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

Vol. 165 WASHINGTON, WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2019 No. 155 House of Representatives The House met at 10 a.m. and was of the school. In that same year, he al- CONGRATULATING EMD PERFORMANCE called to order by the Speaker pro tem- lowed women to attend for the first MATERIALS ON THEIR 40TH ANNIVERSARY pore (Mrs. BEATTY). time and he transitioned the college Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam f out of its role providing high school Speaker, I rise today to recognize the programs and into a 4 year, degree- 40th anniversary of EMD Performance DESIGNATION OF SPEAKER PRO granting institution. Material’s Savannah location. TEMPORE Nearly 100 years later, the school re- I am so proud of the work this com- The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- mains a vital part of the Savannah pany has done over the last 40 years, fore the House the following commu- community. They have earned patents providing nearly 140 jobs for citizens in nication from the Speaker: in battling Alzheimer’s and ALS, built the First Congressional District of WASHINGTON, DC, new science and technology buildings, Georgia. September 25, 2019. and purchased new property for a new More than just jobs alone, EMD I hereby appoint the Honorable JOYCE marine lab. brings a prestige to our area that BEATTY to act as Speaker pro tempore on Madam Speaker, I want to thank ev- comes along with its brand name. this day. eryone at Savannah State University, At the Savannah location specifi- NANCY PELOSI, cally, they manufacture ground- Speaker of the House of Representatives. especially President Kimberly Ballard- Washington, for following in Mr. breaking liquid crystals that are large- f Wiley’s footsteps to continue breaking ly responsible for advancing razor MORNING-HOUR DEBATE barriers, their commitment to the Sa- sharp margins in smartphones, laptops, The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- vannah community, and for providing a flat-screen TVs, and more. ant to the order of the House of Janu- great education for the students. EMD’s success is a great example of ary 3, 2019, the Chair will now recog- WORLD PHARMACISTS’ DAY 2019 why the State of Georgia was named as nize Members from lists submitted by Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam the top State to do business for the the majority and minority leaders for Speaker, I rise today to recognize sixth year in a row. And Savannah morning-hour debate. World Pharmacists’ Day 2019 being itself has a strategic location with its The Chair will alternate recognition celebrated today. I am proud that we connection to a major seaport and between the parties. All time shall be have a day like this for people all over interstates. equally allocated between the parties, the world to remember the important Madam Speaker, I thank EMD for and in no event shall debate continue role that pharmacists play in keeping their work in our area, and I congratu- beyond 11:50 a.m. Each Member, other all of us and our loved ones healthy. late them on their anniversary. I hope than the majority and minority leaders There are currently over 2 million that we will have another 40 years of and the minority whip, shall be limited practicing pharmacists around the working together. to 5 minutes. world, but in each nation, pharmacists RECOGNIZING GEORGIA ARMY NATIONAL GUARD f are combating unique problems. For Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam some countries pharmacists are at a se- Speaker, I rise today to recognize the RECOGNIZING CYRUS G. WILEY vere shortage. Georgia Army National Guard, whose The SPEAKER pro tempore. The In the United States, pharmacists last unit is coming home this month Chair recognizes the gentleman from have been thrown into the front lines from Afghanistan. Georgia (Mr. CARTER) for 5 minutes. of a critical issue: the opioid epidemic. Stationed at Fort Stewart in the Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Currently, more than 115 people die First Congressional District of Geor- Speaker, I rise today to recognize the every day from opioid addictions, and gia, the 177th Brigade Engineer Bat- ninth President of Savannah State pharmacists will play an integral role talion is the only unmanned aerial ve- University, Mr. Cyrus G. Wiley. in bringing this number all the way hicle unit in the entire Georgia Na- At the time called the Georgia State down to zero. tional Guard. Industrial College for Colored Youths, Madam Speaker, I encourage every- Because of that expertise, they re- Mr. Wiley made tremendous strides one to get to know their pharmacists mained in Afghanistan longer than forward for the oldest public histori- and to thank them for the work that other units, and their high quality of cally Black college in the State of they do. work has not gone unnoticed. Georgia. As the only pharmacist currently Upon returning home, they will be He started his term in 1921 and was serving in Congress, I thank all our working in a brand-new facility at Fort the first alumnus to become president pharmacists around the world. Stewart for the first time. I am proud

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.

H7907

.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:21 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.000 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7908 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019 to have this group located in the First at Parkridge Pregnancy Medical Clinic In the debate over abortion, the late Congressional District of Georgia. in Lubbock, Texas. Pennsylvania Governor Bob Casey said: Madam Speaker, I thank them for Parkridge, a nonprofit pregnancy The real question is not when life begins, their service to our country, and I wel- center, is celebrating 26 years of pro- but when love begins. come them home. viding compassionate care to mothers For 26 years now, the people of f throughout their pregnancies, and Parkridge Pregnancy Center have been often in the most difficult of cir- WE HAVE BEEN VINDICATED coming alongside these young mothers cumstances. not in judgment, but in joy, not in con- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The By providing ultrasounds, medical demnation, but to comfort, praying Chair recognizes the gentleman from services, material assistance, and even with them, loving them, and minis- Texas (Mr. GREEN) for 5 minutes. ministering to mothers’ deeper emo- tering to them and meeting their deep- Mr. GREEN of Texas. Madam Speak- tional and spiritual needs, the people est needs in their darkest hours. er, and still I rise, because I love my at Parkridge are truly and literally Thanks to the good and godly work country. saving lives. I rise today, Madam Speaker, to You see, Madam Speaker, they be- that they are doing, along with count- thank the Speaker of the House for lieve, like I do, that all life is a gift less organizations like them across standing up for this country, advancing from God. They believe in the words America, I hope, pray, and I believe the cause of justice, and taking on the etched into our Declaration of Inde- that we will soon see a day in our coun- challenge to protect our Nation, when pendence, our founding principle and try when every child is loved and every it is obvious that national security is fundamental belief that all of us are life, born or unborn, is celebrated, of great concern. created equally by God and endowed by cherished, and protected. I rise because there were persons who our creator with the right to life, lib- Madam Speaker, may God bless the made yesterday possible. There are erty, and the pursuit of happiness. Parkridge family, may He bless their some who say that yesterday was a tip- But for nearly 50 years now, we have mission to protect life and promote ping point, others say that things hap- fallen short of that national ethic. love, all to the praise of God, the au- pened that were the equivalent of a Ever since the Supreme Court erred in thor of both life and love. straw that broke the camel’s back as it Roe v. Wade, we have failed to protect Go west Texas. relates to impeachment, but I say that the sacred right for the most vulner- Madam Speaker, may I inquire how yesterday was a seminal moment in able among us, rejecting the notion much time I have remaining? time that has the potential to impact that life at every stage is equally valu- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- the rest of our time. able, equally precious, not only in light tleman from Texas has 11⁄4 minutes re- I say that yesterday was a moment of of the Constitution, but in the eyes of maining. truth, and I say that there were people God. WE SHOULD BE MORE RESPONSIBLE IN CARRYING who made yesterday possible. Since then, over 60 million lives have OUT OUR CONSTITUTIONAL DUTIES I would like to read a statement into been terminated through the practice Mr. ARRINGTON. Madam Speaker, I the RECORD that will address many of of abortion in these United States. And would like to say that I feel like it is the people, not all, but many of the yet even in the shadow of this dark- incredibly irresponsible and premature people who made yesterday possible. ness, we can see rays of hope shining and careless for this body, led by our My statement reads: ‘‘On behalf of through. Speaker and the Democratic Party, to people of goodwill, I thank the first 58 Because of places like Parkridge, I rush to this conclusion and allege that who voted to move Articles of Im- believe the tide is finally turning, and our President has committed high peachment on November 6, 2017, the in the direction of life. All across our crimes. historic 66 who voted to move Articles country, the growing momentum for a I don’t believe this is under the aus- of Impeachment on January 19, 2018, culture of life is palpable. pices of pursuit of justice and truth. I and the noble 95 who voted to move Ar- Last week, we learned that the abor- think it is placating a certain group in ticles of Impeachment on July 17, 2019. tion rate in America has dropped to its the Democratic Party. For their tireless and progressive ef- lowest level at any point since 1973 and I think this is more of the bloodlust forts, I would also like to thank By the Roe v. Wade. for impeaching our President, not be- People; Center for Popular Democracy; We have seen States throughout the cause of high crimes, but because they Citizens Impeachment Coalition; Com- country taking bold action to defend hate him, they hate his personality, mon Cause; Courage Campaign; the inherent dignity of every human they hate his policies, but that is no CREDO; CREW; D.C. Action Lab; De- life, especially those who can’t speak justification. mocracy for America; Free Speech for up for themselves. We are better than that as a country. I am proud to have supported every People; Indivisible; Lawyers for Good We should be more responsible in how single pro-life measure considered in Government; Mainers For Accountable we faithfully carry out our constitu- this Chamber, from the Heartbeat Pro- Leadership; March for Truth; March for tional duties. tection Act, to the pain-capable protec- Truth—; MoveOn; National As- So I look forward to reading the tions, to defunding Planned Parent- sociation for the Advancement of Col- transcript. I look forward to getting hood, to the recent born-alive protec- ored People, NAACP; Need to Impeach; the facts. tion legislation. NextGen America; Our Revolution; Republican or Democrat, Madam Popular Democracy; Progressive Demo- I stand behind our President 100 per- cent in his efforts to reshape the courts Speaker, we ought to look at the facts crats of America; Revolving Door and we ought to be very judicious and Project; Social Security Works; Stand so that judges adhere to the Constitu- tion and to the independent and inter- careful and certainly responsible when Up America; and Women’s March. wielding our constitutional oversight, With nearly 200 Members of the pretive role that they are supposed to and certainly that provision of im- House of Representatives favoring im- play, rather than legislating from the peachment. peachment inquiry, we have been vindi- bench and imposing their policy pref- So that is what I am going to do on cated. However, our approach is not erences on the American people. behalf of the good people of west Texas one that has ended as of yesterday. We This is one of the most important and my beloved countrymen across the need 218 to vote for impeachment. and certainly lasting legacies of this United States. There is more to be done. President, and I am proud to say and f f excited to say the Senate has recently confirmed President Trump’s 150th ju- b 1015 PARKRIDGE PREGNANCY CENTER dicial nominee. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The But I also recognize that in order to TRIBUTE TO THE LIFE AND Chair recognizes the gentleman from build a lasting culture of life, we are LEGACY OF JUANITA ABERNATHY Texas (Mr. ARRINGTON) for 5 minutes. going to need to do more than just The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Mr. ARRINGTON. Madam Speaker, I change laws. We are going to have to Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from rise today to recognize the good people change hearts. Alabama (Ms. SEWELL) for 5 minutes.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:23 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.002 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7909 Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Madam she worked closely with the King fam- Early on in the conversation between Speaker, today, I rise to honor the re- ily to integrate Atlanta’s public President Trump and President markable life and legacy of Mrs. Jua- schools. Zelensky, President Zelensky says: We, nita Abernathy, a selfless leader in the At this same time, understanding the here in Ukraine, are trying to drain the struggle for civil rights whose direc- link between race and economic in- swamp much in the way you are work- tion and tireless engagement was an equality in this country, Mrs. Aber- ing to drain the swamp in the United integral part in the movement of civil nathy fought to establish a national States of America. rights and voting rights in America. food stamp program for low-income This wasn’t a call about leverage. She, sadly, passed earlier this month. families and a national free meal pro- This wasn’t a call about threats. This From the Montgomery bus boycott gram for public schoolchildren. was a mutually appreciative and mutu- to the marches from Selma to Mont- A true servant leader, Mrs. ally laudatory call between two leaders gomery and onward to Washington, Abernathy’s brilliant mind, full heart, who are trying to clean up some of the D.C., and beyond, Mrs. Abernathy and resilient spirit should remind all of garbage in their respective countries played a key role in our Nation’s us of what constitutes a full and won- that has polluted politics. proudest instance of civic engagement. derful life. Now, the President does ask for a She fought boldly alongside her hus- On a personal note, I was honored to favor from President Zelensky, but the band, Reverend Dr. Ralph Abernathy, get to know Mrs. Abernathy during her favor is on behalf of our Nation. The and her dear friends and fellow archi- many pilgrimages to my hometown of favor we seek is cooperation between tects of the movement, Reverend Dr. Selma, Alabama, for the annual com- the Zelensky government and Attorney Martin Luther King, Jr., and Mrs. memoration of Bloody Sunday and the General Bill Barr as we work to deter- Coretta Scott King. Selma to Montgomery marches. mine what activities in Ukraine may While many male leaders of the civil She was a powerful voice for change have been in any way involved in the rights movement have rightfully be- and a proud product of Alabama’s 2016—not 2020, but 2016—efforts to come household names, the women of Black Belt who passionately protected interfere with the United States elec- the movement, whose struggles and the legacy of her husband and their tion. sacrifices were equal and whose par- lifelong work together to advance civil The President even references ticipation was necessary, have not en- rights. CrowdStrike, attempting to get to the joyed the same recognition. Mrs. Jua- Mrs. Abernathy graciously encour- bottom of these improper actions, nita Abernathy was a brilliant, coura- aged me to run for Congress and hon- which, again, may have emanated from geous leader in her own right, and ored me with her presence in my home- Ukraine. John Solomon with The Hill has a great deal of reporting on that today, we recognize her remarkable town of Selma on election night when very question. and distinct contributions. I won in November 2010. I saw in her Zelensky ran against corruption. Mrs. Abernathy was born on Decem- face that night the pride she felt wit- Thus, it would be only appropriate ber 1, 1931, in Uniontown, Alabama. She nessing the election of Alabama’s first that, in a conversation about that elec- was the youngest of eight children born Black Congresswoman. I prevailed be- tion victory, they would discuss and to Alexander and Ella Gilmore Jones. cause of her personal courage and sac- reference what are, obviously, mutual In the ninth grade, she met her future rifice that paved the way for future goals between the United States and husband, Reverend Dr. Ralph Aber- generations of Black children like me Ukraine to have the world safer for de- nathy, who wrote in his memoir that to succeed. mocracy. he was impressed by her audacious Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues The President also mentions Mayor spirit and her inherent dignity. In 1952, to join me in paying tribute and honor Rudy Giuliani. Let me be clear about after Mrs. Abernathy finished her B.S. to Alabama native Mrs. Juanita Jones this: Mayor Giuliani has every right to in business education at Tennessee Abernathy on the passing of this civil go to Ukraine to try to ascertain State University, she and Dr. Ralph rights icon and true American heroine, whether or not activities in that coun- Abernathy were married. whose tremendous efforts helped propel try were harming his client as a result Mrs. and Reverend Abernathy moved our Nation toward a more perfect of the corrupt connections that may to Montgomery, Alabama, where she Union. have existed between the DNC and became the secretary for the Alabama f some elements in Ukraine. chapter of the NAACP and taught high I feel like we have been here before. school courses on business education SPEAKER’S ACTIONS HAVE EMBARRASSED CONGRESS House Democrats told us it was all while Reverend Abernathy became the about collusion. We had to wait for the pastor of the First Baptist Church on The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Mueller report. Well, when the Mueller Ripley Street. Chair recognizes the gentleman from report falls flat on collusion, then it is In 1955, around the family dining Florida (Mr. GAETZ) for 5 minutes. all about obstruction of justice. Until room table, Mrs. Abernathy wrote a Mr. GAETZ. Madam Speaker, the Robert Mueller testifies and that falls business plan for the Montgomery bus transcript has now been released of the flat, then it is all about abuse of power. boycott, a plan that later served as a phone conversation between President Until the Democrats go to court and blueprint for the civil rights move- Trump and President Zelensky. are unable to make the case in court ment. Meant to last only 1 day, the The evidence is clear, unfortunately, that there has been an abuse of power. Montgomery bus boycott went on for that the Speaker of the House of Rep- Now, lo and behold, it is all about 381 days, eventually leading to the resentatives has been functionally Ukraine. courts desegregating public transit. catfished into a politically fatal im- Do you know what? I saw this movie In retaliation to the success of the peachment proceeding based on ru- as it related to Russia. I didn’t like it Montgomery bus boycott, the Aber- mors, based on faulty evidence, and very much, and I doubt I am going to nathy home was bombed. Reverend based on a bloodlust for the President, enjoy the cheap Ukrainian knockoff. Abernathy was in Atlanta at the time, politically, that does not serve our Na- The Speaker has embraced these con- but it was said that Mrs. Abernathy tion well. cerns. I fear that her embrace of im- and her children only survived because Let me give you the high points. peachment does great damage to the the bomb landed off by 2 feet. There is no quid pro quo between Presi- House of Representatives. There may Over the years, Mrs. Abernathy en- dent Trump and President Zelensky for be a time where we have to solemnly dured terror, harassment, and unbri- anything, much less military aid. exercise our impeachment powers be- dled hatred from white supremacists in There is no eight times a reference to cause there is true crime or corruption, her community and beyond. Yet, in the Joe Biden. I think The Wall Street and the Speaker’s actions have embar- face of unimaginable threats, she Journal will have a good deal of re- rassed the United States Congress and maintained her innate dignity and tracting to do today. In fact, President harm our entire country. bravery. Zelensky, himself, identifies the root- President Zelensky, in this call, indi- In 1961, Mrs. Abernathy and her hus- ing out of corruption as the reason for cates that he will conduct an investiga- band moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where his election. tion into corruption. It is a promise

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:23 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.005 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7910 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019 not only that he made to President and doing it to earn money, millions things, in making the oligarchs and their co- Trump but that he made to his own and millions of dollars from Kremlin defendants the largest commercial real es- citizens. In that promise, President allies. What an abomination to liberty. tate holders in Cleveland. Since Ukraine’s Euromaidan Revolu- With money siphoned from public bonds Zelensky says that any investigation and 20 million private Ukrainian citizens will be both open and candid, open and tion of Dignity 5 years ago, the Ukrain- who’d opened accounts with PrivatBank, the candid investigations of corruption of ian people have bravely demonstrated oligarchs Igor Kolomoisky and Gennadiy election meddling. I sure would like to their resolute commitment to their na- Bogolyubov doled out corporate loans to see that level of candidness and open- tion’s democratic future. shell companies that they controlled. They ness in our House of Representatives. The latest example is the recent his- used PrivatBank ‘‘as their own personal Certainly, my greatest hope is that toric Presidential and parliamentary piggy bank,’’ in the words of the complaint. the Attorney General’s investigation elections in Ukraine, which inter- Those loans were then laundered in mul- tiple digital transactions, sent through doz- into the corrupt origins of the efforts national observers lauded as free and ens of other shell companies that had been to smear the President of the United fair. What progress. created exclusively for the purpose of laun- States will be exposed and those re- Ukraine has managed to make crit- dering. These accounts were managed by co- sponsible will go to jail. ical reforms, despite the immense pres- conspirators at PrivatBank’s branch in Cy- That is how we restore honor to this sure of Russia’s illegal invasion of prus. House. That is how we solve and heal Ukraine in which 13,000 poorly The true origin of the money thus con- some of the great wounds that were in- equipped Ukrainian troops and many cealed, funds were then shipped to LLCs in flicted on this body by the Speaker civilians who were in the pathway lost Delaware (hence the legal filing there). Those LLCs—‘‘One Cleveland Center, LLC,’’ yesterday. Maybe next time the radical their lives; 30,000 have been injured; to take just one example—were used to ac- left will wait for the facts before en- and 1.5 million Ukrainians have been quire properties and metalworking facilities gaging in a reflexive, fact-free im- dispossessed of their properties and are in the U.S. Kolomoisky and Bogolyubov are peachment. displaced. mineral magnates and own mining factories f Tragically, Ukraine is at war and and metalworking plants in Ukraine. must fight a two-front war: one against The men on the ground in the United SUPPORT UKRAINIAN PEOPLE BY Russia and one against the enemy from States, according to the complaint, were a ROOTING OUT CORRUPTION within, the scourge of corruption aided Miami-based trio: Mordechai ‘‘Motti’’ Korf, The SPEAKER pro tempore. The his brother-in-law Chaim Schochet, and by Kremlin allies every minute of Uriel Laber. These three men managed the Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from every day. ‘‘Optima’’ companies: Optima International, Ohio (Ms. KAPTUR) for 5 minutes. While Ukraine has sought to shake Optima Ventures and Optima Acquisitions, Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, as co- off the vestiges of Soviet repression, all of which were created and ultimately chair of the House Congressional Ukraine’s oligarch class has subverted controlled by Kolomoisky and Bogolyubov. Ukrainian Caucus, I rise to provide this progress in order to steal and plun- ‘‘Optima Ventures’’ should be a familiar some background on why the conversa- der from the people of that nation to local name. It was the company, launched in 2007, used to acquire properties in the U.S. tions between President advance their own sick, insatiable, and and the newly elected President of for Kolomoisky and Bogolyubov. The major- corrupt moneyed interests. ity of these properties were in Cleveland. Ukraine, President Volodymyr In fact, it might surprise people to Chaim Schochet was Optima’s ‘‘front man’’ Zelensky, are so vitally important to hear that, in the State of Ohio, the in Northeast Ohio. He told the Plain Dealer liberty and our Nation’s national secu- Ukrainian oligarch who owned the tele- in 2012 that his local goals were twofold: rity. vision station that made the current ‘‘making money for investors betting on the There is no more important strategic President of Ukraine famous is the upside of a Midwestern city, and contrib- alliance for liberty and with our mili- largest commercial real estate owner uting to the betterment of a downtown that tary than America’s membership with more high-profile buyers ha[d] passed by.’’ in Cleveland, Ohio. With a net worth of But his investors’ funds were ill-gotten, ac- European allies in NATO, our depend- over $1.2 billion, Ihor Kolomoisky is cording to the complaint, proceeds from able transatlantic allies who stood at one of the richest oligarchs in Ukraine. ‘‘massive, systematic and fraudulent loan our side through so many battles for But he travels between Ukraine, Cy- misappropriation and recycling schemes. (In the values we share. The blood lands of prus, Israel, and here. His own son was the 2012 PD piece referenced above, Schochet Europe directly influence the very on the basketball team at Cleveland was reportedly ‘‘circumspect about dis- founding of our Republic, our funda- State University. cussing how [Optima Ventures] is structured mental ideals of democracy. NATO, But this oligarch ran the show, serv- or who the major investors are.’’) The loan recycling schemes were function- today, stands ready every hour of every ant of the people, who propelled Presi- ally identical to a ponzi scheme, except in- day to defend our liberty. dent Zelensky to stardom. And so the stead of paying purported profits to early in- Ukraine, today, is the scrimmage question for history is: Will President vestors with funds from more recent inves- line for liberty for its defense on the Zelensky be his own man, or will he be tors, the Ukrainian oligarchs and their cro- European Continent. Thus, when a U.S. beholden to oligarchs? Will he stand for nies within PrivatBank paid off early fraudu- President holds back military assist- liberty, and will the people of this lent corporate loans with money from new ance to Ukraine through NATO and country and this House, who are the fraudulent corporate loans. other instrumentalities, Congress must ‘‘On paper, this appeared to be a repay- Representatives, stand for liberty ment,’’ the complaint explains. ‘‘But in re- insist on transparency on any con- against repression? ality, it was a sham and fraud, as versations that relate to our coopera- Madam Speaker, I include in the PrivatBank was repaying itself and increas- tion with the nation of Ukraine. RECORD material related to my re- ing its outstanding liabilities in the process. Please let me remind, after the col- marks this morning. This process was carried out over and over lapse of communist Russia in 1991, offi- [From Clevescene, June 11, 2019] again, over a period of many years.’’ In December 2016, the Ukrainian state was cially known as the Union of Soviet HOW UKRAINIAN OLIGARCHS SECRETLY BECAME forced to nationalize PrivatBank as a result Socialist Republics, Ukraine became a THE LARGEST REAL ESTATE OWNERS IN of the oligarchs’ conduct. The state injected free nation. At least it had a chance to DOWNTOWN CLEVELAND more than $5.5 billion into the bank to pre- be. Ukraine had been occupied for all of (By Sam Allard) vent its collapse, and ‘‘preserve the stability modern history by Russia and began its In an explosive legal complaint filed last of the [Ukrainian] financial system.’’ In 2018, jagged path forward to the free world, month in Delaware, attorneys for a major the bank reverted to private ownership. a path that has been tortuous and Ukrainian bank alleged that two oligarchs The complaint alleges that Korf, Schochet fraught with danger and setbacks. who founded the bank and controlled it from and Laber were in on the racket, aware of It will be a permanent blot on Amer- 2006 to 2016 laundered hundreds of millions of the systematic corruption because they were ican history that certain Americans, dollars in fraudulent corporate loans to pur- under direct supervision from Kolomoisky including President Trump’s campaign chase assets in the United States and un- and Bogolyubov (or their trusted lieutenant justly enrich themselves and their associ- inside PrivatBank, Timur Novikov), and be- manager, Paul Manafort, and several ates. cause they were enriched in the process. other Trump operatives were actually Dubbed the ‘‘Optima Schemes’’ in the 104- Korf, Schochet and Laber received ‘‘substan- involved in supporting the corrupt pro- page document, these ‘‘brazen fraudulent tial financial remuneration,’’ according to Russian political operatives in Ukraine schemes’’ were successful, among other the complaint, which they used to acquire

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:25 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.006 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7911 millions of dollars worth of property in Flor- A sale was in the works with K&D develop- about H.R. 1595, the SAFE Banking ida. ment last year, but K&D pulled out, calling Act. Later today, we will consider this Using the laundered loan proceeds, Optima the project ‘‘unworkable.’’ Though Optima important piece of right-sized, prag- acquired the following Cleveland buildings: had purchased it for $34 million in 2008, it matic legislation that tackles prob- One Cleveland Center: 1375 E. 9th St. Ac- was appraised for only about $20 million last lems facing our communities. quired for $86.3 million in May, 2008. year. The Plain Dealer reported that the 55 Public Square. Acquired for $34 million building was ‘‘in dire need of a makeover’’ H.R. 1595, the SAFE Banking Act, is in July, 2008. and that ‘‘only a smattering’’ of businesses a bipartisan bill that confronts a prob- Huntington Building: 925 Euclid Ave. Ac- occupied the 2nd through 11th floors of the lem that has arisen from the conflict quired for $18.5 million in June, 2010. 22-story structure. The John Q Steakhouse between State and Federal law and is AECOM/Penton Media Building: 1300 E. 9th space on the ground floor has been vacant for currently endangering communities, as St. Acquired for $46.5 million in August, 2010. years. well as inhibiting small businesses Crowne Plaza Building: 777 St. Clair Ave. Optima retains a management stake in from growing. Acquired in a joint venture with - what is now the downtown Westin Hotel (for- Currently, 33 States, including my based Sage Hospitality Group. merly the Crowne Plaza) and owns One home State of Oklahoma, have passed Here’s an example of exactly how the prop- Cleveland Center, which it refinanced in 2010. erties were acquired, via the complaint: some form of legalized cannabis. How- Optima Management Group, the manage- ever, due to the schedule I status in On April 29 and 30, 2008 . . . two Ukrainian ment company affiliated with Optima Ven- [metal plants] owned or controlled by tures, also works out of One Cleveland Cen- Federal law, it is illegal for banks [Kolomoisky and Bogolyubov] drew down $2.7 ter. across this country to work with can- million and $4.3 million in loan proceeds Scene spoke with a representative there by nabis and cannabis-related businesses, from PrivatBank Ukraine. The purpose of phone, who asked that questions for Chaim even in States where it has been legal- the loans was ‘‘financing of current business Schochet about the so-called ‘‘Optima ized. activities of the entity.’’ On April 30, 2008, Schemes’’ be submitted via email. Shochet This prevents businesses from using Bocatoro Enterprises Ltd. (‘‘Bocatoro Enter- provided the following via Optima Manage- banks to deposit their revenue, pay prises’’), a Cypriot entity owned or con- ment Group late Tuesday afternoon: their bills, finance capital improve- trolled by [Kolomoisky and Bogolyubov] The allegations in this lawsuit—part of an drew down $40 million in loan proceeds from ment projects, and makes it chal- orchestrated political attack by a Ukrainian lenging for them to file their taxes. PrivatBank Cyprus for ‘‘replenishment of bank against investors in our thriving busi- floating assets for payments according to This has also created a serious safety nesses—are false, defamatory and utterly hazard for cannabis and cannabis-re- contracts, including purchase of shares.’’ without merit. We intend not only to contest However, the loan proceeds were not used but to disprove these reckless allegations, lated businesses by forcing them to for their stated purposes. Instead, the loan and to demonstrate that they are part of a hold on to large amounts of cash on proceeds were combined with funds from smear campaign driven by a Ukrainian polit- their premises and increases the likeli- other sources linked to [Kolomoisky and ical agenda that we have nothing to do with. hood of tax evasion, which has been Bogolyubov] and laundered in forty-two We are immensely proud of our extensive historically prevalent among cash-only transactions through fifteen Laundering Ac- track record building a vibrant real estate counts, including the accounts of Defendant businesses. portfolio in Cleveland, and we will not let a Kolomoisky’s Divot Enterprises, Ralkon The SAFE Banking Act resolves frivolous lawsuit tarnish our hard-earned Commercial, and Pavanti Enterprises, as these issues by creating a legal path- reputation or distract us from our mission to well as Defendant Bogolyubov’s Bonique, and way for banks to serve cannabis and continue to serve the interests of the Cleve- [K&B’s] Blisont Capital and Brotstone ac- cannabis-related businesses without land community. counts. Filed on behalf of the current PrivatBank fear of Federal sanctions. On information and belief, [K&B] and their shareholders, the Delaware complaint seeks Importantly, this bill defends States’ co-conspirators used Pavanti Enterprises to damages which could include all of Optima’s rights by allowing banks in States misappropriate and transfer a combined $36.1 U.S. assets. Those include properties in Dal- where cannabis is legal to serve these million into the U.S. to the Multi-State las and Louisville and metallurgical assets businesses, but does not force banks to Title Agency Ltd. to fund the acquisition of in addition to the Cleveland portfolio. serve them and does not force it in One Cleveland [Center] through Optima One Among the metallurgical assets that Optima Cleveland Center LLC for Optima Ventures. States where it is illegal. Acquisitions acquired was a steelmaking At its height, Optima Ventures controlled Last year, Oklahoma legalized med- plant in Warren, Ohio, called Warren Steel 2.8 million square feet of downtown Cleve- ical cannabis, and, since then, Okla- Holdings LLC. Warren Steel shuttered per- land commercial real estate. This was a larg- homa’s industry has become one of the manently in 2016 and laid off 162 workers due er footprint than even Forest City Enter- fastest growing in the Nation. Just this to ‘‘unforeseeable business circumstances.’’ prises at the time. past April, Oklahomans spent more In recent years, Optima has been selling off Kolomoisky and Bogolyubov are now back in Ukraine after having fled from their resi- than $18 million on medical cannabis, its Cleveland properties, most of which have and the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana fallen into disrepair and suffer from high va- dences in Switzerland to Israel in 2018. Both oligarchs reportedly have Ukrainian, Israeli Authority has licensed 1,400 cancy rates. dispensaries and 2,700 commercial The AECOM building, for example, which and Cypriot citizenship. Optima acquired in $46.5 million in 2010, was The Daily Beast reported in April that growers in the State. sold to New-Jersey based Rugy Realty last Kolomoisky is under FBI investigation and This industry is bringing revenue to summer for $38 million. When Optima bought that the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the North- our State, creating small businesses, AECOM (the former Penton Media Building), ern District of Ohio was involved in a wide- and helping those who suffer with it was 90-percent occupied. But when Rugby ranging probe. Kolomoisky’s lawyer said physical illness to relieve their ail- purchased it last year, it had dropped to only that his client ‘‘categorically denied’’ laun- ments. The SAFE Banking Act sup- 57-percent occupancy and was in need of sig- dering any money into the United States. ports this growing Oklahoma industry, nificant renovations. Kolomoisky has reportedly returned to Ukraine, however, with the tacit protection our banks, and works to keep Oklaho- ‘‘We’ll fully renovate the lobby so it fits mans that work in and around this in- the 21st century and doesn’t look like the of new president Volodymyr Zelenskiy, a co- median who played the Ukrainian President dustry safe. 1980s,’’ Rugby principal Robert Ades said at Madam Speaker, I encourage my col- the time of purchase. Rugby’s plans also in- on the TV show Servant of the People (now cluded updating the elevators, the mechan- streaming on Netflix). leagues to support this pragmatic leg- ical components of which reportedly dated That show, immensely popular in Ukraine, islation that makes our community back to 1972. aired on a network owned by Kolomoisky. safer, protects States’ rights, supports The Huntington Building (The 925 Build- f small businesses, and grows our econ- ing) was sold to Frank Sinito’s Millennia omy. b 1030 Companies last year for $40 million. A full f overhaul of the building was projected to cost $300 million. The property was charac- LEGALIZE BANKS WORKING WITH RECESS CANNABIS-RELATED BUSINESSES terized by the PD at the time of sale as a The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- ‘‘gaping hole in the heart of a revitalizing The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair downtown.’’ Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from A situation of disrepair and vacancy can declares the House in recess until noon also be found at 55 Public Square, the only Oklahoma (Ms. KENDRA S. HORN) for 5 today. building other than One Cleveland Center minutes. Accordingly (at 10 o’clock and 32 that remains in Optima’s local ownership Ms. KENDRA S. HORN of Oklahoma. minutes a.m.), the House stood in re- portfolio. Madam Speaker, I rise today to talk cess.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:23 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.008 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7912 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019 b 1200 Summit Church has gone from 300 Roxanne, and dedicated staff from the members to over 10,000, making it one Washington and district offices. AFTER RECESS of the fastest growing churches in our This year, the tour took us to the The recess having expired, the House country. Clemson University Sandhill Research was called to order by the Speaker pro His vision is to plant 1,000 new and Education Center in Columbia. The tempore (Mr. CUELLAR) at noon. churches around the world by the year Sandhill Research and Education Cen- f 2050. ter plays a vital role in the growth of He believes the deeper we dive into statewide agribusiness. PRAYER the extravagant love of Christ, the We were welcomed by long-time Dr. J.D. Greear, The Summit Church, more our lives will be filled with un- friend, Director Kathy Coleman. Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina, of- quenchable joy, reckless generosity, During the visit, we heard updates fered the following prayer: and audacious faith. from faculty members Cory Heaton, Almighty Father, we ask You for Pastor J.D. is the author of several Adam Kantrovich, and Nathan Smith Your help in guiding the affairs of this life-transforming books and is the cur- on their research in agribusiness pro- great Nation. We acknowledge that you rent president of the Southern Baptist gramming, which promotes President have appointed governments for the Convention. Donald Trump’s policies of farm ex- promotion of peace, for the preserva- One of his most important accom- ports. tion of justice, and the protection of plishments is his dedication to his wife, We learned from farm manager Cody liberty. We recognize that the wisdom Veronica, and their four children. Bishop of the incubator program, to accomplish these things comes only It is an honor to have him here in which provides small plots for startup from You. Washington, D.C., today. He is also the farmers to begin growing their busi- May You grant that this body rule in mentor of my pastor, Andrew Hopper. ness. a way that directs the men, women, Mr. Speaker, I look forward to his The visit was jointly hosted with the and children of this country towards continued work as a father, as a pastor, South Carolina Farm Bureau. We were Your goodness, and enables them to re- and as a leader. welcomed by David Wilson, Gary spond in thankfulness to You, knowing f Spires, and Charles Wingard. that each of us must give an account In conclusion, God bless our troops, for our decisions and our actions to ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER and we will never forget September the You. PRO TEMPORE 11th in the global war on terrorism. May we perceive the love that You The SPEAKER pro tempore. The f have for us, and may that translate Chair will entertain up to 15 further re- INVESTIGATE FORMER VICE into love for one another, especially quests for 1-minute speeches on each PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN AND HIS the most vulnerable. side of the aisle. SON, HUNTER BIDEN Finally, may we recognize that all of f this comes as a gift from You, em- (Mr. LAMBORN asked and was given bodied in Jesus Christ, who was pun- AN IMPEACHMENT INQUIRY IS permission to address the House for 1 ished for our sin and raised to life so NECESSARY minute and to revise and extend his re- that we could find new life in Him. marks.) (Mr. HIGGINS of New York asked and Mr. LAMBORN. Mr. Speaker, I rise It is in His name that I pray. was given permission to address the Amen. today to call for an investigation into House for 1 minute.) former Vice President Joe Biden and f Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. his son, Hunter Biden, for their uneth- Speaker, with each passing day, we see THE JOURNAL ical and potentially criminal actions in an erosion of this country’s ideals by a Ukraine. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The President who freely sidesteps Con- In 2014, after being discharged from Chair has examined the Journal of the gress, profits off his position, obstructs the Navy for cocaine use, Hunter Biden last day’s proceedings and announces justice, and places personal petty poli- was named a board member of Burisma to the House his approval thereof. tics before national security. Holdings. Burisma is a natural gas Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Jour- The validity of these violations is not company that was being investigated nal stands approved. in question. They are happening before by the Ukrainian Government for cor- f us. ruption. The Intelligence inspector general, This strange hire for a million dol- PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE who was appointed by President lars a year was around the same period The SPEAKER pro tempore. Will the Trump, said that the whistleblower that Vice President Joe Biden was the gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. complaint is of both urgent concern primary American liaison to Ukraine, WILSON) come forward and lead the and credible, and its public release is supposedly assisting their new govern- House in the Pledge of Allegiance. the National Intelligence director’s ob- ment in combating corruption. Mr. WILSON of South Carolina led ligation to the American people. Just last year, Joe Biden bragged to the Pledge of Allegiance as follows: An impeachment inquiry is necessary the Council on Foreign Relations that I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the to protect the values included in our he threatened the Ukrainian Govern- United States of America, and to the Repub- Constitution and to deliver the truth ment while vice president with the loss lic for which it stands, one nation under God, Americans deserve. of a billion dollars unless they fired the indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- prosecutor general leading the ethics f bers are reminded to refrain from en- probe into Hunter Biden, or America gaging in personalities toward the would cut off that foreign aid. WELCOMING DR. J.D. GREEAR President. Talk about quid pro quo. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Without f It is clear: Democrats would rather objection, the gentleman from North smear President Trump than inves- SANDHILL RESEARCH AND Carolina (Mr. WALKER) is recognized tigate Biden’s corrupt bullying of the EDUCATION CENTER for 1 minute. Ukrainian Government. There was no objection. (Mr. WILSON of South Carolina f Mr. WALKER. Mr. Speaker, you have asked and was given permission to ad- just heard from a man, J.D. Greear, dress the House for 1 minute and to re- AFFORDABLE HEALTH INSURANCE that I have the distinct privilege of vise and extend his remarks.) OPTIONS calling my friend. Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. (Mr. BUDD asked and was given per- Pastor J.D. Greear leads The Summit Speaker, each August, I participate in mission to address the House for 1 Church in Durham, North Carolina. a bus tour of South Carolina’s Second minute and to revise and extend his re- Under Pastor J.D.’s leadership, The Congressional District with my wife, marks.)

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:23 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.009 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7913 Mr. BUDD. Mr. Speaker, when Con- century helps our community grow and controlled by the chair and ranking mi- gress passed the Affordable Care Act in stronger and make west Michigan a nority member of the Committee on Home- 2010, President Obama made a famous better place to live, work, and raise a land Security; and (2) one motion to recom- mit with or without instructions. promise: that the American people family. SEC. 2. Upon adoption of this resolution it would be able to keep the plans they f shall be in order to consider in the House the liked while paying less for health in- bill (H.R. 3525) to amend the Homeland Secu- surance. But, Mr. Speaker, that famous COMMUNICATION FROM THE rity Act of 2002 to direct the Commissioner promise was false, and ObamaCare’s CLERK OF THE HOUSE of U.S. Customs and Border Protection to es- consequences are still being felt to this The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- tablish uniform processes for medical screen- day. ing of individuals interdicted between ports fore the House the following commu- of entry, and for other purposes. All points of Over the preceding decade, premiums nication from the Clerk of the House of order against consideration of the bill are for individual coverage have more than Representatives: waived. In lieu of the amendment in the na- doubled, patient choice has declined, OFFICE OF THE CLERK, ture of a substitute recommended by the and State exchanges have collapsed. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committee on Homeland Security now print- This upheaval is a direct result of the Washington, DC, September 25, 2019. ed in the bill, an amendment in the nature of law’s rigid and costly regulations that Hon. NANCY PELOSI, a substitute consisting of the text of Rules predated the Trump administration. The Speaker, House of Representatives, Committee Print 116-33 shall be considered In order to bring down costs and in- Washington, DC. as adopted. The bill, as amended, shall be considered as read. All points of order crease choice, today I introduced the DEAR MADAM SPEAKER: Pursuant to the permission granted in Clause 2(h) of Rule II against provisions in the bill, as amended, Flexibility Through Lower Expenses of the Rules of the U.S. House of Representa- are waived. The previous question shall be Healthcare Act, or the FLEX Act. tives, the Clerk received the following mes- considered as ordered on the bill, as amend- The FLEX Act codifies into law the sage from the Secretary of the Senate on ed, and on any further amendment thereto, Trump administration’s rules on short September 25, 2019, at 9:28 a.m.: to final passage without intervening motion term, limited duration, and association That the Senate passed with an amend- except: (1) one hour of debate equally divided healthcare plans. This will allow small ment H.R. 1158. and controlled by the chair and ranking mi- That the Senate passed without amend- nority member of the Committee on Home- businesses to band together to pur- land Security; and (2) one motion to recom- chase affordable plans and give con- ment H.R. 1590. With best wishes, I am mit with or without instructions. sumers the freedom to purchase low- EC. 3. Upon adoption of this resolution it Sincerely, S shall be in order without intervention of any cost, short-term plans if they need to. CHERYL L. JOHNSON. Mr. Speaker, it is time for Congress point of order to consider in the House the to follow the Trump administration’s f resolution (H. Res. 576) expressing the sense lead and make these rules permanent. of the House of Representatives with respect PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION to the whistleblower complaint of August 12, All citizens of our great country de- OF H.R. 2203, HOMELAND SECU- 2019, made to the Inspector General of the In- serve affordable health insurance op- RITY IMPROVEMENT ACT; PRO- telligence Community. The resolution shall tions that are free from ObamaCare’s VIDING FOR CONSIDERATION OF be considered as read. The previous question crippling regulatory regime. H.R. 3525, U.S. BORDER PATROL shall be considered as ordered on the resolu- f MEDICAL SCREENING STAND- tion and preamble to adoption without inter- ARDS ACT; PROVIDING FOR CON- vening motion or demand for division of the TYSON UPWARD ACADEMY question except one hour of debate equally SIDERATION OF H. RES. 576, EX- (Mr. HUIZENGA asked and was given divided and controlled by the chair and rank- PRESSING SENSE OF THE HOUSE ing minority member of the Permanent Se- permission to address the House for 1 WITH RESPECT TO WHISTLE- lect Committee on Intelligence. minute and to revise and extend his re- BLOWER COMPLAINT MADE TO SEC. 4. It shall be in order at any time on marks.) INSPECTOR GENERAL OF INTEL- the legislative day of September 26, 2019, for Mr. HUIZENGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise LIGENCE COMMUNITY; AND FOR the Speaker to entertain motions that the today to celebrate the launch of the OTHER PURPOSES House suspend the rules as though under 50th Upward Academy at the Tyson clause 1 of rule XV. The Speaker or her des- Foods plant in my hometown of Zee- Ms. SCANLON. Mr. Speaker, by di- ignee shall consult with the Minority Leader rection of the Committee on Rules, I or his designee on the designation of any land, Michigan. matter for consideration pursuant to this This unique in-plant educational pro- call up House Resolution 577 and ask for its immediate consideration. section. gram offers empowering resources and SEC. 5. On any legislative day during the courses to all workers at no cost. The Clerk read the resolution, as fol- period from September 30, 2019, through Oc- By partnering with local community lows: tober 14, 2019— organizations, Upward Academy pro- H. RES. 577 (a) the Journal of the proceedings of the previous day shall be considered as approved; Resolved, That upon adoption of this reso- vides team members the opportunity to and lution it shall be in order to consider in the access important classes, such as (b) the Chair may at any time declare the House the bill (H.R. 2203) to increase trans- English as a second language, general House adjourned to meet at a date and time, education development, and citizenship parency, accountability, and community en- within the limits of clause 4, section 5, arti- gagement within the Department of Home- courses. cle I of the Constitution, to be announced by land Security, provide independent oversight the Chair in declaring the adjournment. The academy also includes multiple of border security activities, improve train- components focused on workplace SEC. 6. The Speaker may appoint Members ing for agents and officers of U.S. Customs to perform the duties of the Chair for the du- skills and professional training to de- and Border Protection and U.S. Immigration ration of the period addressed by section 5 of velop talent, especially in rural and and Customs Enforcement, and for other pur- this resolution as though under clause 8 (a) marginalized areas. poses. All points of order against consider- of rule I. Through programs such as drivers’ ation of the bill are waived. In lieu of the SEC. 7. Each day during the period ad- education, computer technology, and amendment in the nature of a substitute rec- dressed by section 5 of this resolution shall ommended by the Committee on Homeland not constitute a calendar day for purposes of financial literacy, Upward Academy Security now printed in the bill, an amend- brings knowledgeable experts directly section 7 of the War Powers Resolution (50 ment in the nature of a substitute consisting U.S.C. 1546). to workers so they can move beyond of the text of Rules Committee Print 116-27, SEC. 8. Each day during the period ad- entry-level jobs and receive valuable modified by the amendment printed in the dressed by section 5 of this resolution shall qualifications so that they can perform report of the Committee on Rules accom- not constitute a legislative day for purposes at even higher levels. panying this resolution, shall be considered of clause 7 of rule XIII. The 50th launch of the Upward Acad- as adopted. The bill, as amended, shall be SEC. 9. Each day during the period ad- emy will open the door for all team considered as read. All points of order dressed by section 5 of this resolution shall members to strive beyond their current against provisions in the bill, as amended, not constitute a calendar or legislative day are waived. The previous question shall be for purposes of clause 7(c)(1) of rule XXII. situations. considered as ordered on the bill, as amend- Sec. 10. Each day during the period addressed Tyson Foods and Upward Academy’s ed, and on any further amendment thereto, by section 5 of this resolution shall not con- commitment to cultivating a modern to final passage without intervening motion stitute a legislative day for purposes of workforce that is prepared for the 21st except: (1) one hour of debate equally divided clause 7 of rule XV.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:17 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.011 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7914 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019 The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- plaint that was filed to the intelligence First, H.R. 2203, the Homeland Secu- tlewoman from Pennsylvania is recog- community inspector general following rity Improvement Act, is a timely and nized for 1 hour. a call President Trump had with the necessary bill to address our Nation’s Ms. SCANLON. Mr. Speaker, for the President of Ukraine. These types of immigration and security challenges at purpose of debate only, I yield the cus- complaints are far from unheard of, the southern border in a responsible tomary 30 minutes to the gentlewoman and the law states that the complaint and humane way. This legislation will from Arizona (Mrs. LESKO), pending must be turned over to the House and ensure accountability, transparency, which I yield myself such time as I Senate Intelligence Committees. How- and oversight in the agency responsible may consume. During consideration of ever, the inspector general has testified for monitoring and securing our Na- this resolution, all time yielded is for that the Acting Director of National tion’s borders. the purpose of debate only. Intelligence blocked the complaint, Further, the bill establishes an om- budsman for border- and immigration- b 1215 after consulting with the Department of Justice, from being turned over to related concerns within the Depart- GENERAL LEAVE Congress, despite the complaint fitting ment of Homeland Security. This addi- Ms. SCANLON. Mr. Speaker, I ask the requirements for being turned over tional oversight in the Department of unanimous consent that all Members Homeland Security will bring a much- be given 5 legislative days to revise and under the law. The way this complaint was handled needed level of independent account- extend their remarks. ability to DHS and ensure that the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there by the Trump administration was a stark violation of that whistleblower agents and employees working at our objection to the request of the gentle- border are performing their duties to woman from Pennsylvania? law, which states that the Director of National Intelligence shall provide the highest possible standard. There was no objection. There is no doubt that these border Ms. SCANLON. Mr. Speaker, on Congress with the full whistleblower complaint. In addition to breaking the security jobs are demanding and in- Tuesday, the Rules Committee met and tense, and the creation of an inde- law, this corruption sends a strong and reported a rule, House Resolution 577, pendent, neutral, and confidential chilling message to would-be whistle- providing for consideration of H.R. process to address complaints will help blowers that their courage and sac- 2203, the Homeland Security Improve- both the agents and employees working rifice in speaking out against impro- ment Act; H.R. 3525, the U.S. Border at the border, as well as the individuals priety and corruption will not be val- Patrol Medical Screening Standards they process. Act; and H. Res. 576, expressing the ued if it is not politically expedient. This bill also creates a border com- Yesterday, the Senate voted by unan- sense of the House of Representatives munities liaison, appointed by the om- imous consent to pass a nonbinding with respect to the whistleblower com- budsman in conjunction with the Office plaint of August 12, 2019, made to the resolution directing the Trump admin- for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties at Inspector General of the Intelligence istration to hand over the whistle- DHS, to operate in each Border Patrol Community, under closed rules. blower report filed against President sector along the northern and southern For H.R. 2203 and H.R. 3525, the rule Trump, reportedly, to House and Sen- borders. The liaison will be charged provides 1 hour of general debate equal- ate Intelligence Committees. The fact with fostering cooperation between ly divided and controlled by the chair that Senator MCCONNELL allowed this ICE, CBP, and surrounding border com- and ranking minority member of the resolution to go to the floor should munities, relationships that have be- Committee on Homeland Security for show House Republicans that there is a come increasingly strained and dis- each bill. The rule provides H. Res. 576 point where you must stop turning a trustful in recent months. 1 hour of general debate equally di- blind eye to this administration’s be- In addition, the ombudsman will be vided and controlled by the chair and trayal of our Constitution, our coun- required to conduct annual evaluations ranking minority member of the Per- try, and our national security. of all training given to ICE and CBP manent Select Committee on Intel- It is a sad day when Congress needs agents and officers. ligence. to pass a resolution to obtain docu- One of the many concerns that I The rule also provides blanket sus- ments that we have an absolute right heard from ICE and CBP agents during pension authority for the legislative to see, but this type of conduct is part my trips to the border is that they are day of Thursday, September 26, 2019, of a pattern of obstruction by this ad- not given adequate training and re- and standard recess instructions for ministration that we have seen time sources to properly do their jobs under the district work period from Sep- and time again. current conditions. It is clear that this tember 30 to October 14. Allowing the Intelligence Commit- administration is creating chaos at the At the end of this debate, I will be of- tees to see the complaints and inter- southern border by instituting policies fering an amendment to the rule to re- view the whistleblower is essential to that prioritize political fearmongering place the text of H. Res. 576 with the our national security. Furthermore, over addressing the humanitarian cri- text of S. Res. 325, a bipartisan resolu- this resolution serves as a show of sup- sis in Central America. This is unac- tion that passed the Senate unani- port and solidarity with whistle- ceptable given the complex challenges mously yesterday. Both of these reso- blowers. If we allow partisanship to border agents face every day, and an lutions urge that the complaint be deter whistleblowers from acting, we annual assessment of their training transmitted immediately to the Intel- risk undermining a necessary check on will serve to better equip these men ligence Committees, as required by an unrestrained administration. It is and women for their very difficult jobs. law. imperative that these brave Americans Another area where DHS is lacking is In our Rules Committee meeting last are protected and that their concerns utilizing advancements in technology night, several of my Republican col- are heard. that could improve outcomes for both leagues suggested that they would pre- It is also worth noting that these border agents and migrants. This bill fer that we take up the Senate-passed whistleblower protections were nego- mandates that the ombudsman, in co- language. To ensure that this Congress tiated and implemented with bipar- ordination with the CBP Commis- speaks with one voice clearly and un- tisan support over multiple adminis- sioner, ICE Director, and ORR, develop equivocally on this urgent matter, we trations. recommendations for an electronic will be amending the rule to do just Protecting the integrity of our na- tracking number system to keep track that. tional security is vitally important. I of children in U.S. custody. The wholly Mr. Speaker, we are here today to de- urge my Republican colleagues to fol- inhumane practice of separating chil- bate the rule for three important low the lead of their Senate counter- dren from their parents is preventable, pieces of legislative business, which I parts and join us in passing this resolu- and tracking the location of a child will address serially: H. Res. 576, with tion so that Congress can properly who has been separated from his or her the text of S. Res. 325; H.R. 3525; and meet its constitutional oversight du- parents or guardians will help ensure H.R. 2203. ties. that no child is ever again in custody By now, every Member of this body is Also subject to this rule are two alone and unaccounted for at our well aware of the whistleblower com- homeland security measures. southern border.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:17 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.013 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7915 Finally, this bill requires the om- ing research done in consultation with Homeland Security with the resources budsman to submit to Congress a plan national medical professional associa- it needs to effectively do its job, and I for requiring the use of body-worn cam- tions that have expertise in emergency urge my Republican colleagues to vote eras by U.S. Border Patrol agents and medicine, nursing, pediatric care, and for this legislation to support all those ICE officers when they are engaged in other relevant medical skills. who work and live by the border. border security and immigration en- Upon completion of this research, Mr. Speaker, I urge support for this forcement activities. This is a long- DHS must submit a report to Congress rule, and I reserve the balance of my overdue step. Body cameras are already on its recommendations for improving time. used by State and local police depart- medical screening, access to emergency Mrs. LESKO. Mr. Speaker, I yield ments around the country and have care, and steps the Department plans myself such time as I may consume. served to improve justice outcomes for to take in response. Mr. Speaker, I thank Representative the individuals who come into contact Within 90 days of this enactment, SCANLON for yielding me the customary with the police and provide a level of DHS must establish an electronic 30 minutes. oversight that is greatly needed at the health record system that can be Mr. Speaker, the bills we consider border. accessed by all DHS components oper- today highlight how far the priorities Mr. Speaker, House Democrats are ating on our borders. ICE already has of my colleagues across the aisle have committed to passing legislation that its own electronic health record system diverged from the priorities of the will improve conditions at the border in place, and it is time CBP upgraded American people. and better ensure the safety of agents its capabilities, as well. We consider two bills purportedly re- and employees who work there, as well The deaths that have occurred on our lated to border security but which do as the safety of migrants they come borders are a stain on our Nation, and nothing to solve the humanitarian cri- into contact with. Increased account- current medical screening processes sis at our border and, like the rest of ability is necessary to improving the are clearly not enough. their previous so-called solutions, situation at the border, a situation, I An inspector general report, released make the problem even worse. might add, that my Republican coun- a few weeks ago, highlighted the chal- Instead of addressing the issues that terparts continuously say needs ad- lenges that ORR is having in address- impact American citizens and legal dressing. This bill is the chance for ing the mental health needs of those residents, the Democrats continue to that added accountability. children released by CBP to ORR. cave to radical, leftwing activists, I commend my colleague Representa- Though this bill deals with CBP, many cater to illegal immigrants over U.S. tive ESCOBAR from El Paso for her hard of the issues transfer from agency to citizens and legal residents, and malign work and dedication on this issue and agency with the children. The trauma the President for his attempts to se- Chairman THOMPSON and the Homeland for these children begins when they are cure or border. Security Committee for their thought- forced to flee their birth countries and Then, late yesterday afternoon, a ful consideration of H.R. 2203. is exacerbated by the journey to the mere 1 hour and 45 minutes before the The second Homeland Security bill in U.S., which, for many, is marked by vi- Rules Committee met, my Democratic today’s rule is H.R. 3525, the U.S. Bor- olence, sexual abuse, hunger, and sleep colleagues added another item to the der Patrol Medical Screening Stand- deprivation. schedule for this rule to further their ards Act. Once they finally arrive in the U.S., witch hunt against President Trump. In December 2018, Jakelin, aged 7, they then may be separated from their The Democrats ran on kitchen table and Felipe, aged 8, both passed away in parents, if that didn’t happen along the issues like healthcare, but it is becom- the custody of the U.S. Border Patrol. original journey, causing further trau- ing increasingly clear that their obses- Following their deaths, CBP announced ma. Medical professionals are clear sion with attacking this President and new medical screening procedures for that these children are going to have prioritizing illegal immigrants over children. Despite this, four more chil- lifelong trauma. They need a detailed U.S. citizens has impeded their ability dren have since passed away in Federal medical record of the care they receive to address the needs of our country. custody. or do not receive while in U.S. custody The first bill, H.R. 2203, expands the Let us be clear that we are address- so that they can receive adequate fol- government by creating another Fed- ing an issue that has emerged with the low-up care. eral bureaucrat, an ombudsman, to in- implementation of the Trump adminis- The IG report noted, as well, that the vestigate complaints against Customs tration’s inhumane border policies. No facilities where we house these chil- and Border Protection and Immigra- child died in CBP custody for the en- dren have not employed sufficient tion and Customs Enforcement, our tire decade preceding 2018, but we have numbers of essential mental health cli- law enforcement on the border. seen six in the last 10 months. nicians. This results in higher case- This is a special ombudsman just for CBP facilities must be better loads for staff and worse outcomes for illegal immigrants to file complaints equipped to provide medical attention these afflicted children. against law enforcement, even though for individuals in U.S. custody, par- The electronic health record system there are current avenues to file com- ticularly children. required by this bill will ensure that plaints. It requires that bureaucrat to One critical component of addressing medical information does not get lost, establish even more bureaucrats in the new reality is an initial health help track when follow-up appoint- each U.S. Border Patrol sector. On top screening to identify acute or pressing ments are necessary, and prevent du- of those bureaucrats, it creates even medical issues that need immediate or plication of medical services due to more to sit on a border oversight panel. follow-up attention. H.R. 3525 builds lost or incomplete records once chil- The icing on the cake: The legislation upon legislation passed by the House in dren are transferred to ORR custody. gives the ombudsman no real authority July of this year by directing DHS to This bill is the result of Representa- to resolve any issues. research innovative approaches to ad- tive UNDERWOOD’s leadership and en- This bill does nothing to address the dress capability gaps for providing gagement with the treatment of mi- root causes of the current humani- medical screening at the border and grants at our border, and I commend tarian crisis on the southern border. In mandates the implementation of an her for her efforts. fact, I have introduced six bills to get electronic health record system. to the root of the problem. None of DHS medical professionals and other b 1230 them have been heard in the Judiciary medical caregivers at the border have These two Homeland Security bills Committee, but, instead, their bill is spoken of how much they need an elec- provided for in this rule will modernize made up of policy provisions that cater tronic health system for CBP. In fact, the Department of Homeland Security to illegal immigrants and undermine this was the genesis of the bill fol- and support better outcomes for border our law enforcement at the border, lowing Representative UNDERWOOD’s agents, employees, and migrants who thus, weakening our national security. visits to the border. come into U.S. custody. Put simply, my Democratic col- This bill requires DHS to make con- House Democrats understand the leagues’ answer to our border crisis is certed process improvements, includ- need to provide the Department of to create a taxpayer-funded complaint

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:17 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.015 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7916 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019 box for illegal immigrants, and it gives aging language against the President complaint over immediately to Con- no power to the ombudsman. and other people in his administration gress. The second bill, H.R. 3525, throws that was in the House version that we We had the exact same resolution even more taxpayer money at pro- saw last night in the Rules Committee. last night, and our colleagues said: grams that will do nothing for the bor- In fact, as the Speaker knows, I Well, we don’t like your resolution. It der security Americans demand. It brought this up last night in com- is too profuse. There is too much lan- even jeopardizes our national security mittee, and we could have done this guage, as the gentlewoman said. We by requiring the Department of Home- last night. However, I am still con- think that it may disparage the con- land Security to reprogram funding cerned that this resolution, as amend- duct of the President. used for combating terrorist and crimi- ed, is still premature. So what we did is we took them at nal organizations and for responding to Even if the two border bills pass the their word. We purged all of that lan- manmade and national disasters to an Senate—and they won’t—they would guage and we made it an exact replica IT system to track illegal immigrant not help our constituents. of the Senate resolution that they were health records. Mr. Speaker, I urge opposition to the praising last night. They loved it last The bill states that this new elec- rule, and I reserve the balance of my night. They said: That is exactly what tronic health records program has to time. this should be. So we have conformed it be completed in a record 90 days. Once Ms. SCANLON. Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 precisely to what they are asking for, again, my Democratic colleagues are minutes to the gentleman from Mary- and they still oppose it. prioritizing illegal immigrants over land (Mr. RASKIN), a distinguished What we need is an emphatic, unani- U.S. citizens. Our own veterans don’t member of the Rules Committee. mous, bipartisan statement that the even have a system like this. Mr. RASKIN. Mr. Speaker, I thank Federal laws of the United States must In fact, we in Congress have been try- the floor leader for her leadership on be respected by this administration. ing to get an electronic health record this. The lawlessness must stop. system in the VA for years, and we Our colleague from Arizona chides us A whistleblower is someone acting in found that it would cost multimillions because we campaigned on healthcare. the highest, most noble traditions of of dollars. Yet there is no funding in We campaigned on healthcare, proudly, the country. He is not a traitor, as this bill for this electronic program, so and we are defending preexisting condi- some have implied. A whistleblower is we would have to divert money from tions coverage against every effort by not someone who has gone over to the our national security priorities. the Republicans to destroy it by re- other side of the country. A whistle- This bill does divert money from pro- pealing the Affordable Care Act in this blower is someone working for the tecting American citizens to enhancing body. And we have defended it and we American people. the experience for illegal immigrants. continue to defend it in court as they Both parties used to understand that, I have been to a border facility in are trying to destroy preexisting condi- not just Democrats, but Republicans Eloy, Arizona, a detention center, and tions coverage in Texas right now. used to understand that. Apparently, I have also been to an HHS facility in We hope that they will work with us the Senate Republicans do understand Virginia that houses unaccompanied on lowering prescription drug prices. it, and yet, now, we have a situation minors. I saw that both facilities were So I believe that my colleague should where we are saying: We have got a res- clean and the occupants were treated take up her own invitation to get to olution, an exact replica of the Senate well. I even ate with detainees, sat at work for the American people. resolution where we are asking the ad- the table with them at the Eloy Deten- We have no problem advancing the ministration just to comply with the tion Center, and the food was good. public policy interests of the American law. Come forward and give us the Prioritizing where DHS should allo- people while we defend the Constitu- complaint as you are required to do by cate its limited resources, my firsthand tion and the rule of law against the law. experience leads me to believe that conduct of this President. The statute uses the phrase, ‘‘shall hurricane response and thwarting ter- Now, we had a resolution last night turn over to Congress.’’ ‘‘Shall,’’ that rorists are of greater concern than saying, obey the law, telling the ad- means must—not may, not maybe do prioritizing illegal immigrants. ministration there is a very simple it. You must do it. Every other Presi- Finally, the resolution, H. Res. 576, is whistleblower statute which gives peo- dent, every other administration, every an inappropriate rush to judgment ple the opportunity to come forward to other Director of National Intelligence without gathering all of the facts. say that there is a violation of the Na- has understood that. First of all, the President released tional Security Act in a way that flags We asked our colleagues to stand by the call transcript text with the Presi- a serious or flagrant problem, abuse, or what they told us in committee last dent of Ukraine today. I read it. To me, violation of law, and then that goes to night, which was they liked the Senate it is a big nothing burger, and, in fact, the inspector general of the Depart- version, and they urged us to use the it demonstrates—I am glad the Presi- ment. Senate version. We are using the Sen- dent released it because it dem- It went to the inspector general, and ate version, and we hope that we will onstrates how the media and some of that is an inspector general appointed have an emphatic, bipartisan state- my Democratic colleagues were totally by President Trump himself. And the ment to the executive branch of gov- false in their allegations. inspector general found that the whis- ernment they must turn over this ma- One of the accusations was that eight tleblower’s complaint was credible and terial according to law. times the President talked about this it was urgent. It went to a serious Mrs. LESKO. Mr. Speaker, I yield Biden issue with the Ukrainian Presi- problem. myself such time as I may consume. dent. That is totally untrue. At that point, it goes to the Director Mr. Speaker, if we defeat the pre- Second, the Director of National In- of National Intelligence, and that Di- vious question, I will offer an amend- telligence is testifying before the rector has 7 days to turn it over to the ment to the rule to allow for imme- House Intelligence Committee tomor- House Permanent Select Committee on diate consideration of S. 820, the row, on Thursday, and Chairman Intelligence. Debbie Smith Act of 2019, which reau- SCHIFF has already announced efforts The 7 days came and went. This is thorizes funding to process the rape kit to have a closed-door meeting with the the first time in American history backlogs. whistleblower this week. when the Director of National Intel- Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous con- Third, these things should occur be- ligence did not turn over such a com- sent to insert the text of my amend- fore the House rushes into this type of plaint to the House Permanent Select ment in the RECORD, along with extra- resolution. I understand, and we are Committee on Intelligence. neous material, immediately prior to told on the floor today by my col- So the U.S. Senate, in a bipartisan the vote on the previous question. leagues, that Democrats intend to fashion, all the Democrats and all of The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there amend the rule to match the Senate- the Republicans, got together and said objection to the request of the gentle- passed resolution on this matter, and I to the administration, to the Director woman from Arizona? am glad. They are removing the dispar- of National Intelligence: Turn that There was no objection.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:17 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.017 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7917 Mrs. LESKO. Mr. Speaker, this pro- I understand how we work, and I un- Mr. RESCHENTHALER. Mr. Speak- gram was reauthorized with broad bi- derstand how things move around, but er, before I came to Congress, I served partisan support in both 2008 and 2014. there is absolutely no reason this as a magisterial district judge. I was on The Senate passed the Debbie Smith should be used as a bargaining chip for the front line of the criminal justice Act by unanimous consent in May, anything else. This is simple, this is system, and I handled preliminary over 4 months ago; yet the House has commonsense, this is good law enforce- hearings for sexual assault and rape yet to take up this important bill ment, and this protects victims of the cases. Let me tell you, these crimes are meant to end the rape kit backlog, most dangerous and despicable crime incredibly heinous, and stories from even though it expires in just 5 days. that can be committed on them. the victims are absolutely heart- As a survivor of domestic violence Ms. SCANLON. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 breaking. and co-chair of the bipartisan Congres- minutes to the gentlewoman from Many of these victims went through sional Caucus for Women’s Issues, I am Pennsylvania (Ms. DEAN.) a grueling evidence collection process deeply disturbed by reports that some Ms. DEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in sup- in the hopes they would help catch are using this program as leverage to port of the rule, and I thank our floor their rapist. Unfortunately, this evi- get the Senate to pass other things manager, my colleague and friend from dence often sits untested on shelves for that have nothing to do with DNA test- Pennsylvania, Representative SCAN- months to years while sexual assault ing of rape kits. LON, for so ably guiding this argument. victims wait for justice and their rap- Mr. Speaker, as the Speaker so elo- ists roam the streets. This is especially b 1245 quently stated yesterday, this is a dan- My amendment makes the vote on dangerous because those who commit gerous time for our democracy. Our sexual assault are likely to do it again. the previous question simple. Vote Founding Fathers understood the im- ‘‘no’’ if you believe survivors of rape They are typically habitual offenders. portance of whistleblowers as an inte- So when we delay the testing of these and sexual assault deserve to be one gral part of the fabric of our democracy step closer to justice. Vote ‘‘no’’ so we kits, we do so at the expense and the and ensuring the rule of law is upheld. risk of others being sexually assaulted. can immediately consider the Debbie The first United States whistleblower So that is where the Debbie Smith Smith Act. Vote ‘‘no’’ on the previous law which unanimously passed on July Act comes in. The Debbie Smith Act question if you stand with survivors of 30, 1778, by the Continental Congress provides funding for DNA testing and rape and sexual assault. states: ‘‘That it is the duty of all per- training to eliminate the backlog of Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the sons in the service of the United untested DNA and rape kit evidence. gentleman from North Dakota (Mr. States, as well as all other the inhab- Since 2004 nearly 200,000 DNA matches ARMSTRONG), who is my good friend. itants thereof, to give the earliest in- Mr. ARMSTRONG. Mr. Speaker, I, formation to Congress or other proper have been made thanks to the Debbie like many people growing up thought authority of any misconduct, frauds or Smith DNA Backlog Grant Program. murder was the worst crime you could misdemeanors committed by any offi- Again, that is over 200,000 DNA have in this country. However, my ca- cers or persons in the service of these matches since 2004. But without con- reer as a criminal defense attorney and states, which may come to their gressional action, this legislation is set as a legal guardian ad litem for victims knowledge.’’ to expire on Monday. of sexual assault has taught me that is The Founding Fathers understood The Senate recognized the critical not true. Violent sexual assault is the this simple principle—that it is the need to reauthorize this bill. They most terrible crime that can be com- duty of all patriotic Americans to not passed this bill back in May and sent it mitted, and, as opposed to other only come forward with allegations of to the House for consideration, but, un- things, victims of that crime have to wrongdoing but to ensure that there is fortunately, my Democratic colleagues relive it when they are interviewed by a path that these allegations be refuse to bring this bill to the floor. law enforcement, they have to relive it brought to Congress. They would rather play politics than when they are interviewed by doctors Mr. Speaker, what have we learned? put criminals in jail. and nurses, they have to relive it when That these principles that our This is absolutely despicable. Sexual they are interviewed by prosecutors, Founding Fathers fought so hard to en- assault victims have been through and they oftentimes have to relive it as shrine in our democracy are in jeop- enough. We should not hold this up for they navigate through the criminal ardy. It is our responsibility, and it is funding so that Democrats can score justice system. our duty to restore the faith of the cheap political points with their rad- We have all heard stories about light public in our elections and oversight of ical, far-left base. sentences in different areas, especially all elected officials including and espe- So I ask my colleagues on the other when it comes under these cases. One cially our President. side of the aisle to reexamine their pri- of the main reasons for that is because We know that the memorandum that orities and help us get justice for these of the nature of the crime and the un- was released today is only a memo- crime victims. This issue is too impor- willingness of victims to continue to go randum of the conversation between tant for partisan games. through this process as they move the President and the President of Ms. SCANLON. Mr. Speaker, I would through the courtroom. I have done Ukraine, and it undermines the integ- ask if the Representative from Arizona this in a court of law. I have helped rity of his office. The President has be- has more speakers. victims navigate this. trayed his oath of office and his fidel- Mrs. LESKO. I have three speakers at The single biggest predicator for get- ity to that oath by putting himself and least, Mr. Speaker. ting a conviction without a jury trial his personal and political gain over na- Ms. SCANLON. Mr. Speaker, I re- is DNA evidence. This puts really bad tional security and the rule of law. serve the balance of my time. people in jail, it protects victims, it He must provide full details of the Mrs. LESKO. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 protects future victims, and, more im- whistleblower information to Congress. minutes to the gentleman from Vir- portantly, it protects the very victims He must provide a full transcript or ginia (Mr. CLINE), who is my good who are there from having to deal with tape of that conversation with the friend. this and navigate it. Ukrainian President. The public de- Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I thank the In 5 days this expires. The FBI has serves it, our election security relies gentlewoman for yielding. said that 475,000 matches have hap- upon it, and the integrity of the office Mr. Speaker, it is imperative that pened through this DNA testing; of demands it. the House immediately bring the that 42 percent of those are directly re- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- Debbie Smith Act up for consideration lated to the Debbie Smith law. This bers are reminded to refrain from en- before the program expires later this should be the only thing we are talking gaging in personalities toward the month. As a former prosecutor in Vir- about in this town, because I cannot President. ginia, I know all too well how critical imagine that we do not have broad, bi- Mrs. LESKO. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 DNA evidence is for achieving justice partisan agreement, and it should be minutes to the gentleman from Penn- for victims of sexual violence. the previous question on every single sylvania (Mr. RESCHENTHALER), who is Debbie Smith’s courage to share her bill until we get it passed. my friend. story with the world has changed the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:17 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.018 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7918 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019 lives of millions, and no person should this amendment in as part of the rule. That is what we have down at the ever have to experience her trauma I don’t know if we would have more border right now, which is being sub- firsthand. Thanks to this program, in- than a couple of people who would even mitted in this bill. Rather than giving credible progress has been made to re- vote against the Debbie Smith Act. So a thank-you to our Border Patrol by duce DNA backlogs, and we cannot it is all a matter of getting it to the adding additional people, we give them take a step backward by allowing it to floor. a kick in the teeth by saying: There lapse. The importance of DNA evidence Here we are about to enter October, must be something wrong with you. We in criminal investigations and prosecu- and we still have not taken this com- need more people to watch over you, tions is unquestionable. In my home monsense step to get criminals off the make it easier to file paperwork State of Virginia, the FBI’s National street. So I hope we will do the right against you, have you have to look out DNA Index contains more than 447,000 thing by all those victims, all those more than you have in the past—and offender profiles and has aided in over women who have been raped and are such a dangerous job. 11,000 criminal investigations. waiting for their criminal—their hor- I mean, you figure some of these This program has been reauthorized rible and torturous individual—to be folks, they are out there in the middle previously with bipartisan support, and taken off the street. Let’s vote ‘‘no’’ on of the night, maybe they catch a cara- there is no excuse for it to be politi- the previous question, and then we can van of 30 or 50 people sneaking into cized now. S. 820 has been languishing do that. this country, and one Border Patrol in the Judiciary Committee for Ms. SCANLON. Mr. Speaker, I am agent is supposed to bring all these months. This failure to act enables vio- prepared to close, but I believe my col- people in. What sacrifice for our coun- lent criminals to remain at large and leagues have one more speaker, so I re- try. in our society. serve the balance of my time. And what do they get from this body? Mr. Speaker, I urge the Speaker to b 1300 Do they get filling out the empty posi- bring this bill to the floor and put it up tions? They don’t get that. What they for a vote so we can protect people Mrs. LESKO. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 get is a kick in the teeth, saying: We from violent sexual predators and minutes to the gentleman from Wis- have something wrong with you. allow justice to be served through our consin (Mr. GROTHMAN), my good Mr. Speaker, I hope we vote against legal system. friend. the rule, and I hope we vote against the Ms. SCANLON. Mr. Speaker, I re- Mr. GROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, I will acts. serve the balance of my time. address the underlying bills on this Ms. SCANLON. Mr. Speaker, I re- Mrs. LESKO. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 rule. serve the balance of my time. minutes to the gentleman from the I have been at the border three times Mrs. LESKO. Mr. Speaker, I yield great State of Texas (Mr. GOHMERT), this year, and while I have been to a myself the balance of my time. who is my good friend. lot of workplaces, a lot of work envi- Mr. Speaker, before my closing state- Mr. GOHMERT. Mr. Speaker, I would ronments, there is nobody I have more ments, I want to put on the RECORD urge my colleagues to vote ‘‘no’’ on respect for than the professional job that the gentleman from Maryland this previous question because in doing that the U.S. Border Patrol does of pro- (Mr. RASKIN) had said earlier that, in so we can finally take care of a matter tecting this country, and they do it Rules Committee last night, Repub- that should have been taken care of under the most difficult of cir- licans gushed over the Senate resolu- long before now that I understood was cumstances. tion, and that is actually not accurate. a bipartisan matter. Both sides of the Last time I was down there, they had What we did is, after Mr. SCHIFF aisle wanted to help address the tre- 2,000 vacant positions. They were, in made some disparaging remarks about mendous backlog of DNA rape kits that May, staffed at a level that was maybe House Republicans, if they didn’t vote needed to be analyzed. The Debbie a third of what it should have been, for the House resolution like the Sen- Smith Act, as my friend from Arizona given the huge number of people com- ate Republicans did, that we didn’t indicated, was previously passed and ing across. care about the issue, then I merely reauthorized, and now we need to reau- In addition to just apprehending peo- pointed out the differences between the thorize it again because even though ple, they had to do mounds of paper- Senate version and the House version, there are 641,000 DNA cases that were work. They had to, in essence, act as a and so that is how that came about. processed, there is still so much that daycare for all the young people who Mr. Speaker, in closing, I will just needs to be done. are sneaking in this country, but they summarize the bills before us today: In addition to crime scene evidence did it without complaining, with the One, creates government bureaucrats and rape kits, the Debbie Smith funds utmost professionalism. with no real authority; also are utilized to process offender I find it hard to believe, after watch- Two, diverts money meant to protect DNA samples to ensure evidence from ing these professional Border Patrol Americans from terrorism, gangs, and unsolved crimes can be matched agents, that other people went down to natural disasters; against our database. So the funds pro- the border and felt the problem is we Three, continues the obsession by my vided by the act are incredibly critical have to tie their hands still more with Democratic colleagues to bash the since they will help solve crimes and another ombudsman, more paperwork, President and others and is a political get criminals off the streets. inviting people to file false complaints, tool. I know from my friends across the particularly since we already have an The Democrats ran on kitchen table aisle and in our hearing that was just inspector general and an Office of Civil issues. Instead, week after week, they going on that I just left in Judiciary Rights and Civil Liberties in the De- prioritized the demands of the radical that there is an effort to, as one Demo- partment of Homeland Security. So in leftwing activists over the needs of the cratic witness said: Gee, we are here addition to the watchmen on the Bor- American people. just to ask you to do something. der Patrol, we had all sorts of new peo- Mr. Speaker, I urge ‘‘no’’ on the pre- Rather than taking guns from law- ple down here. vious question, ‘‘no’’ on the underlying abiding citizens as is being proposed, I I guess I am still surprised, but measure, and I yield back the balance would submit a better answer is let’s maybe I shouldn’t be surprised. There of my time. get the criminals off the street. I know are some people who look at an inter- Ms. SCANLON. Mr. Speaker, I yield there is a big effort to get criminals action between police and a criminal myself such time as I may consume. out of prison, but how about if we get and think there is something wrong Mr. Speaker, the whistleblower reso- criminals back in prison for crimes with the policeman and instinctually lution we will vote on later this week they have committed that have not don’t like him. There are people in a is critical to the constitutional over- been adjudicated? corrections facility who look at the sight responsibilities given to us by the This needs to be addressed. It corrections officers and the prisoners Constitution. Congress has a right to shouldn’t be a political issue. If we and automatically think the problem view this whistleblower complaint, and could get a majority to vote ‘‘no’’ on in the corrections facility is the cor- it is important that we join our Senate the previous question, then we will get rections officers. colleagues in a bipartisan statement to

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:17 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.020 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7919 this administration that Congress will of the Intelligence Community shall be Cuellar Kind Raskin not abdicate its responsibilities. transmitted immediately to the Select Com- Cunningham Kirkpatrick Rice (NY) Davids (KS) Krishnamoorthi Again, I urge my Republican col- mittee on Intelligence of the Senate and the Richmond Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence Davis (CA) Lamb Rose (NY) leagues in the House to join House Davis, Danny K. Langevin of the House of Representatives; and Rouda Democrats and a unanimous Senate to DeFazio Larsen (WA) Roybal-Allard (2) the Select Committee on Intelligence of support the final resolution affirming DeGette Larson (CT) Ruiz the Senate and the Permanent Select Com- DeLauro Lawrence to this administration that we will per- Ruppersberger mittee on Intelligence of the House of Rep- DelBene Lawson (FL) Rush form our duty and to reassure whistle- resentatives should be allowed to evaluate Delgado Lee (CA) Ryan blowers that their courageous acts will the complaint in a deliberate and bipartisan Demings Lee (NV) Sa´ nchez DeSaulnier Levin (CA) Sarbanes be valued and welcomed by Congress. manner consistent with applicable statutes Deutch Levin (MI) Scanlon Mr. Speaker, the two strong bills to and processes in order to safeguard classified Dingell Lewis Schakowsky and sensitive information.’’. Doggett Lieu, Ted protect children and families from ap- Schiff (b) Strike the preamble. Doyle, Michael Lipinski palling conditions and treatment at Schneider The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- F. Loebsack our southwest border have been sent to Engel Lofgren Schrader us by the Committee on Homeland Se- tlewoman from Pennsylvania is recog- Escobar Lowenthal Schrier curity and are representative of the nized. Eshoo Lowey Scott (VA) Ms. SCANLON. Mr. Speaker, I urge Espaillat Luja´ n Scott, David types of constructive and measured Evans Luria Serrano legislation that comes from going support for the resolution, as amended. Finkenauer Lynch Sewell (AL) through regular order. The material previously referred to Fletcher Malinowski Shalala These bills seek to address emergent by Mrs. LESKO is as follows: Foster Maloney, Sherman Frankel Carolyn B. Sherrill conditions at our southern border in a AMENDMENT TO HOUSE RESOLUTION 577 Fudge Maloney, Sean Sires way that is thoughtful and practical At the end of the resolution, add the fol- Gabbard Matsui Slotkin and, if enacted, will have a tangible lowing: Gallego McAdams Smith (WA) Garamendi McBath impact on the day-to-day working lives SEC. 11. Immediately upon adoption of this Soto Garcı´a (IL) McCollum Spanberger of the men and women who work at the resolution, the House shall proceed on the Garcia (TX) McGovern consideration in the House of the bill (S. 820) Speier border and the migrants and children Golden McNerney Stanton who come into U.S. custody. to strengthen programs authorized under the Gomez Meeks Stevens Conditions at the border are unac- Debbie Smith Act of 2004. All points of order Gonzalez (TX) Meng Suozzi Gottheimer Moore ceptable. I think both sides of the aisle against consideration of the bill are waived. Swalwell (CA) The bill shall be considered as read. All Green, Al (TX) Morelle Takano should agree on that. But what we points of order against provisions in the bill Grijalva Moulton Thompson (CA) would also likely agree upon is that Haaland Mucarsel-Powell Thompson (MS) are waived. The previous question shall be Harder (CA) Murphy (FL) Titus simply throwing money at this situa- considered as ordered on the bill and on any Hastings Nadler Tlaib tion will not help. We talk about the amendment thereto to final passage without Hayes Napolitano Tonko intervening motion except: (1) one hour of Heck Neal need for meaningful solutions a lot Torres (CA) Higgins (NY) Neguse around here, and today we present two debate equally divided and controlled by the Torres Small Hill (CA) Norcross of them. chair and ranking minority member of the (NM) Committee on the Judiciary; and (2) one mo- Himes O’Halleran The situation at the border is com- Horn, Kendra S. Ocasio-Cortez Trahan tion to recommit. plicated and requires ongoing atten- Horsford Omar Trone SEC. 12. Clause 1(c) of rule XIX shall not Underwood tion, but we cannot let conditions at Houlahan Pallone apply to the consideration of S. 820. Hoyer Panetta Vargas the border continue to deteriorate. Veasey Ms. SCANLON. Mr. Speaker, I yield Huffman Pappas These two bills will provide meaningful Jayapal Pascrell Vela back the balance of my time, and I Jeffries Payne Vela´ zquez and much-needed reforms to our border Visclosky detention system and help pave the move the previous question on the Johnson (GA) Perlmutter amendment and on the resolution. Johnson (TX) Peters Wasserman way for larger scale immigration legis- Kaptur Peterson Schultz lation. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Keating Phillips Waters question is on ordering the previous Kelly (IL) Pingree Watson Coleman AMENDMENT OFFERED BY MS. SCANLON Kennedy Pocan Welch Ms. SCANLON. Mr. Speaker, I have question on the amendment and on the resolution. Khanna Porter Wexton an amendment at the desk. Kildee Pressley Wild The SPEAKER pro tempore. The The question was taken; and the Kilmer Price (NC) Wilson (FL) Clerk will report the amendment. Speaker pro tempore announced that Kim Quigley Yarmuth the ayes appeared to have it. The Clerk read as follows: NAYS—191 Strike section 3 of the resolution and in- Mrs. LESKO. Mr. Speaker, on that I sert the following: demand the yeas and nays. Aderholt Cloud Graves (MO) Allen Cole Green (TN) SEC. 3. Upon adoption of this resolution it The yeas and nays were ordered. Amash Collins (GA) Griffith shall be in order without intervention of any The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Amodei Collins (NY) Grothman point of order to consider in the House the ant to clause 9 of rule XX, this 15- Armstrong Comer Guest resolution (H. Res. 576) expressing the sense Arrington Conaway Guthrie of the House of Representatives with respect minute vote on ordering the previous Babin Cook Hagedorn to the whistleblower complaint of August 12, question will be followed by 5-minute Bacon Crenshaw Harris 2019, made to the Inspector General of the In- votes on the amendment to the resolu- Baird Curtis Hartzler tion, if ordered, and adoption of the Balderson Davidson (OH) Hern, Kevin telligence Community. The amendments to Banks Davis, Rodney Herrera Beutler the resolution and the preamble specified in resolution, if ordered. Barr DesJarlais Hice (GA) section 11 of this resolution shall be consid- The vote was taken by electronic de- Bergman Diaz-Balart Hill (AR) ered as adopted. The resolution, as amended, vice, and there were—yeas 227, nays Biggs Duncan Holding shall be considered as read. The previous 191, not voting 15, as follows: Bilirakis Dunn Hollingsworth question shall be considered as ordered on Bishop (NC) Emmer Hudson the resolution, as amended, to adoption [Roll No. 542] Bishop (UT) Estes Huizenga Bost Ferguson Hunter without intervening motion or demand for YEAS—227 Brady Fitzpatrick Hurd (TX) division of the question except one hour of Adams Brindisi Cisneros Brooks (AL) Fleischmann Johnson (LA) debate equally divided and controlled by the Aguilar Brown (MD) Clark (MA) Brooks (IN) Flores Johnson (OH) chair and ranking minority member of the Allred Brownley (CA) Clarke (NY) Buchanan Fortenberry Johnson (SD) Permanent Select Committee on Intel- Axne Bustos Clay Buck Foxx (NC) Joyce (OH) ligence. Barraga´ n Butterfield Cleaver Bucshon Fulcher Katko At the end of the resolution, add the fol- Bass Carbajal Cohen Budd Gaetz Keller ´ lowing: Beatty Cardenas Connolly Burchett Gallagher Kelly (MS) Bera Carson (IN) Cooper Burgess Gianforte Kelly (PA) SEC. 11. The amendments referred to in Beyer Cartwright Correa Byrne Gibbs King (IA) section 3 are as follows: Bishop (GA) Case Costa Calvert Gohmert King (NY) (a) Strike all after the resolving clause and Blumenauer Casten (IL) Courtney Carter (GA) Gonzalez (OH) Kinzinger insert the following: Blunt Rochester Castor (FL) Cox (CA) Carter (TX) Gooden Kustoff (TN) ‘‘That— Bonamici Castro (TX) Craig Chabot Gosar LaHood (1) the whistleblower complaint received Boyle, Brendan Chu, Judy Crist Cheney Granger LaMalfa on August 12, 2019, by the Inspector General F. Cicilline Crow Cline Graves (GA) Lamborn

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:31 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.021 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7920 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019 Latta Posey Steube Castro (TX) Huffman Pingree Huizenga Mitchell Smith (NJ) Lesko Ratcliffe Stewart Chu, Judy Jackson Lee Pocan Hunter Moolenaar Smucker Long Reed Stivers Cicilline Jayapal Porter Hurd (TX) Mooney (WV) Spano Loudermilk Reschenthaler Taylor Cisneros Jeffries Pressley Johnson (LA) Mullin Stauber Lucas Rice (SC) Thompson (PA) Clark (MA) Johnson (GA) Price (NC) Johnson (OH) Murphy (NC) Stefanik Luetkemeyer Riggleman Thornberry Clarke (NY) Johnson (TX) Quigley Johnson (SD) Newhouse Steil Marchant Roby Timmons Clay Kaptur Raskin Joyce (OH) Norman Steube Massie Rodgers (WA) Tipton Cleaver Keating Rice (NY) Katko Nunes Stewart Mast Roe, David P. Turner Cohen Kelly (IL) Richmond Keller Olson Stivers McCarthy Rogers (AL) Upton Connolly Kennedy Rose (NY) Kelly (MS) Palazzo Taylor McCaul Rogers (KY) Wagner Cooper Khanna Rouda Kelly (PA) Palmer Thompson (PA) McClintock Rooney (FL) King (IA) Pence Walberg Correa Kildee Roybal-Allard Thornberry McHenry Rose, John W. Costa Kilmer King (NY) Perry Walden Ruiz Timmons McKinley Rouzer Courtney Kim Kinzinger Posey Walker Ruppersberger Tipton Meadows Roy Cox (CA) Kind Kustoff (TN) Ratcliffe Walorski Rush Turner Meuser Rutherford Craig Kirkpatrick LaHood Reed Waltz Ryan Upton Miller Scalise Crist Kuster (NH) LaMalfa Reschenthaler Sa´ nchez Wagner Mitchell Schweikert Watkins Crow Lamb Lamborn Rice (SC) Sarbanes Walberg Moolenaar Scott, Austin Weber (TX) Cuellar Langevin Latta Riggleman Scanlon Walden Mooney (WV) Sensenbrenner Webster (FL) Cunningham Larsen (WA) Lesko Roby Wenstrup Schakowsky Walker Mullin Shimkus Davids (KS) Larson (CT) Schiff Long Rodgers (WA) Murphy (NC) Simpson Westerman Loudermilk Walorski Davis (CA) Lawrence Schneider Roe, David P. Newhouse Smith (MO) Williams Lucas Rogers (AL) Waltz Davis, Danny K. Lawson (FL) Schrader Norman Smith (NE) Wilson (SC) Luetkemeyer Rogers (KY) Watkins Dean Lee (CA) Schrier Nunes Smith (NJ) Wittman Marchant Rooney (FL) Weber (TX) DeFazio Lee (NV) Scott (VA) Olson Smucker Womack DeGette Levin (CA) Massie Rose, John W. Webster (FL) Scott, David Palazzo Spano Woodall DeLauro Levin (MI) Mast Rouzer Wenstrup Serrano Palmer Stauber Yoho DelBene Lewis McAdams Roy Westerman Sewell (AL) Pence Stefanik Young Delgado Lieu, Ted McCarthy Rutherford Williams Shalala Perry Steil Zeldin Demings Lipinski McCaul Scalise Wilson (SC) Sherman DeSaulnier Loebsack McClintock Scott, Austin Wittman Sherrill NOT VOTING—15 Deutch Lofgren McHenry Sensenbrenner Womack Sires Abraham Graves (LA) Kuster (NH) Dingell Lowenthal McKinley Shimkus Woodall Slotkin Clyburn Higgins (LA) Marshall Doggett Lowey Meadows Simpson Yoho Smith (WA) Crawford Jackson Lee McEachin Doyle, Michael Luja´ n Meuser Smith (MO) Young Soto Cummings Jordan Van Drew F. Luria Miller Smith (NE) Zeldin Spanberger Dean Joyce (PA) Wright Engel Lynch Escobar Malinowski Speier NOT VOTING—14 Stanton Eshoo Maloney, Abraham Higgins (LA) McEachin b 1337 Stevens Espaillat Carolyn B. Clyburn Jordan Meeks Suozzi So the previous question was ordered. Evans Maloney, Sean Crawford Joyce (PA) Schweikert Swalwell (CA) The result of the vote was announced Finkenauer Matsui Cummings Krishnamoorthi Wright Fletcher McBath Takano Graves (LA) Marshall as above recorded. Foster McCollum Thompson (CA) Stated for: Frankel McGovern Thompson (MS) b 1348 Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, because Fudge McNerney Titus Gabbard Meng Tlaib So the resolution, as amended, was I was chairing a Committee on the assault Gallego Moore Tonko agreed to. weapons ban, I missed the following vote. Had Garamendi Morelle Torres (CA) The result of the vote was announced I been present, I would have voted ‘‘yea’’ on Garcı´a (IL) Moulton Torres Small (NM) as above recorded. rollcall No. 542. Garcia (TX) Mucarsel-Powell Golden Murphy (FL) Trahan A motion to reconsider was laid on Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, had I been Gomez Nadler Trone the table. present, I would have voted ‘‘yea’’ on rollcall Gonzalez (TX) Napolitano Underwood Stated against: No. 542. Gottheimer Neal Van Drew Green, Al (TX) Neguse Vargas Mr. SCHWEIKERT. Mr. Speaker, I was un- Ms. KUSTER of New Hampshire. Mr. Grijalva Norcross Veasey avoidably detained. Had I been present, I Speaker, had I been present, I would have Haaland O’Halleran Vela would have voted nay on rollcall No. 543. Harder (CA) Ocasio-Cortez Vela´ zquez voted ‘‘yea’’ on rollcall No. 542. PERSONAL EXPLANATION Ms. KUSTER of New Hampshire. Mr. Hastings Omar Visclosky Hayes Pallone Wasserman Mr. GRAVES of Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, I Speaker, on Wednesday, September 25, Heck Panetta Schultz was absent during the first series of votes on 2019, I was unavoidably detained and missed Higgins (NY) Pappas Waters September 25 due to illness. Had I been rollcall vote No. 542. Had I been present for Hill (CA) Pascrell Watson Coleman Welch present, I would have voted nay on rollcall No. this recorded vote, I would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ Himes Payne Horn, Kendra S. Perlmutter Wexton 542, and nay on rollcall No. 543. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Horsford Peters Wild question is on the amendment. Houlahan Peterson Wilson (FL) f The amendment was agreed to. Hoyer Phillips Yarmuth PERSONAL EXPLANATION The SPEAKER pro tempore. The NAYS—191 Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, be- question is on the resolution, as cause I was held up chairing a hearing amended. Aderholt Calvert Foxx (NC) Allen Carter (GA) Fulcher on the assault weapons ban, I missed The question was taken; and the Amash Carter (TX) Gaetz the motion on ordering the previous Speaker pro tempore announced that Amodei Chabot Gallagher question to the rule, House Resolution the ayes appeared to have it. Armstrong Cheney Gianforte Arrington Cline Gibbs 577, regarding the Homeland Security Mrs. LESKO. Mr. Speaker, on that I Babin Cloud Gohmert bill and the whistleblower bill. If I had demand the yeas and nays. Bacon Cole Gonzalez (OH) been here, I would have voted ‘‘yea.’’ The yeas and nays were ordered. Baird Collins (GA) Gooden Balderson Collins (NY) Gosar f The SPEAKER pro tempore. This is a Banks Comer Granger 5-minute vote. Barr Conaway Graves (GA) RECESS The vote was taken by electronic de- Bergman Cook Graves (MO) The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- vice, and there were—yeas 228, nays Biggs Crenshaw Green (TN) Bilirakis Curtis Griffith ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair 191, not voting 14, as follows: Bishop (NC) Davidson (OH) Grothman declares the House in recess subject to [Roll No. 543] Bishop (UT) Davis, Rodney Guest the call of the Chair. Bost DesJarlais Guthrie YEAS—228 Brady Diaz-Balart Hagedorn Accordingly (at 1 o’clock and 50 min- Adams Bishop (GA) Bustos Brooks (AL) Duncan Harris utes p.m.), the House stood in recess. Aguilar Blumenauer Butterfield Brooks (IN) Dunn Hartzler f Allred Blunt Rochester Carbajal Buchanan Emmer Hern, Kevin Axne Bonamici Ca´ rdenas Buck Estes Herrera Beutler b 1440 Barraga´ n Boyle, Brendan Carson (IN) Bucshon Ferguson Hice (GA) Bass F. Cartwright Budd Fitzpatrick Hill (AR) AFTER RECESS Beatty Brindisi Case Burchett Fleischmann Holding Bera Brown (MD) Casten (IL) Burgess Flores Hollingsworth The recess having expired, the House Beyer Brownley (CA) Castor (FL) Byrne Fortenberry Hudson was called to order by the Speaker pro

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:31 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.004 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7921 tempore (Ms. DEGETTE) at 2 o’clock strict accordance with proper whistle- aged to get a staggeringly flawed legal and 40 minutes p.m. blower procedures. These permit classi- opinion from the Department of Jus- f fied disclosures to be made to the intel- tice. ligence committees while protecting The opinion’s reasoning is specious EXPRESSING SENSE OF THE national security. on its face. According to the Depart- HOUSE WITH RESPECT TO WHIS- Using that mechanism, in August, ment of Justice, the whistleblower TLEBLOWER COMPLAINT MADE the whistleblower made a complaint to statute did not apply to the complaint, TO INSPECTOR GENERAL OF IN- the inspector general of the intel- and the complaint therefore did not TELLIGENCE COMMUNITY ligence community. According to the have to be forwarded to the commit- Mr. HIMES. Madam Speaker, pursu- Justice Department’s legal opinion re- tees because the complaint’s allega- ant to House Resolution 577, I call up garding the complaint, which it today tions do not relate to an urgent con- the resolution (H. Res. 576) expressing released to the public, the whistle- cern, meaning the funding, administra- the sense of the House of Representa- blower’s allegations concerned the con- tion, or operation of an intelligence ac- tives with respect to the whistleblower tent of a telephone call between Presi- tivity under the DNI’s authority and complaint of August 12, 2019, made to dent Trump and a foreign leader. responsibility. the Inspector General of the Intel- The inspector general determined the In this regard, the DOJ observed that ligence Community, and ask for its im- complaint to be urgent, meaning that the alleged conduct was committed by mediate consideration in the House. the matter met important statutory the President, who is outside of and The Clerk read the title of the resolu- criteria, and that its allegations ap- above the IC. I will point out that that tion. peared to be credible. is irrelevant under the statute. All The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- The inspector general, months later, that is required is that the allegation ant to House Resolution 577, the would write that the complaint’s alle- ‘‘relate to’’ an intelligence activity amendments to the text and preamble gations not only fell ‘‘within the DNI’s within the DNI’s purview. specified in section 11 of that resolu- jurisdiction,’’ but that they ‘‘relate to The DOJ also faulted the IC IG, the tion are adopted and the resolution, as one of the most important and signifi- inspector general, for not citing a stat- ute or policy that gave the DNI oper- amended, is considered read. cant responsibilities to the American ational responsibility to prevent for- The text of the resolution, as amend- people.’’ That is protecting the United ed, is as follows: eign interference in our elections. States from foreign interference in our Think about that for a second. Have H. RES. 576 elections. in mind what our country went Resolved, That— In strict accordance with the statu- through in 2016 when Russia undertook (1) the whistleblower complaint received tory rules, the inspector general passed covert as well as overt measures to on August 12, 2019, by the Inspector General the complaint and his determination to warp the U.S. Presidential election and of the Intelligence Community shall be the Acting Director of National Intel- transmitted immediately to the Select Com- to sow discord which the Trump cam- ligence. The Acting Director was obli- paign welcomed with open arms. mittee on Intelligence of the Senate and the gated to forward this material to the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence With that recent history in mind, to of the House of Representatives; and congressional intelligence committees say nothing of the rules on the books, (2) the Select Committee on Intelligence of within 7 days of receipt, but, in con- we can easily dispose of the claim that the Senate and the Permanent Select Com- travention of the law, he refused to do the intelligence community, as cap- mittee on Intelligence of the House of Rep- that. tained by the acting DNI, has no oper- resentatives should be allowed to evaluate There can be no misreading of the ational role in keeping adversary gov- the complaint in a deliberate and bipartisan provision imposing that obligation. It manner consistent with applicable statutes ernments from meddling in our demo- says that the DNI ‘‘shall’’ forward the cratic processes. That assertion is ig- and processes in order to safeguard classified materials to the House intelligence and sensitive information. norant. It is wrong. And it bespeaks a committee and also to our colleagues The SPEAKER pro tempore. The res- serious misunderstanding about the at the Senate intelligence committee. DNI’s authorities and the activities of olution, as amended, shall be debatable the United States intelligence commu- for 1 hour, equally divided and con- b 1445 nity. trolled by the chair and ranking minor- ‘‘Shall,’’ of course, means ‘‘shall.’’ It The DOJ’s cramped view would come ity member of the Permanent Select does not mean ‘‘can if you want to.’’ as news to President Trump, I suspect, Committee on Intelligence. Despite this unambiguous, categor- given the executive order he issued in The gentleman from Connecticut ical directive, the Trump administra- September of 2018 regarding foreign in- (Mr. HIMES) and the gentleman from tion interfered with the time-tested terference in our elections, which re- California (Mr. NUNES) each will con- process for IC whistleblowing. It would quires the DNI, after every Federal trol 30 minutes. need to resist that process forcefully election in this country, to assess The Chair recognizes the gentleman because, as public reports have sug- whether such interference has taken from Connecticut. gested, the complaint potentially con- place and to report his assessment to Mr. HIMES. Madam Speaker, I yield cerned the same craven abuse of power the rest of the executive branch. That myself such time as I may consume. by President Trump which the public sounds a lot like a serious role for the Madam Speaker, I rise in support of learned about this morning. DNI to me. the amended resolution, which de- I won’t recite all the details of this I imagine the Department of Jus- mands provision to the congressional sordid episode. But suffice it to say tice’s view would also come as a shock intelligence committees of a whistle- that documents released today plainly to the acting DNI himself. After all, by blower complaint, which the Acting Di- show the President of the United statute the DNI is the head of the U.S. rector of National Intelligence has States shaking down his Ukrainian intelligence community and the prin- withheld. The law, however, required counterpart for a ‘‘favor’’—an inves- cipal intelligence adviser to the Presi- the Acting DNI to submit it to the tigation by Ukraine’s authorities, with dent and the National Security Coun- committees. close coordination by Rudy Giuliani cil, among other things. As the inspec- This is a serious matter, Madam and Attorney General Bill Barr, into tor general correctly noted, one mis- Speaker, for IC whistleblowing, con- the son of former Vice President Joe sion of the intelligence community, gressional oversight, and the rule of Biden, the former Vice President him- among its core missions, is to protect law. self being a candidate for the U.S. pres- the United States against hostile intel- Before turning to it, let me express idency. ligence activities directed against it. my deep gratitude for the actions of a So the administration got the Jus- That would include any hostile foreign courageous and anonymous individual tice Department’s Office of Legal intelligence activities associated with in the intelligence community. That Counsel involved, it got the White efforts by foreign adversaries to inter- person wanted to report urgent, cred- House Counsel involved, and, without fere in our elections. ible allegations of serious wrongdoing invoking national security or making a So I am stunned that the acting DNI and did the right thing by acting in claim of executive privilege, it man- would accept legal advice like this,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:35 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.029 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7922 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019 which strains to minimize or ignore of countless episodes during the course the President to uphold the law he the functions and responsibilities that of the Russia collusion hoax. Thus, Re- swore to obey. the DNI carries out—or at least I publicans look forward to actually Madam Speaker, I urge my col- hope—routinely. reading the material on which the leagues to support H. Res. 576, honor I am also stunned that the ODNI Democrats, from a position of igno- our oaths, and do the right thing. would acquiesce in advice that, if per- rance, are basing their unrestrained ac- Mr. NUNES. Madam Speaker, I yield mitted to stand, would do such extraor- cusations. the balance of my time to the gen- dinary damage. By conferring on the I should make the House aware that tleman from Ohio (Mr. WENSTRUP), and DNI the discretion to opt out of what is it is roughly 3 o’clock in the afternoon I ask unanimous consent that he con- plainly mandatory, the Department of here in Washington, D.C., and at 4 trol that time. Justice neutered a statute governing o’clock this afternoon, in fact, the DNI The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there intelligence community whistle- is going to transmit the complaint to objection to the request of the gen- blowing; overturned years of consistent the Permanent Select Committee on tleman from California? practice; and, most damaging of all, Intelligence spaces where all the Per- There was no objection. Mr. WENSTRUP. Madam Speaker, I called into doubt important protec- manent Select Committee on Intel- yield myself such time as I may con- tions from reprisal on which this whis- ligence members will have an oppor- sume. tleblower relied and other lawful whis- tunity to read it. So, therefore, we have to ask our- Madam Speaker, I appreciate this, tleblowers in the IC have relied. and I am glad we are having the oppor- I can only imagine the chilling effect selves: Why are we voting on a resolu- tion that is asking for the very docu- tunity to bring this resolution to the that the Department of Justice’s ap- floor. proach will have on lawful IC whistle- ments that are being sent over? They are probably on their way right At this time I am pleased that we are blowing and thus on the intelligence going to be able to get to the docu- committees’ ability to conduct over- now, if they are not already here. So, with that, I guess it gives an op- ments that are being requested in this sight of intelligence activities. portunity for the Democrats to come resolution. I am pleased that if there is Madam Speaker, let me end with a going to be a resolution that it is the note about the state of play, which is down and bash the President, which I know they enjoy doing, but in the one that the Senate put forward in a fluid, to say the least. I understand bipartisan fashion. This is what we that the executive branch may make meantime, we have no problem with this H. Res. 576, as amended. We appre- asked for in the Rules Committee last some of the whistleblower’s materials night, and I am glad that it has come available to the committee this after- ciate the majority’s accepting our amendment so that it mirrors exactly forward today. noon, but the details remain sketchy, The question in hand—and we have and the committee may not yet re- what the Senate passed last night. Madam Speaker, in the meantime, I heard lots of comments, some of it re- ceive, in complete and unredacted reserve the balance of my time. hashing old history, some of it rehash- form, all the information that the act- Mr. HIMES. Madam Speaker, I yield ing history that was disproven by the ing DNI is obligated to furnish by law, the balance of my time to the gen- Mueller Report—but at the same time and that we have sought by subpoena. tleman from California (Mr. SCHIFF), we are questioning what the DNI’s au- The committee will settle for nothing and I ask unanimous consent that he thority is in this situation, according less. control that time. to statute. I think it should be dis- However, the situation is resolved, The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there cussed. Madam Speaker, the House has no objection to the request of the gen- In this situation where the DNI de- choice but to denounce the extraor- tleman from Connecticut? termined that this should not be sent dinary lengths to which the White There was no objection. to Congress, but also did not, in review House and Justice Department have Mr. SCHIFF. Madam Speaker, I yield of the complaint—because the com- gone to cover up and obstruct. 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from plaint was given to DOJ for appro- Madam Speaker, I strongly support Alabama (Ms. SEWELL). priate review, DOJ officials reviewed the resolution, as amended. I urge my Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Madam the complaint in light of legal issues colleagues to join me, and I reserve the Speaker, this is a sobering moment in identified by the IC IG in his cover let- balance of my time. our Nation’s history, when the rule of ter and determined that no further ac- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- law and constitutional duty requires tion was warranted. bers are reminded to refrain from en- Congress to move swiftly to protect Tomorrow we are going to hear from gaging in personalities toward the our national security and the integrity the DNI in the Permanent Select Com- President. of our democracy. mittee on Intelligence, which I think is Mr. NUNES. Madam Speaker, I yield In my time on the House Permanent appropriate. myself such time as I may consume. Select Committee on Intelligence, I As I pointed out last night in the Madam Speaker, I rise today in sup- have been amazed and grateful for the Rules Committee, I don’t think that port of H. Res. 576, as amended. work our intelligence community per- the other side would be happy if we This resolution, which mirrors a res- forms every day. We hold these men only heard from the DNI and not the olution passed by the Senate yester- and women accountable to the rule of IG. So it is appropriate that we do day, expresses the sense of the House law and expect them to adhere to the that. that the whistleblower complaint re- principles of our Constitution. He talked about the timely fashion of ceived by the intelligence community In return, those great Americans ex- it. I think it is appropriate that you go inspector general should be imme- pect their elected leaders to be held ac- through the Department of Justice and diately transmitted to the congres- countable to the same standard—above make sure you are doing everything sional intelligence committees. all, their Commander in Chief. Presi- right, and we need to hear from the Madam Speaker, this complaint has dent Trump’s refusal to adhere to the DNI tomorrow. given rise to fevered speculation and whistleblower statute and his unwar- We also have received the transcripts frenzied media reporting, much of ranted attacks against one of these of the conversation between the Presi- which is based on a transcript of the professionals flies in the face of that dent of Ukraine and the President of President’s phone call released today. compact. the United States. The President made It appears to be exaggerated, mis- The statute is clear, Madam Speaker. supposedly, and is being accused of leading, or outright false. It is also The Director of National Intelligence making, a mysterious promise to serving as a linchpin of a longstanding shall provide the intelligence com- Zelensky in return for Ukraine reviv- attempt by the Democrats to impeach mittee with all whistleblower com- ing an investigation against Joe Biden President Trump and finally achieve plaints, especially those that the in- and his son. In fact, there was no such their goal of overturning the results of spector general finds credible and of ur- promise. The President wanted allega- the 2016 election. The media coverage gent concern. tions of corruption potentially involv- and the Democrats’ hysterical and po- It should not take this resolution or ing an American official to be inves- liticized response to it is reminiscent the threat of impeachment to convince tigated.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:35 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.031 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7923 What I see in this transcript is the GENERAL LEAVE doing a lot for Ukraine. We are doing President of one country speaking to a Mr. SCHIFF. Madam Speaker, I ask more for Ukraine than other countries. President of another country about unanimous consent that all Members But you know something? There is not trying to eliminate corruption within have 5 legislative days within which to much reciprocity here. I have a favor I their government. revise and extend their remarks and in- would like to ask. I want you to inves- The other comment that had been clude extraneous material on H. Res. tigate my opponent, and I am going to made is the President offered a quid 576. have my Attorney General and my per- pro quo related to military aid for The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there sonal lawyer follow up with you. Ukraine. There is no quid pro quo in objection to the request of the gen- This was the constant theme of the that conversation. There is no mention tleman from California? President’s request to the President of of an aid package to Ukraine at all. It There was no objection. Ukraine. It wasn’t, what are the na- is not in there at all. So while one Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I yield tional security needs of Ukraine? It might want to keep saying that, it is myself such time as I may consume. wasn’t, what are the economic needs of not in there. Madam Speaker, we are here today Ukraine? It wasn’t, what are the sepa- Another myth, the President urged because, over a month ago, a coura- ratists doing in Ukraine? President Zelensky to work with Rudy geous employee or detailee or con- It was: This is what I want from you. Giuliani to investigate Biden’s involve- tractor within the intelligence commu- I have done so much for Ukraine. We ment in securing the firing of a nity brought to the inspector general a have done so much for Ukraine. This is Ukrainian prosecutor eight times. complaint that the inspector general what we want of you. Fact: The President mentioned Rudy reviewed. He had 14 days to review that The idea that a complaint with these Giuliani in that conversation only complaint. allegations, if indeed this complaint is after Zelensky mentioned him first and The inspector general found that about this call, would be withheld from referred to Biden in only one exchange. complaint credible, found that com- Congress and would be withheld on the I, myself, have some confusion on plaint urgent, and found that that basis of an opinion written by the At- what the rules are within the intel- complaint should be provided to Con- torney General, someone who was men- ligence community and involving the gress, as the whistleblower intended. tioned in that very conversation, executive branch. A couple of years ago That complaint then went to the Di- screams of conflict of interest, if not in an open hearing, when we were dis- rector of National Intelligence, who far worse. cussing with John Brennan—this was had 1 week to review it. Then the stat- When we brought this resolution up a in an open hearing—the former CIA di- ute says that complaint shall be pro- month after this complaint was filed, rector, obviously an expert in intel- vided to the committee—not ‘‘may,’’ and we brought it up in the Rules Com- ligence, when I asked him about the not ‘‘might,’’ not ‘‘if the DOJ doesn’t mittee last night, the argument was conversation between President Obama write an opinion,’’ not ‘‘if the White that this is premature. The argument and President Medvedev where it was House doesn’t like it.’’ It says ‘‘shall’’ here today is that this is postmature. I caught on tape where he said: transmit to the committee. guess this is never mature. It is never I’ll have more flexibility after my election. The reason Congress wrote the stat- mature for the Congress to insist that ute that way is that, particularly in the Director follow the law. Medvedev said: Apparently, we need second opinions the intelligence community, we are re- I stand with you, and I will let President on whether ‘‘shall’’ really means Putin know. liant on whistleblowers. Through the ‘‘shall.’’ That is why we are here. I asked him if that was a red flag. His vast majority of our hearings, there If we don’t validate the whistle- answer was: are no witnesses. They are not con- blower process, if we leave the whistle- I am not going to comment on a private ducted in open session. There are not blower unprotected, even as the Presi- conversation between two heads of state. outside stakeholders who can tell us dent suggests that the whistleblower that what this agency represented or b 1500 has somehow betrayed his or her coun- that agency said is not correct. try, that system is broken, meaning Since that time, I have wondered We are reliant on the intelligence corruption will not be exposed. The what the rules are within the intel- community to self-report, and most of corruption here involves the suborning ligence community. Are conversations the time they do. When they don’t, we of our national security to our Presi- between two heads of state completely are completely reliant on whistle- dent’s political needs. That is what is off-limits within the IC? I don’t know. blowers. If the whistleblower process I have asked that question time and at stake here. doesn’t work, if the subject of a com- Madam Speaker, that is why I urge time again. I have asked some high- plaint by a whistleblower can be held ranking officials who should know the my colleagues to support this resolu- up by the subject of that complaint— tion, and I reserve the balance of my answer to that, and I have gotten no that is, if the whistleblower says that answer. time. the impropriety that they have evi- Mr. WENSTRUP. Madam Speaker, I What I have heard in the testimony dence of was committed by X person, here today, I heard someone say, yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from and X person is given the discretion to Louisiana (Mr. SCALISE), the renowned ‘‘favor,’’ ‘‘favor,’’ in response to the po- decide whether Congress ever sees that tential of this President asking for a minority whip. report—that system is broken. That is Mr. SCALISE. Madam Speaker, I favor. I did not see that, and I don’t certainly not how Congress intended it. thank the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. know who made the quote. I would like Presuming that this complaint in- WENSTRUP) for yielding. some clarification on that. volves the conversation that we are As we are talking about this resolu- Where we stand right now is kind of now witness to because some readout tion, and as my colleagues from Ohio a recurring playbook. It is always mov- of that conversation was made public, and from California earlier talked ing the goalpost, right? that whistleblower may have been try- We want to see these documents. about, as we speak, the White House is Okay. The President has given you ing to communicate to Congress that actually transmitting the documents the documents. the President of the United States was that are mentioned in the resolution. Okay. We are going to see what the pressuring a foreign President to man- The White House has been going whistleblower had to say. ufacture dirt on his political opponent overboard, doing more than has been And now, what do we hear? Well, I for help in his Presidential campaign done before, to make sure that Con- am concerned that there may be more and doing so at a time when the Presi- gress has all the information it needs out there that we are not getting. dent of the United States was with- about this issue. It is always moving the goalpost. holding military support that we ap- I think what really is at question is Listen, I speak in favor of this reso- proved on a bipartisan basis. where this all leads to, and I think we lution. We should get to it, move on Now we see that readout says that, know where it all leads to. This all with the business of the country. after the Ukraine President expressed started with an intention by many in Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- the need for further arms to the United the majority. When they took the ma- ance of my time. States, our President said: We are jority, it was that they were going to

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:35 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.033 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7924 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019 try to work to impeach the President. Go read the transcript, and you will just as the President promised he Many of them talked about it. They see, again, a President congratulating would do yesterday. But before reading didn’t even have the gavels in their another President who was elected on a the transcript, my colleagues on the hands yet, and they were talking about platform to root out corruption, and he other side of the aisle prejudged the impeaching the President. is working to root out corruption. We memo and called for impeachment. The chairman of the Committee on ought to cheer that. Did the Speaker wait to see and re- the Judiciary said he wants to bring Instead of doing this, we ought to be view this information? No. Instead, she Articles of Impeachment to the House focused on things like USMCA, low- went before the American people to an- floor by the end of this year. Keep in ering drug prices, solving real prob- nounce that the House would begin the mind, there is not a single Article of lems. Let’s move on. formal impeachment inquiry into Impeachment that they have listed be- Mr. SCHIFF. Madam Speaker, with President Trump. cause there have been no crimes. respect to my colleague, the only cor- Well, I read the transcript, and I They thought the Mueller report was ruption the President seems to be con- don’t see the bombshell that the Demo- going to give them the crimes. It cerned about is corruption that he is crats promised. There is no quid pro turned out it showed there was no col- not involved with, and that seems to be quo, no this for that. Nowhere does the lusion. Instead of wrapping it up, they an increasingly narrow category. President say that he will withhold move on to look for something else. Madam Speaker, I yield 1 minute to military aid unless the Ukrainian in- It is not the job of a prosecutor, by the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. CAR- vestigation continues. It is simply not the way, to hope to go indict somebody SON). there. and then look around to see if they find Mr. CARSON of Indiana. Madam Rushing to judgment and overprom- evidence. They are supposed to follow Speaker, I rise today in support of this ising, if it sounds familiar, that is be- facts. If the facts lead them there, that resolution demanding that the admin- cause it is. We waited nearly 2 years is where they go. That is not happening istration release the whistleblower for Special Counsel Mueller to finish here. complaint to Congress. his report on the 2016 election. Over When you saw the Speaker of the Every American ought to be ex- and over, we heard Democrats promise House yesterday saying that the Presi- tremely concerned by circumstances the report would lead to President dent committed crimes, please name surrounding this urgent complaint and Trump’s impeachment. After a dis- one crime that has been listed. outraged that this President and mem- appointing report and an even more We have seen the report now, the bers of his administration are hiding it. disappointing appearance by the spe- transcript of a conversation between Congress has a constitutional duty, cial counsel before Congress, they went President Trump and President Madam Speaker, to obtain this infor- fishing for new reasons to attack the Zelensky of Ukraine. There are a lot of mation by the deadline required by President. niceties here, the President congratu- law. The administration is blocking What happened to the standard of in- lating him on winning an election. our ability to gather the information nocent until proven guilty in this There is not a single quid pro quo, necessary to respond to the public’s country? I learned that in law school. which we were told there would be. needs. In this case, these needs are in- How have we strayed so far from this There is not an exertion of pressure, separable from our security, our safety, fundamental principle? which we were told there would be. and the well-being of our Nation. The Democrats are operating under Now, they bring up Joe Biden. Joe Congress is entitled to the full com- the presumptive belief that the Presi- Biden, himself, has said that he exerted plaint, not only for the sake of na- dent is guilty. They believe if they pressure on the Ukrainians, bragged tional security, Madam Speaker, but to look long enough and hard enough, about the fact that he withheld $1 bil- ensure that our ability to hold public maybe, just maybe, they will uncover lion in aid from the Ukrainians. servants accountable remains. something, anything, that they can im- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The This isn’t about partisan politics. peach him for. time of the gentleman has expired. This is about protecting our democracy This is wrong, and I will not support Mr. WENSTRUP. Madam Speaker, I and its people. their efforts. I will not stand by si- yield the gentleman from Louisiana an Madam Speaker, I urge all of my col- lently while it happens. If my col- additional 1 minute. leagues to support this resolution. leagues on the other side of the aisle Mr. SCALISE. Madam Speaker, I Mr. WENSTRUP. Madam Speaker, I truly believe that this warrants im- thank the gentleman from Ohio. yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from peachment, and if they are not willing Again, when we talk about some- Florida (Mr. SPANO). to wait 1 day to read the transcript, thing as serious as impeachment, and Mr. SPANO. Madam Speaker, I rise then why are they sending us back to obviously, that is where they have said today to express my disappointment at our districts for the next 2 weeks? they would go, the Speaker said she what the House is devoting its time to The majority leader said this morn- wants to get the committee working this afternoon. It is certainly not the ing there are no plans to cancel the re- toward an impeachment inquiry. issues that my constituents elected me cess because it is important Members Why? Why, Madam Speaker, haven’t to come to Washington to advocate for go home to their constituents and ex- they brought a vote here on this House on their behalf. plain what we are doing. In other floor to start an impeachment inquiry? We are not on the floor today talking words, they still need to convince the They are scared to death of having a about how we can improve care and American people that today’s revela- vote on this House floor on impeach- services for veterans. We are not talk- tions, which didn’t live up to their ment. Yet, they keep moving down ing about how to fix the crumbling in- promises, should lead to President that train track. frastructure, how to fix the broken im- Trump’s removal from office. It is a reckless track, when they say migration system. We are not talking The SPEAKER pro tempore. The that they are going to bring impeach- about how to modernize and personally time of the gentleman has expired. ment. Even the people who have read tailor healthcare. We are not on the Mr. WENSTRUP. Madam Speaker, I this, not one of them has pointed out a floor talking about how we can con- yield the gentleman from Florida an high crime or misdemeanor that is in tinue to implement policies to further additional 1 minute. here. strengthen our booming economy. The quid pro quo that they promised Instead, we again find ourselves on b 1515 doesn’t exist. These are the same peo- the House floor talking about Presi- Mr. SPANO. Madam Speaker, I call ple who promised that there was collu- dent Trump and his administration. on the Democrat leadership to keep us sion, with the Mueller report, and Sound familiar? This morning, in the in session the first 2 weeks of October, there was no collusion. interest of full transparency, the if this is as urgent and as serious as Instead of moving on, they keep Trump administration released the they are telling the American people. going down the impeachment path. complete memorandum outlining the I will not support the political im- People are sick and tired of the con- telephone conversation between the peachment that Democrats are inces- stant harassment of the President. President and the Ukrainian President, santly pursuing. I implore this House

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:35 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.035 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7925 and its leadership to put this behind us As Mr. SPANO alluded, we are about was forbidding him from turning over a once and for all and get to work, get to ready to go home. Yet we have got an whistleblower complaint that he found work and do the important work that urgent matter on our hands, we have to be of ‘‘urgent concern’’ and ‘‘cred- the American people sent us here to do. been told; yet leadership is saying: But ible.’’ Mr. SCHIFF. Madam Speaker, I yield just go home. The administration’s refusal to turn 1 minute to the gentleman from Illi- Well, if this is such an urgent matter, over the full complaint is a violation of nois (Mr. QUIGLEY). why are we going home? the law, which is unequivocal, stating Mr. QUIGLEY. Madam Speaker, a And I also will bring up the point that the DNI, the Director of National point of clarification: Quid pro quo ex- again that tomorrow we are scheduled Intelligence, shall provide Congress ists on its face in what we reviewed to hear from the DNI. Let’s give that with the full complaint. just today. But, for the record, crimi- process its due, and let’s know facts be- I repeat, that obligation is manda- nal conduct does not have to be quid fore we speak and before we pass judg- tory. pro quo. ment. That is all we are asking to do. Shortly thereafter, the American The President asked a foreign gov- Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- people learned of a phone call from the ernment to investigate his political ance of my time. White House calling upon a foreign rival and interfere in our election. Mr. SCHIFF. Madam Speaker, I yield power to intervene in the upcoming The response by my friends across 1 minute to the gentlewoman from election. Today’s release of the notes of the aisle has also confirmed something California (Ms. SPEIER). the call by the White House confirms else I have had a suspicion about: They Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, I this behavior, which undermines the have an extraordinary sense of humor. thank the chair of the committee for integrity of our elections, the dignity They imagine that this administration yielding. of any Presidency, and our national se- would have released this whatever it is Madam Speaker, this is a powder curity. this morning relating to a transcript, keg. This is not as my colleagues on Let us repeat the facts: The intelligence community inspec- the complaint, and allowed the DNI to the other side are trying to suggest it tor general, who was appointed by formally testify and the complaining is, but they are dealing with alter- President Trump, determined that the witness to testify just because the native facts. complaint was both of ‘‘urgent concern President thought we should know, not As co-chair of the Whistleblower Cau- and credible,’’ and its disclosure ‘‘re- cus, I can point to the fact that $54 bil- because there was a complaining wit- lates to one of the most significant and lion has been returned to the taxpayers ness. important of the Director of National Without the complaining witness, no of this country because men and Intelligence’s responsibilities to the women had the courage to stand up and one knows about this—without their American people.’’ courage. That emphasizes the point of point out tax evasion, fraud, abuse, and I want to talk a moment, Madam how important complaining witnesses waste. Speaker, if I may, about whistle- are, because, without their courage, we Now, we have a whistleblower here blowers. don’t know about wrongdoing or there who was defined as not being a whistle- First, let me say what an asset the are further leaks, both of which put blower by the Attorney General, and intelligence community is to the secu- our country at risk. now we are all saying he is a whistle- rity of our country. We talk about our Mr. WENSTRUP. Madam Speaker, I blower. He doesn’t even have the pro- men and women in uniform, and we yield myself such time as I may con- tections of a whistleblower based on praise them. We could never thank sume. the analysis by the Attorney General. them enough. Our intelligence commu- Let me make a few comments, if I One thing is very clear here, Mem- nity personnel are a significant part of can. bers: But for the fact that this whistle- the national security of our country. This was reviewed by the criminal di- blower came forward, but for the fact Whistleblowers, in any part of the vision of DOJ today that found no vio- that the inspector general found that it government, are important, but whis- lation whatsoever. was both credible and urgent, and but tleblowers can be defined as an act of Let me make another point, because for the fact, after the DNI did not deem reporting waste, fraud, abuse, and cor- I have heard accusations along the way it to be sent to the committee, it was ruption in a lawful manner to those that certain entities here in Congress the inspector general who had the who can correct the wrongdoing. don’t care about whistleblower protec- courage to contact the chair of this The intelligence community has pub- tions. committee to inform him that there licly recognized the importance of We do care. We care about the whis- was a whistleblower pending that whistle blowing and supports protec- tleblower process. We care about their brought this all to the fore. tions for whistleblowers who conform protections. Let’s be perfectly clear on So let’s be very clear: There was a to guidelines to protect classified in- that. As Republicans, and sitting on concerted effort by the administration formation. the intelligence committee, we recog- to shut down this whistleblower, to re- This is a very important balance, and nize the value of this process. We are strict the money that was supposed to when laws were written—and I was for it. go to Ukraine on June 18—or July 18. there for it as a member of the com- We have heard a lot of comments, Mr. WENSTRUP. Madam Speaker, I mittee and as ranking member and yesterday especially, that were made reserve the balance of my time. part of the Gang of Four, before I even that would imply guilty until proven Mr. SCHIFF. Madam Speaker, I am became part of the leadership. I saw innocent when we haven’t even seen proud to yield 1 minute to the gentle- the evolution of these laws and then the whistleblower claim. We just got woman from California (Ms. PELOSI), the improvements on them, with fur- the transcripts of the President with the Speaker. ther protection for whistleblowers. the President of Ukraine today, and we Ms. PELOSI. Madam Speaker, I I was also there for the creation of don’t even know the circumstances of thank the chairman for yielding, and I the Office of the Director of National the claim. commend him for his great patriotism, Intelligence and the relationship be- I don’t know if anyone on the other for the equanimity that he brings to all tween the two, and it is a careful bal- side has had contact with the whistle- that he does with great wisdom and ance of protecting whistleblowers but blower, but I know nothing about this judgment. also protecting our national security whistleblower except that there is a Madam Speaker, just over a week and our intelligence—our intelligence. whistleblower. And I have not seen the ago, when our Nation observed the an- So, in any event, one of the bills we complaint, and I look forward to seeing niversary of the adoption of our Con- wrote was the Intelligence Community it. stitution, on that very day, news broke Whistleblower Protection Act. The law We have been through a lot as a of great allegations which were a plays a vital role in our democracy. It country. Time and time again, our threat to our Constitution. enables our system of separation of country gets challenged—challenged On that day, the intelligence commu- powers to maintain the rule of law by from outside, challenged from within. nity inspector general formally noti- making sure that the abuses of unlaw- We have been through a lot. fied Congress that the administration ful actions are known, first through

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:35 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.037 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7926 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019 the inspector general of the intel- the Acting Director of National Intel- Mr. SEAN PATRICK MALONEY of ligence community, and then the con- ligence to do the same. New York. Madam Speaker, if I under- gressional intelligence committees, Mr. WENSTRUP. Madam Speaker, I stand, the Republican argument is that House and Senate, which can act upon continue to reserve the balance of my the document doesn’t contain an ex- it. time. plicit quid pro quo. The statute does not permit the DNI Mr. SCHIFF. Madam Speaker, I yield Well, let me remind my friends, you to second-guess the inspector general’s 1 minute to the gentleman from Texas don’t need to state an explicit quid pro determination of any complaint he (Mr. CASTRO). quo to break your oath. You don’t need finds to be ‘‘credible.’’ At no point in Mr. CASTRO of Texas. Madam to state an explicit quid pro quo to the history of this law has a DNI ever Speaker, I, too, look forward to review- break the law. You don’t need to state refused to turn over a whistleblower’s ing the whistleblower’s complaint, an explicit quid pro quo when you have complaint that has been found by the shortly. conducted the quid pro quo, when you IG as ‘‘credible.’’ Refusing to do this is I want to start by saying thank you have withheld the military aid. a violation of the law. to the whistleblower. We don’t know if You don’t need to state an explicit Our national security depends on this it is a man or a woman, the person’s quid pro quo when you have launched a framework. This vote today is about identity, yet, but I want to say thank cover-up by violating the law by refus- more than just any one President. This you for having the courage and the ing to produce the whistleblower com- resolution is about the preservation of bravery to come forward and reveal—at plaint as you are required to do. our American system of government. least in terms of what we have seen All of these actions are contained in Once we pass this resolution—and I from the transcript—abuse of power by the recent statements of the President acknowledge that we are joining the the President of the United States. and in the plain language of the White Senate, which passed it without objec- We must protect a whistleblower who House document. And the idea, the idea tion yesterday, unanimously—the DNI comes forward and puts himself or her- that we can’t wait a day to get the will be faced with a choice: to honor self and their career on the line. I hope transcript ignores the fact that, for his responsibility to help preserve our that this Congress will be committed three weeks, they have ignored the law Republic or to break the law. to doing that. in producing the whistleblower com- This resolution passed by unanimous These are very serious charges, an plaint; and we would not have it ever if consent—I repeat—in the Senate. abuse of power that includes coercing a it weren’t for the actions of the Demo- Every Member, Democratic and Repub- foreign leader into digging up dirt crats in this House. lican, should join us in passing this in against a political rival for the Presi- And the talking point that this issue the House. dent’s political gain, to win reelection; should hinge on the explicitness of the While we await the release of the full asking a personal lawyer, his personal quid pro quo is nothing more than a complaint, we reiterate our call for the lawyer, to go along with this. smokescreen to hide the fact that the release of the full transcript of the call It appears as though the State De- President’s conduct is a violation of between President Trump and the partment and, perhaps, the Secretary the law, and a violation of his oath, Ukrainian President and reiterate our of State may also be implicated in this and more than justifies the production call to protect whistleblowers from re- scandal. of the whistleblower complaint and the taliation. Madam Speaker, I look forward to launching of an impeachment inquiry. Madam Speaker, I urge a bipartisan passing this resolution. I hope all will The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- vote to defend our national security support it. bers are reminded to refrain from en- and to protect our democracy. b 1530 gaging in personalities toward the Mr. WENSTRUP. Madam Speaker, I Mr. WENSTRUP. Madam Speaker, I President. Mr. WENSTRUP. Madam Speaker, I continue to reserve the balance of my reserve the balance of my time. time. Mr. SCHIFF. Madam Speaker, I yield yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Mr. SCHIFF. Madam Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. WOODALL). Mr. WOODALL. Madam Speaker, I 1 minute to the gentleman from Cali- Vermont (Mr. WELCH). fornia (Mr. SWALWELL). Mr. WELCH. Madam Speaker, this thank the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Mr. SWALWELL of California. resolution really raises a question to WENSTRUP) for yielding the time. Madam Speaker, the gentleman from each one of us who is a Member of Con- I listened to what my friend just Ohio had asked earlier: Where does it gress; and that question is: Do we be- came to the well to say, and it sounds say in the President’s notes—and these lieve in the separate, independent au- as if we are not working on a non- are notes; this is not a transcript—the thority of the legislative branch to binding House Resolution today. It word, ‘‘favor’’? conduct oversight? sounds as if we are working on Articles Page 3, I would direct the gentleman: The contents of this resolution and of Impeachment today. If folks want to ‘‘I would like you to do us a favor,’’ the the whistleblower report, to be sure, get on to Articles of Impeachment, get President of the United States says. are extremely explosive and important. on with it. And the problem with this mob-like But the question that we have to ask, I want to associate myself with my tactic is that, when you ask someone as a Congress, Republicans and Demo- friend from Vermont who said this is to do a favor, you owe that person crats, is: Are we willing to stand up for an Article I, Article II question. And I something in return. And, when that the constitutional authority of the want to ask my colleagues, again, if person is a foreign leader, that means, House as a representative branch of you are ready to get going with im- as President of the United States, one government? peachment articles, bring them, and day you will have to put a foreign lead- That is the constitutional question. let’s have that debate on the floor. er’s interests ahead of America’s inter- This resolution goes to the heart of our This is a nonbinding resolution that ests. responsibility. We must pass it in order says to our coequal branch of govern- This is only the tip of the iceberg, for us to be a coequal branch of govern- ment, we have an oversight responsi- this note that the President has re- ment. bility, and we want to see some paper- leased, and that is why it is important Mr. SCHIFF. Madam Speaker, I yield work. Now, the Senate already passed that we hear from the whistleblower. the balance of my time to the gen- the same nonbinding resolution yester- It is also important to note that tleman from Connecticut (Mr. HIMES), day. We are not breaking any new Ukraine depends on the U.S. economi- and I ask unanimous consent that he ground here. cally, militarily, and the credibility we may control that time. But, yes, if the Intelligence Com- afford to them when we support them. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there mittee wants to review documents in a So, you don’t need to be explicit with objection to the request of the gen- closed session, they ought to have ac- them when you tell them that you need tleman from California? cess to those documents. That is not a a favor and you are withholding mili- There was no objection. complicated question. tary funds. Mr. HIMES. Madam Speaker, I yield I want to ask my colleagues how we In this case, the whistleblower did 1 minute to the gentleman from New are advantaged as an institution by everything right; so now it is time for York (Mr. SEAN PATRICK MALONEY). turning this into an us against them.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:35 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.038 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7927 Again, when you get ready to go tory. Decide whether you want to de- raised their hand and said something is down the Articles of Impeachment, it fend and stand up for corruption or not right. is going to be an us against them. I abuse of power or stand up for the So this resolution and its contents have seen no crimes and lots of hear- country we all swore to protect. may be remedied later this afternoon; I ings. I have heard lots of promises and The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- certainly hope so. But let’s be clear absolutely no there, there. bers are reminded to refrain from en- about what really happened and how But we have an opportunity, I dare gaging in personalities toward the we got here, because I suspect this is say, an obligation, to conduct our- President. not the final word in this discussion, selves in a way that, forbid the Mr. WENSTRUP. Madam Speaker, I and the American people deserve to thought, should one day our Nation reserve the balance of my time. know the truth. have to go down that path, we have the Mr. HIMES. Madam Speaker, I yield Madam Speaker, I yield back the bal- credibility to lead that discussion. myself the balance of my time. ance of my time. You have an hour of debate here that It may turn out that this resolution Mr. WENSTRUP. Madam Speaker, I we can absolutely use, and the Speaker is unnecessary. I understand proce- yield myself the balance of my time. can continue to admonish Members not dures are being made to provide the Madam Speaker, I heard something to engage in personalities with the complaint, I hope, the full whistle- before, that no one asks for a favor President. We can absolutely conduct blower complaint, to the Congress and, that doesn’t want something in return. ourselves in that way if that is what we specifically, to the Intelligence Com- You know, when my wife asks me for a would like. mittee. If that is true, that is a good favor, I don’t ask for something in re- Or we could follow the pathway of first step. It is a step, of course, that is turn, I have got to tell you. And I have to say, I agree with what the United States; do this in a bipar- remedying the blatant violation of law Mr. WELCH had to say today. I thank tisan way to say we have got a coequal that this administration engaged in the gentleman for his words. We do branch of government that has a right when they chose to stop the trans- have an oversight, but we also have a to see these documents and be done mittal of that complaint to the Con- process in our country. with it. gress. So I am very curious to hear tomor- I will remind my colleagues who are But I do want to take this oppor- row, fortunately, in an open hearing, raising their constitutional ire today tunity to just clear up some things what the DNI has to say, and how he that this institution held President that were said, because these are seri- may have interpreted the law dif- Obama’s Attorney General in both civil ous matters, and it is important that ferently, or DOJ did. And I think that and criminal contempt, and we got no the American people understand the the American people deserve that, and support, save 17 Members, to make truth. I am glad it is going to be in an open that happen. Mr. SCALISE came before this body and ridiculed the majority, saying that hearing. Mr. HIMES. Madam Speaker, may I There is a lot we can talk about. We we had promised a quid pro quo, a inquire as to the time remaining for can go back and forth on this. But I statement that is, of course, absurd on the majority. will tell you, amongst my constituents, The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- the face of it. We made no such prom- what I hear at home is that there is a tleman from Connecticut has 61⁄2 min- ise. In fact, we have spent the day ex- lot of hypocrisy out here. utes remaining. plaining that a quid pro quo is not nec- When you talk about having over- Mr. HIMES. Madam Speaker, I yield essary for the kind of extortion that is sight, or quid pro quo, and you are only 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from evident in the so-called transcript that willing to look at one side of it, or one Florida (Mrs. DEMINGS). we received today. event of it, or one possible event of it, Mrs. DEMINGS. Madam Speaker, Re- Bribery requires a quid pro quo; if I should say, only willing to look in publican President Teddy Roosevelt you do this, I will pay you that. Extor- one direction, you lose the trust of the said that ‘‘patriotism means to stand tion is simply saying you better do me American people. You lose the trust of by the country.’’ It does not mean to a favor, or else. the American people. stand by the President at any cost. So there was no promise of a quid pro When I was a child, I watched the The whistleblower is a patriot who quo. Neither is it necessary for this be- Watergate hearings. Do you know what stood up for their country. It is time havior to be well beyond the pale. I was impressed with? for Americans of good conscience, And I would remind my friends in the You had both sides of the aisle seek- starting with every member of this minority that we did not bring this ing the truth, regardless of who was in committee, to follow in that patriot’s moment upon the Congress. The in- power or who was in question. footsteps and unite behind the belief spector general came to this Congress We haven’t seen that for 3 years. So, that no one is above the law. of his own volition and, I would add, at let’s get this resolution on the floor. It The President has abused the powers significant personal risk, because of his is a foregone conclusion. We are all in of his office. Perhaps he is afraid of los- concern over the actions of the admin- agreement. This is something we want ing the next election. Perhaps it is just istration. brought forward. Half of it already has who he is. It emerges today that the Acting DNI been, and the other half is being deliv- When the President of Ukraine perhaps threatened to resign his posi- ered at 4:00. brought up a request to buy military tion unless the Department of Justice That is what we were here to debate equipment from the United States, the gave a legal justification for his today, this resolution. You wouldn’t President said—and yes, it is quite stance. know it was a resolution we were all in clear—‘‘I would like you to do us a So we are not here because we want favor of. So let’s have our vote and favor.’’ to be here. The Speaker of the House, move on. But even worse, press reports indi- as every Member of this Chamber Madam Speaker, I yield back the bal- cate that the whistleblower’s com- knows, has resisted, until yesterday, ance of my time. plaint was far more extensive than any even using the word impeachment be- Ms. JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, one call. cause she is that focused on the senti- I rise to support H. Res. 576—Expressing the The ongoing cover-up by this White ment of the American people and the sense of the House of Representatives with House has prevented us from imme- consequences of that dramatic step. respect to the whistleblower complaint of Au- diately reviewing the report that is re- So I do not want to hear from my gust 12, 2019, made to the Inspector General quired by law. friends in the minority that this has of the Intelligence Community. Further, the administration must been a train that we have been bar- Allegations that the President of the United immediately move to ensure that the reling down. States sought to enlist a foreign government whistleblower is fully protected as re- We are not here because we are to interfere in our democratic process by in- quired under law. happy. We are here because there is a vestigating one of his political rivals, and may To my colleagues, history is about to genuine threat to this republic and to have used the withholding of Congressionally be written at this moment. I ask you this democracy. We were brought here appropriated military aid, days earlier as intimi- to think about your place in that his- by members of the administration who dation, is a clear problem. We must have all

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:35 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.040 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7928 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019 of the facts so that we can do what is required ‘‘SEC. 711. OMBUDSMAN FOR BORDER AND IMMI- taken after one year, and the period during GRATION ENFORCEMENT RELATED which each complaint has been open. under law and get to the bottom of what actu- CONCERNS. ally took place. This is not a partisan matter. ‘‘(6) Recommendations the Ombudsman has ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—Within the Department made under subsection (b)(2). It is an American matter that must be inves- there shall be a position of Ombudsman for Bor- ‘‘(7) Other information, as determined appro- tigated so that we can continue to protect our der and Immigration Enforcement Related Con- priate by the Ombudsman . democracy against outside attacks. cerns (in this section referred to as the ‘Ombuds- ‘‘(e) APPOINTMENT OF BORDER COMMUNITIES This resolution expresses the sense of the man’), who shall— LIAISON.— House that the whistleblower complaint re- ‘‘(1) be independent of Department agencies ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Ombudsman, in con- ceived on August 12, 2019, by the Inspector and officers; junction with the Office for Civil Rights and ‘‘(2) report directly to the Secretary; and Civil Liberties of the Department, shall appoint General of the Intelligence Community should ‘‘(3) have a background in immigration law, a Border Community Liaison (in this subsection be transmitted immediately to the Select Com- civil rights, and law enforcement. referred to as the ‘Liaison’) in each U.S. Border mittee on Intelligence of the Senate and the ‘‘(b) FUNCTIONS.—It shall be the function of Patrol sector on the northern and southern bor- Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence the Ombudsman to— ders. Each Liaison shall report to the Ombuds- of the House of Representatives. ‘‘(1) in coordination with the Inspector Gen- man. Our Constitution demands respect for the eral of the Department, establish an inde- ‘‘(2) PURPOSES.—Each Liaison appointed rule of law. As a Member of Congress, I will pendent, neutral, accessible, confidential, and under this subsection shall— continue to uphold our American principles standardized process to assist individuals (in- ‘‘(A) foster cooperation between U.S. Customs cluding aliens (as such term is defined in section and Border Protection, U.S. Immigration and and values. I urge passage of this resolution. 101 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 Customs Enforcement, and border communities; The SPEAKER pro tempore. All time U.S.C. 1101)) in resolving complaints with re- ‘‘(B) consult with border communities on the for debate has expired. spect to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, development of policies, directives, and pro- Pursuant to House Resolution 577, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, a grams of U.S. Customs and Border Protection the previous question is ordered on the subcontractor, or a cooperating entity, which and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforce- resolution, as amended. process shall include a publicly accessible ment; The question is on the resolution. website through which a complainant can check ‘‘(C) receive feedback from border communities The question was taken; and the on the status of such a complaint; on the performance of U.S. Customs and Border ‘‘(2) identify and thereafter review, examine, Protection and U.S. Immigration and Customs Speaker pro tempore announced that Enforcement; and the ayes appeared to have it. and make recommendations to the Secretary to address chronic issues identified by the Ombuds- ‘‘(D) submit to the Ombudsman an annual re- Mr. HIMES. Madam Speaker, on that man in carrying out the function described in port detailing their findings, feedback received I demand the yeas and nays. paragraph (1); from border communities, and recommendations The yeas and nays were ordered. ‘‘(3) establish a Border Oversight Panel in ac- to increase cooperation between U.S. Customs The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- cordance with subsection (f); and and Border Protection, U.S. Immigration and ant to clause 8 of rule XX, further pro- ‘‘(4) review compliance with departmental Customs Enforcement, and border communities. ceedings on this question will be post- policies and standards of care for custody of ‘‘(f) BORDER OVERSIGHT PANEL.— ‘‘(1) ESTABLISHMENT.—The Ombudsman shall poned. aliens by U.S. Immigration and Customs En- forcement and U.S. Customs and Border Protec- establish a Border Oversight Panel (in this sub- f tion, including any violations of applicable pol- section referred to as the ‘Panel’). icy or standards of care involving force-feeding. ‘‘(2) COMPOSITION.— b 1545 ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—The Panel shall be com- ‘‘(c) CONFIDENTIALITY.—The existence of a posed of 30 members selected by the Ombuds- HOMELAND SECURITY complaint, including the identity of any Depart- man. IMPROVEMENT ACT ment employee implicated in a complaint, shall ‘‘(B) CHAIRPERSON.—The Ombudsman shall be be kept confidential by the Ombudsman and, in Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. the chair of the Panel. the absence of the written consent of an indi- Speaker, pursuant to House Resolution ‘‘(C) EXPERTISE.—Members of the Panel shall vidual who submits a complaint, the Ombuds- have expertise in immigration, local crime indi- 577, I call up the bill (H.R. 2203) to in- man shall keep confidential the identity of and crease transparency, accountability, ces, civil and human rights, community rela- any identifying information relating to such in- tions, cross-border trade and commerce, quality and community engagement within the dividual. Such confidentiality requirement may Department of Homeland Security, of life indicators, or other experience the Om- not be considered as a factor of whether or not budsman determines is appropriate, and shall provide independent oversight of bor- information under this subsection may be dis- include individuals who reside in or near border der security activities, improve train- closed under section 552 of title 5, United Stated counties. ing for agents and officers of U.S. Cus- Code (commonly referred to as the Freedom of ‘‘(3) DUTIES.—The Panel shall evaluate and toms and Border Protection and U.S. Information Act). make recommendations regarding the border en- ‘‘(d) ANNUAL REPORTING.—Not later than Immigration and Customs Enforce- forcement policies, strategies, and programs of June 30 of each year beginning in the year after the Department operating along the northern ment, and for other purposes, and ask the date of the enactment of this section, the for its immediate consideration. and southern borders of the United States to— Ombudsman shall submit to the Committee on ‘‘(A) take into consideration the impact of The Clerk read the title of the bill. Homeland Security and the Committee on the such policies, strategies, and programs on border The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Judiciary of the House of Representatives and communities, including protecting due process, ESPAILLAT). Pursuant to House Resolu- the Committee on Homeland Security and Gov- civil and human rights of border residents and tion 577, in lieu of the amendment in ernmental Affairs and the Committee on the Ju- visitors, and private property rights of land the nature of a substitute rec- diciary of the Senate a report that includes, for owners; ommended by the Committee on Home- the previous year, the following: ‘‘(B) uphold domestic and international legal ‘‘(1) The number and types of complaints re- land Security printed in the bill, an obligations; ceived under this section and for each com- ‘‘(C) reduce the number of migrant deaths; amendment in the nature of a sub- plaint— and stitute consisting of the text of Rules ‘‘(A) the component or subcomponent, subcon- ‘‘(D) improve the safety of agents and officers Committee Print 116–27, modified by tractor, or cooperating entity identified; of U.S. Customs and Border Protection and U.S. the amendment printed in House Re- ‘‘(B) the demographics of the complainant; Immigration and Customs Enforcement. port 116–217, is adopted and the bill, as and ‘‘(g) STAFFING.—The Secretary shall take ap- amended, is considered read. ‘‘(C) a description of the resolution of the propriate action to ensure the Ombudsman’s of- complaint or the status of the resolution process. fice is sufficiently staffed and resourced to carry The text of the bill, as amended, is as ‘‘(2) Any complaint pattern that could be pre- follows: out its duties effectively and efficiently. vented or reduced by policy training or practice ‘‘(h) TRAINING.— H.R. 2203 changes. ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Ombudsman shall con- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- ‘‘(3) A description of any pattern of violations duct a yearly evaluation of all training given to resentatives of the United States of America in of any applicable policy or standards. agents and officers of U.S. Customs and Border Congress assembled, ‘‘(4) A description of each complaint received Protection and U.S. Immigration and Customs SECTION 1. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE OFFICE OF under this section with respect to which U.S. Enforcement. THE OMBUDSMAN FOR BORDER AND Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Immigra- ‘‘(2) CONTENTS.—Each evaluation under para- IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT RE- tion and Customs Enforcement, a subcontractor, graph (1) shall include whether the training re- LATED CONCERNS. or a cooperating entity, as applicable, has taken ferred to in such paragraph adequately address- (a) IN GENERAL.—Title VII of the Homeland action to resolve, and the time between receipt es the following: Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 341 et seq.) is and resolution of each such complaint. ‘‘(A) Best practices in community policing, amended by adding at the end the following ‘‘(5) A description of complaints received cultural awareness, and carrying out enforce- new section: under this section for which action has not been ment actions near sensitive locations, such as

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:13 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.015 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7929 places of worship or religious ceremony, school ‘‘(i) U.S. Customs and Border Protection; Mr. Speaker, H.R. 2203, the Homeland or education-related places or events, court- ‘‘(ii) U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforce- Security Improvement Act, as amend- houses or other civic buildings providing serv- ment; and ‘‘(iii) the Office of Refugee Resettlement of the ed, seeks to enhance accountability for ices accessible to the public, hospitals, medical how the Department of Homeland Se- treatment or health care facilities, public dem- Department of Health and Human Services; and onstrations, and attorney’s offices (including a ‘‘(C) is interoperable with the electronic loca- curity carries out its border security public defender or legal aid offices). tion records of a parent, legal guardian, or and immigration enforcement activi- ‘‘(B) Policies for operating in locations where other relative of such child. ties. there are limitations on cooperation by local law ‘‘(j) BODY-WORN CAMERAS.— For years, the complaints process at enforcement. ‘‘(1) REQUIREMENT.—Not later than 120 days DHS has been fragmented. While the ‘‘(C) Interaction with vulnerable populations, after the date of the enactment of this section, the Ombudsman, in coordination with the Com- inspector general of DHS reviews alle- including instruction on screening, identifying, gations of unlawful activity by Depart- and responding to vulnerable populations, such missioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protec- as children, victims of human trafficking, and tion, the Director of U.S. Immigration and Cus- ment personnel, other complaints must the acutely ill. toms Enforcement, and labor organizations rep- go through Customs and Border Pro- ‘‘(D) Standards of professional and ethical resenting agents and officers of U.S. Customs tection or Immigration and Customs conduct, including the following: and Border Protection and U.S. Immigration Enforcement first. ‘‘(i) Lawful use of force, de-escalation tactics, and Customs Enforcement, shall submit to the Further, the process for filing a com- and alternatives to the use of force. Committee on Homeland Security and the Com- plaint can be complicated and con- ‘‘(ii) Complying with chain of command and mittee on the Judiciary of the House of Rep- lawful orders. resentatives and the Committee on Homeland fusing. Additionally, there is no cen- ‘‘(iii) Conduct and ethical behavior toward Security and Governmental Affairs and the tral mechanism for residents of border the public in a civil and professional manner. Committee on the Judiciary of the Senate a plan communities to speak out about how ‘‘(iv) Civil rights and legal protections for na- for requiring, not later than one year after such DHS’ operations affect their day-to-day tionals of the United States and aliens. date of enactment, the use of body-worn cam- lives or the environment around them. ‘‘(v) Non-biased questioning. eras by U.S. Border Patrol agents and U.S. Im- H.R. 2203, as we are considering it ‘‘(vi) Sensitivity towards lesbian, gay, bisex- migration and Customs Enforcement officers today, would establish a new ombuds- ual, transgender, and queer individuals. whenever such agents and officers are engaged ‘‘(vii) Permissible and impermissible social man to carry out an independent, neu- in border security or immigration enforcement media activity. tral, and confidential process to help activities. ‘‘(viii) Sexual and other harassment and as- ‘‘(2) ELEMENTS.—The plan required under resolve complaints with respect to the sault, including an assessment of whether ade- paragraph (1) shall include the following: Department’s border and immigration quate policies exist to resolve complaints. ‘‘(A) Benchmarks for implementation of the enforcement activities. The ombuds- ‘‘(E) Protecting the civil, constitutional, use of body-worn cameras within U.S. Customs human, and privacy rights of individuals, with man would also note patterns in the and Border Protection and U.S. Immigration types of complaints received to iden- special emphasis on the scope of enforcement and Customs Enforcement. authority, including chain of evidence practices ‘‘(B) Policies, procedures, and training mod- tify any systemic issues. and document seizure, and use of force policies ules for the use of body-worn cameras by agents The communities most directly im- available to agents and officers. and officers of U.S. Customs and Border Protec- pacted by DHS’ border and immigra- ‘‘(F) Maintaining and updated understanding tion and U.S. Immigration and Customs En- tion enforcement activities are those of Federal legal rulings, court decisions, and forcement, including training modules relating that are on our borders with Mexico Department policies and procedures. to the appropriate use of such cameras and ad- ‘‘(G) The scope of agents’ and officers’ au- and Canada. verse action for non-compliance. thority to conduct immigration enforcement ac- Under H.R. 2203, the ombudsman ‘‘(C) Mechanisms to ensure compliance with tivities, including interviews, interrogations, would appoint border community liai- body-worn camera policies and procedures. sons to serve in sectors along the stops, searches, arrests, and detentions, in addi- ‘‘(3) CONSIDERATIONS.—The plan required tion to identifying and detecting fraudulent under paragraph (1) shall be informed by— northern and southern borders to foster documents. ‘‘(A) existing State and local policies requiring better communication and meaningful ‘‘(3) RECOMMENDATIONS.—Not later than 90 the use of body-worn cameras; and engagement with these communities. days after conducting each evaluation under ‘‘(B) principles regarding body-worn cameras The ombudsman is also required to paragraph (1), the Ombudsman shall develop, published by major civil and human rights orga- and submit to the Secretary, recommendations stand up a border oversight panel to nizations.’’. make recommendations on border and regarding any additional training. (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of con- ‘‘(4) FEEDBACK.—Not later than 180 days after tents of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 is immigration policies and programs receiving recommendations transmitted by the amended by adding after the item relating to with attention to DHS activities that Ombudsman, the Secretary shall respond pub- section 710 the following new item: affect due process, property rights, and licly and in writing with feedback on each of ‘‘Sec. 711. Ombudsman for Border and Immigra- the safety of migrants and officers. the recommendations, an action plan to imple- tion Enforcement Related Con- H.R. 2203 is also intended to ensure ment any of such recommendations with which cerns.’’. greater oversight of the training that the Secretary concurs, and a justification for why any of such recommendations have been re- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The bill, frontline personnel receive. Specifi- jected. as amended, shall be debatable for 1 cally, the ombudsman would annually ‘‘(i) ELECTRONIC TRACKING.— hour equally divided and controlled by evaluate the CBP and ICE agents and ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Ombudsman, in coordi- the chair and ranking minority mem- officers training, particularly on stand- nation with the Commissioner of U.S. Customs ber of the Committee on Homeland Se- ards for professional and ethical con- and Border Protection, the Director of U.S. Im- duct, and make recommendations on migration and Customs Enforcement, and the curity. Office of Refugee Resettlement of the Depart- The gentleman from Mississippi (Mr. any needed improvements. ment of Health and Human Services, shall de- THOMPSON) and the gentleman from Additionally, the bill directs the om- velop recommendations for the establishment of Alabama (Mr. ROGERS) each will con- budsman to develop an implementation an electronic tracking number system on a sin- trol 30 minutes. plan to require the use of body-worn gle interface, which shall be used to track the The Chair recognizes the gentleman cameras by Border Patrol agents and location of a child who has been separated from from Mississippi. ICE officers while engaged in border se- a parent, legal guardian, or other relative of GENERAL LEAVE curity or immigration enforcement ac- such child, and which shall be accessible to Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. tivities. agents and officers of U.S. Customs and Border While the current administration’s Protection, U.S. Immigration and Customs En- Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that forcement, and the Office of Refugee Resettle- all Members have 5 legislative days to activities in this area warrant height- ment. revise and extend their remarks and to ened scrutiny, several issues, such as ‘‘(2) TRACKING NUMBER.—The recommenda- include extraneous material on this conditions in ICE detention or insuffi- tions developed under this subsection shall con- measure. cient consultation with property own- sider how a tracking number can be assigned to The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there ers by U.S. Border Patrol, have per- a child who has been separated from a parent, objection to the request of the gen- sisted for years. legal guardian, or other relative of such child tleman from Mississippi? H.R. 2203 represents a step in the that— ‘‘(A) is transferrable; There was no objection. right direction to bring greater trans- ‘‘(B) may be shared easily on the electronic Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. parency and accountability to DHS. I tracking system described in this subsection by Speaker, I yield myself such time as I urge my colleagues to support this leg- agents and officers of— may consume. islation.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:29 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.016 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7930 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019 Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of Protection, does not include authority to en- signed to demoralize law enforcement my time. force trade laws. The Committee also re- and serve the demands of illegal immi- serves the right to seek appointment of an HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, grants. It should really be called the il- appropriate number of conferees to any COMMITTEE ON THE JUDICIARY, House-Senate conference involving this or legal immigrant customer service act. Washington, DC, July 18, 2019. similar legislation. The bill creates a new ombudsman at Hon. BENNIE G. THOMPSON, I would appreciate your response to this the Department of Homeland Security Chairman, Committee on Homeland Security, letter confirming this understanding and to collect and review complaints made House of Representatives, Washington, DC. would ask that a copy of our exchange of let- by illegal immigrants against Federal DEAR MR. CHAIRMAN: This is to advise you ter on this matter be included in the Con- law enforcement officers. that the Committee on the Judiciary has gressional Record during floor consideration now had an opportunity to review the provi- The Department already has an Of- of H.R. 2203. fice of Inspector General and an Office sions in H.R. 2203, the ‘‘Homeland Security Sincerely, Improvement Act’’ that fall with our Rule X RICHARD E. NEAL, for Civil Rights and Liberties required jurisdiction. I appreciate your consulting Chairman. by law to collect and investigate com- with us on those provisions. The Judiciary plaints against DHS personnel, as well Committee has no objection to your includ- HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, as recommended relief for the com- ing them in the bill for consideration on the COMMITTEE ON HOMELAND SECURITY, plainant. Both offices maintain tip House floor, and to expedite that consider- Washington, DC, September 25, 2019. ation is willing to waive sequential referral, lines for anonymous complaints and Hon. RICHARD NEAL, websites to collect complaints, and with the understanding that we do not there- Chairman, Committee on Ways and Means, by waive any future jurisdictional claim House of Representatives, Washington, DC. both regularly report to Congress on over those provisions or their subject mat- DEAR CHAIRMAN NEAL: Thank you for your their caseload. ters. letter regarding H.R. 2203, the ‘‘Homeland It is unclear how creating another In the event a House-Senate conference on Security Improvement Act.’’ The Committee bureaucrat with a duplicative mission this or similar legislation is convened, the on Homeland Security recognizes that the will improve the current process. It is Judiciary Committee reserves the right to Committee on Ways and Means has a juris- clear, however, that this new bureau- request an appropriate number of conferees dictional interest in H.R. 2203, and I appre- crat will further demoralize the men to address any concerns with these or simi- ciate your effort to allow this bill to be con- lar provisions that may arise in conference. sidered on the House floor. and women of law enforcement. Please place this letter into the Congres- I concur with you that the authority given The bill empowers the ombudsman to sional Record during consideration of the to the Ombudsman in Title II of the bill is scrutinize the training and conduct of measure on the House floor. Thank you for not intended to include authority regarding ICE and CBP officers on an ongoing the cooperative spirit in which you have trade law enforcement complaints. Should basis. worked regarding this matter and others be- you choose to seek appointment of an appro- The bill also includes a bogus over- tween our committees. priate number of conferees to any House— sight panel comprised of so-called qual- Sincerely, Senate conference involving this legislation, ity of life indicators to make rec- JERROLD NADLER, I would support that effort. Chairman. I will include our letters on H.R. 2203 in the ommendations on how ICE and CBP of- Congressional Record during floor consider- ficers should carry out their law en- HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, ation of this bill. I look forward to working forcement mission. COMMITTEE ON HOMELAND SECURITY, with you on this legislation and other mat- Every day, the men and women of Washington, DC July 18, 2019. ters of great importance to this nation. ICE and CBP put their lives in danger Hon. JERROLD NADLER, Sincerely, to keep our families and communities Chairman, Committee on the Judiciary, BENNIE G. THOMPSON, safe. They faithfully and skillfully Chairman. House of Representatives, Washington, DC. carry out their duty to enforce Federal DEAR CHAIRMAN NADLER: Thank you for Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Mr. Speak- your letter regarding H.R. 2203, the ‘‘Home- immigration law. Congress should be er, I yield myself such time as I may moving legislation to thank them, not land Security Improvement Act.’’ The Com- consume. second-guess and criticize them. mittee on Homeland Security recognizes Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposi- Mr. Speaker, this legislation started that the Committee on the Judiciary has a tion to H.R. 2203. jurisdictional interest in H.R. 2203, and I ap- Over this past fiscal year, law en- out as an attempt by Democrats to ap- preciate your effort to allow this bill to be pease radical leftwing open border ac- considered on the House floor. forcement has encountered nearly a million migrants illegally crossing the tivists. The original bill was chock-full I concur with you that forgoing action on of so many absurd provisions that the the bill does not in any way prejudice the southwest border. Committee on the Judiciary with respect to For months, records of migrant fami- Speaker was forced to pull it from floor its jurisdictional prerogatives on this bill or lies and unaccompanied children over- consideration in July. The bill has been similar legislation in the future, and I would whelmed obsolete Customs and Border rewritten six times to get it to this support your effort to seek appointment of Protection facilities, creating an un- point where just enough Democrats an appropriate number of conferees to any precedented humanitarian crisis. And will vote for it to pass it. House—Senate conference involving this leg- for months, Democrats did nothing. But it didn’t have to be such a par- islation. They said the crisis wasn’t real. Then tisan exercise. We could have worked I will include our letters on H.R. 2203 in the together to move comprehensive legis- Congressional Record during floor consider- they said the President manufactured ation of this bill. I look forward to working it. lation to truly prevent another crisis with you on this legislation and other mat- Then, after months of ignoring pic- at our border. ters of great importance to this nation. tures of children and families living in Republicans are ready and willing to Sincerely, overcrowded conditions, Democrats fi- work with Democrats on serious pro- BENNIE G. THOMPSON, nally agreed to the President’s request posals to reform our asylum laws to re- Chairman. for emergency funding. Now, thanks to duce the pull factors for illegal immi- that funding and the administration’s gration, to protect vulnerable families HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, efforts to reach agreements with Mex- and children from exploitation by COMMITTEE ON WAYS AND MEANS, human smugglers, to expand migrant Washington, DC, September 25, 2019. ico and some Northern Triangle coun- Hon. BENNIE G. THOMPSON, tries, the crisis has finally abated. processing and long-term housing fa- Chairman, Committee on Homeland Security, Congress should use this opportunity cilities to eliminate dangerous over- Washington, DC. to advance a bipartisan bill to address crowding, and to hire additional immi- DEAR CHAIRMAN THOMPSON: In order to ex- the causes of the border crisis and pre- gration lawyers and judges to reduce pedite consideration of H.R. 2203, the Home- vent another one from happening. Un- the unprecedented backlog in asylum land Security Improvement Act, the Com- fortunately, Democrats have chosen to cases. mittee on Ways and Means has agreed to squander the opportunity. Instead, When this partisan bill fails to move waive formal consideration of provisions in the Senate, I hope Democrats will fi- that fall within the rule X jurisdiction of the they decided to move yet another par- Committee. We do so with the understanding tisan messaging bill that stands no nally choose policy over politics and that the authority given to the Ombudsmen chance of becoming law. will agree to work with Republicans on in Title II of the bill, relating to the enforce- All this bill does is waste taxpayers’ solutions to our border security prob- ment activities of U.S. Customs and Border dollars on a duplicative new office de- lems.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:29 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.044 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7931 Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of I have heard countless times from my our Nation’s immigration challenges in my time. constituents and other border residents a common sense and humane way. Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. that they need to have a voice in Today, we have the opportunity to Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gen- crafting border policies because we are come together and begin to make a tlewoman from Texas (Ms. ESCOBAR), the ones most impacted. H.R. 2203 will powerful and well-funded Federal agen- the sponsor of this legislation. allow them this opportunity through cy more accountable to the Congress Ms. ESCOBAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise the establishment of both a border and to the people that they serve. The today in support of H.R. 2203, the community liaison and a border over- ombudsman’s role will fill much needed Homeland Security Improvement Act. sight panel. Both seek to foster com- gaps in transparency, oversight, train- I would first like to thank Speaker munication and cooperation between ing, and trust. PELOSI and Chairman THOMPSON for DHS and the community by giving bor- Mr. Speaker, I am very proud of this their steadfast leadership and for help- der residents an opportunity to provide legislation. It comes right from the ing get this bill to the floor. Mr. feedback and recommendations regard- communities that are impacted the Speaker, this moment never would ing border policies. most. I urge my colleagues to support have been possible without Mr. THOMP- This panel will also help improve it. SON’s perseverance and hard work. conditions for agents and officers. For Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Mr. Speak- H.R. 2203 started at our southern bor- example, one responsibility of the bor- er, I find it amazing that the majority, der as a community-driven effort to der oversight panel is to evaluate poli- the Democrat majority, would like to boost accountability and transparency cies to enhance their safety. see us prioritize establishing electronic within DHS. To that end, I would like The bill also requires the ombudsman medical records for illegal immigrants to especially thank the Border Net- to conduct annual evaluations of all when we still haven’t been able to pro- work for Human Rights, an El Paso- training provided and will examine vide that for veterans in our country or based organization that works tire- whether key areas are covered, includ- our military, and we have been work- lessly to ensure migrants and border ing community policing, which builds ing on it for years. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the communities are treated with the dig- trust; enforcement near sensitive loca- gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. nity and respect that we all deserve. tions; interacting with vulnerable pop- JOYCE), a member of the Committee on Those of us who live within the 100- ulations; and professional and ethical mile border enforcement zone have Homeland Security. conduct, such as lawful use of force, Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Mr. often had our civil rights impeded be- LGBTQ sensitivity, and sexual harass- cause some basic constitutional prin- Speaker, I rise today in opposition to ment. H.R. 2203, yet another one of the major- ciples don’t fully apply to us. El Paso has been at the epicenter of Since the creation of DHS in 2003, our ity’s messaging bills that would do much of the humanitarian chaos our nothing to address the crisis on our government has spent over $300 billion, Nation has seen, like being the testing including two supplemental bills southern border. ground for the cruel family separation At home in Pennsylvania’s 13th Con- passed this year, on the agencies that policy that continues to this day. To gressional District, nearly 2,000 miles carry out immigration enforcement, help speed up reunifications of these away from the southern border, this largely within that 100-mile zone. This families, H.R. 2203 requires the om- crisis is taking a tangible toll on our enormous taxpayer investment has cre- budsman, in conjunction with the CBP communities. As illicit drugs continue ated a situation where the American Commissioner, ICE Director, and the to pour across the southern border and taxpayer spends more money on immi- Office of Refugee Resettlement, to de- infiltrate into my district, addiction gration enforcement than on all other velop recommendations for the estab- and death are occurring. Federal law enforcement agencies com- lishment of an electronic tracking If we continue to kick the solutions bined. number system on a single, interoper- down the road, we are choosing simply Unfortunately, especially for those of able interface. not to act. us who live within that 100-mile en- Finally, the ombudsman is respon- Today, we could be voting to stop the forcement zone, this spending has not sible for developing a plan for outlining human trafficking, to stop the drug included corresponding oversight or ac- the use of body-worn cameras by Bor- trafficking, to stop the cartels and the countability measures. This bill seeks der Patrol agents and ICE officers violent criminals who permeate into to change that with the creation of an when engaged in border security and our country. H.R. 2203 does not address ombudsman for border and immigra- immigration enforcement activities, the real problems. tion-related concerns. something local police forces have em- Instead of passing this do-nothing The ombudsman, in conjunction with braced. bill, I ask that we return to the Home- the inspector general at DHS, will be The plan must be crafted in conjunc- land Security Committee and work on charged with establishing an inde- tion with the CBP Commissioner, the a bipartisan basis to secure our border, pendent, neutral, and confidential ICE Director, and relevant labor orga- to end the asylum loopholes, and to process to assist individuals, including nizations that represent these officers protect this great country. personnel, with complaints against Im- and agents. It must also consider exist- Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Mr. Speak- migration and Customs Enforcement ing State and local body-worn camera er, I reserve the balance of my time. and U.S. Customs and Border Protec- policies. Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. tion. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gen- The ombudsman is also responsible time of the gentlewoman has expired. tlewoman from Texas (Ms. GARCIA). for reviewing CBP and ICE compliance Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I with all departmental policies and Speaker, I yield the gentlewoman from thank the chairman for yielding. standards related to the treatment of Texas (Ms. ESCOBAR) an additional 1 Mr. Speaker, I support H.R. 2203, a migrants in custody. minute. bill introduced by my dear friend from This function was a priority for me Texas, Congresswoman VERONICA b 1600 after learning about child deaths in ESCOBAR. Federal custody; after having wit- Ms. ESCOBAR. Mr. Speaker, it must There is a humanitarian crisis at the nessed severe overcrowding in Border also consider existing State and local southern border and within the Amer- Patrol facilities; after hearing in my body-worn camera policies and prin- ican immigration system. The Home- community, in El Paso, Texas, con- ciples developed by major civil and land Security Improvement Act is a cerns from agents over and over again human rights organizations, so that critical bill, not a do-nothing bill. It is about leadership not listening to them DHS can build upon best practices for a critical bill that addresses our Na- and about policies they were forced to each community. tion’s immigration challenges at the enforce; and after interviewing ICE de- This plan further ensures that safety border in a responsible and humane tainees in my hometown who were sub- needs are met, and trust is built. manner by ensuring accountability and jected to force-feeding, an inhumane All of these features will be invalu- oversight through the creation of an practice that is tantamount to torture. able tools to make sure that we address ombudsman.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:13 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.045 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7932 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019 Our American values, moral con- ranking member for his position on But right now, we are dealing with science, and Constitution require that this bill, but I rise with great enthu- the improvement of this Department, we treat all individuals on American siasm to support H.R. 2203 by the dis- and I believe this commission is going soil humanely and respectfully. This tinguished gentlewoman from Texas, to be important and crucial for mi- bill helps ensure that that happens. and as well to indicate to her that I grant families and children that have Congress must continue working to had wished that the joy of doing this been separated and abused by the finally end the humanitarian crisis at would be that we are passing produc- Trump administration. the southern border. This is a step in tive legislation, but the sadness is that Do we want to see human beings in the right direction. it is based upon the history and the cages? Or do we want to have a fair Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to evidence of what is going on at the system that protects the United States join me in support of H.R. 2203. southern border where she lives. and the border from the intrusion of Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. So I hope those who are waiting for those who would do us harm? Speaker, I reserve the balance of my this bill will realize that it is going to A regular immigration system would time. pass this House and that we are going allow these desperate families to come Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Mr. Speak- to move this bill to the United States and be processed. er, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman Senate and ask the Senate whether, in I would have wanted the Mexican from Florida (Mr. RUTHERFORD). fact, they believe in the humanity of program to be out. I would have want- Mr. RUTHERFORD. Mr. Speaker, I all people. ed to have my amendment that deals thank my colleague from Alabama for Let me share with you what this bill with making sure that the FOIA yielding. is about from my perspective. First of amendment covers every detention Mr. Speaker, we have a crisis at the all, I take no backseat to dealing with center, private and nonprivate, that border. Finally, our colleagues across the border patrol agents, the CBP, and would have ensured that they had to the aisle have recognized that this is any others. report about what was going on inside not a manufactured crisis. In 2004, Senator Kerry and I, he in these detention centers. Just this month, over 800,000 illegal Those amendments were not allowed the Senate and I in the House, helped aliens have now crossed our southern at this time, but we will work with the contribute to the modernizing of the border in 2019. That is two times more gentlewoman and work with Homeland border patrol, because when I went than crossed in all of 2018. Security to make sure that we do not down to the border, they didn’t have These numbers are at historic highs have Members of Congress blocked the tools that they needed. We gave in large part due to our broken immi- from coming to these private detention them the night goggles, we gave them gration system that incentivizes illegal centers that women and children are the kinds of equipment that they need- crossings, and H.R. 2203 does nothing to in. ed, those heavy terrain vehicles. We fix it. But this is a good start. This gives This bill does nothing to stop chil- gave them the fast boats that they tools to those who are in need of those dren from being used as pawns by traf- needed. particular tools. fickers to cross our border. This bill We gave them their equipment, rec- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The does nothing to support law enforce- ognizing that we had been organized time of the gentlewoman has expired. ment officers, which as a lifelong en- just a few years as the Homeland Secu- Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. forcement officer myself, I take par- rity Committee, and we wanted our Speaker, I yield an additional 1 minute ticular issue with. This bill does noth- border to be safe and secure, but at the to the gentlewoman. ing to hire more immigration judges, same time, we wanted to make sure Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I which are desperately needed in order that we had comprehensive immigra- thank the gentleman for the additional to decrease the growing and historic tion reform. That was imploded when time. backlog of cases that we have now we could not pass a major bill that Mr. Speaker, I wanted to focus on seen. This bill does nothing to alleviate came to this House. this: We know in the past year, under So I am curious why anyone would the pressure on our detention facilities. this administration, seven-plus chil- In fact, this bill will make these not want to have a bill that says it is dren have died. How many adults have problems worse; worse, Mr. Speaker. the Homeland Security Improvement also passed? It is as important to re- Requiring the release of all migrants Act. port the deaths of individuals in our after 72 hours in detention will So I stand here in the name of Roger, own prison systems as it is to report incentivize even more people to cross 9 months old, who was separated from migrant deaths. They are human our southern border, because they are his parents by the Trump administra- beings. guaranteed to be released into the inte- tion’s heinous policies of family sepa- It is important to be able to use and rior of our country. ration. to understand the use of force. To This bill negates the positive steps This bill deals with eliminating fam- every law enforcement officer, I say to that President Trump has taken to se- ily separation. their families, I want them to go home cure our southern border. I stand here for the mother who had to their families. But to every human A bipartisan majority in the House had a baby, and 45 days after having being who comes desperate for the hope and Senate did not support these ideas that baby, she had not been to a hos- and the blessings of America who has before when we passed the border sup- pital, but she was in a detention cen- not come to do us harm, I want to be plemental in June, and they will not ter. able to have the oversight that is in support them now. I think it is fair that there be a pol- this bill, the accountability and trans- Instead of giving law enforcement icy for border patrol agents to wear parency in that border area. the resources they need to keep our those cameras, like any other law en- We all know that El Paso has been communities safe, House Democrats forcement, to protect them and others; touted as the safest city in the Nation. are tiptoeing around real solutions, the limitation on the separation of It was not an immigrant that killed 22 and are more interested in obstructing families; the prohibition of exceeding people. It was not an immigrant whose our President than solving problems 72 hours in short-term detention; the violence and victimization and utiliza- for the American public. ombudsman, which is so important so tion of an automatic weapon caused Mr. Speaker, I encourage my col- that we have a fair investment. the injuries to the people whom I had leagues to vote ‘‘no’’ on H.R. 2203. To my friend that was on the floor to visit in the hospitals of El Paso. It Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Mr. Speak- dealing with human trafficking: Any was not an immigrant. er, I reserve the balance of my time. day of the week, I will join him in a Mr. Speaker, this is a worthy bill Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. bill that deals with human trafficking. that will, in fact, provide the right di- Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the gen- I held the first hearing by Homeland rection for the Homeland Security De- tlewoman from Texas (Ms. JACKSON Security on human trafficking in the partment. I rise to support H.R. 2203. LEE). field almost 8 years ago, because Hous- Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak in support of Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I ton is a known epicenter for human H.R. 2203, the Homeland Security Improve- thank the chairman and certainly the trafficking. ment Act.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:13 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.047 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7933 I thank my colleague, Congresswoman engaged in border security and immigration H.R. 2203 would establish a new and ESCOBAR for her leadership in drafting this im- enforcement activities. unnecessary position at the Depart- portant piece of legislation. Provides that the plan must consider exist- ment of Homeland Security that would As a member of the House Committees on ing state and local body-worn camera policies serve as an additional barrier for law the Judiciary and Homeland Security, I am and principles developed by major civil and enforcement officers charged with pro- well aware of the many problems associated human rights organizations. tecting our communities. This new po- with this Administration’s immigration policy. I offered an amendment to H.R. 2203, that sition would overlap with existing posi- Independent Ombudsman: was not included in this final bill. tions at DHS, and a panel of appointees Establishes an independent Ombudsman for This Jackson Lee Amendment, listed as No. or bureaucrats with no prior experience Border and Immigration Related Concerns 6 on the Rules Committee Roster, makes a in law enforcement would oversee the within DHS. good bill better by creating an affirmative obli- border and immigration enforcement The functions of the Ombudsman include gation on the part of Customs and Border Pro- process. establishing an independent, neutral, and con- tection to provide access to records of entities b 1615 fidential process to assist individuals with com- that contract with the agency to provide serv- plaints against Immigration and Customs En- ices related to detention or removal of per- Democrats must recognize the ef- forcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border sons, including children. forts, dedication, and sacrifices made Protection (CBP). The Jackson Lee Amendment states simply: each day by members of our law en- Provides for annual reporting on the com- ‘‘In the case of a contractor including a forcement community to uphold the plaints filed, including the number and types of State licensed, vetted, and qualified con- rule of law. Rather than undermining complaints received to identify trends and tractor, and a nonprofit entity, which has a their roles and duties, we should be fo- solve systemic problems. contract with U.S. Customs and Border Pro- cusing on how we can assist these Reviews compliance by CBP and ICE with tection for the provision of direct or support brave men and women who work to all departmental policies and standards related services associated with providing care for in- maintain our Nation’s security. to treatment of migrants in custody, including dividuals, including unaccompanied alien chil- I recently introduced H.R. 3990, the with respect to force-feeding. dren, apprehended at the southern border of Operation Stonegarden Authorization Makes the complaint resolution process the United States, any record of the contractor Act. This bill would establish a grant easy to follow by establishing a publicly avail- held by U.S. Customs and Border Protection program for States bordering Mexico or able website. shall be considered an agency record for pur- Canada or those with a maritime bor- Border Communities Liaison: poses of section 552 on title 5, United States der. These grants would provide much- Directs the Ombudsman, in conjunction with Code.’’ needed resources to help Customs and the Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties at Since 1967, the Freedom of Information Act Border Protection and local law en- DHS, to appoint a Border Community Liaison (FOIA) has provided the public the right to re- forcement officers efficiently carry out in each Border Patrol sector along the north- quest access to records from any federal their mission on behalf of the Amer- ern and southern border to: agency. ican people. foster cooperation between ICE, CBP, and It is often described as the law that keeps I urge my colleagues on both sides of border communities; citizens in the know about their government. the aisle to join me in promoting re- consult with border communities on CBP Federal agencies are required to disclose spect for our law enforcement commu- and ICE policies, directives, and programs; any information requested under the FOIA un- nity and providing a sense of gratitude receive feedback from border communities less it falls under one of nine exemptions for the work they do to keep us, our about CBP and ICE activities in the region; which protect interests such as personal pri- families, and our communities safe. and vacy, national security, and law enforcement. As a member of the Committee on report annually to the Ombudsman. The FOIA also requires agencies to Homeland Security, I voted against Border Oversight Panel: proactively post online certain categories of in- this bill when it was considered in com- Directs the Ombudsman to establish a Bor- formation, including frequently requested mittee. Now, I strongly encourage my der Oversight Panel to evaluate and make records. colleagues to join me in voting against recommendations regarding the border en- As Congress, the President, and the Su- this partisan measure and to, instead, forcement policies, strategies, and programs preme Court have all recognized, the FOIA is work across the aisle to find real solu- that directly affect border communities. a vital part of our democracy. tions, bipartisan solutions, to make Specifically directs the Panel to pay special I will continue to work with my colleagues America a safer place to live, to wor- attention to the way DHS policies impact due on gaining greater transparency and oversight ship, and to raise a family. process, property rights, legal obligations, and of CBP. Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. migrant and officer safety. I ask my colleagues to join me in support of Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentle- Training Evaluations: this bill. woman from California (Ms. LEE). Requires the Ombudsman to conduct an- Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Mr. Speak- Ms. LEE of California. Mr. Speaker, nual evaluations of all training given to the er, I yield 4 minutes to the gentleman first, I thank Chairman THOMPSON for agents and officers at CBP and ICE. from Mississippi (Mr. GUEST), a mem- yielding and for his tremendous leader- The Ombudsman must examine whether ber of the Committee on Homeland Se- ship not only on issues of security but there is training in specific key areas including curity. on so many issues that affect our coun- community policing, enforcement near sen- Mr. GUEST. Mr. Speaker, as a mem- try. sitive locations, interacting with vulnerable ber of the Committee on Homeland Se- Also, I thank Congresswoman populations, and professional and ethical con- curity and a former prosecutor, I rise VERONICA ESCOBAR, who I call my Con- duct (like lawful use of force, LGBTQ sensi- today to express my concerns regard- gresswoman because she represents the tivity, and sexual harassment). ing H.R. 2203. wonderful people of my hometown of El Mandates that the Ombudsman provide rec- While the bill is referred to as the Paso, Texas. ommendations to the Secretary on additional Homeland Security Improvement Act, Mr. Speaker, I rise today to support training needs. The Secretary must respond to the legislation does not make improve- H.R. 2203, the Homeland Security Im- these recommendations publicly within 180 ments to our homeland security, and, provement Act. days with an action plan to implement such in fact, would have no positive impact I have visited McAllen and Browns- recommendations and a justification for why on resolving the crisis at our southwest ville, Texas, and Homestead. I have any of such recommendations have been re- border or preventing any future home- witnessed children in cages, sleeping on jected. land security crisis. concrete floors. I had a chance to talk Body-Worn Cameras: It is the responsibility of Congress to to mothers and fathers who had no idea Directs the Ombudsman, in coordination fix gaps in our immigration system where their children were. with CBP Commissioner, ICE Director, and that benefit criminals such as human I served on the conference committee labor organizations representing agents and traffickers and drug smugglers. on homeland security as we moved to officers, to submit to Congress a plan for re- Instead of addressing these needs, open the government earlier this year. quiring the use of body-worn cameras by U.S. this bill would create even more loop- I have to tell you, there were so many Border Patrol agents and ICE officers when holes. suggestions that were made that

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:29 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.025 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7934 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019 weren’t accepted. There were good, ra- Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Enclosures. tional, concrete suggestions. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I COMMITTEE RESOLUTION This is a critical bill that addresses may consume. LEASE—DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND some of those concerns. Mr. Speaker, the Trump administra- DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS, KANSAS The SPEAKER pro tempore. The tion’s cruel and inhumane approach to CITY, MO time of the gentlewoman has expired. border and immigration enforcement Resolved by the Committee on Transportation Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. has subjected DHS’ frontline personnel and Infrastructure of the U.S. House of Rep- Speaker, I yield an additional 1 minute and border communities to chaotic resentatives, that pursuant to 40 U.S.C. 3307, to the gentlewoman. conditions. It has also hurt families appropriations are authorized for a lease of Ms. LEE of California. It creates an up to 204,607 rentable square feet of space, in- and children. cluding 104 official parking spaces, for the independent ombudsman, which will es- From the Remain in Mexico policy Department of Transportation and the De- tablish a confidential process to assist that puts children and families in partment of Veterans Affairs currently lo- individuals with complaints against harm’s way indefinitely to family sepa- cated at 901 Locust Street in Kansas City, ICE and CBP. ration to metering, the Trump admin- MO at a proposed total annual cost of Once more, this bill is important for istration has haphazardly reshaped $4,982,181 for a lease term of up to 5 years, a our children and would develop rec- how people who seek safety in the U.S. prospectus for which is attached to and in- ommendations for the establishment of are treated. It is essential that there be cluded in this resolution. an electronic tracking system to track Approval of this prospectus constitutes au- greater transparency and account- thority to execute an interim lease for all the location of children who have been ability regarding what DHS is doing tenants, if necessary, prior to the execution separated from a parent, legal guard- along the border. More remains to be of the new lease. ian, or other relative. done, but H.R. 2203 includes several Provided that, the Administrator of General We will not stand by while the first steps. Services and tenant agency(ies) agree to Trump administration separates chil- I urge my colleagues to support this apply an overall utilization rate of 311 square dren from their families, so this bill measure, and I yield back the balance feet or less per person, except that, if the Ad- takes an important step in the right di- of my time. ministrator determines that the overall uti- rection. The SPEAKER pro tempore. All time lization rate cannot be achieved, the Admin- istrator shall provide an explanatory state- By passing this bill today, we are for debate has expired. ment to the Committee on Transportation putting critical protocols and protec- Pursuant to House Resolution 577, and Infrastructure of the House of Rep- tions in place for migrants, making the previous question is ordered on the resentatives prior to exercising any lease au- sure that their well-being and health is bill, as amended. thority provided in this resolution. uplifted at every step. The question is on the engrossment Provided that, except for interim leases as We cannot allow migrants to be and third reading of the bill. described above, the Administrator may not abused by CBP and ICE any longer. It The bill was ordered to be engrossed enter into any leases that are below pro- is past time to protect migrants who and read a third time, and was read the spectus level for the purposes of meeting any of the requirements, or portions thereof, in- are seeking a chance to start a new life third time. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- cluded in the prospectus that would result in in America. It is past time we recog- an overall utilization rate of 311 square feet nize people fleeing violence are human ant to clause 1(c) of rule XIX, further or higher per person. beings who deserve a chance to address consideration of H.R. 2203 is postponed. Provided that, to the maximum extent and be part of a just immigration sys- f practicable, the Administrator shall include in the lease contract(s) a purchase option tem. MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to that can be exercised at the conclusion of vote ‘‘yes’’ on this vital bill. A message from the Senate by Ms. the firm term of the lease. Byrd, one of its clerks, announced that Provided further, that the General Services I thank Chairman THOMPSON and the Senate has agreed to a joint resolu- Administration shall not delegate to any Congresswoman ESCOBAR for finally tion of the following title in which the other agency the authority granted by this getting this bill to the floor. resolution. Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Mr. Speak- concurrence of the House is requested: Provided further, that the Administrator er, I have no further speakers, and I am S.J. Res. 54. Joint resolution relating to a shall require that the delineated area of the prepared to close. national emergency declared by the Presi- procurement is identical to the delineated dent on February 15, 2019. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time area included in the prospectus, except that, as I may consume. f if the Administrator determines that the de- lineated area of the procurement should not Mr. Speaker, this bill demonstrates COMMUNICATION FROM CHAIR OF be identical to the delineated area included just how disingenuous Democrats are COMMITTEE ON TRANSPOR- in the prospectus, the Administrator shall about securing our borders and fixing TATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE provide an explanatory statement to the our broken immigration system. Their The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- Committee on Transportation and Infra- Caucus is in such disarray on this issue fore the House the following commu- structure of the House of Representatives that it took them 10 weeks and a prior to exercising any lease authority pro- nication from the chair of the Com- vided in this resolution. hatchet just to find a compromise mittee on Transportation and Infra- among themselves. Now, they are going Provided further, not later than 30 calendar structure; which was read and, without days after the date on which a request from to send another partisan messaging bill objection, referred to the Committee the Chairman or Ranking Member of the to the Senate, where it will promptly on Appropriations: Committee on Transportation and Infra- die. COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION AND structure of the House of Representatives is Congratulations on the press release. INFRASTRUCTURE, HOUSE OF REP- received by the Administrator of General Mr. Speaker, we watched an unprece- RESENTATIVES, Services, the Administrator shall provide dented humanitarian crisis unfold on Washington, DC, September 19, 2019. such Member a response in writing that pro- our Southwest border this year. It used Hon. NANCY PELOSI, vides any information requested regarding to be that when this country faced a Speaker of the House, House of Representatives, the project. Provided further, the Administrator of Gen- crisis, Democrats and Republicans Washington, DC DEAR MADAM SPEAKER: On September 19, eral Services may not enter into this lease if came together to solve it and ensure it 2019, pursuant to section 3307 of Title 40, it does not contain a provision barring any didn’t happen again. Unfortunately, United States Code, the Committee on individual holding a Federally-elected office, that is no longer the practice under Transportation and Infrastructure met in regardless of whether such individual took Democratic control. open session to consider six resolutions in- office before or after execution of this lease, When Democrats are ready to legis- cluded in the General Services Administra- to directly participate in, or benefit from or late with real solutions to problems tion’s Capital Investment and Leasing Pro- under this lease or any part thereof and that this country faces, Republicans stand grams. such provision provide that if this lease is I have enclosed copies of the resolutions found to have been made in violation of the ready to work with them. In the mean- adopted. foregoing prohibition or it is found that this time, I urge all Members to oppose this Sincerely, prohibition has been violated during the bill, and I yield back the balance of my PETER A. DEFAZIO, term of the lease, the lease shall be void, ex- time. Chairman. cept that the foregoing limitation shall not

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:53 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.050 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7935 apply if the lease is entered into with a pub- leased space, including an entity involved in Provided that, to the maximum extent licly-held corporation or publicly-held entity the financing thereof, is a foreign person or practicable, the Administrator of General for the general benefit of such corporation or a foreign-owned entity; provided further, in Services shall require that the lease procure- entity. such an instance, the Administrator of Gen- ment consider the availability of public Provided further, prior to entering into this eral Services shall notify the occupant agen- transportation consistent with agency mis- lease or approving a novation agreement in- sion requirements and that the space to be cy(ies) in writing, and consult with such oc- volving a change of ownership under this leased be renovated for all cost effective im- lease, the Administrator of General Services cupant agency(ies) regarding security con- provements, including renewable energy up- shall require the offeror or the parties re- cerns and necessary mitigation measures (if grades, water efficiency improvements, and questing the novation, as applicable, to iden- any) prior to award of the lease or approval indoor air quality optimization, that reduce tify and disclose whether the owner of the of the novation agreement. greenhouse gas emissions.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.057 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7936 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019

GSA PBS

PROSPECTUS-LEASE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS KANSAS CITY, MO

Prospectus Number: PM0-02-KC20 Congressional District: OS

Executive Summary

The General Services Administration (GSA) proposes a lease extension of up to 5 years for approximately 204,607 rentable square feet (RSF) for five components of the Department of Transportation (DOT) and for the Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration (VA-VHA), currently located at 901 Locust Street, Kansas City, Missouri. DOT and VA-VHA have occupied space in the building since 2009 under a lease that expires on October 14,2019.

Extension of the current lease will enable DOT and VA-VHA to provide continued housing for personnel and meet their mission requirements while planning for the future replacement lease. The office and overall uti1ization will be maintained at 162 and 311 usable square feet (USF) per person, respectively.

Description Occupant: Departments ofTransportation and Veterans Affairs Current RSF: 204,607 (Current RSF/USF = 1.20) Estimated/Proposed Maximum RSF: 204,607 (Proposed RSF/USF = 1.20) Expansion/Reduction RSF: None Current USF/Person: 311 Estimated/Proposed USF/Person: 311 Expiration Dates of Current Lease(s): 10/14/2019 Proposed Maximum Leasing Authority: 5 years Delineated Area: North: I-70/1-35; East: 1-70/Campbell Street; South: 31st Street; West: Summit Street/I-35. Number of Official Parking Spaces: 104 Scoring: Operating Current Total Annual Cost: $4,238,269 (leases effective 10/15/2009) 1 Estimated Rental Rate : $24.35/RSF Estimated Total Annual Cosr: $4,982,181

1 This estimate is for fiscal year 2020 and may be escalated by 2 pt.'fcem per year to the effective date of the lease to account for inflation. The proposed rental rate is fully serviced. including all operating expenses, whether paid by the lessor or directly by the Government. GSA will conduct the procurement using prevailing market rental rates as a benchmark for the evaluation of competitive offers and as the basis for negotiating with offerors to ensure that lease award is made in the best interest of the Government. ! New leases may contain an escalation clause to provide for annual changes in real estate taxes and operating costs.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.057 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE Insert graphic folio 1257/3 EH250919.001 September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7937

GSA PBS

PROSPECTUS-LEASE DEPARTMENTOFTRANSPORTATION AND DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS KANSAS CITY, MO

Prospectus Number: PM0-02-KC20 Congressional District: 05

Background

In addition to VA-VHA, this location houses the administrative offices of the following five DOT operating administrations within the Kansas City, Missouri, area: The Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) mission is to provide the safest, most efficient aerospace system in the world; The Federal Railroad Administration's mission is to enable the safe, reliable, and efficient movement of people and goods for a strong America, now and in the future; The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration's mission is to save lives, prevent injuries, and reduce economic costs due to road traffic crashes, through education, research, safety standards, and enforcement activity: The Federal Transit Administration's mission is to provide financial and technical assistance to local public transit systems, including buses, subways, light rail, commuter rail, trolleys, and ferries; and The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration's mission is to protect people and the environment by advancing the safe transportation of energy and other hazardous materials that are essential to our daily lives.

VA-VHA 's mission is to honor America's veterans by providing exceptional healthcare that improves their health and well-being. VA-VHA is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States, providing care to over 9 million veterans enrolled in the VA healthcare program.

Justification

The current lease at 901 Locust Street expires on October 14, 2019, and the agencies require continued housing to carry out their missions until the long-term plan can be executed for a replacement lease. This FAA location houses the Regional Office and the functions of oversight of airport planning, development, and certification, as well as administration of regulations for airmen, air carriers, and air agencies. The remaining DOT components execute mission functions necessary to perform vital operations. The VA~ VHA office is responsible for administrative operations to support the VA Heartland Network of medical centers and healthcare systems.

Continued housing is critical to these agencies meeting their mission requirements, and a 5-year lease extension will provide sufficient time to formulate and execute lease replacement plans, as well as budget for move and replication costs accordingly.

2

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.057 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE Insert graphic folio 1257/4 EH250919.002 H7938 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019

GSA PBS

PROSPECTUS-LEASE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS KANSAS CITY, MO

Prospectus Number: PM0-02-KC20 Congressional District: 05

Resolutions of Approval

Resolutions adopted by the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works approving this prospectus will constitute approval to make appropriations to lease space in a facility that will yield the required rentable area.

Interim Leasing

GSA will execute such interim leasing actions as are necessary to ensure continued housing of the tenant agency prior to the effective date of the extension. It is in the best interest of the Government to avert the financial risk ofholdover tenancy.

Certification of Need

The proposed project is the best solution to meet a validated Government need.

Submitted at Washington,

3

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.057 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE Insert graphic folio 1257/5 EH250919.003 September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7939

COMMITTEE RESOLUTION Provided that, to the maximum extent such provision provide that if this lease is LEASE—DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY, practicable, the Administrator shall include found to have been made in violation of the CUSTOMS AND BORDER PROTECTION, QUEENS, NY in the lease contract(s) a purchase option foregoing prohibition or it is found that this Resolved by the Committee on Transportation that can be exercised at the conclusion of prohibition has been violated during the and Infrastructure of the U.S. House of Rep- the firm term of the lease. term of the lease, the lease shall be void, ex- Provided further, that the General Services resentatives, that pursuant to 40 U.S.C. 3307, cept that the foregoing limitation shall not Administration shall not delegate to any appropriations are authorized for a lease of apply if the lease is entered into with a pub- other agency the authority granted by this up to 140,000 rentable square feet of space, in- licly-held corporation or publicly-held entity resolution. cluding 208 official parking spaces, for the for the general benefit of such corporation or Provided further, that the Administrator entity. Department of Homeland Security—Customs shall require that the delineated area of the and Border Protection currently located at procurement is identical to the delineated Provided further, prior to entering into this Building 77 at the JFK Airport in Queens, area included in the prospectus, except that, lease or approving a novation agreement in- NY at a proposed total annual cost of if the Administrator determines that the de- volving a change of ownership under this $11,060,000 for a lease term of up to 20 years, lineated area of the procurement should not lease, the Administrator of General Services a prospectus for which is attached to and in- be identical to the delineated area included shall require the offeror or the parties re- cluded in this resolution. in the prospectus, the Administrator shall questing the novation, as applicable, to iden- Approval of this prospectus constitutes au- provide an explanatory statement to the tify and disclose whether the owner of the thority to execute an interim lease for all Committee on Transportation and Infra- leased space, including an entity involved in tenants, if necessary, prior to the execution structure of the House of Representatives the financing thereof, is a foreign person or of the new lease. prior to exercising any lease authority pro- a foreign-owned entity; provided further, in Provided that, the Administrator of General vided in this resolution. such an instance, the Administrator of Gen- Services and tenant agency(ies) agree to Provided further, not later than 30 calendar eral Services shall notify the occupant agen- apply an overall utilization rate of 212 square days after the date on which a request from cy(ies) in writing, and consult with such oc- feet or less per person, except that, if the Ad- the Chairman or Ranking Member of the cupant agency(ies) regarding security con- ministrator determines that the overall uti- Committee on Transportation and Infra- cerns and necessary mitigation measures (if lization rate cannot be achieved, the Admin- structure of the House of Representatives is any) prior to award of the lease or approval istrator shall provide an explanatory state- received by the Administrator of General of the novation agreement. ment to the Committee on Transportation Services, the Administrator shall provide and Infrastructure of the House of Rep- such Member a response in writing that pro- Provided that, to the maximum extent resentatives prior to exercising any lease au- vides any information requested regarding practicable, the Administrator of General thority provided in this resolution. the project. Services shall require that the lease procure- Provided that, except for interim leases as Provided further, the Administrator of Gen- ment consider the availability of public described above, the Administrator may not eral Services may not enter into this lease if transportation consistent with agency mis- enter into any leases that are below pro- it does not contain a provision barring any sion requirements and that the space to be spectus level for the purposes of meeting any individual holding a Federally-elected office, leased be renovated for all cost effective im- of the requirements, or portions thereof, in- regardless of whether such individual took provements, including renewable energy up- cluded in the prospectus that would result in office before or after execution of this lease, grades, water efficiency improvements, and an overall utilization rate of 212 square feet to directly participate in, or benefit from or indoor air quality optimization, that reduce or higher per person. under this lease or any part thereof and that greenhouse gas emissions.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.058 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7940 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019

GSA PBS

PROSPECTUS- LEASE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY. · CUSTOMS AND BORDER PROTECTION QUEENS, NY

Prospectus Number: PNY-03-QU19 Congressional District: 05

Executive Summary

The General Services Administration (GSA) proposes a lease of approximately 140;000 rentable square feet (RSF) for th~ Department of Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection (CBP)~ currently located at Building 77 at the JFK Airport in Queens, NY.

The lease will provide continued housing for CBP and will improve the office and overall space utilization from. 142 to 84 and 241 to 212 usable square feet (OSF) per person, respectively.

Description

Occupant: CBP

Current Rentable Square Feet (RSF) 145,912 (CurrentRSF/USF 1;;:1 1.15) Estimated Maximum RSF: 140,000 {Proposed RSF/USF; 1.15) Reduction RSF: 5,912 Current USF/Person: . 241 Estimated USF/Person: 212 · Expiration Dates of CurrentLease(s): 06/30/2021 . Proposed Maximum Leasing Authority: 20 years . Delineated Area: · North: fntersection of Lefferts Blvd, and S. Conduit Rd. heading east to Ro·ckaway Blvd. then heading east to Brookville Blvd; West: Lefferts Blvd; East: Heacl of Bay; South: Jamaica Bay · Number of Official Parking Spaces: 208 · Scoring: Operating Current Total Annual Cost: $8,244,028 (leases effective 06/19/.1992) 1 Estimated Rental Rate : $79.00 I RSF Estimated Total Annual Cosf: $11 ,060,000

1 This csti111nte is for fiscai year 2021 and may be escalated by 2% percent annunlly to the effective date of the lease to account for inflation. The proposed rental rote is fully serviced including all ~pemting expenses, whether paid by the lessor or directly by the Governmt.'nt. GSA will conduct the procurcmtent using prevailing market rental rates ns a benchmark for the evaluation of competitive offers and us the basis for negotiating with offerors to ensure that lease award is made in the best interest of the Government. · 2 New lenses may contain an escalation clause to provide for nnnunl chnng~ in real estate taxes and operating costs. 1

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.058 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE Insert offset folio 1257/8 here EH250919.004 September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7941

GSA PBS

PROSPECTUS- LEASE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY CUSTOMS AND BORDER PROTECTION QUEENS, NY

Prospectus Number: PNY-03-QU19 Con'gressional District: 05

Background

CBP currently occupies approximately 145,912 RSF of space in Building 77 at JFK Airport in Queens, NY. CBP at JFK Airport covers· the diverse operational demands of 5 international passenger terminals, 1 International Mail Facility (IMF), 24 ·air cargo facilities, 80 containerized freight stations, 2 general order warehouses, 14 bonded warehouses, 3 foreign trade zones, and 5 general aviation facilities. This facility functions much more like a port of entry than an office location.

The CBP operation at JFK Airport monitors half the cargo imported into the United States as well as over 10 million passengers a year. CBP's ability to effectively and safely manage this extensive operation is facilitated by close physical proximity to the aiq)ort. Transporting narcotics, currency; and inadmissible aliens and criminals to off­ airport locations for processing .would pose security risks, decrease effectiveness, and unnecessarily reduce the time dedicated to CBP's enforcement mission. The proposed delineated area maintains the agency's proximity to the airport.

Justification

This replacement lease will provide CBP with the opportunity to increase space utilization efficiency to accommodate additional personnel in field operations, internal affairs, and the international trade office.

The current lease expires on Jun~ 30, 2021, and CBP requires continued housing to perform its mission.

Summary of Energy CompUance

GSA will incorporate energy efficiency requirements into the Request for Lease Proposals and other· documents related to the procurement of space based on the approved prospectus. GSA encourages offerors to .exceed minimum requirements set forth in the procurement and to achieve an Energy Star perfonnance rating of 75 or higher,

2

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.058 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE Insert offset folio 1257/9 here EH250919.005 H7942 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019

GSA PBS

PROSPECTUS- LEASE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY CUSTOMS AND BORDER PROTECTION QUEENS, NY

Prospectus Number: PNY-03-QU19 Congressional District: 05

Resolutions of Approval

Resolutions adopted by the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works approving this prospectus will constitute approval to make appropriations to lease space in a facility that will.yield the required rentable area. ·

Interim Leasing

GSA will execute such interim leasing actions as are necessary to ensure continued housing of the tenant agency prior to the effective date of the new lease. It is in the best interest of the Government to avert the financial risk of holdover tenancy.

Certification of Need

The proposed project is the best solution to meet a validated Government need.

Submitted at Washington, DC, on April29,.2019.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.058 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE Insert offset folio 1257/10 here EH250919.006 September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7943

COMMITTEE RESOLUTION lineated area of the procurement should not licly-held corporation or publicly-held entity LEASE—VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION, be identical to the delineated area included for the general benefit of such corporation or SOUTH HAMPTON ROADS, VA in the prospectus, the Administrator shall entity. provide an explanatory statement to the Resolved by the Committee on Transportation Provided further, prior to entering into this Committee on Transportation and Infra- and Infrastructure of the U.S. House of Rep- lease or approving a novation agreement in- resentatives, that pursuant to 40 U.S.C. 3307, structure of the House of Representatives prior to exercising any lease authority pro- volving a change of ownership under this appropriations are authorized for a lease of lease, the Administrator of General Services up to 215,000 rentable square feet of space, in- vided in this resolution. Provided further, not later than 30 calendar shall require the offeror or the parties re- cluding 1,050 official parking spaces, for the questing the novation, as applicable, to iden- Veterans Health Administration currently days after the date on which a request from tify and disclose whether the owner of the located at 244 Clearfield Avenue in Virginia the Chairman or Ranking Member of the leased space, including an entity involved in Beach, VA at a proposed total annual cost of Committee on Transportation and Infra- the financing thereof, is a foreign person or $9,030,000 for a lease term of up to 20 years, structure of the House of Representatives is a prospectus for which is attached to and in- received by the Administrator of General a foreign-owned entity; provided further, in cluded in this resolution. Services, the Administrator shall provide such an instance, the Administrator of Gen- Approval of this prospectus constitutes au- such Member a response in writing that pro- eral Services shall notify the occupant agen- thority to execute an interim lease for all vides any information requested regarding cy(ies) in writing, and consult with such oc- tenants, if necessary, prior to the execution the project. cupant agency(ies) regarding security con- of the new lease. Provided further, the Administrator of Gen- cerns and necessary mitigation measures (if Provided that, to the maximum extent eral Services may not enter into this lease if any) prior to award of the lease or approval practicable, the Administrator shall include it does not contain a provision barring any of the novation agreement. in the lease contract(s) a purchase option individual holding a Federally-elected office, Provided that, to the maximum extent that can be exercised at the conclusion of regardless of whether such individual took practicable, the Administrator of General the firm term of the lease. office before or after execution of this lease, Provided further, that the General Services to directly participate in, or benefit from or Services shall require that the lease procure- Administration shall not delegate to any under this lease or any part thereof and that ment consider the availability of public other agency the authority granted by this such provision provide that if this lease is transportation consistent with agency mis- resolution. found to have been made in violation of the sion requirements and that the space to be Provided further, that the Administrator foregoing prohibition or it is found that this leased be renovated for all cost effective im- shall require that the delineated area of the prohibition has been violated during the provements, including renewable energy up- procurement is identical to the delineated term of the lease, the lease shall be void, ex- grades, water efficiency improvements, and area included in the prospectus, except that, cept that the foregoing limitation shall not indoor air quality optimization, that reduce if the Administrator determines that the de- apply if the lease is entered into with a pub- greenhouse gas emissions.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.058 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7944 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019

GSA PBS

PROSPECTUS-LEASE VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION SOUTH HAMPTON ROADS, VA

Prospectus Number: PV A-01-HA20 Congressional District: 2, 3, 4

Executive Summary

The General Services Administration (GSA) proposes an outpatient clinic lease of approximately 215,000 rentable square feet (RSF) for the Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration (VHA). The lease will house a new Health Care Center and will serve as a complement to the existing Community Based Health Care Center (CBOC) currently located at 244 Clearfield Avenue in Virginia Beach, VA.

This project would allow VHA to expand its current primary care, mental health, and eye clinic services, as well as provide much needed new specialty care and advanced imaging services to veterans in a right-sized, state-of-the-art, and energy-efficient healthcare facility.

Description

Occupant: Veterans Health Administration Current RSF: 0 Estimated/Proposed Maximum RSF: 215,000 (Proposed RSF/Usable SF"" l.l5) Expansion/Reduction RSF: 215,000 (Expansion) Expiration Dates of Current Lease(s): N/A Proposed Maximum Leasing Authority: 20 years Delineated Area: North: start at the intersection of Tidewater Drive (Route 168) and E Virginia Beach Blvd. (Route 58) to Virginia Beach Blvd.; East: S. Independence Blvd. (Route 225) to Holland Road, south onto Dam Neck Road, continue onto Elbow Road, continue on Indian River Road; South: at the intersection of Indian River Road and Elbow Road, head south on Elbow Road, west on Butts Station Road, west on Clearfield Ave., west on Kempsville Road (Route 190); West: north on Battlefield Blvd. N (Business 168), onto Oak Grove Connector (Chesapeake Expressway­ Route 168), onto Hampton Roads Beltway (Route 64), onto Battlefield Blvd. N (Business 168), onto Campostella Road, onto E Brambleton Ave., onto Tidewater

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.058 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE Insert offset folio 1257/13 here EH250919.007 September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7945

GSA PBS

PROSPECTUS- LEASE VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION SOUTH HAMPTON ROADS, VA

Prospectus Number: PVA-01-HA20 Congressional District: 2, 3, 4

Drive (Route 168).

Number of Official Parking Spaces: 1,050 Scoring: Operating Current Total Annual Cost: N/A 1 Estimated Rental Rate : $42.00/RSF Estimated Total Annual Cosr: $9,030,000

Background

VHA's mission is to honor America's veterans by providing exceptional healthcare that improves their health and well-being. To make access to healthcare easier, VHA utilizes CBOCs across the country. These clinics provide the most common outpatient services, including health and wellness visits. VHA continues to expand the network of CBOCs to include more rural locations, bringing access to care closer to veterans' homes.

The CBOC in the South Hampton Roads area is an approximately 13,000 RSF facility located in Virginia Beach and is inadequately sized for the anticipated growth of the veteran population and service needs. The proposed lease will allow VHA to significantly expand its healthcare access in the area, providing much needed medical services to the fast growing veteran population.

Justification

The proposed lease would provide modem, efficient space for comprehensive outpatient services and address space and utilization gaps. The new lease will allow VHA to adapt to a growing veteran population and increased workload in the South Hampton Roads area.

This project is essential to ensure that veterans are able to access a full suite of services in a timely manner. The expansion of mental health services-including mental health screenings-by hiring additional mental health staff to provide behavioral therapy, family counseling, and substance abuse therapy on site would support the Department of Veterans Affairs' goal of eliminating veteran homelessness. The lease would provide

1 This estimate is for fiscal year 2020 and may be escalated by 2 percent annually to the effective date of the lease to account for inflation. The proposed rental rate is fully serviced including all operating expenses, whether paid by the lessor or directly by the Government. GSA will conduct the procurement using prevailing market rental rates as a benchmark for the evaluation of competitive offers and as the basis for negotiating with offerors to ensure that lease award is made in the best interest of the Government. : New leases may contain an escalation clause to provide for annual changes in real estate taxes and operating costs.

2

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.058 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE Insert offset folio 1257/14 here EH250919.008 H7946 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019

GSA PBS

PROSPECTUS-LEASE VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION SOUTH HAMPTON ROADS, VA

Prospectus Number: PVA-0 l-HA20 Congressional District: 2, 3, 4

increased access to care for veterans living in the South Hampton Roads area who are currently seen in the undersized Virginia Beach CBOC or who commute in excess of 1 hour to another facility in Hampton, VA.

Summary of Energy Compliance

GSA will incorporate energy efficiency requirements into the Request for Lease Proposals and other documents related to the procurement of space based on the approved prospectus. GSA encourages offerors to exceed minimum requirements set forth in the procurement and to achieve an Energy Star performance rating of 75 or higher.

Resolutions of Approval

Resolutions adopted by the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works approving this prospectus will constitute approval to make appropriations to lease space in a facility that will yield the required rentable area.

Interim Leasing

The Government will execute such interim leasing actions as are necessary to ensure continued housing of the tenant agency prior to the effective date of the new lease. It is in the best interest of the Government to avert the financial risk of holdover tenancy.

3

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.058 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE Insert offset folio 1257/15 here EH250919.009 September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7947

GSA PBS

PROSPECTUS-LEASE VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION SOUTH HAMPTON ROADS, VA

Prospectus Number: PVA-Ol-HA20 Congressional District: 2, 3, 4

Certification of Need

The proposed project is the best solution to meet a validated Government need.

Submitted at Washington, DC, on _.;:.J.=ul..,.):_,3'""1""'.2""'0~1...:;9 ______

7 Recommended: ~---:!-li=~--C ommtsstoner,~dp-::-~;~-'V:...... ~...:.~~~~:-:-:-:----=::::::o.--::------ubl" tc But 'ld' mgs Servtce .

4

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.058 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE Insert offset folio 1257/16 here EH250919.010 H7948 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019

COMMITTEE RESOLUTION lineated area of the procurement should not tion or publicly-held entity for the general LEASE—U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS be identical to the delineated area included benefit of such corporation or entity. in the prospectus, the Administrator shall AFFAIRS, FREDERICKSBURG, VA Provided further, prior to entering into this provide an explanatory statement to the Resolved by the Committee on Transportation lease or approving a novation agreement in- Committee on Transportation and Infra- and Infrastructure of the U.S. House of Rep- structure of the House of Representatives volving a change of ownership under this resentatives, that pursuant to 40 U.S.C. 3307, prior to exercising any lease authority pro- lease, the Administrator of General Services appropriations are authorized for a lease of vided in this resolution. shall require the offeror or the parties re- up to 364,831 net usable square feet of space, Provided further, not later than 30 calendar questing the novation, as applicable, to iden- and 2,600 official parking spaces, for the De- days after the date on which a request from tify and disclose whether the owner of the partment of Veterans Affairs for a Commu- the Chairman or Ranking Member of the leased space, including an entity involved in nity Based Outpatient Clinic in Fredericks- Committee on Transportation and Infra- the financing thereof, is a foreign person or burg, VA to replace and consolidate two ex- structure of the House of Representatives is a foreign-owned entity; provided further, in isting leases in Fredericksburg at a proposed received by the Administrator of General such an instance, the Administrator of Gen- unserviced annual cost of $14,844,973 for a Services, the Administrator shall provide eral Services shall notify the occupant agen- lease term of up to 20 years, a prospectus for such Member a response in writing that pro- cy(ies) in writing, and consult with such oc- which is attached to and included in this res- vides any information requested regarding cupant agency(ies) regarding security con- olution. the project. cerns and necessary mitigation measures (if Approval of this prospectus constitutes au- Provided further, the lease shall contain a any) prior to award of the lease or approval thority to execute an interim lease for all provision barring any individual holding a of the novation agreement. tenants, if necessary, prior to the execution Federally-elected office, regardless of wheth- of the new lease. er such individual took office before or after Provided that, to the maximum extent Provided that, to the maximum extent execution of this lease, to directly partici- practicable, the Administrator of General practicable, the Administrator shall include pate in, or benefit from or under this lease or Services shall require that the lease procure- in the lease contract(s) a purchase option any part thereof and that such provision pro- ment consider the availability of public that can be exercised at the conclusion of vide that if this lease is found to have been transportation consistent with agency mis- the firm term of the lease. made in violation of the foregoing prohibi- sion requirements and that the space to be Provided further, that the Administrator tion or it is found that this prohibition has leased be renovated for all cost effective im- shall require that the delineated area of the been violated during the term of the lease, provements, including renewable energy up- procurement is identical to the delineated the lease shall be void, except that the fore- grades, water efficiency improvements, and area included in the prospectus, except that, going limitation shall not apply if the lease indoor air quality optimization, that reduce if the Administrator determines that the de- is entered into with a publicly-held corpora- greenhouse gas emissions.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.059 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7949

GSA PBS

PROSPECTUS- LEASE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS FREDERICKSBURG, VA

Prospectus Number: PVA-Ol-VA19 Congressional District(s): 1, 7

Executive Summary

The General Services Administration (GSA) proposes a lease of approximately 364,831 net usable square feet (NUSF) for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) outpatient clinic currently located in two leases totaling 21 ,551 NUSF in Fredericksburg, VA.

The lease will be delegated to VA, provide continued services for the Fredericksburg veteran community, and provide the necessary expansion services to meet current and projected service delivery gaps for healthcare in the local market. Description

Occupant: Veterans Affairs Current NUSF 21,551 Estimated Maximum NUSF: 364,831 Expansion/Reduction NUSF: 343,280 (expansion) Estimated Maximum Rentable Square Feet: 492,522 Expiration Dates of Current Lease(s): 9,975 NUSF- I0/3ll2021 11,576 NUSF -112112026 Proposed Maximum Leasing Authority: 20 years Delineated Area: North: Courthouse Rd. from Shelton Shop Rd. (SR 648) east to Andrew Chapel Rd. (SR 629) South: Smith Station RdJSpotsylvania Pkwy. (SR 628) from SR 208 to Hospital Blvd. to Mills Dr./US 17 to Jim Morris Rd. (SR 609) East: Jim Morris Rd. (SR 609) from US 17 N to Tidewater Trail/US-17 BUS N to VA-3E1Biue and Gray Pkwy. to Kings Hwy. to Cool Springs Rd. to Deacon Rd. to Brooke Rd. to Andrew Chapel Rd. to Courthouse Rd. (SR 630) West: Smith Station Rd. (SR 628) from SR 208 to Gordon Road to Trench Hill Lane to River Road to Fall Hill Ave. (SR 639) to I-95N to Sandford Dr. to Celebrate VA Pkwy. to Warrenton Rd. (SR 17) to Poplar Rd. to Kellogg Mill Rd. to Mountain View Rd. to Shelton

1

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.059 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE Insert offset folio 1257/19 here EH250919.011 H7950 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019

GSA PBS

PROSPECTUS-LEASE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS FREDERICKSBURG, VA

Prospectus Number: PVA-Ol-VA19 Congressional District(s): 1, 7

Shop Rd. to Courthouse Rd. Number of Official Parking Spaces: 2,600 Scoring: Operating Lease Current Total Annual Cost: $629,142 Current Total Unserviced Annual Cost: $485,492 1 Estimated Unserviced Rental Rate : $40.69 per NUSF 2 Estimated Total Unserviced Annual Cost : $14,844,973 Justification

A new 364,831 NUSF lease in Fredericksburg will replace and consolidate the two existing Community Based Outpatient Clinic leases. The current space in these leased facilities is insufficient to meet the current and projected needs of the veteran community. Space limitations and an increase in workload limit veterans' access to services in a timely manner. Additionally, the existing locations have safety and security deficiencies.

The new facility will enhance VA outpatient services by closing space and utilization gaps identified in VA's Strategic Capital Investment Planning process and will provide a single location in the Fredericksburg area to serve the outpatient care needs of veterans and their families. The new lease will allow VA to provide new specialty care services and enhance and expand the existing primary care, mental health, and specialty care services it currently provides to veterans in a rightsized, state-of-the-art, healthcare facility. Further, the intent of this lease is to facilitate collaboration and sharing of services with the Department of Defense (DoD).

The proposed lease will provide veterans in the Fredericksburg area better access to high­ quality, reliable healthcare. A new lease also will provide future flexibility. Based on changes in veteran demographics, workload patterns, and emergent healthcare delivery practices, a lease will allow VA to resize, replace, or exit the proposed clinic lease as necessary. With this new lease, sufficient space will be available to provide the necessary primary care, mental health, and specialty care capacity to help ensure veterans have timely access to high-quality care.

As part of the proposed comprehensive outpatient care offering, the facility will include a fully staffed Compensation and Pension department. This facility also will have a strong focus on improving mental health services, reducing veteran homelessness, providing

1 This estimate is for fiscal year 2019 and may be escalated by 2.0 percent annually to the effective date of the lease to account for inflation. The proposed rental rate is unserviced (taxes, insurance, management and maintenance and repair reserves arc included); however, the lease contract rna)'" include operating expenses paid by the lessor. 2 New leases may contain an escalation clause to provide for mmual changes in real estate taxes.

2

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.059 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE Insert offset folio 1257/20 here EH250919.012 September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7951

GSA PBS

PROSPECTUS- LEASE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS FREDERICKSBURG, VA

Prospectus Number: PVA-OI-VA19 Congressional District(s): 1, 7

women's health services, and widely using telehealth services. The newly expanded clinic in Fredericksburg will also provide training opportunities for Virginia Commonwealth University medical students/residents and other training programs. In addition, the Outpatient Clinic in Fredericksburg will include 16,733 NUSF of space for DoD. The intent is for DoD to have access to VA ancillary and diagnostic services, as well as some specialty care. Due to the rapid growth in workload and the lack of available private-sector providers to accommodate any of the excess demand in the Fredericksburg area, the new lease is necessary to provide high-quality outpatient services to veterans in a timely manner. Summan of Energv Compliance

Energy efficiency requirements will be incorporated into the Request for Lease Proposals and other documents related to the procurement of space based on the approved prospectus. Offerors are encouraged to exceed minimum requirements set forth in the procurement and to achieve an Energy Star performance rating of75 or higher. Resolutions of Approval

Resolutions adopted by the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works approving this prospectus will constitute approval to make appropriations to lease space in a facility that will yield the required net usable area. Interim Leasing

The Government will execute such interim leasing actions as are necessary to ensure continued housing prior to the effective date of the new lease. It is in the best interest of the Government to avert the financial risk of holdover tenancy.

3

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.059 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE Insert offset folio 1257/21 here EH250919.013 H7952 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019

GSA PBS

PROSPECTUS-LEASE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS FREDERICKSBURG, VA

Prospectus Number: PVA-0 1-VA 19 Congressional District(s): 1, 7

Certification of Need

The proposed project is the best solution to meet a validated Government need.

Submitted at Washington, DC, on August 9, 2019.

4

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.059 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE Insert offset folio 1257/22 here EH250919.014 September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7953

COMMITTEE RESOLUTION Provided that, to the maximum extent under this lease or any part thereof and that LEASE—SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION, practicable, the Administrator shall include such provision provide that if this lease is FALLS CHURCH, VA in the lease contract(s) a purchase option found to have been made in violation of the that can be exercised at the conclusion of foregoing prohibition or it is found that this Resolved by the Committee on Transportation the firm term of the lease. prohibition has been violated during the and Infrastructure of the U.S. House of Rep- Provided further, that the General Services term of the lease, the lease shall be void, ex- resentatives, that pursuant to 40 U.S.C. § 3307, Administration shall not delegate to any cept that the foregoing limitation shall not appropriations are authorized for a lease of other agency the authority granted by this apply if the lease is entered into with a pub- up to 334,103 rentable square feet of space, in- resolution. licly-held corporation or publicly-held entity cluding 24 official parking spaces, for the So- Provided further, that the Administrator for the general benefit of such corporation or cial Security Administration currently lo- shall require that the delineated area of the entity. cated at 5107 Leesburg Pike in Falls Church, procurement is identical to the delineated Provided further, prior to entering into this VA at a proposed total annual cost of area included in the prospectus, except that, lease or approving a novation agreement in- $9,271,358 for a lease term of up to 5 years, a if the Administrator determines that the de- volving a change of ownership under this prospectus for which is attached to and in- lineated area of the procurement should not lease, the Administrator of General Services cluded in this resolution. be identical to the delineated area included shall require the offeror or the parties re- Approval of this prospectus constitutes au- in the prospectus, the Administrator shall questing the novation, as applicable, to iden- thority to execute an interim lease for all provide an explanatory statement to the tify and disclose whether the owner of the tenants, if necessary, prior to the execution Committee on Transportation and Infra- leased space, including an entity involved in of the new lease. structure of the House of Representatives the financing thereof, is a foreign person or Provided that, the Administrator of General prior to exercising any lease authority pro- a foreign-owned entity; provided further, in Services and tenant agency(ies) agree to vided in this resolution. such an instance, the Administrator of Gen- apply an overall utilization rate of 261 square Provided further, not later than 30 calendar eral Services shall notify the occupant agen- feet or less per person, except that, if the Ad- days after the date on which a request from cy(ies) in writing, and consult with such oc- ministrator determines that the overall uti- the Chairman or Ranking Member of the cupant agency(ies) regarding security con- lization rate cannot be achieved, the Admin- Committee on Transportation and Infra- cerns and necessary mitigation measures (if istrator shall provide an explanatory state- structure of the House of Representatives is any) prior to award of the lease or approval ment to the Committee on Transportation received by the Administrator of General of the novation agreement. and Infrastructure of the House of Rep- Services, the Administrator shall provide Provided that, to the maximum extent resentatives prior to exercising any lease au- such Member a response in writing that pro- practicable, the Administrator of General thority provided in this resolution. vides any information requested regarding Services shall require that the lease procure- Provided that, except for interim leases as the project. ment consider the availability of public described above, the Administrator may not Provided further, the Administrator of Gen- transportation consistent with agency mis- enter into any leases that are below pro- eral Services may not enter into this lease if sion requirements and that the space to be spectus level for the purposes of meeting any it does not contain a provision barring any leased be renovated for all cost effective im- of the requirements, or portions thereof, in- individual holding a Federally-elected office, provements, including renewable energy up- cluded in the prospectus that would result in regardless of whether such individual took grades, water efficiency improvements, and an overall utilization rate of 261 square feet office before or after execution of this lease, indoor air quality optimization, that reduce or higher per person. to directly participate in, or benefit from or greenhouse gas emissions.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.060 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7954 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019

GSA PBS

PROSPECTUS-LEASE SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION FALLS CHURCH, VA

Prospectus Number: PVA-03-FC20 Congressional District: 8

Executive Summary

The General Services Administration (GSA) proposes the exercise of a renewal option of up to 5 years for approximately 334,103 rentable square feet (RSF) for the Social Security Administration's (SSA) Office of Hearings Operations (OHO) and Office of Analytics, Review, and Oversight (OARO), currently located at 5107 Leesburg Pike in Falls Church, VA. SSA has occupied space in the building since October 1, 2009, under a lease that expires on September 30, 2019. Additionally, employees currently housed in a lease at 4401 Ford Avenue in Alexandria, VA, that expires on June 5, 2022, will be consolidated into the existing footprint.

Renewal of the current lease located at 5107 Leesburg Pike in Falls Church will enable SSA to provide continued housing for current personnel and meet its current mission requirements. SSA will have office and overall utilization rates at 156 and 261 usable square feet (USF) per person, respectively.

Description

Occupant: SSA Current RSF: 355,809 (Current RSFIUSF 1.19) Estimated/Proposed Maximum RSF: 334, I 03 (Proposed RSF /USF 1.19) Expansion/Reduction RSF: 21,706 reduction Current USF/Person: 279 (all-in) Estimated/Proposed USF/Person: 261 (all-in) Expiration Dates of Current Lease(s): 09/30/20 19; 6/5/2022 Proposed Maximum Leasing Authority: 5 years Delineated Area: Fairfax County and Fairfax City Number of Official Parking Spaces: 24 Scoring: Operating Current Total Annual Cost: $11,845,007 (lease effective 10.'1/2009) 1 Estimated Rental Rate : $27.75 i RSF 2 Estimated Total Annual Cost : $9,271,358

' This estimate is for fiscal year fiscal year 2020 and may be escalated by 2 percent per year to the effective date of the lease to account for inflation. The proposed rental rate is fully serviced including all operating expenses, whether paid by the lessor or directly by the Government. GSA will conduct the procurement usmg. prevailmg market rental rates as a benchmark for the evaluation of competitive offers and as the basi; for negotiating with offerors to ensure that lease award is made in the best interest of the Government. -New leases may contain an escalation cl;~use to provide for annual change~ in real estate taxes and operating costs.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.060 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE Insert offset folio 1257/25 here EH250919.015 September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7955

GSA PBS

PROSPECTUS LEASE SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION FALLS CHURCH, VA

Prospectus Number: PV A-03-FC20 Congressional District: 8

Background

The mission of SSA is to deliver quality social security services to the public through the three programs it administers under the Social Security Act: the Old-Age and Survivors Insurance program, the Disability Insurance program, and the Supplemental Security Income program. SSA's OHO and OARO are two components responsible for holding hearings, issuing decisions, and reviewing appeals as part of SSA's process for determining whether a person may receive benefits.

OHO is one of the largest administrative adjudication systems in the world and directs a nationwide field organization of administrative law judges (ALJ) who conduct impartial hearings and make decisions on appealed detenninations involving retirement, survivors, disability, and supplemental security income benefits.

OARO reviews ALJ decisions on appeal by claimants, or on its own motion, and processes cases appealed to Federal court. The OARO Office of Appellate Operations serves through the Appeals Council as the final level of administrative review for claimants appealing administrative Jaw judge denials and dismissals of claims. The Office of Appellate Operations also collects and analyzes nationwide data on policy compliance of adjudicators and perfonnance of the adjudication process. Justification

This location houses both OHO and OARO offices. Maintaining these operations is essential to SSA's execution of functions under the Social Security Act.

The current lease at 5107 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA, expires on September 30,2019, and SSA requires continued housing to meet its mission requirements until it can carry out a long­ tenn consolidation plan. A 5-year lease renewal will provide SSA with sufficient time to formulate the consolidation plan and budget for move costs accordingly. Summan: of Energy Compliance

GSA will incorporate energy efficiency requirements into the Request for Lease Proposals and other documents related to the procurement of space based on the approved prospectus. GSA encourages offerors to exceed minimum requirements set forth in the procurement and to achieve an Energy Star perfonnance rating of75 or higher. Resolutions of Approval

Resolutions adopted by the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works approving this prospectus will constitute 2

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00049 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.060 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE Insert offset folio 1257/26 here EH250919.016 H7956 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019

GSA PBS

PROSPECTUS-LEASE SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION FALLS CHURCH, VA

Prospectus Number: PV A-03-FC20 Congressional District: 8

approval to make appropriations to lease space in a facility that will yield the required rentable area. Interim Leasing

GSA will execute such interim leasing actions as are necessary to ensure continued housing of the tenant agency prior to the effective date of the extension It is in the best interest of the Government to avert the financial risk of holdover tenancy. Certification of Need

The proposed project is the best solution to meet a validated Government need.

Submitted at Washington, DC, on June 12.2019

Recommended: ____--=-..:.li-~-~-f'-....:.~~.;;._...... ;;.._":"_-:--_--_;::.-~------Commissioner, Public Buildings Service

Approved: ______~~~~~~~----~~--~------.-. inistration

3

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00050 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.060 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE Insert offset folio 1257/27 here EH250919.017 September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7957

COMMITTEE RESOLUTION Keep Courthouse Annex and no more than 16 Complex contains no more than 24 court- AMENDED RESOLUTION—UNITED STATES courtrooms and 20 chambers in the Edward rooms;’’. J. Schwartz Federal Building and U.S. Court- COURTHOUSE ANNEX, SAN DIEGO, CA The proviso ‘‘Provided further, that the house, bringing the total number of court- Resolved by the Committee on Transportation Administrator of General Services shall not and Infrastructure of the U.S. House of Rep- rooms and chambers at the San Diego Court- house Complex to 24 courtrooms and 36 construct more than six courtrooms or 12 resentatives, that pursuant to 40 U.S.C. 3307, chambers in the San Diego, California Court- the resolution passed by the Transportation chambers. house Annex under the authority of this res- and Infrastructure Committee dated Sep- The proviso ‘‘Provided that, the Adminis- tember 24, 2009 is amended; trator of General Services shall ensure that olution;’’ is amended to read ‘‘Provided fur- Provided that, the Administrator of the the San Diego, California Courthouse Com- ther, that the Administrator of General General Services Administration shall en- plex contains no more than 22 courtrooms;’ Services shall not construct more than eight sure that the San Diego, California Court- is amended to read ‘‘Provided, that the Ad- courtrooms or 16 chambers in the San Diego, house Complex contains no more than 8 ministrator of General Services shall ensure California Courthouse Annex under the au- courtrooms and 16 chambers in the Carter- that the San Diego, California Courthouse thority of this resolution;’’.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00051 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.060 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7958 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019

GSA PBS

FACTSHEET ALTERATIONS- COURT EXPANSION SAN DIEGO COURTHOUSE COMPLEX JAMES M. CARTER & JUDITH N. KEEP COURTHOUSE ANNEX SAN DIEGO, CA

FV 2019 Proiect Summary

At its June 2017 meeting; the Judicial Conference Committee on Space and Facilities approved a project for the construction of2 new district coumooms (and requisite holding cells) and 4 magistrate judge chambers in the James M. Carter & Judith N. Keep Courthouse Annex (Carter-Keep Courthouse Annex) located at 333 W. Broadway in San Diego, CA. The additional courtrooms and chambers would support the space needs of authorized replacement judges for five district judges who have taken senior status and two district judges who are eligible to take senior status by the end of fiscal yem· 2019. All Judicial Conference policies and business rules, b1cluding those on comtroom sharing, were considered and applied by the Judiciary in developing this project and funding for the project was included in the .Iudiciarts FY 2019 Budget. Although this project is reimbursable and requires no authorization of Federal Building Funds, GSA is unable to accept Reimbursable Work Authorization tbr the prqject due to a previous House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Resolution adopted for the Carter~Keep Courthouse Annex (formerly referred to as the San Diego Com1house Amtex) on September 24, 2009. The resolution included the following provisions: • " ... that the Administrator of General Services shall ensure that the San Diego, California Courthouse Complex contains no more than 22 comirooms;" and, • ·• ... that the Administrator of General Services shall not construct more than six courtrooms or 12 chambers in the San Diego, California Courthouse Annex under the authority of this resolution;" and,

Completion of the project would result in 8 courtrooms and 16 chambers in the Carter­ Keep Courthouse Annex. A long with the 16 courtrooms and 20 chanibers in the Edward J. Schwartz Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse (Schwmtz FB-CT), this project would bring the total number of cou11rooms and chambers at the San Diego Courthouse Complex 1 to 24 and 36, respectively •

Therefore, for GSA to complete the proposed Judiciary funded project, the Committee would need to remove the existing restriction on GSA.

1 The total number of.iudges servihg the Southern District of Cnlifomi!1 in the Ninth Circuit is 38 including one Circuit Judge whose chamber is in leased space.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00052 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.060 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE Insert offset folio 1257/29 here EH250919.018 September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7959

GSA P.BS

FACTSHE.ET ALTERATIONS- COURT EXPANSION SAN DIEGO COURTHOUSE COMPLEX JAMES M. CARTER & JUDITH N. KEEP COURTHOUSE Al\lNEX S~l'l DIEGO, CA

Project .Budget GSA is not requesting authorization offederal Building Funds for this project; the following information is provided for intbrmation only:

Estimated Construction Cost (ECC) ...... 9,924,000 M&l ...... 647,000 Estimated Total Project·Cost (ETPC)2 ...... ; ...... $11,529,000

Overview of the Proiect The additional Courtrooms would be c.onstmcted on the 12th floor of the Carter-Keep Courthouse Annex \Vhile the Magistrate Chambers would be built out on the 7111 floor. These expansions necessitate the relocation ofthe Clerk from the l21h floor to the 7111 t1oor. This relocation, along \:vith the construction of the Magistrate chambers would force the displacement of a p01tion of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) fi·om the 7th floor of the Carter-Keep Courthouse Annex into leased space in the San Diego area. IRS' remaining space r~quirement would continue to be housed in the Carter-Keep Courth01.1se Annex. Holding cells would also be constructed adjacent to the new courtrooms and would be funded by reimbursable funds from the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS).

The Judiciary would provide reimbursable funds to construct the two additional District courtrooms, four additional Magistrate chambers and the relocation of the IRS.

Schedule Sttut End Design FY 2019 .FY2020 Construction FY 2020 FY 2021

San Diego Courthouse Complex .Jnmes M.. Curter & Judith N. Keep Courthouse Annex The Carter-Keep Courthouse Annex was originally caHed the New San Diego Courthouse Annex building but \-Vas renamed in early 2015 to the James M. Carter and Judith N. Keep Courthouse in honor of two tbrmer federal judges. The 480,941 gross square foot (gst). sixteen story (plus 3 undergro\md stories) building has a modern style of ofl:..,vhite exterior brick and window glazing. It is connected to the Schwartz FBCT by an underground tunneL Those two buildings~ the adjacent multi-story federal holding facility, which is not owned

2 Additional funds ;vould be provided by the AOUSC for the forced relocation ofiRS to leased space including all move, data, and security costs.

2

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00053 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.060 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE Insert offset folio 1257/30 here EH250919.019 H7960 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019

GSA .PBS

FACTSHEET ALTERATIONS -COURT EXPANSION SAN DIEGO COURTHOUSE COMPLEX JAMES M. CARTER & JUDITH N. KEEP COURTHOUSE Al'i'NEX SAN DIEGO, CA

by GSA. along with the historic Jacob Weinberger Courthouse located a block south, form a Federal campus environment in downtown San Diego. The Carter-Keep Courthouse Annex building houses the U.S. Courts, U.S. Marshals Service, IRS and GSA.

Edward J. Schwartz Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse The 895,24 7 gsf Schwartz FB-CT, at 880 Front Street in downtown San Diego, was built in 1973; It consists of two adjacent structures: a 6 story federal office wing, and a 5 story court wing with underground parking and basement offices. The building's two wings share an upper basement and are connected by a bridge between the fifth and sixth floors.

Impacted Tenant Agencies U.S. District Court, U.S. Department of Justice - Marshals Service, Pretrial Services. Federal Public Defender, Department ofTreasury- IntemaJ Revenue Service, and GSA

Major Worl{ Items Interior Alterations $5,072,000 Electrical 1,943,000 Furnishing 1,094,000 HVAC 867,000 Demolition 257,000 Plumbing 239,000 Fire Protection 239,000 Elevators 213,000 Totnl ECC $9,924,000

.Justificntion By the end of FY 2019, the number of active federal judges housed in the San Diego Courthouse Complex is anticipated to increase from 30 to 37. After applying Judicial Conference policies and business rules, including those on courtroom sharing, the number of courtrooms and chambers at the San Diego Courthouse Complex would need to be increased to meet those requirements.

_,...

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00054 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.060 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE Insert offset folio 1257/31 here EH250919.020 September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7961

GSA PJ}§.

FACTSBEET AL TERATIONS.. ~CQtlD.T EXPANSION SAN DIEGO cfiCR.THOUSE COMPL.EX JAMES M. CARTER & JUDITH N •. KEEP COURTHOUSE ANNEX SAN DIEGO, CA

§mise Requirements gf the U.S. Courts- ~n Diego Court Complex K h : Current Proposed l c arter-. eep c.ourt ouse , I ' I Annex Courtrooms Judges Courtroom Judges District 1 : Active j 3 3 I 5 s ; ... i 3 ;) 6 Senior ' 3 Visiting I 0 0 ' 0 0. Magistrate ' 0 6 0 5 i ! Carter-Keep Courthouse 6 ll 8 16 ! Annex Total '

; c urreut p ro!)OS i Sc1twartz FB-CT ! Courtrooms Judae.s Courtrooms .Jud1es i ; · District· " I I Active ' s 5 I 8 8 ! l ! Senior s 6 ' 2 5 ' I I Visiting ; . 0 1 0 1 i Malidstrate 6 4 ! 6 5 ,, ! l Circuit 0 2 ' 0 2 l ! i ! Schwartz .FB-CT Total*: ' 16 18 16 21 I "' Current and Proposed Total Number of Chambers is 20.

I urrent p ropose d San Diego Comi c Complex , Courtrooan Judges I Courtroom Judges i I District I Active 8 8 ! 13 13 l Senior I 8 9 I s ll I ! Visiting 0 1 I 0 1 Magistrate 6 10 I 6 10 I Circuit* 0 2 I 0 2 I I I San Diego Court I 24 30 ,. 24 37 I Complex Totals"'*: t j *There are 3 Circuit Judges cttn-ently serving the Southern District of California in the Ninth Circuit. 2 of the Circuit Judges are housed in the San Diego Court Complex, 1 is housed in leased · space. **Upon completion of the proposed project, 37 Judges will be housed 'in the San Diego Cout1 Complex in 36 chambers- I chaniber suite is and wjll be shared between a Senior. and a Visiting· Judge. With the addition ofthe 1 Circuit Judge currently in leased space, the totalnwnber of Judges serving the Southern District of California in the Ninth Circuit will be 38.

·4

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00055 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.060 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE Insert offset folio 1257/32 here EH250919.021 H7962 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019 There was no objection. (4) take any adverse or corrective super- that allows the cultivation, production, f visory action on a loan made to— manufacture, sale, transportation, display, (A) a cannabis-related legitimate business dispensing, distribution, or purchase of can- ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER or service provider, solely because the busi- nabis pursuant to a law or regulation of such PRO TEMPORE ness is a cannabis-related legitimate busi- State, political subdivision, or Indian Tribe The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- ness or service provider; that has jurisdiction over the Indian coun- (B) an employee, owner, or operator of a try, as applicable), a Federal reserve bank or ant to clause 8 of rule XX, the Chair cannabis-related legitimate business or serv- Federal Home Loan Bank, and the officers, will postpone further proceedings ice provider, solely because the employee, directors, and employees of the Federal re- today on motions to suspend the rules owner, or operator is employed by, owns, or serve bank or Federal Home Loan Bank, may on which a recorded vote or the yeas operates a cannabis-related legitimate busi- not be held liable pursuant to any Federal and nays are ordered, or votes objected ness or service provider, as applicable; or law or regulation— to under clause 6 of rule XX. (C) an owner or operator of real estate or (1) solely for providing such a service; or The House will resume proceedings equipment that is leased to a cannabis-re- (2) for further investing any income de- on postponed questions at a later time. lated legitimate business or service provider, rived from such a service. solely because the owner or operator of the (c) PROTECTIONS FOR INSURERS.—With re- f real estate or equipment leased the equip- spect to engaging in the business of insur- SECURE AND FAIR ENFORCEMENT ment or real estate to a cannabis-related le- ance within a State, political subdivision of BANKING ACT OF 2019 gitimate business or service provider, as ap- a State, or Indian country that allows the plicable; or cultivation, production, manufacture, sale, Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I (5) prohibit or penalize a depository insti- transportation, display, dispensing, distribu- move to suspend the rules and pass the tution (or entity performing a financial serv- tion, or purchase of cannabis pursuant to a bill (H.R. 1595) to create protections for ice for or in association with a depository in- law or regulation of such State, political depository institutions that provide fi- stitution) for, or otherwise discourage a de- subdivision, or Indian Tribe that has juris- nancial services to cannabis-related le- pository institution (or entity performing a diction over the Indian country, as applica- gitimate businesses and service pro- financial service for or in association with a ble, an insurer that engages in the business depository institution) from, engaging in a of insurance with a cannabis-related legiti- viders for such businesses, and for financial service for a cannabis-related le- other purposes, as amended. mate business or service provider or who gitimate business or service provider. otherwise engages with a person in a trans- The Clerk read the title of the bill. (b) SAFE HARBOR APPLICABLE TO DE NOVO action permissible under State law related The text of the bill is as follows: INSTITUTIONS.—Subsection (a) shall apply to to cannabis, and the officers, directors, and H.R. 1595 an institution applying for a depository in- employees of that insurer may not be held Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- stitution charter to the same extent as such liable pursuant to any Federal law or regula- resentatives of the United States of America in subsection applies to a depository institu- tion— Congress assembled, tion. (1) solely for engaging in the business of in- SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; PURPOSE. SEC. 3. PROTECTIONS FOR ANCILLARY BUSI- surance; or (a) SHORT TITLE.—This Act may be cited as NESSES. (2) for further investing any income de- the ‘‘Secure And Fair Enforcement Banking For the purposes of sections 1956 and 1957 rived from the business of insurance. Act of 2019’’ or the ‘‘SAFE Banking Act of of title 18, United States Code, and all other (d) FORFEITURE.— 2019’’. provisions of Federal law, the proceeds from (1) DEPOSITORY INSTITUTIONS.—A depository (b) PURPOSE.—The purpose of this Act is to a transaction involving activities of a can- institution that has a legal interest in the increase public safety by ensuring access to nabis-related legitimate business or service collateral for a loan or another financial financial services to cannabis-related legiti- provider shall not be considered proceeds service provided to an owner, employee, or mate businesses and service providers and re- from an unlawful activity solely because— operator of a cannabis-related legitimate ducing the amount of cash at such busi- (1) the transaction involves proceeds from business or service provider, or to an owner nesses. a cannabis-related legitimate business or or operator of real estate or equipment that SEC. 2. SAFE HARBOR FOR DEPOSITORY INSTITU- service provider; or is leased or sold to a cannabis-related legiti- TIONS. (2) the transaction involves proceeds mate business or service provider, shall not (a) IN GENERAL.—A Federal banking regu- from— be subject to criminal, civil, or administra- lator may not— (A) cannabis-related activities described in tive forfeiture of that legal interest pursuant (1) terminate or limit the deposit insur- section 14(4)(B) conducted by a cannabis-re- to any Federal law for providing such loan or ance or share insurance of a depository insti- lated legitimate business; or other financial service. tution under the Federal Deposit Insurance (B) activities described in section 14(13)(A) (2) FEDERAL RESERVE BANKS AND FEDERAL Act (12 U.S.C. 1811 et seq.), the Federal Cred- conducted by a service provider. HOME LOAN BANKS.—A Federal reserve bank it Union Act (12 U.S.C. 1751 et seq.), or take SEC. 4. PROTECTIONS UNDER FEDERAL LAW. or Federal Home Loan Bank that has a legal any other adverse action against a deposi- (a) IN GENERAL.—With respect to providing interest in the collateral for a loan or an- tory institution under section 8 of the Fed- a financial service to a cannabis-related le- other financial service provided to a deposi- eral Deposit Insurance Act (12 U.S.C. 1818) gitimate business or service provider within tory institution that provides a financial solely because the depository institution a State, political subdivision of a State, or service to a cannabis-related legitimate busi- provides or has provided financial services to Indian country that allows the cultivation, ness or service provider, or to an owner or a cannabis-related legitimate business or production, manufacture, sale, transpor- operator of real estate or equipment that is service provider; tation, display, dispensing, distribution, or leased or sold to a cannabis-related legiti- (2) prohibit, penalize, or otherwise discour- purchase of cannabis pursuant to a law or mate business or service provider, shall not age a depository institution from providing regulation of such State, political subdivi- be subject to criminal, civil, or administra- financial services to a cannabis-related le- sion, or Indian Tribe that has jurisdiction tive forfeiture of that legal interest pursuant gitimate business or service provider or to a over the Indian country, as applicable, a de- to any Federal law for providing such loan or State, political subdivision of a State, or In- pository institution, entity performing a fi- other financial service. dian Tribe that exercises jurisdiction over nancial service for or in association with a SEC. 5. RULES OF CONSTRUCTION. cannabis-related legitimate businesses; depository institution, or insurer that pro- (3) recommend, incentivize, or encourage a vides a financial service to a cannabis-re- (a) NO REQUIREMENT TO PROVIDE FINANCIAL depository institution not to offer financial lated legitimate business or service provider, SERVICES.—Nothing in this Act shall require services to an account holder, or to down- and the officers, directors, and employees of a depository institution, entity performing a grade or cancel the financial services offered that depository institution, entity, or in- financial service for or in association with a to an account holder solely because— surer may not be held liable pursuant to any depository institution, or insurer to provide (A) the account holder is a cannabis-re- Federal law or regulation— financial services to a cannabis-related le- lated legitimate business or service provider, (1) solely for providing such a financial gitimate business, service provider, or any or is an employee, owner, or operator of a service; or other business. cannabis-related legitimate business or serv- (2) for further investing any income de- (b) GENERAL EXAMINATION, SUPERVISORY, ice provider; rived from such a financial service. AND ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITY.—Nothing in (B) the account holder later becomes an (b) PROTECTIONS FOR FEDERAL RESERVE this Act may be construed in any way as employee, owner, or operator of a cannabis- BANKS AND FEDERAL HOME LOAN BANKS.— limiting or otherwise restricting the general related legitimate business or service pro- With respect to providing a service to a de- examination, supervisory, and enforcement vider; or pository institution that provides a financial authority of the Federal banking regulators, (C) the depository institution was not service to a cannabis-related legitimate busi- provided that the basis for any supervisory aware that the account holder is an em- ness or service provider (where such finan- or enforcement action is not the provision of ployee, owner, or operator of a cannabis-re- cial service is provided within a State, polit- financial services to a cannabis-related le- lated legitimate business or service provider; ical subdivision of a State, or Indian country gitimate business or service provider.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:07 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00056 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.053 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7963 SEC. 6. REQUIREMENTS FOR FILING SUSPICIOUS nancial services for potential and existing (other than sections 6 and 10) shall apply to ACTIVITY REPORTS. minority-owned and women-owned cannabis- hemp (including hemp-derived cannabidiol Section 5318(g) of title 31, United States related legitimate businesses. and other hemp-derived cannabinoid prod- Code, is amended by adding at the end the (b) REPORT.—The Comptroller General ucts) in the same manner as such provisions following: shall issue a report to the Congress— apply to cannabis. ‘‘(5) REQUIREMENTS FOR CANNABIS-RELATED (1) containing all findings and determina- (b) RULE OF APPLICATION.—In applying the LEGITIMATE BUSINESSES.— tions made in carrying out the study re- provisions of this Act described under sub- ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—With respect to a finan- quired under subsection (a); and section (a) to hemp, the definition of ‘‘can- cial institution or any director, officer, em- (2) containing any regulatory or legislative nabis-related legitimate business’’ shall be ployee, or agent of a financial institution recommendations for removing barriers to treated as excluding any requirement to en- that reports a suspicious transaction pursu- marketplace entry, including in the licens- gage in activity pursuant to the law of a ant to this subsection, if the reason for the ing process, and expanding access to finan- State or political subdivision thereof. (c) HEMP DEFINED.—In this section, the report relates to a cannabis-related legiti- cial services for potential and existing mi- term ‘‘hemp’’ has the meaning given that mate business or service provider, the report nority-owned and women-owned cannabis-re- term under section 297A of the Agricultural shall comply with appropriate guidance lated legitimate businesses. Marketing Act of 1946 (7 U.S.C. 1639o). issued by the Financial Crimes Enforcement SEC. 10. GAO STUDY ON EFFECTIVENESS OF CER- Network. The Secretary shall ensure that SEC. 13. REQUIREMENTS FOR DEPOSIT ACCOUNT TAIN REPORTS ON FINDING CER- TERMINATION REQUESTS AND OR- the guidance is consistent with the purpose TAIN PERSONS. DERS. and intent of the SAFE Banking Act of 2019 Not later than 2 years after the date of the (a) TERMINATION REQUESTS OR ORDERS and does not significantly inhibit the provi- enactment of this Act, the Comptroller Gen- MUST BE VALID.— sion of financial services to a cannabis-re- eral of the United States shall carry out a (1) IN GENERAL.—An appropriate Federal lated legitimate business or service provider study on the effectiveness of reports on sus- banking agency may not formally or infor- in a State, political subdivision of a State, or picious transactions filed pursuant to sec- mally request or order a depository institu- Indian country that has allowed the cultiva- tion 5318(g) of title 31, United States Code, at tion to terminate a specific customer ac- tion, production, manufacture, transpor- finding individuals or organizations sus- count or group of customer accounts or to tation, display, dispensing, distribution, pected or known to be engaged with otherwise restrict or discourage a depository sale, or purchase of cannabis pursuant to law transnational criminal organizations and institution from entering into or maintain- or regulation of such State, political subdivi- whether any such engagement exists in a ing a banking relationship with a specific sion, or Indian Tribe that has jurisdiction State, political subdivision, or Indian Tribe customer or group of customers unless— over the Indian country. that has jurisdiction over Indian country (A) the agency has a valid reason for such ‘‘(B) DEFINITIONS.—For purposes of this that allows the cultivation, production, request or order; and paragraph: manufacture, sale, transportation, display, (B) such reason is not based solely on rep- ‘‘(i) CANNABIS.—The term ‘cannabis’ has dispensing, distribution, or purchase of can- utation risk. the meaning given the term ‘marihuana’ in nabis. The study shall examine reports on (2) TREATMENT OF NATIONAL SECURITY section 102 of the Controlled Substances Act suspicious transactions as follows: THREATS.—If an appropriate Federal banking (21 U.S.C. 802). (1) During the period of 2014 until the date agency believes a specific customer or group ‘‘(ii) CANNABIS-RELATED LEGITIMATE BUSI- of the enactment of this Act, reports relat- of customers is, or is acting as a conduit for, NESS.—The term ‘cannabis-related legiti- ing to marijuana-related businesses. an entity which— mate business’ has the meaning given that (2) During the 1-year period after date of (A) poses a threat to national security; term in section 14 of the SAFE Banking Act the enactment of this Act, reports relating (B) is involved in terrorist financing; of 2019. to cannabis-related legitimate businesses. (C) is an agency of the Government of Iran, ‘‘(iii) INDIAN COUNTRY.—The term ‘Indian SEC. 11. BANKING SERVICES FOR HEMP BUSI- North Korea, Syria, or any country listed country’ has the meaning given that term in NESSES. from time to time on the State Sponsors of section 1151 of title 18. (a) FINDINGS.—The Congress finds that— Terrorism list; ‘‘(iv) INDIAN TRIBE.—The term ‘Indian (1) the Agriculture Improvement Act of (D) is located in, or is subject to the juris- Tribe’ has the meaning given that term in 2018 (Public Law 115–334) legalized hemp by diction of, any country specified in subpara- section 102 of the Federally Recognized In- removing it from the definition of ‘‘mari- graph (C); or dian Tribe List Act of 1994 (25 U.S.C. 479a). huana’’ under the Controlled Substances (E) does business with any entity described ‘‘(v) FINANCIAL SERVICE.—The term ‘finan- Act; in subparagraph (C) or (D), unless the appro- cial service’ has the meaning given that (2) despite the legalization of hemp, some priate Federal banking agency determines term in section 14 of the SAFE Banking Act hemp businesses (including producers, manu- that the customer or group of customers has of 2019. facturers, and retailers) continue to have dif- used due diligence to avoid doing business ‘‘(vi) SERVICE PROVIDER.—The term ‘service ficulty gaining access to banking products with any entity described in subparagraph provider’ has the meaning given that term in and services; and (C) or (D), section 14 of the SAFE Banking Act of 2019. (3) businesses involved in the sale of hemp- such belief shall satisfy the requirement ‘‘(vii) STATE.—The term ‘State’ means derived cannabidiol (‘‘CBD’’) products are each of the several States, the District of Co- under paragraph (1). particularly affected, due to confusion about (b) NOTICE REQUIREMENT.— lumbia, Puerto Rico, and any territory or their legal status. (1) IN GENERAL.—If an appropriate Federal possession of the United States.’’. (b) FEDERAL BANKING REGULATOR HEMP banking agency formally or informally re- SEC. 7. GUIDANCE AND EXAMINATION PROCE- BANKING GUIDANCE.—Not later than the end quests or orders a depository institution to DURES. of the 90-day period beginning on the date of terminate a specific customer account or a Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Federal banking group of customer accounts, the agency enactment of this Act, the Financial Institu- regulators shall jointly issue guidance to fi- shall— tions Examination Council shall develop uni- nancial institutions— (A) provide such request or order to the in- form guidance and examination procedures (1) confirming the legality of hemp, hemp- stitution in writing; and for depository institutions that provide fi- derived CBD products, and other hemp-de- (B) accompany such request or order with nancial services to cannabis-related legiti- rived cannabinoid products, and the legality a written justification for why such termi- mate businesses and service providers. of engaging in financial services with busi- nation is needed, including any specific laws SEC. 8. ANNUAL DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION RE- nesses selling hemp, hemp-derived CBD prod- or regulations the agency believes are being PORT. ucts, and other hemp-derived cannabinoid violated by the customer or group of cus- The Federal banking regulators shall issue products, after the enactment of the Agri- tomers, if any. an annual report to Congress containing— culture Improvement Act of 2018; and (2) JUSTIFICATION REQUIREMENT.—A jus- (1) information and data on the avail- (2) to provide recommended best practices tification described under paragraph (1)(B) ability of access to financial services for mi- for financial institutions to follow when pro- may not be based solely on the reputation nority-owned and women-owned cannabis-re- viding financial services and merchant proc- risk to the depository institution. lated legitimate businesses; and essing services to businesses involved in the (c) CUSTOMER NOTICE.— (2) any regulatory or legislative rec- sale of hemp, hemp-derived CBD products, (1) NOTICE REQUIRED.—Except as provided ommendations for expanding access to finan- and other hemp-derived cannabinoid prod- under paragraph (2) or as otherwise prohib- cial services for minority-owned and women- ucts. ited from being disclosed by law, if an appro- owned cannabis-related legitimate busi- (c) FINANCIAL INSTITUTION DEFINED.—In priate Federal banking agency orders a de- nesses. this section, the term ‘‘financial institution’’ pository institution to terminate a specific SEC. 9. GAO STUDY ON DIVERSITY AND INCLU- means any person providing financial serv- customer account or a group of customer ac- SION. ices. counts, the depository institution shall in- (a) STUDY.—The Comptroller General of SEC. 12. APPLICATION OF SAFE HARBORS TO form the specific customer or group of cus- the United States shall carry out a study on HEMP AND CBD PRODUCTS. tomers of the justification for the customer’s the barriers to marketplace entry, including (a) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided under account termination described under sub- in the licensing process, and the access to fi- subsection (b), the provisions of this Act section (b).

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:07 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00057 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.027 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7964 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019

(2) NOTICE PROHIBITED.— (B) a Federal credit union as defined in turing, selling, transporting, displaying, dis- (A) NOTICE PROHIBITED IN CASES OF NA- section 101 of the Federal Credit Union Act pensing, distributing, or purchasing cannabis TIONAL SECURITY.—If an appropriate Federal (12 U.S.C. 1752); or or cannabis products. banking agency requests or orders a deposi- (C) a State credit union as defined in sec- (14) STATE.—The term ‘‘State’’ means each tory institution to terminate a specific cus- tion 101 of the Federal Credit Union Act (12 of the several States, the District of Colum- tomer account or a group of customer ac- U.S.C. 1752). bia, Puerto Rico, and any territory or pos- counts based on a belief that the customer or (6) FEDERAL BANKING REGULATOR.—The session of the United States. customers pose a threat to national security, term ‘‘Federal banking regulator’’ means SEC. 15. DISCRETIONARY SURPLUS FUNDS. or are otherwise described under subsection each of the Board of Governors of the Fed- Section 7(a)(3)(A) of the Federal Reserve (a)(2), neither the depository institution nor eral Reserve System, the Bureau of Con- Act (12 U.S.C. 289(a)(3)(A)) is amended by the appropriate Federal banking agency may sumer Financial Protection, the Federal De- striking ‘‘$6,825,000,000’’ and inserting inform the customer or customers of the jus- posit Insurance Corporation, the Federal ‘‘$6,821,000,000’’. tification for the customer’s account termi- Housing Finance Agency, the Financial SEC. 16. DETERMINATION OF BUDGETARY EF- nation. Crimes Enforcement Network, the Office of FECTS. (B) NOTICE PROHIBITED IN OTHER CASES.—If Foreign Asset Control, the Office of the The budgetary effects of this Act, for the an appropriate Federal banking agency de- Comptroller of the Currency, the National purpose of complying with the Statutory termines that the notice required under Credit Union Administration, the Depart- Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010, shall be deter- paragraph (1) may interfere with an author- ment of the Treasury, or any Federal agency mined by reference to the latest statement ized criminal investigation, neither the de- or department that regulates banking or fi- titled ‘‘Budgetary Effects of PAYGO Legisla- pository institution nor the appropriate Fed- nancial services, as determined by the Sec- tion’’ for this Act, submitted for printing in eral banking agency may inform the specific retary of the Treasury. the Congressional Record by the Chairman of customer or group of customers of the jus- (7) FINANCIAL SERVICE.—The term ‘‘finan- the House Budget Committee, provided that tification for the customer’s account termi- cial service’’— such statement has been submitted prior to nation. (A) means a financial product or service, as the vote on passage. (d) REPORTING REQUIREMENT.—Each appro- defined in section 1002 of the Dodd-Frank priate Federal banking agency shall issue an Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protec- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- annual report to the Congress stating— tion Act (12 U.S.C. 5481); ant to the rule, the gentleman from (1) the aggregate number of specific cus- (B) includes the business of insurance; Colorado (Mr. PERLMUTTER) and the tomer accounts that the agency requested or (C) includes, whether performed directly or gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. ordered a depository institution to termi- indirectly, the authorizing, processing, MCHENRY) each will control 20 min- nate during the previous year; and clearing, settling, billing, transferring for (2) the legal authority on which the agency deposit, transmitting, delivering, instructing utes. relied in making such requests and orders to be delivered, reconciling, collecting, or The Chair recognizes the gentleman and the frequency on which the agency relied otherwise effectuating or facilitating of pay- from Colorado. on each such authority. ments or funds, where such payments or GENERAL LEAVE (e) DEFINITIONS.—For purposes of this sec- funds are made or transferred by any means, Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I tion: including by the use of credit cards, debit ask unanimous consent that all Mem- (1) APPROPRIATE FEDERAL BANKING AGEN- cards, other payment cards, or other access bers may have 5 legislative days in CY.—The term ‘‘appropriate Federal banking devices, accounts, original or substitute agency’’ means— checks, or electronic funds transfers; which to revise and extend their re- (A) the appropriate Federal banking agen- (D) includes acting as a money transmit- marks and to include extraneous mate- cy, as defined under section 3 of the Federal ting business which directly or indirectly rials on H.R. 1595. Deposit Insurance Act (12 U.S.C. 1813); and makes use of a depository institution in con- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there (B) the National Credit Union Administra- nection with effectuating or facilitating a objection to the request of the gen- tion, in the case of an insured credit union. payment for a cannabis-related legitimate tleman from Colorado? (2) DEPOSITORY INSTITUTION.—The term business or service provider in compliance ‘‘depository institution’’ means— There was no objection. with section 5330 of title 31, United States Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I (A) a depository institution, as defined Code, and any applicable State law; and under section 3 of the Federal Deposit Insur- (E) includes acting as an armored car serv- yield myself such time as I may con- ance Act (12 U.S.C. 1813); and ice for processing and depositing with a de- sume. (B) an insured credit union. pository institution or a Federal reserve Mr. Speaker, I am proud we are here SEC. 14. DEFINITIONS. bank with respect to any monetary instru- today to pass this bill about public In this Act: ments (as defined under section 1956(c)(5) of safety, accountability, and respecting (1) BUSINESS OF INSURANCE.—The term title 18, United States Code. States’ rights. Forty-seven States, four ‘‘business of insurance’’ has the meaning (8) INDIAN COUNTRY.—The term ‘‘Indian U.S. territories, and the District of Co- given such term in section 1002 of the Dodd- country’’ has the meaning given that term in Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer section 1151 of title 18. lumbia have spoken and legalized some Protection Act (12 U.S.C. 5481). (9) INDIAN TRIBE.—The term ‘‘Indian Tribe’’ form of recreational or medical mari- (2) CANNABIS.—The term ‘‘cannabis’’ has has the meaning given that term in section juana, including cannabidiol. 318.2 mil- the meaning given the term ‘‘marihuana’’ in 102 of the Federally Recognized Indian Tribe lion people live in those 47 States. That section 102 of the Controlled Substances Act List Act of 1994 (25 U.S.C. 479a). is 97.7 percent of the population. (21 U.S.C. 802). (10) INSURER.—The term ‘‘insurer’’ has the However, because marijuana remains (3) CANNABIS PRODUCT.—The term ‘‘can- meaning given that term under section 313(r) illegal under Federal law, businesses in nabis product’’ means any article which con- of title 31, United States Code. these States are forced to deal in cash. tains cannabis, including an article which is (11) MANUFACTURER.—The term ‘‘manufac- a concentrate, an edible, a tincture, a can- turer’’ means a person who manufactures, These businesses, their employees, and nabis-infused product, or a topical. compounds, converts, processes, prepares, or ancillary businesses cannot access the (4) CANNABIS-RELATED LEGITIMATE BUSI- packages cannabis or cannabis products. banking system. NESS.—The term ‘‘cannabis-related legiti- (12) PRODUCER.—The term ‘‘producer’’ The fact is, the people in States and mate business’’ means a manufacturer, pro- means a person who plants, cultivates, har- localities across the country are voting ducer, or any person or company that— vests, or in any way facilitates the natural to approve some level of marijuana (A) engages in any activity described in growth of cannabis. use, and we need these marijuana busi- subparagraph (B) pursuant to a law estab- (13) SERVICE PROVIDER.—The term ‘‘service nesses and employees to have access to lished by a State or a political subdivision of provider’’— a State, as determined by such State or po- (A) means a business, organization, or checking accounts, lines of credit, pay- litical subdivision; and other person that— roll accounts, and more. (B) participates in any business or orga- (i) sells goods or services to a cannabis-re- This will improve transparency and nized activity that involves handling can- lated legitimate business; or accountability and help law enforce- nabis or cannabis products, including culti- (ii) provides any business services, includ- ment root out illegal transactions to vating, producing, manufacturing, selling, ing the sale or lease of real or any other prevent tax evasion, money laundering, transporting, displaying, dispensing, distrib- property, legal or other licensed services, or and other white-collar crime. uting, or purchasing cannabis or cannabis any other ancillary service, relating to can- Most importantly, Mr. Speaker, this products. nabis; and will also reduce the risk of violent (5) DEPOSITORY INSTITUTION.—The term (B) does not include a business, organiza- ‘‘depository institution’’ means— tion, or other person that participates in any crime in our communities. These busi- (A) a depository institution as defined in business or organized activity that involves nesses and their employees become tar- section 3(c) of the Federal Deposit Insurance handling cannabis or cannabis products, in- gets for murder, robbery, assault, and Act (12 U.S.C. 1813(c)); cluding cultivating, producing, manufac- more by dealing in all cash, and this

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:46 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00058 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.027 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7965 puts the employees and store owners at Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to mittee has jurisdiction over financial risk. Congressman HECK will speak di- H.R. 1595. institutions—in the nature of our de- rectly to this point. Before I go into the contents of my bate, it is usually about the nature of The SAFE Banking Act will create a argument against this legislation, I regulation for the capital markets and safe harbor for financial institutions want to start by commending the bill’s for banks—we heard little from the and their employees who choose to do sponsor, Mr. PERLMUTTER from Colo- committees of jurisdiction over the business with a marijuana company. rado, for his tireless advocacy, his rea- Controlled Substances Act or the Section 3 of the bill is particularly sonableness in his approach, and his Criminal Code. In fact, the Financial important to not only marijuana busi- willingness, even in the midst of the Services Committee is the only one nesses but everyone who might do busi- toughest negotiations around the sub- that has held a hearing on the issue of ness with a marijuana-related com- ject matter, to keep his cool, to think cannabis this Congress. pany. This section would protect ancil- through the import of the bill, and to Now, I would say that is due to the lary businesses like real estate owners, seek compromise where he could. leadership of Mr. PERLMUTTER and his accountants, electricians, and vendors It is quite a legislative endeavor that tireless advocacy for this, but we only by clarifying that the proceeds from le- he has taken upon for himself, for this had one panel of witnesses. I voiced my gitimate cannabis businesses are not il- institution, for his State, and for concerns in our jurisdiction to Chair- legal under Federal laws. This proceeds States around the country. He has been woman WATERS and to Congressman section is the key provision, allowing a fantastic advocate. PERLMUTTER about my concerns for all cannabis-related businesses and And I would say that, standing in op- this. their service providers to access the position to this bill, it is not because of In March of this year, I wrote Chair- banking system without fear of re- his lack of good will. It is not for lack woman WATERS to express my belief prisal. of his willingness to engage, but for a that we need to have a better com- We have worked with our Republican fundamental disagreement in the ap- prehension of the nature of this sub- colleagues on a few changes to improve stance and address the supervisory and the bill since it was marked up in proach. We have been able to have real discussions around this that I think regulatory issues that would result March. from enactment of H.R. 1595. I include As Mr. BARR will discuss, the bill would make the American people more in the RECORD a copy of that letter. now includes protections for financial proud or more confident in this institu- institutions to provide financial serv- tion and our body politic, more broadly HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, COMMITTEE ON FINANCIAL SERVICES, ices to hemp and CBD businesses since speaking. I also want to thank my friend and Washington, DC, March 21, 2019. we have learned the provisions from The Hon. MAXINE WATERS, the farm bill last year did not provide colleague on the committee, Mr. STIV- Chairwoman, Committee on Financial Services, sufficient clarity for banks and credit ERS from Ohio, for his work on the Washington, DC. unions to provide these services. issue. Together, they have conducted The Hon. GREGORY W. MEEKS, At Mr. STIVERS’ urging, we expanded themselves with wonderful integrity Chairman, Subcommittee on Consumer Protec- the protections in the bill for various and respect for their colleagues and tion and Financial Institutions, Washington insurance products, such as workers their colleagues’ views and ideas, espe- DC. compensation. cially on an issue like this where it can DEAR CHAIRWOMAN WATERS AND CHAIRMAN Additionally, we have added language MEEKS: We write today to seek your agree- create an enormous amount of con- ment to delay consideration of H.R. 1595, the from Mr. LUETKEMEYER’s Financial In- troversy. SAFE Act, currently scheduled to be marked stitution Customer Protection Act, Twenty-one States have legalized up on March 26, 2019, until the Committee which passed the House 395–2 last Con- medicinal marijuana, and 10 States has a better understanding of the full range gress. This language would prohibit have legalized the recreational use of of consequences that enacting such legisla- bank regulators from directing a bank the drug. However, cannabis remains tion may trigger. As you know, marijuana is to close an account for reputational completely illegal in 19 States. Federal a schedule I controlled substance as defined reasons. law defines this as a drug that has ‘‘a in 21 U.S.C. 802. The impact that many state laws, which have legalized marijuana, have In summary, if someone wants to op- high potential for abuse; no currently pose the legalization of marijuana, on the federal laws governing the manufac- accepted medical use in treatment in turing, use, and sale of marijuana, including that is their prerogative. But American the United States; and a lack of accept- proceeds, raise many questions and concerns. voters have spoken and continue to ed safety for use of the drug . . . under Any change to these statutes, or those that speak. The fact is that you can’t put medical supervision.’’ That is the cur- impact them, has the potential to divide the the genie back in the bottle. Prohibi- rent Federal law. Congress and the country. We must ensure tion is over. This bill does not change the fact that Congress has done its due diligence, in- Our bill is focused solely on taking that cannabis remains a prohibited cluding conducting thorough oversight and review, before moving such legislation. cash off the streets and making our schedule I substance under the Con- communities safer. Only Congress can The hearing at the Committee on Finan- trolled Substances Act. cial Services on February 13, 2019, made clear take these steps to provide this cer- To that end, if we seek to give finan- that we need to better comprehend and ad- tainty for businesses, employees, and cial institutions certainty, we should dress the supervisory and regulatory issues financial institutions across the coun- deal with the listing of cannabis as a that would result from enactment of H.R. try. schedule I substance, not debating a 1595. Many outstanding questions remain, Mr. Speaker, I thank Representative partial solution for financial institu- which include but are not limited to the fol- HECK for his partnership through the tions to what is a much larger problem lowing: years on this bill. I also thank Rep- 1. What changes to our banking laws are and a larger societal issue that we resentative STIVERS and Representa- necessary to implement the SAFE Banking must wrestle with. Act or other legislation creating a safe har- tive DAVIDSON for their support and co- Should States be allowed to continue bor for cannabis-related businesses? sponsorship of the SAFE Banking Act. to violate Federal law? Does Federal 2. How would individual agencies enforce Subcommittee Chairman GREG MEEKS law need to be changed when it comes Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) requirements fol- and Representative KATIE PORTER have to the scheduling of cannabis? lowing enactment of the SAFE Banking Act? been very helpful in the process. We have an FDA that regulates ciga- What changes would be required of BSA re- Finally, I thank Chairwoman MAXINE quirements? rettes and e-cigarettes, which, as we WATERS for shepherding this bill 3. How would individual agencies enforce know, there is the recent announce- through the Financial Services Com- anti-money laundering (AML) regulations ment that they will seek a ban on fla- mittee and making this a priority. following enactment of the SAFE Banking Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vored e-cigarettes. But the FDA has no Act? Would AML reforms be necessary? regulatory authority to regulate can- 4. How would individual agencies enforce join me in voting ‘‘yes,’’ and I reserve Know Your Customer (KYC) rules following the balance of my time. nabis. The bill we are considering today is enactment of the SAFE Banking Act? What b 1630 changes would be required of KYC rules? one of the biggest changes to U.S. drug 5. How would individual agencies enforce Mr. MCHENRY. Mr. Speaker, I yield policy in my lifetime, yet it was done Suspicious Activity Report (SAR) filing re- myself such time as I may consume. with little debate. While our com- quirements and guidelines following passage

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:07 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00059 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.054 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7966 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019 of the SAFE Banking Act? What changes that could more easily access our international drug trafficking organization would be required of SAR filing requirements banking system in the United States. in Colorado law enforcement history, with and guidelines to ensure illicit financial ac- These concerns have been echoed by over 80,000 plants in over 250 locations and 4.5 tivities were not being financed? several former Directors of the Office tons of finished marijuana products. 6. How would individual agencies enforce We urge the Senate Banking Committee to Currency Transaction Report (CTR) filing re- of National Drug Control Policy and reject the SAFE Banking Act and other leg- quirements and guidelines following enact- former Administrators of the Drug En- islation that would give these cartels more ment of the SAFE Banking Act? What forcement Administration. cover and more access to the U.S. financial changes would be required of CTR filing re- In a July letter from this year, system. quirements and guidelines? former law enforcement officials serv- Sincerely, 7. In what ways are agencies working with ing from 1981 to 2014 have voiced con- Mr. R. Gil Kerlikowske, Former Direc- state counterparts, including state banking cerns that the SAFE Banking Act tor, May 7, 2009 to March 6, 2014, Office and securities supervisors, under the existing of National Drug Control Policy; Mr. could be exploited to provide easier, John P. Walters, Former Director, De- regime? How would those cooperative rela- more cost-effective ways for nefarious tionships change with enactment of H.R. cember 7, 2001 to January 20, 2009, Of- 1595? groups to launder money. I include in fice of National Drug Control Policy; 8. Would H.R. 1595 require conforming the RECORD a copy of that letter. General Barry R. McCaffrey, USA changes to any of the statues, rules, and re- Hon. MIKE CRAPO, (Ret.), Former Director, February 29, quirements previously listed to ensure there Chairman, U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, 1996 to January 20, 2001, Office of Na- are no unintended consequences, such as car- Housing, & Urban Affairs, Washington, DC. tional Drug Control Policy; Mr. Lee P. tels and other bad actors gaining access to Hon. SHERROD BROWN, Brown, Former Director, July 19, 1993 our financial system? Ranking Member, U.S. Senate Committee on to January 1996, Office of National 9. Would the safe harbor require any Banking, Housing, & Urban Affairs, Wash- Drug Control Policy; Mr. Robert Mar- changes to the rules or processes governing ington, DC. tinez, Former Director, March 28, 1991 federal deposit insurance systems? DEAR CHAIRMAN CRAPO AND RANKING MEM- to January 20, 1993, Office of National 10. What are the implications of H.R. 1595 BER BROWN: We write as former Directors of Drug Control Policy; Mr. William J. on nonbank financial firms, including insur- the Office of National Drug Control Policy Bennett, Former Director, March 13, ers and investment companies? and former Administrators of the Drug En- 1989 to December 13, 1990, Office of Na- 11. What are the implications of H.R 1595 forcement Administration to warn about the tional Drug Control Policy; Ms. on third parties, including payment proc- unintended consequences of the SAFE Bank- Michele M. Leonhart, Former Adminis- essors? ing Act to legalize the banking of federally trator, November 10, 2007 to May 14, 12. What are the implications of H.R. 1595 illegal proceeds from the sale of marijuana. 2015, Drug Enforcement Administra- on individual and institutional investors of Some Members of your Committee may be tion; Ms. Karen P. Tandy, Former Ad- cannabis-related businesses? familiar with the Black Market Peso Ex- ministrator, July 31, 2003 to November 13. What are the implications of RR.1595 on change that has been in operation for several 9, 2007, Drug Enforcement Administra- federal, state, and local law enforcement, in- decades. This scheme has enabled inter- tion; Mr. John C. Lawn, Former Ad- cluding the Department of Justice and the national drug cartels to launder billions of ministrator, July 26, 1985 and March 23, Drug Enforcement Agency? U.S. dollars through international monetary 1990, Drug Enforcement Administra- 14. How are proceeds from state licensed exchanges and has ensnared many banks and tion; Mr. Peter B. Bensinger, Former growers and distributers taxed under federal mainstream U.S. companies. Administrator, February 23, 1976 to law? Relatedly, what conforming changes to The lesson that the Black Market Peso Ex- July 10, 1981, Drug Enforcement Ad- our tax code are necessary? change teaches us is that cartels will go to ministration. 15. What are the implications of H.R. 1595 enormous lengths and use sophisticated and Mr. MCHENRY. Mr. Speaker, drug on other products and services offered by fi- complex methods to move cash into banks- cartels are a significant problem in since laundering money is the life-blood of nancial institutions, including but not lim- cannabis-legal States like California, ited to mortgage products, deposit advance criminal organizations. It is therefore a vir- tual certainty that cartels will seek to ex- Washington, and Colorado. As reported products or general commercial lending? in a May article by NBC News, the car- As Members of Congress, and the Com- ploit the SAFE Banking act if it provides mittee of primary jurisdiction, we owe it to them with an easier and more cost-effective tels have found that it is easier to grow our constituents and to the public to fully means to launder their money. and process marijuana in legal States Because cash made from the sale of mari- understand the implications of any legisla- like Colorado and ship it throughout juana looks the same regardless of what it tion before supporting or opposing it. We the United States than it is to bring it was used to pay for, it will be extremely dif- urge you to hold H.R. 1595 and any related from Mexico or Cuba. ficult for banks to know whether large bun- legislation until we have a full under- I include in the RECORD a copy of this dles of cash presented for deposit were made standing of the consequences of this bill. from the sale of marijuana rather than from article, as well. Sincerely, the sale of heroin, fentanyl, or methamphet- [From nbcnews.com, May 29, 2018] PATRICK MCHENRY, amine. FOREIGN CARTELS EMBRACE HOME-GROWN Ranking Member. In short, the SAFE Banking Act could in- MARIJUANA IN POT-LEGAL STATES BLAINE LUETKEMEYER, advertently allow cartels to bring into banks Ranking Member. FOREIGN GANGS ARE FINDING THAT BLACK-MAR- duffel bags of cash made from the sale of KET MARIJUANA IS PROFITABLE EVEN IN Mr. MCHENRY. Mr. Speaker, in that those illicit drugs that are killing tens of STATES THAT HAVE LEGALIZED CANNABIS letter, I listed a number of questions thousands of Americans every year. (By Dennis Romero, Gabe Gutierrez, Andrew that have yet to be answered, includ- Consider the current landscape of offering Blankstein and Robert Powell) banking services to cash-intensive mari- ing: LOS ANGELES.—Attorney General Jeff Ses- juana businesses. Even if customers are of- What steps will Federal financial reg- sions called it ‘‘one of the largest residential fered the opportunity to pay in credit, many ulators have to take to harmonize forfeiture actions in American History.’’ customers will choose to pay cash to avoid In early April, local and federal authorities standards and protect against illicit being tracked within, the state seed-to-sale activity, including institutions’ obliga- descended upon 74 marijuana grow houses in tracking system. the Sacramento area they say were under- While banks know how much cash to ex- tions with respect to the Bank Secrecy written by Chinese organized crime. They pect from other cash-intensive businesses Act, anti-money laundering require- filed court paperwork to seize the properties, like dry cleaners or convenience stores, it ments, suspicious activity reports, and worth millions of dollars. currency transaction reports? will be very difficult to figure out when a Federal officials allege that legal rec- marijuana dispensary is participating in a reational marijuana states like California, What are the implications of this bill money laundering scheme. The scale of the on nonbank financial firms, including Colorado and Washington, where enforce- marijuana industry is already such that ment of growing regulations is hit-or-miss, investment companies? there are huge opportunities for these have been providing cover for transnational I know there have been additions, dispensaries to be the destination for cartel criminal organizations willing to invest big since we have come to the floor, to in- cash. Indeed, we have already seen many money to buy or rent property to achieve clude insurance companies, and I think cases of cartels using the cover of legaliza- even bigger returns. that is a positive step. But these are tion to operate illicit marijuana grows and Chinese, Cuban and Mexican drug rings some of the basic questions that still black market activity. Two recent examples have purchased or rented hundreds of homes within the past year involved organized ef- need to be resolved. and use human trafficking to bring inexperi- forts to expel Mexican drug cartels growing enced growers to the United States to tend It is also important that we under- marijuana in Northern California—including them, federal and local officials say. stand whether this legislation could a request to use the California National The suspects are targeting states that have lead to bad actors, like drug cartels, Guard, and the May 2019 bust of the largest already legalized marijuana ‘‘in an attempt

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:07 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00060 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.028 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7967 to shroud their operations in our legal envi- ington, southwest of , as a drug task medical experts to analyze the scientific lit- ronment here and then take the marijuana force busted an alleged cultivation ring fund- erature on cannabis. The report they pre- outside of the state,’’ said Mike Hartman, ed by organized crime in China. pared, which came out in January of 2017, executive director of the Colorado Depart- More than 40 suspects were arrested and runs to four hundred and sixty-eight pages. ment of Revenue, which regulates and li- $80 million worth of cannabis was seized, the It contains no bombshells or surprises, which censes the cannabis industry. Authorities Grays Harbor County Sheriff’s Office said. perhaps explains why it went largely unno- say they’ve seen an increase in these ‘‘home ‘‘The majority of these homes were pur- ticed. It simply stated, over and over again, grows’’ since the launch of recreational pot chased with cash, and information was devel- that a drug North Americans have become sales in Colorado. oped that these purchases were conducted by enthusiastic about remains a mystery. While California and Washington have Chinese nationals involved in organized For example, smoking pot is widely sup- mainly seen organized criminals from China crime,’’ according to a statement from the posed to diminish the nausea associated with buying homes and converting them into Sheriff’s Office. chemotherapy. But, the panel pointed out, grow houses, Colorado has largely been grap- And just this month, search warrants were ‘‘there are no good-quality randomized trials pling with Cuban and Mexican-led cartels, served at 19 locations in the Puget Sound investigating this option.’’We have evidence said Sheriff Bill Elder of the El Paso County area of Washington state, a federal official for marijuana as a treatment for pain, but Sheriff’s Office in Colorado. who did not want her name used said. The ‘‘very little is known about the efficacy, ‘‘They have found that it’s easier to grow ring was allegedly run by three Chinese na- dose, routes of administration, or side effects and process marijuana in Colorado, ship it tionals who produced thousands of pounds of of commonly used and commercially avail- throughout the United States, than it is to cannabis destined for greater New York, the able cannabis products in the United bring it from Mexico or Cuba,’’ Elder said. U.S. attorney’s office in Seattle alleges. States.’’ The caveats continue. Is it good for In El Paso County, NBC News witnessed The suspects, who face drug conspiracy epilepsy? ‘‘Insufficient evidence.’’Tourette’s firsthand the damage a commercial-scale charges, purchased homes with the help of syndrome? Limited evidence. A.L.S., Hun- cannabis grow can do to a home otherwise multiple wire transfers from China that in- tington’s, and Parkinson’s? Insufficient evi- built for an average American family. Grow- cluded dollar figures—$2,000 to $5,900—they dence. Irritable-bowel syndrome? Insuffi- ers pose as legitimate renters, and by the believed would fly under the radar, according cient evidence. Dementia and glaucoma? time authorities disrupt their operation, to a federal complaint. Probably not. Anxiety? Maybe. Depression? homes have been gutted and trashed. Ultimately it was the houses’ exorbitant Probably not. ‘‘We’ve fallen through floors,’’ U.S. Drug electricity use—up to 38,477 kilowatt hours Then come Chapters 5 through 13, the Enforcement Agency Special Agent Randy in one day versus the American average of heart of the report, which concern mari- Ladd said. ‘‘The electrical damage, they just 30—that made them targets of a federal juana’s potential risks. The haze of uncer- draw so much current that you’ll see, in investigation, according to the filing. tainty continues. Does the use of cannabis some places, the wires are fused inside of the Even a single grow house can contain a increase the likelihood of fatal car acci- electrical box. And—a lot of people—they large marijuana operation. In April, police in dents? Yes. By how much? Unclear. Does it don’t wanna pay the high electric bills. So Pomona, California, an exurb in Los Angeles affect motivation and cognition? Hard to what they do is they take jackhammers and County, announced they discovered a 23- say, but probably. Does it affect employment pickaxes and they cut through the founda- room grow house allegedly run by Chinese prospects? Probably. Will it impair academic tion of the house, so that they could steal nationals. Fifty-five-hundred marijuana achievement? Limited evidence. This goes on the power.’’ products, including 2,900 plants and nearly 21 for pages. One of the biggest busts so far came last pounds of cannabis, were seized, police said. We need proper studies, the panel con- June, when the Colorado attorney general’s ‘‘The grow operation used advanced sys- cluded, on the health effects of cannabis on office announced that ‘‘a massive illegal tems of lighting, air conditioning, fans, ex- children and teen-agers and pregnant women interstate marijuana distribution and cul- haust blowers and air-filtering systems to and breast-feeding mothers and ‘‘older popu- tivation network stretching from Colorado control the climate inside the buildings and lations’’ and ‘‘heavy cannabis users’’; in to Texas’’ had been dismantled. It was alleg- the odor of marijuana,’’ according to a Po- other words, on everyone except the college edly Chinese-connected, Ladd said. mona police statement. student who smokes a joint once a month. Authorities said the network was respon- Pomona police spokeswoman Aly Mejia The panel also called for investigation into sible for securities fraud, millions of dollars said a gun and $6,900 in cash were also found. ‘‘the pharmacokinetic and The DEA’s Rettig, speaking from her base of laundered cash, 2,600 ‘‘illegally cul- pharmacodynamic properties of cannabis, in San Francisco, said the Chinese oper- tivated’’ marijuana plants and 4,000 pounds modes of delivery, different concentrations, ations are ‘‘illegal under state law.’’ In Cali- of harvested cannabis, according to the Colo- in various populations, including the dose-re- fornia, marijuana growers, producers and re- rado attorney general’s statement. sponse relationships of cannabis and THC or The operation took place in 18 warehouses tailers need state and local licenses. Cities other cannabinoids.’’ and storage units and 33 homes, mostly in can opt out and ban such businesses alto- Figuring out the ‘‘dose-response relation- the Denver area, authorities said. ‘‘These gether. ship’’ of a new compound is something a Rettig said even with the Golden State’s seizures are believed to only scratch the sur- pharmaceutical company does from the start sky-high housing market—the median price face,’’ the office said. of trials in human subjects, as it prepares a Ladd alleged that some Chinese crews of a home is $535,100, according listings site new drug application for the E.D.A. Too lit- cover immigrants’ costs of traveling to Zillow—overseas criminals know that ‘‘mari- tle of a powerful drug means that it won’t America in exchange for work in the grow juana can fetch three times as much out of work. Too much means that it might do houses. ‘‘It’s like indentured servitude,’’ he state.’’ more harm than good. The amount of active ‘‘There’s a great profit motive in it,’’ the said. ‘‘It is a form of human trafficking.’’ ingredient in a pill and the metabolic path DEA’s Ladd said. ‘‘In Colorado, marijuana le- The workers often fly from China to Bel- that the ingredient takes after it enters your galization has magnified the black market. gium, and from Belgium to Mexico, before body—these are things that drugmakers will The standard price per pound here is $2,000, making asylum claims at the border and have painstakingly mapped out before the but they can get $3,500 to $4,500 by shipping then disappearing by the time they’re sched- product comes on the market, with a trac- it back East. The profits are great there.’’ uled to tell their stories in court, Ladd said. tor-trailer full of supporting documentation. Often when grow houses are raided, immigra- Mr. MCHENRY. Mr. Speaker, beyond With marijuana, apparently, we’re still tion fugitives are discovered, he said. the regulatory issues, Congress has yet waiting for this information. It’s hard to The grow homes are usually purchased by to examine these potential societal study a substance that until very recently shell property management companies, Ladd harms and implications for human has been almost universally illegal. And the said. ‘‘These growers can hide in plain health. few studies we do have were done mostly in sight,’’ he said. In a January article regarding re- the nineteen-eighties and nineties, when can- The Sacramento-area raids, which also nabis was not nearly as potent as it is now. struck Calaveras, Placer, San Joaquin, El search on the health effects of mari- Because of recent developments in plant Dorado, Yuba and Amador counties, shed juana, author Malcolm Gladwell wrote: breeding and growing techniques, the typical some light on how many of the foreign rings ‘‘Before any drug gets permitted to go concentration ofTHC, the psychoactive in- operate. on the market, basic questions have to gredient in marijuana, has gone from the low Northern California-based DEA Special be answered about its safety and effi- single digits to more than twenty per cent— Agent Casey Rettig said suspects send cash cacy. We don’t know relatively basic from a swig of near-beer to a tequila shot. to the United States in $9,999 increments, questions about marijuana.’’ Are users smoking less, to compensate for just below the mandated reporting threshold, I include this piece from The New the drug’s new potency? Or simply getting and receive funds from China that fly under more stoned, more quickly? Is high-potency Yorker in the RECORD. that nation’s $50,000 foreign spending limit. cannabis more of a problem for younger They then purchase homes with the help of [From the New Yorker, jAN. 7, 2019] users or for older ones? For some drugs, the cash lenders instead of traditional mortgage IS MARIJUANA AS SAFE AS WE THINK?(BY dose-response curve is linear: twice the dose firms. MALCOLM GLADWELL) creates twice the effect. For other drugs, it’s Last fall, a scenario fitting that pattern A few years ago, the National Academy of nonlinear: twice the dose can increase the ef- unfolded in Grays Harbor County, Wash- Medicine convened a panel of sixteen leading fect tenfold, or hardly at all. Which is true

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:52 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00061 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.031 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7968 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019 for cannabis? It also matters, of course, how legal reforms), he has begun to see a new years past wasn’t a gateway, but today’s cannabis is consumed. It can be smoked, kind of patient: older, and not from the high-potency marijuana is. Methodologi- vaped, eaten, or applied to the skin. How are marginalized communities that his patients cally, Berenson points out, the issue is com- absorption patterns affected? usually come from. These are otherwise sta- plicated by the fact that the first wave of Last May, not long before Canada legalized ble middle-class professionals. Berenson marijuana legalization took place on the the recreational use of marijuana, Beau Kil- writes, ‘‘A surprising number of them West Coast, while the first serious wave of mer, a drug-policy expert with the RAND seemed to have used only cannabis and no opioid addiction took place in the middle of Corporation, testified before the Canadian other drugs before their breaks. The disease the country. So, if all you do is eyeball the Parliament. He warned that the fastest- they’d developed looked like schizophrenia, numbers, it looks as if opioid overdoses are growing segment of the legal market in but it had developed later-and their prog- lowest in cannabis states and highest in non- Washington State was extracts for inhala- nosis seemed to be worse. Their delusions cannabis states. tion, and that the mean THC concentration and paranoia hardly responded to Not surprisingly, the data we have are for those products was more than sixty-five antipsychotics.’’ messy. Berenson, in his role as devil’s advo- per cent. ‘‘We know little about the health Messamore theorizes that THC may inter- cate, emphasizes the research that sees can- consequences-risks and benefits-of many of fere with the brain’s anti-inflammatory nabis as opening the door to opioid use. For the cannabis products likely to be sold in mechanisms, resulting in damage to nerve example, two studies of identical twins—in nonmedical markets,’’ he said. Nor did we cells and blood vessels. Is this the reason, the Netherlands and in Australia—show that, know how higher-potency products would af- Berenson wonders, for the rising incidence of in cases where one twin used cannabis before fect THC consumption. schizophrenia in the developed world, where the age of seventeen and the other didn’t, When it comes to cannabis, the best-case cannabis use has also increased? In the the cannabis user was several times more scenario is that we will muddle through, northern parts of Finland, incidence of the likely to develop an addiction to opioids. learning more about its true effects as we go disease has nearly doubled since 1993. In Den- Berenson also enlists a statistician at N.Y.U. along and adapting as needed-the way, say, mark, cases have risen twenty-five per cent to help him sort through state-level overdose the once extraordinarily lethal innovation of since 2000. In the United States, hospital data, and what he finds is not encouraging: the automobile has been gradually tamed in emergency rooms have seen a fifty per-cent ‘‘States where more people used cannabis the course of its history. For those curious increase in schizophrenia admissions since tended to have more overdoses.’’ about the worst-case scenario, Alex Berenson 2006. If you include cases where schizo- The National Academy panel is more judi- has written a short manifesto, ‘‘Tell Your phrenia was a secondary diagnosis, annual cious. Its conclusion is that we simply don’t Children: The Truth About Marijuana, Men- admissions in the past decade have increased know enough, because there haven’t been tal Illness, and Violence.’’ from 1.26 million to 2.1 million. any ‘‘systematic’’ studies. But the panel’s Berenson begins his book with an account Berenson’s second question derives from uncertainty is scarcely more reassuring than of a conversation he had with his wife, a psy- the first. The delusions and paranoia that Berenson’s alarmism. Seventy-two thousand chiatrist who specializes in treating men- often accompany psychoses can sometimes Americans died in 2017 of drug overdoses. tally ill criminals. They were discussing one trigger violent behavior. If cannabis is impli- Should you embark on a procannabis crusade of the many grim cases that cross her desk— cated in a rise in psychoses, should we expect without knowing whether it will add to or ‘‘the usual horror story, somebody who’d cut the increased use of marijuana to be accom- subtract from that number? up his grandmother or set fire to his apart- panied by a rise in violent crime, as Drug policy is always clearest at the ment.’’ Then his wife said something like Berenson’s wife suggested? Once again, there fringes. Illegal opioids are at one end. They ‘‘Of course, he was high, been smoking pot is no definitive answer, so Berenson has col- are dangerous. Manufacturers and distribu- his whole life.’’ lected bits and pieces of evidence. For exam- tors belong in prison, and users belong in Of course? I said. ple, in a 2013 paper in the Journal of Inter- drug-treatment programs. The cannabis in- Yeah, they all smoke. personal Violence, researchers looked at the dustry would have us believe that its prod- Well . . . other things too, right? results of a survey of more than twelve thou- uct, like coffee, belongs at the other end of Berenson used to be an investigative re- sand American high-school students. The au- the continuum. ‘‘Flow Kana partners with porter for the Times, where he covered, thors assumed that alcohol use among stu- independent multi-generational farmers who among other things, health care and the dents would be a predictor of violent behav- cultivate under full sun, sustainably, and in pharmaceutical industry. Then he left the ior, and that marijuana use would predict small batches,’’ the promotional literature paper to write a popular series of thrillers. the opposite. In fact, those who used only for one California cannabis brand reads. At the time of his conversation with his marijuana were three times more likely to ‘‘Using only organic methods, these stewards wife, he had the typical layman’s view of be physically aggressive than abstainers of the land have spent their lives balancing cannabis, which is that it is largely benign. were; those who used only alcohol were 2.7 a unique and harmonious relationship be- His wife’s remark alarmed him, and he set times more likely to be aggressive. tween the farm, the genetics and the out to educate himself. Berenson is con- Observational studies like these don’t es- terroir.’’ But cannabis is not coffee. It’s strained by the same problem the National tablish causation. But they invite the sort of somewhere in the middle. The experience of Academy of Medicine faced—that, when it research that could. most users is relatively benign and predict- comes to marijuana, we really don’t know Berenson looks, too, at the early results able; the experience of a few, at the margins, very much. But he has a reporter’s tenacity, from the state of Washington, which, in 2014, is not. Products or behaviors that have that a novelist’s imagination, and an outsider’s became the first U.S. jurisdiction to legalize kind of muddled risk profile are confusing, knack for asking intemperate questions. The recreational marijuana. Between 2013 and because it is very difficult for those in the result is disturbing. 2017, the state’s aggravated-assault rate rose benign middle to appreciate the experiences The first of Berenson’s questions concerns seventeen per cent, which was nearly twice of those at the statistical tails. Low-fre- what has long been the most worrisome the increase seen nationwide, and the mur- quency risks also take longer and are far point about cannabis: its association with der rate rose forty-four per cent, which was harder to quantify, and the lesson of ‘‘Tell mental illness. Many people with serious more than twice the increase nationwide. We Your Children’’ and the National Academy psychiatric illness smoke lots of pot. The don’t know that an increase in cannabis use report is that we aren’t yet in a position to marijuana lobby typically responds to this was responsible for that surge in violence. do so. For the moment, cannabis probably fact by saying that pot-smoking is a re- Berenson, though, finds it strange that, at a belongs in the category of substances that sponse to mental illness, not the cause of time when Washington may have exposed its society permits but simultaneously discour- it—that people with psychiatric issues use population to higher levels of what is widely ages. Cigarettes are heavily taxed, and marijuana to self-medicate. That is only assumed to be a calming substance, its citi- smoking is prohibited in most workplaces partly true. In some cases, heavy cannabis zens began turning on one another with in- and public spaces. Alcohol can’t be sold with- use does seem to cause mental illness. As the creased aggression. out a license and is kept out of the hands of National Academy panel declared, in one of His third question is whether cannabis children. Prescription drugs have rules about its few unequivocal conclusions, ‘‘Cannabis serves as a gateway drug. There are two pos- dosages, labels that describe their risks, and use is likely to increase the risk of devel- sibilities. The first is that marijuana acti- policies that govern their availability. The oping schizophrenia and other psychoses; the vates certain behavioral and neurological advice that seasoned potheads sometimes higher the use, the greater the risk.’’ pathways that ease the onset of more serious give new users—‘‘start low and go slow’’—is Berenson thinks that we are far too san- addictions. The second possibility is that probably good advice for society as a whole, guine about this link. He wonders how large marijuana offers a safer alternative to other at least until we better understand what we the risk is, and what might be behind it. In drugs: that if you start smoking pot to deal are dealing with. one of the most fascinating sections of ‘‘Tell with chronic pain you never graduate to Late last year, the commissioner of the Your Children,’’ he sits down with Erik opioids. Food and Drug Administration, Scott Gott- Messamore, a psychiatrist who specializes in Which is it? This is a very hard question to lieb, announced a federal crackdown on e- neuropharmacology and in the treatment of answer. We’re only a decade or so into the cigarettes. He had seen the data on soaring schizophrenia. Messamore reports that, fol- widespread recreational use of high-potency use among teen-agers, and, he said, ‘‘it lowing the recent rise in marijuana use in marijuana. Maybe cannabis opens the door shocked my conscience.’’ He announced that the U.S. (it has almost doubled in the past to other drugs, but only after prolonged use. the F.D.A. would ban many kinds of flavored two decades, not necessarily as the result of Or maybe the low-potency marijuana of e-cigarettes, which are especially popular

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:07 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00062 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.035 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7969 with teens, and would restrict the retail out- colleagues on this side of the aisle. I worked so long and so hard on this leg- lets where e-cigarettes were available. want to commend him and the gen- islation, I am proud of the work that In the dozen years since e-cigarettes were tleman from Ohio (Mr. STIVERS), once they have done; I am proud of the co- introduced into the marketplace, they have again, for their commitment to this ef- operation that they have dem- attracted an enormous amount of attention. There are scores of studies and papers on the fort. onstrated; and I am proud to be on this subject in the medical and legal literature, This version of the legislation before floor with them today. grappling with the questions raised by the us right now is dramatically improved This bipartisan bill addresses a press- new technology. Vaping is clearly popular and includes a number of Republican ing public safety issue for businesses among kids. Is it a gateway to traditional priorities, such as language on Oper- that legally grow, market, or sell can- tobacco use? Some public-health experts ation Choke Point, and a solution that nabis in States that have legalized its worry that we’re grooming a younger gen- will help industrial hemp farmers use and that are currently forced to op- eration for a lifetime of dangerous addiction. across the country, but most especially erate with cash only. Forty-seven Yet other people see e-cigarettes as a much safer alternative for adult smokers looking in Kentucky. States, three territories, and D.C. have to satisfy their nicotine addiction. That’s Yet, Mr. Speaker, there are many legalized some form of marijuana, and the British perspective. Last year, a Par- questions left to be answered. We do it is time for Congress to act. liamentary committee recommended cutting not fully understand the sweeping im- Cannabis-related businesses are taxes on e-cigarettes and allowing vaping in plications of this legislation. We do not locked out of the banking system and areas where it had previously been banned. yet know what the resulting regu- cannot maintain checking accounts, Since e-cigarettes are as much as ninety-five latory regime will look like, nor do we process payroll obligations, or pay per cent less harmful than regular ciga- have any assurance that it will not ex- taxes. The Financial Services Com- rettes, the committee argued, why not pro- mote them? Gottlieb said that he was split- pose the current financial system to il- mittee heard testimony in February ting the difference between the two posi- licit activity. In particular, as it is cur- that these cash-only businesses and tions—giving adults ‘‘opportunities to tran- rently drafted, H.R. 1595 offers insuffi- their employees have become targets sition to non-combustible products,’’ while cient safeguards against drug cartels for violent criminals. upholding the F.D.A.’s ‘‘solemn mandate to accessing the banking system. The SAFE Banking Act addresses make nicotine products less accessible and What this legislation does is provide this serious problem by providing a less appealing to children.’’ He was imme- a half answer to a much larger problem safe harbor to financial institutions diately criticized.‘‘Somehow, we have com- than just banking. We owe it to our that choose to serve State-regulated pletely lost all sense of public-health per- constituents and to the public to have cannabis businesses. The bill would spective,’’ Michael Siegel, a public-health re- searcher at Boston University, wrote after a serious debate on the underlying also help others, like plumbers or elec- the F.D.A. announcement: issue, and that is the issue of whether tricians who provide services to can- Every argument that the F.D.A. is making or not cannabis should be considered a nabis businesses, who face similar chal- in justifying a ban on the sale of electronic schedule I substance under the Con- lenges with access to banking services. cigarettes in convenience stores and gas sta- trolled Substances Act. I know Mr. With the passage of this bill, all of tions applies even more strongly for real to- PERLMUTTER and I share that same sen- these businesses will gain access to tra- bacco cigarettes: you know, the ones that timent that we should have that larger ditional financial services that most kill hundreds of thousands of Americans debate. businesses take for granted. each year. Something is terribly wrong with our sense of perspective when we take the e- In the meantime, Congress is work- H.R. 1595 also promotes diversity and cigarettes off the shelf but allow the old- ing in a bipartisan way to come up inclusion, with several reporting provi- fashioned ones to remain. with at least a measure of a solution, sions to help Congress monitor that Among members of the public-health com- but I am hopeful that we can get the minority-owned and women-owned can- munity, it is impossible to spend five min- medical research necessary and the nabis businesses get access to credit utes on the e-cigarette question without get- FDA processes necessary for us to have they need and have a fair chance to ting into an argument. And this is nicotine that larger debate as well. I would wel- compete. they are arguing about, a drug that has been come that debate, as I know the Amer- As I have said before and I say here exhaustively studied by generations of sci- entists. We don’t worry that e-cigarettes in- ican people would as well. on the floor today, this bill is but one crease the number of fatal car accidents, di- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of important piece of what should be a minish motivation and cognition, or impair my time. comprehensive series of cannabis re- academic achievement. The drugs through Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I form bills. the gateway that we worry about with e- yield myself such time as I may con- I have long fought for criminal jus- cigarettes are Marlboros, not opioids. There sume. tice reform and deeply understand the are no enormous scientific question marks Mr. Speaker, I say thank you to my need to fully address the historical ra- over nicotine’s dosing and bio-availability. friend for the kind words about work- cial and social inequities related to the Yet we still proceed cautiously and carefully ing across the aisle. This has been a criminalization of marijuana. with nicotine, because it is a powerful drug, and when powerful drugs are consumed by partnership in many respects, lots of I support legislation like Representa- lots of people in new and untested ways we interchange. tives LEE’s Marijuana Justice Act and have an obligation to try to figure out what I would also say to my friend, the Fi- Chairman NADLER’s MORE Act that will happen. nancial Services Committee has cer- would de-schedule marijuana federally A week after Gottlieb announced his tain jurisdiction. We couldn’t take up and provide assistance, such as job crackdown on e-cigarettes, on the ground all of the different things that the gen- training and reentry services, for those that they are too enticing to children, Siegel tleman has suggested, Mr. Speaker, but who have been harmed by the war on visited the first recreational-marijuana fa- we were able to take up this marijuana drugs. cility in Massachusetts. Here is what he found on the menu, each offering laced with bill. It is the first time this Congress Let me be clear. It is long overdue for large amounts of a drug, THC, that no one has done it, certainly in my terms Congress to address the unjust crim- knows much about: here, and the reason we did that was inalization of marijuana use. So I ea- Strawberry-flavored chewy bites because the chairwoman was a driving gerly look forward to the Judiciary Large, citrus gummy bears force to get this matter in front of the Committee sending the legislation to Delectable Belgian dark chocolate bars Congress. the House floor soon. Assorted fruit-flavored chews Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the I thank Representatives PERLMUTTER Assorted fruit-flavored cubes Raspberry flavored confection gentlewoman from California (Ms. and HECK for their longstanding leader- Raspberry flavored lozenges WATERS), chairwoman of the full com- ship on this issue for the past 6 years. Chewy, cocoa caramel bite-sized treats mittee. I urge all Members to vote ‘‘yes’’ on Raspberry & watermelon flavored lozenges Ms. WATERS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in the bill and, when we get the legisla- Chocolate-chip brownies. He concludes, support of H.R. 1595, the SAFE Banking tion from the Judiciary Committee, to ‘‘This is public health in 2018?’’ Act, sponsored by Representatives ED do all of those things that I have spo- Mr. MCHENRY. Mr. Speaker, I appre- PERLMUTTER, DENNY HECK, STEVE STIV- ken about here, what is considered jus- ciate the gentleman from Colorado’s ERS, and WARREN DAVIDSON. Let me say tice for those who have been harmed by willingness to work with several of my to all of these individuals who have some of the laws that cause people to

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:52 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00063 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.035 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7970 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019 be incarcerated. We eagerly look for- Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the If we do nothing, bad things will ward to that legislation. We urge the gentleman from Washington (Mr. again happen. If we pass this law, if we Judiciary Committee to send it to the HECK) who has been working on this pass the SAFE Banking Act, the public floor so that we can support it. subject with me for the last 6 years. safety measure, then we can avoid an- Mr. MCHENRY. Mr. Speaker, I yield Mr. HECK. Mr. Speaker, I thank the other widow, Samantha, and another 11⁄2 minutes to the gentleman from gentleman from Colorado for yielding. murdered clerk at a dispensary. We can Michigan (Mr. HUIZENGA), the ranking Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. make our neighborhood safer, and we member of the Investor Protection, En- 1595, the SAFE Banking Act. can make our communities safer. trepreneurship, and Capital Markets Before I do that, I want to acknowl- Please join us in voting ‘‘yes’’ on H.R. Subcommittee. edge the leadership of this man for a 1595. Mr. HUIZENGA. Mr. Speaker, I ap- very long period of time. The only rea- Mr. MCHENRY. Mr. Speaker, how preciate the ranking member allowing son we are standing here tonight about much time remains? me this time. to vote on this is because of the tire- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- Let’s set aside the moral and societal less and brilliant leadership by the gen- tleman from North Carolina has 9 min- aspects of cannabis and the debate and tleman from Colorado. I thank him for utes remaining. The gentleman from acknowledge that we have a problem. it. It has been an incredible journey Colorado has 8 minutes remaining. We do have a problem. We have States over a long period of time. I thank the Mr. MCHENRY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 that have decided to violate Federal chair of the committee as well for her minute to the gentleman from German- law; and within those States, we have strong and clear leadership on this. town, Tennessee (Mr. KUSTOFF). banking institutions and businesses Lastly, I would like to thank the two Mr. KUSTOFFF of Tennessee. Mr. that are operating within the confines gentlemen from Ohio, Mr. STIVERS and Speaker, I want to thank the ranking of the State, however, that are still in Mr. DAVIDSON, who are not just allies, member for yielding. violation of the Federal law. they are friends and have done excel- Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposi- Now, here is what we do agree on: We lent work in this regard. tion to H.R. 1595, the SAFE Banking need to have a goal of predictability This is a public safety bill pure and Act. I do want to say, I appreciate the for these financial institutions and for simple. If you want your neighborhoods debate that we have had in our Finan- these businesses. However, I don’t be- to be safer, Mr. Speaker, vote ‘‘yes.’’ If cial Services Committee, but I think lieve that this bill will ultimately do you want your communities to be that we need to have the same debate that because the Federal Government safer, vote ‘‘yes.’’ If you want the em- in the Judiciary Committee. still views this as a schedule I sub- ployees at the dispensaries throughout We all know that over the last sev- stance. the 47 States who have some form of le- eral years, States across the country I had an amendment in committee, galized cannabis, vote ‘‘yes.’’ have passed various laws to legalize as the author of the bill well knows, This is a public safety bill, and it is marijuana for both recreational and that would have forced alignment with not hypothetical. It is real. Exhibit A, medical purposes. That flawed ap- all of the various regulators. I think at Travis Mason. June 18 of 2016, Travis proach has created a patchwork of the time, my recollection is, we count- Mason got up and went to work. He was State laws and regulations that have ed 13 different Federal regulators that full of optimism about life. He was a allowed for the spread of marijuana use touch these institutions in one way or marine veteran. He served this country across the U.S. another. honorably. He was looking forward to Proponents of this bill claim that it The answer to that was, well, in the his future, because he just had been in- will provide consistent guidelines for bill, we have a requirement that they formed that he was approved to take marijuana companies to do business are going to agree with each other the Denver Police Department test. He across our national finance system. within 180 days. was confident he would pass it. He had However, my concern is that the legal- Well, this is not going to come as a been studying for it. ization will only provide safe harbor surprise to those watching on C–SPAN. So he kissed his lovely wife, while legitimizing and encouraging We can’t collectively tie our shoes here Samantha, good-bye. They were both more widespread use of this currently in Washington in 180 days, much less marine veterans, both just 24 with illegal drug. get through something that com- three small children. He kissed Aidyn The reality today is that we are vot- plicated. and Daisy—they were twins—and little ing to nationally legalize marijuana My amendment said that this would baby Julian good-bye and went to work throughout our banking system rather go into effect only when and if all of where he served as a security guard in than taking the correct approach, the regulators could agree to the lan- a dispensary in suburban Denver. which I believe is to take a vote to le- guage of how to deal with it. I still Because that was an all-cash settle- galize what is currently an illegal sub- think that is the right way to go. ment, because the Federal law did not stance. allow for that business to be banked, to I would ask my colleagues who sup- b 1645 be within the guardrails of the finan- port this bill to think long and hard The SPEAKER pro tempore. The cial system, an evil person walked in about what you are actually voting on time of the gentleman has expired. that night and shot Travis dead and today, because the consequences will Mr. MCHENRY. Mr. Speaker, I yield left Samantha a 24-year-old widow with be far-reaching beyond the intent of the gentleman from Michigan an addi- three small children. This was so un- this bill. tional 30 seconds. necessary. If we pass this legislation Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, Mr. HUIZENGA. There is a big dif- that does not have to happen. This is I yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman ference we know between industrial not hypothetical. from California (Ms. LEE), who is a co- hemp and recreational cannabis. The You can be agnostic on the under- chair of the Congressional Cannabis only way for us to really get at this lying policy of whether or not cannabis Caucus and a sponsor of the Marijuana issue and provide predictability to the should be legal for either adult rec- Justice Act which we hope to see companies, to the financial institu- reational use or to treat seizures for ju- marked up and brought to the floor. tions, and to our citizens is to have the venile epileptics, but you cannot be ag- Ms. LEE of California. First of all, full debate about whether marijuana nostic on the need to improve safety in Madam Speaker, let me thank Con- and cannabis should be a schedule I this area. gressman PERLMUTTER for yielding and substance or not. It is time for this full If you believe that the first two pro- also for his tireless leadership. This has debate to happen, and I look forward to visions, especially, of the Cole memo- taken a heck of a long time. The gen- it. randum, which sets forth: Keep mari- tleman has stayed with it. He has been Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, to juana out of the hands of children and persistent, and I stand here and salute my friend from Michigan, I guess I keep cash out of the hands of the car- his efforts. have more confidence in the Federal tels, if you support that, you must vote I also want to thank Chairwoman employees that they can get something ‘‘yes’’ on this bill so that we can track WATERS for moving this bill out of the done in the next 180 days. this and so that we can monitor this. Financial Services Committee and for

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:52 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00064 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.059 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7971 her support for our Marijuana Justice good or bad thing. Instead, I am nar- Inc., the National Armored Car Asso- Act. I want to thank Congressman rowly focused on the public safety as- ciation, the American Financial Serv- HECK for his clarity as to why this bill pects of this bill. The inconsistencies ices Association, and ScottsMiracle- is necessary and for his support. And between State and Federal law have Gro. then, of course, my partner and friend, created a situation where a growing H.R. 1595, the SAFE Banking Act, is sup- who has been on this issue so many number of State-regulated businesses ported by a wide range of national organiza- years as co-chair of the bipartisan Con- are operating on a cash-only basis. As tions and state officials, including: gressional Cannabis Caucus in which I a result, they sit on large pools of cash National Association of Attorneys General also serve as co-chair, Congressman that make them a magnet for violent (NAAG), United Food and Commercial Work- ers (UFCW), Credit Union National Associa- EARL BLUMENAUER. I salute and thank robberies. tion (CUNA), Independent Community Bank- everyone for getting us to this point. The transactions of cash-only busi- ers Association (ICBA), America Bankers As- The SAFE Banking Act would explic- nesses are not subjected to rigorous sociation (ABA), Mid-size Bank Coalition of itly permit banks and other financial anti-money laundering or know your America (MBCA), National Bankers Associa- institutions to work directly with customer requirements that would be tion (NBA), 50 State Banking Associations, State legal cannabis businesses—legal required for bank account holders. This Electronic Transaction Association (ETA), cannabis businesses—instead of relying makes it difficult for regulators and Third Party Payment Processors Association on cash transactions. This bill is not law enforcement to trace transactions (TPPPA), Law Enforcement Action Partner- only timely but extremely necessary. or to freeze money. ship (LEAP), The Real Estate Roundtable The SAFE Banking Act will make (RER), National Association of REALTORS, Right now the cannabis industry needs Safe and Responsible Banking Alliance access to safe and effective banking our communities safer by getting cash (SARBA), American Land Title Association immediately. off the streets and into regulated finan- (ALTA). Now, let me be clear. Federal law se- cial institutions, so we can root out American Property Casualty Insurance As- verely limits access to loans and cap- fraud and other illegal activity. The sociation (APCIA), The Council of Insurance ital for the cannabis business, espe- bill also extends the safe harbor to any Agents and Brokers (CIAB), Reinsurance As- cially, mind you, for those who have proceeds indirectly received from these sociation of America (RAA), Independent In- cannabis-related arrests and convic- businesses such as a hardware store surance Agents and Brokers of America (Big down the street or the landlord of these ‘‘I’’), Wholesale Specialty Insurance Associa- tions on their record. That means that tion (WSIA), National Association of Profes- less than one-fifth of the cannabis in- businesses. sional Insurance Agents (PIA), National As- dustry is owned or operated by people Importantly, the SAFE Banking Act sociation of Mutual Insurance Companies of color, even though African Ameri- does not change the legal status of (NAMIC), Rural County Representatives of cans have been shown to use cannabis marijuana. Additionally, H.R. 1595 also California (RCRC), Brinks, Inc., Inter- at the same rate as White Americans, includes provisions that would prevent national Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC), yet are incarcerated at about 80 per- financial regulators from denying or National Association of Professional Em- cent more in terms of incarceration discouraging access to the banking sys- ployer Associations (NAPEA), National Can- nabis Industry Association (NCIA), Minority rates. This is just plain wrong. So this tem for other legal businesses as hap- pened in 2014 through 2016. This protec- Cannabis Business Association (MCBA), Na- bill is a great first start to addressing tional Cannabis Roundtable (NCR), Cannabis all of these issues. tion is a major protection for other Trade Federation (CTF), ScottsMiracle-Gro, I am telling you, Madam Speaker, legal businesses. National Armored Car Association (NACA). communities of color should equally I want to thank Mr. PERLMUTTER and Additionally, the Mayors Coalition to Push benefit from all of the laws that have Mr. HECK for their incredible advocacy for Marijuana Reform, 38 State Attorneys been passed at the State level. They on this. I want to thank Chairwoman General, 20 Governors, 18 State Banking Su- should have the opportunity to gen- WATERS and Ranking Member pervisors, and the Florida Agriculture Com- erate generational wealth for their MCHENRY for their honest and hard- missioner have endorsed the legislation. families, too. working efforts, even when they dis- Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, That is why, in addition to this bill, agree. And I want to thank Senator I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman the House must bring forward legisla- CORY GARDNER who has championed from Oregon (Mr. BLUMENAUER), who tion like my Marijuana Justice Act this bill in the Senate. has been the quarterback of a lot of and the MORE Act, which addresses Madam Speaker, I urge my col- this cannabis legislation. criminal justice reform, restorative leagues to vote ‘‘yes’’ on H.R. 1595. Mr. BLUMENAUER. Madam Speaker, justice, and fully reinvests in commu- Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I appreciate the gentleman’s courtesy, nities of color impacted by the failed I include in the RECORD a list of sup- the leadership, and you have heard and racist war on drugs. porters for the SAFE Banking Act from a number of the champions in this Madam Speaker, I want to thank Mr. from a broad coalition, including the House fighting for a more rational pol- PERLMUTTER, again, for his leadership National Association of Attorneys Gen- icy regarding cannabis. and for working with us to get this to eral, including 38 State attorneys gen- We are in this fix today because Con- the floor. eral, 20 State Governors, and 18 State gress has refused to provide the part- Mr. MCHENRY. Madam Speaker, I banking supervisors, the United Food nership and the leadership that the yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from and Commercial Workers, the Credit States demand. The States aren’t wait- Columbus, Ohio (Mr. STIVERS), who is Union National Association, the Inde- ing for us. As you have heard, 47 States the ranking member of the National pendent Community Bankers Associa- have taken steps to legalize some form Security, International Development tion, the American Bankers Associa- of State legal cannabis. and Monetary Policy Subcommittee of tion, the Mid-size Bank Coalition of One of the most insidious aspects of the Financial Services Committee. He America, the National Bankers Asso- our being out of sync is what we have is a great advocate for the bill. ciation, Law Enforcement Action Part- seen in terms of access to banking Mr. STIVERS. Madam Speaker, I nership, the Minority Cannabis Busi- services. Congressman HECK elaborated would like to thank the ranking mem- ness Association, the Mayors Coalition I think very emotionally and effec- ber for yielding. for Marijuana Reform, eight insurance tively about the dangers that this pre- Madam Speaker, I rise in support of trade associations, the International sents. We have an opportunity to fix H.R. 1595, the SAFE Banking Act. The Council of Shopping Centers, the Na- that problem. bill provides a limited safe harbor for tional Cannabis Industry Association, This is an $11 billion industry and banks and credit unions to open and the National Cannabis Roundtable, the growing, and it is growing because the maintain accounts for marijuana-re- Cannabis Trade Federation, the Cali- people and the States have demanded lated businesses and other nonmari- fornia Cannabis Industry, the Florida it. We need to step up and solve one of juana-related businesses. Agriculture Commissioner, the Safe the biggest problems, and that is sim- I personally oppose recreational and Responsible Banking Alliance, the ply they don’t have access to banking marijuana. But for me, this bill has Electronic Transaction Association, services. I have worked on this issue nothing to do with the larger debate the Real Estate Roundtable, the Na- for decades. I have never met a human about marijuana and whether it is a tional Association of Realtors, Brinks, being who feels that there is any good

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:52 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00065 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.062 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7972 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019 purpose served by forcing them to pay district, is exploring the use of hemp get cash off our streets and into the their bills with duffle bags full of $20 for car interiors. Hemp farmers in my regulated financial system. bills—not one person. It is an invita- district are cultivating hemp to I am also pleased the bill includes tion to theft, it is an invitation to produce products ranging from Mr. LUETKEMEYER’s legislation to stop money laundering already, it is an in- nutraceuticals, dietary supplements, the closing of accounts on the basis of vitation to tax evasion, and it stifles pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, apparel, political biases or motivations. the opportunities of this business. footwear, fashion, and even industrial For far too long, financial institu- I strongly urge our colleagues to vote products and construction materials. tions have said: You are not going to for this as the next step. This is an im- But for hemp producers and busi- bank those people, are you? portant foundational, but it is not the nesses to fully scale up and take advan- It is time to defend civil liberties and last step. We have important legisla- tage of the descheduling under the pass this important bill. tion that is keyed up and ready to go. farm bill, they need access to financial Madam Speaker, I urge bipartisan, This approval today will provide mo- services. broad support of its passage. mentum that we need for further re- Again, I thank the gentleman from Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I yield 45 seconds to the gentleman form that we all want and will make Colorado (Mr. PERLMUTTER), my friend, America safer and stronger. for working with me in a bipartisan from California (Mr. CORREA). Mr. CORREA. Madam Speaker, I rise b 1700 way, and I urge support for H.R. 1595. Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, in strong support of this commonsense Mr. MCHENRY. Madam Speaker, I may I inquire how much time each side legislation, the SAFE Banking Act. When I was a State senator in Cali- yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from has remaining. fornia, I was visited by Dr. Moynihan, Kentucky (Mr. BARR), chair of the Sub- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Ms. who came to visit my office to ask that committee on Oversight and Investiga- DEGETTE). The gentleman from Colo- I do some legislation to help his daugh- tions of the Committee on Financial rado has 4 minutes remaining. The gen- ter. In her short lifetime, she had been Services. tleman from North Carolina has 4 min- tormented by epileptic seizures. The Mr. BARR. Madam Speaker, I rise in utes remaining. only drug that worked for her without support of H.R. 1595, the SAFE Banking Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, severe side effects was cannabis. Act, and I thank the gentleman from I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from It breaks my heart to know that Colorado (Mr. PERLMUTTER), my friend, New York (Mr. MEEKS), the chair of the these legit businesses can pay their for working with me in a bipartisan Subcommittee on Consumer Protec- taxes with cash, yet customers like Dr. way to include two amendments that tions and Financial Institutions. Moynihan can’t use a credit card. He will allow legal hemp farmers and busi- Mr. MEEKS. Madam Speaker, there also has to pay with cash to get legiti- nesses in my district to access finan- has been a rapid and dramatic shift in cial services. mate products. It doesn’t make sense. the legal treatment of cannabis, led by Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues Kentuckians have a deep interest in voters at the local and State levels. the production, cultivation, and sale of to please support commonsense legisla- Nearly every American now lives in a tion. Please vote ‘‘aye’’ on this legisla- industrial hemp, and we have historic State where cannabis has been decrimi- connections to this, too. Many Ameri- tion. nalized to some extent and legal busi- Mr. MCHENRY. Madam Speaker, may cans may not know, but my prede- ness activities permitted to varying de- I inquire how much time I have re- cessor in the central Kentucky seat in grees, including in my home State of maining. Congress, Speaker of the House Henry New York. But Federal drug laws and The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- Clay, was once a hemp farmer. Now, bank regulations have not evolved to tleman from North Carolina has 3 min- thanks to the farm bill, the hemp in- reflect this new reality. We need clear, utes remaining. The gentleman from dustry in the Commonwealth is boom- harmonized laws, which the SAFE Colorado has 21⁄4 minutes remaining. ing once again. Banking Act provides. Mr. MCHENRY. Madam Speaker, I Much of the resurgence of the indus- Without passage of this bill, the legal yield 1 minute to the gentleman from try occurred under the Industrial Hemp cannabis industry is forced to operate Florida (Mr. GAETZ). Research Pilot Program, established by mostly in cash, depriving law enforce- Mr. GAETZ. Madam Speaker, I thank the 2014 farm bill. Since the program’s ment of important financial data and the gentleman from North Carolina enactment in 2014, the number of ap- creating avoidable security risks for (Mr. MCHENRY) for yielding, and it is proved acres in Kentucky increased companies and their employees. on behalf of those cannabis patients in from 922 to over 50,000. In 2018, sales of With the passage of this bill, entre- Fort Walton Beach and across the Sun- hemp products were three-and-a-half preneurs, employees, and financial in- shine State that I rise in support of the more times than the previous year. stitutions operating legally within the SAFE Banking Act. The 2018 farm bill took it a step fur- bounds of State and local laws will no I am proud to have been a part of ther and fully legalized industrial longer bear the burden of a punitive drafting Florida’s medical marijuana hemp, ending 80 years of prohibition of Tax Code, high compliance hurdles, the laws, and it is ludicrous that the Con- the plant. Hemp is now completely ex- lack of all basic financial services, and gress of the United States would stand empt from the Controlled Substances significant security risks. between people operating under the Act. Despite these positive steps for- I am proud of the work Mr. PERL- color of State law and their ability to ward, hemp businesses still have trou- MUTTER has done on this bill, and I access the financial system. ble accessing financial services like compliment him. It is good for no one to have billions bank accounts, loans, and payment Mr. MCHENRY. Madam Speaker, I of dollars rolling around outside of the processing. yield 1 minute to the gentleman from accountabilities, efficiencies, and safe- This bill will provide additional clar- Ohio (Mr. DAVIDSON), a great member guards that the American financial ity for banks, insurance companies, of the Committee on Financial Serv- system provides. and card processors that they can, in ices. A vast majority of States have legal- fact, do business with legally operating Mr. DAVIDSON of Ohio. Madam ized some form of cannabis, and if a hemp businesses. It would also direct Speaker, I rise today in support of the business is legal in that State, it our Federal financial regulators to SAFE Banking Act. should have the same financial protec- issue joint guidance to financial insti- This is a banking bill. It defends civil tions as any other business. tutions on how to serve hemp and CBD liberties with a simple concept: If it is I am a proud original cosponsor of businesses without legal risk. legal in your State, you should be able the SAFE Banking Act, and I thank There is amazing potential for hemp to bank it. No Federal regulator should my colleagues for their tireless work and hemp-derived products. One hemp be able to block an American’s lawful on this issue. I know the bill is not per- farmer in my district has an exclusive access to the financial system. fect. I expect the bill to get better in deal with Patagonia to provide hemp In Ohio, legal, State-regulated busi- the Senate, but hopefully, this will for farming. Toyota, which has the nesses are being forced into using cash build some commonsense momentum largest manufacturing facility in my or intermediaries. This bill will help for real cannabis reform.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:52 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00066 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.063 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7973 Let’s get this drug off the schedule I mend the gentleman from Colorado have done to put this bill and coalition list and do right for the great people in (Mr. PERLMUTTER) for how he has man- together. the country. aged this bill and brought it to the There are many marijuana issues Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, floor. that remain, but this one gets the cash I yield 45 seconds to the gentlewoman What we have here on the House off the streets. This is about public from the Virgin Islands (Ms. floor, and we are debating now, is a safety. PLASKETT). much broader bill and, therefore, will Madam Speaker, I urge all my col- Ms. PLASKETT. Madam Speaker, have a much broader vote than what leagues to vote ‘‘yes’’ on the SAFE today, because federally regulated we had in committee, however limited Banking Act, and I yield back the bal- banks and other financial institutions we were in committee jurisdiction. ance of my time. may face prosecution if they offer their Madam Speaker, I know if the gen- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The services to businesses selling legal can- tleman from Colorado (Mr. PERL- question is on the motion offered by nabis products across 47 States, D.C., MUTTER) were on the Appropriations the gentleman from Colorado (Mr. and four U.S. territories, many legal Committee, he would have worked for PERLMUTTER) that the House suspend businesses are forced to operate in a medical research funding. I know that the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 1595, as cash-only business, making them tar- if he were on the Energy and Com- amended. gets for theft and creating opportuni- merce Committee, he would have The question was taken. ties for tax evasion and money laun- worked for an FDA process on can- The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the dering. nabis. And if he were on the Committee opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being It is simply unfair to deprive legal, on the Judiciary, he would have in the affirmative, the ayes have it. State-approved businesses of financial worked to deschedule the drug. Mr. MCHENRY. Madam Speaker, on services any longer. Social equity will However, we find ourselves on the Fi- that I demand the yeas and nays. go further by allowing businesses to nancial Services Committee, and this The yeas and nays were ordered. come out of the shadows. is not a normal conversation that we The vote was taken by electronic de- As chair of the House Committee on have on the committee. But this is ad- vice, and there were—yeas 321, nays Agriculture’s Subcommittee on Bio- dressing a key issue that many States 103, not voting 9, as follows: technology, Horticulture, and Re- are facing, and many financial institu- [Roll No. 544] search, I am pleased that this legisla- tions, credit unions, and banks are fac- YEAS—321 tion was made inclusive of hemp as it ing, which is how to bank people with Adams Curtis Hill (AR) moved through the process. I have a lot of cash, with a product that is Aguilar Davids (KS) Hill (CA) heard from a number of legal hemp legal at the State level but defined at Allred Davidson (OH) Himes businesses that have experienced simi- the Federal level as an illicit substance Amash Davis (CA) Hollingsworth Amodei Davis, Danny K. Horn, Kendra S. lar issues. that is harmful for human consump- Armstrong Davis, Rodney Horsford Madam Speaker, I thank the gen- tion. Axne Dean Houlahan tleman from Colorado (Mr. PERL- While Congress is taking this half- Bacon DeFazio Hoyer MUTTER), my colleague, for the inclu- measure, it doesn’t resolve the issue. It Baird DeGette Huffman Balderson DeLauro Hunter sion of the territories. does not resolve the issue of medical Banks DelBene Jackson Lee Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, research or understanding the brain Barr Delgado Jayapal I yield 45 seconds to the gentlewoman science and how cannabis affects the Barraga´ n Demings Jeffries from New York (Mrs. CAROLYN B. adolescent brain. There are enormous Bass DeSaulnier Johnson (GA) Beatty Deutch Johnson (OH) MALONEY). questions there. There are enormous Bera Dingell Johnson (TX) Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New questions about the Federal Criminal Beyer Doggett Joyce (OH) York. Madam Speaker, I strongly sup- Code. But these are things that we Bishop (GA) Doyle, Michael Kaptur Bishop (UT) F. Katko port this bill and congratulate the gen- should be debating rather than this Blumenauer Emmer Keating tleman from Colorado (Mr. PERL- half-measure on banking. Blunt Rochester Engel Keller MUTTER) and the gentleman from Wash- While this is an important step on Bonamici Escobar Kelly (IL) ington (Mr. HECK) for their hard work. the question of the overall legalization Bost Eshoo Kelly (PA) Boyle, Brendan Espaillat Kennedy We have to pass this bill because it is of this drug, it still doesn’t resolve the F. Estes Khanna a public safety issue. Banks can’t serve issue fully. Brindisi Evans Kildee marijuana businesses, an $11 billion Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues Brooks (AL) Ferguson Kilmer business, because it is still illegal at for a ‘‘no’’ vote, but I expect this vote Brown (MD) Finkenauer Kim Brownley (CA) Fitzpatrick Kind the Federal level, which means that will pass on the suspension calendar Bustos Fleischmann King (NY) legal marijuana businesses around the today. I thank my colleague for his Butterfield Fletcher Kinzinger country operate in all cash. handling of this important issue and Carbajal Flores Kirkpatrick Ca´ rdenas Foster Krishnamoorthi This is a huge public safety issue be- the wise nature of how he has ap- Carson (IN) Frankel Kuster (NH) cause storing huge piles of cash in proached the amendment process to ad- Cartwright Fudge Lamb warehouses is a magnet for criminal dress many different equities across Case Gabbard Langevin activity. But it also means that compa- the country. I yield back the balance of Casten (IL) Gaetz Larsen (WA) Castor (FL) Gallego Larson (CT) nies that just provide services to mari- my time. Castro (TX) Garamendi Lawrence juana businesses, like electric or water Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, Chu, Judy Garcı´a (IL) Lawson (FL) utilities, are also getting cut off from I yield myself the balance of my time. Cicilline Garcia (TX) Lee (CA) Cisneros Gibbs Lee (NV) the banking system. Undermining peo- Madam Speaker, I thank the gen- Clark (MA) Golden Levin (CA) ple’s access to basic utilities creates tleman from North Carolina (Mr. Clarke (NY) Gomez Levin (MI) yet another public safety problem. MCHENRY). As I said at the top of this Clay Gonzalez (OH) Lewis Madam Speaker, I urge support for debate, this bill is about public safety, Cleaver Gonzalez (TX) Lieu, Ted Cohen Gooden Lipinski this bill. accountability, and respecting States’ Cole Gottheimer Loebsack Mr. MCHENRY. Madam Speaker, may rights. Collins (GA) Graves (GA) Lofgren I inquire how much time I have re- Our bill is narrowly tailored to get Collins (NY) Green (TN) Long maining. cash off the streets and improve public Comer Green, Al (TX) Loudermilk Connolly Griffith Lowenthal The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- safety in communities across the coun- Cooper Grijalva Lowey tleman from North Carolina has 2 min- try. Correa Grothman Luetkemeyer utes remaining. The gentleman from I thank my cosponsors. They have Costa Haaland Luja´ n Courtney Hagedorn Luria Colorado has 45 seconds remaining. heard from me. They have been work- Cox (CA) Harder (CA) Lynch Mr. MCHENRY. Madam Speaker, I ing with me for years, and I really ap- Craig Hastings Malinowski am prepared to close, and I yield my- preciate that. Especially, I thank the Crenshaw Hayes Maloney, self such time as I may consume. staff of the Committee on Financial Crist Heck Carolyn B. Crow Hern, Kevin Maloney, Sean Madam Speaker, let me begin as I did Services, the staff of my cosponsors, Cuellar Herrera Beutler Massie with my opening statement. I com- and my own staff for the work they Cunningham Higgins (NY) Mast

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:52 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00067 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.065 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7974 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019 Matsui Price (NC) Stefanik RESCHENTHALER and TIMMONS of this section a law, regulation, or policy McAdams Quigley Steil changed their vote from ‘‘nay’’ to that prohibits or in any way restricts a Fed- McBath Raskin Steube eral, State, or local government entity, offi- McCarthy Reed ‘‘yea.’’ Stevens cial, or other personnel from complying with McClintock Reschenthaler Stivers So (two-thirds being in the affirma- the immigration laws (as defined in section McCollum Rice (NY) Suozzi tive) the rules were suspended and the McGovern Rice (SC) 101(a)(17) of the Immigration and Nationality Swalwell (CA) bill, as amended, was passed. McKinley Richmond Takano Act (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(17))), or from assisting McNerney Riggleman Taylor The result of the vote was announced or cooperating with Federal law enforcement Meeks Rodgers (WA) Thompson (CA) as above recorded. entities, officials, or other personnel regard- Meng Roe, David P. Thompson (MS) A motion to reconsider was laid on ing the enforcement of such laws.’’. Meuser Rogers (AL) Thompson (PA) the table. Miller Rooney (FL) Timmons Mr. GREEN of Tennessee (during the Mitchell Rose (NY) Tipton f reading). Madam Speaker, I ask unani- Mooney (WV) Rouda Titus Moore Roybal-Allard mous consent to dispense with the Tlaib HOMELAND SECURITY Morelle Ruiz Tonko IMPROVEMENT ACT reading. Moulton Ruppersberger Torres Small The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Mucarsel-Powell Rush (NM) The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Murphy (FL) Ryan objection to the request of the gen- Trahan ant to clause 1(c) of rule XIX, further Nadler Sa´ nchez tleman from Tennessee? Trone consideration of the bill (H.R. 2203) to Napolitano Sarbanes There was no objection. Neal Scanlon Underwood increase transparency, accountability, Neguse Schakowsky Upton The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Van Drew and community engagement within the Newhouse Schiff Department of Homeland Security, ant to the rule, the gentleman from Norcross Schneider Vargas Norman Schrader Veasey provide independent oversight of bor- Tennessee is recognized for 5 minutes Nunes Schrier Vela der security activities, improve train- in support of his motion. ´ O’Halleran Schweikert Velazquez ing for agents and officers of U.S. Cus- Mr. GREEN of Tennessee. Madam Ocasio-Cortez Scott (VA) Visclosky Olson Scott, David Walden toms and Border Protection and U.S. Speaker, over 180 jurisdictions in the Omar Serrano Waltz Immigration and Customs Enforce- United States, including our most pop- Pallone Shalala Wasserman ment, and for other purposes, will now ulated cities and States have passed Panetta Sherman Schultz resume. laws prohibiting local law enforcement Pappas Sherrill Waters Pascrell Simpson Watkins The Clerk read the title of the bill. from cooperating with Federal immi- Payne Sires Watson Coleman MOTION TO RECOMMIT gration officials. Perlmutter Slotkin Welch In these sanctuary jurisdictions, Perry Smith (WA) Wexton Mr. GREEN of Tennessee. Madam Peters Smucker Wild Speaker, I have a motion to recommit local law enforcement is barred from Peterson Soto Wilson (FL) at the desk. complying with lawful detainers from Phillips Spanberger Womack The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is the Immigration and Customs Enforce- Pingree Spano Yarmuth Pocan Speier Yoho gentleman opposed to the bill? ment. An ICE detainer is a notice to Porter Stanton Young Mr. GREEN of Tennessee. Madam another law enforcement agency that Pressley Stauber Zeldin Speaker, I am in its present form. ICE intends to assume custody of an il- NAYS—103 The SPEAKER pro tempore. The legal alien. It includes information on Aderholt Gohmert Palmer Clerk will report the motion to recom- their criminal history. Allen Gosar Pence mit. The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals Arrington Granger Posey The Clerk read as follows: found that ICE administrative war- Babin Graves (LA) Ratcliffe Mr. Green of Tennessee moves to recommit rants, which, unlike criminal warrants, Bergman Graves (MO) Roby Biggs Guest Rogers (KY) the bill, H.R. 2203, to the Committee on are not issued by a judge, are, in fact, Bilirakis Guthrie Rose, John W. Homeland Security with instructions to re- sufficient to detain in a county jail Bishop (NC) Harris Rouzer port the same back to the House forthwith someone whom ICE might deport, even Brady Hartzler Roy with the following amendment: Brooks (IN) Hice (GA) if they have been granted bail or their Rutherford Add, at the end of section 711 of the Home- Buchanan Holding charges have been dropped. Scalise land Security Act of 2002 (as proposed to be Buck Hudson Madam Speaker, there are many ac- Bucshon Huizenga Scott, Austin added by section 1 of the bill), the following: Budd Hurd (TX) Sensenbrenner ‘‘(k) PROTECTIONS FOR VICTIMS OF CRIME IN counts of innocent men and women and Burchett Johnson (LA) Sewell (AL) SANCTUARY CITIES.— children murdered, raped, or assaulted Burgess Johnson (SD) Shimkus ‘‘(1) RECEIPT OF COMPLAINTS.—The Ombuds- by criminal aliens released by sanc- Smith (MO) Byrne Jordan man shall use the process established under tuary cities that refuse to comply with Calvert Joyce (PA) Smith (NE) subsection (b) to receive complaints— Carter (GA) Kelly (MS) Smith (NJ) the ICE detainer. ‘‘(A) from victims of crimes committed by Carter (TX) King (IA) Stewart In March 2018, ICE lodged a detainer Chabot Kustoff (TN) Thornberry aliens unlawfully present in the United Cheney LaHood Turner States when such crimes occur in sanctuary on Martin Gallo-Gallardo, a Mexican Cline LaMalfa Wagner jurisdictions; and national, in the country illegally after Cloud Lamborn Walberg ‘‘(B) regarding the impact of illegal immi- locating him in an Oregon county jail. Conaway Latta Walker gration on communities located in sanctuary Jail officials did not honor the immi- Cook Lesko Walorski jurisdictions from individuals within such DesJarlais gration detainer and released the con- Lucas Weber (TX) Diaz-Balart Marchant jurisdictions. Webster (FL) victed criminal. Seven months later, Duncan McCaul ‘‘(2) INCLUSION IN REPORTS.—The Ombuds- Wenstrup he was arrested again, this time for Dunn McHenry man shall include in the report submitted Fortenberry Meadows Westerman under subsection (d) the following: killing his wife. Foxx (NC) Moolenaar Williams ‘‘(A) The names of each sanctuary jurisdic- In February 2019, police in San Jose, Wilson (SC) Fulcher Mullin tion from which a complaint under para- Wittman California, arrested Carlos Carranza, a Gallagher Murphy (NC) graph (1) was received. Gianforte Palazzo Woodall Salvadorian national who had entered ‘‘(B) Information regarding whether a de- the country illegally, in the brutal NOT VOTING—9 tainer request was issued by U.S. Immigra- slaying of a 59-year-old woman that he tion and Customs Enforcement for an alien Abraham Cummings McEachin just noticed on the street. Carranza Clyburn Higgins (LA) Torres (CA) related to a complaint and whether such de- Crawford Marshall Wright tainer was acted upon by the relevant sanc- had an extensive criminal record, hav- tuary jurisdiction. ing been arrested half a dozen times for b 1742 ‘‘(C) Any complaint pattern that could be assault, battery, and burglary. ICE Messrs. SENSENBRENNER, prevented or reduced by policy or practice lodged seven detainers with local Cali- BUCHANAN, and Ms. SEWELL of Ala- changes by sanctuary jurisdictions. fornia authorities, yet, every single bama changed their vote from ‘‘yea’’ to ‘‘(D) Other information or recommenda- time, local authorities released him tions, as determined appropriate by the Om- without notifying ICE, and now a ‘‘nay.’’ budsman. Messrs. EMMER, NADLER, Mrs. ‘‘(3) DEFINITION.—The term ‘sanctuary ju- mother of two is dead. LURIA, Messrs. HUNTER, WOMACK, risdiction’ means a State or local govern- Sadly, I could go on and on with LONG, Ms. STEFANIK, Messrs. ment that has in effect on the effective date these horrible true stories. The facts

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:52 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00068 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.036 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7975 are undeniable: sanctuary cities con- Some of my colleagues seem obsessed minute vote on the motion to recom- stitute a threat to public safety. Mean- with dehumanizing immigrants, cast- mit will be followed by 5-minute votes while, as this body fails to act, the ing them as criminals to be feared and on passage of the bill, if ordered, and number of victims continues to grow. even hated. adoption of House Resolution 576. We are a nation of laws, and we must Let me remind Members that the re- The vote was taken by electronic de- uphold our laws and not reward State cent massacre in El Paso, Texas, was vice, and there were—ayes 207, noes 216, and local officials who deliberately and not carried out by an immigrant, but not voting 10, as follows: flagrantly disregard the laws of this by a killer, a U.S. citizen who drove 600 [Roll No. 545] body. miles across the State of Texas to AYES—207 When I was a State senator in Ten- slaughter Mexicans and immigrants. And he did this in one of the safest cit- Aderholt Gooden Olson nessee, we addressed the problem. I au- Allen Gosar Palazzo thored a bill and added teeth to our ies in America. Immigrant commu- Amodei Gottheimer Palmer sanctuary city laws, anti-sanctuary nities and border communities remain Armstrong Granger Pence city laws, so any city that would among the safest cities in America. Arrington Graves (GA) Perry Axne Graves (LA) Peterson choose to ignore the law would lose Enough. Babin Graves (MO) Posey their State economic funding. And my Republican colleague com- Bacon Green (TN) Ratcliffe It is time for Congress to act. Despite pletely misses the point of the ombuds- Baird Griffith Reed all of our disagreements, all this bill man, the office of the ombudsman. An Balderson Guest Reschenthaler Banks Guthrie Rice (SC) does is allow the victims to be heard, ombudsman is supposed to be focused Barr Hagedorn Riggleman that is it. It requires the ombudsman on oversight related to the inner work- Bergman Harder (CA) Roby created by this bill to collect their sto- ings of the Department, not on exter- Biggs Harris Rodgers (WA) nal policy issues. This amendment is a Bilirakis Hartzler Roe, David P. ries and the data on these victims. Bishop (NC) Hern, Kevin Rogers (AL) Under this amendment, any victim of side show that detracts from that mis- Bishop (UT) Herrera Beutler Rogers (KY) a crime committed by an illegal immi- sion. Bost Hice (GA) Rooney (FL) grant in a sanctuary jurisdiction can Accountability, oversight, and trans- Brady Hill (AR) Rose, John W. parency should not be controversial. Brindisi Holding Rouzer safely and securely file a report with Brooks (AL) Hollingsworth Roy the ombudsman. This allows victims And much of what is in this common- Brooks (IN) Horn, Kendra S. Rutherford and their families an opportunity to be sense bill is precisely what we have Buchanan Hudson Scalise seen embraced by law enforcement, Buck Hunter Schweikert heard by policymakers in Congress and Bucshon Hurd (TX) Scott, Austin by the Department of Homeland Secu- local law enforcement in our commu- Budd Johnson (LA) Sensenbrenner rity. nities. Why would we not want to have Burchett Johnson (OH) Sherrill Why would we not let the victims be a well-funded and powerful Federal law Burgess Johnson (SD) Shimkus enforcement agency adhere to those Byrne Jordan Simpson heard? Calvert Joyce (OH) Slotkin The ombudsman will analyze report- same values? Carter (GA) Joyce (PA) Smith (MO) ing patterns, make recommendations Instead of pursuing symbols of divi- Carter (TX) Katko Smith (NE) on how we decrease these incidents. sion, we ask our Republican colleagues Chabot Keller Smith (NJ) to support fundamental accountability Cheney Kelly (MS) Smucker This amendment would at least provide Cline Kelly (PA) Spanberger an outlet for the growing number of and oversight over the hundreds of bil- Cloud King (IA) Spano victims and their families to ensure lions of dollars we have given to DHS Cole King (NY) Stauber and support transparency for a power- Collins (GA) Kinzinger Stefanik that their stories are told. Hopefully, Collins (NY) Kustoff (TN) Steil we will act tonight on behalf of the vic- ful agency. Comer LaHood Steube tims. History will not judge us kindly for Conaway LaMalfa Stewart Madam Speaker, I yield back the bal- the way that this administration has Cook Lamb Stivers treated migrants, agents, and border Craig Lamborn Taylor ance of my time. Crenshaw Latta Thompson (PA) Ms. ESCOBAR. Madam Speaker, I communities like mine. It will judge us Cunningham Lesko Thornberry claim the time in opposition to the mo- in this Chamber even more harshly if Curtis Long Timmons tion to recommit. we continue to call for more symbols of Davidson (OH) Loudermilk Tipton division. Davis, Rodney Lucas Turner The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- DesJarlais Luetkemeyer Upton tlewoman from Texas is recognized for Let us commit to responding in a Diaz-Balart Marchant Van Drew 5 minutes. way that honors our sacred credo of Duncan Massie Wagner our country, ‘‘E pluribus unum’’—out Dunn Mast Walberg Ms. ESCOBAR. Madam Speaker, Emmer McAdams Walden there is no one here who better under- of many, we are one. Estes McCarthy Walker stands what is happening on the south- Let us commit to responding in a Ferguson McCaul Walorski ern border than those of us who actu- way that honors our mother of exiles, Finkenauer McClintock Waltz the Statue of Liberty, and our heritage Fitzpatrick McHenry Watkins ally live on the U.S.-Mexico border. Fleischmann McKinley Weber (TX) There is no one here for whom border as a nation of immigrants. That is who Flores Meadows Webster (FL) security is more important than those we are. It is who we always will be. Fortenberry Meuser Wenstrup Let’s work together and make sure Foxx (NC) Miller Westerman of us fortunate enough to live on the that our response is one filled with Fulcher Mitchell Williams southern border. common sense and compassion. Gaetz Moolenaar Wilson (SC) Since the creation of the Department Gallagher Mooney (WV) Wittman I urge a ‘‘no’’ vote on this motion and of Homeland Security in 2003, Amer- Gianforte Mullin Womack a ‘‘yes’’ on the underlying bill. Gibbs Murphy (NC) Woodall ican taxpayers have spent over $300 bil- Madam Speaker, I yield back the bal- Gohmert Newhouse Yoho lion on the agencies that carry out im- ance of my time. Golden Norman Young Gonzalez (OH) Nunes Zeldin migration enforcement; and the rights The SPEAKER pro tempore. Without of those of us who live within 100 miles objection, the previous question is or- NOES—216 of the border, and that is the southern dered on the motion to recommit. Adams Brownley (CA) Clay border as well as the northern border, There was no objection. Aguilar Bustos Cleaver our rights have been eroded. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Allred Butterfield Cohen What Congress has not done is create Amash Carbajal Connolly question is on the motion to recommit. Barraga´ n Ca´ rdenas Cooper the corresponding transparency, ac- The question was taken; and the Bass Carson (IN) Correa countability, and oversight needed over Speaker pro tempore announced that Beatty Cartwright Costa these investments. H.R. 2203 will do the noes appeared to have it. Bera Case Courtney Beyer Casten (IL) Cox (CA) that. RECORDED VOTE Bishop (GA) Castor (FL) Crist The Republican motion only seeks to Mr. GREEN of Tennessee. Madam Blumenauer Castro (TX) Crow divide us. Quite simply, this is a poison Speaker, I demand a recorded vote. Blunt Rochester Chu, Judy Cuellar pill amendment that has no relevance A recorded vote was ordered. Bonamici Cicilline Davids (KS) Boyle, Brendan Cisneros Davis (CA) to what we are trying to do here with The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- F. Clark (MA) Davis, Danny K. this bill. ant to clause 9 of rule XX, this 5- Brown (MD) Clarke (NY) Dean

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:52 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00069 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.071 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7976 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019 DeFazio Langevin Rice (NY) [Roll No. 546] DesJarlais Kelly (MS) Rogers (KY) DeGette Larsen (WA) Richmond Diaz-Balart Kelly (PA) Rooney (FL) DeLauro Larson (CT) Rose (NY) YEAS—230 Duncan King (IA) Rose, John W. DelBene Lawrence Rouda Adams Gomez Omar Dunn King (NY) Rouzer Delgado Lawson (FL) Roybal-Allard Aguilar Gonzalez (TX) Pallone Emmer Kinzinger Roy Demings Lee (CA) Ruiz Allred Gottheimer Panetta Estes Kustoff (TN) Rutherford DeSaulnier Lee (NV) Ruppersberger Axne Green, Al (TX) Pappas Ferguson LaHood Scalise Deutch Levin (CA) Rush Barraga´ n Grijalva Pascrell Fitzpatrick LaMalfa Schweikert Dingell Levin (MI) Fleischmann Lamborn Ryan Bass Haaland Payne Scott, Austin Doggett Lewis Flores Latta Sa´ nchez Beatty Harder (CA) Perlmutter Sensenbrenner Doyle, Michael Lieu, Ted Fortenberry Lesko Sarbanes Bera Hastings Peters Shimkus F. Lipinski Foxx (NC) Long Scanlon Beyer Hayes Phillips Simpson Engel Loebsack Fulcher Loudermilk Schakowsky Bishop (GA) Heck Pingree Smith (MO) Escobar Lofgren Gaetz Lucas Schiff Blumenauer Higgins (NY) Pocan Smith (NE) Eshoo Lowenthal Schneider Blunt Rochester Hill (CA) Gallagher Luetkemeyer Smith (NJ) Espaillat Lowey Porter Gianforte Marchant Schrader Bonamici Himes Smucker Evans Luja´ n Pressley Gibbs Massie Schrier Boyle, Brendan Horn, Kendra S. Spano Fletcher Luria Price (NC) Gohmert Mast Scott (VA) F. Horsford Stauber Foster Lynch Quigley Gonzalez (OH) McCarthy Scott, David Brindisi Houlahan Stefanik Frankel Malinowski Raskin Gooden McCaul Serrano Brown (MD) Hoyer Steil Fudge Maloney, Rice (NY) Gosar McClintock Sewell (AL) Brownley (CA) Huffman Gabbard Carolyn B. Richmond Granger McHenry Steube Shalala Bustos Jackson Lee Gallego Maloney, Sean Rose (NY) Graves (GA) McKinley Stewart Sherman Butterfield Jayapal Garamendi Matsui Rouda Graves (LA) Meadows Stivers Sires Carbajal Jeffries Garcı´a (IL) McBath Roybal-Allard Graves (MO) Meuser Taylor Smith (WA) Ca´ rdenas Johnson (GA) Garcia (TX) McCollum Ruiz Green (TN) Miller Thompson (PA) Soto Carson (IN) Johnson (TX) Thornberry Gomez McGovern Cartwright Kaptur Ruppersberger Griffith Mitchell Gonzalez (TX) McNerney Speier Rush Grothman Moolenaar Timmons Stanton Case Keating Tipton Green, Al (TX) Meeks Casten (IL) Kelly (IL) Ryan Guest Mooney (WV) Stevens Turner Grijalva Meng Castor (FL) Kennedy Sa´ nchez Guthrie Mullin Suozzi Upton Haaland Moore Castro (TX) Khanna Sarbanes Hagedorn Murphy (NC) Swalwell (CA) Wagner Hastings Morelle Chu, Judy Kildee Scanlon Harris Newhouse Takano Walberg Hayes Moulton Cicilline Kilmer Schakowsky Hartzler Norman Thompson (CA) Walden Heck Mucarsel-Powell Cisneros Kim Schiff Hern, Kevin Nunes Thompson (MS) Walker Higgins (NY) Murphy (FL) Clark (MA) Kind Schneider Herrera Beutler Olson Titus Walorski Hill (CA) Nadler Clarke (NY) Kirkpatrick Schrader Hice (GA) Palazzo Tlaib Waltz Himes Napolitano Clay Krishnamoorthi Schrier Hill (AR) Palmer Tonko Watkins Horsford Neal Cleaver Kuster (NH) Scott (VA) Holding Pence Torres (CA) Weber (TX) Houlahan Neguse Cohen Lamb Scott, David Hollingsworth Perry Torres Small Webster (FL) Hoyer Norcross Connolly Langevin Serrano Hudson Peterson (NM) Wenstrup Huffman O’Halleran Cooper Larsen (WA) Sewell (AL) Hunter Posey Trahan Westerman Jackson Lee Ocasio-Cortez Correa Larson (CT) Shalala Hurd (TX) Ratcliffe Trone Williams Jayapal Omar Costa Lawrence Sherman Johnson (LA) Reed Underwood Wilson (SC) Jeffries Pallone Courtney Lawson (FL) Sherrill Johnson (OH) Reschenthaler Johnson (GA) Panetta Vargas Johnson (SD) Rice (SC) Wittman Cox (CA) Lee (CA) Sires Johnson (TX) Pappas Veasey Jordan Riggleman Womack Craig Lee (NV) Slotkin Kaptur Pascrell Vela Joyce (OH) Roby Woodall Crist Levin (CA) Smith (WA) Keating Payne Vela´ zquez Joyce (PA) Rodgers (WA) Yoho Crow Levin (MI) Soto Kelly (IL) Perlmutter Visclosky Katko Roe, David P. Young Cuellar Lewis Spanberger Kennedy Peters Wasserman Keller Rogers (AL) Zeldin Cunningham Lieu, Ted Speier Khanna Phillips Schultz Davids (KS) Lipinski Kildee Pingree Waters Stanton NOT VOTING—9 Davis (CA) Loebsack Stevens Kilmer Pocan Watson Coleman Abraham Cummings Marshall Davis, Danny K. Lofgren Suozzi Kim Porter Welch Clyburn Higgins (LA) McEachin Dean Lowenthal Swalwell (CA) Kind Pressley Wexton DeFazio Lowey Crawford Huizenga Wright Takano Kirkpatrick Price (NC) Wild DeGette Luja´ n Thompson (CA) Krishnamoorthi Quigley Wilson (FL) DeLauro Luria ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE Thompson (MS) Kuster (NH) Raskin Yarmuth DelBene Lynch The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Titus Delgado Malinowski NOT VOTING—10 Tlaib the vote). There are 2 minutes remain- Demings Maloney, Abraham Grothman McEachin DeSaulnier Carolyn B. Tonko ing. Torres (CA) Clyburn Higgins (LA) Wright Deutch Maloney, Sean b 1807 Crawford Huizenga Dingell Matsui Torres Small Cummings Marshall Doggett McAdams (NM) So the bill was passed. Doyle, Michael McBath Trahan ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE The result of the vote was announced F. McCollum Trone The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Engel McGovern Underwood as above recorded. the vote). There are 2 minutes remain- Escobar McNerney Van Drew A motion to reconsider was laid on ing. Eshoo Meeks Vargas the table. Espaillat Meng Veasey b 1800 Evans Moore Vela PERSONAL EXPLANATION Finkenauer Morelle Vela´ zquez Mr. HUIZENGA. Madam Speaker, had I So the motion to recommit was re- Fletcher Moulton Visclosky been present, I would have voted ‘‘yea’’ on jected. Foster Mucarsel-Powell Wasserman The result of the vote was announced Frankel Murphy (FL) Schultz rollcall No. 545 and ‘‘nay’’ on rollcall No. 546. Fudge Nadler Waters f as above recorded. Gabbard Napolitano Watson Coleman Stated for: Gallego Neal Welch RAISING A QUESTION OF THE Mr. GROTHMAN. Madam Speaker, had I Garamendi Neguse Wexton PRIVILEGES OF THE HOUSE been present, I would have voted ‘‘yea’’ on Garcı´a (IL) Norcross Wild Garcia (TX) O’Halleran Wilson (FL) Mr. MCCARTHY. Madam Speaker, I rollcall No. 545. Golden Ocasio-Cortez Yarmuth The SPEAKER pro tempore. The rise to a question of the privileges of question is on the passage of the bill. NAYS—194 the House, and I send to the desk a The question was taken; and the Aderholt Bishop (NC) Carter (TX) privileged resolution. Speaker pro tempore announced that Allen Bishop (UT) Chabot The SPEAKER pro tempore. The the ayes appeared to have it. Amash Bost Cheney Clerk will report the resolution. Amodei Brady Cline The Clerk read as follows: Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Madam Armstrong Brooks (AL) Cloud Speaker, on that I demand the yeas Arrington Brooks (IN) Cole Whereas at a press conference on Sep- and nays. Babin Buchanan Collins (GA) tember 24, 2019, Speaker of the House Nancy Bacon Buck Collins (NY) Pelosi stated: ‘‘Therefore today, I’m an- The yeas and nays were ordered. Baird Bucshon Comer The SPEAKER pro tempore. This is a nouncing the House of Representatives is Balderson Budd Conaway moving forward with an official impeach- Banks Burchett Cook 5-minute vote. ment inquiry.’’ The vote was taken by electronic de- Barr Burgess Crenshaw Bergman Byrne Curtis Whereas House Practice states that: vice, and there were—yeas 230, nays Biggs Calvert Davidson (OH) ‘‘Under the modern practice, an impeach- 194, not voting 9, as follows: Bilirakis Carter (GA) Davis, Rodney ment is normally instituted by the House by

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:52 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00070 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.038 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7977 the adoption of a resolution calling for a The vote was taken by electronic de- Cloud Johnson (LA) Rodgers (WA) committee investigation of charges against vice, and there were—ayes 232, noes 193, Cole Johnson (OH) Roe, David P. Collins (GA) Johnson (SD) Rogers (AL) the officer in question.’’ not voting 8, as follows: Whereas in the past 25 years, the House of Collins (NY) Jordan Rogers (KY) [Roll No. 547] Comer Joyce (OH) Rooney (FL) Representatives has moved forward with im- Conaway Joyce (PA) peachment against a federal officer three Rose, John W. AYES—232 Cook Katko Rouzer times, each initiated by an impeachment in- Crenshaw Keller Adams Golden Ocasio-Cortez Roy Curtis Kelly (MS) quiry resolution approved by the full House, Aguilar Gomez Omar Rutherford Davidson (OH) Kelly (PA) not by a unilateral decree of the Speaker. Allred Gonzalez (TX) Pallone Scalise Davis, Rodney King (IA) Whereas on May 12, 2009, the House ap- Amash Gottheimer Panetta Schweikert DesJarlais King (NY) proved H. Res. 424, authorizing and directing Axne Green, Al (TX) Pappas Scott, Austin Diaz-Balart Kinzinger the Committee on the Judiciary to inquire Barraga´ n Grijalva Pascrell Sensenbrenner Duncan Kustoff (TN) Bass Haaland Payne Shimkus whether the House should impeach Samuel Dunn LaHood Beatty Harder (CA) Perlmutter B. Kent, a judge of the United States Dis- Emmer LaMalfa Simpson Bera Hastings Peters trict Court for the Southern District of Estes Lamborn Smith (MO) Beyer Hayes Peterson Ferguson Latta Smith (NE) Texas. Bishop (GA) Heck Phillips Fitzpatrick Lesko Smith (NJ) Whereas on January 13, 2009, the House ap- Blumenauer Higgins (NY) Pingree Fleischmann Long Smucker proved H. Res. 15, authorizing and directing Blunt Rochester Hill (CA) Pocan Flores Loudermilk Spano the Committee on the Judiciary to inquire Bonamici Himes Porter Fortenberry Lucas Stauber whether the House should impeach G. Thom- Boyle, Brendan Horn, Kendra S. Pressley Foxx (NC) Luetkemeyer Stefanik F. Horsford Price (NC) as Porteous, a judge of the United States Fulcher Marchant Steil Brindisi Houlahan Quigley District Court for the Eastern District of Gaetz Massie Steube Brown (MD) Hoyer Raskin Louisiana. Gallagher Mast Brownley (CA) Huffman Rice (NY) Stewart Gianforte McCarthy Whereas on October 8, 1998, the House ap- Bustos Jackson Lee Richmond Stivers Gibbs McCaul proved H. Res. 581, authorizing and directing Butterfield Jayapal Rose (NY) Taylor Gohmert McClintock the Committee on the Judiciary to inves- Carbajal Jeffries Rouda Thompson (PA) Gonzalez (OH) McHenry tigate whether sufficient grounds exist for Ca´ rdenas Johnson (GA) Roybal-Allard Thornberry Gooden McKinley Carson (IN) Johnson (TX) Ruiz Timmons the impeachment of William Jefferson Clin- Gosar Meadows Cartwright Kaptur Ruppersberger Tipton ton, President of the United States. Granger Meuser Case Keating Rush Turner Whereas the Committee Report to accom- Graves (GA) Miller Casten (IL) Kelly (IL) Ryan Upton pany H. Res. 581 stated: ‘‘Because the issue of Graves (LA) Mitchell Castor (FL) Kennedy Sa´ nchez Wagner Graves (MO) Moolenaar impeachment is of such overwhelming im- Castro (TX) Khanna Sarbanes Walberg Green (TN) Mooney (WV) portance, the Committee decided that it Chu, Judy Kildee Scanlon Walden Griffith Mullin must receive authorization from the full Cicilline Kilmer Schakowsky Walker Grothman Murphy (NC) House before proceeding on any further Cisneros Kim Schiff Guest Newhouse Walorski Clark (MA) Kind Schneider course of action.’’ Guthrie Norman Waltz Clarke (NY) Kirkpatrick Schrader Whereas that report further stated: ‘‘Be- Hagedorn Nunes Watkins Clay Krishnamoorthi Schrier cause impeachment is delegated solely to the Harris Olson Weber (TX) Cleaver Kuster (NH) Scott (VA) House of Representatives by the Constitu- Hartzler Palazzo Webster (FL) Cohen Lamb Scott, David Hern, Kevin Palmer Wenstrup tion, the full House of Representatives Connolly Langevin Serrano Herrera Beutler Pence Westerman should be involved in critical decision mak- Cooper Larsen (WA) Sewell (AL) Hice (GA) Perry Williams ing regarding various stages of impeach- Correa Larson (CT) Shalala Hill (AR) Posey Wilson (SC) ment.’’ Costa Lawrence Sherman Holding Ratcliffe Wittman Whereas the Speaker’s extraordinary deci- Courtney Lawson (FL) Sherrill Hollingsworth Reed Womack Cox (CA) Lee (CA) Sires sion to move forward with an impeachment Hudson Reschenthaler Woodall Craig Lee (NV) Slotkin inquiry without any debate or vote on such Huizenga Rice (SC) Yoho Crist Levin (CA) Smith (WA) a resolution by the full House undermines Hunter Riggleman Young Crow Levin (MI) Soto Hurd (TX) Roby Zeldin the voting privileges afforded to each Mem- Cuellar Lewis Spanberger ber and the constituents they represent. Cunningham Lieu, Ted Speier NOT VOTING—8 Whereas this unprecedented and politically Davids (KS) Lipinski Stanton motivated decision by Speaker Pelosi rep- Davis (CA) Loebsack Stevens Abraham Cummings McEachin resents an abuse of power and brings dis- Davis, Danny K. Lofgren Suozzi Clyburn Higgins (LA) Wright Crawford Marshall credit to the House of Representatives: Now, Dean Lowenthal Swalwell (CA) therefore, be it DeFazio Lowey Takano ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE ´ Resolved: That the House of Representa- DeGette Lujan Thompson (CA) DeLauro Luria Thompson (MS) The SPEAKER pro tempore (during tives disapproves of the actions of the Speak- DelBene Lynch Titus the vote). There are 2 minutes remain- er of the House, Mrs. Pelosi of California, to Delgado Malinowski Tlaib ing. initiate an impeachment inquiry against the Demings Maloney, Tonko duly elected President of the United States, DeSaulnier Carolyn B. Torres (CA) b 1818 Donald J. Trump. Deutch Maloney, Sean Torres Small Dingell Matsui (NM) Mr. CASTRO of Texas changed his The SPEAKER pro tempore. The res- Doggett McAdams Trahan vote from ‘‘no’’ to ‘‘aye.’’ olution presents a question of the Doyle, Michael McBath Trone So the motion to table was agreed to. privileges of the House. F. McCollum Underwood The result of the vote was announced Engel McGovern Van Drew MOTION TO TABLE Escobar McNerney Vargas as above recorded. Mr. HOYER. Madam Speaker, I have Eshoo Meeks Veasey A motion to reconsider was laid on a motion at the desk. Espaillat Meng Vela the table. Evans Moore Vela´ zquez The SPEAKER pro tempore. The f Clerk will report the motion. Finkenauer Morelle Visclosky Fletcher Moulton Wasserman EXPRESSING SENSE OF THE The Clerk read as follows: Foster Mucarsel-Powell Schultz Mr. Hoyer moves that the resolution be Frankel Murphy (FL) Waters HOUSE WITH RESPECT TO WHIS- laid on the table. Fudge Nadler Watson Coleman TLEBLOWER COMPLAINT MADE Gabbard Napolitano Welch The SPEAKER pro tempore. The TO INSPECTOR GENERAL OF IN- Gallego Neal Wexton TELLIGENCE COMMUNITY question is on the motion to table. Garamendi Neguse Wild The question was taken; and the Garcı´a (IL) Norcross Wilson (FL) The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Speaker pro tempore announced that Garcia (TX) O’Halleran Yarmuth ant to clause 8 of rule XX, the unfin- the ayes appeared to have it. NOES—193 ished business is the vote on agreeing RECORDED VOTE Aderholt Bergman Bucshon to the resolution (H. Res. 576) express- Mr. MCCARTHY. Madam Speaker, I Allen Biggs Budd ing the sense of the House of Rep- demand a recorded vote. Amodei Bilirakis Burchett resentatives with respect to the whis- Armstrong Bishop (NC) Burgess A recorded vote was ordered. Arrington Bishop (UT) Byrne tleblower complaint of August 12, 2019, The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Babin Bost Calvert made to the Inspector General of the ant to clause 8 of rule XX, this 5- Bacon Brady Carter (GA) Intelligence Community, on which the minute vote on the motion to table Baird Brooks (AL) Carter (TX) yeas and nays were ordered. Balderson Brooks (IN) Chabot will be followed by a 5-minute vote on Banks Buchanan Cheney The Clerk read the title of the resolu- agreeing to H. Res. 576. Barr Buck Cline tion.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:07 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00071 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.050 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7978 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019 The SPEAKER pro tempore. The McKinley Roby Stivers for Chairwoman Velazquez and Ranking question is on agreeing to the resolu- McNerney Rodgers (WA) Suozzi Member Chabot’s leadership. Meadows Roe, David P. Swalwell (CA) Sincerely, tion. Meeks Rogers (AL) Takano TRENT KELLY, This will be a 5-minute vote. Meng Rogers (KY) Taylor Member of Congress. The vote was taken by electronic de- Meuser Rooney (FL) Thompson (CA) Miller Rose (NY) Thompson (MS) vice, and there were—yeas 421, nays 0, The SPEAKER pro tempore. Without Mitchell Rose, John W. Thompson (PA) objection, the resignation is accepted. answered ‘‘present’’ 2, not voting 10, as Moolenaar Rouda Thornberry There was no objection. follows: Mooney (WV) Rouzer Timmons Moore Roy Tipton f [Roll No. 548] Morelle Roybal-Allard Titus YEAS—421 Moulton Ruiz Tlaib RESIGNATION AS MEMBER OF Mucarsel-Powell Ruppersberger Tonko COMMITTEE ON HOMELAND SE- Adams Crow Himes Mullin Rush Torres (CA) Aderholt Cuellar Holding Murphy (FL) Rutherford Torres Small CURITY Aguilar Cunningham Hollingsworth Murphy (NC) Ryan (NM) The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- Allen Curtis Horn, Kendra S. Nadler Sa´ nchez Trahan Allred Davids (KS) Horsford Napolitano Sarbanes Trone fore the House the following resigna- Amash Davidson (OH) Houlahan Neal Scalise Turner tion as a member of the Committee on Amodei Davis (CA) Hoyer Neguse Scanlon Underwood Homeland Security: Armstrong Davis, Danny K. Hudson Newhouse Schakowsky Upton Arrington Davis, Rodney Huffman Norcross Schiff Van Drew HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Axne Dean Huizenga Norman Schneider Vargas Washington, DC, September 25, 2019. Babin DeFazio Hunter O’Halleran Schrader Veasey The Honorable NANCY PELOSI, Bacon DeGette Hurd (TX) Ocasio-Cortez Schrier Vela Speaker, U.S. House of Representatives, Baird DeLauro Jackson Lee Olson Schweikert Vela´ zquez Washington, DC. Balderson DelBene Jayapal Omar Scott (VA) Visclosky Banks Delgado Jeffries DEAR SPEAKER PELOSI:I write to respect- Palazzo Scott, Austin Wagner fully tender my resignation as a member of Barr Demings Johnson (GA) Pallone Scott, David Walberg Barraga´ n DeSaulnier Johnson (LA) Palmer Sensenbrenner Walden the Committee on Homeland Security. Bass DesJarlais Johnson (OH) Panetta Serrano Walker It was my great honor and privilege to Beatty Deutch Johnson (SD) Pappas Sewell (AL) Walorski serve on the Homeland Security committee Bera Diaz-Balart Johnson (TX) Pascrell Shalala Waltz since I was first elected to Congress, and I Bergman Dingell Jordan Payne Sherman Wasserman will continue prioritizing national security Beyer Doggett Joyce (PA) Pence Sherrill Schultz issues through my work as Ranking Member Biggs Doyle, Michael Kaptur Perlmutter Shimkus Waters Bilirakis F. Katko at the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Perry Simpson Watkins Crime, Terrorism and Homeland Security as Bishop (GA) Duncan Keating Peters Sires Watson Coleman Bishop (NC) Dunn Keller Peterson Slotkin Weber (TX) well as the House Permanent Select Com- Bishop (UT) Emmer Kelly (IL) Phillips Smith (MO) Webster (FL) mittee on Intelligence. Blumenauer Engel Kelly (MS) Pingree Smith (NE) Welch During my tenure in Congress, I attained Blunt Rochester Escobar Kelly (PA) Pocan Smith (NJ) Wenstrup additional committee assignments, which Bonamici Eshoo Kennedy Porter Smith (WA) Westerman made me one of just a handful of members to Bost Espaillat Khanna Posey Smucker Wexton Boyle, Brendan Estes Kildee serve on four committees. I relinquished this Pressley Soto Wild seat on the Homeland Security Committee F. Evans Kilmer Price (NC) Spanberger Williams Brady Ferguson Kim Quigley Spano Wilson (FL) to make room for the new Republican House Brindisi Finkenauer Kind Raskin Speier Wilson (SC) members elected in the recent special elec- Brooks (AL) Fitzpatrick King (IA) Ratcliffe Stanton Wittman tions through committee assignments that Brooks (IN) Fleischmann King (NY) Reed Stauber Womack best serve the Republican conference overall. Brown (MD) Fletcher Kinzinger Reschenthaler Stefanik Woodall Sincerely, Brownley (CA) Flores Kirkpatrick Rice (NY) Steil Yarmuth Buchanan Fortenberry Krishnamoorthi JOHN RATCLIFFE, Rice (SC) Steube Yoho Member of Congress. Buck Foster Kuster (NH) Richmond Stevens Young Bucshon Foxx (NC) Kustoff (TN) Riggleman Stewart Zeldin Budd Frankel LaHood The SPEAKER pro tempore. Without Burchett Fudge LaMalfa ANSWERED ‘‘PRESENT’’—2 Burgess Fulcher Lamb objection, the resignation is accepted. Gohmert There was no objection. Bustos Gabbard Lamborn Massie Butterfield Gaetz Langevin f Byrne Gallagher Larsen (WA) NOT VOTING—10 Calvert Gallego Larson (CT) Abraham Higgins (LA) Nunes b 1830 Carbajal Garamendi Latta Clyburn Joyce (OH) Ca´ rdenas Garcı´a (IL) Lawrence Wright GUN VIOLENCE IS A NATIONAL Crawford Marshall Carson (IN) Garcia (TX) Lawson (FL) Cummings McEachin HEALTH AND NATIONAL SECU- Carter (GA) Gianforte Lee (CA) RITY CRISIS Carter (TX) Gibbs Lee (NV) Cartwright Golden Lesko b 1824 (Mr. PAYNE asked and was given Case Gomez Levin (CA) permission to address the House for 1 Casten (IL) Gonzalez (OH) Levin (MI) So the resolution was agreed to. Castor (FL) Gonzalez (TX) Lewis The result of the vote was announced minute and to revise and extend his re- Castro (TX) Gooden Lieu, Ted as above recorded. marks.) Chabot Gosar Lipinski A motion to reconsider was laid on Mr. PAYNE. Madam Speaker, while Cheney Gottheimer Loebsack Chu, Judy Granger Lofgren the table. we mourn those lost in these all-too- Cicilline Graves (GA) Long frequent mass shootings, it is impor- Cisneros Graves (LA) Loudermilk f tant to remember, while some cities Clark (MA) Graves (MO) Lowenthal suffer these tragedies occasionally, Clarke (NY) Green (TN) Lowey RESIGNATION AS MEMBER OF Clay Green, Al (TX) Lucas others suffer them daily. Cleaver Griffith Luetkemeyer COMMITTEE ON SMALL BUSINESS Every year, dozens of my neighbors Cline Grijalva Luja´ n The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mrs. are victims of shootings across my Cloud Grothman Luria Cohen Guest Lynch LEE of Nevada) laid before the House city. We need to stop looking at guns Cole Guthrie Malinowski the following resignation as a member as simply a Second Amendment issue Collins (GA) Haaland Maloney, of the Committee on Small Business: and address them as a national health Collins (NY) Hagedorn Carolyn B. and security crisis. Comer Harder (CA) Maloney, Sean HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Conaway Harris Marchant Washington, DC, September 25, 2019. Our people are dying, and we have Connolly Hartzler Mast Hon. NANCY PELOSI, the power to stop it. Cook Hastings Matsui Speaker, House of Representatives, We have already taken similar ac- Cooper Hayes McAdams Washington, DC. Correa Heck McBath tions in other industries when lives are MADAM SPEAKER: I am writing to submit threatened or lost. Automobiles are a Costa Hern, Kevin McCarthy my resignation from the Committee on Courtney Herrera Beutler McCaul Small Business to allow an incoming Mem- safety risk, so we pushed for seatbelts Cox (CA) Hice (GA) McClintock and airbags. Smoking is a health risk, Craig Higgins (NY) McCollum ber of Congress to have the opportunity to Crenshaw Hill (AR) McGovern sit on the Committee. I am honored to have so we banned advertisement and vend- Crist Hill (CA) McHenry served on the Committee, and I am thankful ing machines to protect our children.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:18 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00072 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.081 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7979 That is why I am proud to support and, if not, we must have it as quickly Mr. HORSFORD. Madam Speaker, I stricter background checks before a as possible. rise today in overwhelming support of gun purchase and a ban on high-capac- Let me also say that today we had a the SAFE Banking Act of 2019. ity magazines, which should only be very important hearing in the Judici- Almost 3 years ago, Nevada voters available to trained American soldiers. ary Committee regarding the ban on went to the polls and voted to legalize But we must do more. assault weapons. It has been 53 days recreational marijuana, making Ne- Like me, many Members return to since El Paso, 52 days since Dayton, vada one of five States to legalize districts where gun violence is all too and 25 days since Odessa. marijuana in the 2016 election. common and where it is rare to find a It seems that the leadership of the After its legalization, local business family that has not lost a member to NRA finds my statements attractive, owners invested in Nevada’s legal can- this national menace. and so they have taken to the airways nabis market, creating jobs and oppor- f with their cousin, FOX News, to talk tunity. The Nevada marijuana market about the opinion that I had regarding quickly exceeded expectations, growing HUMAN TRAFFICKING IS ALIVE the AR–15 that, to me, ‘‘it was as heavy rapidly to become a burgeoning indus- AND WELL as 10 boxes.’’ try. (Mr. YOHO asked and was given per- As a person who believes in the First Within 10 months, Nevada also ex- mission to address the House for 1 Amendment, I have a right to say that. ceeded the initial 1-year projection of minute and to revise and extend his re- To all of the members of the NRA: I be- tax revenue, bringing in more than $55 marks.) lieve in your beliefs and your right to million in taxes for our schools, money Mr. YOHO. Madam Speaker, I rise believe them, but you are being led by that would have otherwise flooded the today to call attention to the issue of an unfortunate group of leaders who illicit drug market. Today, Nevada human trafficking, which is still alive simply want to attack and have no so- raises more revenue from cannabis ex- and well today. lutions. cise taxes than alcohol excise taxes. The United States has been ranked I will take the hit from the NRA to Interestingly enough, the marijuana among the top three nations of origin save lives. I am not afraid of the NRA. industry did this without incurring for victims of human trafficking in f vast detriments to society, creating an 2018, according to a recent report by addiction crisis, or serving as a gate- PFAS REMEDIATION the State Department, and is the num- way drug, as marijuana opponents have ber one consumer of sex trafficking (Mr. FITZPATRICK asked and was long argued. worldwide. given permission to address the House f This is absolutely unacceptable, and for 1 minute and to revise and extend as a Member of Congress, we must use his remarks.) CONGRATULATING ERIN WILLMAN all means necessary to rid our Nation Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, FOR CREATING OPPORTUNITIES of human trafficking and keep people I rise today to discuss a very important FOR DISABLED ADULTS safe from this kind of abuse. matter and one that is bipartisan in (Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania That is why, this week, I will be in- nature. asked and was given permission to ad- troducing two bills to help combat I thank my friend and colleague from dress the House for 1 minute and to re- this. They are the Prevent Trafficking Michigan (Mr. KILDEE) for helping us vise and extend his remarks.) in Our Schools Act, and the COMBAT organize and bring awareness to an Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Act of 2019. issue that affects communities across Madam Speaker, I rise today to recog- The Prevent Trafficking in Our the United States. nize Erin Willman of Warren, Pennsyl- School Act instructs the Secretary of As co-chair of the Congressional vania. Just 22 years old, Erin is run- Homeland Security and Secretary of PFAS Task Force, I am pleased that ning her own business, White Cane Cof- Education to develop a pilot program PFAS remediation efforts are receiving fee. to train school officials and teachers to the attention so desperately needed. Erin founded her company with an identify signs of trafficking in our In Bucks and Montgomery Counties, important goal in mind: to provide peo- schools and educate these same offi- we have seen firsthand the negative ple with disabilities with self-sus- cials on the prevalence in our commu- impacts PFAS contamination has had taining jobs. nity. on our community. Further action Erin is blind and on the autism spec- The COMBAT Act addresses the fact must be taken on a Federal level. trum. She believes that providing a that the U.S. does not have an official Earlier this year, the House and the welcoming environment centered count for domestic human trafficking Senate passed their NDAA bills that around a good cup of coffee is a natural by requiring a report to Congress on both included important provisions to way to promote inclusivity. the prevalence of human trafficking address PFAS contamination. These White Cane Coffee offers eight dif- happening within the United States. provisions will help to clean up con- ferent roast varieties, and each bag in- I ask for support on these bills. taminated sites, stop PFAS from pol- cludes braille-friendly labels. f luting our drinking water in the fu- Despite being capable and wanting to ture, and protect our servicemembers work, almost 90 percent of adults with IMPORTANT ISSUES OF THE DAY and our first responders. autism are either unemployed or un- (Ms. JACKSON LEE asked and was In order to protect veterans and fam- deremployed. For many, jobs are ex- given permission to address the House ilies in our communities from PFAS, in tremely difficult to find; and for oth- for 1 minute.) the final NDAA, we must have the best ers, work environments are not sup- Ms. JACKSON LEE. Madam Speaker, PFAS provisions from the House and portive or are even hostile to those today the transcript was released of Senate NDAA bills. who are disabled. Erin is helping to the conversation between the President Madam Speaker, I call, tonight, for bridge this gap by empowering autistic of the United States and the President all NDAA conferees to ensure resources adults in her community. of Ukraine. for PFAS remediation efforts are in- I am proud of the work that Erin is As a person who believes in the Con- cluded in the final package. This issue doing every day to create opportunities stitution and the rule of law, it is cru- cannot wait any longer. Congress must for autistic adults in Warren County. cial that we proceed with the work act now. f that is necessary, and so I rise to add f my enthusiastic support for H. Res. 576 CANNABIS COMPANIES NEED FI- that just passed, expressing the sense MARIJUANA INDUSTRY NEEDS NANCIAL INSTITUTIONS TO HELP of Congress with respect to the whistle- HELP FROM BANKERS THEM START AND GROW blower complaint, in order to protect (Mr. HORSFORD asked and was (Ms. PINGREE asked and was given the whistleblower and to have the com- given permission to address the House permission to address the House for 1 plaint sent to the United States Con- for 1 minute and to revise and extend minute and to revise and extend her re- gress, which, I believe, it is on its way, his remarks.) marks.)

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:52 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00073 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.086 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7980 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019 Ms. PINGREE. Madam Speaker, I REPORT ON RESOLUTION PRO- theme was global warming, climate rise to support H.R. 1595, the SAFE VIDING FOR CONSIDERATION OF change, the environment, and I had my Banking Act, which passed this House S.J. RES. 54, TERMINATION OF issue of The Economist on what is this afternoon. NATIONAL EMERGENCY DE- called the climate issue? Maine voters have legalized mari- CLARED BY THE PRESIDENT ON I want to talk about some really juana. Like every other business, can- FEBRUARY 15, 2019 amazing technologies that I can’t be- nabis companies in Maine and other le- Mr. MORELLE, from the Committee lieve weren’t discussed last week that galization States need financial insti- on Rules, submitted a privileged report are actually about to create stunning tutions to help them start and grow. (Rept. No. 116–218) on the resolution (H. breakthroughs. Maine credit unions and banks want Res. 591) providing for consideration of So, let’s first actually talk through to help. They were early advocates of the joint resolution (S.J. Res. 54) relat- this. I have this intense frustration the SAFE Banking Act. They recognize ing to a national emergency declared that my brothers and sisters on the that a safe harbor is necessary so that by the President on February 15, 2019, left, and even a number of us on the lenders can assist this emerging indus- which was referred to the House Cal- right, don’t talk enough or at all about try sector, to the benefit of consumers, endar and ordered to be printed. the amazing good things happening to lenders, and law enforcement. the American worker, to people out Just yesterday, a banker from south- f there who had a pretty rough previous ern Maine contacted me out of regret. DISPLAY ON NATIONAL MALL BY decade. The bank had to close a long-time cus- THE HISTORICAL VEHICLE ASSO- The math is the math. So the tomer’s account when they found out CIATION premise I want to give right now is eco- nomic growth is moral because it up- he was a delivery driver for a legal (Mr. LAMALFA asked and was given marijuana producer. Due to potential permission to address the House for 1 lifts, it makes work valuable, it im- Federal liability, the bank lost a cus- minute and to revise and extend his re- proves your future, your retirement, tomer. The citizen lost his trusted fi- marks.) and your ability to take care of your kids. Economic growth is moral. nancial institution. Mr. LAMALFA. Madam Speaker, I Does he have to keep his earnings want to point out a unique opportunity The reason I have this particular under a mattress? for viewing. The U.S. Park Service, board up—and we try to do this every This makes no sense. The SAFE their division of the Historic Vehicle week—is what are some of the greatest Banking Act will fix this problem by Association, places on display in The threats to our society? I actually believe it is the stunning allowing lenders to legally serve mari- National Mall, several times a year, size of our unfunded liabilities. Once juana businesses. It promotes security unique vehicles with unique histories. again—and I say this almost every by ensuring transactions are done Right now, in a glass case just a cou- week when I am behind this micro- through regulated institutions, not ple of blocks from here in The National phone—the next 30 years, if you take with bags of cash. Mall is the 1966 Volkswagen van that Social Security and Medicare and re- belonged to Esau and Janie Jenkins f move it from the 30-year window, this from South Carolina, who were long- country, the Federal Government, the AAKASH PATEL NAMED BUSINESS- time revered civil rights leaders back CBO projection, $23 trillion in the MAN OF THE YEAR BY THE in the day, transporting people to ral- bank, if we pull Social Security and INDO-U.S. CHAMBER OF COM- lies and to get them out to vote and for Medicare into that number, then we MERCE voter registration, education, all sorts are $103 trillion in debt—negative. of things in the civil rights movement, (Mr. SPANO asked and was given per- That is not Republican or Democrat starting back in the 1940s until they mission to address the House for 1 math, it is just demographics. There obtained this van and used it for many minute and to revise and extend his re- are 74 million of us who are baby years. marks.) boomers. We are moving into our It was brought out from a field where Mr. SPANO. Madam Speaker, I rise earned benefits, and the honest truth it had been deteriorating over many today to celebrate one of Tampa Bay’s is, the resources that were required to years. It was brought back to life in most impactful business leaders, meet these earned benefits were never this display for everyone to see in this Aakash Patel. set aside. Aakash was recently honored as glass case. It will be here for the rest of So how do we keep our commit- Businessman of the Year by the Indo- the week. ments? U.S. Chamber of Commerce, a group I encourage people to go down and We are actually proposing over and that provides Asian American profes- check that out and see what the His- over and over that it is a combination. sionals and entrepreneurs a platform to toric Vehicle Association is doing. There is no magic bullet. It is a com- share and collaborate. f bination. Madam Speaker, you have Aakash currently serves as the chair- b 1845 got to grow the economy like crazy. So man of the Early Learning Coalition of tax policy that grows and expands, Hillsborough County, a 501(c)(3) that GOOD ECONOMIC NEWS trade policy that grows and expands, provides quality childhood care and The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under immigration policy that grows and ex- after-school programs to many of the the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- pands, regulatory policy that grows children in my district. uary 3, 2019, the gentleman from Ari- and expands, and incentives to be in At the age of 27, Aakash founded a zona (Mr. SCHWEIKERT) is recognized the labor force that grow and expand local consulting firm, with an expertise for 60 minutes as the designee of the the economy. in public relations, targeted net- minority leader. The adoption of disruptive tech- working, and social media. Under his Mr. SCHWEIKERT. Madam Speaker, nology to change the price of leadership, his small group of this is going to be one of those eve- healthcare is absolutely necessary. We millennials, over the last 9 years, has nings where I am going to try to actu- need incentives for Americans who are actively resourced over 150 companies. ally go through sort of complex num- older and who feel they are healthy and His love and passion for our commu- bers, but a lot of it is incredibly opti- still want to work, to stay in the labor nity is also seen in his role as the mistic. force. We go over these details over and youngest board member of the Greater I am going to do two things tonight: over and over again. Tampa Chamber of Commerce and with Part of this is just some frustration There is a way to make the math sur- his selection as an honorary com- on numbers that I keep seeing out vivable without some of the lunacy of mander at MacDill Air Force Base. there that aren’t being discussed here functionally almost buying constitu- Please join me in congratulating one in this body that are incredibly opti- encies with outlandish promises, just of Tampa’s most well-established ris- mistic in the economy. managing the reality of our demo- ing stars in the business community, And the second thing is: I want to graphics and our current promises. Aakash Patel. talk about, remember last week the Once again, every 5 years, just the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:52 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00074 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.088 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7981 growth in Social Security, Medicare, Why isn’t there joy? As a result, real median earnings for and healthcare entitlements—just the This is an editorial from The Wall female households with no spouse growth—will equal the Defense Depart- Street Journal from the editorial board present jumped 7.6 last year. ment. That means every 10 years two on the 20th, and there are some num- How many speeches have been given Defense Departments is just the bers in here we have been tracking. on this floor over the last decade about growth. They did a fine job sort of lumping it that population and the crushing bur- CBO projects that in the next 10 together. But we all saw it here on this den of poverty? years, 91 percent of the growth will be floor in some of those 1-minute com- More happened last year than had in spending on Social Security, Medi- ments a couple weeks ago, a number of happened in the previous few years in care, and healthcare entitlements. our brothers and sisters on the left moving that population out of poverty. Much of that is calculated with actu- were just outraged that in 2018, Med- I am sure our brothers and sisters on ally a new much, much lower medical icaid rolls declined. the left when they hear the actual inflation. It is demographics. It is pop- Do you know why they declined? math will be joyful because they care ulation shifts moving into those bene- It turns out they declined because about these folks, right? fits. workers’ earnings increased by 3.4 per- The poverty rate among female You would think, Madam Speaker, if cent while the poverty rate decreased households declined 2.7 percent for Af- those who come behind these micro- by another half a percent. So now the rican Americans—Blacks—4 percent for phones actually loved and cared for poverty rate is at 11.8. It is still unac- Hispanics, and 7.1 percent for their their brothers and sisters, they would ceptably high. It is also the lowest children. Those are amazing numbers. actually try something new, and that since 2001, and some of the fastest re- It is part of my point that I keep try- would be invest in a calculator, tell the duction of poverty in U.S. history was ing to make over and over. Economic truth about the math, come together, just last year. growth is moral. If you say you care about those who and make it work. We believe there is But what was more important, be- don’t have many of the same opportu- a way to make it work. cause the irony of this editorial, the nities or haven’t had them in life, Part of the reason I am behind the real cure for inequality, it turns out Madam Speaker, shouldn’t there be microphone tonight is I want to talk that the share of households making just a little recognition there is some- about some of the amazing things that less than $35,000 in inflation-adjusted thing pretty amazing happening out are happening, proving the first part of dollars has fallen 1.2 percent, because there in the economy for these folks that discussion, that you can change they were making more. But when you who were being written off as being the economic cycle. I have been on the part of the permanent underclass? Yet actually look at the amount where the Joint Economic Committee now for they have the fastest growing wages in income growth was, it wasn’t at the years. And these freaky smart profes- those lower quartiles. upper quartiles of income. It looks like sors, demographers, and economists I am sorry. I know I get behind this the growth in income with what they would come and sit in front of us and microphone and often sound like an ac- say in the lower quartiles. Meaning, as say: David, it looks like your future is countant on steroids. I struggle with a this editorial—and we still don’t have a 1.8, maybe a 1.9 GDP growth. We are way to make this sort of a powerful the math yet, but we are tracking it, going to have a labor force that is story, a powerful narrative. So many of we are probably not going to have it going to fall somewhere into the mid- our brothers and sisters around here for another year when we look back at 50s as people retire, because remember get behind this microphone and are 2019—but preliminarily, 2019 may be 10,300 Americans turn 65 every single great at telling stories. But under- the year, the first year in modern day. standing this math—I don’t care if you times, where income inequality actu- That was our future, Madam Speak- are Democrat or Republican, Madam ally shrinks. er, and you couldn’t make this math Speaker, you should be joyful that It is not because the wealthy didn’t work at all. something is working out there, and get wealthier. It is because those in the So how many times did you hear the you would think policy-wise we would lower income finally were receiving term a fiscal cliff is coming? have a discussion of how we keep it pay raises, because they are finally Then this crazy thing has happened going. working in a world where there are the last couple of years where we Some more from this editorial: Full- more jobs than there is available labor, changed our tax law and we updated Time, year-round workers increased by so their labor is more valuable. our regulatory environment. We are 2.3 million in 2018. Employment gains Isn’t that exciting? still negotiating, trying to update our were the biggest among minorities, fe- Shouldn’t we all get together, Repub- trade environment. But just those cou- male-led households. The share of licans and Democrats, and figure out ple of levers changed the economic life workers in female-led households who how to do more of this? for so many Americans. Yet this place worked full-time year-round increased b 1900 is so incredibly sour, I don’t know why by 4.2 percent, and among Hispanics 3.6 there is not joy. percent. The editorial touches on this, but I I want to walk through some of these It is the next paragraph that caught want to give an explanation. As 10,300 numbers. Look, these are just some of my eye when I was reading this on the Americans retire every day, those are the headlines. Associated Press said airplane, and I can’t believe it wasn’t often individuals who are near the peak that U.S. household income finally headlined around this country, because of their earning cycle, their lifetime matches 1990 peak, while poverty rate we all talk about how we care about earnings. hits its lowest since 2001. That is what those who have had a really rough dec- The economists for years and years they call inflation-adjusted dollars. We ade, those who have been poor, and had said they expected to see certain had a lost decade. We had a couple of those who are fighting and struggling mean income fall because high-skilled lost decades. We are back. to feed their families and move up. workers, because of their time in the For the first time, most new work- As a result, real median earnings— workforce, they were retiring and their ing-age hires in the U.S. are people of and let’s stop for a moment. When you salary was going to come out. Younger color. It turns out, when we would sit hear the words ‘‘real median earnings,’’ workers weren’t being paid as much. It in the Joint Economic Committee a Madam Speaker, what does that mean? turns out, some of our youngest work- couple years ago, we would hear that It is something we call inflation-ad- ers have had some of the biggest pops those who didn’t have graduate de- justed dollars. So, if we tell you your in income. grees, those who didn’t finish high income went up 2 percent, but last year Mean incomes increased in house- school and who didn’t have these par- inflation was 1 percent, you only went holds between the ages of 15 to 24 and ticular skill sets were going to be con- up 1 percent. So when you hear the 25 to 34 by 9.1 percent and 5 percent, re- signed to the permanent underclasses. term real dollars or constant dollars or spectively. It turns out our young Besides just the common cruelty of adjusted dollars, it means we have workers had some of the most aggres- accepting that, the darkness of accept- made up for inflation, so your pur- sive, positive pay raises in all of soci- ing that, it turns out it wasn’t true. chasing power is held constant. ety.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:52 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00075 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.090 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7982 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019 How much have we heard that on our D.C. is one of the communities that You will notice there is no net posi- media? How about our financial press? has banned straws. Bless them. How tive. If you are someone that cares How much here on the floor? How many U.S. straws end up in the ocean? about CO2, greenhouse gas going into much from those who care about social Oh, pretty much none. the atmosphere, unless you are stabi- policies? Madam Speaker, 90 percent of the lizing nuclear power, instead of taking Look, the reality of it is that some- ocean plastic—and I am someone, be- it offline, you didn’t get anywhere. But thing pretty amazing is happening out fore I got this job—look, I am blessed we reward virtue signaling around here there in our economy. When you saw to represent one of the greatest dis- and not actual math. the August unemployment numbers of tricts you can imagine, lots of smart Let’s talk some more about the good how many Americans who were not people, lots of people who care. Lots of news and some of the technology even looking came back into the labor people have chosen to move their lives, breakthroughs that are happening force, because, back to our previous their existence, their prosperity, and around us. This one is one of my favor- point, labor force participation, a work hard in the Phoenix-Scottsdale ites because something the Committee growing economy, is moral. It is some- area. But when you are in the desert, on Ways and Means did last year—and thing that I hope everyone here, no you used to love to go to the ocean and we did it bipartisan, demonstrating matter what your ideology, is joyful go scuba diving. So plastic in the ocean you can do these things—is we updated about. That economic expansion, we was always one those things you talked what we call the carbon sequestration are starting to see it in the early data about, you cared about. tax credit. from CBO, and soon, hopefully, the So- Madam Speaker, 90 percent of the This is a facility that is up and run- cial Security actuaries. The dates of plastic in the ocean comes from 10 riv- ning—what is it?—outside the Houston running out of money in our earned en- ers, eight of them in Asia, two of them area, in Texas. I hope I don’t butcher titlement programs are getting pushed in Africa. If you cared about plastic in the technology, but it is a natural gas- off because of the amount of payroll the ocean, you would do something fired power plant with no smokestack. taxes that are coming in. that is simple and logical: Go to the 10 They figured out how to take the nat- As you look at these numbers, try to rivers that are 90 percent of the plastic ural gas, explode it, slam it through absorb how stunning. Earnings for sin- in the ocean and do something. the turbines, spin the turbines, produce gle female households in just 2018—we A number of us on the Republican electricity, and on the other end, cap- are not talking multiple years—just side are trying to find ways to adjust ture all the CO2. Then they sell it, re- 2018 of 7.6 percent. If I had shown up parts of our foreign policy, our envi- cycle it. Now we are learning they can here a couple of years ago and said that ronmental aid, some of our engineering take that CO2, and through a process— is what 2018 was going to produce, you skills, and those things to these loca- I think you have to put it to like 150 would have laughed me out of the tions of these 10 rivers that are 90 per- bars of pressure and those things—it place, but it happened. cent of the plastic in the ocean. It is turns out it becomes an incredibly Poverty rates for female households absolutely fascinating the reaction I clean-burning fuel because it is really are down 2.7 percent; for Hispanic, have had from some of our brothers pure carbon. down 4 percent. The 2.7 is African and sisters who just stare at me be- This facility, I think—if I remember American. Hasn’t this also been the goal around cause—well, that pretty much ends the the article—they are trying now to find here? We were going to find policies virtue signaling of: We are going to get funding to go up to around 300 that created a level, egalitarian sort of rid of straws, even though 90 percent of megawatts. But they have proven you equity in participating in the Amer- the problem is these 10 rivers, eight in can burn a hydrocarbon, produce base- ican Dream, the economic expansion. It Asia, two in Africa. load electrical power, and not have a is happening. If you claim you care, learn the ac- smokestack. I am sure when my brothers and sis- tual facts, because virtue signaling The technology is up and running ters on the left see these numbers, they does not make this world cleaner. today and, apparently, a few miles will soon be coming to these micro- Let’s talk about this last week and away, there is another plant that is phones overjoyed, joyful, excited that optimism. Amazing article, a company doing the same experiment with coal the policies from the Republicans over called TerraPower, and apparently, Bill and no smokestack. the last couple of years have brought Gates is a substantial investor in it. It This is a big deal, but there are many economic numbers that a lot of those is a new, dramatically more efficient of us who also think of the greenhouse really smart professors, economists, type of nuclear power. There were some gas issue as global. When you have and demographers who sat in front of numbers in the article that I thought countries like China and its Belt and us over the last decade said were im- were important for the continuation of Road Initiative, it is bringing on 32, 33 possible. the thought experiment. coal-fired power plants with function- We need to rethink. If you claim you About 20 percent of America’s elec- ally almost no greenhouse gas mitiga- care, maybe we should engage in poli- tric power comes from nuclear. Seven- tion, carbon capture. They are not cies that really do work. Just as the teen percent comes from renewables. using the newest technology. Wall Street editorial makes very, very Nuclear still is more than renewables. What happens to a world where some- clear, we have seen distribution not lift About 63 percent is from fossil fuels. one like myself says that we need the people out of poverty. In many ways, Here is the problem with that: If you economic growth, that we don’t have the math has kept them in poverty. take a look, the column over here on the economic growth, that we can But the economic expansion, the eco- my right—if you are watching this, never keep our economic promises that nomic miracle from the last couple of your left—are different nuclear power we have made to our seniors? Retire- years, is working. Maybe we should generation that has been shut down or ment security is crucial to economic consider doing more of it. So, look, is being shut down. This goes back to expansion, but we want a clean envi- that is just an intense frustration I 2016. That was some of the newest data ronment. have. I could find. The other side is photo- The lunacy of some of the proposals, I want to start with this slide, sort of voltaic. I beg of them, please, come by our of- as the thought experiment. I am some- Do you notice something? The two fice. We have binders of the disruptive one who cares a lot about the environ- lines are almost identical. If you are technology that is coming out. This is ment, but I also care about telling the someone that is giddy—and look, I am one that I think we have to be joyful truth about the math. Virtue signaling from Arizona. We love our photo- about. does not make the environment voltaic, but we also have the largest How many of you have ever heard the healthier and cleaner. It may get you nuclear power plant, which is run by discussion of negative carbon emis- reelected. It may get you some nice Arizona Public Service, in the country sions? We have discussed this concept comments on Twitter or a blog. It at amazing uptime. They do an amaz- for 100 years. You can pull CO2 out of doesn’t make the environment better. ing job running that facility. But this the air. So every once in a while I will bring is nuclear power coming offline. That It turns out this facility is up and this slide up. is photovoltaic going online. running in its pilot project. Bill Gates

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:52 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00076 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.092 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7983 is also a funder of this. It is in Canada. stantial pipeline or multiple pipelines Madam Speaker, I yield back the bal- I wish it was in Arizona. They are in west Texas and a couple other large ance of my time. claiming right now that their facility hydrocarbon-producing areas and it f can pull carbon out of the air for about was designed to capture methane and NATIONAL SECURITY CONCERNS $100 to $150 a ton, capture that carbon, take that methane and pull it in in package it, and make a clean-burning enough density to actually convert it The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under fuel out of it. to a fuel, and then he had that and a the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- If the rest of the world continues to couple other things, you hit the Paris uary 3, 2019, the gentlewoman from go the way it is going, the concept that accord numbers. Ohio (Ms. KAPTUR) is recognized for 60 we now have the technology to yank Isn’t that exciting? How many of our minutes as the designee of the major- carbon out of the air, and if it is really brothers and sisters here are already ity leader. heading toward $100 a ton, it is at the saying we need to be building a bunch Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, it is threshold where it is economical be- more pipelines to go collect that meth- with grave concern for our country, our cause, it turns out, the dollar values— ane so we can capture it, compress it, longstanding Western security alli- some of the sequestration tax credits make sure it doesn’t go into the air— ances, and liberty itself that I rise we do, but also the ability to convert it except pipelines are, functionally, part today. I have the distinct privilege of serv- back into a fuel, it is almost in the of the religious process here and need ing on the House Appropriations Sub- money. to be opposed. committee on Defense and co-chair the This is exciting. How many did you If anyone is watching, listening, go Congressional Ukraine Caucus. look this up: photosynthesis, 40 per- hear talk about this technology over As the Congresswoman from a dis- the last 10 days? It is here. cent. I actually believe this may be the trict with a strong Ukrainian heritage My beloved university, Arizona State single most disruptive bit of tech- and tens of thousands of citizens who University, the biggest university in nology in our lifetimes. understand what liberty demands, I It looks like the inherent problem of the United States, has an entire center hold a unique perspective and, dare plants. You remember all of your high devoted to this concept of technology say, deep knowledge to speak on the school biology class where we were told that is a negative carbon sink. Func- events of the past several days to pro- plant cells have had, for millions of tionally, it pulls carbon right out of vide some additional context on why years, a small flaw. Sometimes they the air. Their technology is passive, the conversation between President really, really want that carbon mol- where the other one is active. Donald Trump and the newly elected ecule so they can make a sugar out of The professor working on this—I President of Ukraine, Volodymyr it and, instead, they grab an oxygen have met with him—freaky smart. He Zelensky, is so distressing to our na- molecule. has a joyful view that basically says tional security. let’s let the technology compete. Who- Apparently, through synthetic biol- The American public has looked on ever does it the best will win. ogy, they figured out how to rearrange in horror as America’s President, This one is more a distributive model that plant cell so it always grabs the President Trump, has willfully ne- of this passive collection where you carbon. It grows the sugar, and the glected his oath of office and sacred can put it in lots of locations. Part of plants grow 40 percent more efficient. duty to defend the best interests of our Think about that. What would hap- it is the cover for your bus stop, but it Nation in favor of his own and, in ef- pen if that technology was part of our is also pulling carbon out of the air. fect, promote the interests of Russian commodity crops, our fresh produce, The technology is here, so the dictator Vladimir Putin. Malthusians of this place—and if you the things we eat. The world would This week, we learned of yet another don’t know what that means, please go feed itself for another 250 years. It instance in which our President has look it up—somehow think we need to would mean 40 percent less land, 40 per- put national security at risk in favor of go back and live in the dark ages, basi- cent less water, 40 percent less fer- advancing his own personal, partisan, cally, or that man has demonstrated tilizer. political objectives. over and over technology is a disrup- It turns out, world agriculture pro- According to a highly redacted White tion. duces 2.2 times the greenhouse gases of House memo released this morning, Look, when I was growing up, I re- every car on Earth. Do you know, if new Ukrainian President Volodymyr member having a teacher read us the you had this type of technology as the Zelensky was quoted as saying he was Population Bomb, scaring me to death crops for around the world, it would be ‘‘ready to buy more U.S. antitank mis- that by the late 1970s, we were all going equal to removing every car off the siles to defend his nation against Rus- to be starving. How many of our kids face of the Earth? sia’s invasion.’’ out there today hear the propaganda And, yes, it is a GMO, because the fix And President Trump, without skip- on some of the reactionaries, the folk- was done through a type of synthetic ping a beat, responded: ‘‘I would like lore about what is happening out there, biology. you to do us a favor, though.’’ that they are going to be in a planet But it would equal removing every A favor to receive the funds that this that is burning up in their late teenage car off the face of the Earth. Congress passed and appropriated? A years? These are joyful thought experi- favor to disburse the funds already The issues are real, but so are the ments, but the technology is real, and slated for Ukraine until President technology solutions. It turns out solu- it is here. We have to figure out, as a Trump held them back to ask a favor? tions often aren’t as elegant as a great body, how we adopt these things that it That is illegal. It is unconstitutional. speech with lots of virtue signaling. proves we can grow as a society, we can And it is dead wrong. I am very proud of the things that grow economically as a world. This exchange is not only a clear vio- are happening out there. My soon-to-be 4-year-old little girl lation of the law; it is an unprece- A final bit of this thought experi- can have an amazing future. We don’t dented abuse of power that undermines ment is, years ago, we were blessed—we have to be terrified about the debt cliff our national security, violates our Con- had a Ph.D. of physics. I think he is that is going to crush us because we stitution, and compromises the strug- now—well, he is at one of those special grew. And we can have the amazing gle for liberty on the continent of Eu- agencies that does really complex stuff clean environment and deal with the rope that includes America’s most right now. But he did a math experi- issues of greenhouse gases. trusted allies through instrumental- ment for us. Methane, in our formula, Are we ready to pull our heads out ities like NATO. was considered 84 times more green- and actually do that crazy thing of Article I of the Constitution clearly house-causing in its first year than reading and math and understand the states that all legislative power shall carbon. So, okay, you get 84-to-1. technology disruption is in front of us? be vested in the Congress of the United Madam Speaker, are we ready to States and that Congress holds the b 1915 adopt, embrace the technology disrup- awesome power of the purse. He came to me with this math exper- tion that allows us to grow, prosper, On July 18, President Trump purpose- iment saying, if you could build a sub- and meet so many of our goals? fully directed his administration to

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:52 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00077 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.093 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7984 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019 withhold nearly $400 million in defense ing a bloody war in Ukraine for over 5 than 13,000 Ukrainian deaths, including assistance for Ukraine from the State years. civilians who have been targeted by and Defense Departments’ budgets. Who is to say Putin wasn’t listening Russian missiles, 30,000 injured, and These funds were voted by Members in when Trump blackmailed Zelensky? more than 2 million displaced inter- of the House and Senate. And, frankly, Madam Speaker, no Member of Con- nally. at one point this year, we did not know gress has traveled to Ukraine as many It is sad that Ukraine must fight a that the President was holding the times as I, beginning long before I was war on two fronts: a hot war against funds back. When we learned that he in Congress and long before the Berlin Russia, for which she is completely was, I joined my fellow Ukraine Caucus wall fell. I can say with confidence that underarmed, and one against the co-chair, Congressman MIKE QUIGLEY of Ukraine, today, is the scrimmage line enemy from within, the scourge of cor- , in issuing a statement de- for liberty’s defense on the continent of ruption, both perpetuated by Russian manding that the money we had voted Europe. And that is why President influence. for be released. Trump’s decision to withhold this In fact, when Boris Nemtsov, a brave Members of Congress wrote the Presi- money is so troubling. Russian, was prepared to lead a dem- dent letters and sent them to the There is no more important strategic onstration for Ukrainian independence, White House and were told by the ad- military alliance for liberty than he was killed on the steps near the ministration that, well, you know, it America’s membership with European Kremlin—how about that?—in Moscow. nations in NATO, the North Atlantic was ‘‘an interagency delay’’ that b 1930 caused the funds not to be released to Treaty Organization. Every minute of a nation at war with Russia. every day, NATO stands united to de- That is how Russia plays. Russia invaded Ukraine, not the re- fend against dictatorships and protect Ukraine’s new President, Volodymyr verse. And the scrimmage line for lib- our liberties. Zelensky, and his party in the Rada erty on the continent of Europe now is Russia has always hated this organi- won a significant majority because he at the Russian-Ukrainian border, and zation and will do anything to disrupt promised, finally, to root out this cor- the Western alliance, and she is hard our President delayed the release of ruption. and fast at work doing that as we stand those funds. While the ink is fresh on the The President sought to make the re- here this evening. Zelensky Presidency, we have high We know the battlefields of Europe lease of national security funds passed hopes for him and his ability to live up directly influenced the founding of our and appropriated by this Congress con- to the expectations of his people. It own Republic and our fundamental tingent on asking a new foreign leader would be tragic if President Trump ideals of democracy. NATO stands for a favor—a favor—prior to release of compromised him with his recent ready, as we stand here tonight, to de- missteps. those funds. fend our liberty. In return, we keep our Congress must compel the release of In order to make good on his promise word—our word—for our NATO allies, a the full conversation that occurred be- to root out corruption, President promise that should never be contin- Zelensky must make clear his inde- tween President Trump and the new gent on a single President’s political President of Ukraine, Volodymyr pendence from every oligarch. A prime objectives back home. example is his benefactor, the infa- Zelensky, as well as the full whistle- After the collapse of communist Rus- mous Ukrainian oligarch Ihor blower complaint as was originally sia in 1991, Ukraine became a free na- Kolomoisky. Kolomoisky serves as an submitted to the Office of Inspector tion. Ukraine had been occupied for all example of corrupt influence on General. of its modern history but began its jag- Ukraine’s fragile political system. We do not have the full release. I will ged path forward to the free world, a With a net worth of over $1.2 billion— say more about that in a moment. path that has been torturous and The document we were provided fraught with danger and setbacks and, and I am sure that is a lowball num- today was not a complete transcript of yes, bloody murder. ber—Kolomoisky is one of the richest the conversation that our President To this day, there exists an insidious and most corrupt oligarchs in Ukraine. had with President Zelensky. We only network of corrupt Ukrainian and Rus- He also owns the television channel got about 11 minutes of a conversation sian oligarchs whose tentacles reach that ran the show ‘‘Servant of the Peo- that lasted upwards of 30 minutes. Con- far across Ukraine and the rest of the ple’’ that propelled Zelensky to star- gress must demand the full transcript world, seeking to undermine the West- dom and popular acclaim. and hold the executive branch officials ern alliance while protecting the self- The question for history will be: Will in contempt if they refuse to give us ish, corrupt financial looting that con- Ukraine’s new President be able to rise the full documents. tinues to this day in that part of the to the highest aspirations of those who Like so many Americans, I am dis- world and, frankly, even reaching our voted for him? Or will he be mired in gusted by President Trump’s repeated shores. corruption at home and by entrapment betrayal of American interests in favor It will be a permanent blot on Amer- by foreign leaders like President of Vladimir Putin’s. ican history that certain Americans, Trump? This President’s efforts to coerce including President Trump’s campaign Kolomoisky, like other oligarchs, did Ukrainian President Zelensky, an al- manager and several other Trump not become rich due to their acumen. lied leader, into helping him win re- operatives, were actually involved in Rather, they used lies, intimidation, election by urging congressionally sup- supporting these oligarchs and the un- cheating, stealing, money laundering, ported military aid as leverage is not democratic forces that are trying to and killing—yes, killing. These are only a dramatic betrayal of the Presi- undermine the Government of Ukraine their stock in trade. dent’s constitutional duty; it is also every time they try to right them- Kolomoisky used his company, the latest example of Trump doing selves. And these oligarchs steal and PrivatBank, as a personal piggy bank Putin’s bidding. plunder billions of dollars with their by issuing endless loans to himself and, I am certain that our President’s re- Kremlin allies. frankly, laundering billions of dollars— lationship with Vladimir Putin didn’t Despite these setbacks, since billions of dollars—including in this start with his veiled support for Ukraine’s Euromaidan Revolution of country, mainly in real estate. Putin’s election meddling or inviting Dignity 5 years ago, Ukrainian people In one instance, Kolomoisky hired the Russians to hack the Democratic have bravely demonstrated their reso- hundreds of thugs—think about this— National Committee or even lobbying, lute commitment to their nation’s with iron rods, rubber bullet pistols, most recently, for Russia to be re- democratic future. chainsaws, and baseball bats to raid a admitted to the G7, our most trusted The latest example is their historic plant in order to take it over. He didn’t allies, when Russia has invaded Presidential and parliamentary elec- buy it. He stole it—surely, a macabre Ukraine, for heaven’s sake. tions, which international observers definition of a hostile takeover. Who benefits when Ukraine loses lauded as free and fair. Due to Kolomoisky’s corruption and military assistance? It is an easy ques- Meanwhile, Russia’s devastating in- looting of the PrivatBank, the bank tion. Russia, the country that is wag- vasion of Ukraine has resulted in more had lost $5.5 billion, putting Ukraine’s

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:52 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00078 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.095 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7985 economy at risk. That is why the head money laundering and the enrichment ‘‘Today. press reports indicate that a U.S. of Ukraine’s National Bank, Valeria of corrupt oligarchs. We cannot encour- intelligence officers whistleblower complaint Gontareva, nationalized it. This was a age the kind of complicity that the regarding President Trump’s possible breach critical step urged by the United President inferred in his remarks to of national security may involve the nation of Ukraine.’’ said Rep. Kaptur. As co-chair of States, the European Union, the Inter- President Zelensky in his recent con- the bipartisan Congressional Ukraine Cau- national Monetary Fund, and the Euro- versation. cus. I fully support the efforts by Chairman pean Bank for Reconstruction and De- The United States and our allies can Adam Schiff and the House Permanent Se- velopment. take steps to combat the illicit flows of lect Committee on Intelligence to seek a de- Now, Ms. Gontareva’s life is under money that empower the oligarch tailed accounting of the complaint and tran- threat. She was hit by a car in London, economy of money laundering, black- script of the incident(s), and call upon the leaving her hospitalized. Her son’s car mail, murder, and extortion. Congress Speaker and Minority Leader to take all was burned. Her house in Kiev was must enact beneficial ownership trans- courses of action for appropriate Congres- parency legislation to prevent malign sional oversight to obtain the relevant docu- burned down, her apartment raided by ments and necessary testimony to establish police. actors from easily opening shell com- confirmation of fact and circumstance.’’ Fear, crime, murder, and destruction panies here. We must continue to sup- ‘‘Following Ukraine’s historic elections are the paths of repressive regimes. port investigative journalism, not just and continued democratic struggles, the Freedom-lovers simply do not accept in Ukraine, but here in order to main- Ukrainian people deserve our full support. that way of life for ourselves or for the tain our own liberty and remain the We must know to what extent the President future of Ukraine. bastion of liberty for the free world. and his lawyer, Rudy Giuliani. are using the For these reasons, I have invited President Zelensky and the newly weight of U.S. foreign policy, including hold- Valeria to come to Capitol Hill to elected Rada must now make good on ing critical security assistance, to advance their own narrow personal interests.’’ share her courageous story in the face their campaign promises to serve the ‘‘The American people deserve a govern- of such brutal intimidation. people of Ukraine, not the oligarchs. ment free of malign foreign influence. The Corrupt oligarchs, with their ill-got- Ukraine’s new President must fully American people deserve to know the full ten gains, launder money to the West, support the work of anticorruption truth.’’ where they know our laws will keep that has been promoted by even many their ill-gotten money safe. How ironic Members of our own Congress, includ- KAPTUR/QUIGLEY PRESS RELEASE TO CON- DEMN PRESIDENT TRUMP’S ATTEMPT TO it is that the Kremlin mouthpieces ing Representative BRIAN FITZPATRICK SLOW ROLL CRITICAL ASSISTANCE TO mock our values of openness and our from Pennsylvania, who has worked so UKRAINE, AUGUST 30, 2019 strong tradition of rule of law while hard to establish that effort even prior WASHINGTON.—Today, Co-Chairs of the Putin’s cronies safely store and invest to his service here in the Congress. Congressional Ukraine Caucus Representa- their dirty money here. Critical organizations to perform the tives Marcy Kaptur (D–OH) and Mike I can tell you that, in our country, tasks include the National Anti-Cor- Quigley (D–IL) released the following state- recent reports have noted that ruption Bureau of Ukraine, the Na- ment condemning President Trump’s at- Kolomoisky and his business partner, tional Agency on Corruption Preven- tempts to slow-roll $250 million in congres- Gennadiy Bogolyubov, have funneled tion, as well as the Anti-Corruption sionally appropriated military aid for vast funds through various Delaware- Court. The judicial system must be Ukraine, known as the Ukraine Security As- based shell companies into properties given true independence to root out sistance Initiative. ‘‘President Trump’s decision to slow-walk and businesses around our Nation, even corruption free from any kind of out- this congressionally appropriated military in my district of Cleveland, Ohio, side political influence. funding for Ukraine is disturbing and dem- where Kolomoisky has become down- Madam Speaker, the Ukrainian peo- onstrates once again his affinity for Russia town Cleveland’s largest commercial ple have our full support in their ef- and Russian President Vladimir Putin.’’ the real estate owner. How about that? forts to shake off the rapacious grip of representatives said in a joint statement. It is not just in my State. It is in corrupt oligarchs supported by Russia. ‘‘This funding is vital to preserving democ- Florida. It is across this country. This Democracy shines in the sunlight, racy in Ukraine and Eastern Europe and is what is going on with the kind of and we want that sunlight to shine must not be delayed or hindered in any here. Any conversation between our way.’’ corruption that spreads across our ‘‘With Russia’s unprovoked, unwarranted world, and it is why we have to pay at- President and the new President of and murderous invasion of Ukraine and with tention to what is happening in Ukraine that can reveal any attempt over 10,000 innocent Ukrainians now having Ukraine because, next to Ukraine, be- to threaten security of our long- been killed, the President of the United hind the Iron Curtain of Russian lead- standing allied relationships and con- States should not be a defender of Russian ership, they have a plan to disrupt the tinue to threaten liberty demands the interests. President Trump has repeatedly West, certainly using every tool they undivided attention of this Congress. berated our closest allies in the North Atlan- have to disrupt the NATO alliance, but I reiterate my call for transparency, tic Treaty Organization. lifted sanctions on accountability, and strong, Russian oligarchs. and advocated for Russia even here in our country, trying to dis- being allowed back in the G7.’’ rupt our way of life. unencumbered congressional investiga- ‘‘The President of the United States should The newly reconstituted PrivatBank, tions. be a champion for liberty, not a pawn for dic- which was taken over by the nation of If President Trump and his adminis- tators. This funding cannot be delayed.’’ Ukraine, has brought forth a case on tration fail to comply with legitimate MEMORANDUM OF TELEPHONE CONVERSATION behalf of its shareholders in Delaware congressional inquiries, then there is Subject: Telephone Conversation with Presi- against Kolomoisky. According to no other option than for this House to dent Zelenskyy of Ukraine. court documents—and get this— stand with our American allies and Participants: President Zelenskyy of Kolomoisky laundered $470 billion move forward with impeachment. Ukraine. Notetakers: The White House through a Cyprus-based shell company We appreciate those who work late Situation Room. between 2006 and 2016, potentially the into the evening this night to make Date, time and place: July 25, 2019, 9:03–9:33 sure that these words get placed in the a.m. EDT Residence. largest money laundering case in his- The President: Congratulations on a great tory. RECORD. Madam Speaker, I include in the victory. We all watched from the United It is now reported that the FBI is States and you did a terrific job. The way currently investigating these inter- RECORD the following material: you came from behind, somebody who wasn’t national financial crimes. I fully sup- KAPTUR PRESS RELEASE ON WHISTLEBLOWER given much of a chance, and you ended up port their investigation to get to the COMPLAINT, SEPTEMBER 20, 2019 winning easily. It’s a fantastic achievement. bottom of these corrupt dealings across WASHINGTON.—Today, Co-Chair of the Con- Congratulations. the world but, certainly, in the region gressional Ukraine Caucus Representatives President Zelenskyy: You are absolutely Marcy Kaptur (D–OH), released the following right Mr. President. We did win big and we that I live. statement after reports of a whistleblower worked hard for this. We worked a lot but I The United States and our allies complaint filed by a member of the Intel- would like to confess to you that I had an op- must send a message that such malign ligence Community, which is being withheld portunity to learn from you. We used quite a behavior will not be tolerated. We can- from Congress in violation of federal law, is few of your skills and knowledge and were not be complicit in empowering foreign said to involve Ukraine: able to use it as an example for our elections

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:07 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00079 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25SE7.096 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7986 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019 and yes it is true that these were unique is very important and we are open for any fu- will get to the bottom of it. I’m sure you will elections. We were in a unique situation that ture cooperation. We are ready to open a new figure it out. I heard the prosecutor was we were able to achieve a unique success. I’m page on cooperation in relations between the treated very badly and he was a very fair able to tell you the following; the first time, United States and Ukraine. For that pur- prosecutor so good luck with everything. you called me to congratulate me when I pose, I just recalled our ambassador from Your economy is going to get better and bet- won my presidential election, and the second United States and he will be replaced by a ter I predict. You have a lot of assets. It’s a time you are now calling me when my party very competent and very experienced ambas- great country. I have many Ukrainian won the parliamentary election. I think I sador who will work hard on making sure friends, they’re incredible people. should run more often so you can call me that our two nations are getting closer. I President Zelenskyy: I would like to tell more often and we can talk over the phone would also like and hope to see him having you that I also have quite a few Ukrainian more often. your trust and your confidence and have per- friends that live in the United States. Actu- The President: [laughter] That’s a very sonal relations with you so we can cooperate ally last time I traveled to the United good idea. I think your country is very even more so. I will personally tell you that States, I stayed in New York near Central happy about that. one of my assistants spoke with Mr. Giuliani Park and I stayed at the Trump Tower. I will President Zelenskyy: Well yes, to tell you just recently and we are hoping very much talk to them and I hope to see them again in the truth, we are trying to work hard be- that Mr. Giuliani will be able to travel to the future. I also wanted to thank you for cause we wanted to drain the swamp here in Ukraine and we will meet once he comes to your invitation to visit the United States, our country. We brought in many many new Ukraine. I just wanted to assure you once specifically Washington DC. On the other people. Not the old politicians, not the typ- again that you have nobody but friends hand, I also want to ensure you that we will ical politicians, because we want to have a around us. I will make sure that I surround be very serious about the case and will work new format and a new type of government. myself with the best and most experienced on the investigation. As to the economy, You are a great teacher for us and in that. people. I also wanted to tell you that we are there is much potential for our two countries The President: Well it’s very nice of you to friends. We are great friends and you Mr. and one of the issues that is very important say that. I will say that we do a lot for President have friends in our country so we for Ukraine is energy independence. I believe Ukraine. We spend a lot of effort and a lot of can continue our strategic partnership. I we can be very successful and cooperating on time. Much more than the European coun- also plan to surround myself with great peo- energy independence with United States. We tries are doing and they should be helping ple and in addition to that investigation, I are already working on cooperation. We are you more than they are. Germany does al- guarantee as the President of Ukraine that buying American oil but I am very hopeful most nothing for you. All they do is talk and all the investigations will be done openly for a future meeting. We will have more time I think it’s something that you should really and candidly. That I can assure you. and more opportunities to discuss these op- ask them about. When I was speaking to An- The President: Good because I heard you portunities and get to know each other bet- gela Merkel she talks Ukraine, but she had a prosecutor who was very good and he ter. I would like to thank you very much for doesn’t do anything. A lot of the European was shut down and that’s really unfair. A lot your support countries are the same way so I think it’s of people are talking about that, the way The President: Good. Well, thank you very something you want to look at but the they shut your very good prosecutor down much and I appreciate that. I will tell Rudy United States has been very very good to and you had some very bad people involved. and Attorney General Barr to call. Thank Ukraine. I wouldn’t say that it’s reciprocal Mr. Giuliani is a highly respected man. He you. Whenever you would like to come to the necessarily because things are happening was the mayor of , a great White House, feel free to call. Give us a date that are not good but the United States has mayor, and I would like him to call you. I and we’ll work that out. I look forward to been very very good to Ukraine. will ask him to call you along with the At- seeing you. President Zelenskyy: Yes you are abso- torney General. Rudy very much knows President Zelenskyy: Thank you very lutely right. Not only 100%, but actually what’s happening and he is a very capable much. I would be very happy to come and 1000% and I can tell you the following; I did guy. If you could speak to him that would be would be happy to meet with you personally talk to Angela Merkel and I did meet with great. The former ambassador from the and get to know you better. I am looking her. I also met and talked with Macron and United States, the woman, was bad news and forward to our meeting and I also would like I told them that they are not doing quite as the people she was dealing with in the to invite you to visit Ukraine and come to much as they need to be doing on the issues Ukraine were bad news so I just want to let the city of Kyiv which is a beautiful city. We with the sanctions. They are not enforcing you know that. The other thing, There’s a have a beautiful country which would wel- the sanctions. They are not working as much lot of talk about Biden’s son, that Biden come you. On the other hand, I believe that as they should work for Ukraine. It turns out stopped the prosecution and a lot of people on September 1 we will be in Poland and we that even though logically, the European want to find out about that so whatever you can meet in Poland hopefully. After that, it Union should be our biggest partner but can do with the Attorney General would be might be a very good idea for you to travel technically the United States is a much big- great. Biden went around bragging that he to Ukraine. We can either take my plane and ger partner than the European Union and I’m stopped the prosecution so if you can look go to Ukraine or we can take your plane, very grateful to you for that because the into it . . . It sounds horrible to me. which is probably much better than mine. United States is doing quite a lot for President Zelenskyy: I wanted to tell you The President: Okay, we can work that Ukraine. Much more than the European about the prosecutor. First of all I under- out. I look forward to seeing you in Wash- Union especially when we are talking about stand and I’m knowledgeable about the situ- ington and maybe in Poland because I think sanctions against the Russian Federation. I ation. Since we have won the absolute ma- we are going to be there at that time. would also like to thank you for your great jority in our Parliament, the next prosecutor President Zelenskyy: Thank you very support in the area of defense. We are ready general will be 100% my person, my can- much Mr. President. to continue to cooperate for the next steps didate, who will be approved by the par- The President: Congratulations on a fan- specifically we are almost ready to buy more liament and will start as a new prosecutor in tastic job you’ve none. The whole world was Javelins from the United States for defense September. He or she will look into the situ- watching. I’m not sure it was so much of an purposes. ation, specifically to the company that you The President: I would like you to do us a mentioned in this issue. The issue of the in- upset but congratulations. favor though because our country has been vestigation of the case is actually the issue President Zelenskyy: Thank you Mr. Presi- through a lot and Ukraine knows a lot about of making sure to restore the honesty so we dent bye-bye. it. I would like you to find out what hap- will take care of that and will work on the Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, I pened with this whole situation with investigation of the case. On top of that, I yield back the balance of my time. Ukraine, they say Crowdstrike . . . I guess would kindly ask you if you have any addi- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- you have one of your wealthy people. . . The tional information that you can provide to bers are reminded to refrain from en- server, they say Ukraine has it. There are a us, it would be very helpful for the investiga- gaging in personalities toward the lot of things that went on, the whole situa- tion to make sure that we administer justice President. tion. I think you’re surrounding yourself in our country with regard to the Ambas- with some of the same people. I would like to sador to the United States from Ukraine as f have the Attorney General call you or your far as I recall her name was Ivanovich. It BILL PRESENTED TO THE people and I would like you to get to the bot- was great that you were the first one who tom of it. As you saw yesterday, that whole told me that she was a bad ambassador be- PRESIDENT nonsense ended with a very poor perform- cause I agree with you 100%. Her attitude to- Cheryl L. Johnson, Clerk of the ance by a man named Robert Mueller, an in- wards me was far from the best as she ad- House, reported that on September 25, competent performance, but they say a lot of mired the previous President and she was on 2019, she presented to the President of it started with Ukraine. Whatever you can his side. She would not accept me as a new the United States, for his approval, the do, it’s very important that you do it if President well enough. that’s possible. The President: Well, she’s going to go following bill: President Zelenskyy: Yes it is very impor- through some things. I will have Mr. H.R. 1058. To amend the Public Health tant for me and everything that you just Giuliani give you a call and I am also going Service Act to enhance activities of the Na- mentioned earlier. For me as a President, it to have Attorney General Barr call and we tional Institutes of Health with respect to

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:52 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00080 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.055 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7987 research on autism spectrum disorder and partment of Justice, transmitting the De- porary rule — Fisheries of the Exclusive Eco- enhance programs relating to autism, and partment’s Freedom of Information Act 2018 nomic Zone Off Alaska; Pollock in Statis- for other purposes. Litigation and Compliance Report, pursuant tical Area 620 in the Gulf of Alaska [Docket f to 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(4)(F)(ii)(II); Public Law 89- No.: 180831813-9170-02] (RIN: 0648-XG911) re- 554, Sec. 5(ii)(II) (as added by Public Law 110- ceived September 10, 2019, pursuant to 5 ADJOURNMENT 175, Sec. 5); (121 Stat. 2526); to the Committee U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, I on Oversight and Reform. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Nat- move that the House do now adjourn. 2275. A letter from the Director, Office ural Resources. Congressional Affairs, Federal Election Com- 2283. A letter from the Acting Director, Of- The motion was agreed to; accord- mission, transmitting the Commission’s re- fice of Sustainable Fisheries, NMFS, Na- ingly (at 7 o’clock and 38 minutes port stating that it did not complete or ini- tional Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra- p.m.), under its previous order, the tiate competitive sourcing for conversion of tion, transmitting the Administration’s tem- House adjourned until tomorrow, an agency activity to contractors for the porary rule — Fisheries of the Exclusive Eco- Thursday, September 26, 2019, at 10 prior fiscal year, pursuant to 31 U.S.C. 501 nomic Zone Off Alaska; Pollock in Statis- a.m. for morning-hour debate. note; Public Law 108-199, Sec. 647(b); (118 tical Area 610 in the Gulf of Alaska [Docket Stat. 361); to the Committee on Oversight No.: 180831813-9170-02] (RIN: 0648-XG916) re- f and Reform. ceived September 10, 2019, pursuant to 5 BUDGETARY EFFECTS OF PAYGO 2276. A letter from the Secretary of the U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. LEGISLATION Board of Governors, U.S. Postal Service, 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Nat- transmitting the Service’s report on postal ural Resources. Pursuant to the Statutory Pay-As- officers and employees who received total 2284. A letter from the Acting Director, Of- You-Go Act of 2010 (PAYGO), Mr. YAR- compensation in calendar year 2018, pursuant fice of Sustainable Fisheries, NMFS, Na- MUTH hereby submits, prior to the vote to 39 U.S.C. 3686(c); Public Law 109-435, Sec. tional Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra- on passage, for printing in the CON- 506; (120 Stat. 3236); to the Committee on tion, transmitting the Administration’s tem- GRESSIONAL RECORD, that H.R. 1595, the Oversight and Reform. porary rule — Fisheries of the Exclusive Eco- SAFE Banking Act of 2019, as amended, 2277. A letter from the Assistant Attorney nomic Zone Off Alaska; Pacific Cod by General, Office of Legislative Affairs, De- would have no significant effect on the Catcher Vessels Using Trawl Gear in the Ber- partment of Justice, transmitting the De- ing Sea and Aleutian Islands Management deficit, and therefore, the budgetary ef- partment’s Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Area [Docket No.: 170817779-8161-02] (RIN: fects of such bill are estimated as zero. Absentee Voting Act Annual Report to Con- 0648-XG901) received September 10, 2019, pur- f gress, 2018, pursuant to 52 U.S.C. 20307(b); suant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104- Public Law 99-410, Sec. 105(b) (as amended by 121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS, Public Law 111-84, Sec. 587(2)); (123 Stat. on Natural Resources. ETC. 2333); to the Committee on House Adminis- 2285. A letter from the Acting Director, Of- Under clause 2 of rule XIV, executive tration. fice of Sustainable Fisheries, NMFS, Na- communications were taken from the 2278. A letter from the Acting Director, Of- tional Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra- fice of Sustainable Fisheries, NMFS, Na- Speaker’s table and referred as follows: tion, transmitting the Administration’s tem- tional Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra- porary rule — Fisheries of the Exclusive Eco- 2269. A letter from the Secretary, Depart- tion, transmitting the Administration’s tem- nomic Zone Off Alaska; Pacific Cod by Hook- ment of Defense, transmitting a letter on the porary rule — Fisheries of the Exclusive Eco- and-Line Catcher/Processors in the Western approved retirement of Lieutenant General nomic Zone Off Alaska; Northern Rockfish in Regulatory Area of the Gulf of Alaska Steven M. Shepro, United States Air Force, the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Manage- [Docket No.: 180831813-9170-02] (RIN: 0648- and his advancement to the grade of lieuten- ment Area [Docket No.: 180713633-9174-02] XG716) received September 10, 2019, pursuant ant general on the retired list, pursuant to 10 (RIN: 0648-XG974) received September 10, to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, U.S.C. 1370(c)(1); Public Law 96-513, Sec. 112 2019, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on (as amended by Public Law 104-106, Sec. Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Natural Resources. 502(b)); (110 Stat. 293); to the Committee on Committee on Natural Resources. 2286. A letter from the Director, Office of Armed Services. 2279. A letter from the Acting Director, Of- Sustainable Fisheries, NMFS, National Oce- 2270. A letter from the Secretary, Depart- fice of Sustainable Fisheries, NMFS, Na- anic and Atmospheric Administration, trans- ment of Defense, transmitting a letter on the tional Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra- mitting the Administration’s temporary rule approved retirement of Vice Admiral Clinton tion, transmitting the Administration’s tem- — Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone F. Faison III, United States Navy, and his porary rule — Fisheries of the Exclusive Eco- Off Alaska; Sablefish Managed Under the In- advancement to the grade of vice admiral on nomic Zone Off Alaska; Pacific Cod by dividual Fishing Quota Program [Docket the retired list, pursuant to 10 U.S.C. Catcher Vessels Using Trawl Gear in the Ber- No.: 180713633-9174-02 and 180831813-9170-02] 1370(c)(1); Public Law 96-513, Sec. 112 (as ing Sea and Aleutian Islands Management (RIN: 0648-XG81) received September 10, 2019, amended by Public Law 104-106, Sec. 502(b)); Area [Docket No.: 180713633-9174-02] (RIN: pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law (110 Stat. 293); to the Committee on Armed 0648-XG936) received September 10, 2019, pur- 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Com- Services. suant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104- mittee on Natural Resources. 2271. A letter from the Director, Naval Re- 121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee 2287. A letter from the Director, Office of actors, transmitting the Executive Summary on Natural Resources. Sustainable Fisheries, NMFS, National Oce- of the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program’s 2280. A letter from the Acting Director, Of- anic and Atmospheric Administration, trans- latest reports on environmental monitoring fice of Sustainable Fisheries, NMFS, Na- mitting the Administration’s temporary rule and radioactive waste disposal, radiation ex- tional Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra- — Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone posure, and occupational safety and health; tion, transmitting the Administration’s tem- Off Alaska; Reallocation of Pollock in the to the Committee on Armed Services. porary rule — Fisheries of the Exclusive Eco- Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands [Docket No.: 2272. A letter from the Secretary, Depart- nomic Zone Off Alaska; Pollock in Statis- 180713633-9174-02] (RIN: 0648-XG847) received ment of Education, transmitting the Depart- tical Area 610 in the Gulf of Alaska [Docket September 10, 2019, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. ment’s final regulations — Student Assist- No.: 180831813-9170-02] (RIN: 0648-XG935) re- 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 ance General Provisions and Federal Family ceived September 10, 2019, pursuant to 5 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Natural Re- Education Loan Program [Docket ID: ED- U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. sources. 2018-OPE-0027] (RIN: 1840-AD26) received Sep- 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Nat- 2288. A letter from the Assistant Attorney tember 17, 2019, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. ural Resources. General, Office of Legislative Affairs, De- 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 2281. A letter from the Acting Director, Of- partment of Justice, transmitting the PRO Stat. 868); to the Committee on Education fice of Sustainable Fisheries, NMFS, Na- IP Act FY 2018 report, pursuant to 34 U.S.C. and Labor. tional Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra- 30106(a); Public Law 110-403, Sec. 404(a); (122 2273. A letter from the Assistant Secretary, tion, transmitting the Administration’s tem- Stat. 4274); to the Committee on the Judici- Bureau of Legislative Affairs, Department of porary rule — Fisheries of the Economic Ex- ary. State, transmitting the Department’s final clusive Zone Off Alaska; Deep-Water Species 2289. A letter from the Solicitor General, rule — Adjustment of Controls for Lower Fishery by Vessels Using Trawl Gear in the Department of Justice, transmitting a deter- Performing Radar and Continued Temporary Gulf of Alaska [Docket No.: 180831813-9170-02] mination in Tiwari v. Shanahan, No. 17-cv- Modification of Category XI of the United (RIN: 0648-XG894) received September 10, 242 (W.D. Wash.), pursuant to 28 U.S.C. States Munitions List [Public Notice: 10779] 2019, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public 530D(a)(1); Public Law 107-273, Sec. 202(a); (RIN: 1400-AE88) received September 3, 2019, Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the (116 Stat. 1771); to the Committee on the Ju- pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law Committee on Natural Resources. diciary. 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Com- 2282. A letter from the Acting Director, Of- 2290. A letter from the Assistant Attorney mittee on Foreign Affairs. fice of Sustainable Fisheries, NMFS, Na- General, Department of Justice, transmit- 2274. A letter from the Assistant Attorney tional Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra- ting notification that during Fiscal Year 2017 General, Office of Legislative Affairs, De- tion, transmitting the Administration’s tem- and 2018 no payments were made from the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:52 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00081 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.053 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7988 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019 Victims Compensation Fund, pursuant to 18 neous Amendments [Docket No.: 31273; 1978, pursuant to 50 U.S.C. 1862(c); Public U.S.C. 3525(b); Public Law 98-473, Sec. 1208; Amdt. No.: 548] received September 12, 2019, Law 95-511, Sec. 502(c) (as added by Public (98 Stat. 2162); to the Committee on the Judi- pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law Law 109-177, Sec. 106(h)(3)); (120 Stat. 200) and ciary. 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Com- 18 U.S.C. 3511 note; Public Law 109-177, Sec. 2291. A letter from the Solicitor General, mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- 118(c)(1) (as amended by Public Law 114-23, Department of Justice, transmitting a deter- ture. Sec. 602(c)); (129 Stat. 294); jointly to the mination of the United States Court of Ap- 2301. A letter from the Management and Committees on the Judiciary and Intel- peals for the Eighth Circuit concerning Program Analyst, FAA, Department of ligence (Permanent Select). United States v. Solis, 915 F.3d 1172 (8th Cir. Transportation, transmitting the Depart- 2309. A letter from the Secretary, Depart- 2019), pursuant to 28 U.S.C. 530D(a)(1); Public ment’s final rule — Amendment of the Class ment of Veterans Affairs, transmitting a Law 107-273, Sec. 202(a); (116 Stat. 1771); to D Airspace; New Iberia, LA [Docket No.: draft of a bill to authorize funds for major the Committee on the Judiciary. FAA-2019-0344; Airspace Docket No.: 19-ASW- medical facility projects and leases for FY 2292. A letter from the Solicitor General, 7] (RIN: 2120-AA66) received September 12, 2020 and medical facility leases originally re- Department of Justice, transmitting a deter- 2019, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public quested in FY 2019; jointly to the Commit- mination of the United States District Court Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the tees on Veterans’ Affairs and Armed Serv- for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania con- Committee on Transportation and Infra- ices. cerning Miller v. Barr, No.2:17-cv-2627 (E.D. structure. f Pa., filed Feb. 22, 2019), pursuant to 28 U.S.C. 2302. A letter from the Management and 530D(a)(1); Public Law 107-273, Sec. 202(a); Program Analyst, FAA, Department of REPORTS OF COMMITTEES ON (116 Stat. 1771); to the Committee on the Ju- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS diciary. ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- 2293. A letter from the Solicitor General, tives; The Boeing Company Airplanes [Dock- Under clause 2 of rule XIII, reports of Department of Justice, transmitting a deci- et No.: FAA-2019-0023; Product Identifier committees were delivered to the Clerk sion of the United States District Court for 2018-NM-145-AD; Amendment 39-19700; AD for printing and reference to the proper the Eastern District of Michigan of United 2019-15-07] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received Sep- calendar, as follows: States v. Jumana Nagarwala et al., No. 17-cr- tember 12, 2019, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Mr. MORELLE: Committee on Rules. 20274 (E.D. Mich. Nov. 20, 2018), pursuant to 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 House Resolution 591. Resolution providing 28 U.S.C. 530D(a)(1); Public Law 107-273, Sec. Stat. 868); to the Committee on Transpor- for consideration of the joint resolution (S.J. 202(a); (116 Stat. 1771); to the Committee on tation and Infrastructure. Res. 54) relating to a national emergency de- 2303. A letter from the Management and the Judiciary. clared by the President on February 15, 2019 2294. A letter from the Assistant Attorney Program Analyst, FAA, Department of (Rept. 116–218). Referred to the House Cal- General, Department of Justice, transmit- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- endar. ting the Department’s reports titled, ‘‘Law ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness tives; Bombardier, Inc., Airplanes [Docket f Act: Report to Congress’’ and ‘‘Law Enforce- No.: FAA-2019-0327; Product Identifier 2019- PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS ment Mental Health and Wellness Programs: NM-021-AD; Amendment 39-19727; AD 2019-17- Eleven Case Studies‘‘, pursuant to 34 U.S.C. 07] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received September 12, Under clause 2 of rule XII, public 10101 note; Public Law 115-113, Sec. 2(a); (131 2019, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public bills and resolutions of the following Stat. 2276) and 34 U.S.C. 10101 note; Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the titles were introduced and severally re- Law 115-113, Sec. 2(b); (131 Stat. 2276); to the Committee on Transportation and Infra- ferred, as follows: Committee on the Judiciary. structure. 2295. A letter from the Assistant Attorney 2304. A letter from the Management and By Mr. BUDD (for himself and Mr. HAR- General, Office of Legislative Affairs, De- Program Analyst, FAA, Department of RIS): partment of Justice, transmitting the report Transportation, transmitting the Depart- H.R. 4484. A bill to require short-term lim- on the Administration of the Foreign Agents ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- ited duration insurance issuers to renew or Registration Act of 1938, as amended, for the tives; Airbus SAS Airplanes [Docket No.: continue in force such insurance coverage at six months ending June 30, 2018, pursuant to FAA-2019-0672; Product Identifier 2019-NM- the option of the enrollees, and for other 22 U.S.C. 621; June 8, 1938, ch. 327, Sec. 11 (as 100-AD; Amendment 39-19724; AD 2019-17-04] purposes; to the Committee on Energy and amended by Public Law 104-65, Sec. 19); (109 (RIN: 2120-AA64) received September 12, 2019, Commerce, and in addition to the Committee Stat. 704); to the Committee on the Judici- pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law on Education and Labor, for a period to be ary. 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Com- subsequently determined by the Speaker, in 2296. A letter from the Secretary, Judicial mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- each case for consideration of such provi- Conference of the United States, transmit- ture. sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the ting for consideration of a proposed bill ti- 2305. A letter from the Management and committee concerned. tled, ‘‘Criminal Judicial Administration Act Program Analyst, FAA, Department of By Mr. PENCE (for himself and Mr. of 2019’’; to the Committee on the Judiciary. Transportation, transmitting the Depart- MEADOWS): 2297. A letter from the Assistant Attorney ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- H.R. 4485. A bill to establish a public build- General, Office of Legislative Affairs, De- tives; International Aero Engines AG Tur- ings public-private partnership pilot pro- partment of Justice, transmitting a consid- bofan Engines [Docket No.: FAA-2019-0268; gram, and for other purposes; to the Com- eration for a legislative proposal that would Product Identifier 2019-NE-08-AD; Amend- mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- add a jurisdictional element tied to the Com- ment 39-19728; AD 2019-18-01] (RIN: 2120-AA64) ture. merce Clause to the statute criminalizing fe- received September 12, 2019, pursuant to 5 By Mr. MCNERNEY (for himself, Mr. male genital mutilation; to the Committee U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. LUJA´ N, and Ms. CLARKE of New York): on the Judiciary. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on H.R. 4486. A bill to require the Assistant 2298. A letter from the Attorney-Advisor, Transportation and Infrastructure. Secretary of Commerce for Communications U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Homeland 2306. A letter from the Management and and Information to establish a State Digital Security, transmitting the Department’s Program Analyst, FAA, Department of Equity Capacity Grant Program, and for temporary final rule — Safety Zone; Los An- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- other purposes; to the Committee on Energy geles Fleet Week, San Pedro, California ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- and Commerce. [Docket Number: USCG-2019-0590] (RIN: 1625- tives; Airbus SAS Airplanes [Docket No.: By Mr. KIND (for himself, Mr. LONG, AA00) received September 10, 2019, pursuant FAA-2019-0403; Product Identifier 2019-NM- and Mr. SCHRADER): to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, 012-AD; Amendment 39-19723; AD 2019-17-03] H.R. 4487. A bill to amend the Federal Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on (RIN: 2120-AA64) received September 12, 2019, Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to define the Transportation and Infrastructure. pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law term natural cheese; to the Committee on 2299. A letter from the Chief, Regulatory 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Com- Energy and Commerce. Development, Federal Motor Carrier Safety mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- By Mr. RICHMOND (for himself and Administration, Department of Transpor- ture. Mr. WALKER): tation, transmitting the Department’s final 2307. A letter from the Assistant Secretary, H.R. 4488. A bill to develop and implement rule — Hours of Service of Drivers-Restart Civil works, Department of the Army, De- national standards for the use of solitary provisions [Docket No.: FMCSA-2004-19608] partment of Defense, transmitting the confinement in correctional facilities, and (RIN: 2126-AC30) September 13, 2019, pursuant Chickamauga Lock Replacement, Hamilton for other purposes; to the Committee on the to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, County, TN, Post Authorization Change Re- Judiciary. Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on port of July 2018; to the Committee on By Ms. JOHNSON of Texas (for herself, Transportation and Infrastructure. Transportation and Infrastructure. Mr. FORTENBERRY, and Ms. BASS): 2300. A letter from the Management and 2308. A letter from the Assistant Attorney H.R. 4489. A bill to prohibit unfair and de- Program Analyst, FAA, Department of General, Department of Justice, transmit- ceptive advertising of rates for hotel rooms Transportation, transmitting the Depart- ting a report required by Secs. 107 and 502 of and other places of short-term lodging; to ment’s final rule — IFR Altitudes; Miscella- the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of the Committee on Energy and Commerce.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:52 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00082 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\L25SE7.000 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7989

By Mr. BURGESS: such provisions as fall within the jurisdic- NOLLY, Mr. KING of New York, Mr. H.R. 4490. A bill to require the Inspector tion of the committee concerned. BERA, Mr. KHANNA, Mr. PALLONE, and General, Department of Justice, to submit a By Ms. BONAMICI (for herself, Mr. Mrs. LAWRENCE): report to the Congress on the number of fire- GRIJALVA, Mr. DEFAZIO, Mr. H. Res. 595. A resolution commemorating arm transaction denials issued by the Na- HUFFMAN, Mr. LOWENTHAL, Ms. PIN- the 150th anniversary of the birth of tional Instant Criminal Background Check GREE, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Mrs. DIN- Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi; to the Com- System that are referred to the Bureau of GELL, Mr. KILMER, Mr. BLUMENAUER, mittee on Foreign Affairs. Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Mr. MCNERNEY, Mr. PAPPAS, Mr. f for investigation, the number of prosecutions LEVIN of Michigan, Mr. CARSON of In- resulting from such investigations, and the diana, Mr. DEUTCH, Ms. CASTOR of CONSTITUTIONAL AUTHORITY number of firearms recovered by the Bureau Florida, Mr. QUIGLEY, Mr. ROUDA, Mr. STATEMENT in cases in which such a denial was issued KEATING, Mr. SWALWELL of Cali- Pursuant to clause 7 of rule XII of after the firearm was transferred; to the fornia, Ms. BROWNLEY of California, the Rules of the House of Representa- Committee on the Judiciary. Ms. SHALALA, Mr. LEVIN of Cali- By Mr. MALINOWSKI (for himself and fornia, Ms. JAYAPAL, Mr. CASE, Mr. tives, the following statements are sub- Mr. CLEAVER): TAKANO, Mrs. HAYES, Ms. WASSERMAN mitted regarding the specific powers H.R. 4491. A bill to amend the Securities SCHULTZ, Mr. COURTNEY, Ms. granted to Congress in the Constitu- Exchange Act of 1934 to require shareholder SCHRIER, Mr. CASTEN of Illinois, Mr. tion to enact the accompanying bill or authorization before a public company may ESPAILLAT, Mr. BEYER, Mr. LAN- joint resolution. make certain political expenditures, and for GEVIN, Ms. PORTER, Mr. NEGUSE, Mrs. By Mr. BUDD: other purposes; to the Committee on Finan- DAVIS of California, and Mr. H.R. 4484. cial Services. MORELLE): Congress has the power to enact this legis- By Ms. MOORE (for herself, Mr. STIV- H. Res. 589. A resolution expressing the lation pursuant to the following: ERS, Mr. HASTINGS, Mr. GONZALEZ of need for immediate climate action in re- Article 1, Section 8. Texas, Mr. MICHAEL F. DOYLE of sponse to the United Nations Intergovern- By Mr. PENCE: Pennsylvania, Mr. ESTES, and Mr. mental Panel on Climate Change Special Re- H.R. 4485. MOONEY of West Virginia): port on the Ocean and Cryosphere in a Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 4492. A bill to protect the investment Changing Climate; to the Committee on En- choices of investors in the United States, ergy and Commerce, and in addition to the lation pursuant to the following: and for other purposes; to the Committee on Committees on Foreign Affairs, Natural Re- Article I, Section 8 of the United States Financial Services. sources, and Science, Space, and Technology, Constitution, specifically Clause 1 (relating By Ms. NORTON: for a period to be subsequently determined to providing for the general welfare of the H.R. 4493. A bill to provide a short-term by the Speaker, in each case for consider- United States) and Clause 18 (relating to the disability insurance program for Federal em- ation of such provisions as fall within the ju- power to make all laws necessary and proper ployees for disabilities that are not work-re- risdiction of the committee concerned. for carrying out the powers vested in Con- lated, and for other purposes; to the Com- By Mr. MCCARTHY: gress) and clause 17 (relating to authority mittee on Oversight and Reform. H. Res. 590. A resolution raising a question over the district as the seat of government), By Mr. PETERSON (for himself, Mr. of the privileges of the House. and Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2 (relating STAUBER, Mr. SENSENBRENNER, Mr. By Mr. BERA (for himself, Mr. SCHIFF, to the power of Congress to dispose of and GALLAGHER, Mr. KIND, Mr. Ms. JOHNSON of Texas, Mr. DAVID P. make all needful rules and regulations re- MOOLENAAR, and Mr. HUIZENGA): ROE of Tennessee, Mr. BURGESS, Mr. specting the territory or other property be- H.R. 4494. A bill to direct the Secretary of BILIRAKIS, Mr. KATKO, and Ms. longing to the United States). the Interior to reissue a final rule relating to SCHRIER): By Mr. MCNERNEY: listing of the gray wolf in the Western Great H. Res. 592. A resolution recognizing the H.R. 4486. Lakes under the Endangered Species Act of anniversary of the eradication of smallpox Congress has the power to enact this legis- 1973, and for other purposes; to the Com- and the importance of vaccination in the lation pursuant to the following: mittee on Natural Resources. United States and worldwide; to the Com- Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution of By Mr. RUIZ (for himself, Mr. CAL- mittee on Energy and Commerce, and in ad- the United States grants Congress the au- VERT, Mr. AGUILAR, and Mr. COOK): dition to the Committee on Science, Space, thority to enact this bill. H.R. 4495. A bill to authorize the Secretary and Technology, for a period to be subse- By Mr. KIND: of Health and Human Services, acting quently determined by the Speaker, in each H.R. 4487. through the Director of the Indian Health case for consideration of such provisions as Congress has the power to enact this legis- Service, to acquire private land to facilitate fall within the jurisdiction of the committee lation pursuant to the following: access to the Desert Sage Youth Wellness concerned. Article 1, Section 8, Clause 3 Center in Hemet, California, and for other By Mr. CURTIS (for himself, Mr. SMITH By Mr. RICHMOND: purposes; to the Committee on Natural Re- of New Jersey, Mr. MCKINLEY, Mr. H.R. 4488. sources, and in addition to the Committee on DIAZ-BALART, Mr. TIPTON, and Mr. Congress has the power to enact this legis- Energy and Commerce, for a period to be STIVERS): lation pursuant to the following: subsequently determined by the Speaker, in H. Res. 593. A resolution expressing the This bill is introduced pursuant to the each case for consideration of such provi- sense of the House of Representatives that powers granted to Congress under the Gen- sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the the whistleblower complaint received on Au- eral Welfare Clause (Art. 1 Sec. 8 Cl. 1), the committee concerned. gust 12, 2019, by the Inspector General of the Commerce Clause (Art. 1 Sec. 8 Cl. 3), and By Mr. AUSTIN SCOTT of Georgia (for Intelligence Community should be trans- the Necessary and Proper Clause (Art. 1 Sec. himself, Mr. DUNN, Mr. RICE of South mitted immediately to the Select Committee 8 Cl. 18). Carolina, Mr. ROUZER, Mr. YOHO, Mr. on Intelligence of the Senate and the Perma- Further, this statement of constitutional YOUNG, Mrs. ROBY, and Mr. HARDER nent Select Committee on Intelligence of the authority is made for the sole purpose of of California): House of Representatives; to the Committee compliance with clause 7 of Rule XII of the H.R. 4496. A bill to extend indemnity for on Intelligence (Permanent Select). Rules of the House of Representatives and wildfires and hurricanes, and for other pur- By Mr. GRIJALVA (for himself, Mr. shall have no bearing on judicial review of poses; to the Committee on Agriculture. DEFAZIO, Mr. ESPAILLAT, Mr. GARCI´A the accompanying bill. By Ms. SHALALA (for herself, Ms. of Illinois, Ms. HAALAND, Ms. NORTON, By Ms. JOHNSON of Texas: PRESSLEY, Ms. TLAIB, Ms. JACKSON Ms. JACKSON LEE, Mr. JOHNSON of H.R. 4489. LEE, Ms. MOORE, and Ms. HAALAND): Georgia, Mr. KHANNA, Ms. MCCOLLUM, Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 4497. A bill to amend the Higher Edu- Mr. MCGOVERN, Mr. RUSH, Ms. WILD, lation pursuant to the following: cation Act of 1965 to make improvements to Mr. POCAN, and Mr. HUFFMAN): Article 1, Section 8 the Federal Student Aid Office, and for other H. Res. 594. A resolution expressing pro- By Mr. BURGESS: purposes; to the Committee on Education found concern about threats to human H.R. 4490. and Labor. rights, the rule of law, democracy, and the Congress has the power to enact this legis- By Mr. SIRES (for himself, Mr. YOHO, environment in Brazil; to the Committee on lation pursuant to the following: Mr. DEUTCH, Mr. PALLONE, and Mr. Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Com- Article I, Section 8, Clause 3: To regulate PASCRELL): mittees on Financial Services, and the Judi- commerce with foreign Nations, and among H.R. 4498. A bill to amend the Immigration ciary, for a period to be subsequently deter- the several States, and with the Indian and Nationality Act to encourage Canadian mined by the Speaker, in each case for con- Tribes; and tourism to the United States; to the Com- sideration of such provisions as fall within Article I, Section 8, Clause 18: To make all mittee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. laws which shall be necessary and proper for the Committee on Ways and Means, for a pe- By Mr. KRISHNAMOORTHI (for him- carrying into Execution the foregoing Pow- riod to be subsequently determined by the self, Mr. HOLDING, Mr. SHERMAN, Mr. ers, and all other Powers vested by this Con- Speaker, in each case for consideration of WILSON of South Carolina, Mr. CON- stitution in the Government of the United

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:52 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00083 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\L25SE7.100 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE H7990 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 25, 2019

States or in any Department or Officer H.R. 912: Mr. SIRES, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Ms. Ms. WILD, Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia, Mrs. thereof. SEWELL of Alabama, Mr. JOYCE of Ohio, Mr. MURPHY of Florida, Mr. BRINDISI, Mrs. By Mr. MALINOWSKI: BLUMENAUER, Mr. KRISHNAMOORTHI, Mrs. BEATTY, and Mr. CARSON of Indiana. H.R. 4491. KIRKPATRICK, and Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. H.R. 2426: Mr. BABIN, Mr. GOODEN, Ms. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 925: Mr. LARSEN of Washington and CRAIG, and Ms. HILL of California. lation pursuant to the following: Mr. LIPINSKI. H.R. 2435: Mr. CALVERT. Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 of the Con- H.R. 955: Mr. TRONE. H.R. 2460: Mr. STEUBE. stitution of the United States. H.R. 959: Mr. LIPINSKI. H.R. 2482: Mr. LOWENTHAL and Mr. LAWSON By Ms. MOORE: H.R. 960: Mr. KIM, Mr. LIPINSKI, and Mr. of Florida. H.R. 4492. NORMAN. H.R. 2487: Mr. RUTHERFORD. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 1024: Mr. PALAZZO. H.R. 2496: Ms. JAYAPAL. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 1034: Mr. LONG. H.R. 2571: Mr. KEVIN HERN of Oklahoma. Article I, Section 8, Clause 3 H.R. 1043: Mr. CARTER of Georgia, Mr. H.R. 2599: Mr. TED LIEU of California. By Ms. NORTON: ZELDIN, and Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. H.R. 2681: Ms. KENDRA S. HORN of Okla- H.R. 4493. H.R. 1098: Mr. KELLER. homa. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 1139: Ms. OCASIO-CORTEZ. H.R. 2711: Mrs. BEATTY, Ms. KUSTER of New lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 1154: Mr. CRIST and Mr. CASE. Hampshire, Mr. NADLER, Mr. ESPAILLAT, and clause 18 of section 8 of article I of the H.R. 1173: Ms. JACKSON LEE. Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ. Constitution. H.R. 1175: Mr. CORREA. H.R. 2739: Ms. STEFANIK. By Mr. PETERSON: H.R. 1185: Mr. PAPPAS. H.R. 2771: Mr. KELLER. H.R. 4494. H.R. 1194: Ms. KUSTER of New Hampshire. H.R. 2846: Ms. CASTOR of Florida, Mr. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 1210: Mr. BACON. CUELLAR, and Mr. FITZPATRICK. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 1329: Mr. LARSEN of Washington. H.R. 2895: Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois. Article 1, Section 8, Clause 3 of the U.S. H.R. 1345: Mr. LARSEN of Washington. H.R. 2903: Mr. BARR and Mr. DUNN. Constitution. H.R. 1349: Mr. PANETTA and Mr. H.R. 2982: Mr. PHILLIPS. By Mr. RUIZ: BALDERSON. H.R. 2993: Mrs. LAWRENCE. H.R. 4495. H.R. 1350: Ms. KENDRA S. HORN of Okla- H.R. 3001: Mr. NEGUSE. Congress has the power to enact this legis- homa. H.R. 3115: Mr. YOUNG, Miss GONZA´ LEZ- lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 1374: Mrs. HARTZLER and Mr. CARTER COLO´ N of Puerto Rico, Mr. SARBANES, and Article I, section 8, Clauses 1 and 18 of the of Georgia. Mrs. FLETCHER. United States Constitution, to provide for H.R. 1375: Mr. GROTHMAN. H.R. 3157: Mr. LEVIN of California. the general welfare and make all laws nec- H.R. 1379: Mrs. BUSTOS. H.R. 3165: Mrs. RODGERS of Washington. essary and proper to carry out the powers of H.R. 1434: Mrs. WAGNER and Mr. WEBSTER H.R. 3182: Mr. GIANFORTE, Ms. FOXX of Congress. of Florida. North Carolina, Ms. JACKSON LEE, and Mr. By Mr. AUSTIN SCOTT of Georgia: H.R. 1530: Mr. BUDD. BACON. H.R. 4496. H.R. 1556: Mr. POSEY. H.R. 3218: Mr. BAIRD. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 1557: Mr. GRIJALVA. H.R. 3222: Ms. BROWNLEY of California. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 1661: Mr. MASSIE and Mr. AMODEI. H.R. 3272: Ms. CASTOR of Florida. Article I, Section 8 of the United States H.R. 1683: Mr. SPANO. H.R. 3280: Ms. KUSTER of New Hampshire. Constitution. H.R. 1695: Mr. NEWHOUSE. H.R. 3289: Mr. MARCHANT and Mr. ENGEL. By Ms. SHALALA: H.R. 1709: Ms. UNDERWOOD. H.R. 3396: Mr. LOEBSACK. H.R. 1715: Ms. DELBENE. H.R. 4497. H.R. 3451: Mr. FOSTER. H.R. 1747: Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 3452: Mr. CICILLINE and Mr. MORELLE. H.R. 1749: Mrs. HARTZLER. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 3463: Mr. CONNOLLY and Ms. JOHNSON H.R. 1753: Mr. WALTZ. to lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts, of Texas. H.R. 1754: Mr. BROWN of Maryland, Mr. DA- and Excises, to pay the Debts, and provide H.R. 3473: Mr. KEATING. VIDSON of Ohio, Mr. POSEY, and Mrs. LAW- for the common Defence and general Welfare H.R. 3495: Mr. SPANO, Mr. HUFFMAN, Ms. RENCE. of the United States; but all Duties, Imposts CRAIG, Mr. KILMER, Mrs. MILLER, and Mr. H.R. 1766: Mr. LAMB, Mr. CHABOT, and Mr. and Excises shall be uniform throughout the HOLDING. COOK. United States. H.R. 3555: Ms. DELBENE. H.R. 1767: Mr. TRONE. H.R. 3570: Ms. LOFGREN and Mrs. AXNE. By Mr. SIRES: H.R. 1869: Mr. SIRES, Mr. WALTZ, Mr. H.R. 3636: Ms. KENDRA S. HORN of Okla- H.R. 4498. SCHWEIKERT, Mrs. RODGERS of Washington, homa. Congress has the power to enact this legis- Mr. PAPPAS, Ms. MOORE, Mr. GROTHMAN, Mr. H.R. 3637: Ms. NORTON and Mr. TED LIEU of lation pursuant to the following: VEASEY, and Mr. KELLER. California. Pursuant to clause 3(d) (1) of rule XIII of H.R. 1954: Mr. GROTHMAN. H.R. 3654: Ms. BLUNT ROCHESTER. the Rules of the House of Representatives, H.R. 1968: Mrs. RADEWAGEN. H.R. 3655: Mr. FERGUSON. the Committee finds the authority for this H.R. 1975: Ms. TORRES SMALL of New Mex- H.R. 3662: Mr. COHEN. legislation in article I, section 8 of the Con- ico. H.R. 3665: Mr. BUCSHON. stitution. H.R. 1981: Ms. MENG. H.R. 3749: Mrs. HARTZLER. f H.R. 1996: Mr. CHABOT. H.R. 3764: Mr. TRONE, Mr. KENNEDY, Mr. H.R. 2000: Mr. HORSFORD. RASKIN, Mr. LAMB, and Ms. JAYAPAL. ADDITIONAL SPONSORS H.R. 2089: Mr. BRINDISI. H.R. 3798: Mr. NADLER. Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors H.R. 2148: Mr. CASTEN of Illinois. H.R. 3799: Mr. TAKANO. were added to public bills and resolu- H.R. 2214: Ms. JOHNSON of Texas and Mr. H.R. 3814: Mr. SCALISE. COX of California. H.R. 3819: Mr. KEATING. tions, as follows: H.R. 2215: Mr. TAKANO. H.R. 3833: Mr. LAMB. H.R. 3: Mr. ENGEL, Ms. CASTOR of Florida, H.R. 2225: Mr. LAWSON of Florida. H.R. 3851: Mr. CUNNINGHAM and Mrs. LEE of Ms. FRANKEL, Mr. EVANS, Mr. COURTNEY, Mr. H.R. 2236: Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Nevada. NORCROSS, Ms. MOORE, Mr. KILDEE, Ms. NOR- H.R. 2256: Mr. HIMES and Mr. TED LIEU of H.R. 3930: Mr. CARTER of Georgia. TON, and Mr. MCGOVERN. California. H.R. 3932: Mr. ROUZER, Ms. TITUS, Mrs. H.R. 88: Mr. PETERSON. H.R. 2321: Ms. KUSTER of New Hampshire. MCBATH, Mr. GRIJALVA, Ms. SEWELL of Ala- H.R. 94: Mr. KENNEDY and Ms. MCCOLLUM. H.R. 2382: Mr. NEWHOUSE and Mr. EMMER. bama, Ms. WILD, Ms. NORTON, Ms. STEFANIK, H.R. 132: Mr. VARGAS. H.R. 2398: Mrs. AXNE and Mr. BLUMENAUER. and Mr. PAPPAS. H.R. 333: Mr. LYNCH. H.R. 2420: Mr. MORELLE, Mr. LAMBORN, Mr. H.R. 3948: Ms. OCASIO-CORTEZ. H.R. 444: Ms. STEFANIK and Mr. PAPPAS. KEATING, Ms. MCCOLLUM, Mr. GOTTHEIMER, H.R. 3951: Mr. MEEKS. H.R. 510: Mr. GONZALEZ of Ohio, Ms. Ms. SHERRILL, Mr. KENNEDY, Mr. CUMMINGS, H.R. 3956: Mr. COLE and Mrs. KIRKPATRICK. SCHRIER, and Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Ms. KAPTUR, Ms. HOULAHAN, and Mr. SCHNEI- H.R. 3968: Mr. YOHO, Mr. AUSTIN SCOTT of H.R. 535: Ms. SA´ NCHEZ. DER. Georgia, Mr. CRENSHAW, Mr. LAMBORN, Mr. H.R. 548: Mr. GOSAR. H.R. 2423: Mrs. WALORSKI, Mr. YOUNG, Mr. MITCHELL, Mr. STIVERS, Mr. WILSON of South H.R. 553: Mr. ROY. WALDEN, Mrs. LESKO, Mr. CRENSHAW, Mr. Carolina, Mr. DUNN, Mr. POSEY, Mr. NORMAN, H.R. 587: Mr. DEUTCH. SUOZZI, Ms. DELAURO, Mr. MARSHALL, Mr. Mr. HUIZENGA, Mr. MOONEY of West Virginia, H.R. 647: Mr. CONAWAY, Mr. STAUBER, and HIGGINS of New York, Mr. BURCHETT, Mr. and Mr. ROUZER. Mr. RESCHENTHALER. LIPINSKI, Ms. MCCOLLUM, Miss RICE of New H.R. 3972: Mr. CARTER of Georgia. H.R. 808: Mr. LAWSON of Florida. York, Mrs. AXNE, Ms. WILSON of Florida, Mr. H.R. 3975: Mr. GIANFORTE. H.R. 836: Mr. LIPINSKI and Mr. GONZALEZ of TONKO, Mr. RUPPERSBERGER, Ms. NORTON, H.R. 4078: Mr. NADLER. Texas. Mr. NADLER, Ms. FRANKEL, Ms. HAALAND, Mr. H.R. 4107: Ms. JAYAPAL. H.R. 884: Mr. PETERSON. WITTMAN, Mr. JOHN W. ROSE of Tennessee, H.R. 4165: Mr. VELA.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:52 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00084 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.029 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE September 25, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7991

H.R. 4175: Mr. CRIST. H.R. 4416: Ms. CLARKE of New York. Mr. SMITH of Washington, Mr. POCAN, Mr. H.R. 4193: Mr. QUIGLEY, Ms. CRAIG, Mr. COO- H.R. 4428: Ms. HILL of California, Ms. NOR- MCHENRY, Mr. LANGEVIN, and Mr. GOODEN. PER, Mr. WALTZ, Mr. ENGEL, and Ms. KUSTER TON, and Mr. SOTO. H. Res. 543: Mr. ENGEL. of New Hampshire. H.R. 4429: Ms. HERRERA BEUTLER. H. Res. 552: Mr. SHERMAN. H.R. 4236: Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ. H.R. 4435: Ms. JAYAPAL. H. Res. 560: Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Ms. TLAIB, H.R. 4270: Mr. ENGEL. AST AETZ H.R. 4446: Mr. M and Mr. G . Ms. OCASIO-CORTEZ, Ms. LEE of California, H.R. 4272: Mr. CASE. H.R. 4460: Mr. PAPPAS. H.R. 4295: Mr. NORCROSS. Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois, Mr. HAS- H.J. Res. 38: Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. H.R. 4300: Mr. CLEAVER and Mr. SHERMAN. TINGS, Mrs. BEATTY, Mr. KENNEDY, Mr. JOHN- H. Con. Res. 27: Mr. SENSENBRENNER. H.R. 4301: Mrs. KIRKPATRICK. SON of Georgia, Mr. LEWIS, and Ms. MOORE. H. Con. Res. 58: Mr. BUCSHON. H.R. 4307: Mr. ROUDA and Mr. BERA. H. Res. 565: Mr. BLUMENAUER, Mr. AMODEI, H. Res. 49: Mr. WITTMAN. H.R. 4339: Ms. JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. WILSON of South Carolina, Mr. COSTA, H. Res. 189: Mr. KIM, Ms. UNDERWOOD, Mr. H.R. 4346: Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. Mr. KEATING, Mr. LIPINSKI, and Mr. MITCH- HARDER of California, and Mr. NEWHOUSE. H.R. 4355: Ms. SLOTKIN. ELL. H.R. 4370: Mr. FITZPATRICK. H. Res. 234: Ms. ESHOO. H. Res. 576: Ms. SPEIER and Ms. NORTON. H.R. 4387: Mr. EVANS. H. Res. 323: Mr. BRINDISI. H.R. 4390: Ms. HAALAND. H. Res. 384: Mr. WITTMAN. H. Res. 578: Mr. GROTHMAN. H.R. 4404: Ms. JACKSON LEE. H. Res. 517: Mr. KINZINGER, Mr. HARDER of H. Res. 580: Mr. ROSE of New York. H.R. 4405: Mr. FITZPATRICK, Mr. EVANS, and California, Mr. GALLAGHER, Mr. ROUDA, Mr. H. Res. 587: Mr. CROW and Mr. DAVID SCOTT Ms. HOULAHAN. SENSENBRENNER, Mr. SMITH of New Jersey, of Georgia.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:52 Sep 26, 2019 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00085 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25SE7.044 H25SEPT1 dlhill on DSKBBY8HB2PROD with HOUSE