College of Dentists, and was founder story of taking the runt of the litter bright, generous, vibrant spirit. Gayle and twice-serving president of the Vir- with her to pick Cassie up at school. and I extend our deepest condolences to ginia Street Dental Study Club. He was When they got home, there were choco- Cassie’s mother Sheryl, her sister Chel- a member of the Beni Kedem Shrine, late lab pups everywhere. That was sea, her brother Terry, and all her fam- the Legion of Honor, Shrine Jesters, a just one of the many adventures Cassie ily and friends, her colleagues with the 32 degree Mason, the Veterans of For- had with Emma. No doubt, they are re- Charleston Police Department, as well eign Wars, the Charleston Symphony, united again. the Charleston Community Music As- Cassie was a music lover, most likely as the city of Charleston, and will for- ∑ sociation, and the West Virginia Uni- because her mother sang her to sleep as ever keep them in our prayers. versity Woodburn Circle of Honor. a child. She was surrounded by instru- f Richard was a major supporter of his ments and music throughout her life. REMEMBERING DR. RICHARD church, St. George Orthodox Cathedral, She loved to make the world beautiful, HOWARD of which he was knight in the Order of and that is also why she enjoyed deco- ∑ Mr. MANCHIN. Mr. President, I rise rating for the holidays. The weekend St. Ignatius of Antioch. today to honor a proud West Virginian, Richard had such a zest for life and before she passed, she decorated her noble veteran, a beloved son, brother, was a true renaissance man in every mother’s house for Christmas, along- uncle, godfather, great-uncle, and a sense of the word. Each challenge he side her dear sister, Chelsea. One of the dear friend to all who had the pleasure took on, he conquered, and he did so last actions she took the day of her of knowing him. It is a privilege to rec- with unparalleled generosity, humility, passing was to wipe the snow from ognize the life and legacy of a very and leadership. When his father passed those holiday decorations because she dear friend to myself and Gayle, Dr. away, Richard truly stepped up as the always looked out for her mother any way she could. Richard Howard, for his many years of family patriarch. He adored his siblings Most importantly, Cassie was a genu- dedicated service to the city of and his entire family, always willing to inely good person and lived her whole Charleston and beyond. offer advice. He would be honest with life with West Virginia values. She Born and raised in Charleston, WV, you if you were wrong, but his judge- worked hard and bought her own home Richard attended West Virginia Uni- ment was always fair. His bright smile at the age of 25. She was beloved in the versity, where he achieved many dis- and vibrant personality made any occa- community and in her profession, as tinctions as a member of the National sion even more special. His accomplish- evidenced in the tremendous out- Blue Key, Helvetia, Sphinx and presi- ments are endless and he was an inspi- pouring of grief, support, and fellow- dent of the freshman class in 1960. He ration to all. He is dearly missed. ship that followed her tragic passing. received early acceptance into the Put simply, Richard represented the Her mother describes her as respectful West Virginia University School of very best of West Virginia, which is and well-mannered throughout her Dentistry, earning his doctor of dental saying quite a lot. In the Mountain whole life. Cassie will be deeply missed surgery degree in 1967. Put simply, State, if you are hungry you will be not only because of who she was but when Richard put his mind to some- fed. If you are lost, someone will not because we are all so keenly aware of thing, there was no stopping him from only give you directions but will offer and sorrowful for what might have doing it at 100 percent. to drive you to your destination. That been. That mentality worked in his favor is just who we are, and that is who No one can ever take away what as he joined the U.S. Air Force as a Richard was. We have lost a shining Cassie represented to the Charleston captain, stationed during the Vietnam star in our home State’s capital, but community and the entire Mountain era at Dover Air Force Base. Following his impact on the lives of his patients State. Every one of our female leaders his honorable discharge, Richard re- and his passion for this special commu- in West Virginia is the epitome of turned to Charleston to start his long- nity will last forever. It was an honor strength and advancement in their tenured career in dentistry. After a to have known him and to call him my fields and serve as inspiring role mod- year as a partner with a local dental friend. els for the next generation, and that is office, Richard set up his own practice What is most important is that Rich- due in great part to the women who as Howard Family Dentistry, later ard lived a full and accomplished life, broke ground in generations past. Be- known as a joint venture with his surrounded by dear friends and family. cause of their accomplishments, more brother as Howard and Howard Family It is my hope that his loved ones are young women like Cassie have, and Dentistry. able to find peace, strength, and sup- will, blaze their own trails and con- There is a lot to be said of someone port in one another. I extend my con- tinue to make our State and entire Na- who bravely serves our Nation, then re- dolences to his brother Dr. Edward E. tion proud. I have such tremendous re- turns home to continue giving back to Howard; sisters Jolene Howard, Janet spect for our police officers and all of the community that made them who M. Howard, Margaret Howard Teeter our first responders. Cassie’s compas- they are. When visitors come to West (Andrew), and Sabrina Howard Stump sion, courage, and selflessness will live Virginia, I jump at the chance to tell (James); nephew, Dr. Matthew D. on through the memories of those who them we have fought in more wars, Stump; and nieces Dr. Jacqueline H. knew and loved her, as well as through shed more blood, and lost more lives Stump, Elizabeth Stevens Bloch (Tom), the countless lives she touched and in- for the cause of freedom than most any and great nephew Thomas M. Bloch III. spired every day. She leaves us having State. We have always done the heavy Gayle and I, from our family to yours, made a profound impact in the commu- lifting and never complained. We have extend to you our most sincere condo- nity she loved as well as in the lives of mined the coal and forged the steel lences for our shared loss of this won- those around her. that built the guns, ships, and factories derful person. The unwavering love

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:39 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G16DE6.034 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE S7540 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 16, 2020 Richard had for his family, friends, Distinguished Unit Award, Special touched. Again, I congratulate General community, our home State, and our Forces Tab, Master Parachutist Badge, Hoyer for his remarkable years of serv- great Nation will live on forever in the Air Assault Badge, and the Thailand ice and his outstanding dedication to hearts of all who knew him.∑ Parachute Badge. protecting our great Nation. I am hon- f I have seen firsthand how the Guard ored to wish good health and much protects the citizens of West Virginia happiness to him, his wife Amy, his TRIBUTE TO MAJOR GENERAL when we are in our most desperate sons Jacob and Drew, and his wonderful JAMES A. HOYER hour of need and how the Guard pro- extended family in the days and years ∑ Mr. MANCHIN. Mr. President, it is tects our country when called upon to ahead.∑ an honor to rise today to recognize the serve at the command and control of f legacy of MG James A. Hoyer of the the President of the United States. As West Virginia National Guard, a man Governor, my most honored title was TRIBUTE TO JEREMY WAYNE whom I have worked with for decades that of Commander-in-Chief of the HARRELL and a man whom I am fortunate to call Guard. I worked closely with Jim ∑ Mr. PAUL. Mr. President, today I my friend. Hoyer and the Guard and did every- recognize the tremendous dedication of General Hoyer assumed the duties as thing I could to increase capabilities Jeremy Wayne Harrell, of Louisville, The Adjutant General, West Virginia for personnel, equipment, and facili- KY, the founder of an all-volunteer or- Joint Forces Headquarters-West Vir- ties. ganization called the Veterans Club. ginia in 2011, providing command guid- As U.S. Senator, I have the honor of Already nationally celebrated for its ance and vision to the West Virginia serving on the Senate Armed Services Equine Therapy Program and for ef- Army and Air National Guard of more Committee, as well as the Appropria- forts to create a recovery center for than 6,500 Citizen Soldiers and Airmen. tions Committee, the Veterans’ Affairs homeless veterans, this unique Ken- Upon obtaining his undergraduate de- Committee, and as ranking member on tucky nonprofit has made veteran iso- gree from the University of Charleston, the Senate Energy Committee. I con- lation its singular focus during the he was commissioned in 1983 through a tinue to work hand-in-hand with Jim coronavirus pandemic. A veteran him- joint Reserve Officer Training Corps Hoyer to promote good policy for the self, Mr. Harrell recognizes that social program with West Virginia State Uni- Guard, the Department of Defense, and isolation created by the pandemic can versity. General Hoyer’s military ca- all of our Nation’s heroes. amplify the sense of loneliness already reer began in the West Virginia Na- Throughout my time as Governor experienced by many veterans as they tional Guard as a Cavalry Officer. He and as Senator, I have relied on the Na- transition into civilian life following attended the Special Forces Officer tional Guard not only to do their mis- multiple deployments. Mr. Harrell was Qualification course and spent more sion but to provide solid advice so that recently honored by Metro Louisville than 14 years with the 2nd Battalion, I could form the best policies. I have government with its Distinguished 19th Special Forces Group. General truly counted on Jim Hoyer’s sound Veteran and Citizen Award and by Hoyer led the development of the West guidance and military expertise every Humana as the winner of its Boots on Virginia National Guard Counterdrug step of the way. Whether it was form- the Ground Campaign Award. I am Task Force and the Joint Interagency ing the Congressional Veterans Jobs proud to represent veterans like Jer- Training and Education Center and its Caucus, writing amendments on the emy Harrell in the U.S. Senate and in Center for National Response—a na- Defense bill, preventing war in Syria, particular to recognize him today for tional level operational and training providing death gratuity benefits for his steadfast commitment to our vet- capability for critical infrastructure families of the fallen during a govern- erans and their families. The great protection and consequence response. ment shutdown, or bringing more mili- work of the Veterans Club is an inspi- General Hoyer’s most recent assign- tary assets like the C–130J to West Vir- ration to us all to find and connect ment was Director, Joint Staff, of the ginia, Jim Hoyer has been with me with those in our communities who West Virginia Joint Force Head- every step of the way. struggle with a sense of isolation.∑ quarters. The West Virginia National Guard General Hoyer continued his edu- fulfills its mission of ‘‘Delivering Free- f cation throughout his career, including dom with Courage’’ every single day. I MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT West Virginia Graduate College in 1987, am so very proud of the Guard for serv- United States Army War College in ing our State and our Nation so coura- A message from the President of the 2004, and obtained his Federal/Depart- geously in times of need, and I am United States was communicated to ment of Defense Identify Management grateful for their unwavering service the Senate by Ms. Ridgway, one of his Certificate from the Naval Post Grad- and selfless efforts to protect our secretaries. uate School in 2009. homeland. This success is due in large f Among his many awards, decorations part to the Guard’s outstanding leader- and achievements, General Hoyer has ship, and I am grateful to General PRESIDENTIAL MESSAGE earned the Legion of Merit, Meri- Hoyer for serving as a part of this leg- torious Service Medal (with 1 Bronze acy of excellence. Oak Leaf Cluster), Army Commenda- When visitors come to West Virginia, REPORT ON THE CONTINUATION tion Medal (with 1 Bronze Oak Leaf I jump at the chance to tell them we OF THE NATIONAL EMERGENCY Cluster), Army Achievement Medal have fought in more wars, shed more WITH RESPECT TO SERIOUS (with 2 Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters), blood, and lost more lives for the cause HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSE AND COR- Army Reserve Component Achieve- of freedom than most any State. We RUPTION THAT WAS ORIGINALLY ment Medal (with 1 Silver Oak Leaf have always done the heavy lifting and DECLARED IN EXECUTIVE Cluster), National Defense Service never complained. We have mined the ORDER 13818 OF DECEMBER 20, Medal (with 1 Bronze Service Star), coal and forged the steel that built the 2017—PM 62 Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on guns, ships, and factories that have The PRESIDING OFFICER laid be- Terrorism Service Medal, Armed protected and continue to protect our fore the Senate the following message Forces Reserve Medal (with Silver country to this day. I am so deeply from the President of the United Hourglass and M Device), Army Service proud of what West Virginians have ac- States, together with an accompanying Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, complished and what they will con- report; which was referred to the Com- Army Reserve Component Overseas tinue to accomplish to protect the free- mittee on Banking, Housing, and Training Ribbon, West Virginia Com- doms we hold dear. Urban Affairs: mendation Medal, West Virginia Emer- While General Hoyer is retiring and To the Congress of the United States: gency Service Ribbon, West Virginia everyone is sure to miss his strong Section 202(d) of the National Emer- State Service Ribbon, West Virginia leadership, his dedication and commit- gencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides Service Ribbon, West Virginia ment to excellence will leave a lasting for the automatic termination of a na- Counterdrug Ribbon, West Virginia legacy with the countless lives he has tional emergency unless, within 90

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:58 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G16DE6.036 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S7541 days before the anniversary date of its EC–6133. A communication from the Direc- General, Department of Health and Human declaration, the President publishes in tor of the Regulatory Management Division, Services, transmitting, pursuant to law, the the Federal Register its declaration, the Environmental Protection Agency, transmit- report of a rule entitled ‘‘Fraud and Abuse; President publishes in and transmits to ting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule en- Removal of Safe Harbor Protection for Re- titled ‘‘Review of the National Ambient Air bates Involving Prescription Pharma- the Congress a notice stating that the Quality Standards for Particulate Matter’’ ceuticals and Creation of New Safe Harbor emergency is to continue in effect be- (FRL No. 10018–11–OAR) received in the Of- Protection for Certain Point-of-Sale Reduc- yond the anniversary date. In accord- fice of the President of the Senate on Decem- tions in Price on Prescription Pharma- ance with this provision, I have sent to ber 16, 2020; to the Committee on Environ- ceuticals and Certain Pharmacy Benefit the Federal Register for publication the ment and Public Works. Manager Service Fees’’ (RIN0936–AA08) re- enclosed notice stating that the na- EC–6134. A communication from the Direc- ceived in the Office of the President of the tional emergency declared in Executive tor of the Regulatory Management Division, Senate on December 11, 2020; to the Com- Order 13818 of December 20, 2017, is to Environmental Protection Agency, transmit- mittee on Finance. ting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule en- EC–6141. A communication from the Direc- continue in effect beyond December 20, titled ‘‘Withdrawal of Certain Federal Water tor, Office of Federal Contract Compliance 2020. Quality Criteria Applicable to Maine’’ (FRL Programs, Department of Labor, transmit- The prevalence and severity of No. 10017–97–OW) received in the Office of the ting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule en- human rights abuse and corruption President of the Senate on December 16, 2020; titled ‘‘Implementing Legal Requirements that have their source, in whole or in to the Committee on Environment and Pub- Regarding the Equal Opportunity Clause’s substantial part, outside the United lic Works. Religious Exemption’’ (RIN1250–AA09) re- States, continue to threaten the sta- EC–6135. A communication from the Direc- ceived in the Office of the President of the bility of international political and tor of the Regulatory Management Division, Senate on December 10, 2020; to the Com- mittee on Health, Education, Labor, and economic systems. Human rights abuse Environmental Protection Agency, transmit- ting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule en- Pensions. and corruption undermine the values titled ‘‘Implementation of the Revoked 1997 EC–6142. A joint communication from the that form an essential foundation of 8-Hour Ozone National Ambient Air Quality Secretary of Labor and the Director of the stable, secure, and functioning soci- Standards; Updates to 40 CFR Part 52 for Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation, eties; have devastating impacts on in- Areas that Attained by the Attainment transmitting, pursuant to law, the Corpora- dividuals; weaken democratic institu- Date; Withdrawal of Direct Final Rule’’ tion’s Annual Report for fiscal year 2020; to tions; degrade the rule of law; perpet- (FRL No. 10017–82–OAR) received in the Of- the Committee on Homeland Security and fice of the President of the Senate on Decem- Governmental Affairs. uate violent conflicts; facilitate the ac- EC–6143. A communication from the Chair- tivities of dangerous persons; under- ber 16, 2020; to the Committee on Environ- ment and Public Works. man of the National Transportation Safety mine economic markets; and continue EC–6136. A communication from the Sec- Board, transmitting, pursuant to law, the to pose an unusual and extraordinary retary of Commerce, transmitting, pursuant Board’s Performance and Accountability re- threat to the national security, foreign to law, the annual report on the activities of port for fiscal year 2020; to the Committee on policy, and economy of the United the U.S. Economic Development Administra- Homeland Security and Governmental Af- tion (EDA) for fiscal year 2019; to the Com- fairs. States. Therefore, I have determined EC–6144. A communication from the Direc- that it is necessary to continue the na- mittee on Environment and Public Works. EC–6137. A communication from the Regu- tor of Financial Management, Department of tional emergency declared in Executive Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to Order 13818 with respect to serious lations Coordinator, Office of the Inspector General, Department of Health and Human law, the Department’s Agency Financial Re- human rights abuse and corruption. Services, transmitting, pursuant to law, the port for fiscal year 2020; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Af- DONALD J. TRUMP. report of a rule entitled ‘‘Medicare and State fairs. Health Care Programs; Fraud and Abuse; Re- THE WHITE HOUSE, December 16, 2020. EC–6145. A communication from the Treas- vision to Safe Harbors Under the Anti-Kick- f urer, National Gallery of Art, transmitting, back Statute, and Civil Monetary Penalty EXECUTIVE AND OTHER pursuant to law, the Gallery’s Performance Rules Regarding Beneficiary Inducements’’ and Accountability Report for the year COMMUNICATIONS (RIN0936–AA10) received in the Office of the ended September 30, 2020; to the Committee The following communications were President of the Senate on December 11, 2020; on Homeland Security and Governmental Af- laid before the Senate, together with to the Committee on Finance. fairs. EC–6138. A communication from the Regu- EC–6146. A communication from the Dep- accompanying papers, reports, and doc- lations Writer, Office of Regulations and Re- uments, and were referred as indicated: uty Assistant Attorney General, Office of ports Clearance, Social Security Administra- Legislative Affairs, Department of Justice, EC–6130. A communication from the Asso- tion, transmitting, pursuant to law, the re- transmitting, pursuant to law, the semi-an- ciate General Counsel for Regulations and port of a rule entitled ‘‘Revised Medical Cri- nual reports of the Attorney General relative Legislation, Office of Fair Housing and Equal teria for Evaluating Musculoskeletal Dis- to enforcement actions taken by the Depart- Opportunity, Department of Housing and orders’’ (RIN0960–AG38) received in the Office ment of Justice under the Lobbying Disclo- Urban Development, transmitting, pursuant of the President of the Senate on December sure Act for the two semiannual reporting to law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Fair 10, 2020; to the Committee on Finance. periods from 2017 through 2019, and the first Housing Act Design and Construction Re- EC–6139. A communication from the Regu- semiannual reporting period of 2020, from quirements; Adoption of Additional Safe lations Coordinator, Centers for Medicare January 1, 2020, through June 30, 2020; to the Harbors’’ (RIN2529–AA99) received in the Of- and Medicaid Services, Department of Committees on Homeland Security and Gov- fice of the President of the Senate on Decem- Health and Human Services, transmitting, ernmental Affairs; and the Judiciary. ber 11, 2020; to the Committee on Banking, pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled EC–6147. A communication from the Chair- Housing, and Urban Affairs. ‘‘Medicare Program: Hospital Outpatient man of the Securities and Exchange Com- EC–6131. A communication from the Direc- Prospective Payment and Ambulatory Sur- mission, transmitting, pursuant to law, the tor of the Regulatory Management Division, gical Center Payment Systems and Quality Commission’s Semiannual Report of the In- Environmental Protection Agency, transmit- Reporting Programs; New Categories for spector General and a Management Report ting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule en- Hospital Outpatient Department Prior Au- for the period from April 1, 2020 through Sep- titled ‘‘Civil Monetary Penalty Inflation Ad- thorization Process; Clinical Laboratory Fee tember 30, 2020; to the Committee on Home- justment’’ (FRL No. 10018–13–OECA) received Schedule: Laboratory Date of Service Policy; land Security and Governmental Affairs. in the Office of the President of the Senate Overall Hospital Quality Star Rating Meth- EC–6148. A communication from the Chief on December 16, 2020; to the Committee on odology; Physician-owned Hospitals; Notice Financial Officer, National Labor Relations Environment and Public Works. of Closure of Two Teaching Hospitals and Board, transmitting, pursuant to law, a re- EC–6132. A communication from the Direc- Opportunity to Apply for Available Slots, port entitled ‘‘Performance and Account- tor of the Regulatory Management Division, Radiation Oncology Model; and Reporting ability Report for Fiscal Year 2020’’; to the Environmental Protection Agency, transmit- Requirements for Hospitals and Critical Ac- Committee on Homeland Security and Gov- ting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule en- cess Hospitals (CAHs) to Report COVID–19 ernmental Affairs. titled ‘‘Hazardous and Solid Waste Manage- Therapeutic Inventory and Usage to Report EC–6149. A communication from the Assist- ment System: Disposal of CCR; A Holistic Acute Respiratory Illness During the Public ant Attorney General, Office of Legislative Approach to Closure Part B: Alternate Dem- Health Emergency (PHE) for Coronavirus Affairs, Department of Justice, transmit- onstration for Unlined Surface Impound- Disease 2019 (COVID–19)’’ (RIN0938–AU12) re- ting, pursuant to law, a report entitled ‘‘An- ments; Correction’’ (FRL No. 10017–88– ceived in the Office of the President of the nual Report to Congress on Investigation, OLEM) received in the Office of the Presi- Senate on December 11, 2020; to the Com- Enforcement, and Implementation of the Sex dent of the Senate on December 16, 2020; to mittee on Finance. Offender Registration and Notification Act the Committee on Environment and Public EC–6140. A communication from the Regu- Requirements’’; to the Committee on the Ju- Works. lations Coordinator, Office of the Inspector diciary.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:58 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE6.029 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE S7542 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 16, 2020 EC–6150. A communication from the Attor- REPORTS OF COMMITTEES of marine debris, including marine plastic ney, Office of the General Counsel, Consumer pollution, and for other purposes; to the Product Safety Commission, transmitting, The following reports of committees Committee on Foreign Relations. pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled were submitted: By Mr. CARDIN: ‘‘Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safe- By Mr. JOHNSON, from the Committee on S. 5031. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- ty Act Drain Cover Standard’’ (16 CFR Part Homeland Security and Governmental Af- enue Code of 1986 to provide for a progressive 1450) received in the Office of the President fairs, with an amendment: consumption tax and to reform the income of the Senate on December 14, 2020; to the S. 4077. A bill to amend the Unfunded Man- tax, and for other purposes; to the Com- Committee on Commerce, Science, and dates Reform Act of 1995 to provide for regu- mittee on Finance. Transportation. latory impact analyses for certain rules, and By Mr. CORNYN (for himself and Ms. EC–6151. A communication from the Sec- for other purposes (Rept. No. 116–333). WARREN): retary of Commerce, transmitting, pursuant By Mr. ROBERTS, from the Committee on S. 5032. A bill to amend title 28, United to law, a report entitled ‘‘Section 201(a) of Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry: States Code, to modify venue requirements the Modernizing Recreational Fisheries Man- Report to accompany S. 4054, An original relating to bankruptcy proceedings; to the agement Act of 2018’’; to the Committee on bill to reauthorize the United States Grain Committee on the Judiciary. Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Standards Act, and for other purposes (Rept. By Mr. BOOKER: EC–6152. A communication from the Attor- No. 116–334). S. 5033. A bill to amend the Higher Edu- ney Adviser, Federal Railroad Administra- f cation Act of 1965 to support college students tion, Department of Transportation, trans- to meet satisfactory academic progress; to mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, entitled ‘‘Miscellaneous Amendments to JOINT RESOLUTIONS and Pensions. Brake System Safety Standards and Codi- By Ms. CORTEZ MASTO: fication of Waivers’’ (RIN2130–AC67) received The following bills and joint resolu- tions were introduced, read the first S. 5034. A bill to empower communities to in the Office of the President of the Senate establish a continuum of care for individuals on December 15, 2020; to the Committee on and second times by unanimous con- sent, and referred as indicated: experiencing mental or behavioral health Commerce, Science, and Transportation. crisis, and for other purposes; to the Com- EC–6153. A communication from the Chief By Mr. WICKER (for himself, Ms. CANT- mittee on Health, Education, Labor, and of Staff, Media Bureau, Federal Communica- WELL, and Mr. SCHATZ): Pensions. tions Commission, transmitting, pursuant to S. 5024. A bill to establish the National By Mr. WYDEN (for himself, Mr. BEN- law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Amend- Ocean Mapping, Exploration, Characteriza- NET, Mr. BROWN, Mr. CASEY, Ms. COR- ment of Parts 15, 73, and 74 of the Commis- tion Council, and for other purposes; to the TEZ MASTO, Mr. DURBIN, Ms. KLO- sion’s Rules to Provide for the Preservation Committee on Commerce, Science, and BUCHAR, and Mrs. MURRAY): of One Vacant Channel in the UHF Tele- Transportation. S. 5035. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- vision Band for Use by White Space Devices By Mr. SCHATZ: enue Code of 1986 to provide matching pay- and Wireless Microphones’’ ((MB Docket No. S. 5025. A bill to provide competitive ments for retirement savings contributions 15–146, and 12–268) (FCC 20–175)) received in grants for the promotion of Japanese Amer- by certain individuals; to the Committee on the Office of the President of the Senate on ican confinement education as a means to Finance. December 15, 2020; to the Committee on Com- understand the importance of democratic By Mr. GRAHAM: merce, Science, and Transportation. principles, use and abuse of power, and to S. 5036. A bill to amend the Overtime Pay EC–6154. A communication from the Fed- raise awareness about the importance of cul- for Protective Services Act of 2016 to extend eral Register Liaison Officer, Alcohol and tural tolerance toward Japanese Americans, the Secret Service overtime pay exception Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, Department and for other purposes; to the Committee on through 2023, and for other purposes; consid- of the Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to Energy and Natural Resources. ered and passed. law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Establish- By Mr. SCHATZ (for himself and Mr. By Ms. DUCKWORTH (for herself, Mr. ment of the Alisos Canyon Viticultural YOUNG): RUBIO, and Mr. DURBIN): Area’’ (RIN1513–AC51) received in the Office S. 5026. A bill to establish the Office of of the President of the Senate on December Press Freedom, to create press freedom cur- S. 5037. A bill to amend subtitle A of title 14, 2020; to the Committee on Commerce, riculum at the National Foreign Affairs II of division A of the CARES Act to provide Science, and Transportation. Training Center, and for other purposes; to a hardship waiver for certain overpayments EC–6155. A communication from the Pro- the Committee on Foreign Relations. of Pandemic Unemployment Assistance; to gram Analyst, Media Bureau, Federal Com- By Mr. SCHATZ (for himself and Ms. the Committee on Finance. By Ms. DUCKWORTH (for herself and munications Commission, transmitting, pur- BALDWIN): suant to law, the report of a rule entitled S. 5027. A bill to authorize the Director of Mr. DURBIN): ‘‘Amendment of Part 74 of the Commission’s the Centers for Disease Control and Preven- S. 5038. A bill to amend the Food and Nu- Rules Regarding FM Translator Inter- tion to award grants to eligible State, Trib- trition Act of 2008 to modify the definition of ference’’ ((MB Docket No. 18–119) (FCC 20– al, and territorial public health agencies to a household under the supplemental nutri- 141)) received in the Office of the President develop and administer a program for digital tion assistance program, and for other pur- of the Senate on December 15, 2020; to the contact tracing for COVID–19, and for other poses; to the Committee on Agriculture, Nu- Committee on Commerce, Science, and purposes; to the Committee on Health, Edu- trition, and Forestry. Transportation. cation, Labor, and Pensions. By Mr. PORTMAN: EC–6156. A communication from the Sec- By Mr. BENNET: S. 5039. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- retary of the Securities and Exchange Com- S. 5028. A bill to amend the Federal Elec- enue Code of 1986 to modify the automatic mission, transmitting, pursuant to law, the tion Campaign Act of 1971 to require each au- extension of certain deadlines in the case of report of a rule entitled ‘‘Market Data Infra- thorized committee or leadership PAC of a taxpayers affected by Federally declared dis- structure’’ (RIN3235–AM61) received in the former candidate for election for Federal of- asters, and for other purposes; to the Com- Office of the President of the Senate on De- fice to disburse all of the remaining funds of mittee on Finance. cember 15, 2020; to the Committee on Bank- the committee or PAC after the election, and ing, Housing, and Urban Affairs. for other purposes; to the Committee on f EC–6157. A communication from the Sec- Rules and Administration. retary of the Securities and Exchange Com- By Mr. SCHATZ (for himself and Mr. mission, transmitting, pursuant to law, the BROWN): SUBMISSION OF CONCURRENT AND report of a rule entitled ‘‘Use of Derivatives S. 5029. A bill to direct the Secretary of SENATE RESOLUTIONS by Registered Investment Companies and Education to establish and carry out two The following concurrent resolutions Business Development Companies’’ (RIN3235– grant programs to make grants to eligible and Senate resolutions were read, and AL60) received in the Office of the President institutions to plan and implement programs of the Senate on December 15, 2020; to the that provide comprehensive support services referred (or acted upon), as indicated: Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban and resources designed to increase transfer By Mr. BLUNT (for himself, Ms. KLO- Affairs. and graduation rates at community colleges, BUCHAR, Ms. COLLINS, Mr. KING, Mr. EC–6158. A communication from the Sec- and for other purposes; to the Committee on CARDIN, and Mr. VAN HOLLEN): retary of the Securities and Exchange Com- Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. S. Res. 803. A resolution designating room mission, transmitting, pursuant to law, the By Mr. COONS (for himself, Mr. GRA- S–124 of the United States Capitol as the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Good Faith Deter- HAM, Mr. SULLIVAN, and Mr. WHITE- ‘‘U.S. Senator Margaret Chase Smith Room’’ minations of Fair Value’’ (RIN3235–AM71) re- HOUSE): and designating room S–115 of the United ceived in the Office of the President of the S. 5030. A bill to provide for negotiations States Capitol as the ‘‘U.S. Senator Barbara Senate on December 15, 2020; to the Com- for the establishment or designation of a A. Mikulski Room’’, in recognition of their mittee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Af- trust fund administered by the international service to the Senate and the people of the fairs. community for the prevention and reduction United States; considered and agreed to.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:58 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE6.021 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S7543 ADDITIONAL COSPONSORS setts (Ms. WARREN) was added as a co- sponsor of S. 3206, a bill to amend the S. 959 sponsor of S. 2232, a bill to amend the of 2002 to in- At the request of Ms. COLLINS, the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 crease voting accessibility for individ- name of the Senator from Texas (Mr. to reduce the number of members of uals with disabilities and older individ- CORNYN) was added as a cosponsor of S. the Federal Election Commission from uals, and for other purposes. 959, a bill to establish in the Smithso- 6 to 5, to revise the method of selection S. 3296 nian Institution a comprehensive wom- and terms of service of members of the At the request of Mr. TOOMEY, the en’s history museum, and for other Commission, to distribute the powers name of the Senator from Louisiana purposes. of the Commission between the Chair (Mr. KENNEDY) was added as a cospon- S. 1149 and the remaining members, and for sor of S. 3296, a bill to amend the Inter- At the request of Mr. DAINES, the other purposes. nal Revenue Code of 1986 to perma- name of the Senator from Indiana (Mr. S. 2561 nently allow a tax deduction at the BRAUN) was added as a cosponsor of S. At the request of Mr. BLUMENTHAL, time an investment in qualified prop- 1149, a bill to amend the Internal Rev- the name of the Senator from Ohio erty is made, and for other purposes. enue Code of 1986 to make permanent (Mr. BROWN) was added as a cosponsor S. 3471 the deduction for qualified business in- of S. 2561, a bill to amend the Lacey At the request of Mr. RUBIO, the come. Act Amendments of 1981 to clarify pro- names of the Senator from Illinois (Ms. S. 2006 visions enacted by the Captive Wildlife DUCKWORTH) and the Senator from At the request of Mr. MENENDEZ, the Safety Act, to further the conservation Maryland (Mr. CARDIN) were added as name of the Senator from Illinois (Mr. of certain wildlife species, and for cosponsors of S. 3471, a bill to ensure DURBIN) was added as a cosponsor of S. other purposes. that goods made with forced labor in 2006, a bill to amend title 18, United S. 2666 the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Re- States Code, to prohibit certain con- At the request of Ms. CORTEZ MASTO, gion of the People’s Republic of China duct relating to the use of horses for her name was added as a cosponsor of do not enter the United States market, human consumption. S. 2666, a bill to promote the develop- and for other purposes. S. 2080 ment of renewable energy on public S. 3723 At the request of Ms. BALDWIN, the land, and for other purposes. names of the Senator from New Jersey At the request of Mr. SCHATZ, the S. 2669 name of the Senator from Nevada (Ms. (Mr. MENENDEZ), the Senator from ROSEN) was added as a cosponsor of S. Michigan (Mr. PETERS), the Senator At the request of Ms. KLOBUCHAR, the 3723, a bill to provide services to vic- from Minnesota (Ms. KLOBUCHAR), the name of the Senator from Massachu- Senator from Connecticut (Mr. setts (Ms. WARREN) was added as a co- tims of sexual abuse who are incarcer- BLUMENTHAL), the Senator from Mary- sponsor of S. 2669, a bill to amend the ated, and for other purposes. land (Mr. VAN HOLLEN), the Senator Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 S. 4012 from California (Mrs. FEINSTEIN), the to clarify the obligation to report acts At the request of Mr. WICKER, the Senator from Montana (Mr. TESTER), of foreign election influence and re- name of the Senator from Connecticut the Senator from Nevada (Ms. ROSEN), quire implementation of compliance (Mr. MURPHY) was added as a cosponsor the Senator from Alabama (Mr. JONES), and reporting systems by Federal cam- of S. 4012, a bill to establish a the Senator from Pennsylvania (Mr. paigns to detect and report such acts, $120,000,000,000 Restaurant Revitaliza- CASEY), the Senator from Illinois (Ms. and for other purposes. tion Fund to provide structured relief DUCKWORTH), the Senator from Nevada S. 2886 to food service or drinking establish- (Ms. CORTEZ MASTO), the Senator from At the request of Mr. BOOKER, the ments through December 31, 2020, and Massachusetts (Mr. MARKEY), the Sen- name of the Senator from Oregon (Mr. for other purposes. ator from Colorado (Mr. BENNET), the MERKLEY) was added as a cosponsor of S. 4433 Senator from Connecticut (Mr. MUR- S. 2886, a bill to prohibit the use of ani- At the request of Mr. CORNYN, the PHY), the Senator from Vermont (Mr. mal testing for cosmetics and the sale name of the Senator from Washington SANDERS), the Senator from Illinois of cosmetics tested on animals. (Mrs. MURRAY) was added as a cospon- (Mr. DURBIN), the Senator from West S. 3072 sor of S. 4433, a bill to authorize the ANCHIN Virginia (Mr. M ), the Senator At the request of Mrs. HYDE-SMITH, National Medal of Honor Museum from Massachusetts (Ms. WARREN), the the names of the Senator from North Foundation to establish a commemora- Senator from New Mexico (Mr. HEIN- Dakota (Mr. HOEVEN) and the Senator tive work in the District of Columbia RICH) and the Senator from Virginia from Alaska (Mr. SULLIVAN) were added and its environs, and for other pur- (Mr. KAINE) were added as cosponsors as cosponsors of S. 3072, a bill to amend poses. of S. 2080, a bill to amend the Public the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic S. 4867 Health Service Act to increase the Act to prohibit the approval of new At the request of Mr. COONS, the number of permanent faculty in pallia- abortion drugs, to prohibit investiga- names of the Senator from California tive care at accredited allopathic and tional use exemptions for abortion (Mrs. FEINSTEIN) and the Senator from osteopathic medical schools, nursing drugs, and to impose additional regu- North Dakota (Mr. CRAMER) were added schools, social work schools, and other latory requirements with respect to as cosponsors of S. 4867, a bill to direct programs, including physician assist- previously approved abortion drugs, the Secretary of Health and Human ant education programs, to promote and for other purposes. education and research in palliative Services to support research on, and care and hospice, and to support the S. 3144 expanded access to, investigational development of faculty careers in aca- At the request of Ms. SMITH, the drugs for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, demic palliative medicine. name of the Senator from Illinois (Ms. and for other purposes. S. 4906 S. 2227 DUCKWORTH) was added as a cosponsor At the request of Mr. HEINRICH, his of S. 3144, a bill to establish a competi- At the request of Ms. KLOBUCHAR, her name was added as a cosponsor of S. tive grant program to support out-of- name was added as a cosponsor of S. 2227, a bill to decriminalize and school-time youth workforce readiness 4906, a bill to establish a portal and deschedule cannabis, to provide for re- programs, providing employability database to receive and maintain infor- investment in certain persons ad- skills development, career exploration, mation regarding blocked railroad- versely impacted by the War on Drugs, employment readiness training, men- highway grade crossings and to require to provide for expungement of certain toring, work-based learning, and work- the Secretary of Transportation to cannabis offenses, and for other pur- force opportunities for eligible youth. evaluate the requirements of the rail- poses. S. 3206 way-highway crossings program. S. 2232 At the request of Mr. CASEY, the S. 5019 At the request of Ms. KLOBUCHAR, the name of the Senator from Connecticut At the request of Mr. DAINES, the name of the Senator from Massachu- (Mr. BLUMENTHAL) was added as a co- names of the Senator from Colorado

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:58 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE6.018 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE S7544 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 16, 2020 (Mr. BENNET) and the Senator from countries now have a consumption tax, gress and stakeholders are searching Maryland (Mr. VAN HOLLEN) were it is time the U.S. join this main- for forward-looking ideas for how to added as cosponsors of S. 5019, a bill to stream thinking. modernize the tax code. I am excited amend the Internal Revenue Code of The legislation I have introduced that President-elect Biden has put for- 1986 to limit the charitable deduction today is an example of truly progres- ward tax reform proposals and Congres- for certain qualified conservation con- sive, fiscally responsible, pro-growth sional leaders have done the same. The tributions. tax reform could look like. longer we wait to put this country in a f It also provides an opportunity for better, more competitive, progressive the U.S. to catch up with the rest of position, the harder it will be. STATEMENTS ON INTRODUCED the world. All OECD countries except BILLS AND JOINT RESOLUTION That’s why I am reintroducing the the U.S. have a consumption tax. Progressive Consumption Tax this By Mr. CARDIN: The Progressive Consumption Tax year. As this Congress closes and the S. 5031. A bill to amend the Internal Act would put this country on a level new Congress convenes, I hope we will Revenue Code of 1986 to provide for a playing field by providing for a pro- seriously consider the tax system in progressive consumption tax and to re- gressive consumption tax, or PCT, at a this country and consider the types of form the income tax, and for other pur- rate of 10 percent. The PCT would gen- reforms proposed in the Progressive poses; to the Committee on Finance. erate revenue by taxing goods and serv- Consumption Tax Act. Mr. CARDIN. Mr. President, today I ices, rather than income. introduced the Progressive Consump- The revenues collected by the PCT Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- tion Tax Act of 2020. would eliminate an income tax liabil- sent that the text of my bill appear in We need a tax code that is fair for ity for most households in this Nation. the RECORD following these remarks. American families and for employers. Lower income individuals, those cur- S. 5031 We need a tax code that rethinks how rently eligible for the Earned Income Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- our Nation collects the revenue that Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit, resentatives of the United States of America in allows us to build our roads and bridges would receive rebates to cover the cost Congress assembled, and keeps our Nation safe. We need a of their PCT burden, cementing the SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE, ETC. system that values our most vulner- progressivity of this new system. (a) IN GENERAL.—This Act may be cited as able Americans, small businesses, and For those who do still have an in- the ‘‘Progressive Consumption Tax Act of makes our U.S.-based businesses more come tax liability under this Act would 2020’’. competitive. have lower rates and a simplified in- (b) REFERENCE.—Except as otherwise ex- In our recent history, comprehensive come tax. Under current law, the top pressly provided, whenever in this Act an tax reform has been out of grasp. Con- marginal income tax rate is 37 percent. amendment or repeal is expressed in terms of gressional leaders have long called for Under the Progressive Consumption an amendment to, or repeal of, a section or a 1986–style tax reform in which the Tax Act, the top income rate would be other provision, the reference shall be con- tax code would be streamlined and sim- just 28 percent. sidered to be made to a section or other pro- plified to broaden the tax base and The 2017 tax law reduced the cor- vision of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. lower income tax rates. The 2017 tax porate tax rate to 21 percent. This Act (c) TABLE OF CONTENTS.—The table of con- law was a representation of how hard would further reduce that rate to 17 tents of this Act is as follows: this type of tax reform is. It kept in percent. Businesses would be more Sec. 1. Short title, etc. place much of what makes the tax code competitive and this would contribute TITLE I—PROGRESSIVE CONSUMPTION complicated and inefficient, did not se- to a pro-growth economy in the U.S., TAX cure permanent income tax rate reduc- all while collecting reasonable reve- Sec. 101. Imposition of progressive consump- tions for working families, and it in- nues. tion tax. creased the deficit by nearly $2 trillion. As we discuss this proposal, you will It is time we take a new approach. hear me say this over and over again: TITLE II—INDIVIDUAL AND CORPORATE TAX REFORM As we look to the future and work to- An overarching goal of the Progressive wards the goal of a sustainable econ- Consumption Tax Act is ensuring the Subtitle A—Individual Income Tax Reforms omy that works for all, my colleagues tax code is progressive, meaning that Sec. 201. Individual income tax rate reduc- and I will need to think creatively those who make less in income don’t tions and inflation adjust- about how to raise revenues and pro- have a higher tax burden than wealthy ments. vide for the services the government people. The provisions included in this Sec. 202. Family allowance amounts; repeal must and can deliver. Act—removing an income tax liability of personal exemption deduc- Austere and regressive spending cuts for most households and providing re- tion. are not the answer to the question of bates—are meant to maintain progres- Sec. 203. Repeal of limitations relating to how to set the country on a sustainable sivity in the tax code for families. itemized deductions. path and support working families. In- For those who worry that a consump- Sec. 204. Restoration of certain deductions. stead, we should look at ways to raise tion tax will bring in ‘‘too much’’ Sec. 205. Termination of separate treatment reasonable revenues and make the tax money, my legislation remains bal- of capital gains. code work better for all. The Progres- anced. It is designed to raise stable and Sec. 206. Repeals. sive Consumption Tax Act should be reasonable tax revenues. However, if Sec. 207. Establishment of progressive tax part of that conversation. more revenues than envisioned are col- rebate. I introduced versions of this bill in lected under this legislation, a ‘‘circuit Sec. 208. Technical and conforming amend- the past to provide an opening for dis- breaker’’ would return additional reve- ments. cussion and an opportunity to review nues to taxpayers. Again, we put Subtitle B—Corporate Tax Reforms legislative language for this type of money back into the hands of the tax- Sec. 211. Corporate income tax rate reduc- comprehensive tax reform. Now more payers. tion. than ever it is critical Congress revisit In 2017, I offered the Progressive Con- the thinking about comprehensive tax sumption Tax Act as an alternative to TITLE III—REFUND OF EXCESS CONSUMPTION TAX REVENUE reform that is lasting and progressive. the tax legislation considered that The 2017 tax law was constructed year. While it would have been a re- Sec. 301. Refunds of excess consumption tax with many temporary policies that will sponsible choice to enact then, it could revenue. require future action on tax policies as still provide a fresh start now. TITLE I—PROGRESSIVE CONSUMPTION these provisions expire. Since that law was passed, there has TAX While some of those will be years been increased interest in looking at SEC. 101. IMPOSITION OF PROGRESSIVE CON- from now, this conversation can never ways to reform the nation’s tax laws to SUMPTION TAX. start early enough. We know that good tilt any benefit more towards those (a) IN GENERAL.—Subtitle D is amended by ideas can take time to become main- who were left behind and raise reason- inserting before chapter 31 the following new stream. In a world where about 150 able revenues. My colleagues in Con- chapter:

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:58 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE6.019 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S7545 ‘‘CHAPTER 30—PROGRESSIVE ‘‘SEC. 3911. TAXABLE SUPPLY. ‘‘(E) any taxable supply (or category of CONSUMPTION TAX ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—For purposes of this such supplies) treated as an exempt supply ‘‘SUBCHAPTER A. IMPOSITION OF TAX chapter, the term ‘taxable supply’ means— under section 3932(b). ‘‘(2) QUALIFIED RESIDENTIAL REAL PROP- ‘‘SUBCHAPTER B. TAXABLE SUPPLY ‘‘(1) the importation of property into the United States, and ERTY.—For purposes of paragraph (1), the ‘‘SUBCHAPTER C. CREDIT AGAINST TAX ‘‘(2) any supply (other than an exempt sup- term ‘qualified residential real property’ ‘‘SUBCHAPTER D. ADMINISTRATION ply)— means residential real property— ‘‘SUBCHAPTER E. DEFINITIONS AND SPECIAL ‘‘(A) which is provided— ‘‘(A) which— RULES ‘‘(i) in the course of carrying on a trade or ‘‘(i) has previously been sold as residential real property, or ‘‘Subchapter A—Imposition of Tax business, ‘‘(ii) in the case of an organization exempt ‘‘(ii) has been continuously rented for 5 ‘‘Sec. 3901. Imposition of tax. years or more, and ‘‘Sec. 3902. Taxable amount. from tax under section 501(a), in furtherance of the activities related to the purpose or ‘‘(B) to which substantial renovations have ‘‘SEC. 3901. IMPOSITION OF TAX. function constituting the basis of its exemp- not been made after the date of the enact- ‘‘(a) GENERAL RULE.—A tax is hereby im- tion under section 501, or ment of this chapter. posed on every taxable supply. ‘‘(iii) in the case of a State, an Indian trib- ‘‘(3) NONPARTICIPATING SMALL SUPPLIER ‘‘(b) AMOUNT OF TAX.— al government, a possession of the United SUPPLY.— ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in States, or any political subdivision of any of ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—For purposes of para- paragraph (2), the amount of the tax shall be the foregoing, or the United States or the graph (1), the term ‘nonparticipating small 10 percent of the taxable amount. District of Columbia, in carrying out any ac- supplier supply’ means any supply provided ‘‘(2) SPECIAL RATE FOR EXPORTS.—The tivity that is not an essential governmental by a supplier during— amount of the tax shall be zero with respect function, ‘‘(i) any taxable period during which such to the provision of any supply which is— ‘‘(B) for which consideration is provided in supplier was a nonparticipating small sup- ‘‘(A) a supply of tangible personal property return, and plier, or that is exported from the United States ‘‘(C) which is made in connection with the ‘‘(ii) the four-week period beginning on the within 90 days after the provider gives an in- United States. first day after the close of the last calendar voice for the supply, or quarter in which such supplier was a non- ‘‘(b) SUPPLY.—For purposes of this chap- ‘‘(B) a supply, other than a supply of tan- participating small supplier. ter— gible personal property— ‘‘(B) NONPARTICIPATING SMALL SUPPLIER.— ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The term ‘supply’ means ‘‘(i) which is provided to a recipient that is ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—For purposes of subpara- any supply whatsoever, including— not in the United States when the supply is graph (A), the term ‘nonparticipating small ‘‘(A) the sale or provision (including performed or otherwise done, and supplier’ means any person for any taxable through renting, leasing, or licensing) of ‘‘(ii) the use of which takes place outside of period if— property, the United States. ‘‘(I) such person has aggregate taxable rev- ‘‘(B) the performance of services, ‘‘SEC. 3902. TAXABLE AMOUNT. enues of not more than $100,000 for the four- ‘‘(C) the grant, assignment, or surrender of calendar quarter period ending immediately ‘‘(a) AMOUNT CHARGED CUSTOMER.—For real property, purposes of this chapter, the taxable amount before the taxable period, and ‘‘(D) the creation, grant, transfer, assign- ‘‘(II) has not made an election under clause for any taxable supply for which money is ment, or surrender of any right, the only consideration shall be the price (iii) for such taxable period. ‘‘(E) financial supplies, and ‘‘(ii) TAXABLE REVENUE.—For purposes of charged by the provider— ‘‘(F) an entry into, or release from, an obli- ‘‘(1) including all invoiced charges for this paragraph, the term ‘taxable revenue’ gation or agreement to perform or refrain means revenue from supplies which are tax- transportation, and other items payable to from performing an act. able supplies, determined without regard to the provider with respect to the supply, but ‘‘(2) SPECIAL RULE FOR SERVICES FOR EM- paragraph (1)(D). ‘‘(2) excluding the tax imposed by section PLOYER.—An employee’s services for the em- ‘‘(iii) ELECTION.—Under regulations pre- 3901 with respect to the supply and excluding ployee’s employer shall not be treated as a scribed by the Secretary, any person who any State and local sales and use taxes with supply. meets the requirements of clause (i)(I) may respect to the supply. ‘‘SEC. 3912. SUPPLIES MADE IN CONNECTION make an election not to be treated as a non- ‘‘(b) BARTER TRANSACTIONS.—For purposes WITH THE UNITED STATES. participating small supplier for any taxable of this chapter, the taxable amount for any period. taxable supply which includes consideration ‘‘(a) TANGIBLE PROPERTY.—For purposes of ‘‘(C) AGGREGATION RULES.—For purposes of other than money shall be the fair market this chapter— determining aggregate taxable revenues value of the consideration (including all ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The supply of tangible property is made in connection with the under subparagraph (B)(i)(I), all members of invoiced charges for transportation and the same controlled group of corporations other items payable to the provider) plus the United States if— ‘‘(A) the property is delivered or made (within the meaning of section 267(f)) and all amount of any money paid in consideration. persons under common control (within the ‘‘(c) IMPORTS.—For purposes of this chap- available to the recipient in the United States, or meaning of section 52(b) but determined by ter, the taxable amount in the case of any treating an interest of more than 50 percent import shall be— ‘‘(B) the property is assembled in or re- moved from any location in the United as a controlling interest) shall be treated as ‘‘(1) the customs value plus customs duties 1 person. and any other duties which may be imposed, States. or ‘‘(2) REAL PROPERTY.—The supply of real ‘‘Subchapter C—Credit Against Tax ‘‘(2) if there is no such customs value, the property is made in connection with the ‘‘Sec. 3916. Credit against tax. fair market value (determined as if the im- United States if the real property is located ‘‘SEC. 3916. CREDIT AGAINST TAX. porter had sold the supply). in the United States. ‘‘(a) GENERAL RULE.—There shall be al- For purposes of this subsection, the customs ‘‘(b) SERVICES, INTANGIBLE PROPERTY, AND lowed as a credit against the aggregate value of any import shall include all OTHER SUPPLIES.—For purposes of this chap- amount of tax imposed by section 3901 with invoiced charges for transportation and ter, the supply of anything other than tan- respect to all taxable supplies made by the other items payable to the importer with re- gible property or real property is made in taxpayer during the taxable period an spect to the supply. connection with the United States if— amount equal to the aggregate amount of ‘‘(d) SPECIAL RULE IN THE CASE OF SALES OF ‘‘(1) the supply is used, performed, or oth- tax imposed by section 3901 on creditable ac- quisitions of the taxpayer during such tax- CERTAIN USED CONSUMER GOODS.—For pur- erwise done in the United States, or poses of this chapter, if— ‘‘(2) the supply is provided through a trade able period. ‘‘(b) CREDITABLE ACQUISITIONS.—For pur- ‘‘(1) a person acquires any tangible per- or business in the United States. poses of this chapter, the term ‘creditable sonal property in a transaction which was ‘‘SEC. 3913. EXEMPT SUPPLY. acquisition’ means the acquisition or receipt not taxable under this chapter, and ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—An exempt supply shall of any supply which— ‘‘(2) such property had been used by an ul- not be subject to tax under this chapter. ‘‘(1) was subject to tax under section 3901 timate consumer before such acquisition, ‘‘(b) EXEMPT SUPPLY.—For purposes of this at the time it was provided to the taxpayer, the taxable amount in the case of any sale of chapter— ‘‘(2) was used by the taxpayer— such property by such person (determined ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The term ‘exempt sup- ‘‘(A) in the course of carrying on a trade or without regard to this subsection) shall be ply’ means— business, reduced by the amount paid for such prop- ‘‘(A) the rental or leasing of residential ‘‘(B) in the case of a taxpayer exempt from erty by such person. real property, tax under section 501(a), in furtherance of ‘‘Subchapter B—Taxable Supply ‘‘(B) any sale of qualified residential real the activities related to the purpose or func- ‘‘Sec. 3911. Taxable supply. property, tion constituting the basis of the exemption ‘‘Sec. 3912. Supplies made in connection ‘‘(C) any financial supply, under section 501, or with the United States. ‘‘(D) any nonparticipating small supplier ‘‘(C) in the case of a State, an Indian tribal ‘‘Sec. 3913. Exempt supply. supply, and government, a possession of the United

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:58 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE6.030 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE S7546 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 16, 2020 States, or any political subdivision of any of ‘‘(VII) such other services as the Secretary retary, in consultation with the Commis- the foregoing, or the United States or the may specify in regulations. sioner of Customs and Border Protection, District of Columbia, in carrying out any ac- ‘‘(d) EXEMPT SUPPLIES, ETC.— shall promulgate regulations governing the tivity that is not an essential governmental ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—If acquisitions (other provision of tax invoices. function, and than partially creditable acquisitions) are ‘‘(b) CONTENT OF INVOICE.—The tax invoice ‘‘(3) except as provided in subsection (c), used partly for a use which is not for an ex- required by subsection (a) with respect to was not used by the taxpayer to make an ex- empt supply and partly for an exempt sup- any supply shall set forth— empt supply. ply, the credit shall be allowable only with ‘‘(1) the name and, in the case of an invoice under subsection (a)(1), identification num- ‘‘(c) CERTAIN ACQUISITIONS RELATED TO FI- respect to the acquisitions which are not ber of the provider, NANCIAL SUPPLIES.— used for an exempt supply. ‘‘(2) the name of the recipient, ‘‘(1) ACQUISITIONS BY QUALIFIED SMALL FI- ‘‘(2) PARTIALLY CREDITABLE ACQUISITIONS.— ‘‘(3) the date of the taxable supply, NANCIAL SUPPLIERS.— If partially creditable acquisition is used ‘‘(4) the taxable amount with respect to ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Solely for purposes of partly to provide a supply described in sub- subsections (b)(3) and (d)(1), a financial sup- section (c)(2)(B)(ii) and partly for another the taxable supply, ply which is provided by a qualified small fi- use, subsection (c)(2) shall apply only with ‘‘(5) the amount of the tax imposed by sec- nancial supplier shall not be treated as an respect to acquisitions used to provide sup- tion 3901, and exempt supply. plies described in subsection (c)(2)(B)(ii). ‘‘(6) such other information as may be pre- ‘‘(e) EXCESS CREDIT TREATED AS OVERPAY- scribed by regulations. ‘‘(B) QUALIFIED SMALL FINANCIAL SUP- MENT.— ‘‘(c) NO CREDIT WITHOUT INVOICE.— PLIER.— ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—If for any taxable period ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—For purposes of this paragraph (2) or (3), a taxpayer may claim a paragraph, the term ‘qualified small finan- the amount of the credit allowable by sub- credit with respect to a creditable acquisi- cial supplier’ means any person for any section (a) exceeds the aggregate amount of tion only if the taxpayer— month if, for the 12-month period ending the tax imposed by section 3901 for such pe- ‘‘(A) has in the taxpayer’s possession a tax with the month preceding such month, the riod, such excess shall be treated as an over- invoice which meets the requirements of this amount of credits which, but for this para- payment of the tax imposed by section 3901. section, and graph, would be allowable to such person ‘‘(2) TIME WHEN OVERPAYMENT ARISES.—Any ‘‘(B) is named as the recipient of the sup- under subsection (a) for taxable supplies overpayment under paragraph (1) for any ply in such invoice. which are used for the purpose of making fi- taxable period shall be treated as arising on ‘‘(2) EMPLOYEES OR OTHER AGENTS NAMED IN nancial supplies does not exceed the lesser the later of— INVOICES.—To the extent provided in regula- of— ‘‘(A) the due date for the return for such tions, the naming of an employee or other ‘‘(I) $150,000, or period, or agent of the recipient of the supply shall be ‘‘(II) 10 percent of the amount of credits al- ‘‘(B) the date on which the return is filed. treated as the naming of the recipient. lowable to such person under subsection (a) ‘‘Subchapter D—Administration ‘‘(3) WAIVER OF INVOICE REQUIREMENT IN (determined without regard to this para- ‘‘Sec. 3921. Provider liable for tax. CERTAIN CASES.—To the extent provided in graph) for all taxable supplies during such ‘‘Sec. 3922. Tax invoices. regulations, paragraph (1) shall not apply— 12-month period. ‘‘Sec. 3923. Time for filing return and claim- ‘‘(A) where the taxpayer can demonstrate ‘‘(ii) AGGREGATION RULES.—For purposes of ing credit; deposits of tax. that the failure to receive or to have in the determining the amount of credits for any ‘‘Sec. 3924. Treatment of related businesses, taxpayer’s possession a tax invoice was with- period under clause (i), all members of the etc. out fault on the taxpayer’s part, or same controlled group of corporations (with- ‘‘Sec. 3925. Reports. ‘‘(B) to a taxable supply (or category of in the meaning of section 267(f)) and all per- ‘‘Sec. 3926. Regulations. supplies) where— sons under common control (within the ‘‘SEC. 3921. PROVIDER LIABLE FOR TAX. ‘‘(i) the amount involved is de minimis, or meaning of section 52(b) but determined by ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in ‘‘(ii) the information required by sub- treating an interest of more than 50 percent subsection (b), the person providing the sup- section (b) can be reliably established by as a controlling interest) shall be treated as ply shall be liable for the tax imposed by sec- sampling or by another method and can be 1 person. tion 3901. adequately documented. ‘‘(2) PARTIALLY CREDITABLE ACQUISITIONS.— ‘‘(b) SPECIAL RULE FOR IMPORTS.—The per- son receiving the supply shall be liable for ‘‘(d) TIME FOR FURNISHING INVOICE.—Any ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—In the case of any par- invoice required to be furnished by sub- the tax imposed under section 3901— tially creditable acquisition by a person section (a) with respect to any supply shall ‘‘(1) in the case of any taxable supply de- other than a qualified small financial sup- be furnished not later than 15 business days scribed in section 3911(a)(1), and plier— after the tax point for such supply. ‘‘(i) subsection (b) shall be applied without ‘‘(2) in the case of any taxable supply which is not a supply of tangible property ‘‘SEC. 3923. TIME FOR FILING RETURN AND regard to paragraph (3) thereof, and CLAIMING CREDIT; DEPOSITS OF ‘‘(ii) only 60 percent of the amount of tax and which is— TAX. imposed by section 3901 shall be taken ac- ‘‘(A) performed or otherwise done outside ‘‘(a) FILING RETURN.—Before the last day of count under subsection (a) in determining the United States, the fourth week (third week, in the case of the amount of the credit under this section. ‘‘(B) used in the United States, and any taxpayer to which subsection (c)(2) ap- ‘‘(B) PARTIALLY CREDITABLE ACQUISITION.— ‘‘(C) acquired for use— plies) after the close of each taxable period, For purposes of this section— ‘‘(i) in carrying on a trade or business in each person liable for tax under this chapter ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—The term ‘partially cred- the United States, shall file a return of the tax imposed by sec- itable acquisition’ means the acquisition of ‘‘(ii) by an organization exempt from tax tion 3901 on taxable supplies having a tax any supply described in clause (ii) if such ac- under section 501(a), in furtherance of activi- point within such taxable period. quisition is used to provide a financial sup- ties related to the purpose or function con- ‘‘(b) CREDIT ALLOWED FOR TAXABLE PERIOD ply. stituting the basis of its exemption under IN WHICH RECIPIENT RECEIVES INVOICE.— ‘‘(ii) SUPPLIES DESCRIBED.—A supply is de- section 501, or ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in scribed in this clause if such supply is a sup- ‘‘(iii) by a State, an Indian tribal govern- paragraph (2), a credit allowable by section ply of— ment, a possession of the United States, or 3916 with respect to a supply may be allowed ‘‘(I) banking or cash management services, any political subdivision of any of the fore- only for the first taxable period by the close including services related to issuing, closing, going, or the United States or the District of of which the taxpayer— operating, and maintaining accounts, and Columbia, in carrying out any activity that ‘‘(A) has paid or accrued amounts properly the processing of account information and is not an essential governmental function. allocable to the tax imposed by section 3901 applications, ‘‘SEC. 3922. TAX INVOICES. with respect to such supply, and ‘‘(II) payment and fund transfer services, ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.— ‘‘(B) has a tax invoice (or equivalent) with including for the operation of a payment sys- ‘‘(1) SUPPLIES MADE IN CONNECTION WITH THE respect to such supply. tem and processing account transactions, UNITED STATES.—Except as otherwise pro- ‘‘(2) USE FOR LATER PERIOD.—Under regula- ‘‘(III) securities transaction services for vided in this subsection, any person pro- tions, a credit allowable by section 3916 may the provision, acquisition, or disposal of an viding a taxable supply shall give the recipi- be allowed for a period after the period set interest in a security, ent a tax invoice with respect to such sup- forth in paragraph (1). ‘‘(IV) loan and debt collection services, in- ply. ‘‘(c) TAXABLE PERIOD.—For purposes of this cluding mortgage brokerage services, serv- ‘‘(2) CERTAIN SERVICES PERFORMED OUTSIDE chapter— ices related to mortgage insurance and loan THE UNITED STATES.—In the case of any tax- ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in protection insurance, and loan application, able supply described in section 3921(b)(2), paragraph (2), the term ‘taxable period’ management, and processing services, paragraph (1) shall not apply and the person means a calendar quarter. ‘‘(V) capital markets, financial instru- receiving the taxable supply shall generate a ‘‘(2) MONTHLY PERIOD FOR CERTAIN TAX- ments, or fund management services, tax invoice with respect to such supply. PAYERS.— ‘‘(VI) insurance services, including broker- ‘‘(3) IMPORTS.—In the case of any taxable ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—In the case of a taxpayer age services, or supply described in section 3911(a), the Sec- who makes taxable supplies for any month in

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:58 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE6.030 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S7547 excess of $20,000,000, the term ‘taxable period’ includes a Commonwealth and any posses- amended by striking the table and inserting means a calendar month. sion of the United States. the following: ‘‘(B) ELECTION OF 1-MONTH PERIOD.—If the ‘‘SEC. 3932. SPECIAL RULES. taxpayer so elects, the term ‘taxable period’ ‘‘If taxable income is: The tax is: ‘‘(a) COORDINATION WITH SUBTITLE A.—For Not over $50,000 ...... 15 percent of taxable in- means a calendar month. purposes of subtitle A— come. ‘‘(d) TAX POINT.—For purposes of this chap- ‘‘(1) TREATMENT OF CREDIT.—Any credit al- Over $50,000 but not over $7,500, plus 25 percent of ter— lowable to a taxpayer under section 3916 $250,000. the excess over $250,000. ‘‘(1) CHAPTER 1 RULES WITH RESPECT TO PRO- which is attributable to any supply shall be Over $250,000 ...... $57,500, plus 28 percent of VIDER GOVERN.—Except as provided in para- treated as a reduction in the amount paid or the excess over graph (2), the tax point for any supply is the incurred by the taxpayer for such supply. $250,000.’’. earlier of— ‘‘(2) AMOUNT OF DEDUCTION FOR TAX.—The (5) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.—Section 1 is ‘‘(A) the time (or times) when any income amount allowable as a deduction for the tax amended by striking subsections (i) and (j). from the provision of the supply should be imposed by section 3901 shall be determined (b) INFLATION ADJUSTMENTS APPLIED BASED treated by the provider as received or ac- without regard to any credit allowable under ON CPI.—Paragraph (3) of section 1(f) is crued (or any loss should be taken into ac- section 3916. amended to read as follows: count by the seller) for purposes of chapter 1, ‘‘(3) COMPUTATION OF PERCENTAGE DEPLE- ‘‘(3) COST-OF-LIVING ADJUSTMENT.—For pur- or TION.—For purposes of sections 613 and poses of this subsection— ‘‘(B) the time (or times) when the provider 613A— ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—The cost-of-living ad- receives payment for the sale. ‘‘(A) gross income shall be reduced by the justment for any calendar year is the per- ‘‘(2) IMPORTS.—In the case of the importing amount of the tax imposed by section 3901, centage (if any) by which— of property, the tax point is when the prop- and ‘‘(i) the CPI for the preceding calendar erty is entered, or withdrawn from ware- ‘‘(B) taxable income shall be determined year, exceeds house, for consumption in the United States. without regard to any deduction allowed for ‘‘(ii) the CPI for calendar year 2016, multi- ‘‘(e) MONTHLY DEPOSITS REQUIRED.—To the such tax. plied by the amount determined under sub- extent provided in regulations, monthly de- ‘‘(b) AUTHORITY TO ZERO RATE DE MINIMIS paragraph (B). posits may be required of the estimated li- SUPPLIES, ETC.—The Secretary may prescribe ‘‘(B) AMOUNT DETERMINED.—The amount ability for any taxable period for the tax im- regulations treating as an exempt supply determined under this subparagraph is the posed by section 3901. any taxable supply (or category of such sup- product of— ‘‘SEC. 3924. TREATMENT OF RELATED BUSI- plies) where— ‘‘(i) the amount obtained by dividing— NESSES, ETC. ‘‘(1) the amount involved is de minimis, or ‘‘(I) the C-CPI-U for calendar year 2016, by ‘‘For purposes of this chapter, except as ‘‘(2) the revenue raised by taxing the sup- ‘‘(II) the CPI for calendar year 2016, and provided in sections 3913(b)(3)(C) and ply is not sufficient to justify the adminis- ‘‘(ii) the amount obtained by dividing— 3916(c)(1)(B)(ii) and in regulations estab- trative and other costs involved in the pay- ‘‘(I) the CPI for calendar year 2021, by lished by the Secretary, the taxpayer may ment and collection of the tax.’’. ‘‘(II) the C-CPI-U for calendar year 2021. elect— (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of ‘‘(C) SPECIAL RULE FOR ADJUSTMENTS WITH ‘‘(1) to treat as 1 person 2 or more busi- chapters for subtitle D is amended by insert- A BASE YEARS AFTER 2016.— nesses which may be treated under section ing before the item relating to chapter 31 the ‘‘(i) BASE YEARS AFTER 2021.—For purposes 52(b) as 1 employer, and following: of any provision of this title which provides ‘‘(2) to treat as separate persons separate ‘‘CHAPTER 30. PROGRESSIVE CONSUMPTION for the substitution of a year after 2021 for divisions of the same business. TAX’’. ‘2016’ in subparagraph (A)(ii), such subpara- ‘‘SEC. 3925. REPORTS. graph shall be applied without regard to ‘, (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments ‘‘The Secretary shall submit to Congress multiplied by the amount determined under semi-annual reports on the implementation made by this section shall apply to supplies provided after December 31, 2021. subparagraph (B)’. and administration of this chapter, including ‘‘(ii) BASE YEARS AFTER 2016 AND BEFORE the amount of revenue collected from the tax TITLE II—INDIVIDUAL AND CORPORATE 2022.—For purposes of any provision of this imposed under this chapter and estimates of TAX REFORM title which provides for the substitution of a the revenue to be collected from such tax for Subtitle A—Individual Income Tax Reforms year after 2016 and before 2021 for ‘2016’ in future period. SEC. 201. INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX RATE REDUC- subparagraph (A)(ii)— ‘‘SEC. 3926. REGULATIONS. TIONS AND INFLATION ADJUST- ‘‘(I) subparagraph (A)(ii) shall be applied ‘‘The Secretary shall prescribe such regu- MENTS. by substituting ‘C-CPI-U’ for ‘CPI’, and lations as may be necessary to carry out the (a) IN GENERAL.— ‘‘(II) the amount determined under sub- purposes of this chapter. (1) MARRIED INDIVIDUALS FILING JOINT RE- paragraph (B) shall be the amount obtained ‘‘Subchapter E—Definitions and Special TURNS AND SURVIVING SPOUSES.—Subsection by dividing— Rules (a) of section 1 is amended by striking the ‘‘(aa) the CPI for calendar year 2021, by ‘‘Sec. 3931. Definitions. table and inserting the following: ‘‘(bb) the C-CPI-U for calendar year 2021.’’. ‘‘Sec. 3932. Special rules. ‘‘If taxable income is: The tax is: (c) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS RELATED TO ‘‘SEC. 3931. DEFINITIONS. Not over $100,000 ...... 15 percent of taxable in- RATE CHANGES.— ‘‘For purposes of this chapter— come. (1) IN GENERAL.—Paragraph (3) of section ‘‘(1) BUSINESS.—The term ‘business’ in- Over $100,000 but not over $15,000, plus 25 percent of 1(f) is amended by inserting ‘‘, except as pro- cludes— $500,000. the excess over $100,000. vided in paragraph (7),’’ after ‘‘for any cal- Over $500,000 ...... $115,000, plus 28 percent ‘‘(A) a trade, and of the excess over endar year’’. ‘‘(B) an activity regularly carried on for $500,000.’’. (2) UPDATED COST-OF-LIVING ADJUSTMENT profit. (2) HEADS OF HOUSEHOLDS.—Subsection (b) FOR NEW RATES.—Section 1(f) is amended by ‘‘(2) BUSINESS DAY.—The term ‘business of section 1 is amended by striking the table striking paragraphs (8) and inserting the fol- day’ means any day other than Saturday and and inserting the following: lowing: Sunday and other than a legal holiday (with- ‘‘(8) COST-OF-LIVING ADJUSTMENT FOR YEARS ‘‘If taxable income is: The tax is: in the meaning of section 7503). AFTER 2021.— Not over $50,000 ...... 15 percent of taxable in- ‘‘(3) EMPLOYEE.—The term ‘employee’ has come. ‘‘(A) CALENDAR YEAR 2022.—In prescribing the meaning such term has for purposes of Over $50,000 but not over $7,500, plus 25 percent of the tables under paragraph (1) which apply in chapter 24. $250,000. the excess over $50,000. lieu of the tables contained in subsections ‘‘(4) FINANCIAL SUPPLIES.—The term ‘finan- Over $250,000 ...... $57,500, plus 28 percent of (a), (b), (c), and (d) with respect to taxable cial supplies’ means the provision, acquisi- the excess over years beginning in calendar year 2022, the tion, or disposal of any of the following: a $250,000.’’. Secretary shall make no adjustment to the bank account, a debit or credit arrangement, (3) UNMARRIED INDIVIDUALS (OTHER THAN dollar amounts in any such table. SURVIVING SPOUSES AND HEADS OF HOUSE- a mortgage, a superannuation fund, an annu- ‘‘(B) LATER CALENDAR YEARS.—In pre- ity, insurance, a financial guarantee, an in- HOLDS).—Subsection (c) of section 1 is scribing tables under paragraph (1) which demnity, currency, securities, or derivatives. amended by striking the table and inserting apply in lieu of the tables contained in sub- the following: ‘‘(5) PERSON.—The term ‘person’ includes sections (a), (b), (c), and (d) with respect to any governmental entity. ‘‘If taxable income is: The tax is: taxable years beginning after December 31, ‘‘(6) PROVIDE; PROVIDER.—The term ‘pro- Not over $50,000 ...... 15 percent of taxable in- 2022, the cost-of-living adjustment used in vide’, when used in reference to taxable sup- come. making adjustments to the dollar amounts plies (other than in section 3911(a)(2)), in- Over $50,000 but not over $7,500, plus 25 percent of in such tables shall be determined under $250,000. the excess over $250,000. cludes the importation of property and the Over $250,000 ...... $57,500, plus 28 percent of paragraph (3) by substituting ‘2021’ for ‘2016’ term ‘provider’ includes the importer of the excess over in subparagraph (A)(ii) thereof.’’. property. $250,000.’’. (3) OTHER CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.— ‘‘(7) UNITED STATES.—The term ‘United (4) MARRIED INDIVIDUALS FILING SEPARATE (A) Paragraph (2) of section 1(f) is amend- States’, when used in a geographical sense, RETURNS.—Subsection (d) of section 1 is ed—

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:58 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE6.030 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE S7548 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 16, 2020 (i) by striking ‘‘paragraph (8)’’ in subpara- SEC. 202. FAMILY ALLOWANCE AMOUNTS; RE- ‘‘(2) the family allowance amount. graph (A) and inserting ‘‘paragraph (7)(A)’’, PEAL OF PERSONAL EXEMPTION DE- ‘‘(b) FAMILY ALLOWANCE AMOUNT.—For pur- and DUCTION. poses of this subtitle— (ii) by striking ‘‘by adjusting’’ in subpara- (a) FAMILY ALLOWANCE AMOUNT.— graph (C) and inserting ‘‘except as provided (1) IN GENERAL.—Section 63 is amended to ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The family allowance in paragraph (7)(A), by adjusting’’. read as follows: amount with respect to a taxpayer shall be (B) The heading of subsection (f) of section ‘‘SEC. 63. TAXABLE INCOME DEFINED. determined in accordance with the following 1 is amended by striking ‘‘PHASEOUT OF MAR- ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—For purposes of this sub- table: RIAGE PENALTY IN 15-PERCENT BRACKET; AD- title, the term ‘taxable income’ means ad- JUSTMENTS’’ and inserting ‘‘ADJUSTMENTS’’. justed gross income minus— (d) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments ‘‘(1) the deductions allowed by this chapter made by this section shall apply to taxable (other than those taken into account in de- years beginning after December 31, 2021. termining adjusted gross income), and

The family allowance ‘‘If the taxpayer is: amount is:

Single or married filing separately ...... $50,000 Married filing jointly or a surviving spouse ...... $100,000 A head of a household ...... $75,000.

‘‘(2) DEFINITIONS.—For purposes of this sub- 7706 for purposes of any provision of this (3) APPLICATION OF REPEAL TO CERTAIN section— title, but only if such individual’s gross in- RULES.— ‘‘(A) the term ‘single or married filing sep- come, when combined with the gross income (A) DETERMINATION OF DEPENDENT.—Sec- arately’ means a taxpayer to whom sub- of all individuals taken into account in de- tion 7706, as redesignated by subparagraph section (c) or (d) of section 1 applies, termining the family allowance amount (A), is amended— ‘‘(B) the term ‘married filing jointly or a under section 63(b) of the taxpayer, equals or (i) in subsection (d)— surviving spouse’ means a taxpayer to whom exceeds the family allowance amount appli- (I) by striking ‘‘the exemption amount (as subsection (a) of section 1 applies, and cable to the taxpayer under such section.’’. defined in section 151(d))’’ in subparagraph ‘‘(C) the term ‘head of a household’ means (ii) Section 6012(a)(8) is amended by strik- (1)(B) and inserting ‘‘$4,150’’, and a taxpayer to whom subsection (b) of section ing ‘‘is not less than the sum of the exemp- (II) by adding at the end the following new 1 applies. tion amount plus the basic standard deduc- paragraph: ‘‘(3) ADJUSTMENT FOR INFLATION.—In the tion under section 63(c)(2)(D)’’ and inserting ‘‘(6) INFLATION ADJUSTMENT.—In the case of case of any taxable year beginning after 2022, ‘‘equals or exceeds the family allowance any taxable year beginning in a calendar each of the dollar amounts in the table under amount applicable to the estate under sec- year beginning after 2018, the $4,150 amount paragraph (1) shall be increased by an tion 1398(c)(3)’’. in paragraph (1)(B) shall be increased by an amount equal to— (iii) Section 6012 is amended by striking amount equal to— ‘‘(A) such dollar amount, multiplied by subsection (f). ‘‘(A) such dollar amount, multiplied by ‘‘(B) the cost-of-living adjustment deter- (C) OTHER RULES.— ‘‘(B) the cost-of-living adjustment deter- mined under section 1(f)(3) for the calendar (i) Section 1398(c) is amended— mined under section 1(c)(2)(A) for the cal- year in which the taxable year begins, by (I) by striking paragraph (3) and inserting endar year in which such taxable year be- substituting ‘2021’ for ‘2016’ in subparagraph the following: gins, determined by substituting ‘calendar (A)(ii) thereof. ‘‘(3) FAMILY ALLOWANCE AMOUNT.—The fam- year 2017’ for ‘calendar year 2016’ in clause ‘‘(c) CROSS REFERENCES.— ily allowance amount under section 63(b) (ii) thereof.’’, and ‘‘(1) For deductions of estates and trusts in taken into account for the estate for the tax- (ii) in subsection (f)(6)(B)(i), by striking lieu of the family allowance amount, see sec- able year shall be the same as for a taxpayer ‘‘the deduction under section 151(c)’’ and in- tion 642(b). who is single or married filing separately.’’, serting ‘‘the family allowance amount under ‘‘(2) For calculation of family allowance and section 63(b)’’. relating to nonresident aliens, see section (II) by striking ‘‘BASIC STANDARD DEDUC- (B) NET OPERATING LOSS.—Section 172(d)(3) 873(b)(3). TION’’ in the heading and inserting ‘‘FAMILY is amended to read as follows: ‘‘(3) For determination of marital status, ALLOWANCE AMOUNT’’. see section 7703.’’. (ii) Section 6014 is amended— ‘‘(3) FAMILY ALLOWANCE AMOUNT.—Taxable income under section 63 shall be determined (2) APPLICATION OF FAMILY ALLOWANCE TO (I) by striking ‘‘who dos not itemize his de- without regard to paragraph (2) of section CERTAIN RULES.— ductions and who is not described in section (A) SOURCE RULES.— 6012(a)(1)(C)(i)’’ in subsection (a) and insert- 63(a), relating to the family allowance (i) Section 861(b) is amended by striking ing ‘‘who is not described in section amount. No deduction in lieu of such family ‘‘the standard deduction’’ and inserting ‘‘the 6012(a)(1)(B)’’, and allowance amount shall be allowed.’’. family allowance’’. (II) by striking subsection (b)(4) and insert- (C) SHORT TAXABLE YEARS.— (ii) Section 862(b) is amended by striking ing the following: (i) Section 443(c) is amended— ‘‘the standard deduction’’ and inserting ‘‘the ‘‘(4) to cases where the taxpayer claims de- (I) by striking ‘‘the exemptions allowed as family allowance’’. ductions in addition to the family allow- a deduction under section 151 (and any de- (B) THRESHOLD FOR REQUIREMENT TO MAKE ance.’’. duction in lieu thereof) shall be reduced to RETURN.— amounts which bear the same ratio to the (b) PERMANENT REPEAL OF DEDUCTION FOR (i) Section 6012(a)(1) is amended to read as full exemptions’’ and inserting ‘‘the family PERSONAL EXEMPTIONS.— follows: allowance amount under section 63 (and any (1) IN GENERAL.—Part V of subchapter B of ‘‘(1)(A) Every individual— deduction in lieu thereof) shall be reduced to chapter 1 is hereby repealed. ‘‘(i) having for the taxable year gross in- an amount which bears the same ratio to the (2) DEFINITION OF DEPENDENT RETAINED.— come which equals or exceeds the family al- full family allowance amount’’, and (A) IN GENERAL.—Section 152, prior to the lowance amount applicable to the individual (II) by striking ‘‘DEDUCTION FOR PERSONAL repeal made by subsection (a), is hereby re- under section 63, or EXEMPTIONS’’ in the heading and inserting designated as section 7706 and moved to the ‘‘(ii) in the case of individuals entitled to ‘‘FAMILY ALLOWANCE AMOUNT’’. end of chapter 79. make a joint return (but only if the indi- (ii) Section 441(f)(2)(B)(iii) is amended by (B) IDENTIFYING INFORMATION REQUIRED TO vidual and the individual’s spouse had the striking ‘‘of the deductions for personal ex- TREAT INDIVIDUAL AS DEPENDENT.—Section same household as their home at the close of emptions as described in section 443(c)’’ and 7706, as redesignated by subparagraph (A), is the taxable year), every individual whose inserting ‘‘of the family allowance amount’’. amended by adding at the end the following gross income, when combined with the gross (D) APPLICATION TO TRUSTS AND ESTATES.— new subsection: income of the individual’s spouse, equals or (i) Section 642(b)(2)(C) is amended— exceeds the family allowance amount appli- ‘‘(g) IDENTIFYING INFORMATION REQUIRED.— (I) by striking ‘‘the exemption amount cable to taxpayers who are married filing No individual shall be treated as a dependent under section 151(d)’’ in clause (i) and insert- jointly under section 63. of the taxpayer under this section for a tax- ing ‘‘the dollar amount in effect under sec- ‘‘(B) Every individual not described in sub- able year unless the taxpayer includes the tion 7706(d)(1)(B)’’, and paragraph (A) who is taken into account as a TIN of such individual on the return of tax (II) by striking clause (iii). dependent by another taxpayer under section for the taxable year.’’. (ii) Section 642(b)(3) is amended—

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:58 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE6.030 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S7549 (I) by striking ‘‘the deductions allowed (A) and all that follows and inserting the fol- to such term’’ and all that follows and in- under section 151 (relating to deduction for lowing: serting ‘‘means the family allowance amount personal exemption)’’ and inserting ‘‘the ‘‘(A) the family allowance amount; and applicable to a taxpayer who is single or family allowance amount’’, and ‘‘(B) any additional amounts to which the married filing separately under section (II) by striking ‘‘PERSONAL EXEMPTION’’ in employee elects to take into account under 63(b).’’. the heading and inserting ‘‘FAMILY ALLOW- subsection (m), but only if the employee’s (M) AMOUNTS SUBJECT TO LEVY.— ANCE AMOUNT’’. spouse does not have in effect a withholding (i) Section 6334(d)(2)(A) is amended to read (E) PARTNERSHIP COMPUTATIONS.—Section allowance certificate claiming such allow- as follows: 703(a) is amended— ance.’’. ‘‘(A) 50 percent of the family allowance (i) by striking ‘‘and’’ at the end of para- (ii) FAMILY ALLOWANCE EXEMPTION amount determined under section 63(b) with graph (1), AMOUNT.—Subsection (f) of section 3402 is respect to the taxpayer for the taxable year (ii) by striking subparagraph (A) of para- amended— in which such levy occurs, divided by’’. graph (2) and by redesignating subparagraphs (I) by redesignating paragraphs (2), (3), (4), (ii) Section 6334(d) is amended by striking (B), (C), (D), (E), and (F) of such paragraph as (5), (6), and (7) as paragraphs (3), (4), (5), (6), paragraph (4). subparagraphs (A), (B), (C), (D), and (E), (7), and (8), respectively, (c) OTHER CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.— (iii) by striking the period at the end of (II) by striking ‘‘paragraph (2)(C)’’ in para- (1) Section 1(f)(7) is amended— paragraph (2)(F) and inserting ‘‘, and’’, and graph (3)(B)(iii) and inserting ‘‘paragraph (A) by striking ‘‘section 63(c)(4), section (iv) by adding at the end the following new (3)(C)’’, and 68(b)(2) or section 151(d)(4)’’ in subparagraph paragraph: (III) by inserting after paragraph (1) the (A) and inserting ‘‘subsection (g)(4)(B), sec- ‘‘(3) taxable income under section 63 shall following new paragraph: tion 63(b)(3), section 68(b)(2), or section be determined without regard to the family ‘‘(2) FAMILY ALLOWANCE EXEMPTION 7706(d)(6)’’, and allowance amount.’’. AMOUNT.—For purposes of this section— (B) by striking ‘‘sections 63(c)(4) and sec- (F) NONRESIDENT ALIENS.— ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in tion 151(d)(4)(A)’’ in subparagraph (B) and in- (i) Section 873(b) is amended— subparagraphs (B) and (C), the term ‘family serting ‘‘sections 63(b)(3) and 7706(d)(6)’’. (I) by striking ‘‘deductions’’ in the matter allowance exemption amount’ means the (2) Section 1(g)(4) is amended— preceding paragraph (1), and family allowance amount with respect to the (A) by striking subparagraph (A)(ii)(I) and (II) by striking paragraph (3) and inserting taxpayer under section 63(b) for the taxable inserting the following: the following: year in which the payroll period begins, pro- ‘‘(I) $500, plus’’, and (B) by redesignating subparagraphs (B) and ‘‘(3) FAMILY ALLOWANCE AMOUNT.—The fam- rated to the payroll period. (C) as subparagraphs (C) and (D), respec- ily allowance amount under section 63(a)(2), ‘‘(B) MARRIED EMPLOYEES.—If the employee tively, and inserting after subparagraph (A) except that the taxpayer shall be treated for is married filing jointly and the employee’s the following new subparagraph: purposes of section 63(b) as single or married spouse is an employee receiving wages, the ‘‘(B) ADJUSTMENT FOR INFLATION.—In the filing separately unless the taxpayer is a employee and the employee’s spouse may di- case of any taxable year beginning in a cal- resident of a contiguous country or is a na- vide the family allowance amount deter- endar year after 1988, the $500 amount in sub- tional of the United States.’’. mined under section 63(b) in the proportion of their choice for purposes of this para- paragraph (A)(ii)(I) shall be increased by an (ii)(I) The heading of section 873 is amend- graph, but the sum of the family allowance amount equal to— ed by striking ‘‘ ’’ and inserting DEDUCTIONS exemption amounts claimed by the employee ‘‘(i) such dollar amount, multiplied by ‘‘ ’’. DEDUCTIONS AND ALLOWANCES and the employee’s spouse shall not exceed ‘‘(ii) the cost-of-living adjustment deter- (II) The item relating to section 873 in the such family allowance amount. mined under subsection (f)(3) for the cal- table of sections for subpart A of part II of ‘‘(C) EMPLOYEES WITH MORE THAN 1 EM- endar year in which the taxable year begins, subchapter N of chapter 1 is amended to read PLOYER.—In the case of an employee that has by substituting ‘1987’ for ‘2016’ in subpara- as follows: withholding exemption certificates in effect graph (A)(ii) thereof.’’. ‘‘Sec. 873. Deductions and allowances.’’. with respect to more than 1 employer, the (3) Section 1(g)(5)(A) is amended by strik- (iii) Section 874(b) is amended by striking employee may divide the family allowance ing ‘‘section 152(e)’’ and inserting ‘‘section ‘‘deduction for exemptions under section amount (or the employee’s share of such 7706(e)’’. 151’’ and inserting ‘‘the family allowance amount after the application of subpara- (4) Section 2(a)(1)(B) is amended— amount under section 63’’. graph (B), if applicable) determined under (A) by striking ‘‘section 152’’ and inserting (iv) Section 891 is amended by striking ‘‘de- section 63(b) among employers in the propor- ‘‘section 7706’’, and ductions allowable under section 151 and tion of the employee’s choice for purposes of (B) by striking ‘‘with respect to whom the under’’ and inserting ‘‘the family allowance this paragraph, but the sum of the family al- taxpayer is entitled to a deduction for the amount under section 63(a)(2) and the deduc- lowance exemption amounts claimed by the taxable year under section 151’’ and inserting tions allowable under’’. employee with respect to all employers shall ‘‘whose TIN is included on the taxpayer’s re- (G) FOREIGN TAX CREDIT.—Section 904(b)(1) not exceed such family allowance amount (or turn of tax for the taxable year’’. is amended to read as follows: the employee’s share of such amount after (5) Section 2(b)(1)(A)(i) is amended— ‘‘(1) FAMILY ALLOWANCE AND DEDUCTIONS.— the application of subparagraph (B), if appli- (A) in the matter preceding subclause (I)— For purposes of subsection (a), the taxable cable).’’. (i) by striking ‘‘section 152(c)’’ and insert- income in the case of an individual, estate, (iii) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.— ing ‘‘section 7706(c)’’, and or trust shall be computed without regard to (I) Paragraph (7) of section 3402(f), as redes- (ii) by striking ‘‘section 152(e)’’ and insert- the family allowance amount under section ignated by subparagraph (B)(i) of this para- ing ‘‘section 7706(e)’’, and 63(a)(2) or any deduction in lieu of such graph, is amended by striking ‘‘shall be enti- (B) in subclause (II), by striking ‘‘section amount under section 642(b)(3).’’. tled to only one withholding exemption’’ and 152(b)(2) or 152(b)(3)’’ and inserting ‘‘section (H) TREATMENT OF POSSESSIONS.— inserting ‘‘shall be treated as single or mar- 7706(b)(2) or 7706(b)(3)’’. (i) Section 931(b)(1) is amended by striking ried filing separately for purposes of deter- (6) Section 2(b)(1)(A)(ii) is amended by ‘‘the deduction under section 151, relating to mining the family allowance exemption striking ‘‘if the taxpayer is entitled to a de- personal exemptions’’ and inserting ‘‘the amount’’. duction for the taxable year for such person family allowance amount under section (II) Paragraph (8) of section 3402(f), as re- under section 151’’ and inserting ‘‘if the tax- 63(c)’’. designated by subparagraph (B)(i) of this payer included such person’s TIN on the re- (ii) Section 933 is amended— paragraph, is amended by inserting ‘‘, except turn of tax for the taxable year’’. (I) by striking ‘‘the deduction under sec- as provided in paragraph (2)(C)’’ after ‘‘with (7) Section 2(b)(1)(B) is amended by strik- tion 151, relating to personal exemptions’’ in respect to one employer’’. ing ‘‘if the taxpayer is entitled to a deduc- paragraph (1) and inserting ‘‘the family al- (III) Paragraph (3) of section 3402(m) is tion for the taxable year for such father or lowance amount under section 63(c)’’, and amended by striking ‘‘deductions (including mother under section 151’’ and inserting ‘‘if (II) by striking ‘‘the deduction for personal the additional standard deduction under sec- such father or mother is a dependent of the exemptions under section 151’’ in paragraph tion 63(c)(3) for the aged and blind)’’ and in- taxpayer and the taxpayer included such fa- (2) and inserting ‘‘the family allowance serting ‘‘deductions’’. ther or mother’s TIN on the return of tax for amount under section 63(c)’’. (IV) Paragraph (2) of section 3402(r) is the taxable year’’. (I) CAPITAL LOSSES.—Section amended striking ‘‘the sum of’’ and all that (8) Section 2(b)(3)(B) is amended— 1212(b)(2)(B)(ii) is amended to read as follows: follows and inserting ‘‘the family allowance (A) by striking ‘‘section 152(d)(2)’’ in clause ‘‘(ii) in the case of an estate or trust, the amount determined under section 63(b) for a (i) and inserting ‘‘section 7706(d)(2)’’, and deduction allowed for such year under sec- taxpayer who is single or married filing sepa- (B) by striking ‘‘section 152(d)’’ in clause tion 642(b).’’. rately.’’. (ii) and inserting ‘‘section 7706(d)’’. (J) NET EARNINGS FROM SELF-EMPLOY- (V) Section 6040(4) is amended by striking (9) Section 36B(b)(2)(A) is amended by MENT.—Section 1402(a) is amended by strik- ‘‘section 3402(f)(2), (3), (4), and (5)’’ and in- striking ‘‘section 152’’ and inserting ‘‘section ing paragraph (7). serting ‘‘paragraphs (3), (4), (5), and (6) of sec- 7706’’. (K) PAYROLL WITHHOLDING.— tion 3402(f)’’. (10) Section 36B(b)(3)(B) is amended by (i) IN GENERAL.—Paragraph (1) of section (L) JOINT RETURNS.—Section 6013(b)(3)(A) is striking ‘‘unless a deduction is allowed under 3402(f) is amended by striking subparagraph amended by striking ‘‘has the meaning given section 151 for the taxable year with respect

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:58 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE6.030 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE S7550 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 16, 2020 to a dependent’’ in the flush matter at the (29) Section 170(g)(3) is amended by strik- (51) Section 7703(a) is amended by striking end and inserting ‘‘unless the taxpayer has a ing ‘‘section 152(d)(2)’’ and inserting ‘‘section ‘‘part V of subchapter B of chapter 1 and’’. dependent for the taxable year (and the tax- 7706(d)(2)’’. (52) Section 7703(b)(1) is amended by strik- payer included such dependent’s TIN on the (30) Section 213(a) is amended by striking ing ‘‘section 152(f)(1))’’ and all that follows return of tax for the taxable year)’’. ‘‘section 152’’ and inserting ‘‘section 7706’’. and inserting ‘‘section 7706(f)(1)) who is a de- (11) Section 36B(c)(1)(D) is amended by (31) Section 213(d)(5) is amended by strik- pendent of such individual for the taxable striking ‘‘with respect to whom a deduction ing ‘‘section 152(e)’’ and inserting ‘‘section year (or would be but for section 7706(e)),’’. under section 151 is allowable to another tax- 7706(e)’’. (53) Section 7706(a), as redesignated by this payer’’ and inserting ‘‘who is a dependent of (32) Section 213(d)(11) is amended by strik- section, is amended by striking ‘‘this sub- another taxpayer’’. ing ‘‘section 152(d)(2)’’ in the matter fol- title’’ and inserting ‘‘subtitle A’’. (12) Section 36B(d)(1) is amended by strik- lowing subparagraph (B) and inserting ‘‘sec- (54) Section 7706(e)(3), as redesignated by ing ‘‘equal to the number of individuals for tion 7706(d)(2)’’. this section, is amended by inserting ‘‘(as in (33) Section 220(b)(6) is amended by strik- whom the taxpayer is allowed a deduction effect before its repeal)’’ after ‘‘section 151’’. ing ‘‘with respect to whom a deduction under under section 151 (relating to allowance of (55) The table of parts for subchapter B of section 151 is allowable to’’ and inserting deduction for personal exemptions) for the chapter 1 is amended by striking the item re- ‘‘who is a dependent of’’. taxable year’’ and inserting ‘‘the sum of 1 (2 lating to part V. (34) Section 220(d)(2)(A) is amended by (56) The table of sections for chapter 79 is in the case of a joint return) plus the number striking ‘‘section 152’’ and inserting ‘‘section of individuals who are dependents of the tax- amended by adding at the end the following 7706’’. new item: payer for the taxable year’’. (35) Section 223(b)(6) is amended by strik- ‘‘Sec. 7706. Dependent defined.’’. (13) Section 36B(e)(1) is amended by strik- ing ‘‘with respect to whom a deduction under (d) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments ing ‘‘1 or more individuals for whom a tax- section 151 is allowable to’’ and inserting payer is allowed a deduction under section made by this section shall apply to taxable ‘‘who is a dependent of’’. years beginning after December 31, 2021. 151 (relating to allowance of deduction for (36) Section 223(d)(2)(A) is amended by personal exemptions) for the taxable year striking ‘‘section 152’’ and inserting ‘‘section SEC. 203. REPEAL OF LIMITATIONS RELATING TO ITEMIZED DEDUCTIONS. (including the taxpayer or his spouse)’’ and 7706’’. (a) IN GENERAL.—Sections 67 and 68 are re- inserting ‘‘1 or more of the taxpayer, the (37) Section 401(h) is amended by striking pealed. taxpayer’s spouse, or any dependent of the ‘‘section 152(f)(1)’’ in the last sentence and (b) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.— taxpayer’’. inserting ‘‘section 7706(f)(1)’’. (1) Section 162(o) is amended by striking (14) Section 42(i)(3)(D)(ii)(I) is amended by (38) Section 402(l)(4)(D) is amended by paragraph (2) and redesignating paragraph striking ‘‘section 152’’ and inserting ‘‘section striking ‘‘section 152’’ and inserting ‘‘section (3) as paragraph (2). 7706’’. 7706’’. (2) Section 164(b)(5)(H)(ii) is amended— (15) Section 45R(e)(1)(A)(iv) is amended— (39) Section 409A(a)(2)(B)(ii)(I) is amended (A) by striking the comma at the end of (A) by striking ‘‘section 152(d)(2)’’ and in- by striking ‘‘section 152(a)’’ and inserting subclause (I) and inserting ‘‘, and’’, serting ‘‘section 7706(d)(2)’’, and ‘‘section 7706(a)’’. (B) by striking ‘‘, and’’ at the end of sub- (B) by striking ‘‘section 152(d)(2)(H)’’ and (40) Section 501(c)(9) is amended by strik- clause (II) and inserting a period, and inserting ‘‘section 7706(d)(2)(H)’’. ing ‘‘section 152(f)(1)’’ and inserting ‘‘section (C) by striking subclause (III). (16) Section 51(i)(1) is amended— 7706(f)(1)’’. (3) Section 302(b)(5) is amended by insert- (A) by striking ‘‘section 152(d)(2)’’ in sub- (41) Section 529(e)(2)(B) is amended by ing ‘‘, as in effect on December 31, 2021’’ after paragraphs (A) and (B) and inserting ‘‘sec- striking ‘‘section 152(d)(2)’’ and inserting ‘‘67(c)(2)(B)’’. tion 7706(d)(2)’’, and ‘‘section 7706(d)(2)’’. (4) Section 562(c) is amended by inserting (B) by striking ‘‘section 152(d)(2)(H)’’ in (42) Section 529A(e)(4) is amended— ‘‘, as in effect on December 31, 2021’’ after subparagraph (C) and inserting ‘‘section (A) by striking ‘‘section 152(d)(2)(B)’’ and inserting ‘‘section 7706(d)(2)(B)’’, and ‘‘67(c)(2)(B)’’. 7706(d)(2)(H)’’. (5) Section 642(b)(2)(C)(i)(II) is amended by (17) Section 72(t)(2)(D)(i)(III) is amended by (B) by striking ‘‘section 152(f)(1)(B)’’ and inserting ‘‘section 7706(f)(1)(B)’’. inserting ‘‘, and as in effect on December 31, striking ‘‘section 152’’ and inserting ‘‘section 2021’’ after ‘‘642(b)’’. 7706’’. (43) Section 643(a)(2) is amended— (A) by striking ‘‘(relating to deduction for (6) Section 6654(d)(1)(C)(iii) is amended by (18) Section 72(t)(7)(A)(iii) is amended by inserting ‘‘, as in effect on December 31, striking ‘‘section 152(f)(1)’’ and inserting personal exemptions)’’ and inserting ‘‘(relat- ing to basic deduction)’’, and 2021’’ before the period. ‘‘section 7706(f)(1)’’. (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The repeal and the (19) Section 105(b) is amended— (B) by striking ‘‘DEDUCTION FOR PERSONAL EXEMPTION’’ in the heading thereof and in- amendments made by this section shall (A) by striking ‘‘as defined in section 152’’ serting ‘‘BASIC DEDUCTION’’. apply to taxable years beginning after De- and inserting ‘‘as defined in section 7706’’, (44) Section 1361(c)(1)(C) is amended by cember 31, 2021. (B) by striking ‘‘section 152(f)(1)’’ and in- striking ‘‘section 152(f)(1)(C)’’ and inserting SEC. 204. RESTORATION OF CERTAIN DEDUC- serting ‘‘section 7706(f)(1)’’ and ‘‘section 7706(f)(1)(C)’’. TIONS. (C) by striking ‘‘section 152(e)’’ and insert- (45) Section 2032A(c)(7)(D) is amended by (a) DEDUCTION FOR QUALIFIED RESIDENCE ing ‘‘section 7706(e)’’. striking ‘‘section 152(f)(2)’’ and inserting INTEREST.—Section 163(h)(3) is amended by (20) Section 105(c)(1) is amended by strik- ‘‘section 7706(f)(2)’’. striking subparagraph (F). ing ‘‘section 152’’ and inserting ‘‘section (46) Section 5000A(b)(3)(A) is amended by (b) DEDUCTION FOR STATE AND LOCAL 7706’’. striking ‘‘section 152’’ and inserting ‘‘section TAXES.—Section 164(b) is amended by strik- (21) Section 125(e)(1)(D) is amended by 7706’’. ing paragraph (6). striking ‘‘section 152’’ and inserting ‘‘section (47) Section 5000A(c)(4)(A) is amended by (c) DEDUCTION FOR PERSONAL CASUALTY 7706’’. striking ‘‘the number of individuals for LOSSES.—Section 165(h) is amended by strik- (22) Section 129(c)(1) is amended to read as whom the taxpayer is allowed a deduction ing paragraph (5). follows: under section 151 (relating to allowance of (d) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments ‘‘(1) who is a dependent of such employee deduction for personal exemptions) for the made by this section shall apply to taxable or of such employee’s spouse, or’’. taxable year’’ and inserting ‘‘the sum of 1 (2 years beginning after December 31, 2021. (23) Section 129(c)(2) is amended by strik- in the case of a joint return) plus the number SEC. 205. TERMINATION OF SEPARATE TREAT- ing ‘‘section 152(f)(1)’’ and inserting ‘‘section of the taxpayer’s dependents for the taxable MENT OF CAPITAL GAINS. 7706(f)(1)’’. year’’. Subsection (h) of section 1 is amended by (24) Section 132(h)(2)(B) is amended— (48) Section 6103(l)(21)(A)(iii) is amended by adding at the end the following new para- (A) by striking ‘‘section 152(f)(1)’’ and in- striking ‘‘for whom a deduction is allowed graph: serting ‘‘section 7706(f)(1)’’, and under section 151’’ and inserting ‘‘who is ‘‘(12) TERMINATION.—This subsection shall (B) by striking ‘‘section 152(e)’’ and insert- taken into account as a dependent under sec- not apply to any taxable year beginning ing ‘‘section 7706(e)’’. tion 7706 for purposes of any provision of this after December 31, 2021.’’. (25) Section 139D(c)(5) is amended by strik- title’’. SEC. 206. REPEALS. ing ‘‘section 152’’ and inserting ‘‘section (49) Section 6213(g)(2)(H) is amended by (a) IN GENERAL.—The following provisions 7706’’. striking ‘‘section 21 (relating to expenses for of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 are re- (26) Section 139E(c)(2) is amended by strik- household and dependent care services nec- pealed: ing ‘‘section 152’’ and inserting ‘‘section essary for gainful employment) or section 151 (1) Subpart A of part IV of subchapter A of 7706’’. (relating to allowance of deductions for per- chapter 1 (relating to nonrefundable personal (27) Section 162(l)(1)(D) is amended by sonal exemptions)’’ and inserting ‘‘sub- credits). striking ‘‘section 152(f)(1)’’ and inserting section (a)(1)(B), (b)(1)(A)(ii), or (b)(1)(B) of (2) Subpart B of part IV of subchapter A of ‘‘section 7706(f)(1)’’. section 2 or section 36B(b)(3)(B)’’. chapter 1 (relating to other credits), other (28) Section 170(g)(1) is amended by strik- (50) Section 7702B(f)(2)(C)(iii) is amended than section 27 (relating to taxes of foreign ing ‘‘section 152’’ and inserting ‘‘section by striking ‘‘section 152(d)(2)’’ and inserting countries and possessions of the United 7706’’. ‘‘section 7706(d)(2)’’. States; possession tax credit).

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:58 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE6.030 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S7551 (3) Sections 34, 35, and 36. benefit amount shall be equal to 15 percent vidual is treated for such taxable year as a (4) Part VI of subchapter A of chapter 1 (re- of the earned income of such taxpayer for resident of the United States for purposes of lating to alternative minimum tax). the taxable year. this chapter by reason of an election under (5) Section 199A (relating to deduction for ‘‘(2) LIMITATIONS.— subsection (g) or (h) of section 6013. qualified business income). ‘‘(A) LIMITATION BASED ON NUMBER OF CHIL- ‘‘(5) IDENTIFICATION NUMBER REQUIRE- (6) Section 217 (relating to moving ex- DREN.—The child benefit amount determined MENT.—No credit shall be allowed under this penses). under paragraph (1) shall not exceed an section to an eligible taxpayer who does not (7) Section 221 (relating to interest on edu- amount equal to the product of— include on the return of tax for the taxable cation loans). ‘‘(i) the number of qualifying children of year— (8) Section 222 (relating to qualified tuition the taxpayer, multiplied by ‘‘(A) such individual’s taxpayer identifica- and related expenses). ‘‘(ii) $1,590. tion number, and (9) Chapter 2A (relating to unearned in- ‘‘(B) REDUCTION BASED ON EARNINGS OR AD- ‘‘(B) if the individual is married (within come medicare contribution). JUSTED GROSS INCOME.—The child benefit the meaning of section 7703), the taxpayer (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The repeals made by amount determined under this subsection (as identification number of such individual’s subsection (a) shall take effect for taxable determined after application of subpara- spouse. years beginning after December 31, 2021. graph (A)) shall be reduced (but not below ‘‘(6) TAXPAYERS WHO DO NOT INCLUDE TIN, SEC. 207. ESTABLISHMENT OF PROGRESSIVE TAX zero) by an amount equal to 5 percent of the ETC., OF ANY QUALIFYING CHILD.—No credit REBATE. earned income (or, if greater, the adjusted shall be allowed under this section to any el- (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 32 is amended to gross income) of the taxpayer for the taxable igible taxpayer who has one or more quali- read as follows: year in excess of $75,000 ($110,000 in the case fying children if no qualifying child of such of a joint return). ‘‘SEC. 32. PROGRESSIVE TAX REBATE. taxpayer is taken into account under sub- ‘‘(d) ADDITIONAL CHILD BENEFIT AMOUNT.— ‘‘(a) ALLOWANCE OF CREDIT.—In the case of section (c) or (d) by reason of subsection ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—In the case of an eligible (f)(4). an eligible taxpayer, there shall be allowed taxpayer with a qualifying child, the addi- ‘‘(7) TREATMENT OF MILITARY PERSONNEL as a credit against the tax imposed by this tional child benefit amount shall be equal subtitle for the taxable year an amount STATIONED OUTSIDE OF THE UNITED STATES.— to— For purposes of paragraph (1)(A) and sub- equal to the sum of— ‘‘(A) in the case of a taxpayer whose earned ‘‘(1) the earned income amount (as deter- section (f)(3), the principal place of abode of income for the taxable year does not exceed a member of the Armed Forces of the United mined under subsection (b)), $20,000, the applicable percentage of such States shall be treated as in the United ‘‘(2) the child benefit amount (as deter- earned income, States during any period during which such mined under subsection (c)), plus ‘‘(B) in the case of a taxpayer whose earned member is stationed outside the United ‘‘(3) the additional child benefit amount (as income exceeds $20,000 but does not exceed States while serving on extended active duty determined under subsection (d)). $25,000, the applicable percentage of $20,000, with the Armed Forces of the United States. ‘‘(b) EARNED INCOME AMOUNT.— ‘‘(C) in the case of a taxpayer whose earned For purposes of the preceding sentence, the ‘‘(1) SINGLE WORKERS.—In the case of an el- income (or, if greater, adjusted gross in- term ‘extended active duty’ means any pe- igible taxpayer (other than a head of a come) exceeds $25,000 but does not exceed the riod of active duty pursuant to a call or household as defined in section 2(b)) who is applicable amount, an amount equal to— order to such duty for a period in excess of 90 not filing a joint return for the taxable year ‘‘(i) the applicable percentage of $20,000, under section 6013, the earned income minus days or for an indefinite period. amount shall be equal to— ‘‘(ii) 15 percent of such earned income or ‘‘(8) JOINT RETURN.— ‘‘(A) in the case of a taxpayer whose earned adjusted gross income in excess of $25,000, or ‘‘(A) MARRIED INDIVIDUALS.—In the case of income for the taxable year does not exceed ‘‘(D) in the case of a taxpayer whose earned an individual who is married (within the $6,100, 25.1 percent of such earned income, income (or, if greater, adjusted gross in- meaning of section 7703), this section shall ‘‘(B) in the case of a taxpayer whose earned come) exceeds the applicable amount, $0. apply only if a joint return is filed for the income for the taxable year exceeds $6,100 ‘‘(2) APPLICABLE PERCENTAGE.—For pur- taxable year under section 6013. but does not exceed $9,000, $1,530 plus 17.1 poses of paragraph (1), the applicable per- ‘‘(B) OTHER.—In the case of taxpayer filing percent of such earned income in excess of centage is— a joint return under section 6013, such tax- $6,100, ‘‘(A) in the case of a taxpayer with 1 quali- payer shall not be treated as an eligible tax- ‘‘(C) in the case of a taxpayer whose earned fying child, 11 percent, payer for purposes of this section unless ei- income (or, if greater, adjusted gross in- ‘‘(B) in the case of a taxpayer with 2 quali- ther the taxpayer or the taxpayer’s spouse come) for the taxable year exceeds $9,000, but fying children, 17 percent, and satisfies each of the requirements under this does not exceed $49,494, $2,025 minus 5 per- ‘‘(C) in the case of a taxpayer with 3 or subsection. cent of such earned income or adjusted gross more qualifying children, 19 percent. ‘‘(f) QUALIFYING CHILD.— income in excess of $9,000, or ‘‘(3) APPLICABLE AMOUNT.—For purposes of ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The term ‘qualifying ‘‘(D) in the case of a taxpayer whose earned paragraph (1), the applicable amount is— child’ means a qualifying child of the tax- income (or, if greater, adjusted gross in- ‘‘(A) in the case of a taxpayer with 1 quali- payer (as defined in section 152(c), deter- come) for the taxable year exceeds $49,494, $0. fying child, $39,667, mined without regard to paragraph (1)(D) ‘‘(2) HEAD OF HOUSEHOLD.—In the case of an ‘‘(B) in the case of a taxpayer with 2 quali- thereof and section 152(e)). eligible taxpayer who is a head of a house- fying children, $47,667, and ‘‘(2) MARRIED INDIVIDUAL.—The term ‘quali- hold (as defined in section 2(b)), the earned ‘‘(C) in the case of a taxpayer with 3 or fying child’ shall not include an individual income amount shall be equal to— more qualifying children, $50,333. who is married as of the close of the eligible ‘‘(A) in the case of a taxpayer whose earned ‘‘(e) ELIGIBLE TAXPAYER.— taxpayer’s taxable year unless the individual income for the taxable year does not exceed ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The term ‘eligible tax- qualifies as a dependent (as defined under $9,150, 25.1 percent of such earned income, payer’ means an individual— section 152) of the taxpayer for such taxable ‘‘(B) in the case of a taxpayer whose earned ‘‘(A) whose principal place of abode is in year. income for the taxable year exceeds $9,150 the United States for more than one-half of ‘‘(3) PLACE OF ABODE.—For purposes of but does not exceed $13,500, $2,294 plus 17.1 such taxable year, and paragraph (1), the requirements of section percent of such earned income in excess of ‘‘(B) is not a dependent (as defined under 152(c)(1)(B) shall be met only if the principal $9,150, section 152) to another taxpayer for any tax- place of abode is in the United States. ‘‘(C) in the case of a taxpayer whose earned able year beginning in the same calendar ‘‘(4) IDENTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS.— income (or, if greater, adjusted gross in- year as such taxable year. ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—A qualifying child shall come) for the taxable year exceeds $13,500, ‘‘(2) QUALIFYING CHILD INELIGIBLE.—If an not be taken into account under subsection but does not exceed $74,241, $3,037 minus 5 individual is the qualifying child of a tax- (c) or (d) unless the taxpayer includes the percent of such earned income or adjusted payer for any taxable year of such taxpayer name, age, and TIN of the qualifying child on gross income in excess of $13,500, or beginning in a calendar year, such individual the return of tax for the taxable year. ‘‘(D) in the case of a taxpayer whose earned shall not be treated as an eligible taxpayer ‘‘(B) OTHER METHODS.—The Secretary may income (or, if greater, adjusted gross in- for any taxable year of such individual be- prescribe other methods for providing the in- come) for the taxable year exceeds $74,241, $0. ginning in such calendar year. formation described in subparagraph (A). ‘‘(3) MARRIED FILING JOINTLY.—In the case ‘‘(3) EXCEPTION FOR TAXPAYER CLAIMING ‘‘(g) EARNED INCOME.— of an eligible taxpayer filing a joint return BENEFITS UNDER SECTION 911.—The term ‘eligi- ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The term ‘earned in- under section 6013, the earned income ble taxpayer’ does not include any taxpayer come’ means— amount shall be determined pursuant to who claims the benefits of section 911 for the ‘‘(A) wages, salaries, tips, and other em- paragraph (1), except that the dollar taxable year. ployee compensation, but only if such amounts in effect under such paragraph shall ‘‘(4) LIMITATION ON ELIGIBILITY OF NON- amounts are includible in gross income for be multiplied by 2. RESIDENT ALIENS.—The term ‘eligible tax- the taxable year, plus ‘‘(c) CHILD BENEFIT AMOUNT.— payer’ shall not include any individual who ‘‘(B) the amount of the taxpayer’s net ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—In the case of an eligible is a nonresident alien individual for any por- earnings from self-employment for the tax- taxpayer with a qualifying child, the child tion of the taxable year unless such indi- able year (within the meaning of section

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:58 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE6.030 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE S7552 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 16, 2020 1402(a)), but such net earnings shall be deter- ‘‘(ii) the aggregate losses from all passive Means of the House of Representatives and mined with regard to the deduction allowed activities for the taxable year (as so deter- the Committee on Finance of the Senate a to the taxpayer by section 164(f). mined). draft of any technical and conforming ‘‘(2) SPECIAL RULES.—For purposes of para- ‘‘(3) PASSIVE ACTIVITY.—For purposes of changes in the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 graph (1)— paragraph (2)(E), the term ‘passive activity’ which are necessary to reflect throughout ‘‘(A) no amount received as a pension or has the meaning given such term by section such Code the purposes of the provisions of, annuity shall be taken into account, 469. and amendments made by, this title. ‘‘(B) no amount to which section 871(a) ap- ‘‘(l) INFLATION ADJUSTMENTS.— Subtitle B—Corporate Tax Reforms ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—In the case of any tax- plies (relating to income of nonresident alien SEC. 211. CORPORATE INCOME TAX RATE REDUC- individuals not connected with United States able year beginning after 2022, each of the TION. business) shall be taken into account, dollar amounts in subsections (b), (c), (d), (a) IN GENERAL.—Subsection (b) of section ‘‘(C) no amount received for services pro- and (j)(1) shall each be increased by an 11 is amended to read as follows: vided by an individual while the individual is amount equal to— ‘‘(b) AMOUNT OF TAX.—The amount of the an inmate at a penal institution shall be ‘‘(A) such dollar amount, multiplied by tax imposed by subsection (a) shall be an taken into account, ‘‘(B) the cost-of-living adjustment deter- amount equal to 17 percent of the taxable in- ‘‘(D) no amount described in paragraph (1) mined under section 1(f)(3) for the calendar come.’’. received for service performed in work ac- year in which the taxable year begins, deter- (b) CONFORMING AMENDMENT.—Section 1551 tivities as defined in paragraph (4) or (7) of mined by substituting ‘2021’ for ‘2016’ in sub- is amended— section 407(d) of the Social Security Act to paragraph (A)(ii) thereof. (1) by striking ‘‘BENEFITS OF THE GRADUATED which the taxpayer is assigned under any ‘‘(2) ROUNDING.—If any dollar amount in CORPORATE RATES AND’’ in the heading, State program under part A of title IV of subsections (b), (c), (d), and (j)(1), after being (2) by striking ‘‘the benefits of the rates such Act shall be taken into account, but increased under paragraph (1), is not a mul- contained in section 11(b) which are lower only to the extent such amount is subsidized tiple of $100, such dollar amount shall be than the highest rate specified in such sec- under such State program, and rounded to the nearest multiple of $100. tion, or’’ in subsection (a), and ‘‘(E) a taxpayer may elect to treat ‘‘(m) RESTRICTIONS ON TAXPAYERS WHO IM- (3) by striking ‘‘such benefits or credit’’ in amounts excluded from gross income by rea- PROPERLY CLAIMED CREDIT IN PRIOR YEAR.— subsection (a) and inserting ‘‘such credit’’. son of section 112 as earned income. ‘‘(1) TAXPAYERS MAKING PRIOR FRAUDULENT (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments ‘‘(h) TAXABLE YEAR MUST BE FULL TAX- OR RECKLESS CLAIMS.— made by this section shall apply to taxable ABLE YEAR.—Except in the case of a taxable ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—No credit shall be al- years beginning after December 31, 2021. year closed by reason of the death of the eli- lowed under this section for any taxable year TITLE III—REFUND OF EXCESS gible taxpayer, no credit shall be allowable in the disallowance period. CONSUMPTION TAX REVENUE under this section in the case of a taxable ‘‘(B) DISALLOWANCE PERIOD.—For purposes of subparagraph (A), the disallowance period SEC. 301. REFUNDS OF EXCESS CONSUMPTION year covering a period of less than 12 TAX REVENUE. is— months. (a) IN GENERAL.—Subchapter B of chapter ‘‘(i) the period of 10 taxable years after the ‘‘(i) COORDINATION WITH CERTAIN MEANS- 65 is amended by adding at the end the fol- most recent taxable year for which there was TESTED PROGRAMS.—For purposes of— lowing new section: a final determination that the taxpayer’s ‘‘(1) the United States Housing Act of 1937, ‘‘SEC. 6433. REFUNDS OF EXCESS CONSUMPTION claim of credit under this section was due to ‘‘(2) title V of the Housing Act of 1949, TAX REVENUE. fraud, and ‘‘(3) section 101 of the Housing and Urban ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—In the case of any quali- ‘‘(ii) the period of 2 taxable years after the Development Act of 1965, fying excess consumption tax revenue year, most recent taxable year for which there was ‘‘(4) sections 221(d)(3), 235, and 236 of the the Secretary shall pay to each eligible filer a final determination that the taxpayer’s National Housing Act, and an amount equal to the consumption tax re- claim of credit under this section was due to ‘‘(5) the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008, fund amount. reckless or intentional disregard of rules and ‘‘(b) QUALIFYING EXCESS CONSUMPTION TAX any refund made to a taxpayer by reason of regulations (but not due to fraud). REVENUE YEAR.—For purposes of this sec- this section shall not be treated as income ‘‘(2) TAXPAYERS MAKING IMPROPER PRIOR tion— (and shall not be taken into account in de- CLAIMS .—In the case of a taxpayer who is de- ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The term ‘qualifying ex- termining resources for the month of its re- nied credit under this section for any taxable cess consumption tax revenue year’ means ceipt and the following month). year as a result of the deficiency procedures any calendar year for which the net con- ‘‘(j) AMOUNT OF CREDIT TO BE DETERMINED under subchapter B of chapter 63, no credit sumption tax revenues exceed 10 percent of UNDER TABLES.—The amount of the credit shall be allowed under this section for any gross domestic product for such year. allowed by this section shall be determined subsequent taxable year unless the taxpayer ‘‘(2) NET CONSUMPTION TAX REVENUES.—The under tables prescribed by the Secretary. provides such information as the Secretary net consumption tax revenues for any cal- ‘‘(k) DENIAL OF CREDIT FOR INDIVIDUALS may require to demonstrate eligibility for endar year shall be the excess of— HAVING EXCESSIVE INVESTMENT INCOME.— such credit.’’. ‘‘(A) the tax imposed under section 3901 ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—No credit shall be al- (b) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.— with respect to taxable supplies the tax lowed under subsection (a) for the taxable (1) Section 86(f)(2) is amended by striking point for which is during such calendar year, year if the aggregate amount of disqualified ‘‘section 32(c)(2)’’ and inserting ‘‘section over income of the taxpayer for the taxable year 32(g)’’. ‘‘(B) the credits allowed under section 3916 exceeds $5,000. (2) Section 129(e)(2) is amended by striking for such calendar year. ‘‘section 32(c)(2)’’ and inserting ‘‘section ‘‘(2) DISQUALIFIED INCOME.—For purposes of ‘‘(3) GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT.—The gross paragraph (1), the term ‘disqualified income’ 32(g)’’. domestic product for any calendar year shall means— (3) Section 6213(g)(2) is amended— be the last estimate of the gross domestic ‘‘(A) interest or dividends to the extent in- (A) in subparagraph (G), by striking ‘‘sec- product for such calendar year by the De- cludible in income for the taxable year, tion 32(c)(2)(A)’’ and inserting ‘‘section partment of Commerce which is published ‘‘(B) interest received or accrued during 32(g)(1)’’, and before the date that is 3 months after the the taxable year which is exempt from tax (B) in subparagraph (K), by striking ‘‘sec- close of such calendar year. imposed by this chapter, tion 32(k)(2)’’ and inserting ‘‘section ‘‘(c) ELIGIBLE FILER.—For purposes of this ‘‘(C) the excess (if any) of— 32(m)(2)’’. section— ‘‘(i) gross income from rents or royalties (4) Paragraph (2) of section 1324(b) of title ‘‘(1) DEFINITION.— not derived in the ordinary course of a trade 31, United States Code, is amended by insert- ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—The term ‘eligible filer’ or business, over ing ‘‘32,’’ after ‘‘25A,’’. means, with respect to any qualifying excess ‘‘(ii) the sum of— (5) The table of sections for subpart C of consumption tax revenue year, any indi- ‘‘(I) the deductions (other than interest) part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1 of sub- vidual (other than an individual described in which are clearly and directly allocable to title A is amended by striking the item re- paragraph (2)) who filed a return of income such gross income, plus lating to section 32 and inserting the fol- tax for the individual’s qualifying rebate ‘‘(II) interest deductions properly allocable lowing: taxable year. to such gross income, ‘‘Sec. 32. Progressive tax rebate.’’. ‘‘(B) EXCLUSION.—The term ‘eligible filer’ ‘‘(D) the capital gain net income (as de- (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments shall not include— fined in section 1222) of the taxpayer for such made by this section shall apply to taxable ‘‘(i) any nonresident alien individual, taxable year, and years beginning after December 31, 2021. ‘‘(ii) any individual who is a dependent (as ‘‘(E) the excess (if any) of— SEC. 208. TECHNICAL AND CONFORMING AMEND- defined in section 152) of another taxpayer ‘‘(i) the aggregate income from all passive MENTS. for the individual’s qualifying rebate taxable activities for the taxable year (determined The Secretary of the Treasury or the Sec- year, or without regard to any amount included in retary’s delegate shall, not later than 90 ‘‘(iii) an estate or trust. earned income under subsection (f) or de- days after the date of the enactment of this ‘‘(2) QUALIFYING REBATE TAXABLE YEAR.— scribed in a preceding subparagraph), over Act, submit to the Committee on Ways and The term ‘qualifying rebate taxable year’

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:58 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE6.030 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S7553 means, with respect to any individual in con- Americans to Save Act (EASA). This section (a) and the amendments made by sec- nection with a qualifying excess consump- legislation makes common sense re- tion 2(a) of the Secret Service Overtime Pay tion tax revenue year, the taxable year of forms to the saver’s tax credit by mak- Extension Act (Public Law 115–383; 132 Stat. such individual which contains 6 or more ing the credit refundable and restruc- 5121), which shall include, with respect to the months of such qualifying excess consump- previous calendar year, the information de- tion tax revenue year. turing it as a government matching scribed under paragraphs (1) through (7) of ‘‘(3) IDENTIFICATION REQUIREMENT.— contribution that is directly deposited section 2(c) of the Secret Service Recruit- ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—An individual shall not into a worker’s retirement savings ac- ment and Retention Act of 2018 (Public Law be treated as an eligible filer for any year count. 115–160; 132 Stat. 1246). unless such individual includes on the return This bill would offer matching con- (3) OPEN RECOMMENDATIONS.—Not later of tax for such year— tributions for the first time to millions than 60 days after the date of enactment of ‘‘(i) such individual’s valid identification of middle and lower income individuals this Act, the Director of the United States number, not covered by an employer-sponsored Secret Service shall submit to the appro- ‘‘(ii) in the case of a joint return, the valid priate committees of Congress a report dis- identification number of such individual’s retirement plan, including those who cussing the progress of the United States Se- spouse, and save through an IRA under a State or cret Service in implementing each rec- ‘‘(iii) the valid identification number of local government savings program- ommendation of the Government Account- any qualifying child (as defined in section such as workers in my home State of ability Office to the United States Secret 32(f)) claimed on such return. Oregon under the OregonSaves pro- Service that has not been designated as ‘‘(B) VALID IDENTIFICATION NUMBER.—For gram. The government match is also closed by the Comptroller General of the purposes of subparagraph (A), the term ‘valid available to middle and lower income United States. identification number’ means a social secu- savers who participate in an employer- (4) PROTECTIVE MISSION PANEL.—Not later rity number issued to an individual by the than 1 year after the date of enactment of Social Security Administration. Such term sponsored plan. this Act, the Comptroller General of the shall not include a TIN issued by the Inter- The government match provided by United States shall submit to the appro- nal Revenue Service. the bill would both encourage saving priate committees of Congress a report on ‘‘(C) SPECIAL RULE FOR MEMBERS OF THE and help middle and low income earn- the extent of the progress made by the ARMED FORCES.—Subparagraph (A) shall not ers build assets by providing an imme- United States Secret Service in imple- apply to a joint return where at least 1 diate, meaningful return on their per- menting the recommendations of the United spouse was a member of the Armed Forces of sonal contributions. The legislation States Secret Service Protective Mission the United States at any time during the would also establish a coronavirus Panel, including in particular those items taxable year. bonus recovery credit that would pro- pertaining to training and personnel enumer- ‘‘(d) CONSUMPTION TAX REFUND AMOUNT.— ated in the Executive Summary to Report ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The consumption tax re- vide an additional government match from the United States Secret Service Pro- fund amount for any eligible filer for any of up to $5,000 to workers on their re- tective Mission Panel to the Secretary of qualifying excess consumption tax year shall tirement saving for a five year period Homeland Security dated December 15, 2014. be the product of— beginning in 2022. I urge my colleagues (c) REPEAL OF SUPERSEDED REPORTING RE- ‘‘(A) the applicable amount, times to support this legislation. QUIREMENT.—Section 2(b) of the Secret Serv- ‘‘(B) the applicable shares of the eligible ice Overtime Pay Extension Act (Public Law filer. By Mr. GRAHAM: 115–383; 132 Stat. 5121) is repealed. ‘‘(2) APPLICABLE AMOUNT.—The applicable S. 5036. A bill to amend the Overtime f amount for any qualifying excess revenue Pay for Protective Services Act of 2016 consumption tax year is an amount equal SUBMITTED RESOLUTIONS to— to extend the Secret Service overtime ‘‘(A) the excess described in subsection pay exception through 2023, and for (b)(1), divided by other purposes; considered and passed. SENATE RESOLUTION 803—DESIG- ‘‘(B) the total number of applicable shares S. 5036 NATING ROOM S–124 OF THE of all eligible filers for such year. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- UNITED STATES CAPITOL AS ‘‘(3) APPLICABLE SHARE.—The number of ap- resentatives of the United States of America in THE ‘‘U.S. SENATOR MARGARET plicable shares for any eligible filer shall be Congress assembled, CHASE SMITH ROOM’’ AND DES- the sum of— SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. IGNATING ROOM S–115 OF THE ‘‘(A) 1 (2 in the case of a joint return), plus This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Secret Serv- 1 UNITED STATES CAPITOL AS ‘‘(B) ⁄2 of the number of qualifying chil- ice Overtime Pay Extension Act’’. dren (as defined in section 32(f)) claimed on THE ‘‘U.S. SENATOR BARBARA A. the eligible filer’s return for the filer’s quali- SEC. 2. EXTENSION OF OVERTIME PAY EXCEP- MIKULSKI ROOM’’, IN RECOGNI- TION THROUGH 2023 FOR PROTEC- fying rebate taxable year. TIVE SERVICES. TION OF THEIR SERVICE TO THE ‘‘(e) TIME FOR PAYMENT.—Payments under (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 2 of the Overtime SENATE AND THE PEOPLE OF subsection (a) shall be made as soon as prac- Pay for Protective Services Act of 2016 (5 THE UNITED STATES tical after the Secretary has determined the U.S.C. 5547 note) is amended— Mr. BLUNT (for himself, Ms. KLO- consumption tax refund amount.’’. (1) in the section heading, by striking (b) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.— BUCHAR, Ms. COLLINS, Mr. KING, Mr. ‘‘2020’’ and inserting ‘‘2023’’; (1) Section 1324(b)(2) of title 31, United CARDIN, and Mr. VAN HOLLEN) sub- (2) in subsection (a), by striking ‘‘during States Code, is amended by striking ‘‘or 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, or 2020’’ and inserting mitted the following resolution; which 6431’’ and inserting ‘‘6431, or 6433’’. ‘‘during any of calendar years 2016 through was considered and agreed to: (2) The table of sections for subchapter B 2023’’; and S. RES. 803 of chapter 65 is amended by adding at the (3) in subsection (b)(1)— end the following new item: Whereas Senator Margaret Chase Smith (A) by inserting ‘‘for a given calendar served the people of Maine for more than 32 ‘‘Sec. 6433. Refunds of excess consumption year’’ after ‘‘for premium pay’’; and years as a member of the House of Rep- tax revenue.’’. (B) by striking ‘‘during 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, resentatives and the Senate; (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments and 2020’’ and inserting ‘‘during each of cal- Whereas Senator Margaret Chase Smith made by this section shall apply to calendar endar years 2016 through 2023’’. became the first woman to serve in both the years beginning after the date of the enact- (b) REPORTS.— House of Representatives and the Senate; ment of this Act. (1) DEFINITION.—In this subsection, the Whereas Senator Margaret Chase Smith term ‘‘appropriate committees of Congress’’ served as Chair of the Republican Con- By Mr. WYDEN (for himself, Mr. means the Committee on Appropriations, the ference, the first woman to hold a leadership BENNET, Mr. BROWN, Mr. CASEY, Committee on Homeland Security and Gov- position in the Senate; Ms. CORTEZ MASTO, Mr. DURBIN, ernmental Affairs, and the Committee on the Whereas, during her tenure in the Senate, Ms. KLOBUCHAR, and Mrs. MUR- Judiciary of the Senate and the Committee Senator Margaret Chase Smith served as— RAY): on Appropriations, the Committee on Over- (1) the first woman Ranking Member of the S. 5035. A bill to amend the Internal sight and Reform, and the Committee on the Committee on Armed Services, the first Revenue Code of 1986 to provide match- Judiciary of the House of Representatives. woman Ranking Member of the Committee (2) REPORT ON EXTENSIONS.—Not later than ing payments for retirement savings on Aeronautical and Space Sciences, and the January 30 of each of calendar years 2021, Chair of the Committee on Rates and Com- contributions by certain individuals; to 2022, and 2023, the Director of the United pensation of Certain Officers and Employees the Committee on Finance. States Secret Service shall submit to the ap- of the Senate; and Mr. WYDEN. Mr. President, today I propriate committees of Congress a report on (2) a member of the Committee on District have introduced the Encouraging the effects of the amendments made by sub- of Columbia, the Committee on Expenditures

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:58 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE6.030 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE S7554 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 16, 2020 in the Executive Departments (renamed the TEXT OF AMENDMENTS SEC. 2. TEACH GRANTS. Committee on Government Operations in SA 2709. Mr. MORAN (for Mr. RUBIO) Section 420N of the Higher Education Act 1952), the Committee on Rules and Adminis- of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070g–2) is amended— tration, the Committee on Appropriations, proposed an amendment to the bill H.R. 221, to amend the State Depart- (1) in subsection (b)(1)— and the Joint Congressional Committee on (A) in subparagraph (A), by inserting ‘‘(re- Inaugural Ceremonies; ment Basic Authorities Act of 1956 to ferred to in this section as the ‘service obli- Whereas, on June 1, 1950, Senator Margaret monitor and combat anti-Semitism gation window’)’’ after ‘‘under this subpart’’; Chase Smith spoke out against McCarthyism globally, and for other purposes; as fol- (B) in subparagraph (C)(vii), by inserting in the Senate Chamber, becoming one of the lows: ‘‘or geographic area’’ after ‘‘field’’; and first Senators to do so, with her ‘‘Declara- Strike all after the enacting clause and in- (C) by striking subparagraphs (D) and (E) tion of Conscience’’ speech; sert the following: and inserting the following: Whereas Senator Margaret Chase Smith SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. ‘‘(D) submit a certification of employment championed legislation and policies for This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Special by the chief administrative officer of the women in the military throughout her Sen- Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semi- school in accordance with subsection (d)(5); ate career and served as a role model to tism Act’’. and countless women seeking elective office and SEC. 2. FINDING. ‘‘(E) meet all State certification require- careers in public service; Congress finds that, since the Global Anti- ments for teaching (which may include Whereas Senator Barbara A. Mikulski Semitism Review Act of 2004 (Public Law meeting such requirements through a certifi- served the people of Maryland for more than 108–332) was enacted, in many foreign coun- cation obtained through alternative routes 45 years as a member of the Baltimore City tries acts of anti-Semitism have been fre- to teaching);’’; Council, the House of Representatives, and quent and wide in scope, the perpetrators (2) in subsection (c)— the Senate; and variety of threats to Jewish commu- (A) by striking ‘‘In the event’’ and insert- Whereas Senator Barbara A. Mikulski nities and their institutions have pro- ing the following: served the longest tenure of all women in liferated, and in some countries anti-Semitic ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—In the event’’; and Congress to date; attacks have increased in frequency, scope, (B) by adding at the end the following: Whereas Senator Barbara A. Mikulski violence, and deadliness. ‘‘(2) RECONSIDERATION OF CONVERSION DECI- served as Democratic Conference Secretary, SEC. 3. MONITORING AND COMBATING ANTI-SEM- SIONS.— the first woman to hold a Democratic leader- ITISM. ‘‘(A) REQUEST TO RECONSIDER.—In any case ship position in the Senate; Section 59(a) of the State Department where the Secretary has determined that a Whereas, during her tenure in the Senate, Basic Authorities Act of 1956 (22 U.S.C. recipient of a grant under this subpart has Senator Barbara A. Mikulski served as— 2731(a)) is amended— failed or refused to comply with the service (1) the first Chairwoman of the Committee (1) in paragraph (2)— obligation in the agreement under sub- on Appropriations, the Chairwoman of the (A) in subparagraph (A)— section (b) and has converted the grant into Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing (i) by inserting before the period at the end a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan and Urban Development, and Related Agen- the following: ‘‘, who shall be appointed by under part D in accordance with paragraph cies of the Committee on Appropriations, the President, by and with the advice and (1), the recipient may request that the Sec- and the first Vice Chairwoman of the Com- consent of the Senate’’; and retary reconsider such initial determination mittee on Appropriations; and (ii) by adding at the end the following new and may submit additional information to (2) a member of the Committee on Health, sentence: ‘‘The Special Envoy shall report demonstrate satisfaction of the service obli- Education, Labor, and Pensions (formerly directly to the Secretary.’’; and gation. Upon receipt of such a request, the (B) in subparagraph (B)— the Committee on Labor and Human Re- Secretary shall reconsider the determination (i) in the heading, by striking ‘‘APPOINT- sources) and the Committee on Small Busi- in accordance with this paragraph not later MENT’’ and inserting ‘‘NOMINATION’’; ness and Entrepreneurship; than 90 days after the date that such request (ii) by striking the first sentence; Whereas Senator Barbara A. Mikulski was received. (iii) in the second sentence, by striking ‘‘If championed policy on higher education, pay ‘‘(B) RECONSIDERATION.—If, in reconsid- the Secretary determines that such is appro- equality, space, technology, justice, Alz- ering an initial determination under sub- priate, the Secretary may appoint’’ and in- heimer’s research, and maritime issues and paragraph (A), the Secretary determines serting ‘‘If the President determines that sponsored legislation to improve women’s that the reason for such determination was such is appropriate, the President may nomi- health, including the creation of the Office the recipient’s failure to timely submit a nate’’; and of Research on Women’s Health of the Na- certification required under subsection tional Institutes of Health; and (iv) in the third sentence, by striking ‘‘The Secretary may allow such officer or em- (b)(1)(D) (as in effect on the day before the Whereas Senator Barbara A. Mikulski date of enactment of the Consider Teachers mentored other female Senators as the Dean ployee to retain the position (and the respon- sibilities associated with such position) held Act), an error or processing delay by the Sec- of the Women Senators and fostered bipar- retary, a change to the fields considered eli- tisan cooperation and friendship amongst by such officer or employee prior to the ap- pointment’’ and inserting ‘‘Such officer or gible for fulfillment of the service obligation the women of the Senate: Now, therefore, be (as described in subsection (b)(1)(C)), a re- it employee may not retain the position (or the responsibilities associated with such posi- cipient having previously requested to have Resolved, That, in recognition of the serv- the TEACH Grant converted to a loan, or an- ice of Senator Margaret Chase Smith and tion) held by such officer or employee prior to the nomination’’; and other valid reason determined by the Sec- Senator Barbara A. Mikulski to the Senate retary, and that the recipient has, as of the and the people of the United States, the Sen- (2) by adding at the end the following new paragraphs: date of the reconsideration, demonstrated ate designates— that the recipient did meet, or is meeting (1) room S–124 of the United States Capitol ‘‘(3) DUTIES.—The Special Envoy shall serve as the primary advisor to, and coordi- the service obligation in the agreement as the ‘‘U.S. Senator Margaret Chase Smith under subsection (b), the Secretary shall— Room’’; and nate efforts across, the United States Gov- ernment relating to monitoring and com- ‘‘(i) discharge the Federal Direct Unsub- (2) room S–115 of the United States Capitol sidized Stafford Loan under part D, and rein- as the ‘‘U.S. Senator Barbara A. Mikulski bating anti-Semitism and anti-Semitic in- citement that occur in foreign countries. state the recipient’s grant under this sub- Room’’. part; ‘‘(4) RANK AND STATUS OF AMBASSADOR.— f The Special Envoy shall have the rank of ‘‘(ii) discharge any interest or fees that AMENDMENTS SUBMITTED AND ambassador. may have accumulated during the period that the grant was converted to a Federal PROPOSED ‘‘(5) QUALIFICATIONS.—The Special Envoy should be a person of recognized distinction Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan under SA 2709. Mr. MORAN (for Mr. RUBIO) pro- in the field of combating anti-Semitism.’’. part D; posed an amendment to the bill H.R. 221, to ‘‘(iii) if the recipient has other loans under amend the State Department Basic Authori- SA 2710. Mr. MORAN (for Mr. BRAUN) part D, apply any payments made for the ties Act of 1956 to monitor and combat anti- proposed an amendment to the bill S. Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan Semitism globally, and for other purposes. 1387, to amend the Higher Education under part D during such period to those other loans under part D; SA 2710. Mr. MORAN (for Mr. BRAUN) pro- Act of 1965 in order to improve the posed an amendment to the bill S. 1387, to ‘‘(iv) if the recipient does not have other amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 in service obligation verification process loans under part D, reimburse the recipient order to improve the service obligation for TEACH Grant recipients, and for for any amounts paid on the Federal Direct verification process for TEACH Grant recipi- other purposes; as follows: Unsubsidized Stafford Loan under part D ents, and for other purposes. Strike all after the enacting clause and in- during such period; SA 2711. Mr. MORAN (for Mr. ENZI) pro- sert the following: ‘‘(v) request that consumer reporting agen- posed an amendment to the bill S. 3287, to SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. cies remove any negative credit reporting modify the governmentwide financial man- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Consider due to the conversion of the TEACH Grant to agement plan, and for other purposes. Teachers Act’’. a loan; and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:58 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE6.039 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S7555 ‘‘(vi) use the additional information pro- SEC. 4. EXTENSION OF TIME TO FULFILL SERV- AUTHORITY FOR COMMITTEES TO vided under subparagraph (A) to determine ICE OBLIGATION DUE TO COVID–19. MEET the progress the recipient has made in meet- (a) Section 3519(a) of the CARES Act (Pub- Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I have 5 ing the service obligation. lic Law 116–136; 20 U.S.C. 1001 note) is amend- ‘‘(C) EXTENSION OF TIME TO COMPLETE SERV- ed— requests for committees to meet during ICE OBLIGATION.—In the case of a recipient (1) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), today’s session of the Senate. They whose TEACH Grant was reinstated in ac- by striking ‘‘For the purpose of section 420N have the approval of the Majority and cordance with subparagraph (B), the Sec- of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. Minority leaders. retary shall, upon such reinstatement— 1070g-2), during a qualifying emergency,’’ and Pursuant to rule XXVI, paragraph ‘‘(i) extend the time remaining for the re- inserting ‘‘Notwithstanding any provision of 5(a), of the Standing Rules of the Sen- cipient to fulfill the service obligation de- subpart 9 of part A of title IV of the Higher ate, the following committees are au- scribed in subsection (b)(1) to a period of Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070g et thorized to meet during today’s session seq.),’’; time equal to— of the Senate: ‘‘(I) 8 years; minus (2) in paragraph (1), by striking ‘‘and’’ ‘‘(II) the number of full academic years of after the semicolon; COMMITTEE ON BANKING, HOUSING, AND URBAN teaching that the recipient completed prior (3) in paragraph (2), by striking ‘‘such sec- AFFAIRS to the reconversion of the loan to a TEACH tion 420N.’’ and inserting ‘‘section 420N of The Committee on Banking, Housing, Grant under subparagraph (B), including any such Act; and’’; and and Urban Affairs is authorized to years of qualifying teaching completed dur- (4) by adding at the end the following: meet during the session of the Senate ing the period when the TEACH Grant was in ‘‘(3) shall extend the service obligation on Wednesday, December 16, 2020, at loan status; and window (as described in section 420N(b)(1)(A) 9:30 a.m., to conduct a hearing. ‘‘(ii) treat any full academic years of of such Act) for a period of not more than 3 COMMITTEE ON HOMELAND SECURITY AND teaching described in clause (i)(II) as years years, in addition to any extensions provided GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS that count toward the individual’s service in accordance with subpart 9 of part A of obligation (regardless of whether the TEACH title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 The Committee on Homeland Secu- Grant funds were in grant or loan status) if (20 U.S.C. 1070g et seq.), in the case of a grant rity and Governmental Affairs is au- that time otherwise meets the requirements recipient whose service obligation window thorized to meet during the session of of this section.’’; and begins during, or includes— the Senate on Wednesday, December 16, (3) in subsection (d), by adding at the end ‘‘(A) the qualifying emergency period; or 2020, at 10 am., to conduct a hearing. ‘‘(B) a period of recession or economic the following: COMMITTEE ON THE JUDICIARY ‘‘(3) COMMUNICATION WITH RECIPIENTS.—The downturn related to the qualifying emer- gency period, as determined by the Secretary The Committee on the Judiciary is Secretary shall notify TEACH grant recipi- authorized to meet during the session ents not less than once per calendar year re- in consultation with the Secretary of garding how to submit the employment cer- Labor.’’. of the Senate on Wednesday, December tification under subsection (b)(1)(D) and the (b) Section 3519 of the CARES Act (Public 16, 2020, at 9:30 a.m., to conduct a hear- recommendations and requirements for sub- Law 116–136; 20 U.S.C. 1001 note) is amended ing on nomination. mitting that certification under subsection by adding at the end the following: SUBCOMMITTEE ON HEALTH CARE (d)(5). ‘‘(c) FEDERAL PERKINS LOANS.—Notwith- The Subcommittee on Health Care of ‘‘(4) QUALIFYING SCHOOLS AND HIGH-NEED standing section 465 of the Higher Education the Committee on Armed Services is FIELDS.—The Secretary shall maintain and Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1087ee), the Secretary authorized to meet during the session annually update a list of qualifying schools shall waive the requirements of such section of the Senate on Wednesday, December as described in subsection (b)(1)(B), and a list in regard to full-time service and shall con- 16, 2020, at 2:30 p.m., to conduct a hear- of high-need fields as described in subsection sider an incomplete year of service of a bor- (b)(1)(C) and shall make such lists publicly rower as fulfilling the requirement for a ing. available on the Department’s website in a complete year of service under such section, SUBCOMMITTEE ON BORDER SECURITY AND sortable and searchable format.’’. if the service was interrupted due to a quali- IMMIGRATION fying emergency.’’. The Subcommittee on Border Secu- SEC. 3. SUBMISSION OF EMPLOYMENT CERTIFI- CATION. (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments rity and Immigration of the Com- made by this section shall take effect as if mittee on the Judiciary is authorized Section 420N(d) of the Higher Education included in the enactment of the CARES Act to meet during the session of the Sen- Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070g–2(d)), as amended (Public Law 116–136). ate on Wednesday. December 16, 2020, by section 2, is further amended by adding at SEC. 5. IMPLEMENTATION. at 2 p.m., to conduct a hearing. the end the following: ‘‘(5) SUBMISSION OF EMPLOYMENT CERTIFI- In carrying out this Act and any amend- f CATION.— ments made by this Act, or any regulations APPOINTMENT ‘‘(A) RECOMMENDED SUBMISSIONS.—The Sec- promulgated under this Act or under such retary shall notify TEACH Grant recipients amendments, the Secretary of Education The Chair announces, on behalf of that the Department recommends that may waive the application of— the Majority Leader, pursuant to the TEACH Grant recipients submit the employ- (1) subchapter I of chapter 35 of title 44, provisions of Public Law 106–398, as ment certification described in subsection United States Code (commonly known as the amended by Public Law 108–7, and in (b)(1)(D) as soon as practicable after the ‘‘Paperwork Reduction Act’’); consultation with the Chairmen of the completion of each year of service. (2) the master calendar requirements under Senate Committee on Armed Services ‘‘(B) REQUIRED SUBMISSION.—A TEACH section 482 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1089); and the Senate Committee on Finance, Grant recipient shall be required to submit the re-appointment of the following in- to the Department employment certification (3) negotiated rulemaking under section within the timeframe that would allow that 492 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 dividual to serve as a member of the individual to complete their service obliga- U.S.C. 1098a); and United States-China Economic and Se- tion before the end of the service obligation (4) the requirement to publish the notices curity Review Commission: Robin window. related to the system of records of the agen- Cleveland, of Virginia for a term expir- cy before implementation required under ‘‘(C) NOTIFICATION.—The Secretary shall ing December 31, 2022. paragraphs (4) and (11) of section 552a(e) of notify TEACH Grant recipients of the re- f quired submission deadlines described in this title 5, United States Code (commonly paragraph. known as the ‘‘Privacy Act of 1974’’), except SCARLETT’S SUNSHINE ON that the notices shall be published not later ‘‘(D) ADJUSTMENT OF DEADLINE.—The Sec- SUDDEN UNEXPECTED DEATH ACT retary shall adjust the submission deadline than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act. Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I ask described in subparagraph (B) to account for that the Chair lay before the Senate a service obligation window extension. the message to accompany S. 1130. ‘‘(E) ALTERNATIVE TO CERTIFICATION.—The SA 2711. Mr. MORAN (for Mr. ENZI) The Presiding Officer laid before the Secretary shall provide an alternative to the proposed an amendment to the bill S. Senate the following message from the certification of employment described in 3287, to modify the governmentwide fi- House of Representatives: subsection (b)(1)(D) for recipients who can- nancial management plan, and for not obtain such required certification of em- other purposes; as follows: Resolved, That the bill from the Senate (S. ployment from the chief administrative offi- 1130) entitled ‘‘An Act to amend the Public cer of the school because the recipient can On page 33, lines 5 and 6 strike ‘‘effectively Health Service Act to improve the health of demonstrate the school is no longer in exist- and’’ and insert ‘‘effectively, including suffi- children and help better understand and en- ence or the school refuses to cooperate.’’. cient tests’’. hance awareness about unexpected sudden

VerDate Sep 11 2014 09:29 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE6.031 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE S7556 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 16, 2020 death in early life.’’, do pass with an amend- mittee on Foreign Relations be dis- nate efforts across, the United States Gov- ment. charged from further consideration of ernment relating to monitoring and com- MOTION TO CONCUR H.R. 221 and the Senate proceed to its bating anti-Semitism and anti-Semitic in- Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I move immediate consideration. citement that occur in foreign countries. ‘‘(4) RANK AND STATUS OF AMBASSADOR.— to concur in the House amendment, The PRESIDING OFFICER. The The Special Envoy shall have the rank of and I know of no further debate on the clerk will report the bill by title. ambassador. motion. The bill clerk read as follows: ‘‘(5) QUALIFICATIONS.—The Special Envoy The PRESIDING OFFICER. If there A bill (H.R. 221) to amend the State De- should be a person of recognized distinction is no further debate, the question is on partment Basic Authorities Act of 1956 to in the field of combating anti-Semitism.’’. agreeing to the motion to concur. monitor and combat anti-Semitism globally, The amendment was ordered to be The motion was agreed to. and for other purposes. engrossed and the bill to be read a Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I ask There being no objection, the com- third time. unanimous consent that the motion to mittee was discharged, and the Senate The bill was read the third time. reconsider be considered made and laid proceeded to consider the bill. The bill (H.R. 221), as amended, was upon the table. Mr. MORAN. I ask unanimous con- passed. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without sent that the Rubio substitute amend- f objection, it is so ordered. ment at the desk be considered and f agreed to; that the bill, as amended, be SECRET SERVICE OVERTIME PAY NATIONAL LANDSLIDE considered read a third time and EXTENSION ACT PREPAREDNESS ACT passed; and that the motion to recon- Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I ask Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I ask sider be considered made and laid upon unanimous consent that the Senate unanimous consent that the Senate the table. proceed to the immediate consider- proceed to the immediate consider- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without ation of S. 5036, introduced earlier ation of H.R. 8810, which was received objection, it is so ordered. today. from the House. The amendment (No. 2709 ) in the na- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ture of a substitute was agreed to, as objection, it is so ordered. clerk will report the bill by title. follows The clerk will report the bill by title. The bill clerk read as follows: (Purpose: In the nature of a substitute) The bill clerk read as follows: A bill (H.R. 8810) to establish a national Strike all after the enacting clause and in- A bill (S. 5036) to amend the Overtime Pay program to identify and reduce losses from sert the following: for Protective Services Act of 2016 to extend landslide hazards, to establish a national 3D SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. the Secret Service overtime pay exception Elevation Program, and for other purposes. This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Special through 2023, and for other purposes. There being no objection, the Senate Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semi- There being no objection, the Senate proceeded to consider the bill. tism Act’’. proceeded to consider the bill. Mr. MORAN. I ask unanimous con- SEC. 2. FINDING. Mr. MORAN. I ask unanimous con- sent that the bill be considered read a Congress finds that, since the Global Anti- sent that the bill be considered read a third time and passed and that the mo- Semitism Review Act of 2004 (Public Law third time and passed and that the mo- tion to reconsider be considered made 108–332) was enacted, in many foreign coun- tion to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table. tries acts of anti-Semitism have been fre- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without quent and wide in scope, the perpetrators and laid upon the table. objection, it is so ordered. and variety of threats to Jewish commu- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without The bill (H.R. 8810) was ordered to a nities and their institutions have pro- objection, it is so ordered. third reading, was read the third time, liferated, and in some countries anti-Semitic The bill (S. 5036) was ordered to be and passed. attacks have increased in frequency, scope, engrossed for a third reading, was read violence, and deadliness. the third time, and passed as follows f SEC. 3. MONITORING AND COMBATING ANTI-SEM- S. 5036 COORDINATED OCEAN OBSERVA- ITISM. Section 59(a) of the State Department Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- TIONS AND RESEARCH ACT OF resentatives of the United States of America in 2020 Basic Authorities Act of 1956 (22 U.S.C. 2731(a)) is amended— Congress assembled, Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I ask the (1) in paragraph (2)— SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. Chair to lay before the Senate the mes- (A) in subparagraph (A)— This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Secret Serv- sage to accompany S. 914. (i) by inserting before the period at the end ice Overtime Pay Extension Act’’. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The the following: ‘‘, who shall be appointed by SEC. 2. EXTENSION OF OVERTIME PAY EXCEP- Chair lays before the Senate a message the President, by and with the advice and TION THROUGH 2023 FOR PROTEC- from the House of Representatives. consent of the Senate’’; and TIVE SERVICES. (ii) by adding at the end the following new (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 2 of the Overtime Resolved, That the bill from the Senate (S. sentence: ‘‘The Special Envoy shall report Pay for Protective Services Act of 2016 (5 914) entitled ‘‘An Act to reauthorize the Inte- directly to the Secretary.’’; and U.S.C. 5547 note) is amended— grated Coastal and Ocean Observation Sys- tem Act of 2009, to clarify the authority of (B) in subparagraph (B)— (1) in the section heading, by striking the Administrator of the National Oceanic (i) in the heading, by striking ‘‘APPOINT- ‘‘2020’’ and inserting ‘‘2023’’; and Atmospheric Administration with re- MENT’’ and inserting ‘‘NOMINATION’’; (2) in subsection (a), by striking ‘‘during spect to post-storm assessments, and to re- (ii) by striking the first sentence; 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, or 2020’’ and inserting quire the establishment of a National Water (iii) in the second sentence, by striking ‘‘If ‘‘during any of calendar years 2016 through Center, and for other purposes.’’, do pass the Secretary determines that such is appro- 2023’’; and with an amendment. priate, the Secretary may appoint’’ and in- (3) in subsection (b)(1)— serting ‘‘If the President determines that (A) by inserting ‘‘for a given calendar MOTION TO CONCUR such is appropriate, the President may nomi- year’’ after ‘‘for premium pay’’; and Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I move nate’’; and (B) by striking ‘‘during 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, to concur in the House amendment, (iv) in the third sentence, by striking ‘‘The and 2020’’ and inserting ‘‘during each of cal- and I ask unanimous consent that the Secretary may allow such officer or em- endar years 2016 through 2023’’. motion be agreed to and that the mo- ployee to retain the position (and the respon- (b) REPORTS.— tion to reconsider be considered made sibilities associated with such position) held (1) DEFINITION.—In this subsection, the and laid upon the table. by such officer or employee prior to the ap- term ‘‘appropriate committees of Congress’’ The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without pointment’’ and inserting ‘‘Such officer or means the Committee on Appropriations, the objection, it is so ordered. employee may not retain the position (or the Committee on Homeland Security and Gov- responsibilities associated with such posi- ernmental Affairs, and the Committee on the f tion) held by such officer or employee prior Judiciary of the Senate and the Committee SPECIAL ENVOY TO MONITOR AND to the nomination’’; and on Appropriations, the Committee on Over- COMBAT ANTI-SEMITISM ACT (2) by adding at the end the following new sight and Reform, and the Committee on the paragraphs: Judiciary of the House of Representatives. Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I ask ‘‘(3) DUTIES.—The Special Envoy shall (2) REPORT ON EXTENSIONS.—Not later than unanimous consent that the Com- serve as the primary advisor to, and coordi- January 30 of each of calendar years 2021,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 11:04 Dec 21, 2020 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD20\DECEMBER\S16DE0.REC S16DE0 ejoyner on DSKJLYS7X2PROD with CONG-REC-ONLINE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S7557 2022, and 2023, the Director of the United The preamble was agreed to. ‘‘(A) REQUEST TO RECONSIDER.—In any case States Secret Service shall submit to the ap- (The resolution, with its preamble, is where the Secretary has determined that a propriate committees of Congress a report on printed in today’s RECORD under ‘‘Sub- recipient of a grant under this subpart has the effects of the amendments made by sub- mitted Resolutions.’’) failed or refused to comply with the service section (a) and the amendments made by sec- obligation in the agreement under sub- tion 2(a) of the Secret Service Overtime Pay f section (b) and has converted the grant into Extension Act (Public Law 115–383; 132 Stat. CONSIDER TEACHERS ACT a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan 5121), which shall include, with respect to the under part D in accordance with paragraph previous calendar year, the information de- Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I ask (1), the recipient may request that the Sec- scribed under paragraphs (1) through (7) of unanimous consent that the Com- retary reconsider such initial determination section 2(c) of the Secret Service Recruit- mittee on Health, Education, Labor, and may submit additional information to ment and Retention Act of 2018 (Public Law and Pensions be discharged from fur- demonstrate satisfaction of the service obli- 115–160; 132 Stat. 1246). ther consideration of S. 1387 and Sen- gation. Upon receipt of such a request, the (3) OPEN RECOMMENDATIONS.—Not later ate proceed to its immediate consider- Secretary shall reconsider the determination than 60 days after the date of enactment of in accordance with this paragraph not later ation. than 90 days after the date that such request this Act, the Director of the United States The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Secret Service shall submit to the appro- was received. priate committees of Congress a report dis- clerk will report the bill by title. ‘‘(B) RECONSIDERATION.—If, in reconsid- cussing the progress of the United States Se- The bill clerk read as follows: ering an initial determination under sub- cret Service in implementing each rec- A bill (S. 1387) to amend the Higher Edu- paragraph (A), the Secretary determines ommendation of the Government Account- cation Act of 1965 in order to improve the that the reason for such determination was ability Office to the United States Secret service obligation verification process for the recipient’s failure to timely submit a Service that has not been designated as TEACH Grant recipients, and for other pur- certification required under subsection closed by the Comptroller General of the poses. (b)(1)(D) (as in effect on the day before the United States. There being no objection, the com- date of enactment of the Consider Teachers Act), an error or processing delay by the Sec- (4) PROTECTIVE MISSION PANEL.—Not later mittee was discharged, and the Senate than 1 year after the date of enactment of retary, a change to the fields considered eli- proceeded to consider the bill. gible for fulfillment of the service obligation this Act, the Comptroller General of the Mr. MORAN. I ask unanimous con- United States shall submit to the appro- (as described in subsection (b)(1)(C)), a re- priate committees of Congress a report on sent that the Braun amendment at the cipient having previously requested to have the extent of the progress made by the desk be agreed to and the bill, as the TEACH Grant converted to a loan, or an- United States Secret Service in imple- amended, be considered read a third other valid reason determined by the Sec- menting the recommendations of the United time. retary, and that the recipient has, as of the States Secret Service Protective Mission The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without date of the reconsideration, demonstrated that the recipient did meet, or is meeting Panel, including in particular those items objection, it is so ordered. pertaining to training and personnel enumer- the service obligation in the agreement The amendment (No. 2710) was agreed under subsection (b), the Secretary shall— ated in the Executive Summary to Report to. ‘‘(i) discharge the Federal Direct Unsub- from the United States Secret Service Pro- (The amendment is printed in today’s sidized Stafford Loan under part D, and rein- tective Mission Panel to the Secretary of RECORD under ‘‘Text of Amendments.’’) state the recipient’s grant under this sub- Homeland Security dated December 15, 2014. part; (c) REPEAL OF SUPERSEDED REPORTING RE- The bill was ordered to be engrossed ‘‘(ii) discharge any interest or fees that QUIREMENT.—Section 2(b) of the Secret Serv- for a third reading and was read the ice Overtime Pay Extension Act (Public Law third time. may have accumulated during the period that the grant was converted to a Federal 115–383; 132 Stat. 5121) is repealed. Mr. MORAN. I know of no further de- bate on the bill. Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan under f part D; The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there ‘‘(iii) if the recipient has other loans under U.S. SENATOR MARGARET CHASE further debate on the bill? SMITH ROOM AND U.S. SENATOR part D, apply any payments made for the Hearing none, the bill having been Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan BARBARA A. MIKULSKI ROOM read the third time, the question is, under part D during such period to those Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I ask Shall the bill pass? other loans under part D; unanimous consent that the Senate The bill (S. 1387), as amended, was ‘‘(iv) if the recipient does not have other proceed to the consideration of S. Res. passed as follows: loans under part D, reimburse the recipient for any amounts paid on the Federal Direct 803, submitted earlier today. S. 1387 The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Unsubsidized Stafford Loan under part D Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- during such period; objection, it is so ordered. resentatives of the United States of America in ‘‘(v) request that consumer reporting agen- The clerk will report the resolution Congress assembled, cies remove any negative credit reporting by title. SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. due to the conversion of the TEACH Grant to The bill clerk read as follows: This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Consider a loan; and A resolution (S. Res. 803) designating room Teachers Act’’. ‘‘(vi) use the additional information pro- S–124 of the United States Capitol as the SEC. 2. TEACH GRANTS. vided under subparagraph (A) to determine ‘‘U.S. Senator Margaret Chase Smith Room’’ Section 420N of the Higher Education Act the progress the recipient has made in meet- and designating room S–115 of the United of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070g–2) is amended— ing the service obligation. States Capitol as the ‘‘U.S. Senator Barbara (1) in subsection (b)(1)— ‘‘(C) EXTENSION OF TIME TO COMPLETE SERV- A. Mikulski Room’’, in recognition of their (A) in subparagraph (A), by inserting ‘‘(re- ICE OBLIGATION.—In the case of a recipient service to the Senate and the people of the ferred to in this section as the ‘service obli- whose TEACH Grant was reinstated in ac- United States. gation window’)’’ after ‘‘under this subpart’’; cordance with subparagraph (B), the Sec- There being no objection, the Senate (B) in subparagraph (C)(vii), by inserting retary shall, upon such reinstatement— proceeded to consider the resolution. ‘‘or geographic area’’ after ‘‘field’’; and ‘‘(i) extend the time remaining for the re- Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I know (C) by striking subparagraphs (D) and (E) cipient to fulfill the service obligation de- and inserting the following: scribed in subsection (b)(1) to a period of of no further debate on the measure. ‘‘(D) submit a certification of employment time equal to— The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there by the chief administrative officer of the ‘‘(I) 8 years; minus further debate? school in accordance with subsection (d)(5); ‘‘(II) the number of full academic years of Hearing none, the question is on and teaching that the recipient completed prior adoption of the resolution. ‘‘(E) meet all State certification require- to the reconversion of the loan to a TEACH The resolution (S. Res. 803) was ments for teaching (which may include Grant under subparagraph (B), including any agreed to. meeting such requirements through a certifi- years of qualifying teaching completed dur- Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I ask cation obtained through alternative routes ing the period when the TEACH Grant was in unanimous consent that the preamble to teaching);’’; loan status; and be agreed to and the motion to recon- (2) in subsection (c)— ‘‘(ii) treat any full academic years of (A) by striking ‘‘In the event’’ and insert- teaching described in clause (i)(II) as years sider be considered made and laid upon ing the following: that count toward the individual’s service the table with no intervening action or ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—In the event’’; and obligation (regardless of whether the TEACH debate. (B) by adding at the end the following: Grant funds were in grant or loan status) if The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without ‘‘(2) RECONSIDERATION OF CONVERSION DECI- that time otherwise meets the requirements objection, it is so ordered. SIONS.— of this section.’’; and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:58 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE6.042 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE S7558 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 16, 2020 (3) in subsection (d), by adding at the end gency period, as determined by the Secretary nancial Officer to oversee and provide leader- the following: in consultation with the Secretary of ship in the areas of budget formulation and exe- ‘‘(3) COMMUNICATION WITH RECIPIENTS.—The Labor.’’. cution, planning and performance, risk manage- Secretary shall notify TEACH grant recipi- (b) Section 3519 of the CARES Act (Public ment, internal controls, financial systems, ac- ents not less than once per calendar year re- Law 116–136; 20 U.S.C. 1001 note) is amended counting, and other areas as the Director of the garding how to submit the employment cer- by adding at the end the following: Office of Management and Budget may des- tification under subsection (b)(1)(D) and the ‘‘(c) FEDERAL PERKINS LOANS.—Notwith- ignate. In carrying out the preceding sentence, recommendations and requirements for sub- standing section 465 of the Higher Education each’’; mitting that certification under subsection Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1087ee), the Secretary (B) in paragraph (3)— (d)(5). shall waive the requirements of such section (i) in subparagraph (C), by inserting ‘‘areas ‘‘(4) QUALIFYING SCHOOLS AND HIGH-NEED in regard to full-time service and shall con- and’’ before ‘‘systems’’; and FIELDS.—The Secretary shall maintain and sider an incomplete year of service of a bor- (ii) in subparagraph (D)— annually update a list of qualifying schools rower as fulfilling the requirement for a (I) in clause (iii), by striking ‘‘and’’ at the as described in subsection (b)(1)(B), and a list complete year of service under such section, end; of high-need fields as described in subsection if the service was interrupted due to a quali- (II) in clause (iv), by striking ‘‘performance;’’ (b)(1)(C) and shall make such lists publicly fying emergency.’’. and inserting ‘‘performance and integration of available on the Department’s website in a (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments performance and cost information; and’’; and sortable and searchable format.’’. made by this section shall take effect as if (III) by adding at the end the following: SEC. 3. SUBMISSION OF EMPLOYMENT CERTIFI- included in the enactment of the CARES Act ‘‘(v) annual agency financial statements pre- CATION. (Public Law 116–136). pared in accordance with United States gen- Section 420N(d) of the Higher Education SEC. 5. IMPLEMENTATION. erally accepted accounting principles;’’. Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070g–2(d)), as amended (C) by redesignating paragraph (8) as para- In carrying out this Act and any amend- by section 2, is further amended by adding at graph (10); ments made by this Act, or any regulations the end the following: (D) by redesignating paragraphs (5) through promulgated under this Act or under such ‘‘(5) SUBMISSION OF EMPLOYMENT CERTIFI- (7) as paragraphs (6) through (8), respectively; amendments, the Secretary of Education CATION.— (E) by inserting after paragraph (4) the fol- may waive the application of— ‘‘(A) RECOMMENDED SUBMISSIONS.—The Sec- lowing: (1) subchapter I of chapter 35 of title 44, retary shall notify TEACH Grant recipients ‘‘(5) prepare, in consultation with financial United States Code (commonly known as the that the Department recommends that management and other appropriate experts, an ‘‘Paperwork Reduction Act’’); TEACH Grant recipients submit the employ- agency plan to implement the 4-year financial (2) the master calendar requirements under ment certification described in subsection management plan prepared by the Director of section 482 of the Higher Education Act of (b)(1)(D) as soon as practicable after the the Office of Management and Budget under 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1089); completion of each year of service. section 3512(a)(2) of this title and to achieve and (3) negotiated rulemaking under section ‘‘(B) REQUIRED SUBMISSION.—A TEACH sustain effective financial management in the 492 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 Grant recipient shall be required to submit agency, which shall— U.S.C. 1098a); and to the Department employment certification ‘‘(A) be completed within 90 days of the (4) the requirement to publish the notices within the timeframe that would allow that issuance of a governmentwide plan under sec- related to the system of records of the agen- individual to complete their service obliga- tion 3512(a)(2) of this title; tion before the end of the service obligation cy before implementation required under ‘‘(B) be revised as determined necessary by the window. paragraphs (4) and (11) of section 552a(e) of Chief Financial Officer; ‘‘(C) NOTIFICATION.—The Secretary shall title 5, United States Code (commonly ‘‘(C) include performance-based financial notify TEACH Grant recipients of the re- known as the ‘‘Privacy Act of 1974’’), except management metrics against which the financial quired submission deadlines described in this that the notices shall be published not later management performance of the agency shall be paragraph. than 180 days after the date of enactment of assessed; and ‘‘(D) ADJUSTMENT OF DEADLINE.—The Sec- this Act. ‘‘(D) be submitted upon completion or revision retary shall adjust the submission deadline Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I ask to the head of the agency, the Director of the described in subparagraph (B) to account for unanimous consent that the motion to Office of Management and Budget, the Comp- a service obligation window extension. reconsider be considered made and laid troller General, and appropriate committees of ‘‘(E) ALTERNATIVE TO CERTIFICATION.—The upon the table. Congress, and be made publicly available;’’; Secretary shall provide an alternative to the (F) in paragraph (6), as so redesignated— certification of employment described in The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without (i) by striking subparagraph (A); subsection (b)(1)(D) for recipients who can- objection, it is so ordered. (ii) by redesignating subparagraphs (B) not obtain such required certification of em- f through (E) as subparagraphs (A) through (D), ployment from the chief administrative offi- respectively; and cer of the school because the recipient can CFO VISION ACT OF 2020 (iii) in subparagraph (C), as so redesignated, demonstrate the school is no longer in exist- Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I ask by adding ‘‘and’’ at the end; ence or the school refuses to cooperate.’’. unanimous consent that the Senate (G) in paragraph (7), as so redesignated— SEC. 4. EXTENSION OF TIME TO FULFILL SERV- (i) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), ICE OBLIGATION DUE TO COVID–19. proceed to the immediate consider- by striking ‘‘and the Director of the Office of (a) Section 3519(a) of the CARES Act (Pub- ation of Calendar No. 572, S. 3287. Management and Budget,’’ and inserting ‘‘, the lic Law 116–136; 20 U.S.C. 1001 note) is amend- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Director of the Office of Management and ed— clerk will report the bill by title. Budget, the Comptroller General, and appro- (1) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), The legislative clerk read as follows: priate committees of Congress, which shall be by striking ‘‘For the purpose of section 420N A bill (S. 3287) to modify the government- made publicly available and’’; of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. (ii) in subparagraph (A), by striking ‘‘agen- 1070g–2), during a qualifying emergency,’’ wide financial management plan, and for other purposes. cy;’’ and inserting ‘‘agency, including— and inserting ‘‘Notwithstanding any provi- ‘‘(i) the progress of the agency in imple- sion of subpart 9 of part A of title IV of the There being no objection, the Senate menting the agency plan described in paragraph Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070g proceeded to consider the bill, which (5); et seq.),’’; had been reported from the Committee ‘‘(ii) the progress of the agency in imple- (2) in paragraph (1), by striking ‘‘and’’ on Homeland Security and Govern- menting the governmentwide 4-year financial after the semicolon; mental Affairs, with an amendment to management plan prepared by the Director of (3) in paragraph (2), by striking ‘‘such sec- strike all after the enacting clause and the Office of Management and Budget under tion 420N.’’ and inserting ‘‘section 420N of section 3512(a)(2) of this title; and such Act; and’’; and insert in lieu thereof the following: ‘‘(iii) the performance of the agency against (4) by adding at the end the following: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. financial management metrics established by the ‘‘(3) shall extend the service obligation This Act may be cited as the ‘‘CFO Vision Act Director of the Office of Management and window (as described in section 420N(b)(1)(A) of 2020’’. Budget;’’; and of such Act) for a period of not more than 3 SEC. 2. CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICERS; GOVERN- (iii) in subparagraph (D)— years, in addition to any extensions provided MENTWIDE FINANCIAL MANAGE- (I) by striking ‘‘of the reports’’ and inserting in accordance with subpart 9 of part A of MENT PLAN. ‘‘of— title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (a) CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER AND DEPUTY ‘‘(i) the reports’’; (20 U.S.C. 1070g et seq.), in the case of a grant CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER.—Chapter 9 of title (II) in clause (i), as so designated, by striking recipient whose service obligation window 31, United States Code, is amended— ‘‘the amendments made by the Federal Man- begins during, or includes— (1) in section 902(a)— agers’ Financial Integrity Act of 1987 (Public ‘‘(A) the qualifying emergency period; or (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by law 97–255); and’’ and inserting ‘‘section 3512(d) ‘‘(B) a period of recession or economic striking ‘‘An’’ and inserting ‘‘It shall be the of this title;’’; and downturn related to the qualifying emer- duty and responsibility of each agency Chief Fi- (III) by adding at the end the following:

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:58 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE6.013 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S7559 ‘‘(ii) agency spending data published under (II) in clause (iii)— (ii) in subparagraph (B)— the Federal Funding Accountability and Trans- (aa) by striking ‘‘for developing’’ and insert- (I) in clause (i)— parency Act of 2006 (31 U.S.C. 6101 note); and ing ‘‘for improving financial management sys- (aa) by striking ‘‘Not later than January 31 of ‘‘(iii) the reporting of the agency under the tems, including— each year thereafter’’ and inserting ‘‘At a min- Federal Financial Management Improvement ‘‘(I) developing’’; and imum, concurrently with the submission of the Act of 1996 (31 U.S.C. 3512 note); and’’; (bb) by adding at the end the following: budget of the United States Government under (H) in paragraph (8), as so redesignated— ‘‘(II) linking performance and cost informa- section 1105(a) of this title made in the first full (i) by striking ‘‘monitor the’’ and insert ‘‘man- tion to facilitate effective and efficient decision fiscal year following any year in which the term age the formulation and’’; and making; of the President commences under section 101 of (ii) by striking ‘‘, and prepare and submit to ‘‘(III) eliminating duplicative and unneces- title 3’’; the head of the agency timely performance re- sary systems and activities; and (bb) by striking ‘‘financial management status ports; and’’ and inserting a semicolon; ‘‘(IV) identifying opportunities for agencies to report and a revised governmentwide 5-year’’ (I) by inserting after paragraph (8), as so re- share systems and services and encouraging and inserting ‘‘governmentwide 4-year’’; and designated, the following: agencies to do so where practicable;’’; (cc) by striking ‘‘5 fiscal years’’ and all that ‘‘(9) be responsible for linking performance (III) by striking clause (iv); follows through the period at the end and in- and cost information, including the preparation (IV) by redesignating clause (v) as clause (iv); serting ‘‘4 fiscal years.’’; and and submission to the head of the agency of (V) by inserting after clause (iv), as so redes- (II) in clause (ii)— timely performance reports that incorporate cost ignated, the following: (aa) by striking ‘‘revised governmentwide 5- information;’’; ‘‘(v) provide a strategy for reporting perform- year’’ and inserting ‘‘governmentwide 4-year’’; (J) in paragraph (10), as so redesignated— ance and cost information;’’; and (i) by inserting ‘‘inflation and’’ before (VI) in clause (vi), by striking ‘‘5-year’’ and (bb) by striking ‘‘paragraph (3)(B)(viii)’’ and ‘‘costs’’; and inserting ‘‘4-year’’; inserting ‘‘paragraph (2)(B)(viii)’’; and (ii) by striking the period at the end and in- (VII) in clause (vii), by striking ‘‘identify’’ (iii) by adding at the end the following: serting ‘‘; and’’; and and inserting ‘‘provide a strategy for strength- ‘‘(C) Each year, concurrently with the submis- (K) by adding at the end the following: ening the Federal financial management work- sion of the budget of the United States Govern- ‘‘(11) coordinate with senior agency per- force, including identification of’’; ment under section 1105(a) of this title, the Di- sonnel, including the Chief Data Officer, Chief (VIII) in clause (viii), by striking ‘‘and’’ at rector of the Office of Management and Budget Information Officer, Chief Performance Officer, the end; shall submit to the appropriate committees of (IX) by redesignating clause (ix) as clause (x); Chief Acquisition Officer, Chief Risk Officer, Congress and the Comptroller General a finan- (X) by inserting after clause (viii) the fol- and Chief Evaluation Officer of the agency on— cial management status report.’’; and lowing: ‘‘(A) the exercise of authorities under this (G) by striking paragraph (5); ‘‘(ix) include comprehensive financial man- subsection; and (2) in subsection (d)(2)— agement performance-based metrics against ‘‘(B) the strategic planning, performance (A) in subparagraph (A), by striking ‘‘and’’ at which the financial management performance of measurement and reporting, and risk manage- the end; executive agencies can be assessed; and’’; and (B) in subparagraph (B), by striking the pe- ment functions of the agency.’’; and (XI) in clause (x), as so redesignated, by strik- riod at the end and inserting ‘‘; and’’; and (2) in section 903— ing ‘‘5-year’’ and inserting ‘‘4-year’’; (C) by adding at the end the following: (A) in subsection (a), by inserting ‘‘and who (E) by inserting after paragraph (2) the fol- ‘‘(C) a separate report on the results of the as- shall assist the agency Chief Financial Officer lowing: sessment and conclusion required under sub- in the performance of each of the duties of the ‘‘(3) A financial management status report section (e)(2).’’; agency Chief Financial Officer under this chap- under this subsection shall include— (3) by redesignating subsections (e), (f), and ter’’ after ‘‘matters’’; and ‘‘(A) a description and analysis of the status (g) as subsections (f), (g), and (h), respectively; (B) by adding at the end the following: of financial management in the executive and ‘‘(c) Notwithstanding subchapter III of chap- branch, including the progress made towards (4) by inserting after subsection (d) the fol- ter 33 of title 5, in the event of a vacancy in the implementing the governmentwide 4-year finan- lowing: position of Chief Financial Officer of an agen- cial management plan, the status of remaining ‘‘(e) The head of each executive agency cy, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer of the challenges, and, as necessary based on obliga- shall— agency shall serve as the acting Chief Financial tions or expenditures, any updates or revisions ‘‘(1) in establishing the internal accounting Officer.’’. to the cost estimates included in the most recent and administrative controls under subsection (b) GOVERNMENTWIDE FINANCIAL MANAGE- governmentwide 4-year financial management (c), identify the key financial management in- MENT PLAN.—Section 3512 of title 31, United plan; formation needed for effective financial manage- States Code, is amended— ‘‘(B) a summary of the performance of agen- ment and decision making; and (1) in subsection (a)— cies against the metrics developed and identified ‘‘(2) annually assess and make a conclusion (A) in paragraph (1), by striking ‘‘a financial by the Director of the Office of Management on the effectiveness of the internal controls of management status report and a government- and Budget in the governmentwide 4-year fi- the executive agency over financial reporting wide 5-year financial management plan’’ and nancial management plan; and key financial management information inserting ‘‘a governmentwide 4-year financial ‘‘(C) a summary of the most recently com- identified under paragraph (1).’’. management plan and a financial management pleted financial statements— (c) AUDITS BY AGENCIES.—Section 3521 of title status report’’; ‘‘(i) of Federal agencies under section 3515 of 31, United States Code, is amended— (B) by striking paragraph (2); this title; and (1) in subsection (e)— (C) by redesignating paragraph (3) as para- ‘‘(ii) of Government corporations; (A) by redesignating paragraphs (1) and (2) as graph (2); ‘‘(D) a summary of the most recently com- subparagraphs (A) and (B), respectively, and (D) in paragraph (2), as so redesignated— pleted financial statement audits and reports— adjusting the margins accordingly; (i) in subparagraph (A)— ‘‘(i) of Federal agencies under subsections (e) (B) by striking ‘‘(e) Each financial’’ and in- (I) by striking ‘‘5-year’’ and inserting ‘‘4- and (f) of section 3521 of this title; and serting ‘‘(e)(1) Each financial’’; year’’; ‘‘(ii) of Government corporations; (C) in paragraph (1), as so designated, by (II) by striking ‘‘shall describe’’ and inserting ‘‘(E) a summary of reports on internal ac- striking ‘‘standards—’’ and inserting ‘‘stand- the following: ‘‘shall— counting and administrative control systems ards.’’; and ‘‘(i) describe’’; submitted to the President and Congress under (D) by inserting after paragraph (1), as so des- (III) in clause (i), as so designated, by striking subsection (d); ignated, the following: ‘‘5 fiscal years to improve the financial manage- ‘‘(F) a listing of agencies whose financial ‘‘(2) As part of each audit under this sub- ment of the Federal Government.’’ and inserting management systems do not comply substan- section, the auditor shall— ‘‘4 fiscal years to improve the financial manage- tially with the requirements of section 803(a) of ‘‘(A) evaluate the design of the internal con- ment of the Federal Government in a manner the Federal Financial Management Improve- trol of the agency over financial reporting and that is strategic, comprehensive, and cost-effec- ment Act of 1996 (31 U.S.C. 3512 note), and a key financial information, as assessed and re- tive; and’’; and summary statement of the efforts underway to ported on by the head of the agency under sec- (IV) by adding at the end the following: remedy the noncompliance; and tion 3512(d)(2)(C) of this title; ‘‘(ii) be developed in consultation with the ‘‘(G) any other information the Director con- ‘‘(B) determine whether those controls have Chief Financial Officers Council, the Chief In- siders appropriate to fully inform Congress re- been implemented; formation Officers Council, the Chief Data Offi- garding the financial management of the Fed- ‘‘(C) for controls that are properly designed cer Council, the Chief Acquisition Officers eral Government.’’; and implemented, perform sufficient tests of Council, the Council of the Inspectors General (F) in paragraph (4)— those controls to conclude whether the controls on Integrity and Efficiency, the Government Ac- (i) in subparagraph (A)— are operating effectively and to support a low countability Office, and, as appropriate, other (I) by striking ‘‘15 months after the date of the level of assessed control risk; and councils and financial management experts.’’; enactment of this subsection’’ and inserting ‘‘6 ‘‘(D) communicate controls that the auditor and months after the date of enactment of the CFO concludes are not suitably designed and imple- (ii) in subparagraph (B)— Vision Act of 2020’’; and mented or are not operating effectively, as ap- (I) in the matter preceding clause (i), by strik- (II) by striking ‘‘5-year’’ and inserting ‘‘4- propriate under applicable generally accepted ing ‘‘5-year’’ and inserting ‘‘4-year’’; year’’; and government auditing standards.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:58 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00049 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A16DE6.040 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE S7560 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 16, 2020 ‘‘(3) Audits under this subsection shall be con- an agency plan to implement the 4-year fi- ‘‘(11) coordinate with senior agency per- ducted—’’; and nancial management plan prepared by the sonnel, including the Chief Data Officer, (2) in subsection (h), by striking ‘‘section Director of the Office of Management and Chief Information Officer, Chief Performance 3512(a)(3)(B)(viii)’’ and inserting ‘‘section Budget under section 3512(a)(2) of this title Officer, Chief Acquisition Officer, Chief Risk 3512(a)(2)(B)(viii)’’. and to achieve and sustain effective financial Officer, and Chief Evaluation Officer of the (d) TECHNICAL AND CONFORMING AMEND- management in the agency, which shall— agency on— MENT.—Section 3348(e) of title 5, United States ‘‘(A) be completed within 90 days of the ‘‘(A) the exercise of authorities under this Code, is amended— issuance of a governmentwide plan under subsection; and (1) in paragraph (3), by adding ‘‘or’’ at the section 3512(a)(2) of this title; ‘‘(B) the strategic planning, performance end; ‘‘(B) be revised as determined necessary by measurement and reporting, and risk man- (2) by striking paragraph (4); and the Chief Financial Officer; agement functions of the agency.’’; and (3) by redesignating paragraph (5) as para- ‘‘(C) include performance-based financial (2) in section 903— graph (4). Mr. MORAN. I ask unanimous con- management metrics against which the fi- (A) in subsection (a), by inserting ‘‘and nancial management performance of the who shall assist the agency Chief Financial sent that the Enzi amendment at the agency shall be assessed; and Officer in the performance of each of the du- desk be considered and agreed to; that ‘‘(D) be submitted upon completion or revi- ties of the agency Chief Financial Officer the committee-reported substitute sion to the head of the agency, the Director under this chapter’’ after ‘‘matters’’; and amendment, as amended, be agreed to; of the Office of Management and Budget, the (B) by adding at the end the following: that the bill, as amended, be considered Comptroller General, and appropriate com- ‘‘(c) Notwithstanding subchapter III of read a third time and passed; and that mittees of Congress, and be made publicly chapter 33 of title 5, in the event of a va- the motion to reconsider be considered available;’’; cancy in the position of Chief Financial Offi- made and laid upon the table. (F) in paragraph (6), as so redesignated— cer of an agency, the Deputy Chief Financial (i) by striking subparagraph (A); The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Officer of the agency shall serve as the act- (ii) by redesignating subparagraphs (B) ing Chief Financial Officer.’’. objection, it is so ordered. through (E) as subparagraphs (A) through The amendment (No. 2711) was agreed (b) GOVERNMENTWIDE FINANCIAL MANAGE- (D), respectively; and MENT PLAN.—Section 3512 of title 31, United to, as follows: (iii) in subparagraph (C), as so redesig- States Code, is amended— (Purpose: To improve the bill) nated, by adding ‘‘and’’ at the end; (1) in subsection (a)— On page 33, lines 5 and 6 strike ‘‘effectively (G) in paragraph (7), as so redesignated— (A) in paragraph (1), by striking ‘‘a finan- and’’ and insert ‘‘effectively, including suffi- (i) in the matter preceding subparagraph cial management status report and a govern- cient tests’’. (A), by striking ‘‘and the Director of the Of- mentwide 5-year financial management The committee-reported amendment fice of Management and Budget,’’ and insert- plan’’ and inserting ‘‘a governmentwide 4- ing ‘‘, the Director of the Office of Manage- in the nature of a substitute, as amend- year financial management plan and a finan- ment and Budget, the Comptroller General, cial management status report’’; ed, was agreed to. and appropriate committees of Congress, The bill (S. 3287), as amended, was or- (B) by striking paragraph (2); which shall be made publicly available and’’; (C) by redesignating paragraph (3) as para- dered to be engrossed for a third read- (ii) in subparagraph (A), by striking ‘‘agen- graph (2); ing, was read the third time, and cy;’’ and inserting ‘‘agency, including— (D) in paragraph (2), as so redesignated— passed, as follows: ‘‘(i) the progress of the agency in imple- (i) in subparagraph (A)— S. 3287 menting the agency plan described in para- (I) by striking ‘‘5-year’’ and inserting ‘‘4- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- graph (5); year’’; resentatives of the United States of America in ‘‘(ii) the progress of the agency in imple- (II) by striking ‘‘shall describe’’ and insert- Congress assembled, menting the governmentwide 4-year finan- ing the following: ‘‘shall— cial management plan prepared by the Direc- SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. ‘‘(i) describe’’; tor of the Office of Management and Budget This Act may be cited as the ‘‘CFO Vision (III) in clause (i), as so designated, by under section 3512(a)(2) of this title; and Act of 2020’’. striking ‘‘5 fiscal years to improve the finan- ‘‘(iii) the performance of the agency cial management of the Federal Govern- SEC. 2. CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICERS; GOVERN- against financial management metrics estab- MENTWIDE FINANCIAL MANAGE- ment.’’ and inserting ‘‘4 fiscal years to im- MENT PLAN. lished by the Director of the Office of Man- prove the financial management of the Fed- (a) CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER AND DEPUTY agement and Budget;’’; and eral Government in a manner that is stra- CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER.—Chapter 9 of title (iii) in subparagraph (D)— tegic, comprehensive, and cost-effective; 31, United States Code, is amended— (I) by striking ‘‘of the reports’’ and insert- and’’; and (1) in section 902(a)— ing ‘‘of— (IV) by adding at the end the following: (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), ‘‘(i) the reports’’; ‘‘(ii) be developed in consultation with the by striking ‘‘An’’ and inserting ‘‘It shall be (II) in clause (i), as so designated, by strik- Chief Financial Officers Council, the Chief the duty and responsibility of each agency ing ‘‘the amendments made by the Federal Information Officers Council, the Chief Data Chief Financial Officer to oversee and pro- Managers’ Financial Integrity Act of 1987 Officer Council, the Chief Acquisition Offi- vide leadership in the areas of budget formu- (Public law 97–255); and’’ and inserting ‘‘sec- cers Council, the Council of the Inspectors lation and execution, planning and perform- tion 3512(d) of this title;’’; and General on Integrity and Efficiency, the ance, risk management, internal controls, fi- (III) by adding at the end the following: Government Accountability Office, and, as nancial systems, accounting, and other areas ‘‘(ii) agency spending data published under appropriate, other councils and financial as the Director of the Office of Management the Federal Funding Accountability and management experts.’’; and and Budget may designate. In carrying out Transparency Act of 2006 (31 U.S.C. 6101 (ii) in subparagraph (B)— the preceding sentence, each’’; note); and (I) in the matter preceding clause (i), by (B) in paragraph (3)— ‘‘(iii) the reporting of the agency under the striking ‘‘5-year’’ and inserting ‘‘4-year’’; (i) in subparagraph (C), by inserting ‘‘areas Federal Financial Management Improve- (II) in clause (iii)— and’’ before ‘‘systems’’; and ment Act of 1996 (31 U.S.C. 3512 note); and’’; (aa) by striking ‘‘for developing’’ and in- (ii) in subparagraph (D)— (H) in paragraph (8), as so redesignated— serting ‘‘for improving financial manage- (I) in clause (iii), by striking ‘‘and’’ at the (i) by striking ‘‘monitor the’’ and insert ment systems, including— end; ‘‘manage the formulation and’’; and ‘‘(I) developing’’; and (II) in clause (iv), by striking ‘‘perform- (ii) by striking ‘‘, and prepare and submit (bb) by adding at the end the following: ance;’’ and inserting ‘‘performance and inte- to the head of the agency timely perform- ‘‘(II) linking performance and cost infor- gration of performance and cost information; ance reports; and’’ and inserting a semi- mation to facilitate effective and efficient and’’; and colon; decision making; (III) by adding at the end the following: (I) by inserting after paragraph (8), as so ‘‘(III) eliminating duplicative and unneces- ‘‘(v) annual agency financial statements redesignated, the following: sary systems and activities; and prepared in accordance with United States ‘‘(9) be responsible for linking performance ‘‘(IV) identifying opportunities for agen- generally accepted accounting principles;’’. and cost information, including the prepara- cies to share systems and services and en- (C) by redesignating paragraph (8) as para- tion and submission to the head of the agen- couraging agencies to do so where prac- graph (10); cy of timely performance reports that incor- ticable;’’; (D) by redesignating paragraphs (5) porate cost information;’’; (III) by striking clause (iv); through (7) as paragraphs (6) through (8), re- (J) in paragraph (10), as so redesignated— (IV) by redesignating clause (v) as clause spectively; (i) by inserting ‘‘inflation and’’ before (iv); (E) by inserting after paragraph (4) the fol- ‘‘costs’’; and (V) by inserting after clause (iv), as so re- lowing: (ii) by striking the period at the end and designated, the following: ‘‘(5) prepare, in consultation with financial inserting ‘‘; and’’; and ‘‘(v) provide a strategy for reporting per- management and other appropriate experts, (K) by adding at the end the following: formance and cost information;’’;

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:58 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00050 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE6.040 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S7561

(VI) in clause (vi), by striking ‘‘5-year’’ and (cc) by striking ‘‘5 fiscal years’’ and all (d) TECHNICAL AND CONFORMING AMEND- inserting ‘‘4-year’’; that follows through the period at the end MENT.—Section 3348(e) of title 5, United (VII) in clause (vii), by striking ‘‘identify’’ and inserting ‘‘4 fiscal years.’’; and States Code, is amended— and inserting ‘‘provide a strategy for (II) in clause (ii)— (1) in paragraph (3), by adding ‘‘or’’ at the strengthening the Federal financial manage- (aa) by striking ‘‘revised governmentwide end; ment workforce, including identification of’’; 5-year’’ and inserting ‘‘governmentwide 4- (2) by striking paragraph (4); and (VIII) in clause (viii), by striking ‘‘and’’ at year’’; and (3) by redesignating paragraph (5) as para- the end; (bb) by striking ‘‘paragraph (3)(B)(viii)’’ graph (4). (IX) by redesignating clause (ix) as clause and inserting ‘‘paragraph (2)(B)(viii)’’; and f (x); (iii) by adding at the end the following: (X) by inserting after clause (viii) the fol- ‘‘(C) Each year, concurrently with the sub- REPORTING EFFICIENTLY TO lowing: mission of the budget of the United States PROPER OFFICIALS IN RE- ‘‘(ix) include comprehensive financial man- Government under section 1105(a) of this SPONSE TO TERRORISM ACT OF agement performance-based metrics against title, the Director of the Office of Manage- 2019 which the financial management perform- ment and Budget shall submit to the appro- ance of executive agencies can be assessed; priate committees of Congress and the Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I ask and’’; and Comptroller General a financial manage- unanimous consent that the Senate (XI) in clause (x), as so redesignated, by ment status report.’’; and proceed to the immediate consider- striking ‘‘5-year’’ and inserting ‘‘4-year’’; (G) by striking paragraph (5); ation of Calendar No. 329, S. 2513. (E) by inserting after paragraph (2) the fol- (2) in subsection (d)(2)— The PRESIDING OFFICER. The lowing: (A) in subparagraph (A), by striking ‘‘and’’ at the end; clerk will report the bill by title. ‘‘(3) A financial management status report The legislative clerk read as follows: under this subsection shall include— (B) in subparagraph (B), by striking the pe- ‘‘(A) a description and analysis of the sta- riod at the end and inserting ‘‘; and’’; and A bill (S. 2513) to provide for joint reports tus of financial management in the execu- (C) by adding at the end the following: by relevant Federal agencies to Congress re- tive branch, including the progress made to- ‘‘(C) a separate report on the results of the garding incidents of terrorism, and for other wards implementing the governmentwide 4- assessment and conclusion required under purposes. year financial management plan, the status subsection (e)(2).’’; There being no objection, the Senate of remaining challenges, and, as necessary (3) by redesignating subsections (e), (f), and proceeded to consider the bill, which based on obligations or expenditures, any up- (g) as subsections (f), (g), and (h), respec- tively; and had been reported from the Committee dates or revisions to the cost estimates in- on Homeland Security and Govern- cluded in the most recent governmentwide 4- (4) by inserting after subsection (d) the fol- year financial management plan; lowing: mental Affairs, with an amendment, as ‘‘(B) a summary of the performance of ‘‘(e) The head of each executive agency follows: agencies against the metrics developed and shall— (The part of the bill intended to be identified by the Director of the Office of ‘‘(1) in establishing the internal accounting inserted is shown in italics.) Management and Budget in the government- and administrative controls under sub- S. 2513 wide 4-year financial management plan; section (c), identify the key financial man- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- ‘‘(C) a summary of the most recently com- agement information needed for effective fi- resentatives of the United States of America in pleted financial statements— nancial management and decision making; Congress assembled, ‘‘(i) of Federal agencies under section 3515 and of this title; and ‘‘(2) annually assess and make a conclusion SECTION 1. SHORT TITLES. ‘‘(ii) of Government corporations; on the effectiveness of the internal controls This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Reporting ‘‘(D) a summary of the most recently com- of the executive agency over financial re- Efficiently to Proper Officials in Response to pleted financial statement audits and re- porting and key financial management infor- Terrorism Act of 2019’’ or the ‘‘REPORT ports— mation identified under paragraph (1).’’. Act’’. ‘‘(i) of Federal agencies under subsections SEC. 2. DUTY TO REPORT. (c) AUDITS BY AGENCIES.—Section 3521 of (e) and (f) of section 3521 of this title; and title 31, United States Code, is amended— (a) DUTY IMPOSED.—Except as provided in ‘‘(ii) of Government corporations; (1) in subsection (e)— subsection (c), whenever an act of terrorism ‘‘(E) a summary of reports on internal ac- (A) by redesignating paragraphs (1) and (2) occurs in the United States, it shall be the counting and administrative control systems as subparagraphs (A) and (B), respectively, duty of the primary Government agency in- submitted to the President and Congress and adjusting the margins accordingly; vestigating such act to submit, in collabora- under subsection (d); (B) by striking ‘‘(e) Each financial’’ and in- tion with the Secretary of Homeland Secu- ‘‘(F) a listing of agencies whose financial serting ‘‘(e)(1) Each financial’’; rity, the Attorney General, the Director of management systems do not comply sub- (C) in paragraph (1), as so designated, by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and, as stantially with the requirements of section striking ‘‘standards—’’ and inserting ‘‘stand- appropriate, the Director of the National 803(a) of the Federal Financial Management ards.’’; and Counterterrorism Center, an unclassified re- Improvement Act of 1996 (31 U.S.C. 3512 (D) by inserting after paragraph (1), as so port (which may be accompanied by a classi- note), and a summary statement of the ef- designated, the following: fied annex) to Congress concerning such act forts underway to remedy the noncompli- not later than 1 year after the completion of ance; and ‘‘(2) As part of each audit under this sub- the investigation. Reports required under ‘‘(G) any other information the Director section, the auditor shall— this subsection may be combined into a considers appropriate to fully inform Con- ‘‘(A) evaluate the design of the internal quarterly report to Congress. gress regarding the financial management of control of the agency over financial report- (b) CONTENT OF REPORTS.—Each report the Federal Government.’’; ing and key financial information, as as- under this section shall include— (F) in paragraph (4)— sessed and reported on by the head of the (1) a statement of the facts of the act of (i) in subparagraph (A)— agency under section 3512(d)(2)(C) of this terrorism referred to in subsection (a), as (I) by striking ‘‘15 months after the date of title; known at the time of the report; the enactment of this subsection’’ and in- ‘‘(B) determine whether those controls (2) an explanation of any gaps in national serting ‘‘6 months after the date of enact- have been implemented; security that could be addressed to prevent ment of the CFO Vision Act of 2020’’; and ‘‘(C) for controls that are properly designed future acts of terrorism; (II) by striking ‘‘5-year’’ and inserting ‘‘4- and implemented, perform sufficient tests of (3) any recommendations for additional year’’; and those controls to conclude whether the con- measures that could be taken to improve (ii) in subparagraph (B)— trols are operating effectively, including suf- homeland security, including potential (I) in clause (i)— ficient tests to support a low level of as- changes in law enforcement practices or (aa) by striking ‘‘Not later than January 31 sessed control risk; and changes in law, with particular attention to of each year thereafter’’ and inserting ‘‘At a ‘‘(D) communicate controls that the audi- changes that could help prevent future acts minimum, concurrently with the submission tor concludes are not suitably designed and of terrorism; and of the budget of the United States Govern- implemented or are not operating effec- (4) a summary of the report for public dis- ment under section 1105(a) of this title made tively, as appropriate under applicable gen- tribution. in the first full fiscal year following any year erally accepted government auditing stand- (c) EXCEPTION.— in which the term of the President com- ards. (1) IN GENERAL.—The duty established mences under section 101 of title 3’’; ‘‘(3) Audits under this subsection shall be under subsection (a) shall not apply in in- (bb) by striking ‘‘financial management conducted—’’; and stances in which the Secretary of Homeland status report and a revised governmentwide (2) in subsection (h), by striking ‘‘section Security, the Attorney General, the Director 5-year’’ and inserting ‘‘governmentwide 4- 3512(a)(3)(B)(viii)’’ and inserting ‘‘section of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, or year’’; and 3512(a)(2)(B)(viii)’’. the head of the National Counterterrorism

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:58 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00051 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE6.015 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE S7562 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 16, 2020 Center determines that the information re- (b) CONTENT OF REPORTS.—Each report ation of the Atchley nomination, under quired to be reported could jeopardize an on- under this section shall include— the previous order. going investigation or prosecution. (1) a statement of the facts of the act of The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without (2) NOTIFICATION REQUIREMENT.—In each in- terrorism referred to in subsection (a), as objection, it is so ordered. stance described in paragraph (1), the prin- known at the time of the report; cipal making a determination under such (2) an explanation of any gaps in national f paragraph shall notify Congress of such de- security that could be addressed to prevent termination not later than 1 year after the future acts of terrorism; ADJOURNMENT UNTIL 10 A.M. completion of the related investigation de- (3) any recommendations for additional TOMORROW scribed in subsection (a). measures that could be taken to improve Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, if there (d) DEFINED TERM.—In this section, the homeland security, including potential term ‘‘act of terrorism’’ means an act of do- changes in law enforcement practices or is no further business to come before mestic terrorism or international terrorism changes in law, with particular attention to the Senate, I ask unanimous consent (as such terms are defined in section 2331 of changes that could help prevent future acts that it stand adjourned under the pre- title 18, United States Code). of terrorism; and vious order. (e) SUNSET.—This section shall cease to be ef- (4) a summary of the report for public dis- There being no objection, the Senate, fective beginning on the date that is 5 years tribution. at 6:27 p.m., adjourned until Thursday, after the date of the enactment of this Act. (c) EXCEPTION.— December 17, 2020, at 10 a.m. Mr. MORAN. I ask unanimous con- (1) IN GENERAL.—The duty established sent that the committee-reported under subsection (a) shall not apply in in- f amendment be agreed to; that the bill, stances in which the Secretary of Homeland Security, the Attorney General, the Director DISCHARGED NOMINATIONS as amended, be considered read a third of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, or The Senate Committee on Foreign time and passed; and that the motion the head of the National Counterterrorism to reconsider be considered made and Center determines that the information re- Relations was discharged from further laid upon the table. quired to be reported could jeopardize an on- consideration of the following nomina- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without going investigation or prosecution. tions by unanimous consent and the objection, it is so ordered. (2) NOTIFICATION REQUIREMENT.—In each in- nominations were confirmed: The committee-reported amendment stance described in paragraph (1), the prin- DEVEN J. PAREKH, OF NEW YORK, TO BE A MEMBER OF was agreed to. cipal making a determination under such THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE UNITED STATES paragraph shall notify Congress of such de- INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT FINANCE CORPORATION The bill (S. 2513), as amended, was or- FOR A TERM OF THREE YEARS. termination not later than 1 year after the dered to be engrossed for a third read- IRVING BAILEY, OF FLORIDA, TO BE A MEMBER OF THE completion of the related investigation de- BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE UNITED STATES INTER- ing, was read the third time, and scribed in subsection (a). NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT FINANCE CORPORATION FOR A TERM OF THREE YEARS. passed, as follows: (d) DEFINED TERM.—In this section, the S. 2513 term ‘‘act of terrorism’’ means an act of do- f Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- mestic terrorism or international terrorism resentatives of the United States of America in (as such terms are defined in section 2331 of CONFIRMATIONS Congress assembled, title 18, United States Code). Executive nominations confirmed by (e) SUNSET.—This section shall cease to be SECTION 1. SHORT TITLES. effective beginning on the date that is 5 the Senate December 16, 2020: This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Reporting years after the date of the enactment of this DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE Efficiently to Proper Officials in Response to Act. Terrorism Act of 2019’’ or the ‘‘REPORT ANNA MARIA RUZINSKI, OF WISCONSIN, TO BE UNITED f STATES MARSHAL FOR THE EASTERN DISTRICT OF WIS- Act’’. CONSIN FOR THE TERM OF FOUR YEARS. SEC. 2. DUTY TO REPORT. GREGORY SCOTT TABOR, OF ARKANSAS, TO BE UNITED ORDERS FOR THURSDAY, STATES MARSHAL FOR THE WESTERN DISTRICT OF AR- (a) DUTY IMPOSED.—Except as provided in DECEMBER 17, 2020 KANSAS FOR THE TERM OF FOUR YEARS. subsection (c), whenever an act of terrorism Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I ask THE JUDICIARY occurs in the United States, it shall be the unanimous consent that when the Sen- KATHERINE A. CRYTZER, OF TENNESSEE, TO BE duty of the primary Government agency in- UNITED STATES DISTRICT JUDGE FOR THE EASTERN vestigating such act to submit, in collabora- ate completes its business today, it ad- DISTRICT OF TENNESSEE. tion with the Secretary of Homeland Secu- journ until 10 a.m., Thursday, Decem- JOSEPH DAWSON III, OF SOUTH CAROLINA, TO BE UNITED STATES DISTRICT JUDGE FOR THE DISTRICT OF rity, the Attorney General, the Director of ber 17; further, that following the pray- SOUTH CAROLINA. the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and, as er and pledge, the morning hour be UNITED STATES INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT appropriate, the Director of the National deemed expired, the Journal of pro- FINANCE CORPORATION Counterterrorism Center, an unclassified re- ceedings be approved to date, the time port (which may be accompanied by a classi- DEVEN J. PAREKH, OF NEW YORK, TO BE A MEMBER OF for the two leaders be reserved for their THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE UNITED STATES fied annex) to Congress concerning such act use later in the day, and morning busi- INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT FINANCE CORPORATION not later than 1 year after the completion of FOR A TERM OF THREE YEARS. the investigation. Reports required under ness be closed; further, that following IRVING BAILEY, OF FLORIDA, TO BE A MEMBER OF THE leader remarks, the Senate proceed to BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE UNITED STATES INTER- this subsection may be combined into a NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT FINANCE CORPORATION FOR quarterly report to Congress. executive session and resume consider- A TERM OF THREE YEARS.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:58 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00052 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 9801 E:\CR\FM\A16DE6.014 S16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with SENATE December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1153 EXTENSIONS OF REMARKS

2020 CONGRESSIONAL ART dedication to keeping California safe. Chief In his later years, he founded and served as COMPETITION WINNER McLaughlin also assisted in the development president of two construction companies: of the HERO Act, legislation I introduced to Kadena Pacific and Cal American Construc- HON. provide first responders access to critical men- tion Inc. According to his family, Fred loved OF ARIZONA tal health resources which passed the House dogs. Over the years, he was a proud dog of Representatives this fall. I ask my col- dad to Herman, Nikko, Rambo, Ace, Ivan, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES leagues to join me in celebrating Mr. Jude, Sadie and Rocco. Fred loved to hunt Wednesday, December 16, 2020 McLaughlin for his work in the community and and fish, and enjoyed going out to dinner or Mrs. LESKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today wish him the best in retirement. out for a cup of coffee. Before he passed, to congratulate Evie Nguyen of Glendale, Ari- f Fred shared with his family that he had ‘‘no re- zona on winning the 2020 Congressional Art grets’’ and truly his life’s testimony reflected a HONORING THE LIFE OF DAMIEN Competition for Arizona’s 8th Congressional full, well lived life. JEROME LOPEZ District. In addition to his wife, Emerita, Fred is sur- Evie’s artwork, completed in charcoal and ti- vived by his children: Susanna, Beverly, and tled ‘‘Mutual,’’ highlights the close relationship HON. TOM O’HALLERAN Ray. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the between humans and nature by showcasing OF ARIZONA Neff family, his friends, and everyone fortunate herself with a Cactus Wren, Arizona’s state IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES enough to know Fred. Although Fred may be bird. Wednesday, December 16, 2020 gone, the many contributions he made to his Evie was a senior at Deer Valley High community and family will have a lasting im- Mr. O’HALLERAN. Madam Speaker, I rise School when the artwork was completed. Her pact. today to honor the life and legacy of Damien art is currently being displayed in the U.S. f Jerome Lopez, a brave first responder and Capitol along with the other Congressional Art firefighter from Globe, Arizona, who passed CELEBRATING MR. KEN TUCKER Competition winners from around the country. away last week after his battle with COVID– ON HIS RETIREMENT Each spring, I am proud to host the Con- 19. gressional Art Competition to showcase the in- For over two decades, Damien bravely credibly talented students across Arizona’s 8th HON. served his community as a first responder and Congressional District. OF ALABAMA firefighter, retiring as a Captain in 2016. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES It is an honor to represent these promising This year, during the coronavirus pandemic, Wednesday, December 16, 2020 young artists in Congress. Lopez selflessly answered the call to care for f his community and began working as a health Mr. BROOKS of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Ken Tucker on HONORING THE RETIREMENT OF care educator, assisting COVID–19 response his retirement from Boeing. FIRE CHIEF MICHAEL W. efforts on the San Carlos Apache reservation. An Alabama native and alumnus of the Uni- MCLAUGHLIN A beloved community member, colleague, friend, and father, he was known for his dedi- versity of Alabama, Ken earned his bachelor’s cation to helping all people. Damien was a degree in American Studies and History in HON. generous man with a kind heart and a warm 1982 and his master’s degree in Administra- OF CALIFORNIA sense of humor. I know how much he meant tive Science in 1984. Ken began his career as IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES to the people of Globe. Director of Governmental Relations for the Wednesday, December 16, 2020 My family and I are keeping the Lopez fam- University of Alabama in Huntsville. In 1988, ily, Damien’s friends and loved ones, and the Ken joined Boeing as a Public Affairs Spe- Mr. BERA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to entire Globe and San Carlos Apache commu- cialist. recognize Chief Michael McLaughlin and cele- nities in our prayers as we mourn his passing. Ken held several positions at Boeing, includ- brate his retirement from the Cosumnes Fire f ing Community and Education Relations Spe- Department. Chief McLaughlin started his fire cialist, Government and Community Affairs service career in 1988 as a Reserve Fire- TRIBUTE TO FREDDIE PATRICK Manager, and State and Local Government fighter with Contra Costa County Consolidated NEFF Relations Manager. He concluded his distin- Fire Protection District. Throughout his fire guished career serving as Boeing’s Director of service career, he has served for South Lake HON. State and Local Government Operations for County and Lawrence Livermore before being OF CALIFORNIA the Southeast Region. promoted to Assistant Fire Chief. He then be- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Ken contributed to the success of significant came a Division Chief for the Merced Fire De- space and defense programs, including partment before serving with Cosumnes CSD Wednesday, December 16, 2020 Ground-based Midcourse Defense, Space Fire Department which covers my district. Dur- Mr. CALVERT. Madam Speaker, I rise today Launch System, International Space Station, ing his time with the CSD Fire Department, he to honor and pay tribute to Freddie ‘‘Fred’’ Delta Launch Vehicles, Starliner Commercial has held the title of Deputy Fire Chief before Patrick Neff, who passed away on Saturday, Crew capsule, and Space Shuttle, to name a his promotion to his current role as Fire Chief. October 31, 2020. Fred was a veteran, small few. Before Chief McLaughlin became a fire- business owner, a devoted family man, and he Ken fostered workforce development fighter, he worked as a paramedic in Alameda will be deeply missed. through enhancing STEM education in the and Contra Costa Counties. He was also in- Fred was born on March 17, 1936 in Den- Southeast. Notably, he helped establish aero- strumental in the creation and growth of the ver, Colorado. After traveling throughout the space technician training programs at Calhoun South Lake County and Lawrence Livermore West as a youth, Fred decided to join the Air Community College and at Nunez Community Paramedic Programs and has been a licensed Force. The Air Force took him to many military College. Paramedic in California since 1990. Mr. bases in the Far East as well as around the Ken selflessly contributes to several profes- McLaughlin has an Associate of Science De- United States. While stationed at Clark Air sional and civic organizations throughout Ala- gree in Fire Technology from Yuba College, Force Base he met his wife, Emerita bama. He is an active member of the Hunts- along with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Arrogante. Following a stint at March Air Force ville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce Fire Department Administration from Cogswell Base, Fred retired from the military after put- Board of Directors, the Business Council of Polytechnical College. ting in his 30 years as a decorated veteran. Alabama, the Public Affairs Research Council I want to extend my congratulations and Retirement from the military allowed Fred to of Alabama, and the Alabama Center for Pro- thank Chief McLaughlin for his hard work and do many things in the second half of his life. ductivity.

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

VerDate Sep 11 2014 09:51 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A16DE8.001 E16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with REMARKS E1154 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 16, 2020 Madam Speaker, Ken Tucker’s tireless work My brave state of Vermont may be small, extraordinarily dedicated public servant and over the past 32 years has made America a but it is large in its spirit of community and fierce fighter for working people, Ms. Sharon stronger more secure nation. I wish Ken the service. Madam Speaker, that is why I take Palmer of Waterford, Connecticut. My friend very best as he embarks on this next stage of great pleasure in recounting the many com- Sharon passed away at her home in Con- life. mendable attributes and service of my con- necticut on Friday, December 4th, 2020. She stituent, Dr. Terry for the House and the na- f was 77 years old. tion. It clearly demonstrates the work that one RECOGNIZING THE CAREER AND individual can do for his town, state and the Sharon’s life represents the best of Con- SERVICE OF DR. TOM TERRY nation to make it a better place to live and necticut. A longtime educator, labor leader, work. and ultimately, Labor Commissioner, Sharon I am pleased to congratulate Dr. Thomas dedicated her life to bettering the education of HON. Terry and to thank him for his long service on our children and the circumstances in which OF VERMONT behalf of our Vermont community. He is one we work. She will be remembered as an ener- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES of our ‘‘indomitable people.’’ getic force to be reckoned with, solid in her Wednesday, December 16, 2020 f values, and strong in her accomplishments. Mr. WELCH. Madam Speaker, I rise today HONORING SOUTH METRO FIRE A lifelong learner, Sharon graduated from to offer congratulations to Dr. Thomas F. Terry RESCUE CHIEF JERRY RHODES East Hampton High School in 1961, earned a on his retirement after practicing for 45 years Bachelor of Science from St. Joseph College, as an optometrist. All but one of those years HON. and a master’s in Marine Science from East- were spent in White River Junction, Vt., not far OF COLORADO ern Connecticut state in 1978. Soon after, she from his place of birth in Windsor. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES began a passionate teaching career at Nathan Dr. Tom Terry is a prime example of what Hale-Ray High School in Moodus, Con- Wednesday, December 16, 2020 another Vermonter, President Calvin Coolidge, necticut. She later taught math and science at said in Bennington in a speech on Sept. 21, Mr. CROW. Madam Speaker, it is my honor Clark Lane Jr. High School, and even took her 1928. During his speech, Coolidge talked today to recognize the achievements of Jerry dedication to teaching on an international tour about the state he loved—Vermont: ‘‘I love Rhodes who is retiring as an Assistant Fire by joining the Department of Defense and Vermont because of her hills and valleys, her Chief of the South Metro Fire Rescue Fire teaching our servicemembers’ children in Han- scenery and invigorating climate, but most of Protection District in Colorado’s 6th District. over, Germany. all because of her indomitable people.’’ Jerry Rhodes is a proud 8th generation Coolidge’s description of Vermont and her member of the fire service who started his ca- One way or another, Sharon was always a people are as apt today as it was more than reer on August 20, 1974 with the City of Glen- force for good in Connecticut. During her time 90 years earlier. While there have been many dale Fire Department. There he served in teaching in Waterford, she started planting Vermonters who fit this description, but no one many critical roles including Paramedic and seeds for a second career outside of the more than Dr. Tom Terry of Wilder, Vt. Assistant Chief of Fire Prevention. His career classroom—still aiming to serve and advocate He was born in the Connecticut Valley. After continued with the Cunningham Fire Protec- for others—as treasurer and then president of graduation from Windsor High School, Dr. tion District in Colorado where he worked his her local AFT chapter. In her never-ending Terry graduated from Springfield College with way up to Fire Chief. quest to fight for the betterment of her com- majors in chemistry and physics. He then at- Throughout his career, Jerry has served on munity, Sharon also became a fervent voice in tended New England College of Optometry countless boards and committees to further local politics as a member of Waterford’s Rep- and graduated with a doctorate degree in the efforts of fire and emergency medical serv- resentative Town Meeting. Despite constantly 1975. A year later he returned to Vermont and ices and has given back to the community in taking on new roles throughout her life, she so many ways, including his service as ad- set up a practice in White River Junction would continue to serve in her municipal gov- junct instructor for community colleges and where he continued to serve his many pa- ernment for over 23 years. tients, until his retirement on Dec. 30, 2020. universities. His leadership and outreach with elected officials, community groups, religious In 1989, Sharon grew from her role as a During his years of practice, Dr. Terry devel- institutions, and professional organizations local chapter president and became the first oped a major interest in primary and medical sets the standard for future fire service organi- eye care, including macular degeneration and vice-president of AFT-CT. She kept that posi- zations. Jerry’s contributions to the community glaucoma care. Dr. Terry was also trained a tion for 12 years before she took on the exec- and fire service have been celebrated through as low vision specialist and worked, as such, utive vice president position for another two, many honorable distinctions and awards. with the Vermont Division of the Blind. and then ultimately was elected as President In 2018, Jerry was instrumental in the con- of the state’s second largest teacher’s union in Dr. Terry became well-known for his skills, solidation of the Cunningham Fire Protection not only in Vermont, but throughout New Eng- 2003. She has been one of the most notable District, South Metro Fire Rescue, and Little- union leaders in the state and could often be land and in national optometric councils. He ton Fire Rescue into a single fire protection found testifying at Connecticut’s state Capitol served for six years as President of the district that will improve the quality and long- in Hartford. It was because of her high profile Vermont Optometric Association, as well as 17 term sustainability of prevention, mitigation, and her vibrant credibility within the labor com- years on the Board of Optometry for the state. and emergency response services across a For 27 years, Dr. Terry did service on various community of 287 square miles. munity that she was appointed as former Gov- American Optometric Association committees As Jerry Rhodes retires, we want to express ernor Dannel Malloy’s first Labor Commis- as well as nine years as Acting Eye Clinic our sincere gratitude for his dedication, hard sioner. It was only then that she would step Chief at the Veterans Administration Hospital work, leadership, and service he has provided down from her leadership positions both in in White River Junction. Dr. Terry’ s deep in- to the citizens and members of the South Waterford and as President of AFT-CT. Before terest in health care matters also led him to Metro Fire Rescue Fire Protection District and retiring from a consecutive 58-year long ca- serve for 10 years on the Board of the Alice to the entire fire service for the past 46 years. reer, she became a vital part of the state gov- Peck Day Memorial Hospital in nearby Leb- f ernment, acting as a strong, critical voice for anon, N.H. the working community and an liaison to local As much as Dr. Terry enjoyed serving his HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE labor organizations. many patients in Vermont and New Hamp- OF SHARON PALMER shire, he was also instrumental in helping his Madam Speaker, it has been an honor to town and state to promote regional health, HON. JOE COURTNEY witness Sharon Palmer’s service in action and especially to be her friend. Hers is a proud economic renewal, and prosperity. In that re- OF CONNECTICUT legacy—one that will continue the good fight gard, Dr. Terry was on the Board of Directors IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES of the Mas coma Savings Bank for 18 years, for years to come—and I ask that the entire many of which as Chair of the bank’s founda- Wednesday, December 16, 2020 House join me in continuing her legacy by tion directing charitable contributions to local, Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise never losing sight of the fight for working fami- regional and state organizations. today to observe and mourn the passing of an lies.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 09:51 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE8.005 E16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with REMARKS December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1155 HONORING NANCY STERN FOR leader in the office and an invaluable voice for Work, The Carnegie Museum, and on the HER RETIREMENT FROM THE the district. In the past fifteen years, Tom has board of Penn State Health. EASTERN SHORE RURAL HEALTH made himself known as a true force to be Mr. VanKirk and his wife Bonnie have been SYSTEM reckoned with, using his wide network of rela- involved in the founding of both the Hillman tionships and his unmatched experience in the Cancer Center and the August Wilson Center, HON. ELAINE G. LURIA region to bring real change to Missourians. two vital Pittsburgh institutions. He is a grad- OF VIRGINIA Tom’s dedication to the people of Missouri uate of two great Pennsylvania schools. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES is in no way limited to his time on my staff. Bucknell and Penn State Dickinson School of Before joining our team, Tom served as a Law. Wednesday, December 16, 2020 Clay County Commissioner, Chairman of the [From Penn State University Newswire] Mrs. LURIA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to Missouri Lottery Commission, and the Chair- According to a recent news article looking honor and recognize Nancy Stern upon her re- man of the Board at Saint Luke’s North Hos- back on his life and contributions to our tirement from Eastern Shore Rural Health Sys- pital. Tom has also served on boards for the community, ‘‘When Mr. VanKirk, 1970, at- tem, Inc. Mid-America Regional Council, Tri-County tended Penn State Dickinson Law five dec- For over 20 years, Nancy has led Rural Mental Health, and Synergy Services. His tire- ades ago, it was a time of tremendous unrest. Health as the center’s Chief Executive Office. less efforts on behalf of Missouri will be felt The civil rights movement and protests against the Vietnam War were peaking, and In her time as CEO and beyond, Nancy has long after his time on staff comes to an end. VanKirk felt drawn to the field of law.’’ exhibited extraordinary passion for the Eastern Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join Said Mr. VanKirk of this experience, ‘‘I Shore community and has been a staunch ad- me in recognizing Tom Brown for his commit- think the law has always been a great place vocate for Community Health Centers nation- ment to the Northland, Missouri’s Congres- to make a meaningful and lasting impact on wide. sional Sixth District, and the entire Show Me society.’’ Nancy began her career as a health educa- State. I am honored to have worked with him On behalf of the constituents of Pennsylva- tor, originally working part-time as she raised for the past 15 years and am honored to call nia’s 17th Congressional District, I would like her young family. She worked in health edu- him, and his family, my friends and neighbors. to congratulate Mr. VanKirk on his retirement cation for over a decade before taking the role f and thank him for his tireless work to enhance of Director of Human Resources for Rural the quality of life of our community. IN HONOR OF THE RETIREMENT Health. After three years in this role and an- f other two years as the Director Operations, OF TOM VANKIRK Nancy was appointed as Rural Health’s CEO HONORING JACQUIE SULLIVAN ON where she has remained for the last 20 years. HON. HER RETIREMENT AS Nancy has been a key figure in Rural OF PENNSYLVANIA COUNCILMEMBER ON THE BA- Health’s growth, modernization, and expansion IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES KERSFIELD CITY COUNCIL to meet 21st century standards. Under Nan- Wednesday, December 16, 2020 cy’s leadership, Rural Health added adult den- HON. KEVIN McCARTHY tal and behavior health care to better assist Mr. LAMB. Madam Speaker, I rise today to OF CALIFORNIA recognize the retirement of Tom VanKirk, Ex- Eastern Shore residents. Nancy also oversaw IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ecutive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer the Eastville Community Health Center’s con- Wednesday, December 16, 2020 struction as well as the expansion and re- at Highmark Health on December 31, 2020. placement of the Onley and Atlantic Commu- Mr. VanKirk joined Highmark Inc. in March Mr. MCCARTHY. Madam Speaker, I rise nity Health Centers respectively. Additionally, 2012 following a 41-year career at Buchanan, today to honor Bakersfield’s longest-serving she led Rural Health in acquiring a partnership Ingersoll & Rooney. In addition to overseeing City Councilmember, Jacquie Sullivan, a con- with Kiwanis International for the Chin- the acquisition of West Penn Allegheny Hos- stituent and longtime friend. Years ago, I re- coteague Community Health Center. In her pital System and Jefferson Hospital as well as member calling Jacquie to encourage her to 20-year tenure, Rural Health’s workforce ex- the formation of Highmark Health in 2013 and run for City Council. Now as she prepares to panded from 100 employees to 300 and in- its affiliation with Blue Cross and Blue Shield retire, I am honored to recognize her legacy creased its budget from $6 million to $29 mil- of northeast Pennsylvania in 2015, he has and thank her for 25 years of public service to lion today. managed the legal affairs of the company and the city of Bakersfield and Kern County. Nancy’s dedication to providing for the the legal department, and serves on the com- Born in Bakersfield, Jacquie attended local health and well being of the Eastern Shore pany’s leadership team. He was also instru- public schools and later moved north, grad- community is truly inspiring. I am proud to mental in the formation of Highmark Health’s uating from Tahoe Truckee High School. Soon honor and recognize her leadership and the strategic partnerships with Johns Hopkins after earning her high school diploma, she se- role she has played in making our community Medicine and Penn State Health. Mr. VanKirk cured her real estate license and, while raising a better place. Coastal Virginia is a better also serves as the secretary of the board of four children, entered the rental investment in- place because of her efforts. directors of Highmark Inc. and Highmark dustry. In 1993, after the loss of her daughter f Health. Joyce, Jacquie, despite her soft-spoken na- Prior to joining Highmark in 2012, Mr. ture, became one of our community’s out- HONORING TOM BROWN VanKirk served as Chairman and CEO at spoken voices helping to change the stigma Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney from 2003 until surrounding HIV and AIDS. She worked to HON. 2009, and Chairman until 2012, where he pro- educate the next generation, drive awareness OF MISSOURI vided strategic leadership, client relationship of the disease, and advocated for more fund- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES development and attorney recruitment. He ing for treatments and prevention. Through her also managed the merger of three major law advocacy, Jacquie spoke at many Kern Coun- Wednesday, December 16, 2020 firms into Buchanan. Mr. VanKirk served as ty school functions and helped raise thou- Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Madam Speaker, COO for 18 years from 1985 to 2003 before sands of dollars to provide better care for I proudly pause to congratulate Thomas becoming CEO at Buchanan Ingersoll. He was those afflicted with HIV/AIDS. Brown on his retirement and thank him for his a corporate takeover and antitrust trial lawyer In 1995, Jacquie was elected to the Bakers- many meaningful years of service to the Sixth and corporate advisor to many Fortune 1,000 field City Council. As Councilmember for Ward Congressional District of Missouri. companies. Six, she worked with her colleagues to Tom has been a crucial member of my team As a community leader, Mr. VanKirk is in- prioritize neighborhood safety, affordable fam- in the House of Representatives for fifteen volved in many civic and non-profit initiatives ily living, and promoting prosperity in her ward years, and his impact on Missouri’s Sixth Con- throughout the Pittsburgh region. He serves and across Bakersfield. During her tenure, she gressional District cannot be overstated. In on the Executive Committee of the Pittsburgh enhanced resident quality of life by stream- 2005, Tom joined my team as Chief of Staff, Cultural Trust, the Pennsylvania Economy lining building projects, introducing a city and has since held multiple other titles, includ- League and Chaired the Pennsylvania Busi- framework for emergency funding, and fos- ing District Director and Senior Advisor. Tom’s ness Council Board. In addition, Mr. VanKirk is tering economic growth opportunities for small wealth of knowledge about Missouri and the a trustee of the University of Pittsburgh, the businesses. needs of the constituents in the Sixth Con- YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh, United Way, the Jacquie’s advocacy and legacy, however, is gressional District made him both an effective Board of visitors of the PITT School of Social not confined just to the borders of Bakersfield,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 09:51 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A16DE8.009 E16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with REMARKS E1156 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 16, 2020 California. In 2002, she founded In God We Dave’s immeasurable contributions to my of- ceded in death by his brother Gilbert Dell Trust America, Inc., a nonprofit organization fice, the constituents I have represented and Bumpas, Jr. that encourages elected officials to display our to our country are something for which we Through his actions of encouragement to national motto ‘‘In God We Trust’’ in public should all be very grateful. Personally, I have thousands of people he knew, Coach Bumpas spaces like at town halls and other facilities. and will continue to value my friendship with left Mississippi a better place than he found it. As a result of this nonprofit, more than 700 Dave and wish him and his wife Catherine, He will be missed greatly by those who knew buildings at various levels of government their daughter Carolyn and son David the very him, but the lessons he instilled in so many throughout 37 states have the motto displayed best and brightest future. will continue to positively impact lives for many including the Bakersfield City Council Cham- f years to come. bers, as well as the Kern County Sheriff’s De- REMEMBERING THE LIFE OF partment, which recently added motto decals f to its patrol vehicles. COACH WALLY BUMPAS It has been a pleasure to work with my HONORING SCOTT CUNNINGHAM, close friend Jacquie, collaborating with her on HON. MICHAEL GUEST SENIOR ADVISOR TO THE RANK- issues impacting our community to improve OF MISSISSIPPI ING MEMBER FOR THE HOUSE ETHICS COMMITTEE the lives of our constituents. While her pres- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ence and passion on the Bakersfield City Wednesday, December 16, 2020 Council will certainly be missed, I have no HON. KENNY MARCHANT doubt she will continue to advocate for the Mr. GUEST. Madam Speaker, Coach Wally OF TEXAS policies and programs that she holds dear. On Bumpas was an icon to the many young men behalf of the 23rd Congressional District of and women he mentored, and I’m honored to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES California, I thank Jacquie for her service and have known him when he coached at Brandon Wednesday, December 16, 2020 wish her well as she begins this new chapter High School. Coach Bumpas taught history Mr. MARCHANT. Madam Speaker, I rise enjoying time with her children, Richard, Julie, and coached football in Lambert, Shelby, Wi- today in recognition of Scott Cunningham, a and Linda, and her grandchildren. nona, Jackson, McComb, and Brandon, Mis- member of my staff for over thirteen years, for f sissippi, and in 1990 was inducted into the Mississippi Association of Coaches Hall of his outstanding and dedicated service to the TRIBUTE TO DAVID KENNETT Fame. He loved his players and seeing them United States House of Representatives and advance in their careers and personal lives. to the Twenty-Fourth Congressional District of HON. KEN CALVERT Coach Bumpas was an avid reader, especially Texas. A Dallas native, Scott first came to Capitol OF CALIFORNIA of World War II history, and he found great Hill in 1999 as a congressional intern for Con- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES pleasure in traveling and fishing. Among his fondest times were trips to Europe and an Af- gressman and would return to Wednesday, December 16, 2020 rican safari with his wife, Kennie, and fly fish- intern again for each of the next two summers. Mr. CALVERT. Madam Speaker, I rise today ing in the Bahamas with many friends includ- In 2007, he joined my staff and has continued to honor and pay tribute to a dedicated and ing Quinton Dickerson, Dave Goldberg, and to serve the people of the 24th District of trusted member of my staff. At the end of this Charlie Modica, Jr. They thoroughly enjoyed Texas with energy and integrity, first as my Congress, my Chief of Staff, David Kennett, his company and advice, and they cherish the policy director and then as my legislative di- will be departing my office after many years of photos, stories, and memories of the time they rector and deputy chief of staff. He is currently invaluable service. shared together. my senior advisor, counseling and supporting After graduating from Delaware County After retiring from a longtime coaching ca- me in my role as the Ranking Member of the Christian School in 1990, Dave attended reer in 1995, Coach Bumpas was hired at his House Ethics Committee. Wheaton College where he earned a Bachelor retirement party by former Mississippi Gov- Much of Scott’s day-to-day work is now be- of Arts degree in English and History. While ernor Kirk Fordice. Working in Governor hind-the-scenes, but his passion for public pol- working at Houlihan’s restaurant in Springfield, Fordice’s successful re-election campaign that icy is still evident. He has handled each issue Virginia, Dave first joined my D.C. office as an year with many new friends including Lisa area for my team at some point during his ten- intern. After writing up a well-researched Buelow Ireland, Coach Bumpas began a sec- ure, even serving as a one-man legislative memo on the history of Puerto Rico, Dave ond career in politics and public service. In team for five months. As hectic as that time was offered a job as our staff assistant by my 1996, Coach Bumpas worked on the success- may have been, I also know that Scott first Chief of Staff, Ed Slevin. He was soon ful campaign of former Mississippi Third Dis- stresses about nothing more than managing promoted to a legislative assistant position, re- trict Congressman Charles W. ‘‘Chip’’ Pick- my flights. I am sure I would not have made sponsible for a portfolio that included infra- ering, Jr. He subsequently served for many it to Washington every week without him. structure and natural resources issues. In years on Congressman Pickering’s congres- Scott’s contributions were not limited to leg- 1998, Dave left my office, for the first time, to sional staff in Mississippi. Congressman Pick- islative work. He is known for his servant’s move to California. ering always considered Coach Bumpas to be heart and is never happier than when he is Dave and his family would wind up moving a loyal, trusted friend and was grateful to have able to help a constituent with a casework back to D.C. and he rejoined my office to him as a member of his staff. issue. Whether it takes only five minutes or a serve as my legislative director in 2001, a post Coach Bumpas also enjoyed researching full five years to solve, Scott is always deter- he would fill until leaving for the second time, his genealogy and learned he descended from mined to see a job through to the end. He in 2003 to join The Ferguson Group, where he French Huguenot Eduod Bompasse, who ar- came to Capitol Hill all those years ago to worked as a federal advocate on behalf of a rived at Plymouth on the ‘‘Good Ship For- help people, especially his fellow Texans, and number of Riverside County organizations, in- tune,’’ the first boat to arrive after the any of my constituents who have worked with cluding the Western Municipal Water District Mayflower, on November 10, 1621. In recent him can attest to the fact that he has suc- and the Riverside Community College District. years, Coach spent his days enjoying his ceeded. In 2016, following the departure of my long- home on Lake Lorman in Madison County, I am not sure what my tenure in Congress time Chief of Staff, David Ramey, Dave once Mississippi. Coach Wally Bumpas passed would have been like without Scott again joined my office to serve in that leader- away at the age of 84 on December 6, 2020, Cunningham as part of my team, and not only ship role. His third stint in my office began just surrounded by family. He is survived by his because he drew the first-place selection in as a new Republican administration was form- wife and the love of his life, the former Kennie the Congressional office lottery twice for me ing and Dave played a big role in helping Tuth Robison, whom he married on July 23, and his coworkers. Scott’s loyalty, determina- qualified Californians find roles to serve in our 1961, at St. John’s Catholic Church in Oxford, tion, and focus on giving back all informed federal agencies. Dave staffed our weekly MS. He is also survived by son Wally how my team and I approached our work here California Republican Delegation lunches as Bumpas, Jr. and wife Reni, daughter Elizabeth on Capitol Hill. On behalf of myself and the well as aided me in my role this past Con- ‘‘Sis’’ Bumpas, son Ken Bumpas and wife people of Texas’s 24th District, I thank him for gress as a Deputy Chair of the National Re- Lisa. as well as seven grandchildren and four his thirteen years of service and wish him the publican Congressional Committee. great-grandchildren. Coach Bumpas was pre- very best on his future endeavors.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 09:51 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE8.012 E16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with REMARKS December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1157 IN RECOGNITION OF DR. AHMAD credibility of the process. I urge this body to Becky was born in Schenectady, New York, JABER advance this bill. and went to St. Lawrence University on a f ROTC scholarship. She joined the Army as a Quartermaster officer and rose to the rank of HON. RASHIDA TLAIB TRIBUTE TO RANDY BONNER OF MICHIGAN Lieutenant Colonel. Ms. Leggieri first came to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the House as an Army Fellow for Rep. Caro- HON. KEN CALVERT lyn Kilpatrick of Michigan in 2009. Rep. Kil- Wednesday, December 16, 2020 OF CALIFORNIA patrick was a member of the Subcommittee, Ms. TLAIB. Madam Speaker, I rise today to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and during her fellowship Becky met the com- honor the memory of the late Dr. Ahmad Wednesday, December 16, 2020 mittee staff and learned the mechanics of the Jaber, a physician and founder of the Arab appropriations process. The Committee, rec- American Association of New York, a human Mr. CALVERT. Madam Speaker, I rise today ognizing her talent, hired Rebecca in 2010. rights advocacy organization. to honor and pay tribute to my friend Randy She began serving on the Defense Sub- Dr. Jaber was born and raised by his wid- Bonner, who is stepping down this month from committee in the minority. In that capacity, she owed mother in the Palestinian village of the Canyon Lake City Council. Randy is a needed to be versed on every facet of a vast Yamoun in the West Bank. Following the ex- community leader, a veteran, and a dedicated and complex bill that encompasses hundreds ample of his mother, Dr. Jaber worked hard to public servant whose many tireless efforts to of thousands of people and every issue rang- put himself through college and medical better our region will be missed. ing from day care to the delivery systems for school. He immigrated to the United States in Randy settled into his lakeshore home in nuclear weapons. This year’s bill amounts to 1974 to pursue a medical career in obstetrics. Canyon Lake more than two decades ago nearly $700 billion and it impacts our nation’s While he is well-known for having delivered after retiring from his two professional careers, security and that of our planet. Becky’s skills more than five thousand babies over the which included over 35 years in the computer/ and her life experiences were all she needed course of his career, Dr. Jaber was celebrated disk drive industry, and 28 years in the Marine to make the right decisions. In 2015, Becky for his generosity and advocacy on behalf of Corps Reserves, from which he retired as a Leggieri became the Subcommittee’s Minority others. Colonel. His first foray into serving the small, Staff Director and has worked by my side for Dr. Jaber founded the Arab American Asso- gated city of Canyon Lake came in 2007 when the past five years to ensure oversight of the ciation of New York as a welcoming center for Randy was elected to serve as the Canyon Department of Defense and numerous intel- new immigrants to New York from the Middle Lake POA Treasurer, then as the president in ligence agencies. She balanced competing pri- East. Under his leadership, the organization 2008. With his experience on the Canyon orities from administrations, Members of Con- grew to become a social services organization Lake POA, Randy felt prepared to serve on gress, labor. industry, state and local govern- that provides adult education services, youth the City Council in 2010 and was elected by ments, and citizen interest groups. Her hon- programming, and mental health services. the voters to fill that role. After a brief hiatus esty, knowledge of the issues, and willingness More than that, the organization seeks to cre- off the council, Randy was elected again in to listen allowed her to develop legislation in ate cross-culture dialogue within New York’s 2016 to rejoin the council. He was selected by which the many parties involved felt a sense multiethnic communities. It has served as a li- his city council colleagues to serve as the of shared ownership in its enactment. aison to challenge discrimination against Arab city’s mayor in 2014 and 2017. Becky Leggieri is a person of scrupulous Americans. Throughout his time on the council, Randy ethics and is possessed of a sterling intellect I invite you to join me in recognizing the leg- has been a Board Member of the Western and nimble mind, an innate political shrewd- acy of Dr. Ahmad Jaber as we give honor to Riverside County Conservation Agency, the ness, and poise under pressure. Most impor- his memory. Western Riverside Council of Governments tantly, she used these talents in the service of f and the Riverside Transportation Agency. He her country and this institution to ensure that has also served on the I–15 Through the Committee and House’s constitutional pre- INTRODUCTION OF THE COMMU- Temecula Valley Task Force and the South- rogatives were respected and protected. Her NITY DRIVEN RECOVERY FOR west Communities Financing Authorities Joint steady hand will be sorely missed. PUERTO RICO ACT Powers Agreement (Animal Friends of the Val- I know Ms. Leggieri’s husband, John, and ley). Randy is also an active member of the her children, Olivia and Gabriel, are so very HON. JESU´ S G. ‘‘CHUY’’ GARCI´A Canyon Lake Men’s Golf Club, Over The Hill proud of her, as are we all. I wish Becky every OF ILLINOIS Group, After Lunch Bunch, Canyon Lake Trav- happiness and success in her future endeav- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES el Club, Canyon Lake Yacht Club, and was ors. the Master of Ceremonies at the first Canyon Wednesday, December 16, 2020 f Lake Veterans Day event and then again in Mr. GARCI´A of Illinois. Madam Speaker, I 2010. COMMITTEE REPORT FROM THE rise today to introduce the Community Driven I want to personally acknowledge and thank COMMITTEE ON VETERANS’ AF- Recovery for Puerto Rico Act along with my Randy for serving on my Academy Nomina- FAIRS, ‘‘HIJACKING OUR HE- colleague from New York, . tions Selection Committee, and helping to de- ROES: EXPLOITING VETERANS This bill strengthens transparency and local termine which students from the 42nd Con- THROUGH DISINFORMATION ON oversight of federal recovery efforts in Puerto gressional District receive nominations to our SOCIAL MEDIA’’ Rico by establishing a Civil Society Task military service academies. I know I speak on Force to ensure that Puerto Ricans have a behalf of all residents in expressing my heart- HON. MARK TAKANO seat at the table in decisions about recovery felt thanks and praise for Randy’s significant OF CALIFORNIA efforts. contributions to the city of Canyon Lake. I IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES More than three years since Hurricane wish Randy, and his family, the very best in Wednesday, December 16, 2020 Maria hit Puerto Rico, the island is still dev- the years to come. astated and Puerto Rican voices have been f Mr. TAKANO. Madam Speaker, I rise today shut out of the federal recovery process. The as Chairman of the House Committee on Vet- Civil Society Task Force established by this CONGRATULATING REBECCA erans’ Affairs, to bring attention to an impor- bill will represent different sectors of Puerto LEGGIERI ON HER RETIREMENT tant issue facing our nation’s veterans. Rican society including community organiza- During a hearing held on November 13 of tions, unions, nonprofits and small businesses. HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY last year, the Committee heard about the risks The Task Force will be embedded within fed- OF INDIANA faced by our nation’s veterans when using so- eral recovery agencies to ensure that the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES cial media. Based on the results of that hear- Puerto Rican community’s ideas and concerns ing, as well as additional research and anal- are incorporated into the recovery process. Wednesday, December 16, 2020 ysis, my Committee has prepared a report that The federal recovery effort in Puerto Rico Mr. VISCLOSKY. Madam Speaker, I rise not only details the risks faced by veterans, has been removed from the people of the is- today to pay tribute to Rebecca Leggieri, Clerk but also outlines a series of policy options and land for too long, and this bill provides an im- of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, other solutions. The executive summary of the portant mechanism to bridge that gap and en- who will be retiring at the end of this year after report, ‘‘Hijacking Our Heroes: Exploiting Vet- hance the accountability, transparency and more than 24 years of service to our country. erans through Disinformation on Social

VerDate Sep 11 2014 09:51 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A16DE8.016 E16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with REMARKS E1158 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 16, 2020 Media,’’ is below and the full text of the report cessful spoofing scam that results in a vet- Facebook and Twitter note that auto- is available at: https://veterans.house.gov/imo/ eran or Veteran Service Organization (VSO) mated systems can struggle to differentiate media/doc/Hijacking%20Our%20Heroes.pdf. unknowingly distributing or endorsing a authentic images and accounts from fraudu- piece of disinformation can yield greatly in- lent, unauthorized, or duplicated accounts The threat of foreign individuals and orga- creased, and sometimes even exponential, re- and thereby risk erroneously flagging and re- nizations influencing United States (U.S.) sults due to the added credibility imparted moving legitimate accounts. The platforms elections by manipulating social media has to that disinformation by virtue of its ap- have chosen to err on the side of minimizing been a persistent and growing issue since be- proval by the veteran or VSO. With each suc- false negatives by relying upon patterns of fore the 2016 election year. The threat was a cessive endorsement or share, the credibility suspicious activity and certain tactics or significant concern during the 2020 elections. of the disinformation snowballs. The collec- techniques, rather than on other identifying Recent investigations and analysis docu- tive association with actual veterans and data (e.g., duplicative names or images, ment the broad proliferation of online influ- VSOs makes it increasingly unlikely that geolocation information, or ostensible orga- ence campaigns that originate overseas. This the disinformation will be closely scruti- nizational affiliations). Suspicious activity includes the use of ‘‘spoofing,’’ or the act of nized, questioned, or eventually exposed as patterns, such as irregular, repetitive, or vo- disguising an electronic communication fraudulent or misleading. Moreover, luminous posting, triggers additional layers from an unknown source as being from a scammers also try to spoof veterans to gain of review, including an examination of the known, trusted source. A subset of these op- leverage over them. Many veterans move geolocation data in order to assess where the erations target the veteran and military into jobs requiring security clearances or suspicious activity may be originating. The service member communities in order to within the federal government after they final review and removal decisions some- misappropriate their voices, authority and leave the military—those positions can be times warrant human examination, but often credibility. The pervasiveness of social jeopardized if the veteran is compromised removals are made without any human re- media, as well as the nature of the specific through financial fraud, identity theft, or view. Although these layered review proc- threat to our election integrity and the sow- otherwise becomes susceptible to blackmail. esses may be effective in protecting legiti- ing of political discord makes this a critical Internet spoofing became a visible problem mate users, they undoubtedly also add a sig- issue affecting both veterans and those who in the context of the 2016 U.S. election, when nificant gap in removal time for fraudulent value veterans’ voices. As described by foreign disinformation spread widely across accounts, which provides a window within Chairman of the House Committee on Vet- social media, including Facebook, which spoofers can continue to operate. erans’ Affairs, Mark Takano (D–CA), ‘‘the Instagram, Twitter and YouTube, among Law enforcement agencies, such as the issue of protecting our elections from foreign others. However, disinformation on social FBI, are constrained in their abilities to effi- influence is one of critical importance to all media and information operations conducted ciently identify and eliminate spoofers be- Americans and preserving the power of vet- by sophisticated actors have occurred for far cause the agencies only have limited access erans’ voices should be of equal concern to us longer. In the past few years, foreign infor- to the data held by the social media plat- all. mation operations have targeted divisive po- forms. Often these agencies do not receive On Wednesday, November 13, 2019, the litical issues within American society and important information until after the plat- House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs held have sought to manipulate and divide polit- forms have already removed a spoofed ac- an investigative hearing to examine the na- ical and social communities. Unfortunately, count, at which point law enforcement is un- ture and scope of threats posed to the vet- our military and veterans’ communities are able to actively monitor and trace the ac- erans’ community through ‘‘internet spoof- no exception. Moreover, the incidents of for- count in real time. ing.’’ Experts testified that stolen, misappro- eign spoofing increased following the 2016 The ability of spoofers to operate from priated, or fraudulently created social media election, and industry experts project that overseas, anonymously, or by using fraudu- accounts can be used to target veterans for these numbers will continue to increase lent or concealed identities requires law en- the purposes of disseminating political prop- through 2020 and beyond. Russia’s Internet forcement to rely upon account identifica- aganda and fake news in order to influence Research Agency (IRA), a Russian company tion data and detailed activity patterns in elections. The witnesses also described ro- which has engaged in online influence oper- order to accurately identify or locate the po- mance scams and commercial fraud being ations, more commonly known as a ‘‘troll tential spoofer. However, Title II of the Elec- perpetrated using spoofing techniques. Rep- farm,’’ dramatically expanded its informa- tronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA) resentatives of three major social media tion operations after the 2016 U.S. Presi- (18 U.S.C. §§ 2701–2713), known as the Stored platforms—Facebook, Instagram, and Twit- dential elections, both in terms of volume Communications Act, requires a government ter—discussed how they are addressing this and intensity. Russia and Iran are the most entity to serve a subpoena on social media threat, particularly considering the 2020 prominent state actors in this context, but platforms to compel the production of cer- elections, and described best practices for in- recent work has identified additional state tain relevant information. Requiring a time- formation sharing, protective measures, and actors, such as China and Saudi Arabia, consuming legal process to obtain identifica- law enforcement cooperation. The Com- using information operations to target com- tion data hampers the ability of law enforce- mittee later held a briefing on January 14, munities and topics of interests. ment to respond quickly or to fully under- 2020, with representatives from several com- The Senate Select Committee on Intel- stand the scope of a potential spoofing cam- ponents of the Federal Bureau of Investiga- ligence published a five-volume bipartisan paign. Therefore, the law enforcement agen- tion (FBI) that handle law enforcement for report focused on Russia’s influence oper- cies recommend increasing the amount and online crimes. ations. The second volume focused on Rus- level of detail that the platforms can easily Ranking Member Dr. David P. Roe (R–TN) sia’s use of social media platforms to influ- provide to the authorities. noted during the hearing, ‘‘The evidence is ence the election, while the third volume fo- Past attempts to address this problem clear that veterans have their identity mis- cused on the shortcomings of Obama Admin- have been piecemeal in nature and have appropriated and that they, like other social istration efforts to combat the ongoing at- proven ineffective to date. This fragmented media users, could be targets for propaganda tacks. The third volume highlighted the lack approach has prevented any wholesale, sys- or scams.’’ Although everyone who uses the of legislative or regulatory action to combat temic efforts to tighten rules or law enforce- internet is subject to online scams, a known threat emanating from Russia and ment protocols. Incremental adjustments spamming, phishing, identity theft, and its intelligence services. The Senate Report have been made by individual platforms, other such risks, veterans are particularly sheds light on the broader issues of misin- which leaves an irregular landscape where susceptible to internet spoofing based on formation campaigns and predatory schemes motivated, corrupt actors may still be able their higher propensity for political engage- targeting veterans presented in a report pre- to exploit weaknesses among the platforms. ment (including running for office, volun- pared by the Vietnam Veterans of America Based on discussions with representatives teering, and sharing political opinions and (VVA). of law enforcement, and considering the information). For the purposes of dissemi- Industry analysts, journalists, and law en- issues raised by the social media platforms nating political propaganda or exerting in- forcement agree that the problems of inter- during the hearing, the Committee believes fluence on dividing Americans on sensitive net spoofing and foreign influence exerted that there are additional measures needed to political ‘‘wedge issues,’’ veterans are tar- through social media continue to grow at an address the growing threats posed by spoof- geted because of their close identification alarming pace. However, neither the major ing. Our recommendations fall into two with strong national security policies, patri- platforms nor the FBI were able to identify broad categories. otism, personal sacrifice, and honor. an obvious or comprehensive solution to this The first category is oriented at users of Chairman Takano stated during the hear- ongoing problem. Both continue to devote social media and is defensive in nature, such ing, ‘‘By impersonating veterans, these for- significant resources towards combatting as teaching users how to be aware of the dan- eign actors are effectively eroding the hard- spoofing. However, the foreign entities who gers posed by spoofers on social media and earned power and integrity of veterans’ perpetrate much of this illicit activity are training them how to protect themselves voices.’’ becoming more sophisticated in their through heightened vigilance, healthy skep- Veterans are more likely to be engaged in schemes and are targeting broader swaths of ticism, and adherence to basic principles of their communities, be perceived as leaders, internet users to more quickly and effi- cyber-hygiene. and can exert influence on political matters ciently disseminate their fraudulent mes- The second category is aimed at putting (particularly with respect to defense and na- saging before they are identified and deacti- the social media platforms and law enforce- tional security matters). Therefore, a suc- vated. ment on the offensive and developing robust

VerDate Sep 11 2014 09:51 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A16DE8.020 E16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with REMARKS December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1159 mechanisms to more effectively identify and International Trade Administration District Of- cancy left by Dick Haley who resigned due to quickly eliminate foreign-based spoofers. fice in Middletown, Connecticut. In that posi- health concerns. Yolanda was a natural choice While the first category is likely to be less tion, she has brought Connecticut businesses to sit on the City Council considering her deep costly and easier to implement, the second knowledge of and involvement in the commu- category may ultimately prove to be more and ingenuity to the global marketplace. As a effective in bringing the threat under con- Department of Commerce Employee, she took nity. She currently serves as the Executive Di- trol. her role as a public servant seriously, pro- rector/CEO of the Corona-Norco Family f viding local businesses with the sort of global YMCA, an organization she has been a part of perspective and expertise they need to grow since 1996. Just prior to her appointment to HONORING THE LEGACY OF JEWEL into new markets. Before joining the Com- the City Council, Yolanda was appointed as a WARE merce Department, Anne worked for decades Planning Commissioner for the City of Coro- in the private sector in her family’s tire busi- na’s Planning and Housing Commission. HON. RASHIDA TLAIB ness and ultimately became a world-recog- Yolanda has served in many different ca- OF MICHIGAN nized leader in tire recycling products in Eu- pacities for her city, county, and state organi- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES rope and the U.S. That background made her zations. She has been a board member of the Corona Police Community Partnership, Co- Wednesday, December 16, 2020 particularly well equipped to assist small busi- nesses cope with the sometimes daunting rona Chamber of Commerce, UNITY, and Ms. TLAIB. Madam Speaker, I rise today to challenges of the global marketplace. Simple Acts of Care and Kindness. She is acknowledge the loss of a great public servant Like all good public servants, Anne’s pas- also a member of the Corona Woman’s Im- for the 13th Congressional District, Wayne sion and enthusiasm comes from a true affec- provement Club, Corona Rotary Noon Club, County Commissioner Jewel Ware, and honor tion for our state and its people. Corona Elks Lodge, the Navy League, among her memory and legacy as a commissioner for Anne has worked to help well over 2,500 many other organizations. I, like many others our district. Connecticut companies export their products in our community, know from experience that First elected in 1994, Ms. Ware was the and attract customers overseas—providing an when Yolanda becomes an advocate of a longest-serving Wayne County Commissioner, enormous economic boon to our State and cause, you better get on board or get out of with a district that covered a large portion of providing a place for Connecticut on the na- the way. Her passion and determination are . She was particularly well-known for tional business stage. Additionally, she has second to none. her commitment to serving senior residents worked extensively with Connecticut veterans I know I speak on behalf of all Corona resi- and her work to improve access to mental and National Guard reservists, spearheading dents in expressing my heartfelt thanks and healthcare. She worked directly with commu- the Veterans Workforce Development Program praise for Yolanda’s many contributions to the nity-based organizations to champion issues and helping countless veterans receive train- City of Corona. I wish Yolanda and her hus- important to the residents of the communities ing and find private sector employment in band, Ed, the very best in the future. she served. Most recently, Commissioner Connecticut. f Ware had sponsored a resolution that would In recent years, Anne worked closely with ban on chokeholds and restraint by police in HONORING PEGGY BREEDEN ON my office on major events to support Con- using deadly force. HER RETIREMENT AS MAYOR OF necticut’s aerospace and defense industries— Beyond her legislative work, Ms. Ware vol- THE CITY OF RIDGECREST and just last year, hundreds of people came to unteered her time and energy in public service Connecticut during the International Space with a number of organizations, including the HON. KEVIN McCARTHY Summit to engage with Connecticut compa- NAACP and The Charles. H. Wright Museum OF CALIFORNIA nies. Anne helped expand agricultural exports of African American History. She spearheaded IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES abroad for smaller family farmers in Con- an annual sock and mitten drive for children in necticut, assisted small suppliers in becoming Wednesday, December 16, 2020 need. Ms. Ware could frequently be found vis- part of the submarine supply chain, and made Mr. MCCARTHY. Madam Speaker, I rise iting senior housing, coordinating services countless connections across industries and today to honor Peggy Breeden, a community such as free income tax preparation. Commis- countries to help create win-win opportunities leader, cancer survivor, friend, and Mayor of sioner Ware also served as a member of Zeta for everyone. Ridgecrest, California. After having led the Phi Beta Incorporated where she dedicated a Anne’s ingenuity, entrepreneurship, and cre- City of Ridgecrest over the last six years, lot of her time to serving others. I am truly ative thinking has been instrumental not just in Peggy is retiring as Mayor. saddened by the loss for our Wayne County helping Connecticut’s economy, but globally. I Peggy was born in Syracuse, New York on and Detroit communities and am deeply grate- have fond memories of the many trade mis- her family’s dairy farm where she and her sib- ful for the time we shared in public service to- sions that she and I organized and led to- lings all worked tending and milking over 100 gether over the last decade. Her passing is gether—from Canada to Northern Ireland to cows that their family raised. In fact, Peggy’s truly a great loss to our district, but her pres- Israel. family farm only received electricity in 1952, ence will forever be felt in our community. making her no stranger to hard work in the Please join me in tribute to Wayne County I thank Anne for her tireless work for Con- necticut. I will truly miss having her at Com- face of adversity. In 1982, she moved to Commissioner Jewel Ware, as we remember Ridgecrest to be with friends and family and her life and extraordinary contributions to merce but look forward to seeing where she lands next. I know that she will be successful went on to own the Swap Sheet, a local ad- Wayne County and the 13th Congressional vertising weekly newspaper. But she also had District. in anything she does in the future. Congratulations on her well-deserved retire- a calling for public service. In addition to man- f ment. aging her business, she served on numerous RECOGNIZING THE RETIREMENT f local boards and foundations, including the In- OF ANNE EVANS dian Wells Valley Water District, Cerro Coso TRIBUTE TO YOLANDA CARRILLO Community College Foundation Board, the HON. JOE COURTNEY Eastern Kern Air Pollution Control District, and OF CONNECTICUT HON. KEN CALVERT the Navy Community Council. She took her commitment to serving the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF CALIFORNIA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES community of Ridgecrest a step further by Wednesday, December 16, 2020 successfully running for Mayor, making history Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise to Wednesday, December 16, 2020 both as Ridgecrest’s first female mayor and as honor an energetic and tireless advocate for Mr. CALVERT. Madam Speaker, I rise today the first elected mayor since the office became Connecticut businesses, Anne Evans, on her to honor and pay tribute to my dear friend Yo- its own position directly elected by city voters. incredible career. When she retires at the end landa Carrillo, who will be stepping down from Peggy’s soft-spoken and unassuming manner of this month, the state will lose one of the the Corona City Council this month. Yolanda should not understate her intense dedication most enthusiastic and genuine advocates for is a passionate advocate and a true leader to Ridgecrest, demonstrated leadership skills, local economic development after a life of who has made a significant lifetime contribu- and political acumen. She showcased these working for and with small and local busi- tion to my hometown of Corona, California. qualities as she dealt with one of the largest nesses. In October of 2018, the Corona City Council crises to ever face Ridgecrest. Anne has served for 13 years as District Di- voted unanimously to approve the appoint- In July 2019, Ridgecrest experienced the rector of the U.S. Department of Commerce ment of Yolanda to the Council to fill the va- largest earthquakes in over 20 years, which

VerDate Sep 11 2014 09:51 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A16DE8.020 E16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with REMARKS E1160 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 16, 2020 included two separate 6.4 and 7.1 magnitude spirit of the people in central and southwest tion, he helped revolutionize the way Central earthquakes that did an estimated $3 billion of Iowa. Sara Bonney is the Chief Marketing Offi- New Yorkers get their news, and throughout damage in the City and to the surrounding cer at the Community Foundation of Greater his career has inspired and mentored some of communities of Eastern Kern County, includ- Des Moines. Over the last 7 years, Sara has the region’s most celebrated reporters and ing Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake. done incredible work to promote the mission media professionals. Peggy sprang into action right away to help of the Community Foundation and make Ron Lombard grew up in Central New York the residents of her community, working tire- meaningful connections between donors and and graduated from Solvay High School be- lessly with State and Federal officials to en- nonprofit organizations in the Des Moines fore going on to study at Syracuse University’s sure that buildings and infrastructure were area. Newhouse School of Public Communications. safe and that residents had access to food, Like many Iowans, Sara grew up on a farm After graduating in 1981, he began his career shelter, and water immediately following the in rural Iowa. Her parents were active mem- working as a reporter for WCBA in Corning, natural disaster. In the aftermath of the earth- bers in their community, constantly finding and in Central New York at WFBL, WSEN, quakes, Peggy successfully worked to ensure ways to give back and volunteer their time. and WSYR. Eventually, Ron secured a posi- that the President of the United States de- Sara’s parents believed everybody has their tion at WSYR as the Assignment Editor, and clared a Major Disaster, which opened Federal own gifts—and that it is their responsibility to later, at the age of 31, began working at assistance programs and funding for displaced use those gifts for giving back to others. This WIXT–TV as the News Director. homeowners, renters, and businessowners so is a value that Sara has carried with her and In 2002, Ron took over as News Director at life could return to normal as quickly as pos- inspired her to pursue a career in nonprofit Time Warner Cable as the company em- sible. work and charitable giving, barked on an ambitious project: launching a However, the earthquakes were not the only The Community Foundation of Great Des 24–hour news channel in Syracuse. Ron was major challenge Peggy helped guide Moines has worked with donors and nonprofits instrumental in the development and direction Ridgecrest through. This past year, she led in the Des Moines metro area for over 50 of the station, working long hours to make this the City through the ongoing coronavirus pan- years. The Community Foundation has estab- dream a reality. In 2003, in recognition of this demic, working with the City Council and resi- lished countless giving funds and grants to work, Ron was given the honor of pushing the dents of the community to make sure that the support projects and organizations which have button to bring the new station to air. Since its City remained financially sound so it could addressed their critical needs—spanning from debut, Time Warner Cable, now Spectrum continue operations, despite the economic education, fine arts, immigration and health News, has become one of the most trusted downturn from various stay-at-home orders. care amongst so many others. and reliable sources of news for Central New Peggy also worked hard to ensure that nego- Over the last year, Sara and her team iden- York, providing around-the-clock coverage to a tiations between the city and the U.S. Navy re- tified an opportunity to make it easier for do- market that has more than 600,000 sub- mained on track to build a new wastewater nors and nonprofits to connect in a way that scribers. Under his leadership, Ron guided the treatment plant on NAWS China Lake to serve would produce more impactful contributions. news team through periods of rapid growth both the interests of the Navy and Ridgecrest. That led to revamping their website and change, all while upholding the station’s This project has seen its ups and downs over givedsm.org. This website works with non- commitment to accuracy. Ron oversaw and the years, but her steadfast commitment to it profits to list their specific needs. In turn, do- helped professionally support a staff of over set the stage to help ensure it will come to fru- nors can access their lists. find organizations 70 photographers, reporters, assignment desk ition. that align with their values, and make contribu- editors, and producers. While her achievements as Mayor may have tions that will have greater impacts on the re- Outside of work, Ron is dedicating to giving made headlines, Peggy’s tenure as Mayor is cipients. back to his hometown. He is deeply involved best defined by the everyday interactions she Givedsm.org is just one of the many with the Brewerton United Methodist Church, has with the people of Ridgecrest. Through projects Sara has worked on in the last 7 and for many years served on the boards of devastating earthquakes and a rapidly spread- years. When asked what inspires her to con- Leadership Greater Syracuse and the McMa- ing virus, to working to address sustainable tinue doing her work, Sara cites her amaze- hon Ryan Child Advocacy Center, which sup- groundwater policies and supporting the mu- ment at the charitable nature of Iowans. Over ports children who have suffered from abuse. tual interests of China Lake and Ridgecrest, the last year, thousands of Iowans have faced He is a proud husband to his wife Deb and fa- Ridgecrest residents have always been able to extreme hardships due to coronavirus. One ther to his daughter, Abby. count on Peggy to have their back. might think this would negatively impact the At Spectrum News and throughout his ca- It has been an honor to work alongside number of contributions received on reer, Ron has been known for his outstanding Mayor Peggy Breeden over the past six years givedsm.org. However, the Community Foun- work ethic, impeccable reputation, and com- while she served in elected office for dation has seen an exponential increase in the mitment to mentoring the next generation of Ridgecrest, and I am proud to count her as a number of donations they have received reporters and media professionals. His impact friend. I cannot thank her enough for her work through the website. is far-reaching and will be celebrated for years in our community over the years. On behalf of As Sara likes to say: when Iowans rise, we to come. the Ridgecrest community and the 23rd Con- rise together. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues gressional District, I want to wish her the best Sara’s extraordinary commitment to sup- in the House join me in recognizing the distin- as she leaves public service and begins the porting nonprofits in our community has guished career of Ron Lombard. A revolu- next chapter of her life. widereaching impacts on people in all walks of tionary figure in Central New York news, I life. A lifelong Iowan, Sara hopes her work wish Ron Lombard the best in his retirement. f continues to make Iowa a better home for f HONORING SARA BONNEY AS generations to come. IOWAN OF THE WEEK We are incredibly fortunate to have people HONORING CORAL ERIKSEN, THE like Sara in Iowa’s Third District. It is my honor OWNER OF CORAL’S CORNER HON. CYNTHIA AXNE to recognize her as our Iowan of the Week. AND CONES OF CAMBRIDGE, NEW f OF IOWA YORK, FOR HER EXEMPLARY EN- TREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HONORING THE CAREER OF RON LOMBARD Wednesday, December 16, 2020 HON. ELISE M. STEFANIK Mrs. AXNE. Madam Speaker, this week, OF NEW YORK many of us took the opportunity to observe HON. OF NEW YORK IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Giving Tuesday by contributing to nonprofit or- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ganizations that support those in need and Wednesday, December 16, 2020 help us build a better community. Wednesday, December 16, 2020 Ms. STEFANIK. Madam Speaker, I rise Since 2012, Giving Tuesday has stood as a Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to today to honor Coral Eriksen, owner of Coral’s reminder to each of us to do good and to give honor the distinguished career of Ron Lom- Corner and Cones, for her exceptional entre- what we can to help others in more need than bard, as he retires after nearly 40 years in preneurial spirit and her dedication to commu- ourselves. I rise today to ask the House of Central New York news. nity service. Representatives to join me in honoring an ex- Ron is giant in local media. A key player in Coral’s Corner and Cones is a greenhouse ceptional Iowan who exemplifies the charitable developing the region’s first 24-hour news sta- nursery, owned and operated by high school

VerDate Sep 11 2014 09:51 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A16DE8.024 E16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with REMARKS December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1161 entrepreneur, Coral. I recently had the pleas- CELEBRATING LIEUTENANT COLO- the Emergency Nurses Association. Com- ure of touring Coral’s Corner, where I wit- NEL PATRICK BAKER ON HIS RE- prised of 51,000 members worldwide, the nessed the hard work that Coral puts into TIREMENT Emergency Nurses Association, or ENA, is the growing and selling her products while bal- only professional organization dedicated to ad- ancing her academic responsibilities. Through HON. MO BROOKS vancing excellence in emergency nursing. collection and recycling of gardening products, OF ALABAMA Founded in 1970, ENA has become the partnerships with other local vendors, and cus- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES world’s premier organization for emergency tomer-appreciation events, Coral has estab- nurses. It was originally established to set lished her business as a generous and com- Wednesday, December 16, 2020 standards for best practices in emergency passionate figure in the community. Coral’s Mr. BROOKS of Alabama. Madam Speaker, nursing care and has since worked to provide Corner has been in business for just over a I rise today to recognize American patriot both continuing education programs and a year and has expanded to an additional loca- Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) Patrick Josh Baker representative voice for emergency nurses. tion in response to strong community interest. on the occasion of his retirement from the ENA has successfully raised awareness and Businesses like Coral’s Corner are vital to Army. America is more secure thanks to LTC improved outcomes for our nation’s trauma the economic livelihood of the North Country. Baker’s dedicated service, Alabama’s 5th Dis- patients. Sadly, traumatic injuries such as Entrepreneurship drives job growth and sus- trict is proud of LTC Baker, and I extend my head injuries, bums, and those resulting from tainability and creates the opportunity for indi- sincere gratitude to him and his family for their car crashes, falls, and firearms are currently viduals to turn passions into careers. Coral’s many sacrifices over his twenty-one year Army the leading cause of death for Americans drive to pursue her passion from a young age career. aged 44 years or younger. ENA offers courses makes her a tremendous role model for both LTC Baker received his Bachelor’s Degree for emergency nurses that provide them with her peers and adults. Her commitment to in Aviation Management at Auburn University the knowledge, skills, and hands-on training growing and selling quality products while also in 1999, Following graduation, he completed needed to deliver high-quality trauma care. giving back to her community reflects exem- Initial Entry Rotary Winged Training at Fort Since its inception in 1986, ENA’s critical trau- plary professionalism and maturity. Rucker, Alabama. LTC Baker was later as- ma nursing core course has been taken by On behalf of New York’s 21st District, I signed to the 101st Airborne Division as an At- more than one million emergency nurses and would like to thank Coral for her entrepre- tack Platoon Leader in 2–101 Attack Recon- is now considered the gold standard for the neurial spirit and dedication to her community, naissance Battalion (ARB). education of nurses in lifesaving trauma care and I congratulate Coral’s Corner and Cones In 2003, LTC Baker was deployed to sup- techniques. on a successful first year in business. port Operation Iraqi Freedom 1 (OIF) as a Pla- ENA’s advocacy for the recently enacted toon Leader and Liaison Officer. Upon re-de- Military Injury Surgical Systems Integrated f ployment from OIF 1, he attended the Army Operationally Nationwide to Achieve ZERO Aviation Captain’s Career Course and Mainte- Preventable Deaths Act, known as the MIS- TRIBUTE TO S.R. ‘‘AL’’ LOPEZ nance Managers program. Later, in OIF 06– SION ZERO Act, has led to the creation of an 08, LTC Baker served as the Company Com- innovative program allowing military trauma HON. KEN CALVERT mander in the C/1–227th and D/1–227th ARB. teams and professionals to work in civilian After ‘‘The Surge’’ in Baghdad, LTC Baker trauma centers to ensure the highest quality OF CALIFORNIA transferred to the Army Acquisition Corps, trauma care in both peace and war. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES where he served as an Executive Officer in Last but certainly not least, ENA also effec- Wednesday, December 16, 2020 the Executive Office for Aviation. In 2013, LTC tively raises awareness about workplace vio- lence directed towards emergency nurses and Mr. CALVERT. Madam Speaker, I rise today Baker received his MBA in Systems Acquisi- other emergency department personnel. It has to pay tribute to and congratulate Director S.R. tion Management from the Naval Post Grad- advocated at both the State and Federal level ‘‘Al’’ Lopez for his nearly two decades of dedi- uate School in Monterey, California. to enact laws that hold those who assault cated service to Western Municipal Water Dis- From 2013 to 2016, LTC Baker served as healthcare workers in hospitals accountable trict (Western). I have had the pleasure of the Army Aviation Program’s Legislative Liai- for their actions. knowing Al for decades, and while his service son for the House and Senate Armed Services As Co-Chair of the Congressional Nursing on the Western Board is coming to a close Committees. Afterward, he trained with Indus- Caucus, I ask our colleagues to join me in this month, I know he will continue to be a try Fellows assigned to General Dynamics congratulating the Emergency Nurses Asso- leader in our community. Land Systems in Michigan. Finally, LTC Baker settled in Huntsville, AL where he has served ciation on its 50th anniversary and extending After serving as a Council Member on the as the Product Lead for Joint Attack Munition our gratitude to its members for their commit- Corona City Council from 1982 to 1994, Al Systems (JAMS) since 2017. ment to improving the quality of emergency was first elected and joined Western’s Board Throughout his career, LTC Baker has been care which has helped save the lives of mil- of Directors in January of 2001. He represents the recipient of many awards and decorations. lions of Americans. Division 5, which includes my hometown of A sampling of these are: The Bronze Star Corona, Home Gardens, El Cerrito, and a por- f Medal, the Air Medal, the Meritorious Service tion of Temescal Canyon. Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, and THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MRS. Al has been an active community partner the Combat Action. Airborne, Air Assault and ROSIE LEE ATCHISON throughout his service on the board. He rep- Senior Army Aviation badges. resented Western on committees for several Madam Speaker, LTC Patrick Josh Baker HON. DANNY K. DAVIS agencies, including the Western Riverside has unceasingly provided the highest stand- OF ILLINOIS County Regional Wastewater Authority; the ards of commitment to duty. His service to our IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Temescal Valley Municipal Advisory Council; great country is a true gift to the American Wednesday, December 16, 2020 and the Association of California Water Agen- people. cies Joint Powers Insurance Authority Liability I wish LTC Patrick Josh Baker and his fam- Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Committee. In addition, Al served as West- ily the very best as he ends his twenty-one Speaker, to live to become 109 years old in ern’s alternate representative for the Santa years of service in the U.S. Army. this country or any country is quite a feat. Rosa Regional Resources Authority Com- f Such has been the life and legacy of Mrs. mittee and the Joint Inland-Orange County Rosie Atchison who was born on August 15th, Caucuses. His leadership in the region in- 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE EMER- 1911 in Bolivar Mississippi and passed away cludes membership on Western’s Finance GENCY NURSES ASSOCIATION on November 23rd, 2020. Her birth mother Committee and his roles on the joint commit- passed away when Rosie was just six weeks tees of Western and Elsinore Valley Municipal HON. DAVID P. JOYCE old and she was taken into the care of her fa- Water Districts. OF OHIO ther Mr. Henry Liner who raised her as the Al is a great American, a veteran, a true IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 2nd oldest of 27 children whom he fathered. public servant, and a friend. I want to join our Rosie grew up in Clarksdale, Mississippi entire region in thanking Al for his many years Wednesday, December 16, 2020 where she lived a typical life for blacks in that of dedicated service and I wish him the very Mr. JOYCE of Ohio. Madam Speaker, I rise area, she worked the fields, went to church, best in his next chapter. today in recognition of the 50th anniversary of got married had two children, lost a child, got

VerDate Sep 11 2014 09:51 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A16DE8.027 E16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with REMARKS E1162 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 16, 2020 tired of the fields and a failed marriage, took EXPRESSING CONDOLENCES AND stretch of Mississippi highway was named for her two children and migrated to Chicago CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF him, and he performed a special Christmas looking for a better life and that is exactly what CHARLEY FRANK PRIDE performance for President and Mrs. Clinton at she found. With faith in God she joined Great- the White House. er Salem Missionary Baptist Church where the HON. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON He was inducted into the Country Music Hall renowned gospel singer Mahalia Jackson was OF TEXAS of Fame in 2000. In 2008 Charley Pride’s tal- a member and she also sang in the choir. She IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ent earned him the state of Mississippi’s top met and married her second husband Mr. An- arts award for Lifetime Achievement in the Wednesday, December 16, 2020 drew Atchison who worked for the Diamond 2008 Governor’s Awards for Excellence in the Glue Factory. She found a job cleaning rail Ms. JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, Arts. cars for the Pennsylvania Railroad and worked it is with great sorrow that I acknowledge the Madam Speaker, on Saturday, December there until her retirement in 1970. passing of Charley Frank Pride, but with great 12, 2020 Texas and this Nation has lost the Mrs. Atchison and her husband became joy that I recall his storied career as an artist, presence of one of its most humble and tal- very productive citizens and developed a rep- gifted musician and professional baseball play- ented individuals on many fronts in American utation for helping others less fortunate than er, and with even greater joy that I recall our life. Charley’s loss will be deeply felt among themselves and she became known to many significant friendship. many, but his work will not. His caring nature, as big mama. Rosie and her family lived in the Charley Frank Pride was born in Sledge, his artistic work and for me more importantly, mecca building in the heart of the Bronzeville Mississippi, on March 18, 1938. Charley’s par- his friendship will live forever. community until they were forced out to make ents were both sharecroppers and cotton pick- f room for the Illinois Institute of Technology. ers. Since he was young and couldn’t decide They protested and held marches around city for himself what he could or couldn’t do, he RECOGNIZING ETERNAL LIGHT hall but lost. After her husband died she pur- was forced to pick cotton as a child. However, FOOD PANTRY chased a 2 flat building in the Englewood he grew up listening to country music. He community and kept on helping people. walked around the house singing songs of HON. RASHIDA TLAIB On November 23, 2020, after 109 years Hank Williams and Roy Acuff. OF MICHIGAN Rosie passed away leaving 2 daughters, 15 At the age of six, he found himself listening IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES to the Grand Ole Opry on the country music grandchildren, 60 great grandchildren, 95 Wednesday, December 16, 2020 great great grandchildren and 24 great, great, radio station. At one time, Charley was given great, great, grandchildren, one sister Jose- the nickname ‘‘Mocking Bird’’ by a neighbor Ms. TLAIB. Madam Speaker, I rise today in phine Liner Wilson and a host of nieces, neph- who says Charley’s daily chores were to sing recognition of Eternal Light Food Pantry, an ews, cousins, friends and extended family. each morning and to play baseball. organization based in Dearborn Heights, What a life, what a legacy. When Charley Pride was fourteen, he Michigan that serves residents through food bought his first guitar from Sears and Roebuck assistance to the families of Wayne County. f and taught himself how to play by listening to Founder, Sam Bazzi, was moved and in- different songs on the radio. Charley didn’t spired by the hardship facing many working HONORING JOSH HURLBERT want to follow his father’s footsteps. His plan families and other vulnerable populations in was to become famous in baseball, but his our district. He started the Eternal Light food HON. SAM GRAVES dream was to be a country singer. At the age pantry to assist community members strug- of seventeen, he began to seek his fortune. gling with food apartheid. He and his team of OF MISSOURI In 1958, he played baseball in the American volunteers have served countless residents, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Negro League for the Birmingham Black Bar- including forty-two thousand people in 2020 Wednesday, December 16, 2020 ons. But his baseball career didn’t last long. alone as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. Charley stated ‘‘I’m not a black man singing Through the community connections created Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Madam Speaker, white man music, I am an American singing by delivering meals and food baskets, Mr. I proudly pause to thank Josh Hurlbert for his American music. I worked out those problem Bazzi has gone above and beyond, referring many meaningful years of service to the Sixth years ago, and everybody else will have to those in need to social services organizations, Congressional District of Missouri. work their way out of it too.’’ That was the end and even helping to raise funeral funds for an- Josh has been an invaluable member of my of Charley Pride’s baseball career. other individual. Mr. Bazzi’s commitment to team in the Sixth Congressional District for Later Charley had an audition for Jack community and service are unparalleled and twelve years. Getting his start as a volunteer Clement, a song writer and record producer. truly a reflection of how the 13th Congres- for the office, Josh has worked his way After the audition, Charley proved to Chet sional District has continued to show up for through several positions on my staff. From Atkins and the manager for the Mets that he each other during these difficult times. I am Staff Assistant to Caseworker to Senior Field wasn’t trying to fit in with the whites, he was truly grateful for the work of Sam Bazzi and Representative—Josh is truly a jack of all just a business man singing American music. Eternal Light for answering the call to service trades. Josh also served the district in his role Chet Atkins, vice-president of RCA recording and helping those who are in need the most. as Smithville Alderman. His untiring work ethic in Nashville, realized that Charley Pride’s Please join me in tribute to Eternal Light and vast knowledge of federal agencies and country singing was a talent. This led Pride to Food Pantry, for its outstanding service to the state issues alike have made him a crucial a RCA recording contract. people of Michigan’s 13th District. member of my staff. Two of his best and popular records are f Josh’s dedication and leadership has not Snakes Crawl at Night, and Just Between You gone unnoticed by voters in Missouri. Upon and Me, which earned a Grammy in 1968. TRIBUTE TO CLARENCE LEROY leaving my staff, Josh will continue his service Pride’s first number one hit on the singles FLEMING to the State of Missouri as a member of the chart was (‘‘All I Have to Offer You Is Me’’ in Missouri House of Representatives. As the 1964. ‘‘Kiss an Angel Good Morning’’ was a HON. KEN CALVERT Representative for the Twelfth District, Josh million-selling crossover single recorded in OF CALIFORNIA will continue to honorably represent the resi- 1971. Charley Pride has more than 36 number IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES dents of North Missouri and ensure that their one country singles. He has produced more Wednesday, December 16, 2020 voices are heard by the government. I look than 35 albums. forward to working with him to continue to im- On May 1, 1993, Pride joined the Grand Ole Mr. CALVERT. Madam Speaker, I rise today prove the lives of our shared constituents. Opry. In 1994, the Academy Of Country Music to honor and pay tribute to my good friend Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join presented him with its prestigious Pioneer Clarence LeRoy Fleming, who passed away me in recognizing Josh Hurlbert for his com- Award. In 1994 his autobiography Pride: The on Saturday, November 7, 2020. Leroy was a mitment to not just Missouri’s Sixth Congres- Charley Pride Story was published by William tireless and compassionate member of our sional District, but the entire state of Missouri. Morrow. In 1996, he received a Trumpet community and he will be deeply missed. I am honored to have had him on my team for Award by Turner Broadcasting, marking out- LeRoy was born on August 21, 1939 in 12 years and I am excited to see him continue standing African-American Achievement. Afton, Iowa to the late William Donald Fleming as a leader in the Missouri House of Rep- His song ‘‘Roll On Mississippi’’ was consid- and Virgie ‘‘Dee’’ Jeter Fleming. After attend- resentatives. ered as the official song of his home state, a ing Afton High School, LeRoy worked for the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 09:51 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A16DE8.031 E16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with REMARKS December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1163 Iowa Department of Transportation and at- Unfortunately, a vestige of this practice still re- In his free time, Berry loved the outdoors, tended a training program at Iowa State Uni- mains in the form of forced labor as a function golf, fishing, and entertaining friends and fam- versity. He moved to California in 1962 work- of prison sentences. This proposed constitu- ily at Lake Uneva. Berry cherished his hunts ing as a lunch truck driver at Orange County tional amendment would end this practice. with his band of brothers at the Sanborn Food Service. In the summer of 1963, LeRoy These pieces of legislation are fully drafted Ranch Duck Club and his annual pheasant met the love of his life, Sylvia. They became and ready for filing. hunt in South Dakota. Berry was an active engaged soon after and were married in Au- The third piece of legislation is one which member of the Broadmoor Golf Club, the El gust of 1964. Once married, LeRoy and Sylvia would expunge all records of nonviolent of- Paso Club, the Garden of the Gods Club, and settled in my hometown of Corona, California. fenders impacted by the ‘‘war on drugs’’ and the Vail Valley Foundation. It was in Vail In 1974, LeRoy and Sylvia purchased the other various crime bills for any state and local where he developed lasting friendships with Park N’ Eat Drive In from Sylvia’s mother, government that is the recipient of federal former President , Senator Jack Anna Ensley. In 1984 after outgrowing their crime dollars. Kemp, and Clint Eastwood. 6th Street location they moved to a larger lo- f Today, on behalf of Colorado’s 5th Congres- cation on Industrial Way in Corona. The busi- HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY sional District, we celebrate Mr. Craddock’s ness soon grew to over 65 lunch trucks. To- OF JAMES BERRY CRADDOCK impactful life and legacy, he was truly one of gether, LeRoy and Sylvia owned and operated a kind. May it be of comfort to his family and Park N’ Eat Industrial Catering for 39 years in friends that we all pray for them during this Corona. In addition to being a successful busi- HON. sad time. May Mr. James Berry Craddock rest nessman, LeRoy was a well-known and re- OF COLORADO in peace. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES spected fundraiser for many community orga- f nizations within Corona. LeRoy truly had a Wednesday, December 16, 2020 IN RECOGNITION OF KAREN servant’s heart and devoted much of his time Mr. LAMBORN. Madam Speaker, I rise to KLOTZ’S PUBLIC SERVICE TO to helping the community, but his two favorite recognize the life and legacy of Mr. James VIRGINIA’S FIRST DISTRICT groups were the Corona Elks and Corona Berry Craddock of Colorado Springs, Colo- Host Lions. rado. James Berry Craddock sadly passed In addition to his wife, Sylvia, LeRoy is sur- away on November 5, 2020. I extend my HON. ROBERT J. WITTMAN vived by his children: Deanna (Dean), Robert deepest condolences to his loving wife, Linda, OF VIRGINIA (Rebecca), Jennifer (Eric), six grandchildren, their sons, Matthew Ryan (Jenny), Michael IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and one great-grandchild. He is also survived Lewis (Michelle), and James Berry (Amy); 10 Wednesday, December 16, 2020 by six younger brothers and sisters. I extend grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; his Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise my heartfelt condolences to the Fleming fam- brothers, Roy Rall and Joseph Rall; and sister, today in recognition of Karen Klotz’s dedicated ily, his friends, and everyone fortunate enough Mary Lou Kaiser and to all of those who were public service to Virginia’s First Congressional to know LeRoy. Although LeRoy may be gone, privileged to call him a friend. Berry’s life, fam- District. After over six years of her crucial and the many contributions he made to his com- ily, and spirit are a testament to the American impactful work with my office, Karen will be munity and family will have a lasting impact. dream, fortitude, drive, work ethic, humor, and leaving my Stafford District Office at the end f full enjoyment of all this life offered. of the month. Karen has been a crucial mem- James Berry Craddock was born on Janu- ber of the team and of service Virginia’s First PROBLEM WITH OUR PRISONS ary 12, 1935 in Pueblo, Colorado. When Berry Congressional District, and she will be missed. was five years old, he skinned his knee play- Karen has always been available to help a ing outside and developed Osteomyelitis, but HON. KWANZA HALL constituent in need regardless of the issue. was saved by a new drug at the time, peni- OF GEORGIA There has never been a case too difficult that cillin. Despite having to learn to walk again, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Karen was unable to handle. Karen especially Mr. Craddock never let his disability define or Wednesday, December 16, 2020 enjoyed researching and solving the more un- hinder him in any way. He was known as a usual and complicated cases. She has an un- Mr. HALL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to risk-taker and an accomplished skier, racing paralleled knowledge of the intricacies of navi- draw attention to the problem with our prisons. the slalom and the downhill. Berry even re- gating federal agencies. She is a thoughtful Earlier today I included in the RECORD a ceived his first appearance in the local paper and compassionate person whose resourceful- hyperlink to an article from Reuters. The arti- for rafting down the Royal Gorge on a one- cle draws attention to private prisons, the ness has been an asset to this office. man raft. Madam Speaker, I ask that you rise with me death penalty, and Covid. These are long- Berry graduated from Canon City High to recognize Karen Klotz and her years of standing scourges in our criminal justice sys- School and attended the University of Colo- dedicated work for the constituents in Vir- tem. Also on that list of problems but not men- rado, graduating in Civil Engineering and Busi- ginia’s First District. Karen exemplifies what a tioned in that article are life sentences, the ness Management. After college, he worked true public servant should be, and I wish her federal sentencing guidelines, and solitary designing warehouses at Welbourne Construc- the best of luck in her future career and jour- confinement. tion Company. It was at Welbourne Construc- ney. I had supplemented to my earlier statement, tion where Berry pioneered twin tee construc- and to the article, an appropriations proposal tion and designed what would become known f that, were I here during the appropriations throughout Colorado and New Mexico as ‘‘The HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE process, I would have submitted so that it may Craddock Building’’. OF OFFICER THOMAS PYRCZ be integrated into future appropriations vehi- On June 24, 1967, Berry married his wife, cles. I submitted this article, along with trou- Linda, of 52 years. Soon after their marriage, HON. JOE COURTNEY bling Georgia statistics. Berry and Linda moved to Colorado Springs OF CONNECTICUT I would also note that I am submitting this where they raised their sons, Matthew, James, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES statement and article on the same day that I and Michael. Mr. Craddock was known as a introduced three pieces of legislation: family man and he frequently stated that his Wednesday, December 16, 2020 The first will seek to eliminate qualified im- biggest legacy was his three sons. He was Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise munity in police misconduct cases. Often fiercely proud of them and their accomplish- today to mourn the passing of a remarkable times, police officers, when confronted with al- ments, their families, and their character. person and protector of the people, Officer legations of official misconduct, will invoke It was also in Colorado Springs where Berry Thomas ‘‘Tommy’’ Pyrcz of Enfield, Con- qualified immunity as a shield to liability. It is brought his vision to life and started Craddock necticut. Officer Pyrcz was only 66 when he very difficult for putative plaintiffs/victims of po- Development Company. With only $5,000 to passed away suddenly on December 2nd, lice misconduct to surmount this privilege. This his name and help from his business partners, 2020 at the Enfield Police Department, an in- bill, if enacted into law, would end qualified im- Berry built a real estate empire that lasts to stitution he served in one capacity or another munity throughout the nation and make it easi- this day. Berry was a fierce advocate of the for 50 years. He was a lifelong resident of the er to hold police accountable. Pikes Peak Region and constructed over 300 town of Enfield, Connecticut. The second piece of legislation is a constitu- buildings in his career, from hotels, to res- It is hard to think of a man more devoted to tional amendment, and concerns forced labor. taurants, warehouses, offices, and self-storage their local community than Tommy Pyrcz. Al- The Thirteenth Amendment ended slavery. facilities. ways true to his town, drawn to public safety,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 09:51 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A16DE8.035 E16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with REMARKS E1164 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 16, 2020 he took the initiative to join the Enfield chapter Mr. Rayburn was not only good at repairing TRIBUTE TO JASON SCOTT of Police Explorers before even graduating cars, but was also interested in community from Enrico Fermi High School in 1972. He politics, social service activities and was a HON. KEN CALVERT was regularly and rightfully rewarded for his great financial supporter of community causes. OF CALIFORNIA devoted service after graduating—first becom- He, Garfield Major, Willie Barney, The Knox IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ing an auxiliary officer, then an assistant dog Family at the hardware store, Cliff Duwel warden, and police dispatcher. Each and White, Walker Harris the iceman, Dave at the Wednesday, December 16, 2020 every one of these positions ultimately pre- hot dog stand and Rev. Murphy at Rose of Mr. CALVERT. Madam Speaker, I rise today pared him to join the force as a full patrol offi- Sharon Cleaners became the heart of busi- to honor and pay tribute to my good friend cer in 1979. ness support group in the area. Mr. Rayburn Jason Scott, who will be stepping down from Thomas Pyrcz’s career at his town’s police loved his business and loved the Lawndale the Corona City Council this month after serv- department would continue on for another 40 Community. After he was no longer actively ing the city for twelve years. Jason is the em- years. During those 40 years, he went on to working, he would come up to the shop and bodiment of a public servant, who has made serve as a leader of the police department’s sit around talking with customers and giving an invaluable lifetime contribution to my home- accreditation team for 20 years, working with people advice. He was a great mechanic, a town of Corona, California. his colleagues to hone their skills and build great businessman, a great family man, a Throughout his life, Jason has dedicated upon the mission of strengthening the stand- great community leader, and he will be greatly himself to educating the next generation of ards exemplified by the Enfield Police Depart- missed. Riverside County citizens. In a career that ment and its officers. This work not only in- f spanned four decades, from 1979 to 2019, fused new techniques and technology to im- Jason worked as a teacher and principal for prove public safety, but also infused the com- TRIBUTE TO VIVIAN SPADY the Corona-Norco Unified School District. In munity values that reflect the town of Enfield. 2008, Jason was elected to the Corona City The high quality of his work was recognized HON. ELIOT L. ENGEL Council, where he would be selected on three across the state when he was named Vice OF NEW YORK occasions by his peers to serve as mayor. President of the Connecticut Police Accredita- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES During his time on the City Council, Jason tion Coalition in 2013, advancing standards in Wednesday, December 16, 2020 was chosen to represent the city on the West- policing across the state. After a long career ern Riverside Council of Governments Board spanning 50 years, he retired from the depart- Mr. ENGEL. Madam Speaker, it is an honor of Directors. Corona experienced significant ment in August of last year. to recognize one of the finest community lead- growth during Jason’s tenure, and his leader- Officer Pyrcz service to his community did ers in New York’s Sixteenth Congressional ship and experience helped the city tackle a not end with retirement. After ‘‘pulling the pin’’ District, Vivian Spady. number of challenges and seize opportunities from uniformed service, he quickly returned to Vivian Spady has lived in New Rochelle her presented by that expansion. his work as a civilian accreditation manager in entire life; her family’s roots in the area run Jason has worked tirelessly through his October 2019. His sudden loss leaves a deep- deep. As a mother, grandmother, and commu- deeds to causes other than his own. He has ly felt void at the Enfield Police Department. nity activist, Vivian has been providing oppor- long been an active member of many commu- Madam Speaker, Thomas Pyrcz represents tunities to meet the needs of those around her nity organizations in the city of Corona and what it should mean to be a police officer: an for decades. In 2012, her long-standing vision has served as a Board Member for the integral member of one’s community. At a fu- took shape when she launched her non-profit Friends of the Corona Public Library, United neral service at Enfield’s St. Adalbert’s Church organization—Big Viv’s Foundation. It started Way, UNITY, and Corona Fire Safety Founda- family, friends and former colleagues such as with a successful Christmas toy drive. Ever tion. He is a member of the Corona Elks, Co- former Chief Carl Sferrazza and current Chief since, she has worked hard to provide neces- rona History Association, Corona-Norco PTA, Alaric Fox spoke movingly of his life of caring sities and a sense of community to those who and the Corona Historic Preservation Society. and giving. His life should be an example to are most in need. In addition to Christmas toy Jason shared his life for 30 years with his wife all. Madam Speaker, please join me in ex- drives, her annual events include Thanks- Dee until her passing in February 2017 of pressing the deepest condolences of the U.S. giving turkey drives, Easter egg hunts, winter pancreatic cancer following a two-year battle. House of Representatives to Officer Thomas clothing drives for the homeless and a Moth- During and after that incredibly difficult period, Pyrcz’s wife Lynn, his children Steven and er’s Day brunch for seniors. Vivian’s events I was truly inspired by Jason’s strength and Julie and our hope that the outpouring of af- have been show-cased in local media, most will to keep working and advocating for others. fection and appreciation from the community recently in Lohud, the Westchester/Rockland I know I speak on behalf of all residents in gives them some solace. news. expressing my heartfelt thanks and praise for Bringing children opportunities to learn and f Jason’s significant contributions to the City of grow is one of Vivian’s biggest joys. With her Corona. I look forward to seeing Jason around TRIBUTE TO MR. LEE RAYBURN resourcefulness and drive, dozens of youth town, and I wish him the very best in the fu- PIONEER WESTSIDE OF CHICAGO have attended shows and events including the ture. BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY Monster Jam Auto Show, Liberty and Knicks f LEADER basketball games, and trips to the New York State capital. Focusing on young women, Viv- HONORING THE LIFE OF JOHN HON. DANNY K. DAVIS ian has developed a girl’s night out program to REALE, SR. OF ILLINOIS foster a sense of security and fun while focus- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ing on health and hygiene. Vivian has em- HON. JOHN KATKO bodied the principle of teaching youth by Wednesday, December 16, 2020 OF NEW YORK sending children to Iona Prep summer camp IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam and the habitat for humanity builder’s camp. Speaker, the Almighty God has called to his The horrific coronavirus pandemic has not Wednesday, December 16, 2020 eternal rest Mr. Lee Rayburn, a skilled me- stopped Vivian, she held numerous outdoor Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to chanic and business leader who became a events during the summer and fall for New honor the life of John ‘‘Jack’’ Reale, Sr., who legend on the westside of Chicago in the auto- Rochelle children, distributed over 100 turkeys passed away at the age of 91 on November mobile repair business. I met Mr. Rayburn in for Thanksgiving and is continuing with her an- 24, 2020. Mr. Reale was a devoted husband, the late 1960’s when one of my staffer Ms. Ar- nual toy drive. No matter what happens, Viv- father, and grandfather, and a respected and lene Granderson introduced me to Mr. Nate ian is unstoppable, she has persevered accomplished engineer in our community. Irwin who was her mechanic and was working through recovery from pancreatic cancer to A lifelong Central New Yorker, Mr. Reale at Rayburns Automobile Repair Shop at Roo- this year, hospitalization for coronavirus. was born during the Great Depression into a sevelt and Independence. Mr. Irwin became Madam Speaker, Vivian Spady embodies family of Italian immigrants on the North Side my mechanic and my friend as did his boss, the best of what we, as Americans, can be. I of Syracuse. He attended North High School Mr. Rayburn. For more than fifty years Mr. am proud to know her and to have served her and went on to study electrical engineering at Rayburn and his mechanics repaired my cars, in Congress. Her work continues and the re- Syracuse University. He graduated with Bach- fixed my flats, and preformed tow services, sults of her unwavering commitment will ben- elor’s and Master’s degrees, and completed whenever I needed them. I soon learned that efit generations of New Rochelle residents. several Ph.D. courses.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 09:51 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A16DE8.039 E16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with REMARKS December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1165 In 1958, Mr. Reale was hired as a radar an- member of Our Lady of Pompei Church and tees, and committees of conference. tenna designer by General Electric. An inno- the Men’s Holy Name Society. Mr. Reale was This title requires all such committees vator by nature, Mr. Reale holds four U.S. pat- a loving husband to his wife, Jeanette, and to notify the Office of the Senate Daily ents and one international patent for his radar role-model to his five children and eight grand- Digest—designated by the Rules Com- antenna designs. He designed the PAR radar children. mittee—of the time, place and purpose antenna, which revolutionized radar antenna Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the of the meetings, when scheduled and design, and the PAR radar, which became the House to join me in recognizing Mr. John any cancellations or changes in the largest radar instillation in the world. Later in Reale, Sr. A cherished member of our Central meetings as they occur. his career, Mr. Reale designed the antenna for New York community, Mr. Reale will be deeply As an additional procedure along the Over-the-Horizon radar, which is currently missed. I ask my colleagues to keep him and with the computerization of this infor- the largest radar in the world. Today, many of his family in mind as we celebrate his life. mation, the Office of the Senate Daily Mr. Reale’s designs are still in use, serving to f Digest will prepare this information for detect and track ballistic missiles and protect SENATE COMMITTEE MEETINGS printing in the Extensions of Remarks our nation against foreign threats. Title IV of Senate Resolution 4, section of the CONGRESSIONAL RECORD Outside of his career, Mr. Reale was an ac- agreed to by the Senate of February 4, on Monday and Wednesday of each tive member of his community. After retiring, 1977, calls for establishment of a sys- week. he began a weekly luncheon club for retired tem for a computerized schedule of all Meetings scheduled for Thursday, De- engineers. He thoroughly enjoyed playing meetings and hearings of Senate com- cember 17, 2020 may be found in the handball, golf, and tennis, and was an active mittees, subcommittees, joint commit- Daily Digest of today’s record.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 09:51 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16DE8.043 E16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with REMARKS Wednesday, December 16, 2020 Daily Digest Senate A. Mikulski Room’’, in recognition of their service Chamber Action to the Senate and the people of the United States. Routine Proceedings, pages S7511–S7562 Page S7557 Measures Introduced: Sixteen bills and one resolu- Consider Teachers Act: Committee on Health, tion were introduced, as follows: S. 5024–5039, and Education, Labor, and Pensions was discharged from S. Res. 803. Page S7542 further consideration of S. 1387, to amend the Measures Reported: Higher Education Act of 1965 in order to improve S. 4077, to amend the Unfunded Mandates Re- the service obligation verification process for form Act of 1995 to provide for regulatory impact TEACH Grant recipients, and the bill was then analyses for certain rules, with an amendment. (S. passed, after agreeing to the following amendment Rept. No. 116–333) proposed thereto: Pages S7557–58 Report to accompany S. 4054, to reauthorize the Moran (for Braun) Amendment No. 2710, in the United States Grain Standards Act. (S. Rept. No. nature of a substitute. Page S7557 116–334) Page S7542 CFO Vision Act: Senate passed S. 3287, to mod- Measures Passed: ify the governmentwide financial management plan, after agreeing to the committee amendment in the National Landslide Preparedness Act: Senate nature of a substitute, and the following amendment passed H.R. 8810, to establish a national program to proposed thereto: Pages S7558–61 identify and reduce losses from landslide hazards, to Moran (for Enzi) Amendment No. 2711, of a per- establish a national 3D Elevation Program. fecting nature. Page S7560 Page S7556 Reporting Efficiently to Proper Officials in Re- Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti- sponse to Terrorism Act: Senate passed S. 2513, to Semitism Act: Committee on Foreign Relations was provide for joint reports by relevant Federal agencies discharged from further consideration of H.R. 221, to Congress regarding incidents of terrorism, after to amend the State Department Basic Authorities agreeing to the committee amendment. Act of 1956 to monitor and combat anti-Semitism Pages S7561–62 globally, and the bill was then passed, after agreeing House Messages: to the following amendment proposed thereto: Page S7556 Scarlett’s Sunshine on Sudden Unexpected Moran (for Rubio) Amendment No. 2709, in the Death Act: Senate agreed to the motion to concur in the amendment of the House of Representatives nature of a substitute. Page S7556 to S. 1130, to amend the Public Health Service Act Overtime Pay for Protective Services Act: Senate to improve the health of children and help better passed S. 5036, to amend the Overtime Pay for Pro- understand and enhance awareness about unexpected tective Services Act of 2016 to extend the Secret sudden death in early life. Pages S7555–56 Service overtime pay exception through 2023. Coordinated Ocean Observations and Research Pages S7556–57 Act: Senate agreed to the motion to concur in the Senator Margaret Chase Smith Room and Sen- amendment of the House of Representatives to S. ator Barbara A. Mikulski Room: Senate agreed to 914, to reauthorize the Integrated Coastal and Ocean S. Res. 803, designating room S–124 of the United Observation System Act of 2009, to clarify the au- States Capitol as the ‘‘U.S. Senator Margaret Chase thority of the Administrator of the National Oceanic Smith Room’’ and designating room S–115 of the and Atmospheric Administration with respect to United States Capitol as the ‘‘U.S. Senator Barbara post-storm assessments, and to require the establish- ment of a National Water Center. Page S7556 D1094

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:29 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D16DE0.REC D16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with DIGEST December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D1095 Appointments: Anna Maria Ruzinski, of Wisconsin, to be United United States-China Economic and Security Re- States Marshal for the Eastern District of Wisconsin view Commission: The Chair announced, on behalf for the term of four years. of the Majority Leader, pursuant to the provisions of Gregory Scott Tabor, of Arkansas, to be United Public Law 106–398, as amended by Public Law States Marshal for the Western District of Arkansas 108–7, and in consultation with the Chairmen of the for the term of four years. Page S7533 Senate Committee on Armed Services and the Senate Irving Bailey, of Florida, to be a Member of the Committee on Finance, the re-appointment of the Board of Directors of the United States International following individual to serve as a member of the Development Finance Corporation for a term of three United States-China Economic and Security Review years. Commission: Robin Cleveland, of Virginia, for a Deven J. Parekh, of New York, to be a Member term expiring December 31, 2022. Page S7555 of the Board of Directors of the United States Inter- national Development Finance Corporation for a Message from the President: Senate received the term of three years. Pages S7533–34 following message from the President of the United States: Executive Communications: Pages S7541–42 Transmitting, pursuant to law, a report on the Additional Cosponsors: Pages S7543–44 continuation of the national emergency with respect Statements on Introduced Bills/Resolutions: to serious human rights abuse and corruption that Pages S7544–54 was originally declared in Executive Order 13818 of December 20, 2017; which was referred to the Com- Additional Statements: Pages S7537–40 mittee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. Amendments Submitted: Pages S7554–55 (PM–62) Pages S7540–41 Authorities for Committees to Meet: Page S7555 Atchley Nomination—Agreement: Senate resumed Record Votes: Four record votes were taken today. consideration of the nomination of Charles Edward (Total—271) Pages S7517–18, S7525 Atchley, Jr., of Tennessee, to be United States Dis- trict Judge for the Eastern District of Tennessee. Adjournment: Senate convened at 10:00 a.m. and Pages S7524–33 adjourned at 6:27 p.m., until 10:00 a.m. on Thurs- During consideration of this nomination today, day, December 17, 2020. (For Senate’s program, see Senate also took the following action: the remarks of the Acting Majority Leader in today’s By 54 yeas to 41 nays (Vote No. EX. 271), Senate Record on page S7562.) agreed to the motion to close further debate on the nomination. Page S7524 Committee Meetings A unanimous-consent agreement was reached pro- viding that notwithstanding Rule XXII, the post- (Committees not listed did not meet) cloture time on the nomination expire at 11:30 a.m., UNITED STATES AND CHINA on Thursday, December 17, 2020. Page S7529 A unanimous-consent agreement was reached pro- Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs: viding for further consideration of the nomination, Subcommittee on Economic Policy concluded a hear- post-cloture, at approximately 10 a.m., on Thursday, ing to examine the United States and China, focus- ing on winning the economic competition, after re- December 17, 2020. Page S7562 ceiving testimony from Representative Will Hurd; Nominations Confirmed: Senate confirmed the fol- and Derek Scissors, American Enterprise Institute, lowing nominations: Melanie Hart, Center for American Progress, and By 48 yeas to 47 nays (Vote No. EX. 268), Kath- Roy Houseman, United Steel, Paper and Forestry, erine A. Crytzer, of Tennessee, to be United States Rubber, Manufacturing, Energy, Allied Industrial District Judge for the Eastern District of Tennessee. and Service Workers International Union, all of Pages S7513–18 Washington, D.C. By 56 yeas to 39 nays (Vote No. EX. 270), Jo- seph Dawson III, of South Carolina, to be United THE ALZHEIMER’S CRISIS States District Judge for the District of South Caro- Committee on Finance: Subcommittee on Health Care lina. Pages S7518–24 concluded a hearing to examine the Alzheimer’s cri- During consideration of this nomination today, sis, focusing on testing and treatment pipelines and Senate also took the following action: fiscal implications, after receiving testimony from By 56 yeas to 39 nays (Vote No. EX. 269), Senate Nikolay Dokholyan, Pennsylvania State College of agreed to the motion to close further debate on the Medicine, Hershey; Randall J. Bateman, Washington nomination. Page S7518 University School of Medicine Dominantly Inherited

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:29 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D16DE0.REC D16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with DIGEST D1096 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST December 16, 2020

Alzheimer’s Network Trials Unit, St. Louis, Mis- Arias-Marxuach, of Puerto Rico, to be United States souri; and Richard C. Mohs, Global Alzheimer’s Circuit Judge for the First Circuit, after the nominee Platform Foundation, and Maria Carrillo, Alz- testified and answered questions in his own behalf. heimer’s Association, both of Chicago, Illinois. 2020 ELECTION IRREGULARITIES HONG KONG’S PRO-DEMOCRACY Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Af- MOVEMENT fairs: Committee concluded a hearing to examine Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Border irregularities in the 2020 election, after receiving Security and Immigration concluded a hearing to ex- testimony from Donald Palmer, Commissioner, Elec- amine supporting Hong Kong’s pro-democracy tion Assistance Commission; Commonwealth of movement through United States refugee policy, Pennsylvania Representative Frank Ryan, Lebanon; after receiving testimony from Senators Rubio and James R. Troupis, Troupis Law Firm, Cross Plains, Menendez; Julian Ku, Hofstra University School of Wisconsin; Jesse Binnall, Harvey and Binnall, PLLC, Law, Hempstead, New York; Joey Siu, Hong Kong Alexandria, Virginia; Chris Krebs, former Director of Watch; Samuel M. Chu, Hong Kong Democracy the Department of Homeland Security Cybersecurity Council, Washington, D.C.; Nathan Law, former and Infrastructure Security Agency, Washington, Member of the Legislative Council of Hong Kong, D.C.; and Ken Starr, Waco, Texas. London, United Kingdom; and Jenny Yang, World NOMINATION Relief, Baltimore, Maryland, on behalf of Refugee Committee on the Judiciary: Committee concluded a Council USA. hearing to examine the nomination of Raul M. h House of Representatives civil injunctive relief for violations of such Act, and Chamber Action for other purposes, with an amendment (H. Rept. Public Bills and Resolutions Introduced: 22 pub- 116–658); and lic bills, H.R. 8974–8995; and 2 resolutions, H.J. H.R. 3068. A bill to establish an offshore wind Res. 106; and H. Res. 1266 were introduced. career training grant program, and for other pur- Pages H7227–28 poses, with an amendment (H. Rept. 116–659, Part Additional Cosponsors: Page H7229 1). Page H7227 Reports Filed: Reports were filed today as follows: Speaker: Read a letter from the Speaker wherein she H.R. 5047, to require the Administrator of Gen- appointed Representative McCollum to act as Speak- eral Services to conduct an annual audit of properties er pro tempore for today. Page H7161 leased to private parties, and for other purposes (H. Recess: The House recessed at 12:40 p.m. and re- Rept. 116–655); convened at 2 p.m. Page H7167 H.R. 5013, to apply the Fair Debt Collection Moment of Silence: The House observed a moment Practices Act to small businesses to the same extent of silence in remembrance of the over 300,000 as such Act applies to consumers, to require the Di- Americans who have passed away a result of the rector of the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protec- COVID–19 virus. Page H7167 tion to define ‘‘small business’’ for purposes of such Act, and for other purposes, with amendments (H. Suspensions: The House agreed to suspend the rules and pass the following measures: Rept. 116–656); Hijacking our Heroes: Exploiting Veterans Homeless Veterans Coronavirus Response Act of Through Disinformation on Social Media (H. Rept. 2020: Concur in the Senate amendment to H.R. 116–657); 7105, to provide flexibility for the Secretary of Vet- H.R. 3948, to amend the Fair Debt Collection erans Affairs in caring for homeless veterans during Practices Act to extend the provisions of that Act to a covered public health emergency; Pages H7169–H7211 cover a debt collector who is collecting debt owed Transparency and Effective Accountability to a State or local government, to index award Measures for Veteran Caregivers Act: S. 2216, to amounts under such Act for inflation, to provide for require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to formally

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:29 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D16DE0.REC D16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with DIGEST December 16, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D1097

recognize caregivers of veterans, notify veterans and S. Con. Res. 52, to correct the enrollment of S. caregivers of clinical determinations relating to eligi- 3312, as amended by Representative Bass. bility for caregiver programs, and temporarily extend Pages H7216–17 benefits for veterans who are determined ineligible 2 Presidential Message: Read a message from the for the family caregiver program, by a ⁄3 yea-and- President wherein he notified the Congress that the nay vote of 380 yeas with none voting ‘‘nay’’, Roll national emergency with respect to the prevalence No. 244; Pages H7211–13, H7224–25 and severity of human rights abuse and corruption Crisis Stabilization and Community Reentry that was declared in Executive Order 13818 of De- Act of 2020: S. 3312, to establish a crisis stabiliza- cember 20, 2017 is to continue in effect beyond De- tion and community reentry grant program; cember 20, 2020. Referred to the Committee on Pages H7213–16 Foreign Affairs and ordered to be printed (H. Doc. Missing Persons and Unidentified Remains Act: 116-173). Page H7226 S. 2174, amended, to expand the grants authorized Senate Referrals: S. 2032 was held at the desk. S. under Jennifer’s Law and Kristen’s Act to include 2054 was held at the desk. S. 3152 was held at the processing of unidentified remains, resolving missing desk. Page H7169 persons cases; Pages H7217–19 Senate Message: Message received from the Senate Agreed to amend the title so as to read: ‘‘To the by the Clerk and subsequently presented to the extent provided in advance in appropriations Act, House today appears on page H7169. the Attorney General is authorized to use funds ap- propriated for the operationalization, maintenance, Quorum Calls—Votes: One yea-and-nay vote de- and expansion of the National Missing and Uniden- veloped during the proceedings of today and appear tified Persons System (NamUs) for the purpose of on page H7224–25. carrying out this Act’’; Page H7219 Adjournment: The House met at 12 noon and ad- One Small Step to Protect Human Heritage in journed at 5:54 p.m. Space Act: S. 1694, amended, to require any Federal agency that issues licenses to conduct activities in outer space to include in the requirements for such Committee Meetings licenses an agreement relating to the preservation No hearings were held. and protection of the Apollo 11 landing site; Pages H7219–22 Agreed to amend the title so as to read: ‘‘To re- Joint Meetings quire the National Aeronautics and Space Adminis- No joint committee meetings were held. tration to add recommendations and inform other f relevant agencies of information relating to the prin- ciple of due regard and the limitation of harmful in- COMMITTEE MEETINGS FOR THURSDAY, terference with Apollo landing site artifacts, and for DECEMBER 17, 2020 other purposes.’’; and Page H7222 (Committee meetings are open unless otherwise indicated) Neil A. Armstrong Test Facility Act: S. 2472, to Senate redesignate the NASA John H. Glenn Research Cen- ter at Plum Brook Station, Ohio, as the NASA John No meetings/hearings scheduled. H. Glenn Research Center at the Neil A. Armstrong House Test Facility. Pages H7222–24 Committee on Oversight and Reform, Full Committee, Correcting the enrollment of S. 3312: The House hearing entitled ‘‘The Role of Purdue Pharma and the agreed to take from the Speaker’s table and agree to Sackler Family in the Opioid Epidemic’’, 9 a.m., Webex.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:29 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D16DE0.REC D16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with DIGEST D1098 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST December 16, 2020

Next Meeting of the SENATE Next Meeting of the HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 10 a.m., Thursday, December 17 12 noon, Thursday, December 17

Senate Chamber House Chamber Program for Thursday: Senate will continue consider- Program for Thursday: Consideration of measures under ation of the nomination of Charles Edward Atchley, Jr., suspension of the Rules. of Tennessee, to be United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Tennessee, post-cloture, and vote on confirmation thereon at 11:30 a.m. Following disposition of the nomination of Charles Ed- ward Atchley, Jr., Senate will vote on the motion to in- voke cloture on the nomination of Zachary N. Somers, of the District of Columbia, to be a Judge of the United States Court of Federal Claims.

Extensions of Remarks, as inserted in this issue

HOUSE Garcı´a, Jesu´ s G. ‘‘Chuy’’, Ill., E1157 Marchant, Kenny, Tex., E1156 Graves, Sam, Mo., E1155, E1162 McCarthy, Kevin, Calif., E1155, E1159 Axne, Cynthia, Iowa, E1160 Guest, Michael, Miss., E1156 O’Halleran, Tom, Ariz., E1153 Bera, Ami, Calif., E1153 Johnson, Eddie Bernice, Tex., E1162 Stefanik, Elise M., N.Y., E1160 Brooks, Mo, Ala., E1153, E1161 Joyce, David P., Ohio, E1161 Takano, Mark, Calif., E1157 Calvert, Ken, Calif., E1153, E1156, E1157, E1159, E1161, Katko, John, N.Y., E1160, E1164 E1162, E1164 Kwanza, Hall, Ga., E1163 Tlaib, Rashida, Mich., E1157, E1159, E1162 Courtney, Joe, Conn., E1154, E1159, E1163 Lamb, Conor, Pa., E1155 Visclosky, Peter J., Ind., E1157 Crow, Jason, Col., E1154 Lamborn, Doug, Colo., E1163 Welch, Peter, Vt., E1154 Davis, Danny K., Ill., E1161, E1164 Lesko, Debbie, Ariz., E1153 Wittman, Robert J., Va., E1163 Engel, Eliot L., N.Y., E1164 Luria, Elaine G., Va., E1155

E PL UR UM IB N U U S The Congressional Record (USPS 087–390). The Periodicals postage is paid at Washington, D.C. The public proceedings of each House Congressional Record of Congress, as reported by the Official Reporters thereof, are printed pursuant to directions of the Joint Committee on Printing as authorized by appropriate provisions of Title 44, United States Code, and published for each day that one or both Houses are in session, excepting very infrequent instances when two or more unusually small consecutive issues are printed one time. ¶ Public access to the Congressional Record is available online through the U.S. Government Publishing Office, at www.govinfo.gov, free of charge to the user. The information is updated online each day the Congressional Record is published. For more information, contact the GPO Customer Contact Center, U.S. Government Publishing Office. Phone 202–512–1800, or 866–512–1800 (toll-free). E-Mail, [email protected]. ¶ To place an order for any of these products, visit the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at: bookstore.gpo.gov. Mail orders to: Superintendent of Documents, P.O. Box 979050, St. Louis, MO 63197–9000, or phone orders to 866–512–1800 (toll-free), 202–512–1800 (D.C. area), or fax to 202–512–2104. Remit check or money order, made payable to the Superintendent of Documents, or use VISA, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, or GPO Deposit Account. ¶ Following each session of Congress, the daily Congressional Record is revised, printed, permanently bound and sold by the Superintendent of Documents in individual parts or by sets. ¶ With the exception of copyrighted articles, there are no restrictions on the republication of material from the Congressional Record. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Superintendent of Documents, Congressional Record, U.S. Government Publishing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402, along with the entire mailing label from the last issue received.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:29 Dec 17, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0664 Sfmt 0664 E:\CR\FM\D16DE0.REC D16DEPT1 rfrederick on DSKBCBPHB2PROD with DIGEST